When I was a respiratory therapist, I used to see referral programs between doctors’ offices, laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, and hospitals. However, there are measures in place that regulate such practices. 

The Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS) is an American federal law prohibiting financial payments or incentives for referring patients or generating federal healthcare business.

So what does this have to do with dog training? Well, locally, I'm seeing kickbacks between trainers, daycares, and shelters. 

Just this past spring, I was approached by a new dog daycare to become one of the trainers they refer their clients to — as long as they received a referral fee back from me. It would then be expected that I refer my clients to their daycare. I told them in no uncertain terms that I do not agree with a "pay-to-play" business model. And the website for a local shelter lists trainers for private lessons, but only if they give a percentage of their lesson price back to the shelter.  

If this practice reminds you of a shakedown from a 1980's mob movie, I mean… 

I am not in favor of "pay-to-play" incentives, no matter if it's a for-profit or not-for-profit business. I believe it is unethical and wrought with conflicts of interest, particularly if it’s not disclosed. If I refer to someone it's because I believe in the quality of their service, not because of incentives. If I’m referred by someone, I want it to be an honest endorsement, not a business transaction. 

We live in a very transactional world. Just look at "Influencers" on YouTube or social media and you'll see what I mean. It is becoming more and more difficult to find resources without the undercurrent of monetary incentives. Kickback deals, as described above, may have non-nefarious motivations, but they erode trust. 

Are discounted links in the same category? "Use this link for $5 off..." After using a service or product, a discounted link is often given to share with friends and family. 

I have shared such links (in my personal and professional life), and again only do so when I have personally enjoyed the product. Because of the transparency when links are shared, I take no issue with discount links being shared. 

For me, it all comes down to transparency. 

Transparency allows us to make a more informed decision. So the next time a pet professional, rescue, or shelter recommends a particular trainer, ask what their relationship is with that trainer. Ask about kickbacks/referral fees or any incentives that are typically invisible. If "Democracy dies in darkness" as the Washington Post says, so do ethics.