do you think this would work?

[becca114]

There is a definite lack of fun dog shows and companion clubs where I live. I had an idea to set up a club for people like myself who want to be more social and have fun outings with their dogs and other doggy people. I thought of having fun dog shows, walks, days out, meet-ups with have-a-go sessions for agility, heelwork to music or flyball for those who have never tried it before and just want some fun. Do you think this is a good idea and could possibly work?

 

[GinaB]

I would love to go to something like that

Sounds like a great idea.

 

[Oneofthepack]

I would love to do something like that! I'm not keen on the formal agility or obedience classes but would love to get together and try stuff like flyball and agility in a fun setting and just let my dogs socialise while I do the same

Even though our local agility clubs advertise it as a 'fun' session, there were definatly people looking down their noses at my 7 stone lurcher demolishing the jumps, though he was having a ball

Don't suppose you live in Somerset?

Who can come up with the best name for Beccas new club?

 

[becca114]

Id really love to have a go but I wondered where I might be able to hold the meet-ups and if it might need insurance? Also because I am only 15 some people might think its a bit of a joke. oneofthepack im in lancashire...sorry but if you decide to set up a group in your own area let me know and we could swop ideas.

 

[Oneofthepack]

You might have to check out Public Liability Insurance but unless you were doing it for a living at some point it probably wouldn't be worth it. You could perhaps advertise in the local paper or with a card in a post office and see what sort of response you got, don't tell them you're 15 and see what happens, or ask around locally to see if people would be interested. There was a local dog walking group that attracted 15 people with over 35 dogs between them here so it's something I might think about now you've sparked the idea off!

 

[edfin]

If you are setting up a club, you will definitely need insurance as you would be the one held responsible for running the club, and if someone or their dog was injured by another dog they could claim from you. Having said that, at 15 you may be considered to be to young to be responsible to run a club. Would your parents be able to help you and take responsibility. Best contact your local council to see what they advise. They could also suggest parks etc in your area that could be used.

Whether you do it now or when you a bit older, good luck to you. We need more fun clubs. The dog world, like the horse world, take everything far too serious IMO.

 

[Skhosu]

Sounds like a really good idea, you may need to have your parents hold the insurance and probably need good structure (E.g where would you get equipment etc) but sounds great!