Thanks Howard,

It's nice to see things from different angles. Both the FR club and the ScH clubs I've contacted know that I'm a newbie. I only have been a helper to one dog one time, so I don't think that this will help me get in. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> So if either club looks for any special skills or assets I'm not so sure I'd make it. But both clubs have been really nice and informative and have not mentioned any special requirements. Who knows, I'll find out soon enough. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

~Jamie

Hi Jaime,
I don't mean to sound negative, about newbies. If not for new members, dog sports would never grow. I do want you to know that you are lucky to have two clubs ask you to join. Also, my club welcomes new members, but as a helper, sometimes, I dread them. LOL! Especially the ones talking on cell phones, and smoke cigarettes, while trying to post their dog. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/ooo.gif" alt="" />
As a new member, just try to be eager to learn and help out, in other ways. Good luck and have fun!

Howard B..

I totally understand where you're coming from...but ALL of us even yourself were where Jamie is now and had to start somewhere...At one time none of us had anything to contribute to the 'working dog' club. It has to start somewhere. Jamie will learn much more being a part of a group and watching others handle, post, agitation, learning from others' 'mistakes'; than via private lessons.

At our past FR club...we had at one point 15 members with all having at least 2 dogs and some 3. We had ONE main decoy that did perhaps 30 dogs (double sessions) and another decoy who did the rest...It was difficult many times...esp when it was 95 degrees and wearing a 60 lb suit the entire day in the hot blazing sun...Other clubs I visited over the years...the issues were very much the same...

My current ScH club has 40+ members with majority having 2 dogs and some 3...There is one helper and another who is just learning and filling in where he can...but 90% are done by the main helper.

IMO, many times it's the comraderie, making new friends, and helping each other out...which ensures club and sport survival. This is what keeps many people 'in the game'.

And to be respectfully honest Howard; there IS a place for ALL people...whether they can contribute physically or not...Perhaps Jamie can contribute through OB? Clubs put on trials...it costs money to run a club...member dues pay for this and make it all possible. So clubs need EACH and EVERY member; even if they can't decoy or do helper work...Their presence and membership dues is what keeps clubs operating.

And hopefully one day...THEY will no longer be the 'newbie' and they will be able to contribute more and remember the day when they couldn't...and they'll give the next 'newbie' a chance...We need to look at the NEXT generation of helpers/decoys, club members...This is what keeps the programs alive and ensures their future...because ONE day you will NO longer be able to do helper work and be 'sidelined' as a handler at best, with little or less to contribute once again, and you'll depend on others to work your dog...I'm a firm believer that EVERYTHING in life comes a full circle.

I do empathize with you and meant my reply sincerely...I've watched sadly over the years as my husband decoyed the majority of dogs at our club...and all this after a total hip replacement...He's had his 2nd replacement on the same hip and now he does helper work...Most are truly grateful and some aren't...But in the end he does it because he loves it and admirably expects nothing in the end. Not saying that you do...just wanted to share and to explain that I DO understand.

B