MODC Code of Conduct

INTRODUCTION

The goals of the MODC Inc are, through the sport of Dog Obedience,
  • To promote fun and healthy recreational activity for dogs and their owners.
  • To promote responsible dog ownership and the development of working partnerships between dogs and their owners.

APPLICATION

To meet these goals, this Code of Conduct is considered essential for all members and their dogs. This Code of Conduct also applies to family members and friends who may accompany the Club Member.

COURTESY

Club members shall at all times be courteous, conduct themselves in a manner that will not bring discredit to the Club or to the activity of Dog Obedience.

TRAINING

Members should:
  • Arrive 15 to 20 minutes before their class is due to begin.
  • Ensure their dog has a properly fitting collar and suitable lead
  • Wear the appropriate footwear (thongs or similar are not suitable) sun/wet weather protection as appropriate.
  • Be attentive to their instructor and considerate of others in the class.
  • Be aware of their own dog and of nearby dogs and handlers at all times.

MISCONDUCT – CLUB MEMBERS

Misconduct shall include, but not be limited to, abusive and foul language, hostility to fellow club members, competitors, any visitors, sponsors, hosts or spectators of club activities and/or other external dog obedience events. Misconduct also includes inhumane treatment of a dog, demonstration of poor sportsmanship and/or any other behaviour that may result in an unfavourable opinion of the Club or the recreational activity of Dog Obedience.

MISCONDUCT – DOGS

It is also expected that Club Members dogs will behave appropriately and not demonstrate undue aggression at any time. Misconduct includes the act of aggression towards another dog, handler, participant or spectator. The club defines undue aggression as an unprovoked attack on another dog, animal or human, involving physical contact, whether injury occurs or not.
Growling, baring of teeth or lunging are undesirable and should be strongly discouraged, but are not considered undue aggression for the purposes of this Code. New members, whose dogs are known to exhibit such behaviour, should advise their instructor(s) to assist in addressing the problem and to minimise disruption to others in the class.
In the interest of safety for its members, their dogs and others, the Club must take incidents of dog aggression very seriously. However, the Club is willing to assist members in dealing with minor aggression and other behavioural problems their dogs may have, providing that the safety and interests of other Club members and their dogs are not put in jeopardy as a result.