Frequently Asked Questions--Membership FAQ

Below you will find the answers to several commonly asked questions about our club and about becoming a member of PCSC. We value prospective members who are committed to training all three phases of the sport, who devote the time to building the relationship with and training their dog, who enjoy the sport of Schutzhund/IPO, and who demonstrate respect and responsibility toward dogs and humans alike.

I am interested in becoming a PCSC member. What do I do now?

We encourage all prospective members to come visit our club and observe our training and club dynamics firsthand before making a decision to pursue membership. This provides us with a chance to get to know each other, and gives prospective members an opportunity to get to know the club members, club dynamics, and expectations. Prospective members are required to attend at least 10 training sessions as a guest before submitting an application for membership. This is sort of a 'vetting' period for all involved parties. This time provides multiple opportunities to see how we train here at PCSC. It also allows prospective members time to decide if Schutzhund is right for them and for their dog, and if PCSC is a good fit for them as well.

Schutzhund is an involved sport that requires a good amount of time and energy as well as a natural inclination on the part of the dog; we wish to provide opportunities for people new to the sport to see the amount of dedication required to bring a dog along in Schutzhund, and to then decide if this is the sport for them. Additionally, we wish to evaluate if a dog has the temperament and genetic ability to train for Schutzhund; this being said, membership in PCSC is not dependent upon having a current Schutzhund prospect.

What is required for PCSC membership?

Currently, our membership is closed; however, existing members may vote to open membership. We encourage prospective members to come and train with us, to determine if PCSC would be a good fit for them. The general requirements/process for membership are listed below:

• All members of PCSC must be members of the United Schutzhund Clubs of America, our parent organization. Proof of current USCA membership must be provided when applying for membership.
  

• Prospective members must attend at least 10 training sessions as a guest before submitting an application for membership (once membership is opened).
  

• New members submit a one-time start-up fee in addition to their annual dues upon approval of their membership by the PCSC board and current voting members (Membership fees and dues help cover the costs of insurance, of renting the property, and of maintaining our facilities).
  

• Prospective members who submit a membership application after their vetting period must then be voted in by the PCSC board and current members.

• All new members have a one-year probationary membership, and after this one year the PCSC board and voting members vote on whether or not to move a probationary member to full member status.