So you are interested in joining our club...
No problem...we would love to have you! Our new member coordinator is Vickie Bartley who can be contacted at ausgssch@flash.net She can assist you.
All you need to do is fill out a membership application. Membership dues are $35 per family per year. Bring your completed form and check to our next regular meeting or mail it to the new member coordinator. If you would like to use the PayPal system, that would be acceptable.
FAQ....
Where, when do you meet? We meet atleast once a month, currently at a park in Jersey Village (near Hwy 290 and Sam Houston Toll Road in NW Houston). We typically meet on the 2nd Sunday of each month. In addition, members get together in smaller groups at other locations to pratice and swap ideas. We advise everyone to keep an eye on the club's calendar posted on the club's web site.
How long does it take to train your dog? A lot depends on how much time you have and how motivated the dog is. During the hot summer, you only would train for 5-10 minutes at a time. In the evenings or cooler times of the year, maybe 15-30 minutes at a time-2 to 3 times a day. You can typically have a dog catching a disc in as short as one day, but more complicated tricks can take up to a month or two. An entire freestyle routine might take a year.
What kind of equipment do I need? Thats the beauty of it. To start, a dog and a Frisbee is about it. Of course, you will need more than one Frisbee and for tricks involving a vault off the throwers body, you will need a protective vest (an old divers suite top would work!). In addition, you will likely need to have a crate (cage) as well as typical items you would take to the park (folding chairs, food/water, maybe an EZ up tent for shade). These items you can get later.
How much time does the club need from me? Part of joining a club is to particpate. In addition to our meetings, the club performs at charity events, host competitions and more. You, as a member, are expected to come out to some of these events during the year. Even if your dog is not ready to "perform", the club needs assistance in setting up, breaking down, and other duties involved with a performance or competition. Typically these events are on weekends.
Can any dog learn to play Frisbee? The answer is yes! You will see many dogs from the herding group in the club, but any dog motivated to chase a ball or stick can do this. Its true that the smaller dogs tend to be more agile and can possibly do fancier tricks, but any dog, even a mutt or a pup from the shelter, can play.
Can I play with any Frisbee? The answer is NO. Some might start off with a frabric Frisbee and that is OK. But you will need to move up to a harder disc. Many have Frisbees in the closet or garage, but are made of hard plastic and designed to be thrown between humans. The Frisbees we use are softer and have more give. They do not hurt the dogs gums, tongue and teeth as much.
How does the club communicate with members? Once a member, you will be invited to join an email group list. Communication is handled through email and posting on the club's web site.
Benefits to joining the club? Discounted pricing on Frisbees, Tshirts, hats. Membership to group email list. You dog's own personal page on the club's web site. Tips and guidance on canine dics training. Access to out of town and out of state canine disc events. Club parties and more. And the #1 benefit, for you and your dog to bond and learn the great sport of Canine Frisbee!