About Our Members

All of our classes, including AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, Basic Obedience, from beginner through the upper most competitive levels of AKC Agility, Obedience, and Scent Work, are taught by highly qualified and experienced VOLUNTEERS.  There are NO paid positions at Merrimac Dog Training Club (MDTC).

Our membership owns various types of dogs – some mixed breeds and purebreds of every size shape, color, temperament, and ability.  And although we help everyone from local to national competitors train their show dogs, performance sport dogs, owner-handled therapy dogs, we’re just as passionate about helping dogs and owners who don’t compete.  We at MDTC believe every dog is special, equally important, and we’re always happy to help you build a better relationship and just have FUN with your dogs!  

Many of our members (and non-members who train with us) have earned certification with various certifying therapy dog organizations such as Therapy Dog International (TDI) and Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD).  Once properly trained by their owners and certified, these dogs visit local homes, retirement communities and area hospitals. Several MDTC instructors are AKC Evaluators who provide training and testing opportunities for AKC’s Family Dog Program with includes Canine Good Citizen, AKC Community Canine, and AKC Urban CGC.

So, How Do I Become a Merrimac Dog Training Club Member? 

First, you’ll need to find at least two current MDTC members to agree to sponsor you.  Then you’re free to submit a Prospective Member application.  

Your Prospective Member application must be on file for a minimum of 6 months.  This allows you time to learn about the club, volunteer for events or activities, take classes and see if you, your family, and our Club’s members are a good fit.  During this 6-month period your class fees will remain the same as non-members.  

Here’s the summary of the steps needed to become a Merrimac Dog Training Club member:

• Submit a completed Prospective Member application along with the $10 application fee (your application must be accepted and approved by the MDTC Board).
• Again, two current members in good standing will need to agree to sponsor new member applicants.
• Within the 6-month prospective period:
  • Read and agree to adhere to the Club’s Standing Rules, Training Regulations, and By-Laws
  • Complete two 6- or 4-week classes during two different training sessions – again, your class fees will be as a non-member ($122); and you must attend at least four of the six classes for which you’ve enrolled (or three of the four of a four-week class).
  • Complete 25 volunteer hours working club events, trials, or other assigned volunteer work
  • Attend two club general membership meetings
• Finally, be approved for full membership by receiving a majority of the votes by the current MDTC Officers and Board of Directors during an MDTC Board Meeting.

Once you have been an approved as a Club member by the Board, you’ll then have an annual commitment to work a minimum of 36 volunteer hours and pay annual dues and club fees as part of your renewal application.  The number of hours may be reduced for seniors in accordance with our Club’s By-Laws.

Membership Application

For a Prospective Member Form, please contact Sherry Bryant, Membership Director at email: membership@merrimacdogtrainingclub.org or call (757)-537-7566