About Our Members

All of our classes, from AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, Basic Obedience, from beginner thru the upper most competitive levels of AKC Agility, Obedience, and Scent Work, are taught by wonderfully 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 ever size shape, color, temperament, and ability.  And although we help from local to National competitors train their show dogs, performance sport dogs, owners train therapy dogs, and we’re just as equally passionate in helping any dog and owner 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 gone on the pass testing and 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, their 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 Citizenship, Basic, Advance, and Urban.

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

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

Your Prospective Member applications 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 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 complete Prospective Member application along with the $10 application fee (your application must be approved as accepted by the MDTC Board).
• Again, two current members in good standing will need to agree to sponsor new member applications
• Within the 6 months:
  • 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)
  • Complete 25 volunteer hours working fun 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 Club member by the Board, you’ll then have an annual commitment to work a minimum of 28 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 (interested in joining Merrimac Dog Training Club), please contact Sherry Bryant, Membership Director at email: membership@merrimacdogtrainingclub.org or call (757)-537-7566