How to Join the Ithaca Dog Training Club

Why Join IDTC?


  • Members get a discount on classes – a class that is $110 for a non-member is only $90 for an inactive member and just $40 for an active one (see below for explanation of active/inactive).
  • Qualifying IDTC members are able to rent the training space at the mall for private training time.
  • Find out about all sorts of dog events in the area – competitions, practice runs, seminars, demonstrations, etc. Fees are discounted for club members when workshops and seminars are hosted by IDTC.
  • Interact and make friends with other dog people. The club is a great community and members get and give advice, share stories, and celebrate successes together.
  • Join free programs (online or associated with meetings) about dog-related topics. Enjoy picnics in the summer and a party at Christmas time.
  • Give back to those who helped you with your dog by becoming an assistant or instructor and helping others.

How to Join

There are three general paths to membership:
  1. Take the club's beginner classes that are available to the public. After you complete two classes, for example Beginner 1 and Beginner 2, you will receive an invitation to join the club by paying the first year dues.
  2. Get evaluated by a member of the Training Committee and
    1. Get placed into, and complete a Beginner 2 or CGC class. Pay $75 initiation fee and membership dues to join. OR
    2. Be approved for membership without taking an introductory class. This route requires an $150 initiation fee plus dues for the first year.
  3. If you have already been awarded a performance title(s) in obedience, rally, or agility, or have a CGC with your current dog, you can apply for membership by submitting proof of your title(s) and paying the $150 initiation fee plus the first year dues.
Once you decide which path applies to you:
  1. You can apply for membership online. Please see below on information regarding dues and cost.
  2. Your membership application will go to the membership chair who will bring new membership requests to the next club meeting for the current membership to vote.
Please note: IDTC members must be at least 12 years old. Tompkins County 4-H Tailwaggers is a great dog training resource for younger children.

Annual Renewals and Fees


Timing:
  • All members must renew their membership annually, online renewal and payment information is available to members here. Membership runs January through December.
  • New members joining the club after July 1 of the current year will be considered a member through December of the following year.
Annual Membership Fees:
  • $50 for an individual
  • $60 for a family
  • $35 for a junior (under 18)
Reinstatement:
  • Those rejoining the club within five years of letting membership lapse will pay the annual membership fee. They will be considered inactive for their first year reinstated in the club and pay the inactive member rates for classes and activities. Additional conditions are noted in the club policies.

Members can find additional information and forms for renewal in the members section under Membership & Renewal and full fee lists under Policies & Procedures.

Active Membership Qualifications:


Active Membership:
  • Members in good standing who perform at least 10 hours of volunteer work for the club, attend at least three meetings per year, and have paid their annual dues. Volunteer activities can include instructing a class, stewarding at a trial, arranging seminars, and many other tasks.
  • Active membership is determined by your activities during the previous calendar year.
  • New members are automatically given active status for their first year. During that first year they are able to log their volunteer hours and attend meetings to keep active status for the next year. Reinstated members are given inactive status for their first year.
  • Active members pay discounted ($40) class fees and discounted fees for other workshops and events.
Inactive Membership:
  • Members in good standing who have paid their annual dues but have not met the volunteer and meeting requirements.
  • In general, inactive members pay $50 more for classes and events than active members. There may be exceptions to this on an event-by-event basis.
Exemption Requests:
  • Due to extreme circumstances, an individual may request to be exempt from meeting or volunteer hour requirements. The individual must submit the request in writing to the secretary between the October and November scheduled meetings. The full process can be found in the club policy manual.
Full club policy and procedure may be found in the members section under Policies and Procedures and within the club Bylaws. Questions may be directed to the membership chair.