Club Code of Ethics

All members of the Sled Dog Society of Wales undertake to abide by its General Code of Ethics, Rules & Regulations.

The Committee and Instructors ask you to observe, note and comply with the following:

Club Members:

Upon joining, all members agree to be bound by the rules & regulations of The Sled Dog Society of Wales.

All members, including instructors, committee & life members, must sign in at every session.

Will properly house, feed, water and exercise all dogs under their care and arrange for appropriate veterinary attention if and when required.
Will abide by all aspects of the Animal Welfare Act.
Will not allow any of their dogs to roam at large or to cause a nuisance to neighbours or those carrying out official duties.
Will ensure that their dogs wear properly tagged collars and will be kept leashed or under effective control when away from home.
Will clean up after their dogs in public places or anywhere their dogs are being exhibited.
Will follow the Rules of Good Sportsmanship in all SDSW Competition and activities.
Will fully explain to all prospective Sled Dog purchasers the disadvantages as well as the advantages of owning these breeds.
Under no circumstances is a handler permitted to hit his/her dog while training on the grounds.
Bitches “in season” are not permitted on the Pack Walks, Training Sessions or Events.
Dogs must be fully immunized.
All members are expected to help with either the setting up or packing up of the equipment. Please see the instructors for directions. Those physically unable to help will be given other jobs.
“Poo Bags” are available, please ask if you require one - It is your responsibility to clean up if your dog soils the ground.
Owners must ask the owner of another dog first if you or your dog may approach for a greeting.
If a dog is wearing a space coat, red bandanna or yellow bandanna, please respect their right to their own space & do not approach.
All dogs are to be put away during pack up not tethered, in a “stay”, nor allowed to roam free.
If a dog, at committee’s discretion, is deemed to be a risk to members/family or other members’ dogs, any decision given by an instructor or committee member must be strictly adhered to.
Except under the discretion of the training coordinator, children under the age of 16 must be under the supervision of an adult whilst handling a dog.
Do not approach or allow your children to approach dogs that are tethered around the club grounds as some dogs become protective or unpredictable when left alone by their handlers.
All members are welcome to stay behind after training. If you are having any problems or require information relating to your training, please feel free to speak to an instructor or committee member. They will be only too happy to give you any help they can.
In accordance with the BSL ruling on restricted breeds of dogs and the domestic (feral & nuisance) animals act 1994, the club requires owners of restricted breeds to ensure junior handlers are not to be in charge of a restricted breed.
Non-restricted breeds- the committee will look at specific dogs on individual basis and require them to wear a muzzle if it is felt necessary for the comfort & safety of all members & their dogs.
All members to ensure that their dogs are only exercised when the temperature allows them, not to subject them to excessive heat stroke and exhaustion. (Please refer to the running temperature guide document).

The Society view any act of neglect of or cruelty to dogs with serious concern and where relevant may instigate action for “Expulsion of Members” if grounds for such action are deemed sufficient by the Committee.

For those who wish to work their dogs, dog(s) must show the following - Dog(s) must be of a suitable build to pull a rig / sled. (Excepted Canicross)- Dog(s) must demonstrate a willingness to be harnessed and the desire and ability to pull.-The dog(s) must be adequately trained and conditioned for such activity.-Dogs must be 12 months old to compete.-Dogs must be micro chipped.