Maghull & District Dog Training Society

The club started as a 'Night School' class in Ormond Drive School, Maghull in 1972. At the end of the Autumn term the school decided to cancel classes so the twelve handlers approached the trainers to see if it was possible to carry on independently. It was decided to relocate to King George V playing field in Maghull, leading to the decision to form a club. Later in 1973 the newly formed club became KC registered. Since taking residence at our original venue at Lambshear Lane Youth Club as a registered club, were we trained for approximately twenty five years, we have had a nomadic existence - (eight different 'homes') since the premises were burnd down. We have been at our current venue at Scarisbrick for the past two years. Despite some 'ups and downs' the club has survived due to it's dedicated membership, thirty six at present. Over the years we have had a wide variety of 'guest' trainers ranging from professional Prison Service dog handlers to Championship Obedience handlers. Our current trainers have (whisper it quietly) 100 years experience between them, one a founder member.

Aims of the club: The aim(s) of the club is to provide a happy and relaxed atmosphere in which to train dogs, hopefully, with some quality training. Although primarily a 'pet' cub we have members who have or do, compete in 'Obedience' /'Working Trials' and 'Show' competition with some success. Although we do not train strictly for competition we believe that our training should not be underestimated in that we believe that either a dog is trained or is not. As an incentive for our members we hold Kennel Club 'Good Citizen Tests' twice a year in the 'spring' and 'Autumn with an excellent 'pass' rate - NO we don't give give grades away! Members graduate through a 'Bronze' qualification - this qualification is so easy there is 'no quarter' given. 'Silver' is the next grade through to 'Gold' which understandably is more demanding. The object of the tests is to raise the owners awareness of their responsibilities, not only in their respective communities but also to their dogs welfare. With our members living in a mix of rural / semi rural areas the KC tests demonstrate the importance of socially acceptable dogs.

It is not only dogs that we try to socialise but their owners as well and to this end we hold a couple of 'events' during the year ie a summer barbeque in July and a Christmas Meal. The Tuesday before Christmas is 'party' night when members 'chill' out (not to mention trainers). We try to arrange 'evenings' if interest during the year ie animal 'first aid', homeopathy and dog psychologist giving advice on 'problem' dogs. Members of other clubs are invited to attend. We produce twice yearly newsletter in the 'spring' and 'autumn' featuring club news and forthcoming club events and members achievments.