Dog Clubs/groups --questions

[SamandAussieMom]

I could use some thoughts on this. I have contacted breed-specific dog clubs, in hopes of joining, as well as breed- and non-breed specific rescue groups in hopes of volunteering in some form. There were 6 groups I contacted via their websites for information and/or to volunteer, beginning back in May.

Up to now, I've heard back from exactly one of these groups, a club whose response was I could not join without attending at least three meetings and being recommended by at least 3 current members. I asked for the information on attending these meetings but never heard back.

And I have also attempted to volunteer for a local SPCA, and they never got back to me. I both wrote and called them. I have to say that I am disabled. I can walk but only short distances without a break, can't stand up for long periods, or drive for long periods. I can, however, work on mailings, newsletters, special events, fostering, all kinds of things I can't think of right now.

We're also pretty new to the area, so don't have contacts, except our trainer and Dog Day Care, who I've never thought to ask.

Ok, I tend to over-think and over-react, but are these groups generally closed to outsiders? I read about all the groups people here belong to, and the fun and good they do. I want to help and learn, but I'm feeling pretty frustrated.

Any advice????

 

[corgipower]

I don't think they're so much closed to outsiders as just difficult to contact.

IME, it's quite common to not hear back endlessly. The people running the clubs do it in their spare time, which is less and less lately. They may be traveling to shows, they have jobs, they have families and their pets. I would try reaching them by phone or find out where they hold lessons and go there in person.

 

[SamandAussieMom]

Thanks, I should have assumed that is the case first. Maybe I should have mentioned I was the Director of Volunteer Services for a large health care facility for many, many years which may have been coloring my thinking just a touch.

 

[sammgirl]

If you're in Ohio I can put you directly in contact with the local breed club. If you are not, I still may be able to help you out. Not making any promises, but I do keep in contact with breeders.

I really love samoyeds. I plan to get one in the future. I was going to get one this year, but my puppy fund got drained due to car issues and I wanted a dog to title and show, so rescue was definitely not an option for me.

The people in the breed club are really fantastic people. They're always willing to answer questions and give advice...

 

[Lolas Dad]

I'm surprised that the SPCA has not gotten back to you. They are always looking for volunteers of some sort.

As for clubs and such I had no dealings with but when I was looking to have Lola registered as a therapy dog I contacted to organization and they sent me about 20 email addresses of which I sent out an email to everyone on the list and only heard back from two.

Emailed them both back and did not hear from either one so I emailed again and found out the woman was having computer problems so she had someone email me as a go between and finally we were able to go to the sessions.

 

[Doberdogs]

many of them are probably very busy with normal lives (kids, jobs, etc. etc. etc.) so haven't gotten back with you for many reasons, none of which have much to do with you as a person. I would attempt to just go up there if at all possible, in person is always better.