Seminar Issues

[blanche]

We had a bit of a discussion at the Board about the seminar/educational component that people are interested in.

Several issues came up:
1.) Currently, the Board and Volunteer coordinators are already overloaded.  We simply do not have the time to organize seminars on an ongoing basis.  We may add an Education/seminar position to the Board, but currently, that doesn't exist.  I do try to organize things for foster parents from time to time, but that's all I can manage
2.) Pugalug Pug Rescue cannot endorse, sponsor or otherwise affiliate itself with any educational seminar without approval from the Board.  We don't want to end up inadvertantly endorsing a technique or a method that we don't actually support.  Anything held in our name or at our events would have to be passed by the board.
3.) There currently is no fund to pay for this type of event and we would have to think seriously about how the Rescue--if expected to endorse or participate--would finance such seminars.
4.) There are already several organizations that offer ongoing education and training--Speaking of Dogs is one--and I don't want to re-create the wheel or step on the toes of orgs that already do this.

I really do strongly encourage folks who are interested in canine education, to keep an eye on the Speaking of Dogs website (http://www.speakingofdogs.com)  Lorraine offers many seminars that are absolutely top notch.  
It is possible that the Pugalug Organization could have a role in education, but honestly folks, we are stretched pretty thin.  So folks should not be expecting one of us to pick up this ball and run with it.  We just do not have the time.

[Poconut]

I think that's a good decision, Blanche.  Allow the resources and efforts to go directly to the rescue.  We know that you all work long and hard to do a difficult job.  Maybe those who have gone to great seminars or hear about upcoming ones can post them in the forum to help out those of us who are looking for more education.  I know I always appreciate a recommendation from someone who knows more than I do!  

[blanche]

Speaking of Dogs does get in top flight speakers.  The seminars aren't cheap, but Lorraine gets in the creme de la creme of canine folks.

[Jane aka 71337]

I think that's a good decision, Blanche.  Allow the resources and efforts to go directly to the rescue.  We know that you all work long and hard to do a difficult job.  Maybe those who have gone to great seminars or hear about upcoming ones can post them in the forum to help out those of us who are looking for more education.  I know I always appreciate a recommendation from someone who knows more than I do!  

Well said Mindy and I agree 100%.