What It Means To Be An ESSFTA Member
Our bylaws lay out the objectives of the ESSFTA and as a member of the ESSFTA, you have agreed to support, uphold, and commit to those objectives. Here are the four key tenants as described in our bylaws:
- To encourage and promote quality and healthy breeding of pure-bred English Springer Spaniels and to commit to develop their working qualities.
- To encourage the organization of independent local clubs to meet the requirements of The American Kennel Club.
- To urge members and breeders to accept the standard of the breed as approved by The American Kennel Club as the only standard of excellence by which English Springer Spaniels shall be judged.
- To do all in its power to protect and advance the interests of the breed and to encourage and conduct sportsmanlike competition at sanctioned matches and licensed events for which the club is eligible, under the Rules and Regulations of the American Kennel Club
But, in practical terms, what does that mean for you as a member?
It means that as a breeder, you continuously strive to produce healthy dogs with sound temperaments. That you ruthlessly self-reflect on your practices, honestly and transparently communicate both the positives and concerns within your breeding program and develop your dogs’ characteristics in line with their working qualities and their role as beloved family pets.
It means you support your local and national clubs with your funds, your words, and your time – volunteering to make the club successful and creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.
It means that you know and adhere to the breed standard to the very best of your ability. That you educate yourself and others. That you participate in robust and respectful discussions about the interpretation of the standard and remain open to others’ point of view. That you commit to lifelong learning when it comes to understanding our breed.
Finally, and most importantly, it means that you commit to a standard of behavior that exemplifies sportsmanship – and follow both the letter and spirit of the AKC’s Personal Conduct Policy. The Policy is explicit that it is a privilege to be part of the AKC and the sport – we should echo that in our behavior as members of ESSFTA; that we must refrain from conduct detrimental to the integrity of and public confidence in the sport of dogs. As participants in our sport, we must hold ourselves to a higher standard and conduct ourselves in a way that is responsible and promotes the values of ESSFTA.
It is an honor and a privilege to be part of this amazing organization, and we are grateful to have you as a member.