Sanctioning

Webster's defines "sanctioning" as "to make valid or binding usually by a formal procedure (as ratification)" and/or "to give effective or authoritative approval or consent to."

Sanctioning

In the working stockdog world, when a trial is "sanctioned," it usually means there are points to be earned via an association membership or via participation is a specific series of trials. The points earned may then be applied toward eligibility to participate in other events, or may be used to determine combined and/or year-end standings and/or awards.

The decision to sanction a trial is solely up the host, and it is normally permissible to sanction an event with more than one association and/or in conjunction with series sanctioning; however, it is important to thoroughly research each individual sanctioning policy to avoid compliance issues or conflicts.

Some sanctioning requires the payment of a sanctioning fee, which is usually nominal, and in many instances provides the trial host with event insurance options. In researching this topic there were no real negatives associated with sanctioning, given that sanctioning tends to benefit those handlers interested in same, while having no effect, ill or otherwise, on those that remain uninterested.

In most cases there are sanctioning options available on a national level, state and/or local level. To explore different options, one need only search the internet for working stockdog associations and clubs and make inquiries. When available, ask for a sanctioning packet so that the information is on hand and available for review and reference.