The Welcome Mat

As with anything, there are some general odds and ends that often get lost in the shadows of the bigger areas of focus and concern, but that doesn't mean they are any less important.

The Welcome Mat

Handlers, spectators, friends and family all want to be good guests, so make it easy.

All people like knowing "where" they are supposed to do certain things (and by default, where they are not supposed to do certain things) - where to day park, where to camp, where to exercise dogs, where to deposit trash/recyclables; and, when dealing with horseback trials, where to pen horses overnight and where/how to get them water.

It's uncomfortable for everyone involved when someone ends up where they don't belong and has to be asked to move or leave or when someone is doing something they shouldn't be and has to be asked to stop - it's uncomfortable for the person who has to ask and it's uncomfortable for the person being asked. To avoid this situation altogether, post "Only" signs where necessary - staff only, handlers only, volunteers only, official parking only and the like.

"NO!" "NO!" "NO!" - generally speaking it's a good rule to avoid "NO" signs; however, there are a few instances where "NO" signs are a must, in these situations, don't be afraid to use them - for instance, "No Smoking," "No Dogs Allowed," etc.