Junior Trainers Club

Where kids and dogs grow together

Welcome to Junior Trainers Club – the place where kids and youth in Sarnia, Ontario come together to learn, grow, and have fun with their love of dogs! Our club is open to young people ages 8 to 19 who are passionate about dogs, and you don’t need to own a dog to join. At Junior Trainers Club, we provide opportunities to work with our club dogs during meetings, so whether or not you have a dog of your own, you’re always welcome to join in the fun!

We meet on the first and third Thursday of every month from 7-8 pm. While parents are always welcome to linger, our building is a secure and safe space for our members to explore, learn, and develop their skills. Our meetings are structured to help you work towards levels and earn badges, all while building a sense of responsibility, belonging, and community. It’s a great way to learn new things, make friends, and share your passion for dogs!

At each meeting, we dive into a wide variety of topics related to dogs – from different dog sports and training techniques to dog breeds, healthcare, and nutrition. Members also gain insight into potential careers with dogs. Although monthly meetings are generally without family dogs, we occasionally invite them to join us for special events. We’ll always make sure to notify you in advance if it’s a dog-friendly day for your pet. Members will have ample opportunity to work with their own dogs during workshops and training days.

Once a member and their dog have successfully passed the Level One Crate Training and Level One Leash Control tests, they will be able to bring the dog to our Thursday meetings ( when dogs are invited), as well as to all workshops, shows, outings, and trials. This is an exciting milestone for both handler and dog, as it means being to take your training to the next level and experience even more hands-on opportunities. Whether you're practicing new skills, participating in a trial, or enjoying an outing together, bringing your dog to these events strengthens your bond and further develops both your training and your dog’s abilities.

Joining Junior Trainers Club is easy! The yearly membership fee is $200, which covers all of our Thursday meetings and gives you exclusive first access to workshops and outings at discounted rates. If you prefer, you can also attend meetings on a pay-as-you-go basis for just $10 per meeting. No matter how you choose to participate, our club offers a fun, safe, and rewarding environment to develop your passion for dogs and build valuable skills for the future.

Frequently Asked

1. What are the benefits of joining Junior Trainers Club?

Answer: By joining Junior Trainers Club, members gain valuable skills in dog care, training, and behavior. The club fosters responsibility, leadership, and teamwork while building a strong sense of community. It’s a great opportunity to learn about dog sports, health care, nutrition, and even career paths involving dogs. Plus, it's a fun and rewarding way to connect with other dog lovers in the area!

2. What if I don’t have a dog? Can I still participate?

Answer: Absolutely! You don’t need to own a dog to join Junior Trainers Club. We have club dogs available for training sessions, and you’ll have the opportunity to work with them during meetings and activities. This ensures that all members, regardless of whether they have their own dog, can fully participate and learn.

3. Can parents attend meetings or events?

Answer: Parents are always welcome to attend meetings, but they are not required to stay. Our meetings and events are designed to be safe and enjoyable for children and youth, so parents can relax knowing that their kids are in a secure environment. If parents do choose to stay, they’re encouraged to observe and enjoy the experience.

4. Are the meetings and activities safe for my child?

Answer: Yes, safety is our top priority! Our facility is secure, and our experienced team ensures that all activities are supervised and tailored to be age-appropriate. We also focus on positive, dog-friendly training methods that are safe for both the dogs and the members. For those who bring their own dogs, we ensure they are comfortable and ready to participate.

5. How can I register for a membership?

Answer: Registration for Junior Trainers Club is simple! You can sign up for the yearly membership or choose the pay-as-you-go option. Just visit our website’s registration page for all the details and to sign up online. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact us directly!

6. What happens during a typical meeting?

Answer: Each meeting is filled with fun and educational activities. Members will learn new training techniques, explore different dog sports, and gain knowledge on dog breeds, healthcare, and more. There are always opportunities to ask questions, practice skills, and earn levels and badges. Our meetings are designed to be engaging, educational, and hands-on!

7. How do workshops, shows, and trials work?

Answer: Workshops, shows, and trials are special events that provide members with the chance to deepen their dog training skills and showcase their abilities. Workshops focus on specific areas, such as agility or obedience, while shows and trials are a fun way to test what you've learned in a supportive environment. As a member, you’ll receive early access to these events at discounted rates, and you’ll be notified in advance about any opportunities to participate.

8. Can I join at any time during the year?

Answer: Yes! While our meetings follow a regular schedule, new members are always welcome to join at any time. Whether you’re just starting your dog training journey or you’ve been involved with dogs for years, you’ll find plenty of ways to engage and grow with the club.

9. What is the structure of the levels and badges?

Answer: Junior Trainers Club has a structured system where members can earn levels and badges as they progress in their dog training skills. Each level is based on a set of skills or knowledge, and members work toward achieving them through hands-on practice and learning. This system helps to track progress and provide a sense of accomplishment as you advance.

10. What if my child has allergies or other special needs?

Answer: We strive to create an inclusive and accommodating environment for all members. If your child has allergies, special needs, or any concerns, please let us know in advance, and we’ll do our best to make any necessary accommodations to ensure their comfort and safety.
11. What does it mean that Junior Trainers Club is a non-profit?
Answer: As a non-profit organization, Junior Trainers Club operates with the primary goal of providing educational and enrichment opportunities for youth, rather than making a profit. Any funds raised, including membership fees, are reinvested into the club to improve programs, offer more resources, and create a better experience for our members. This means that every dollar spent goes directly toward supporting our mission of helping kids and youth develop their love for dogs and build valuable skills!