Our Dogs. Our Children. Our Future.

Our Newfoundlands have such a wonderful and rich heritage.  Saviors of the people in high seas - the protector of Peter Pan and Wendy - and Best Buds to children all over.  

As we consider that heritage, the new Stewards of the Children policy enacted by the NCA makes complete sense and should be a small step that could indeed mean soooo much.  Read the full details of the NCA policy here: 

Unfortunately, it is becoming more and more common that public events that may involve children can generate unwanted interest.  This behavior has sadly become commonplace, which is especially unfortunate due to the fact that we are a “dog club family” filled with our friends and neighbors.

When I began my work with my first draft test, I focused on terrain, dog friendly parks and all the many pieces of maneuvering items that make for a challenging course.  Never did I once consider the potential dangers that may be waiting for our test committees and volunteers (with the exception of a twisted ankle!)   I completed the Stewards of the Children training prior to our HCNC draft test in March, and I found it very helpful and eye opening from an event management aspect.   Public parks and areas are just that – Public.  We cannot control who else is at our event.  BUT we CAN control our preparedness.   It is incumbent on us all to be more aware and participate in educating and protecting our dog club friends.  

Important Information for ALL Regional Working Event Committees!

Per action by the NCA Board of Directors, every water test and draft test committee needs to have one of the three committee members fully trained in the Stewards of the Children training program for new NCA event applications after October 31, 2025.   At that time, every event submitted for approval must also attach the certificate of completion from this training from one of your three committee members for your event to get approval.    

For those of you who have already submitted your upcoming test paperwork, we encourage you to review this material and consider completing the training now.  If you complete the training, please  submit a certificate of completion to workingdog@ncadogs.org so we can record that information.

Please READ, ACT and SEND IN your certificates as you complete the training.  While it won’t be required right away, it is valuable information for your event committees!  

The WDC strongly encourages all judges and working event committee members to take part in this training.  More eyes opened and awareness of our surroundings are just a small way we can make a difference in our events for all.

Don’t Wait!  Training Complete?  Send it in to the NCA!  

Email a PDF copy of your certificate of completion to workingdog@ncadogs.org for recording purposes.  Certificates will need to be submitted with test applications from now on!  

Questions?  Concerns?  Feedback?

As always, please contact us at the WDC and we will be glad to answer your questions or take your feedback to the NCA Board. 

A portion of the proceeds from every book purchased will benefit the NCA Charitable Trust, creating a safe and healthy future for every Newfoundland.

Judges Corner

Judges!  Please make sure you are listed correctly on the judges list for water and draft work.  If not, please contact Benita Edds and let her know what needs to be corrected.

Observer judges!  Do NOT forget that once you ask a club if you can come do observation at their test, SUBMIT your paperwork to John Jackman!

Want to become a judge?  Learn how!  Reach out to John Jackman about what the steps are and how you can get started!