As a troop leader, you are an abassador of DSA and expected to promote only reward based training methods (no constricting collars, electric collars, leash pops or harsh methods) and to help people in your troop be better parents for their dog(s) through education about responsibility for their dog(s). 
 
The information found on the DSA website and below can provide topics of disscussion for many, many troop meetings and training days!  So if you don't already understand or use reward based training, such as clicker training, now is the time to start your education about a fun and effective way to train that will strengthen the bond you have with your dog.  It will help him or her learn more than you ever thought possible (and all while completely enjoying the learning process!)  If you have any questions, feel free to ask on the discussion list, or email the Certification Program Director.


 G: Start a troop
     1.     Current troop locations by state 

     2.     Troop Leaders Manual (Word03) Large file
     3.     Is troop leadership for you? (.pdf) 
     4.     Check-off list of the steps for starting a troop
     5.     Suggestions for your first troop meeting  (.pdf)
     6.     Troop Policies- (.pdf) applies to all troops!
                   Also see Guidelines for money handling

     7.     Some games for troop meetings (.pdf)
     8.     Leadership Retreat - registration and info

     9.     Advice for leaders- Avoiding Burnout (.pdf) 
    10.    Activity Waiver (.pdf) 
    11.    DSA Position on Punishment
    12.    Insurance
    13.    Written Test for Troop Leaders
    14.    Resolving conflicts 
    15.    PowerPoint presentation to introduce DSA to troop members and general public
    16     PowerPoint presentation (more graphic intensive- large file)
    17.    Troop member info sheet sample (.doc) If you need a way to keep track of your troop
                      members, their contact info and DSA membership expiration dates, try this form.
    18.    How to become a non-profit troop
                  a.  Sample Authorization Letter
                  b.  Sample Organizational Document
                  c.  Sample Description of Activities(Excel file)
   19.     Guidelines for hosting a camp or mini-camp (NOTE- camps held by a troop that are
                        open to non-members and advertised as a DSA function need to follow these 
                        guidelines. Check with the Certification Program Director if you have questions.)
                   Contract for hosting a camp or mini-camp


       Troop Recognition Program (updated 1-13-10)
                  a. Program Guidelines  .pdf
                  b. Record Keeping Form for leaders .pdf
                  c. End of the year reporting form .pdf

                          Addendum to the End of Year Report (word doc)
                  d. Quick Reference for troop members .pdf

If you have found this information helpful, please consider a donation so DSA can continue to provide useful information that helps people all over the world make life better for dogs.