PAFTA, Inc. - HISTORY & SUMMARY OF ACTIVITIES


When was PAFTA formed?

The need for a tracking organization in the San Francisco peninsula area was discussed in February 1983, by a group of tracking enthusiasts after celebrating a series of successful tracking tests. Subsequently, on August 24, 1983, a group of seven met at Palo Alto's Foothill Park to decide if their dream could become a reality. After discussing finances, places to hold tracking tests, and objectives of the organization, it was determined that a formation meeting should be called for September 16, 1983, at the home of one active participant. An informal announcement was sent to individuals who had exhibited an interest in tracking at previous informal meetings and/or tracking events.

What are the PAFTA objectives?

At the formation meeting, September 16, 1983, the question was asked, "Why form a club?" The initial response by those present provided the foundation for the formal by-laws, which would be provided to the AKC at a later date. The following were the recommended club objectives submitted at the meeting:
  1. Put on tracking matches and tests.
  2. Meet others interested in tracking, exchange ideas and exchange physical help needed for tracking.
  3. Offer tracking workshops.
  4. Find tracking areas. Being a group rather than an individual would be beneficial.
  5. Educate others. Many do not know what tracking is.
  6. Coordinate use of tracking areas and events with Schutzhund and Search and Rescue Groups, share ideas. No formal relationship.
  7. Have social events.

What are the club's objectives as stated in the by-laws approved by the AKC?

The objectives of the Association shall be to promote the training of pure-bred dogs; dissemination of knowledge regarding tracking; to encourage the training of judges; to encourage groups with similar purposes; to hold and support tracking tests, exhibitions and matches under the rules and regulations of the American Kennel Club; to promote cooperation and good sportsmanship among its members in the training and exhibition of dogs. The Association shall not be conducted or operated for profit and no part of any profits or remainder or residue from dues or donations to the Association shall inure to the benefit of any member or individual.

How did the club get it's name?

At the October 21, 1983, club meeting with 20 members present, two names were suggested:
  1. Palo Alto Foothills Tracking Association (PAFTA), and
  2. Stanford Foothills Tracking Association (SFTA).
The membership voted for PAFTA.

What are the Club Activities?

As stated in the club's Objectives, PAFTA holds a TD test in January, a TDX test in February and usually two VST tests - one in April and one in November. The club attempts to have one or two other dog/tracking activities each year such as seminars or workshops on AKC Tracking, scent, tracklaying and rattlesnake avoidance.

How does an individual become a member of PAFTA?

PAFTA has a membership chairman who should be contacted for particulars. Eligibility: There shall be one type of membership open to all persons who are in good standing with the American Kennel Club and who subscribe to the purposes of the Association. While membership is to be unrestricted as to residence, the Association's primary purpose is to be representative of the exhibitors in its immediate area. There is an application to be completed, the endorsement of two members required, initiation fee and annual dues. Club members are available to assist anyone desiring to become a member.

When and where are the meetings?

Meetings are held quarterly, on the third Friday, in the months of February, May, August and November.

Besides meetings, what else does the club have to offer?

The club publishes a quarterly newsletter, GONE TRACKIN'. This publication keeps the membership informed of various tracking activities and provides training information received from PAFTA members and other tracking clubs in the U.S. The club awards a "Smelly Boot" patch to members who lay tracks on which dogs qualify. In addition, the club awards a plaque when members' dogs earn tracking titles. Members are provided a club roster. 
Members can participate in tracking activities sponsored by the club, as well as assist other clubs in their tracking events.

Additional Information

If you desire additional information, please contact the Club Secretary (on the PAFTA Home Page) or a club member.

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Page 03000 Last Updated November 28, 2008.