How do you become a SADAA member?

Anyone wishing to compete in SADAA-affiliated trials must first become a SADAA member and have their dog/s registered with the South African Working Dogs Association (SAWDA), the umbrella body for several working dog disciplines in South Africa.

STEP 1 – Familiarise yourself with the SADAA Rules and Constitution

Before competing in your first SADAA trial, we recommend familiarising yourself with the SADAA Rules and Constitution. These provide important information about how trials are run and what is expected from competitors.

In addition to traditional agility classes, SADAA offers agility games such as Gamblers and Snooker, which introduce different strategies and challenges for both dogs and handlers.

Clubs wishing to affiliate with SADAA should also familiarise themselves with the Constitution and Rules and contact their Regional Director should they have any questions.

STEP 2 – Complete your SADAA Membership Application

SADAA membership is an annual membership for handlers wishing to participate in SADAA trials.

The SADAA membership year runs from 1 July to 30 June, with memberships renewed annually.

SADAA membership fees:

Single member / first family member – R300.00 per annum
Additional family member – R240.00 per annum
Scholar, student or pensioner – R180.00 per annum

Your completed membership application and payment are submitted through your Regional Director, who will assist with the registration process.

STEP 3 – Register your dog/s with SAWDA

Each dog competing in SADAA trials must be registered with SAWDA.

Unlike your annual SADAA membership, SAWDA registration is a once-off lifetime registration for each dog.

SAWDA registration fees:

Per dog – R80.00 once-off
Kennel name registration – R10.00 additional

Your Regional Director will assist with submitting the required information and payment. Once registered, a SAWDA registration certificate will be issued for your dog.

STEP 4 – Attend Your First Trial

Once your SADAA membership and your dog’s SAWDA registration have been completed, you will receive your SADAA membership number and a SAWDA registration number for each registered dog.

A SADAA Record Book and SADAA Games Record Book will also be issued for each registered dog.

Dogs must be at least 18 months old to compete in SADAA trials.

At your first trial, a senior judge and/or Regional Director will measure your dog to determine the correct height category in which they will compete.

Dogs whose measurements are close to the limit between two height categories may be measured by a second qualified judge to ensure a fair and accurate measurement.

Your Regional Director will keep you informed about upcoming club trials, Regional Trials and other SADAA events around the country.

Please remember that it is the owner or competitor’s responsibility to complete and submit trial entries before the advertised closing date.

STEP 5 – Renew Your SADAA Membership

SADAA membership must be renewed annually for the new membership year beginning on 1 July.

Your Regional Director will provide information regarding the renewal process and payment of the applicable membership fees.