WCFO Organizational Rules

WCFO, INC Code of Ethics

It shall be the responsibility of all officials in sanctioned canine freestyle events, registered members of member clubs, or Individual members to be thoroughly familiar with the rules of the WCFO, INC, to comply with them in full and to exemplify the highest standards of fairness, ethical behavior and genuine good sportsmanship in any of their relations with others. Any person whose acts, statements or conduct is considered detrimental to the welfare of canine freestyle is subject to the loss of the privilege of registration by the WCFO, INC in accordance with the procedure outlined relating to loss of membership privileges, suspension and expulsion.

WCFO, INC Code of Conduct

The following code of conduct applies to all participants in all competitions, exhibitions, and training camps hosted, supported, or sponsored by the WCFO:

I recognize that my participation in all competitions, exhibitions, and training camps hosted and supported or sponsored by the WCFO, INC is an honor and privilege that carries certain responsibilities. I agree to fully abide by the rules and guidelines set forth by the WCFO, INC or its properly designated agents. As a precondition to participation in WCFO, INC hosted, supported, or sponsored events, I will adhere to the following tenets in good faith.

I will exhibit the highest standards of fairness, ethical behavior, and genuine good sportsmanship in all of my relations with others.

I will not damage public or private property. I understand that I may be held financially responsible for damage deemed to be wantonly or willfully executed on my part, and that I may be subject to disciplinary action by the WCFO.

I will not use or possess illegal drugs and I will not engage in criminal activity. I understand that, if I am found to use or possess illegal drugs, or if I am found to engage in any criminal activity during any WCFO sanctioned, or sponsored competition, exhibition or training camp, I may be subject to criminal penalties as well as penalties imposed by the WCFO, INC Bylaws and Constitution.

I will adhere to the rules of the WCFO, INC and the host organization at all WCFO, INC hosted, sponsored, or supported training camps, competition and exhibitions.

I will conduct myself in a manner not detrimental to the welfare of canine freestyle. I understand that my actions reflect on the WCFO, INC and the sport of canine freestyle both positively and negatively. I understand that if my acts, statements, or conduct are considered detrimental to the welfare of canine freestyle by the appropriate authority, I may be subject to penalties imposed by the WCFO, INC pursuant to its Constitution and Bylaws.

I understate that the penalties that may be imposed may include, but are not limited to, loss of participation in WCFO, INC sponsored events.

I understand that all disciplinary proceedings will be conducted pursuant to the WCFO, INC Constitution and Bylaws and that my rights and remedies are derived there from.

WCFO, INC Policy on Harassment and Abuse

WCFO, INC will not tolerate or condone any form of harassment or abuse by any of its members including instructors, officials, directors, employees, parents, athletes and volunteers – or any other persons – while they are participating in or preparing for a canine freestyle activity or event conducted under the auspices of the WCFO, INC.

Harassment of such nature between or among WCFO, INC members shall be reported to the a Director of the Organization. If any form of child abuse is observed or suspected, the observer should immediately contact either the local law enforcement or a public child welfare agency and make a report.

Any person who violates this rule, who fails to appropriately report or who makes a false report or otherwise violates WCFO, INC policy on Harassment and Abuse will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the WCFO, INC Bylaws and constitution.

WCFO, INC Policy on Discrimination

WCFO, INC is guided by the United States Internal Revenue Service and government rules against all prejudice and discrimination.

WCFO, Inc. Emergency Rule Activation

An emergency rule is created to correct, and/or facilitate any matter that needs immediate attention. An action is not limited to competitions, etc but to all issues that may pose a problem from time to time.  An action may be brought to the attention of the Board of Directors at any time for their consideration and determination.  A ruling decided by the Board of Directors will stand unless the issue is raised during the October open rules forum.  The Board of Directors may delegate certain tasks to anyone at any time for the better of the organization.

WCFO Policy

WCFO COMPETITION EVENT SPECIAL AWARDS

A WCFO Club may choose to include special awards at a WCFO event.  Special awards are acceptable and encouraged.   Awards should conform to generally accepted rules of decorum and not be offensive, controversial or sexually suggestive in language or presentation.

WCFO is a wholesome, family spectator sport with an emphasis on sharing, bonding and performing with your dog.

WCFO “Theme” Shows

A WCFO club may choose to select a theme that will showcase and coordinate the exhibitors choice of music and performance choices.

The Theme will be part of the overall event review and approval process as submitted to the WCFO Board of Directors.  Theme selections should conform to generally accepted rules of decorum and not be offensive, controversial, or sexually suggestive in language or presentation. WCFO is a wholesome family spectator sport with emphasis on sharing, bonding and performing with your dog.

WCFO MONETARY SUPPORT TO WCFO CLUBS

WCFO supports clubs though the reimbursement of a portion of the entries fees paid by exhibitors for competitive and innovation entries.  WCFO also provides the award ribbons, and high artistic and high technical trophies that are awarded at every trial, and the competition score sheets completed by the judge.  The computer scoring system can also be sent to a club for scoring and placement recording in each event.

A WCFO club may choose to hold a WCFO live or video event. The first half of the total monies due will be sent to the club along with award trophies, ribbons, and the blank judge scoring sheets.

Upon completion of an event, a club must send to Anna Schloff, WCFO CEO, copies of the judge sheets and also a completed copy of the scoring spread sheet within 10 business days after the event is completed.  The club will also include any day of show entry information and monies received (if applicable)

Upon receipt of the above materials from the club and final reconciliation of the event, the balance of the entry monies due to the WCFO club will be paid to the club.

This process assures that all information is completed, reconciled, and received by WCFO and also assures that title records are completed timely and are current and correct for an exhibitor.

WCFO YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP

WCFO has always encouraged and supported the youth exhibitor who is new to competing in WCFO events.   The WCFO competitor youth program recognizes and supports the youth exhibitor 18 years of age and younger.

In a continued goal to support the WCFO youth competitor, WCFO is pleased to announce the WCFO youth scholarship program.

The WCFO youth scholarship is open to any youth competitor aged 18 years of age and younger.

The applicant may apply for a $150.00 scholarship which is to be used toward entry fees at a WCFO event.

WCFO will award one (1) $150.00 scholarship per quarter to a youth competitor.   The youth competitor may be awarded a scholarship one time per year.

Applicants will complte the WCFO scholarship application and information form and will also complete the essay questions within the application.  All applicants will submit their scholarship application to the WCFO board.  The board will review all applications and identify the award recipient for the quarter applied for.

The scholarship award winner must use the scholarship within 1 year of receipt.  Each quarter will identify a new grant recipient.

The award monies will be used toward entry fees at a WCFO event to include:

• A live competition event

• Video competition event

• Stay at home video

• Proficiency testing

For more information, and/or to receive a scholarship award request packet, please contact Anna Schloff.

WCFO POLICY UPDATES FEB 2024

 WCFO COMPETITION EVENT SPECIAL AWARDS

A WCFO Club may choose to include special awards at a WCFO event.  Special awards are acceptable and encouraged.   Awards should conform to generally accepted rules of decorum and not be offensive, controversial or sexually suggestive in language or presentation.

WCFO is a wholesome, family spectator sport with an emphasis on sharing, bonding and performing with your dog.

WCFO “Theme” Shows

A WCFO club may choose to select a theme that will showcase and coordinate the exhibitors choice of music and performance choices.

The Theme will be part of the overall event review and approval process as submitted to the WCFO Board of Directors.  Theme selections should conform to generally accepted rules of decorum and not be offensive, controversial, or sexually suggestive in language or presentation. WCFO is a wholesome family spectator sport with emphasis on sharing, bonding and performing with your dog.

WCFO MONETARY SUPPORT TO WCFO CLUBS

WCFO supports clubs though the reimbursement of a portion of the entries fees paid by exhibitors for competitive and innovation entries.  WCFO also provides the award ribbons, and high artistic and high technical trophies that are awarded at every trial, and the competition score sheets completed by the judge.  The computer scoring system can also be sent to a club for scoring and placement recording in each event.

A WCFO club may choose to hold a WCFO live or video event. The first half of the total monies due will be sent to the club along with award trophies, ribbons, and the blank judge scoring sheets.

Upon completion of an event, a club must send to Anna Schloff, WCFO CEO, copies of the judge sheets and also a completed copy of the scoring spread sheet within 10 business days after the event is completed.  The club will also include any day of show entry information and monies received (if applicable)

Upon receipt of the above materials from the club and final reconciliation of the event, the balance of the entry monies due to the WCFO club will be paid to the club.

This process assures that all information is completed, reconciled, and received by WCFO and also assures that title records are completed timely and are current and correct for an exhibitor.

WCFO Titles

The following titles may be earned by any team actively competing and testing in WCFO, INC live and video events.

JUNIORS DIVISION

Categories – Heelwork-To-Music and Musical Freestyle
Age Limit – Up to 18 years of age
Routine times: 1:30 – 2:15 minutes

JUNIORS A HTM/MF:
SINGLES, PAIRS, TEAMS, BRACE, non-titled teams. Dog is trained by junior only and has not qualified in higher level.
Titles Offered:
W-JFD, W-JPFD, W-JTFD, W-JBFD – Two shows, qualifying average scores of 5.5 in both Technical Merit and Artistic Impression.

JUNIORS B HTM/MF: SINGLES, PAIRS, TEAM, BRACE titled teams.
Dog has been trained and/or shown by another handler or junior has achieved freestyle title W-JFD with dog.
Titles Offered:
W-JFD, W-JPFD, W-JTFD, W-JBFD – Two shows, qualifying average scores of 5.5 in both Technical Merit and Artistic Impression.
W-JFDX, W-JPFDX, W-JTFDX, W-JBFDX – Two shows, qualifying average scores of 6.0 in both Technical Merit and Artistic Impression.
W-JFDM, W-JPFDM, W-JTFDM, W-JBDM – Two shows, qualifying average scores of 6.5 in both TM and AI.
W-JCH.FD W-JPCH.FD W-JTCH.FD, W-JBCHFD – Two shows, qualifying average scores of 7.0 in both TM and AI.

JUNIOR CHAMPION HTM/MF. See Junior Event Guidelines 2002 brochure. Juniors compete for points, nationally/internationally.

JUNIOR HANDI DANDI – Physically creatively challenged juniors. Rules for Junior A applies.

ADULT DIVISIONS

BEGINNERS DIVISION

Routine Times: 1:30 to 2:15 minutes

BEGINNERS A
ON/OFF LEASH HTM/MF, singles, pairs, teams.
For first time handler and dog with no prior WCFO title and has not earned a WCFO HTM or MF proficiency title. Dog must be owned, co-owned by exhibitor or family member. Routine may be done on/off leash.

BEGINNERS B
ON/OFF LEASH HTM/MF, Singles, Pairs, Teams.
For handler and dog with WCFO leg or title and/or a WCFO HTM or MF proficiency title. For any handler who has previously shown and received a title or Proficiency Test title on any dog. Dog must be owned, co-owned by exhibitor or family member.

BEGINNERS ON LEASH HTM: Singles
BEGINNERS ON LEASH MF: Singles, Pairs, Teams, Brace
BEGINNERS OFF LEASH HTM: Singles
BEGINNERS OFF LEASH MF: Singles,Pairs, Teams, Brace
Titles Offered:
W-FD, W-PFD, W-TFD, W-BFD. Two shows, qualifying average scores of 7.25 in both Technical Merit and Artistic Impression

NOVICE DIVISION

Routine Times: 1:45 to 2:30 minutes

NOVICE OFF LEASH HTM/MF Singles, Pairs, Teams
For teams with a W-FD title or a leg towards this title
NOVICE OFF LEASH HTM: Singles
NOVICE OFF LEASH MF: Singles, Pairs, Teams, Brace

Titles Offered:
W-FDX, W-PFDX, W-TFDX – Three shows, qualifying average scores of 8.0 in both Technical Merit and Artistic Impression

INTERMEDIATE DIVISION

Routine Times: 2:00 to 2.:45 minutes

INTERMEDIATE OFF LEASH HTM/MF, Singles, Pairs, Teams
For teams with a W-FDX title or a leg towards this title.
INTERMEDIATE OFF LEASH HTM, Singles
INTERMEDIATE OFF LEASH MF, Singles, Pairs, Teams, Brace

Titles Offered:
W-FDM, W-PFDM, W-TFDM, and W-BFDM, Three shows, and qualifying average scores of 8.5 in both Technical Merit and Artistic Impression

ADVANCED DIVISION

Routine Times: 2:15 to 3:15 minutes

ADVANCED OFF LEASH HTM/MF, Singles, Pairs, Teams.
For teams with a F-FDM title or a leg towards this title.
ADVANCED OFF LEASH HTM , Singles
ADVANCED OFF LEASH MF, Singles, Pairs, Teams. Brace

Titles Offered:
W-CHFD, W-CHPFD, W-CHTFD, W-CHBFD. Three shows, qualifying average scores of 9.2 in both Techinical Merit and Artistic Impression

CHAMPION PERFECT DANCE PARTNERS

Routine Times: 3:00 to 4:00 minutes

For teams with W-CHFD, W-CHPFD.
ADVANCED OFF LEASH HTM , Singles
ADVANCED OFF LEASH MF, Singles, Pairs

Titles Offered:
W-CH.PDP, W-PCH.PDP. Five shows, qualifying average scores of 9.5 in both Techinical Merit and Artistic Impression

SASSY SENIORS DIVISION

For Dogs over 9 Years of Age and/or Handlers over 65 Years.

Routine Times: 1:30 to 2:15 minutes
Titles:
W-SSFD 2 shows 6.75
W-SSFDX 2 shows 7.50

Routine Times: 1:45 to 2:30 minutes
Titles:
W-SSFDM 3 shows 8.25
W-CH.SSFD 3 shows 9.0

HANDI DANDI DIVISION

For The Physically challenged Dog and/or Handler.

Routine Times: 1:30 to 2:15 minutes
Titles:
W-HDFD 2 shows 6.0
W-HDFDX 2 shows 7.25

Routine Times: 1:45 to 2:30 minutes
Titles:
W-HDFDM 3 shows 8.0
W-CH.HDFD 3 shows 8.5

NON TITLING DIVISIONS

INNOVATION DIVISION: NOT JUDGED

No awards, 50% entry fee
Anything goes. For trying out a new puppy or dog, mixed teams (ie. 2 dogs & 1 person, etc.)

COMBINED TITLES

WCFO, INC grants titles to recognize teams that have achieved a level of excellence in WCFO, INC set standards in both Proficiency Tests and Competitions. To recognize these teams as truly multi-faceted, working canine freestyle teams, the following titles are granted and can be earned in Heelwork To Music and/or Musical Freestyle.

DANCE DOG TITLES: a combination of competition titles and Proficiency Test titles
W-DD – Dancing Dog – W-FD title and Bronze Bar
W-DDX – Dancing Dog Excellent – W-FDX, Bronze Bar/Bronze Medal
W-DDM – Dancing Dog Master – W-FDM, Silver Bar & Silver Medal
W-CH.DD – Dancing Dog W-CH.FD – Gold Bar & Gold Medal

W-SSDD Sassy Senior Dance Dog W-SSFD title and Bronze Bar MF
W-SSDDX Sassy Senior Dance Dog Excellent W-SSFDX and Bronze Bar/Medal
W-SSDDM Sassy Senior Dance Dog Master W-SSFDM and Silver Bar & Silver Medal
W-ChSSDD Sassy Senior Dance Dog W-SSCHFD and Gold Bar/Gold Medal

W-HDDD Handi Dandi Dance Dog W-HDFD title with Bronze Bar
W-HDDDX Handi Dandi Dance Dog Excellent W-HDFDX andBronze Bar/Medal
W-HDDDM Handi Dandi Dance Dog Master W-HDFDM and Silver Bar & Silver Medal
W-ChHDDD Handi Dandi Dance Dog W-CHFD and Gold Bar/Gold Medal

WCFO INC Deductions, Additions and Disqualifications

DEDUCTIONS (from Scores)

Heelwork-To-Music (HTM) Routines:

• Loss of Heelwork Proximity (each instance, depends on severity) – .1 to 1.0 pt. from TM – Precise Execution.

• Distance (each instance, depends on severity) – .3 to 1.0 pt. from TM – Content.

• Jumping (each instance, depends on severity) – .3 to 1.0 pt. from TM – Content.

• Weaving or In-Between legs or arms (each instance, depends on severity) – .3 to 1.0 pt. from TM – Content.

Props:

• Props Not Integral or Not Used by handler and dog – 1.0 pt. from Total TM and 1.0 pt. from Total AI.

• Prop Set-Up or Take Down over 60 seconds or not done by handler only – 1.0 pt. from Total TM and 1.0 pt. from Total AI.

Miscellaneous:

• Excessive Talking (depends on severity) – .1 to .3 pt. from AI – Animation/Interaction.

• Excessive Barking (depends on severity) – .1 to .3 pt. from AI – Spectator Appeal.

• Physical Manipulation of Dog under 50% of routine (each instance) – .3 pt. from TM – Precise Execution and .3 pt. from AI – Animation/Interaction.

ADDITIONS (to Scores)

JUNIORS: Handicapped handlers/dogs in Jr. “Singles” Division – 1.0 pt. to Total TM and 1.0 pt. to Total AI.

DISQUALIFICATIONS (DQ) of Routine

• Fouling/Eliminating

• Leaving the ring (dog and/or handler at any time)

• Food/Treats/Bait/Training Aid

• Dog Attire/Adornment violation

  • Glitter, Paint, Hair Dye, or Nail Color

  • Different/un-normal hairstyles or shaves

  • Any kind of Prong, Choke or Slip Collars (made of chain or any other material)

  • Snoods

  • Head Halters

  • Tab/Training Tab

• Prop/Item causing marked change in Dog’s Drive and/or Demeanor

• Dog’s eyes and/or head Following Prop/Item significantly

• Additional Human(s) or Dog(s) in ring

• Costume, Music, or Routine Offensive or Sexually Suggestive

• Short or Long Routine

• Dropping of Leash over 25% in On Leash entry

• Abusive Behavior

• Physical Manipulation of Dog, done forcefully or over 50% of routine

• Edited Tape – Video Event