Stock Dog Club, Aggie Club Highlight

Nov. 11, 2020

By Malina Lindstrom, student writer

This week’s Aggie Club Highlight comes to us from the Stock Dog Club. Read on to learn about this organization from their first-year president, Aubrey Kelley.

What is Stock Dog Club, and who are the members? How many members do you have?

Stock Dog Club/Team is a student organization that allows individuals to work with and train dogs for use on stock. The club is made up of first-and second-year members, and the competitive team is made up of team members who use their dogs in cattle dog trials. The purpose of the Stock Dog Club is to promote and develop the use of stock dogs for the benefit of farmers, ranchers, students, livestock owners and stock dog handlers. We create an atmosphere of low stress livestock handling by conducting educational events including clinics, practices, trials and demonstrations. The team encourages sportsmanship, patience and a willingness to improve. We currently have 22 members. 

Any significant fact about the team?

You do not have to have your own dog to be a part of the team! The team has a vast number of resources and will be able to pair you up with a dog that best fits you! 

Also, we were the only program like this in the country until a year ago. A NCTA Stock Dog alum recently started a club on the UNL campus.

When and where does the club meet?

We meet in the Vet Tech Building Amphitheater on every Tuesday and Thursday evening at 6 P.M. 

Who are the student leaders/ officers?

I, Aubrey Kelley, am the first-year president, and our second-year president is Nick Ockinga. The first-year secretary is Lauren Kelley, and our second-year secretary is Lilly Calkins. The first-year treasurer is Michael Comstock, and the second-year is Trevin Arnold. Our Student Senate representatives are Dharian Ahrens and Eliese Mohlman. 

Describe some of the activities and what they entail –service, education, fundraising, etc.?

The team hosts cattle dog trials on campus throughout the school year, and we host a clinician to come in and help students with their dogs. Our team participates/volunteers at Curtis Fall Fest and Trunk or Treat. Along with this, we host a school dance, help with some demonstrations at the county fairs of our club members, and sell dog collars for fundraising.

Who are the staff sponsors?

Leighlynn Obermiller and Judy Bowmaster-Cole are our staff sponsors. Kelly Popp is the coach for our team.

What is a highlight of your club participation?

A highlight of my club participation is the welcoming and encouraging energy the team has brought. I became a part of this team the beginning of this semester. I had absolutely no experience with training or working stock dogs, but everyone has been extremely helpful showing me the ins and outs! I got paired up with a two-year-old border collie named Opossum and he has taught me so much! Being a part of this team has taught me patience, dedication, teamwork, and the desire to improve with every interaction I have with my dog! 

How do students become a member of the Stock Dog Club and how can they contact with questions?

In order to be in Stock Dog Club, you must be enrolled in the academic course and pay club dues. If you are interested in becoming a member of the club, you can contact Leighlynn Obermiller.