Heart of Texas Australian Shepherd Club (HOTASC)

The Heart of Texas Australian Shepherd Club (HOTASC) is a dedicated affiliate of the Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA), serving the canine community in Texas. Established in 1991 in Fort Worth, the club was formed by a group of enthusiasts following the transition of the local North Texas ASC to a USASA-affiliated organization. Since its inception, HOTASC has evolved from a group focused primarily on conformation into a robust, multi-faceted organization that supports all areas of Australian Shepherd competition and education.

Core Mission and Goals: The club is committed to fostering a welcoming environment for all Australian Shepherd lovers. Its primary objectives include:

• Community Engagement: Welcoming new members and maintaining a supportive network of approximately fifty active participants.
• Education: Fulfilling its ASCA mandate by hosting at least one educational event annually, covering topics such as genetics, stock dog handling, canine structure, movement, and breed standards.
• Member Support: Providing essential services, including eye examination clinics with certified ACVO veterinarians, as well as microchipping and tattoo clinics.

Activities and Competitions: HOTASC maintains a busy calendar designed to challenge and celebrate the breed. The club hosts approximately four weekends of conformation and obedience shows annually, frequently inviting esteemed Australian Shepherd breeder-judges to preside over these events. Additionally, the club organizes two to three weekends of agility trials, which have seen significant growth and popularity. To further expand opportunities for exhibitors, HOTASC frequently collaborates with regional partners such as the Southwest Working Australian Shepherd Association (SWASA) and the New Hope Aussie Club to co-host major events.

Club Culture: The organization emphasizes camaraderie and recognition, holding meetings throughout the year that coincide with club events to ensure accessibility. The highlight of the club's social calendar is the year-end meeting, where members gather to celebrate achievements and distribute awards. By prioritizing both competitive excellence and the welfare of the breed, the Heart of Texas Australian Shepherd Club continues to be a cornerstone for Aussie enthusiasts in the region.