Everything You Need to Know About STARFLEET Petfleet

This FAQ page is here to answer your most common questions about STARFLEET Petfleet (SFPet). Whether you’re curious about how to register your pet, participate in our activities, or learn more about our community, you’ll find the information you need right here. We’ve gathered all the essential details to help you and your pet fully engage with SFPet, ensuring that every step of your journey is clear and straightforward.

STARFLEET Petfleet Handbook

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Getting Started with Petfleet

What is STARFLEET Petfleet's mission?

STARFLEET Petfleet’s mission is to celebrate the bond between STARFLEET members and their pets, whether they have fur, feathers, scales, or fins. We aim to create a world where every pet is valued, loved, and cared for with dignity.

Handbook Reference: Section 01 – Welcome to STARFLEET Petfleet
How do I register my pet with STARFLEET Petfleet?

To register your pet with STARFLEET Petfleet, simply fill out the SFPet Registration form, available here. Once submitted, your pet’s Membership Certificate should be issued to you by email within 48 hours. If you do not receive it with in a few days please contact Member Services.

Handbook Reference: Section 01.01 – Welcome to STARFLEET Petfleet
What if I can't have a live pet? Can I still participate in STARFLEET Petfleet?

Yes! STARFLEET Petfleet welcomes members who cannot have live pets by allowing them to register stuffed animals, pet rocks, plants, ship mascots, or even imaginary pets. This inclusivity ensures everyone can participate and celebrate their unique companions, whether real or imaginative.

Handbook Reference: Section 01.02 – Our Core Values
What types of pets can be registered with STARFLEET Petfleet?

Members can register a variety of pets with STARFLEET Petfleet, including common pets like dogs, cats, and birds, as well as more unique pets like raccoons, sea monkeys, and even imaginary companions or stuffed animals. The pet must be in the member’s care and identifiable.

Handbook Reference: Section 03.01 – Membership
What types of pets cannot be registered with STARFLEET Petfleet?

Pets that are not in the care of the member or are not identifiable cannot be registered with STARFLEET Petfleet. This includes other people’s pets, wild animals, etc. People who identify as pets or mascots also can not be registered with STARFLEET Petfleet.

Additionally, pets cannot be registered as STARFLEET members or counted towards chapter membership numbers, and they do not have voting rights within STARFLEET.

Handbook Reference: Section 03.01 – Membership
How can I update my pet's information with STARFLEET Petfleet?
How can I register my pet's Final Mission (Passing)

To receive a Final Mission Certificate after the loss of a pet, members can use the SFPet registration form and select “Final Mission – My pet has passed away.” This process allows them to provide details for a personalized certificate, offering support and remembrance during a difficult time.

Handbook Reference: Section 01.01 – Final Mission Certificates

When is the STARFLEET Petfleet Newsletter published?
How can I subscribe to the STARFLEET Petfleet Newsletter?
Where can I read back issues of the STARFLEET Petfleet Newsletter?
Can I contribute content to the STARFLEET Petfleet Newsletter?

Yes, members are encouraged to share their stories, articles, photos, and videos to be considered for publication in the newsletter.

You can submit articles, stories, photos, or videos for consideration using the following submission link: Submit Content to the Newsletter.

Handbook Reference: Section 01.01 – STARFLEET Petfleet Newsletter
What type of content can I submit to the STARFLEET Petfleet Newsletter?

Events & Activities

What types of activities does STARFLEET Petfleet offer?

STARFLEET Petfleet offers a variety of fun and engaging activities for members, including monthly themed photo contests, pet walking challenges, quarterly Academy Challenges, and virtual watch parties. These activities are designed to help members bond with their pets, showcase their pet photos, and engage in friendly competitions.

Handbook Reference: Section 01.01 Events and Activities
Where can I find information about upcoming events and activities?
What is the STARFLEET Petfleet Monthly Photo Contest?

Each month, members can submit their best pet photos for the monthly themed contest. Submissions will be through the Photo Contest page on the website or the Facebook Group. The winner’s photo will be featured on the SFPet Facebook group cover, and the first-place winner and honorable mentions are invited to help judge the next contest.

Handbook Reference: Section 01.01 Events and Activities
How are winners of the Monthly Photo Contest selected?

Winners are chosen based on the quality of their photo submissions, and how well it follows the contest theme. The winners from the previous month help judge the next photo contest alongside the SFPet Command Staff.

Handbook Reference: Section 01.01 Events and Activities
How do I join the Monthly Pet Walking Challenge?

You can join the Monthly Pet Walking Challenge by tracking your weekly steps while walking or exercising with your pet. Submit YOUR step counts using the provided link or form on the Monthly Pet Walking Challenge page on the website for a chance to earn a certificate at the end of the quarter.

Handbook Reference: Section 01.01 Events and Activities
What types of exercises count for the Monthly Pet Walking Challenge?

Any fun and healthy activity you do with your pet, such as walking, jogging, swimming, or hopping, can be counted toward the Pet Walking Challenge. For this challenge we count your total steps not your pets so even activity without them count toward your step total.

Handbook Reference: Section 01.01: Events and Activities – Monthly Pet Walking Challenges
What is the STARFLEET Petfleet Quarterly Academy Challenge?

The Quarterly Academy Challenge encourages members to complete a series of STARFLEET Academy courses. Find out about this quarter’s challenge and enter your results on the Academy Challenge page on the website. Depending on your performance, you can earn a Gold, Silver, or Standard Certificate.

Handbook Reference: Section 01.01 Events and Activities – Quarterly Academy Challenges
How do I participate in a STARFLEET Petfleet Watch Party?

STARFLEET Petfleet hosts virtual watch parties occasionally where members can join via Zoom to watch a Star Trek episode or movie together. Members are required to stream the episode or movie locally.

Handbook Reference: Section 01.01 Events and Activities – Watch Parties

Command Staff

Where Can I find a list of Petfleet Staff.

The current list of STARFLEET Petfleet staff can be found on the SFPet Staff page under the About/History section on the website. You will also be able to contact specific staff by using the Contact Form on the Contact Us page. Make sure you select the right department or staff member from the drop-down list in the form.
What official channels are used for STARFLEET Petfleet communications?

The official channels for SFPet business are the petfleet.sfi.org website, and the STARFLEET Petfleet Facebook group, the sf-petfleet channel under STARFLEET AUXILIARY SERVES on the Starfleet discord server

SFPet command staff use, a Staff only area on the website, the SFPet Command Group on Discord, the SFPet Admin Group on Facebook Messenger, and SFPet’s Google Drive.

Handbook Reference: Section 02.01 – The Chain of Command
What are the different departments in STARFLEET Petfleet?

STARFLEET Petfleet has several key departments, including Command, Operations, Member Services, Newsletter, and the Liaison Program. Each department plays a vital role in organizing events, managing member records, creating newsletters, and promoting Petfleet activities across STARFLEET.

Handbook Reference: Section 02.02 – STARFLEET Petfleet Command Staff
What are the various staff responsible for?
You will find more details on the SFPet Staff page under About/History and on the Contact Us page:

The Director oversees operations and initiatives related to pets within STARFLEET.

The Executive Deputy Director supports the Director, manages the newsletter, social media, oversees liaisons, and steps in as second-in-command when needed.

The Deputy Director of Operations oversees the operations department and helps to organize activities like photo contests and walking challenges.

The Yeoman assists the Director, Executive Deputy Director, and Deputy Director of Operations with clerical duties, ensuring confidentiality and accurate record-keeping.

Member Services manages pet registration, issues certificates, and compiles monthly reports on membership and pet breeds.

The Newsletter Editor-in-Chief leads the creation and publication of the quarterly “Pet Tails from the Final Frontier” newsletter, collaborating with staff and members to produce engaging content.

Consultants provide valuable guidance, mentorship, and support based on their extensive experience within STARFLEET Petfleet.

Liaisons serve as the communication link between SFPet and STARFLEET regions, chapters and other auxiliaries, promoting activities, encouraging pet registration, and reporting back on regional engagement.
Are STARFLEET Petfleet staff required to have a current SFDPP?

All STARFLEET Petfleet command staff must complete and maintain the STARFLEET Data Protection Policy (SFDPP) requirements each year. Failure to renew SFDPP on time may result in losing access to data or being asked to step down.

Handbook Reference: Section 03.02 – SFDPP
Can a SFPet Command Staff member be removed from their position?

Yes, any member of the STARFLEET Petfleet Command Staff can be removed, with or without cause, by a decision from the Director of STARFLEET Petfleet. The Director of STARFLEET Petfleet can also be removed by the Director of Auxiliary Services or the DCS or CS of Starfleet.

Handbook Reference: Section 03.06 – Removal
What is the line of succession if the Director is unavailable?

If the Director is unable to fulfill their duties, the Executive Deputy Director will step in as interim Director. If both the Director and Executive Deputy Director are unavailable, the Deputy Director of Operations will take on the role of interim Director.

Handbook Reference: Section 03.06 – Line of Succession
How are disciplinary actions handled in STARFLEET Petfleet?

Disciplinary actions are handled individually in accordance with STARFLEET rules and regulations as outlined in the STARFLEET Bylaws and the STARFLEET Members Handbook, both of which can be found in the Member’s Hub under Resources.

Handbook Reference: Section 03.08 – Discipline

Membership, Ranks and Succession

Is STARFLEET Petfleet membership free?
What types of pets can I register with STARFLEET Petfleet?

You can register a wide variety of pets, including dogs, cats, birds, fish, and even unconventional pets like stuffed animals, pet rocks, imaginary pets, and house plants. The pet must be in your care and identifiable.

Handbook Reference: Section 03.01 – Membership
What types of pets cannot be registered with STARFLEET Petfleet?

Pets that are not in the care of the member or are not identifiable cannot be registered with STARFLEET Petfleet. This includes other people’s pets, wild animals, etc. People who identify as pets or mascots also can not be registered with STARFLEET Petfleet.

Additionally, pets cannot be registered as STARFLEET members or counted towards chapter membership numbers, and they do not have voting rights within STARFLEET.

Handbook Reference: Section 03.01 – Membership
Do I need to be a SFI member to register my pet with STARFLEET Petfleet?
Can pets be STARFLEET members or have voting rights?
What ranks do STARFLEET Petfleet recognize for its human members?
Can pets be given ranks in STARFLEET Petfleet?

Yes, pets can be given honorary ranks in STARFLEET Petfleet, but these ranks are not officially recognized by STARFLEET and do not count toward chapter membership. Petfleet ranks always have SFPet in front of them to signify they are different ranks from SFI ranks for human members.

Handbook Reference: Section 03.04 – SFPet Ranks
What is the recommended rank for my pet in STARFLEET Petfleet?

It is recommended that a pet’s rank be one higher than its handler’s rank to symbolize a partnership of mutual respect. This follows similar ranks for police and military working animals.
SFPet only provides a recommendation for pet ranks as many regions and chapters already have their own policies on pet ranks. Chapter and Region policies would be prioritized over Petfleet recommendations.

Handbook Reference: Section 03.04 – SFPet Ranks
What is the highest rank a pet can achieve in STARFLEET Petfleet?
Are pet ranks considered official STARFLEET ranks?

Awards and Recognition

What types of awards can pets receive in STARFLEET Petfleet?

Pets in STARFLEET Petfleet can receive awards for Length of Service, Service to the community or an individual and their Final Mission Certificate upon their passing. Examples include the One-Year Service Award, Five-Year Mission Award, Final Mission Award, and the prestigious Pet Service Award.

Handbook Reference: Section 03.05 – STARFLEET Petfleet Awards and Recognition
What is the Pet Service Award in STARFLEET Petfleet?

The Pet Service Award is given to one exceptional pet that has shown bravery or provided a special service to the community. It is the highest honour a pet can receive in STARFLEET Petfleet.

Handbook Reference: Section 03.05 – STARFLEET Petfleet Awards and Recognition
How can I nominate a pet for the STARFLEET Petfleet award?
Can STARFLEET members receive awards in STARFLEET Petfleet?

Yes, there are specific STARFLEET Petfleet awards for members to receive also. You will find a list of these on the Members Awards page under the Awards section along with a nomination form.

Handbook Reference: Section 03.05 – STARFLEET Petfleet Awards and Recognition
Can STARFLEET Petfleet staff & Liaisons receive awards?

Yes, SFPet Command Staff and Liaisons can receive specific Petfleet Awards, they can also receive STARFLEET First Class Orders of Merit, which recognize the achievements of STARFLEET members at various levels of the organization. More information is available on the Staff & Liaison Awards page under Awards on the website.

Handbook Reference: Section 03.05 – STARFLEET Petfleet Awards and Recognition

Mascots

What is the STARFLEET Petfleet Mascot Program?

The STARFLEET Petfleet Mascot Program allows STARFLEET groups, such as chapters, regions, and brigades, to create and register a mascot that represents their ideas and values, serving as a unifying symbol for their group.

Handbook Reference: Section 04 – STARFLEET Petfleet Mascots
What benefits are there to having a group mascot?

Having a group mascot with STARFLEET Petfleet helps unite the group by providing a shared symbol that represents their values and ideas. It also fosters a sense of identity and pride within the group. Additionally, mascots can be used for fun and engaging activities, featured in the STARFLEET Petfleet newsletter, and on our social media, and even brought to events or conventions as a way to promote group unity and participation in Petfleet initiatives.

Handbook Reference: Section 04 – STARFLEET Petfleet Mascots
How is a STARFLEET Petfleet mascot chosen?

The mascot should be chosen through a group decision, where every voice is heard. The mascot can be a crafted or imaginary figure that symbolizes and represents the group. It is highly recommended that the mascot not be a living pet so it may represent the group forever.

Handbook Reference: Section 04 – STARFLEET Petfleet Mascots
What is the minimum number of members needed to register a mascot?
Can a real pet be registered as a group mascot?

No, it is recommended to choose a crafted or imaginary mascot rather than a real pet, to ensure longevity and prevent ownership disputes. Real pets can be registered individually but will not qualify as a group mascot.

Handbook Reference: Section 04 – STARFLEET Petfleet Mascots
Can individuals register their personal pets as mascots?
What is the process for registering a mascot with STARFLEET Petfleet?

To register a mascot, the group must complete the SFPet registration form section within the Petfleet Registration form, provide the required details, and include a visual representation of the mascot. After submission, the group will receive a special certificate representing their mascot.

Handbook Reference: Section 04 – STARFLEET Petfleet Mascots
Can we share our mascot with the STARFLEET Petfleet community?

Yes, please do! Once registered, you can introduce your mascot on your website or social media channels. You can also share stories about your mascot’s adventures and experiences in your group’s newsletter or social media pages.

Handbook Reference: Section 04 – STARFLEET Petfleet Mascots

Contact the STARFLEET Petfleet staff

Maybe you have a question that you didn’t find the answer for here, or maybe you just want to talk to our staff with a comment or suggestion.