BISS, AOM, AM/CAN Ch.
SilverDust Real Butter HTAD Is, HSAs, CD, CGC, TDI ROM Butter rules the roost with her brother Dobie & John Livingston & Joe Dickson in Austin. Thank you both for letting Princess Butter come out and play!
NEWS FLASH! Butter is Best Veteran in Sweeps at first Mid-West ACD Regional Specialty.
Photo by: Mike Fine
Handled by Sherri Hurst. Thank you to judge Caroline Herbel.
Deb Casey â– Fort Worth, TX www.TXK9.com australiancattledog.com â–
The ACD Xtreme Juniors Newsletter is a subscription p Front cover is not for sale Back cover $75 All othe
All Junior ads are FREE For more information, Contact theresa@junct.com 918-256-2555
publication. er ads $30
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Sire: CH Turrella Blue Panda Bear Dam: Kombinalong Too Super For You Breeders: Sue Christianson, Freida Young & Sam Young Owners: Paula Klingeman & Vicky Fowler
Taylor finished his Championship at 10 months old, & won Best Puppy in Properties at the 2012 ACDCA National Specialty!
Thanks to the judges who made him a Champion: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Mrs. Janet Turnage Nahikian Dr. Robert D. Smith Mr. Walter J. Sommerfelt Mrs. Avery Gaudin Mrs. Edy Dykstra-Blum Ms. Chantal M. Andrew (for giving him his 1st Grand point) ■ THANKS TO DEB MINTZER FOR GIVING TAYLOR BEST PUPPY IN PROPERTIES! Health Screenings: PRA — “A” BAER — Normal Hips & Elbows — Too Young
Sire: CH Buzzards Blackjack Dam: CH Buzzards Jewel of a Josie Loved by: Marc & Carol Moore Resaca, Georgia Always Professionally Handled by:
Jennifer Bittner Thank you, Jim, Theresa & Colston!
Tucker is now an International Champion, and
d has earned 37 BOB wins in less than 1 year!
SilverDust Ice Blue Secret AKC Breeder of Merit
A.K.A. Lilly Sire: GRCH Moonfly’s Ice Blue Flame, PT, RA Dam: CH SilverDust Keep A Secret
Deb Casey Fort Worth, TX www.TXK9.com
Owned by: Rebecca Gardner Co-owned by: Deb Casey Handled by: Mary Cummings
Pictured at 6 months
Owner: Sherry L. Dodson DVM Breeder: Morrise Tompkins & Deb Casey
Call Name
Thank you to the Carolyn Herbel and our handler Sherri Hurst. Design by Heather heatherbdesign@aol.com
Dog’s Best Friend — by Colston Couch Born a champion, I began life with my best friend. We did not know it at first but later we figured out that we needed each other. He taught me how to show but I really didn’t like it. So, it didn’t last long… After my short show life I just stayed in our house and laid around. Isn’t that what dogs do?
I loved sitting at the table using my big brown eyes to beg for bits of food. And as I got older I learned his every move and waited at the door for his return from school. Everyday. Most nights he would scratch my belly until I fell asleep. The older I got, the harder it was to get into bed and harder to play.
He didn’t ask much of me in my old age but I always tried to make him happy. I knew something was wrong but didn’t want him to know. I wasn’t able to do the things I used to, but still wanted to be there for him. I made it through my last night knowing he would be looking for me in the morning. And I could tell by the look in his eyes that he knew. So, he sat with me and told me how much he loved me and scratched my belly for the last time. I wanted to stay a little longer, to be at the door when he returned but my old body would not allow it. I took my last breath wishing he was with me.
Lexi CH Buzzards Limited Lexus
•
2012 ACDCA Versatility Winner!
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•
PRODUCED TH E FIRST RED ACD TO WIN B REED AT WEST MINSTER
PLANNED WIN TER BREEDING … CH KUAWARR
I N CWEST SP ECTACULAR CG GCH CALL ME C LET FREEDOM RING
Palin finished In 4 days, taking 4 point Majors every day! She went to Georgia & showed them how it’s done!!!
to Laura Coomes for a job well done, and to Mrs. Wendy G. Willhauck who gave her the win to become a Champion.
“From the minute I laid eyes on Palin, I knew she was the keeper.�
601-749-4531 www.bleumooncattledogs.com
Stock Options ACDs proudly announces our first Bred By Herding Champion/Dual Champion,
DC WTCH Stock Options Cowculated Risk HXAsd HXBd HIAsd HIBd HSAcds HSBd RN QW CHIC # 82307, PRA prcd pattern A, OFA Good Hips, Normal Elbows and Patellas, Cardiac and BAER Normal ad CERF Clear
STOCK OPTIONS ACDS
Competitive by nature, capable by design.
Kim & Darren Broster www.stockoptionsacds.com â– (270) 978-5599 AKC BREEDER of MERIT
Reckon has earned multiple HIT and RHIT on cattle, sheep and ducks at al levels, including RHIT on Cattle at the 2011 ACDCA National Specialty. We are looking forward to pursuing his AHBA Herding Trial CH next and seeing his pups follow in his paw prints.
Be sure to let everyone know about your dog or kennel’s latest achievements by placing an eye-catching ad in your favorite publication. I’ll be sure to make your ad STAND OUT from the rest!
heatherbdesign@aol.com
Get on board with the “Special� ACD Spotlight Design Rate: I $75 per 2-page spread I $50 per single page Design work and ad alterations for other publications will be billed at the regular $50-per-hour rate. Email for details.*
* Excessive alteration time for Spotlight ads will be billed at $25-per-hour. Special Spotlight rate applies only to Spotlight ad placement. Ads to be placed in outside publications will be billed at the regular $50-per-hour rate.
V
Rally Excellent
V
Agility Excellent Jumpers
V
Agility Excellent
V
Herding Started Course A
HSAs earned with a PERFECT SCORE of 100 1st Place and RHIT!
Always owner handled - Nicole Morris - Escondido, CA nmorrisk9z@sbcglobal.net Bred by: Joyce Redden - Reddenblu Australian Cattle Dogs
• Son of CH Brasco Blue Bold N’ Brawn • Owned, trained, shown & loved by: Jim, Louanne and Amelia Brooks, Hillhaven ACDs • Sire, Grandsire and Great Grandsire of many Champions and companions. • Group Winning; Top 10 or Top 20 ACDs All Breed every year he was shown from 1998 until his final show in 2005, when he went Best of Breed at the AKC Eukanuba National Championship under Jean Fournier.
You belonged to us; we belonged to you; we belong together.
God speed, good buddy.
A Tale of the Tail The ACD tail and the breed standard
Marc Moore November 7, 2012
It’s a simple Tail right?
After having rescued Australian Cattle Dogs for nearly 30 years we never really focused on the tail of our dogs (other than if they had one!). I mean we had dogs that had bushy tails, thin tails, curly tails and bent tails. That lack of focus on the tail ended this past year when we began to show our first ACD in confirmation. Looking at the standard it talks about the tail, giving the judges what appears on the surface a clear way to see the tail and how it relates on a confirmation correct ACD.
Let’s look at this part of the AKC standard and see what is says and just as important what it doesn’t say. “The set of the tail is moderately low, following the contours of the sloping croup and of length to reach the hock. At rest it should hang in a very slight curve. During movement or excitement the tail may be raised, but under no circumstances should any part of the tail be carried past a vertical line drawn through the root. The tail should carry a good brush.” from AKC standard for the australian cattle dog. Well that seems simple enough...right.? As i have found out this year it’s not seemingly as simple to understand as one would think. Lets look at the first part it deals with the attachment location of the tail. Basically the standard says the tail should be attached at a point where it appears that the body continues on down, that’s what following the contours of the sloping croup means. The tail shouldn’t look placed on the back or it shouldn’t look as if the angle of the body stops and a new angle of the tail starts. See the drawing below how the croup and tail flow together into one line. The next item the standard addresses is the length of the tail, not to long or not too short is good right? Yes but it should end just about the hock. Clearly a little above is ok as a little below is ok that’s what approximately means, although remember a tail that is too long is more likely a problem when working than the opposite since it could get stepped on or caught in between something.
The next section of the standard has to do with the movement section, this is the area of understanding that really needs clarification with many in the judging community. I have a very confident male dog who doesn’t care if he is in the show ring or in a livestock pen it’s all work to him. With this “work” comes the typical ACD focus...as any of you who have cattle dogs know most have an “all in” philosophy, if it’s play or work if you are a cattle dog you go all out, it’s probably this that makes us love the breed so much, they do nothing half way. So when it comes to a cattle dog in the show ring judges must understand this. The standard says the tail can be raised during movement or excitement (or both). It is the understanding of how high that has created so much “fun” for us with new AKC judging friends this past year. Let’s look first at what the standard does not say..it does NOT say where it CAN be moved to during this movement or excitement. The only thing it says is where it can NOT go. Basically the standard leaves it open for the tail to be anywhere during movement, anywhere but one place. Anywhere means straight out, down low, or even higher than straight out, even between the legs (as much as i don’t like to see that) is all allowed in the standard. The standard says the one area that is a no zone is above a VERTICAL line drawn through the root of the tail. This clearly states that if you draw a line from the ground up toward the sky going through the point where the tail attaches that no part of the tail is to cross that line, But also just as clearly the standard allows the tail to be ANYWHERE up to that point.
Carrying the tail anywhere up to the line during movement is fine according to the standard. Plus the standard says nothing about the shape of the tail during movement, at rest it should be down. Fig1
Fig1 shows the Vertical (up) line drawn through the root of the tail, note the tail up is nowhere close to crossing the line.
Fig 2
Fig 2 shows a HORIZONTAL line drawn across the topline of the body, note there is NO mention in the standard of the ACD moving with a horizontal tail position, it is fine but in no way according to the standard is it preferred or required. Let’s remember dogs, all dogs , use their tail as an instrument of expression, we all know what a wagging tail (or nub) means, well many ACDs show their expression during work with the tail. The mention in the standard was so that the tail fixed placement would be recognized as proper (following angle of the croup) and so
that a tail that comes up over the back could be seen as a problem mainly because this would show a likely structure problem of the attaching point of tail, keeping the “GAY� tail from becoming an issue in the breed. Having judges who misinterpret horizontal from vertical is something that has frustrated me a few times this year as some have said to me they wished my dogs tail did not come up past his topline as its detracts from his movement? Well if they would reread the standard and realize the individual dog dictates the placement (during movement) of his tail and that yes an AKITA style tail is wrong on an ACD but anything up to that VERTICAL line is just fine, and that unlike many of the other breeds in the show ring that day, the ACD is going to work when his handler at the entrance of the ring says..........let’s go!
The last part of the tail section of the standard addresses the coat finishing of the ACD tail, this section says it should carry a good brush, some have more “brush” than others, But again we should go back to the cattledog’s function for why this was even mentioned in the standard like it was. The cattledog was one of the original tools for the Australian rancher to gather up and drive his cattle long distances over sometimes many days and weeks which meant this dog didn’t come inside to a warm house every night , it slept on the ground of the outback in the cold and at times rain, the good brush of the tail is used to help keep the ACD warm has they can curl up and keep the face and head warm with a tail of good brush.
An ACD tail is much like the ACD itself varied and unique in it’s shape, color and movement, but with the guidelines allowed by the AKC standard it’s not to difficult to get the Tale of the Tail.
CH Oakwood’s
Refried Beans
Group 3 thank you judge Mrs. Cathy Daugherty
We are expecting puppies out of CH Oakwood’s Refried Beans & CH Scrubby Creeks Bluebell.
Show, Working & Companions Available!
“Frijoles” first three weekends out as a special he went BB 4 out of 6 times and the other two times went select dog and BOS, plus a group 3!
Matthew & Jacquelyn Johnson www.oakwoodacds.com
Sire: CH Stockhands Red Beans and Rice HSAs RN Dam: CH Shalimar I Always Get My Way PT OFA good hips/elbows normal; annual CERF, cardiologist clearance, BAER normal, Optigen tested pattern A/clear/normal, PLL clear/normal, full dentition.
“Checkers” is major pointed towards his GRCH, with very limited showing. He has a FABULOUS temperament, beautiful movement and his first kids are looking great! Owned by: Cecilie Drege www.cougarcreeklabs.com cougarcreeklabs@peoplepc.com
ACD Spotlight on a Breeder
2xAOM GCH Call Me Justa Real Havana aka Havana
Call Me Farms Cynthia Humphrey
How long have you been in Dogs? I have had a dog all my life, but have been involved in the dog world 28 years. How long have you had the ACD and what is your background? I have had ACD's for 20 years. I was born in Cooma, Australia NSW. So maybe it was in my blood and soul. I am a certified Master Trainer and was trained at Triple Crown Academy in Hutto, Texas. Why did you choose the ACD? I wanted a smart herding dog with less hair, as I had owned a few border Collies. How did you decide that this breed was for you? The dogs themselves just convinced me. I am glad they are wonderful dogs. How did you first get involved in the ACD? I bought my first girl from Maggie McCoy Pouge at M-M ranch. CH Kiss Me Kate of Call Me aka Katie. What do you do with your dogs (i.e. herding, performance, conformation)? I enjoy them and show in conformation.
What titles have your puppy buyers put on your dogs you have bred? Obedience, Agility and conformation titles. What made your decision to start breeding? I had a nice sound girl and wanted a nice boy to show. So I bred Katie, had a great litter and kept Walkabout, a big red male. He was my first finished AKC Champion. His regis-
tered name was CH Call Me Just On Walkabout aka Walkabout. Katie finished soon after him. What caused you to pick the particular dog/ bloodlines (S) that you did to start your breeding program? I knew Maggie had nice dogs and went with her. I was never disappointed in the girl Katie that she sent me. I then bought an Import from Adam Grant. That dog was Olman Work N Class Man (Jake). He turned out to be an A and was a nice dog to live with.I was very lucky as Katie turned out to be a C and this was before the DNA for PRCD. Between Jake and Kate I had some nice dogs. What dog/bitch to date is your best dog/ bitch produced and why? 2XAOM GCH Call me Just a Real Havana aka Havana is a great one for me. She is my dog but will tolerate others. She is a thinker and has accomplished a lot in her life for a show dog. Besides being somewhat of a bully she is very manageable. I also have great things to say about Merlin, AOM GCH Call Me Work N Some Magic, who has fulfilled a lot of John Cone’s dreams. Merlin is an Award of Merit Winner at a Regional Specialty, has 24 Best of Breed Wins to Date, has a Herding Group 4 Placement, and has his Grand Champion Bronze Achievement Level. Plus Merlin is John’s Best Bud and GCH Call Me Work N Some Magic aka Merlin (bronze level grand)
partner in crime. What more do you want out of dog then that? I am very proud of my dogs even if ones that are just a companion and someone’s best bud for life. To fill someone’s heart is a big job and Call Me dogs do it well.
GCH Call Me Justa Real Havana aka Havana winning Grand sweepstake winner third time ever shown at our Mid-Florida first Regional under John Roberts and then went on to get a 5 pt major as winners bitch and Best of Winners.
When deciding on a breeding do you outcross, line breeding, inbreeding, or a combination of all? I do all of the above except inbreeding.
Do you breed to outside females and if so what is your criteria? Not very often and they have to be well tempered and tested. Who influenced your breeding choices the most & why? Good dogs. What dog has made the biggest impact on your breeding program to date? I have had two. One was the import I bought from Adam Grant. That dog was Olman Work N Class Man aka Jake. He was all Landmaster and Rokglen bred. The other was my dog CH Hobnoch All Jacted Up aka Jac. Bred by Silvia Scarborough out of my boy CH Call Me Ready To Ignite aka Zippo and her import Hobnoch In Denim. What bitch has made the biggest impact on your breeding program to date? I have two. My first bitch, I got from Maggie McCoy Pouge at M-M ranch. Then I have a nice girl that I bred; CH Call Me Plain Raise N Cain Jane. I also have great hopes for 2XAOM GCH Call me Just a Real Havana aka Havana in the whelping box. Call Me Farms has produced at least 50 AKC Champions. Most of those were finished by me. I sell very few dogs on full registration. I have to have quite a bit of confidence in the owner to do full registration. Most have not failed me. Others not so much‌ Breeding dogs is a tough business.
Which Dog & Bitch in your breeding program was most successful or that you feel contributed the most to the breed? Havana, but she has not been bred yet but will be bred to Kuban owned by Ellen Beasley and bred by Stacy Helsal. How do you raise your puppies? They are born inside. So I can keep a good eye on them and Mom. After they start eating more than one meal a day, they go outside in a large area with a huge doghouse.
GCH Call Me Let Freedom Ring aka Dixie owned by Sherry Mclennan and her grand daughter
Call Me C'West My Own Revival aka Reva a new hopeful. She is out of my girl CH Call Me Fairbairn Rite As Rain and Sherry's wonderful male CH Kuawarri N CWest Spectacular.
What do you feed your puppies? I feed raw and a super premium kibble. How did you come up with your kennel name? I was brilliant [smile]. Call Me works with everything. And if you need a good dog, Call Me.
Do you have a distinguishable line? I think I do, but that really is also up to the observer. If you were going to rate type, temperament, & soundness in what order of importance what would be the order & why?
Temperament, structure/soundness. You have to be able to live with them and then they need to be comfortable in life as far as living and moving.
Call Me Buckle Up Butter Cup aka Butter Cup
Call Me The Last Boyscout aka Boyscout and Ashwood Call Me Take N All Bets aka Cheddar
What do you think are the most serious faults in the breed today?
No fill of chest and lack of upper arm and i think the heads are getting to have to much stop. Just my two cents… What would say are the biggest genetic faults in our breed today? Missing teeth and deafness… Do you consider yourself a mentor to others coming in the breed?
Yes, but being a mentor is tough. Some listen to you long enough to learn a few things and then before you know it, they are telling you your own verbiage and it was all Call Me Marquis Big Trouble N Lil them. It can be quite frustrating. I still do it and love to do Mesa Owned by Leslie Marquis it. But some are wonderful and some are disappointing. I try to be as helpful to my clients as I can be. I always follow my dog’s lives. I try to check in and make sure things are working. I just feel it comes with the territory. Describe an average day living with your dogs? Let em in, let em out…… [laughs] What should people who are interested in this breed know before they bring one into their homes? Oh my, that is a big list. They are controlling, shed like crazy and time demanding. They are smart, loyal, a great size, athletic but can be destructive if left to their own devices. They need mental stimulation as much as physical exercise. ACDs are comedians, over achievers and the best friend you will ever have. But you have to devote the time.
I love this shot, it is Butter Cup and her brother Call Me Game On aka Trace now Noah and he belongs to Mark Saling from Glee
Is there anything interesting that the breeding community (for your breed) is working on? Trying to all get along‌ Do you feel the current AKC/UKC/ANC/FCI/ANKC standard is adequate? I wish really it had never been changed. I find it funny that people now think they know more than the people that depended on these dogs every day. Any comments that you wish to add: Dog ownership is under attack by animal rights groups and politicians. These groups are well funded and use graphic images, lies and propaganda to attempt to sway public opinion and votes. The entire dog community needs to put aside petty differences and work together to put a stop to this. If we do not put up a unified front, dog ownership as we know it, may become a thing of the past.
2xAOM GCH Call Me Justa Real Havana aka Havana
My name is Jennifer Smith, I'm 36 and I have been "Disc Doggin" (as we call it) for going on three years.... Me and my Boyfriend, Randy Aten, are from Northern three
Indiana
and
own
Heelers..."Amazing"
Grace 7 , Springer 1 and Sidney 9 mo. Their absolute favorite thing to do....is play Frisbee....we compete throughout the spring, summer and fall, and a lil bit
through the winter...We belong to a couple clubs one out of Indianapolis, Indy Dog and Disc Club and another that we are more a part of, Midwest Disc Dog Club...MDDC being out of Chicago, and is a lil closer for us to attend...We have come so far in such a short time, it is the most rewarding sport for both you and your beloved pooch! The folks we compete with are the best dog folks around....
I do a lot of work with our local recues with working with them and helping to place them in forever homes...they all now look for the cattle dogs out of the rescues just for me! LOL My love for the breed has grown sooo much! I grew up with horses, but my cattle dogs have stolen my heart, as I have never encountered a better breed of dog! and I am bias! LOL
Jen Smith Team H-D Hard Diskin' High Flyin Heelers
Indy Dog And Disc Club -IDDC www.D-dog.com Skyhoundz- Hyperflyte www.Skyhoundz.com
Venison Joe's is a Texas based company. Here at Joe's, we are all committed to giving our own dogs the highest quality natural foods available and the best quality all natural dog snacks and dog treats. After giving our own dogs all sorts of natural bones and treats, we noticed that dogs really like the taste of venison and especially hickory smoked venison bones. Venison makes a great protein source for their diet and offers some variation for them. Our smoked venison bones make a great alternative snack chew for dogs that have allergies to other proteins and because we make an all natural product, it is good for dogs without allergies of any kind too. Try natural venison bones for your dog and you will see that they truly enjoy the wild taste that it offers. Bison also makes a good alternative protein source. All of the bison that we use are free range Texas Bison. Our Texas Bisonbones are hickory smoked to perfection. If you have a large dog that likes to chew...then your dog just might have met it's match with these bones. Bison is becoming more and more popular as a natural alternative for dogs. Many new dog foods contain bison as a unique protein source and dogs are not only loving it but they are also performing well on it. If your dog has an allergy to beef, that doesn't necessarily mean that they have an intolerance of bison. These new additions to Venison Joe's are sure to provide hours and hours and hours of entertainment. You will find them next to our venison products under the heading Texas Bison in our online store: Shop Our Dog Chews All of the hickory smoked dog bones that we offer are from animals that are fed a natural diet and never grazed in pastures that have been sprayed by chemicals so you can rest
knowing thatVenison Joe's hickory smoked dog bones are 100% ALL NATURAL which means: no added hormones or antibiotics no artificial colors no preservatives no artificial ingredients of any kind.
Also, we're proud that all of our venison and bison products are sourced and produced right here in the USA. Nothing is everimported from other countries. All of our dog bones are slow smoked at a low temperature with real hickory wood. Our smoking process will not weaken the bone and therefore help the bone to avoid splintering that is caused when bones are cooked or boiled. We have strict handling procedures on all of our dog bones and we also inspect our product before and after it is smoked to guarantee the finest quality and healthiest product for your dog. We hand trim all of our deer, elk and bison bones and discard many bones that we consider to be unfit for your dog. We're very proud of the care that we take to provide your dog with the best natural smoked bones. You can read more about our strict quality assurance on our Product Quality page. Our Antler Chews are top quality! We use natural antler sheds from free range deer and elk. The antlers that we use have ben cut to sizes that will match all sizes of dogs. The ends are all sanded down to avoid any sharp edges. Most dogs absolutely love our natural antler chews. If they don't, let us know and we'll give you credit towards some of our smoked bones or just return the antlers and we'll be happy to refund your money. Check out our natural antler chews at: Shop Our Dog Chews. At Venison Joe's, we always have something up our sleeves and we also have some great new (and unique) natural chew products on the way, so check back often. If you join our Customer Club, we will send out frequent internet specials that offer savings on your orders and we will also let you know immediately when new products have been added to our line up. Your dogs will love our smoked Venison, Bison and Wild Boar bones as well as our Natural Antler Chews! www.venisonjoes.com - ASK for the ACDSPOTLIGHT discount
Vitamin C and its role in Stress Management, Bone Metabolism and its influence on the skin and coat of the dog By Melvyn John BHS. IT. VYDEX ANIMAL HEALTH LTD. In recent years major advances have been achieved in our understanding of the metabolism and the importance of vitamin C in domestic animals (*Wegger et al., 1984). Numerous studies have shown that the synthesis and the consumption of vitamin C depend on many factors. In various nutritional deficiencies and in many diseases of domestic animals the synthesis of vitamin C is reduced and its concentration in the blood plasma drops. Owing to a concurrent reduction in the concentration of vitamin C in the cells, the rates of various biochemical reactions are reduced and the performance of various cell types impaired. Administration of vitamin C has been found beneficial in dealing with various infectious diseases, hip displasia, bone development, protein metabolism and stress of domestic animals. The list of biochemical function that vitamin C is involved in is much more extensive, I have highlighted those that are relevant to this article.
Of particular interest in veterinary medicine are cases of scurvy which were characterized by painful swellings of joints being reported in young dogs. In such cases insufficient synthesis or insufficient uptake of vitamin C has been indicated as the cause. Various studies have shown that adding small amounts of vitamin C to the food have a beneficial effect on growth and on improved performance of the immune system. The following is intended to provide an understanding of the role of vitamin C and the basics of physiological stress and ways of using this knowledge in practical situations, the influence vitamin C has on the immune system, the influence vitamin C has on Vitamin D3 and bone metabolism and the importance of vitamin C for skin and coat. Much confusion exists as to what stress is, and is not. Consequently, management practices may result in stress responses often creating situations which aggravate the initial reaction to the stressor. In order to avoid this we must first understand what 'physiological' stress really is. Physiological stress is not psychological stress, (the pressures we feel in our daily lives). Physiological stress is the nonspecific response to any external demand which calls upon the animal to adapt to a new situation. Life is a constant set of adjustments. (Continued )
Energy is needed to make these adjustments. Whether the adjustment is either great or small, physiological stress provides the energy to accomplish the adjustment through nonspecific responses. For every external demand, or 'stressor' (a situation that causes stress), there is both a specific response and a nonspecific response. The specific response is unique for each stressor but the nonspecific response is essentially the same for every stressor. Since the presence of stressors is constant, by definition the absence of stress would be death. We cannot totally avoid stress, we must manage it. The concept of physiological stress was first developed by a scientist named *Selye (1936,1973), who termed his observations General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS). Selye observed that most chronically ill individuals exhibited similar symptoms. There are three stages in the 'General Adaptation Syndrome'. The first is the alarm reaction or the so-called 'fight or flight' reaction. At this stage a sudden biochemical reaction takes place, (characterized by huge releases of adrenaline and similar hormones from the sympathetic nervous system). These compounds cause rapid release of glucose from body reserves (primarily from glycogen). This produces available energy to elude a stressor. The animal quickly enters the stage of resistance. This is the period when glucose is formed from less available reserves such as lipids and proteins. The important aspect of the stage of resistance is that it will continue until recovery from the stressor occurs or the animal enters the stage of fatigue and dies. The animal dies from either the depletion of reserves or adrenocortical exhaustion. That is when the adrenal cortex (the source of corticosteroids) depletes the survival functions which include regulation of heat loss, blood flow and respiration etc. so that they can no longer be supported. The time course of the three stages of the 'General Adaptation Syndrome' depends upon the severity of the stressor. A chronic stressor requires small changes over a long period of time. The adaptation to warmer weather that takes place over several weeks during the start of summer is an example. An acute stressor requires immediate life-saving adaptations to survive. The sudden onset of very hot weather creates such a situation. The animal has not had sufficient time to adapt to the hot weather. In the latter case an alarm reaction is followed by a resistance stage. If the adreal-cortex is depleted before the stressor is removed, then death will occur. Although they may seem unlikely, growth and reproduction both call upon the body to constantly change, and are by definition stressors. With a seemingly endless myriad of stressors, the challenge for modern animal management is to modify or manage physiological stress. Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) supplementation has been shown to reduce heat stress related mortality in birds (*Pardue, 1983). One of the most difficult
concepts of physiological stress to understand is suppression of the immune system. The immune reaction consumes considerable quantities of metabolic reserves. Additionally, aberrant reactions such as allergic reactions can be harmful and should be suppressed. Vitamin C has been shown to modify the immune response, *Pardue (1983). Vitamin C has also been shown to improve reproductive efficiency. In infectious diseases the food uptake is often reduced and the concentration of glucose in the blood plasma drops. Under these circumstances the extent of synthesis of vitamin C in the liver of mammals drops. At the same time the consumption of vitamin C increases because of the increase in secretion of glucocorticosteroids. Various investigations on domestic animals suffering from certain infections have shown a reduction in the content of vitamin C in the blood plasma or serum. In dogs suffering from distemper, administration of vitamin C at high levels for three days or longer usually results in improvement in the clinical condition and rapid recovery, especially if this treatment is used at an early stage (*Leveque, 1969). As a rule, an optimal supply level can be achieved by oral administration of 300 to 500mg vitamin C daily. Studies conducted by *Brehm (1964) indicate insufficient synthesis of vitamin C in dogs suffering from various diseases.
These studies indicate that vitamin C levels of less than 0.4 mg/dl in a dog's blood plasma are evidence of insufficient synthesis. Supplementary administration of vitamin C is also advisable after surgery because it promotes the formation of collagen by the fibroblasts, osteoblasts and osteocytes. Topical administration of vitamin C into the region of bone fractures stimulates the healing process (*Pataky et al., 1963). Parasitic infestation of the liver leads to a reduction in the synthesis of vitamin C which, in mammals, takes place in this organ. Many investigations have shown that in diseases of domestic animals displaying higher than normal temperature and reduced food uptake, the concentration of vitamin C in the blood plasma drops considerably for some time. In view of the great importance of vitamin C for immune defense and for regeneration of tissue, administration of vitamin C in daily dosages of 200 to 300mg for small animals and of 2 to 3g for large animals is advisable. Scury-like symptoms in dogs are likely to be due to congenital inability to synthesise vitamin C. In such cases the concentration of vitamin C in the blood plasma is below 0.1mg/dl. (Continued )
Results of recent trials show that Vitamin C influences bone development and strength through its effects on the production of vitamin D metabolites and calcium-binding protein. Vitamin D3 supplied in a feed supplement is transported to the kidneys for conversion to the active metabolite form. Latest studies show that vitamin C is required to achieve optimum conversion of vitamin D3 into these active metabolites. Improvements in bone synthesis appear to be directly related to an increase in the conversion of vitamin D3 to the active metabolite and to the increase of calcium-binding protein through the influence of supplemented vitamin C in the diet. At times of stress unfortunately absorption of vitamin C from the gut may not be fully effective, therefore daily supplementation is recommended. In large breeds of dogs, hip dysplasia, long considered to be an inherited birth defect, may be an easily controlled biochemical condition. The lesion in hip dysplasia appears to merely poor quality, low strength collagen in the affected ligaments. In litters from dysplastic German Shepherd parents or parents that produced dysplastic offspring, there have been no signs of hip dysplasia when the bitches were given higher than normal doses of vitamin C during pregnancy and the pups were given daily doses of vitamin C until they reached young adulthood. In potentially dysplastic pups of large breeds, the first year or two of life is a high stress period. The demands on the body are great, the demands for large quantities of vitamin C even greater. The laxity of the hip ligament and changes in the pectineus muscle and tendon, consequent upon lack of high quality collagen is evident. The weak collagen in the ligaments causes them to stretch or loosen, resulting in joint laxity, which allows the young femoral head to separate from the hip socket. After separation of the femoral head from the acetabulum, an inflammatory process (arthritis) ensues. Varying amounts of scar tissue form in the acetabulum, preventing the head of the femur from returning to its normal position. This results in coxofemoral subluxation (hip dysplasia). Simultaneously, the poor quality of collagen in the pectineous muscles and ligaments retards their growth and development. The impaired growth and development of tendon and muscle, together with the rapid growth of the femur, contributes further to the cause of the dislocation. In trials conducted over a five-year period using eight litters of German Shepherd puppies from dysplastic parents, or parents known to have produced dysplastic offspring, none of these pups which have been maintained on high doses of vitamin C have, to date, shown dysplasia. The regime consists of giving the pregnant bitch high doses of vitamin C in the ration daily. At birth, the pups are given 50 to 200mg of vitamin C orally.
When the pups reach three weeks of age, the daily amount increased to 500mg until the pups are four months old. At that time, the dosage is increased to 1 or 2g daily and maintained at that level until the pups were 18 months to two years of age. This program was so successful that, when selling puppies, breeders in America involved now incorporate into their sales agreements a clause stating that the pups are guaranteed dysplasia free only if they are kept on the prescribed regime of vitamin C. The skin and the coat fulfill many functions: Physiological functions such as protection, storage, excretion and the sensory function. Social functions which partly control their relationships with other dogs (identification, territorial demarcation, sexual behavior). Finally, in view of the current role of the dog (and of pet animals in general), functions related to acceptance in human society. These aesthetic functions are probably of the greatest concern to most dog owners. Skin disorders are particularly frequent in the dog and may be due to a wide variety of causes. For example: Infectious dermatitis; Allergic or contact dermatitis; Alopecias of hormonal origin, other skin changes, thyroid deficiency; Ectoparasites and their direct or secondary consequences (demodectic mange); Disorders of dietary or nutritional origin; for example, liver and kidney disorders or overloads, or deficiency conditions. Despite this list the relationships between diet and the condition of the skin and coat are often considered self-evident, not only by breeders and owners, but also by veterinarians. The skin and the coat may show primary lesions caused directly by specific nutritional deficiencies or excesses, but similar effects may appear as secondary symptoms of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, the liver or the kidneys. Vitamin C has a direct influence on the lustre of the coat through its influence on the efficient metabolism of other key micronutrients like amino acids, B complex and vitamin E. Where diets are deficient in vitamin C metabolism of sulphur-containing amino acids will be impaired. As the coat in mainly made up of these amino acids the coat can never reach its full potential. A reduction in fur growth, possible irregularity in growth pattern,
reduction in pigmentation and the activity of the hair follicles and potential loss of fur. The amino acid lysine is a vital component in the metabolism of muscle tissue-this amino acid is also dependent on vitamin C. (Continued )
Vitamin C appears to be involved with the absorption of iron from the gut. It is also required for the synthesis of hemoglobin and is necessary for the development collagen in skin. Vitamin C plays an important role in the healing process of wounds. Summary Under conditions of acute stress, animal can not synthesise sufficient vitamin C to alleviate many detrimental effects associated with stress. Due to the vital link of vitamin C and bone metabolism and the development of collagen in teeth, bone, skin cartilage and amino acids and the improvement in the immune system response to disease challenge. Supplementation of vitamin C should become part of standard management procedure and increased particularly when known stressors are to be imposed. References * Animal Nutrition (McDonal, Edwards, and Greenhalgh) Vitamins in Animal Nutrition (arbeitgemeinschaft Wirkstoffe Tierernahrunge (AWT) (Wegger et al.) 1984; (Selye) 1936, 1973; (Pataky et al.) 1963; (Pardue) 1983; (Leveque) 1969. The above article was taken from the The Service Dog magazine published by the British Police and Services Canine Association. Copyright 2006 U.S.P.C.A.
Training and socialization doesn’t stop with puppyhood it’s something your dog needs throughout his life to keep his mind sharp and his body in good physical condition. Now that your puppy has graduated from his first obedience class or your dog has earned his Canine Good Citizen® certificate, what’s next? One of the best ways to keep you dog engaged mentally and physically for the rest of his life is getting started in AKC events. Did you know that training your dog for competition actually deepens the canine-human bond you share? Plus it’s fun to meet lots of dog owners who love the same activities as you and your dog.
How Do I Get Started in AKC Dog Shows, Trials and Tests? The best way to start is to join a local dog-training club. You can search www.akc.org for a complete list of clubs across the country. Local clubs frequently offer training classes for all different types of competition. Even if competition is not your ultimate goal, the relationship that training forms between you and your dog will be very rewarding. Local clubs also have “fun matches,” where you and your dog can test your skills in the ring. Training and handling your dog in any AKC Event is an exceptional and enjoyable experience. From your first attempted show, test or trial to earning your first AKC title, you and your dog will develop a bond. Training classes offer the best hands-on way to practice for the ring or field, and watching competitors at actual events will gain you expertise. These events bring many hours of fun for you and your dog. You will make lots of friends in the sport, and you and your dog will take pleasure in your new hobby for many years to come.
OBEDIENCE, RALLY, AGILITY TRIALS OR THE COURSING ABILITY TEST All dogs are eligible to compete in Obedience, Rally, or Agility trials or the Coursing Ability Test. Your dog must have an AKC number via one of the following: • AKC Registration as one of the175 recognized breeds. • AKC Canine Partners program enrollment. A program for mixed-breed dogs and dogs ineligible for AKC registration. • Purebred Alternative Listing (PAL) program. A program for purebred dogs that cannot be fully registered with the AKC to participate in AKC events. • Foundation Stock Service® (FSS). Recorded breeds on the road to full AKC recognition.
Getting Started in Obedience: Obedience trials showcase dogs that have been trained and conditioned to behave well in the home, in public places, and in the presence of other dogs. AKC Obedience trials allow exhibitors and their dogs to enjoy companionship and competition as they proudly earn AKC titles. Dog and handler teams are judged on how closely they match the judge's mental picture of a theoretically perfect performance as they execute a series of specified exercises. Accuracy and precision are essential, but the natural movement of the handler and the willingness and enjoyment of the dog are very important. Each level of obedience competition — novice, open, and utility — requires mastering a specific skill set, which increase in difficulty, before advancing to the next level. Most AKC clubs conduct a variety of classes instructed by trainers who have won awards in obedience competition with their own dogs, and they make sure to stay up-to-date on the latest training techniques. They have experience training all breeds of dogs and can help solve behavior problems. Most clubs accept all types of dogs, mixed breeds and purebreds, and prospective students are usually welcome to observe a class before signing up for a training course. LEARN MORE ABOUT OBEDIENCE HERE
Getting Started in AKC Rally®: AKC Rally® is a companion sport to AKC Obedience. Both require teamwork between dog and handler along with similar performance skills. Rally provides an excellent introduction to AKC Events for new dogs and handlers and can provide a challenging opportunity for competitors in other events to strengthen their skills. The dog and handler team move at their own pace, very similar to rally-style auto racing. Rally was designed with the traditional pet owner in mind, but it can still be very challenging for those who enjoy higher levels of competition.
A rally course includes 10 to 20 stations, depending on the level. Scoring is not as rigorous as traditional obedience. Communication from the handler to the dog is encouraged and there should be a sense of teamwork and enthusiasm as they go through the course. LEARN MORE ABOUT RALLY
Getting Started in Agility: Running a dog in an agility trial is the ultimate game for you and your dog. In an agility trial, a dog demonstrates its agile nature and versatility by following cues from the handler through a timed obstacle course of jumps, tunnels, weave poles and other objects. It’s an activity that strengthens the bond between dog and handler and provides fun and exercise for both, which might explain why it’s so enjoyable to watch and has become the fastest-growing dog sport in the United States! There are several types of classes offered at an agility trial: Standard, Jumpers with Weaves, Fifteen And Send Time (FAST) and Preferred. The Standard class has contact obstacles, which have yellow “contact zones” at each end. Contact obstacles include A-frame, dog walk and seesaw. The dog must place a least one paw in the contact zone in order not to receive a fault. This encourages safety in training and in running the course. The Standard class also has a variety of jumps; weave poles, pause table, tunnels and a closed tunnel. The Jumpers with Weaves class does not have contact obstacles or a pause table to slow the team’s forward momentum. This is a very fast course requiring instant decisions by the handler and close attention from the dog. Agility is a time and fault sport where the qualifying requirements are more challenging as the competition class levels get higher. There are two types of faults: time and penalty. Time faults are given for every second a dog goes over the Standard Course Time as set by the length of the course. LEARN MORE ABOUT AGILITY
Getting Started in the Coursing Ability Test: The Coursing Ability Test (CAT) is an introductory event fashioned after the sport lure coursing. It will provide a fun and healthy activity attractive to many dog owners. The test is a non-competitive pass / fail event with dogs run singularly. The (CAT) is for any dog of any breed, including mixed-breeds, as long as it is at least 1 year old and individually registered or listed with AKC. To pass the test, a dog running alone must pursue a lure, completing the course with enthusiasm and without interruption within a given time. Most dogs will chase a lure and have fun in the process. Dogs that pass the CAT three times will earn a Coursing Ability (CA) title. Ten passes and a dog earns a Coursing Ability Advanced (CAA) title, and 25 passes results in a Coursing Ability Excellent (CAX) title. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CAT
DOG SHOWS Purebred dogs are eligible to compete in Conformation Dog Shows. Your dog must have an AKC number via one of the following: • AKC Registration as one of the 175 recognized breeds. • Foundation Stock Service® (FSS). Recorded breeds on the road to full AKC recognition.
Getting Started in Conformation: Dog shows (conformation events) are intended to evaluate breeding stock. The size of these events ranges from large all-breed shows, with over 3,000 dogs entered, to small local specialty club shows, featuring a specific breed. The dog's conformation (overall appearance and structure), an indication of the dog's ability to produce quality purebred puppies, is judged, thus spayed or neutered dogs or mixed-breeds are not eligible to compete.
Many times a new exhibitor will get their start at dog shows by finding a mentor, usually the breeder they acquired the puppy from. Many AKC clubs also offer “handling” classes to teach owners how to present their purebred dog to a judge at a dog show. Dogs must be at least 6 months old to enter a dog show. LEARN MORE ABOUT DOG SHOWS
TRACKING, EARTHDOG, LURE COURSING, HERDING, FIELD TRIALS, HUNT TESTS, COONHOUNDS and OTHER BREED-SPECIFIC EVENTS Purebred dogs are eligible to compete in Field Trials and Tests. Your dog must have an AKC number via one of the following: • AKC Registration as one of the174 recognized breeds. • Purebred Alternative Listing (PAL) program. A program for purebred dogs that cannot be fully registered with the AKC to participate in AKC events. • Foundation Stock Service® (FSS). Recorded breeds on the road to full AKC recognition.
Getting Started in Tracking: Dogs have a very keen sense of smell – 100,000 times stronger than humans! Dogs with the help of their noses are often used to find lost people and animals, drugs, avalanche and disaster victims, and even to detect cancer! AKC Tracking is a canine sport that demonstrates a dog’s natural ability to recognize and follow a scent and is the foundation of canine search and rescue work. Unlike obedience and rally trials, where dogs respond to the
handler’s commands, in tracking the dog is completely in charge, for only he knows how to use his nose to find and follow the track. For many, the greatest pleasure of tracking is the hours spent outside training and interacting with their dogs. The tracking community is known for its camaraderie and they all share in the excitement of a “pass” and the disappointment of a “fail.” Getting started in tracking is easy and you won’t find a more willing participant than your dog! A puppy instinctively uses his nose – training your dog to track simply hones his natural ability. And since all dogs have a natural ability to follow a scent, any breed is capable of learning to track. Your first step is finding a tracking class or an instructor who is experienced in the sport. You just need a harness, a 20- to 40-foot lead, a few flags to mark your track, and an open grassy area free of obstacles such as roads, ditches or woods. Before you enter a Tracking Dog Test (TD), you must have the dog certified by an AKC-approved or provisional judge. This certification form must accompany the entry form. Once you and your dog are ready, find a tracking event in your area by going to the AKC Events Calendar on the AKC website. LEARN MORE ABOUT TRACKING
Getting Started in Earthdog: The purpose of non-competitive Earthdog tests is to offer breeders and owners of small Terriers and Dachshunds a standardized gauge to measure their dogs' natural aptitude and trained hunting and working behaviors when exposed to an underground hunting situation. The noncompetitive program begins with a basic introduction to den work and quarry and progresses through gradual steps to require the dog to demonstrate that it is willing to perform the required tasks including seeking its quarry, locating and working it underground. The initial test is called Introduction to Quarry and it is an instinct test for terriers and dachshunds. The behaviors tested are willingness to follow a scent to the entrance; willingness to enter a dark den; and willingness to work the quarry. The dog may work the caged rats by barking, digging, growling, lunging, biting at the protective bars or any work that the judge feels displays a desire to get to the quarry. LEARN MORE ABOUT EARTHDOG
Getting Started in Lure Coursing: Lure coursing is an event for all Sighthounds. Afghan Hounds, Basenjis, Borzois, Greyhounds, Ibizan Hounds, Irish Wolfhounds, Italian Greyhounds, Pharaoh Hounds, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Salukis, Scottish Deerhounds, and Whippets are eligible. The AKC offers this program that the dogs and owners love so well, to test the dogs basic coursing instinct or hunting by sight ability. The dogs chase an artificial lure, in an open field and are judged by two judges, on the dogs overall ability, speed, endurance, agility, and how well they follow the lure. The dogs can earn titles, such as Junior Courser (JC), Senior Courser (SC), and Master Courser (MC). They can also obtain a Field Championship (FC) and the title of Lure Courser
Excellent (LCX). The upside of this event is the dogs are kept in such good healthy shape, by doing something that comes naturally and that they really like to do. LEARN MORE ABOUT LURE COURSING
Getting Started in Herding: The purpose of non-competitive herding tests is to offer herding breed owners a standardized gauge by which a dog's basic instinct and trainability are measured. The purpose of the competitive herding trial program is to preserve and develop the herding skills inherent in the herding breeds and to demonstrate that they can perform the useful functions for which they were originally bred. Although herding trials are artificial simulations of pastoral or farm situations, they are standardized tests to measure and develop the characteristics of the herding breeds. Dogs must have training and prior exposure to livestock before being entered in tests or trials. Both parent and local clubs should provide opportunities for such training and exposure. The initial test is called Instinct Test and it is a test for herding breeds. The dog needs no training before entering this class and may be handled by the judge, owner or a designated handler. The judge is looking for the dogs ability to move and control livestock by fetching or driving. LEARN MORE ABOUT HERDING
Getting Started in Field Trials and Hunt Tests for Pointing Breeds, Spaniels, Retrievers, Hounds: The best way to get involved in any of the breed specific field trials or hunt or instinct tests is to find a local club and start training your dog. FIND A LIST OF ALL AKC CLUBS LEARN MORE ABOUT FIELD TRIALS AND HUNT TESTS
Getting Started in Coonhound Events: Bench shows, field trials, nite hunts and water races are competitive events that provide owners with the opportunity to demonstrate the beauty and natural abilities of purebred Coonhounds. At the same time, deserving dogs achieve AKC recognition by acquiring championship titles on three different levels in each activity. LEARN MORE ABOUT COONHOUNDS