Volume 85, 2010 by Lucha Malato

AKBASHSENTINEL A Publication of Akbash Dogs International

Volume 85, 2010

Front cover photo: Aysberk Beauty of the White Splendid’s (front) and Aysberk Temiz (background), respectively 6 yrs old and 5 yrs old at the time of the photo, on a walk in Germany. Photo by Ira Vaculik.

AKBASHSENTINEL Volume 85, 2010 In this issue: 1

Editor’s Corner — ADI forges into the next decade with a new blog (an unheard phenomenon 10 years ago) as well as plans for a new Board of Directors for ADI…what else will the future bring?

Here’s What’s New — Janet Davis checks in from the Rescue world, we thank our most recent donors and welcome new members, post an independent site to help with dog food research, say farewell to Kodi, and follow Kerem’s recovery.

President’s Report — Is sustaining the future of the Akbash Dog one of your passions? 2010 is an election year at ADI. No better time to step forward than right now.

Treasurer’s Report — Barb Lehmann submits the 2009 Profit and Loss statement for review by ADI members.

Registrar’s Report — Orysia Dawydiak files her report for 2009, including new recommendations to breeders with regard to standardized conformation, sight and hearing tests for their litters.

Iron Collar Contest — Only one volume after the results of the 2009 contest were revealed, Steward David Sims submits his announcement for this year. Pssst….rumour has it that an ADI order for contest prize Turkish iron collars has been already been sent. Start snapping!

RESPECT - Taking and Sending your Best Photos — How can you not succeed in a photo contest when the steward explains the simple mathematics of taking exceptional photos (and how to resize them so your friends don’t change their email addresses to avoid getting your memory-devouring art)? Read on, ICC entrants and ADI calendar hopefuls.

Letter from the Rabies Charitable Trust Fund — Fund founder and co-trustee Kris L. Christine makes an appeal to ADI members to support ongoing research aimed at increasing our ability to control the incidence of rabies.

10 And Here’s To You: Celebrating Wesson — Iron Collar Contest winner Kat Madrea sends her tribute to the maternal instincts of Sheepfields Zeki of M2A Farm, affectionately known as Wesson. 11 Dear Mahir — Our advising columnist helps a reader sort through varying opinions about predictability of dog aggression in the Akbash Dog. 12 Wolves in Montanta: An ADI Member Perspective — Peggy Duezabou describes the impact of an increasing wolf population in her part of the US. 14 2010 Gathering of the Clan: On to Ohio! — Joins us at Roaring Brook Farm in Belleville, just outside of Dayton, Ohio as host Anita Dobrzelecki pulls out all the stops…again. 15 From the Archives — Lo and behold, it seems we were installing dog doors, sorting out lures and bribes and headed to Ohio around this time 10 years ago! Always good to know where you’ve come from…

c 2010 The Akbash Sentinel is a news journal about Akbash Dogs and related topics. It is published quarterly by Akbash Dogs International. ADI is a non-profit registered corporation established in 1987 to promote and protect the Akbash Dog. Membership in ADI includes a subscription to this news journal. The editor is Hazel Plumbley, 729 Deer Drive, Kamloops, B.C., Canada, V1S 1Z9. E-mail: high_desert@telus.net or telephone (250)851-2146 evenings and (250)314-0377 days - Pacific time. The publisher of the English edition is Martine Dubuc, e-mail: martine@intergate.ca.. For more information about ADI, please visit our web site at: www.akbashdogsinternational.com or contact any of the members listed on the inside back cover. There is a companion organization, Akbaş Çoban Köpeğini Koruma, that publishes a similar newsletter, Akkus¸, in Turkish, concentrating on Turkish issues of stewardship for the breed. For more information, please visit www.akbash.org or e-mail Ilker Unlu at: bullterrierturk@yahoo.com

Something of interest in Charlottetown, PEI. Yurek with his grandmam Çeşni (front). Photo by Orysia Dawydiak.

life so I could recall where I’ve been! Our first issue of 2010 once again serves up a business menu. This is when we report the formal aspects of ADI, including membership roster, finances, etc. Please read through the annual reports submitted by our President, Treasurer and Registrar and feel free to contact the authors with your questions about the machinations of ADI. However, we don’t dwell long on 2009 in Volume 85, moving right on to the Iron Collar Photo Contest announcement and more tips from Steward David Sims to help you take great photos and not alienate those dear to you with mailbox clogging pics.

Editor’s Corner

by Hazel Plumbley

I admit to a less than stellar command of the advent of social networking and many techno advancements associated with the worldwide web.While I am familiar with the term ‘blog’, I was curious to understand its distinction from other websites. For those of you who are among my ranks, from Wikipedia: A blog (a contraction of the term “web log”) is a type of website, usually maintained by an individual with regular entries of commentary, descriptions of events, or other material such as graphics or video. As luck would have it, there are those among the ADI membership who aren’t quite so challenged and luddite-like as myself. Thanks to Janet Davis, our Rescue Coordinator, just look at us - rocketing into the next decade with our own ADI rescue blog. We’re also closer to the launch of a new, improved website with David Sims at the helm on that project! Thankfully, David also serves the role of reminding us that 10 years ago, such things would have been almost unheard of…I’ve come to rely on From The Archives as my memory bank. I wish someone would keep such a running commentary on my Volume 85, 2010

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On the canine health front, we know that rabies occurs worldwide, affecting both pets and wildlife. Working LPDs, often more exposed to wildlife than their companion counterparts, may be considered more at risk of infection. Overall prevalence of rabies is low in most places, with some countries around the world considered rabies free. However, in other areas, the virus poses a serious threat to animals and humans. In the Northeastern United States, rabies has been epidemic among raccoons since the late 1970s. Please consider the special appeal in this issue from the Rabies Charitable Trust fund as being made on behalf of the working dog. I think you’ll enjoy the mix of articles in Volume 85. Once again, we have contributions from members that are absolutely new and intriguing. And I must tell you, I have booked my flight to Dayton, Ohio for The Gathering of the Akbash Clan 2010 and have my dibs on one of those kingsize beds in the huge Roaring Brook farmhouse. I hope to see many of you there. Make the effort required to control the forces of the universe such as work, family commitments and time to allow a sojourn among friends. You won’t regret it for a nanosecond. Have a good read.

Here’s What’s New! Dog Food Analysis Website

New Members for 2010

While researching dog food after the onset of an apparent food allergy in their dog, one of our members found a worthwhile independent site for dog food information and reviews at http://www.dogfoodanalysis.com/

A hearty welcome to new members Dale Mell from Clovis, California; Barbara Summer from Bigfork Montana; and Sandra Van Echo from Tucson, Arizona.

Created as a resource for Boxerworld members, Dogfoodanalysis has been online since 2005 and continues to be updated periodically. On this site, you will find information about the contents of +1500 dry dog foods, along with ratings and reviews. Kerem’s Recovery in Turkey

You may remember from an earlier Sentinel that Turkish member Erkan Uzel’s son, Kerem, was injured in an airplane crash. Subsequent to that, he was also involved in a car accident and during his physiotherapy and recovery, spent a lot of time with family Akbash Dog Altay. Erkan writes “two years before (the plane crash), he was rescued by a boatful of fishermen from his sunken canoe – so now we have seen all three possibilities completed: air, water and soil! After the plane crash Kerem focused more on his molecular biology & genetics study at Istanbul Technical University and as a result he was on the honour list for the last three semesters. With his performance he was elected for the Erasmus exchange program at the Roskilde University in Denmark to study his favorite topic, bioremediation, but he had to refuse the honor because of his flight anxiety at that time. Continuing with his recovery, Kerem still leads an active life: 25 – 30 km canoeing every second day (I have enclosed a photo of Altay checking Kerem’s last preparations), weekly mountain bike routes, mountaineering and archery keep him healthy physically and mentally. Altay generously gives all his friendship to Kerem throughout summer. They love and miss each other so much that this can sometimes cause problems. When Altay saw Kerem arrive for the summer last May, he ran towards him but forgot to stop and as a result, Kerem was on the ground unable to walk for some time, with Altay at his side continuously licking him. But we have good things to remember from these 2

Altay and Kerem Uzel, enjoying the sea at Cunda Island, Ayvalık, Turkey.

last years as well. While canoeing, Kerem saved the life of a swimmer who got a cramp in his legs around 1.5 kilometers offshore. Kerem tied the swimmer to the canoe and arrived back at the beach to a round of applause. I’m happy to report that we just spent Kerem’s February semester holiday at Hong Kong and Macau to encourage him to fly once again. As a recommendation from his doctor we chose one of the longest distances without a stopover and successfully completed the journey. Please know that ADI members are welcome to visit our lovely corner of Turkey, Ayvalık.” We wish Kerem all the best and continued success in his rehabilitation. AKBASHSENTINEL

Volume 85, 2010

Farewell to Mr. Red Collar, Sheepfields’ Kodiak

ADI member Pati Jean Diridoni, whose dog ‘Kodi’ passed on June 12, 2009 remembers her first meeting with him. “ Kodi was born on Sheepfield’s Farm in Wellsville, Kansas on March 15, 2006, a Jole and Karkush pup. Diane Spisak had tentatively picked out the female I wanted – Polar, but I suggested I go out by myself and spend time with all the pups. I spotted Polar’s pink paisley collar right away, but a RED collar kept tripping me up and tugging at my pant leg. Red collar was a MALE; I wanted a female. I chose Polar after all, but looked long and hard at Mr. Red Collar. Driving out of Spisak’s farm, I had a feeling I would be back, but it was a very long way from my home in California. Two weeks later, Diane shipped that persistent male pup, now named Kodiak, to me and life began for Kodi and Polar in Paradise, CA. Kodi lived a short earthly life. While he was able, he lived on my ranch and guarded our turkeys and chickens from fox, coyote and mountain lion with Polar as his back up. During his decline, he came home to Paradise to guard me, my goats and hounds, and to raise Miss Elle, a 3-month old rescue Walker Hound pup. Even in his painful decline, he never wavered from his job of being on guard. He took his last ride as he had always done, with the wind in his face, sniffing for any new smells or hidden dangers. Six months have passed since Kodiak has been gone. I still feel him watching me

from under his favorite pine tree in the back pasture. Polar and I miss our big white boy, but destiny recently sent us Bruno…he has Kodiak’s eyes.

Rescue Update

On the rescue front, Coordinator Janet Davis checks in to let the membership know that she’s so busy with her work on behalf of ADI that her report will have to wait for the summer edition. If you haven’t already visited Janet’s new Rescue Blog, it can be found at http://akbashrescue.blogspot.com

Kodi at 3 months Volume 85, 2010

This site has received its first donation from Rajiv Mathur, and we extend our thanks to him, along with those who donated through the conventional route with their membership renewals: Robert Wiechmann; Darci Lang; Rolly & Wayne Thompson; & Anita Dobrzelecki. AKBASHSENTINEL

Who We Were in 2009 In this, the first Sentinel of 2010, we reflect on the year past, and are pleased to publish our 2009 list of ADI members from around the world. Our Lifetime Members: • Catherine Campbell, Helena, Montana, US • Lane Jensen, Tremonton, Utah, US • Barbara and Bob Lehmann, Cherry Valley, California, US • Maurine Pearson, Pilot Point, Texas, US • David Sims and Orysia Dawydiak, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada From Canada: • Linda Bardal, Beaverlodge, AB • Mike and Bev Blake, Scotland, ON • Ann Dale, Nepean, ON • Martine Dubuc, Delta, BC • Afiena Kamminga, Sackville, NS • Janet & Fred Koch, Campbell River, BC • Krista Kremer, Scotland, ON • Guy Jean, West Kelowna, BC • Elizabeth Kunitz, Ituna, SK • Harald and Monika Nocke, Berwick, NS • Hazel Plumbley, Kamloops, BC • Francois and Susanne Roesch, St. Bernard de Lacolle, QC • Suzanne Roussel, Moncton, NB • Christine Stanley, Breadalbane PEI • Deborah Stanley, Brampton, ON • Celestina Sztajerowski, Orangeville, ON • Roy and Jen Vandemaar, Montague, PEI • Sandra and Hasso von Lippa, Atyon , ON • Nita Weatherby and Mitchell Cox, East Mountain, NS • Scott Whitelaw, Tatamagouche, NS From Germany: • Huub Hendrix,Heinsberg-Karken • Ira Vaculick, Hasselbach / Ww. From the Slovakia: • Tomas Laurincik, Nizna From Switzerland: • Volkan Arslan, Dubendorf From Turkey: • Wayne Criss, Ankara • Banu Ergezen, Istanbul • Erem Karabey, Istanbul • Erkan Uzel, Balikesir • Ilker Unlu, Bodrum/Mugla 4

From the United States: • Brenda Alberts, Axtell, NE • Barbara Arvidson, Enumclaw, WA • Cameron & Hege Beard, East Haddam, CT • Kurt Berner, Rochester, NY • Denette Bettencourt, Sonora, CA • Julie Bettis, Arvada, CO • Tara Bramel, Tracy’s Landing, MD • Ervin & Nancy Carr, Lampasas, TX • Rita Clark, Hobe Sound, FL • Ann Cole & Dick King, Savage, MN • Deeanna Croasmun, Wendover UT • Janet Davis, Alameda, CA • Pati Jean Diridoni, Paradise, CA • Thomas DiBlasi, Monroe, CT • Anita and Ann Dobrzelecki, Bellbrook, OH • Peggy Duezabou, Helena, MT • Corky & Robert Duffy, Steger, IL • Hershel & Janet Dunham, Longview, TX • Jack and Gail Fitzgerald, Chatham, MA • Dawn Flickenger and Lindel Morris, Uniontown, MO • Claudia Frank, Greenfield, OH • Jack and Sarah Frost, East Dorset,VT • Buddy Fuda, Wylie, TX • Joshua and Karen Fuzak, Tiskilwa, IL • Corrine Haley, Granger, WA • Allen and Sara Hall, Milledgeville, GA • Julie Hansmire, Mack, CO • Linda Hayes, Port Townsend, WA • Virginia Hopkins, Temecula, CA • Bill & Sharon Hoyt, Cottage Grove, OR • Sheri Innerarity, Smithville, TX • Bruce Kennedy, Hamilton, MT • Kristi & John Lane, Clarksville, TN • Darcy Lang, Tuscon, Arizona • Sherry Lee, St. Cloud, FL • Robert & Judith Lockwood, Marcellus, NY • Mark Ludeman, Beaverton, OR • Lucha Malato, Califon, NJ • Jenny Manning, Southlake, TX • Levia Meagher, Sonora, CA • Kathryn & Ron Medrea, Dwight, IL • Jack and Rosa Merkin, New Hope, PA • Karen Migliaccio, Peyton, CO • Linda & Jerry Moore, Telluride, CO • Patricia Muir, Cuero, TX • Dean Nolte, Cuba, NY • Marsha Peterson, Richmond,VA

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Volume 85, 2010

(United States continued)

• Suzanne Phillips, Rochester, NY • Katrina and Dave Phipps, Everett, WA • Charles Pleak, Oakland, CA • Dan Ruhland, Califon, NJ • Wayne Sarrow, Readington, NJ • Bruce & Lucile Schoenfeld, Pioneer, CA • Carolyn & Roger Schrock, Mountain Grove, MO • Frederick Schubel, Rochester, WA • Lynn Skeen, Waynesboro, GA • Diane & Drew Spisak, Wellsville, KS • Donald Sponsler, Uvalde, TX • Larry Srebrenick, Caliton, NJ • Lana Steeneken, Winchester, CA • Linda Sullivan, Denison, TX • Petra Sullivan, Divide, CO • Patricia Thompson, Glide, OR • Rolly Thompson, Eugene, OR • Elaine Tolari, Pleasanton, CA • William Trego, Far Hills, NJ • Chinette and Renard Turner, Gordonsville,VA • Barbara Vasallo, Leicester, NC • Linda Wafford, Lostine, OR • Cynthia Wheeler-Cox, Delaplane,VA • Nancy Whelan, Thorntown, IN • Robert Wiechmann, Eauclaire, WI • Pat Wolter, Phoenix, AZ • Ann Wood, South Vienna, OH

President's Report

by Huub Hendrix

On my weekly mountain bike tour every Sunday morning, I pass a farm so often that I know the people living there. While passing their farm recently, a small white dog caught my eye and for a minute I thought “That’s an Akbash Dog!” However, knowing it’s impossible to ID this breed at a distance I doubted my instincts.

is about not only the environment, but the maintenance of our world. Sustainability is about looking at the future, and working with each other to get a very big job done! A recent example is the 2010 Olympic Winter Games and their legacy as focus turns towards 2014 and future games to be held in Russia. That’s about sustaining our history.

The image of this dog wouldn’t leave my head for the rest of the day, so I decided to visit the farm and ask about the dog. And YES, it was an Akbash Dog! I was very curious about how these people ended up with an Akbash Dog, and they told me they were looking for a guardian dog for their sheep and chickens because there were foxes in the area. A local pet store suggested they visit a website about Akbash Dogs since they were looking for a breed to protect their livestock. They looked up the website (our website), got in touch with a Turkish person in their neighborhood and through him bought a dog directly from Turkey!

At ADI, the current Board of Directors has already entered their last year in office, and that means that before ending 2010, we will introduce new board members to you. The job of the board is to champion the goals of the society and to sustain the breed for the future. If you see a role for yourself as a board member, please contact me in the months to come.

The farmers are very pleased with their breed choice and with help from my gift of Livestock Protection Dogs: Selection Care and Training by Orysia Dawydiak and David Sims, they are training their Akbash Dog to succeed in its work. This story is unusual in Europe; however we find that the Akbash breed is gaining in popularity compared to other breeds here. Luckily, people who are interested in the breed seem to be better educated about its characteristics. Nonetheless my concern remains that the Akbash Dog will not be maintained as a working breed and we will end up with aggressive dogs in a companion situation…and the bad press and rescue emergencies that go along with that scenario. How will we preserve the working dog in the future?

In closing, let me remind you that The Gathering of the Akbash Clan is looming! I’m pleased to know that once again, Anita Dobrezelecki is our host for the weekend of June 26-27, 2010. Anita has hosted us in 2000 and 2004, so she knows what she’s doing. I would like to invite all of you to join us there and enjoy this unique weekend with other Akbash friends. Anita, thank you for being our host again for 2010! Huub Hendrix

That brings me to sustainability. You read this word in lots of places, in all types of magazines and as the goal of government programs all over the world. Sustainability Volume 85, 2010

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Treasurer's Report

by Barbara Lehmann

Akbash Dogs International Profit & Loss Statement January through December 2009 Income: Registry Income . ..............................720.00 Membership Dues . ...................... 2,108.00 Rescue Donations......................... 1,130.00 2010 Calendar sales . ................... 1,000.00 Interest Income ................................... 11.31 Total Income ...................................4969.31

Expenses Sentinel Expenses ............................714.64 2010 Calendars expenses . ............556.24 Reconciliation Discrepancies ............1.32 Registry expense ................................ 62.01 Advertising .........................................454.71 Dues and Subscriptions . ...............110.00 Licenses and Fees .............................. 40.00 Office Supplies ..................................136.48 Paypal Fees ........................................... 25.56 Postage and Delivery . ....................725.95 Rescue Expenses ..............................650.00 Website development ....................245.00 Total Expenses .............................. 3,721.91 Net Ordinary Income ...................... 1,247.40 Net Income ...............................1,247.40

Registrar's Report Registered Kennels Registered Litters Registered Dogs/Pups

ADI began 2009 with a bank balance of $10,006.11 and the 2009 Financial Report shows a gain of $234.60.This year, contributions to the ADI Rescue Fund were considerably higher and there was a great response to the 2010 Calendar sales. Funds from all sales have yet to be received and will show as income in 2010. Postage expenses were higher this year, due in part to US and Canadian postage increases and The Sentinel Volume 81 becoming lost en route from Canada to the US and having to be re-mailed. ADI has done well this year considering our economic times world wide. In a year when so many people just tried to make ends meet and donations to most charities were down significantly, ADI is showing a profit. This is due in large part to donations to the Rescue Fund and calendar sales that help support our rescue efforts. Respectfully submitted by Barb Lehmann

by Orysia Dawydiak

2009...................Total . ................ Active 1...........................76........................ 10 9...........................223 52........................1314

A reminder to ADI breeders, to microchip each pup, and/or tattoo each pup so that the tattoo is visible upon maturity. This helps re-home lost dogs, and is important when dogs are OFA certified for hip and elbow conformation. We also now recommend that elbows be evaluated since we have seen some elbow dysplasia in the breed. In addition, BAER tests for deafness and CERF for eye evaluation should be considered if breeders have access to these services. A final note, to those breeders who paid for a kennel web listing for 2009, you will not need to pay for a 2010 listing since our web site was non-functional for a good part of last year. The web site is still not available but we hope it will be up and running again, in a new format with a new host, later this spring. Respectfully submitted, Orysia Dawydiak Akbash Dogs International Registrar

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Volume 85, 2010

Iron Collar Excellence in Photography Contest for 2010 by David Sims ADI’s Iron Collar contest is designed to recognize the very best in photography of Akbash Dogs. Eligibility for the coveted iron collar is limited to ADI members. The prize is a genuine iron collar manufactured in Turkey. Members are limited to two photo submissions per year. Photos may be glossy prints or e-files. For electronic submissions, I will print what I receive, set at 300 dpi, up to 8.5” X 11”, with no other changes. JPEG,TIFF and Photo Shop images are acceptable. Please crop and make whatever other alterations are needed prior to sending the photo to me. Each photo must include an Akbash Dog.

For glossy prints, please courier or mail to: David Sims 1666 Union Road Charlottetown, PEI Canada C1A 7J7 902-672-3036

For electronic submissions, please send one photo per message to sims@upei.ca. The filename for the attachment will ideally include your surname, the name of the dog and a number 1 or 2, for example, sims-akkush-2.jpg. This filename helps us to keep track of the entrants and match them to captions. We were impressed with the quality of the stories that Iron Collar entrants told about each picture in 2009, and will use the same format this year. If you want your story to accompany the photo into judging, please send it at the time of mailing or e-mailing the photo. If not, we’ll request it later as photos are being prepared for the final Sentinel of the year. If you mail the photo(s) to me, please include your e-address so that I can confirm delivery. In previous years, I have experienced problems with submission of the large files needed for a print photo contest. This is why I request that each

file be attached to a separate e-message. I may request re-sending images if there is an error due to glitches in transmission. The due date is October 15, selected to allow for Columbus Day (US) or Thanksgiving (Canada) fall photos to be squeezed in; however, I recommend that you begin taking photos immediately, to take advantage of winter, spring and summer seasons as well. In an accompanying article, I address the technical matter of pixel size of digital images. In previous years, publisher Martine Dubuc and I have written about the basics of good photography. For example, white dogs don’t fare well in harsh sunlight. There are many web sites with suggestions for taking better photos. Best wishes!

RESPECT - Taking and Sending your Best Photos by David Sims You click to open an attachment on an e-message from a friend. Not only does the download take a while, but the image is so large that you have to scroll around to find the center. When you finally get there, the face or dog or sunset is so large that all you see is the imperfections. Been there? I’d be surprised if this has not happened to you. The problem is that a photo file has been sent in the wrong size for computer viewing. That same file may be perfect for print needs, however. This is where the technically inclined people start talking about pixel dimensions and pixel density settings. To be honest, you need to learn this stuff if you want to share photos with friends via Volume 85, 2010

e-mail while having the potential to print awesome photos for the ADI calendar, the Iron Collar Photo contest, or to adorn your refrigerator. The average human eye can resolve about a 250th of an inch. That’s the width of the speck of dust you see on photos. If you don’t want to see graininess in printed photos, they need to be made with more dots per inch (this is the same thing as pixels per inch) than the human eye can see. By convention, we usually work with 300 dots per inch. If a magazine such as National Geographic wants to offer exceptional quality of images that have the potential to be enlarged by magnifying glass, the pixel AKBASHSENTINEL

density might be set at 600 dpi (dots per inch). An image or print on a computer screen may appear crisp, but if you place a page of print or a photograph beside your computer screen, you will instantly see the difference. Computer screens present data at 72 or 96 pixels per inch. Screens are designed to do a pretty good job with that level of resolution, but its not as good as we expect from printed material. You have the ability to change the pixel resolution on your digital camera. Somewhere in the settings is a portion that refers to photo size or resolution or pixel dimensions. If you set your camera to take small file sizes, you will be able to take a lot more photos before need7

ing to empty the memory chip. However, the photos may not be very large when prepared for glossy print applications. If you set your camera to take the largest possible photos, you won’t be able to take as many photos, but they will probably be capable of looking pretty good in the ADI calendar. When I purchased my last digital camera, I set the resolution on the highest setting, so that I could potentially use all of my photos for the front cover of the Sentinel. This is fine for the one in every 500 photos that I actually send to Hazel as potential material for the Sentinel, but what about the rest of my photos, including all those I would like to share with friends via internet? This is where simple mathematics comes into play. You can do it! Remember that 300 pixels per inch convention mentioned above? Computer screens work fine at 72 pixels per inch, and most computer software displays photos at 72 pixels per inch regardless of what pixel density you may have selected. The result is that huge photo you cannot see all of. If you have a 10 megapixel camera, a fairly standard size today, and set the camera to take the largest possible photo size, the dimensions of each photo will probably be 3872 X 2592 pixels. If you multiply those two numbers, you will get close to 10 million. Let’s just work with the width of the image, which is the larger number, or 3872 pixels. If you divide 3872 pixels by 72 pixels per inch, you get 54 inches. That’s how wide the photo will be when viewed on a computer screen. If you divide 3872 pixels by 300 dots per inch, you get 13 inches, perfect for a high resolution, glossy photo for the ADI calendar, with enough extra size to allow for a little cropping. You’ve purchased a new digital camera and you understand this bit about pixels. But what to do about it? How do you have the best of both worlds, sending appropriate photos to friends while having the potential to win the Iron Collar photo contest? The answer lies in acquiring software that will convert photos to different sizes. Within the software packages, there is a setting called ‘image size’ 8

or something similar. Using the ‘image size’ option, you can take a large file and make it smaller so that it fits nicely on a computer screen. If you do this, change the file name, so you don’t save it over the original file that is so much larger. I frequently select 700 pixels width for photos I’ll e-mail. 700 pixels divided by 72 pixels per inch = 9.7 inches width, a good size for most peoples’ computer screens. If I want to send a friend a desktop image, I will make it 1024 pixels wide, but I don’t do this unless the photo is requested at this size. Let’s take an example. You have a wonderful photo that you want to share with your friends, but you think it also might win the Iron Collar photo contest. You own a 10 MeP camera, so the original file size has the dimensions that I used in the paragraphs above. My approach is to save all original photos in a ‘raw’ file. I have photo files set up in my computer in the ‘My Pictures’ folder. The first level is by year, so I can find the photos I took in 2010 quickly. Then there is a sub-folder called ‘raw’ in which I store all the images coming directly off my camera. They typically have names like DSCN0215. jpg, DSCN0216.jpg, etc. I may eventually delete raw images I don’t want, but I always keep the good raw images in this folder. In the 2010 folder, I place images I will share and use. For this folder, I change the name of the image to something I can relate to, such as Akkush-Sunset.jpg. Then, and this is the important part, I add suffixes to the name, so I know what it is designed for. I would actually have 2 Akkush-Sunset files, named AkkushSunset-e.jpg and Akkush-Sunset-p.jpg. Using ‘image size’ software, I create the Akkush-sunset-e file size as 700 pixels wide and with a pixel density of 72 dots per inch, allowing the software to automatically select the appropriate height for the photo. The “-e” suffix tells me the file is for sharing by e-mail. Similarly, I save the file as a print file with a pixel density of 300 pixels per inch, and as many pixels as the original photo allows, up to the full 3872. This file gets the suffix “-p” which tell me it is designed to become a print. The e-file is probably in the 200 - 500 AKBASHSENTINEL

kb range, while the p-file is probably several megabytes in size. By taking the time to make the two files from one original photo image, you will be respecting your friends, maximizing the potential of each image for print purposes, and putting smiles on the faces of Hazel and Martine, who try hard to display each photo to best advantage in the Sentinel, the Iron Collar photo contest, and the ADI Calendar. What about this image size software? If you own a Mac, there is probably something bundled with your computer. For Windows computers, the industry standard is Adobe PhotoShop. This is an expensive piece of software that is probably too complex for most people’s needs. Adobe sells a simpler version of PhotoShop called Elements. This costs less than $100 and works perfectly well. If you are on a tight budget, there is a free-ware package available called GIMP. GIMP stands for GNU Image Manipulation Program, and is available at http://www.gimp.org/. I visited the site, and like the examples of photos provided. On the down side, I find the site to be highly technical and not so intuitive. I have not downloaded or tried the software. Maybe someone in ADI will send Hazel a software review of GIMP for a future edition of the Sentinel. This explanation of pixel size and density is written to address technical difficulties I have experienced as organizer of the Iron Collar photo contest over the past twelve years. Martine Dubuc, our Sentinel publisher, has described similar frustrations when people have a favorite photo of their pooch, but the image size is so small that it won’t translate onto our calendar. By taking a little time to learn how to manipulate digital photo images, you can have the best of print and computer screen images. After a few practice sessions, you’ll be sharing like a pro.

Volume 85, 2010

Letter from the Rabies Charitable Trust Fund by Kris L. Christine Greetings: The goal of The Rabies Challenge Fund Charitable Trust is to extend the legally required interval for rabies boosters to 5 and then 7 years, based on the findings of the rabies challenge studies currently run by Dr. Ronald Schultz at the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine. Part of the research being conducted by Dr. Schultz is to establish a rabies titer standard for dogs. If the studies’ results demonstrate that the rabies vaccine confers 5, and possibly 7, years of immunity, there would be a significant impact on controlling rabies and reducing adverse reactions associated with the vaccine. Today I am writing to ask for your help. The Rabies Challenge Fund relies on donations to finance the multi-year challenge studies that began in November 2007. Dr. W. Jean Dodds and I are Co-Trustees of The Rabies Challenge Fund, and our current challenge is to to raise $150,000 for the 4th year’s budget in addition to collecting $150,000 per year to cover Years 5 through 7. All donations received will be used to finance the direct research costs of the rabies challenge studies. With your help, we can complete the 5 and 7-year rabies challenge studies. Tax-exempt donations can be mailed to The Rabies Challenge Fund, c/o Hemopet, 11561 Salinaz Avenue, Garden Grove, CA 92843. Credit card donations can be phoned in to Hemopet (specify they are for The Rabies Challenge Fund) by calling (714) 891-2022, ext. 13. Thank you for your support of this important work. Sincerely, Kris L. Christine Founder, Co-Trustee, ledgespring@lincoln.midcoast.com The Rabies Challenge Fund | www.RabiesChallengeFund.org http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/The-Rabies-Challenge-Fund/119106981159?ref=ts Successful efforts by The Rabies Challenge Fund leading to changes in state rabies laws/municipal ordinances to the 3 year national standard: Cheyenne, Wyoming; Wichita, Kansas; State of Alabama; State of Arkansas; State of Maine; State of Rhode Island The Rabies Challenge Fund Charitable Trust is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization [Fed. EIN # 84-6390682].

Second in a series of Odessa Benek attempting to “blend” in so he can ambush a bird. Photo credit: Patrick Stafford-Smith Volume 85, 2010

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And Here’s To You

— Celebrating the Maternal: A Story of Wesson

This is a picture of Sheepfields Zeki of M2A Farm, aka Wesson, Iron Collar Contest feature dog Smith’s sister. She’s holding a brand new puppy born minutes prior to the picture. This is one of our 2009 litter. It wasn’t staged - this pup crawled into this position as Wesson got ready to deliver another puppy. If you look closely, Wesson has a tear in her eye. There’s also a tiny paw from another pup just to the left of her tongue.Wesson’s had two litters and has proven she is a calm, competent, wonderful mom. There’s a story that goes along with this picture. Wesson went into labor on a Sunday afternoon. She delivered 3 puppies within a reasonable time frame, but then there were several hours without 10

further signs of labor. An ultrasound a few weeks earlier had showed at least 6 puppies. Our vet was unavailable and the nearest emergency clinic was an hour away. It was getting late in the evening and when the clinic advised bringing Wesson in for evaluation, I decided not to wait any longer. I put the 3 puppies in a small cardboard box and loaded them and Wesson in the back of the minivan. About 20 miles down the interstate, I heard a puppy crying and Wesson licking. I pulled off the highway, turned around and saw Wesson attempting to put this new puppy into the box with the first 3. This was only Wesson’s second litter. Prior to this trip, none of her puppies had ever been in a cardboard box, nor had I AKBASHSENTINEL

by Kat Medrea

ever seen her actually pick up a pup. I can only assume, good mother that she is, that Wesson knew children should always be transported in a car seat, and the box was the only one available! Seriously, I can’t explain why she tried to put the pup with its siblings, but the point is that there is no doubt she certainly put some thought into the action. I put the pup in the box, petted Wesson, turned the van around and we all went home. Wesson delivered 4 more puppies, for a total of 8, the last arriving at 9 a.m. the following morning. All were healthy and are growing up in homes across the country, bonding with new owners and livestock that include alpacas and llamas, goats, sheep, emus, and assorted poultry. Volume 85, 2010

Dear Mahir

by Orysia Dawydiak, Marsha Peterson & Diane Spisak

Dear Mahir, I’m trying to learn more about the Akbash breed, so I’ve read every article and story I can find. They have many good qualities. Aside from being beautiful, they’re protective of property and family, they’re large with a relatively low occurrence of hip dysplasia (with good breeding). They’re not super needy and high energy like some. The only trait that concerns me is dog aggression. I’m getting very different opinions, which makes me think in part, it has a lot to do with breeding/training, and personality of different dogs.

maturity. A well-socialized, three-yearold male would not necessarily respond the same way, unless he was challenged by a much smaller dog, especially of the opposite sex. Akbash Dogs are most likely to react negatively to other dogs of a similar size and the same sex. On their own properties, they are more territorial and even more likely to be aggressive with strange dogs.

Is it possible to pick out which pups will tend to be aggressive? Is it the ones that are more dominant? One breeder told me she’s seen her dogs viciously attack another, and females fight to the death. Another told me her dogs aren’t like that, and are even friendly with neighboring dogs. I realize dog aggression to a point is a desirable trait in an LGD since a stray can pose a threat to the animals he is protecting, but for a companion Akbash, those daily threats don’t exist. Not every dog can be a great LGD right? Maybe that’s the one for me. I want him to be at least tolerant of visiting, friendly dogs, but still have enough instinct to protect my cats from coyotes, or chase the racoon from my bird feeder. I want him to alert me when someone comes up my driveway, and when I’m not home, he should be intimidating to friendly strangers, yet not viciously attack them. One lady even said when another dog was aggressive to her 10 month old Akbash in the dog park, her dog responded not with aggression, but playfully ran circles around the other dog. I’d take a dog like that over a mean one. I noticed that many Akbash rescues listed seem to have more favorable than negative reviews of behavior.

I’d suggest if you want to pursue this breed, that you consider getting an older, mature dog, in rescue perhaps, who is already known to be neutral or friendly with new dogs. Some Akbash Dogs are like that, whether by natural disposition, or by careful, constant socialization. But luck also plays a part. You can sour a young dog/pup who has even one bad experience, for instance during an aggressive encounter at a dog park where dogs are running freely, at a dog class, or a chance encounter on the street or at your home. In other words, dog aggression is the default wiring on these dogs. And even dogs who have apparently always been dog-friendly can end up being aggressive with a new or even wellknown dog under the right circumstances. We humans don’t care for everyone we meet, why should we expect animals, domesticated or wild, to be otherwise?

I live in the country, with room for a large dog, and more importantly, I have the time to train and socialize him. If you think an Akbash is suitable, please let me know. Christine Clark, Okotoks, Alberta

Dear Christine, I appreciate your thoughtful questions, considerations and research about the breed. After many years studying, breeding and placing dogs, we still cannot predict with absolute certainty which pups will be more or less dog aggressive. Nor would I ever guarantee that any pup we produced would be consistently friendly with all visiting dogs, no matter how well-socialized or how skillful and knowledgeable the owner. The dog you described who responded playfully to an aggressive challenge was still a pup, on neutral turf, and many will act that way until they gain more confidence with Volume 85, 2010

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As for your situation, from what you’ve written, you should not expect to leave your dog outside unattended unless he is well-fenced, whether you are home or not. This breed tends to claim a huge territory, usually well beyond the boundaries of the owner’s property. Nor should they be tied up for long periods of time, and preferably not chained at all. Good luck in your search for the right dog. It could be an Akbash Dog if you are fortunate enough to run across the right one for your situation. Mahir 11

Wolves in Montanta: An ADI Member Perspective by Peggy Duezabou Wolves are a common staple for news stories in Montana. Recently, it seems they have captured more than their share of headlines. Perhaps it is because of highly contested wolf hunts instituted last fall in Montana and Idaho, or perhaps it is because of legal actions directed at restoring their ‘endangered’ status under the United States’ Endangered Species Act. It may also be that wolves themselves are calling more attention to their presence by killing increasing numbers of domestic livestock and—unfortunately—livestock protection dogs (LPDs). In 1995, I watched on TV as Senator Max Baucus helped lift a crate carrying a Canadian wolf to its enclosure inside Yellowstone National Park.The following year, James Brooke (1996) reported in The New York Times that an estimated 15 - 30 pups had tripled the park’s wolf population and that wolves had already dispersed beyond its unfenced borders. The stories often forgotten — but which I well remember — are that wolves had denned in Glacier National Park and on the Blackfeet Reservation ten years earlier. And, even as wolves were being introduced to Yellowstone National Park, a naturallyoccurring pack near Boulder, Montana was being removed for killing calves. Wolves disbursing from both Canada and Yellowstone National Park have brought their population in Montana to nearly 500 according to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ (FW&P) website. Almost all of them live in the mountain ranges on the west side of the state, as do I. Yesterday, I dutifully mailed a Wolf Observation Card to FW&P, something I’ve done once or twice a year since 2005. The date and duration change, but the ‘sighting’ is always very similar. I am outdoors (feeding or cleaning something!) when I hear a sustained howl between my location and Greenhorn Mountain — a peak about five miles away. The tone is low and very clear. The pitch varies little, and there is no warbling or yipping typical of 12

Azor and his trusty iron collar.

coyotes. The call was first identified for me when I staffed a field trip for an experienced biologist. A second howl cuts the air, a third — and, sometimes, more. It is as if a group of children is playing Marco Polo, but the rules have changed a bit. Instead of playing tag or keep-away, the wolves converge on a common point. Once united, their voices stop. A ranch two miles north of me had a den several years ago. I’ve heard the tales of a lady who calves for them. I’ve also heard stories from the ranches east of me — roughly 14 miles — and some of these were written up last fall for the local paper. The Mitchell Mountain pack killed not only goats and rams in the canyon east of me, but they also killed their third LPD AKBASHSENTINEL

on this historic sheep ranch. Photos were posted on the website of a state livestock organization. Wolves had made the local headlines again, and a kill order was issued for the entire pack. Three wolves were killed before the kill order expired (they are valid for 45 days only). A bitch and a number of pups evaded Wildlife Services, the agency that responds when domestic livestock is killed. I bought my four-yearold Akbash Dog a spiked iron collar. Wolves near Dillon, a town in southwest Montana, have killed a LPD, too — and a whole lot of sheep. The largest known wolf depredation in recent history took place there last August. Helena Independent Record’s journalist Eve Byron (2009, August 28) writes that the RebVolume 85, 2010

ish/Konen ranch had wolf depredations confirmed twice in July. Twenty-six rams were killed that month. Biologists use an incremental approach to addressing these events. FW&P typically issues a kill permit for a single animal, supposing that killing one wolf will frighten the rest of the pack or disturb a pack’s social hierarchy. Byron reports that one wolf was killed and another wounded following the July incidents near Dillon. In August, however, wolves returned, killing an additional 120 purebred Rambouillet rams. Eight wolves were found within a half-mile of the pasture; one was shot and killed. Agents were not authorized to remove more. Wolves are an unseen presence in my life. I know them from stories told by neighbors and others. At the feed store, I heard wolves had followed deer hunters on the ranch where three LPDs were killed. Is that what earned the Mitchell Mountain pack a death warrant? I know them, too, from the stories shared within the pages of a newspaper and from statistics kept in cyberspace. However, my most intimate knowledge of wolves comes from hearing them call to each other. In that moment, I grasp a certain reality with which livestock producers must live: the knowledge that I am gambling with the lives of my animals, even my treasured Akbash Dog. Last night, in the very dark hours between midnight and dawn, I heard one low, sustained tone. There was no warbling or yipping as my Akbash Dog howled softly, “Maaaaaaarco….” I heard no response. Maybe the keep-away rules have been restored. The following websites are good spots to explore for wolf information. This will take you to Montana’s state agency, Fish Wildlife & Parks. http://www.fwp.mt.gov/ · Fish & Wildlife (scroll down to icon) · Montana Wolves (text) Wolf Program page with lots of good links. · Weekly reports (part way down the page) are especially telling. Volume 85, 2010

· Go to Wolf Population and Distribution for good map and chart. This will take you to national agency, United State Fish & Wildlife Service. It is authorized under the US Department of the Interior, and it was the lead agency for gray wolf reintroduction to Yellowstone National Park.

Editor’s Note: Marco Polo is a game of tag played in a swimming pool. The object of the game is not to be caught. The player who is ‘It’ must keep his or her eyes shut. When the ‘It’ player calls out ‘Marco’, all the other players must answer ‘Polo’. ‘It’ may call repeatedly until able to locate and ‘tag’ another player.The game then continues with a new ‘It’.

http://www.fws.gov/ · Endangered Species (menu across top) · Species Information (vertical menu on left side) · Vertebrate Animals · Mammals Scroll down to ‘gray wolf ’ and notice that its endangered status is applicable in very specific geographical areas!

Dianes Spisak forwarded ADI these photos and story on Cyndy & Barbara Summer’s dog, Lutie, a Sheepfield’s pup. “Hi Diane - hope this finds you well.Thought you would enjoy these 2 photos of Lutie. This feed bin is less than 24 inches in diameter and it always amazes me how she manages to fit in it. She is well, happy and doing her job. We have had no bear or lion problems since we have had her. She and the llamas are so much fun to watch -- their communication never ceases to amaze me. We have one llama who will jump in the air and do a 360 turn when he is happy. When Lutie gets a rawhide bone she will go to each llama to show them what she has and he always displays his excitement by twisting in the air. Best wishes to you for the New Year. And thanks again for such a wonderful dog.” Signed Barbara and Cyndy.

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Into The Next Decade: The 2010 Gathering of the Clan by Hazel Plumbley There’s an element of déjà vu to the Gathering of the Clan for 2010, being held at Roaring Brook Farm in Bellbrook, a small city not far from Dayton, Ohio. June 25th-27th is shaping up to be yet another fascinating weekend in a long line of stellar ADI events and once again, our host is Anita Dobrzelecki. Anita and Hindisu Kennel have welcomed ADI in both 2000 & 2004 for annual gatherings. Anita and family have been at Roaring Brook Farm since 1986. There is a brook that runs through the back of the land named Turkey Creek, and Anita attributes this body of water as the muse for her kennel name, Hindisu. Interested in finding a Turkish moniker that suited her kennel, she looked to the land for inspiration. As it turns out, turkeys (the fowl), were introduced to Turkey (the country) from India, so turkey (the fowl) in Turkish is ‘hindi’! The Turkish word for water is

‘su’ and Anita liked the sound of the combined Hindisu. And thus a kennel is born! Akbash Dogs in residence currently include Shah Jahanabad and his brother Avatar who will both be 13 years old by the time of The Gathering. Aziza, Anita’s “old maid”, as she was never bred, is 12. Burmese, a neutered male, is nine. Saba is four years old and came from Francois Roesch in Canada, although she is one of Anita’s line and a granddaughter of her beloved, deceased Maia. Kahmi, who is six years old, is the farms’ “queen mother”, having produced one litter sired by deceased Kabatico using artificial insemination. Kahmi had six pups almost two years ago, four of which remain in residence. The Gang of Four consists of boy Buz and his three sisters Gypsy, Sufi and Brachet.

emu, the usual barn cats and miscellaneous chickens, so the ten Hindisu Akbash Dogs are not without work. Activities planned so far include an historical presentation by Anita on her dog feeding practices. With 10 Akbash Dogs on site, there will also be a demonstration of the breed card grading system, where everyone will learn the basics of conformation. A discussion of dog pack dynamics and interactions is planned and other items and invited guest speakers will be The host, Anita.

Roaring Brook Farm is also home to Tennessee Fainting Goats, peacocks, and

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Volume 85, 2010

added to the agenda as planning for The Gathering continues as we go to print with this Sentinel volume. The area around Bellbrook holds plenty of interest for those planning an extended stay in the area. Dayton is noted for its association with aviation; the city is home to the National Museum of the United States Air Force. Situated just 20 minutes from the farm, the museum boasts the original Wright Brothers’ plane. Carillon Park, a turn-of-the-century village provides a trip back in time for those attracted to the history of the area. The Dayton Art Institute is renowned for its displays and about one hour’s drive away in northern Kentucky is a fabulous aquarium with many fascinating exhibits. There is a Holiday Inn Express just 3 miles from the farm at 5655 Wilmington Pike, Centerville Ohio. The phone number for reservations is 1-877-660-8550. However, Anita advises that this accommodation is only for the faint of heart. All brave souls should stay at the farm. She has a huge house, many beds, sofas and air mattresses and is happy to accommodate Gathering guests. Everyone is welcome, including children - what’s a party without little ones running around? If people are arriving by car and like to camp, there are many places around the farm to set up tents. The nearest airport is Dayton International and pick ups and drop offs will be provided as needed. There will be ample food for thought, the soul and the stomach! As per Gathering tradition, all guests share the cost for food and Gathering related expenses. Please RSVP directly to Anita - her email address is adobrzelecki1@woh.rr.com . If there are any special accommodations such as sleeping arrangements on ground level, please let Anita know asap. Related websites: http://maps.google.com/ Enter: 691 S Alpha Bellbrook Rd, Bellbrook, Ohio in Google Maps for directions to Roaring Brook Farm. www.cityofbellbrook.org www.daytonhistory.org www.med.wright.edu/visitors Volume 85, 2010

From the Archives

by David Sims

Ten years ago, early in 2000, ADI members received volume 51 of the Akbash Sentinel in the mail. As a co-editor, I pushed a personal agenda, urging members with companion dogs to install dog doors in their homes. Did I have any influence? If you subsequently installed one, please let me know. Kalina and Eriel Whitelaw wrote from their teenage perspective about life with and suddenly without the Akbash Dog in their lives. Akdag was seemingly in the prime of his life when he collapsed and never arose again. Love and Remembrance was the title of their tribute to Akdag. As with most first editions of the year, volume 51 contained announcements for a new Iron Collar contest, a new Gathering of the Akbash Clan, a yearend financial report, and a president’s report that outlined the year’s activities. We began 2000 with 167 members, $2,709 in the bank, 760 Akbash dogs in our registry, 38 rescues, rehomes and other cases handled by Mike Peters (Mike’s annual report noted that 1999 was a rough year), and plans to meet in midJune in Bellbrook, Ohio at Anita Dobrzelecki’s farm. What can I say? Some good things don’t change. The training articles included a Dear Mahir about an under-trained, non-supervised, highly energetic Akbash Dog that was chewing on lambs, and a detailed differentiation of rewards, lures and bribes by Suzanne Clothier. You know the differences, right? These were followed by a highly practical discussion written by Diane Spisak and titled, Wool Pulling and Other Inappropriate Play Behaviours. Volume 51 was an excellent edition for behavior modification and training tips. AKBASHSENTINEL

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Volume 85, 2010

Akbash Dogs International's Board of Directors Huub Hendrix, President Ridder vom Asenrodeweg 53 6042 KH Roermond Netherlands huwi@live.net

Sharon Hoyt, Vice-President 77102 Hwy. 99 South Cottage Grove, OR 97424 hawley@peak.org

Orysia Dawydiak, Registrar 1666 Union Road Charlottetown, PEI Canada, C1A 7J7 (902) 672-3036 dawydiak@upei.ca

David Sims, Past-President 1666 Union Road Charlottetown, PEI Canada, C1A 7J7 (902) 672-3036 sims@upei.ca

Barbara Lehmann, Treasurer 8955 Oak Creek Road Cherry Valley, CA 92223 USA (951) 845-1788 belsbusa@verizon.net

İlker Ünlü, Turkish Represnetative Bodrum Marmara College Dept. of Foreign Languages Ortakent/Bodrum Mugla-Turkey Tel: 0555 632 07 40 (mobile) bullterrierturk@yahoo.com

ADI's Rescue Contacts Janet Davis, Akbash Rescue Coordinator 15 Purcell Drive Alameda, CA 94502 USA (510) 523-6161 straughie@comcast.net For Ontario, Canada rescues only: Please contact Sunny Reuter (647) 833-1464 e-mail: sunny.reuter@gmail.com

Akbash Sentinel Contacts Hazel Plumbley, Editor 729 Deer Drive Kamloops, BC Canada V1S 1Z9 (250) 851-2146 evenings (250) 314-0377 days high_desert@telus.net Martine Dubuc, Publisher PO Box 2468 Garibaldi Highlands, BC V0N 1T0 (604) 892-3398 martine@intergate.ca

Visit Akbash Dogs International’s rescue blog site:

http://akbashrescue.blogspot.com The blog by ADI’s rescue coordinator, Janet Davis, lists dogs currently available in North America and updates on dogs that were successfully placed.

All submissions - advertising, columns, letters, stories, articles, photographs - are welcome to be included in future volumes of the Akbash Sentinel. As a matter of editorial policy, articles may be refereed for style, content and length. The editor will happily provide assistance to anyone wishing to contribute to the Akbash Sentinel. Peer refereeing of submissions that contain original material that has not been published (or submitted for publication) elsewhere is also available. Volume 85, 2010

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ADI registrar, Orysia Dawydiak with Yurek on a sand dune on Prince Edward Island, Canada.