Alaska
DOG
January 2011
News
Alaska’s only companion dog publication since 2008
Free!
Polaris - a special dog at the Mat-Su Shelter
In this issue Page 2 Editor’s note Page 3 New classes at BetCo BBB pet boarding tips Page 4 & 13 Club listing & Calendar Page 5 Home for Christmas thanks to Facebook Page 6 Dog Lovers’ Facebook pages Page 7 Meet the breed – Labrador Retriever
Page 8 Holiday photos from AD&PW Page 9 Mat-Su Shelter News Page 10 Alaska SPCA News Page 11 A Norwegian view of Dog Jog Page 12 Publishing a dog book. Page 14 Anchorage Shelter News
w w w. A l a s k a D o g N e w s . c o m
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Alaska Dog News •January 2011
Dear Alaska Dog News Readers,
E-Z CUT
A new year and a new look for Alaska Dog News.
Professional Quality Everytime!
We wanted a little bit of a face lift and to make the publication work better with both the printing process and displays. We hope you like it.
Don’t Buy New Blades! Save Money and Have Your Dull Blades Sharpened Convenient Mobil Service • Shears & Knives Sharpened Clipper Blade Sharpening $6 each
This month we continue with another professional article. This month it’s how to publish a book by long time editor Douglas Pfeiffer. Pfeiffer has been involved with publishing a number of books by Alaskans and about Alaska.
Groomers! We Come To You.
Dick Ridgeway Phone 907-344-3448 Cell 907-229-2906 RRRIDG@aol.com 7319 Feather Drive Anchorage, AK 99507
We also added a meet the breed feature beginning with Labrador Retrievers. The breed continues to occupy the most popular status in the home and the field.
Daisy
Happy New Year from all of us at Alaska Dog News and thanks for reading.
at Hatcher Pass, Alaska.
Linda Henning – editor/publisher 357-9386
Her story inspired a book and Alaska Dog News. Do you have a dog
About Alaska Dog News
story to share?
Published since 2008, Alaska Dog News is published monthly and distributed throughout Southcentral Alaska and at events in Alaska as time permits.
Contact us at alaskadognews@mtaonline.net
It’s mission is to get people out and active with their dogs and to help curb the cycle of returned dogs to our shelters. Purebred and mixed breeds are represented equally. We support the good works of our municipal shelters and rescue organizations as well as responsible breeders working to improve their breeds. We welcome thoughtful contributions to the publication from writers, photographers and animal professionals. Feel free to contact us at: www.alaskadognews.com Through FACEBOOK “Alaska Dog News” AlaskaDogNews@mtaonline.net 907-357-9386 Monday – Friday 8am-6pm Alaska Time (one hour earlier than PT) Ad pricing can be seen on the web site.
The Better Companion at the Regine Dog Training Facility
BETCO Dog Behavior + Agility PLAYN FUN Doggy Day Care SOCIAL HOUR Open Play Times Get $10 off any service with us when you mention this ad! One time only per customer.
(907) 357-2521
Visit our web site at www.farcountrypets.com
Professional Pet Behavior Solutions
Open Daily
e Mon-Thu 7am to 10pm r a lC enta OPEN 24 HOURS D l & ation a c i Fri-Sat-Sun c rg , Su alley Lo all l a MIKE WHITTINGTON DVM c edi Mid-V ce on C M e i STAN DIMENT DVM plet enient y Serv m o c v CYNTHIA COLLINS DVM C Con ergen m CATHERINE HEFLEY DVM E CINDY RICHARDSON DVM AMANDA TAYLOR DVM SAMANTHA YELTATZIE DVM
“Your other family doctor”
907-746-7297
Activities for dogs 8wks & older
Quality time with your dog Reward based training
www.bettercompanion.com
Alaska Dog News• January 2011
New classes for 2011 at BetCo
Page 3
Forever Home:
T
he Better Companion and the Regine Dog Training facility have been training dogs and their people since 2002 in Wasilla. Operated by Claudia Sihler CPDT-KA and her husband Frank, they have expanded to provide more unique opportunities for training indoors and out.
Adopted dogs and the humans who love them Ordering now for the holidays.
To order your copy call 907-357-9386 or e-mail AlaskaDogNews@mtaonline.net
Need a gift?If you still looking for a gift for your dog, a relative, or a friend who has a dog, they have gifts available from a few dollars to a full class or workshop! Toys, books, treats, a puppy class or mushing workshop, or a coupon for daycare or open play time might be the right choice for your dog or doggie friend. Feeling a bit of cabin fever? The dogs do too and drive you crazy. Nose Work is a sport you can do indoors. This sport is great for any dog, especially if you need to exercise them in your warm home. No obedience requirements needed, just allow your dog to use its nose. Nose Work tires the dog out with little effort on your part. Learn the 100 ways of how to hide and to teach the dog to find not only food, but a specific odor. This is offered as a convenient drop-in class. New Behavior Classes start Jan 12/13, 2011, and if more quality time with your dog will be one of your resolutions, then sign up now! The next Agility Classes start February 5th. Mushing and Skijor Workshops in Jan/Feb 2011. You don’t need any equipment for Mushing Part 1, and we’ll have limited loaner equipment for Mushing Part 2 and for the Skijor Workshop. For the Skijor Workshop you’ll need your own skis and poles and should be an intermediate skier. We do have harnesses, skijor belts and lines as well as little sleds for sale, if you want to reserve yours for the workshop. Flyball! Have you ever seen Flyball? Does your dog want to run with the “big dogs”? That’s Drag Racing Canine Style! Learn how to get your dog started in our NEW Introduction to Flyball Class, February 13, 2010; 2-4pm. Come join in the Flyball fun beginning with this 2-hour “let’s get started” class that features laying the foundation for you and your dog, a basic training plan to achieve Flyball Dog status, at home training techniques and a sneak peak at Beginner Flyball, the next step for you and your dog! Pre-registration is only $25, so sign up now! This is a non-working class (without dogs) but be prepared for some entertaining Flyball action and live demonstrations with a few experienced Flyball dogs. This 2-hr Introduction to Flyball Class will be required before participating in any other Flyball class after that. People who took the Intro class last September don’t have to take this introduction class.
PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For More Information Contact: Tara Sims, Alaska Public Relations Manager 907.562.0704 | pr@thebbb.org HOLIDAY TRAVEL: FIND A TRUSTWORTHY KENNEL FOR PETS Anchorage, Alaska – Nov. 22, 2010 – When pet owners leave town, finding a kennel or pet care service they trust is paramount. Better Business Bureau offers tips to help pet owners find a safe and reliable home-away-from-home for furry friends.
After this 2-hr class we’ll offer a 4-week Beginner Flyball Class (former Intro class), tentatively starting March 8. To stay on top of the offerings and events at the Regine Dog Training Facility sign up for Claudia’s monthly newsletter http://bettercompanion.com/ news.htm and join them on Facebook through their website at www.bettercompanion.com
Learn to Mush & Skijor
•
at The Better Companion √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √
√ √ √ √
Every year, BBB receives hundreds of complaints from pet owners about kennels. Common complaints include disputes over billing, but also over the treatment of pets. Complaining owners allege pets came back from boarding kennels severely dehydrated and malnourished or rife with fleas, ticks, and even maggots. In worst case scenarios, pets became extremely ill from staying at low quality facilities, resulting in lengthy stays at animal hospitals.
January 23 rd Mushing I: $70
• •
What equipment do I need? Connecting the dogs to the sled, the harness, booties, musher’s gear Making your own lines from polyrope (material will be provided) The sled – parts, types, driving techniques Practical training – sled pulled by snowmachine
•
January 30th Mushing II: $80
•
Safely hooking up the dog(s), “Line Out!”-command Practice with your own dog team (1-2 dogs) Teaching the dog(s) to pull despite handler being behind them on the sled Safe mushing – uphill, downhill, curves, other teams How to teach directions After the run: checking the dogs for injuries – what if?
Mushing I & II Package: $140 February 6th Skijoring: $60
For intermediate cross-country skiers. Learn to ski with your dog Teach your dog to run in front of you Part indoors, then outdoors on trail (at the dog training facility) Claudia Sihler, CPDT-KA Frank Sihler
(907) 357-2521
betco@mtaonline.net www.bettercompanion.com 1400 Regine Ave, Wasilla, AK 99654
• •
• • • •
When looking for a reliable kennel, BBB serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington recommends these tips: Ask friends, neighbors, a veterinarian or local animal shelter for recommendations. Visit www.bbb.org to get BBB Reliability Reports on kennels. Make sure the kennel is properly licensed at www.commerce.state. ak.us/occ. Personally visit the facilities. Check for cleanliness, offensive odors and the overall safety of the kennel and cages. Inquire about the feeding schedule, water accessibility and frequency of – or fees related to – exercise. If pets are prone to running away, ask about the kennel’s measures to make facilities escape-proof. Find out how pets may come in contact with other animals. Some kennels let animals play together, while others keep them separate at all times. Note the friendliness of staff members and how they interact with the other boarding pets. Make sure the facility requires that all entering pets have proof of immunization and ask about their policies regarding flea and tick control. Get information about the hours for drop off and pick up. Make sure to understand the billing policy. Finally, ask what happens in the case of a medical emergency or other unexpected situation. For more marketplace holiday advice, visit www.bbb.org. ###
About your BBB serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington: Better Business Bureau is a neutral not-for-profit organization with the mission to advance marketplace trust. BBB is supported by BBB Accredited Businesses and provides ethical business standards, BBB Reliability Reports, Charity Review Reports, complaint handling, marketplace events and tips. For more information, contact BBB or visit www.bbb.org
Editor’s Note: While we rarely have problems with fleas and ticks in Alaska, dogs coming in from the outside may bring some hitchhikers with them. Asking about pest control is a good idea. Dog or Canine Lice are often a problem in close quarters.
www.AlaskaDogNews.com
907-357-9386
Page 4
Alaska Dog News •January 2011
CLUB LISTINGS & EVENT CALENDAR all breeD clubs Alaska Kennel Club Barbara Brant POB 232151 Anchorage, AK 99523 346-1601 www.alaskakennelclub.org Affiliations: AKC General membership meetings first Monday of each month 7:30 Chugach Electric Building, 5601 Minnesota Dr. Guests welcome. Show-n-Go classes every Friday evening Alyeska Canine Trainers, 549 W. International Airport Rd. Anchorage, AK Junior handlers 5:30 & 6:00 Adult handlers 6:30 Jan 22-23 Alaska & Kenai Kennel Club all breed shows in Anchorage
Capitol Kennel Club of Juneau
Camille Stephens 9174 Glacierwood Dr. Juneau, AK 99801 info@ckcoj.org www.ckcoj.org 907-789-1157 Capitol Kennel Club of Juneau Feb 19-20 UKC Obedience and Rally trials (tantative) UKC Obedience and Rally Obedience
Cook Inlet Kennel Club
Renea Clayton 2935 N. Mosier Ct. Wasilla, AK 99654 (907)745-3674 www.cookinletkennelclub.com Affiliations: AKC Show N’Gos 7-8 Thursdays
July 29-31, 2011 November 5-6,2011 All Breed Dog Shows at Alaska Fairgrounds, Palmer Alaska
Kenai Kennel Club
Paula Lovett P.O. Box 1602 Soldotna, AK 99669 Affiliations: AKC www.kenaikennelclub.com 907-262-5032 kkc@starband.net Call the club for upcoming Fun Matches Jan 22-23 Alaska & Kenai Kennel Club all breed shows in Anchorage
Tanana Valley Kennel Club
Judy Shapiro 907-479-6510 P.O. Box 72019 Fairbanks, AK 99707 Beck@ gci.net Affiliations: AKC www.tananavalleykennelclub.com Obedience, conformation, tracking
Yukon Kennel Club
Sheila Robertson P.O. Box 31511 RPO Main St. Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 6K8 Phone: 867-668-6634 www.yukonkennelclub.com Janice Gunn:Competition Obedience Training seminar coming April 16 & 17, 2011 see ad page 5
sPecialty breeD clubs Alaska Great Pyrenees Club Affiliations AKC and the Great Pyrenees Club of America. 11146 Totem Road, Anchorage, Alaska 99516 President, Dale Sherman, dale.sherman@gmail.com. Secretary, Ruth A. Marcy, marwell-1966@gci.net
Alaska Labrador Retriever Club
Affiliations: AKC Zoelea Vey 945 S. Homestead Cir., Palmer,AK 99645 ezvey@mtaonline.net Check back for a Sanctioned B match in Fairbanks.
Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Alaska
Tracy Corneliussen 2751 W. Resolution Bay Circle Wasilla, AK 99654 www.bmdcofak.com Affiliations: AKC Call Bob Schmidt (907) 232-1736 bschmidt@akroteq.com
German Shepherd Dog Club of Alaska
Sharon White president, 907-333-2346 SLWhite@alaska.net 3553 Robin St Anchorage, AK 99504 Affiliations: AKC
Golden Heart German Shepherd Club of Fairbanks
Sandra Kimbrell P.O. Box 10394, Fairbanks, AK. 99710 emma@acsalaska.net Affiliations: AKC (907) 945-9264 striebich@aol.com
Great Dane Club of Mat-Su Alaska
Patty Wolf 907-344-1567 4010 E. 66th Ave. Anchorage, AK 99507 www.gdcm.org PSWolfPack@gci.com Affiliations: AKC, Great Dane Club of America (GDCA)
Follow updates on Facebook & on the club websites: See page 6
Midnight Sun Boxer Club
Tina Spain PMB 385, Wasilla, AK 99687 www.midnightsunboxerclub.org Shadowriverbxrs@yahoo.com Affiliations: AKC
Midnight Sun Golden Retriever Club Danette Scholoeder POB 242034 Anchorage, AK 99524 GoldenViewGR@gmail.com Affiliations: AKC www.msgrca.org 262-5369
Peninsula Dog Obedience Group 907-262-6846 POB 2556 Soldatna, Alaska 99699 Info@pendog.org www.pendog.org
Rottweiler Club of Alaska Dian Tamas P.O. Box 140242 Anchorage, AK. 99514 www.rottweilerclubofalaska.org Affiliations: AKC April 16 &17– Pending AKC approval: Rottweiler Club of Alaska Obedience/ Rally Trials & Canine Good Citizen/ Therapy Dog International testing
Shetland Sheepdog Club of Anchorage
Sherry Sims 10261 Our Rd, Anchorage, AK 99516 simco@alaska.net Affiliations: AKC
Siberian Husky Club of Anchorage Susan Striebich striebich@aol.com 12041 Jerome St., Anchorage, AK 99516 Affiliations: AKC
Siberian Husky Club of the Last Frontier www.siberianhuskyalaska.org
Dog Obedience Training Club of Anchorage
Valerie Tomkins info@dotcanc.org 3701-B Checkmate Dr. Anchorage, AK 99508 www.dotcanc.org Obedience, tracking. Mar. 5-6 Obedience Trials at ACT Affiliations: AKC
Matanuska Agility Canine Handlers P.O. Box 874015 Wasilla, Alaska 99687 Colleen Cook - Pres Phone: 907-352-3647 (dogs) www.AlaskaAgility.org MACH@AlaskaAgility.org
Obedience Training Club of Chugiak Judy Rideout- Pres SitStay@otccalaska.com www.otccalaska.com Obedience, tracking Affiliations: AKC Located at Chugiak Benefit Assoc.,18606 Old Glenn Highway in Chugiak. tervmom2@aol.com
Peninsula Dog Obedience Group 907-262-6846 Info@pendog.org Soldatna, AK 99669 www.pendog.org
Whitehorse Woofers Dog Club Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, Canada. Joanne Rough 4061 4th Av Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, Canada T1A 1H1 (867) 633-3586
sPorting Dog clubs Alaska Working Retriever Club
Reba Nelson 3900 W. Fairview Lp. Wasilla, AK 99654 907-357-5009 Affiliations: AKC Obedience Clubs
PO Box 670248 Chugiak, Alaska 99567 Kelli Toth alaskalabs@gmail.com 907-240-6314 Beginner and advanced classes ongoing, call for details www.alaskaworkingretriever.com Affiliations: AKC
The Working Group Dog Club of Alaska
Arctic Bird Dog Association
St. Bernard Club of Alaska
http://wgdca.org/ For AKC Working Dogs– The WGDCA meets the second Thursday of the month at 7 pm at Pizza Man in Eagle River. Contact marti.rhyne@hotmail.com for more information
PerforMance & training clubs Alyeska Canine Trainers
549 W International Airport Road, Suite A15 Anchorage. AK. Open to the public 6 - 9 pm, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. 907 - 563 - HEEL (4335) Email: ACT@alyeskak9trainers.com http://www.alyeskak9trainers.com
Arctic Streakers Agility Club Find them on Facebook streakerstrials@aol.com
P.O. Box 90914 Anchorage, Alaska 99509 Gareth Stillman- Pres StillsKennelsAK@yahoo.com (907) 243-5809 www.arcticbirddog.com Look for novice and puppy classes in the spring 2011 Most events held on Pt MacKenzie at Falcon Ridge
Fairbanks Retriever Club P.O. Box 60463 Fairbanks, Alaska 99706 Corrie Elmes - President 907-687-5965. corrie@imagecraftdesign.com www.fairbanksretrieverclub.org
Club listings continued on page 13
Alaska Dog News • January 2011
Page 5
Alaska Dog News Facebook page fan gets dog home, the long way.
O
n Monday, December 13th, the Willow Dog Mushers President Erin McLarnon forwarded out one of her many lost/ found dog notices. It came from Nancy Crowden who lives 6 miles off of the Parks Hwy near mile 73 north of Willow. The big white and black husky was friendly, wearing a choke collar that Nancy replaced with a buckle collar to put him on a tie out in her yard. He wiggled out of the collar and Crowden said she had a real chase to capture him again, putting the choke collar back on so he could not escape again. The same morning, Alaska Dog News posted the notice and photo on Facebook, as it does for many found and lost dogs. Comment after comment on Facebook wished luck in finding the dog’s owner and some were struggling with an emotional tug to take him into their home. “My husband will kill me, chop me up and put me in the bear bait pile, but I’m going to call anyway.” said one poster. “He looks like a great skijor dog” said another post. Two days later McLarnon forwarded another email from Crowden, “I haven’t found the old guy’s owner yet. He’s on Craigslist, and I have made a report on finding him at the shelter. I will keep him until Sunday, then.............. I’m hoping he doesn’t go to Animal Control He is very well behaved, I have him chained to my chicken coop fence, and he is calm, he makes no noise. Maybe someone could give him a home? I cannot keep him. If anyone would like to meet him, please give me a call. Thanks a lot! Nancy” with a phone number. Alaska Dog News posted the photo with the new announcement and among the dozen heart felt comments was the one you wait for. “Chelsea Hulk- I know that dog, I’m calling his owner right now.” At the same time Alaska Dog News received an email from Crowden saying that the owner had called and was on the way over. A friend from had called the owner from Skagway! His name is Shadow. Shadow’s adventure comes together from the posts and emails. Shadow had escaped from home with 3 other dogs on Tuesday December 7th. The other dogs had returned home without Shadow and his owner had given up hope of his return. 5 days later, 10 miles north and 6 miles from the highway, Shadow had shown up at Crowden’s house. As Crowden said “ If only dogs could talk the tails [sic] they’d tell…”
Publisher of Alaska Dog News, Linda Henning says, “ This is the kind of story that gets me jazzed up to publish Alaska Dog News. Some people may think we are just crazy dog people but it seems like there are more of us than I thought. The key to getting dogs back home is to get the word out quickly to as many people you can. We have a good network between the 700 Facebook fans on Alaska Dog News, Willow Dog Mushers Association with nearly 1000 e-mail contacts, and the shelters you just hope that someone will see it and know the dog.” Dogs can be found weeks, even months after they are lost. If they are wearing collars with ID and have micro ID chips they can easily be reunited though dogs who didn’t have any identification have been reunited after weeks of searching. “It’s important to get the word out to dog owners to contact those resources, groups and organizations that can help reunite them with their pets.” Photo courtesy of Nancy Crowden. Chaining an unattended dog on a choke collar is not recommened. As we understand it, in Shadow’s case it was a short term solution and the only way to keep him from escaping , again. ~lh
Grisham Construction & Remodeling 907-841-1342 30 years of building in Alaska Free Estimates Quality work at affordable prices. Current projects:
Repairing winter weather damage Repairs in historical buildings Remodeling and updating homes Remodeling machine shops to code From conception to final construction, save time and money with Grisham Construction. State of Alaska Residential Endorsement, current on continued competency requirements.
www.AlaskaDogNews.com
907-357-9386
Page 6
Alaska Dog News • January 2010
Find your new best friend at the Mat-Su Borough Animal Shelter Monday – Saturday 11– 6:30 Closed Sunday
907-746-5500 Search for a lost or new pet at www.petharbor.com
Passages, Pet Cremation and for Grief Center, Inc. Compassionate is centered on professional and compassionate aftercare Support for all pets – those brought to During us directly by their owners as well as those picked up from the member veterinary clinics. Process Passages also provides of compassionate and sympathetic end-of-life support for grieving Bereavement pet owners.
Cremation Euthanasia Winter storage & home pick-ups of deceased pets Grief support Urns, books & gifts
updated hourly Help us help the abandoned, and abused animals of our borough.
Clinics Served:
All Creatures Veterinary Clinic Big Lake-Susitna Veterinary Hospital North Star Animal Hospital Ravenwood Veterinary Clinic Southside Animal Hospital & Wellness Center West Anchorage Veterinary Clinic
We cannot do it alone, but with your help, we can do so much. If you see animal abuse, neglect, have lost your pet or find a lost animal please, call the shelter.
907-745-7574 ad design: Linda Henning
Volunt e 9470 E. Chanlyut Circle, Palmer Do you ers Wanted love a Y o u Off the Palmer-Wasilla Hwy. can be a valua nimals? ble v the Ma at 49th State St. t-Su She olunteer at lter. Learn n next to Central Landfill Prepa ew s
907-746-5500
Lisa Espey, DVM Palmer, Alaska
re fo kills. Feel go r a career help od help in ing anim g animals. als in ne ed.
Does your club or business need economical graphic design, printing and marketing services? Call the people who know your interests, share your passions and your love of dogs. Hundreds of stock canine photos and photographic services. Original art commissions of your pets. Expertise in print production. Direct contact to dog lovers region wide. Combination print and social media advertising. Books, catalogs and brochures Product sheets and mailers. Posters and flyers. We do it so you have time to spend with your dogs. Also specializing in home and garden print design.
alaskadognews@mtaonline.net 907-357-9386
Are you a fan of Facebook? These groups have Facebook pages Simply enter the name in bold in the search bar on Facebook and join. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Alaska Dog News Alaska DockDogs Alaska Dog Sports - training Fairbanks Dog Park Anchorage Dog Parks GRRdwood Pets and Green Goods SP Kennel Doggy Decadents- Dog treats Dogs Gone Wild - Anchorage Flyball Club Fans of Eagle River Grooming and Pets Far Country Animal Hospital Valley Dog Social Group – a new page for people who want to go to dog events with company or gather to practice training. Holy Dog Pet Boarding Straw for Dogs – A non-profit, proactive group helping backyard dogs get the warm protective housing in Anchorage. Homeward Bound Pet Rescue & Referral – pet rescue in Fairbanks Paw Prince – pet boutique in Anchorage Anchorage Animal Care and Control Center Where Spirits Walk Kennel Fur Rondy – dog events each year during Fur Rondy. Dream a Dream Dog Farm – Iditarod musher, Vern Halter’s kennel Rush to Tug Agility Leads – custom made dog leads and collars in Palmer. Alaska Dog Mushers Association Montana Creek Dog Mushers Association Aurora Dog Mushers Club – Big Lake/Wasilla area Alaska Dog and Puppy Rescue Willow Dog Mushers Association Mat-Su Bikejoring Club – biking with your dog in harness. Alaska Chesapeake Bay Retriever People Alaska–Best Dogs Ifda Assoc-(Interior Freight Dog Association)- Fairbanks
www.AlaskaDogNews.com
M
Alaska Dog News •January 2011
Page 7
eet the breed:
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers continue to be among the top favorites in North America and for good reason. They are generally mild mannered, easy to train and form bonds with their families. A friendly natured dog who often will happily greet and follow a friendly stranger, it’s wise to keep an eye on them and not let them remain alone outside in an unfenced yard or a secure enclosure. Like many sporting breeds, the Labrador needs a job or activity to occupy their minds or they will find something to do. Untrained, unattended Labs are notorious diggers, chewers, with a inclination toward separation anxiety, excessive barking and destructive behaviors. These are some reasons why their numbers are high at our animal shelters. When trained to even the most basic obedience Labradors can be great companions and family members. They also train to high levels of performance in field, agility, and search and rescue activities. When looking for a Labrador consider the dog’s role in your life as a companion, show prospect, field competitor or many other breed specific and open breed events. History: Common thought is that Labrador Retrievers originated from water dogs found in Newfoundland. The history gets muddled with a number of stories and claims of their development. The breed was refined in the United Kingdom and established as a recognized breed in the late 1800’s. The term English Labrador is sometimes used today to describe the stocky bodied Labrador. A characteristic of the Labrador Retriever is the short, dense, double coat that protects the dog when retrieving from water. The “otter” tail is another distinctive feature of this breed. They were developed to hunt in water for water fowl and on land for upland game birds. Their development gave them a temperament that served their masters in many capacities from bringing home dinner to guiding them becoming their eyes, ears and help mates. Types: Since the middle of the 1900’s Labradors have separated into two different “types”. The differences between the two are basically “show” lines and “field trial” lines as the extremes. Show lines adhere strictly to the kennel club standards. Their bodies are square, with a profile slightly longer that tall. Field lines vary but due to the athletic requirements of AKC and CKC field trials, a dog that is fast and lean developed. Temperament and drive can also vary. Dogs bred from generations of field trial champions will be higher strung, driven to retrieve and not always the best choice for a young family or quiet inactive home. They need an active environment with something that utilizes their drive. Many successful field trial dogs receive their titles only because they, along with their owners spend years of training and thousands of dollars with professional trainers. Labradors from show lines and dogs bred with a mix of show and field, with less of a frenetic drive to retrieve can still make great hunters and compete in a variety of hunting events and other fun events. Between the two extremes you’ll find a variety of body types and temperaments. The CKC, AKC and the UKC do not make a distinction between the lines. Their “standard” for the breed is similar and can be found at their websites. Any registered Lab can enter any event but owners will find out in short order if their particular breeding is going to make it. An AKC search shows the last Labrador Retriever to achieve a dual champion title was in 1984, Ch-FC/AFC Highwood Shadow. The lack of dual champions says as much about the change in the lines as it does about the difficulty of the testing creating a more physical dog with higher drive. This argument rages in most of the hunting and working breeds. What color do you want? Solid black, yellow and brown are the only recognized colors. There has been some confusion with ads for puppies claiming Fox Red, Silver, and White as a registered color. Fox Red and White are variations of yellow. Silver is a diluted chocolate or black and a coat fault in the standard. Without getting into a complicated genetic description simply put, dogs bred for color alone can present a number of problems. While it’s normal to have a preference in color but soundness and temperament should be a top priority. Shelter Labs: Labs and Lab mixes can be found on any day in any shelter even in Alaska. Most pure bred Labradors end up there because they do not receive the training they need to live with their owner. Often these dogs can be rehabilitated in a few months with care and help from local trainers. They can go on to compete in a variety of breed events after they get a limited registration. They can compete in hunt tests, obedience, rally, agility, and any breed optional event. They cannot compete in the show ring or licensed field trials but most clubs will allow you to run your dog in Fun Tests/Picnic Trials and will love to have you as a member. Many shelter Labs have made great hunting companions.
How can you tell if a shelter dog is really a Lab? Often at shelters, any shorthaired, friendly, black dog between 45-100 pounds with drop ears will be labeled as a Labrador or Lab mix. It’s hard to tell if the dogs are purebred. Even registered field bred Labs can have a perk lift to their ears, a narrow muzzle, smaller or taller silhouette. One clue is if the front dew claws have been removed, the dog was bred on purpose. You can watch their movement. Does it look similar to other Labs? Look how the dog carries his tale. Is the tail up and wagging not tucked low or curling over his back? Do they have a soft look in their eyes when they look at you? If you throw a ball or bumper do they chase it, bring it back to you or do they seem disinterested? Determining if a dog is a Lab may take some time since many dogs can exhibit similar behaviors depending on the training and life they lived before ending up at the shelter. Talk to the volunteers. Often the spend time with individual dogs and can tell you more about them. Can’t decide if a Lab is for you? Contact the clubs listed in the club listings on Page 4. Any of the contacts will want to help you, invite you to events, and help you decide if a Labrador is for you. The key is to find the dog that will enjoy what you enjoy. Get out and active with your dogs no matter what the breed or mix.
Linda Henning has raised, trained and competed with Labradors for over 25 years the show, obedience and the field. She and 8 year old Labrador Retriever, Lucy do some duck, goose and grouse hunting in Alaska when not working on Alaska Dog News.
Photos Top left : BylerPeak Labs- Alaska Dog News Middle left : GATOR POINT’S NO BIG TEAL MH QAA “Penny” Roy Redifer Center : Mat-Su Shelter pup Lab/Lab Mix found his home in July- Alaska Dog News Bottom : ROCKINGHAM’S OH LUCILLE “Lucy”- Mike Lewis
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Alaska Dog News • January 2011
Update on rescued dogs: from Metis Riley Straw for Dogs
You can find Straw for Dogs and Advocates for Dog and Puppy Wellness on Facebook.
What a happy boy! Dozer has changed a lot since last March, when Straw For Dogs rescued him along with a senior pit bull. They were both surviving outdoors without proper shelter, fresh water or regular food. After foster care and wonderful adopters who have cared for them, They are both doing so well! Macy, the elder, has a great vet (because of her great adopted family) and receives regular meds that have really helped her bounce around. Dozer has gained almost 40 lbs and is loved by his entire family, including two small dogs. A real heart warmer on such a cold day!
Advocates for Dog and Puppy Wellness Holiday Photo Shoot at PetZoo Pet owners brought in their furry friends for a holiday photo. Decorations and the dress-ups were supllied! For a $20.00 donation models received an 8x10 photo of their pet.
El Guapo and owner, Janet Cruikshank was the winner of our photo contest for Alaska Dog News!
www.AlaskaDogNews.com
Just adopted from the shelter in November with her new pal Holly Thorsen. “ ‘Maya Amber’ is the sweetest little girl in the world and I just love her to pieces pieces”
Alaska Dog News • Janurary 2011
Matanuska Susitna Borough —
Page 9
January 2011
Animal Shelter News Always check at the shelter for your lost pet! 907-746-5500 POLARIS - ID#A030994 is a spayed female Alaskan Husky. She has been in the shelter since November 10th . Her volunteer friend Jaclyn spends a lot of time with her. We spent a half an hour talking about how special Polaris is. She is a typical sled dog yard dog who seems to not have had a lot of socializing. She can be very nervous and is not housebroken. But, after about 15 minutes of
Welcome the new Chief of Mat-Su Animal Care & Control We welcome the new Chief of Animal Care and Control, Richard Stockdale from Kalispell, Montana. Stockdale has been in the Animal Control field since 1985. He was an Animal Control Officer in Eldorado County, Northern California for six years before relocating to Montana. He has been the Animal Control Director for Flathead County since May 1992. He is a past president and board member of the Montana Animal Care Association and is a current National Disaster Animal Relief Team (D.A.R.T.) member. After Hurricane Ivan in 2004 he responded to Orange Beach and the Gulf Shores of Alabama as a relief worker. Animals have been a large part of Stockdale’s life in one form or another since childhood. Chief Stockdale arrives January 3rd.
Volunteer news
Join us for a WALK WITH THE SHELTER DOGS January 15th at the Crevasse Moraine trial head in Palmer. This is for shelter dogs only to get out and have some fun. You do not have to be an official volunteer to help walk. Some experience handling excited dogs on leash dogs is beneficial. Trailhead is located at mile 1.9 Palmer/Wasilla Highway at the end of Loma Prieta Drive. Parking lots are at the bottom of the hill. Parents or guardians need to accompany minors under 16 years of age. Call the shelter at 746-5500 for details and age requirements. January 29th join us for a pet adoption clinic at Pet Zoo in Wasilla.from 114pm. Pet Zoo is located in the Fred Meyer shopping complex on the Parks and Palmer-Wasilla Highway. Mat-Su Animal Care and Control staff and volunteers are tentatively holding an adoption and information booth at the Mat-Su Outdoorsman Show. March 25, 26, & 27, 2011. Check back for a schedule .
calm conversation Polaris became a different dog. Her body posture relaxed and eventually felt calm enough to trot around the room, lick my hand and allow me to pet her. She is happiest cuddled up to Jaclyn and will approach calm strangers who avoid any fast movements and prolonged eye contact. Polaris is waiting for that special patient person who will give her a calm forever home.
On the opposite end of the spectrum is this handsome fella - ID#A035527. He is neutered male, black and brown Rottweiler mix, possibly Lab and Husky judging from his energy and ownership of anything to fetch. He is about 1 ½ to 2 ½ years old and full of energy. Play is his favorite hobby. He has been at the shelter since Oct 31, 2010.
This CAT - ID#A035821 is an unaltered female, grey/brown and white tabby, Domestic Shorthair. The shelter thinks she is about 5 years old. She has been at the shelter since Nov 19, 2010. She has stunning aqua eyes is very friendly. She stays in one of the group cat rooms with other cats and gets along very well with them.
TO VOLUNTEER - CALL THE SHELTER TODAY
kittens kittens kittens
Who do we call?
Lots of kittens in the shelter this month. Stop by and find your new best friend.
Information about the Mat-Su Animal Shelter is provided by staff and volunteers . Pet photos by Alaska Dog News 907-357-9386
Within the cities... The Police Department is the enforcement agency for animal-related issues within the city limits of Palmer, Wasilla and Houston. For complaints regarding animals within the city limits, please call 745-4811 for Palmer 352-5401 for Wasilla 892-6447 for Houston If you’re bringing in an animal that you found within the city limits, please make a note of the location and bring the address and/or cross streets to the shelter
907-746-5500
Find your next best friend at www.petharbor.com
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Alaska Dog News • January 2011
Alaska SPCA
Servicing Alaskans and their animals since 1966.
Happy New Year !
I
t’s hard to believe that the Holidays are over, and the New Year is upon us. During this magical time of year, some of us get a kick out of making New Year’s Resolutions. Some are humorous, some are serious, and some have challenged us year after year. For us, the new year brings many challenges and opportunities. We will seek to reach out to more and more animals; educate more people; and spay and neuter more dogs and cats.
Meet Some of Our Adoptable Friends
J
erry is a very sweet and energetic dog who was returned to our shelter after being in a home for 3 years. Jerry gets along well with the other dogs and is learning how to play with them. He is very smart and knows how to sit and wait. He has excellent manners when eating with the other dogs. Jerry has matured over the past few years and is showing that he is one fabulous dog. He is very affectionate and loves being in the company of his people. Because he has lots of energy, he will do well in a home with a highfenced yard and another canine companion, or, with someone who wants a companion hiker/runner/outdoor friend.
But at the very top of our list is something new and very important: Plans are underway for a new facility— an adoption center and spay neuter clinic in one location. The board of directors has started the planning process and we are already putting money aside in a special Building Fund. This won’t happen overnight. In order to make this dream a reality, we need your help. Your donations will make a new facility possible. If you haven’t tried our on-line donation button, check it out. Donations may also be mailed to our main office, or be made by credit card. Thank you!
Z
orro one of 3 handsome Malamutes rescued as the result of a divorce. He is a striking dog who would like a home with an active human who likes to go for evening walks, runs, hikes or skis. Zorro really likes to be around people. This big and gorgeous boy will amaze you with his side hugs and beautiful howl. He enjoys playing fetch and is extremely gentle when giving you the ball back. He has learned to sit and shake. He will sit and wait patiently for you to throw his ball. Zorro weighs about 120 pounds, stands about 28 inches at the shoulder and is about 7 years old. So, please come on in today and visit with Zorro and see if you are his true forever home.
****
How to Find Us Low Cost Spay Neuter Clinic 549 W. Internat’l Airpt Rd., #B2 Anchorage, AK 99518 (907) 562-2999
Fix-A-Feline 907-230-2171
Thrift Shop
549 W. Internat’l Airpt Rd., #B2 Anchorage, AK 99518 (907) 561-1092
F
rancesca is a lovely, feminine young adult who is looking for someone to talk to and adore. She likes attention and will readily snuggle up on a lap. She enjoys a good conversation and can easily keep up her end of it. Francesca tends to be a little melodramatic and will attempt to convince her people that she hasn’t eaten in days when it has been mere hours. She can hear a can of wet food being opened three rooms away. She is a curious and playful – she loves laser lights and will chase them until she is too tired to move. When she first came to our shelter, she would only tolerate other cats. But as time as passed she is much more sociable and has even been caught nose snuggling with the other girls.
Pet Adoption Center 7309 Arctic Blvd. Anchorage, AK 99518 (907) 344-3602
Visit our website, and sign up for regular e-bulletins! www.alaskaspca.org info@alaskaspca.org And visit us on Facebook! IRS No. 92-0068910
S
imon is an affectionate, cuddly, curious and playful little boy. He is currently in a wonderful foster home. He knows how to open a drawer so he can sleep in it! He gets along with his foster family’s dog beautifully and likes their two cats, although they don't always like him. He's not a fussy eater, he loves his kibble and occasionally enjoys a little canned food treat. He plays with toys and has a favorite mouse! He never tries to get away from you as he loves being picked up and cuddled. When you walk in the room he is likely to stretch out and invite a tummy rub!
Alaska SPCA page designed by Alaska Spca
Alaska Dog News • January 2011
Page 11
A Norwegian dog trainer’s view of the Friends of Pets Dog Jog.
Siri Segalstad Abridged translation from Norwegian Siri Segalstad sent us this story which she submitted to her club newsletter on her return to Norway: An interesting take on how dog people from other countries see us and, in the world of dogs, how similar we all are. Maybe you think of dogs in Alaska only as sled dogs and Iditarod? There is more, and the most common breed is the Heinz dog. The next one is the chocolate colored lab, many of which are called Hershey. This is equivalent to Freia but it doesn’t taste as good. We visited Anita and Ivan in Anchorage. Ivan runs marathon and trains a lot. Hero goes with him wearing a bear bell. Dog jog was immensely popular with many participants. People paid for participation and received big bags of goodies and information. The jog itself was either 5 kilometers or 1 mile, with or without dogs. Participants were from stroller sized to great grandparents. Ivan and Hero ran to win, but when they arrived the finishing line had not been set up yet! They lowered the finishing line for everybody else so everybody was a winner apart from the real winners. The dog food providers gave away generous 3 pound samples, and the four of us each had a big bag of samples for Hero. We could easily have had more as nobody controlled if we had been given some before. The veterinary clinics and daycare centers, the dog clubs and training centers all had stands. Hero occasionally goes to daycare and he loves it. Parrot education also had a stand so if your parrot needs some, this is the place to go. The most fancy one was the mobile dog wash van. You call and they come and wash and groom your dog. [comment: As this has never been seen in Norway] I suggest this as a business idea if you are out of a job. The hottest was bracelets for dogs with beg nice [etc.]. Good thing the dogs can’t read! Our dogs did not like wearing them. The selection of clothes for dogs was not as big as here, but then there were more big dogs than small ones. Everything from Chihuahuas to Great Danes was present, but the biggest one was a malamute weighing 85 kilos. She could easily had the Chihuahua for breakfast, but she was the friendliest dog. There was a competition of the best owner-dog couple. The winning team was a man and woman with two pugs, all dressed up in pink ballet outfit. Not exactly good-looking but at least they dared to show up. We all say that everything is bigger in the U.S., but there they say that everything is bigger in Alaska. I believe that. Fortunately we did not meet the monster moose while on dog jog, but we did meet monster dogs. Several of the US standards have larger dogs than the European standards. I especially looked closely at my own two breeds, Collie and Sheltie. There were 5-6 collies there, and these were much bigger and coarser than the English ones that we are used to here. But the shelties won: The biggest one was an inch taller than my collie female, and a lot heavier. The owner thought it was the biggest one in the US. Also the other shelties were much bigger and would have been in the “large” group for agility here. Wonder what they would say about some of our very tiny (too small) shelties here! Agility and Flyball was shown, but only by club members, and not possible for others to try. The very easy agility was not too impressive with dogs that hardly knew more than our beginner’s class. The Flyball was great and the speaker did a very good job explaining how to train the dogs in doing this using back chaining. At the same time they showed what he was saying. Afterwards they had a Flyball competition between dogs and kids. They made it more difficult for the dogs, and everybody loved it when the kids won. There were lots of activities for the whole family with or without dogs. It must be a big job coordinating such an event, but it did yield quite a lot of money for their charity. Maybe something to think about in our own club as a fund raiser? For example for a place for our club? P.S. Heinz has 57 varieties. I think they were all present at the dog jog. Siri Segalstad – her club is called Stovner Hundeklubb and it is by far the largest one on Norway (when you count activity clubs and not breed clubs). They have 150 active agility members with many trace/scent dogs and many obedience dogs. Some of their dogs attend national championships.
Alaska Dog News Advertising Our readers are your customers! Distribution: from Fairbanks to Girdwood, an over 400,000 population area, where 65% of households have at least one canine family member. PDF email notification to nearly 1000 subscribed e-mail addresses in Alaska, the U.S, Canada and Europe, Over 650 Facebook fans and Twitter! Alaska Dog News supports the good works of the municipal animal shelters by providing space for their newsletters. Alaska Dog News Mission Statement: “Alaska Dog News exists to inform, educate and entertain dog owners throughout Alaska. The comprehensive calendar provides valuable event information for dog owners. We believe that people who are active with their dogs take better care of them and themselves.” Per ad Color Total Ad Prices 1/8 (5.125 x 4) $65 $20 $85 1/4 (5.125 x 8) $119 $40 $159 1/2 (10.25 x 8) $235 $60 $295 3/4 (10.25 x 12) $360 $100 $460 Interior full page $460 $160 $620 (10.25 x 16) Half Front Page $349 incl $349 Half Back Page $349 incl $349 Full Back Page $679 incl $679 Center Spread $1,450 incl $1,450 10% off 3 issues paid in advance $25-$45 one time graphics and ad set up charge Sizes noted are image size. Prices are subject to change with the Feb 2011 issue. All ads must be paid in advance. 10% discount applies only to 3 or more consecutive months paid in advance. Graphic services are based on an hourly rate of $35. One hour minimum with ½ hour minimum for changes. Files should be high resolution JPG , TIFF, EPS, PDF or InDesign files. Other files formats may not be compatible. Word, Publisher and PowerPoint require adjustments and will incur the hourly graphics charges. Please make checks out to: Alaska Dog News PMB 306, 1830 E. Parks Hwy, Ste a-113, Wasilla, AK 99654 Updated September 1, 2010
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907-357-9386
Page 12
Alaska Dog News • January 2011
You’ve written a dog book
What next? By Douglas Pfeiffer
In today’s rapidly changing publishing environment, you have many more options for getting your great dog book (as well as other books) published compared to just a few years ago. Some call this the ‘self-publishing revolution.” And seeing your book in print sooner than later is part of this changing scene too. Let’s start with the traditional book publishing model (think New York City where the biggest publishers are headquartered). They pick and choose from literally thousands of book proposals and try to select books that sell tens of thousands of copies across the country or even around the world in many languages. The big traditional publishers are swinging for a big hit or even a home run each time they get up to bat. One example of a big home run is the book, Clifford the Big Red Dog by Norman Birdwell which was first published in 1963, has grown into over 50 titles and is now a PBS cartoon. Traditional publishers take all the financial risks, invest their money in the development, production, distribution and marketing of the book, and pay the author a percentage of the money they receive from their customers which is called a royalty. It is great news that traditional publisher take all the financial risks, and may even give you an advance payment against future royalties at the time when you sign your author contract. What is wrong with all that? Well, traditional publishers pick only a few titles each season compared to all the proposals they receive, so your odds of getting published by them are long. Even if you are an established writer with credentials and credits to your name, lead times can be months between proposal and contract, and one to three years from contract to publication date for your book. And the bigger traditional publishers require you to be represented by a literary agent which is in effect a screening device (think hurdle). Mid-sized and smaller traditional publishers often deal directly with you, the author, but you face the same challenges about getting your book manuscript picked. The lead times are a bit shorter, but that still can be pretty long. What has changed recently and is still changing almost daily? Most importantly, the development of the internet has opened up self-publishing. It gives you access to self-publishing assistance and access to markets. Don’t give up your day job just yet. Before you dive in, let’s talk about your own motives for exploring self-publishing. Perhaps this is your first real attempt at writing for publication, and getting into print quickly is important. Is your book only of interest to a few friends and relatives who want a copy of your dog’s life history? Maybe your topic is very specialized for a small audience or a small geographic area. Perhaps your topic is so controversial or unpopular that only you will want to publish it. Or you might be one of those independent Alaskans who just want complete control over your book and its outcome. If you like to take all the risks (think spending some of your hard earned money) and receive all the rewards, self-publishing could be for you. Another reason to self-publish is be discovered by a traditional publisher. It is a long-shot strategy, but it can work if your self-published title has very strong demand and you get some real media attention for it. The traditional publisher can offer to come in and take over the risks, add your book to their marketing program, relaunch it into sales channels you could not effectively reach, and print more copies at one time than you would care to ever finance. Tip Number One: Pick one specific area in which to write and self-publish. Write and publish what you have expertise in and know by heart. You need to establish your reputation as an expert in one area and build a following of customers for your subject matter. Think about it. Typically, book stores will have the category Animals broken down into Pets, and then Dogs. Within dog books, you might have How-To dog books such as adopting dogs, training dogs, or raising dogs, Breed books for understanding and caring for specific breeds. There are technical Medical books on dogs, books on Show Dogs and judging show dogs, and history books about famous dogs like Balto. There are illustrated children’s picture books with stories for young children like Clifford the Big Red Dog mentioned earlier. or inspirational books about how dogs touch human lives. The list goes on and on. You need to be specific about your areas of expertise within the category of Dogs. Self-publishing has various models, so we will explore the more common ones briefly. There is DIY, which means Do It Yourself or “True” self-publishing. You are the publisher, you take all the risks, and make all the decisions, and find what help you need as you go along. You can publish a single title this way, but your investment in time and your learning curve is pretty steep for a single title. You may start working at home, and use your garage as your warehouse. If you want to develop your own list of several titles over a few years, DIY might be a good investment of your time, money and talents. Remember, really good, successful self-published books are few and far between. The average self-published book sells about 150 copies. You will do best if you stick to that target market, reach it effectively and stick to a welldefined market. One expert dog show judge started self-publishing specific dog breed books and sold them exclusively through veterinary offices. He wrote his own books, hired a free-lance editor, and a book designer, and worked with a local printer. He built his business based on his expertise, wrote other series of dog books over the years, expanded his sales channels beyond Vet offices and sold his business to a bigger publisher in 2004! A great success story for a selfpublisher.
Let’s touch on some basic book publishing costs. Getting the manuscript edited, fact checked, copy edited for grammar and spelling, add an index, lay out in pages, design a book cover, and have all the digital book files in a format a printer can produce copies are the “pre-press” costs (Prep costs) of a book. The printer charges you for printing, paper and binding (PPB). Other costs of selfpublishing include getting an International Standard Book Number and bar code, a Library of Congress catalog number, freight costs from the printer to your garage or warehouse, storage costs if you rent storage space, marketing and publicity costs, and discounts to resellers like bookstores or vet clinics if you are not selling directly to the reader. So you better be ready to negotiate everything, look for special deals, and keep your costs as low as possible. And you can use digital printing press that can produce small quantities of books as needed. We will talk more about that later. Ok, you just want to hand your book off to someone else to handle all this stuff that comes after you have finished writing the manuscript. This is especially true if you are only going to self-publish one book, and not get into the publishing business. Welcome to “subsidy publishing” or “author-services companies.” These companies developed with the internet because all their services are internet based. Often staffed by former traditional publishing employees, they companies typically provide professional advice and guide you along through the publishing process on a fee basis, but provide options for marketing solutions and access to distribution channels and customers at a price. Often they offer packages of services you pay for that can begin around $500 and go up as high as $10,000 or more for a single title. But they also pay you royalties for copies sold via their channels of distribution. Subsidy publishing marketing can include custom prepared press release campaigns, publicity; local media contact information, and more. Distribution can be as simple as selling your book from their website, to getting you set up on Amazon.com with an account, or having access to the channels that reach bookstores and libraries. These companies are using a fairly new printing technology that has been widely accepted by the readers and book sellers over the last few years called Print On Demand (POD). This printing method of books is based on digital book files and digital printing presses that can produce copies of books to fill each order within 24 hours of the order’s receipt. For example, if a website received an order for one copy of your title, then the one copy is printed very rapidly on the digital printing press. If the order is for 5, 50 or 500 copies, etc, the digital press will produce whatever quantity is needed for each order as it is received. If you want 100 copies for your next kennel club meeting, you can get those too. Your risks of printing too many copies and losing money on unsold books you have to recycle or sell for pennies on the dollar is virtually eliminated. Today even traditional publishers may start off printing thousands of copies of a title to fill the distribution channels for a national title, but after a few years, they now shift the book to digital Print On Demand and keep the book available for sale when sales fall below about the 1,000 copies per year range. The growth of eBooks during the past year has been nothing but phenomenal. A few examples of eBook outselling printed versions (pBooks as they are starting to be labeled) have been in the publishing industry press lately. Certainly well documented is the fact pBooks sales have been flat or declining in 2010, while eBooks are growing at several hundred percent over last year. You can self-publish an eBook version only and offer it for sale on Amazon.com or through other channels that are now opening up. Subsidy publishing is now offering eBook solutions that provide a royalty stream for authors. The biggest challenge for self-publishers is reaching your audience to let them know your doggone eBook or pBook even exists. Many self-publishers expect to just put out a book and have it magically sell by itself. That does not happen. You have to be relentless at your own promotion of your book. In fact think about the marketing plan at the same time you think about what you are going to write about. Social networking with twitter, blogs, and Facebook are new tools you can use, but get out there and tell the world about it one way or the other. Once the world knows about it, you have to have a system for them to purchase it and receive it, whether it arrives in box at their front door or as a download on their laptop, Kindle, Nook, Sony Reader, iPad, iPhone or any other device where books can be read. The big news is that you have more options than ever to publish your writing, and the world loves a good dog book. Douglas Pfeiffer is a book publisher with 36 years of publishing experience. He is an active member and past president of The PubWest Association. Currently he is a book publishing consultant providing services ranging from business planning to specific book project assistance. He and his wife Barbara have one child at home, a Shih Tzu named Bogie. You can reach Douglas at pfeifferdouglas@gmail.com.
www.AlaskaDogNews.com
907-357-9386
Continued from page 4 Affiliations: AKC
Greatland North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association 10140 Kasilof Blvd. Anchorage, Alaska 99507 Roger Hull - President (907) 346-6279 rogerhull@gci.net www.greatlandnavhda.org NAVHDA Tests held every August
Interior Alaska Gun Dog Association (retrievers)
P.O. Box 73043 Fairbanks, AK 99707 www.iagda.org Cindy Udarbehrchsplash@hotmail.com 488-4531 Wes Wilson-WillsonW@alyeskapipeline.com
Midnight Sun Gun Dog Association
P.O. Box 241291 Anchorage, Alaska 99524-1291 Kody Bull, President kodyb@controlcontractors.com 907 223-2680 www.msgda.org
Retriever Club of Alaska P.O. Box 100703 Anchorage, Alaska 99510-0703 Bill Barstow - President (907) 337-2991 wbarstow@gci.net www.retrieverclubofalaska.com Affiliations: AKC
Other Sports & Activities DockDogs Alaska Dockdogs
Alaska Dockdogs Cathy Hviid akdockdogs@yahoo.com Check for updates on Facebook Page “Alaska DockDogs” Contact by email or join them on facebook page “Alaska Dockdogs “
flyball Northern Lightspeed Flyball Club – drag racing canine style www.northernlightspeed.com timber@northernlightspeed.com Linda and Ken Bullard Info at the web site or Valley Canine Camp in Wasilla- 357-2267
Alaska Dogs Gone Wild Curtis Smith alaskaflyball@gmail.com flyballdogs.com/alaska/events.html
Herding Alaska Herding Group Club
An All-Herding Breed Specialty Club P.O. Box 770173, Eagle River, AK 99577-0173 www.alaskaherdinggroup.org Peggy Crawford (907) 688-5921 crawfordrn@aol.com Secretary: Robin Miller (907) 694-1454 akglenmist@gmail.com AKC conformation for Herding breeds only shows, Obedience and Rally trials for herding and all breeds. 2 AKC Herding trials normally in Sept.
Alaska Dog News • January 2011
Mushing Willow Dog Mushing Association
president@willowdogmushers. com (907) 495-0671 P.O. Box 858,Willow, AK 99688 www.willowdogmushers.com Jan 30 10am Willow Winter Carnival Races NEW RACE Willow-Tug 300 scheduled to take place February 4 - 7, 2011
Winter 2011 Alaska Dog News Calendar Date
What?
Club & Location
Jan 16
Skijoring- 9:30am Chugiak Chinook Race
Beach Lake Ski Trails Anchorage, Ak
Jan 22
All Breed Show
Alaska & Kenai Kennel Clubs Anchorage Skijoring Club
Jan 30
Skijoring- 10am Willow Winter Carnival Dog Sled and Skijor racing
Willow Community Center, Willow Ak Anchorage Skijoring Club
Feb 4 - 7
new Willow-Tug 300 300-mile sled dog race!
WMDA Willow Community Center - Ends at Tub Bar mile 18 KGB, Wasilla
Montana Creek Dog Mushers Association Helen Lundberg 907-495-6762 president@mcdma.org www.mcdma.org PO Box 971 Willow, AK 99688 Races take place at Mile 94.2 Parks Hwy.
Lure coursing
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Willow-Tug 300
Feb 6
Skijoring -Bartlett Relay
Bartlett High School Anchorage Skijoring Club
Feb 13
Skigoring - 10:30 am AMH Kincade Classic Skijor Race
Kincade Park at the Kincade Chalet, Anchorge AK, Anchorage Skijoring Club
Feb 18-19
AKC Agility trial
Kenai Kennel Club - Palmer, AK
Alaska Winds Coursing Club
Sue Ann Kelly 907-357-7884 coursing@alaska.com www.akwinds.com
Alaska Hound Group President, Mary Hermon Box 4367 Palmer, AK 99645 bark@akhoundgroup.com www.akhoundgroup.com
Feb 19-20
UKC Obedience and Ratly Trials (tentative check the club website)
Capital Kennel Club of Juneau
Apr 16 & 17
Skijoring
Competition Obedience Training seminar by Janice Gunn
Yukon Kennel Club Whitehorse, YK
Apr 16 & 17 , 2011
Pending AKC approval: Rally Trials & Canine Good Citizen/Therapy Dog International testing
Rottweiler Club of Alaska Obedience/
Anchorage Skijoring Club www.skijoring.org Bud Rice President (907) 696-0221
Jan 16 Chugiak Chinkook Race 9:30 Beach Lake Ski Trails Jan 30 10am Willow Winter Carnival Skijor Race , Willow AK Feb 6 Bartlett Relay, Bartlett High School Feb 13 10:30am AMH Kincade Classic, Kincade Park.
Retrievers going south to warner weather Early spring Hunt Test training in the Pacific Northwest
This spring, when Alaskan’s are still shoveling snow and sliding on ice Baron Rea and a pack of retrievers will be heading south to warmer climates. Dogs 4 months and older will have opportunity to get in some much needed land and water work to start the hunt test season strong.
Montana CreekDog Mushing Association
Leaving March 1st, Rea will train at several training grounds in Northern California, moving north to Oregon and Washington returning by the end of May for the first hunt tests of the season. The training locations will allow for more extensive training, socialization with other dogs, and getting the dogs familiar with a wide variety of hunt test scenarios.
Weight Pulling
Wetland Retrievers program typically starts with 5 or 6 month old retrievers who are enrolled in our Basics Program. Even if your dog has been previously trained, there is still a place for them in the program. Dogs can advance their training into new areas or correct long standing problems. Rea has been successful in training Labradors, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers and Golden Retrievers. We follow a step by step training program, and do not advance forward until the foundation introductory skills have been learned.
Skijoring after race starts see listing under MUSHING
Alaska K-9 Weight Pulling
Rob Gambill 3900 W. Fairview Lp. Wasilla, AK 99654 907-357-5009 www.ak9wpa.org Practice pulls at Animal Food Wearhouse, Palmer Wasillla Hwy, Palmer AK
Wetland Retrievers participates in a full schedule of hunt tests and field trials. These two months of early spring training will put these dogs far ahead of their canine competition in Alaska. Spots are still available. For more about Wetland Retrievers see their website at www.WetlandRetrievers.net Contact Baron at Wetland Retrievers wetland_retrievers@yahoo.com 357-LABS
Interior Freight Dog Association
Cody Preuett Fairbanks www.interiorfreightdog.com/ IFDAssoc@hotmail.com Pulls & Practice Contact the club for updates
Clubs Please Note! Club listings and calendar information space is limited, is provided free of charge to non-profit organizations and at the discretion of Alaska Dog News. More advertising space is available. 907-357-9386 or e-mail for rates and schedule. alaskadognews@mtaonline.net
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Alaska Dog news • January 2010
ANCHORAGE ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL
Animal Shelter News for January 2011
HOURS: Monday through Friday 11:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. Saturday and Sunday 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. Closed: New Years Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day,and Christmas Day.
4711 Elmore Road, Anchorage, Alaska 99507
343-8122
www.muni.org/animal Greta, an adult, female, domestic shorthair
Good News! Over the weekend of December 18 and 19 , 12 cats and 19 dogs were adopted! Thank you to all the volunteers that have been braving the cold to send time with our animals and help them get adopted! th
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Thank you also to our partner rescue groups - Alaska SPCA, Polar Pug Rescue, and Friends of Pets - for taking on a number of our animals to help us lower our population here at the shelter~ Brooke Taylor, Public Relations Coordinator
Adopt-ables
some of the animals listed here maybe adopted before the publish date but their friends are still waiting. Please visit the shelter for current adopt-ables.
Allie Girl, is a 3 year old, female, Staffordshire terrier mix. Allie is shy, quiet, very affectionate and sweet, but wants to be the only pet, so should go to a home without dogs or cats. She loves her walks and exercise, likes chew toys, rides fine in the car, and enjoys skatejoring, hiking, camping, and playing fetch. A great activity partner and a real people-pleaser, she is easy to walk, takes her treats gently and is a giver of kisses, too! Allie can be adopted for $152, which includes her MOA license, spay deposit, vaccinations, and microchip.
Cody, is a 4 year old, neutered male,
shepherd mix. He’s active, attentive, playful and friendly, with lots of energy. He’s very easy to walk and handle, wants to please, and has a happy, sweet disposition. He likes to fetch tennis balls and is very good at it. He also enjoys romping in the snow and interacting with people. He is very intelligent and already knows to sit, down, and roll over on command. He would do great in a home that could work on continued training with him. He can be adopted for $72, as he is already neutered, which includes his MOA license, vaccinations, and microchip.
Information and Photos submitted by: Text: Paul Chanek Photos: Karen Lester Brooke Taylor, AACCC public relations, Anchorage Animal Care and Control. This page sponsored by alaska dog news
alaskadognews@mtaonline.net
cat. She has better than average good looks and a lot to offer. She enjoys belly rubs and playing, but is not needy or clingy. She is patient enough to wait for attention, though she will likely roll around in easy reach, in case you’re in the mood. She is inquisitive and seems to always knows who is doing what and when a lap is available and can find her way into it. She is looking for a special someone for a permanent relationship with lots of cuddling. Greta can be adopted for $107, which
includes her spay deposit, vaccinations, and microchip. A173862
Katie, an adult, female, domestic longhair cat. Don’t let her serious looks fool you, she may look like she’s dressed for a formal occasion, but all she wants to do is stay home and hang out – preferably on a lap. She’s also inquisitive and interested in what goes on around her, so she doesn’t need constant entertainment. She loves attention and grooming, and is looking for an adoring, independent and kind Mr. or Ms. Right to spend cold evenings cuddling on the couch and playing quiet games. She can be adopted for $107, which includes her spay deposit, vaccinations, and microchip. A174227
Here is Sydney, an adult, neutered male, domestic longhair cat. Goodlooking, social, confident, outgoing and friendly - the girls say he’s a bit of a player – he love laser lights, fling-a-strings and all kinds of toys. He’s a little bit of a show-off as well, he can carry toys in his mouth like a dog, and he frequently pose for his fans to adore him. Of course if there is a lap available, he’s already there! Looking for a forever home where he can be keeper of someone’s heart and king of the cat tree. Sydney came to us from a recent cruelty case and has been at AACCC looking for a new home for a month now. In an effort help get the large number of cats involved in this case adopted, AACCC is offering discounted adoptions for these animals. As his rabies and vaccination fees are waived, and he is already neutered, Sydney is only $27 to adopt!
JoJo, is a young adult, male, husky mix.
He is alert, attentive, active, intelligent, and very eager to please. He has lots of energy and enjoys runs and walks. He knows commands, takes treats gently, and is playful and happy. He would do best in an active home that will give him plenty of exercise and continued training. This is one friendly youngster! JoJo can be adopted for $152, which includes his neuter deposit, MOA license, vaccinations, and microchip.
Be a h ero the A and sponso ncho r thi Call 9 rage Anim s page for al Sh 07-3 Alask aDogN 57-9386 or e elter mail ew to find s@mtaonlin e.net out h ow.
Alaska Dog News • January 2011
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Page 15
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www.AlaskaDogNews.com • 907-357-9386
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Alaska Dog News • January 2011
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Boarding
To advertise here contact AlaskaDogNews@mtaonline.net 907-357-9386
Wetland Retrievers believes in canine socialization. Dogs who pass the Wetland Retrievers socialization test, getting along with other dogs, may board in the open concept yard. Please contact us for boarding information and scheduling.
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