Knot
THE STAFFORD
,INC.
SPRING 2013 P R O M O T I N G T H E S T A F F O R D S H I R E B U L L T E R R I E R
ISSUE 2, VOL 4 FREE
TABLE OF CONTENTS - PAGE 2 THE STAFFORD KNOT PROMOTES HEALTH TESTED STAFFORDS WHILE BENEFITING STAFFORD RESCUES WORLDWIDE
THE STAFFORD KNOT, INC. All historical and/or current photos and articles used in this publication were sent to us by our readers unless otherwise stated. In such instances all permissions were acquired prior to publication. We take no responsibility for use of images widely available on the internet or sent to us by owners or breeders of dogs mentioned in this publication. If you wish to have photo credit given it is the responsibility of the photographer to send to us in writing during the current issue publication your wish and we will do our best to accommodate with no guarantees.
We welcome Fundraiser representatives and article contributions from interested parties. Please contact us if for more information how you can get involved. Thank you also to our Rescue Coordinators Worldwide
Lynn Caswell Chris Kerrigan - Erika Pardy Lorelei Craig Worldwide Guest Authors/Historians Advertising Sales -
Sr. Editor , Creative Director Columnist Columnist Columnist Article Contribution Sales
Special thank you goes to those selfless people who assist with Stafford rescues on a regular basis. If you can help transport, foster, donate or adopt, there is sadly always a need! TSK is here to raise funds to aid in these rescues. Please be a part of the solution!
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The Stafford Knot, Inc. is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club. TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords. We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted. All material on this site is copyright protected & cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of The Stafford Knot, Inc. Thank you. Contact Us TSK benefits Stafford rescue worldwide © 2009 - 2013 BrownDog Design
TABLE OF CONTENTS Advertising Rates & How To’s ............................................................................................. 3 Who is on Our Cover? ......................................................................................................... 4 Illustrated Breed Standard & Judging Seminar Links ......................................................... 6 Volunteer Positions Available .............................................................................................. 8 Stafford Health Database Project ........................................................................................ 9 Important Steps to Safely Foster a Rescue Dog - Lorelei Craig (Ciera)............................ 10 An Exceptional Dog - CH Caring Positive Profile - Tony Brindley (Cabrindle) .................. 18 We Are Not Judging Statues - Lisa Dubé Forman ........................................................... 24 All Breed Lure Coursing - Sara Lenahan AKC Judge........................................................ 33 Champions of the Past (Pictorial) - Brian Owen................................................................ 36 Health Testing Information ................................................................................................ 38 Letters to the Editor ........................................................................................................... 39 Brags, Shows, Litter Announcements ............................................................................. 40 Rescue Organizations Worldwide ...................................................................................... 41 Classified Advertisements ................................................................................................ 47 From the Editor .................................................................................................................. 49 Back Issues ....................................................................................................................... 50
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ADVERTISING RATES & HOW TO’S
Rates may change at our discretion Ad prices include design fee!
Paypal transaction fees are included and are nonrefundable. All refunds or cancellations are subject to approval. Design fees are included should you wish our staff to design your ad for you. Gallery ad - per issue
1/2 page - $45 Full page or Cover - $95 (There may be a wait list for covers) Re-run ad - $15 per issue Brag Box - $15 per issue Classified - $15 per issue Click Here for Advertising FORM
Fill out form, pay and upload photos & health certificates all at once! All currencies accepted via Paypal. You do not need a Paypal account. Advertising Rates Effective thru Feb 15, 2013
Please support TSK and support stafford rescue! Send scans of health testing to health@thestaffordknot.com
Back issues archived online and available as free downloads. Your ad will be available for view at any time once placed. Feel good about advertising with TSK - proceeds benefit Staffordshire Bull Terrier rescues worldwide. If you have a specific registered rescue you wish to support please indicate name and contact information with your ad submission.
Questions? Email us!
The Fine Print Payment in full, all images, logos, health testing scans and text must be received by deadline or your ad will not run! REMEMBER: The better your images the better your ad will be! YOU will be responsible for final proofing of your ad for any errors, misspellings, etc. We will email you a PROOF prior to uploading your ad to the current issue. PLEASE make all corrections AT THAT TIME or the ad will run AS IS! No mid-issue changes
Please submit ads as 200 dpi jpg, 8.5” wide by 5.5” high for half page, 8.5” wide by 11” high for full page. Remember small/thin type may be difficult to read when shrunk for online viewing. Use bold fonts & sharp images. Don't overcrowd with too much text or your ad may be difficult to read. TSK is not responsible for view-ability of all ads designed out of house or once proof has been approved. Please do not wait till the deadline to submit your ads! Get them in early or chance being left out. Deadline is always 2 weeks prior to publish date. Page 3
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WHO IS ON OUR COVER?
Ashbull O'Driscoll at Mat - Staff - “Hugo”
Bred by C&S&J Stone Owned by Tomasz Matusiak & Mariusz Czyzak Mat - Staff Staffords 561- 909- 8023 tommypl77@yahoo.com Photo by Jamie Quinn ‘Hugo” introduced himself at the famous NESBTC Stafford Classic winning Best Puppy In Sweepstakes under Breed Specialist - Susie Krauth "Karma" USA and Best Of Opposite under Breed Specialist Martin Murphy “Brockmar” IRL at the age of only 12 Months! Hugo’s next big show was The International Dog Show Chicago 2013 when at the age of 16 Months he was awarded Best Of Breed under Breed Specialist Jamie Mace “Janastaff” UK standing again next to many champions and Top Staffordshire Bull Terriers! With extremely limited showing he made us all very proud….but despite the show ring and his career, he is, first and foremost a part of our Family and a true Stafford , inside and out…..intelligent, full of life and unexpected ideas… Hugo is sired by “Porkie” - Zakstaff Black Baron JW (Ch. Stormbull Solo x Wise Words JW) , one of the top winning dogs in UK and beautiful “Effie” – Ashbull Tiz You (Ch. Cashalee Charmer at Crossguns x Ch. Knockon Yes You Are at Ashbull). Lastly we would like to thank Family Stone for trusting us with Hugo and Stafford Knot for letting us be a part of this fantastic magazine. Kind regards, Tomasz Matusiak, Mariusz Czyzak “Mat – Staff Staffords” “Type, Temperament & Soundness since 1992”
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http://w11.zetaboards.com/BBO/
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ILLUSTRATED BREED STANDARD & JUDGING SEMINAR CLICK HERE to read or download the TSK Staffordshire Bull Terrier Illustrated Breed Standard
CLICK HERE
to read or download a version of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Seminar which was given at the AKC Advanced Terrier Institute in Orlando Florida on December 14,
Also - CLICK HERE to view a 30 minute video of this presentation on You Tube HUGE thank you goes to all who contribute to the Illustrated Breed Standard and Judge Seminar projects. We could not present here such a collection of information were it not for all the work done by so many people in this breed and others. We cannot name all of you but many many thanks are indeed passed on to each of you. Thank you also to those who sent in images of dogs to be used. We consider the projects to be invaluable educational tools. Take from them what you will with the understanding that we cannot all agree on all points but should continue to work together in efforts to protect this wonderful breed we all cherish. Updates will be uploaded as more info is sent in Page 6 to TSK. Please check back or email editor@thestaffordknot.com for details or to contribute.
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ILLUSTRATED BREED STANDARD - **UPDATE**
From time to time TSK, Inc. receives requests for additional illustrations. This is one of the most popular requests. We are always happy to accommodate when we can get volunteers to assist in the illustrations. If you have a request, or if you are able to add to our growing catalog of illustrations - please - contact our team of volunteers and let us know how you can help. We are happy to share any image, however we do request that you give credit to The Stafford Knot, Inc with a link to our website or FB page - as our team works very hard to provide our readers with information about the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
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VOLUNTEER POSITIONS AVAILABLE Database - our health database is IN PROGRESS - send email to health@thestaffordknot.com if you would like your dog to be included. All previous submissions will automatically be included so if you wish your dog to be EXCLUDED you will need to let us know ASAP. If you submitted proof of testing your entry will show VERIFIED status. You will also be able to create an account and update or add your own information. Web - Seeking a Macintosh savvy web designer and SEO manager with knowledge of iWeb and RapidWeaver or Sandvox. If interested and available please send email to - editor@thestaffordknot.com
Sales - we need people around the world to help us sell advertising. Ads are how we raise money to donate to Stafford rescues. If interested please send email to - sales@thestaffordknot.com Editing - if you are familiar with ‘Pages’ software and work on a Mac please send us an email to editor@thestaffordknot.com Reporters - We are looking for show reporters from around the world to send us results from major shows. If you would like to volunteer for this new position please email - editor@thestaffordknot.com
Writers - we are always looking for writers to send in articles for each issue. We look for original articles and stories as well as historical ones. All permissions must be granted prior to publishing. Please email editor@thestaffordknot.com if your are interested and available.
w w w. c a f e p re s s . c o m / t h a n k d o g
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Stafford Health Database Project How you can help our breed The Stafford Knot only accepts ads from owners and breeders of dogs who have been health tested. The minimum requirements are L2-HGA & HC testing. We provide information on where to go to have these simple and inexpensive tests performed. Documentation is required to be scanned and sent in to the editors for approval. Further health testing (Cardiac, CERF, PHPV, Hips, Elbows, Patella, etc) is also encouraged. It is highly recommended to buyers that they see these documents prior to purchasing their new Stafford.
point, if only clear tested (l2HGA & HC) Staffords are bred from - these two genetic diseases could be eradicated in three generations of breeding. That’s certainly something to think about. Some argue that this would narrow the gene pool too much and is not a needed step to improving the future of this breed. To those i say, possibly, however - is that carrier stud dog so structurally superior to his clear tested brother that you wouldn’t consider using the brother instead? Just something else to think about.
a database project so that documentation will be on hand for future generations. In the U.S. our registries do not document these test results as the K.C. does in the U.K. Therefore too many people who own ‘clear by parentage’ Staffords have no proof in hand several generations down the line. In time, we at TSK hope the database will help those who wish to know the status of a particular dog or litter.
If all breeders and owners were to test, Staffords would all be better off simply by the fact that we would have more information regarding where this breed is going as far
TSK and StaffyHQ are compiling registered names and scanned
If you have a tested Stafford - please send One email to
as health matters are concerned. To further this
health@thestaffordknot.com containing the full registered name, registration number, sire and dam registered names and scanned copies of all health testing done on documents your dog. Please only send of all tested One email per dog. Thank (clear, carrier you for supporting TSK and and affected) promoting health testing of Staffords for Staffords worldwide.
We are also working on a database of semen stored from health tested stud dogs. If you have semen stored from a tested dog and wish to have him included, please email HEALTH@THESTAFFORDKNOT.COM
with health scans, pedigree information and contact information. Also please indicate whether or not the semen is available for use. Page 9
Important Steps to Safely Foster a Rescue Dog Rescue groups beg and plead for volunteers all the time and much of the time we are so grateful when someone steps forward that we do not even consider how important the first few weeks of a rescued dog’s life actually are. These first weeks begin to lay the foundation for the rest of the dog’s life. New homes are approved as if we are giving up our first born but any old person who raises his/her hand is ok to foster. What happens during the first days and weeks at the foster home can make or break how quickly the dog is adopted and how successful he will be in his new forever home. A rescued dog usually comes from a stressful situation that doesn’t even include the baggage from their previous life. It is the responsibility of the volunteer foster to provide proper interaction and socialization to ensure the dog is set up to succeed as well as ready for a new home.
Foster Blanch on the left - home dogs on the right. Foster dog came to me almost frozen in fear and very dog reactive. Her dog reactivity caused her to fail her eval at the shelter then add to that her stress from shelter life and the poor girl was a mess. Today, I consider this dog 100% dog friendly and solid although some old stress and fear still lingers. Many times we confuse dominance behaviors and stress behaviors as the same. A dog that reacts toward other dogs is more likely very scared. It does not take more than a couple bad dog experiences as a puppy to create a problem as described.
When I accept a dog to foster for a Rescue Group I want everything to go smoothly with the least amount of bother and headache. I like to think I am only a short stop between the shelter and the new forever home. More often than not it takes some preparation, a plan and diligence for me and the dog to be successful. Since I am willing to foster I owe it to the dog and the future new forever home to put my heart into it. During the last 5 years I have brought many strange dogs into my home, much to the dismay of my existing pack10and human family, but I do think we are all better for it. My own dogs are more socialized than ever.
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Important Steps to Safely Foster a Rescue Dog Preparing the dog to be adoptable and desirable is always the number one objective but quick and safe assimilation into my pack routine is a close second. To this date I have never had a fight or growl or bite that was not my fault. Today I can claim to have a process that works 100% of the time, assuming I do not walk into the shelter and pick the most challenging stressed dog to bring home. I also owe success to my existing pack which is generally social and friendly to other dogs. Properly orchestrated introductions with patience must be done in order to ensure that neither the new dog nor the existing pack is at risk or that the rescue dog is damaged further.
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Foster Tank on left, home dog in middle, Foster Blanch on the right. Fully integrated dogs make it much easier to manage while I wait for homes. Blanch took about 7 months to find the best home. What I thought might never happen turned out to be one of my most rewarding experiences.
Currently I work with a very good Rescue Group and I trust they will not ask me to take a dog unless they know that I have the ability and experience and can provide a particular dog the correct environment. It is
so important that I do not take on a problem that will be more than I can handle emotionally, physically or financially. That is what causes volunteers to quit. It can be the same with dogs; it has to be a good experience for me, the rescue dog and my own dogs! Here is the process I go thru to bring a strange dog into my home. Before I agree to take the dog home: • I ask questions about health, vaccinations and find out if the dog altered. This is important to know for the health of my pack and to also know what my responsibility and potential financial obligation will be even if I will be reimbursed. • I verify that the dog has a sponsor that I can work well with. • I ask about the dogs potential behavior issues. Has the dog had an evaluation and can I have a copy? •Has he been in a crate and how did he do?
Home dog on left and Foster Lexi on the right. Lexi had fear and dog reactivity when she came to us from the shelter at about 6 months. She took a year and two fosters to get over her hear and be placed. She was fully integrated into my pack. I cried when she left.
• I try to get a copy of the shelter intake and health documents. Page 11
Important Steps to Safely Foster a Rescue Dog
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I get my home ready for the foster dog:
When I bring the dog home:
• I have an extra crate, ex-pen and clean bedding ready for the dog.
• I do not allow any access to my existing dogs no matter how stellar everyone is. I never underestimate the amount of stress a dog coming from a bad situation or into a new situation will be under or how my existing pack will feel about the intruder.
• I set up the crate in a low traffic area of the house where the dog can participate in sights and sounds without being overwhelmed. • I put the ex-pen around the crate so my dogs cannot get up close and personal (yet). • I also make sure I have nyla-bones and or safe rawhide chews that are size appropriate. If it is a puppy I have puppy appropriate toys. • I have lots of high value treats around. • I have a proper sized collar and leash dedicated to the new dog. • I ask for some of his current food to transition him slowly to my diet.
• For the first few days to a week the new dog is not allowed anywhere except on a leash, in a crate or in a small yard without distractions. This is bonding time for me and the dog mixed with teaching focus and simple commands. •We do lots of sits and focus and follow me exercises with appropriate value treats. A super stressed or fearful dog will need cheese and more relaxed dog may be happy with kibble. Some stressed dogs will need time before they are willing to take a treat. •My dogs are monitored to make sure the new dog is comfortable with their presence. • I would guess in a few days there should not be a problem with my dogs coming and going and greeting the new dog with the barrier of the ex-pen but not up to the crate yet. I have had dogs be reactive even with the ex-pen barrier and have had to move my dogs away yet still keep the foster in the living area. •I always give lots of treats to the foster dog while crated to reward focused relaxed behavior and/or to teach that good things happen when my dogs are milling around.
Foster Pippa on the left and home dog on the right. Ex-pen removed home dog and foster dog can interact safely after having got to know each other with ex-pen barrier. This was a big day for Pippa.
• I reward my dogs for nice sit stays and good happy behavior while being near the foster dog. By doing this I am setting up all the dogs to get to know each other in a rewarding environment. Page 12
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Home dog on left and stressed Foster on right. Dogs cannot touch each other. Very respectful home dog giving non threatening posture in her crate. Foster dog has access to come and go and explore
As I see the Foster dog relaxing and my as dogs are getting over the novelty of the new member of the house: • I remove the ex pen. • I still do not let my entire pack swarm the Foster dog. The odds are high they won’t as the foster dog is becoming family by now. • One of my dogs is very social and she will end up sleeping and hanging out with the foster as if they are now best friends. • If I have not already done so, I move the crate into my bedroom. I might even have one crate in the living area also so the dog is always with people when in the house. • The dog should have good command of sit and focus and be relaxed around my dogs that also have a good sit and focus. Depending on how things are going, this has been about one week possible longer for more stressed dogs.
• I can now start to introduce my most socially respectful dog off leash while I walk on leash with the foster. We take a walk in the largest safe area possible giving lots of praise and treats. It is best to have a 2nd person and both dogs be on leash but I take longer on the above steps ensuring I will be safe at this step. • I carefully watch for signs of reactivity, stress and discomfort and back track if necessary. If at this point things are still stressful I probably have rushed thru the previous steps. • I continue with on leash work until we are super comfortable with all dogs. Then I carefully allow Foster off leash and my best dog on leash. Probably another 3-7 days, depending on the dogs reactions and comfort levels. If you only have one other dog this can happen relatively quickly. I always keep in mind my ultimate goal is to safely assimilate this new dog as a member of my family. I never have more dog power than I can easily handle with the number of human hands available. I do not move forward until I am confident all the signs show relaxed social behaviors among all dogs, key word Page 13
Important Steps to Safely Foster a Rescue Dog being “social”. If I have the slightest doubt I give it another day. Keep in mind that dogs have different play styles so the foster may never run safely with my dogs. Puppies with improper socialization or those that were removed too early from their mother may not interact well with others. It is also important to keep my own dogs from being stressed by the foster too. I am always cognizant dominance behavior and resource guarding and act appropriately. These behaviors are different then the reactive behaviors of dogs in fear or under stress. By following these steps I am de-stressing the foster dog and setting him and my existing pack up for success. I am also training the rescue dog which makes him more adoptable, and I am learning a lot about dog behaviors by being extremely observant. My dogs depend on and trust me to keep them safe. These steps up front will make the next weeks and the adoption process go much more smoothly. These steps may seem like a lot of work but in reality once completed you have a dog that is assimilated into a routine that is actually very easy and makes the dog really adoptable. There are exceptions to every rule and there are dogs that may go faster and some that go slower. I may have a dog in my pack that will never tolerate the foster. There are also foster dogs that may never become 100% assimilated. Never underestimate the amount of stress on all dogs in new situations. By taking my time with a lot of reward based conditioning it can be a good experience for all involved.
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My Rules: •Make decisions with your head not your heart. •Care for the foster dog with your heart. •Never underestimate the amount of stress a dog may be under or the time it may take to de-stress the dog. Some dogs may assimilate quickly but signs of stress can linger for months and longer. •Do not have more dogs together than you can easily manage. •Take an active interest and pride in making the rescue dog into the best dog you possibly can. •Take lots of photos and short video clips. •Watch for signs of stress and anxiety which will tell you how fast to move thru the steps. i.e. lip licking, yawning, avoiding eye contact etc. These signs are different than dominant behaviors. •Do not allow the dog long periods of time outside off lead without continuous observation from a distance. • Work on sit, focus and follow me without other dogs around often so that you are bonding with and training the rescue dog. • Always err on the side of caution. •There is no substitute for time and patience so don’t rush! • Never sacrifice the safety of any dog or human. • Never allow an alarming behavior to continue, i.e. fence fighting, barking for long periods, rude behavior toward your existing dogs, etc.
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Special thanks to Freya who in her short life has raised more rescue pups and helped more grown dogs learn to relax and love life than most dogs in their entire life. I could not ask for a more respectful, gentle, and loving partner to help me with foster dog rehabilitation.
Important Steps to Safely Foster a Rescue Dog In closing there are many ways to rescue and foster an animal. Whether you foster for one day or 3 months, this is a process that will work and keep everyone safe and happy and sane. I am just a regular person with a full time job and a motley crew of canines and I do this all the time. Sometimes the adoption happens before I am finished with this process and sometimes the rescue dog is a beloved member of my pack and just like one of my own when it leaves. Every dog is different but the way I move forward with the above steps is the same for every dog. It sets up the Rescue dog for a low stress welcome to my home and for a good start at the new home. If we care enough to rescue, care enough to do the BEST you can.
Copyright 2013 Ciera Reflections. All Rights Reserved.
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www.staffordbook.com alan@ramblix.fsnet.co.uk
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An Exceptional Dog - CH Carnig Positive Profile by Tony Brindley Although his owners, Brett and Sue Lay were very selective with allowing only suitable bitches to be mated, he served fifty three of them in his lifetime. He was very much in demand due to the quality of the litters that he had sired. The quality being so abundant in his offspring that fifteen of them became Champions and there is still one bitch awaiting the third K.C. C.C. If she makes the status of Champion the record of Ch Black Tusker will be equaled.
Frank won nine Kennel Club Challenge Certificates and eight Reserve K.C. C.C.’s. One of the C.C.’s was won at Crufts in 2006 and one Reserve C.C. was from veteran class.
Probably the climax of his show career was when he gained the Best Veteran at Crufts in 2011 where judge Tony Brindley also made awards to two of his sons. The C.C.. going to Ch. Back in Black and the
Reserve C.C. he awarded to Foxstaff Positive Magic, who soon afterwards achieved the status of Champion.
Another successful mating produced Swedish Champion and World Champion Crudha Domhan Daan. Champion Carnig Positive Profile was a wonderful ambassador for the breed and will be remembered, written about and talked about for a very long time.
In addition Frank sired the first Champion of Jersey, Ch. Granitangle Zircon along with U.K. .& Irish Champion Lackyle Diabhal Dearchlo.
The intelligent Frank was the friendliest of dogs, a true gentleman of the breed, but a true Stafford when the need arose. From 2006 to 2011 Ch. Carnig Positive Profile was the top Stafford Stud dog. Six years running; an incredible feat. Also in 2011 he was top terrier stud dog.
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An Exceptional Dog - CH Carnig Positive Profile by Tony Brindley
Thank you to the photographers for allowing the use of these photos which were sent in to us by Tony Brindley for this article
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Advertisement sponsored by members of Bull Breeds Online Decals available from: laureen_williams@ntlworld.com
Merchandise also available at www.cafepress.com/thankdog Proceeds go to the AHT for research into PHPV
DO NOT use this image without written permission from Laurene Williams or Diane Taylor. Thank you.
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We Are Not Judging Statues by Lisa Dubé Forman
This article first appeared in The Canine Chronicle and has been re-published here with written permission.
In my brief five years of judging, I cannot count how many times I have communicated to exhibitors that I am not judging a statue.
I offer this as relaxing encouragement to them while they attempt to correct their dog’s stance as it is being examined. However, many handlers persist, sometimes in vain, to replace dog’s feet in positions that the dog has already decided were uncomfortable. Immediately after a correction, many dogs will then go on to move their other feet. At this point, it is my policy to recommend to the exhibitor not to bother fidgeting with the dog, as I politely tell the handler I
can feel everything I need to feel, regardless if the dog has moved its leg or shifted its weight. Simply, I am judging a live animal and not a statue. Some exhibitors will listen, others persist perhaps because they perceive the dog’s movement as an affront to their handling skills. For clarity, references to handler is meant to be all-embracing, for any person showing a dog. Here on this point, I offer a suggestion to exhibitors. I typically walk my dogs into their show stack. I usually do not fidget with their feet unless they are in an exaggerated stance such as “posting.” This allows
the dog to feel comfortable with the process of examination, especially the Sighthound breeds who can be more averse to a stranger’s approach and hands-on exam. Moreover, walking the dog into a stance is much more relaxing as the dog usually will land and stand over their ground in a comfortable position. Remember, the sole purpose for dog shows is not a contest as to which dog can stand still the longest, in some cases in an excessively exaggerated posture. The purpose of a dog show is to select and adjudicate over the best of the stock to perpetuate the breed. I will quickly digress here to expound on my remark about exaggerated postures. Page 24
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We Are Not Judging Statues by Lisa Dubé Forman
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One such profile example is frequently seen in Afghan Hounds, with many of the dog’s rear feet stacked well behind the seat bones of the hindquarters. If you dropped a plumb line from the Ischial Tuberosity (rear seat bones), it is supposed to touch the front of the toes of the rear feet, however, due to exaggeration in stance or construction, that plumb line, in some cases, is far forward of the rear feet. Commonly, when stacked in such a manner and before the dog can move, he must first bring the rear legs back up under his pelvis, with some returning to a normal stance before stepping off. Other dogs, while standing naturally or even four square, are able to lead off immediately with their front leg. If such exaggerated stances were correct for the structure of that breed, then that dog would have no need to bring its rear up and under him first before he could lead off on a front leg.
dog to walk slowly forward as they place their front legs straight up and down with elbows directly under their shoulder blades, their hocks perpendicular to the ground. When showing, if one leg is back somewhat, don’t fret, leave it. If the dog’s stance is still unacceptable to you, correct it after the judge has completed their exam and not while the judge is examining the dog. After the judge is finished, quickly readjust or if it is a body shift then slowly walk the dog forward one or more steps to the desirable stance. Every judge should allow the exhibitor the few extra seconds, if the handler chooses to do so, to walk the dog forward a step to correct a bad stack. This is courteous to do so since it is the exhibitors hard-earned money paying the judge for the evaluation, not visa versa. Likewise, walking into a stack is a bonus for bona-fide judges, those not looking at their wristwatch, as most dogs tend to relax and settle into themselves quickly. No matter the handler’s choice, just please stop wrestling.
Not all exhibitors are skilled and simply fussing. My biggest point of disagreement while observing some exhibitors is the clumsy effort to correct a stack by reaching over the back, grabbing the loin and pulling the dog’s hindquarters towards themselves. This action does not achieve a relaxed stance in which the judge can reflect upon and appreciate a lovely silhouette. Instead, this grappling produces a dog who was just dragged into position and who now is flexed and tense. Never mind it is very uncomfortable for observers – effectively making us cringe – and usually the handler does not stop there. After they drag the back end of the dog over to a side profile, they begin wrestling feet into place. This struggle is no more graceful than the first as the exhibitor pushes and pulls, then drags feet backwards and forward. Sometimes it is comical as the judge gives up or is impatient and approaches the dog while the exhibitor is still wrestling with the feet, head bent down with their buttocks up in the air. A solution for inexperienced exhibitors is taking five minutes every day to work with the dog by teaching it to walk forward into a stack. The stack does not have to be perfect because, again, we are not judging sculpture. Teach or train the dog on its show lead — not a walking lead so they can differentiate when they are working — and train the
Conformation purebred dog events have been transformed into a showing and grooming contest. Today we observe many firmly established handling habits. Exhibitors will place huge emphasis on a dog’s stack while on the table or ramp. If the dog moves, the exhibitor constantly makes corrections, as if the judge will not be able to feel the placement, angulation and length of the bones and muscling, or quality of coat if a foot is out of place. Moreover, exhibitors need to remember that judging does not take place on these elevated platforms, only examinations. Dogs are only judged on the ground. If the opposite were true then each of these dogs would be exhibited on a table or ramp in the ring always. Perhaps this habit has manifested itself so widely because exhibitors follow the lead of many professional handlers who have perfected the ability to emphasize perfect, statuesque stacks. Consider an exhibitors reaction the instant a dog moves their head to look around while stacked in the lineup. Many have a death grip on the muzzle. A reminder to everyone in our sport, dogs should not receive extra consideration for being able to stand still the longest.
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We Are Not Judging Statues by Lisa Dubé Forman
Other established and trying habits include handlers overemphasizing certain breeds abundance of thin, loose skin, wrinkles or folds. Short-coated breeds are “what you see is what you get.” Still, we have exhibitors overaccentuating by grasping and pulling the skin up and forward. The judge is not blind and can clearly see and feel the skin’s looseness, along with scapula placement, without the aid of the handler. As an extra factor, I have heard disapproving comments by spectators. Although we seasoned fanciers understand this does not hurt the dog, no amount of reassurance can change some people’s minds. Taking into account the purebred dog controversy in place today, we can do away with such unnecessary elaboration. Another annoying and dispensable habit during examination are handler’s stretching dog’s neck, pulling upwards, almost lifting the dog’s front off the ground and then flipping the ears over both eyes — all in a grandstanding effort to feature the neck on a smooth or short-coated breed. Speaking plainly, a judge is quite capable of discerning a proper neck without all this dramatizing, especially since most are approved to judge heavy-coated and long-coated breeds. If the judge requires or encourages such elaboration on a neck then they should reevaluate their role in our sport.
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see the same dog running and playing in the yard or field they most likely stop and stand in an entirely different manner contrary to dog show pageantry.
Aficionado judges appreciate the dog without the glamour and fanfare. An enhancement to this and what I consider exciting is to find a truly well-made dog who feels good under your hand who may not be the showiest entry in the ring but who epitomizes the breed standard. To be able to “find” a great dog in the show ring is the ultimate reward. My usual response is to quietly laugh when I read judges interviews or hear their commentary on dogs they have awarded. I am sure you all are familiar with, “The dog gave it their all,”; “The dog asked for it and could not be denied,”; “The dog showed beautifully,” ; “The dog was so on,” ; “The dog has attitude.” Conversely, “The dog did not perform that well,”; “The dog could have been more on.”
Taking into account these critiques, it is no wonder almost all exhibitors fret constantly about a misplaced foot, constantly adjusting and readjusting legs, death grips on the muzzles, stretching out necks, pulling the skin over the dog’s face and so on. These dispiriting comments all highlight the non-essentials of our sport. Why place more Dog shows were not meant to be a contest of animal or value on the dog flying around the ring at the end of their people showmanship. Our shows were not created or lead, many at incorrect speeds? Why do judges value the designed to determine who is the more flamboyant handler, dog in an aggrandized, statuesque stance moreso than its for instance the handler standing out nearly four feet in competitor(s) who may fidget but who stands over their front of the dog waving a piece of bait in their free hand. ground in a comfortable, confident manner sans Some handlers claim that the dog who is posed looking embellishment? Doesn’t breed type and symmetry trounce very much like a sculptured bronze is, indeed, in a natural being overdone and flamboyant? We should all worry about stance. Occasionally, this may be true and usually can be the general direction in which our sport has developed. It is determined by directing the handler to move the dog deeply concerning and saddening for many veterans. Over around to the center of the ring and having them stop the years, our sport has been steered towards glorifying without touching the dog. Few times will the dog land as and worshipping the most highly trained and unflinching they were previously stacked. Many times, the dog will land statues. This is a show with live animals, not a statue and stand much more naturally, which a true breed expert exhibition. Though I would not nor am I suggesting a dog will appreciate moreso than an over-dramatized stance. In should be penalized for being perfectly trained and very truth, show dogs increasingly now are trained to stop and stylishly shown, at the same time a judge should not self-stack in dramatic poses without interference by the bestow additional merit on this dog over its competitors handler. Yet, what I would find most telling is if we were to based upon this ability to attract, in many cases, undue
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We Are Not Judging Statues by Lisa Dubé Forman
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attention. However, we are very much aware of this or similar preferences by some judges through their critiques. Absent from reviews are conclusions on a specimen’s structural integrity, the virtues of that dog’s priceless breed type expounding on the near flawless shape, describing the breed’s topline and underline, discussing the prosternum, its fill and relative station and length of ribbing. Going into detail about the dog’s diameter and length of bone, the breed standard’s ideal length, strength and breadth of loin or the opposite, well-coupled with strong breadth of loin, or remarks on the symmetry of the dog’s conforming length and placement of scapula/humerus in relation to the femur/tibia, or any mention of superior muscling. On occasion, we do hear vague comments about headpieces as they are first discernible and easiest to describe. All the same, the comments provide little insight such as, “What a lovely head.” We do not read instructive remarks about proper length of planes with degree of desired stop, eye set and shape, width or shape of skull and muzzle.
Overall, in place of educational particulars, we are provided nebulous, frivolous comments. This may be due in part to judges’ inexperience with formulating and expressing their opinions, remarks and reactions to the dogs. Many quality judges with a keen eye instinctively know a good or great dog when they see one and have trouble conveying why, then there are other judges who skate by with a quick but insubstantial remark about, “how spot on” a dog was in the ring. What is the value of saying this? How does that have anything to do with the breed standard for which the dog is judged? It is no wonder that our sport is filled with uninstructed, naïve exhibitors and breeders. If they hear or read a judge’s explanations about the winning dogs and all they are offered are the aforementioned, meaningless comments, then it should come as no surprise that our sport has devalued. These comments undermine the importance of, the genuine purpose of our sport, why and how it began. It does not have to be this way. We judges can effect change, have a marked influence on breeder and exhibitor priorities which, in turn, will return focus on breeds’ standards of excellence. As I am very fond of repeating, we need to get back to the basics.
http://caninechronicle.com/?p=2950
L!a Dubé Forman
- Ballyhara Irish Wolfhounds
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w w w. s t a f f i e s o n l i n e . o r g . u k
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All Breed Lure Coursing There is a new, exciting game in town and your dogs will love it. About 2 years ago AKC started offering a new event that allows your dog to expend energy, stay fit and have a blast all while working towards a suffix title. Coursing Ability Tests (CAT) mimic the sport of lure coursing, a sport sighthounds are bred and live for. All AKC registered breeds and mixed breeds are welcome to participate in CAT. After three successful runs your dog receives a title of CA. Continued runs garner further titles. From the get go this event has been extremely successful and few dogs don’t want to participate.
Earn Coursing
Ability Titles You and your dog will have the time of your life participating in CAT events. With the added bonus of having fit, happy dog for the conformation ring.
The CAT season is about to get started throughout the country more information about Coursing Ability Tests, the rules, as well as a It is a simple concept, schedule of events can be white plastic trash found at :
bags are attached to a motorized continuous loop, the dog is brought to the start line and when the Huntmaster says Tally Ho, off they go to run either a 300 or 600 yard course. There is no training needed, instinct is a powerful motivator. There is very little special equipment needed for your dog, a good slip lead is a useful item to get your dog to the start and easily let your overly enthusiastic dog loose at the Tally Ho but it is not necessary. There are some cute lycra jackets that can be worn to help facilitate catching your dog at the end of the course. I have been told jackets are also useful in finding the dog in your camera’s viewfinder. You will want pictures as you probably never saw your dog smile as big as they do while on the chase.
http://classic.akc.org/ events/ coursing_ability_test/ Sara Lenahan AKC Judge #92676
What is required is a dog that is fit. Dogs expend a great deal of energy running after the lure so do not bring unfit, overweight dogs out to run. An inspection committee will check your dog for fitness to run, lameness or females in season. A good recall is helpful to catch your dog at the end of the course. Safety is of utmost importance as this can be a very dangerous sport so always run with an experienced club. At most events there are plenty of experienced folks to help you, offer assistance, advice, encouragement, applause and congratulations for your dog. It has been my experience, as a judge of CAT events, that Staffordshire Bull Terriers are one of the most enthusiastic breeds participating. They have never ceased to amaze me
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CHAMPIONS OF THE PAST special would like to send a very c. In ot, Kn d or aff St e Th use of his Owen for allowing the ian Br r. M to U YO K THAN . of early UK Champions personal photo collection
Ch Brystaff Simply The
of We will feature several 13. his photos throughout 20
Best
Ch Quiz of Wyncroft
Ch Widneyland Kim
Photos Š Brian Owen - use by written permission for TSK, Inc.
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THE STAFFORD KNOT, INC.
CHAMPIONS OF THE PAST special would like to send a very c. In ot, Kn d or aff St e Th use of his Owen for allowing the ian Br r. M to U YO K THAN . of early UK Champions personal photo collection
of We will feature several 13. his photos throughout 20
Ch Madcap Mischief
Ch Gentleman Jim
oe Mallen Ch Gentleman & Jim J
Photos Š Brian Owen - use by written permission for TSK, Inc.
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THE STAFFORD KNOT, INC.
HEALTH TESTING The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience. TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers, especially those used for breeding purposes and/or performance events. The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program. Used wisely, this can be accomplished. The following testing information is provided as a service to you, however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives. There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs, caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog. As always, please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs. Thank you!
* * * Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the DNA test for HC - BOTH tests should be carried out * * * ***PLEASE send in your test results for the databases. Accurate records are valuable to the breed*** Remember, if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears & carriers. Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter, the same must be done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers. If you sell carrier pups, please consider spay/neuter so that more carriers are not produced. With the advent and ease of genetic testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear. To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility. There is no excuse to breed an untested dog.
======================================= Testing Facility For L2-Hga & HC
Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only
Animal Health Trust
Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Mo.
Lanwades Park, Kentford New Market, Suffolk CB87UU
321 Connaway Hall Columbia, Missouri 65211-5120 USA
Phone: 01638 751000
Phone: 573-884-3712
Fax: 01638 750410
Fax: 573-884-5414
Website
Direct Link
Website
Direct Link
Testing Facility For HC in USA:
Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe:
http://www.animalgenetics.us/Canine/HC.htm
France www.antagene.com
Testing Facility For Hip, Elbows, Patella and Cardiac Certifications * Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA) 2300 E Nifong Boulevard Columbia, Missouri, 65201-3806 USA Phone: 573-442-0418 Email
Fax: 573-875-5073
Website
*Note: A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams. A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips, elbows and Patella.
Czech Republic www.genomia.cz Germany www.laboklin.de / www.laboklin.co.uk Testing Facility For Eye Certifications* Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF) 1717 Philo Rd P O Box 3007 Urbana, IL 61803-3007 USA Phone: 217-693-4800 Fax: 217-693-4801 Email
Website
*Note: A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams. CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock .
Coat color testing for those wishing not to produce blues, dilutes or black and tan can be found at many labs now.
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THE STAFFORD KNOT, INC.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Send your letters to editor@thestaffordknot.com or - Send your Q&A question to ASK TSK
The Stafford Knot, Inc. runs Letters to the Editor as they are sent - no editing. They are not necessarily the opinion of this publication or those who are associated with it. To Stafford Knot I only recently came across this magazine when searching online for Staffy information. WOW! How could I have missed this? Since discovering you I have now downloaded and read all the past issues. I can’t believe the wealth of information you have in one place. I will be sharing this magazine with all my staffy friends. I also love that there is general information for all breeds and pet owners. Keep up the good work and thank you. Paul O. Hi TSK When will the health database be available? I think its a good idea. Thank you.. Marcy M.
Hi Marcy Thank you for your letter. The Stafford Knot, Inc. is teaming up with StaffyHQ to bring you the largest and most detailed searchable database on Staffordshire Bull Terrier health available online. All information gathered is sent in by YOU our readers and anyone owning a Stafford. We plan to include registered and unregistered Staffords from all over the world. Those who have emailed scans
of health certificates to TSK will receive a VERIFIED status on their profile. The database will be very extensively detailed and can be updated by opening a free account. You will be able to add more dogs and update tests - again - you will only receive the VERIFIED status once you also email your scanned certifications to TSK. Once those are received and approved, the database administrator will change your dogs page from UNVERIFIED to VERIFIED. We hope that this will be a big success and a helpful tool to all Stafford owners/breeders/sports enthusiasts - and more importantly a way to encourage more Stafford folks to have all their dogs health tested.
Can my vet do this blood test? I asked them and they said they dont know and cant help me. What do i do? thankyou. Rob R. Hello Rob Thank you for your interest in the DNA Coat Color tests. There are several labs around the world who can offer you the cheek swab testing (just like you do to look for L2-HGA and HC) to see if your Staffords carry the dilute genetic marker ‘d/d’ and there is one lab that we are aware of to have them tested for the black and tan pettern marker ‘at’
Please contact VetGen for both tests or DDC Veterinary for just the TSK has always provided the dilute test. There are others also. We information on what tests to have done do not endorse or guarantee the tests and where to go to have them done so these labs do in any way, nor do we this seems like the next step. profit from them. We offer this information as a result of our own Please stay tuned for our online searching and personal results. announcement on when it will be Thank you. online and ready to use. TSK, Inc TSK, Inc. & StaffHyQ Staff Hello Staffknot I read on facebook that you guys know about how to test my dogs to see if they can make blue or black n tan. I would like to have that done.
Thank you! to our readers for sending us your feedback. We include a FEEDBACK form on the website. Please feel free to submit your questions, suggestions & comments. TSK cannot survive without all of YOU!
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BRAGS, SHOWS, LITTER ANNOUNCEMENTS Supported Shows EMAIL AREA 2 REGIONAL SPECIALTY WEEKEND & SBTCA Supported Shows Mr Robert Slay - Thursday Ms Anne Katona - Friday Mr. Jon Cole - Saturday Mr. Robert Black - Sunday Area 2 Regional Specialty Ms. Kari Hill - Puppy & Veteran Sweeps also Sunday April 11-14, 2013 - Perry, GA 4 days of Conformation, Agility, Obedience, Rally-O, Lure Coursing, Banquet & Auction
Supported Shows EMAIL PSBTC STAFFORD EXTRAVAGANZA Join us for another legendary weekend of Stafford fun & PSBTC Supported Shows Mr. John Scalan (Pantycelyn), Jamie Quinn - Sweeps - Friday Mr. Kevin Jones (Maxsta), Yanni Loofas - Sweeps - Saturday Stay for AKC shows Sunday & Monday!
April 19-20, 2013 - Baltimore, MD Potomac Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club
Specialty Show EMAIL SBTCA 2013 NATIONAL SPECIALTY WEEKEND Mr. Tommy Curd (Knockon) Friday - SBTCA National Specialty Mr. Yas Parr (Manxican) - Puppy & Veteran Sweepstakes - Friday Ms. Adrienne Owens (New Point Kennels)Â - Junior Handling - Friday Ms. Lorelei Craig (Ciera) - Puppy Match - Friday Mr. David Alexander (Brigadoon BT) Saturday - SBTCA Area 1 Specialty Ms. Judith Heller (Moonstruck) - Puppy & Veteran Sweepstakes - Saturday Mr. John Ryder (Kannechor) Sunday - SBTCA Stafford Spectacular Mr. George Urbanksi (Windy City) - Puppy & Veteran Sweepstakes - Sunday
May 23-26, 2013 Purina Farms Event Center, Gray Summit, MO Agility, Obedience, Rally-O, Annual Banquet, Auction, Top 20 & more! 3 days of conformation, performance & fun! - Stafford Stand Alone Event!
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RESCUE ORGANIZATIONS WORLDWIDE If you wish for your registered Stafford rescue to be featured in TSK free of charge please contact sales@thestaffordknot.com
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CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS Hello Stafford!
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
Hello Stafford now available on shirts, mugs, stickers and more. Sales benefit fight against BSL and support rescue and health testing CLICK here to shop
The Stafford Knot, Inc. has applied for 501(c)3 status. If granted, your donations & ad money will be considered tax deductible. We will keep our readers posted as soon as we know.
Bull Breeds Online
Thankdog - All Breeds Equal
Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts! bullbreedsonline ‘Like� us on Face Book
Help fight BSL promote responsible dog ownership. Tshirts, Calendars, Stickers, & more. Proceeds benefit Stafford causes. CLICK here to shop
Young Living Essential Oils
Polar Collars
Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family & pets too! Distributor Referral #1166695 CLICK here to shop
Please contact Dayna Lemke (USA sales) or Paddy Enfield (UK sales) to purchase your fleece collars. Many colors, sizes and styles available. Custom embroidery also available.
Ad Design
Your Advertisement Here
Do you need an ad created for your show dog? Litter announcement? Flier? Contact me for reasonable rates. Part of your cost is donated to SBT rescue via TSK. References available.
The Stafford Knot offers classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related. Ads are limited to 20 words, no images. For larger ads please consider gallery advertising. The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page. All sales are between seller and purchaser. TSK makes no warranties either written or implied. No puppies for sale ads. No stud dog ads. The Stafford Knot, Inc. reserves the right to deny advertisements at our discretion.
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Knot
THE STAFFORD
,INC.
TSK merchandise available at http://www.cafepress.com/thestaffordknot Profit from sales benefit Stafford rescues worldwide
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THE STAFFORD KNOT, INC.
FROM THE EDITOR People ask me why it's so hard to trust people, and I ask them why is it so hard to keep a promise. ~ Unknown
At some point in a breeders lifetime they will experience losses. They will mate a bitch who misses conception, lose puppies, lose shows, lose friendships, lose your oldies, certainly lose money and sometimes - may even lose faith. Loss is just part and parcel of the experience. The way one deals with loss and how one is prepared for loss is what is so important. As for avoiding loss of trust when selling your puppies having a solid contract is a very good idea. Have separate contracts for different situations. •Pet puppy sales •Show puppy sales •Co-owned sales •Stud work •Leased bitch situations •Handler agreements All of these situations are much easier to work with when all details are in writing and all parties are in agreement. Make sure everyone involved understands and accepts the terms in the contract. Keep it simple and you are more likely to have success with this. Sometimes it is helpful to retain the services of an experienced canine attorney to assist you in preparing your contracts. They can make sure you have most loopholes closed and make sure that you are protected.
No matter how well prepared you think you may be, at some point if you are in dogs for long enough, you will experience some form of loss connected to your puppy sales in some way or another. It is smart to remain calm and think about the best outcome and how to achieve that outcome. Getting angry and firing off helps nobody so avoid losing your control and temper. If a contract has been broken, try to approach the person who broke the contract and see if you can amicably work out a way to repair the damage. If need be, use a trusted friend (or attorney) as a mediator. Usually things can be worked out for the best. Remember, losing your reputation, a friend or money is one thing - but possibly losing a dog or a litter of puppies is another. Try to keep the focus on the dogs. That is why we do what we do after all, isnt it? The dogs are the important thing...always. If you have done nothing wrong then your reputation will regain itself. If you lose a friend over a contract issue, then perhaps it can be worked out and if not move on. Money will be lost in dogs so dont fret over a dollar. Keep the focus on the future of the dogs themselves. All this being said, we are of course, only human and mistakes do and will happen no matter if you have a
good contract in place or a simple old fashioned handshake agreement. People bend to whims, peer pressure, knee jerk decisions or sometimes a simple lack of common sense. Very rarely is a person who breaks your contract setting out to lose your trust or purposefully go against your wishes for your dog you sold them. It is usually some other distraction that leads them down the wrong path. If you have done your job as a reputable breeder and screened your homes well, have a good contract in place and remain in contact with your pup owners - then thats usually all you can do. You cant become ‘Big Brother’ and you must have some level of trust in place. If you have been burned, try not to allow it to affect future dealings with new people you meet. It wasnt their fault you had a negative experience. Try to do a deeper level of screening and go with your gut feelings. Listen to advice from others and just put in place safety nets. Learn from your experiences and move forward. Trust again. There are plenty of worthy, happy and trusting homes out there. Find them and enjoy sending joy to them by way of a Stafford. Thank you to our followers for helping to promote health testing in the breed & raising money for Stafford rescues - Share TSK with someone! Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK! Go hug your Staffords! Lynn Caswell, Sr. Editor, Creative Director
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BACK ISSUES email editor@thestaffordknot.com for copies of articles if not linked here January 2010 Issue #1, Vol #1 Articles include: Joseph Dunn - Hints to the Novice SBT=Bulldog+Terrier February 2010 Issue #2, Vol #1 Articles include: SBT Breed Seminar, Raymond Crilly Breeders Code of Silence SBT Exhibition Center
March 2010 Issue #3, Vol #1 Articles include: Balance & Movement PHPV - Tala’s Story Demodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments
July 2010 Issue #7, Vol #1 Articles include: Dogs Who Fly - Dock Diving Judging My Way The Holy Grail How to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull Terrier Track Training - Starting Out Flyball - “Organized Chaos”
August 2010 - Veterans! Issue #8, Vol #1 Articles include: Grey Muzzles & Puppy Dog Tales Staying in the Game My Sunshine Tammy Alf May be viewed HERE
September 2010 Issue #9, Vol #1 Articles include:
April 2010 Issue #4, Vol #1 Articles include: Training Your Stafford RX For Whelping & Caesarians Forequarters What You See is What You Get What Price Glory The Tragic Loss of Bloodlines Early Neurological Stimulation & Mentoring in America A Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford May be viewed HERE May 2010 Issue #5, Vol #1 Articles include: Info on Health Testing Tan Point Markings - AKA Black & Tan Staffords in Working Trials Fibro Cartila....what? How to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge, Not Hope June 2010 Issue #6, Vol #1 Articles include: GDC Genetics Interview Balance in the SBT One By One - What YOU can do! The Disappearing Sperm SBT Breed Record Holders
October 2010 Issue #10, Vol #1 Articles include: Living With Cushings Don't Steal My Joy What is Natural Rearing Using Genetic Pedigree May be viewed HERE November 2010 Issue #11, Vol #1 Articles include: Miracles Do Happen Nostalgia The Versatile Stafford The Genetic Pedigree Arnica Montana May be viewed HERE
December 2010 Issue #12, Vol #1 Articles include: The Breed Today Puppies For Christmas Pets As Therapy Understanding Recessive Genes A Tribute To Trilby When Things Don’t Go As Planned May be viewed HERE January-February 2011 Issue #1, Vol #2 Articles include: Arthritis How Cassie Became an Australian Obedience Champion What is L2-HGA? Teaching Bite Inhibition The Truth About Vaccines The Eukanuba Experience Q&A - Toplines May be viewed HERE March - April 2011 Issue #2, Vol #2 Articles include: Cherish Every Moment Importance of Nutrition in Natural Healing What is CERF? Competitive Obedience Understanding Judging Consistency How Diatomaceous Earth Works Q&A - Underjaw May be viewed HERE May - June 2011 Issue #3, Vol #2 Articles include: Tally Ho - Lure Coursing The Topline of the SBT The Rule of Fives Interview - Norman Berry (Rendorn) Renal Disease in Canines Hereditary Cataracts in Staffords Q&A - Bites May be viewed HERE
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BACK ISSUES email editor@thestaffordknot.com for copies of articles if not linked here July - August 2011 Issue #4, Vol #2 Articles include:
Mar - Apr 20112 Issue #2, Vol #3 Articles include:
Nov - Dec 2012 Issue #6, Vol #3 Articles include:
Breed Specific Legislation Hip Dysplasia Preferred Breed Type The Problem with Dog Parks What Veterinarians are Saying About
Vaccination Reactions Can Mimic Disease Symptoms Phil Drabble Playing COI Kennel Blindness
On Balance Changing Estimates Staff Only Slipping Hocks Puppy Puzzle
the Raw Diet Interview with Tony Brindley (Cabrindle) How It All Began May be viewed HERE
Bull & Terrier Letter To The Editor: Structure May be viewed HERE
Working & Conditioning Staffords Unleashed Q&A Fighting Weight May be viewed HERE
Sept - Oct 2011 Issue #5, Vol #2 Articles include: Got Itch? The Backyard Puppy Sportsmanship, Part 1 Sportsmanship Revisited Dog Showing Q&A - Slipped Hocks May be viewed HERE Nov - Dec 2011 Issue #6, Vol #2 Articles include: The SBT Standard - A Personal Interpretation Breeding - The Big Picture Where Have All The Pure Breeds Gone? The Ostrich Syndrome Foster Mom Finds Rewards The Head of a Staffordshire Bull terrier Q&A - Hocks Let Down May be viewed HERE
May - June 2012 Issue #3, Vol #3 Articles include: SCSBTS 75th Anniversary of 1st Show Hints to the Novice: Joe Dunn Our Dogs - Review of 1936 by HN Beilby The Breed According to Fred Phillips Pictorial Early Staffords Letter To The Editor: Weak Structure May be viewed HERE
Winter 2013 (New Format) Issue #1, Vol #4 Articles include: The 5 Virtues - Lorelei Craig (Ciera) Tan Point Markings - AKA Black & Tan (Sian Hammond - Hammystaff) Judging Abroad - Chris Jacksic (Jaxstock) Reprogramming the Second Hand Dog - Erica Pardy From Clueless to Champion - Deb Roseman May be viewed HERE
July - Aug 2012 Issue #4, Vol #3 Articles include: Line Breeding - Past & Present Building Confidence Why The Shit Hits The Fan Flying Bricks - Flyball The Stud Dog Letter To The Editor: Judge Competency May be viewed HERE
Jan - Feb 2012 Issue #1, Vol #3 Articles include:
Sept - Oct 2012 Issue #5, Vol #3 Articles include:
Faultlessness vs Virtue A Dog Named Tilly BSL - Banning Lassie Meet the Breed What is Your Target?
TSK Photo Contest Sporting Bull & Terrier Klub Polska Karyn Dawes Tribute Q&A Demuxed Progression in Animal/Human
Choice of Stud Dog Letter To The Editor: Imports May be viewed HERE
Behaviour May be viewed HERE
2011 - 2012 Issues also include Illustrated Breed Standard Information on Health Testing Featured Rescues Stud Gallery Breeder Directory
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