January/February 2013
Britanee Multiple Best in Show Winning
GCH Karasar’s Remembrence
Volume Eight, Number 8
Thanks to Jack & Courtney for an incredible 2012
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She’s off and Running for
2013!
#1
Bloodhound All Systems 2012*
#4
hound
THANK YOU Judge Jon Cole, for this Specialty win!
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Kiss
GCH Quiet Creek’s Kiss and Tell
THANK YOU Judge David Miller!
Handled by: Bruce and Tara Schultz Breeders/Owners:
Susan LaCroix Hamil, Quiet Creek Bloodhounds, Laguna Beach, CA Heather Whitcomb, Heathers Bloodhounds, Canada S&S Statistics 2012
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HUGO
Otterbee’s Killian Red
Thank you Randy Garren for this Puppy Group First! 6 • Sight & Scent
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Hugo has enjoyed a great ‘coming out party’ for his first weeks of showing...including two Puppy Group 1s, 7 Bests of Breed, and an Award of Merit at the AKC Eukanuba Invitational. Thank you to all of the judges who have recognized the quality in this youngster. Owned & loved by: Sylvia Lumberg & Adrian Ghione Presented by: Adrian Ghione and Oscar Quiros Assisted by: Jacob Haycock & Remi Schmidt Bred by: Angela Constable & Mary Greaver
Thank you Virginia Lyne for this Breed win! Sight & Scent
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The Bitch is Back! BIS GCH Aspen’s A Hard Act to Follow
(BIS BISS Ch. Vin-Melca’s Top O’The Mark x Ch. Aspen’s Class Act)
Katie
Best In Show before the age of 2 # 1 Elkhound Bitch 2008 & 2009 Dam of 4 champions with multiple group placements Dam of 4 more about to complete their championships Katie will be back at the shows this spring with Jeni West, PHA. Aspen Robin & Randy Rhoden Westminster, CO
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January/February 2013 Cover Story.....................................................................11 From the Editor by Joe McGinnis............................................................ 12 Hounds Unwound by Julie Wright................................................................ 14 Points to Ponder ‘Humble Pied!’ by Pamela Peat............................................................. 18
Table of Contents
Inland Empire Hound Club Candids photos by Julie Wright................................................... 20 A Conversation with David Frei by Julie Lux..................................................................... 22 Letter to the Editor.......................................................... 27 Dancing Elkhounds by Marlene Schlichtig................................................... 31 Mountain Musings ‘Lost!’ by Sandra Murray.......................................................... 38 House Call ‘Vaccinations and When to Revaccinate,That Is the Question’ by James Sillers, DVM.................................................... 43 Judging the Norwegian Elkhound by Pat Trotter.................................................................. 49
Volume VIII, Number 8 PUBLISHER CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER PRESIDENT & EDITOR-IN CHIEF ADVERTISING CONCEPT & DESIGN EDITOR EMERITUS MANAGING EDITOR
ART DIRECTOR
Duane C. Doll Doll-McGinnis Publications Joseph N. McGinnis Jr. Printco Graphics Inc. Omaha, Nebraska Tammarie Larson Julie Wright Phone/Fax: 760.249.5958 Cell: 760.220.6816 Diane Greene-Walsh
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Janelle Beekman Lindsey Ellis
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Megan Scheffler
PRODUCTION OFFICES
14112 Industrial Road Omaha, NE 68114
PHONE
888.593.1080
FAX
402.593.1077
julie@sightandscent.net
In Celebration of Peter Belmont & His Elmo Afghans by Susan Bahary............................................................ 51 Miscellaneous Matters ‘An Interview with Laura Hesse of Laurel Basenjis’ by Claire “Kitty” Steidel................................................. 59 The Other Side of the Ridge - The Story of Baldr by Charli Ritz.................................................................. 62 Rates & Dates................................................................. 64 Business Card Directory................................................ 65 Statistics.......................................................................... 66
PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Photo by Julie Wright
Issue Highlights.............................................................. 71 Advertiser Index............................................................. 71
SIGHT & SCENT Magazine is published eleven times per year by Doll-McGinnis Publications, a division of Doll-McGinnis Enterprises, Incorporated, 8840 through 8848 Beverly Hills, Lakeland, FL 33809-1604, out of love for the sport of purebred dogs. Editor-in-Chief: JOE MCGINNIS JR. Chief Executive Officer: DUANE DOLL. Postage paid at Omaha, Nebraska. No part of this publication can be reproduced in any form without the express written permission of the editor. The opinions expressed in this publication either editorially or in advertising copy are those of the authors and do not necessarily constitute endorsement by the publishers. The editor reserves the right to reasonably edit all copy submitted. All articles submitted become the property of the publishers. Subscription for third class mailing in the United States: $60.00. Canadian and U.S. First Class: $90.00. Overseas rates upon request. SIGHT & SCENT MAGAZINE IS OFFERED AS A COURTESY TO ALL AKC APPROVED HOUND JUDGES. Direct all inquires to: Julie Wright, Manager, Sight and Scent Magazine, P.O. Box 785, Wrightwood, CA 92397,. Email: julie@sightandscent.net | Office hours: 9-5 PST Monday-Friday
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Britanee On the Cover...
Multiple Best In Show Winning #1 All Breeds AKC Owner Handler System GCH Karasar’s Jackpot, MC, CD, BN, FM, RX x CH Karasar’s Artistry (#1 Whippet AKC 2008)
GCH Karasar’s Remembrence Shown winning the Hound Group under Hound Expert Judge, Dr. Eric Liebes Co-Breeder & Co-Owner: Karen Mlynar C0-Owners: Dr. Manuel Alvarez & Dr Azalea Alvarez, Minsmere Breeder/Owner/Handler: Kerrie Kuper & Neil Barthelette
Twenty years and Five Generations of Twelve Different Multiple Best In Show Winning, #1 or Top Ten Whippets, Breeder Owner Handled... More than any other Whippet Breeder! (Canine Chronicle 1993-2012)
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BIS/BISS GCH. VIN-MELCA’S THE NORSEMAN
An elite Norwegian Elkhound
#1 Elkhound in the U.S. 2012 (Breed and All Breed*)
#14 Hound in the U.S. 2012* | #4 All Breed Bests in Show | #17 Specialty Bests in Show
All in limited showing handled by co-owners Patricia Trotter (breeder) and Jennifer Reed. A worthy representative of a purposeful breeding program! *S&S Final Stats 2012
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By Julie Wright
W
hat better way to welcome in the New Year than with a litter of Beagle puppies? I could have done without the emergency c-section on New Year’s Day as their mode of arrival, however. Luckily I was in touch with a local veterinarian who was ready, with full staff, to respond. This was my first experience with them for a c-section, although they were highly recommended by two of my breeder friends. I was fascinated to see the neo-nate technician use an acupuncture needle to stimulate breathing for the newborns. So many things have changed as newer, better techniques are developed. We no longer “swing” newborns to drain fluid, but rather hold them vertically, head down to accomplish this. Mommy and her four puppies came through it well. I spent a memorable New Year’s Day next to the whelping box, catching glimpses of the Rose Parade as it played through multiple times in the next room. I love the holiday season and am always sad to bid it farewell. It was with great sadness that we bid farewell to our beloved Peter Belmont earlier in December. His In Sight column was our most popular and well-loved feature. More than one reader has told me that they would turn to his column first, the moment their magazine arrived, to see what he was up to that month. His death was sudden and unexpected. He was a victim of murder. It appears that robbery was the motive, but few facts are known beyond this. Peter did not like funerals. He would want to be remembered for the good times and great contributions that he gave to our sport and his beloved Afghan breed. His longtime friend, Susan Bahary, 14 • Sight & Scent
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photo courtesy of Amy Peterson
“I spent a memorable New Year’s Day
next to the whelping box...”
has gathered a tribute for this issue that we hope would make Peter proud. He did not have the chance to tell us goodbye, so we are hoping this issue of Sight & Scent will provide a fitting remembrance of this dear man who will be so greatly missed by all of us. Overall, 2012 was a pretty good year – the highlight for me was this opportunity to work with Tammarie on Sight & Scent, picking up the gauntlet to carry her “baby” forward as she spends important time with her family. She had a great Christmas and sends her best to all of you. The 2013 show season started off with a series of great circuits across the country. I was able to get away from puppy-nanny duties long enough to take in the afternoon judging and the groups at the Inland Empire Hound Club all hound show in Indio, California. These show grounds with their short, level, well-groomed grass are a dream to show on for dogs and handlers alike. The weather cooperated in Southern California style with clear skies and bright sun for all to enjoy. Show Chair Jackie Wassenaar was pleased to see entries up more than 100 dogs over last year’s show. Let’s all have a great 2013!
Happy Hounding,
Julie photo courtesy of Julie Wright
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2012 was great..
looking forward to 2013!
Odin
taffy
GCH SaraNan’s The King and I 15”
GCH SaraNan’s Sweet Sensation 13”
CH Cedar ridge fall in love at Saranan x CH Saranan’s Egyptian Beauty
gCH lanbur’s Curly Joe x gCH Saranan’s Singing in the rain
Bred by: Adam S. Bryda & Sara Prideaux & Nanette Prideaux Owned by: Nanette Prideaux & Peggy Schmelkin
Bred by: Nanette Prideaux & Sara Prideaux Owned by: Nanette Prideaux & Peggy Schmelkin
with special thanks for the Help and support of Beowulf Kennel Sight & Scent
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GCH TopsfieldSanchu Eeenie Meenie Miney Moe
#1 Basset Hound #7 Hound*
*
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Breeders/Owners: Claudia Orlandi - Topsfield Bassets Claire Steidel - Sanchu Bassets Exclusively handled by: Bryan Martin *S&S All Breed System 2012 Finals
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POINTS TO PONDER
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HUMBLE PIED!
By Pamela Peat
n my article “Judging Dachshunds” in the November 2012 issue of Sight & Scent, I made some statements that the Dachshund Club of America Board of Directors has asked me to clarify and correct. In 2006, while revisions were being considered to the official AKC Dachshund Breed Standard, an attempt was made to explain and clarify the multitude of colors and patterns in our diverse breed. This was done at the request of the AKC and judges. Breeders were producing dogs “of color” such as cream, blue, and Isabella, and patterns such as brindle and piebald were becoming more prevalent at performance and conformation events at this time. The DCA membership in 2006 was polled on 15 proposed revisions to our official standard. One of these revisions was whether to include a detailed description of the piebald pattern. Enclosed with the ballot was a notice that all AKC Dachshund judges would be sent a copy of any revisions and an explanation of the changes. The membership did not approve this addition to the standard by the required two-thirds majority of votes cast, although approximately 40% did vote in favor of the change. In my article I stated the DCA Board issued a directive on “excessive white on dogs” overruling the vote of the membership. This was an erroneous statement. The Board had initially told the membership an explanation would be sent and the membership did not vote to include the description of the piebald pattern in the 2006 revisions. In fact, the letter sent to judges by the Board “strongly recommended that judges EXCUSE any Dachshund that displays an area of white anywhere other than
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on the chest and write, ‘Excused: color’ in the judge’s book.” This recommendation was based on the AKC Guidelines for Writing Breed Standards that stated “colors and color combinations not listed in the standard (specifically) are unacceptable and to be judged on that basis.” As a guideline and interpretation the Board opined that the pattern of piebald, as it exhibited excessive white, was unaccept-
able to be exhibited in conformation and should be excused. The previous explanation and correction helps to demonstrate the confusion created when the terms color and pattern are used interchangeably. These characteristics are controlled by some of the 39 pairs of chromosomes in dogs. Not to be too basic, but remember how inheritance and dominant and recessive
“In my article I stated the DCA Board issued a directive on ‘excessive white on dogs’ overruling the vote of the membership.
THIS waS aN ERRONEOUS STaTEMENT.”
The double dapple is discouraged because of the problems these dogs often have with eyes and hearing.
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“In my previous article I attempted to emphasize that conformation and temperament were more important that coat type, color, or pattern.
HOwEvER, IT SEEMS THaT cOLOR aND PaTTERN aRE cHaRacTERISTIcS MORE EaSILy OBSERvED THaN IMPORTaNT STRUcTURaL BREED ELEMENTS.” genes control the appearance of dogs? Coat type, size, color, and patterns are a result of the contribution of genes from both parents. Dachshunds have variations of all these characteristics. Breeders need to be aware of the dominance of Wire to Smooth and Smooth to Long in cross coat breeding. There are at least seven pairs of genes controlling coat color, red being the dominant color. The patterns brindle and dapple (merle) are dominant, requiring only one parent to possess the gene for the pattern to appear on the puppies. Piebald is a recessive pattern and both parents must possess (carry) the gene for pied to produce a piebald puppy. Dapple, on the other hand, is dominant. It has deleterious effects in the homozygous (two genes for dapple) state. If two dapples are bred together, there is the chance of producing double dapple (homozygous) offspring. These puppies can be blind or deaf if the dapple pattern covers an eye or ear. For this reason, it is preferable to breed dapples to solid color mates. This is why breeders need a detailed understanding of genetics as well as color, pattern, and coat inheritance in Dachshunds. Judges, however, do not need this knowledge in adjudicating in the conformation ring. They must utilize a well-written description of the ideal dog and apply their interpretation of those words to the animals presented. Any standard is open to interpretation
and that is why there are illustrated standards, educational seminars, hands-on workshops, and mentors. In my previous article I attempted to emphasize that conformation and temperament were more important that coat type, color, or pattern. However, it seems that color and pattern are characteristics more easily observed than important structural breed elements. Color may be a defining element of breed type in some hounds such as Black and Tan Coonhounds and Redbone Coonhounds, but Dachshunds are not defined by color or patterns. So why excuse a piebald due to “color” when in fact it is a one or two colored Dachshund with a pattern of white? The argument made is “excessive white is undesirable.” That explanation does not make it a disqualification or any type of a listed specific fault in the standard. Genetically, there is a difference between piebald and double dapple. The potential health issues related to double dapple patterns are explained in the Illustrated Standard and excessive white on the dog and especially the head are characteristics of a double dapple and are unwanted. The detailed description of the piebald pattern that was proposed had specific language for color requirements on the head and over the eyes and ears, thus eliminating this area of concern. In my opinion, as stated in my November 2012 article, the color and
pattern of a Dachshund have no effect on their abilities to function as designed. The Dachshund standard states “base color is immaterial” and a “small amount of white on the chest is acceptable but not desirable.” In fact, until 1992 white was listed as a base color. There are faults, minor, serious, and disqualifying, specifically listed in the standard related to bite, coat, temperament, and knuckling over. There are NO faults of any type listed related to coat color or pattern in the standard. The final paragraph states that, “Any deviation from the above described dog should be penalized to the extent of the deviation keeping in mind the importance of the contribution of the various features toward the basic original purpose of the breed.” Remember he is a hunting dog bred for below-ground work and beating the brush. White possibly makes him easier to see in the field like other hunting hounds such as Bassets and Beagles. Perhaps this confusion contributes to the decision by the parent club to revisit the piebald dilemma. A survey was initiated in the last 60-90 days seeking input from the DCA membership regarding the treatment of piebald Dachshunds in the standard and conformation ring. Therefore, judges may soon be receiving some further clarification on how the parent club wishes this pattern to be handled in the ring.
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A CONVERSATION WITH DAVID FREI
By Julie Lux
W
hile most people know David Frei as the voice of the Westminster Kennel Club and National Dog Show, David’s career in dogs spans nearly 40 years including many years as a successful breeder/owner/handler of Afghan Hounds. To this day, he enjoys “piloting” a dog around a show ring from time to time when he is not busy with his other passion, therapy dogs. Q: How did you first get into dogs? And, why Afghan Hounds? A: I never really had a dog growing up and now look at me! When I moved into my first house in college (University of Oregon), my girlfriend at the time wanted to get a dog. I asked what kind and she said an Afghan Hound. I said, what’s that? We got an Afghan Hound. Later, the girl left and the dog stayed – the right move for all of us! Q: How did you go from owning an Afghan Hound to showing Afghan Hounds? A: I did my three years in the Army in the early 70s, based at Walter Reed Medical Center outside Washington, D. C., and I met Wally Pede. It was Wally who first got me involved in dog shows. Then, when I came back West, I met Sandy Withington. Sandy’s family was very involved in breeding and showing Afghans. Sandy had grown up in dog shows and when we got married we started showing dogs very seriously together. Q: You and Sandy had one very special Afghan? A: Yes, Zoomie, Ch. Stormhill’s Who’s Zoomin Who, named after the Aretha Franklin song. Zoomie had 20 22 • Sight & Scent
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David as a NYC dog walker. If the Beagle looks familiar, that is because it is “Uno” (Ch. K-Run Park Me In First), Best in Show winner at Westminster in 2008. (Photo by Mary Bloom)
her. Zoomie went Group One from the classes to finish that day and I never got my hands on her again! It was inevitable anyway, Sandy had to be the handler, she was the talent and they were a great team; however, we campaigned her together. It was a team effort.
Top winning Afghan, Zoomie (Ch. Stormhill’s Who’s Zoomin Who). (Carl Lindemaier photo)
all-breed bests and retired in 1990 as the top-winning Afghan Hound bitch in the history of the breed. That record has since been broken once, but it was pretty special at the time, especially having been done by a breeder/owner/handler. Q: Who handled Zoomie? A: I showed her as a puppy, then one weekend I went fishing and Sandy showed
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Q: What is one of your most memorable moments in the breed? A: One of the most memorable times was winning back-to-back Bests in Show with her at Seattle Kennel Club. That was their February and August shows in the same year. It was our hometown shows and being able to do that in front of friends and family was truly special. Q: Who were your mentors in Afghan Hounds? A: Wally got me started but certainly Sandy and her mother, Gini With-
David’s therapy dog, Angel, visiting with a young lady at New Alternatives for Children. (Photo courtesy New Alternatives for Children)
“I lOVE WHAT I Am DOINg WITH my BRITTANyS AND my CAVAlIER AS THERApy DOgS.” David and his wife, Cheri, at Ronald McDonald House in New York City. (Photo courtesy of Ronald McDonald House NYC)
ington, were my greatest influences. They taught me about the breed and we did a lot of learning together while we were breeding, showing, and finishing a lot of champions. Q: Any desire to campaign a dog again? A: We recently finished our Brittany, Grace – that was so much fun as an owner-handler again, but that was enough work! The serious stuff of campaigning is
part of my past life, but I do not have the great urge to do it again. I love what I am doing with my Brittanys and my Cavalier as therapy dogs. That is truly my focus these days, with some “dabbling” in the dog show ring. Q: Have Afghan Hounds changed since you were showing? If so, how? A: I don’t know that they have changed a lot, but I do think we see much less variation of type. We went through a
spell where too many Afghans did not have substance, while at the same time we also saw very big dogs at the other end of the spectrum. I do not see those extremes quite so much anymore. Also, maybe because people are not breeding as much, we do not see as much as depth of quality in the breed, unfortunately. One thing shouldn’t change, however; I think we should always be looking for those great dogs that can do what they were bred to do. Beautiful, functional athletes, the king of dogs… they still
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APRIL 13 & 14 Back-to-Back Hound Specialties Jack Bradshaw Superintendent Closing noon, Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Back by Popular Demand! DOUBLE SWEEPSTAKES GROUPS At the HOUND CLASSIC, separate Sight Hound and Scent Hound sweepstakes groups will again be featured with the winners of each Group competing for the Best of the Best to be selected by the regular Hound Group judge. Currently recognized AKC Miscellaneous hound breeds will be eligible to compete in the appropriate Sweepstakes Group. The regular groups will not be split, but will proceed with both Sight and Scent hounds participating together. All judges for the Hound Classic weekend are hound specialists, and represent many areas of the country as well as Italy and Australia.
Friday, April 12th Independent Specialties: • • • •
Afghan Hound Club of California Orange Coast Rhodesian Ridgeback Club San Angeles Saluki Club Southern California Whippet Association (2 back-to-back specialties)
Additionally, the Ibizan Hound Club of the United States (Western Region) will consider the classes at the Saturday Hound Classic as their designated specialty. Upon completion of the specialties, Western Hound will offer an AKC Sanctioned “B” Match. First prize in this year’s Western Hound Saturday raffle is two nights’ free lodging at the La Quinta, Santa Ana, CA, for 2014 – a $200 value! The Oak Canyon show grounds in Silverado (Orange County), California are surrounded by ancient trees, a legacy from the old Spanish rancheros. Although the landscape is rural, modern amenities are a few miles from the show site. A number of well-known tourist attractions, including Pacific beaches and world-class shopping are close by.
For additional information, contact show chairs, Lou Guerrero and Hank Nave at LMGX6@aol.com, or Jack Bradshaw Dog Show Services at www.jbradshaw.com. 24 • Sight & Scent
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BISS Winning
GCH Topsfield-Sanchu
Boo
Bibidy-Bobidy-
Boo is pictured above winning an Award of Merit at the 2012 BHCA Nationals. She was also the Best in Maturity Winner in both 2011 and 2012. She is the litter sister of 2012 Number 1 All Breed Basset, GCH Topsfield-Sanchu Eeeenie Meenie Miney Moe.
Exclusively Handled by Sue Frischmann Bred/Owned by Claudia Orlandi & Claire K. Steidel Sight & Scent
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Q: Just a couple of Westminster questions: You had a very close relationship with 2008 BIS winner, Uno. What was so special about this Beagle? A: I call myself Uno’s foster father; he would come live with me when we would have events to attend, often for Angel On A Leash. There is the old saying that terriers think they own the world and don’t care if you’re in it. Well, Uno knows it is his world and he invited everyone else into it. And the world loved him. We had some great adventures together, but that would be a whole other story, as they say.
David Frei & John O’Hurley (Photo by Betsy Dallas)
hosting
the
National
Dog
Show
on
Thanksgiving
Day.
“I’m HONORED TO BE ABlE TO SpEAk TO THE puBlIC
for our great sport and our wonderful dogs.” have to make a pretty picture with correct outline and balance and breed type, but we always need to see that they can perform their function. Q: Is there an Afghan Hound you wished you had owned but didn’t? A: Other than my own dogs, it would be Pepsi, Ch. Kabik’s The Challenger. I saw him all the time since he was being shown in the Northwest and then he won BIS at WKC in 1983. Q: How did you become the host of the television broadcast for Westminster? A: We met a lot of people while were traveling around the country specialing Zoomie, including a number of people involved with Westminster. A friend who knew about my work in professional football suggested me to Chet Collier (then WKC president) and he called me when they were looking for a TV host. I did an audition and got the job. I thought it would be fun for a couple of years – that was in 1990. 26 • Sight & Scent
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Q: Your “part time” job as host of the annual WKC broadcast turned into a full time job. How did this happen? A: When I met my wife, Cherlyn, she had recently left her job with Starbucks – she had a Master’s Degree in Chemistry and was on the team that invented the Frappuccino. She was back in school studying for a Master’s in Theology. She asked a mutual friend to introduce us because she had heard me talk about therapy dogs on TV and she was considering writing her master’s thesis on animal-assisted therapy. After we married and she received her degree, she got a residency here at New York Presbyterian Hospital Weill Cornell. We moved here in 2002 and I went to work for the AKC as Director of Media Relations. A year later, Westminster offered me a fulltime position as Director of Communications. She has become a Catholic chaplain and Director of Family Support for the Ronald McDonald House, so I think it has all worked out for us.
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Q: Since 2008, two hounds have won Westminster, matching the number of BIS wins for hounds during the first 130-plus years. Do you think the 21st century will see more hounds win BIS at Westminster? A: I hope so. I am at the point in my life where I just want to see great dogs. There is no reason that a hound cannot win. So, I am going to say yes. What I would really like to see is more breeder/owner/handlers go Best in Show at Westminster. During the broadcast, you can tell I am rooting for the breeder/owner/handlers. It has not happened since Chris Terrell won in 1983 with the great Afghan Hound, Pepsi. I would like to see that happen again! Q: For a man who did not “grow up in dogs” or even have a dog growing up, you have accomplished a lot in the sport. A: My dogs have brought me a great life. I am lucky and blessed to have a job I love and grateful for the many wonderful friends I have made through showing dogs for nearly 40 years and through Westminster since 1990 and the National Dog Show since its beginning in 2002. I’m honored to be able to speak to the public for our great sport and our wonderful dogs. And as a bonus, with Cheri’s help, I am grateful to be able to give back a little through Angel On A Leash and the great therapy dogs who bring love and joy to people every day.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR:
I
Dear Editor,
n the November 2012 issue of Sight & Scent, an article by Pam Peat on judging Dachshunds contained erroneous information. Mrs. Peat wrote: “The parent club membership was polled and voted to exclude the pattern double dapple based on potential health issues. The question of banning the pattern piebald however, was rejected by the membership. The board of directors of DCA issued a directive on ‘excessive white on dogs.’ This directive indicated the piebald should not be considered for awards. The standard at no time addresses the amount of white except to say a small amount on the chest is permissible but not desirable, except on dapples where a ‘ large area of white on the chest is permissible.’ As a member of the parent club, I personally object to the board overruling the vote of the membership on this issue.” Mrs. Peat is certainly entitled to her opinion, but the facts differ markedly from her statements. Let’s look at the history. The piebald pattern has never been included in the AKC Dachshund standard, a standard that goes into extensive detail describing the colors and patterns that are acceptable in the breed. Furthermore, the pattern has never been included in any Dachshund standard anywhere in the world. In fact, the standard in Germany, the country of origin, includes as eliminating faults: “white colour, colours other than those listed under ‘Colour’.” In 2006, the membership voted on a standard revision. Members were not offered the option of banning the piebald pattern, but rather were asked whether the piebald pattern should be added to the breed standard. This was resoundingly rejected with only 42% of the membership voting to add the pattern (67% is required for a standard change). Mrs. Peat was correct about the removal of the doubledapple (double-merle) pattern from the approved patterns listed in the standard. This vote resulted in the adoption of a breed standard with
the only approved white being a small amount on the chest, which is mentioned three times as acceptable but not desirable, and a large area of white on the chest in dapple Dachshunds. The 2006 ballot included the information that adding the piebald pattern to the standard would generate a parent club communication to judges that piebald Dachshunds were to be judged on an equal basis with all others. If the pattern were not added to the standard, as was the case, a notice would be sent informing judges that the pattern was not acceptable. The notice was sent to judges in 2007 after approval of the revision by AKC. Because judges had been requesting advice on how to place piebald Dachshunds, the notice included the recommendation, approved by AKC Judging Operations, to excuse Dachshunds with white anywhere other than on the chest. Given the results of the ballot it is clear that the “Notice From the Board of Directors of the Dachshund Club of America to AKC Judges Regarding Acceptable Dachshund Colors and Patterns,” referenced by Mrs. Peat, did not overrule the vote of the membership as alleged, but supports it. The DCA Board of Directors reaffirmed its commitment to the information and advice outlined in the notice to judges at its October 2011 meeting. The notice and photos of the various patterns can be viewed at the parent club website: http:// www.dachshundclubofamerica.org.
Lisa Warren Board of Directors, Dachshund Club of America Editor’s note: SIGHT & SCENT welcomes constructive comments and criticisms on the articles we publish. It is our goal to provide a forum for thoughtful discussion of various viewpoints. • Sight & Scent
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HAIL STORM PREDICTED FOR THE SOUTHWEST
HAIL
, GCH. TIEVOLI RUMOR S OH HAIL YEAH, MW Breeder/Co-owner: Sharon Ehr
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Owner: Ken Smith, Capricious Mini Wires, Scottsdale, AZ
January/February • 2013
Presented by: Curtiss Smith
Thanks to Judges Ms. Cecilia Ringstrom and Dr. Anthony DiNardo (Group 1)
Thanks to Breeder-Judge Mary Lou Harris for Hail’s latest victory
V
Ken and the Boys are pleased to welcome Hail to CAPRICIOUS MINI WIRES and the Southwest! Sight & Scent
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Help us make YOUR breed shine for your feature issue! MARCH ISSUE WILL FEATURE: Bloodhounds Ibizan Hounds Portuguese Podengo Pequenos
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Julie Wright Managing Editor P O Box 785 Wrightwood, CA 92397 julie@sightandscent.net http://www.sightandscent.net/ 760-249-5958 (8A-9P Pacific Time, Please) 30 • Sight & Scent
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January/February • 2013
DANCING ELKHOUNDS By Marlene Schlichtig (Wil-Mar Norwegian Elkhounds)
C
photos courtesy of the author
anine freestyle, musical canine freestyle, dancing with your dogs, or whatever other name you wish to apply to this sport (or artistic expression), it is still all about having fun and bonding with your dog. It is you and your dog moving to music together. My partners are Norwegian Elkhounds and they love the music, the dance, and the sharing of time and space with me. Canine freestyle had its beginnings in Canada and Europe in 1991, and in the United States shortly thereafter. It was influenced by obedience trainers, dancers, choreographers, show business personalities, equine dressage, and even champion skaters! The sport is now global in 17 countries. I made my debut in 1999 in Delmont, PA, with my Elkie, Wil-Mar’s North Wind Spirit (Bear). Bear excelled in obedience and agility, but freestyle provided less stress and was different. I quickly learned that freestyle was about creating moves (behaviors) to interpret the music you used. Now here is where I had problems… I didn’t dance (not needed)… I didn’t wear costumes (not necessary)… and I wasn’t creative! Well that was about to change!
Dogs also have strong likes/dislikes for instruments. Elkhounds are SO opinionated! Some of the music pieces Bear performed were: “The Entertainer,” “Maple Leaf Rag,” and his complete approval went to “We Are Still Here” (American Indian). He loved flutes and drums! In fact, he ended his career choreographing about 60% of the routine himself. Bear also danced in three teams. At that time Bear was the only Norwegian Elkhound in canine freestyle. After Bear came Ch. Camalot’s Totally Majestic (Magic). Magic was a beautiful show and performance dog, excelling in
danced to “Little Old Lady From Pasadena”... what a match! I was dressed like a little old lady, complete with wig, cane, glasses, and shawl (did I say I don’t do costumes?). There was a point in the music where she grabbed my cane (trained) and danced with it! The last time we did the routine she snatched it early (not wanting to give it back either!), and proceed to dance with me right to the music! Doing spins/twists with a cane in her mouth produced some interesting visual effects! The judges were in tears from laughing so hard, and the audience cheered! We stopped at that point… it just couldn’t get better. Next was Ch. Wil-Mar’s Trade Winds (Sailor). Sailor started learning all the performance skills as a puppy – obedience, agility, rally, and freestyle – and he became my true dance partner! We did ballroom, Spanish, rock, classical, light jazz… anything I wanted to do: “Begin The Beguine,” “Fernando,” “Let’s Go To The Hop,” etc. We were hooked on freestyle! Then along came Reba (Ch.Vikrest’s Styled By Design) for the biggest challenge of my life. She was certainly different: wild, unfocused, and impatient. Reba started learning everything she would do in the future at three months old. She hated the leash, so I taught her off-leash.
“It IS yOU AND yOUr DOG mOvING tO mUSIC tOGEtHEr.” Bear and I started freestyle with the Canine Freestyle Federation (CFF) and learned the basic principles of moving a dog to music, teaching behaviors, and reading your dog for likes/dislikes. Dogs have a keen sense of rhythm – my Elkhounds have had beautiful gaits to help with flow.
obedience and agility. This California show girl did not care for freestyle, so it became a training challenge for me. What I did not realize was that Magic did not want her creativity controlled by me, a mere human! Magic had ideas of her own on how she danced and performed the behaviors. She
To my surprise she was totally committed to doing anything with me! Her first routine (about one year old) was “Let’s Get Together” which was an excellent choice. That music was all about Reba! She adores dancing! Reba has danced to: “New York, New York,” “Fernando,” “Shadow On The
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Maggie GCH CH Soletrader Maggie May
Looking back on a great year as #1 PBGV all systems and top 20 hound* Watch for ‘Mr. Wilson’ (the John Wayne x Maggie May son), Ch. M&M Fear The Beard, coming out in 2013 on the West Coast! Bred by P. Sparks & G. Robertson Bred by Donnie & Donna Moore | Owned by Donna Moore & Janice Hayes Presented by Janice Hayes 32 • Sight & Scent
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*S&S 12/31/12
InTrOdUCInG... VIn-MelCa’s elGCHase BlUe MOOn
lUna
(GCH Tioka’s American Ride X GCH Vin-Melca’s True Blue)
says... “... take it from me, girlfriend, it’s a dog-eat-dog world and you’ve gotta work that curly tail! Work it, baby!!”
Bred By:
POInTed frOM THe PUPPy Class!
Patricia V. Trotter & Judy Richardson Owned, Handled & adOred By: Cathy Chase, Elg Chase Hounds Sight & Scent
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tion requires increased skill requirements. WCFO also offers Sassy Seniors (handler 65+/dog 9+), Handi-Dandi (handler or dog with a handicap), Pairs (2 handlers/2 dogs), Brace (1 handler/2 dogs), and Team (3+ handlers/dogs). For the junior handlers WCFO offers a Junior division. In WCFO freestyle the judging is very subjective. The Beginner level requires work on two sides, a few moves, and a demonstration of your ability to choreograph to chosen music. Change of speed
“Freestyle has been a tremendous aid in
CONfOrmAtION, ObEDIENCE, AGILIty, AND rALLy.” Wall,” “Stand By Me,” “That’s The Way I Like It,” “Moonlight Lady,” and is currently developing routines to “Under The Sea” and “You Can Count On Me.” Freestyle has been a tremendous aid in conformation, obedience, agility, and rally. As a result Reba is now: UCDX, UACH, URO3, UCH, Ch. Vikrest’s Styled By Design, CDX, RE, AX, AXJ, NF, WFDX/ HTM, WCH/MF, WBB/HTM, WBM/ HTM, WDDX/HTM. Freestyle has basic moves for a dog to learn: right/left side heeling, spin/twist, backing, side-passes or laterals, weave 34 • Sight & Scent
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between legs, jumps, circles, and many variations of all of them! In the World Canine Freestyle Organization (WCFO) there is Musical Freestyle (MF) which allows anything that is safe. In Heelworkto-Music (HTM) that are no weaves, jumps, or distance work; everything must be close (no more than four feet away from handler). My Elkies have excelled in HTM as it allows the combined movement of the dog and handler to demonstrate grace and partnership. Some moves are chosen to show independent thinking and the dog’s individual style. Each level of competi-
January/February • 2013
and directions are very important. In the upper levels WCFO requires moves 360° around the handler. Scoring takes place in two modes: Technical Merit (TM) and Artistic Impression (AI). Minimum points are listed here with maximum being 10 to qualify: Beginners 7.3, Novice 8.0, Intermediate 8.5, Advance 9.0, and Perfect Dance Partner 9.5 or better. Back on the training floor… Since I do WCFO I want my dog feeling comfortable working on all four sides of me. Once my dog learns a basic move, I will take that move and teach it on the other sides at the
ABOUT THE AUTHOR : http://suite101/article/musical-caninef r e e dancingobediwww. c a ldog-
stylethroughence musisport.org
Living in southern rural Florida, my childhood was taken over by many creatures which usually ended up in my yard as pets. After training a chicken, skunk, and grasshoppers… dogs were easy and just as enjoyable. I now share my life with my husband
“It IS A GrEAt CrOwD pLEASEr At nursing homes, schools, and pet fairs.”
Bill,
sons
Billy
and
Mike,
and
grandchildren, and my Elkies! My first Elkie came into our lives in 1978 and badly needed training. Deciding to
same time. Dogs do not generalize; for example: “backing” in front of me is not the same as backing on my left or right side, especially behind me. As you go up in levels, so must your skills (dog and handler). Reba has taken the challenge seriously! I use at least 30 different verbal commands. Once she learns a concept she will apply it wherever she can! Reba and I won High Combined TM and High Combined AI TWICE at live competitions in 2012! Elkhounds, I have been told, are not the easiest breed to train. I choose not to believe this as they have shown me a great desire to learn and perform. The trick is to get them to WANT to work with you, not for you! Force is not in their best interest. Food and toys are good motivators. However, food became a distraction for Reba. I would initially teach a behavior by luring, soon to be switched to jackpotting. Reba is clicker and jackpot trained. Often her reward is “me.” The real challenge is in creating sequences of moves, and not having her throw in her favorites!
Freestyle is often used to rehabilitate rescued dogs. Since freestyle should only be trained using positive methods, it is good for any dog. It is a great crowd pleaser at nursing homes, schools, and pet fairs. Freestyle moves are great for warming up a dog for agility, obedience, and rally. We can do beautiful left-side backups in rally! For those of us that cannot walk a straight line… serpentines and scallops are great! Freestyle creates strong focus for obedience/rally. Backing is good to strengthening a dog’s rear legs and lower back muscles in conformation and jumping dogs. Teaching a dog to side-pass is great for shoulder and leg muscles, especially for agility.
join the Canine Training Association (CTA) in Beltsville, MD, in 1980, I opened another chapter in my life with dogs. I quickly became an instructor of obedience,
agility,
conformation
handling, freestyle, and a Director of CTA. As President of the Chesapeake Rock N’ Rovers (local freestyle club in Maryland), I continue to learn and share. Since I also work full time, my training time is short and Reba has taught me “What can you do in five seconds?” My dream is to someday
For more information on canine freestyle, please explore these links: www.worldcaninefreestyle.org www.canine-freestyle.org http://musicalcaninefreestyle.com http://paws2dance.com
have a happy breed champion, obedience champion, and agility champion Norwegian Elkhound. Happy Training!
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GROWING UP IN THE HEARTLAND... ...the adorable ‘kids’ of Jack and Diane... For more information on this lovely breed and available puppies contact: Vickey Murphree 602 Pegram Drive Tupelo, MS 38801-6322 IrishCords@FredMurphree.com 662-842-7154 • 662-346-6433
th en sc ch ren The Porcelaine is a F
o
un d
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we
igh ing abo ut 5 0
lbs.
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Baillie BISS Lakota’s Ghouls Just Wanna Have Fun Brown Boulders
Winners Bitch, Best of Winners, & Best of Breed at the Greater San Diego Whippet Association & Inland Empire Hound Club of Southern California Specialty Our sincere appreciation to Judge Paolo Dondina for these honors. Our gratitude to hander Shari Lee for her presentation of Baillie. Owners: Deborah Knutson & Frank B. Briscoe Breeder: Frank B. Briscoe
(DC Amberwind’s Casanova SC x DC Kimeras Sunset Limited SC)
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MOUNTAIN MUSINGS
LOST!
N
o other word so quickly sends the stomach into knots, the heart pounding, and the chest muscles constricting in dog owners. To not know where one of your dogs might be creates nightmarish visions and fearful lists of “what ifs”. Despite our best efforts, sometimes our dogs escape. If you own a hound – and those of us who read this magazine probably own more than one – then your chances of finding and successfully retrieving your hound diminish rapidly.
mark an intriguing smell and follow it to the end, which may be miles from home or from their owner. There is a good reason why hunters put tracking collars on their hounds. To complicate matters even further, many of the hound breeds do not appreciate being approached or touched by strangers, making it nearly impossible for rescue by a well-meaning citizen. To empower you with resources and practical steps to take to recover your missing hound, we are going to explore in this article and its sidebar what to do when the unthinkable happens. Two real-life scenarios will illustrate the challenges facing owners of lost dogs.
By Sandra Murray
his travels, fulfilling his historical purpose of being able to travel long distances and still remain sound. In his last escape, Nash was found over ten miles from home. To complicate matters, Nash did not trust strangers, so he would not trot right up to someone trying to catch him. In all of these misadventures, Nash’s travels took him perilously close to major southern California freeways and into canyons that had to have had resident coyote packs. Nash’s owner relates: “The first incident, someone called me (via the multitude of flyers I have placed within the surrounding area) of a sighting
“To not know where one of your dogs might be creates nightmarish visions and
feArfUL LISTS Of ‘whAT IfS’.”
Why? Sighthounds will chase anything they see moving for as long as it takes to catch it or until they stop due to exhaustion. Sighthounds then may be totally disoriented as to where their owner is, and a sighthound that does not want to be caught cannot be caught. Even worse, that primitive, independent DNA that many sighthounds carry can cause them to quickly become feral. Scenthounds will 38 • Sight & Scent
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First, there is Nash, the English Foxhound, who was co-owned with our own Julie Wright. Nash’s other co-owner believes that Nash was doomed when they gave him the registered name, “Ramblin’ Man.” At any rate, Nash lived up to his name by escaping three different times from his yard and was gone for from four days to almost two weeks on his longest “walkabout.” Nash covered many miles in
January/February • 2013
of a ‘large, hound looking dog.’ The second incident, a man called me (via his collar tag ID) and told me that Nash suddenly appeared in his backyard, a situation with which his own dog was not pleased. He was nice enough to feed him as he looked hungry and thin. Interestingly, the man did not know how he could have gotten in his yard which is securely fenced at least six feet high (though I am sure that is noth-
“If yOUr AreA ANIMAL cONTrOL AGeNcy LAckS SUch A TrAp, rAISING MONey fOr ONe TO dONATe for public use could be a great project for any or all dog clubs.
ing to stop a determined Foxhound). His best guess was that he jumped the fence from either of his two neighbors sharing the fence line or from the 163 freeway which shares the third side of his property’s perimeter. The last and final outing, he was found by a lady who called me (again, from his collar tag ID). I was shocked to find out that he was all the way in Ocean Beach, at least 10 miles from my home via freeway.” Nash’s former owner remains amazed that he was able to find the Foxhound unhurt all three times. He admits that all he did to recover his dog was put up flyers and drive the surrounding streets calling for Nash. Fortunately for all involved, a home on five securely fenced acres (from which he has not ever escaped) was found for Nash, complete with several Beagles and two children – an unusually happy ending for this perpetual escape artist. Jen Clark had only recently adopted Millie, so when Millie escaped from her new home in San Diego County, Jen feared that she would never see her dog again. Millie viewed strangers with apprehension and had not really been with Jen long enough to bond with either Jen or the physical area of her new home. Although Jen contacted all the appropriate agencies and posted flyers, close to a month passed before she received the first positive sighting from someone who had seen Millie. I need to interrupt Millie’s saga for a moment to introduce you to a resource that Jen found invaluable in locating Mille and bringing her home. Karin Tarqwyn is a private investigator whose specialty is finding lost or stolen dogs. Her website
– http://www.howtofindalostdog.com – contains the most complete and thorough information that I have ever seen to give frantic dog owners the best chance of finding their pets. One of the tools on Karin’s website is a form to determine a dog’s temperament profile, and it was from that profile that Karin suggested where to look for Millie. As Jen told me: “Karin correctly predicted that she would be in a green space area that was not frequented by humans. She was found in the canyon space by Route 8 and Route 805 in Mission Valley in San Diego.” However, confirming that Millie was indeed in the canyon was only the beginning of Jen’s efforts to retrieve her dog. Because of the trauma of being lost and on her own, Millie had become quite feral, refusing to approach any human. Humane traps were set at several locations in the canyon area, but Millie would have none of that. She had become very savvy about avoiding such devices. Jen began placing food nightly in a location in the canyon that was relatively close to Jen’s house, and Millie took the bait. Using that repeat behavior as a place to start, Jen then set up several wildlife cameras in the area as well as a high powered baby camera and audio monitor where Millie’s food was being left. After Millie’s nightly visits to eat became a predictable ritual, Jen bought a deer trap. Deer traps are much larger than a humane trap and can be camouflaged sufficiently to disguise it from the animal as a capture device. Jen chose the feeding site and subsequent deer trap site in a spot where she could reach the area in less than three minutes, once Millie was spotted on the
monitor as having entered the trap. Deer traps are not cheap. Jen paid $2000 for the one used to trap Millie, but for very shy or timid dogs, they may be the only way these animals can be captured. Jen has donated the deer trap that she bought to the local Emergency Animal Rescue for use in other such cases. If your area animal control agency lacks such a trap, raising money for one to donate for public use could be a great project for any or all dog clubs. What a wonderful way to be more visible, a more positive presence in the community to the general public! Jen remains incredibly grateful to all those who helped her in her search for Millie. She is so happy and relieved to have her dog back home with her again, and she wants to share all that she learned during her search for Millie. The sidebar that accompanies this article on page 42 contains the strategies Jen used to find Millie. She hopes that this information will help other people find their lost or stolen dogs. I have already placed her list and with Karin Tarqwyn’s website into a special folder, stored both on my computer and also in cloud storage as a backup. Hopefully, you will do the same. I have never been faced with that gut wrenching search for a lost dog, but if I do have to deal with that crisis someday, I now have the resources I need, and you do, too. Like a good Scout – be prepared!
Until next time,
Sandra
horsnhound@gmail.com Resources 1. http://public.homeagain.com/petrescuers. html – PetRescuers is a program that is part of the HomeAgain microchip company. They send out a picture of your pet with pertinent information to vet clinics and shelters around the area. They even have an app for your smart phone (iPhone and Android) that posts these electronic “lost dog flyers” so that people around the area can be alerted of the lost pet. I think this is a brilliant way to spread information – especially these days when people seem to be attached to their smart phones. 2. http://www.howtofindalostdog.com – Karin Tarqwyn is a private investigator specializing in finding lost or stolen pets. Her site includes photos of humane traps and deer traps and all sorts of cameras and monitoring equipment to find a dog. She includes “what to do” information for every conceivable situation you might encounter in locating and retrieving a lost or stolen dog. She even has trained tracking dogs if needed to help locate your pet.
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WHICH SOLID GOLD DOG FOOD IS RIGHT FOR YOUR DOG? Oriental dogs, arctic dogs and dogs from England, Scotland, Ireland and all water dogs, i.e., labs, poodles, etc., were fed fish in their diets for hundreds of years. They were also fed sea vegetation, like our Solid Gold SeaMeal. Without fish and sea vegetation, you are not supporting the DNA. The dogs will lick their feet and scratch. All Solid Gold dog and cat foods are fish-based. Our all-natural pet products are vacuum-sealed for freshness. Clip off a corner of the bag, take out dry kibble and seal with clothespins. Do not empty out bag into another container; emptying out exposes the food to air. Solid Gold is animal/chicken fat free. We use no peanuts. In the fall of 2012, some dog foods containing peanuts were voluntarily recalled for salmonella contamination. Usually peanuts in dog food are the hulls.
Barking at the Moon, 41% protein, beef and fish, low carbs. Excellent for epilepsy, diabetes, quick energy. Ideal for sporting, hunting, agility.
Hund-N-Flocken. Adult 22% protein Hundchen Flocken puppy is 28% protein. Lamb and fish. First natural dog food in the U.S. introduced in 1975. Was top seller in Germany since 1950’s.
MMillennia. Beef and fish 22% protein. Bulk-up diet. Can alternate with Barking at the Moon if dog loses weight in activity.
The Cute Story Eighteen and a half years ago, Sissy, the owner of Solid Gold, was given a Dane mix to foster. Her mother was a black Dane. Her father was a traveling man. She was about three months old. Sissy already had an adult Dane and was fostering two more adult Danes. So what’s another dog! Sissy took the little dog to the vet to get it fixed. The vet asked her name. She didn’t have one, so the vet wrote down BB for Black Bitch. She became BB. She got all her puppy shots there. A month later, the man returned to pick up the “foster.” “You can’t take my dog. She found a forever home,” he was told. BB remained with Sissy for 18 1/2 years. In November, she was taken to the vet for her 18th birthday for a wellness checkup. This was only her second trip since she never received any other shots but the puppy shots. She was fine. The vet couldn’t believe this was the same Dane mix he had spayed 18 years before. “What are you feeding?” he asked. “Solid Gold, of course, Sissy replied Six months later, BB went to sleep and crossed the Rainbow Bridge. She has been fed Solid Gold SunDancer dry dog food for the last eight years of her life, and Solid Gold Sea Meal all her life. Danes don’t live that long. BB did. You are what you eat, the vet said. How true for Solid Gold.
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Wolf King, 22% protein. Wolf Cub, 26% protein. Just a Wee Bit is 28% protein. Contains Bison and fish. Just Wee Bit for all life stages. Small kibble for small mouths. First bison dog food in the U.S.
SunDancer, chicken and fish, 30% protein Introduced in 2010. Exceptional diet for allergic dogs. We use curcumin/ turmeric, chia, quinoa, tapioca, cranberries for bladder stones.
Solid Gold Holistic Animal Nutrition Center 1331 N. Cuyamaca, El Cajon, CA 92020
Ask your local pet store for a free catalogue. If they don’t have a SunDancer catalogue, call us at (619) 258-7356, M-F, 10am to 5pm Pacific time. Or e-mail us at info@solidgoldholistic.com. You can also visit our website at www.solidgoldholistic.com.
Ben ended 2012 with a Group 3 under Judge Monica Canestrini
Ben GCh Radharc Royal St. Kitts
Whelped 1-12-2009
Thus bringing his accomplishments in 2012 to: Group 1 – 1 Group 2 – 2 Group 3 – 2 Plus an Award of Merit at the Puget Sound Borzoi Club Specialty All this as a 3-year-old, just starting his career in April 2012!
We are looking forward to 2013!
Owner: Margaret Lucia Wyvern Borzoi (est 1984) Alvin, TX wyvern@tg16.net
Breeders: Dena Thompson & Richard Terry Professionally handled & conditioned by: Shae Beck Sight & Scent
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MOUNTAIN MUSINGS, etc.
If your dog Is Lost or Stolen Compiled by Jen Clark 1. GET HELP, GET MOVING and Delegate • Start by making and putting up flyers, neon signs, and banners. Consider making business cards. • Try to cover two miles in every direction and get these up as quickly as possible. Hit places like shopping plazas, coffee shops, dog parks, gas stations, and telephone poles where cars stop near major intersections or freeway on ramps or off ramps. • Use big bright neon poster board with pet’s photo in the center – write only: LOST Dog, phone number, and possibly a website that is easy to remember for them to get your info online if they see your pet (i.e., Facebook). Stick to only what is needed to get in touch with you. • Check your neighborhood and talk to everyone about your missing pet. Your mail carrier, trash collectors, neighborhood children, people at dog parks, etc. 2. Post Information Online for FREE • http://www.craigslist.org/about/sites – Post in both the Pets and Lost and Found sections. Repost every day or every other day to keep the listing fresh. • http://www.petfinder.com/classifieds/ classifieds.html • http://www.oliveralert.com/ • http://www.petharbor.com/ • http://www.akekee.com/ • http://www.thecenterforlostpets.com/ • http://www.lostandpound.com/ • http://www.k9alert.com/ • http://www.helplostpet.com/ • http://www.swiftreport.net/ • http://www.lostpetusa.net/ 42 • Sight & Scent
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3. Check Animal Control • Ask to please see all dogs, not just the ones up for adoption. Often strays, collar or no collar, can be in isolation areas. If you do not ask, they will not tell. Check your local shelters every three days. (On days where you do not personally visit, you can check their websites.) • Local animal services may have a binder book with clear sheet covers you can put your pet’s photo and information in for others to come in and look if they found a pet. If they do not have a book, ask if you can get one to leave with your info and places for others to add in.
“NeTwOrk LIke crAzy –
send emails to friends and family and ask them to forward to others.” 4. If Your Pet is Microchipped… • Call the microchip company. Let them know the dog is missing and make sure your contact info is up-to-date. • Some chip companies will do an email alert to the people in the area who also have dogs that are chipped from the same company. The more eyes looking for the dog the better. 5. Consider Contacting a Pet Detective • http://www.k9pi.com/
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Karin Tarqwyn assisted on my search and rescue and was invaluable. http:// www.howtofindalostdog.com/
6. Post Online for a Fee (Prices Vary) • http://www.homeagain.com/ • http://www.fidofinder.com/ 7. Find Businesses to Notify • Search sites to find local pet stores, vets, etc., to notify, post flyers, email, or write. • http://local.com/ • http://www.mypet.com/ • http://www.swiftreport.net/ • http://www.animalshelter.org/shelters/states.asp • http://www.mangodogpark.com/ – Many good links and info 8. Additional Suggestions • Network like crazy – send emails to friends and family and ask them to forward to others. • Create a Facebook page and use social media to get the word out. • Contact breed specific rescue groups to see if they can help you. • Newspapers – place ad for lost and found pets, usually free to place a found ad. • Local free news or catalogs: flyer, pennysaver, or others you get in your mail. • Animal shelter directory search by state or zip code. Find a pet or list one to find a home for one here also: http://www.animalshelter.org/ shelters/states.asp • http://www.missingpetpartnership. org/ • http://www.doggiemanners.com/art_ finding_stolen_dogs.html
HOUSE CALL VACCinAtiOnS And WHEn tO REVACCinAtE, tHAt iS tHE QUEStiOn By Dr. James Sillers
O
ne must remember that there is more than one correct answer to every question asked about vaccinating one’s canine, and there is great controversy when the discussion turns to when to revaccinate you canine. Let’s start at the beginning. When a dog’s body is exposed to a foreign substance it develops antibodies against this foreign substance. In principle this is what happens when a dog is vaccinated so he is protected against diseases. The immune response is greater and lasts longer if the infectious agent is a virus rather than bacteria. Next we need to discuss maternal antibodies. Maternal antibodies provide passive immunity and are passed from the mother to her offspring by the bitch’s colostrum. The first milk that a bitch produces is called colostrum. When the newborn pup nurses, these maternal antibodies are able to be absorbed into the pup’s system, unaltered. Each hour after the birth of the pup, this transfer of immunity is reduced until the transfer is no longer possible after the first 24 hours of the pup’s life. There is an advantage pups have in being born in the environment where the bitch was kept prior to whelping versus her being moved to a new location to whelp. As adults we build immunity to the bacteria and viruses that are located in the environment in which we live. A pup that is born in the environment where its mother was kept will absorb this protective immunity by the transfer of maternal antibodies. If
photo courtesy of Ginger Bowles
“As long as the pup has maternal antibodies in its system to protect it against distemper,
tHE mAtERnAL AntibOdiES WiLL CAnCEL OUt tHE RESpOnSE tHE pUp WiLL gEt fROm tHE VACCinE.” the bitch is moved just prior to whelping to a new environment, this advantage is lost. The maternal antibodies that are passed to the newborn pup protect the pup from becoming sick until it is old enough (meaning its immune system is developed enough) to start producing its own antibodies. That is why some experts suggest revaccinating the bitch prior to her being bred, so when she whelps her colostrum will carry a higher level of maternal antibodies to her offspring. The bad news is that as long as the pup has these maternal antibodies in its system,
it is not able to develop its own antibodies against diseases. Let’s discuss this concept in simple terms. When the pup is six to eight weeks of age it is given its first puppy vaccination. In this first vaccination there is a distemper virus component. As long as the pup has maternal antibodies in its system to protect it against distemper, the maternal antibodies will cancel out the response the pup will get from the vaccine. That is why a pup is vaccinated in a series of shots rather than only once. Depending on the passive immunity that the pup has received from its mother, the age when it
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photo courtesy of Sandi Myers
photo courtesy of Michelle Johnson
“Research tells us that a pup should not have passive immunity from its mother in its system after 16 weeks of age. That is why most veterinarians recommend the
finAL bOOStER bE giVEn AROUnd tHiS AgE tO mAkE SURE tHE pUp iS pROtECtEd.” will respond to being vaccinated will differ from pup to pup. As long as the pup has these maternal antibodies in its system, it is protected against distemper. Once the maternal antibody level had dropped to zero, the pup will then respond to being vaccinated. This response is not immediate. It takes at least three weeks before a pup is able to develop its own protection (immunity) following the vaccination. Now let’s complicate this issue even further. Not all vaccine components and maternal antibodies work the same way. One example is parvovirus. Once one understands this quirk of parvovirus, one will start to understand why puppies can be vaccinated several times for parvo and still contract the disease. A pup carrying maternal antibodies against parvovirus will not develop its own antibodies against parvo. As we discussed above, the maternal antibodies (passive immunity) prevent this. However, parvovirus differs in that the antibodies not only 46 • Sight & Scent
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must be present to protect a pup, these antibodies also must be at a certain level to protect the pup from contracting parvo. This concept can be confusing, so I will use the following illustration to try to explain it. Let’s say that the level of maternal antibodies needed to protect a pup from getting parvo is 10. Once the maternal antibody level drops below 10, the pup can contract the disease. However the pup’s immune system will not respond to developing its own antibodies against parvo, following a vaccination, until this passive immunity drops to zero. This creates a window where the pup is completely unprotected against parvo and at the same time is not able to develop a protective immunity against parvo. Research tells us that a pup should not have passive immunity from its mother in its system after 16 weeks of age. That is why most veterinarians recommend the final booster be given around this age to make sure the pup is protected. Because of the passive immunity quirk of parvovirus,
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in high endemic parvo areas a final parvo booster should be given at five months of age. A thought provoking question goes back to the statement, “Some experts recommend bolstering a bitch’s vaccinations just prior to her being bred so she is able to transfer a higher level of passive immunity to her newborn pups.” Some will argue that most pups that come down with parvo come down with the disease between six and nine weeks of age. If the dam passes a lower level of passive immunity against parvo to her offspring, then the pup will be able to develop its own immunity against the disease at an earlier age. Which side of this argument you support will depend on your situation and which experts you believe. When a dog has a reaction to a vaccination, the reaction is caused by the foreign protein in the vaccine that was used to produce the vaccine. Some vaccines have proven to cause more reactions than others. Leptospirosis is one that has a reputation of causing vaccination reactions. For dogs that have repeated reactions, I would not recommend vaccinating. The potential harm to the dog from the vaccination reaction is much greater than the dog coming down with the disease that the vaccine is used to prevent. However, this causes issues because we have not kept our regulations up to date. Most boarding kennels, training classes, therapy dog requirements, etc., require proof of yearly vaccinations with no exceptions. We might find this frustrating, but think how much better we have it today compared to dog breeders 60 years ago. Most dog trainers of that era did not spend time training their dogs until they were a year of age. They assumed if a dog had not contracted distemper by that age, the probability was it would not come down
with this deadly disease. They were not willing to invest their time and money on a pup only to have it come down with this fatal disease. When I started practice in 1970 I did see a few cases of distemper. Most of these dogs had been adopted from a humane society or purchased at a pet store. Fortunately, I do not remember seeing a case of distemper after the mid 70s. We have come a long way, but today there are new issues resulting from vaccinating our dogs. There is literature that informs us that over vaccinating a dog can predispose it to autoimmune disease. There is research that supports vaccinating a pup with the puppy series followed by a booster a year later and the pup is then protected for life. If the pup is not protected, it is because of some flaw in the pup’s immune system not the vaccine. Some veterinarians recommend running titers on the routine vaccine components. They recommend only giving boosters to those dogs that do not have an adequate antibody titer. However, many of the vaccine components cannot be purchased individually, so when the dog is given
the booster it is getting the entire vaccine combination again. This is complicated when some experts tell us that some dogs can have a titer of zero and still be completely protected, while others can carry a titer and, depending on the level of the challenge, the dog can come down with the disease. I believe that everyone is in consensus that our dogs are being over vaccinated and this is causing health issues. However, our laws need to be updated. Many boarding kennels, training facilities, and therapy dogs are required to prove they have had their vaccinations yearly. With all of the changes taking place today we now speak in terms of core vaccines and noncore vaccines. Young puppies are highly susceptible to certain infectious diseases and should be vaccinated against them as soon as they are old enough to build immunity. The vaccines given to protect a pup from these diseases are called core vaccines. Canine distemper, infectious hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and rabies are considered core vaccines. Noncore vaccines include leptospirosis, giardia, coronavirus, bordetella, and lyme. Noncore vaccines are optional and should
only be given depending on the dog’s exposure to them. Those of you that follow my column realize that I write only on subjects where I have a lot of firsthand knowledge. Canine flu became an issue about the time I was retiring. To discuss this topic I contacted a couple of my Pharmacological Reps to ask for their comment. The answer they gave me will not be much help. I live in the north and when the canine flu scare started, most veterinary clinics purchased twenty five doses, waiting to see what was going to happen. The disease never materialized as predicted, so clinics did not purchase additional vaccine. Some veterinarians mentioned that they had a number of complaints of adverse vaccination reactions. This spring there are new vaccines becoming available. They will be half the dosage volume and contain less foreign protein, which should help reduce vaccination reactions. Boosters are recommended to be given only every four years.
As Always,
Dr. Jim
emu@tir.com
PRACTICAL TIP:
“This spring there are new vaccines becoming available.
The survival rate of puppies
tHEy WiLL bE HALf tHE dOSAgE VOLUmE And COntAin LESS fOREign pROtEin, WHiCH SHOULd HELp REdUCE VACCinAtiOn REACtiOnS.
that have contracted parvo is higher when the pup does not have internal parasites.
That
is another reason pups should be wormed starting at three weeks of age.
Boosters are recommended to be given only every four years.”
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Parker GCH Vikrest N’ ruskar Hy style
2012 was a ‘piece of cake’ finishing in the Top Five Breed and All-breed* just as he did in 2011! Group 4 Lake Shore kenneL CLub MrS. peGGy beiSeL-MCiLwaine Group 2 kank akee river vaLLey Mr. raLph LeMke Group 2 kank akee river vaLLey MrS. MurreL purkhiSer Group 4 Skokie river vaLLey MS. rita biddLe
Thank you to all of the judges who awarded Parker in breed and group in 2012. Special appreciation to Chris Jones for her superb handling and loving care of our boy.
We’re looking forward to a delicious 2013... 48 • Sight & Scent
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Bred & Co-Owned by:
Professionally presented by:
Vikrest Norwegian Elkhounds Leslie Forrest & Patricia Viken, AKC Breeders of Merit
Chris Jones
*S&S 2012 Final Stats
Judging the NORWEGIAN ELKHOUND By Pat Trotter
T
he Norwegian Elkhound judge should always ask the following question: Does this dog signal to me, the evaluator, that it could do the job the breed was originally bred to do? According to the mission statement of the American Kennel Club, the purpose of the conformation dog show is to evaluate breeding stock. In order for the dog show to serve its original purpose, functionality must always be foremost in the process. Consider that the breed evolved into its desired make and shape because nature cooperated with primitive hunters in picking the most able dogs that could do that job. Those dogs that excelled in the job description were usually those dogs that found it easiest to do their job because they were made right for such a task. Although breeds today have been selected for attractiveness as well, always keep in mind that breeds did not evolve to stand on the line and get their picture taken. Dogs were workers long before they became exhibits! Thus, the intent of this article is to help make “getting it right” as simple as possible. The correct name for the breed, Norske Elghund, was unintentionally, though understandably, mistranslated by our British cousins into Norwegian Elkhound almost a century ago. The actual translation is Norwegian Moose Dog. But interestingly enough, the breed in its beginning had an equally daunting job description as a bear hunter. Because bears were overpopulating Norway hundreds of years ago, they were thinning out baby moose that would grow into the staple diet of early Norwegians. In fact, the first Elkhounds to come to America were bear dogs, and my first bitch in 1949 was from a family of bear-hunting dogs. In many ways the breed is similar to the Karelian Bear Dog.
photos courtesy of the author
This photo of six month old puppies bred between WWI and WWII in England (of Norwegian stock) shows the problem breeders have faced for decades in trying to retain the purity of the breed while improving ear size and carriage.
“DOGs WERE WORKERs LONG bEfORE tHEy bEcAmE ExHIbIts!” In my youth I went bear-hunting with my elders in the Dismal Swamp and learned to respect both the courage and abilities of the breed. The actual method of hunting bear and moose does not differ all that much. In each case the dogs must often track the prey over many rugged miles before baying it up. The dog’s job is to captivate the attention of the quarry by dodging back and forth to attract and hold the animal’s attention – much like quarter horses work cattle. This allows the hunter to advance and make the kill. A dog that gets too close is himself in danger of a life-threatening charge or the opposite – the moose turns and takes off. Dogs usually work in pairs with the hunter making a choice whether to keep one on lead until the other faces the prey when both dogs can work together. What are the elements of a good hunting dog? The dog must be square, for the short loin enables easy dodging and lateral movement. Yet the dog must have easy ground covering gait that enables tracking through alternately freezing and thawing marshlands over hill and dale – covering
the miles necessary to find the game. So we are looking for a rather leggy, square, and short-loined dog with good running gear. He must be covered with a harsh, weather resistant outer coat and a soft, dense, insulating undercoat. The advent of the blow-dryer in modern times has served to compromise correct coat texture across many Arctic breeds, and judges should feel the coat to evaluate the harsh texture. The incorrect open one-texture sameness of coat lends itself more to cosmetology than does the correct double-coat, and judges must beware of falling for fluffy, pretty, incorrect coats. The black tipped outer coat and silvery undercoat combine to produce a grey dog, and good contrast of color is usually found on the correctly coated dog. So once you have this picture of a hardy grey hunting dog of square make and shape, what other elements enter the equation? Obviously breeders want the dog with the correct wedge-shaped head. A muzzle and skull of near-equal length and on parallel planes with a relatively flat skull are desired, as well as good fill under the eye. Now this sounds simple enough,
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Photos from Hutchinson’s Illustrated Dog Encyclopedia Volume I. Published in England c.1936.
“Also important is for judges to realize that showy, pretty, and cute
ARE NOt WORDs IN ANy bREED stANDARD – EspEcIALLy OURs.”
Fourwents Sigrid (Photo by Joyce Eisdale) Outstanding Scandinavian Elkhound hunting bitch from the 1930s – up on leg, square, nice head, and wonderful correct flat coat. Her topline is correct and she exhibits an excellent blend of neck into shoulder. She could use a little more bend of stifle, a little less brush on the tail, and a slightly smaller ear. Historical foundation stock had big ears, even some that did not stand, and thus breeders continue to seek a more medium ear.
yet we unfortunately see incorrect heads that are too domey with poppy eyes that protrude and/or snipey muzzles with no strength. The male must have a forceful head as this is a breed with strong secondary sex characteristics. Judges should not have to wonder if an individual is a dog or bitch. The dark oval eye and the correct ear make for a pleasing expression. The Elkhound tail is set high on a relatively flat croup and curls tightly without excessive feathering. Tails can be an area 50 • Sight & Scent
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where judges go astray, for there is a difference in tail set and tail carriage that is often overlooked. The tail set never changes – carriage does. On a hot day or with inexperienced dogs, tail carriage can be compromised. However, any dog that does not get its tail up when gaiting cannot be rewarded on that day. When you watch the dog gait from the side, you are evaluating efficiency. Does the dog cover ground easily and effortlessly? Does it carry the correct square profile accented by a strong topline in motion? On the down and back you are looking for cleanliness and soundness – no sign of lameness, no wasted motion, no interference, and driving forward on one plane. It is important to understand that it is illegal to hunt antlered game with dogs in North America. Nonetheless, dogs must be rewarded that present the correct appearance with the right athleticism and attitude – that of a hardy Nordic hunter and companion. Elkhounds have been used successfully on all varieties of game included feathered game. One hunter told me his Elkhound flushed game birds in the ditches missed by his Pointers and Shorthairs. This is a versatile breed much appre-
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ciated by all who come in contact with it. Most exhibitors are owner-handlers and some are not so skilled. Kind and understanding judges are much appreciated. Also important is for judges to realize that showy, pretty, and cute are not words in any breed standard – especially ours. Because a dog stands at attention as though mesmerized by the bait does not identify it as a potentially competent hunter. As long as the judge sees the ears one time, that is sufficient in judging the breed. Consider this phrase offered by Midge Martin, a long-time master breeder of both Afghans and Dachshunds: “Preservation is the idea, not innovation.” Or Michael Canalizo’s incisive advice handed down from the late, great Sunny Shay: “Shun the fads.” Here were two experienced successful dog experts concerned about the emphasis placed on style and flair at the expense of true hound type and correctness. Their words of wisdom should provide guidance for all of us who strive to perfect our breed – any breed! With so few master breeders today, the responsibility weighs hard on the shoulders of the judges to provide the guidance that helps us all retain the purity of our beloved breeds.
IN CELEBRATION OF PETER BELMONT & His Elmo Afghans
By Susan Bahary
I
met Peter when I was 16 and he was 27 years old. We had both purchased elegant, black Afghan Hound males from repeat litters from Coastwind Kennels around 1971. His “Graffiti” and my “Nassim” became top champions. Peter then sold me their niece, Ch. Elmo’s Pajourah, as a five-month-old self-masked crème puppy. What a thrill and grand time we had as I had the privilege of ownerhandling her to record-breaking specialty wins. Peter enjoyed calling “PJ,” who was a true showgirl, the “Marilyn Monroe of the Afghan world.” He was a great mentor, and his support and praise encouraged me to achieve success for us both. That very litter provided the basis for his success in Afghans. He had the wisdom to periodically bring in slightly different bloodlines, enhancing his line and allowing him to enjoy further success through the decades. Peter was raised in New Jersey and, at a young age, excelled at figure skating. He was also an accomplished artist, focusing on abstract expressionism and teaching art at all levels. He received a Ph.D. in art from Columbia University. He loved painting, sculpting, and teaching. Many dog enthusiasts collected his artwork. Peter bred over 185 Afghan champions, including one of the top three All-Time Sires of the Breed, BIS Ch. Elmo’s Tutankhamun. In addition, there were countless more that were by his famous dams and sires. Further, his dogs were the foundation of many successful kennels. Peter also judged in the US and abroad at many prestigious venues. Peter shared his vast knowledge with others unselfishly. His positive energy and enthusiasm for beautiful things were contagious. He spent precious time with pet owners and top breeders alike, and maintained a consistent elegant Elmo type and movement over the decades, from the
BIS/SBIS Ch. Elmo’s Tutankhamun-”Tut”-Top Elmo Stud Dog and 3rd All-time Top-Producing sire in breed (Ch. Scarabet Magic Maverick x Ch. Shikari’s Tosca Blue) Photo by GM4PhotoDesign
BIS Ch. Elmo’s Blue Graffitti by BIS Ch. Coastwind Graffitti x Khamelot’s Portia Panache. Bred by Peter Belmont and Gordon BF McDowell. Photo by GM4PhotoDesigns
golden era of Afghans through the present. He was quite discerning between the type of show Afghan that was common, thus unacceptable, and one with true type, proper head and eye, flowing movement, and proud carriage and temperament. Though he was an accomplished artist, he also loved promoting other artists any chance he could. He was always very supportive of my art. I looked forward to sharing pictures of my sculptures with him for his impressions. He was unafraid to speak and write what he felt because he knew some things had to be said by someone who cared in order to make positive changes in a breed or the dog show world. Peter gave so much to others without asking for anything in return – whether it was precious pearls of wisdom on the breed, judging fairly, breeding wisely,
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“He enjoyed life and travel and people.
Peter Belmont based his beautiful line of Elmo Afghans on the great Shirkhan. He worked carefully with both Sunny Shay and Glorvina Schwartz as a young man. Pictured here are (left to right): Sunny Shay with Ch. Rujha’s Windman of Grandeur, Peter Belmont with Ouijah of Al-Yrom (a Shirkhan granddaughter) who was Peter’s foundation bitch, and Glorvina Schwartz with the daughter of Windman and Ouijah- the homebred Ch. Elmo’s Ahdana.
taking beautiful photographs, making beautiful art, writing thought-provoking articles, or sharing a great big smile, hug, or a hearty laugh. He had a great sense of humor. He enjoyed life and travel and people. Wherever he went in the world, he was greeted with open arms. Peter came to Santa Barbara to my daughter’s wedding this past August – a precious time to see him again, and unbelievably, for the last time. To Peter: Even now, when you are no longer on this earth, you amaze me, as I read what so many of the people who knew you want to share about you. Here are their words... From Michael Canalizo There are not many associations within our breed that go back as far as the one the Canalizos had with Peter Belmont. We shared the same mentors, bloodlines, and competed alongside one another since the mid-1960s. Our own bloodlines f lowed along the same main artery and neither of us strayed far from a shared type and movement we felt the breed demanded. Peter was a strong voice in our breed and sometimes wore his heart on his sleeve when the breed went through varying trends over the years. He was a great 52 • Sight & Scent
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promoter of his dogs, and I say that with great respect, as he gave his all to those he thought would be beneficial to the breed. His generosity could also cause him great distress from dealings gone wrong… but he and the Elmo line persevered. I always trusted his line to bring in details that might be needed or lacking, and when I sent an “entry level” breeder to him, they always had great results. Peter was one of the very few that would talk to a breeder on the same plane and his input was valuable. He was one of the few contemporaries that we could consult with as he had such a broad background via the pillars of the breed and their influences. This rarified knowledge gave him an intrinsic vision that he translated into many forms. Having known personally most of the “characters” in our breed – those with a glow of color that nears brilliance, those that permanently influenced a breed, those who really had a passion for the Afghan Hound – to lose one is painful. Not having Peter to talk to or listen to will affect many newcomers and old-timers in a profound way. From Lee Canalizo Goodbye, my friend! You were a part of my life for over 50 years, before Afghans (remember the German Shepherd days in
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WHEREvER HE WENT IN THE WORLd, HE WAs gREETEd WITH OPEN ARMs.” NJ?). Once you became involved with our Afghan breed it was intense and complete. No looking back! I knew you through good times and bad times, highs and lows, both professionally and personally, but you were always a talented, passionate, and productive guy! I am so sorry your days ended in such a tragic manner. You still had so much to give. You lived your life in your own way, and there is certainly something to be said for that! Rest in peace with Tut and all of your beloved Afghans.
Peter and his brother Bobbie with their goats.
From Connie George Peter was a good friend to my brother and me as longtime members of the Afghan Hound Club of Omaha. He made it possible for my brother to have his first champion, Ch. Elmo’s Impressive. Peter was very helpful to the club, a good person, and will always be a part of our lives and our club. He will be sorely missed by all of us. From Darla Hichborn I am going to miss the best person that was ever placed on this earth besides God. He was selfless, caring, supportive, and uplifting. He always knew the right words to say to me when I was down on myself. The best mentor anyone could ever have. I love you, Peter, and you will always be in my heart. From Debbie Mathenia Tears can only say how much you meant to me. Peter loved every dog he bred, whether show or pet. They all had a place in his heart whether they were his pick or his pick
Peter Belmont, with his top-producing bitch Mult Group Ch. Elmo’s Ethiopia and Margarete Stanski. June 1999 Afghan Hound Club of Greater Chicago Speciality. “ET” lived with Peter and he adored her. He called her “Daddy’s little girl”. Photo by Lucy Orlowski.
for you. I am glad I was part of that. When I saw him he would say, “What do you think about that dog?” We critiqued together. He was the best mentor in the eight years I knew him. I am glad he thought the last litter we bred together, with Machie and Amy, was great and he loved all the dogs. Peter always opened up his mind to what others were doing – he was not kennel blind and he helped many along the way with the lessons he learned. I will sorely miss him for the rest of my life. When we visited we always had a great time and many discussions on dogs. He was a true friend for us.
Peter and ‘Rico’ Ch. Elmo’s Fellini of Cher-A , Bred by Peter and L. Montavan.
From Kim Smith, T’mojo Hounds In a recent article Peter wrote for Sight & Scent pertaining to breeding, Peter wrote of how, in the last generation of successful breeders, it was difficult – nearly impossible – to glean information and help from those producing top dogs. I found this true until I met Peter. A different approach, void of self-gratification, his philosophy was to breed moderate dogs that produced unmistakable type. Peter enjoyed the top breeder spot for years, but he shared his knowledge and dogs with all, a delightful experience! When my Tutankhamun daughter was not able to produce, I was “out” of Afghans. Owing me nothing, Peter emailed me, photos included, saying he had a gift for me, my choice of two silver blue puppies. Now known as Ch. Cindaw’s Earth Angel of Elmo, Phaedra has produced an entire litter of champions from one breeding. As I struggle with his untimely passing, my tribute is to share this story of his generosity. I love you, Peter. From Sylvia Lumberg Peter’s longtime friend, Sylvia Lumberg, has happy memories of the year she and Peter attended the Garden together. He took her on a tour of New York City that included the Public Library and Katz’s Delicatessen, along with other places most people would never think to go. They chuckled together, as they sat in the lobby of the historical Pennsylvania Hotel, at the contrast of the well-dressed hotel guests versus the dog show folks arriving in their
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sweats and tennis shoes, pushing carts and crates into the lobby. She remembers Peter saying that Afghans are a very primitive breed in nature. He advised that even the sweetest of companion Afghans, if lost, will immediately revert to a wild state and go into survival mode, and survive. He was a dear, kind friend who always made her feel special. From Margarete Stanski Peter was so knowledgeable about the Afghan Hound in his breeding and judging. He knew what he wanted and usually found it. We had many telephone conversations and he knew how much I loved Tut, so when he had his first litter of Tut puppies, he sent me one of his blue boys as a gift, Ch. Elmo’s Lapis Lazuli, “Rocky.” Peter always was ready to help in any way he could and his generosity had no borders.
Ch. Elmo’s Dar Es Salaam. A Top producing Elmo dam and Top Dam in Breed for two years. Bred by Peter and L. Montavan by Ch. Shylo Darktown Strutter x Ch. Elmo’s Trinity Terriffik.
Peter’s top-winning dog of the past decade: BIS Am. Can. Mex. Ch. Elmo’s Men are from Mars, “Machie”.
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“Born with a great deal of talent, working hard to bring it to fruition, Peter created
THE LIFE HE WANTEd TO LIvE.” He invited me to stay at his beautiful and interesting house, and it was one of the best visits I ever had. We went to every museum, art exhibit, dog and horse show in one weekend, plus had wonderful long talks. He gave me one of his paintings, which I admired, and it is now gracing my bedroom wall to enjoy every day. I will miss his phone calls, which always started, “Hi, this is Peter,” and of course I knew which Peter it was. From Rose Mary Bridges Zednick I met Peter in the mid 70s and was fortunate to have used his handsome Ch. Coastwind Graffiti. My first home bred champion was from that litter. For me I think that one sentence describes Peter: He always remained true to himself. You will be remembered and missed Peter. From Lucy Orlowski, Mahar Afghans As a fellow educator, Peter knew how valuable it would be for me to join him at the Kansas City dog shows for my spring break 25 years ago. I asked that week, “Why are you so gifted?” Well-schooled in the social sciences, archeology, travel, and a specialist in the fine arts and Afghan Hounds, I thought of him as a modern day Thomas Jefferson, with the exception of violin skills. But humbly, he did not give me a direct answer. Peter’s writings exploded after he resigned from full-time teaching in 2000. All of us have been enriched for years by his opinions, most fondly in the recent evolutions series and his monthly IN SIGHT column. Presently, he was reading up on the culture of Hungary to prepare for this spring’s World Show in Budapest. He had asked me for a reading list so that he could participate with that ELMO enthusiasm!
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Born with a great deal of talent, working hard to bring it to fruition, Peter created the life he wanted to live. I am ever grateful that he chose Afghan Hounds as his breed and included me as a close friend. From Patrick C. Byrne Known to most of the dog world as a breeder of a long line of remarkable champion Afghans that stretches back over 40 years, Peter was equally as gifted in the world of the arts as he was in the ring. Growing up in his father’s New Jersey music store gave him a deep appreciation of music, which in turn led him to figure skating as a teenager. No less than the iconic skating star Dick Button spotted Peter’s talent mentored him as a young man. Always in search of new avenues, Peter discovered the competition of the dog show. Some early breeds that briefly caught his fancy were German Shepherds and Yorkshire Terriers. After being introduced to the Afghan Hound, what followed became part of his legend. Among his earliest mentors were the legendary Sunny Shay of Afghans of Grandeur and the brilliant and eccentric Joan Brearley. Peter soon divided his time between garnering a Ph.D. in Art from Columbia University and continuing to show and breed dogs. He studied Egyptian art in Cairo with a two-year grant, followed by another year’s grant in Mexico City. Upon graduation, he was listed in America’s prestigious list of the top 400 graduates. His unique contribution to the world of dog art bears the stamp of a true master in its immediately recognizable style. For the next four plus decades, he established an Afghan Hound kennel under the Elmo banner, garnering an enviable list exceeding 185 home-bred champions and one of the top three Sires of the Breed, BIS Ch. Elmo’s Tutankhamun.
“At 69, Peter was still contributing to our breed in all of these ways in addition to
judgINg, CREATINg HIs ART, WRITINg ARTICLEs, ANd MENTORINg ANyONE WHO AskEd.” ued relevance was his accomplishment as the top Afghan breeder in the country for 2011. The most that any of us in dogs can hope for is to have had a positive impact on the breed and have left our mark and had some influence in the breed’s direction. Peter did this in spades and the look that he created and the name ELMO will forever be part of our breed in this country. I will miss Peter and the fancy is a little more mundane today in his absence.
In recent years, he had cut back on his assignments as a judge in this country to expand his judging expertise to Europe and Latin America. As is so often the case with talented people, he was both deeply admired and controversial; something he always found slightly amusing. He will be deeply missed by those in the Afghan Hound world, as well as by so many he met and mentored across the dog community. From Susan and Dennis Sprung Peter proved his reputation in the whelping box over a period of more than four decades, always staying true to HIS vision of type, without compromise. We met Peter in the early 70s when he owned a lovely black bitch, Elmo’s Ahdana, and we became instant admirers and friends. Peter lived in our area before relocating to Kansas, so we were able to observe his dedication to the breed, close up and personal. Although Sunny was loath to compliment many other breeders, she always had admiration for the dogs Peter produced, as did Roger after her. We also recall Bob and Babbie showing him equal respect. Peter was a showman, perhaps a bit eccentric according to many in the breed, but a true character. We loved him and his untimely passing was startling. What we will hold dear are the good times. Dennis was asked to judge the Sighthound group at the World Show in Mexico City a few years ago and, although many fine exhibits were shown, it was his honor to award the group to the lovely Elmo Afghan Hound, with none other than Peter at the end of the lead. It is a wonderful memory that we have of him. We will miss you, Peter.
Canadian Ch. And AKC Grand Champion Elmo’s the Martian Chronicles”, “Martin”. #3 Breed and #6 Afghan Group System for 2012. Owned by Catherine Harker. Bred by Peter Belmont and Alice and Jerry Hastings.
From Steve Fisher, Shylo Peter’s unique flair and dramatic style were evident in his advertising, articles, art, and the dogs that he bred. Peter brought color to every conversation and situation. In a world filled with regular dogs and people, his eccentricity was admirable. Peter always had a clear vision in his mind’s eye of what an Afghan should look like. I think that time will show that more than anything else this was his greatest legacy. I can count on one hand the number of current Afghan kennels that consistently produce a specific look that they are known for. Elmo achieved this. Like his artwork, you can usually tell an Elmo dog from twenty feet away. Peter managed to stay relevant after almost 50 years in the breed. This is remarkable. Many “experts” in the breed “used to” breed, “used to” show their own dogs, “used to” be involved in clubs. At 69, Peter was still contributing to our breed in all of these ways in addition to judging, creating his art, writing articles, and mentoring anyone who asked. Perhaps the most obvious proof of Peter’s contin-
From John Roger Morton, Jorogz’ Afghans Reg. Peter offered the Afghan world so much that can be learned from, revisited, and possibly implemented into one’s own breeding program and goals. He was one of the very few Afghan breeders that established a line and maintained it for decades, proving time and time again that his dogs can win, have won, and will continue to win in strong competition. Like an art form, he perfected adding, deleting, and intertwining dogs within his family to continue his line. As a longtime breeder, I know the importance of pedigree and how difficult it is to maintain a line that adheres to the standard, maintains correct health attributes, temperament, and possesses those traits that set a line apart from others distinguishable as one’s own. What a tribute to Peter when a spectator says without looking at a catalog, “That must be an Elmo dog!” When I decided to obtain my judging license for Afghans, Peter said to me right before one of my first assignments, “John, you are going to judge in the ring just like you judge your own dogs and pups in your
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own backyard.” I have always remembered this every time I judge. Peter told me about when he was working on his doctorate in a pottery class: The professor told the class to bring in their most prized completed piece. The following day the class placed them on the table and took their seats. To their shock and dismay the professor began the class by throwing all the art objects onto the floor and destroying them. The shocked students listened as the professor told them, “Don’t ever put your entire heart, trust, and future into one piece! Without it you have nothing.” Peter told me that this is exactly how he breeds Afghans, “Don’t ever put all your success and production ability into one dog. Always have a variety of avenues to work from and directions to take. If one dog does not work out, you always have many other dogs to work with and possibilities to consider.” This story has had a big impact on me. If you look at Peter’s pedigrees, you can see how important this philosophy has been for him. I will miss Peter, I had just assumed he would always be there…
Ch. Elmo’s Dream Boy, “Dreamer” Winning Best Of Winners 2012 National Specialty weekend. Bred by Peter Belmont and owned by Peter Belmont and Philip Martin.
From Jerry and Alice Hastings Peter Belmont – how do you sum up a life as full and as varied as his? He loved teaching, whether in a classroom or at a dog show. He was always willing to show you something, to teach you how to look at something: “Come here! I HAVE to show you this.” He always wanted to improve – himself, the breed, his dogs – and was never satisfied with mediocrity. “I can breed a bet56 • Sight & Scent
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ter one.” His success can best be measured by the success of the people that had his dogs. He will be sorely missed, more so as the years pass and we all realize what we have lost. From Cathy Chase A relative “newbie” to Afghans, the Afghan Hound Club of Omaha asked me to judge puppy sweeps, and Peter was the first to “throw at me” mounds of breed information. When I saw an Afghan litter that Peter and Patrick C. Byrne co-bred with Michelle Dyer, it was love at first sight (hound)! Peter lived close by, so “Zephyr” and I would visit often to learn the art of handling, grooming, training, judging, and, yes, art! We spent many Sunday afternoons sipping mimosas, discussing the breed standard and history. Peter was so generous with his time and knowledge. I can still hear his voice on the phone, “This is Peter…,” calling after every show to see how Zephyr did, always full of encouragement and support. I now have a blue male from Peter’s last litter. “Gun’r” gets extra hugs as he is my treasure that Peter has left in my care. The world of dogs and art will not be the same without him, but he has left “paw prints” behind for us to cherish.
Peter’s friends loved him deeply, and those that he loved he held even closer. In 2008, Peter emailed me some photos from a dinner party we attended at his home. He was a very sensitive person, and he wrote that he was still sad at the loss of his longtime partner who had helped build their success. He wished that he was still there to enjoy them with him. A large void has been created with the passing of Peter Belmont. He believed in producing beauty and excitement in life. Gene and I were so lucky to have shared in a small part of his life and cherish our friendship with him. We love and miss you, Peter.
From Bob and Jane Forsyth It was with great sorrow that we heard of Peter’s demise. Having known him first as a client then as a friend of many years, it is extremely hard for us to accept the fact of his passing. A true gentleman and credit to the dog sport. His articles, whether you agreed with him or not, were always thought-provoking and interesting. Interested in all facets of the sport, his true love was the Afghan and his bloodlines are behind many of the top hounds of today. The sport has lost a man of many talents and we, as many others, are going to miss him.
From Heidi Swanson Cole When Peter and I first met in 2005, he sat with me ringside showing me his book of dog photos – all incredible influences on the breed, bred by Elmo. The following year, he sent me a video of puppies that included a stunning blue dog. His name was “Machie,” a dog Peter was planning to send out of the country. Luckily for me, Peter recognized my commitment to this young dog and sent him to Florida for me to campaign. He hit the ground running, quickly winning groups under well-respected judges. He became Peter’s biggest winner for more than the last decade. A son of Ch. Sabra Stripe Up The Band and his beloved Ch. Elmo’s Ethopia, “Machie” became a multiple group and Best in Show winner. I remember how excited Peter was when he flew with Machie to Mexico to the World Show where he secured his Mexican championship and won the highly competitive hound group under Dennis Sprung. Machie exuded the Elmo style, type, and what Peter would often call “high elegance.”
From Eugene Blake and Julie L. Mueller I have tons of emails from Peter. We talked about almost everything. He was many different things for many people, and anyone who met Peter for just one minute would remember him for the rest of their lifetime.
From Catherine Harker Peter was a good friend to me. We each understood what the other was trying to accomplish after so many years in this breed that we both cherished. Being a traveler and having an artist in the family made it even better, as we could discuss and do something other than dogs.
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“...He taught me so much
ABOuT APPRECIATINg LIFE.” I could not ask for a better friend, breeder, supporter, or mentor than Peter. He did more for this breed than just breed good dogs – he has kept it alive as he thought it should be, in his art and his support of new owners and breeders with one of the last “signature lines.” He will be greatly missed. Our Am./Can. GCh. Elmo’s Martian Chronicles (Martin) reflects “Elmo” and Peter with pride. From Frances Colonna When my old Elmo dog had to be put down recently, I called Peter and told him that my husband was in tears at losing his dog. Peter said, “Do you still like the cream puppy?” When I said, “Of course,” he said, “Come get him!” That is our “Gucci,” whom we adore. I knew Peter for about 30 years. He lived about 10 miles away. I frequently took a grandchild over there to play with the dogs while Peter and I talked about art, pedigrees, judging, or whatever took our fancy that day. I got my first Afghan from him in 1988, Ch. Elmo’s Trinity’s Touchdown. He was a wonderful selfmasked cream dog and cheerfully tolerated all the indignities that small children and smaller dogs can inflict upon a larger animal. Peter and Patrick Byrne always came over here on Christmas day for dinner and an evening of general talk. Sometimes we never got away from the table until all the candles burned down into just puddles of wax. Peter was a kind and generous friend with a wealth of knowledge about Afghans. He had the breeder’s knack of knowing which pedigrees/dogs to put together to ensure a steady stream of lovely, correct dogs. I am amazed at how easily I can still pick out a dog with Tut behind him, sometimes several generations back, when I judge. He was a good art teacher in the Wyandotte county schools until his
Mult SBIS/Gr Am. Can. Ch. Elmo's Pajourah "P.J.": All-time top-winning Elmo bred bitch. Bred by Peter Belmont and Gordon BF McDowell by BIS Ch. Coastwind Graffiti x Khamelot's Portia Panache. Photo by Said Mughabghab.
retirement, a gifted artist in his own right, and a treasured friend. Christmas just was not the same this year. From Jen Trinque, Ashante Show Dogs Peter was more than my mentor in dogs; he taught me so much about appreciating life. He was open, funny, and someone I turned to for so much more than dogs. Dogs brought me to Peter, but it was his spirit and friendship that kept me in constant awe of him. He would not only offer to come out when I was having a hard time, he would actually get in his car and drive up here! I met Peter shortly after my father had passed away, and he was a rock for me. He was my friend and father when I needed it and my guide in the dog world. His loss has left an emptiness that is beyond comprehension. I miss him every day, and not a minute goes by I do not think of him. I often think to myself, “What would Peter say or think?” I will never forget him and he will always be here with me. He will live on in his teachings and dogs that he entrusted to me.
From Robert Godfrey Peter was so proud of our young dog “Nero,” Ch. Rigimes Thriller of Elmo, and felt he is what the breed has been lacking. He said he had the arrogance and the stature of a true aristocrat. Peter would always say Nero was a true King of Dogs. From Luiz Aoki, Brazil “Saudade” (saw´dadgi) is a unique Portuguese word that has no immediate translation in English. It describes a deep emotional state of nostalgic longing for an absent something or someone that one loves. It often carries a repressed knowledge that the object of longing will never return. A stronger form of “saudade” may be felt toward people and things whose whereabouts are unknown, such as a lost lover or a family member who has gone missing. Saudade was once described as “the love that remains” after someone is gone. This was the year that Peter was supposed to search for a condo in Brazil for his “retirement.” I doubted that he could ever retire… people like him never retire… they are constantly updating themselves and sharing the greatest of experiences with others. On his very first trip to Rio de Janeiro,
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I had booked him a hotel in a conveniently located area, close to Copacabana Beach so he could be safe to explore and enjoy the beautiful beaches. Once he was settled, I felt secure that he was safe, but it was one of my daily tasks to check on him to make sure he was having a good time. One day he disappeared… the front desk at the hotel said he left early in the morning and did not return. Needless to say I was worried sick about him. Here in Brazil, one has to wait 24 hours before someone is reported missing for the authorities to take action. Well, the next morning he called… he had rented a car and drove to another city so he could explore the area. Even some Brazilians do not drive in Rio de Janeiro, let alone a foreigner that did not speak the language… but that wasn’t just anyone, that was Peter Belmont. He is now gone… SAUDADE. Saudade of his humor, of his laughs… saudade of our long, frequent conversations… saudade of Peter Belmont. Saudade, Peter. Saudade! From Anna Stromberg, South Salem, NY I first met Peter on my knees. Yes, I was sitting in front of Ch. Tryst of Grandeur after he awarded her BOB at the Trenton Dog Club many moons ago. Since then, our paths crossed for the past 20 years at dog shows, and I never missed an opportunity to show to him. I once dressed in a poodle skirt, Mary Janes, ankle socks, and my best 1950s outfit, and he loved it. I did not win, but he chuckled and wanted a picture! Peter was the most passionate educator I have ever met, and whether you agreed with him on a topic, or not, you had to admire the passion with which it was told. Peter had a colorful persona. He once sent me a glass Afghan statue he designed as a thank you for an article I worked on with him and the note said: “Remember! I will be gone one day and someone else needs to educate the masses!” Fondly, Peter and I found it amusing at the time. I did not realize then, because Peter was somewhat immortal to me, that it would come true. Last fall, Peter, myself, and others tried to help a mutual friend with a dog 58 • Sight & Scent
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in Europe that had a broken leg. We were relieved that, through a miracle and Peter’s ability to make everyone smile, the dog’s leg was saved. I last saw Peter after judging his “Dream Boy” with Peter piloting him in sweeps at the national in October when I awarded him the class. Afterward, Peter thanked me, saying it was an honor to show to me. I told him it was an honor to have him in my ring and that I would never forget it. We went down the stairs talking about his dogs and how we both felt. As I was leaving the following afternoon, Peter came running as I was boarding the bus to the airport, shook my hand, and told me to always stick to my guns and that he had high hopes for me. I hugged him and said thank you and see you soon. But then he was gone forever. Phillip Martin shares that Elmo’s Dream Boy is a young black dog he coowns with Peter. They met many years ago at a show where Philip, a noted Doberman breeder/exhibitor/judge, had won BIS. Peter finally felt Dream Boy was that very special dog for Philip. Peter was a friend, mentor, and inspiration for him. Peter felt that Dream Boy had a promising future ahead of him and knew Phillip would do all he could to make that happen. From Susan Bahary Peter once told me that he felt fortunate to have lived past 50 because so many great people never made it to 50. I look at Peter’s life of nearly 70 years and I see a life we can learn from – someone who worked hard to make a good life for himself, who excelled in something he had great passion for, who lived life fully and with joy, and who was a caring friend. Some were envious of his success and focus through the years, and enviable it was, indeed, as he made a huge mark on the ancient breed he loved so much. He has passed the torch to the rest of us now to carry on his good work. I visualize Peter in a beautiful silver cloud with his regal Afghans dancing around him. Peter, we will honor you by celebrating your life and the beauty you have brought into our world.
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Memorial
DonationsThe
The AKC is honored to accept the fine art acrylic sculpture “Affinity” by
internationally
acclaimed
sculptor Susan Bahary in honor of Peter Belmont, for their permanent collection.
This
21"
high
Afghan
Hound sculpture, won the People’s Choice Award at the Art Show at the Dog Show in Wichita in 1990, at the start of Susan’s art career, after Peter encouraged her to submit the entry. It will be displayed prominently at the AKC’s NYC offices. Donations are being taken now by Susan to help pay for a casting of this timeless tribute to the Afghan Hound plus a lighted stand for it. Please help us honor Peter’s life by making a contribution of any size toward this unique and lasting memorial. Make
checks
out
to
Susan
Bahary (805.967.1463) and mail to: P.O. Box 61703, Santa Barbara, CA, 93160. Or donate via PayPal at: mail@ baharystudios.com. Please note ‘Peter Belmont’ on your check or PayPal.
Donations of $100 or more will be acknowledged on a plaque to accompany the sculpture. Any funds collected in excess of the costs will be donated to Afghan rescue.
MIscELLANEous MATTERs AN INTERVIEW WITH Laura Hesse of Laurel Basenjis
W
By Claire “Kitty” Steidel photos courtesy of Laura Hesse
hen we see a beautiful dog in the ring or in a photo, rarely do we think of all that has gone into producing that specimen. Today many people just want that winner, no work. They are not aware of the planning, the pedigree study, the nurturing of sire and dam, the hours in a whelping box – the extreme effort that goes into creating a lovely specimen, let alone establishing a bloodline or breeding program. Where do our good breeders come from? Some breeders grow up in the sport; others sort of fall into it. There is always a story behind that beautiful dog in the ring, but it is rare that we have the opportunity to learn the story. It was my pleasure to interview Laura Hesse of Laurel Basenjis in Wisconsin, who has had a unique experience during her 40 year involvement with the breed. Her story shows what an extraordinary love of Basenjis and determination can do. 1. Please provide a little background on your admiration for the Basenji. When were you first attracted to and inspired to own a Basenji? I grew up in a dog-loving family – mostly Beagles. When I was 10, I was given my first very-own dog, a Chihuahua. Ultimately, Chilipepper is the reason I have Basenjis today. My father was very sound sensitive and had heard of this exotic barkless dog from Africa. After living with a very yappy Chihuahua, that sounded like nirvana to him and he found his first Basenji. Unfortunately, they tried to put her in a basement kennel overnight and
she howled! So, my parents found another home for her, but tried again. This time they took Pharaoh to bed with them – he never howled and lived a good long life with them. Eventually, my parents acquired Pharaoh’s mother and raised a litter of Basenjis. My first Basenji was from that litter. 2. Why do you think you never strayed from the Basenji? What is it about the breed that has you captivated?
The Basenji breed pretty much fell into my lap. However, I have never considered another breed. Of course, I love the fact that they do not bark and never have a doggy odor. More importantly, their personality fits me to a tee. I love the independence, the charm, the guile, the playfulness. They are cuddly lap-warmers in the house and great hiking, running, or biking companions outdoors.
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3. Who was your mentor? What did he/she impart to you? Lu Hewes, Dokhues Basenjis, introduced me to the world of dog fanciers. Back in the fifties when I was growing up, we knew nothing of “reputable” breeding or dog shows. My parents were what would now be called backyard breeders – Beagles, Chihuahuas, Basenjis. These were all our pets, but we were glad to raise a litter of puppies now and then. Lu introduced me to a very different world view. With her encouragement, I became a member of our local all-breed dog club, Badger Kennel Club; our local Basenji club, Basenji Club of Wisconsin (now Basenji Club of Southeastern Wisconsin); and the Basenji Club of America. I started training in obedience (Naughty Nellie, CDX – highest scoring Basenji the year she completed her CDX title) and moved on to conformation. The first dog I handled to its championship was Ch. Dokhues Rip Van Wrinkles, a dog that I became acquainted with through Lu and showed for his owners. His daughter was my first home-bred champion (Rip x Nellie). Badger Kennel Club has also been a major influence. Through the club, I met other dog enthusiasts – breeders, trainers, and exhibitors. In addition to their obedience and conformation training classes, BKC also led me to many seminars. I have attended seminars to learn about dog structure, selecting puppies, exhibiting, etc. Dog clubs have a major role to play in educating dog-lovers. The Basenji clubs (BCOSW, BCOA) and the Basenji publications, the “BCOA Bulletin,” “The Basenji,” and more recently, “The Modern Basenji” are also invaluable conduits to the Basenji community. These days the web is a truly amazing 60 • Sight & Scent
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resource for information on Basenjis and connection to Basenji communities. 4. I am told you have been quietly breeding quality Basenjis for many years, how many? My first litter was born in 1972, so I have been breeding Basenjis for 40 years. My first home-bred champion was from that first litter. Since then, I have bred less than one litter a year. I hit a snag when I found dogs with Fanconi in my line. I bred to an African import and took some time to get back to show-quality dogs. For many years, I have only bred dogs five years old or older and only outcrosses, trying to avoid breeding Fanconi-afflicted dogs. More recently, I have
had two all-champion litters and littermates who won WD and WB/BOW at the 2011 BCOA National Specialty. That was very exciting! I am still on cloud nine. My next ambition is to campaign a special. I have never done that before and am hoping to do so when I retire later this spring. 5. Is there something you feel you have paid attention to that many breeders do not today? How has that helped you develop your successful bloodline? I concentrate on movement. I want a sound dog above all. Then I look for breed type. Lately I have been concerned about toplines in the breed (both standing and moving) from blend of the neckline to short level back to high tailset. I would also like to see better shoulder angles – fewer
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“terrier fronts.” Of course, every breeder’s dream is to produce both beautiful type and sound movement in one perfect dog. It is an elusive, but compelling dream that will keep me breeding Basenjis as long as I am able. 6. You have had a mentor, but what else does it take to see progress? Individual responsibilities? What advice do you have for new breeders or anyone involved with your breed to develop a program? • First, be patient. Not many of us can breed enough litters to progress quickly. • Learn what makes a good dog and a good Basenji. Attend every seminar you can. Read books. Go to specialties. See as many Basenjis as you can. Handle your own dogs in the show ring. Go to conformation classes (I still do, after more than 40 years). Listen to other fanciers (sometimes with a grain of salt, but you can learn from what they are saying even if you do not always agree with them). • Learn about Basenji (and dog) health issues. Do the genetic testing: Fanconi DNA, CERF eye exams, OFA hip dysplasia, OFA thyroid, hemolytic anemia DNA. • Be honest with yourself. Know both the assets and the deficits of your dog so that you can select the best pairings. • Expect and accept setbacks. Sometimes that “perfect” pairing is not so perfect. The year that one of my litters gave me WD and WB at the national specialty, my other litter gave me bad bites and the worst dam I have ever encountered. • If you are going to breed, be prepared: • It is expensive, if you do it right. • Sometimes things go terribly wrong. • It is not always easy to find good homes for your puppies. You may have them for a long time.
“You will love a Basenji if you can love
HIs MIscHIEVousNEss, HIs pLAyfuLNEss, HIs cHARM, HIs dEVoTIoN To THE fAMILy...” • You are responsible for the puppies for the rest of their lives. Your contracts should include a promise to take back any dog, at any time, for any reason. And you need to be able to keep that promise! 7. You have also given back to the sport and the breed. How are you involved with your national and local clubs? I am currently the treasurer of the Basenji Health Endowment, vice-president of the Basenji Club of Southeastern Wisconsin, and a director on the Badger Kennel Club (BKC) Board of Directors. In the past, I was the treasurer of the Basenji Club of America for five years and have served BKC both as a member of the board and as treasurer. I also teach conformation classes for BKC. 8. What breeding system works best for you? What breeding strategies, principles, or rules do you live by? I breed because I love puppies, and to provide dogs for my hobby – showing dogs. I want to produce dogs of good temperament, good health, and good quality, in that order. Because of the Fanconi in my line, for many years I have bred only dogs over five years of age and only outcrosses to lines
with minimal Fanconi. It did not always work, but I think that I minimized the number of Fanconi dogs I brought into the world. Thankfully, the recent discovery of the Fanconi gene will now allow me to breed younger dogs and to do some line-breeding, although I will continue to outcross to dogs that offer what I am looking for. I do not breed to the closest male, or the most famous, just to a male that has what I want with breadth and depth of the same in his pedigree. Unfortunately, I do not see every dog in the country, so I have to rely on dog shows, especially the national specialty, to find these dogs. Pictures and word-ofmouth are not good enough. I have to see a dog in person to know whether it meets my needs. I hope that I have developed a pretty good eye by now, but I am always working to improve it. If a dog flunks a genetic test (hip dysplasia, thyroid, CERF, HA), I do not breed it. I can now breed Fanconi carriers only to Fanconi-clear partners so there is no chance of producing Fanconi-afflicted offspring. I would not breed a Fanconiafflicted female under any circumstances, but might breed a clear bitch to a Fanconiafflicted male if he were of stellar quality. 9. If there were a document entitled “The One Minute Basenji” what would be the essence? Basenjis are not the dog for everyone. They certainly were not the dog for my father. He was much happier with his Golden Retriever, and found to his consternation that a Basenji is not a shortcoated Golden Retriever that does not bark and never has a doggy odor.
You will love a Basenji if you can love his mischievousness, his playfulness, his charm, his devotion to the family, his cuddliness indoors, his athleticism outdoors… and if you can manage his independence (and your own expectations): So your Basenji won’t come when called… don’t try to dominate him into submission, just get a fence and a leash. So your Basenji gets into the garbage… don’t think you can train him to keep out of the garbage, just put the garbage where he can’t get into it. “No!” just means “Try again when no one is watching” to a Basenji. So your Basenji chewed up your fur coat… why did you leave it where he could get to it? Bringing down game is his specialty, after all. So your Basenji wrecks your house when you’re away… just put him into a crate or kennel when you’re out. He is just desperate to be with you. So your Basenji cries and fusses in his crate at night… take him to bed with you. Basenjis are great bed warmers. So your Basenji runs the Basenji 500 in your living room when you get home… take him for a walk to run off some of that energy. So your Basenji won’t fetch… teach him a different trick. He’ll do quite a lot for the appropriate reward, but fetching? – You threw it, you can go get it! Basenjis love to run and play. Tugof-war is a favorite game and lure coursing is a great sport to share with a Basenji. As for children, so for Basenjis: love and obedience are not the same thing. Be kind, be fair, be consistent. Basenjis will love you dearly, but they still think obedience is for Shelties. Enjoy your dogs,
Kitty
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The OTher Side Of The ridge The STOry Of Baldr By Charli Ritz
I
photo courtesy of the author
was privileged to be owned by one of the most beautiful Ridgebacks I have ever seen, a rare chocolate named Baldr. He was just three years old when he came to live with me, having been given up by his former owners. At first I was confused how anyone could bear to part with such a magnificent animal as this. But it did not take me long to figure out something was amiss. Baldr was untrained and rather wild when he arrived, having lived most of his short life in a small enclosed pen outdoors. He was not quite sure what to make of a collar and leash, being hand fed treats, or being inside with all the comforts of home at his disposal. However, he was about to teach me what he thought I needed to know about him and the way he did things. Only four days after arriving, Baldr and I were again outside in the backyard working on walking with a leash and getting used to wearing a collar. He was actually doing pretty well… until the dreaded squirrel ran across the top of the
fence right before his eyes. My chocolate boy easily leaped a 6' fence in pursuit, earning him the nickname “Cocoa Butt,” as that was all I saw as he cleared the fence. You might think I lost him, but I had a death grip on the leash and it got caught around my wrist as I made part of the journey over the fence with him. That trip earned me five days in the hospital with a dislocated shoulder, a broken nose, and multiple contusions and abrasions as I hit the steel fence post and came to a sudden stop. Now you are probably saying to yourself, “This is supposed to be a ‘funny’ Rhodesian Ridgeback story….” Just read on. About five months later, Baldr was lying across the room some 20 feet or so away. I was in my recliner finishing the last bite of a sandwich, which he had been closely monitoring with the movement of his head following me every time I raised my hand to take a bite. My hands were swollen at the time and I decided to take off a rather expensive diamond ring. Oooops. I dropped it as it came off. Now Baldr, being the intelligent boy that he is, knew I had been eating. And when
something fell from my hand, it just absolutely MUST BE FOOD. After all, isn’t that what every Ridgeback would think? As I recognized the glimmer in his eyes, I quickly leaned over to retrieve my ring, trying to avoid having to sift through poop for several days in order to get it back. It was clearly his intent to eat the object I had just dropped. Of course, silly me… thinking I was faster than a RR chasing a tidbit of food. When I woke up I was lying on the floor with hundreds of bright lights flashing in my brain and a serious pain in my head, not to mention the blood running down my face from where we had collided heads. If you did not realize how hard a Ridgeback’s head is, try banging your head against a steel beam or concrete block. It will have pretty much the same effect. I was, thankfully, able to reach a neighbor by phone who came to scoop me up off the floor and provide a ride back to the hospital. As I was lying in the ER, a doctor kept walking back and forth very slowly past my room, staring at me. I finally heard him say, “Yes, that’s her.” Now, it did not
Baldr waS unTrained and raTher wild when he arrived, having lived mOST Of hiS ShOrT life in a
small enclosed pen outdoors. He was not quite sure what to make of a collar and leash, being hand fed treats, or being inside with all the comforts of home at his disposal. 62 • Sight & Scent
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dawn on me that I was the subject of his comment until shortly thereafter, when two local police officers come swooping into my room. It turned out this doctor was the same one who had admitted me to the hospital five months earlier, when I was claiming to have been pulled over a fence by a “dog” of all things, and looking rather beaten up. Although he was not the physician treating me, he heard others talking about this lady that claimed she collided heads with her dog, resulting in a concussion and requiring eight stitches in her head. This doctor was not born yesterday, and was not buying the story that I was once again at the hospital as a result of a mere dog. You have to understand, though. This doctor was not familiar with Ridgebacks, so you cannot fault him for not knowing any better. The police came, wanting to know what “man” was abusing me. Silly, silly policemen. They do not know about Ridgebacks either. Well, 24 hours later, I was released from the hospital. But, the police were called to escort me home at the request of the Sergeant, who still did not believe
my story. Permission was asked, and given, for them to accompany me into the house, where they proceed to inspect every room, including closets, looking for the presence of this man who was beating me up. They came up empty handed though, as I live alone. Well… if you can call living with nine Ridgebacks living alone. I offered to introduce them to the “dog” that was guilty of the abuse which has taken me to the hospital twice in only a few months. The smaller 5’4’’ officer said, “Yeah… I want to meet this dog.” The larger 6’3’’ officer did not think the same. I asked my pet sitter, who spent the night with the dogs while I was absent, to take all the dogs outside except for my Baldr. And so the introductions began. While the big guy stood back with his hand hovering over his baton, the smaller cop knelt down and was greeted by a 112 pound Baldr, who is lean but solid muscle… and I do mean solid. Baldr proceeded to hand out about a hundred kisses in about 30 seconds to this nice young cop who really loved dogs. So the bigger, not-so-brave cop decided since his part-
ner did not get eaten by this vicious dog, he might try to socialize a little too and show he was not afraid. Another mistake, approaching a Ridgeback from the rear. WHACK! The infamous Ridgeback tail struck again, catching Mr. Big Cop right across the lower thigh. He jumped back about three feet, yelling, “Ouch, that hurt!” and a few other remarks about leaving a bruise. I said simply, “I rest my case.” I went on to adopt this crazy dog despite everything, and we had seven wonderful years together before he passed away.
Charli Ritz
(Orlando, FL)
Treasurer - FL/GA/AL/TN/KY State Director Ridgeback Rescue of the United States -www.rrus.org Rhodesian Ridgeback Rescue Inc. -www.ridgebackrescue.org
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Houla’s Kennels
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Piaffe La Boheme
2 013 I S S U E H IG H LIG HT S MARCH Bloodhounds Ibizan Hounds Portuguese Podengo Pequenos
APRIL Basset Hounds Greyhounds Bluetick Coonhounds
MAY Rhodesian Ridgebacks Salukis American English Coonhounds
JUNE Rising Stars Beagles American Foxhounds Plotts
JULY Lompoc Preview Afghan Hounds Redbone Coonhounds Portuguese Pondengos Azawakhs
AUGUST Sires of Significance Otterhounds Borzoi Silken Windhounds Peruvian Inca Orchids
SEPTEMBER Breeder-Owner-Handlers Whippets English Foxhounds Irish Wolfhounds
OCTOBER BIS Gallery Scottish Deerhounds Harriers Treeing Walker Coonhounds Cirneci Dell’Etna
Find the photo of “Tally” the fox hidden in this issue and be the first to e-mail Tammarie@sightandscent.net with the correct location. The winner will receive a $25 Gift Certificate toward an ad or Sight & Scent subscription. Good Luck! In the event of a tie, a name will be drawn to determine the winner. (Limit 2 wins per year)
I N DE X O F ADVE R TI S E R S Alvarez...........................................................Front Cover, 11
Murphree............................................................................36
Bischel........................................................................... 44-45
Orlandi..........................................................................16, 25
Briscoe.................................................................................37
Peterson............................................................. Back Cover
Chase..................................................................................33
Prideaux..............................................................................15
Ehr.................................................................................. 28-29
Reed....................................................................................13
Forrest..................................................................................48
Rhoden............................................................................. 8-9
Ghione.............................................................................. 6-7
Rutherford........................................................................... 17
Hacker............................................................................... 2-3
Schmelkin...........................................................................15
Hamil................................................................................. 4-5
Smith.............................................................................. 28-29
Hayes...................................................................................32
Solid Gold...........................................................................40
Knutson...............................................................................37
Steidel............................................................................16, 25
Kuper.............................................................Front Cover, 11
Thompson.........................................72, Inside Back Cover
Long..................................................... Inside Front Cover, 1
Trotter...................................................................................13
Lucia....................................................................................41
Viken....................................................................................48
Lumberg............................................................................ 6-7
Western Hound Association.............................................24
Mlynar...........................................................Front Cover, 11
Whitcomb......................................................................... 4-5
Moore..................................................................................32
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Thanks to Jack & Courtney for an incredible 2012
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Sully iS proud to announce the enliStment of hiS daughter, val, and nephew, dutch, for the 2013 campaign. theSe youngSterS will be Selectively Shown in 2013. dutch
val
CH ElvbEnd’s dER fliEGEndE HollandER
GCH ElvbEnd’s RidE of tHE valkyRiEs
(CH Greyplume’s Won’t Back Down TD RN x CH Elvbend’s Aida)
(GCH Elvbend’s the Soldier’s Tear x CH Foxoboro’s Tosca at Elvbend)
Professionally Presented by teresa GettinG breeders/owners/Handlers: amy & Jody Peterson - elvbend elkhounds - aKC breeders of Merit - www.elvbendelkhounds.com