Dog News The Digest Volume 29, Issue 14
Of American Dogs $5.00
April 5, 2013
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*The Dog News Top Ten List
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Contents 10 Editorial
14 A Different Perspective: It’s A Breed, Not A Cult BY Linda More
18 Brace Yourself: Random Reflections on March Madness By Andrew Brace
22 Question Of The Week By Matthew H. Stander
56 Great Dog Men and Women Of The Past: George Steadman Thomas by denise flaim
62 Rare Breeds Of The World: The Basque Shepherd Dog BY agnes buchwald
70 Three Terrific Days In Tulsa: The Annual Irish Setter Walking Events BY karolynne mcateer
26 Connie’s Comments
74 The Guide Dogs For The Blind Association In The UK Makes Miracles Happen Everyday
30 The Juniors Speak: Kawai Nahoopii
78 Swift Beauty: The Afghan Hound
By connie vanacore
By kimberly silva garrett
34 Bests Of The Week 38 Ten Questions Asked Of Greg Strong 42 Coast To Coast: Breed Changes - Form and Function By marsha hall brown
44 Craige And His Bedlingtons BY nick waters
48 Judges’ Choice: The Papillon
reprinted courtesy of the Kennel gazette
50 Off The Leash: Protecting Dogs From Pills, Bills and Food BY shaun coen
By sharon pflaumer
by mj nelson
82 Internet Shenanigans, Dinner Party Talk, David Roche And More April 5, 2013 BY matthew h. stander
86 The Gossip Column BY Eugene Z. Zaphiris
94 Click - Louisville Kennel Club BY booth photography
98 Click - Bronx County Kennel Club BY JC photography
102 Click - The Way We Were BY matthew h. stander
104 Letters To The Editor
106 handlers directory • 108 subscription rates • 110 classified advertising • 112 ADvertising rates DOG NEWS (ISSN 0886-2133) is published weekly except the last two weeks in December by Harris Publications, 1115 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10010. Periodical Postage paid at New York. 4 Dog News
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to DOG NEWS, 1115 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10010 All advertisements are copyrighted and owned by DOG NEWS, Harris Publications, unless received camera-ready. Permission to reprint must be requested in writing.
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Dog News Cover Story - April 5, 2013
STANLEY R. HARRIS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
EUGENE Z. ZAPHIRIS CREATIVE DIRECTOR
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Contributing Editors Sharon Anderson George Bell Andrew Brace Agnes Buchwald Patricia Gail Burnham Shaun Coen Carlotta Cooper Geoff Corish Michael Faulkner Denise Flaim Geir Flyckt - Pedersen Allison Foley Yossi Guy Ronnie Irving Roz Kramer John Mandeville Linda More Desmond J. Murphy M. J. Nelson Sharon Pflaumer Kim Silva Matthew H. Stander Sari Brewster Tietjen Patricia Trotter Connie Vanacore Carla Viggiano Nick Waters Seymour Weiss Minta (Mike) Williquette Dog News Photographers Chet Jezierski Perry Phillips Kitten Rodwell Leslie Simis
*The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed
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DOG NEWS is sent to all AKC approved Conformation Judges every week on a complimentary basis. No part of this publication can be reproduced in any form without written permission from the editor. The opinions expressed by this publication do not necessarily express the opinions of the publisher. The editor reserves the right to edit all copy submitted.
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CHANGING THE BOARD ELECTION DATES Any of you who have followed the writings of these pages realize how strongly these pages oppose the idea of AKC Constitutional piece meal changes. Indeed most of the DOG NEWS writers feel the same way however these pages would make the following exception to that belief. Last year in an interview with Connie Vanacore, Alan Kalter suggested that instead of having annual Board Elections for different classes that all Board Elections should be held for every seat every four years. An idea which these pages immediately pounced upon and supported very aggressively. Truth be known many various factions throughout the sport and the country supported this idea as well. Today virtually a full year after that suggestion and with the need for restructuring AKC governance ways even stronger and more necessary than ever before perhaps one way to get this restructuring started is to implement Mr. Kalter’s original idea forthwith. Put in motion those steps necessary to hold four year elections for all Board Members and show the world how much the Board wants and believes in a total restructure of AKC. This could quite possible start the ball moving and let the Delegates and the rest of the sport see how serious and critical this action is. Something must be done to get this restructuring started--some fire must be lit under the seats of those too complacent in their power positions and perhaps just perhaps affirmative Board action in this election area is the place to begin-piecemeal though it maybe.
agreed that using Franky to sniff around the residence was an unreasonable search barred by the Fourth Amendment. The majority decision written by Justice Scalia was grounded on property rights stating that allowing a dog to roam outside a residence was “an unlicensed physical intrusion” that was different in kind from visits from say, salesman, Girl Scouts or trick-or-treaters”. He further wrote “to find a visitor knocking on the door is routine (even if sometimes unwelcome) but “to spot that same visitor exploring the front porch with a metal detector, or marching his bloodhound into the garden before saying hello and asking permission, would inspire most of us -well, to call the police”. Justice Kagin joined by Justices Ginsburg and Sotomayer wrote a concurrence relying on a second rationale-that of privacy interests” guaranteed by the Fourth Amendment. The minority opinion said neither rationale was sufficient to convert a visit by a man and a dog into a search. In either event the veracity of the dog’s finding were not challenged at all that was for sure and good to learn about as well.
The
Editorial
WHAT FINAL FIVE For those of us totally exhausted by the four-day AKC/ EUKANUBA four-day event held in Orlando, Florida yet another nail in the coffin as AKC has announced yet a fifth day to the proceedings. Get your dogs and yourself some sort of power drink to keep yourselves going as the exercise in longevity has been extended to include a day of Specialty shows and some other trendy events! Learn how to judge at this weekend by attending more judges seminars whilst you sneak down to watch some specialties too! What a questionable decision as the people at the head of all this continue to push quantity over quality and push harder for more and more shows and more and more judging assignments. It’s bad enough these events were held for four days in competition with other licensed and approved AKC shows--now comes the powers which be extending this tortuous situation to five straight days!!! Ask the world how one can legitimately support this type of philosophy! Poor Alan Kalter does he not realize what is going on? What about the other people associated with these events do they realize the upshot of these kinds of decisions. Equating these activities to the NCAA March Madness games may work psychologically for AKC but what about the dogs involved? How fresh and with it are these four-legged companions after four days much less five days of shows. Last year it was bad enough to see exhausted and tired exhibits compete after three and four days of events. Now comes AKC adding yet another day of competitions-get over it is our reaction. Think of the dogs and not the monies being earned is our reactionreject without even thinking about it this new proposal as an excess of which AKC must be made aware!!!! US SUPREME COURT LIMITS USE OF DRUG-SNIFFING DOGS The Supreme Court limited in a 5 to 4 decision featuring an unusual alignment of justices-2 so-called Conservatives and 3 so-called Liberals--the ability of the police to use drugsniffing dogs outside people’s homes. The case concerned Franky, a chocolate Labrador retriever who detected the smell of marijuana outside a Florida home. Based on Franky’s signal, the police obtained a warrant to search the house, and they found a marijuana-growing operation inside. Both the Florida Supreme Court and the US Supreme Court 10 Dog News
BARK IF YOU ARE LEGAL In a seemingly endless game dog owners will do many things to ease their way into an apartment or rental home of their dreams whether the dog is APRIL 5, 2013 welcomed legitimately or not. Some people offer to pay large sums in advance to cover the potential cost of potential damage whilst some offer to endow certain building projects as an inducement to the landlord or the condominium Board. Owners of large dogs are likely to fudge the weight and size--usually downward while in buildings which have abruptly adopted a no-pet policy when a dog dies it is often replaced with another of the identical breed which answers to the same name as the deceased dog. Increasingly dog owners seeking apartments or other type rentals are asked to submit fat dossiers containing reports from veterinarians, dog walkers, neighbors and rescue services detailing their dog’s sweet nature and nondestructive tendencies. Some of these tactics may seem surprising particularly in New York City which in 1982 passed a law allowing residents in most New York apartments that don’t allow pets to keep-a-pet if it hadn’t been concealed over a three-month period and no lawsuit had been filed during that time. Additionally the expansion of legal protection for people with physical and emotional disabilities, along with the growing awareness and acceptance of the therapeutic value of the dog specifically and of pets generally has done much to benefit dog and pet owners. Nonetheless dog owners of larger breed animals and multiple owned dogs claim it is harder and harder to find rental apartments and homes. In New York for instance which is home to half a million dogs (according to the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene) and nearly as many cats as well as millions of people with assorted fears and phobias towards these companion pets it is no wonder that pets in apartments have become an increasing contentious issue. It’s the rare dog owner who doesn’t have a sad and even heartbreaking story about the struggles of finding a place to live with their per, hardly any wonder than is it that people play games to ensure finding a place to live for both themselves and their pets! THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK The death of David Roche in Australia last week was a sad blow to the dog world internationally. David was a very unique individual who led a charmed life with a particular talent for immediately recognizing the very best in dog show judging competitions as well recognizing antiques in a dealer’s gallery or in a museum display. He had a trained eye for both dogs and magnificent antiques and rapidly selected the most beautiful and rarest of antique treasures with an ease and aplomb equivalent to his ability to breed and judge the finest of dogs. His Fermoy Kennel prefix will long be remembered as having produced some of the finest bred dogs in the world. The display of the David Roche Antique Collection in South Australia will continue as well under the establishment of the David Roche Foundation to maintain and preserve his elaborate and valued antique collection. What an unusual combination of interests in a man who devoted his life to the best interests of both worlds - the purebred dog world and the world of rare and magnificent antiques.
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s r e h ” Brot e t i h W
hso O & o g n i B ler d n a h r i e h wish t er m m o S t t o Sc y r e v o c e r y a speed 12 Dog News
The MALTESE
Ohso BEST IN SHOW
Judge Ms. Debra Thornton Handled by Alfonso Escobedo Ohso is Owned By Anthony & Kimberly MacKenzie
The Bichon
Bingo BEST IN SHOW Judge Mr. Houston Clark Handled by Scott Sommer
! p o T e h T o T g n i y Fl Bingo Is Owned By Anthony & Kimberly MacKenzie, Cecelia Ruggles, Sandra & Kieth Hanson
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A Different
PERSPECTIVE by Linda More
“IT’S NOT A BREED, IT’S A CULT”
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he first time I heard the above quote, it was referring to the German Shepherd Dog and the breed’s many enthusiasts, who seemed to many other dog people to dwell in their own world. Certainly even now the Shepherd is what we think of as a “specialty breed,” with numerous independent specialties that are almost invariably judged by breeder-judges although we have now seen some dogs doing significant winning both at specialties and all-breed shows, a good trend for the breed. There are a number of other breeds that might be called “cults,” primarily distinguished by their fanciers’ strong preference for breeder-judges. Included among them would be Bull Terriers, Bulldogs, Collies, Pembroke Welsh Corgis, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Shelties and I’m sure you can think of others. For Bull Terriers, the absolutely, positively most important event of each year, and the height of enjoyable cultishness, is the wonderful Silverwood competition held each October. It’s not an AKC show, but it brings together the best of the best the breed has to offer on this continent. As for another “bull” breed, Bulldoggers are noted not only for their desire for breeder judges, but for their enviable socializing (read that: great dining and partying) and the admirable way they support their breed winners at all-breed shows. Cavaliers have breeder judges for their national and other specialties, including many judges from overseas, and a win at one of those events is greatly prized. Collies and Shelties have many independent specialties during “good hair” 14 Dog News
season from about January through April or May, almost always judged by breeder-judges. Pembroke and Labrador specialties too are judged by breeders, often from abroad. In some of these breeds, the best dogs are not commonly seen at all-breed shows, and there have been times when the ranked allbreed show winners could not compete with the quality specialty dogs because they were too lacking in important type characteristics – they were what we call “common.” In some breeds you might hear breeders speak about a “specialty dog” versus an “all-breed show type.” This is not because, as some believe, all specialty Shepherds are wild and crazy – on the contrary, though they are not trained in the fashion expected at all-breed events. Nor is it because the most beautiful Collies can’t move well –again contrary to popular myth, while heads and expression are of vital importance to type in the Collie, breeders want their dogs to be well made, too. Cavalier people want the beautiful head and endearing expression, but they also want the proper spaniel body, bone and wagging spaniel tail. What causes exhibitors of good dogs of these breeds to so greatly prefer breeder-judges? Well you already know the answer. These exhibitors want judges who look for and appreciate the important type characteristics of their breed. These exhibitors are tired of the generic judging they too often see at the allbreed shows. I have heard comments
from many that the situation is not improving, and that in fact, and in spite of AKC’s encouragement of judge’s education, the problem may be getting worse in too many breeds. Certainly the previous “box checking” judging approval process caused some judges to speed through getting “education,” their only concern being that sufficient numbers of boxes were filled out and that they could quote the breed standard. There is a strong argument that much greater credit should be given to those who have spent years watching a breed, discussing it with numerous breeders and judges, and paying close attention to breed type, rather than attending one seminar that may or may have not been a valuable experience and bingo! that box is checked. The new approval process apparently seeks to recognize just such full, indepth experience rather than some required number of different but possibly rather shallow experiences. Really, how educational is it to “judge” one example of a breed in a Puppy Group, for example? Some years ago, a judge – call this person Judge X – was doing a large provisional entry of my original breed, Shelties, for which I have twice served as Judges Ed Chair. I passed by the ring and several experienced exhibitors said, “Can you help this judge? Judge X is very pleasant but doesn’t even know how to go over our dogs, and is missing some of the best ones. Maybe with a little help Judge X could be good.” Later in the day I offered to chat about the breed with Judge X Continued on page 47
TEAM GUS DOES IT AGAIN!
Team Player Alfonso stepped up to the plate while Scott is recovering. Thank you to Judge Mr. Rodney R. Merry
Best In Show, National Specialty Best In Show
GCh. Derby’s Toast With Gusto Owned By: Rick & Sue Copeland Richmond, Texas
Bred By: Kristin Kleeman Robyn & Kenneth Toth
Presented By: Scott Sommer Assisted by Alfonso Escobedo & Ashlie Whitmore Dog News 15
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by Andrew Brace
Random Reflections on “March Madness” Having spent a week in New Jersey I had time to reflect on the shows I judged at and came to some interesting conclusions. Due to overdrawing I had lost several breeds I was looking forward to but I was still left with some very interesting entries which boasted good numbers by USA standards.
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he appetiser for the long weekend was the Thursday evening Big Apple Sporting Show where I had been assigned (American) Cocker Spaniels and Labrador Retrievers. I was surprised that there were so few Cockers at a show in the breed’s homeland but impressed with the large turnout of Labradors, and indeed the quality I found. I found several that appealed for their overall balance and their ability to move. In the UK where we have breeds that pull huge entries and are generally judged by breeder-judges there is sometimes a tendency to become preoccupied with breed type at the expense of movement. In countries where there is arguably a greater emphasis on group judging I believe that breeders are keener to produce dogs that can move soundly and acquit themselves well in the big ring. I think this applies particularly to the USA and Australia. My Labrador BOB winner turned out to be the Westminster BOB winner and he ticked the boxes for me as regards breed type and powerful scopy movement. My BOW was a young dog who must have a great future and I was interested to discover that he was bred by the same lady who bred the American Labrador who,
as a fully mature male, had a spell in the UK where he did extremely well at group level and then returned home to win the breed at the AKC show in Florida last December. When in the UK he was noticed in particular for his excellent movement. American Labrador connections continued to figure when I judged the breed in Italy the week before Crufts. There I had close to a hundred in the breed and I was very impressed with the quality, balance and again movement of the breed. Ultimately I ended up with a BOB and BOS that were both sired by an American import to Italy who was also sire or grandsire of several of my other class winners. BOB went to the very handsome male who that day in Italy went on to win the group. The following week he ventured to the UK to compete in an entry of 490 (yes, you read that right ... there were two judges, one for dogs and one for bitches) at Crufts and ended up winning the breed under the referee, group judge Zena Thorn Andrews, further progressing to take Reserve BIS under Geoff Corish. Weeks later Loch Mor Romeo returned to the UK to win BIS at a breed specialty Continued on page 46
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While nothing specific has been stated it is rumored that as a result of the recent Smith Committee Meeting the new invitational letter writing requirement for additional multiple additional breeds is to be “tweaked”. What would your suggestions be insofar as “tweaking” the process are concerned? Bob Shreve I think that describing your learning activities is the real meat of the application. It indicates what you are willing to do to learn about the breed you are applying for. The application should show where have you been? and what you did? to understand the breed. Quoting the standard with breed specific terms does not improve the learning curve. Realistically it will be 12 months or more between the time you have the learning experience and the time have an opportunity to judge the breed. Before you judge you must start your learning all over. You will need a refresher course. Good judging is about reviewing the learning materials you have accumulated before you walk into the ring.
Question Of The Week
Jay Richardson The area that I hear most mentioned in conversation is the vast quantity of time needed for the interview by the Field Rep on all the breeds in a group. I have heard of interviews going 10 hours over several days. If the Committee deems an individual qualified to apply for a complete group, perhaps a more streamlined application and interview process would be possible to make it a more efficient process for everyone.
By Matthew H. Stander
PATTY KEENAN As with any newly created plan of action some form of “tweaking” is to be expected after a trial period. That said, I do not really have any direct suggestions for the Smith Committee as I think the original plan was quite good. Where I do see an issue is the apparent disconnect between the Smith Committee and those responsible for implementing the plan. In order for the ultimate goal to be met, both parties need to be on the same page or very little will ever be accomplished. Ken McDermott I don’t have an opinion on the matter.
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onnie’s omments
By Connie Vanacore
Now that the annual election is over and a modicum of sanity has descended on the Delegate body, one hopes that the reconstructed Board will be able to move forward with support from the Delegates, and a sense of mutual purpose and civility on the Board itself.
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t would appear that AKC’s financial position has been stabilized, even though the registration figures continue to sag. There are too many breeders who, for whatever reason, refuse to register their whole litters. AKC has made it so simple to do this and offers so many incentives for breeders to do so, that it would seem to be the right and sensible thing to do. After spending all the time, money, heartache and hard labor to produce a litter of puppies, why would anyone stop at the door and not follow through on the last steps? Even if a breeder knows that some of the puppies will never be shown or bred, wouldn’t it be the right thing to do? Consider it a charitable contribution to the welfare of AKC! Think how much outreach AKC can do with the additional funds brought in from breeders who rely on puppy buyers to do the work for them. One would think it would be a matter of pride for breeders to tell the world that all of their puppies are registered. We may be preaching to the choir here, but I think of a prime example of a breeder not following through with the final step. An acquaintance bought a puppy two or three years ago, and never bothered to register it. It wasn’t going to be shown and the papers went into the drawer with the rest of the pile of unfinished business. Recently, someone wanted to breed to this dog. Where were the registration papers? Who knows! Now, of course, if the owner wanted to register it, it would cost more in time,
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trouble and money to go through the process than if the breeder added a few bucks to the price and registered the puppy before it was sold. It appears that no matter how hard the registration department works to come up with new ways to get people to register all of their dogs before they are sold, there are still too many breeders who can’t bring themselves to take that final step. One hopes, at least, that those who proclaim to be Breeders of Record, are living up to that responsibility for the good of AKC, if not for themselves. One of the major considerations among the Delegates these days is how many meetings they can get to in two days. Delegate Committee meetings have become a major part of the agenda for most Delegates. Meetings of all the committees are held on Mondays and the formal Delegates’ meeting is held on Tuesday. There has been a great deal of discussion about either starting earlier and staying later on Mondays, or adding a day to the quarterly meetings. This discussion is taking place at the same time that the Board is considering dropping the June Delegates’ meeting because of the lack of attendance. Go figure! It is difficult for me to understand the usefulness of hopping from one Delegates’ meeting to another. All of these gatherings have their own momentum, which carries over from one quarter to another. What benefit is gained by dropping in on two or three meetings in a day, when there is often carry-over from one session to another. It’s interesting to be a dabbler, but more useful to find one topic of interest and stay with it. If a Delegate is concerned with health issues, there is a committee for that. If you represent a Parent Club, go there and see what kind of contribution you can make. Continued on page 54
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the Juniors speak Kawai Nahoopii Age: 15 Sedro Woolley, WA
By KimberlySilva Garrett
How did you become involved in the sport?
My mom has been raising and showing Labrador Retrievers since I was about 3 years old and she got me started. I started doing pee wees handling and fun matches at age four and have just continued from there.
What is your favorite dog show moment, exclusive of a win?
Right now one of my favorite moments was being lucky enough to qualify for the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship three years in a row, but truly my favorite dog show moments are the trust of people that have asked me to show their dogs, and co-own dogs with them. And for those that have continued to mentor me.
What is the best advice you can give to potential and current juniors? To show your dog how it should be shown in breed, or how the other junior handlers are showing their dogs. Stay true to your breed of dog. Don’t get caught up in rankings or points, after all, it should be about the time you spent with your dog and the partnership. A connected team can be a very successful team.
If you could change one thing that you feel would improve the sport what would it be?
My own personal opinion of what would improve the sport as a whole is for people to remember we’re all there for the love of dogs. We all love our dogs, win lose or draw and I feel like even at the junior level, that gets lost in search of the almighty win.
What are your plans in the sport once you age out of juniors?
I will be headed to Washington State University to study veterinary medicine hoping to specialize in equine sports medicine and large animal care. I hope to continue to show dogs as time allows
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Clinton Iowa Kennel Club Pug GCh. Hill Country’s Tag I’m It Judge Mr. Randy E. Garren Owner Carolyn Koch Handler Barry Clothier Western Pennsylvania Kennel Association Toy Poodle GCh. Smash JP Sakura Judge Mr. Jack H. Ireland Owners Ron Scott & Debbie Burke Handler Kaz Hosaka Kern County Kennel Club Saturday Afghan Hound GCh. Thaon’s Wallstreet Judge Mr. Garry Newton Owners Jay T Hafford, James P Blanchard, Debbie Rogers, and JW Rogers Handler Jay T. Hafford Newnan Kennel Club - Saturday Douglasville KC of Georgia - Sunday Miniature Pinscher GCh. Marlex Classic Red Glare Judge Mrs. Jane Forsyth Judge Mr. Edd E. Bivin Owners Leah Monte & Armando Angelbello Handler Armando Angelbello Claremore Kennel Club of Oklahoma Saluki Ch. Sandstorm Blue Nile Bubbles of Jatara Judge Mr. Jon Cole Owners Sandra Middlebrooks, Jackie Harrington, Sara Winsted Handler Erin Roberts
Columbia Kennel Club-Thursday Columbia Kennel Club-Friday Greater Monroe Kennel Club Portuguese Water Dog GCh. Claircreek Impression De Matisse Judge Mr. William Rodriguez Judge Mrs. Michele L. Billings Judge Mr. Johnny R. Shoemaker Owners Milan Lint, Peggy Helming & Donna Gottdenker Handler Michael Scott Brazos Valley Kennel Club Bichon Frise GCh. Saks Winning Card Judge Mrs. Paula Hartinger Owners Tony & Kim MacKenzie, Cecelia Ruggles, Sandra & Kieth Hanson Handler Alfonso Escobedo Claremore Kennel Club of Oklahoma, Inc. - Sunday Chinese Shar-Pei GCh. Jade East Do You Know The Way To San Jose Judge Ms. Jan Paulk Owners Loretta Anders, Karel Nijholt, Esmae Minne Handler David Williams Brazos Valley Kennel Club Greater Swiss Mountain Dog GCh. Derby’s Toast With Gusto Judge Mr. Rodney Merry Owner Sue Copeland Handler Alfonso Escobedo Packerland Kennel Club (2) Doberman Pinscher GCh. Protocol’s Veni Vidi Vici Judge Ms. Linda Robey Owners Jocelyn & Kevin Mullins & Suzy & Dick Lundy Handler Jocelyn Mullins
ts Week The
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To report an AKC All Breed Best In Show or National Specialty Win Call, Fax or Email before 12:00 Noon Tuesday. Fax: 212 675-5994 • Phone: 212 462-9588 Email: Dognews@harris-pub.com
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Scottsbluff Kennel Club- Friday, Saturday, Sunday Great Dane Ch. Longo-Miller Diamond Lil Judge Mrs. Robert D. Smith Judge Dr. Robert Smith Judge Mr. Robert Stein Owners Tootie Longo, Dave and Jay Miller, Lorraine Matherly and Col. Chuck Crawford Handler Laura Lynn Coomes
Del Sur Kennel Club Irish Water Spaniel GCh. Whistle Stop’s Wind On The Water Judge Dr. Anthony DiNardo Owner Michelle E. Cummings Handler Amy Rutherford
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ten
What person do you most look forward to seeing at the dog shows? my clients.
What is your greatest extravagance? carla.
What do you dislike most about your appearance? I’d prefer a shorter nose.
What dog person would you like to see on ‘dancing with the stars’? edd bivin.
Questions
If you were forced to get a tattoo, what would it be? #52, baltimore ravens.
If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you want to have with you? jalapenos, tequila and carla.
asked of
Greg Strong
Born: Syracuse, NY Resides: Easton, MD Marital Status: Committed without papers.
When and where are you the happiest? not fit for publication.
Other people think i am...? mean.
What did you want to be when you were growing up? an attorney.
What would be your last request? it would involve carla...use your imagination.
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Breed Changes: Function and Fashion
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s the famous judges, mentors, and dog writers who were central to the content of the first two parts of this column on breed changes, said so well, understanding function in a breed is key to understanding the breed. Tom Horner explained, “…perfection in a breed lies not at its outer extremes, it originates with compliance to the standard.” Hayes Blake Hoyt further states that excellence in breed type is grounded in breed purpose (function). And Lydia Coleman Hutchinson posits, “When breeds become exaggerated structurally it changes the ‘look’ of the breed.” James Haring would conclude then that without an understanding of breed purpose or function, breeders would be ill
equipped to follow the standard. The focus of this column is to discuss how function is a major premise of a breed standard and that fashion must be measured by its ability to enhance the correctness of breed attributes. First to be discussed is function. There was a ringside conversation some twenty years ago at an English Setter National among several visiting judges. Most were impressed by one beautiful male special yet, when the dog moved, it was obvious to all that there was something wanting in its function. Chuck Herendeen explained that in the posed position the dog lacks correct proportions in the rear assembly. While the bend of stifle is correct and is in balance with the angles
COAST
of the front, the hock (from hock joint to pad) is much longer than it should be. So what was not obvious to some at first became the key to the problem of motion. A glamorous dog standing but stilted when moving. Proportions make a difference. Diane Malenfant contributes to this discussion on function the problems created in Shih Tzu when a very small but active group of breeders selected for longer necks to make the breed “more elegant.” The result was a change in shape for the whole dog. It produced the wrong silhouette for the breed. Soon the junction of the shoulder and neck ceased to be a smooth fit. And then the selecting for longer legs changed the gait to be Continued on page 66
to
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by Marsha Hall Brown
Fashion of presentation in Shih Tzu has created major changes. Top knots will never be the same again.
1966 Tauskey photo of Chumulari Trari imported by The Rev. and Mrs. D. Allen Easton from breeder, Erika Grusendam of Lubeck, Tangra. Source: Popular Dogs, February 1966
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1970 Tauskey photo of Am. and Can. Best in Show Champion Chumulari Ying Ying also owned by the Eastons of Wood-Ridge, New Jersey. Source: Popular Dogs, February 1970
Am. & Can. GCh. Wolf Creek Galaxy Of Merivern The Number One German Shepherd Dog in the US* What a weekend in Raleigh! “Galaxy� added Two Group wins, a second and a third, plus a Best In Specialty Show to his winning ways in 2013. Pictured having some fun and winning the Group under Judge Mrs. Kimberly Meredith-Cavanna earlier this year at the Greater Panama City show.
Owners: Ed Farrell & Pat Walker Breeders: Pat Walker & Mary Ann Imhoff Handled & Conditioned By: Scott & Loren Yergin 678-485-6141 *All Systems
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C
raigie Aitchison CBE, RA (19262009) was one of Britain’s most popular and respected figurative artists. He was known and admired for his flat, almost childlike two-dimensional forms and simple icon-like compositions and his distinctive subject matter consisting of still lifes, landscapes, portraits, nudes, sheep, crucifixions which were a major feature of his art and his beloved Bedlington Terriers, all rendered in vibrant, luminous colours. The son of the Lord Advocate for Scotland, Lord Aitchison PC, KC, Craigie was born in Edinburgh and after abandoning his initial training as a lawyer he changed course and studied at the Slade School of Art in London. His work was first shown in a group exhibition at
Gimpel Fils Gallery in London in 1954 and his first one-man show was at the Beaux Arts Gallery in 1959. His obituary in the Daily Telegraph noted: “He conformed to no school or fashion but earned critical esteem and public popularity as an artistic loner.” In 1979 his work was discovered by Irish-born Sheelagh Cluney, who had moved to London from Japan where she had lived for twenty years and was looking for an artist whose work she could collect in depth. It was at the opening of his exhibition at Kettle’s Yard in Cambridge, where he arrived completely drunk and with sprayed gold hair, that she bought her first picture. Although she didn’t speak to him at this first encounter, over the next
thirty years they became close friends and she amassed a large collection of his work. Following Sheelagh Cluney’s death in 2011, Leslie Waddington was asked to value the pictures and subsequently bought the entire collection. ‘Craigie Aitchison: A Private Collection’ is the title of a selling exhibition of Sheelagh Cluney’s collection which is currently running at the Waddington Cusot Galleries, 11 Cork Street, London. It can also be viewed on line at www.waddingtoncusot.com and there is a sumptuously produced hardback catalogue to accompany the exhibition. Along with David Hockney’s Dachshunds and Lucian Freud’s Whippets, Aitchison’s Bedlington Terrier pictures are some of the most iconic dog images
CRAIGIE By Nick Waters
All images © The Estate of Craigie Aitchison. Courtesy of Waddington Cusot Galleries, London. 44 Dog News
AND HIS
of the late 20th early 21st century. Not surprisingly a number of his Bedlington pictures feature in the exhibition, among them Sugarbush being beamed up to heaven following her death; one resting beneath a tree; another in a moonlit landscape; one beside a cruci-
fixion, and one standing by a line of washing at Montecastelli. Craigie first saw Bedlingtons on a visit to Crufts and liked the fact that they were small and sheep like and bought his first, Wayney, in 1972. Over the years others followed and he owned the breed right up until his death in 2009; they even went with him to stay at Montecastelli, his farmhouse home near Siena in Italy. He always said they brought him happiness and companionship and were a major part of his life: “They become part of me, ask for nothing and give everything in return. I paint them so many times because
they are always at my side.” He was a great supporter of the breed and regularly visited the Bedlington Terrier Association shows when he spent more time in England. For years he and the dogs, often three in tow, travelled by train from London to Sheffield for the dogs to be trimmed by Pat Hall. They would be met at the station by Pat’s husband, Brian, who would take them home, the dogs would be left and Craigie would visit a friend near Harewood House. The following day he would collect the dogs and return to London. There were times when Brian would drive down to London to collect the dogs and then return them, sometimes the same day. Pat remembers times when the dogs arrived with paint all over them from spending so much time in the studio.
BEDLINGTONS Dog News 45
Continued FROM page 18
and will doubtless be back in pursuit of his UK title. He proved to all that Labradors can have type and substance and still be able to move exceptionally. At the Big Apple I was also invited to judge Best Puppy in Show and I think her handler was as surprised as I was when I ended up with a Golden Retriever winning. It is generally assumed that there are several basic type differences between British and American Golden Retrievers, noticeably in heads, but I found this young bitch to be very easy on the eye, had good length of leg (a major failing in the breed in its homeland in my opinion) and her movement was very impressive. The organisation and time scheduling of American dog shows have always impressed me. Breeds happen when they should and both judges and exhibitors know where and when they should be at any given time. With time you get used to the correct pace and manage to judge without falling behind time. Marjorie Martorella is of course renowned for her New Brunswick luncheons and this year was no exception. There is a misconception amongst British fanciers that all American show dogs win their titles as puppies and points are thrown at them like confetti to ease the achievement. Clearly this is not so. As is the case in any country, as a judge you meet Champions whose titles may be questionable but this is an international problem. However, over the weekend when I also judged for the New Brunswick and Bronx County Kennel Clubs I had through my hands many excellent dogs. Of these dogs there were three that I considered exceptional and – if I were still exhibiting and been in the market for a potential Dog of the Year – these were dogs I would have tried really hard to buy. Intriguingly all three of them were mature dogs in the classes and handled by people I did not recognise. One was a red and white Papillon male – Involo Wanna Be Startin Sumthin - whose quality and carriage thrilled me no end. The other two were bitches, a most glorious red and 46 Dog News
white Pembroke Welsh Corgi bitch – Honeyfox Hot Toddy - whose movement and outline were flawless and I loved her head and outline, and a Bernese Mountain Dog – Alpenspirit Call Girl - who I believe was Canadian bred. From the start she drew my eye and I was so puzzled to find her in the Open class that I actually asked my steward to check her age, and was amazed that she was almost three years old. The hands-on did nothing to question her excellence and her movement was a rare joy. All three of these won their breed under me and in my opinion had the mark of true greatness. Some of my breed winners were very young and needed to mature and generally finish but had so much merit and quality that they edged ahead of the more mature competition. Age is the one thing that is guaranteed to change in any dog.
T
he writing of critiques at dog shows can be a contentious issue and of course varies from country to country. In many of the FCI countries written critiques are expected on each and every dog, along with a quality grading. In the UK critiques are written just on the first two dogs in each class at Championship shows and subsequently published in the weekly dog papers. In the USA I have only been asked to submit critiques at breed specialty shows. Obviously with a full day and rigid time schedule it would be impractical to introduce critiques at all breed shows in the USA in their present format, but there are occasions when – from a judge’s point of view – the critique would be a very useful tool. As an example, in one of my breed entries I had a dog that impressed me as much as anything I saw on the goaround and I figured would be very close
to winning the breed. However when I stood in front of the dog to assess expression I was faced with an untypical, light, full, round eye which completely detracted from the essential look of the breed. It is not advisable to get engaged in conversation with handlers to explain decisions in the ring, but this was one instance when I felt that having the luxury of a critique which could have so easily explained how much I rated this particular dog and why it did not make top honours would have been a great help. Under the Scandinavian system it would so easily have been graded Excellent but not with Certificate Quality. Over the weekend there were various conversations that reminded me how revered still are the great breeders of the past. The late Pat Jones was one of those English breeders who would be described instantly, in the nicest possible way, as eccentric. Having produced some excellent Bearded Collies she turned her attention to Portuguese Water Dogs, working very closely with the saviour of the breed, Portugal’s Carla Molinari. Peggy Helming and Milan Lint described to me in fascinating detail a visit to Pat’s somewhat unorthodox home some years ago when they were looking for breeding stock. They fell in love with one particular dog puppy who definitely wasn’t for sale so had to settle for a sibling. However Peggy and Milan must have really impressed Pat with their conviction to the breed as when the time came to ship their puppy, Pat called them to say that she was also sending the dog puppy they loved so much as she was convinced they would use him wisely. That dog puppy grew up to be Matisse’s grandsire. The Helmings themselves have proved their prowess as breeders having created the Pouch Cove legend in Newfoundlands and subsequently turned their attention to Portuguese Water Dogs. It is breeders such as this who are the backbone of our sport and when life becomes more and more difficult internationally for those who wish to keep dogs in numbers, we should hope and pray that we continue to be blessed with those who dedicate themselves to the breeds we value so much.
Congrats to this Gatsby son
Vince
“
Finger Lakes KC, 3/28 Best of Breed Judge Mr. Terry L. Stacy
”
& Jack Secrest for a weekend full of wins!
North Country KC, 3/29 Best of Breed Judge Mrs. Geraldine R. Taylor Central New York KC, 3/30 Best of Breed Judge Mrs. Roberta L. Campbell Onondaga Kennel Association, 3/31 Best of Breed & Group Third Judge Mrs. Jacqueline L. Stacy (Breed) Judge Mrs. Roberta L. Campbell (Group) Handler: Jack Secrest, Jr. Owner: Heather & Joe Trapasso Breeder: Carla Downey www.springvalleysgreatvincero.com
GCh. Spring Valley’s Great Vincero, CGC, ET A Different Perspective
“IT’S NOT A BREED, IT’S A CULT” Continued FROM page 14
and was informed that Judge X was quite comfortable judging the breed and had no concerns. To this day exhibitors either avoid Judge X or only enter their “all breed show” dogs. Mind closed – no more learning happening here. It doesn’t hurt a judge to be receptive to constructive – and polite! – comment from those in the breed. It’s all grist for the mill, so to speak. So we get an all-breed show judge judging – or trying to judge – Collies on structure and movement first (“well you know the breed is in such bad shape structurally so I judge them on movement”), rather than on the type characteristics given such heavy emphasis in the breed standard. Or rewarding the generic Cavalier that moves stylishly and carries a good topline as its main attributes but lacks the bone and substance befitting a spaniel and the head virtues that produce the desired sweet expression. Or the judge that lines up the Shepherds and stares at them in
stacked position for seemingly endless moments while the dogs fidget, or who ignores the shrinking, unconfident temperament because the handler has a good enough grip to keep the dog standing there when the judge examines it. Or the judge that rewards the “stuffy” short-necked Pembroke that lacks angulation at either end and has tiny ears but is “cute”. In the ideal world we would find a way to help every judge grasp the most important type characteristics of each breed whether these are characteristics of head, expression, bone, coat, make and shape, a particular way of going – in sum, the things that most notably make that breed different from any other breed, including similar ones. Certainly every judge owes it to the breeders of a breed to try to learn those essentials and then to apply that knowledge in the ring. I don’t think this happens overnight, or after one seminar, or four different boxes, or even after doing 3 or 5 or whatever
number provisional or permit assignments. Even years later there is always something to learn, some new observation about the way a breed may be trending for better or worse. The more complex or nuanced the details of type in a breed, the longer we might expect a non-breeder judge to take to assimilate those details. As long as the judge is clearly making an effort, breeders should consider giving them some time and hopefully some assistance along the way to becoming a good judge of the breed. But if some breeds are “cults” it is probably at least partly because not enough judges have cared to delve beneath the surface education to try to see the breed as the breeders do. In other words, it’s not that the breeders want to be “cultish,” or the popular belief that they emphasize pieces and parts rather than seeking the whole dog, but that too much generic judging of their breeds has discouraged them and caused them to shy away from non breeder-judges. Dog News 47
Judges’
CHOICE Reprinted with permission from The Kennel Gazette
48 Dog News
The Papillon
We asked a number of Championship Show judges the following three questions about Papillons: 1. What is the best dog and bitch you have judges in this breed? 2. Describe what makes a great Papillon. 3. Has the breed changed since you first awarded CCs, and if so, how?
CONTINUED ON PAGE 107
Dog News 49
W
Off LEASH
e’ve become a pill-popping nation, with a propensity for taking oral medications for physical and mental maladies and everything in between and with a somewhat cavalier attitude to treat whatever ails us (‘there’s a pill for that’). According to a 2012 study conducted by Consumer Reports, some 46 per cent of American adults take prescription drugs, with the average taking 4.1 prescriptions. It’s a practice that we are increasingly passing on to our pets in an attempt to improve the quality or prolong the duration of their lives (or, some may argue, to make ours more convenient) to the tune of $4 billion per year. The advancement of modern medicine has afforded us many of these luxuries if not the medications or procedures themselves. But are we always sure about the safety and possible adverse side effects or reactions we may be subjecting our pets to from the active ingredients in those magical medications? Now we may be better able to answer those questions and make more informed decisions about whether or not to administer those meds, thanks to new reports created, posted and maintained by the Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM). The CVM has posted a cumulative series of Adverse Drug Experience Reports that the general public can access for free on the Internet. Now consumers equipped with Smartphones can log on to the dedicated web site right in the veterinarian’s office and look up what if any adverse effects ingredients in prescribed medications may have on their pets and decide in consultation with their vets if the potential risks are worth the potential rewards. Those without instant Internet access can research the ingredients at home or in the library before filling a prescription to help allay fears of adverse reactions. Such an announcement bodes well for identifying adverse effects in a timelier manner and the openness and transparency of the database is truly a marvel of modern science, technology and cooperation from all concerned parties. The reports are cumulative adverse reaction reports from 1987 through March 31, 2013 and they will be updated on a monthly basis. The adverse reactions range from incidents of death to incontinence and everything in between and are listed in order from most frequently to least frequently observed. The announcement of this database is welcome news for all concerned parties. Animal owners and veterinarians will have the opportunity to report their observations, the CVM will be able to report them in a timely fashion and identify adverse reactions that were not detected during the pre-market testing of FDA-approved animal drugs and for monitoring the performance of drugs not approved for use in animals. It should prove to make all parties more responsible in deciding how best to care for their beloved animals, who have no say in the matter and whose lives depend of those entrusted with their care. For a full report of Cumulative Veterinary Adverse Drug Experiences, follow the links provided at http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/SafetyHealth/ProductSafetyInformation/ucm055369.htm.
Protecting Dogs From Pills, Bills and Food ByShaun Coen
O
n the recall front, Natura Pet Products has expanded its recall of dry pet foods because of potential Salmonella contamination. Though no illnesses have been confirmed to date, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and the Georgia Department of Agriculture have confirmed the presence of Salmonella in additional dry cat food and a cat pet treat. As a precaution, Natura is recalling product made in the surrounding timeframe. For the extensive list of recalled dog and cat foods and treats, which include brands such as California Natural, Evo, Healthwise and Innova, log on to www.naturapet.com or call 800 224-6123. For those who are thinking of switching to a BARF diet for their dogs due to all of the recent recalls of mostly dry pet foods and treats, be aware that two raw dog food companies have also issued recent recalls due to possible Salmonella contamination. BARF World Products has recalled some of its lamb based products and Steve’s Real Food has 50 Dog News
recalled a Turducken product. Consumers are urged to keep in constant contact with all food and treat recalls and to observe their pets for any signs of possible exposure to contamination in food products. Between logging adverse reactions to pet food, treats and medications, the FDA is certainly being kept busy. The combined efforts of consumers, doctors and manufacturers to identify possible causes of illness and to make those observations known continue to protect the lives of our beloved pets.
S
ome updates on legislation we’ve been tracking. The West Virginia Senate Judiciary Committee passed an amended version of Senate Bill 437 this week. The amended version can be viewed as somewhat of a compromise, as it addressed some of the issues that dog breeders and owners had with the bill. The 50dog ownership limit is no longer part of the bill and judges will now allow breeders one year to correct deficiencies before being charged with a misdemeanor and forced to pay a large fine, whereas previously there was no opportunity for correction prior to the misdemeanor being charged. These seem like fair changes. However, there remains concern in regards to the definition of a “commercial breeder” as one who maintains 11 or more dogs, male or female, over the age of one year for the exclusive purpose of actively breeding. This vague definition is open to interpretation and may prove problematic for owners of multiple dogs as well as small-scale hobby breeders. Many new requirements remain in the bill that are cause for concern as well, such as the ‘no-stacking’ of enclosures or cages, and those meeting the definition of a commercial breeder will be subjected to inspections twice a year. Stay posted on the final outcome. A couple of House Bills were to be considered in Connecticut this week. On April Fool’s Day — and this is no joke — the Joint Planning and Development Committee was to meet to consider House Bill 6311, which would prohibit municipalities from adopting breed-specific dangerous dog laws. BSL has been ineffective wherever it has been enacted and unfairly discriminates against responsible dog owners. All are urged to lend support to this bill and those of this nature across the country. The other piece of legislation, Connecticut House Bill 6690, may hurt ownership rights and impact animals’ legal status. Reminiscent of the ‘pet guardian’ movement, this bill seeks to permit courts to order that a separate, independent advocate be assigned to represent the interests of an animal in any proceeding in which the welfare or custody of the animal is at issue. It also mandates that the advocate conduct an independent investigation of the case and allows the advocate to present information at a hearing and subjected to cross-examination. It also directs the state’s Commissioner of Agriculture to maintain a list of individuals with expertise in animal welfare or legal advocacy to serve as advocates, which may include veterinarians, students and faculty members of law schools, attorneys and law firms. The concern here is that rightful owners may lose their rights over their pets, which are considered property in Connecticut. This proposal is troublesome because it may put decisions in the hands of a court ordered appointee, who may not act in the best interest of the animal. Dogs must remain the property of owners, who must retain rights over their property.
Dog News 51
*
*The Dog News Top Ten List
52 Dog News
Dog News 53
onnie’s omments
Continued FROM page 26
Same holds true for the representative of an all-breed club, or obedience, performance, field trials of all sorts, or By-laws. It would not be surprising, now that Agility has a formal place, for those devotees to want their own committee. That’s especially true, since Agility provides so much of AKC’s income. This brings to mind the oft spoken desire of Dog News, as well as this writer, to completely revamp the Constitution, which no longer fits the organization that AKC has become since the 1890’s. One or two piecemeal attempts have been made. One, which has proven, at least to this writer, to be a disaster, is the term--limit rule which throws out perfectly useful Board members after two terms. Now, those Board members who are retired after their two terms are over, must sit out a year and then can reapply to run for the Board again. By that time many of them have lost the rhythm of Board activities. In addition, there is such a large turnover of Delegates each year that former Board members have to introduce themselves all over again. One has to be almost a legend to be remembered once you’re gone. That gets me to a suggestion which I have voiced here and there, but will say it again. Because of the nature of the governance of AKC, we lose many good and valuable people every year, not only from the Delegate body, but from the whole sport itself. People with vast judging experience, business experience, great knowledge about dogs and history just disappear from the ranks and the only time one ever hears about them is through their obituaries. It would seem that AKC, either by action of the Board or through a Constitutional provision, could establish an emeritus program, which would at least give some recognition to our heritage. Some of those honored, like the Baseball Hall of Fame, or the Country Music Hall of Fame, could be of value through their long experience in the sport. There is even a Bird Dog Hall of Fame, which honors those sportsmen who have made great contributions to their segment of the sport. AKC is launching a new initiative designed 54 Dog News
to promote dog training and encourage more owners to pursue dog sports. It is called the AKC GoodDog Helpline and will offer telephone support to new dog owners. Trainers will staff the phone line and offer advice on teaching good manners and basic obedience. The helpline will also cite the importance of taking their dog to a training class, and emphasize the need for socialization for all dogs. The helpline will be launched in April and will operate from 9 AM to 9 PM ET from Monday through Friday and noon to 6 PM on Saturdays. Owners will subscribe to the service, which will be good for the life of the dog at a cost of $79.99. There will be special pricing for owners at the time of registering their dog online. Information about this new service will be found at the AKC GoodDog! Helpline web page on the AKC website. AKC advises clubs to update their information on the AKC website and send changes to jms@akc.org. It is up to each club to keep its information current on the AKC website. With the increasing use of the internet by the public for information on breeds, rescue, club activities and the like, it is essential to update important resources and dates frequently. Clubs usually change members’ officers, duties and activities when they have their annual elections. That is also a good time for the Secretary to update all contacts with the AKC website. Nothing is more irritating for people seeking information from an organization than to be shuffled around from person to person. It will be interesting to see how this latest attempt at AKC outreach is accepted by the public. I would imagine that local obedience clubs would benefit a great deal from this initiative and that it might spur additional interest in activities that used to be held by local clubs. Remember the traditional match shows and obedience matches when breeders encouraged their puppy buyers to come out for a little socialization? Although some clubs still cling to those activities, many rely on the new “Baby puppy classes” to fulfill those obligations. Spring shows are in full swing, starting in April and lasting late into Fall, although one wouldn’t know it from the weather in some parts of the country. This is also the time of year most favored for national specialties and endlessly long circuits. There used to be a time when handlers took a month off in the summer to relax, recharge and give their clients’ dogs a break. Whatever happened to that thought? I suspect the drive for ratings is the relentless agent who casts aside all common sense. It also pays no heed to the physical and mental well-being of dogs who are confined to crates, ex-pens and forced exercise for weeks on end. The only thing that goes on vacation with some exhibitors is the welfare of the dogs. Wouldn’t it be refreshing if the professional handlers’ associations established some meaningful guidelines for the welfare of dogs in their care? That might be of benefit for everyone in the dog days of summer. Since those remarks have no chance of gaining traction, we wish everyone a safe and successful journey, wherever the points take you.
TWIN FOTOS
*The Dog News Top Ten List
Dog News 55
Great Dog Men & Women of the Past
As a well-regarded judge, Thomas was offered plum judging assignments, having judged Best in Show at Westminster three times and Morris & Essex twice. This photo appeared in the Morris & Essex catalog in 1934.
The Dog Man’s Dog Man
If you trace the cosmos that is the American dog sport back to its origins, looking for the equivalent of the Big Bang, you eventually arrive at George Steadman Thomas.
By Denise Flaim
Undated photo showing Thomas and James Mortimer looking over wire terriers. 56 Dog News
Thomas judges Terriers in the 1890s.
I
Ever in demand as a judge, Thomas judged Best in Show at the Morris & Essex Kennel Club in 1952, at age 87. His winner was Wire Fox Terrier Ch. Wyretex Wyns Traveler of Trucote, handled by Seth Campbell. Also pictured his the show’s famous benefactress, Geraldine Rockefeller Dodge.
n the Victorian heyday in which all our customs and conventions were solidified, Thomas was one of the brightest objects in the heavens. And, given his varied interests and endeavors, just one star would not suffice: He needed an entire constellation. In the formative years of the sport, Thomas introduced many breeds to the American fancy, among them the Clumber, Sussex, Brittany and Welsh Springer spaniels, Curly Coated Retrievers, English Toy and Cavalier King Charles spaniels, Brussels Griffons, Pomeranians, and Manchester and Yorkshire terriers. (His wife, the winningest female exhibitor of her era, was also very involved in many of these Toy breeds.) Thomas was at the ground floor of many other breeds, such as the Boston Terrier, co-founding the parent club and helping write the American standard. Showing for the most important kennels of the day, he imported some of the finest show dogs, including prominent Westminster winners. And as a judge, he was inexhaustibly in demand, logging assignments as far afield as Germany and Australia. Indeed, the only thing more noteworthy than Thomas’ rarified place in the dog world is the fact that today he is largely forgotten within it. “To many of the present generation in the dog game, the name of George Steadman Thomas did not carry with it the importance it did up to two decades ago …” wrote the great judge Continued on page 88
Dog News 57
Best of Breed and Group First Thank you Judge Mrs. Judy Webb
h t u r a l l A . h C G Gold V Sole Baye g n i d d i K t Jus
aye v Sole B D L O G h PIXIE Allarut . h C : Dam
IST ITH A TW W L E M CAR .HILINE’S Sire: Ch
“Justin” is Co-Owned By Ruth Ziegler - “Allaruth” and Yvonne B. Phelps - “Sole Baye” Los Angeles and El Monte, California 310 472-7993 • 626 448-3424 58 Dog News
Handled Exclusively By Bergit & Hans Kabel Assisted by Nanae Murayama
Back-To-Back Best In Shows for
The Number One* Miniature Schnauzer and Number Three* Terrier
Best In Show # 15 Thank you Judge Mrs. Keke Kahn
*The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed
Dog News 59
Justin’s 80th Group First! Thank you Judge Ms. Charlotte Clem McGowan
h t u r a l l A . h C G Gold V Sole Baye g n i d d i K t s u J
aye v Sole B D L O G XIE ruth PI lla A . h C Dam:
Sire:
IST ITH A TW W L E M E’S CAR Ch.HILIN
“Justin” is Co-Owned By Ruth Ziegler - “Allaruth” and Yvonne B. Phelps - “Sole Baye” Los Angeles and El Monte, California 310 472-7993 • 626 448-3424
60 Dog News
Handled Exclusively By Bergit & Hans Kabel Assisted by Nanae Murayama
Back-To-Back Best In Shows for
The Number One* Miniature Schnauzer and Number Three* Terrier
Best In Show # 16 and Best of Breed Thank you Mr. Robert J. Shreve
*The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed
Dog News 61
are Breeds Of The World by Agnes Buchwald
The Basque Shepherd Dog The Basque Country Or El Pais Vasco – Spain
“If the Basques have preserved their language and their own distinctive stock, the explanation is not to be found in the geographical features of their land, but in their character. Anyone who approaches the Basques without prejudices will find them of great interest, not as an exception among the other races in the world, but as a living museum of man’s history, where one can understand and see what remains of an ancient Europe, now disappeared from other regions, but which is still alive in this peaceful corner of the Pyrenees.” — Rodney Gallop - English writer From: The Basques.
R
esearching for, and writing about the Basques, was one of the most pleasant works I ever had. I was curious about this Spanish “country” (a little bit French too), because I love to read mysteries, and everything concerning this country is unique, exotic, and so different that no matter how much I could collect and learn about it, definitely it was nothing compared to the magnitude of the people and the country whose history is involved in mystery. The Basque territory is a province of Spain, capital is Vitoria-Gasteiz, governed under Spain’s Constitutional Monarchy by an autonomous President. Basque’s area covers 7,234 km2 (2,793 sq mi), the populations of 2,155,546. The Pyrenees Mountains are the major geographic feature of the country. The country is famous for its great and several festivals, one of the greatest is The Euskal Jaia (Basque Festivity) is held on 9th September, the festivity of the Virgin of Aranzazu. This is a one week event (from 1st to 9th) celebrating local culture and traditions. Created in 1924, encourage tourists to stay longer in the town, it has become a very popular event as it combines many Basque festivity traditions. On these days, the streets are filled with groups of dantzaris (Basque dancers), accompanied by “txistus” and other regional instruments. Other great “fiestas” are
62 Dog News
The Tamborrada and Semana Grande. http://www.basquecountry-tourism. com/blog/2012/09/euskal-astea-basque-week-2012/ The Basque people are the oldest living people, or better the oldest ethnic group in Europe, possibly descending from the Cro-Magnon hunters, who existed in Europe about 35.000 yeas ago, but until today researchers could not determine their exact origins. The proven fact is that this group has lived at the foot of the Pyrenees Mountains for many centuries, and has a distinctive language, culture and food. It is almost mandatory to taste the famous Basque cuisine, which is the classiest cuisine in Spain. It is said that to really appreciate Basque food, you have to eat in San Sebastian. Euskara Batua is the name of the isolated Basque language. Many linguists have tried to connect it with the ones spoken in North Africa and the Caucasus Mountains, but no direct links have been found. Basques are proud to say that their language finally is considered suitable to be taught in schools. The history of Pais Vasco is still difficult to be properly studied because only few trustworthy documents were already found, but due to some similarities in personal and local names, it is very probable that Basques originated from one of the Vascone tribes that dwelled in Northern Spain at the Pyrenees feet thousands of years before the Roman legions invasion of the Iberian Peninsula. The fantastic high mountains are a part of the reason the Basques culture has evolved so differently from the rest of Europe. The Roman conquerors had no interest in the Basque territory’s harsh and mountainous terrain difficult to explore. In fact thanks to the protection of the Pyrenees Mountains they were never invaded or defeated by enemies until the Spanish (Castilian) armies in 1500 conquered the territory. However under Castilians, the Basques obtained a great amount of independence, but lost most of their liberty during the Carlist Wars of the 19th century to Spain and France. The loss, besides a great indignation, caused an intense and violent Basque nationalism. In the 1930s the Basque people were harshly targeted during and after the Spanish Civil War under the dictator Francisco Franco and his fascist party. Franco abolished the Euskara language, and immediately confiscated all political autonomy and economic rights of Basques. Many were imprisoned or killed, and Franco ordered the town of Guernica to be bombed by the Germans (1937) where hundreds of civilians died. Picasso painted his famous “Guernica” to demonstrate the horror of that tragedy. After Franco’s death (1975), the Basques received most of their autonomy again, but this was not enough to pacify some of the citizens. In 1959, a group of fanatic nationalists founded ETA**or Euskadi Ta Askatasuna, (Basque Homeland and Liberty). This separatist organization has conducted acts of terrorism trying to obtain the independence, but the two countries (Spain and France) have not tolerated this violence and a great number of Basque terrorists have been imprisoned. Many times ETA leaders have claimed that they want to declare cease-fire and solve this issue peacefully, but they have broken the cease-fire repeatedly. Today this terrorist organization is supported by a minority of the population, and has its focus on political targets. The Basque people do not condone the violent actions of ETA but generally speaking this people are peaceful, self conscious, and proud of their ethnicity. In Spain the Basque Community is divided into three provinces, the home of the Parliament is the capital city Vitoria-Gasteiz. Other important cities include Bilbao and San Sebastian. In France, the Basques live near Biarritz. Same as Spanish, the French Basques are fighting for the right to exercise their own culture and language. This is just the same powerful will among the 250,000 French Basques who live in the north, and sometimes the violent actions of he Basques in Spain reverberate, and has an echo in the Pays Basque of France as well. This people are famous for their interesting culture, shipbuilding, and for being excellent seafarers. After Ferdinand Magellan was killed (1521), a
Basque man, Juan Sebastian Elcano, completed the first circumnavigation of the world. St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuit order of Catholic priests, was Basque. Also are Basques the fashion designers Paco Rabbane, and Cristobal Balenciaga, the composer Maurice Ravel, and hundred famous personages more. As a soccer fan I must mention that some of best players currently playing in Europe are also from the Basque Country. It is interesting that Basques have unique genetics, as they have the highest concentrations of people with Type O blood and Rhesus Negative blood (which can cause problems with pregnancy). From www.quinzaggaworldpress.com One of the country’s greatest tourist attractions is the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, which is the cultural and economic capital of País Vasco. The city went through a transformation like no other city in Spain. Entire sectors of the old port have been demolished giving place to a new opera house, convention center, and the stunning Museum with its collection of art works dated from the mid-twentieth century to the present day. The Solomon R. Guggenheim* Museum’s holds outstanding works of modern and contemporary art. www.guggenheim.org/bilbao/collection The enigmatic Basques have survived thousands of years in the geographical isolation of the Pyrenees Mountains. This situation was proper to preserve their ethnic and linguistic integrity. Maybe in the future experts will discover the DNA of the Basque people’s origins, but certainly the geographical roots will be much more difficult to be solved. Hope this introduction will give a chance to understand the country, its people, and their beloved dog the Basque Shepherd. The Perro de Pastor Vasco, or Euskal Artzain Txakurra, are the names they are known by in their homeland. This ardi-txakurra (sheep-dog) is Continued on page 100
Dog News 63
English Cocker Spaniels
GCh. Majestic Sweet Apple French Martini
“Jolie” Black? Yes... a beautiful “color” when “the outfit” is put together like this!
Thank you to Judge Mrs. Betty-Anne Stenmark.
Bred By: Nancy Sweet, Kay Belter & Robin Novack Owned By: Kay & Doug Belter & Nancy Sweet 64 Dog News
Handled By: Robin Novack & Laura King Assisted By: Alex Romero & Caitlin Blowney Dog News 65
COAST TO COAST Continued FROM page 42
more like a Lhasa Apso. It was an exaggeration and finally a functional problem that had to be addressed by the breeders who followed. Similarly, several Greyhound breeders decided at one point that longer is better for Greyhound necks. Diane further explained that longer narrower necks led to necks without sufficient muscling -- a serious problem for dogs used for coursing. Kitty Steidel, interestingly, describes the Basset of today as “… a breed that is less exaggerated than it was twenty years ago and more consistent in style from one coast to the other. While I do not always see the movement I love, I do see soundness and less bulk, more matching angulation and as a result better toplines in many parts of the country.” In other words, the Basset is a more functional dog than in previous years. Kitty suggests that it used to be common that judges would look and look for the Basset with the most skin, the most wrinkle, the most bone, the most mass. As a result, those chosen produced more Bassets with “big goofy heads, stumbling gait, and sloppy bodies.” They were caricatures! Yet correct movement has always been an essential of the breed standard. Bassets were meant to be an all-day trail follower thus a functional animal is always called for. Kitty reminds us that the late Dr. Leonard Skolnick said it best, “With its unusual proportion, the Basset needs all the attributes of any other breed that was built for endurance.” Also, according to Kitty is the fact that even today there are misunderstandings. “The standard calls for the wrinkle in the brow when the head is lowered and wrinkle in the front legs; it is a protective feature when hunting.” But more is not better. “It does not call for drippingly loose skin on the body nor does it advocate for an exaggerated haw – both of which create health problems.”
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udge, breeder, writer, and breed mentor, Kitty Steidel has been instrumental in providing judges education for breeders and for judges. In the case of Bassets the education has made a difference. The exaggerations of parts and trends toward inaccurate proportions have been significantly modified. Now, however, there is a serious need for breeder and judges’ education for Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen.
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This charming and relatively new breed in the United States has had an uphill battle to gain consistency of type and balance in structure. According to Kitty, the first dogs came here from many countries, most were big, and many were unsound especially in the front assembly. Breeders first began to reduce the size resulting in shorter dogs but with inappropriately longer bodies. Today, after great effort on the part of knowledgeable breeders, the “French Style” which has more leg and a compact body is beginning to prevail. Yet the breed is still in turmoil. This time over coat -- which can be at the same time an argument over function and fashion. The breed originated in the western bramble, thorny, coast of France and was developed to hunt hare and other small game. Therefore, the coat was essential for protection. The second paragraph of the standard is very clear: “a bold hunter with rough, unrefined outline … a casual, rather tousled appearance.” Then in the standard under coat it calls for: “rough, harsh to the touch, to be shown naturally. Dogs whose coat has been altered by excessive grooming, sculpting, clipping or by artificial means shall be so severely penalized as to be effectively eliminated from competition.” That is a requirement for function. In today’s show ring the breed’s appearance has, too often, been prey to fashion. Newly created outlines for PBGVs not only reject the standard and distort the correct silhouette, but take on the look of other breeds such as smooth jacketed Terriers and the Bichon with poofed leg furnishings. But PBGVs are hardly alone as examples of fashion that depart from breed standards and change the silhouette of the dog. Even some of the most rugged, hardest working breeds like the Portuguese Water Dog and the Irish Water Spaniel have been dandied up into a caricature. It seems that the more hair that is available on a dog, the greater temptation on the part of the handler to do something different with it. They tease it, shape it, sculpt it, blow it, scissor it, blunt cut it, and make patterns in it. The fundamental question here is, does the grooming enhance the breed specific attributes of the dog? Or is it an exaggeration? Or, worse still, is it an attention getter that bears
no relationship to the breed standard or the dog? One judge, who is known to be a bit of a wag, suggests that handlers would carve their initials into the furnishings of their dogs if they thought it would lead to more wins! Other judges dismiss the problem because it is not an inherited characteristic. Still other judges tell the handler or exhibitor that following the dictates of the standard is necessary.
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reeder, exhibitor, judge, Susan Hamlin discusses the past and present fashion of presenting Afghan topknots. “Although some may think that combing the topknot to the side is a modern practice, in my recollection of fifty or more years ago I recall that Sunny Shay combed Shirkhan’s topknot to the side, perhaps on the side toward the judge in order to emphasize the topknot hair. In the years since I have seen topknots combed to the side, teased, and sprayed and parted down the middle.” Susan also goes to the standard for grounding this topic: “The topknot is mentioned three times in the standard – under general appearance, head, and coat. ‘The Afghan Hound should be shown in its natural state; the coat is not clipped or trimmed; the head is surmounted (in the full sense of the word) with a topknot of long, silky hair – that is also an outstanding characteristic of the Afghan Hound.” While grooming has changed from the time the breed first came to the United States, it appears that handlers and exhibitors of Afghan Hounds have been less likely to adopt inappropriate grooming fashions than those that occur in other breeds. That said, it is also true that “Babbie Tongren held strong opinions and when she held forth on grooming, about all you could do, and remain on her good side, was to bathe a dog and maybe blow it dry.” Natural was natural! In fact, when an Afghan shakes its head, the topknot tends to part down the middle once it settles. “Therefore, today, the handler might want to comb, tease, or spray the topknot to show off the eye shape, markings, and good points. It is done to ENHANCE the hound’s best points and to add to the glamour of the breed.” This discussion of function and fashion within the greater context of breed changes and the adherence to breed standards is not a conclusion but rather is a starting point for future discussion by breed clubs, judges education groups, breeders, handlers, and judges.
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e t L ’ s P ! l p a y U B r e t a t l a B #1 Platinum Level
The Havanese Home-Run King! Always Presented by Owners Steve and Alice Lawrence
The Fuzzy Farm
Best In Show Cords Since 1972 68 Dog News
Group First Judge Mr. Charles Trotter [en route to Reserve Best In Show]
With appreciation to Mr. Trotter and Mr. Russell
Group First Judge Mr. William Russell Dog News 69
By Karolynne McAteer
W
ith threats from Mother Nature everywhere, a hardy group of Irish Setter lovers boarded planes, automobiles and horse trailers bound for Tulsa, Oklahoma, for ISCA’s annual national walking events. Participants crossing the country and coming from as far West as Oregon and California to as far North and East as Virginia and New York encountered rain, snow, sleet and incredibly high winds but all soldiered on to converge at Woods Kennels and the nearby Fairchase Hunt Club field trial grounds in Adair, Oklahoma. Hosts of this weekend were the members of the Irish Setter Club of Greater Tulsa, with President Susan Moren at the helm. Hard working secretary of the event was Anna Vaughn, with local Chair Londa Warren and national chair Kevin Culver working together to make a smooth, almost flawless event for all who attended. Purina was the sponsor, as it is of all ISCA events. Most of us arrived sometime late in the day Thursday, I flew in and was lucky that my “Barry” hooked a ride on the “Tulsa Bound Express” with Kevin and Jean Culver. The AKC Delegate meetings were earlier in the week on the Monday and Tuesday in
New Jersey, which pretty much killed any idea of driving for me. Following my very specific directions from Anna Vaughn, I made it from the Tulsa Airport to Adair without a hitch, and arrived at the clubhouse to witness a veritable bustle of activity. The cottage on the grounds had been kindly vacated by the owner Tom Woods’ son, so it could be used as our own personal clubhouse, complete with upscale sound system, computer hookups, Continued on page 90
3 TERRIFIC D The Irish Setter Club of America’s (ISCA)13th National Hunting Test, Walking
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AYS IN Tulsa Field Trial And The 4th ISCA Walking Gun Dog Championship. March 15-17, 2013
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by Sharon Pflaumer Photos provided by The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association in the UK
The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association In The UK Makes Miracles Happen Everyday
John Tovey’s guide dog, Dez, was named “top dog” at the Specsavers Guide Dog of the Year Awards in 2012.
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sk any blind person and they’ll say getting a guide dog dramatically changed their life for the better. That’s because dramatic, life changing transformations are typical in these situations. Consider the story of John Tovey, who lives in Gloucestershire, England. He went to bed one night with blurred vision and woke up the next morning completely blind because of a rare form of aggressive retinopathy from which he suffers. After Tovey lost his sight, he was unable to work and lost touch with his closest family member, his son, James. “My life became a dreadful, living hell,” he says. “The simplest task like grocery shopping became impossible for me. When I couldn’t pay my bills because I lost my job, I ended up in a bed and breakfast, which is where local councils put homeless people. By then, I’d become an alcoholic recluse. Of course, heavy drinking was absolutely the worst thing for me to do because of my diabetes. But I was suicidal and didn’t care.” After a 3-year-old, black Labrador Retriever guide dog named Dez was placed with Tovey on February 10, 2010, his life once again dramatically changed overnight. Dez’s energy and support gave Tovey the motivation to get out and about again--to get another job and rebuild his ties with his family and the community. “Dez gave me the confidence and freedom to go anywhere because he made it possible for me to cross busy streets safely,” Tovey says. “He gave my life back to me. It’s because of him that I have a future.” Tovey and Dez won the Life Changing Partnership Award in 2012 at the Specsavers Guide Dog of the Year Awards. They also were shortlisted for the coveted Guide Dog of the Year Award the same year and went on to win it.
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The UK’s first four guide dog partnerships (from left to right): Allen Caldwell with Flash, G. W. Lamb with Meta, Musgrave Frankland with Judy, and Thomas ap Rhys with Folly. The four guide dogs were trained in Wallasey, Cheshire in 1931.
The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association in the United Kingdom Dez was placed with Tovey by The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association in the United Kingdom. For almost 80 years, the charity has been making miracles happen on a daily basis. Its origin goes back to 1931, when Muriel Cooke and Rosamund Bond trained the first British guide dogs for the blind in a garage in Wallasey, Merseyside. After learning of the guide dogs being trained in Switzerland, Cooke and Bond decided to give it a go in the UK. Their effort was so successful, it led them to found The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association in 1934, which now is known simply as Guide Dogs. “We are the largest, single producer of guide dogs in the world,” the charity’s CEO Richard Leaman says. “There’s no other organization that produces as many guide dogs as we do. Since our founding, we’ve placed more than 30,000 of them. Currently, we’re responsible for 7,800 dogs. We plan to produce 840 new guide dogs in 2013.” In addition to guide dogs, the charity also trains dual-purpose service dogs for those who are blind and deaf or blind and wheelchair bound. It also trained and placed one Type 1 Diabetic Alert Dog that alerts to low blood
A volunteer puppy walker out and about with a guide dog in training.
Above:The main dog training hall inside Atherton Dog Training School near Manchester. Right: In May 2011, Guide Dogs opened its National Breeding Centre in Leamington.
sugar levels, and one Seizure Alert Dog that warns when a seizure is about to happen. The Seizure Alert Dog is the first of its kind in the world, being both a guide dog and an alert dog. The dog can give its owner a 42-minute warning before an impending seizure and thus enable him to take medication and find a safe place to lie down before the seizure’s onset.
A guide dog in training learns obstacle avoidance.
Guide Dogs Deal With The Unexpected “Because GPS technology and locational devices have improved and become readily available, we’ve been asking ourselves how much longer we’re going to need to train guide dogs,” Leaman says. The answer to that question is at the core of what guide dogs specialize in: obstacle avoidance. “The truly unique thing about guide dogs is that they alert to the paving slab ahead that was recently moved or the tree branch that suddenly dropped lower. While Google can map the entire planet, it can’t tell a blind person that on any particular day there’s a trash can on the pavement in front of him. One of our Trustees was on the bus that was bombed on 7/7 in London. His guide dog led him out of its burning wreckage. No GPS device could have done that.” Eligibility “We thought that when we reached a population of 4500 guide dogs, we would have reached the limit of the population interested in getting a guide dog. But our waiting list is still long,” Leaman says. Applicants wait between 6 and 12 months for a guide dog depending upon whether it’s their first dog or a replacement for a retired dog. Each applicant is subject to a thorough assessment process. Factors like the amount of residual vision they have and their other disabilities are considered. The charity places guide dogs with blind persons as young as 14 years of age. Continued on page 111
The charity’s new, life-sized, donation collection boxes have been placed at various locations throughout the UK.
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*Doberman Pinscher, The Dog News Top Ten List
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SWIFT BEAUTY The Afghan Hound
“Sevion” (AKC GCh DC UKC GCh IACA Intl World Gold Ch L’Rhei Suni Asia’s Timestep CD RE MC LCX2 CGC UKC RO1), one of Lynda Hicks’ dual champions, demonstrates that the breed definitely was not meant to be a lap dog or a glamorous couch potato.
Sevion refutes the idea that Afghan Hounds are stupid and cannot be trained.
Soliel (yellow) and Rock (DC Zavin Supersonic of El Chaman SC) in the pink, both dual champions, are very important to the breed because they not only possess the correct conformation but they also have coursing ability.
By M.J. Nelson
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hen I was judging hunt tests for pointing breeds, it was always a pleasure when a nicely built setter was part of a brace because setters with good conformation seem to simply flow through a field. The same can be said for Afghan Hounds except that they are a whole lot swifter than any setter. But, an Afghan running in the field or on a track, whether it is in pursuit of a lure or a jackrabbit, is a glorious sight to behold. A classic picture of elegance, power, agility and pure speed at full run in the field or when racing, these aristocratic sighthounds are also successful in a variety of other performance activities despite having to overcome the burden of a “hound reputation” in many of these activities. “Afghan Hounds are physically graceful, athletic and energetic. They are also willing workers when provided with adequate motivation. But, you have to be persistent and patient. It also helps a lot if you can maintain your sense of humor. There is a lot of folklore that Afghan Hounds are stupid and can’t be trained. I won’t deny that it takes a bit more effort to train an Afghan Hound than it would require for say a herding or a sporting dog. The Afghan Hound’s thought processes are different and sometimes they become certain that their decisions are more reasonable than yours. Occasionally, they are right about that, incidentally. Training them is like training a cat. It’s challenging but it can be done and done well and the rewards for success are that much sweeter,” said Lynda Hicks, who owns seven Afghan Hounds that are dual champions, two of which also have obedi-
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ence or rally titles including her current top dog, “Sevion” (AKC GCh DC UKC GCh IACA Intl World Gold Ch L’Rhei Suni Asia’s Timestep CD RE MC LCX2 CGC UKC RO1). “Afghan Hounds are, quite literally, built for speed. They are usually healthy, lightly built for their height and extremely agile. Their native aloofness keeps them from being overly attracted to strange dogs and people and their natural curiosity makes them willing to try anything. Afghan Hounds are relatively rare everywhere but unlike other rare breeds, almost everyone in the dog world knows all about them, or believes they do. People sometimes get annoyed when the real, live dogs refuse to live down to their expectations,” said Nora Mayfield, who owns UKC Ch FC Twyshire Tanist CD MC LCM3 RN GRC JOR CGC (“Tanist”) and FC Twyshire Satin Chase CD RA SC LCM GRC CGC JOR (“Rhett”). Robin Kletke and Robin Cohen’s Zinger (MACH7 Ch Stormhill’s Red Zinger MXF T2B JC) is proof that Afghan Hounds can be highly successful in performance activities as well as the field. “With Zinger, we like to make the point that Afghan Hounds can do whatever you want them to do. But, I will confess that agility is not easy because sighthounds are not normally thought of as an ‘agility breed.’ They are certainly fast and agile but generally sighthounds do not have that ‘need to please their owners’ attitude. The rewards that work with an Afghan Hound are also different. They don’t always want to play ‘tug’ or have a treat. We had to figure out other ways to
MBIF DC Watling Street Zarin Sun at D’Vangel LCX MC CTC (“Soleil”), one of Eddie and Selma Kominek’s Afghan Hounds, shows why it is important to watching an Afghan Hound and other hound breeds course. Coursing provides insight into the hound’s drive, galloping style, endurance and speed. These are characteristics that are simply not tested in the show ring at a show trot. (Mike McNamer, photo)
reinforce the behavior we wanted. We had to learn to train in short sessions and also how to quickly understand their needs. Contrary to popular belief, Afghan Hounds are not dumb dogs. They are quite resourceful and intelligent. They just don’t take to training as quickly as some other breeds. Sometimes you have to figure out a way to have them ‘decide’ that it was their idea to do the thing you want them to do,” said Kletke. The beauty of the breed, however, does pose an obstacle to participating in some dog sports, particularly the “running” activities at least in the minds of some Afghan Hound owners, according to Eddie Kominek, who, with his wife, Selma, owns BIE Mahar’s Reza of Midhdian FC h SC (“Reza”), MBIF DC Watling Street Zarin Sun at D’Vangel LCX MC CTC (“Soleil”) and MBIF DC Kominek’s Play the Game of Thrones SC (“Cersei”). “The Afghan Hound does not, aside from their independent character which requires a gentle and patient approach, present many obstacles when it comes to participation in dog sports. With our breed, the problem lies with owners’ mind-sets. Way too many Afghan Hound fanciers are more concerned about the dog losing a few hairs from the breed’s luxurious coat than testing their hounds’ bodies and drive. We have had multiple hounds compete regularly in coursing and still have great looking, long, thick coats. This fear of losing coat keeps many fanciers from more seriously considering the coursing sports with their hounds and usually, this is an unfounded fear. This is an ancient sighthound and as such, it must have the ability to run down prey. What this means is that it is just as important to test an Afghan Hound in
Zinger (MACH7 Ch Stormhill’s Red Zinger MXF T2B JC) and other Afghan Hounds they have owned and run in agility taught Robin Kletke and Robin Cohen that they needed to figure out a way to have an Afghan Hound ‘decide’ that it was the dog’s idea to do something that they wanted them to do.
the field as it is to compete with them in the show ring. Watching your Afghan Hound and other hound breeds course provides insight into the hound’s drive, galloping style, endurance and speed. These are characteristics that are simply not tested in the show ring at a show trot. While field testing Afghan Hounds on real prey such as hare is an ideal situation as occurs with open field coursing, this is not available to many owners. What this means is that lure coursing is the next best substitute.” But, lure coursing may not be the complete field work answer. “Afghan Hounds are primarily hunting hounds as opposed to coursing hounds,” said Jeanie Martin, whose Malone (Am/Can Ch U-Ch Charsada Dream No Small Dreams LCM FChX SRM JOR SC) was the number one Afghan Hound in the American Sighthound Field Association and the Canadian Kennel Club lure coursing in 2008 and Desmond (FC CCB Can Ch Charsada Darkness at Nigh Noon LCM FChX SRM SC) was the number one Afghan Hound in both the ASFA and CKC lure coursing in 2011. “This means that the Afghan Hound applies hunting skills to lure coursing guessing where the lure is going to be and cutting across the field to catch the lure instead of following blindly behind it as would a coursing hound such as a Whippet or Greyhound. One way that I have overcome this issue with my hounds is to take them racing where they get used to running behind the lure on a track in either oval or straight track racing in between lure coursing seasons. Lure coursing really requires little training because it is pure instinct for the chase that drives the hound to compete. It’s important Continued on page 113
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suppose that if one knows his or her way round the Internet there’s no stopping the amount of mischief and/or damage one can cause. And the fact is that you do not have to be a super power or a third world country trying to gain super power status to take advantage of social media and its various forms of communication. Why just this past Easter Sunday a message was sent headed as though it came from AKC COMMUNICATIONS when it did not! I must admit that initially I was fooled too but after reading into the message which was primarily religious in nature I realized that AKC never would have sent this out. I figured almost immediately who the sender was well into the e-mail and was not totally surprised as somehow I am on their email list and many of their messages are off base-to my mind at any rate. Candidly my immediate reaction was that it sounded like the beginning of a Board Chairman’s Report, which thought I am happy to say was dispelled two lines into the post. Nonetheless I did forward it onto AKC and they were already working on a disclaimer and asking the sender to send one out as well. What do these perpetrators of such fraudulent messages hope to accomplish? Don’t they realize they will be caught eventually and these people fortunately were nipped in the bud very early on. I was recently at a comparatively small
dinner party attended by 10 or 12 people all inPhotos of Louisville Kennel Club volved with the exhibition and showing of dogs. by Booth Photography Indeed there were 4 or 5 Delegates, a Show chairperson and show President or two and some people of an even higher visibility within the American dog world itself in attendance. All were long term and involved supporters of the purebred dog and of AKC itself so as one would have expected the talk turned to the recent elections as well as to a myriad of various problems facing AKC. At one point there was even a rather animated discussion concerning the need to restructure the AKC constitutionally with all of the participants in agreement generally without specifics being precisely discussed of this need. I had kept quiet during these talks primarily because I was pretty well surprised to hear such strong and firm talk about the need for restructuring considering the fact that no concrete steps that I knew about in these areas were ever proposed by those in attendance. When I finally chirped in and asked why if they felt so strongly on the topic of restructuring had none of their clubs made proposals to that effect. While there was no unanimity in response to my query and the answers were all over the place I got the distinct impression that what was lacking was a leader in this area to begin just such a movement of restructuring. Some made mention of Delegate Committees to which no one at the table belonged
Internet Shenanigans, Dinner Party Talk, David Roche...
More By Matthew H. Stander
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Photos of San Mateo Kennel Club by Megan Bell
and I very strongly reminded everyone that there is more than one way to “skin the proverbial cat” and while one option is the Delegate Committees,despite how long they take to get anything done, the clubs themselves have the right and obligation to suggest Constitutional changes on their own as of course do the Directors. Of late and the tendency I believe under the Kalter Board particularly is to throw these responsibilities into the lap of the Delegate Committees and to ignore the importance of the individual club itself. Let no one forget AKC is a club of clubs and not a club of committees as some people would have you think. Will be curious to see if there is any movement in that direction from my dinner partners that’s for sure!
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s many of you will no doubt recall during the last two years of the Menaker Boards there were significant paring down of job positions at AKC--indeed I would dare say that between 20 and 30 jobs were eliminated throughout the corporation. So imagine my surprise to go through the AKC web site on March 31 and to find under job opportunities listings for at least 13 current openings for AKC in New York and Raleigh none of which included field rep positions. What was listed was a Marketing Manager in New York, a New Product Developer in New York to IT positions up the ying yang
in Raleigh. There is no job over supply around AKC that’s obvious. Why the cut back then only two years ago and the openings now? Certainly the positions originally eliminated were not the same as those being looked for now and circumstances do change but I was surprised to see the shift in hiring considerations. And speaking of shifts in hiring needs it will be interesting to see who is elected the new head of AKC/CAR by AKC/CAR’s Board. Tom Davies continued as Chairman even though he was initially term limited off the Board which term on AKC/CAR was continued until the Board election of 2013. With his defeat for a Board seat he was unable to continue to serve on the CAR Board and a new person is to be elected. Who that will be remains to be seen and I would presume another Director from AKC will be named to the AKC/Car Board as well to replace Tom. Wonder where the new Chairman and new Director will stand on how to get the monies owed to them by Hundt and whether he or she will take the alleged Davies stand that AKC should reimburse CAR for any monies lost through the debt of Hundt and the missending of alleged unreadable microchips to Mexico when purchased by Hundt from AKC. Just wondering, that’s all!!!
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he passing of David Roche in hospital at age 83 truly jolted me. David, a native of Australia and one of the most admired dogmen of our generation, was also an antique collector whose collection was admired internationally. Indeed David’s knowledge and love of the sport and breeding of the purebred dog was legendary. He adjudicated Best in Show at Crufts in 1969 and Best at Montgomery as well. I first met David in the late ‘60s at Santa Barbara, which he often visted, judged and supported as well. We became friends and he was a visitor to our home on several occasions. He was described as having acquired one of the greatest decorative art collections in Australia if not the world comparable to that of Henry Frick here in the States. His personal collection consultant was Martyn Cook, the nephew of Bob Curtis, another well known Australian judge and Martyn and David were frequent travelers the worldwide. David was shy if not introverted but once he knew someone and felt he could trust them he was as easy going and open with you as though he had known you his entire life. He was Kiplings ideal when he wrote of the person who had the ability to walk with kings (which David did do) but never lose the common touch, which David never did lose. I will miss his 3am phone calls from Australia but feel the more complete for having known him and being able to call him a friend. Dog News 83
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Gossip The
By Eugene Z. Zaphiris
B
Column
RYAN MARTIN has been hired as the newest American Kennel Club Field Representative. BRYAN & NANCY will be relocating to the Pacific Northwest, somewhere in the Portland vicinity. That makes it nice for NANCY, whose sister BARBARA lives in the area. BRYAN of course comes from a family long involved in the sport. His parents were successful Basset hound and Otterhound breeders. Following his mother’s the AMERICAN FOLK ART MUSUEM. As you passing, his father DON married multiple group may know Dachshund fancier ANNE RADICE judge and Afghan hound breeder MIDGE HORN is the executive director of that museum. and they have shown several Dachshunds. His In her short tenure the museum has seen an brother PETER is a judge and his sister HEIDI is upswing in attendance and donor funds. She a well known canine artist. NANCY is an old, old was quoted, “I’m a person who’s in the present friend as we both hail from Long Island. That and looks into the future.” I never understood was until her marriage to BRYAN and her move why the DOG MUSEUM never reached out to to Libertyville. I don’t think that NANCY and the her when she was working for the government Mid-west had the same sense of humor, which allocating monies to museums nationwide or is unfortunate because she can be very, very in her present role as a mover and shaker to funny in a very New York way. Together BRYAN bring an almost bankrupt organization back to & NANCY built a very successful handling life. Celebrating wedding anniversaries…PAT & business and have shown many top winners CHUCK TROTTER, LINDA & RON MATTSON, during their handling careers. Their last shows CHERYL & WAYNE CAVANAUGH, SHARON are next weekend and BRYAN starts his new job & DAVID KROGH and PAT & JOSEF ULLOA. at the Raleigh offices the following week. All Celebrating Birthdays…BETH SWEIGART, C.R. of us at DOG NEWS wish them all the best of BOYES, CHRIS JONES, TIM THOMAS, BRIAN luck and now that NANCY doesn’t have to lug PHILLIPS, DON RODGERS, KEVIN CHESTNUT, all working dogs around the ring, just how long KEN MURRAY, JANE FLOWERS, SALLY can her nails get? Sorry to hear that one of the GEORGE, GWEN DEMILTA, CARLA SANCHEZ, Sunshine state’s sons, BILL CUNNINGHAM, is RON SCOTT, JOAN LOGAN, DAVE FREI, in hospital. He was taken ill Tuesday morning and MADELYN GOSS, MAKENA MARKEY, ARLENE I hear that it is very serious. Our thoughts and BENKO, WILL ALEXANDER, SHEA SKINNER, prayers are with him. In another move to prove PERRY PHILLIPS, SARAH PERCHICK, its overall interest in all facets of the sport, the CONNIE CLAPP, ANDREW PEEL, KATHERINE WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB will be holding SUTTEL, AARON WILKERSON, KEN WALL, an agility event on Long Island. There was a great ALAN WATERMAN, PEGGY MCGILL, SHELBY article in the April 3rd arts section of the New ROBERTS and MIDGE MARTIN. York Times written by ROBIN POGREBIN about
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The Dog Man’s Dog Man Continued FROM page 57
Thomas with a Fox Terrier, a breed he had deep experience in. “Canine entrepreneur par excellance,” opined one commentator.
Thomas and his wife show off some Old English Sheepdog imports, somewhere around the turn of the last century.
Percy Roberts in Thomas’ 1955 obituary. “The soft-cushion job of dog-showing as we know it was not always the case. Men like George Thomas pioneered in the dog game and helped shape its course to what we know today. He was a first-class dogman and judge. His dominant salesmanship started many in dogs who otherwise would not have gotten into the game.” “G.S.T,” as he was known in his native England, was born in 1865 in Sherwood Forest – yes, that Sherwood Forest – in an area called The Dukeries because at one time it contained five ducal residences in close proximity to each other. When he was 15 years old, Thomas went to work at one of them, Thoresby Hall, tending Lord Manvers’ pack of 60 or so dogs, mostly Clumber Spaniels with a smattering of Curly Black Retrievers and English Springers. The preponderance of Clumbers was logical, as the breed was literally developed next door, at the Duke of Newcastle’s adjoining estate, named Clumber.
A
fter a year at Thoresby Hall, Thomas acquired a position at Edlington Manor in Lincolnshire, on the estate of Squire and Lady Short. Their pack was smaller – only about 15 dogs – and the pay better. Though Thomas’ main task was to train the squire’s hunting dogs, he persuaded Lady Short to let him take her two Smooth Fox Terriers and a Curly Retriever to a nearby dog show. Thomas not only took first in the all-terrier dog class with the male, and third with the bitch, but the Curly went Best Sporting Dog in Show. The bug had officially bitten. Thomas was nothing if not a master networker, and after a year at Edlington, he left to work for Squire and Sir Henry Roberton, bachelor- brothers who needed a dog trainer at their Washingley Manor in Huntingshire. Each July, Thomas took most of the brothers’ 30 pointers and
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retrievers to their shooting lodge on the River Gar in Scotland, to prepare them for grouse season, followed by deer stalking. On the third season after Thomas’ arrival, Sir Henry took ill, and before heading to the south of France for his convalescence, the two brothers rented the property to a quartet of American sportsmen. Thomas and the dogs were part of the bargain, and after their twomonth stay, the Americans persuaded Thomas to return with them to work at a shooting club. Like all his previous employers, the British brothers implored Thomas to stay, offering him his job back should he ever want it, and sending him off with a check for 25 pounds (about $900 today). Thomas had an exquisite radar for the next best deal, and he never did make it to that American shooting club. Before embarking on the Lake Huron to America, Thomas stopped to visit his brotherin-law, Richard Toon, another died-in the-wool dog man who bred Yorkshire Terriers. Thomas agreed to bring four Yorkies with him on the two-week ocean voyage. Their new owner, bank president Charles N. Symonds of Salem, Mass., met Thomas at the pier in Boston. Soon enough, Symonds persuaded Thomas to stay, for $15 a month with free room and board. Symonds permitted Thomas to deal dogs on the side, and an empire was born. By all accounts, Thomas had an instinctive eye for a dog, coupled with an acute business sense and a knack for attracting wealthy clients. Eventually, Thomas opened his own kennels on a five-acre property in Hamilton, Mass., which housed 50 to 100 dogs at any given time. “His business of importing dogs was one of the largest in the world,” wrote the New York Times in Thomas’ obituary, and that almost verges on understatement. From 1890 through the early 1920s, Thomas imported some 3,600 dogs into the United States, adding up to more than $2 million in sales. That averages to more than $500 per dog, though for really fine specimens, Thomas had no trouble getting prices in the four or even five figures. He reportedly sold three St. Bernards for $14,000 each, and the Boston Terriers Sir Barney Blue and Willowbrook Glory for $35,000. Those figures are even more stunning when one considers that $1,000 at the turn of the last century is worth about $22,000 today. So Thomas’ $2 million in sales was comparable to $44 million in modern currency. Continued on page 92
Dog News 89
3 TERRIFIC DAYS IN Tulsa Continued FROM page 71
indoor plumbing and a kitchen that produced delicious food all weekend. I dove into the PURINA boxes working out the gifts/trophies for each day, while all around me horse trailers, and vans arrived with familiar red heads sticking out of windows. I was grateful at around 2:30pm to see Kevin and Jean arrive. I had clocked them for a noontime arrival, but had not taken into account the copious signs for “antique shops” coming out of Missouri and into Oklahoma!! Jean is almost as passionate about antiquing as she is about Irish Setters. You should see her chocolate pot collection. With all dogs exercised and given a quick meal, we decided to find our hotel, and a good meal for ourselves. It was suggested we go to the Wood Shed truck stop (WHAT) across from the hotel, and while I was somewhat uncertain of that idea, it turned out to be an excellent suggestion; we were joined by about 10 others, and treated to good food and better hospitality. Turns out we made several stops here. Checking out the weather on our “online” devices, looked like Mother Nature was taking control of each day, and we’d just have to ride with her whims. Friday was projected to get into the 80s, which it did, Saturday looked like 70, and if one could believe it Sunday was a projected high of 40 and high wind (WHICH IT WAS) giving us a 40 degree swing from day one. After another visit to the truck stop for a quick dinner bite, we headed back to the hotel and an early night, knowing we’d be up at 5AM the next morning.
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riday was a fully packed day, up in the saddle for Open Walking Gun Dog were judges Jack Murphy and Rob Martin, a full stake, carrying a major, the victory went to FC/AFC Lynturk’s Runnymeade Ranger, owned by Teresa Sanford and Kevin Culver and handled by Kevin. This 10-year-old veteran was a pleasure to watch. A large mounted gallery followed all the dogs in open, kept in check by Marshall Jeanie Harris. A dog wagon followed all braces, on all days, piloted by Jim Kuzilik and Mike Sullivan and despite some rough ground you were able to have a great view of bird work. Next up were the Derby dogs, 6 youngsters ran for judges Mike
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Martin and Ken Chenoweth, with the blue ribbon going to “Viva”, Russell’s Occupy the Moment, owned and handled by Lisa Moore, who had made the long trek from Tucson, AZ to attend. With temperatures rising into the 80s, and with the duplication of a number of dogs that had already run in the morning’s Open stake, the judges made the call for safety to dogs and humans to re-arrange the stakes, hold off on the Amateur Gun Dog stake until the next morning (a large stake with another major) and to end this day with the Amateur Walking Puppy stake. After a good lunch break, Mike Martin and Ken Chenoweth were back up in the saddle to judge the puppy entry. The win went to Flights of Fancy Prince Charming, owned and handled by Nina Johnson. Everyone had a cool down period back at the field trial cottage, copious amounts of water and soda were consumed, dogs were staked out under trees, and it was certainly agreed it was a great decision to hold off on the Amateur Gun Dog stake, not sure about the dogs, but I know the humans wouldn’t have made it around again in that 82 degree heat. People went about dog and horse chores, and by 6PM, we were all sitting out, enjoying the diminishing heat and were treated to a wonderful barbecue meal courtesy of the ISC Greater Tulsa. Cannot end day one without speaking of the grounds and the owner and dog trainer Tom Woods. Nothing could have been done to make us feel more welcome. The grounds were challenging, well prepared by Tom who was always on site, multiple water stops with tubs for the dogs, to say nothing of two beautiful ponds. In fact the second pond was referred to as “the killer pond.” It was the demise of several dogs who did not handle nearby covey’s well. But most dogs that made it around that far, dove in with abandon, grateful for a swim to the other side, and carried on for the last one-third of the course. The course was well thought out, cleared sufficiently, and challenged our athletes appropriately. Saturday, which is usually dedicated to the Hunting Tests, started promptly at 8AM with Amateur Gun Dog with judges Jack Murphy and Terry Gowin in the saddle. Many riders were resplendent in green Irish hats, even the horses were decorated “and wearin’ the green.” Cassie Allen and Jean Webb ran through the parking lot tying green ribbons on all the vehicles. With the cooler morning temps and 8 braces running there was much to see. As luck would have it I was in the first brace, so got particularly nice weather to run in. The Open on Friday and the Amateur this day, were the first times I have really run Barry
as a field trial dog, as he’s a Master Hunter. Had to shake off nerves but running with Cassie Allen, who I knew made it easier, and with a Rolodex of rules running through my head, I tried to remember that at a field trial I can collar after the shot, and yes I can say a cautionary whoa before flushing the bird. There is no doubt we were not a flawless team, but we had a great time, learned a good deal from the experience itself and the remarks of the judges afterward. I then hopped back on the dog wagon with Mike Sullivan at the wheel and followed all other braces and truly admired so much of the talent and heart of our dogs. At the end of the morning the victory and major went to “Sugar” Setterdowns Brown Sugar, owned and handled by Bill Rhodes. After a lunch break, put together by the weekend chef Jerri Lee, who had been conned into this duty by her sister, the Marshall Jeanie Harris, the day proceeded as planned, with judges Terry Gowin and Doug Bruning up, judging Senior and Junior; there were no Master dogs entered. Lee Bruning was the Hunting Test Marshall and saw to it, as much as possible, that we all remained safe! The break away for the hunting tests gave a fairly good view for anyone who wanted to walk down and see the dogs work in the bird field and the dog wagon got as close as possible without getting in the way of the gunners. Captain of the Guns Mike Johnson and gunner Jim Kuzilik rewarded the pointing dogs with good shots and retrieve opportunities. In Senior, two qualifying scores were awarded to Russell’s Joseph’s Journey (Joey) owned by Matt and Wendy Czarnecki and Susan Russell and handled by Trena Cardwell and to Ch. Connall Magic Brew, JH (Miller) owned by Dotti Fowler and Eileen McDonald and handled by Dotti. In Junior, 4 dogs qualified, Flights of Fancy Prince Charming (Ryan) owned and handled by Nina Johnson, Vabrill Cancion Bright Star (Song) owned by Wendy and Matt Czarnecki and handled by Trena Cardwell, Brophy’s Inde Race (Dani) owned by Michael and Susie Sullivan and handled by Michael, and Russell’s Occupy the Moment (Viva), owned and handled by Lisa Moore. The evening festivities, to honor St. Patrick’s Day, were held at the Pleasant Hope Baptist Church, a half mile from the trial grounds. Such a wonderful feast featuring Irish Stew and Corned Beef and Cabbage. A special cake for the occasion was devoured, but not before we got a chance to photograph it!! The
silent auction tables were laden with not only useful field trial items, but collectibles and many fun mementos. The raffle winners were pulled and announced, so more happy winners there. All in all, a great day, spent with good friends, old and new.
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unday can only be described as really cold! And a wind blew that cut right through you. Most of us had on so many layers we could barely walk and were doubly thankful for the dog wagon to take us to the top of a HUGE hill that was the new breakaway for the 45-minute club championship. The plaintive sound of bagpipes, piped the 9 qualifying dogs to the top of that hill, causing tears in many an eye. Mike Martin and Ken Chenoweth were once again in the saddle to judge the championship, and they must have been frustrated by the outcome of the morning. Scenting conditions were tough with the high swirling wind, there were birds everywhere including where they didn’t belong!! Dogs on point had multiple running birds to contend with; birds that did not want to fly, and if and when they finally flew seemed to shoot out 10 at a time. At one point we could see a dog standing, with a racetrack of birds running in circles under the tree in front of him; it was like the Indianapolis 500 of birdville! Still, these are trained, talented and qualified bird dogs, many with field championships and other significant field wins, so no excuses are offered. BUT…on this day the birds won, and no placements were given in the championship. As I said frustrating, but nothing could damped the spirit of this three day event, so beautifully organized by ISC Greater Tulsa and Susan Moren with much assistance from Tom Woods, and so ably run by Anna Vaughn its secretary, Londa Warren, its local chair and on all three days the line marshall, and Kevin Culver, the national chair. We all sat down to a hearty lunch, swapped stories of the three days, (meaning we told some truth and lied a little) and started packing up our belongings. I reversed my directions and managed to arrive in the right place … airport hotel at Tulsa. This national walking weekend has been in existence now for 13 years, starting as a two-day walking event, with the Amateur walking field trial, and the National Hunting Test. It grew to include Open stakes in the field trial, with the National Hunting Test and the past four years has included an ISCA Walking Championship, which is hoped to be an AKC titled event in 2014. The interest and emphasis on the birdiness in our breed has grown dramatically in the past decade resulting in more dual champions, more field champions and many more Irish Setters with Master level hunting abilities. This weekend helps prove that given the opportunity with correct conditioning and training, today’s Irish is still an “active aristocratic bird dog” (first line of the official AKC standard). Next year’s event is in March, in Petersburg, DE. Come join us. Dog News 91
The Dog Man’s Dog Man Continued FROM page 88
“Being a good judge of almost any breed he was a quick buyer and many a good dog came his way because of this,” Roberts wrote. “Thomas possibly could have taken credit for starting more people in dogs than all other dealers of his period, and he maintained his clients’ confidence by keeping whatever dogs he sold at the top during their show careers because of his ability as a handler and conditioner.” Thomas, along with his wife, was an adept handler. His first show in the U.S. was Westminster in 1890, where he showed four Yorkies. Later on in that decade he was a fixture – and frequent victor – at the posh shows on Long Island, where the gallery was populated with moneyed fanciers with last names like Phipps and Belmont. During that period, he reportedly won more first places than any other exhibitor or handler. One of Thomas’ most high-profile clients was textile wizard Lucius J. Knowles, who owned the large variety kennel Selwonk in Magnolia, Mass. Knowles literally wanted to buy Thomas’ kennels and transport them to his estate, but the logistics proved Thomas judging Fox Terriers in Cardiff, Wales, in the early 1900s. impossible. So instead, Thomas supervised the construction of new kennels on Knowles’ land, to the tune of $50,000, which included the construction of a new road as well as Terriers were Thomas’ best sellers, first and foremost a well-stocked home for Thomas. Rather than closing his own facility, Irish, with Airedales, Fox Terriers of both varieties and Scothe hired a manager and visited several days a week. ties also bringing in a brisk business. Most were from Great Soon after the kennels were up and running, Knowles decided Britain, and Thomas operated two kennels there, one in Engto get out of the dog game and reportedly offered to pay Thomas his land and the other in Wales, run by well-known Terrier men $5,000-a-year salary for life. Sam Warburton and Joe Hitching. But geography was no obThomas made his fortune with this heady combination of good stacle: Thomas went where the great dogs were, importing luck, fortuitous timing, a ferocious work ethic (he reportedly never French Bulldogs and Poodles from France, Brussels Griffon took a drink) and dizzying proficiency at multi-tasking (one could only from Belgium, Borzoi from Russia, and other breeds from as imagine what he would do with an iPhone). Each year Thomas spent far away as Australia and New Zealand. Continued on page 96 Because dogs of that era could be re-registered with a different name, some carried Thomas’ own kennel prefix, Endcliffe, even though he did not breed them. These imports were not just winners at the cash register – they excelled in the ring, too. Thomas discovered the 1912 Westminster Best in Show winner, Kenmare Sorceress, the first Airedale to go Best in Show at the Garden. And the Wire Fox Terrier Ch. Pendley Calling of Blarney, two-time Westminster winner in 1930 and 1931, was another Thomas find, purchased from him by John G. Bates for $6,500. Thomas’ involvement in the dogs did not end once the check cleared: He offered onestop shopping, as in the case of Mrs. A.V Crawford and her nephew Charles Perrin, of the Vickery Kennels in Barrington, Illinois. He not only located their Airedale breeding stock, but also drew up the kennel plans and found them kennel staff – including a kennel-boy job for a young Percy Roberts. Thomas considers terriers in Hanover, Germany, circa 1904. 92 Dog News
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K C I CL Louisvillleub Kennel C
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The Dog Man’s Dog Man Continued FROM page 92
Thomas judged all over the globe. Here he judges a class of Cocker Spaniels in Sidney, Australia, circa 1910.
five months abroad, judging and buying dogs. When World War I broke out in 1914, he was in England, and had acquired 50 dogs to bring home. With the news of the war, dogs were soon selling at rock-bottom rates – so he bought 50 more. The return voyage was a harrowing one, with no lights permitted on the ship for fear of attracting enemy fire. Throughout his time in dogs, and accelerating in the 1920s, Thomas was an active judge, both here and abroad. He judged virtually every significant championship show in Britain several times, and adjudicated Best in Show at Westminster three times (once as a referee) and twice at Morris & Essex. After he judged the Royal Show in Melbourne, Australia, sorting 1,200 dogs over four days, the exhibitors went wild, prompting the show chair to note that “he is the only judge that came from overseas that got cheered instead of booed.” But undoubtedly, wearing so many different hats – dealer, exhibitor and judge – occasioned conflicts of interest. Though the sport was less sensitive to them than it is today, Thomas still occasionally found himself under scrutiny. At the quarterly meeting of the American Kennel Club board of directors in 1897, the American Spaniel Club’s suspension of Thomas, along with his English brother-in-law Robert Toon, for “dishonorable practices in connection with benched shows” was discussed. Later, both men were suspended for the entirely of 1898. At the board meeting in February of that year, Thomas friend James Mortimer tried to have the suspensions lifted, but his amendment failed, with fellow board member G.M. Carnochan demonstrating scant sympathy for Thomas’ assertions that his livelihood was being impaired. “I was at the Baltimore show after he was suspended, and I can inform the members of this committee that he brought his dogs there, and did everything but take them in the ring. That he took his dogs out at night and attended to them I have no doubt, and that he got paid for doing so.” In an example that would set off red lights to modern judges, in 1915 Thomas sold the celebrated Wire Fox Terrier Intl Ch. Wireboy of Paignton to George Quintard for a reported $6,500. In May of the following year, Thomas put the dog up for Best in Show at the Long Island Kennel Club. Was Thomas ever censured for such judging conflicts? In February 1919, after Thomas’ license was revoked because he gave an award to a Bulldog with a Dudley nose (a disqualification according to the standard), the American Fox Terrier and Irish Terrier clubs petitioned the American Kennel Club to reinstate him. Presumably, a knowledgeable judge like Thomas knew the intricacies of Bulldog breed type; perhaps it was his complex dealings in the dog world, and not his knowledge of the Bulldog standard, that were the real reason for the reprimand. 96 Dog News
Either way, change was in the air: In 1921, the AKC board passed a resolution that judges’ licenses would no longer be granted to “professional dog dealers,” and that dealers had until the first day of 1922 to resign, after which their licenses could be revoked “at the option of the committee.”
W
hatever controversies he might have engendered within the American Kennel Club, Thomas remained one of the most highly respected and soughtafter judges of his time. In the late 1940s, he moved to California, and his last assignment was Best in Show at Morris & Essex in 1952. Thomas died three years later, at age 90. “I can’t think of many people I would trust to buy a dog for me for $100,000, sight unseen,” said a longtime dog man I talked to recently, one of the few who remembers Thomas and his legacy. “Maybe two people.” Indeed, what is most striking about Thomas and the thousands of dogs he imported was that he rarely made a mistake. Some Scottish Terrier sources claim that Thomas was the one who found the Scottie Tickle Em Jock, the 1911 Best in Show winner, plucking him out of a butcher’s cart in London. But period sources of the day attribute it to another man. The latter story has the ring of truth, and not because it was the New York Times that reported it: After “Jock” triumphed at the Garden, critics complained he lacked type – an error Thomas would have been unlikely to have made. It is that deep connoisseurship, that practiced and decisive eye, that is missing in our sport today – and very likely in Thomas’ own time, too. A lifetime in the making, it is literally lost in a heartbeat. “It is too bad that when such men pass on their knowledge passes on with them,” Percy Roberts wrote at the end of that obituary. “ … And of the latter George Steadman Thomas had a goodly share.”
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Dog News 97
CLICK Bronx County Kennel Club PHOTOS BY JC PHOTOGRAPHY
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Dog News 99
Rare Breeds of the World Continued FROM page 63
one of the oldest of the canine race. In Neolithic cave prehistoric skeletal remains were found showing that 12,000 years ago local shepherds already used them in herding duties. Later these dogs were depicted in frescoes and paintings of the sixteenth century. Also known by the names of Basque Herder, Perro de Vasco is not recognized by any major kennel club. The Basque Shepherd Dogs are still working with the local shepherds.
T
he breed’s root is believed to come from Central European shepherd dogs. The Perro de Pastor Vasco (originally divided into two subgroups – the Gorbekoa and the lletsua) is well proportioned, with strong, rectangular bodies, brown or amber eyes, medium sized ears which are triangular sometimes erect or fold. Their coat is of medium length, rough, longer over the trunk than over the head, shorter on the face and does not hide the eyes. The head is light relative to the trunk, which is attached to a muscular neck. Nevertheless, their recognition has required extensive research on more than 3000 dogs which were discovered, and accurately inspected. Only after the fanciers proved and demonstrated the differences to other races -such as the Pyrenean Shepherd and the Catalan sheepdog- in January 1996, the Royal Canine Society of Spain recognized them as a breed. This dog’s medium length coat is either straight or slightly wavy. Merle, black, red and mahogany are the most common colors. Throughout history they have been utilized in driving and herding livestock. These dogs are also used to guard the cattle and the sheep against predators. A Basque Shepherd Dog would work tirelessly even in the most adverse climatic conditions and on the harshest terrain. In recent years more and more Basque Shepherd Dogs have evolved into loyal and affectionate home companions. The dog is basically a working dog, but it has a lively and playful temperament. Due to their independent nature, early obedience training should be considered. This is a fast learning breed, but if not disciplined many dogs manifest a “bossy” attitude not following the shepherd’s commands. In training exercises it’s important to use some kind of variety making the task playful and funny, if not the dog may become bored with the monotony. The Pastor Vasco is intelligent, affectionate, loving, and attached to its human family. It is important to remember that even friendly with its family members they are often wary of strangers. They do not have a vicious temperament but would not permit intruders to enter the home. These dogs are great in agility, obedience, fly ball, tracking and herding events as the famous competition called artzaintxkurren trebatasan lehiaketak (uh – I can’t pronounce it), which is one of the rural sports that shows the traditional lifestyle of the Basque people. These are shepherd dog trials where the Basque dogs and several other herding breeds compete in herding tests. I was interested in discovering if this breed had been imported to the US, and found this mention at http://www.lasrocosa.com/ aussiehistory3.html In actuality, the Basques who lived along the coast at the western end of the Pyrenees were fisherman and have a long history with the sea. Not all Basques who came to the United States to herd sheep on western ranges were shepherds in their homeland. However, a fair number of them were, and when they came to the United States they brought their dogs with them. They arrived on a three-year visa under contract with the Western Range Association. Large numbers of Basques with their sheepdogs were recruited to the western sheep ranches due to the labor shortage created by the war. Our dear readers will find the complete Standard in English at Real Sociedad Canina de Espana at www.rsce.es, and more information at the Specialty Club Euskal Artzain Txakurraren Elkartea at www.euskalabereak.net, in Spanish
100 Dog News
*Solomon R. Guggenheim; The Guggenheim Family left a strong mark in the steel industry of the early 1900’s. The philanthropy of the Guggenheims has spurred the expansion of the field of aeronautics, the humanities and the arts. The family foundations have contributed to the development of individuals all around the world. ** “ETA” Basque Fatherland and Freedom is a nationalist organization dedicated to a separate nation-state for the Basque people, an ethnic group inhabiting areas of northern Spain and southwestern France. There are between 2 and 2.5 million Basques in the region, many of whom speak an indigenous, non-Indo-European language called Euskara. Euskara acronym, ETA which is one of Europe’s most notorious and long-running terror groups. It was founded in 1958 from the remnants of EKIN, another radical Basque separatist group. Both EKIN and ETA were created because of discontent with the moderate nationalism of the main Basque party, the Basque National Party. Since its founding, ETA has been responsible for hundreds of attacks in Spain, France, and elsewhere In June 2007, ETA declared its March 2006 cease-fire null-and-void, though many had seen ETA’s December 2006 bombing of an airport parking garage as an indication that the truce would not hold. An ETA spokesperson accused the Spanish government of interfering in Basque local elections as well as continuing with the prosecution and conviction of ETA members during the cease-fire. It must be noted that ETA did not officially renounce violence or initiate steps to decommission its weapons (as the IRA did in July 2005) as part of its cease-fire declaration. ETA cease-fires have deteriorated into violence before. (http://www.start)
♥ Julia
“Pretty Women”
Another Group Placement at Columbia K.C. Thank you Judge Mrs. Michele Billings
Our appreciation to Judge Mrs. Sue Goldberg
GCh. Lil’Itch Pretty Woman at Foxwatch Julia continues to capture hearts in the group ring! A Top Ten Smooth Fox Terrier* Always Breeder-Owner-Handled Whitney and Wendy Perry Foxwatch
*The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed points
Co-Owner and Breeder Suzann Hoesman Lil’Itch Dog News 101
102 Dog News
Dog News 103
LettersTo The Editor Taking Issue (One)
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s “a bloodhound person” I found your comments concerning. So here are the facts. It was the Celtic Cluster in 2010 that three people who owned bloodhounds destroyed property at the Holiday Inn in York. They were reported to the hotel and the Celtic Cluster by members of the Colonial Bloodhound Club. The Colonial Bloodhound Club pursued charges against those individuals with the AKC and American Bloodhound Club. The Colonial Bloodhound Club also supported the Celtic Cluster imposing a lifetime ban for participation in the Celtic Cluster on those individuals. The Colonial Bloodhound Club and the American Bloodhound Club always emphasize with members the importance of respect for property when participating in events. Karen Dewey Newport, NH
Taking Issue (Two)
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s a Dogue de Bordeaux exhibitor who stayed at the Holiday Inn in York, PA, I resent your editorial characterizing “the Dogue de Bordeaux people” as “trashing the premises.” Your reporting is reckless and offensive in its generality. I, and many others I know, are highly respectful of any hotel room I occupy (especially with a dog). You owe many people an apology and a retraction for such unprofessional reporting. Kara Hammond Media, PA Ed Note: Dear Mrs. Hammond-Upon further reflection I have concluded that you are absolutely right and what I wrote was far too general in nature. It was not my intent to condemn an entire club for the actions of a very small minority and I apologize for having done that. I assure you I will be more careful in that area in the future. Very truly yours, Matt Stander for DOG NEWS
Your Dog May Be Able To Help
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requirements, so please contact the laboratory listed if you have questions about a specific project. And don’t forget that samples are always being accepted by the Canine Health Information Center DNA Repository and the Canine Comparative Oncology and Genomics Consortium. From all of us at the AKC Canine Health Foundation, thank you for considering participating in research! *The AKC Canine Health Foundation ensures studies are Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) approved and provide standard informed owner consent information before publicizing requests for participation. Not all projects listed are funded by the AKC Canine Health Foundation and the inclusion of information about studies does not necessarily imply a recommendation for participation. This list is provided as a service to dog owners and breeders. AKC CHF Raleigh, NC
AKC/Eukanuba National Championship Week Is Growing To Celebrate Dogdom’s Final Five!
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ew York, NY (April 2, 2013) — Move over college basketball, the dog sport world now has the “Final Five.” This December, the competitive year will culminate with five events in Orlando, Florida. The week’s highlights are three allbreed dog shows, a day of independent specialties and special attractions, and the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship. These premiere events will be held on December 10-15, 2013 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. “We’re pleased to add a full day of specialties and special attractions the Friday before the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship, with many new features during the week, like “My Dog Can Do That!”, two AKC Advanced Judges Institutes, Breeders Seminars and the AKC Owner-Handler Series end-of-year competition,” said Michael Canalizo, AKC Event Manager. “It’s truly a celebration of all things dog.” “We are excited to expand the 13th annual AKC/Eukanuba National Championship to a week-long celebration in the canine world. The week will feature unique breeds, amazing athletes, and the special bond dogs have with their people,” said Jason Taylor-External Relations Manager, P&G Pet Care. “Along with our partners at the AKC, we are aiming to create the most thrilling canine event in the world.”
ne of the greatest challenges for the researchers working to prevent, treat and cure canine disease is recruiting participation in research projects. You and your dog may be able to help move research forward by providing a DNA sample or enrolling in a clinical trial. CORRECTIONS Providing DNA generally requires n last week’s report on the Dogue de Bordeaux National written by Denise Flaim some photos were incorrectly shipping a blood sample to the researcher. identified. Some veterinarians will discount the blood The National Specialty Best of Breed winner was GCh. Evergreen’s Rub My Belly at Rising Star. Photo by Sirag Patel. draw if it is being used to support research. The Select Dog was GCh. Mount Sinai’s Crusader St. Amand. Photo by Bryan Sirotkin. Enrolling in a clinical trial brings with it a And the Award of Merit winning dog’s registered name was inadvertently left off the photo caption. “Moses’” commitment to follow through on therapies registered name is GCh. Rising Star’s I’ll Fly Away. Photo by Denise Flaim. and testing. The benefits can include access to cutting-edge medicine and the chance to help future generations of dogs. Current requests for participation include: DNA samples from Cleft Lip/Palate affected dogs and relatives DNA samples from Boxers and French Bulldogs with Granulomatous Colitis and healthy Boxers and French Bulldogs Clinical trial for dogs with Immune Mediated Polyarthropathy Clinical trial for experimental therapeutic to prevent Diabetic Cataracts Blood and urine samples from dogs with Leptospirosis View the complete list of studies needing GCh. Evergreen’s GCh. Mount Sinai’s GCh. Rising Star’s participation*. Each study has unique Rub My Belly at Rising Star Crusader St. Amand I’ll Fly Away
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104 Dog News
“The Orlando cluster is proud to take part in this celebration of dogs,” said Linda Rowell, Orlando Cluster Chair. “We’re excited to kick off the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship week and welcome many of the top dogs in the country to Orlando.” The “Final Five” is comprised of: • Dec. 10-12, 2013: Space Coast Kennel Club of Palm Bay, Brevard Kennel Club, Central Florida Kennel Club and Orlando Dog Training Club shows, which include all-breed conformation, obedience and Junior Showmanship competitions. • Dec. 13, 2013: A full day of specialties and special attractions, including Eukanuba World Challenge pre-judging, the Eukanuba Breeder’s Stakes Finals and the AKC Owner-Handler Series end-of-year competition. Clubs interested in hosting specialties should contact Michael Canalizo at mlc@akc.org or 212-6968213. • Dec. 14-15, 2013: The AKC/Eukanuba National Championship, joined by the AKC Agility Invitational and the AKC Obedience Classic (and their respective Juniors competitions). Other activities include Celebrate Dogs!, AKC Meet the Breeds® and My Dog Can Do That!, Best Bred-By-Exhibitor competition, and Eukanuba World Challenge Finals. The AKC/Eukanuba National Championship will be held as the only event in one million square feet in the state-of-the-art North-South building of the Orange County Convention Center for the next three years. This new venue also gives attendees access to covered unloading areas, well-lit bathing facilities, closer/ more abundant parking and expansive outdoor grass areas for exercise pens. For more information, please visit http://www.akc.org/invitational/ Lisa Petersen New York, NY
Vital Move To Tackle Puppy Scam Crisis Kennel Club Becomes UKAS Accredited
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ennel Club first and only organisation in the UK to get UKAS accreditation to certify dog breeders. · As many as one in five could be buying from cruel puppy farms. · Move recommended by Professor Bateson in his independent report into dog breeding. Puppy buyers no longer need to be duped by rogue breeders, as the Kennel Club today announces that it is the only organisation in the UK to receive UKAS accreditation to certify breeders who belong to its Assured Breeder Scheme. The puppy breeding market is poorly regulated, meaning that many people struggle to identify good from bad breeders, often ending up with sick puppies that die prematurely or that cost thousands of pounds in veterinary treatment. UKAS accreditation means that the Kennel Club now has recognition from the UK’s foremost accreditation body to certify breeders, against the requirements of its Assured Breeder Scheme, and ensure that scheme members take all the necessary steps to breed quality, healthy puppies. Accreditation by UKAS was recommended by Professor Sir Patrick Bateson, in the Independent Inquiry into Dog Breeding in January 2010, as an important step to give puppy buyers a clear indication of who they should trust, as there is too much confusion in the puppy buying market and too many rogue breeders. Since the report, the situation has got even worse with people taking advantage of the relaxation of pet travel laws, which makes it easier to bring sickly pups into the country from abroad. Kennel Club research has shown that many consumers buy their puppies from pet shops, online and newspaper free ads, outlets that can all be used by puppy farmers who breed purely for profit without any thought for the outcome of the puppies that they produce. Many puppy farmers do not let buyers see their premises and sell through dealers, going to great lengths to hide the awful conditions that the puppies are kept in - and Kennel Club research indicates that as many as one in five people may have bought their puppy from a puppy farm[1]. Professor Steve Dean, Kennel Club Chairman, said: “For far too long, puppy buyers have had little assurance about the puppy they take home, and especially how it has been raised and whether it will live a healthy and happy life. “The Kennel Club Assured Breeder Scheme was established in 2004 to help end this confusion, and is the only scheme in the UK that monitors breeders’ activities to provide assurance on their commitment to health and welfare. We
had been working closely with UKAS prior to Professor Bateson recommending we seek UKAS accreditation, and are delighted that we have now been granted this, enabling us to certify breeders under this robust scheme. “The message is clear. Puppy buyers who want to be sure that they are going to a breeder who offers a genuinely high standard of health and welfare in caring for their dogs should go to a Kennel Club Assured Breeder.” Professor Sir Patrick Bateson commented: “My report into dog breeding in this country showed an urgent need for a robust accreditation scheme for breeders. The fact that the Kennel Club has now received UKAS recognition for its Assured Breeder Scheme is an important step forward and the buying public should be encouraged to purchase from these breeders, so as to put irresponsible breeders out of business.” Marc Abraham, TV vet and organiser of the annual Pup Aid event against puppy farming, said: “The number of puppies coming from puppy farms is growing at an alarming rate. The value of having an organisation such as the Kennel Club with independent accreditation to certify breeders should not be underestimated. “I hope that all puppy buyers will stop buying from people that may be masquerading as good breeders, but who are not part of this scheme and that all responsible dog breeders sign up to the Assured Breeder Scheme so vets and vet nurses can direct prospective buyers towards them knowing they’ll be choosing a happy, healthy puppy.” The Kennel Club has been through numerous audits with UKAS and made a number of amendments to the scheme to achieve recognition by UKAS as a competent evaluator, which has met international accreditation standards. In an important move that helps the Kennel Club to fulfil its UKAS requirements, every new member of the scheme will be inspected before they are accepted, and all current members will be inspected within three years. Random checks will continue as in the past, particularly where any concerns are highlighted or when issues have been raised through feedback from puppy buyers. Other long-standing rules of the scheme which remain include ensuring that all animals are kept and raised in good conditions, both parents are assessed using the appropriate health and DNA tests before they are bred from, and ensuring that the puppies are well socialised before going to new homes. Last month the Kennel Club announced a set of updated rules forming the ABS Standard, which contain all of the compulsory requirements of the scheme. These revised rules retained many of the long-standing requirements of the scheme, but the wording was modified to add clarity about the exact requirements for members to achieve[2]. The Kennel Club will shortly be announcing a plan to demonstrate the impact that UKAS accreditation will have. As a transitional arrangement, this will include a system for clearly identifying which breeders have been visited under the Kennel Club’s new accredited status. There will also be a plan for offering further incentives to Assured Breeders and for covering the inevitable costs of increased inspections. Bill Lambert, Kennel Club Health and Breeder Services Manager, said: “Responsible dog breeders are passionate about producing puppies which live healthy, happy lives, and they fulfil all the expectations that responsible owners demand. But it is only Kennel Club Assured Breeders that are bound to this commitment by agreeing to mandatory health testing of their breeding animals, by opening their doors to allow inspection and by being committed to providing a service to puppy buyers throughout the life of the animal. Indeed many of our members go above and beyond the scheme’s requirements. “The scheme has continually developed since its inception, which meant that the further changes we needed to make to achieve formal accreditation by UKAS were straightforward. The greatest change is still to come as we increase the number of breeder assessment visits that we carry out so that there can be no doubt that those on the scheme are continuing to adopt the standards that we expect. “We again urge all responsible breeders to join the Kennel Club Assured Breeder Scheme, which is the simplest and easiest way for us all to work together and ensure that puppy buyers find a responsible breeder and are not duped by somebody who is less committed to breeding healthy dogs. The scheme does not make any money for the Kennel Club; we have in fact subsidised the costs of the scheme for many years, but running it is just another example of how the Kennel Club makes a difference for dogs.” Laura Quickfall London, UK Dog News 105
Handler’s
Directory Safari Handling and Training LLC
Robert A. Fisher Kaki Fisher
All Breed Professional Dog Handlers
Kathy Eiler
614-352-5017 cell safarikathy@gmail.com
Professional Dog Handlers Frakari Kennels 194 Quivey Hill Road/P.O. Box 204 Middle Granville, NY 12849 518.642.9225 KNL • 440.813.6388 c 12.09 kakifisher@earthlink.net
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Pkubacz@att.net
(email)
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40181 STANLEY LANE MECHANICSVILLE, MARYLAND 20659
LISA A. MILLER
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BUS: 301-884-4163 ALL-BREED PROFESSIONAL FAX: 301-884-7282 HANDLING & TRAINING KIARY@MD.METROCAST.NET AKC REGISTERED CELL: 301-904-1677 HANDLER, PHA 1.11
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Sue Capone, PHA Regina Keiter SUE 570 992-5705 email: scapone@ptd.net
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113 Capone Lane Saylorburg, PA 18353
Diana Wilson
Show Dogs Beautifully Presented
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DAVE & LYNDA O’CONNOR-SCHNEIDER
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Debbie Old West PROFESSIONALGoldstein HANDLER ALL BREEDS Professional
Members PHA & AKC Registered Handlers
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& Groomer Kennels 2418 Grandview Drive
P.O. Box 180 Forestville, Pennsylvania Sparta, N.C. 16035 28675 724-735-9994 C 412-491-5520
336 372-2039 Logoiggyfizwig@vzw.blackberry.net © Debbie Goldstein
Clint and Karen Livingston 1981 East 141 Avenue Brighton, Colorado 80602 210 865 8415 - Clint 210 865 2348 - Karen
9691 Flinn Springs Road El Cajon, CA 92021 (619)443-8250 Fax (619)443-0944 E-mail /Lynda@goldcampspringers.com www.goldcampspringers.com
tclpdb@aol.com
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Carlos Carrizo
Tiffany Knox
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www.tiffanyknoxhandling.com All Breed Dog Handler 7.13
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Jenny Wornall Rangel Christian Rangel Andrew Peel
Heritage Show dogs
Professional Handling
AKC Registered Handler
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Cell: 415 819-5773
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Ernesto Lara
AKC Registered Handler Assisted by Leonardo Garcini
at
Greenfield 3.10
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Tiffany Saxon
P.O. Box 330 Tel: (717) 445-9936 1181 Reading Road Fax: (717) 445-0577 Bowmansville, PA 17507 email: elaratierra@aol.com 6.10 6.13 mobile: 717-475-7069
Professional Presentation & Care of Show Dogs A drienne O wen 6849 S hadow R idge P l ace A lta L oma , CA 91701 909-472-5519 adrienne @ newpointkennel . com www 8.09 . newpointkennel . com 7.12
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Office: 760-723-9564 Cell: 626-277-7172 t1saxon@roadrunner.com 1.11
106 Dog News
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Judges’
CHOICE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 49
The Papillon
We asked a number of Championship Show judges the following three questions about Papillons: 1. What is the best dog and bitch you have judges in this breed? 2. Describe what makes a great Papillon. 3. Has the breed changed since you first awarded CCs, and if so, how?
Dog News 107
Handler’s
Directory Aaron R. Wilkerson Janice Granda
Doug And Mandy Carlson AKC Registered Handlers
Doug 405 370-1447 Mandy 405 826-3884 5.13
All Breed Professional Handlers Port St. Lucie, FL
8260 McColl Drive W Savage, Minnesota 55378 Phone: 952 890-6010 www.Bluffhighkennel.com
803 421.9832 352 283.0979 wagkennels@yahoo.com
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Professional Dog Handler Murbe Kennels DHG, PHA & AKC Registered 11293 Dunnigan Road Emmett, Michigan 48022
Home 810 384-1844 Fax 810 384-8225 Cell 810 417-0469
E mail: murbe_boxers@msn.com Web site: www.murbeboxers.com
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All Breed Professionals AKC Reg. and PHA evan.stacy.threlfall@me.com
SHOWDOG HANDLERS
--ALL BREEDS-Jimmy & Mary Dwyer
Evan & Stacy Threlfall
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www.PRODOGHANDLER.com
www.evanstacythrelfall.com
407 810-4036
akcdogs@aol.com 3.13
PO Box 99• Selkirk, NY 12158 E 919.741.0226 • S 518.209.7988
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BRUCE & TARA SCHULTZ Board Certified Professional Handlers Members of P.H.A. www.SchultzDogHandling.com
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108 Dog News
Guy H. Fisher
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5540 San Miguel Rd. Bonita, California 91902
Bruce: 951 314-8357 Tara: 951 515-0241
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Dog News 109
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position available. Full time, salary Louisville-Cincinnati-Indianapolis Area plus apartment. Involves all350 aspects Over 150 shows annually within miles. Fourof Bedroom, bath 3,000 sq. ft. Cedar/Rock caring 3for and showing dogs. Home with 16 Mason Fence Indoor-Outdoor Need to beinclude able and go Runs. Features Largewilling Heated to Training Room, Feed Room, Grooming Room, Indoor into the ring. Serious inquiries only. Parking with Electric and Sewer Hookup for dedicated, love working upMust to 42’be Motorhome. Multi Indoor Storage with dogs, and wantingAparta Areas. Large Onehonest B/R Townhouse-type ment“Way In Kennel Building, just plus another of life”not a job. full B/R Apt. in Home. All this on 15 Acres with 7 Contact All Breed Handler REG. at Fenced Grass Paddocks for DogsAKC to Exercise. Asking $450,000.00, with possible Owner gregstrong@topofthebaypetlodge.com Financing. (812) 689-3274
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Breeders Directory
Rottweilers and Toy Manchesters Puppies occasionally and stud service www.evrmor.com evrmor@comcast.net phone 800 454-5067 fax 303 745-7319 Pedigrees done for all AKC breeds
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110 Dog News
The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association In the UK... Continued FROM page 75
“The guide dogs we placed with teenagers have had mixed results. Some teenagers can be rather fickle. They liked the idea of having a guide dog, initially, but soon lost interest in it. Within a year, a couple of them said the dog was getting in the way or was embarrassing and they didn’t want it. So, we ended up placing their dogs with other clients on our waiting list.” The Breeding Program The charity breeds more than 1,300 guide dog candidates each year. Its breeding program, which is headquartered in Leamington, primarily focuses on breeding Labrador Retrievers that are occasionally crossed with Golden Retrievers. “We’ve found that if we breed Labradors exclusively, they tend to become softer in temperament and less robust,” Leaman says. “So every so often, we inject some Golden Retriever into the bloodlines. We also have separate breeding programs for Alsatians [German Shepherd Dogs] for clients who need them, and Labradoodles for clients who have allergies to dog hair.” Last year, the charity placed 850 dogs. It had to train 950 dogs in order to do that because of the failure rate, i.e., the number of dogs who didn’t reach the high training standard required for guide dogs. Because training a guide dog is a time consuming, highly expensive process, the charity is always looking for ways to maximize its results. “We’re getting better at identifying character traits in very young puppies that determine if they would succeed in guide dog training. We found a direct correlation between a particular puppy profile and high failure rates. If puppies tend to be nervous, noise sensitive and easily distracted at a very young age, we are 90% sure they’re not going to make it as a guide dog. In that event, they’re rehomed. We also eliminate the lines in our breeding program that produced those puppies.” Training The charity has a volunteer base of 11,000 people. Among them are individuals who care for the program’s brood bitches. The puppies produced by the brood bitches are placed with another group of volunteers called “Puppy Walkers.” They socialize the puppies and teach them basic commands during the first 12 to 14 months of each pup’s life. Puppy walkers hand off the puppies at 12 to 14 months of age when professional guide dog training begins. At 18-months to two years of age, they’re matched with a client. In all, it takes about seven months to completely train and place each guide dog. Guide dogs are trained with positive reinforcement. Rather than using a lot of food as rewards, trainers rely heavily on verbal praise and stroking to reinforce desired behavior. Tidbits of food are only given occasionally. Negative verbal corrections--“Back boy” or “Back girl”--are avoided as much as possible as well. “We have been following the clicker training used by service dog organizations in the United States with a great deal of interest. There is evidence that shows
LIVING LIFE to the Fullest
“I
went from fully sighted to totally blind within 24 hours,” says Diane Marks. She lost her sight 16 years ago due to bacterial Meningitis and is totally blind with no light perception whatsoever. Thirteen years ago, Marks left her native South Africa because few accommodations are made there for the disabled. She spent her first year in the United Kingdom attending the Royal National College for the Blind in Hereford. For a brief period, she used a white cane but found her independence still was limited. On August 11, 2008, a 6-year-old, Golden/Labrador Retriever guide dog named Thomas was placed with her by Guide Dogs in the UK.
With her guide dog Thomas leading her, Diane Marks carries the Paralympic torch into Lords Cricket Ground in 2012.
“Thomas is an absolute godsend,” Marks says. “Because of him, I’m able to volunteer for six charities including Guide Dogs. I do a lot of campaigning for national elections, and fundraising for the local disabled community as well as representing it on our local city council. I also advise the Brighton and Hove Museums about accessibility for our local disabled community. I couldn’t do any of this without Thomas. He enables me to travel independently, access shops safely and freely walk around Brighton and London. Most importantly, without him I never would have had the opportunity of a lifetime--to carry the Paralympic torch into Lords Cricket Ground in 2012.” Marks plays on the first ever, all-female Blind Cricket team in Europe. She and four other members of her team were chosen to carry the Paralympic Torch from Stoke Mandeville to the Olympic Stadium. She says the best things about having a guide dog are the independence and freedom they provide—not to mention their loving companionship. “Thomas is my lifesaver and my best friend. When I’m down, he comes over to me and loves me unconditionally. All he asks for in return is my love, a bit of food and some shelter. What more could I ask for? He allows me to live my life to the fullest and I love him beyond words.”
clicker training can be very effective in a short period of time,” Leaman says. Actual guide dog training is done in two phases. Early training includes learning to stop at curbs, avoiding obstacles and getting used to wearing a harness. Advanced training includes learning the skills to physically lead the person they’re being matched with as well customized training to meet the specific needs of that person. At the moment, the charity is experimenting with a pilot program that moves dogs sooner from puppy walkers to the final location where they are matched with a person. Minimizing the number of handlers, reducing geographical changes and matching the dogs with a client earlier reduce the overall time it takes to train a guide dog. It’s believed the stress reduction resulting from fewer changes enables the dogs to be trained in less time. “The sooner we get the dogs to the final location where they are partnered with a blind person, the healthier and happier they are and the quicker they get trained. This change in the training process enabled us to reduce the seven month training period by four to six weeks. Even a 10 % reduction in training time translates to a huge savings for us.” After each guide dog is finally placed with a client, the team is assessed annually. Assessment includes evaluating how well the client is getting on, checking on the dog’s health, taking the client out for a walk to see if the dog is still doing its job, etc. A Lifetime Promise “Each time we take on a new client, we make a lifetime promise to him that entails a huge financial commitment for us,” Leaman says. “The working life of the average guide dog is about seven years. That means a client could end up with seven or eight guide dogs during his lifetime if he gets his first one when he is 20-yearsold.” The lifetime cost for breeding, puppy walking, basic and advanced guide dog training, plus dog food, veterinary bills and rehoming the dog at the end of its working life is about £50,000 per dog. That means the total lifetime cost could be as much as £400,000 if the client receives eight guide dogs over the course of his lifetime. “We encourage clients who have a source of income to contribute towards these costs. Unfortunately, 65% of the blind people in the UK don’t have a job. So they cannot afford to pay for a guide dog much less pay for veterinary care and dog food. While that doesn’t mean they’ll be denied a guide dog, they are asked to help the charity in any way they can. “If they aren’t comfortable with fundraising, we ask that they help us with our training programs or events and receptions. Or we ask them to go into the schools once a month and talk to youngsters about guide dogs-To tell them about what we do and how much their guide dog changed their life.” Guide Dogs receives no government funding and, given all of the above, is always in need of financial donations. To make a donation online or for more information about guide dogs, visit http://www. guidedogs.org.uk/ Dog News 111
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SWIFT BEAUTY The Afghan Hound Continued FROM page 79
to remember that Afghan Hounds can be bored very easily so keeping training interesting and rewarding is vital no matter for what activity you are training. The breed is known to be strong-minded and independent but with the right combination of reward and dedication many Afghan Hounds have earned advanced obedience, rally UKC Ch FC Twyshire Tanist CD MC Malone (Am/Can Ch U-Ch Charsada Dream obedience and agility or tracking LCM3 RN GRC JOR CGC (“Tanist”), No Small Dreams LCM FChX SRM JOR SC), one of Nora Mayfield’s Afghan Hounds, titles.” one of Jeanie Martin’s Afghan Hounds, demmakes it easy to see that the breed is onstrates that the breed can indeed do just Kominek noted that Reza sudbuilt for speed. about anything including pull loads. denly became sour on lure coursing where she had previously liked it. “Afghan Hounds are independent training sessions FUN and keep and make up their own minds about whether they them SHORT! Afghan Hounds are like something or not. They can also, sometimes easily bored, their minds are conquite suddenly, decide they don’t like something stantly working and being sightthey had seemingly enjoyed. Reza was #4 in the hounds, their natural instinct is to nation in the AFSA standings when one day, she scan the horizon or given no horizon just stopped chasing the lure. She would lay is available, looking around. It is down on the field and make dives at the lure as it up to you to keep them engaged passed by. Unfortunately, once an Afghan Hound and during training sessions, I decides it is no longer interested in an activity, change things up constantly. For it is nearly impossible to change their mind. So, example, in the middle of a pattern, what we’ve done is let her course practice runs I may break ‘free’ and throw a toy when she feels like it and every now and then or a treat or take a play break. This Desmond (FC CCB Can Ch Charsada Darkness at she will finish a course. The goal of lure courshelps keep their focus on me as Nigh Noon LCM FChX SRM SC), another of Martin’s ing or for that matter, any performance activthey never know if we’ll work three hounds, was the number one Afghan Hound in both American Sighthound Field Association and Caity, is not just to evaluate the dog but let them minutes or three seconds and they the nadian Kennel Club lure coursing in 2011. have fun. Once they stop having fun, it is time certainly wouldn’t want to miss the to stop. Thankfully, both Soleil and her daughter, ‘fun’ part. It irritates me when I Cersei, still enjoy their time on the field. These hear that NO dog can be crossdual champion hounds are very important to our trained and be successful—‘A show dog must never be allowed to sit’, ‘A coursing dog can’t grow a breed because they not only possess the correct show coat,’ ‘An agility dog becomes too independent if turned loose on a coursing field.’ To all of these conformation but they also have coursing abilnaysayers, I say ‘Phooey! My dogs regularly compete in multiple areas at the same time and quite sucity. The show ring is very limited in being able cessfully.’ The Afghan Hound Club of America holds a triathlon competition each year at the national to highlight the athleticism of the Afghan Hound specialty. A dog has to qualify in lure coursing and either obedience, rally or agility plus be judged in and cannot tell you anything about the hound’s a special conformation class all within a two to three day period. The combined scores of these three running ability or drive. Another fancier once said events determines the High in Triathlon. Two of my dogs, a brother and sister, won this intensive and that an Afghan Hound that cannot or will not run highly competitive award five years straight.” is not an Afghan Hound. It is just an Afghan One of the significant issues facing the Afghan Hound breed today is that from a conformation Hound-shaped dog.” standpoint, the breed has become more “modernized,” according to Kominek. “What we see in the show These Afghan Hound folks were in agreement ring has become much more ‘modernized’ since the first imports in the early part of the 20th century. that traditional obedience was the most difficult Breeding towards a caricature-like outline with exaggerated long necks, straight fronts with overdone for them to do with their hounds. “For a freerears, weak pasterns and hocks, shallow, slab-sided chests and sloping toplines combined with an thinking dog like an Afghan Hound, obedience emphasis on tremendous reach and drive will be the downfall of this gorgeous, athletic and cunning is a real challenge,” said Hicks. “This is not a mountain hound. The Afghan Hound is a glorious, mysterious and unique breed. We must hope that it breed that was developed to take constant direcnever becomes just another generic show dog.” tion from humans. When hunting, their speed and Hicks added, “Breeders must maintain their focus on the primary function of the breed. The Afghan ability over rough terrain effectively eliminates Hound was developed not as a lap dog or glamorous couch potato. It is an intelligent, keen hunting the possibility that any human can keep up with hound, companion and guardian. We, as breeders, have a responsibility to maintain the breed’s natural them. When guarding a compound, they were instincts as surely as we have a responsibility to make every effort to breed to the physical standard. It constantly moving and working but not always is important to get past the beauty of the breed and stereotyping. In recent years, I find the tendency to under supervision by humans. These hounds homogenize temperaments in all breeds to better fit into today’s society. We do NOT want Afghan Hounds think for themselves, make decisions and act acto have Poodle temperaments! Afghan Hounds find true joy in running and chasing and will also happily cordingly. The way to be successful in a highly work with their owners in obedience, rally or agility simply because they are a loving and loyal companion structured sport like obedience is to keep your and they enjoy participating with their people, but ALWAYS on their own terms!” Dog News 113
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