Dog News, September 7, 2012 by Dog News

Dog News The Digest Volume 28, Issue 36

of American Dogs $5.00

September 7, 2012

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editorial september 7, 2012 inside the sport / pat trotter the lighter side of judging / michael faulkner question of the week / matthew h. stander should we be allowed to keep and breed pets? / patricia gail burnham dog ownership takes a downturn / carlotta cooper bests of the week ten questions asked of andrew green heelwork to music / richard curtis 110 handlers directory 112 subscription rates blood trackers / sharon pflaumer 114 classified advertising coast to coast / marsha hall brown 116 advertising rates ofa and avco establish new eye certification registry All advertisements are copyrighted and owned by travels with kitty / yossi guy DOG NEWS, Harris Publications, unless received camera-ready. the fancy speaks / faith hyndman Permission to reprint must be requested in writing. all in the family/ charles c. robey mechelen 2012 / karl donvil off the leash / shaun coen DOG NEWS (ISSN 0886-2133) is published weekly except recognizing foreign kennel clubs and judges, the last two weeks in December by newton in new jersey and more /matthew h. stander Harris Publications, 1115 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10010. the classy capital city classic / chuck winslow Periodical Postage paid at New York. the gossip column / eugene z. zaphiris click - gold country kennel club / lesley boyes click - capital city classic / pete melia click - the way we were / eugene z. zaphiris POSTMASTER: Send address changes to DOG NEWS, letters to the editor 1115 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10010

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THE Westminster TIMES

Issue #3

This is the third in a regular series of news and updates for the 137th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show to be held February 11-12, 2013.

FAQ:

Q. Is transportation between Piers 92/94, Madison Square Garden and the Garden-area hotels being provided? A. Yes, buses will start running at 5:30 a.m. from the Garden-area hotels: The Hotel Pennsylvania, The Affinia Manhattan and The New Yorker. They will run every half hour to the Piers. The last hotel bus for dog transportation will depart at 10:30 a.m. as dogs must be benched each day at 11 a.m. Buses for spectators only will commence at 11 a.m. at the three hotels and run on the half hour until 2:30 p.m. At 3 p.m., buses for the Best of Breed winners, their people and equipment will begin to leave the Piers and go to Madison Square Garden only. Exhibitors with BOB winners have priority on these buses and additional passengers are subject to space availability. The last bus will leave at 5:30 p.m. as benching at MSG is required at 6 p.m. There are no tickets for these buses, but a wrist band or exhibitor ticket will be required. For spectators, an admission ticket to the Piers will be required. Transportation is free for all exhibitors and spectators who have an advance admission ticket. This is on a space available basis, no advance reservations are required. Benching release time for all other dogs and exhibitors will be no later than 6 p.m. (depending on the Judging Schedule or when the last class has been judged.) Buses will be available at the release time to take the remaining dogs back to the three hotels. Dogs and exhibitors have priority, but spectators will be allowed to ride if space permits. Buses will continue to make this loop

until 8:30 p.m. At 9 p.m., the buses will be available at MSG for dogs and their people to return to the Piers and will continue until 11:30pm. Access to the buses will again be by wristbands or exhibitor tickets. Q., What are the hours of operation at the Piers? A. 7 a.m. to midnight. Q. Is there parking available at the Piers? A. Yes, there is General parking on a firstcome, first-served basis on top of Pier 92, handled by Ports America. Follow signage for directions. There is a daily rate, which was $25 per day in 2012, but the 2013 rate is not confirmed at this time. Q. What is the best route to the Piers? A.There really is no answer for this question. The quickest way anywhere in New York City always depends on construction, traffic and emergencies. . The address for the Piers is 55th Street at 12th Avenue. For dropping off spectators, we suggest using the entrance of Pier 94. For dropping off dogs and exhibitors, the best entrance will probably be Piers 92 and 94 underneath the portico. Some dogs will take the elevator up to 92 and some will dolly into 94, depending on which Pier they are going to for their benching. That information will be in the Exhibitor Packet. Q. Where is the benching in relation to the rings at the Piers? What are the benching hours? A. There are rings and benching in both Piers and this will be detailed in the Judging Program. Benching hours at the Piers begin at 11 a.m. as in previous years at the Garden and will continue until 5:30 p.m. release time.

Q. Is food service available at the Piers? A. Yes, food and beverage service will be available throughout the Piers Q. What is the benching setup at the Garden? A. The Best of Breed winners are allowed to leave the Piers for MSG beginning at 3 p.m. with their equipment. A grooming table will be provided by WKC at each bench at MSG. These tables are the property of WKC and may not be removed. All grooming in both the Piers and MSG will be done at the bench. There are no separate grooming areas. The benching area at MSG will be in the Expo Center, the same location as in the past. Q. What are the hours of operation at the Garden? A. 3 p.m. to midnight. Q. Where are the rings in relation to the benching? A. Rings are nearby the benching. The exact ring layout and benching area will be available in the Judging Program. Q. Is there ringside seating? A.There will be two rows of chairs at ringside a the Piers, just as in the past. There is no reserved seating at the Piers. Q. When can we order our tickets? A. Ticket types and pricing will be available in October. Please watch our website for ticket information as it becomes available. For more information: • Website: www.westminsterkennelclub.org • Facebook: WKCDogShow • Twitter: wkcdogs • Westminster e-mail: info@westminsterkennelclub.org Dog News 5

Dog News Cover Story - SEPTEMBER 7, 2012 PUBLISHER

STANLEY R. HARRIS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

EUGENE Z. ZAPHIRIS CREATIVE DIRECTOR

SEAN K. GAFFNEY ADVERTISING MANAGERS

SHAUN COEN Y. CHRISTOPHER KING ACCOUNTING

STEPHANIE BONILLA GENERAL TELEPHONE

212 462.9588 FAX NUMBER

212 675.5994 EMAIL ADDRESS

dognews@harris-pub.com WEB ADDRESS: www.dognews.com FACEBOOK: thedognews SUBSCRIPTIONS

Ian Miller 212 462.9624 Contributing Editors Sharon Anderson George Bell Andrew Brace Agnes Buchwald Patricia Gail Burnham Shaun Coen Carlotta Cooper Geoff Corish Michael Faulkner Geir Flyckt - Pedersen Allison Foley Yossi Guy Ronnie Irving John Mandeville 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

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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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SEPTEMBER 7, 2012

the editorial

THE START OF THE FALL SHOWS Traditionally and for years in our sport the first weekend in September was earmarked as the start of the fall showing season. The headline event certainly on the East Coast was called “The Westchester Weekend”. Westchester was in a class by itself somewhat akin to Westminster and was a show many exhibitors nationally loved to attend and for which dogs were presented in impeccable condition. Together with Westbury the three “W” shows constituted as prestigious a selection of shows as could be found anywhere in the US of A. Admittedly for the past several years the impact of Westchester on the weekend itself lessened in intensity as certainly Somerset Hills became the largest drawing show dog ways of the three all-breeds being held. Nonetheless for most of us it was still the Westchester weekend. While Westchester has not suffered the fate of Westbury, which has lost its nomenclature as the “Show of Distinction,” Westchester has become just another show in the long line of circuits and clusters held nationally. There is no denying the fact that it is simpler, easier and less expensive for Westchester to hold its event with Tuxedo Park and Somerset Hills in North Branch. But not only has it succeeded in becoming just another show to attend the luster and importance of the event has been swallowed up in New Jersey. Westchester is a singular valuable and shining star whose history and traditions deserve to be preserved by its being held back at Lyndhurst or a similar environment in Westchester County. Are the three hundred or so additional entries afforded by this move to New Jersey so important that the tradition of this show should be sacrificed for financial reasons? Just look at the comparative success of Santa Barbara as it has revived itself through a hard working and creative membership and show committee! Westchester a few years ago took the courageous step (for that club) of finally admitting women to its membership. Why not take that extra-step forward and return to your geographic place of origin and return this show to the paramount show recognized by us all for lo the last fifty years or so. THE IMPORTANCE OF THE AKC PAC If you are looking for an opportunity to fight back against the Animal Rights groups which have spent large sums of monies backing officials or candidates for office who support their causes look no further! A donation to the AKC PAC offers any individual member of an AKC member or licensed club the special opportunity to financially support candidates for elected office who believe in and will protect our rights as dog owners and breeders. AKC pays all administrative costs, which ensures 100% of contributions to support dog- friendly candidates in critical races. Please note that only individuals may contribute to the AKC PAC through your 10 Dog News

club and the special Club Presidents Challenge, which is now effectively being solicited. Similar donations may be made to help support the work of AKC’s Canine Legislative Fund. This is a marvelous opportunity to take a stand in our fight to save our rights to own, breed and show dogs and remember it isn’t the size of the donation that counts as much as your lending your voice and money to protect our role in American culture. A TEMPEST IN A TEAPOT Certain Delegates decided to get hooked on and misinterpret on its Delegate e list THE OPTIONAL provision by which a club may include in its bylaws if it wishes to do so a provision for clubs to demote members to non-voting status when they miss meetings or functions for years on end. In some instances it would appear that clubs have been unable to attain quorums due to the large number of inactive members. If 2/3’s of a membership approve this procedure it may be adopted as a way to permit a club to conduct its dayto-day business. No one ever told these clubs they had to do adopt this type of provision. The intent was to accommodate and assist the few clubs with a real problem and not to impose on the vast majority of clubs a solution for a problem they do not have. Yet some among the Delegate Body misinterpreted not only the intent but also the motive of this rule. Hopefully by now this misunderstanding has been straightened out. We call it to your attention as a means to quiet the little red hens who seem to see the sky falling at any attempt to institute pro-active and necessary change.

CANINE- ASSISTED SCIENCE A dog named Tucker, which has a mysterious past as a stray on the streets of Seattle, has become an unexpected star in the realm of canine-assisted science. He is said to be the world’s only working dog according to marine biologists able to find and track the scent of orca scat, or feces, in open ocean water--sometimes up to a mile away. Tracking this subtle scent this dog may help to save the whales! This scat is crucial in monitoring the health of whales and by dint of hard work and an obsession with a little yellow ball on a rope Tucker gets to play with he has become an ace in finding something an awful lot of people would probably prefer to avoid. Most of the 85 or so orcas, or killer whales, that frequent an island two hours northwest of Seattle have been genotyped and tracked for decades now. Unlike, say, a narcotics-sniffing dog that can lead its human around by a leash, the research boat Tucker is on is, in effect his legs when he sniffs the aroma-which by the way does not smell that badly perhaps because the whales eat primarily Chinook salmon and the scent is more fish than foul. Tucker has learnt how to signal where he wants the boat to go on water. He leans to one side of the boat or another says his trainer, who works at a nonprofit group called the Conservation Canines. They specialize in research on behalf of endangered species. The interesting thing about Tucker is that he hates to get wet and will not go into the water itself. No one is quite sure as to why this is the case and is attributed to something that happened in puppyhood. This is one thing about which Tucker cannot communicate! THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK THIS SEPTEMBER MARKS THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF AKC’S RESPONSIBLE DOG OWNERSHIP days. More than 600 AKC clubs and organizations nationwide hold celebratory events during this current month celebrating the concept of RDO. Saturday, September 22nd is the flagship event held in Raleigh at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. If you cannot make it to an event in your neighborhood participate online or find an event near where you live at AKC’s RDO Day website.

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Inside The Sport

A MESSAGE FROM A CHILD BY PAT TROTTER

he benefits of being an 8th grade history teacher for 35 years included the lessons I learned from the youngsters that came into my life. Since my retirement I have truly missed that opportunity. Thankfully, this past weekend brought a nine-year-old child into my life that truly inspired us all to realize that the so-called “old-fashioned values” are still alive and well in our young people today. Nine-year-old Rose McClone was competing in Novice Junior (Jr. Showmanship) for her first time ever in the ring as well as showing her family’s aging champion Norwegian Elkhound bitch in Veteran Bitch at the Puget Sound Elkhound Specialty and the two Olympic Kennel Club all breeds. Rose’s older sister McKenna, already successfully showing a two-year old bitch in Open Intermediate as well as the breed ring, had worked with her in preparation for this first experience. Our breed is now designated “low entry” so club members who worked hard to encourage the specialty entry of 34 were thrilled that the entry held well at the allbreeds. When Rose won BOS from Veterans at the first all-breed, the unanimous applause and happiness of ringside attested to the popularity of the judge’s decision. Later that evening while socializing with other breed fanciers, it came to light that, alas! the bitch had been spayed! Obviously, the family did not know that the veteran could be shown at the independent specialty on Friday, but was 14 Dog News

not eligible for the all breeds on Saturday and Sunday. And for that matter, the breeder did not think of it. What to do? What to do? Although those involved knew it could be kept quiet and that would be the end of it, this was not a comfortable option for this very honest family. Appropriately on Sunday morning little Rose and her mother ran the drill and returned the lovely rosette and prize to the superintendent. A small child was an important part of a moral dilemma that was painfully resolved by doing the right thing. But what a child! She’s a natural who competed in a large specials class with all the poise of a seasoned exhibitor. Furthermore, Rose won her Novice Junior class of eight the next day. To have these two young talented sisters in our breed and in our sport is truly inspirational. We look forward to their future accomplishments. An adult Elkhound friend suggested to Rose that she had a great story to tell should her teacher ask the class to write the “What I Did on My Summer Vacation” report when school starts back. The explanation that neutered animals were exempt at certain levels because the sport was aimed at selecting breeding stock satisfied the youngster. It was suggested that if a given aging animal was already in the stud book as a proven producer, perhaps the day will come when AKC allows such animals to compete at all levels. This is certainly food for thought.

SUMMER WIND-UP: A rash of judges’ cancellations gave much grief to show chairmen all over the country during the Summer of 2012. Fortunately, those affected seem to have recovered from assorted accidents and illnesses and are off the disabled list and back in action. As for the show chairpersons, they understand the meaning of “when it rains, it pours.” My dog show travels this Summer produced some exhilarating puppies in my rings both north of the border and in the U.S. Amongst exciting future stars in the Hound Group were a pair of exceptional Irish Wolfhound puppies and a dynamite Whippet youngster. Then there is a Scottish Terrier puppy bitch as well as two Skye youngsters that should turn some heads at Montgomery County in October. Not to be overlooked are an exciting Irish Water Spaniel puppy bitch and a breathtaking Ascob Cocker puppy bitch that both have Spaniel Club written all over them. And the above are just a small sample of those that truly thrilled, and the fact that so many of them are bitches is heartwarming. Obviously our breeders are doing their best to infuse the sport with positive energy. Perhaps the most fun experience of the summer was judging baby puppies Continued on page 70

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The

BY Michael Faulkner

Lighter Side of Judging RedNeck

“H

ello Michael. This is KMcF and I would like to know if you would like to come to Topeka and film at the dog show with Larry the Cable Guy? We are so excited and we need a judge and mentor for the mock ring-experience. I think you would be great, if you would be willing to consider it. Give me a call and I will be able to share more with you.” The message ends and I place the handheld landline back into its worn out docking station. DROID sits on the kitchen counter top. I stare, wondering if I should give KMcF a ring and confirm my somewhat creative curiosity about the mind of America’s favorite Redneck Comedian? Before I answer I engage DROID in a Google search: Larry the Cable Guy and click enter. Larry the Cable Guy---Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. I read every detail Wiki shares. Using my own words and thoughts, I store key elements of Larry the Cable Guy’s life into long-term memory. Daniel Lawrence Whitney (born February 17, 1963) “Only three years younger than me – Oh, I mean I…. Crap, I’m starting to sound like him already,” I proceed with caution. Best known by his stage name and character, Larry the Cable Guy, stand-up comedian, actor, country music artist, voice artist, and former radio personality…. Blue Collar Comedy Tour….Bill Egnvall…Ron White…Jeff Foxworthy….Blue Collar TV. Seven comedy albums---three certified gold. He starred in three Blue Collar Comedy Tour-related movies, as well as in the films Larry the Cable Guy: Health Inspector, Delta Farce, and Witless Protection. “None of which I have ever seen let alone heard of,” I say directly into the face of Sam the Cat, who sits on the counter waiting and hoping for a morsel of purchased pouched treats that send all cats into nirvana. I continue storing Wiki tidbits. He is widely known for voicing “Mater” in the Cars franchise. Whitney’s catchphrase “Git-R-Done!” is also the title of his book. “OK, now we’re git-n somewhere. Damn 18 Dog News

it all, Larry the Cable Guy, this is not funny at all,” I say while recalling seeing advertisements for an animated movie about cars on television a few years ago. The History Channel announced that it was ordering a series starring Whitney called Only in America with Larry the Cable Guy, in which Larry would explore the country and immerse himself in different lifestyles, jobs, and hobbies including the Topeka Cluster of Dog Shows. (We all know Wiki did not throw in the part about the Topeka Cluster of Dog shows….I did in support of convincing myself to abandon Sam, Sally (the two cats), Murphy French (The French Bulldog) and Big Michael for Larry the Cable Guy.) I continue to take mental notes in preparation for my possible professional association with Mr. Whitney. • The Larry character – stereotypical redneck – thick Southern accent • Stories about his “family” • Appearance in Nutrisystem commercials with Dan Marino. • Comedy Central • Disney • From North Dakota • Married – Two Children • 5 Million to the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children • Dysplasia • Larry the Cable Guy food products • “Git-R-Done” Foundation • His own Catchphrases: “Git-RDone!”---“Lord, I apologize, and be with the starvin’ Pygmies down there in New Guinea. Amen”---“I don’t care who ya are, that’s funny right there.” My eyes wander away from Droid’s bright screen sending my brain in one huge AAAHA moment of pleasure. “This is just totally wonderful”….I say beaming out loud to the two cats and Murphy French. “Larry and I have so much in common, I must fly to Topeka to meet this man of many accomplishments. The similarities are simply amazing.” I continue while making my own personal list to solidifying the comparison. • Michael H. Faulkner---the dog judge

• Stories about my “family” and my involvement in the sport • Appearance in Pedigree commercial • USA Network • Animal Planet • From New York (both start with the letter N) • Never been to Disney • Not allowed to get married • Take the Lead Foundation • GRCA Health Foundation • Dysplasia • My own Catchphrases: “Down and Back on the Diagonal!”---“What is, is---and what ain’t, aint”---“Get over it Missy”---“That’s one gorgeous bitch” I quickly grab DROID and enter KMcF’s phone number. The phone rings four times and goes directly into voice mail. “Hi! It’s Michael Faulkner returning your phone call. Yes, this Larry the Cable Guy thing sounds very interesting and I would like to know a little more about it. I am very interested, so give me a call back at your convenience and I will also try to check in later with you---Good bye,” I click off and slide the screen with my index finger. The following morning I roll out of bed, use the restroom, brush my teeth and check DROID for morning messages and news. I have five new messages waiting to be revealed. I open one from KMcF. Michael, I called you a couple of weeks ago and tried calling you again this morning only to find your “mail box is full.” You are obviously one popular guy! (Or, maybe out of town or out of the country!) I have talked to the producer of the show several times and we have a long list of ideas for Larry during his visit....including a mock set up so he can show a dog and then judge a dog. He is arriving on Thursday, August 16 around noon and will stay for 6-8 hours. If you are still entertaining a thought of coming, we would love to have you be our Continued on page 102

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BY MATTHEW H. STANDER

september 7, 2012

question week

WHAT WAS YOUR REACTION FOLLOWING THE AWARDING OF YOUR FIRST RESERVE BEST IN SHOW?

Jon Cole I was pleased to recognize the runner-up, as there are usually several strong candidates in the final line up for BIS. However, I would like to see a point value added to the Reserve award making it more exhibitor friendly.

W. Terry Stacy I found the whole process very anti climatic. I pulled out two dogs but did not know if I should be doing it in the order I wanted them. The Reserve exhibitor did not seem to know what to do. One time the Reserve Winner did not have a photo made and I completely understood. When there is only one Best In Show all of the other 6 can think they would have been the runner up. I think this has been a real mistake and only hope that it can be reversed. Terry Hundt Haven’t had to do that yet!!!????

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the

Bob Slay My first reaction was to think that if the AKC wanted the Reserve Best in Show award to have real meaning dog defeated points needed to be incorporated immediately.

of the

Betty-Anne Stenmark I had a beautiful line-up, brought out the two dogs being considered, the one in front was BIS, and the one behind was Reserve. So the professional handler with the Reserve BIS was taking a picture and he said to me, “Well, I guess it’s better than a poke in the eye,” and I’m still giggling over that.

Joe Walton My opinion has not changed after awarding two Res. Bests In Show. I do not see the point to the award, when there is “no reward” for being awarded Reserve BIS, other than knowing on the day that a certain dog was the runner-up in the BIS judge’s opinion. Personally, I never have wanted to know that my dog was runner-up to anything. Perhaps if some system were adopted to reward the runner-up with some kind of “points”, I might change my mind. Someone pointed out though, that should a system of rewarding points to the “runner-up” be created, it would in theory make it “possible” for a dog to become a “top dog” without having won very many, if any, Bests In Show. Though there is minimal cost to the show giving club, I do not see how this award stimulates more entries for the shows. Joseph E Gregory I felt like it was a joke and an “after thought,” and who wants to know “you almost had it.”

Mrs. Robert D. Smith Well let me tell you my reaction before awarding reserve BIS. I have done this in many other countries but it did feel different at an AKC show. My first reaction was for God’s sakes do not mess up and have to take the ribbons back or remark the book. Finding Best In Show was easy then I had to think who to give Reserve to. Very carefully marked the book. Checked it twice took the two ribbons and proceeded out made sure I called the right two dogs out looked at the ribbons and made sure I gave the Best In Show to the right dog and then the left over ribbon to Reserve and left the ring. I do not know yet how I feel about this. As aside from this I am sure that Bob Stein had this been in effect when we showed Have done RBIS at two shows. Really in the ‘60’s ‘70’s and 80’s instead of winning didn’t have much of a reaction. approximately 20 Best In Show’s on different Foxhounds we would have won many Thomas Bradley III more Reserves and fewer real Best. I also The first question I asked myself afwill bet you that in a short while we will ter pointing to the RBIS winner was have a new rating for Top Winning Reserve -Why? I certainly don’t find it a particuBest In Show. (As another aside (my little larly prestigious award. It’s not as if the mind is just working overtime) are we goBIS winner gets disqualified and this ing to give points for Reserve Best In Show Reserve winner is standing in line to for class dogs that win it?). Bet you did not “move up” like a Reserve Winners Dog. want all this did you? Or is it? That’s a question that I haven’t heard before and I wonder if the Board Robert Indeglia has and, better yet, if they have an anI believe that BIS is an ultimate award, and swer? In some ways, I wish that the Reserve BIS detracts from it. I had very negBoard had considered placing BIS as a ative feelings going into my making such Group, 1-4, as I believe is done in some a decision. I am, however, always pleased places. But whatever the placement, when I see a positive reaction at a show at after BIS the others will always be just any level, which I noted on this occasion Best of Losers and I truly think that it and a subsequent show. So, is it the same as detracts from the actual BIS winner. You coming in second in the presidential elecasked, so that’s my $.02. tion? Dog News 23

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Should We Be Allowed to Keep Pets? Should We Be Allowed to Breed? By Patricia Gail Burnham PGB: Browsing through the AR web sites provides a chance to see their arguments and to be prepared to rebut them. So when do the ARs say they would allow breeding? AR answer: “Because of pet overpopulation, just about all animal activists would probably agree that we should spay and neuter our cats and dogs. But there would be some disagreement if you were to ask whether we should breed cats and dogs if all the shelters were empty and there were good, loving homes available.”

What are the AR arguments against keeping pets? AR: “Some animal activists argue that we should not keep or breed pets regardless of whether we have an overpopulation problem. There are two basic arguments against keeping and breeding pets. One argument is that cats, dogs and other pets suffer too much at our hands. Theoretically, we may be able to provide good homes for our pets, and many of us do. However, in the real world, animals suffer abandonment, cruelty, and neglect. “ (PGB) So the cure for the suffering that life entails is extinction? If that were true why do we have seven billion people on the planet when many of them are suffering? Wouldn’t extinction be kinder?

PGB: “If all the shelters were empty?” So we might be allowed to breed if homes did not break up, if adolescent pit bulls weren’t routinely dropped off at shelters, if people who could no longer afford to take care of their dogs didn’t relinquish them, if owners didn’t die and their relatives didn’t dump their pets in a shelter, if shelters didn’t bring in dogs from out of the area-or even out of the country-to fill their kennels? The ARs say that, “Animal industries such as the fur industry and factory farms try to discredit animal protection groups by claiming that activists want to take people’s pets away. While some animal rights activists do not believe in keeping pets, I can assure you that no one wants to take your dog away from you.” PGB: No, they just want to prevent you from replacing that dog when it reaches the inevitable end of its life span.

AR: “Another argument is that even on a theoretical level, the relationship is inherently flawed and we are unable to provide the full lives that these animals deserve. Because they are bred to be dependent on us, the basic relationship between humans and companion animals is flawed because of the difference in power. PETA opposes keeping pets, partially for this reason: ‘Their lives are restricted to human homes where they must obey commands and can only eat, drink, and even urinate when humans allow them to. Because domesticated animals retain many of their basic instincts and drives but are not able to survive on their own in the wild, dogs, cats, or birds, whose strongest desire is to be free, must be confined to a house, yard, or cage for their own safety . . . Even in “good” homes, cats must relieve themselves in dirty litter boxes and often have their digits removed by “declawing,” and dogs often have to drink water that has sat around for days, are hurried along on their walks, and are yelled at to get off the furniture or be quiet.”PGB Gee. If you yell at your kids to be quiet or stop fighting does that mean they are being abused and shouldn’t have been born? ARs: “How does this issue play out in the real world? The opposition to keeping pets must be distinguished from a call to release domesticated animals. They are dependent on us for their survival and it would be cruel to turn them loose on the streets or in the wilderness. The position must also be distinguished from any desire to take anyone’s dogs and cats away. We have a duty to take care of the animals that are already here, and the best place for them is with their loving and caring human guardians. This is why animal rights activists who oppose keeping pets might have rescued pets themselves. Activists who oppose keeping pets believe that domestic animals should not be allowed to breed. The

What are the AR arguments for keeping pets? AR answer: “Many people consider their pets to be members of the family, and treat them with love and respect. The feeling often appears to be mutual, as our dogs and cats seek us out to play, to be petted, or to just simply sit in our laps. They provide unconditional love and devotion. To deny them and us this relationship seems unthinkable to some.” (PGB: It certainly seems unthinkable to me.)

Continued on page 74

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*Number Two overall, The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed

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GCh. Dejavu I Want’A

“ 1 Chinese Crested

Multiple All Breed Best In Show & Best In Specialty Show Winner Our appreciation to Judge Ms. Cecelia Ringstrom Owned By Roy & Joann Kusumoto *All Systems

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Bred By Karla Matlock Ann Freeman Sharon Jacobson

Talk About Me

â&#x20AC;?

A Top Ten Toy *

Our appreciation to Judge Mr. Charles Trotter Presented By Tammy and Moe Miyagawa Dog News 29

Pet Ownership Takes A Downturn By Carlotta Cooper

fter 20 years of growth, pet ownership in the U.S. decreased 2.4 percent in 2011, the first decline since 1991. Fewer American families have cats and dogs in their homes today than six years ago. Between 2006 and 2011 the number of American households with pets decreased by 2.8 million according to a sneak preview of the latest survey by the American Veterinary Medical Association, the AVMA’s 2012 U.S. Pet Ownership and Demographics Sourcebook, one of the most respected pet demographic surveys. The survey is a study of pet ownership trends and veterinary expenditures conducted by the AVMA every five years. The number of pets of all kinds had been rising steadily since at least 1986, when AVMA began conducting the surveys. Dogs are found in 36.5 million American homes, making them the most popular pet, while cats live in 30.4 million American households. However, Americans have 2 million fewer dogs (down 1.9 percent) and 7.6 million fewer cats (down 6.2 percent) than they did when the last AVMA survey was conducted in 2006. There may be more households with dogs, but pet cats outnumber dogs in the U.S., making cats the most common pet in the country. There are 74.1 million cats compared to 70 million dogs today, indicating that cat owners are more likely to own multiple cats. Cat owners keep an average of 2.1 cats per household while dog owners keep an average of 1.6 dogs per household. However, AVMA says that dog owners are “more dedicated to providing their beloved pets with appropriate veterinary care.” Veterinary care for dogs increased 9.2 percent from 2006 to 2011, while cat care decreased 4.4 percent. Together, dog care accounted for 130.4 million visits to the vet, compared to 60.5 million visits for cats. Horse and bird ownership also

declined, as household horse ownership dropped 16.7 percent and household bird ownership declined 20.5 percent from 2006 to 2011. The AVMA conducted the research for the sourcebook in the spring of 2012, surveying over 50,000 households to collect data on pet ownership, veterinary visits and spending. Full survey results are expected to be released this fall. With vet care, food, boarding, grooming, treats and toys, the average annual cost of owning a dog is $1,571, while a cat costs about $919, according to other sources. Veterinary care for dogs and cats totaled $26.5 billion in 2011: dog owners spent $19.1 billion in 2011, up 18.6 percent from 2006; cat owners spent $7.4 billion, rising just 4.2 percent from 2006. Speculation about the decrease in pet ownership According to the AVMA, pet ownership has taken a downturn due in part due to the bad economy. “We didn’t ask direct questions as to why, but certainly everyone involved with the study tends to think that it has something to do with the economy,” AVMA spokesman Michael San Filippo said. “Pets cost money for food and toys, and if you take a trip, pet sitters, as well as veterinary care. All those things do cost money. As people have lost pets in the past five years, since the downturn, it seems people have not been as quick to get another pet. That could be one money-saving move. That downturn in the economy is reflected in our numbers.” Of course, that is a guess on the part of the AVMA and there could be – and probably are – other factors involved in the drop in pet ownership. According to Ron DeHaven, CEO of the AVMA, when older pets die, people are less likely to replace them, possibly because they can’t af-

ford to do so. So, again, AVMA is directly or indirectly blaming the economy for the drop in pet ownership. In USA Today (“Pet ownership declines, but more households loyal to dogs,” Elizabeth Weise, 8/8/12), Stephen Zawistowski, science adviser to the ASPCA in New York, claims that “changing demographics” plays a role in the drop in pet ownership, if you believe that family structures or American demographics have changed in some meaningful way in the last five years, I suppose. According to Mr. Zawistowski, “Pet ownership tends to be more common in families that include two parents and children. Single people, couples without children and older people are less likely to have pets. As America moves away from the mom-dad-twokids household, he says, pet numbers decline.” In fact, everything claimed by Mr. Zawistowski is rubbish and you have to wonder how he keeps a job as “science adviser” if he offers opinions without any basis in fact. There has been extensive marketing research conducted on pet consumers. Petfood companies and other pet suppliers are eager to know all about pet owners. They know the age, race, gender, marital status, and much more about the people who own pets, and all of this information contradicts Mr. Zawistowski’s statements. According to PetAge.com <http:// www.petage.com/news020801.asp>, for instance, “Matures” (people over the age of 62) are the second most likely demographic group to own dogs. 71 percent of people over 62 own dogs. You can break that percentage down by race, income, gender, and other factors. In fact, Gen Xers, people 3140 who might presumably be raising children, are the second least likely age category to own a dog, though that percentage is still 68 percent since dogs are popular with all age groups. The mom-dad-two-kids paradigm kind of disappeared a long time ago Continued on page 78

30 Dog News

Dog News 31

TOSKYDOX GCh. Toskydox INDIA PALE ALE

Our appreciation to Judge Ms. Elizabeth Muthard

Another Group Placement for “INDY” The strong young dog with movement and a powerful ring presence.

Handled by: Marj Brooks Breeder/Owner: Sharon 32 Dog News

Lutosky

TOSKYDOX GCh. Toskydox Witchy Woman

Our appreciation to Breeder Judge Dr. Ronald Spritzer

“WICKEN” continues to impress and is currently ranked as the #3 Smooth*

...the Classic Black & Tan Smooth! Handled by: Lorene Hogan *The Dog News Top Ten List - Breed

Breeder/Owner: Sharon

Lutosky Dog News 33

September 7, 2012

Bests Week

Vicksburg Kennel Club of Mississippi - Sunday Topeka Kennel Club Western Reserve Kennel Club German Wirehaired Pointer GCh. Mt. View’s Ripsnorter Silver Charm Judge Mrs. Gloria Geringer Judge Ms. Denny Mounce Judge Mrs. Sari Brewster Tietjen Owner Victor Malzoni, Jr. Handler Phil Booth

of the

Cheyenne Kennel Club I & II Kuvasz GCh. Szumeria Wildwood Silver Six Pence Judge Mrs. Helen Lee James Judge Mrs. Barbara Alderman Owners Mercedes Vila, Lynn Brady, Connie Townsend, and Claudia Muir Handler Diana Wilson

Durham Kennel Club Inc - Saturday Doberman Pinscher GCh. Protocol’s Veni Vidi Vici Judge Mr. Vincent P. Chianese Owners Suzy Lundy & Dick Lundy, J Mullins & K Mullins Handler Jocelyn Mullins

Cabrillo Kennel Club - I Wire Fox Terrier GCh. Afterall Painting the Sky Judge Mrs. Vicki L. Abbott Owners Victor Malzoni Jr. & Torie Steele, Mary & Scott Olund & Diane Ryan Handler Gabriel Rangel

Northern Kentucky Kennel Club Standard Poodle GCh. Jaset’s Satisfaction Judge Dr. Randy Weckman Owners Michele Molnar & Jamie Danburg Handler Ann Rairigh

Cedar Rapids Kennel Association - Sunday Maltese GCh. Scylla’s Small Kraft Re-Lit Judge Dr. Steve Keating Owners Ron Scott & Debbie Burke, Tara Martin Rowell Handler Tara Martin Rowell Mid-Coast Kennel Club of Maine - Sunday Central Maine Kennel Club - Thursday Harrier GCh. Downhome HiTech Innovator Judge Ms. Denny Mounce Judge Mrs. Ruth Zimmerman Owner Joe Sanchez Handler Susie Olivera

Lexington Kennel Club II Lakeland Terrier GCh. Larkspur Acadia Save Me A Spot Judge Mrs. Ann Hearn Owners Tony Barker, Susan Fraser, Maria Sacco Handler RC Carusi Newtown Kennel Club - Saturday Central Maine Kennel Club - Friday Weimaraner GCh. Northwoods Send Money Honey Judge Mr. Jay Richardson Judge Mr. Stephen J. Hubbell Owners H. Warren, T. Palmer, P. Warren Handler Michelle Scott Continued on page 117

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

34 Dog News

Dog News 35

Grand Champion Durandel Bella Donna

Sharona Thank you to judges...

Best In Specialty Show Judge Mrs. Fatima Crump

Best of Variety Judge Mrs. Sue Goldberg

Owners Jerry & Rene Wanger 36 Dog News

Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

A Best in Specialty & Multiple Group Winner Group Wins from the Prestigious Santa Barbara Weekend

Number Two Miniature Poodle *

Thank you to judges... Group First Judge Mr. David Krogh

Group Second Judge Mrs. Sharon Krogh Handled by Leslie Simis Durandel *The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed points

Dog News 37

ASKED OF andrew green

Questions

What person do you most look forward to seeing at the dog shows? anybody with a terrier worth looking at. What is your greatest extravagance? my wife.

What do you dislike most about your appearance? my teeth and my toes.

What dog person would you like to see on â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Dancing With The Starsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;? andrew brace.

Born: neath, wales. Reside: flemington, new jersey. Married: to amy kiell-green.

10 If you were to have a tattoo, what would it be of? welsh dragon on my butt.

If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you want to have with you? my wife and dogs, golf course and brewery.

When and where are you the happiest? At my home. Other people think I am? hopefully nice.

What did you want to be when you were growing up? A chef. What would be your last request? Take care of the dogs.

38 Dog News

Dog News 39

40 Dog News

Dog News 41

heelwork to BY RICHARD Curtis

Music

When is a prop a toy?

Teasel the Beagle showing that her tin is definitely just a prop and nothing else

ecently on a judges forum I posed the question about props or more specifically, when does a prop become a toy? The whole purpose of this discussion topic was basically to get judges to talk about their views so that others can make up their own minds. As we know judging can be very subjective but as judges we should always be learning and willing to take on views from others. Now as we all know you can get a dog to think anything you have is a toy. You could say that the handler is a toy in one way as the handler should be able to play with the dog and motivate it. On the surface of the question you might think it is obvious when a prop becomes a toy. If a dog gets hold of a prop in a routine and runs around with it uncontrolled or shakes it then these are behaviours you would see in a young dog if it was running off with something. These types of behaviour with the prop could indicate that it has been used as a toy. There are though some behaviours that a dog could

42 Dog News

do with a prop that are less obvious than these but judges have to decide if they mean the prop is a toy to the dog. If the handler holds the prop in their hand all the way around the routine and uses it as a lure to get the dog into moves, could this be classed as a toy to the dog? What if the handler throws the item for the dog to retrieve at the end of the routine, does that mean it’s a toy? The actual prop might raise concerns to the judges when the handler enters the ring as some items can look more like a toy than others. If I was doing a routine to match of the day theme tune and had a football in the routine I would guess the judges would be on high alert that the football was being used as a toy and not a prop. You would need to demon-

strate to the judges that the dog will engage with the prop without chasing it around or running over to it several times. I have seen sport routines done with a football which have definitely shown that the football was a prop. I’m yet to see though a routine set to the Wimbledon theme tune using tennis balls which would be much harder to show that the ball is in no way a toy. So when a judge watches a routine it should be fairly obvious when a toy becomes a prop but as I said earlier this is the easy part of the question. The harder part of the question is, when a prop is regarded as a toy, where does the judge deduct marks from? There used to be a deductions box but now there is only a “barking box” on the judges score sheet which must only be Continued on page 82

ACKSON

CH. D’s REMEMBER WHEN

Sire: Ch Alex de Akido San

Dam: Ch Cambria’s Victoria’s Secret

Jackson’s 12th Best in Show in 2012 Thank you Judge Dr. Thomas Davies Group Judge Mrs. Roberta Davies

Number 2 Doberman Pinscher* Number 4 Working Dog* Number 16 All-Breeds**

AKC Registered / PHA Handler Gwen DeMilta Breeder-Owners: Dr. Anthony & Mrs. Sheila DiNardo Co-Breeder: Ann White *All Systems **CC System

Dog News 43

Blood Trackers

BY SHARON PFLAUMER PHOTOS BY DON ABNEY

Don Abney pictured with two of his Catahoulas: Ch Abney’s Blue Bear looking left and Ch Ser Ch Abney’s Ladyhawke. (The abbreviation, Ser Ch, stands for Service Champion.)

Josh Ray, Gunner’s owner, points to the ground and tells his Catahoula to “Check it” for scent. 44 Dog News

ooner or later, it happens to every hunter and usually more often than once. Large game like a deer or bear is shot and wounded but still manages to run off and escape. Eventually, the trail of blood it left behind runs out with the injured animal no where in sight. For ethical hunters, who not only want to put the animal out of its misery humanely but also want to use it as a source of meat, it’s a real dilemma. Because this is a commonly occurring problem, specially trained dogs called blood trackers have been used in recent years to recover wounded game. When properly trained, a

Gunner sniffs the ground for scent before being released by his owner.

dog can do the work of ten men searching the bush and have a find rate of about 90 percent. As a result, many hunters have a qualified trainer like Don Abney train their own dog to be a blood tracker. (See the Sidebar at end of article for information about Abney.) Blood Tracking “Blood tracking is the dog’s ability to sniff a spot of blood, identify the scent of the particular animal from which it came and, then, track and find that particular animal,” he says. As a result, dogs used to recover wounded game are called “blood trackers.” But the term is misleading. “The dog actually tracks the scent of the animal’s scurf instead of its blood. Scurf is the cloud of microscopic skin particles shed continuously by humans and other animals at a rate of ten thousand per second. Each animal within each species has a unique scent or odor and DNA specific to it which permeates the scurf.” Blood is encapsulated inside the body and doesn’t have a scent other than that of the iron it contains. When the dog sniffs blood, it’s actually detecting the scent of the dried skin particles that it came into contact with as it rolled across the animal’s body when falling to the ground. This is why a dog still can track a wounded animal after the blood trail runs out.

Rowdy, a Catahoula owned by Brandon Brown, surveys the recovered body of a deer he tracked after it was shot but not killed.

After his Catahoula tracked it, Parry Ott poses with a bear he wounded but didn’t immediately kill.

Brandon Brown and Rowdy with a recovered deer. Time to head for home. The day’s work is done for Rowdy, who poses in the back of his owner’s pick up truck with the body of a recovered deer he tracked.

Training When Abney trains a dog to be a blood tracker, he begins by training it to track the scent of one specific deer. “Once the dog can track and find the scent of that particular deer and understands he’s supposed to sniff a particular scent and then go find it, he’s capable of tracking any scent you ‘put his nose on.’ “For example, a client called me one night and said a hunter was missing. I asked her if the hunter left any items behind. She said, ‘Yes, one of his gloves.’ I told her to get the glove, turn it inside out, let her dog sniff it and then go find the hunter. She said, ‘But Don, my dog was trained to be a blood tracker.’ I told her that didn’t make any difference. So, she let her dog sniff the missing hunter’s glove and they set out to find him. Thirty minutes later she phoned and said her dog found the missing hunter,” Abney says. Here I am. Come and find me. When the correct method is used, dogs can be trained to be blood trackers in as little as four weeks with only 15 minutes of training per day, five days a week. “The first step is to make training a game. If it’s fun, then, the dog wants to do it. I begin by having the dog’s owner hold onto the dog, while I walk 50-ft away. Then, I call the dog. ‘Hey, puppy, puppy, find me!’ To make it fun for the dog, I jump around, clap my hands and generally make a complete ass of myself as I call him. “If the dog comes running to me along the same path that I took, I praise him. When I say praise, I don’t mean ‘Good boy.’ I mean ‘OH, WHAT A GREAT DOG YOU ARE!!!’ I also praise him with my hands. Being touched is something dogs enjoy immensely. If you give them your hands whenever they do something good, they’ll continue to do it. Never use your hands for anything but praise.”

Abney repeats the above scenario for two or three days. He uses a piece of deer hide for the next training step. “When they cut the hide off of a deer, it’s called a cape. I cut a two- by six-inch strip from a cape and tie it to a string,” he says. “I drop the hide strip, step on it and smash it into the ground so the strip’s scent permeates the grass. Then, I drag the strip to the same place 50-ft away from the dog and call him. If the dog comes to me along the same path where I dragged the strip, I praise him. I also let him smell, mouth or lick the strip. But, I take it away if he tries to eat it. I repeat this procedure for the next two days.” After that, Abney begins dragging the strip increased distances away from the dog while letting it watch. Over time, he increases the distance from 50 ft. to 100 ft to 150 ft and so on. After he drags the strip the desired distance, he yells “Okay.” Then, the dog’s owner, who is holding onto it, commands his dog to “Check it”--sniff the ground for the scent—and “Go find.” The owner releases his dog on a 33-ft. lead or tracking line and follows along behind it. “Next, I start making turns while dragging the strip to force the dog to use his nose in order to find me. If the dog overshoots a turn, he’ll turn around, come back and search until he finds the scent again. That’s because he’s working for love. He knows he’s going to get praised when he finds it.” After the dog learns to do turns, Abney begins dragging the strip through the woods to make the dog understand it must ignore all of the other scents present. Once the dog understands that, Abney begins dragging the strip in different locations and in different patterns like crisscrosses and circles. “When a deer is wounded and knows he’s being followed, he’ll try to loose the predator by running in a circle and then darting off in a different direction. Circles are the most Continued on page 86

Dog News 45

COAST

by Marsha Hall Brown

Breed Changes: From Elegance to Exaggeration to Extremes

Part TWO - continued from Aug. 3, 2012

A Cairn for all time is Ch. Tidewater Master Gold, Westminster Group winner 1988. Owned by Charles Merrick III.

“T

hat perfection in a breed lies not at its outer extremes,” was a shibboleth often repeated by famous British author and judge, Tom Horner. Its lesson can serve us well today. For when owners, breeders and even judges are beguiled by the dog with appearance or behavior that is exaggerated from the description in the breed standard, trends toward extremes can ensue creating changes in the breed that ultimately affect the future. Hayes Blake Hoyt in her masterpiece essay entitled Four Definitions, explained that some dogs –generic dogs—that lack a breed purpose, indeed, lack type. In other words,“the shiny, shortbacked thin-coated, muscled-up broad skulled mongrel with a good disposition and a fine, true way of moving on long, straight legs; nevertheless could not herd sheep through

46 Dog News

long bitter weather or go to ground after a badger, or win a race chasing a real or mechanical bunny.” Thus, type is grounded in individual breed purpose. Conversely, there is the dog with excessive type. Such dogs have “some or several attributes of the breed standard that have been overemphasized and then intentionally overdeveloped to a point they no longer fit the standard. The dog with excessive type becomes a caricature which is a mockery of the breed.” Many standards include phrases such as free from exaggeration – a warning to all who would experiment or dabble with change. That phrase calls for a dog whose parts blend together in perfect balance. In fact, Hoyt goes on to explain, “True type, because it is functional, is always completely balanced.”

Yet change can occur when breeders simply use what they’ve got and do not seem to notice or be troubled by a part or parts of the dog that are incorrect according to the standard and result in a characteristic that is the wrong shape entirely. Recently, a group of Sporting Dog judges have voiced concern that Field Spaniels are being proudly and successfully exhibited with head pieces that are brick-onbrick (squarely cut) rather than the explicit language of the standard that calls for Muzzle – strong, long, and lean, neither snipy nor squarely cut. The nasal bone is straight and slightly divergent from the parallel, sloping downward toward the nose from the plane of the top skull. In profile, the lower plane curves gradually from the nose to the throat. Continued on page 88

*All Systems

Owners: Deborah & Tom Spence and Kathy and George Beliew

♥GCh. Imagine Loves Second Chance♥

Thank you Judges Mrs. Robert (Polly) Smith, Mrs. Murrel Purkhiser & Mrs. Janet Turnage Nahikian

SH ow A L F Sh 2012 n I 1, st Be ber tte e tem rqu lub p Se Ma nel C : n e th Ke Judg Smi rt be o .R Dr

♥Imagine... The Number One Chow Chow *

Dog News 47

Irish, Int., & GCh. Cumhil Hell Raiser IRISH IMPORT RECENT WINS include:

GROUP FIRST

Judge Mrs. Pamela Bruce

GROUP FIRST Mr. Thomas Nesbitt

GROUP FIRST

Ms. Peggy Beisel-McIlwaine

GROUP FIRST Mrs. Ann Hearn

GROUP FIRST Mr. James Frederiksen

GROUP FIRST Mrs. Loraine Boutwell

48 Dog News

GROUP FIRST Judge Mr. James Frederiksen

Handled by Paul & Kelley Catterson Assisted by Marisa Bradley Owners Zane & Shannon Smith beneco@citlink.net

BULLSEYE

Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Top Winning Staffordshire Bull Terriers Since 1975 Dog News 49

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

OFA AND ACVO ESTABLISH NEW EYE CERTIFICATION REGISTRY AND CLINICAL DATABASE FOR OPHTHALMIC DIAGNOSES

www.offa.org

50 Dog News

olumbia, Missouri, Friday, August 31, 2012 - The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) are pleased to announce the establishment of a new joint Eye Certification Registry (ECR) and Clinical Database for Ophthalmic Diagnoses (CDOD) effective November 1, 2012. Together, the ECR and CDOD will be important tools to monitor canine inherited eye conditions and reduce their incidence. OFA Eye Certification Registry exams are ophthalmic examinations, performed by ACVO Diplomates, to assess dogs for the presence or absence of observable hereditary ocular disease. Dogs with normal exam results will receive OFA eye certification numbers valid for one year. Eye Certifications are an important part of the routine health screening practiced by responsible dog breeders to produce healthy puppies. Recognizing that animals presenting for a Certification Exam represent a biased population of primarily normal dogs, the CDOD will capture aggregate statistics regarding disease prevalence for those animals presented to ACVO Diplomates in private and institutional clinical practices. The OFA currently maintains

the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest online database of canine health screening results. The addition of eye exam results will enhance the value of this important toolset for responsible breeders to make more informed breeding decisions to reduce the incidence of inherited disease. For informed puppy buyers, the database provides documentation of a breederâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health screening efforts. A portion of the proceeds from all OFA eye registrations will be donated to the ACVO Vision for Animals Foundation to support research leading to the elimination of ocular diseases causing vision loss and suffering in animals. For more information please visit the OFA website at www.offa. org CONTACT: Eddie Dziuk OFA, Columbia, MO (573) 442-0418 x222 edziuk@offa.org www.offa. org Founded in 1966, the OFA is a not-for-profit foundation with the mission to promote the health and welfare of companion animals through a reduction in the incidence of genetic disease. The ACVO promotes excellence in veterinary ophthalmology through advanced training, certification, research and education.

*All Systems

Dog News 51

Traveling Kitty Gillows runs the kennel at a very special place with very special people. The place is called Kishorit and the people she works with have special needs. This is a story of what dogs can do for humans. Story and photos by Yossi Guy

52 Dog News

With Kitty T

he group at Ben Gurion airport near Tel Aviv looked just like any group setting out on a dog show adventure â&#x20AC;&#x201C; several crates, bags etc. However, when taking a closer look at the faces one could tell three of the members were a bit different, nothing very noticeable but there was something unusual about them. These members of the group are residents of Kishorit, a kibbutz for people with special needs that among its other enterprises runs a large kennel with boarding facilities, grooming parlor, training and breeding program for Dachshunds and Miniature Schnauzers. Kitty Gillows is a grandmother who immigrated to Israel from the Netherlands many years ago and spent most of her time working with cattle. Kitty, a veteran Boxer breeder, was recruited to run the kennel by managing director, Shuki Levinger. Shuki,

a social worker, previously worked at another establishment and was among the founders of Kishorit in 1997. Several Israeli families joined forces with professionals to find a more fulfilling alternative for their disabled loved ones â&#x20AC;&#x201C; something better than lifelong dependence on an institution or perpetual childhood at home. Kishorit has become a model of self-directed growth for people with physical, emotional and mental disabilities. After a decade, Kishorit became part of Kibbutz Kishor. Kishorit is located on a mountaintop in the Galilee, overlooking lush vegetation and with a distant view of the Mediterranean Sea. The place is organized like most kibbutzim, with small houses for the members, communal dining room, and various enterprises that employ the members (who are not obliged to work but nonetheless 90% of them do). Among the enterprises Continued on page 92

Dog News 53

by Faith Hyndman Back-to-Back - Quantity or Quality

wenty years ago, what was thought of as a distasteful and irresponsible act has now come into favor. Breeding back-toback, the practice of breeding a bitch in two or three successive heat cycles, is considered to be healthier for the bitch’s uterus. It is said that hormones produced in a normal cycle cause damage to the uterine lining and that

Perhaps the uterus is fine with back-to-back breedings. At times there may be valid or sometimes necessary reasons to breed in this manner. Under normal circumstances, however, what is the stress level on the bitch during this time period to produce good milk, raise healthy puppies and regain her own healthy appearance? A bitch isn’t a puppy machine, but a treasured part of one’s breeding program. If you look at your bitch when her puppies are about twelve weeks old, you will see the stress she has gone through. She has most likely lost weight, muscle tone and coat and is probably very weary of the job she has just performed for us. Shouldn’t she have the traditional year to rest and recover from this assault on her body? Veterinarians who encourage the practice of back-to-back breedings need to incorporate the rest of the story with their medical opinions not just the bitch’s uterus. Breeders are dependent on their advice. Responsible hobbyists do not focus on how many puppies a bitch can make but how good her puppies will be. We should always be moving towards our ideal Labrador, trying to produce 54 Dog News

the condition and health of the uterus is directly related to the total number of seasons the bitch has had. We are told therefore, a bitch’s uterus would be healthier on her next season than it would be on the season after that or the season after that. I believe there are other factors to be considered before deciding to adopt this practice.

the very best we can with a goal in mind at all times. We should be breeding to keep something to go on with. There are no shortcuts. Novice breeders are often caught up in the excitement of a new hobby, buying several bitches, breeding helter-skelter and on the advice of this current trend begin producing multiple litters. Much more would be learned by purchasing a bitch, training in a few different venues with her, learning a lot along the way at shows, hunt tests and obedience trials, meeting and talking to other breeders and watching dogs that will form the direction you truly want to go. Breeding back-to-back litters hardly gives you time to focus on what you’ve just accomplished before you’re knee deep in newspapers and pine chips once again. How can we possibly know if a bitch is going to be a good producer if she is in whelp again before the first litter is even 6 months old? How can we possibly know how sound the puppies are at such an early age? Where’s the fun in having back-to-back litters for the bitch

or the owner? The uterus might be healthy, but what about the rest of the bitch? How could she possibly get back into condition in such a short time in order to do the miracle of birth scenario all over again? Reproductionists who suggest this are thinking from a very narrow prospective when the whole dog should be considered. So, who are back-to-back breeders … modern day geniuses or unethical breeders? Is it better to breed a bitch in successive heat cycles regardless of the quality she produces? Should we ignore the physical appearance of a bitch after having a litter and breed her again because it’s the right thing to do for her uterus? How do we know that our bitch has completely recovered internally and that her body is ready once again? If back-to-back breeding is going to be an accepted practice, I think we need to hear more from the reproduction specialists to provide breeders with the whole picture of this style of breeding, not just with a history of the life cycle of her uterus. There is more to being a breeder than that. Serious hobby breeders need to distinguish themselves from those who just make puppies.

Dog News 55

56 Dog News

Dog News 57

All In The Family By Charles C. Robey PUNISH THE DEED, NOT THE BREED

s children growing up we all were taught that it is wrong to judge people based on their looks. Body-type, race, hairstyle, none of these things indicate the value of a person. So why does the government feel it’s okay to ban certain dog types (breed-specific legislation) or limit respective dog breeding operations, based solely on the dogs’ looks or as a result of minor complaints, from a competitive breeder? You see, the media has somehow managed to promote the untruth that all of a certain type look alike dog, and substantially similar dogs, are dangerous. However, facts do not warrant their hype, or this ban. Help curtail legislation that is unfair to the dog industry and thus save the lives of innocent dogs.

Dog bites and attacks are a serious problem; no one is debating that fact. But “quick fix” dog legislation is not the solution. No breed of dog is inherently more dangerous than another. Responsible dog owners can and do make the difference. Even if you have never allowed a Pit Bull-type dog into your heart, this issue affects every dog owner. You see, all breeds and mixes are now just a bad news story away and one pen stroke away from being wiped out by our government. This is certainly true in the ever-growing special interest dog world, in which we now live. Permit me to regenerate that in most cases the dogs haven’t changed only the people have. Basically, the dog care semantics are the same today, as before the initiation of an onslaught of unfair and unworkable dog legislation. Consequently, I am going “out on a limb here” to make a daring hypothesis. The most negative drawback of today’s dog world is this aforemen-

tioned dog legislation. And these laws take on a number of specific twists, such as regulating the number of breeding dogs housed in a facility and enacting certain breed-specific legislation. The number of dogs house is self-explanatory. Whereas, breed-specific legislation is a blanket term for laws that regulate certain breeds, in hopes of reducing dog attacks. Nonetheless, falling by the wayside, in most dog legislation, is the care and condition of dogs. It took the AKC, which is the only registry that has a structured dog and kennel inspection program, to give this important attribute a priority. With this theory in mind, how can we dog fanciers curtail, or just simply stop this governmental injustice? Simply put, these laws are generally passed as a result of a special interest, without having any knowledge of the dog world. Thus, here are my suggestions, to assist in decreasing the dog legislation assaults, however bold they might be.

• Dog people should not isolate themselves, in their own little dog world or obscure kennel, but should branch out into the community. Get involved by running for office. That’s right, become a politician. You may end up winning. But if you don’t, think of all the free publicity the dog world will get. • Challenge unjust laws in court. You may win out, if you have a good dog positive court audience. Nonetheless, this maneuver can be free publicity, as well. The news media reporters are always present monitoring the court activity. • Dispute these unworkable laws, by TV and radio interviews, as the FCC rules allow for different opinions. You have a right to be heard. • Invite your local, county and state governmental officials to speak at your kennel club. Once there, give them an ear full. • Give your government officials free passes to your local dog shows and allow them to introduce the judges. • Have an “open house” at your kennel facility and invite your government officials to attend. You may even advertise and offer a free puppy, as a door prize. • Attend the local city council meetings and the county commission meetings, when a proposed bill is discussed. Give your opinion, please. • Give your opinion in your local newspaper “letters to the editor”. Continued on page 94

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Dog News 59

Mechelen 2012

Steaming Temperatures STORY & PHOTOS BY KARL DONVIL

ays before the show the media warned that, after a wet and cold July, the weekend of 18-19 August could break the record of highest temperature ever in Belgium, 38.8°C in 1947. Temperatures climbed on Saturday till over 35°C. On Sunday however it came close to a new record but finally the meter stopped at 36.9. That very same weekend there was a dog show in Mechelen inside the Nekkerhalls. It didn’t sound promising. 1630 dogs were welcomed in the morning when temperatures were still bearable. That would remain the case during the day. The Halls offered very good protection against the deadly burning sun and inside it was not that bad after all. But as there was no wind and all doors would be closed during the night, there was no possibility to let it cool down inside and that paid off on Sunday when it was very warm, almost unbearable. Fortunately the sun could not burn inside and there was only one message over the intercom to warn about a dog inside a car. Anyway, also this time, the weather could not prevent the show from becoming a success. However, compared to last edition the raise of 6% was lost again this year, but 1630 dogs is still a good score. The show was one

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weekend earlier as other years. The Neckerhalls offer so much space that probably nowhere else in Belgium you can find such huge rings. Here the dogs can move around. And even with those big rings, there is still plenty of room to place seats comfortably. Only about 70% of the available space is used for the show. Outside too there is enough space to park all the cars and if this would not be enough on the other side of the road there is another big parking lot available. The catalog was OK, although I missed some statistics like those of the nationalities and numbers of the foreign exhibitors. A quick look on the list of visitors taught me that there was a massive interest from the Netherlands and Germany, but also from the other surrounding countries. And as always we have also regularly visitors from the United Kingdom. The Jury list is easier to analyze. 21 were invited, only 6 from Belgium. The others came from as far as Sweden, Slovenia, Hungary, Germany, Spain, UK, Finland, Lithuania, Italy, Ireland, Holland. A good mix of nationalities and judges makes it always interesting. On Sunday the main ring program started earlier in order not to stress the dogs too much due to the heat. The exhibitors who did not need to be in the main ring were allowed to leave the show earlier too and that was very much appreciated. Normally at Belgian shows exhibitors are not allowed to leave for home

before 03 AM in order to give the public something to see. And I still think this is a good rule as one of the purposes of a dog show is to allow the public to see good examples of their favorite breeds, to inform them and bring them in contact with bona fide breeders. On Saturday groups I, V, VI, IX and X were on term, a total of 843 dogs. From Slovenia Mrs. Brigita Kremser was invited to judge Companion breeds. She was pretty busy as she had 83 dogs to judge; the Chinese Cresteds were especially responsible for this success. They were 38 in total. On Sunday she judged some Terrier breeds and had a total of 52. Her compatriot Mrs. Stefan Sinko judged 5 Lhasa Apsos and no less than 55 Chihuahuas while on Sunday he took care of the 44 Schnauzers and Pinschers. Those who read my articles regularly will already have noticed the name of Mrs. Myriam Vermeire. She is very popular but this time she was the absolute record holder of the show. With 111 dogs on Saturday she had the day record and with another 83 dogs on Sunday, including a good number of 47 Great Danes, she finished as Best scoring judge of the show. Her husband Mr. Dirk Spruyt judged on Saturday only and had 62 dogs, including 38 Border Collies. Mrs. Sinko, wife of Mr. Stefan Sinko, was judging too. She ended on Saturday with

a good number of 63 including 42 French Bulldogs. On Sunday she took the Spaniel breeds for her account, 53 in total. Mrs. Butkiene Jurate from Lithuania had a nice entry on Sunday when she judged Molossers. She finished with 79 specimen including 33 Bulldogs. From as far as Hungary we welcomed Mr. Tesics Györy. He had 68 dogs on Sunday. This included 37 Labradors and that is a lot more than the Golden Retrievers that used to be in the majority. Mr. Andrew Brace from the United Kingdom scored very nice on Saturday with 69 dogs, amongst them no less than 42 Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. On Sunday he could relax as he had only 34 entries until the end of the day as then he had to give his experienced opinion on the Best of Groups and place them in order from 10th to Best In Show. His 3rd place went to the Leonberger “Multi. Champ.Hakuna C. Bora Z Miloticek” owned by Bauwens - Roobrouck Carine Bart from Belgium. Hakuna is 5 years old and was entered in Champions Class Males under Judge Willy Güllix from Germany. After he defeated 27 other competitors, he was then chosen by Mrs. Sonia Bellan from Italy who made him group winner. Another Champion took the second place, the Weimaraner Shorthaired “Grey Classic’s Ipanema Girl” owned and bred by Lenaerts Edwin and Kristina from Belgium. This dog was also entered in Champion Class but had less competition. It was Mr. Brace himself that judged her earlier that day and chose her as Best of Breed out of 9. Later Mr. Sinko did send her to the finals. But she was beaten there by the Miniature Dachshund “Ch Grandgables Ms Just A Tease” owned by Meier Philippe from the Netherlands. She was entered also in Champion Class and is also 3 years alike Ipanema Girl. Mrs. Resko Eeva

had judged all the Dachshunds on Sunday along with the Fox Terriers and had picked out this winning dog. Mrs. Sinko-Kupryanova made her later win the Group and Mr. Brace apparently fully agreed as the chance for a Dachshund to win BIS is very little. But “Just A Tease” wasn’t “just a tease” for his competitor, he

won and took the cup to Holland. A Dachshund… it is always a nice surprise and I think that it must be a very good specimen as dachshunds are almost always the underdogs when it comes to lining up the group winners. Enter your dogs next year and make the competition hotter on 17 or 18 of August, with or without the sun. Dog News 61

Offthe

he American Kennel Club has made significant changes in recent years in an effort to thwart the graying of the sport, appeal to the masses as the authoritative voice on all things canine, and to seek new revenue streams. The goal is to attract more people and their dogs into the world of purebred dog shows and related events and to keep them participating over the course of their lives. While not all of these efforts have been welcomed and some have heard some very vocal criticisms — the Reserve Best In Show award and the metallic, tiered Grand Champion titles in particular have been vociferously attacked in print and online — one must give credit where it is due. The expansion of Agility events has been wildly successful and the embracing of social media has been a most welcome change that has brought the organization up to speed with modern times. The implementation of an Online Competition Management System has provided clubs with a tool that allows them to manage event details and judging assignments in real-time, in keeping with the everchanging information systems and the public’s demand to have access to instantaneous and continuous updates. One area that was widely panned for many years was the AKC’s web site, which critics found difficult to navigate and in need of an upgrade graphically. We were happy to discover upon returning to work after the Labor Day weekend that true to the word of AKC Chairman Alan Kalter, the long promised, new and improved web site had indeed been launched and gone live. While change always brings some initial anxiety, it quickly dissipated as we toured the new AKC.ORG. Much of the information contained on the site is the same, but the new layout is vastly improved. The new design contains a large, easy to read Primary Navigation area that is broken down into five portals titled Puppies, Dog Owners, Breeders, Clubs and Delegates and Dog Shows & Titles. It’s a logical progression of where to enter into the wonderful world of dog ownership and, it is hoped, into the constituency of the AKC. If the AKC is to position itself as the go to source of responsible dog ownership for the general public, the web site makes perfect sense. Those in the market for a puppy can start on the portal on the left, click on the tab and find a wealth of information on breeds of dogs, veterinary help, and responsible breeders. Different tabs are accompanied by various photos of dogs at work, play and rest, giving a realistic overview of what living with your canine companion may really be like. A large box on the main screen also boasts a Top News Items window, which viewers can scroll through to get up to date on all things canine. The very top of the page contains a Utility Navigation Bar with which current AKC.org visitors will already be familiar. Clicking on these links will bring you to

pages to Register a Litter or a Dog, or to find AKC Board Minutes and the Chairman’s Report, and of course the AKC Store and Dog.com, where you can receive an AKC discount on items. There’s also the handy Home tab, to where you can always return from any page on the site. All dog lovers are urged to spend some time trolling the easy-to-navigate, upgraded site and familiarize themselves with all that the AKC has to offer. Each tab on the primary navigation bar when hovered over with a mouse unleashes a treasure trove of information on dogs, dog show events, legislative updates and all the tools necessary to become a responsible dog owner and a true champion of the dog. Kudos to the AKC for recognizing and addressing an area that was in dire need of improvement and for succeeding in its implementation. For those acclimated with the previous site, fear not. The new and improved site still contains the features that you’ve come to love and expect, but they’re now much easier to access once the user becomes familiar with the revamped layout.

f it’s September — where does the time go? — it means back to school and what better month to host Responsible Dog Ownership Day. All month long in states across the country, free events will be held by more than 600 AKC clubs and organizations. Another example of an innovative event implemented by the AKC, Responsible Dog Ownership Day is now celebrating its 10th year of existence. A flagship event will be hosted by the AKC in Raleigh, N.C. on Saturday, September 22nd at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds from 10 am to 3 pm. Dog owners are invited to take part in Agility or AKC Rally® Events with the help of trainers at My Dog Can Do That (another of the innovative changes recently implemented as an outreach program to draw new owners and dogs to try different companion events and bring them under the AKC umbrella). Other activities will include demonstrations of herding events and flyball, and lots of vendors will be on site, with free goodie bags available, too. While each local event throughout the month will be unique, many will also include AKC Rally®, Obedi-

Leash BY SHAUN COEN

62 Dog News

ence and Agility demonstrations, along with Canine Good Citizen testing, AKC CAR microchip clinics, and safety around dogs programs for kids like The Dog Listener. After the summer months, when dog bites tend to spike as kids, the most frequent victims, are out and about more often, this is an important time to instruct children on how to interact responsibly with dogs. If such programs were introduced in every community, with opportunities to meet and greet dogs in schools, libraries and parks under supervision and guidance of educated dog handlers and trainers, a drastic reduction in dog bites would be sure to follow, as would a better understanding of canine behavior and an increase in responsible dog ownership. And, maybe a few more youngsters would take an interest in dogs and companion events, to further offset the much-feared graying of the sport. Manasquan Update Remember the proposal introduced in the tiny beach community of Manasquan, New Jersey last month? Ordinance No. 2120-12 was first introduced and read at a meeting on August 6th, which would prohibit the breeding and sale of dogs in the Borough of Manasquan. Well, needless to say, hobby breeders weren’t very happy about the measure, even though the only pet shop in Manasquan was reportedly fine with the ordinance. Apparently Manasquan’s 6,000 residents provided enough of an earful for the Borough Council to reconsider the wording of the bill. On September 4th, the Council introduced a revised ordinance at its regular meeting that forbids retailers from selling, breeding or bartering dogs or cats within the borough limits. Any reference to kennels has reportedly been removed from the ordinance,“which now explicitly covers pet stores, pounds and shelters,” according to patch.com, which also reports that “No members of the public or governing body commented on the ordinance.” A similar retail ban on the selling of pets has recently been adopted in other towns near Manasquan, Point Pleasant Borough and Brick Township. One must wonder if this is a tactic being employed by AR extremists, who in the past have vowed that if they can’t set their agenda at the federal level that they will go state by state and community by community if necessary. This should serve as a reminder to all concerned dog owners and breeders to remain vigilant and watchful of all local legislation, which far too often it seems, tends to discriminate against responsible dog owners and breeders.

*Number Three overall

Dog News 63

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Dog News 65

BY MATTHEW H. STANDER Photos of Newton Kennel Club by Eugene Z. Zaphiris

andmore

RECOGNIZING FOREIGN KENNEL CLUBS AND JUDGES, NEWTON IN N.J....

he Board is about to discuss at its next meeting the recognition of a kennel club in China. About time too I would think but lest you think this is a topic with minor implications for at least the American judge who judges overseas you are sadly mistaken. Through AKC's Global Services Division for at least the last decade AKC has established a close working and financial relationship with the NGKC of China. This is one of two Chinese KC's the Board is thinking about recognizing. The other is the CKU, which has as its base German Shepherd members originally and has expanded I am told to a broader population of dog members and is indeed recognized on some level by FCI. AKC Global has one other contract of which I am aware with a foreign KC--that is a Korean KC, which like NGKC, is not recognized by FCI. I am not sure what our relationship is with the Korean KC recognized by FCI but I do know the people in the other Korean KC and they seem most upstanding. In any event I am told that the Board is going to talk about the possibility of recognizing two kennel clubs in China--NGKC and CKU. That AKC has an obligation

Continued on page 96

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68 Dog News

*The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed

Dog News 69

Inside The Sport

A MESSAGE FROM A CHILD Continued FROM page 14

in Alberta at the fabulous Spruce Meadows facility. Not only were there promising babies galore, there were some you wanted to bring home with you! The judging of them occurs right before 6-9 Puppy Classes and they are not eligible to come back for anything other than a Baby Puppy Group. Because they are judged during regular breed judging, breeders find it user-friendly to play as it reduces the potential for any conflicts. This practice should become standard operating procedure at our shows as there could very well be as many puppies out there that need the experience as there are older champions that need more titles. Furthermore, as a lifetime dedicated breeder who still misses puppy matches, I would find this a very enticing activity in which to participate. Several readers have asked that I address some issues including more in-depth analysis of the new judging process and the reaction to reserve BIS as well as Best-Owner Handler in Show. Because I exhibited at two specialty/ all breed weekends-one in TX and another in WA-since the July launching of RBIS, there has been plenty of opportunity for me to observe the reactions of both famous professional handlers and owner-exhibitors to this new designation. The good news is

70 Dog News

that to those who don’t expect BIS every weekend, the RBIS is exciting and meaningful. They are thrilled to go home with the RBIS rosette. To the big winners out there, they get a resigned “best of the losers” feeling that is somewhat uncomfortable for them. Some feel it was best when all six “losers” (also known as group winners!) felt they were the runner-up. These top guns are not bad sports or sour grapes, just looking at it analytically. A few have confided to me that they do not take a RBIS picture and do not feel obligated to do so as they would not publish it. Most experienced judges that have discussed this with me do not care one way or the other if there is a picture taken. I guess it’s still a work in progress of sorts. Hopefully I will have an in-depth report on the Best Owner-Handler in a week or two. Regarding the AKC’s changes on the more complicated question of the new judging approval process: Before writing on the subject I need to do much more research on all aspects of the procedure and try to get a better understanding of it myself. Perhaps this homework will provide ample material for a thoughtful future article on the topic. Meanwhile, enjoy what’s left of a “feel-good” Summer where no reports of dogs being lost from the heat reached these ears, and that’s a good thing!

ANOTHER KIND OF DEATH: Recently a shocking “sudden death” syndrome occurred in our kennel area when Jennifer Reed (our wonderful Girl Friday) picked up our puppy bitch Cassie only to have her go limp and lifeless in her arms! My long term memory kicked in and I instantly told Jen to put the puppy on the ground. After an agonizing moment or two, Cassie jumped up as though nothing had ever happened. So, what did happen? Unknowingly, Jen had wrapped her arms around Cassie in such a way that simulated what martial arts people call the “sleeper hold.” This maneuver is used to disable an attacker by bringing pressure on the carotid artery, interfering with the flow of oxygenated blood to the brain and causing a lapse into dizziness and/or unconsciousness. Fortunately, many years ago a mentor explained this to me when a similar situation occurred at another handler’s set-up, I believe with a Springer Spaniel, and I was right there when it happened. Over the years I have asked many dog people if they had ever experienced it. Kay Palade-Peiser is the only one who had seen it, in her case with a young Boxer. The message is-if a dog ever unexpectedly goes limp in your arms, immediately put it down, release it and give it a moment to clear its head in case the “sleeper hold” had accidentally occurred.

*Number Three overall, The Dog News Top Ten List - Breed points

The Classy Capital City Classic

STORY by Chuck Winslow photos by pete melia

72 Dog News

The Capital City Classic Circuit August 16th - August 20th with a two-day break where all exhibitors were welcome to stay put for four more shows starting August 23rd - August 26th was held smack dead in the middle of the country in Topeka, Kansas and was made up of four Kennel Clubs which put on two shows each and the Mo-Kan Toy Dog Club held its Toy Club Show on the first Thursday. These shows take place in one of the best Dog Show venues I have ever had the good fortune to work. The Clubs that make up this circuit are the Topeka Kennel Club, the Manhattan Kansas Kennel Club, the Greater Emporium Kennel Club and the Jesse James Kennel Club.

he Circuit Coordinators are Kit and Bob Bostrom and their organizational abilities and high spirits left absolutely nothing in question or to be desired. The Show Chairs and club members’ enthusiasm was infectious. Karen McFarlane and her recently “sainted” husband Bob, Linda Heins, Terry Sigler, Bulldogger Mike Otten and his lovely wife Christie, who was in charge of hospitality to name a few. I very much enjoyed discussing Boston Terriers and Pugs with the delightful Chief Steward Jane Blackerby and one of my weekend’s highlights was my beautiful steward

Summer Bond, daughter of James Bond, who personally saw that all my beverages were served shaken and not stirred. The Kansas Expocentre, home for this circuit, completed in 1987 is located in the heart of the Kansas Capital and is just a one-day drive from 75% of the U.S. population. The 80acre property has long been used for entertainment and exhibitions, having been the site for state and county fairs for over a hundred years. The Expocentre is comprised of five unique event buildings and the very dog-friendly Capital Plaza Hotel, a 225-room hotel with glass elevators and

open terraced floors, that is beautifully maintained and very comfortable. Guest with dogs are greeted by a very efficient but friendly staff all wearing badges welcoming you to the Capital City Classic and are treated to freshly made doggy bags created by the resident chef Ed Theroff. The hotel is a very few steps from the Expocentre and connected by a hallway for use in inclement weather. Landon Arena (18,500 sq. feet) with 7,700 seats is used for the rings, and is directly connected to the well lit and immaculate Exhibition Hall (44,500 sq. ft) which is used for Continued on page 100

Dog News 73

Should We Be Allowed to Keep Pets? Should We Be Allowed to Breed? Continued FROM page 24

animals that are already here should live long, healthy lives, cared for with love and respect by their human guardians. “ PGB: This is the main argument of the ARs. We can keep existing pets but should not allow them to create a new generation.”One generation and out.” The main argument we need to have ready to combat AR challenges is why we should continue to breed show dogs when some shelters are full of mainly mongrels and pit bulls. I will not agree with the premise that until the dog population problem is solved, show dogs should not be bred. The problem with shelters is three fold: 1. It is not the number of puppies that are born that overpopulates our shelters, but the large number of often adolescent dogs that are relinquished by their owners when they have outgrown their puppy charm. 2. Since nobody wants to adopt (buy) all those adolescent pit bulls,many shelters bring in small saleable dogs from other areas. And 3. The fees to bail a dog out of animal control are so high that many strays are not redeemed, not because their owners can’t find them, but because they can’t afford to bail them out. So those dogs wind up as unclaimed strays up for sale. With these three things in mind, if show dogs were not bred until no dogs are relinquished to shelters, show dogs would be as extinct as the passenger pigeon. In the first place show breeders are a tiny minority of all pure bred dog breeders. While large numbers of the popular breeds like Labs and Goldens are bred by non-show breeders for the pet market, the breeds that are bred only by show fanciers have so few puppies that thirty of those breeds have been listed by the English Kennel Club as breeds at risk of extinction. Fewer than 150 show bred Greyhound puppies are whelped annually in the USA. The total population of show Greyhounds in the United States probably amounts to no more than 1,500. In contrast 25,000 racing Greyhounds are bred each year and around 17,000 of them are adopted out. What is the point? There is never going to be any shortage of rescue Greyhounds. Similarly there is never going to be a shortage of pure bred pit bulls in shelters for a different reason. Like all puppies Pit Bull puppies are charming, but they grow up to be adult pit bulls and the average family is

74 Dog News

not dog savvy enough to manage the behaviors (mainly dog aggression) that adolescent pits grow into. And while one should follow the dictates of one’s own conscience and aid the rescue effort, it is not reasonable for animal rights folks to expect a ban on the breeding of show dogs. Show dogs would go away long before the surplus dog problem would go away. The fact that there are hundreds of insensitive farmers eking out a living in Kansas or Pennsylvania supplying the pet trade with fresh puppies, is not a reason to allow show dogs to become extinct. Many pure-bred rescue groups spend much of their time and resources rescuing pure-breds that were bred for the pet trade. At a political meeting the question came up of how could the AR folks distinguish between responsible breeders and the irresponsible ones? I stood up and said that it was really very simple. You ask a breeder what you should do with one of his puppies if you became unable to keep him. The responsible breeder will say that you should bring him back to the breeder to be rehomed. Responsible breeders are responsible for their puppies for their lifetimes. If all breeders were responsible breeders there would be no pure bred dogs in shelters. Show dogs are the result of selective breeding that has taken place since the 1880’s when dog shows started. And many of the breeds were created even earlier than that, in some cases thousands of years earlier by being bred to hunt, course, herd or protect. The dogs we see today are the result of the decisions made by long-dead breeders. What we are preserving in each litter is that heritage. And when we go about preserving it we need to keep in mind that show dogs have never been numerous. Many of our breeds would qualify as an endangered species if they were wildlife. Genes are immortal, but only if they are passed along to the next generation. We are dedicated to doing that. The AR folks are opposed to it. Actually, they don’t know much about heredity. To them all dogs are equal. To us they are not. The next generation of dogs should be bred by people who know about genes and their breeds, not by random accidental matings between street dogs (Or by “designer “ breeders intentionally creating cross breeds for money.) This is going to be a long fight.

GCh. Rose Farm’s Frasier of Nantucket The Number One Miniature Longhaired Dachshund* & The Number Three Longhaired Dachshund* Multiple Group Placements & Multiple Best In Specialty Show Winner

! ! ! ! ! H S A FL N E WS CHEROKEE ROSE CLUSTER

BEST OF VARIETY ALL FOUR DAYS • TWO GROUP PLACEMENTS Thank you to Judges: Mrs. June A. Penta • Dr. Gareth Morgan-Jones • Mrs. Patricia Trotter Dr. Rene Echevarria-Coffino • Mr. Randy E. Garren BAYOU DACHSHUND CLUB OF NEW ORLEANS BEST IN SPECIALITY SHOW Thank you to Judge Mr. Kirlyn Fouts

Thank you to all the judges who have recognized Frasier’s outstanding quality, movement, type and elegance. Breeder: Dee Hutchinson

Owner: Rhoda H. Weinman

Handled exclusively by Aaron Wilkerson

*The Dog News Top Ten List - Breed points

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Pet Ownership Takes A Downturn Continued FROM page 30

in many places so that seems a foolish excuse to try to explain the downturn in pet ownership. The idea that pet ownership has recently decreased because fewer Americans are living in “families” (which is a broad and open-ended term anyway) just doesn’t work. Reasons for the downturn in pet ownership Perhaps there are some more likely reasons for a drop in pet ownership in the last five years, reasons that might be unpleasant for the AVMA and the ASPCA to acknowledge. Consider the list below. Things that discourage pet ownership and make owning pets more difficult and/or costly: Pet Limits Many cities, towns, and counties have instituted pet limits which restrict how many pets you can keep. This can have a dampening effect on pet ownership and reduce the number of pets someone can own; reduce the number of rescue animals you can foster; and prevent breeders from breeding to provide others with pets. Breed Specific Legislation BSL has been enacted in many locations. It unfairly punishes entire breeds of dogs, or even mixes. or dogs that just resemble a breed. BSL also discourages pet ownership. Differential Licensing Many people don’t see anything wrong with differential licensing but it is fundamentally unfair for cities, towns, and counties to charge owners more to keep intact pets than altered pets. Some differential licensing is outrageous and there can be a couple of hundred dollars per pet difference in what an owner is expected to pay to keep a pet intact. Very discouraging to pet ownership and to breeding. 78 Dog News

Anti-Breeder Laws Anti-breeder laws are not just bad for breeders, they are bad for anyone who wants to buy a pet. And, if people cannot buy the pet of their choice, pet ownership figures will fall sooner or later, as has happened in this AVMA study. If someone wants to own a pet from a shelter, that’s fine, but people should always have a choice about where they obtain their pets, and that includes the choice of buying a well-bred pet from a good breeder so they know what they can expect as the pet grows up. Mandatory Spay/Neutering Mandatory spay/neutering laws discourage pet ownership. Not only are they unenforceable and they have failed everywhere they have been tried, but these laws force owners to choose between having their pet spayed/neutered, which some people cannot afford to do; and turning their animals in to shelters where they are usually killed. Dead pets are not conducive to encouraging pet ownership. If your last pet was taken from you and killed by the shelter because you could not afford to have it spayed or neutered, chances are that you will not be in any rush to go out and get another pet. Rising Veterinary Costs Vet costs are rising every year and more and more people cannot afford advanced treatments for their pets. The increase for dogs was 18.6 percent in costs since 2006. The increased cost of vet care is discouraging pet ownership. Rising Pet Food and other Pet Care Costs Global pet food sales grew at a rate of 4 percent in 2011, and just slightly less than that percentage in the U.S. Americans are expected to spend $20.46 billion on pet food this year. Even with the slow economy that’s

a small increase over 2011’s $19.85 billion. The American Pet Products Association, which conducts its own pet survey, estimates that $52.87 billion will be spent on our pets in the U.S. in 2012. <http://americanpetproducts.org/press_industrytrends. asp> With the current drought and rising oil costs, pet food prices will only be increasing for the foreseeable future and those bags will be getting even smaller, things which also discourage pet ownership. Pressure from Animal Rights Groups Animal rights groups have been attacking purebred dogs and breeders for years, discouraging the ownership of the best dogs people can own. They have pushed for laws that make it harder to own pets all over the country. By attacking pet owners and breeders, as well as purebred dogs, AR groups have driven many people who love animals away from owning pets.

t’s no wonder that the AVMA and the ASPCA don’t mention these issues when discussing the recent decline in pet ownership. Both organizations have supported some of these anti-pet ownership measures. The AVMA supports the proposed rule by APHIS which would require small hobby breeders to be regulated by the USDA and follow AWA regulations, for example. They support PUPS. The ASPCA also supports the APHIS proposed rule and PUPS, as well as other anti-breeder laws. Before you believe that the economy is entirely responsible for the downturn in pet ownership, consider how state and local ordinances, rising vet costs, and the influence of animal rights groups are affecting people and their ability to own pets. You may be surprised to find that the groups who claim they care about animals are actually discouraging pet ownership.

Dog News 79

Best of Breed - Judge Mr. Harold Tatro Group First - Judge Mrs. Judy Webb Thank you!

h t u r a l l A . h C G Gold V Sole Baye g n i d d i K t s Ju

Baye D v Sole L O G IE X h PI Allarut . h C : Dam

TWIST WITH A L E M R A C .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 80 Dog News

Handled Exclusively By Bergit & Hans Kabel Assisted by Nanae Murayama and Camille Bakker

B est I n S how N umber S even F or

Best In Show

Thank you Judge Mrs. Loraine Boutwell The Same Weekend: Tri-City Kennel Club I Best of Breed & Group First Judge Mr. Bill R.W. Edwards

Tri-City Kennel Club II Best of Breed & Group First Judge Mrs. Phyllis Wolfish

Cedar Rapids Kennel Club Best of Breed Judge Mrs. Judy Webb Group First Judge Mrs. Loraine Boutwell Dog News 81

HEELWORK TO MUSIC

When is a prop a toy? Continued FROM page 42

used for deducting marks for excessive noise. This means that if a prop is deemed a toy then marks will have to be deducted from one of the three areas a judge is looking at. The section that marks should be deducted from seems to vary from one judge to another as each judge can view the subject differently. To start with a judge needs to determine which section or sections that they feel the prop/toy situation would interfere with. Starting with content it is obvious that a prop can have an effect on this section as a prop can be used to show off various moves which they would not be able to do without the prop. Even if the dog completed moves done with the prop, should the team have points deducted for all the moves it did with the prop, if some of them showed the dog considered the prop a toy? Moving onto accuracy and execution there could be situations where the use of the prop increased the accuracy of the dog due to the dog thinking the prop was more of a toy. If the handler passes the prop from one hand to another during a leg weave and the dog does it faster than when the handler didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pass the prop from one hand to another does a judge remove marks for this move? The last section is interpretation which on the face of it might not be affected by a prop becoming a toy. That is though until you look at the elements in this section and one of these is the flow of the routine. If like above, the prop/toy is actually motivating the dog as the handler has it in their hands which makes the dog perform moves quicker and the routine flows better through moves in anticipation of the reward, then does this affect the marks for this section? So it could be said that all the three sections can be affected by a prop that is deemed a toy and it is up to the individual judge on the day as to where they decide to remove marks.

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rom a handlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s point of view on this topic there are several things you can do to make sure that a judge does not think the prop you are holding is a toy. In my painting and decorating routine I did at Crufts last year I held a paint brush in my hand. I was very conscious that this could look like a toy as at one point I needed the dog to grab hold of it. So during the routine I tried to show that the paintbrush was not the focus for the dog, by putting it in the paint pot and making sure the dog gave it to me when asked. I also moved it around a lot which I find you cannot do so much when the dog thinks it is a toy, as it will then tend to follow toy. I have seen a routine recently where the handler used a top hat and she demonstrated that it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a toy to the dog by passing it around her body while the dog maintained good heelwork. She also held it out to the side and up in the air which would encourage the dog to follow it if the dog had thought it was a toy. Many props do not fall into the category of being a toy due to their size but if you do have something which might be classed by some judges as a toy then make sure the moves you do show you have control of the prop i.e. put it down on the floor or throw it aside, In the end each judge needs to make up their own minds as to when a prop becomes a toy. They need to be able to express when asked why they felt it was a toy and which section or sections they believe it impinged on. You could have various rules to cater for the toy/prop argument but we have enough rules already, so on some topics judges just need to decide for themselves.

Dog News 83

BY EUGENE Z. ZAPHIRIS

84 Dog News

tables as he awards Supreme Champion when he selects the best in show winner at the upcoming CRUFTS DOG SHOW. Finnish all rounder judge RITVA RAITA has passed away at the age of 82. Celebrating wedding anniversaries….KAREN & GARY WILSON, AMY & ANDREW GREEN, BOB & PAM LAMBIE, KAREN & RC WILLIAMS and GREG & SULIE GREENDALE-PAVEZA. Birthdaying… celebrating her 50th KAREN JUSTIN, VIRGINIA MURRAY, ELLY RENSINK, HELEN LEE JAMES, PEGGY BEISEL MCILWAINE, SCOTT SOMMER, CONNIE GRENIER, TINA YUHL, MICHAEL SHEPHERD, PAIGE MCCARVER, KIMBERLY CALVACCA, CAROL GROSSMAN, KATHY MENAKER, CHARLES BARIS, JUNE MATARAZZO, GAYLE BONTECOU, GEORGIA HARRIS, SARAH NIGHTENGALE, JULIE EDEN, NAN GILLIARD, MARY JANE CARBERRY, SIOUX FORSYTH, BOB FORSYTH, BETH DOWD, LOU-

gossip

nated September as AKC RESPONSIBLE DOG OWNERSHIP DAYS. On September 22nd, the American Kennel Club will host a day-long event at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. Among the activities will be agility and rally and you are encouraged to bring your dog to try these events. Other local events around the country will include micro chipping, Canine Good Citizen testing and obedience demonstrations. EUKANUBA has signed a three-year contract with the English Kennel Club that will make it the principal sponsor of the CRUFTS DOG SHOW and DISCOVER DOGS. That duo from the United Kingdom, MICHAEL COAD and GEOFF CORISH, who have enjoyed great success in the canine show ring, have doubled their pleasure by winning in the horse ring as well. Their spotted pony was named Supreme Champion at the British Spotted Pony Society Championship Show. GEOFF, who is one of our DOG NEWS’ esteemed columnists, will get to turn the

the

column

The rains that caused the flooded grounds that led to the cancellation of last year’s WESTCHESTER weekend will not cloud this year’s event. It’s a go for the specialties on Thursday followed by TUXEDO, SOMERSET and Sunday’s WESTCHESTER. The clubs even brought back some judges from last year’s panel, nice thought. And of course, those CUPCAKES, organized by AMY GREEN to benefit TAKE THE LEAD. Getting ready, MIKE SZABO, the American Kennel Club’s newest field representative, has gone on a Hawaiian holiday before the start of his new job on October 1st. Might as well have some fun in the sun before the he takes on his new responsibilities. MIKE was a breeder, professional handler and of late a superintendent for MBF DOG SHOWS. Always pleasant and helpful, he will be an asset to the organization. MIKE will be living in the Chicago area and work the shows in the mid-west. DOTTIE “THE CANDY LADY” DAVIS was taken to the hospital from the dog show in New Jersey last weekend. She is the most popular of ring stewards as she always has a bowl of candy for the exhibitors and judges alike. No doubt the extreme heat played a large part in her taking ill. She was released the following day and taken home by her son. Hope all is well. Photographer extraordinaire PERRY PHILLIPS will be back at work this weekend, having recovered from a pulled muscle that left him sidelined. You would like to think that every day is a responsible dog ownership day, but the American Kennel Club has desig-

ISE RITTER, PATRICIA ULLOA, JOHN RONALD, WENDY KELLERMAN, MIKE STONE, ALISA SYAR, DORIS BOYD, CARLOS ROJAS, DIANE MALENFANT, SYDNEY STONE, CONNIE CLARK, RICK BAGGENSTOS, BETSY DALE, JUDY SILKER, KEN KAUFFMAN, HOLLEY ELDRED and ANNE KATONA.

JACK



Master of All Trades Group First Naugatuck Valley Kennel Club Judge Mr. Robert D. Black

Group First

FLASH Best In S h Judge Mrs. Keke Kahn at Susse ow x Hi Kennel C lls lu under Ju b Mrs Lisa dge Warren Woodstock Dog Club

Irish and American

Ch. Class Act By Hallsblu



Best In Show Winner, Multiple Specialty & Group Winner Owners Mr. WJ Berry and Mrs. AF Austin “Motherwell” & “East Fields”

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Handler - Agent - Importer George Wright 270 Locktown - Sergeantsville Road Stockton, NJ 08559 908 996-3024 Kilwinning@embarqmail.com Dog News 85

BLOOD TRACKERS

Continued FROM page 45

difficult for a dog to track because the scent doesn’t stay on the outside of the circle. It pools in the center of it instead. Scent always moves toward cool air, so the coolest spot inside the circle is where the scent is the strongest. The dog will run inside the circle, hit the pooled scent and think he’s found it. If there’s nothing there, you tell him ‘More’ or ‘Go find’ to get him working again.” There are two training plateaus that must be worked through according to Abney. The first is 45-minutes and the second is one-mile. “After you work a dog for 45-minutes, he’s going to quit, lie down, figure he can’t find it and the game is over. So, you have to work him in increments. When you reach the 45-minute plateau, you let him rest. Then, you start over again from the spot where he quit rather than going back and starting at the beginning of the track. This allows you to increase the distance the dog will track. “The same thing happens at one-mile. After a dog tracks a mile, he’ll quit and lie down. He must be pushed through this plateau in the same way.” Sniff and go find As already stated, even though Abney initially trains a dog to track the scent of one particular deer from which a

Ladyhawke

Don Abney working Ladyhawke on a tracking line.

Don Abney and Ladyhawke, his Catahoula, were involved in search and rescue for ten years. LadyHawke was trained by Abney and certified in multiple areas of detection: live; cadaver; drowned victims; and urban, disaster, building, article and narcotics searches. She located two weapons used to commit a felony and implicated the person who used them. She also identified where a body was hidden for five days behind a wall in an abandoned house. Abney is a Court Certified Expert in the field of Canine Training and Tracking through the Criminal District Courts of New Orleans, LA, where he operates Abcantra: Abney Canine Training. He is a United Kennel Club Conformation and Jr. Showmanship Judge as well as an American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. He authored several books on dog training and currently is writing one about training blood trackers.

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hide strip was cut, the dog is able to track other deer--and other animals--once it understands the tracking “game,” i.e., sniff a particular scent and then go find it. “From that point forward, the hunter can tell his dog to track another deer—or bear, moose, elk, whatever—and the dog will do it.” He says. “All the hunter has to do is tell his dog to ‘Check it’—sniff the scent left on the ground by the animal--and then ‘Go find.’ The dog will put his head to ground, sniff the scent and track the animal.” Equipment In some parts of the country, it’s illegal to track game with a dog. In parts where it is legal, some states require a dog to be on a lead, i.e., a long tracking line. While Abney trains dogs on a 33-ft line, he says owners can track them off-lead if they want to and if their state law allows it. “An off-lead dog is more likely to stick close to its owner. If I train them off-lead and they don’t fully understand, I could end up chasing a dog for the rest of the day. “I hook the lead to a harness worn by the dog. Whenever you train, you should ‘dress your dog for the occasion.’ In this case, the harness tells the dog he’s going to work. When the harness comes off, he knows it’s time to play.” While proper training enables a dog to track and find wounded game, proper timing makes it easier for the dog to do. “Don’t immediately get your dog and set out to find a wounded animal,” Abney says. “Go back to camp, have a cup of coffee and BS with the guys for about 45-minutes. That gives the wounded animal time to go out, lie down and die. If you do that, your dog will probably find the deer within 300-yards of where you shot and wounded him. “If you head out any sooner with your dog, the deer will run off when he realizes he’s being followed. A deer can run on adrenalin. He can be absolutely stone cold dead and still keep moving. If he knows he’s being chased, he’ll run for his life and won’t keel over until he’s in the next county.” Breeds The breeds most commonly used to do blood tracking include the Bavarian Bloodhound, Wirehaired Dachshund, Blue Lacy and Catahoula. Some sources claim the above are the only ones capable of doing it. Abney disagrees. “Short-nosed dogs can be trained to be a blood tracker, but it’s more difficult for them because they don’t have as much room in their nose to hold scent. The best breeds for blood tracking come from the Working, Hunting and Herding Groups because they have an elongated nose. Their noses usually are about six cubic inches on the inside and hold about 40 times the amount of scent a person’s nose can hold. Here’s why. “Cilia are little hair like fibers that identify scent. While the human nose has six cilia per cell, the dog’s nose has 240 cilia per cell. That difference enables the dog to identify and categorize ten thousand different scents with one sniff—or one inhalation of air.” Some also claim that once a dog is trained to be a man trailer--track humans for search and rescue--it can’t be used as a blood tracker because it would be too distracted by the scent of other wildlife it encountered. Again, Abney disagrees. “Scent is scent. I don’t care if it’s the scent of a human, a cat or a moose. As long as there is scent, a dog can find it.”

Best In Specialty Show Winner Dog News 87

COAST TO COAST Continued FROM page 46

Indeed, the head of the Field Spaniel is a unique beauty to be celebrated -- setting it apart from other spaniels. A serious return to the standard is called for. Yet exaggeration also applies to the way a dog is presented – in other words how it is prepared and shown for the show ring. Wendell Sammet, the authority on Poodles, in his superbly illustrated article in Dogs in Review, explains that the Poodle, (with breed origins of a hunting water dog: author’s note), should be shown with head high and with head inclined very slightly forward so that the neck can be functional and strong (with no suggestion of ewe: author’s note) and with an appropriate shoulder assembly angled to allow the front legs to be under the dog. The Poodle’s head should not be pulled back to create a high-stepping, short-strided dog that cannot cover ground in a smooth manner. Style of presentation can also create extremes when grooming results in artificial shapes of parts and wholes. The present day irony of this lamentable situation is that the sculpting often is to the detriment of the dog’s natural qualities and outline. The Setter is now seen with the hair on the hocks scissored in such a way as to make the dog look sicklehocked and the underline is bluntly cut off in an exaggerated angle that distracts from the balance of the whole. The Golden’s natural body coat as described in the standard is to be water-repellent, resilient, lying close to the body, and that the natural appearance of coat or outline should not be altered by cutting or clipping. Yet, now it is common to see the body coat blown dry into a greater mass away from the body and then shaped into artificial angles. Lydia Coleman Hutchinson discusses Westie grooming today as often excessive. “Westies are shown with overdone, over-groomed heads that have been teased and sculpted to appear much larger than they ac88 Dog News

tually are; many times this makes their heads look out of balance with their bodies. I assume that pulling so much hair off their necks is supposed to accentuate their heads. It is a typical example of taking things too far.” And Lydia says it best when she remarks, “A more important topic is when breeds become exaggerated structurally which affects type. In Cairns, we are seeing a trend toward exaggeration which is changing the ‘look’ of the breed. Some breeders in North America and Europe seem to be breeding and showing dogs that are long-necked, have too much rear angulation, are ‘tall on the hock’ and are considerably taller overall than the standard calls for. Until recently I was able to say that Cairns were a breed that still looked like the photos of dogs from the early 1900’s; that is not so true anymore. Yet I can name two representatives of the breed (and, of course, there are more) that exemplify the strength and consistency of the breed over time. The 1988 Westminster group winner, Ch. Tidewater Master Gold, could win today as could BIS winner Ch. Cairnwoods Quince who was whelped in 1968.” Many breeders and judges can identify examples of exaggerations in breeds that have led to extremes and finally to unwarranted change. While some changes have come as the result of happenstance, others exist because of the attempt to create new fashion, style, and showiness. Whatever the origins of change it must be acknowledged that change is, in most all cases, a departure from the breed standard and, therefore, creates a trend away from correct breed type. James Haring, animal researcher at the University of Pennsylvania and breeder of Greyhounds and English Setters, suggested many years ago that a lack of common understanding of the terms we use

when we talk about dogs prevents us from thinking clearly and communicating with shared meaning. While type is defined as the characteristic qualities distinguishing a breed and the embodiment of a standard’s essentials, it is also defined by Hoyt as “the description of a breed based entirely on the purpose that particular kind of dog had to fulfill.” But in conversation and even in breed seminars the word type is also used and interpreted in a myriad of ways that include personal opinion, bias, compare and contrast. Further confusion occurs when the word typey is used. Is it a positive or a pejorative? Does it refer to an extreme? Is it to be admired? Can it be off-type? Everyone seems to know what it means but no one can really say. Poodle people have said typey is the same as “poodley” but that is no help if the topic of discussion is Bulldogs. Haring suggested that definitions of terms would help us understand and teach about breed characteristics. Finally, the word elegance is used so often in the dog fancy and in so many ways that it almost defies definition. Elegance as it is used to describe a particular dog is a subjective word with a meaning only clear in the mind of the beholder. So when a lecturer in breed education uses the word it may mean pretty, excellence, type, or it may be used to express beauty or correctness. Dog fanciers have been known to explain elegance as, “I know it when I see it,” or “that’s what I like.” It could also refer to the superlative of breed quality. However, if elegance in the mind of a breeder or a judge, has a meaning in which an emphasis is placed on particular traits it may follow that trends occur that lead to exaggeration and extremes. It can lead to breed change. Part Three will address Breed Changes: Function and Fashion with contributions from present day judges. • Hayes Blake Hoyt’s essay “Four Definitions” is published in Visualizations of the Dog Standards. James Haring’s discussion of terminology and breeding to the standard is published in “Notes from Sundridge” English Setter Association of America.

Dog News 89

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Sacramento Kennel Club Photos by EUGENE Z. ZAPHIRIS

GOLD COUNTRY kennel club

BY LESLEY BOYES

90 Dog News

Dog News 91

TRAVELING WITH KITTY Continued FROM page 53

are a wooden toy workshop, free ranges chickens, goat farm, vineyard, and of course the kennel. A tour of Kishorit shows a very well-maintained community, with flowering gardens and beautiful spots as well as top quality facilities for the various animals. A place that definitely facilitates the local motto of spheres of activity that enhance each other. The communal aspect plays a key role in the concept and social integration is encouraged and expected of members. They form friendships, learn conflict resolution skills, are included as equal partners in activities, given credit for their contribution. Care for animals provides a healthy outlet in giving and receiving love. Levinger brought his kennel that bred Miniature Schnauzers to Kishorit and under Kitty’s management has chalked up many achievements. The members assigned to the kennel not only do ongoing maintenance work, but also bathe, groom and handle the dogs at shows. It is always a heart-warming sight to see Kitty and her brood step off the bus with all their dogs at local shows. However, they don’t stop there and Kitty also travels with dogs and members to overseas shows – a pretty daunting task involving great responsibility. “Did you remember to take your medications?” she asks one of the men on the bus to the airport. “I haven’t spoken to my father, I have to speak to him,” the man replied, completely out of context. This sentence would be repeated quite often throughout the trip, particularly since it’s his first time abroad. Kitty took charge of the entire group that included a 16 year old girl, Yael, who came in the capacity of a handler and me with my little Sheltie. Although the girl is not a member of Kishorit and not even eligible, she was more than a handful, so Kitty was actually faced with four persons to care for. Additionally, we had four dogs from Kishorit, three Schnauzers and a Dachshund. The group negotiated airport procedures quite smoothly and the flight was uneventful too. We landed in Sarajevo, Serbia, and hired a van in 92 Dog News

which we drove to Bar, Montenegro, a 10-hour drive on impossibly narrow, winding mountain roads with breathtaking scenery. The guys were more interested in things like when they would get their next meal than in the scenery and managed to sleep for long parts of the trip. However, they were happy about the entire sojourn. Arriving at the resort, probably built in the 60’s, with buildings that were crumbling, rooms with very bare essentials (almost no hot water, no air-conditioning) we all went to our rooms. One of the men has a problematic leg making it difficult for him to negotiate stairs, so the other man would usually give him a hand. They were each responsible for one of the dogs, taking them for walks and feeding them. At the show, the guys mostly helped outside the ring, putting finishing touches on the dogs’ coats and handing them to Yael as they were judged one after the other. However, they also helped handle the dogs whenever necessary and did a very competent job. One of the guys expressed his wish to take a dip in the nearby sea. He repeated it for quite some time, however, there was no way he could go unattended and Kitty required him to remain with the group until the show was over. When I got up from my siesta one day, he happily announced he had been to the beach and had swum there, even though he had

barely dipped his feet in the water. This particular fellow turned out to have no sense of humor, nothing, completely dry! I could not help but pull his leg every once in a while and when we laughed he would look me in the eye and ask seriously: “Was that a joke?” His mate had found some cheap sunglasses at a local souvenir shop and bought a pair for 5 Euros. After a while he told me, “you know, the other guy said he would buy the glasses from me for 5 shekels when we get home”, quite happy with the seemingly profitable transaction, not really aware that the Euro was worth 5 shekels and he had bought the glasses for the equivalent of 25. The woman who was with us was the most seasoned traveler among the three and is Kitty’s usual travel companion. The members’ parents are the ones who pay their travel expenses and she comes from a well-off Swiss family. She is just one of a large number of Kishorit members who come from Jewish families in other countries. Despite her experience, she tended to display anxiety at certain times, twisting her hands, wondering what other people would say about her actions or inactions. Altogether, the trip was somewhat of an adventure for me and provided insight into a world I had only known about from literature. No doubt, Kitty and her colleagues at Kishorit are doing a wonderful job, giving a wholesome life to people who would otherwise have spent their lives in various institutions.

“Autumn Classic Cluster” October 12, 13 & 14, 2012 Howard County Fairgrounds West Friendship, Maryland

Catonsville Kennel Club

National Capital Kennel Club

Friday, October 12

Saturday, October 13

Sunday, October 14

$500.00 Best in Show

Best Bred By Exhibitor In Show

Best Puppy In Show

Boxer Specialty with Sweeps Supported Entries For: Pointers Keeshonds Lhasa Apsos

Specialties with Sweeps & Veteran Sweeps: Pointers Miniature Schnauzers Schipperkes Pugs

Supported Enries For: Labradors & Sweeps: Scottish Terriers Keeshonds Yorkshire Terriers Pomeranians Poodles

Supported Entries for: Pomeranians & Poodles

ENTRIES CLOSE WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 • Superintendent: MB-F, Inc.

Dog News 93

ALL IN THE FAMILY

PUNISH THE DEED, NOT THE BREED Continued FROM page 58

Note: I’ve not yet seen any government officials that didn’t like to be seen or have free publicity. So, pull out the welcome mat and make a good showing. In other words, if you can’t beat them, join them and beat the not-for-profit dog activist groups at their own game. Now, let’s get busy and take a “proactive” rather than a “reactive” approach to this matter of the unworkable dog legislation that’s pending or even has been passed into law. At the first sign of smoke, we must put on our dog firefighting equipment and put out the fire before the flames get too high. If you were to find a single rotten apple in the apple barrel, would you throw out the entire batch? I think not. So, let’s get busy saving all those good dogs from selective legislation. AUTHOR’S NOTE Listed below are a few assumptions and conclusions, sadly to say, that lobbyist, special interest groups and government officials take into consideration when passing dog legislation. However, the problem with these thoughts is that “quick fix” legislation has never worked. Dog legislation, as in any other government control, should be well thought out and researched, before being enacted. The fewer animals housed, in any given location, the less chance of the animals and housing becoming an “animal cruelty” crisis. Not necessarily true. Small back yard breeders tend to be less educated and have crude lean-to type kennel facilities, compared to the more professional larger commercial breeders with more sophisticated facilities. Breed-specific legislation reduces dog attacks and dog bites. Not necessarily true. It’s all in how a dog is trained. Larger breeds are hereditarily aggressive and territorial. Not necessarily true. Most dogs are trained or bred to be wicked. No dog is born vicious. All territorial or aggressive dogs are bad. Not necessarily true. Dogs can become territorial if they were abused and inhumanely treated as

94 Dog News

puppies or even adults. It’s also possible for dogs to learn this behavior from their owner. Hitting and yelling at a dog will improve the situation. Not necessarily true. If you instill fear in the dog, you will make the dog more aggressive. Larger dogs are aggressive due to fear and misunderstanding. Not necessarily true. Aggression is normally a learned trait to attack. A dog’s instinct of protection is the same as aggression. Not necessarily true. Often times protection is misinterpreted as aggression. Dogs will instinctively protect their families. Larger dogs are adaptive only for the outside. Not necessarily true. All dogs need to be socialized. Larger dogs are cruel towards small children. Not necessarily true. Often times, children are just not taught how to play with dogs, any dogs. The safety of any breed of dog, with children, is not dependent on the parental guidance. Not necessarily true. Adults must teach their children how to behave around dogs and their dogs how to behave around children. It’s a win-win solution. Seeking a veterinarian’s advice and/or medication is the best way to stop your dog’s territorial behavior. Not necessarily true. An alternative training method should be used first. Mood enhancing drugs may be harmful to the dog’s constitution. What happens when the drugs wear off? According to the 2008 testing of 218 dog breeds by the American Temperament Testing Society, the passing rate for American Pit Bull Terrier 85%, American Staffordshire Terrier 83.9%, Staffordshire Bull Terriers 88.0%. The testing also showed that out of the 218 breeds tested 119 breeds scored lower than 83.9% (the Bully low) and only 69 breeds scored better than the Bully’s 88.0%. Mixed breeds came in at 85.4%. Breeds that scored lower than 83.9% include Beagle, Border Collie, Dalmatian, Greyhound, Caviler King Charles Spaniel, and Toy Poodles. I understand that in this test, a dog is placed in a series of confrontational situations. The first sign of aggression or panic is a failure of the test. In my many years of inspecting kennels, I was snapped many times, by the small ankle bitters. I can’t remember receiving any substantial bites from a larger dog.

Be Patient. We are already planning and working on the next

October, 2015 See you there Dog News 95

AND MORE

Continued FROM page 66

towards NGKC is a foregone conclusion based on its comparatively well-established relationship with the present and past people who formed this organization. How they can recognize two kennel clubs in one country-despite the size of China- is the problem facing the Board. When Brazil went through its growing pains and the opportunity to recognize two KC's in that country arose years ago AKC opted to stay out of the fight and would only recognize one KC in that country. Indeed most national KC's rightly or wrongly recognize only one KC in each country, which is sort of monopolistic in nature one may legitimately argue. Indeed FCI's stand in the past in these matters has been to refuse judges who judge for non-FCI kennel clubs --splinter groups to award CACIB's at FCI shows. Furthermore, FCI has basically agreed to stay out of America with shows so long as AKC recognizes only FCI recognized KCs. I have been against that position for a quarter of a century now to no avail until this Board though Staff I would suppose now is at least talking about recognizing two KCs in one country. How much this will upset the apple cart I do not know insofar as FCI is concerned but I guess if they can recognize Puerto Rico as a separate entity what is there to prevent us from recognizing either a non-FCI club or country? It will be interesting to see how this is all played out I would think. We went to what was one of my favorite shows years ago, the Newton Kennel Club, which is now held at the Sussex County Horse Show Grounds where it has been held for years now I believe. When the show was held in beautiful Memory Park in Newton it was truly a country outing that took over the entire town and economically contributed vast sums of money to Newton notwithstanding the fact that it interrupted business and travel on Saturday. You

96 Dog News

know the economic impact of a dog show on a town is a fact which is lost or forgotten today to the great disadvantage of the dog show going community. With Springfield taking over so many of the Connecticut and Upstate New York shows the economic benefits which enured to say Albany and Troy are forgotten or ignored totally. Local charities too benefited and while some monies may still be donated there is nothing like a live reminder to local inhabitants of the importance and value and beauty in owning a purebred dog. Just look at Westchester County without the Westchester KC-this loss as well as Eastern in Boston is monumental in nature and one that breeders and anyone interested in AKC's future cannot accept without fighting back. Queensboro of NYC in Springfield, Mass is another example and now in California very quietly-perhaps not so quietly a similar central theme location is being developed certainly in Northern California. The loser is the dog and the concerned breeder in the long run and it is a form of consolidation which should be seriously reconsidered by all of us. Did you notice last weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s DOG NEWS in The Way We Were photos-the glorious Pedigree Dinner of old! Did it break your heart the way it did mine to think of the advantage that corporation took of we breeders and the purebred dog after their corporate image reverted to the shelter dog and left us stranded? Thank heaven for Purina and Eukanuba is all I have to say. Not that Pedigree didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t return favors in kind it was the abruptness of their decision which was and is mind-boggling. And to think there are people among us till supportive of that organization confounds my sensibilities more than I can adequately express.

Dog News 97

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Sacramento Kennel Club Photos by EUGENE Z. ZAPHIRIS

CAPITAL CITY CLASSIC

BY PETE MELIA

98 Dog News

Dog News 99

CAPITAL CITY CLASSIC

Continued FROM page 73

grooming and in the case of this circuit a group of hand selected vendors. Exhibition Hall offers plenty of space, every utility, and in floor electrical pockets every 30 feet. 3100 parking spaces provide ample room for patrons, participants and vendors and unique to the Expocentre are 120 RV spaces with electrical hookups for motor homes. Five acres of well maintained grass fields for exercising the dogs surround the other buildings, which are perfect in size and accessibility for agility and obedience. Spending time in this handsome and workmanlike space makes me ponder what the brilliant Poodle Club of America Committee could do with their not to be missed Specialty if held in the middle of our country at this facility. It is just the perfect set up for shows and specialties alike. When not hosting our sport, the Expocentre hosts over 700 events in these 5 venues each year, including concerts, conventions, trade shows, rodeos, circuses, and hockey to name a few. The Kansas Expocentre is run by one of the brightest and most dog friendly

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gents I have met in a very long time, H.R. Cook. H.R. states that his only draw back in the beginning was to get the attached hotel on board and after many meetings and lots of planning they have created a venue that in my opinion is second to none, rounding out the package with a first rate Food and Beverage department. Mr. Cook’s upbeat attitude is clearly passed on to his cheerful staff, which takes great pride in maintaining and helping visitors at “their” Expocentre. I asked H.R. if his initials stood for Human Resources and he quickly replied, “On no, it’s Hockey Rink”. Thursday at the Toy Club, Larry the Cable Guy of redneck humor fame showed up to film a spoof on dog shows with Michael Faulkner of “the Lighter side of Judging” notoriety. Tell me that is not a televisable twosome. It will certainly be an episode to watch. My weekend in Topeka was spent with a great group of people. Susan Dillon, with a head full of resplendent curly locks, looked great and reminded me of the time I got us thrown out of a restaurant in Florida. That magnet Steve Gladstone ESQ. was traveling solo and (I can’t believe I’m saying this) was very amusing. Eric Liebes had a very strange expression on his face but after a few days I realized it was a “Sammy Smile”. I loved seeing Norman Patton and he was just the most wonderful company.

The amazing Faye Strauss was as always so positive but had to get home to help the hubby with a new CD on the Boston Terrier head, and the “in charge” Charlotte Patterson, who recently and in my opinion rightfully, just received the first ladies invite to judge a full group under the new judging system. Mrs. Patterson arrived daily turned out in what seemed like the complete St John summer collection with the matching stylish yet sensible Jimmy Choos. Do you have any idea how hard it is to find anything stylish yet sensible? I had a lovely and very amusing lunch with Jane Roppolo who had to make one of the toughest decisions of the weekend. I loved seeing Gina Weiser who seems very settled and happy. We talked about her Mom the formidable Frances Rubinich who has just taken over the local assisted living facility less than 7 miles from Gina’s house. Mrs. Rubinich’s famous and beautiful Hells a Blazen white toy poodles were the fore runners and a huge part of all good toy poodles white including the great ones from Japan. Speaking of poodles, It was great to see the very debonair Kurt James, son of Helen

Lee, showing a beautiful Standard puppy from Brazil and with his young adult son who is the age of Kurt when we initially met. The ultimate gentleman Brian Livingston was so busy that his assistants had to ask for handler changes and is very excited about his new Papillon that is coming from the prettiest girl at dog shows. Carl Vitner, the go-to guy at Atlanta and Perry, was the great guy he always is. The undisputed Queen of Maltese in a Black Skirt, Tonia Hollibaugh, was all smiles, hand and hand and smitten with her new handsome beau Richard Brewster. Jeff Wright and his lovely but outspoken Mom, Teresa, were accompanied by the “Charlie” aficionado and breeder Ray Cole, who gives a whole new meaning to “cowboy”. Scott Sommer has a great string of dogs and assistants and seems to have a contender in almost every group. The super supes Sandy and John McDonald and their pal Jade provided an aura of calm and Michael Shepherd is always a bright spot at every dog show. Robin Novack and Laura King with there politically correct clad shih tzu are such a great team and always a joy for me to see. The shows the first weekend were won by the owner-breeder-handled Smooth Chihuahua the first day returning from her recent stint in the whelping box, with Robin’s Springer winning the next two and Michael Shepherd’s Boxer won on Monday. Bill Shelton was part of the panel the following weekend along with Dana Cline, Jim Reynolds, Keke Kahn, and Denny Mounce, and agrees with me about how much he enjoyed judging at this facility with every detail thought out even to smallest and final detail when a printed card with the time of your airport shuttle to Kansas City was presented by Kit Bostrom. Go team Capital Classic.

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THE LIGHTER SIDE... Continued FROM page 18

“judge” for the mock ring. Larry will be grooming and showing a Yorkie. Have a wonderful day. KMcF KMcF - Sounds like “FUN” - Where does one fly into? I will check flights and get right back...I would LOVE to do it. Michael Michael, Kansas City - MCI If you fly in on Wednesday before 2 or 3:00, we could pick you up at the airport and take you to the Capitol Plaza Hotel which is connected to the show site (Kansas Expo Center). And make sure you get back to the airport for your return flight. Or, you can rent a car, if you prefer. The Hotel has great food. We also go out to dinner each night and would love to have you join us---our treat. (I know, “want to treat you” is a dangerous phrase in China!!!) If you can come, would you be the “judge” mock ring where Larry will be “judging?” Anxiously awaiting to hear from you. KMcF KMcFYes, thank you – I am coming! Michael, Time is flying by. This Sat I’m driving to Topeka to meet with “Larry” and the crew doing a scout mission to the Expo Center on their way to Branson, MO. Then, they are coming back to Kansas City to our family company, and all the local “characters” that they will be interacting with on Thursday, the 11th, will be there to meet and greet !!!! Somebody needs to pinch me!! Hope your plans are all in place. Let me know if there is anything I can do for you. KMcF Hello KMcF! Thanks for the update and it is my understanding that our little party is on the sixteenth of August, not the 11th. Did I miss something? I am set to fly out on Wednesday the 15th and return Friday morning. Looking forward to seeing you and Larry the Cable Guy.....LOL. Hugs, M I’m so excited. Our first party with them is on the 11th. Kinda a pre-party! Then the big party is set for the 16th. You’re right on top of it. KMcF KMcF Just give me an idea of what the agenda will be once it is nailed down--- looking forward to the adventure. I share the news of my upcoming shoot with Larry the Cable Guy with local Tappahannock town folk, friends and members of my immediate family, garnering various degrees of enthusiasm. 102 Dog News

“OMG! Larry the Cable Guy is one of my all time favorites”…..”Git-R-Done Michael”… …“I can’t imagine you and redneck Larry in the same room!”….What did my friend mean, when he made this last comment? Priding myself as somewhat of a renaissance man, I understand how one might initially assume Larry the Cable Guy and I would have nothing in common, but that is the furthest thing from the truth. I was born in rural Western New York, raised in the small hamlet / town / village of Friendship, New York – “The Friendly Place to Live”. I often wonder if this is to blame for my desire for all things beautiful and nice? My father was a professional man, but he was--and still is---a redneck. His weekend attire consists of camouflage (all things bright orange) and he is a proud card-carrying member of the NRA. My earliest redneck recollection occurred in 1967. I was not quite seven years old. Big Jer/Porky (my father’s nickname) and I were visiting with my maternal Great Uncle Art and his kennel of Blue Tick Coon hounds. The purpose of the trip was to evaluate puppies and for Uncle Art to show off his breeding / hunting stock. With extreme clarity, I recall the event knowing full well it was the catalyst that shaped me into the creative, sensitive, artistic, gentle soul I am today. “Pups lookin’ real good Artie,” my father said, caressing Uncle Art’s ego. I remember looking into the straw covered stall, eyeing a dozen squirming newborns and wondering how the hell my Big Jer / Porky knew whether they were good or bad. “I’d give that bitch a big wad of chewin’ tabbaci, if’n you want to keep those little ones from getin’ full of worms,” my father added with authoritative redneck wisdom and bull*(#$^&). I watched as my Big Jer / Porky---my Father---struggled to remove a round can of Skoal® Smokeless Tobacco from the pocket of his camouflage hunting pants. Holding the cylindrical container in the palm of his left hand, he twisted the silver top off, pinching a huge wad between his forefinger and thumb. He, along with Uncle Art’s assistance, wrangled the Coonhound bitch and shoved the wad of tabbaci straight down her throat. I winced a bit while watching and I remembering feeling thankful I did not have parasites at that exact moment. Big Jer / Porky---my father--now returned to the can and pulled out a much smaller amount between his finger and thumb. “Here Son---I want you to try this---You will like it,” he said, with Uncle Art nodding along. His fingers approached my face and at first the rich, sweet smell was not too bad, I remember thinking. When it hit my

tongue, I choked, went to my knees, swallowing the sticky mess straight down the back of my throat into my small empty stomach. (If it had been 2012, I would have been removed from the home and placed directly into foster care) Followed by tears, gagging, vomit, silence and twenty-four hours of sickness. In the years to follow, the consolation prize for growing up and living in a redneck household was decorating the numerous antler racks of all the stuffed animals hanging on the various walls of the our house, with Christmas lights and bulbs. And, on occasion – I would enjoy placing several of my Mother’s Winston cigarettes between the mounted hooves, light them, and sit back a while watching, with the hope I was providing those poor dead creatures with a little pleasure. Yes, I grew up embarrassed to invite any of my friends over for supper in the fear they would be served bear, elk, moose, turtle, squirrel, possum, rabbit, venison or some other wild animal mixed grill. Through a rich understanding and reflection of my redneck history, I pack for Topeka, knowing Larry the Cable Guy and I will hit it off immediately upon introduction. I select a neutral light weight summer wool blazer, black slacks, white shirt, black dress shoes and a yellow print tie in juxtaposition to Larry the Cable Guy’s signature shorts, shirt---with cutoff sleeves---and Nebraska camouflage baseball cap adorned with a fish hook. I depart Holly Springs at 3:45 AM, for Richmond International Airport to facilitate an on time departure, a change of planes in Charlotte and an on time, late morning arrival in Kansas City. All things considered, the morning goes well and I arrive in KC fifteen minutes and twenty seven seconds early. Once off the plane, I once again marvel at the total lack of architectural significance of the Kansas City International Airport. And, while waiting to retrieve my luggage, I once again seek DROID for historical enrichment. I type in Kansas City Airport, click enter and double click the link: Kansas City International Airport---Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. I review the airport’s history, design, flawed vision, security, renovations, etc. and I am immediately taken by the topic title – WILDLIFE STRIKES. Kansas City is reported as having the highest number of wildlife strikes of any airport in the US, based on take offs and landings. I continue to read - April 28, 2000. On take off, a Boeing 727 struck a Canada Goose, destroying the engine. It returned safely. “Now, how in the hell does a

I grew up embarrassed to invite any of my friends over for supper in the fear they would be served bear, elk, moose, turtle, squirrel, possum, rabbit, venison or some other wild animal mixed grill.

plane destroy an engine and return safely?” I ask while shaking my head and laughing. Sliding DROID back into my shirt pocket, I look straight toward the rotating belt, hoping to see my black ballistic-nylon garment bag succumbing to fits of laughter, caused by visions of passenger planes, painted in camouflage, being guided by redneck pilots diving bombing for game birds. My bag arrives. I proceed to the rental car terminal (much nicer than the actual airport), check in with the Enterprise Car Rental Clerk. “Yes...Yes...No... No...Yes...No...Yes...Yes...No... No...Yes...Thank you very much! I will bring it back full,” I respond and proceed to the external area for my car--- a black Nissan something or other. After awhile they all look and smell alike. I toss my black ballistic nylon garment bag onto the back seat and my Man Bag onto the passenger front seat. I load myself into the driver’s seat and plug DROID’s auto charger into the appropriate outlet. Not knowing if Kansas law allows driving while talking on your cell phone, I activate the navigational system before departing the rental car parking garage for the short drive to Topeka. Sixty-five miles to Topeka from Kansas City and an average travel time of one hour DROID informs. I exit the airport, enter the highway and begin to play around with the car’s sound system, searching for light entertaining music for the quick trip to Topeka. I push the second pre-set button. “Welcome to the light KCWJ, 1030AM Traditional Christian Music---Living on the Edge with Pastor Chip, The Difference Between Love and Sex.” Pastor Chip immediately gets my attention.“Are you tired of relationships that don’t work? Do you long to find that special person you can really connect with and have that sexual intimacy you’ve always dreamed about?” It is possible! “WOW! You go Pastor Chip!” I say while bringing the black Nissan to a comfortable eighty miles an hour, at which time, I hit the cruise control. “God has a plan for relationships and believe it or not, He even has a plan for sexual intimacy.” Feeling my foot hit the accelerator, I quickly pull my foot off the pedal and reset the cruise control - switching Pastor Chip to Chicago’s greatest hits and continue down the Kansas Turnpike to Topeka. A few miles from Topeka, I take notice of a large sign to the right of the interstate. Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site. “Wow – I totally forgot that on May 17, 1954, in Topeka, the Supreme Court unanimously declared that “separate educational facilities are inherently unequal” and, as such, violated the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution, which guarantees all citizens “equal protection under the law. I also recall reading about the fallout and how the rednecks in various parts of the country went bat-ass-crazy after the ruling, as a prelude to years of unrest and political upheaval. I pass the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site sign and pull off at

the next exit for relief and hot coffee. I check DROID for messages and notice my mother, Miss Joanie, has sent me a text message image. I tap the text message APP, hit my mother’s name, and an image appears. I hit the image a second time and it fills the screen. Appearing before my large bulging eyes is a photograph of my mother, grinning from ear to ear while holding what appears to be a Large Mouth Bass. The large fish is directly in front of her chest with her right hand supporting the tail section and her left hand underneath the head, and with her left thumb hooked into the mouth of the fish spreading it wider than normal---for the full effect. To finish the complete mental picture, she is wearing a long sleeved, vneck camouflage t-shirt. “OH NO! It can’t be!!” I say out loud to the universe. “Mother has stooped to a new low! I figured when she divorced Big Jer / Porky, thirty years ago, and left for Florida her days of trap shooting, hunting, fishing, smoking cigars and wearing camo were over,” I cry to whomever will listen. I refrain from calling her immediately and saying, “Mother--great catch---however dump the damn fishoflauge outfit. Do you realize you just sent this picture to me and also to your Facebook account, informing thousands of people of your redneck past, not to mention my own personal pain and suffering?” Below the fishoflauge image, Mother typed,“Hey there---having a wonderful time at the retreat in Western New York. We miss you and wish you could be here. Share my picture with Larry the Cable Guy---I love him almost as much as I love you. We have all of his DVDs and if you can get his autograph for your poor old mother, I would appreciate it.” “Over my dead F#$@#$% body will I show this picture to anyone, let alone Mr. Whitney.” I mentally send mother a clear message. Slightly aggravated, I engage the Black Nissan and proceed to Topeka. The exit for host hotel, which is attached to the dog show site, leads me directly through the heart of downtown. I meander for a few miles and DROID guides me to a right-hand turn into the parking lot of the Capital Plaza Hotel. Always fearful of check-in hotel disasters, I am relieved when everything goes smoothly and I find myself in room number 417 (Yes, on the fourth floor---for those dedicated readers of my articles.) I toss the black ballistic nylon garment bag back onto the bed and start unpacking my clothes, shoes, toiletries, and finish by adjusting the thermostat to high-cool fan. I phone KMcF to inform her of my arrival. “Hi KMcF – I have arrived safe and sound. No need to worry – give me a call at your convenience,” I end the call and notice I have a text message photo from my nephew Dustin (my sister’s son) who also lives in western New York. I click on the photo and the image fills the screen. Appearing before my eyes is my nephew

dressed in full camouflage gear, holding a rifle in his left hand and a giant plastic squirrel tucked under his right arm. I enlarge the screen using my thumb and forefinger for a closer look. “OMG – It really is a large plastic squirrel,” I say. Below the image reads: Hey Uncle Mike thought you might like to know I won the regional squirrel hunting contest and my buddy came in second. I shot six more than he did – twenty six total.” Clicking the DROID off, I shake my head, remove my clothes, take a long shower and wait to hear from KMcF for further instructions.

wo hours later KMcF rings. “Hi there – yes, all is well…..Sure – O.K. I will meet you at the show building. See you soon.” I quickly gather my things and leave the room for the convention center. KMcF, along with a team of dedicated club members from the various clubs making up the Capital City Cluster, are busy organizing trophies, setting up rings, taping off grooming / vendor spaces and preparing for tomorrow’s exciting day with Larry the Cable Guy. I enter through the main entrance on the upper level and crawl down the stadium seating to the main arena. Through a large entrance, I enter another huge building where I find KMcF and her charges working diligently. “KMcF – Hello – it is so nice to see you,” I say while giving a hug too. KMcF---adorable, fun and cute, too---adds, “We are so thrilled you made it out and we are so excited about tomorrow.” I mutually nod in agreement. I compliment KMcF on the wonderful venue and she provides a quick tour of the clean, massive building, the external bathing facilities, the obedience area and more. We return to the large area for grooming and KMcF adds, “Can you believe the circus was in town this past week and this room was filled with camels pooping all over the place... and speaking of poop...you and Larry the Cable Guy will be serving Kitty Litter Cake to the exhibitors at the Barbeque after the show tomorrow.” Not able to suppress laughter, I chuckle out-loud and respond, “What in the hell is Kitty Litter Cake?” “It’s cake that looks like a big pan full of Kitty litter filled with Kitty poop – it’s made in a plastic litter box and served with a cat poop-scoop. It tastes real good and it’s great fun.” She adds. KMcF along with several other club members continue to share the history of their various clubs, the evolution of the dog show cluster and how successfully they work together. I watch in total amazement as the various teams of club members collectively transform one of the best dog show venues I have seen in a long time, into a spectacular showcase for the sport. Obvious that KMcF is being pulled Continued on page 104

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THE LIGHTER SIDE... Continued FROM page 103

in multiple directions and needs to be relieved of my presence, I say goodnight--return to the hotel for dinner and go to bed early for tomorrow’s big day with Larry the Cable Guy. The big day arrives and on purpose, I fail to check any messages or text messages in fear of receiving another redneck image from my immediate family. Showered and shaved, I proceed to the lobby for breakfast. The hostess guides me and seats me at a small table for two on the far left side of the open-air setting.“Will you be having our breakfast buffet?” she says with enthusiasm,“or will you be ordering off the menu,” she adds while dropping all signs of joy from her face. “I will be ordering off the menu. Thank you,” I reply. The waiter arrives and takes my order. “I will have an egg white omelet with Swiss cheese, no home fries and one slice of whole wheat toast.” The waiter very politely leaves the table to place my order and I notice three large round tables each seating eight large men eating copious amounts of eggs, bacon, hash browns, sausage, gravy with biscuits and pancakes. Several of them glance my way to take a peek at the poor soul, who proudly announced to the room he would like an egg white omelet and one slice of dry whole-wheat toast. Breakfast arrives. I consume it in record time, pay the bill and exit the front door, eager to meet Larry the Cable Guy and his production crew. I attempt to enter the convention hall through the long passage between the hotel and the complex. When I reach the end, the entrance to the hall is closed, forcing me to return to the hotel lobby. I exit the main front door, turn slightly to my right, take four steps and who appears before my very eyes---Larry the Cable Guy and his crew. I take a moment and assess their positions before approaching. Having read everything in print about Mr. Whitney, I choose the more professional approach. I walk down a series of concrete steps to the expansive outdoor area leading to the entrance of the convention center. I turn left and walk directly to Larry the Cable Guy. I reach out my right hand and the same time as I introduce myself. “Mr. Whitney – Hello. My name is Michael Faulkner and I will be working with you and your team today as the judge and your dog show judging-mentor.” “Yes, right…..great, nice to meet you. I look forward to working with you. I would like you to meet my team and you will need to sign a few forms and have your picture taken, if you don’t mind.” I casually introduce myself to the production crew, sign release forms, pose for two photos and enter the show building in search of the ever sweet, fun, adorable KMcF. The show building fills with exhibitors, vendors and a large number of toy breed104 Dog News

ers and handlers, establishing their domains in support of the first Mo-Kan Toy Dog Group Show. Scanning the main grooming building, I see KMcF across the room. “Good morning!” I say approximately twenty feet or so before I reach her and before I open my arms with a big hug and a peck on both cheeks. “I just ran into Larry the Cable Guy outside. Nice guy! I signed the release forms, had my picture taken and am ready to go.” “Great – my feet are killing me – I need to go see Larry – See you in a bit,” KMcF says over her shoulder as she is taking off her shoes and walking barefoot in Larry’s direction. “How appropriate,” I think to myself. Having been informed my actual schedule will involve mid to late afternoon filming, I start the morning visiting the Dog Show Superintendent. In full gear, rushing to setup rings, roll out and tape mats and organize the main working station, I am perplexed there are no crew members assisting the two superintendents. Mr. & Mrs. Work too Hard (MMWH), along with their adorable Dachshund, are doing the job of six

stirs laughter in the pit of my stomach. Larry the Cable Guy moves from the Maltese to one of the many vendors. I follow, keeping my distance and watch---conversation initiated, products picked up, hands going in every direction, more conversation and crew running around like little ants. They finish with the vendor, moving to the right to film SS, a well-known handler from Texas. SS is normally very serious about all aspects of the sport, and I welcomed the opportunity to witness Larry the Cable Guy bring him to fits of laughter. Again, maintaining my professionalism, I turn the other way and walk over to a couple of local handlers for a brief encounter and pleasantries. “Hey guys – good morning – it’s so nice not judging and being able to visit for a change. How come I don’t see you showing any Keeshonds any more? I ask Mr. WK reclining in a chair while his partner Mr. RC grooms away, preparing for his own personal journey with Larry the Cable Guy after SS. “We have moved to showing and breeding Lowchens Mr. WK shares. Not wanting to miss an opportunity to learn more about a breed I have had little exposure to, I begin asking numerous questions regarding expression, coat, coat texture, size,

Larry the Cable Guy and production team enter the building with KMcF in tow. Their first stop is the Canine Semen Bank booth. I casually meander around glancing in their direction, wishing I was participating in the conversation. people. I quietly move behind the empty table, loving on the Dachshund through her crate, watching the duo execute a stage in support of a two-week cluster of dog shows. Larry the Cable Guy and production team enter the building with KMcF in tow. Their first stop is the Canine Semen Bank booth. I casually meander around glancing in their direction, wishing I was participating in the conversation. I force myself to remain respectful, continuing to watch from a distance until my turn later in the day. KMcF’s name is called over the PA system. She shuffles off with shoes in hand while Larry the Cable Guy and team enter the grooming area. They choose to interview and film a young lady sitting on a tall stool directly behind a line of beautifully groomed Maltese waiting to be exhibited at the MO-KAN Toy Dog Club Show. Again, I watch from a respectful distance hoping to gain insight into what my level of participation might involve. “God, how I wish I could listen to their conversation,” I say to myself. The image of Larry the Cable Guy, in his camouflage cap, cutoff shirt and shorts next to the impeccably groomed toy dogs

grooming, temperament, etc. “Tell me more about the head and expression,” I request. “Notice his lovely dark eye, the make and shape and his beautiful foreface, dark pigment and lovely expression,” Mr. WK continues, as he holds the muzzle in one hand and---using the other---pulls all the hair back, exposing the true make and shape of the head.“Look – when you judge this breed, you want the head to resemble the same make and shape of a light-bulb.” I move forward for a closer examination, taking the dog’s head in my hands. “Indeed the head has the shape of a classic light bulb,” I think to myself. “However, never take your hands and look for it while you are judging, because the exhibitors hate it when you mess up the hair,” Mr. WK adds. “Now, that makes a hell of a lot of sense--- turn my switch on with new breed specific knowledge and then shut it off. All the more reason to mess up the hair,” I think and refrain from expressing. Knowing that Larry the Cable Guy will soon be speaking with Mr. RC to facilitate an understanding of grooming and handling, I depart to the Toy ring to watch a bit of judging. I locate a spare chair from behind the Superintendent’s area with full view of the Toy ring. The Best of Breed Long Coated Chihuahua class enters. Every make, shape, size

and color parades around the ring. A tall slender woman, handling a bitch special, takes my eye. Mr. Hall, the judge, is from Louisiana. I don’t recall ever meeting him or being on a judging panel together. But, I am thrilled when he motions the little girl that I like to step to the front of the line. He takes them around once again and awards her Best of Breed. DROID calls from the left inside pocket of my sports coat. “Hello – it’s your Mother calling. How are things going with Larry the Cable Guy?” “Well, actually – I have yet to start working with him. We met briefly, I signed a few papers and now I wait my turn. I think we will start in an hour or so,” I inform. “Make sure you tell him your mother LOVES his work and owns all of his DVD’s. Oh – You will not believe what happened at the camp last evening. Your grandmother came up for a visit (Maternal – well over 90) for relaxation and fishing. Between your uncles, aunts, sisters, nephews and their children we had almost twenty people for dinner.” “That’s great mom!” “Well, we all decided to gather on the back deck facing the water for a group photograph. Your grandmother sat in a chair holding Devin’s son (my youngest Great Nephew – her Great, Great Grandchild) in her lap and we all gathered around for the group shot. We were all ready to take the picture when the damn deck broke loose from the house and collapsed. The amazing part was Grandma stayed in her chair and never once dropped the baby.” “OMG – mother needs to be sharing this with Larry the Cable Guy, not me,” I quietly surmise, wondering if a dog was killed in the process. “Mom, I must hang up now…Tell everyone hello and wish I could be there,” I add for sentiment. “Me too---good bye and Git-R-Done son!” Mother shares before clicking off. I choose to silence DROID for the remainder of the afternoon in fear mother might decide to ring and ask to speak with Larry. Lunch is offered compliments of MO-KAN Toy Dog Club and I grab a Diet Coke from the judge’s hospitality room. “Hi! Who are you? I don’t believe I know you,” an attractive woman greets me upon entering, whom I shall refer to as Ms. KLC. “No, I don’t believe we have ever met. I’m Michael Faulkner, I flew in to film with Larry the Cable Guy.” “Oh, that’s right – nice to meet you.” “I was wondering if I could trouble you for a Diet Coke,” I politely ask. “Sure thing – Would you like some cookies too?” “No thank you, maybe later,” I say hoping not to offend. “I am so excited – later on today when you finish with Larry the Cable Guy, Larry will be serving my KITTY LITTER CAKE at the barbeque.” “OK---I’ll be there and can’t wait,” I add while exiting with a can of Diet Coke. “Mr. Faulkner, we would like you

to come over and get wired and miked for filming,” directs a member of the production crew. “Mike getting Miked,” I mumble and chuckle at the same time, while following the gentleman to a long table filled with production equipment. I stand while an additional member of the production crew pulls a wire up under my dress shirt, clips a small microphone to my tie and places a small black battery pack to my back side. “You are all set. We will meet you over at the ring.”

crowd has gathered to witness the first phase of the filming---Larry the Cable Guy showing a Yorkshire Terrier in a class of seven bitches. I have to admit at first I was a bit disappointed it was a class of bitches, as I had plans on whispering in Larry’s ear “Sir – I am sorry to say I can only find one testicle on your dog.” The class of seven Yorkshire Terriers gather outside of the ring entrance and we are instructed to act like it is a normal dog show with normal procedures. “Larry – pay attention...Larry – your arm band is going to fall off…Larry – remember to take your time…Larry…You enter the ring in catalog order…” The poor guy is being bombarded with instructions from the ringleader and the breeder of the Yorkies. “Please call the class into the ring in catalog order starting in that corner.” I point and instruct the ring steward. Larry is fourth in line to enter. Larry attempts to shove several Franklins into my jacket pocket. “Sir, I know you are new this sport, but we do not tolerate attempting to influence the judge,” I instruct while giving the poor guy a little slack for his first time in the ring. His young Yorkshire Terrier bitch enthusiastically bounces into place. Larry slowly lowers himself into a kneeling position. “Larry – stack her up like I showed you!” a voice chimes in from the front of the line. I take an initial look at the class, having to dance around multiple cameras and cameramen in the process. “OK, everyone, please take the class around the ring---controlled and steady to the examination table. Please put the first bitch directly on the table. Thank you---around the ring,” I finish. The group of six women and Larry the Cable Guy parade around the ring. Larry’s young bitch moves around like a bobbing yoyo, not to be out done by his somewhat affected manner of moving his hips from side to side while holding his right arm high in the air with pinky finger pointed. All in all, the initial juxtaposition is hilarious. I struggle to keep from laughing. Halfway around the ring Larry’s exhibit stops, squats, arches her little back and takes a dump. “What the hell am I going to do?” Larry asks while pleading for help. I return to the judge’s table, grab a roll of paper towels and hand them to Larry. “Here Larry – go ahead and Git – R – Done.” I say. Larry gathers the three small, firm drop-

pings using one sheet of paper towel. Using his left hand, he wads and crams the collected canine feces into the left front pocket of his camouflage shorts. Trying to keep my composure I turn my back and move towards the examination table. The first bitch is examined, gaited and sent to right side of the ring to relax. Followed by the second, the third and next Larry the Cable Guy. Larry the Cable Guy lifts the puppy and carefully places her on the table. She wiggles, jumps and attempts to leave. “Now, hang on there girl…calm down….I got ya…. OK pretty one,” Larry says to the young Yorkshire Terrier. “Good afternoon!” I say. “She’s a real looker this one. One fine pup, if you ask me,” Larry confides. “Please put your dog on the floor and take her down and back to the corner, on the diagonal,” I complete my instructions. “We’ll try – first time for both. Come on little girl, let’s go.” Larry the Cable Guy takes off like a bat-out-of-hell with the small hairy creature along for the ride. He comes back, stops and looks directly at me all smiles. “Now, that was a nice start. Please do that one more time, slow down and pay attention to your dog,” I add. The second time, I can tell Larry is getting into the groove and getting serious. He shortens the leash, reduces his personal swagger, lowers his right arm and keeps the young dog on the mat, gaiting properly and at the right speed. Upon his return Larry stops in front of me,“Now what did you think of that? I am telling you that was somethin’ real good!” “Thank you sir. Please take your bitch over there and relax until I finish.” “Now you don’t listen to that judge sweetie, you ain’t no bitch….yur real cute,” I hear Larry chatter upon his departure. I finish the individual examinations and take each one around the ring for a final look. Larry parades in grand fashion. With the constant coaching from his fellow ring mates, he manages to place third in the class. I award the various ribbons. When I hand Larry his third placement, he is genuinely overwhelmed with joy and satisfaction. He moves close, lifts his arms and embraces me like a baby bear. “If only my mother was watching,” I think to myself. The crowd is full of applause and laughter. We all proceed to the podium for photographs after which we get ready for the next session: Larry the Cable Guy Judges at the Dog Show. The adorable, lovable KMcF has arranged for seven dogs to compete in a mock Best in Show scenario, with Larry as the judge and me as his mentor / coach. Larry enters the ring and I begin by giving instructions on how to call the class into the ring, how to mark the judges book, followed by a review of the seven various breed standards for each of the group winners. Larry quickly glances each of the standards. “Hell, what is a walleyed? I sure do love to catch’em and eat’em.” I attempt to explain walleyed to Larry and he looks in my direction, rolling his eyes in multiple directions. “First, before Continued on page 115

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Dog News 107

The committee plans to meet for its final decision at the end of September and certainly any delegate can put his name forward to the nominating committee anytime prior to then. However, we highly recommend that all candidates avail themselves of the opportunity to meet personally with the committee and we will do our best to see that it happens. It has been said that the nominating committee has been rendered irrelevant because any candidate is allowed to run by petition. We disagree with that notion. The slate that the nominating committee puts forward still matters and carries weight with the delegates, especially if they know that the committee did its best to choose its slate from the largest possible pool of qualified candidates. We think our job is important and we are confident that our service will reflect that. Respectfully, Gretchen Bernardi, Chair 618-656-0900 Berwyck@ezl.com

Letters ToThe Editor

LETTER TO ALL DELEGATES he nominating committee for the Class of 2017 has been given a unique opportunity— nearly 12 weeks to do our work. In addition to having been chosen at the July board meeting as opposed to the August meeting, we will begin our work now, rather than waiting until the September delegates’ meeting This will give the committee additional time for its deliberations but, more importantly, it will give prospective candidates more time for deliberation and decision-making. We will be using a brief, “just the facts” questionnaire as the first step in the process, but we are planning face-to-face meetings with all candidates on Sunday, September 9, before the Tuesday meeting in Newark. We hope that all committee members will be given the opportunity to meet with each candidate personally to ask questions about qualifications and ideas that are not always evident on written forms. We hope to cast a wide net this year If you are interested in being considered or know a fellow delegate who, in your opinion, would be a valuable member of the board , urge that person to ask for a questionnaire or tell one of us and we will make the contact. Sometimes, it helps to be asked. If you wish to be considered by the committee, please… • Contact me and request the short questionnaire we have prepared. Return it to me by Thursday, September 6. • Let me know what time on Sunday you will be available for a brief interview. If Sunday is impossible, we will do our best to accommodate your schedule, but please try your best to schedule it on Sunday.

Karolynne McAteer 914-762-3782 karolynnem@gmail.com Patricia Sample 765-734-1107 pattysample@comcast.net Patti L. Strand 503-761-8962 naia@naiaonline.org Meg Weitz 336-510-7650 mwweitzakcd@aol.com Dominic P. Carota, alternate member 518-461-9504 hallamhounds@aol.com

Ed. Note: See our reaction to this innovative procedure in next week’s issue.

PUT YOUR POOCH’S PARTY HAT ON AND JOIN THE CELEBRATION! More than 600 Local events Join AKC TO CELEBRATE 10 YEARS OF Responsible Dog Ownership DAYS ew York, NY - Interested in learning training and grooming tips from the pros? Looking for a new canine family member? Or want to start competing in AKC events? Then be sure to mark “AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Days” on your calendar this September. The AKC’s month-long celebration in honor of RDO Days’ tenth birthday includes more than 600 AKC clubs and organizations

108 Dog News

September 7, 2012 nationwide holding free events filled with fun and engaging activities for all dog lovers, a Flagship RDO Day in Raleigh, N.C., a signing of the AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Pet Promise and joining all dog lovers online for Virtual RDO Days. Local Events: Each AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day event is unique, but many include AKC Rally®, Obedience and Agility demonstrations (at some events, you can try, too!); Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) testing; AKC CAR microchip clinics; safety around dogs for kids programs like The Dog Listener; giveaways, face painting, food and more! Find an event in your area on the AKC RDO Day website. · Flagship RDO Day: AKC will host its AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day in Raleigh, N.C. on Saturday, September 22nd from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. Raleigh residents are invited to bring their dogs to try Agility or AKC Rally® with the help of trainers at My Dog Can Do That, shop local vendors like the Waggin’ Wagon, watch demos of herding and flyball, and pick up a free goodie bag! Learn more and RSVP on Facebook. Can’t make it to an event? Participate online! · Sign the AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Pet Promise: You can help us mark the RDO anniversary milestone by assisting us in reaching 10,000 signatures on the AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Pet Promise. · Virtual AKC RDO Days: Make sure you’ve liked us on Facebook to participate in Virtual AKC RDO Days! You’ll be able to pick up tips, receive a special online badge and share how you’re a responsible dog owner all throughout September! AKC RDO Days is supported by Motel 6, Cosequin, available at RescuePetSupply.com, TimberTech and The Hartford. Lisa Peterson New York, NY Human Behaviour Change for Animal Protection Campaigners – 19th September 2012 am writing to inform you about a seminar/workshop I am organising about how understanding human behaviour change can influence the way we campaign and to inquire as to whether your organisation would like to also be involved. The event will be in Covent Garden, on 19th September and will include three keynote talks: • Dr Becky Whay (University of Bristol) – will provide an introduction to human behaviour change with examples of animal welfare projects applying the theory to drive change for animals. • Chris Rose (campaigner) – will discuss what motivates people, why people do/don’t do what we want them to and how to use this information in campaigning. • Jonathan Ellis (campaigner) – will introduce some tools to increasing effectiveness of campaigns considering human behaviour. There will also be some shorter presentations and a workshop element. I do hope that some of your staff will be able to attend the event – I have done everything I can to keep costs to a minimum so tickets are only £55 each early-bird rate. For more details see the conference website www.learningaboutanimals.co.uk/hbc.html Until October 2011 I was the human behaviour

change advisor at WSPA; I changed the working equine projects from being focussed on treatment to a focus on addressing the issues at the cause – through changing the way owners managed and worked their animals. I became increasingly interested in how understanding human behaviour is a vital component of project and campaign work and was responsible for applying human behaviour change concepts to many of our programmes across many species and issues. I now run Learning about Animals and work in partnership with many organisations. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me and I would be very grateful if you could circulate the details to your staff by pointing them to the conference website given above. http://www.learningaboutanimals.co.uk/ hbc.html With best wishes, Suzanne Rogers London, England THANK YOU! hanks for a great magazine that is not just pictures. Faith Hyndman Doylestown, PA

THANKS, BUT... The article on Penn Ridge-Harrisburg came out great and I appreciate you running it. However, please note that I wrote it as a member of the Board of Directors of AKC, not second VP of Riverhead KC. Also, I took those photos. The credits/bylines are from the story “The Little Show That Could” that ran in July. Thanks. Pat Cruz Coram, New York OMISSION n the August 17 issue of Dog News, photos for the “Barn Hunt” article written by Sharon Pflaumer were taken by Debbie Christoff, Pawsitive Impressions. Dog News regrets the omission.

ROGUE BREEDERS AND ONLINE PUPPY SCAMS FOOL MILLIONS The Kennel Club helps people become ‘puppy aware’ lmost a quarter of people got scammed via ads on online sites such as Gumtree, after paying for a puppy they never receive almost one in five people may have bought a puppy from a puppy farm millions end up with huge vets bills to pay for sick puppyfarmed pups shock home delivery of pups grows, hiding horrific conditions pups are raised in new research by the Kennel Club shows the urgent need for people to buy a dog from a reputable source, as one in five dog owners (1.2 million people) may have bought a puppy farmed dog, which

often end up with health and behavioural issues due to the terrible conditions in which they are raised, and a shocking quarter of those buying from pet shops or online are scammed. Through its Puppy Awareness Week (PAW), from 8th - 15th September, the Kennel Club is helping people to find a puppy from a responsible breeder or rescue home and has worked with dogsclub.tv to produce three online films to guide people through the process. Puppy farming is a poorly regulated and often cruel industry where puppies are bred in dirty, cramped conditions, from overused breeding bitches, without any regard for the health or wellbeing of the puppy or mother. Research conducted by the Kennel Club shows that 20 percent of people have bought a puppy either from the internet, a pet shop or a newspaper advert, all outlets that can be used to sell puppy-farmed puppies. Delivering puppies direct to people’s doors or selling them from motorway service stations or friend’s houses, is a trick used by puppy farmers, so that the conditions that the pups and breeding bitches are kept in are never revealed. A shocking 35 percent of people buying a puppy online or in pet shops claim that their mail order puppy was delivered straight to their door, without them seeing the breeding environment, and 12 percent of puppy buyers overall claim that this was the case. A third of all puppy buyers say they picked their pup up from a neutral location such as motorway service station. Responsible breeders will always show a pup with its mum and in its breeding environment, so that people can see how it is likely to turn out, and the conditions in which the pup was raised. However, three in ten puppy buyers claim not to have seen their puppy with its mum, rising to 37 percent amongst those buying puppies from newspapers adverts, online and in pet shops. 31 percent say that they didn’t see the puppy in its breeding environment, rising to 40 percent amongst those buying from newspaper ads, pet shops and online. As the number of people buying puppies on online sites, such as Gumtree, and in pet shops rises so too does the number of scams involving the sale of puppies that don’t actually exist. Of those who have bought a puppy online or in a pet shop 25 percent, say that they paid money for a puppy that they never received. This is compared to 6 percent of all puppy buyers who say they were scammed. Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, said: “A shocking number of people treat buying a puppy the way they would if they were buying a car or a fridge – and have no idea what to ask to ensure they get a healthy, happy puppy – whether pedigree or cross breed. As a result puppy farmers are able trade on selling ‘fashionable’ cross breeds or pedigree pups with no questions asked.

“Buying a puppy online means that buyers have no idea of the often appalling conditions the puppies were born into. Sadly, these puppies often grow up with health and behavioural problems, which can cost thousands of pounds to treat or which lead to heartbreak if the problems cannot be overcome.” Marc Abraham, celebrity vet and organiser of the puppy farming awareness event Pup Aid, which takes place in Primrose Hill on 8th September, said: “There are very few laws governing breeders and the sale of pups in this country. Selling pups on the internet or in pet shops and delivering them direct to your door is not illegal, but it rarely leads to a happy outcome because people are often scammed or end up with a poorly pup from a puppy farm. Only breeders who are part of the Kennel Club Assured Breeder Scheme follow a code of practice – so it makes sense to approach an Assured Breeder or recognised rescue home. The golden rule to remember is: see the puppy with its mum, in its home environment.” The fashion for designer cross breeds, such as the Labradoodle, has fuelled the rogue puppy trade, as owners of mixed and cross breeds are the most likely to have bought online and from pet shops and newspaper ads (20 percent) and least likely to have seen the puppy with its mum in its home environment. The research showed that 35 percent of people are now buying designer cross breeds and 49 percent have bought these dogs in the last three years. Caroline Kisko added: “Designer cross breeds are all the rage and too many people want one instantly, with minimum hassle or questions asked. Puppy farmers and scam artists cash in on this. We urge potential puppy buyers to steer well clear of any breeder or outlet that does not assess your suitability as a dog owner, and doesn’t give you every opportunity to vet their suitability as a breeder.” The Kennel Club warns that people should: • Always see the puppy with its mother, in its home environment • Always buy from a Kennel Club Assured Breeder or rescue home • Ask to see relevant health test certificates for the puppy’s parents • Beware the bargain. This probably means corners were cut elsewhere! For further information, please log on to www.thekennelclub.org.uk/paw. The Kennel Club has produced three new online films with dogsclub.tv – the first online TV channel dedicated to dogs – that help people to find the right breed and the right breeder. They are available to view on www.youtube.com/ user/thekennelclub. Laura Quickfall London, England

Dog News 109

HANDLER’S

Directory Robert A. Fisher Kaki Fisher

Jessy & Roxanne Sutton Professional Dog Handlers

Specializing in Terriers and Working Dogs

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

Jessy artofhandling@hotmail.com phone: 215-778-1253 7.09 12.12

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Pkubacz@att.net

Roxanne roxannestamm@hotmail.com phone: 513-235-2099

www.suttondoghandling.com

(email)

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Sue Capone, PHA Regina Keiter SUE 570 992-5705 email: scapone@ptd.net

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REGINA 570 369-0192 email: rbriard2@ptd.net

113 Capone Lane Saylorburg, PA 18353

Diana Wilson

Show Dogs Beautifully Presented

303/638-1669 1298 Bluejay Avenue Brighton, CO 80601 Djwoof@aol.com • www.geocities.com/djwoof 4.13

*Fees feed rescued horses*

ERIN NESBITT

DAVE & LYNDA O’CONNOR-SCHNEIDER

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Debbie Old West PROFESSIONALGoldstein HANDLER ALL BREEDS Professional

Members PHA & AKC Registered Handlers

ALL BREED PROFESSIONAL HANDLERS

Handler

& Groomer Kennels 2418 Grandview Drive

P.O. Box 180 Forestville, Pennsylvania Sparta, N.C. 16035 28675 724-735-9994 C 412-491-5520

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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

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Tiffany Knox

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Professional Handling

AKC Registered Handler

www.tiffanyknoxhandling.com All Breed Dog Handler 7.13

9372 S Union • Tulsa, OK 74132 • 508-864-6262 tiffanyknoxhandling@aol.com 6.13

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Cell: 415 819-5773

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Ernesto Lara

AKC Registered Handler Assisted by Leonardo Garcini

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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All Breed Dog Handler

1637 Moon Rock Rd Fallbrook, CA 92029

Office: 760-723-9564 Cell: 626-277-7172 t1saxon@roadrunner.com 1.11

110 Dog News

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Integrity. Commitment. Passion. The American Kennel Club Registered Handlers Program “the care and well being of the dogs is of prime importance.” AKC Registered Handlers Current Membership Roster Jason Bailey Barbara Beissel Doug Belter Adam Bernardin Jamie Donelson-Bernardin * Amy Booth Phillip Booth * Heather Bremmer * Stephen Cabral Kim Calvacca Sue Cannimore Amanda Carlson Douglas Carlson Carlos Carrizo Tracy Lynn Carroll R.C. Carusi Kelley Catterson Paul Catterson Kevin Chestnut * Marianne “Tuni” Claflin Dave Clendenon Juliet Clendenon Page Conrad Gretchen Conradt Timothy Conradt Larry Cornelius Tom Davis Geoff Dawson Gwen DeMilta Carissa DeMilta-Shimpeno Mark Desrosiers

Pam Desrosiers James Dickson * Diane Engelking C.J. Favre Nina Fetter Kaki Fisher Guy Fisher Robert Fisher Paul Flores Karen Galipeault * Lisa Gallizzo * Rindi Gaudet Andrew Green Sara Gregware * Kassandra Hamaker Dee Hanna James Harbert Tina Harbert Tara Krieger Hartman Shane Hooper Jeanne Henderson Cynthia Huckfeldt Frank Jewett Maureen Jewett Bergit Kabel Erin Karst Laura King Scott Kipp Susan Kipp Ernesto Lara Angela Lloyd

*Also AKC Junior Showmanship Judges.

* Karen Mammano Sam Mammano * Bryan Martin Nancy Martin Coleen McGee Corinne Miklos Lisa Miller Kathryn Mines Roslyn Mintz Moe Miyagawa Tammy Miyagawa Leesa Molina Lori Mowery Frank Murphy Pat Murray Krista Musil Christine Nethery Mary Norton-Augustus Lynda O’Connor-Schneider Jorge Olivera Susie Olivera * Julie Parker Betty Jo Patterson Clark Pennypacker Matt Perchick Tray Pittman Ric Plaut Chris Rakyta Gabriel Rangel

Ivonne Rangel Sarah Riedl Louise Ritter Lori Sargent * Randy Schepper Cheri Schmitz Dave Schneider Bruce Schultz Tara Schultz Robin Seaman Michael Shepherd * Dave Slattum * Stacy Snyder Scott Sommer Valerie Stanert Jason Starr * Cliff Steele Hiram Stewart * Gary Stiles Greg Strong Debbie Struff Erin Struff Alison Sunderman Sharon Svoboda Evan Threlfall Louis Torres Meagan Ulfers Charlotte Ventura Peter Ventura Marcelo Veras Alissa Welling * John Wilcox * Tammie Wilcox Linda Williams

• www.akc.org/handlers • handlers@akc.org • 919 816-3590 Dog News 111

HANDLER’S

Directory Aaron R. Wilkerson Janice Granda

Doug And Mandy Carlson AKC Registered Handlers

Doug 405 370-1447 Mandy 405 826-3884 5.12

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 Threlfall & Stacy Snyder

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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112 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 113

Classified Advertising EXPERIENCED CALIFORNIA ATTORNEY

familiar with issues involving ownership, breeding, care, and handling of show dogs, animal control matters, veterinarian claims and defenses, and dog related injuries and damages.

E-Mail: cvroom@centurytel.net

Frank M. Stevens 1910 Olympic Blvd. Ste 250, Walnut Creek ,CA. 94596 12.10 Ph: 925 944 5550 email: frankstevens@sdglaw.com 4.12

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If It Is A Dog Matter D. Jay Hyman, Attorney

FREE Subscription to Grooming Industry Magazine!

If disputes arise, Co-Ownership or Problems with your Breeder. Registration Problems, Veterinary Mal-Practice, Contractual Issues, Better to Resolve Without Litigation. Fifty Years of Experience in Dogs and Law.

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P.O. Box 2000 * Perris, California 92570 www.davisanimal.com Email: DavisDogStuff@aol.com 12.12

D. Jay Hyman • 5905 Kim Court, Mt. Airy, MD. 21771 • Phone (301) 606-2097 12.09 Email: djhyman@comcast.net 12.12

FOLEY BOYS CRATE MEN Floor Management Loading & Unloading Tent Control Bob Flemm

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862-266-6891

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BREEDER’S DIRECTORY

Sergio Brown President

Office 562 789-9800 Cell 562 652-9022 E mail: thecrewsb1@aol.com

The Crew Valet Parking & Special Event Staffing

“Proudly Employing Collegiate Student Athletes” Dog Show Services • Grounds Management • Day of Show Parking • Set Up • Overnight Parking • Logisitics • Transportation

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HELP WANTED

REAL ESTATE Sale All-Breed Transportation HOBBY KENNEL AND HOME Cargo Vans - Minivans - Trucks

Wanted! Transit Connects

In Chiefland, Florida, near Gainsville/Ocala/ All breed dog groomer Brooksville, ft, Leading East3,200 CoastsqFord

Established clientele. Fabulous 3BR, 2 1/2 BA, I/G Pool, all tile, Dodge/Chrysler/Jeep Dealer Work weekdays only, Hot Tub, Patios, RV carport, 50 &with 30 Offering preferred pricing to amp all plugs for guests, fenced dogshows. yard, weekends off for dog Owners/Handlers/Breeders/AKC Members Large Concrete Runs, Contact Lynn Macchia www.lillistonautogroup.com Spring Oaks Animal Care Center, Gated, 6 Acres, Deland FL 32720. 856-220-3582 Contact Melanie at King Realty for photos Email is: lmacchia@cfl.rr.com Delivery Available melliek@hotmail.com or 352-493-2221 or fax (386) 943-9951. 7.09 4.11 2.12 10.12

real estate ul Kennel Busin Atlanta, Georgia ess uccessf S Fairfield County, CT Edgewood Animal Clinic, PRICE REDUCED! PRIVATE KENNEL FOR SALE New Jersey Licensed Kennel For Sale Owners Retiring to Florida 420forEdgewood Avenue Great opportunity Located a Handler, Breeder or just an Entrepreneur. in Roanoke, TX just north Business of Fort Worth. and retiring. Building ideally suited AnVeterinarian established 30-year kennel with an unlimited kennel license, 5 fenced acres. Main house 4500 sf, 3 BR, 2 1/2 baths, study, Real Estate for Sale 24 indoor/outdoor covered runs, 8 turn out paddocks, upgraded

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electric, newer septic and a grooming all onattached 5 fenced 2 car business garage, 4 run kennel. Business Established breeder, Includes apartment. acres. Property veterinarian. includes a 3 bedroom remodeled guest or manwith Loyal Clientele. 2nd Home 2,000 sf, 2 BR, 2 Bath, 2 car garage. agers cottage, car garage with a tractor bay, Asking a four stall Great potential for growth. Only vet ina four growing, improving area. barn, run in shed, paddock fenced pasture. All AC the property Separate 10andrun kennel and heat, covered concrete runs Small quaint kennel, $400,000.by 50% down if owner live and work area. is surrounded farm land preservation. Thefinanced. vintage 184087 cenwith open grass runs. Dog lover’s dream! ter hall colonial has a front use to back tworespected stone fireplaces, years continuous as foyer, a well 20room x and 50 dining insulated motor home 1.6 garage Amp. Acres, with 30’x40’50 barn with potential an elegant living room, all remodeled kitchen for apartment or office. clinic. Call There 770 251-2644, with granite and much36 more. is an inground pool to comx 45 insulated building with 2 bay doors. Call Peter Jennings of plete thisemail stunning property. To view this beautiful property or mcurtis60@rocketmail.com Bayberry Property Management and Leasing of Ct, LLC to receive a brochure please$699,000. contact carol Comerford @ ColdOwner Cell: 214-616-3068 James Kornder, DVM, PhDor or Curtis 203-227-0041 well Banker 908-534-4085 X 147 my Marilyn cell 908-581-6206. 3.12 Director@BayberryProperty.com http://www.kw.com/kw/agent/donnorris 4.11

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Louisville-Cincinnati-Indianapolis Area Over 150 shows annually within 350 miles. Four Bedroom, 3 bath 3,000 sq. ft. Cedar/Rock Home with 16 Mason Fence Indoor-Outdoor Runs. Features include Large Heated Training Room, Feed Room, Grooming Room, Indoor Parking with Electric and Sewer Hookup for up to 42’ Motorhome. Multi Indoor Storage Areas. Large One B/R Townhouse-type Apartment In Kennel Building, plus another full B/R Apt. in Home. All this on 15 Acres with 7 Fenced Grass Paddocks for Dogs to Exercise. Asking $450,000.00, with possible Owner Financing. (812) 689-3274 4.11

FOR SALE

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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114 Dog News

THE LIGHTER SIDE... Continued FROM page 105

we begin, you need to wear your judge’s badge,” I share, while also pinning the badge on Larry the Cable Guy’s cutoff shirt. “Now, with that said, it is important you carry yourself like a judge. Stand tall, suck in your gut, don’t slouch and you are going to need to wear a tie,” I add to the conversation. Larry looks a little perplexed when I pull a hot pink silk tie from my coat pocket and place it around his neck. The crowd roars with laughter. Larry adjusts the tie according to the neckline of his cutoff t-shirt and calls the class into the ring. One at a time they enter the ring and gait around to the far side. The Great Dane, The Italian Spinone, The Standard Poodle, The American Staffordshire Terrier, The Pembroke Welsh Corgi (handled by RC), The Basset Hound and finally the Chinese Crested---handled by a former Playboy Bunny. I give Larry brief instructions on how to examine each of the various breeds. However, he somewhat creates and implements his own unique method, including smelling the hindquarters for cleanliness and taking extra time to hug, cuddle and kiss the ones he favors. The Corgi is placed on the table for the individual examination. Larry proceeds forward with the examinations and is stopped by a ringing phone. “Hang on there---just one second---gotta take this call. It’s mama---I can tell by the ring,” he shares with the handler. I double check DROID, making supremely certain that it is off in the event my Mother calls. “Mama – can’t this wait? Yes, Mama – no I can’t…. Mama I am judg’in a dog show. Yep that’s it…..Mama look in the fridge. Hey you,” he says directly to the Corgi handler, “this is my mama on the phone. I don’t have time to look at your puppy – just take’em down and back and around and I’ll catch ya a little later.” “Mama – just look in the fridge, next to the potato salad---that’s where you left your car keys the last time you lost ‘em. Mama---gotta go and finish judg’in these here dogs. Bye, Mama!” Larry ends the call placing his phone back into the right side pocket of his military style shorts. The Basset Hound is next to be examined and the ring steward and I provide a ramp for Larry’s convenience. “What a purty dog this is, indeed---now I can tell ya all right now this is one of my favorites in the ring. My family has owned Bassets and I just love’m.” Larry the Cable Guy pets the long low dog down his back, moving to the hindquarters. “Oh, my God – just look at them there beauties,” Larry chirps, smiling from ear to ear while holding two of the largest testicles that I have ever seen on any dog, let alone a Basset Hound. “Now---right there, I can tell you’r sum’n special. Bring him right over here and move him down and back,” Larry di-

rects, swinging his right arm at the same time in the direction of the corner of the ring. The Basset Hound takes off swinging his large jewels. From behind, they are alternately slapping the far side of his left thigh then his right thigh in the processes. “Wooooooo eeeeeeeeeeee, that there is amazing stuff,” Larry announces to the ring. “ Take this beauty around the ring and relax, cuz I’m a coming back for ya later.” Larry turns and goes to examine the Chinese Crested, handled by the Playboy Bunny. Larry evaluates the dogs front assembly and while passing behind the handler to examine the hindquarter of the dog he stops, pushes his face into the hair of the exhibitor taking a deep breath and rolling his head from side to side. I watch, praying he does not touch the handler.

nce the Chinese Crested is gaited, Larry stops and returns to the judge’s table for guidance. “Now what do I do?” “The next thing I would suggest is take one last look at each dog without touching the dogs or the handlers. Take each one around the ring individually and then choose a Best in Show and then choose your Reserve Best in Show. Any questions?” I ask. “Nope – but, I’m going to choose my Reserve Best in Show first just like the beauty pageants do. I think it is more excit’n this way.” “Whatever you want Larry---you be the judge,” I remark. Larry starts with the Great Dane, takes a second look and works his way down the line. He stops at the American Staffordshire Bull Terrier. “Did anyone ever tell you, you look just like Paul Ryan – Romney’s VIP pick. Hell, you could be his twin brother. Whatcha feeding that dog of yours?” He asks Mr. L the handler. Mr. L answers and hands Larry a chunk of his bait. Larry takes a big bite from the hunk of liver. “That there is some good eat’n, if you ask me.” Larry proceeds down the line stopping at the Basset for a few extra seconds. “I would like to see each of these nice little dogs go around the ring one last time. Thank youuuuuu! Larry calls out. They all parade around and stop. Larry comes back to the table, marks his book and collects the Best in Show and Reserve Best in Show ribbons. “Thank you for showing all your purty dogs today and my Reserve Best Show goes to the Spimoni Dog---cause I like the ice cream and my Best in Show winner is you guessed it – the Basset Hound.” The crowd goes crazy and the owner of the Basset Hound is genuinely thrilled with his coming-out-of-retirement win under Judge Larry the Cable Guy. Official photographs are taken. Larry poses for numerous candid shots with adoring fans. He autographs a never-ending trove of treasures, ranging from t-shirts, aprons, photographs, catalogs, pictures, caps, to even a young boy’s hockey stick. I finish my duties being filmed while responding to several questions from the

producers about the sport, its history, my personal involvement, the importance of purebred dogs, Larry’s abilities as a judge, how does one become a judge and ending with, “Tell us Michael would you have chosen the Basset Hound?” “No comment,” I politely add. Before the barbeque, Larry the Cable Guy, Adorable/ Lovable KMcF, along with AKCGINA and I pose for additional photographs. Afterwards, AKCGINA remarks “Michael – how was your experience?” “AKCGINA – I loved every minute of it. What a golden opportunity to educate, have fun and share with millions of people not normally targeted through traditional AKC outreach, the wonderful sport of purebred dogs while also letting them know it’s a sport for all. I leave AKCGINA with a big smile on her face. Larry the Cable Guy and I both grab aprons and head to the barbeque. Larry seems perfectly at home dipping the lightblue kitty litter scoop into the plastic lightblue kitty litter pan serving portions of Kitty Litter Cake to adoring fans. I find a seat away from the crowd, on the ledge of a low, concrete wall. I finish a barbeque brisket sandwich, drink a glass of lemonade and watch as Larry the Cable Guy approaches. “Michael it has been fun meeting you and working with you. Thanks for everything – I have had the best time and I learned so much,” Larry genuinely expresses while giving me another redneck embrace. “Like wise – take care and be careful in your travels. Oh, and I can’t wait to see the final product,” I add. Larry the Cable Guy turns and walks with a few members of his crew across the same concrete area where we met early in the morning. I walk in the opposite direction back to the hotel. Before entering the hotel I pull DROID from my pocket and hit the power button. While waiting for the small hand held device to engage I take a moment, turn and observe the barbeque crowd from a distance. I look reflecting on how much happens within a twenty-four hour period. How fast time passes. How great things occur every second and we often never take the time to acknowledge them or acknowledge the people who make them happen. I know for sure as I leave this experience – I will be forever grateful to the Adorable / Loveable KMcF, Larry the Cable Guy, Mr. WK, Mr. RC, MS. KLC, AKCGINA, Work too Hard Superintendents from O and all the other club members, including the MO-KAN Toy Dog Club for their kindness, creative spirit and professionalism, and for having JOY in their hearts to think outside of the box to engage the public interest into the pleasures of owning and showing purebred dogs. “You have seven new messages,” DROID informs as I pass through the hotel’s automated door. First text message: “Please call as soon as you finish with Larry the Cable Guy. The waiting is killing me – Mom.” I respond to mother’s text: “Got – R – Done will call you in a few minutes.”

Dog News 115

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September 7, 2012 Continued FROM page 34

Bests Week

Danville Kennel Club I & II Havanese Ch. Marcosa’s Slip Slidn’ Away Of Skyline Judge Mr. Richard Lashbrook Judge Mr. Steve Hayden Owners Pat Bass, Hanna And Corinne Kolzow Handler Daryl Martin Longview - Kelso Kennel Club Saturday & Sunday Standard Schnauzer GCh. Charisma Maxim Von Diable Judge Ms. Yvonne Savard Judge Mr. Dana Cline Owners Linda and John Adiletti Handler Tiffany Skinner Tonawanda Valley Kennel Club - Saturday Siberian Husky Ch. Kontoki’s Isaiah Little Prayer For You Judge Mrs. Carolyn A. Herbel Owners Ron Tang, Sam Kao, Marlene DePalma & Thomas Oelschlager Handler Tommy O Cedar Rapids Kennel Association II Miniature Schnauzer GCh. Allaruth Just Kidding V Sole Baye Judge Mrs. Loraine Boutwell Owners Ruth Ziegler & Yvonne B. Phelps Handler Bergit Kabel Sussex Hills Kennel Club Kerry Blue Terrier GCh. Class Act by Hallsblu Judge Mrs. Lisa Warren Owners Mr. W. J. Berry and Mrs. A. F. Austin Handler George Wright Tri-City Kennel Club II English Setter Ch. Stargazr’ N Wingfield Time Will Tell Judge Mrs. Judy Webb Owners Don and Pat Coller and Eileen Hackett Handler Eileen Hackett

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Dog News 117

OFFICIAL AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB ENTRY FORM BOTH SIDES OF ENTRY FORM MUST BE SUBMITTED

AKC-EUKANUBA NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP Orange County Convention Center • West Building 9800 International Drive, Orlando, Florida 32819

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15 & 16, 2012 ENTRY FEE (including 50 cent AKC recording fee and $3.00 AKC Event Service Fee) Best of Breed/Variety - $75.00; All other classes - $50.00. Limited Junior Showmanship Class, no fee. ENTRIES CLOSE WEDNESDAY 3:00 PM (CST) NOVEMBER 14, 2012, at Superintendent's Office. MAIL ENTRIES with Fees Payable to JACK ONOFRIO, PO Box 25764, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73125-0764.

All dogs Breeder-Owner handled in any class are eligible for Best BredBy-Exhibitor in Breed Competition. Check box if you are competing for Best Bred-By-Exhibitor.

Check if you prefer for your entry return to be held for pickup beginning Thursday. NOTICE: PLEASE PUT BREED & NAME OF SHOW ON CHECKS. I ENCLOSE $_______ for entry fees. IMPORTANT - Read Carefully Instructions on Reverse Side Before Filling Out. Numbers in the boxes indicate sections of the instructions relevant to the information needed in that box. (PLEASE PRINT) BREED

VARIETY (1)

DOG (2) (3) SHOW CLASS ADDITIONAL CLASSES

SEX

CLASS (3) DIVISION Weight, Color, Etc. OBEDIENCE CLASS

(Jump Height)

RALLY CLASS

(Jump Height)

NAME OF (See Back) JUNIOR HANDLER (if any) FULL NAME OF DOG

JR. SHOWMANSHIP CLASS JR. HANDLER AKC #

Enter number here AKC® NO. PAL NO. FOREIGN REG. NO. & COUNTRY

DATE OF BIRTH PLACE OF BIRTH (list country) Do not print the above in the catalog

BREEDER SIRE DAM Exhibitor’s Code __ __ __ __ __

ACTUAL OWNER(S) [4]_________________________________________________________ (Please Print)

OWNER’S ADDRESS __________________________________________________________ CITY_____________________________STATE____________ZIP + 4 __________________ NAME OF OWNER'S AGENT (IF ANY) AT THE SHOW

CODE #

I CERTIFY that I am the actual owner of the dog, or that I am the duly authorized agent of the actual owner whose name I have entered above. In consideration of the acceptance of this entry, I (we) agree to abide by the rules and regulations of the American Kennel Club in effect at the time of this event, and by any additional rules and regulations appearing in the premium list for this event, and further agree to be bound by the "Agreement" printed on the reverse side of this entry form. I (we) certify and represent that the dog entered is not a hazard to persons or other dogs. This entry is submitted for acceptance on the foregoing representation and Agreement. I (we) agree to conduct myself (ourselves) in accordance with all such Rules and Regulations (including all provisions applying to discipline) and to abide by any decisions made in accord with them. SIGNATURE of owner or his agent duly authorized to make this entry _________________________________________________________________________

Telephone ( )________________________________________________________ Are you a new exhibitor? Yes No Email address: ___________________________________________________________________________ (An acknowledgement or receipt of entry may be sent to this email address):

AKC Rules, Regulations, Policies and Guidelines are available on the American Kennel Club Web site, www.akc.org

AGREEMENT I (we) agree that the club holding this event has the right to refuse this entry for cause which the club shall deem sufficient. In consideration of the acceptance of this entry and of the holding of this event and of the opportunity to have the dog judged and to win prizes, ribbons, or trophies, I (we) agree to hold the AKC, the event-giving club, their members, directors, governors, officers, agents, superintendents or event secretary and the owner and/or lessor of the premises and any provider of services that are necessary to hold this event and any employees or volunteers of the aforementioned parties, and any AKC approved judge, judging at this event, harmless from any claim for loss or injury which may be alleged to have been caused directly or indirectly to any person or thing by the act of this dog while in or about the event premises or grounds or near any entrance thereto, and I (we) personally assume all responsibility and liability for any such claim; and I (we) further agree to hold the aforementioned parties harmless from any claim for loss, injury or damage to this dog. Additionally, I (we) hereby assume the sole responsibility for and agree to indemnify, defend and save the aforementioned parties harmless from any and all loss and expense (including legal fees) by reason of the liability imposed by law upon any of the aforementioned parties for damage because of bodily injuries, including death at any time resulting therefrom, sustained by any person or persons, including myself (ourselves) or on account of damage to property, arising out of or in consequence of my (our) participation in this event, however such injuries, death or property damage may be caused, and whether or not the same may have been caused or may be alleged to have been caused by the negligence of the aforementioned parties or any of their employees, agents, or any other persons. I (WE) AGREE THAT ANY CAUSE OF ACTION, CONTROVERSY OR CLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THE ENTRY, EXHIBITION OR ATTENDANCE AT THE EVENT BETWEEN THE AKC AND THE EVENT-GIVING CLUB (UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED IN ITS PREMIUM LIST) AND MYSELF (OURSELVES) OR AS TO THE CONSTRUCTION, INTERPRETATION AND EFFECT OF THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE SETTLED BY ARBITRATION PURSUANT TO THE APPLICABLE RULES OF THE AMERICAN ARBITRATION ASSOCIATION. HOWEVER, PRIOR TO ARBITRATION ALL APPLICABLE AKC BYLAWS, RULES, REGULATIONS AND PROCEDURES MUST FIRST BE FOLLOWED AS SET FORTH IN THE AKC CHARTER AND BYLAWS, RULES, REGULATIONS, PUBLISHED POLICIES AND GUIDELINES.

INSTRUCTIONS 1. (Variety) if you are entering a dog of breed in which there are varieties for show purposes, please designate the particular variety you are entering i.e., Cocker Spaniel (solid color black, ASCOB, parti-color). Beagles (not exceeding 13 in. over 13 in. but not exceeding 15 in.). Dachshunds (longhaired, smooth, wirehaired), Bull Terriers (colored, white), Manchester Terriers (standard, toy), Chihuahuas (smooth coat, long coat), English Toy Spaniels (King Charles and Ruby, Blenheim and Prince Charles), Poodles (toy, miniature, standard), Collies (rough, smooth), 2. The following categories of dogs may be entered and shown in Best of Breed competition; Dogs that are Champions of Record and dogs which, according to their owner’s records, have completed the requirements for a championship, but whose championships are unconfirmed. The showing of unconfirmed Champions in Best of Breed competition is limited to a period of 90 days from the date of the show where the dog completed the requirements for a championship. 3. (Event Class) Consult the classification in this premium list. If the event class in which you are entering your dog is divided, then, in addition to designating the class, specify the particular division of the class in which you are entering your dog, i.e., age division, color division, weight division. 4. A dog must be entered in the name of the person who actually owned it at the time entries for an event closed. If a registered dog has been acquired by a new owner, it must be entered in the name of its new owner in any event for which entries closed after the date of acquirement, regardless of whether the new owner has received the registration certificate indicating that the dog is recorded in his name. State on entry form whether transfer application has been mailed to the A.K.C. (For complete rules refer to Chapter 11, Section 3). 5. Mixed Breed dogs entering classes for Agility, Obedience and Rally trials should mark Breed as AKC Canine Partners Listed Dog “AllAmerican Dog/Mixed Breed.” Variety, Breeder, Sire, Dam information shall remain blank for mixed breed entrants.

JUNIOR SHOWMANSHIP. If this entry is for Jr Showmanship, please give the following information: AKC JR HANDLER #

JR.’S DATE OF BIRTH

The above number MUST be included. Should you not have your Junior Handler number, this may be obtained from the American Kennel Club. Phone: (919) 233-9767. By signing the entry form I (we) certify that the Junior Showman does not now, and will not at any time, act as an agent/handler for pay while continuing to compete in Junior Showmanship.

ADDRESS _________________________________________________________________ CITY_____________________________STATE____________ZIP + 4 __________________ If Jr. Handler is not the owner of the dog identified on the face of this form, what is the relationship of the Jr. Handler to the owner? .............................................................................