let’s talk
CONTENT 19 let’s talk
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19 let’s talk INTERVIEW Dr Jason Luciano - SELLANO
Let’s Talk Bostons 2013 - The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, images, photogra phs or other materials. By accepting and publishing advertising the publisher in no way recommends, guarantees or endorses the quality of the services of products within those advertisments. The information contained in this online and print magazine is for general information purpose only. The information is provided by us and our collaborators, and while every efford is made to provide information which is both current and correct, we make no representations on warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliavility, suitability or availability with respect to the online magazine or the information, products, services or related graphics contained within the online magazine for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. In no event will Let’s Talk Bostons be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loos or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising for loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this online and print magazine.
34, 53 let’s talk SHOWING
norwegian national specialty sgbtc - california - specialty
44 let’s talk DETAILS litter box for dogs
41 let’s talk OUTSTANDING profile on TAMI - BISS CH T- Bo’s Sweet Spirit of Dixie
68 let’s talk JUDGING a talk with breeder judge prof. terry desombre
80 let’s talk JR HANDLER
interview with lucy dearn
86 let’s talk TREASURES
boston terrier collectibles and other cool stuff
91 let’s talk HEALTH
Canine Hydrocephalus
96 let’s talk POINT OF VIEW
BOSTON TERRIER BITE
102 let’s talk CHAMPIONS
meet the boston terriers joining our international hall of fame
let’s talk
INTRODUCTIONS Dear Boston Terrier Lover: Welcome to the second issue of Let’s Talk BOSTONS Magazine! We could not wait to get this issue out the door -- it is full of Boston Terrier goodness! This issue, you can read our coverage of the Sierra Gold Boston Terrier Club Specialty this August in California, with reviews from all judges and the show secretary! We also have a picture coverage from the National Specialty from the Norwegian Boston Terrier Club, a great interview with breeder Dr. Jason Luciano, articles about health, taking care of puppies, an interview with Breeder Judge Prof. Desombre, who will be judging Boston Terriers at Crufts next year and much, much more! No matter if you are online or on the go, you can find a copy of our magazine to browse. You can connect to www.LetsTalkBostons.com and read any of our issues on your computer or tablet. Or you can order a print copy from us straight through our website or emailing Matthew at mkt@letstalkbostons.com on how to proceed. Soon we will be releasing our print subscriptions as well, to make it even easier for you to get your issue!
We would like to thank some great Boston Terrier people for the help and support into making this project possible. Our good friends Pamela Preston, Ken Roux, S.Maxine Uzoff and Laila Rasmussen, for all the excellent tips and the effort they put into this edition. And all the countless emails, phone calls, texts and facebook messages from the readers, who are breeders, judges, or simply Boston Terrier Lovers! You are the reason we do this. See you next issue,
Fernanda Barlow, Matthew Dover, Vivianne Mello Let’s Talk Bostons Team
LET’S TALK BOSTONS Marketing Director Matthew Dover
info@LetsTalkBostons.com
mkt@LetsTalkBostons.com
Advertising Director Fernanda Barlow
Photography Alex - Punk Rock Stars Irina Trifankova
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Collaborators Carl E. Gomes Dona Powers Irina Trifankova L. E. Stanbridge Mark Metzger Pamela Preston
Send us a message! info@LetsTalkBostons.com www.LetsTalkBostons.com facebook.com/LetsTalkBostons
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Creative Director Vivianne Mello
LET’S TALK advertisers ARGENTINA BERTOLO, Susana (witchcraft ) ......................... 30, 31 LOBOS, Constanza (witchcraft ) ........................ 30, 31 BRAZIL MELLO, Vivianne ..................................................... 68, 69 NADAL, Maria del Rocio (COPACABANA ) .............. 12, 13 PASSARELLI, Jarbas (JPASSARELLI ) ..................... 74-77 CANADA ZYGAR, Coreen (SULFITY ) ........................................... 79 FRANCE RADUREAU, Sandra & Patrick .............................. 14, 15 GERMANY MUNCH, Corina (hessenvilla ) ............................. 70, 71 NORWAY JENSSEN, Marit (skin-deep ) ............................... 38-41 KIELLAND, Sh. Ragnhild (sannyasin ) ..................... 32, 33 RASMUSSEN, Laila (mollyville ) .............................. 100 RUSSIA TRIFANKOVA, Irina (Tirina’s planet ) ......................... 37 SWITZERLAND MATTIOLI, Katharina (graustein ) ................................ 78
UNITED STATES ANAYA, Melany (COOLBOSTONS ) ............................. 105 ATTWOOD-HOWARD, Joy (ASUREBET ) .................... 10, 11 BARLOW, Fernanda (CARAMURU ) ......................... 62-65 BATES, Larry ............................................................... 18 CAMPBELL, Danielle (CAMPBELL CLAN) ...... 26, 27, Back CLEARY, Katie .................................................... 42, 43 ERBELLE, Connie (DISTINGUISHED ) ........................ 84, 85 FISH, Marshan (NAUGHTY NORTENO ) ..................... 16, 17 FRENI, Jessica (COTTAGE ) ................... Cover, 2, 3, 52 FRISSELL, James (SELLANO ) .................................. 90, 91 HARTWIG, Debra (azcowboyz ) ............................... 28, 29 HOUGH, Tamara (TAM-RA ) ..................................... 51 HOUSE, Karen ........................................................... 101 LUCIANO, Jason & Albert (SELLANO ) ..................... 94, 95 POWERS, Dona ...................................................... 48, 49 PRESTON, Pamela (CHRIMASO ) .............................. 66, 67 ROBBINS, Linda (SHADOWLAKE ) ........................... 98, 99 ROBERTS, Suzanne ................................................... 8, 9 ROUX, Ken (KEN’S ) ........................................... 105-107 SCOTT, Dennie (KANDEE ) ...................................... 42, 43 UZOFF, S. Maxine (OUI ) ......................................... 48, 49 CLUBS & BUSINESSES BOSTON TERRIER CLUB OF NY ............................. 90 FLORIDA SUNCOAST BOSTON TERRIER CLUB ............ 83 FVR DESIGN & WEBSITES ........................................... 88 LET’S TALK BOSTONS ............................................... 50 MINUTEMAN BOSTON TERRIER CLUB ..................... 7
UK GAGIN, Elaine (CHEINAMOUR ) ................................... 89
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this issue stats - 10 countries. 38 ads. 108 pages.
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Boston terrier
Woody GCH Peja’s n’ Ken’s saddle’ em UP For sUze presented and bred by Peggy d. jackson | owned by suzanne roberts
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Special thanks to judges Lloyd Amodei and Ms. Marjorie J. Underwood for back-to-back Best in Specialty Show wins at the Boston Terrier Club of Greater Cincinnati. October 2013 - 9
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Let’s Talk INTERVIEW - Dr. Jason Luciano - Sellano Boston Terriers
Dr. Luciano and his son Albert
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INTERVIEW A talk with Dr. Jason Luciano, Boston Terrier breeder and President of the Minuteman Boston Terrier Club Dr. Jason Luciano, psychologist, has been in Boston Terriers for about 10 years now. Breeding and showing under the kennel name Sellano, and living in New England with his partner James and son Albert (who is a star at ringside, and now has taken to showing as well!), Dr. Luciano has also been serving as the president for the traditional Minuteman Boston Terrier Club. Let’s Talk Bostons talked to Jason about how he deals with his President duties, his preferences in the breed, show gossip and more.
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When and how did you choose Bostons? Did you have a history with a different breed before? Have you had any mentors? I fell into Bostons really. I knew nothing about the breed and was hanging around dog shows being a groupie, hoping to break in somewhere. Originally I was interested in pursuing Boxers, since I grew up with those as pets. Then I met a Boston and I quickly thought that I could get a similar personality and look as a boxer in a much more compact and manageable package. Since then, however, I’ve come to learn all the differences between the two, of course. But I fell in love with the little, funny looking clowns. I can learn something from any conversation if I remember to keep my mouth shut and my ears open. Admittedly sometimes that’s hard! One big piece of advice I learned early on was from Virginia O’Connell of Menotomy Bostons. She taught me to “keep better than you already have and place the rest. Period.” If I were to identify anyone in particular as “mentor” however, I’d point to Marianne and Jeff Welsh, of Mar-Crest Bostons out of the Philadelphia area, and Dottie (Kaye) Baker of IB Bullmastiffs and Boston Terriers (now Rat Terriers) in Massachusetts. These three have forgotten more than I’ll ever know about breeding and showing, and I owe each of them immensely for all the hours of their time I took up with endless phone calls and question after question. Even now, when someone more new to the breed than I, comes and asks questions, I so often hear Marianne’s or Jeff’s or Dottie’s words come out of my mouth. And they make me sound intelligent and wise and good at this. And that makes them miracle workers.
What were some of the difficulties you have encountered in your early years in the breed? The attitude thrown at a newcomer was disheartening, especially as a newcomer with a nice dog. The idea that someone hadn’t “paid their dues enough” to win consistently just never made sense to me. If you have a beautiful dog, flaunt it! I don’t think I particularly struggled any more or less than anyone else. I dug in, read all I could, bent the ears of people I respected, and read some more. I spent hours looking at win records, pedigrees, the AKC standard, and more. I learned where the breed came from, and where it is currently. With that, I formulated my ideas on where I’d like to see it go, and I started heading that way. I was fortunate to start out with a couple of beautiful dogs, both Connor (Multi-BISS Am/Can Ch. Manarjj’s Jokes on You, bred by Nancy & Mark Johnson and Mae White) and Lexi (Am/Can Ch. Mar-Crest’s IB Dancing, bred by Marianne & Jeff Welsh). I think having those dogs to start really helped kick my success into high gear, and I am grateful that these breeders gave a chance to an unknown.
What is your process to decide which puppies to keep as a show potential? I have a flaw of picking out a puppy as soon as the vet hands it to me, all wet and not-yet-breathingand-needing-to-be-rubbed. I’ll look at puppies and immediately get an idea of which one seems to be “the keeper.” And I usually stick with that choice.
the idea that someone hadn’t paid their dues enough to win consistently just never made sense to me. if you have a beautiful dog, flaunt it! MULTI BISS AM/CAN CH. MANARJJ’S JOKES ON YOU “Connor” and dr. jason luciano 20 - LetsTalkBostons.com
Let’s Talk INTERVIEW - Dr. Jason Luciano - Sellano Boston Terriers
i’d like to see some size and substance come back in the ring. we’re letting this breed get smaller and smaller and smaller... I don’t know if I have a knack for looking for a show puppy, or am just lucky, or completely stubborn and refuse to change my mind once I point to one in particular. Probably a little of the first and a whole lot of the other two, truth be told. I watch how a puppy grows, how their head looks as they mature, what kind of bone is present even as a young puppy, and I’m fortunate that I have a good idea how my dogs will tend to mature. And there have been more times than I care to admit that I’ve kept a puppy that didn’t quite turn out as I hoped. And we all know about that one pet that we placed on limited and had the owners neuter…. If you have a beautiful dog, flaunt it!
What do you think American Boston Terrier breeders should be focusing on to improve the breed?
MULTI BISS AM/CAN CH. MANARJJ’S JOKES ON YOU “connor”
I’d like to see some size and substance come back to the ring. We’re letting this breed get smaller and smaller and smaller. Give me a good solid 20 pound dog or a good 18 pound bitch and I’m in heaven. Health and temperament and conformation are important yes. But these aren’t toys, and slightboned, 11 pound dogs seem so far away from what the breed originally was. I’d like to see us maintain a little more consistency in terms of not having dogs that could easily fit into the toy ring.
wiser now. While no one enters to lose, only a couple of people are really going to walk away happy. And that’s ok. There’s always tomorrow.
What should American breeders be focusing on to improve their relationships among themselves in order to better benefit the breed?
Get over it and have fun with your dog. That’s what I think this is supposed to be all about.
Put your ego in your back pocket and get the Hell over yourself! It’s a dog show. This isn’t a search for the cure for cancer. Breed a healthy happy pleasant dog that is the closest you understand of the meaning of the standard, and knock off the rest. You’re going to win, you’re going to lose, and your life is going to go on. I’m as guilty as the next as taking this game too seriously sometimes. I’d like to think I’m older and
So many people make their life mission to beat soand-so in the ring, or to go so far as to try to destroy people’s names and reputations – all over a dog show and the color of a piece of satin. It astounds me that people would have so much wrapped up in a creature that, if truth be told, would prefer to be home laying in the sun.
You have had sweepstakes judging assignments in the past. Is judging something you would like to take on in the future? Never say never! I’ve really enjoyed my sweeps assignments, and would do it again, but for right now I have no immediate plans to pursue AKC judging approval. I’m having a good time showing and being October 2013 - 21
Let’s Talk INTERVIEW - Dr. Jason Luciano - Sellano Boston Terriers able to help out friends at the shows, and taking dogs in for others, etc. I think once you start judging you should really back away from actively showing as much, especially with handling your own dogs. It works for a lot of folks but I’m having a lot of fun on this side of it. For now that works for me.
Do you notice a lot of difference in the Boston Terrier style across the country, or do you believe that overall the breed is consistent throughout America?
Let’s talk health. What are the main health tests that you think Bostons should have? Do you believe that health testing should be encouraged, or even enforced, by clubs?
I do think there are differences in different areas of the country, and I think that’s unfortunate. I also think with the science of breeding taking the strides it has in recent years, some of those differences are diminishing. I still think the “big players” in any particular area dictate the “look” for that area. Just like anyone else, I like some of them quite a bit, and others not quite as much.
I absolutely do not believe that any club should mandate testing. Everyone is going to have their own opinions on health testing: what is important, what is not, etc. I’m not really interested in imposing my beliefs on anyone else. I know what I do with my dogs, and that makes me comfortable and ensures I have the best chance I can have to produce healthy puppies. If someone else wants to do more or less, then that is their choice. I do think some folks get a little blinded by testing, and lose sight of what we’re doing because they’re too hung up on testing for everything possible. Look at your dogs, know your dogs, and know the dogs you’re breeding to. If you’re comfortable with what’s done, go for it. If you want more, then do more. But don’t get so caught up in that that you forget the other tenets of breeding.
Am/Can Ch. Mar-Crest’s IB Dancing “LEXI”
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What is the one thing you absolutely cannot stand in Boston Terriers, as far as conformation? A bad handler! I’ve seen so many worthy dogs lose in the ring because the person on the lead didn’t know how to accentuate the positive traits. Get thee to a handling class! If we’re talking actual dog structure, I really have a dislike for low muzzles and small or excessively almond eyes. I think those issues in a face detract from the entire dog, and I just can’t get past them.
MULTI BISS AM/CAN CH. MANARJJ’S JOKES ON YOU “Connor”
What do you think you should be focusing on to improve your own breeding program? Is there a trait that you find particularly hard to change or improve?
from the past, my Lola (Multi-BISS Am/Can CH Mar-Crest’s IB LOL Again Sellano). She was my “heart dog” on top of being beautiful. I’ll never have another one like her.
I would ask all AKC-approved judges skip this paragraph and go right to the next question. With that being said, I would be dishonest if I said there was one blanket issue I face in my breeding program. It always seems to be a struggle to find that balance. I do want a darker eye in my breedings – that is pretty consistent across the board. If it’s not a big round black marble, there’s room for improvement!
Is there a line or a breeder that you believe has achieved type consistency in the breed and that you admire? Tell us a little about it.
Otherwise I do look at my dogs as individuals, and breed to correct what I perceive lacking in that particular dog. I follow advice I was given, in that you alternate breeding-to-correct with breeding-to-what-you-like. Maintaining that balance is the key.
I’ve said it to them, and to anyone who will listen. I think Beth Griner and Dee Morton of Dabs Bostons have some of the prettiest dogs in the country. I’m consistently impressed with what I see come from them. I also like a lot of what I see from Teresa Hendrix/T-Bo Bostons. And now that I’ve angered all the other breeders I haven’t mentioned by name, let’s move on to the next question...
Can you tell us what you think are some great dogs from the past, and have had a positive impact on the breed? There are a couple of dogs that immediately come to mind when I’m asked of some “great dogs of the past.” I love what I’ve seen of El-Bo’s Rudy Is A Dandy. If he’s anything like his pictures, I wish I was around to have seen him in person! Tuxedo Bows is a nice solid dog that I admire a lot, and Brandy’s Rose of the Cimmaron was a very pretty bitch, and who produced some lovely offspring. However my two favorites, hands-down, are Command’s Honeyboy followed closely by Grant’s Royal Command II (and depending on the picture you show me and the day, they might switch!) Let me breed a dog that looks like one of those, and I’ll hang up my hat - Mission Accomplished!
Which dog(s) bred by you that you feel best represent your ideal of type? I am pretty crazy about a recent dog I bred named Charlie (GCH Sellano’s Ridgewood Charlie Thomas). There are things I’d change on him, sure. In terms of overall package, I adore him. I have many dogs I’ve bred that I like, and some getting ready to come out that I REALLY like, but I’m always looking critically to see what needs to be done better with their progeny. That is how I keep moving forward. I do need to mention a dog
Multi-BISS Am/Can CH Mar-Crest’s IB LOL Again Sellano
What has been your biggest honor or achievement in your breeding life? You never forget that first BBE champion. And after all the specialty wins, placements, breed wins, group placings, etc. that I’ve had, the thing that has meant the most was when a breeder for whom I have the utmost respect came up to me one day and said “I was at a show and saw this really beautiful head on a dog, and I knew it was one of yours. And when I checked the catalog, I was right.” That meant everything. October 2013 - 23
Let’s Talk INTERVIEW - Dr. Jason Luciano - Sellano Boston Terriers
Some people breed to supply the pet market, others show every weekend but do not do any health testing. When talking about show breeders, it is always tricky to define the much abused term “puppy mill”. How would you define a puppy mill? I’ve heard the terms “puppy mill” and “backyard breeder” and “show mill” all thrown about and people nod knowingly and act like we all know what those terms really mean. In reality, a miller is usually meant as anyone you don’t know or don’t like, and who breeds more litters than you do. I think of a puppy mill as a place where the emphasis is on quantity, and not quality. I’m not talking ribbons. We all can list a dozen champion dogs we don’t think are quality. I’m talking about a lack of a conscious effort to breed to the standard, and instead breeding to the mortgage payment. Add to that a disregard to the condition of the dogs, as long as they are producing, and in my mind you have a puppy mill. Another common term I hear is a “show mill.” I don’t really know what that means. I think it’s meant to mean people who show their dogs, but produce litter after litter after litter – be they show dogs or not. These folks do love and care about the condition of their dogs, and rely on wins in the ring to justify the prices and quantity of puppies they have available – almost all the time. There are lots of those. A recent term I’ve also heard is “boutique breeder” and I kind of like that one. I’ve heard that used to designate those breeders who breed maybe every 2 or 3 years, and put much effort into researching and preparing and making the best you can of your attempt.
Apart from being a breeder and exhibitor, you are also the president of the Minuteman Boston Terrier Club, in New England. What are some of the challenges and rewards that come with this position? What impact has it had in your life? Well, being president of a breed club is very challenging at time. You are obviously a target for
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people’s venom when they don’t get what they want – whether or not you had anything to do with it! But more on that later. I think being president of the Minuteman Boston Terrier Club has really helped me to understand the breed from a more… national perspective, if that makes sense. It’s really given me the opportunity to connect with others because of the position I’m afforded, and learn about the breed and the goings-on across the country. In addition, it has really solidified my ideas on getting rid of your ego in this game. Being president of a breed club has really taught me how to maintain focus on the good of the club, and the good of the breed, even if that doesn’t line up with the good of me and my dogs at that particular moment. And finally, it has consistently given me a much greater understanding of what goes on in this crazy sport, outside of putting a lead on your dog and walking in a circle. There is so much more to it, and most people have no idea. I’m grateful for the chance to experience it from that angle.
We all know that dog people talk a lot! And it seems like the more we win, the more gossip we attract. In all your years in the breed, what has been the funniest piece of gossip that you have heard about yourself? Ah, yes, the gossip question. I love hearing the gossip about me, because I ascribe to the idea of “the only thing worse than people talking about you, is when people aren’t talking about you.” Some of the things I’ve heard about me have absolutely been hysterical. But honestly, I forget about these things as soon as they’re said and I stop laughing. I used to take it personally. Now I realize it’s their issues and not mine. Like me and be my friend, or hate me and don’t join my fan club. To pay too much attention is to feed into the drama that some insist on creating. I’m sorry that I don’t have a really funny, juicy tidbit for you. I don’t care enough about the people saying those things to hold on to it. It’s irrelevant, and I feel sorry for them.
Let’s Talk INTERVIEW - Dr. Jason Luciano - Sellano Boston Terriers
being president of a breed club has really taught me how to maintain focus on the good of the club and the breed, even if it doesn’t line up with the good of me at that moment.
Are you satisfied with the way that the breed is being perceived by judges around the country? In other words, do you believe that judging has been, in general, fair and you would agree with the winners most of the times? I’ve seen some lovely dogs get appropriately rewarded, and I think most of the time the judges get it right, or at least get it “defendable.” Judges can only judge what we put in front of them, and I think based on what they’re given, they’re keeping up pretty well. Related to that - I love hearing everyone outside the ring talk about why the judge did what he or she did. Know why the judge did what he or she did? Because s/he is the judge, and s/he can. That’s why. And that has to be good enough.
Multi-BISS Am/Can CH Mar-Crest’s IB LOL Again Sellano
Like a decision or not, you paid someone for his or her opinion. Just because you don’t’ like that opinion doesn’t mean it was unduly influenced or wrong. It means it differs from you. But you’re still the one who asked for it. Remember that.
What advice would you give to someone starting out with Bostons in conformation? There would be several things I’d want a newcomer to remember. One, don’t offer critiques of dogs unless you’re asked. People don’t like it. Two, keep your mouth shut and your ears open, unless you just can’t, then stand your ground. Just because you’re new doesn’t mean you can’t have an informed, intelligent opinion. Delivery, however, is key. And finally, expect to stumble along the way. And realize that’s ok. To quote Latrice Royale: “It’s ok to make mistakes. It’s ok to fall down. Get up. Look sickening, and make them eat it!”
MULTI BISS AM/CAN CH. MANARJJ’S JOKES ON YOU
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SHOWING Norwegian Boston Terrier Club Annual Specialty Saturday, August 24 2013 judged by Laurent Heinesche - Luxembourg Pictures by Laila Rasmussen - Mollyville Boston Terriers
Best in Specialty Show - BOB
Best Opposite Sex
Dallas Cowboy Breeder: Roberta Bettoni Owner: Roberta Bettoni
SaNnyasin Pink Magic Breeder: Sh. Ragnhild Kielland Owner: Sh. Ragnhild Kielland
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PHOTOS: S. MAXINE UZOFF
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DETAILS Litter boxes are just for cats! …Or are they? by Matthew Dover & pictures by S.Maxine Uzoff
P
uppies are always a source of glee. We plan for them in detail and then have to wait impatiently for 63 days for them to arrive. Once we are blessed with a litter we spend the first several days staring at them in the whelping box and then when they are a couple weeks old we enjoy learning about their immerging personalities and getting to know them each as individuals. Thus far they have been on mother’s milk only, and cleanup has been a snap! Mother keeps the babies nice and clean and we are only tasked with changing out the bedding to keep it fresh and free from becoming musty. Thus far a healthy happy litter has brought us nothing but complete joy! However, around week 5, we start to introduce solid foods. The mothers are now less interested in helping us “keep house”, and how can we blame them? Along with the introduction of solid foods comes solid waste. Not good for mom and now not easy for us to keep the whelping box clean. These once precious sleeping angels have become buck wild babies getting stronger on their little legs and are prone to the “zoomies” through waste and over the top of their siblings and all the fresh bedding you just got out of the dryer! Each time you reach for the commonly used “puppy pads” everyone tries to help and they end up creating more of a mess than was there to begin with. What is a good alternative?
Litter boxes within the whelping box itself can be a great alternative for breeders during this transitioning stage of puppy development. Puppies are born with the natural inclination to potty away from where they sleep. We just have to provide them with that option. Puppy pads work fine as a place away from the bed, but don’t create enough of a defined and designated area for going potty. A low rimmed litter box works well to give the puppies a space they can climb into, and away from their bed. Kathy McCracken for Dorkay in British Columbia notes: “The advantages are,that it is so easy to clean. You scoop the poop just like a cat’s litter box and when the bedding gets too wet, you just dump the whole thing, clean it and put clean litter in.”
messy is can be harmful if consumed. I like to use wood pellets intended for a pellet burning stove. The pellets should be “untreated”. Any type of chemical or flammatory coating would be very harmful to the babies. Place the box in the corner of the whelping box and spread a thin layer (only an inch or two deep) throughout the full interior of the container. The litter should be packed nicely to give the babies ample
Introducing the puppies to a litter box as early as possible, makes for the most seamless transition. So as soon as you begin to see they can make it around more easily on their legs it is a good time to start. This is coincidentally around the same time you start introducing more solid food. A five week old “toddler” puppy is just getting the hang of how to walk about, so the litter box can’t be too deep. They need to be able to comfortably crawl over the lip and crawl out again once they have made their “deposit”. Things you will need for this project: Litter boxI find a very shallow sweater storage box is a great starter litter box for babies. These can be found at most container specialty stores or in the storage department of a Walmart or Target. It is low enough for babies to crawl in and out of, while still holding in the litter, and fits nicely into the corner of a typical 4X4 whelping pen. LitterOver the counter cat litter is not good for puppies and should never be used. In addition to being
footing. Loose litter will be slippery and cause an unnecessary mess. As with anything new, the object spikes curiosity in the little ones. However I find that the earlier it is in with them the sooner they lose interest in trying to eat or scatter the pellets. Teresa Hendrix from T-Bo Bostons recommends some very cost effective and useful brands that she uses for her litter box training. “We use a large corner cat litter box we get from Jeffer’s Vet for $13.95, my husband cuts a little of it off in the front so the puppies can get in and out of the box easily. This litter box fits right nicely in the corner of a 3 X 3 playpen. You can use other litter boxes but the corner one works best for us. We purchase our pine pellets from Tractor Supply, we pay between $5.00 to $6.00’s for a 40 lb bag.” Allow the babies a chance to familiarize themselves with the box. Climbing in an out of it on their own is a good indication that they are trying to become comfortable with it as a new “room” in their apartment. A lot of babies will sleep in the litter box and potty just outside of it. Help them quickly understand that they got it backwards by taking them out of the litter box anytime you see them getting comfy for a nap. October 2013 - 45
In turn if you noticed they have pottied in their bedding or elsewhere in the whelping box, pick up the waste and place it in the litter box and quickly replace the bedding with fresh clean bedding. The cleaner you keep the bedding, the easier it will be for them to make the distinction as to where to use the “restroom”. Suzanne Maxine Uzoff from Oui Bostons gives us some tips on how to get started: “When the puppies start to walk off of the bedding to go potty I would pick them up and move them into the pan, which I set right next to the bedding, you can move it further away as they become acclimated to it. At the very beginning and possibly for the first few days you will need to pick each puppy up and set it in the box until they “get it”. As with any form of puppy potty training make a delightful fuss anytime they get it right. If you notice a puppy starting to potty outside of the litter box, lift him over into the box quickly and once he finishes going, make a big deal. “Good baby” or “good boy going potty”. This rewards them for a job well done and starts to help them make a connection with the act of going potty and the location in which they did it. Giving the puppies a designated potty place really contributes to the cleanliness of your nursery and the whelping box. Breeders find that litter box
ALL PICTURES COPYRIGHT S. MAXINE UZOFF - OUI BOSTON TERRIERS
babies are cleaner and they find themselves cleaning their bedding less often. Make sure that you pick the waste out of the litter multiple times throughout the day, but still leave at least one waste pile while the babies are getting the hang of consistency. With most pellets even the pee will start to break down the pellets causing an obvious clump or ball that can be removed with paper towels. Each time you remove waste, make sure to “top off”, or replenish the pellets you’ve removed. Once every week (or sooner if the box becomes rancid or overly soiled) you should replace the entire litter. Remove the box from the whelping pen, empty out what litter is remaining, and wipe out the box with a safe disinfectant spray and allow it to dry before replacing fresh litter and giving it back to the babies. Litter box babies not only learn to stay cleaner during their early weeks but I find that babies reared with a litter box even crate train more efficiently. The litter box can also follow them from the whelping pen into a large expen built for larger puppies, all the way to a litter box being used into adulthood, if preferred by breeders with a smaller toy breed. Litter box training also works well for taking youngsters on trips when you have to stay in a hotel or with friends when your babies are still young. Cathy Jones from MtnView Bostons advises: “New clients are thrilled when they get their pups as they use it and move it closer and closer to the door, take their pup outside and eventually can eliminate the box.” All in all litter boxes can be great tools for early potty training and also make for helping the whelping process a cleaner and happier adventure for breeder and puppies alike! October 2013 - 47
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SHOWING
Sierra Gold Boston Terrier Club Specialty Friday, August 2, 2013 in Dixon, California - USA A foreword from Mark Metzger, SGBTC Show Chairman 2013 First of all, let me thank you for your interest in and support of our show. It’s always good for the fancy to see publications promote purebred dog events like our specialty. This year’s specialties were exceptional! We were excited to have a great entry as we were prepared for much lower numbers due to the economy, but we were pleasantly surprised to see that our entries were almost exactly the same as last years, so we were very pleased. Both of our judges were phenomenal! Mr. Carl Gomes of New York judged our 15th specialty in the morning and Mr. Lawrence Stanbridge of Canada judged our 16th specialty in the afternoon. The comments we received from all of the exhibitors were very complimentary of both judges. Mr. Gomes friendliness towards each of the exhibitors and
gentleness with the dogs were appreciated by all and the exhibitors commented on his thoroughness. He is a true gentleman! In the afternoon, the exhibitors were excited to show to Mr. Stanbridge as none of the exhibitors had shown to him before. Although Mr. Stanbridge had hurt his back and was in a lot of pain, he did not burden the show with his ailment. He was still gentle and examined every dog. Exhibitors all said they truly appreciate the judge looking at each dog and were not disappointed. Everyone had a great time the entire day. Lunch was yummy and the raffle donations were better than they had been in years with contributions from photographers, magazine publishers, vinters (GREAT
wine) and specialists for health test, as well as from many of our exhibitors giving collectibles, toys, blankets, bowls, and many other wonderful treasures. We honestly could not have as successful show as we do without the generosity of our exhibitors and Boston friends. Everything from entering the show, buying something from our Ways & Means table, or participating in our raffle, to sponsoring trophies, offering suggestions for trophies & judges, and supporting and encouraging us year after year - ALL of it is greatly appreciated, so a big THANK YOU goes out to them all. The Sierra Gold Boston Terrier Club works VERY hard to put on a show that every exhibitor can enjoy. We give exhibitors awesome “welcome gifts� and try to make sure our trophies and prizes are something anyone would love to have. Our members are the best!!! They give of their time, money, energy, and enthusiasm - and then they give some more... all for the success of our show, so it goes without saying that they ARE the club and the true providers of our success! If you were not able to attend our specialty this year, we hope you will try to join us next year. We have LOTS of fun, great prizes, and best of all... a truly WONDERFUL TIME!!! If you would like to receive a premium list next year, please email Pamela Preston at ChriMaso@gmail.com and she will add you to the list. P.S. If you would like to participate in a survey for our show, we would love to hear your thoughts. You can access the survey until October 31st at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/LNVHHX7 We change our show a little bit each year and are always looking for ways to improve our show and entice more exhibitors to attend. Thanks so much and we hope to see you next year! - Mark Metzger
Sweepstakes, judged by Ms. Dona Powers First I really would like to thank SGBTC for allowing me the opportunity to judge their sweepstakes, and to all the exhibitors who showed me their puppies. I love this show and the opportunity to judge sweeps was wonderful. Overall the quality of all the puppies was very good. I saw a few small things that need improvement, but for the most part, they were a sound, attractive group of young Bostons. Structurally, most of the dogs were correct and this reflected in their movement and overall outline. Heads, eyes and bites were mostly good as well. Most of the puppies were balanced and moved well. My Best in Sweeps was a very nicely put 54 - LetsTalkBostons.com
together dog with attitude to boot. He was clean coming and going, he had a nice head with correct ear and eye placement, good muzzle. He also presented a nice outline when standing. My Best Opposite also had presence and was just a pretty girl to look at both moving and standing still. It was tough to make a decision because all of the entries were so good. My kudos to all of the owners and breeders, keep doing what you are doing and our breed will only improve. We have some very dedicated people in our breed to know the true meaning of sacrifice and our breed will only be better for it! My thanks again to everyone and I will see you next year! - Dona Powers
Sweepstakes Results, judged by Dona Powers Best in Puppy Sweepstakes
Best Veteran in Sweepstakes
Campbell Clan’s Tall Drink of Water Breeder: Danielle & Gillian Campbell Owner: Danielle Campbell & Danita Glamour
CH Sunwoods Lamburgini Breeder: Jill Ritchey Owner: Danielle Campbell
Best Opposite Sex in Puppy Sweepstakes
Best Opposite Sex in Veteran Sweepstakes
Campbell Clan’s Dangerous Curves Breeder: Danielle & Gillian Campbell Owner: D, G & G Campbell and Ruth Raunherz
CH T-Bo’s Sweet Southern Charm Breeder: Teresa Hendrix Owner: Mary Murtey
Morning - 15th Specialty, Judged by Mr. Carl E. Gomes It is always an exciting time, the moment you receive an invitation to judge a Specialty, when the day actually dawns and the precise moment you step into the ring. You invariably think about the exhibits you are likely to adjudicate and the progress made over the past years. Almost all breeds go through a cyclical period, when things really go bad, but you step back and look at some promising youngsters, render your prognostications and come to the conclusion that quality is no longer elusive but within grasp. Generally speaking, the majority of exhibits that I adjudicated on Friday August 2, 2013, were above average, with a few that were outstanding. My Winners Dog, Cool First Class Travelin’ Man, bred by Melany Anaya and owned by Mary Murtey, came out of the 12-18 months
class. He is a dog of good overall proportions, strong masculine head, ample bone with the correct movement. The Reserve Winners Dog also came out of the 12-18 month Class. DG’s Singular Sensation is bred and owned by Scott Chandler and Mark Metzger. This dog had a lively and intelligent expression, an important characteristic of the breed, with good bone and free, easy movement. He should mature into a good example of the desired breed type. Chrimaso’s Come On Baby Light My Fire, owned and bred by Pamela Preston won the Bred By Exhibitor Class and took home the Winners Bitch award. She is not quite a year old, but shows promise with that sweet lovable expression, exquisite proportions and fluid movement. The Reserve Winners Bitch was Moe-R Picking Up The Tab, who won
the 12-18 months Class. She was bred and owned by Robbie Bond. A truly delightful bitch, who seems to enjoy the show ring, with good balance and the movement, which would be compatible with the proper assembly, front and rear. There was an entry of ten Champions in Best of Breed Competition, with 7 Dogs and 3 Bitches I awarded my Best of Breed to GCH. Naughty Norteno’s Clik Clik Bang, bred and owned by Marshan Fish and Kevin Norton. This is truly an outstanding dog, with a very commanding ring presence. The head and expression defines nobility and masculinity in this young dog, who was barely one year old. He has a very good front with ample bone, correct topline and the desired proportions. The movement is effortless around the ring. Best of Opposite Sex was awarded to GCH. Kennedy’s N Barcomm’s On The Catwalk. She is a beautiful bitch with a great personality and well presented.
Ch. Escalibur’s KC Double The Trouble was my choice for Select Dog. He was bred by Karen Bogenholm and Judy King and owned by Tea and Dikan Rendic. This young dog has a well defined head with good expression. His proportions are good and the movement is correct. Select Bitch was awarded to Ch. Caramuru Believe In Yesterday. A beautifully presented bitch with very intelligent expression, good front, topline and the graceful carriage we all come to expect. The Awards of Merit were presented to the Veteran Dog, Ch. Sunwoods Lamburgini, full of vim and vigor, GCH. Sunglo’s Just A Rock Star CGC and Ch. Royales-Salace Causin Chaos & Commotion. I need to make a couple of observations. Front feet are an important part of this breed’s structure. The forelegs are straight in bone with short, strong pasterns. There can be no deviation. The front legs are set moderately wide apart and on a straight
line with the shoulders. If you breed for nice, tight cat’s feet, you will get them. However there is a need to keep the toenails properly trimmed AT ALL TIMES. Starting from puppyhood, elevate food dishes. The most distressing factors are elongated pasterns with flat, splay, feet, which produces a slouching appearance and poor movement. Strive to breed for large, round, dark eyes with as little white as possible. I am pleased with the improvement in quality over the past two years, but there is a long way to go. - Carl E. Gomes
Morning Specialty Results, judged by Mr. Carl E. Gomes Best in Specialty Show - BOB
Winners Dog & Best of Winners
GCH Naughty Norteno’s Clik Clik Bang Breeder: Marshan Fish & Kevin Norton Owner: Marshan Fish & Kevin Norton
Cool First Class Travelin’ Man Breeder: Melany Anaya Owner: Mary Murtey
Best Opposite Sex
Winners Bitch
GCH Kennedy’s N Barcomm’s On the Catwalk Breeder: S & V Kennedy, R Buzzell, & L Anderson Owner: Bruce & Roberta Rettick and Sarah Kennedy
ChriMaso’s Come On Baby, Light My Fire Breeder: Pamela Preston Owner: Pamela Preston
Select Dog
Reserve Winners Dog
GCH Escalibur’s KC Double the Trouble Breeder: Karen Bogenholm & Judy King Owner: Tea & Dikan Rendic
DG’s Singular Sensation Breeder: Scott Chandler & Mark Metzger Owner: Scott Chandler & Mark Metzger
Select Bitch
Reserve Winners Bitch
CH Caramuru Believe in Yesterday Breeder: Fernanda Barlow & Gisele Farias Owner: Fernanda Barlow & Vivianne Mello
Moe-R Picking Up The Tab Breeder: Robbie Bond Owner: Robbie Bond
Award of Merit
Award of Merit
GCH Sunglo’s Just a Rock Star Breeder: Ann Sunday Owner: Valerie Boe
Award of Merit CH Sunwoods Lamburgini Breeder: Jill Ritchey & Owner: Danielle Campbell
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CH Royales-Salace Causin’Chaos & Commotion Breeder: Jody Barber Owner: Susan Krouse & Beverly Nelson
Afternoon - 16th Specialty, Judged by Mr. L. E. Stanbridge I would like to sincerely thank the Executive and members of the Sierra Gold Boston Terrier Club for inviting me to judge this Specialty. My special thanks go out to my ring stewards who kept me focused on the on the task of judging and to the exhibitors who gave me the honour of their judging entries. With regard to exhibitors, I was pleased to note that, without exception, they exhibited their dogs well and displayed a positive sportsmanship and comradery.
I thought that the male classes were slightly stronger than the bitch classes and I thought that the younger classes in both dogs and bitches were stronger than the older classes in both sexes. In particular, I would see a strong future for the Winners and Reserve Winners Dog as well as the Winners Bitch. The condition and quality of the entries of in the Veterans’ classes was excellent and I was pleased to be able to award my Best Veteran a Grand Champion Select Award.
Over all, I found the entry to be quite representative of the requirements of the AKC standard and of an overall high quality. in spite of some variation in head types. The issue of generic soundness which haunted the breed for many years certainly was not present in this entry. The positive work by breeders on top lines and front and rear ends was very noticable in the entry as was the longstanding emphasis on temperament and character.
The entry in the Specials Class was impressive and admirable. All the entries in the final line up for the major awards were of high quality but the young bitch who ultimately went Best of Breed took my eye with her type, style, movement and presentation. Thank you again for the honour judging this Specialty. - L. E. Stanbridge
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Afternoon Specialty Results, judged by Mr. L. E. Stanbridge Best in Specialty Show - BOB
Winners Dog & Best of Winners & Best Puppy
CH Caramuru Believe in Yesterday Breeder: Fernanda Barlow & Gisele Farias Owner: Fernanda Barlow & Vivianne Mello
Cool’s Jailhouse Rock Breeder: Melany Anaya Owner: Jessica Essad
Best Opposite Sex
Winners Bitch & Best Bred By Exhibitor
GCH Ken’s & Peja’s A Horse of Course Breeder: Peggy Jackson Owner: Melany Anaya & Ken Roux
Tam-Ra’s Watch It Wiggle Breeder: Tamara Hough Owner: Tamara Hough
Select Dog
Reserve Winners Dog
GCH Naughty Norteno’s Clik Clik Bang Breeder: Marshan Fish & Kevin Norton Owner: Marshan Fish & Kevin Norton
Select Bitch & Best Veteran CH T-Bo’s Sweet Southern Charm Breeder: Teresa Hendrix Owner: Mary Murtey
Award of Merit GCH Sunglo’s Just a Rock Star Breeder: Ann Sunday Owner: Valerie Boe
Award of Merit GCH Escalibur’s KC Double the Trouble Breeder: Karen Bogenholm & Judy King Owner: Tea & Dikan Rendic
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Campbell Clan’s Tall Drink of Water Breeder: Danielle & Gillian Campbell Owner: Danielle Campbell & Danita Glamour
Reserve Winners Bitch Meadows Likitysplit Forgetmenot Foxy Breeder: Margaret & Charles Scarfe Owner: Margaret & Charles Scarfe
Award of Merit GCH Campbell Clan’s Idol Chatter Breeder: Danielle & Gillian Campbell Owner: Karen House & Danielle Campbell
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JUDGING A chat with Breeder Judge Professor Terry Desombre, UK, from Braneath Boston Terriers, who will judge Bostons at Crufts in 2014 with special thanks to Elaine Gagin - Cheinamour - UK
T
erry Desombre has been associated with dogs and other animals, all his life. His first venture into the exhibition arena was in the early 1970s being granted the affix from the English Kennel Club ‘BRANEATH’ in 1972. Since then he has made up Champion Boston Terriers and a Miniature Schnauzer. He has also owned and shown Border Terriers and Pugs with success. Terry’s judging career goes back for some years, he continues to judge at Open and Championship Show level. He was first approved to award Challenge Certificates by the Kennel Club in 1995. Until recently he was the Health and Welfare Co-ordinator for the breed as well as the Breed Standards Representative. Terry is a member of The Kennel Club in England and until recently was the Chairman of The Boston Terrier Club a post that he held for seventeen years. He has also been a trustee for the charity Public Relation Organisation for Dogs (PRO Dogs).
What do you look for when you judge a Boston Terrier? What importance do you place in markings? First and foremost the dog must adhere to the stated breed standard, be fit and healthy and without exaggeration. For me this means that the dog should be well balanced both standing and when moving. Whilst markings may be important in the final analysis, Judges should be cautious of markings as they can both improve conformation and hide faults by distorting what the eye sees. This highlights the importance of going over the dog with your hands and feeling for key markers which will help the judge assess correct conformation.
When judging a Boston Terrier, what is the one thing that you cannot tolerate? I would not tolerate a bad tempered dog. There is, I think, as difference between a dog that snaps because it is in pain and a dog with a bad temperament.
judges should be cautious of markings as they can both improve conformation and hide faults by distorting what the eye sees.
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Overall, do you see a difference in quality and consistency in the last few years? Yes, I think there has been a distinct improvement in the overall type and quality of Bostons today. Here in England, with the help of the Kennel Club greater emphasis has been placed on the standard of judging and the need to assess the dog’s fitness for purpose. This includes health and welfare issues as well as its adherence to the breed standard. I think this has
Can you name any Bostons that you feel were exceptional and that really standout in your mind? There are three which stand out for me but I will mention two here, both are English. Ch Courtbarton Parlour Maid, owned and breed by Mrs Sheila Pepper, she obtained two of her Challenge Certificates before the age of eight months and then went on to become a multiple Challenge Certificate winner. Ch Kool Hand Luke owned and breed by Ms Anne Hill who was a novice at the time. I was privileged to award him his third Challenge Certificate (making him a Champion) after which he went on to pick up several more.
helped raise the quality of Bostons we see in the ring at the moment.
What do you feel that UK Boston Terrier breeders should be working on to improve the breed? In England we have a healthy breed and all clubs are engaging with health screening so we have most of the key issues under control. However, I do think we need to work harder on whelping and movement. Having said that, I have an older bitch at home that has whelped three litters naturally. So it can be done.
Do you feel the quality in Bostons in all of Europe is basically the same or do you feel a specific country excels in their overall? This is a difficult question to answer. I have judged in Sweden and I was very impressed with the standard of their Bostons and with the way they view health related matters. In discussion I was excited to hear that they are working with vets to research the whelping problem. I would be interested to see the results of this work. I suppose because of the nature of the breed and the way it is constructed we all have the same worries. I would like to think that here in England with the tremendous help we are getting from the Kennel Club and the amount of money it is putting into research of all breeds, that we may be better that the rest of Europe, but I admit, I am biased.
Tell us about a recent assignment you have had judging Bostons.
You are judging Boston Terriers at Crufts next year. What are your expectations?
My last appointment was to judge the Boston Terrier Club Championship show in Birmingham. I was privileged to be voted by the members to do this for the second time and I enjoyed it very much. I had a large entry and found the standard to be high with some great puppies looking as if they would do well as they grew. But, who knows nature has its own way.
For me this is the highlight of my judging career and I am very excited about the appointment. I am expecting to see dogs of the highest quality from home and abroad. The task will not be an easy one but I very much look forward to putting a Boston of the highest quality through to the Utility Group for the group judge to assess. October 2013 - 69
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OUTSTANDING Bred by Teresa Hendrix & Owned by Mary Murtey
T
ami’s owner, Mary Murtey, gave her the registered name in honor of her mother. Both she and Tami were born on the same day. And, they were both born in Alabama. Tami was born to show. Her first show at age six months, she won Best of Breed over several specials. She continued to win. Tami was in the top twenty for several years. She had two invitations to the Eukanuba Invitational and attended both times. Tami and Mary have made several trips to Westminster Kennel Club and many Boston Terrier Club of America National Specialties winning 2 Awards of Merit. Tami has won the Golden Gate Boston Terrier Club Specialty twice against the very competitive northern California Boston Terriers. She still competes in the Veteran class when possible, as recently as the BTCA National Specialty in May in Chicago and the Sierra Gold Boston Terrier Club in August, in which she won Best Veteran in the afternoon specialty at the age of 10 years old!
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Tami was bred two times and had a total of five puppies. Two of her puppies are Champions, another one is pointed. Recently Tami was diagnosed with mammary gland cancer. This has not slowed her down any. She is still ready to show at any time.
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JUNIOR HANDLER A Talk with Lucy Dearn - UK
My name is Lucy Dearn, I am 16 years old and I am from Birmingham, UK. I had my first dog in 2007- she was a bitch called Roxxi (Esangee Rising Star) from Sheila Grace. Roxxi is my best friend, she is everything that I could ever have wanted from a Boston Terrier. Shortly after getting Roxxi, we began training and then progressed to showing in 2008, when I was 11. At first it was hard because both Roxxi and myself were novices to the show ring, however with lots of support and guidance from experienced handlers and owners of Boston Terriers, I feel that I am able to get the best out of my dogs in the show ring. I have handled other breeds, including a Dalmatian, an Afghan Hound and a Pug, however Boston Terriers are my favourite breed to handle because of their personality. The thing I like most about showing dogs is the fact that I get to create such a close bond with my dogs and get to know them so well. I love that I can also meet people who share the same interests as me, and it is a hobby in which you can learn so much. I would like to thank Nan and Peter Keenan, Janet Metcalfe, Anne Kennedy, Julie Glynn and Mary Tory and the late Mary Welch for their continuous support and for helping me so much.
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The biggest challenge with showing dogs is making sure that myself and my dog are completely comfortable with each other and the situation. Before I go into the show ring, I like to take my dog out first to settle them so that they are relaxed before it’s show time. The funniest story from showing my dogs is when I am showing my oldest bitch, Roxxi. Sometimes, when she isn’t in the mood to show, she will really misbehave, when I am stacking her, she will hook her paws around my hand, almost as if to push me off of her! My favourite win so far would definitely have to be at my first Crufts in 2009. It was my first ever Crufts, as was it Roxxi’s. We won first in junior bitch, and then went on to win the reserve bitch CC under breed specialist Terry Burgess! I was amazed and it gave me the boost I needed to carry on showing. I get up with the dogs in the morning and let them out in the garden as soon as they get up. They then all patiently wait while I make them their first meal of the day. They usually then sleep for an hour, and then I take them for a walk. As we have four dogs, it’s quite hard to walk them all at once, so usually my mom or dad will come with me, or my little sister will. After their walk, they are fed their second meal of the day, and then they play out in the garden for the rest of the day. During this time, I usually put my new puppy, Honey, away in her crate for a sleep. In the early evening I take the dogs out for a walk again, and then they have their final meal of the day in the early evening. The dogs usually play out in the garden, or in the house for an hour, before sleeping through the night. If we are going to a show, the day before I do all of the same, except the dogs must be prepared. I usually bath them first, and then I cut their whiskers (with help from my mom!), and groom them. Although Bostons will always be my favourite breed, there are some other breeds I would like to handle, or perhaps even own. These include the Bracco Italiano from the October 2013 - 81
Gundog group, and the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen from the hound group. I also really like the Griffon Bruxellois. Without my parents, my hobby would not be possible, they support me so much. My mom introduced me to showing dogs as she used to show Staffordshire Bull Terriers when she was younger. My parents take me to the shows and help me with everything. I want to take this opportunity to thank them both. My long term plan in Boston Terriers is to start judging them, I have completed 3 judging appointments, and also to breed them, and to continue exhibiting. I have already bred my first litter in 2010 which was successful, with the puppies going on to win a CC, RCC’s and joint top puppy of the year. I would love to handle dogs abroad, and perhaps even judge abroad one day. The thing I love most about Boston Terriers is their loyalty and affection. They are extremely comical as well, especially when they are playing.
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by Pamela Preston
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HEALTH Canine Hydrocephalus by Pamela H. Preston, ChriMaso Bostons Hydrocephalus, commonly known as “water on the brain”, is an excess of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. It occurs when there is an obstruction along the fluid pathway that prevents the fluid from being absorbed. When this happens, the continuous production of the fluid eventually leads to excess fluid, which results in severe pressure on the brain. The most common form of hydrocephalus is congenital hydrocephalus, but it can also be an inherited defect. Although not very common, it can occur in adult dogs, but is usually due to a tumor or infection in the brain. Hydrocephalus can occur in any breed, but it is more common in small and toy breeds, especially those with domey skulls such as the Chihuahua, Maltese, Toy Poodle, American and English Bulldogs, Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranian and Lhasa Apso. One of the characteristics visible at birth is an usually large, dome-shaped head. The fontanel (“soft spot”) on the top of the skull can also be extremely large and takes an unusually long time to close, if they ever close completely. Hydrocephalus has many symptoms, including seizures, abnormal behavior, walking in circles, blurred vision or blindness, bulging eyes, enlarged head/skull, inability to balance properly, inhibited growth and slow mental development. Some of these signs may come and go or get worse over time. Diagnosis is made based upon the exhibited symptoms and either an ultrasound of the brain through the open fontanel, or an x-ray or MRI. Young dogs with mild signs may improve without treatment as they get older and medications, such as corticosteroids, may also be helpful. In some cases, surgery is performed to implant a shunt to drain the excess fluid from within the brain to the stomach, where it is absorbed. Untreated, severe hydrocephalus has a very poor prognosis and usually results in death. In one study of 20 dogs, 18 of the 20 had to be euthanized and the other 2 died on their own. However, some animals with congenital hydrocephalus have an immediate response to medical or surgical treatment and can be stable over July 2013 - 91
Let’s Talk HEALTH - Canine Hydrocephalus a long period of time. Even with treatment, dogs may still exhibit aggressive behavior towards other animals, become blind, and/or exhibit erratic behavior even towards human companions. Generally speaking, the quality of life is not good. That is not to say that a dog that is hydrocephalic has a death sentence. In some cases, the dogs do recover and live a pretty normal life.
revealed normal eyes and vision, but the pressure on his optic nerves from the fluid in his brain caused him to have blurred/impaired vision, which was the reason he bumped into walls. It was also one of the reasons why he walked like he was drunk as his equilibrium was impaired.
Below is a picture of what is left of the brain of dog with a severe case of hydrocephalus. As you can see, most of the brain is gone.
My vet gave me a prognosis that was not very favorable. Based upon her experience, she told me that he would likely not live beyond 12 weeks of age, but he was such a little fighter that I continued to do what I could to keep him comfortable and support his survival.
This is the case with a puppy out of one of my litters several years ago. He was born with an unusually large and very domey skull with eyes extremely far apart that bulged out hideously. He didn’t even look like a Boston Terrier as he started growing. He was also significantly smaller than any of the other puppies in his litter. When he was old enough to try to walk, he could barely get around as his head was so much bigger than his body, that he’d literally tip over when he tried to walk. He was very sickly with respiratory infections, running into walls and damaging his eyes. I knew there was something seriously wrong with him, so at six (6) weeks of age, I asked my vet for a brain x-ray or ultrasound. His fontanel was very wide open and an ultrasound revealed that his skull was filled with approximately 75% fluid and only about 25% brain mass. I had little Miter Man (named ChriMaso’s Little Mighty Mite for SV because he was no bigger than a little mite when he was born) CERF tested and the test 92 - LetsTalkBostons.com
I spoke to numerous other breeders who had experienced hydrocephalic puppies. The majority of them had only sad and depressing stories to share; though there was an occasional “happy ending”, but surprisingly the number was much lower than I had hoped for. The sad stories ranged from dying at a very young age, to living but going through seizures, blindness, aggression, and mandatory isolation due to those issues.
My little guy, Miter, made progress, little by little and when he was six months of age, we x-rayed his skull cavity and surprisingly the fluid dissipated and now occupied 15% of his skull with the remaining space occupied by brain mass. He was my little miracle boy. By the time he was a year old, he hit a growth spurt and grew much larger. He is now six years
by Pamela Preston
old and a spoiled little brat!!! He is unilaterally deaf and started to have mild, but regular seizures about a year ago. The seizures have been eliminated through medication (so far…), but other than that, he is very healthy and happy. He gets along well with all other dogs and family members and loves to play. He is funny and loving. I am glad that that he was such a fighter.
One thing I wish I had done that I didn’t think about doing was work with University of California, Davis’s Veterinarian Teaching Hospital so that they could study Miter’s case. Unfortunately, as my vet mentioned, most puppies die by the time they are 12 weeks of age, so there is very little research done; hence, no cause or cure has been identified. If you are ever faced with a hydrocephalic puppy and are able to work with a teaching veterinarian hospital, I would highly encourage you to do so. It could help other puppies and breeders in the future. Visit these websites for more information on hydrocephalus: www.petplace.com/dogs/hydrocephalus-in-dogs www.petwave.com/Dogs/Health/Hydrocephalus.aspx www.lowchensaustralia.com/health/hydrocephalus.htm www.canine-epilepsy-guardian-angels.com/hydrocephalus.HTM www.vetinfo.com/hydrocephalus-in-dogs.html www.hydrocephalus.org/facts.htm
Until next time…
Pamela
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POINT OF VIEW Bites, as many other structural aspects, can change as a puppy develops. Puppies can start out with a level bite or an undershot bite. As a breeder, would you favor one over the other? I prefer a level bite when they are very young. Personally, in my puppies, I’ve seen bites tend to become more undershot as they go along. If a puppy starts with an undershot bite, in my experience, it tends to end up with too much underjaw for my preference.
Jason Luciano (Sellano) Dudley, MA - USA Either one, as that’s what is in the Standard.
Jami Mangum (Mangum)
I don’t have any preference about level bite or slightly undershot if the muzzle is square and all teeth are aligned, but I hate two things: teeth that are not aligned, and when the jaw tip is circular because we never get a good muzzle with that and of course, a jaw with a round tip will rarely change to square. I would never keep any puppy if they have an incorrect undershot or overshot bite by the time they are 2 months just to wait and see if that would change more later.
Maria del Rocio Nadal (Copacabana) São Paulo - BRASIL
Denham Springs, LA - USA
I prefer more of a level bite to a slightly undershot bite.
I guess first you have to consider other things on the puppy that are more important. assuming everything is great with said puppy, probably the level bite.
Elaine Mauldin (Mauldin’s)
Cathy Jones (MtnView)
Charlotte, NC - USA
Ferndale, WA - USA
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When looking for a show prospect, I would prefer an undershot bite. I have not experienced a change in bite in any of my dogs. I have never heard of that, but then I am not an experienced breeder.
Valerie Boe Gilroy, MA - USA I prefer a level bite at about 8 weeks. If the bite is already undershot at 8 weeks then my experience is when older it is too severe.
In terms of bites in puppies around the age of eight to ten weeks, I have found that I always prefer an even bite over an undershot one. In my experience puppies who grow up having the nicest bites, are those who have had a level bite at this age. This is not to say that a puppy with an undershot bite can’t have a nice one when they grow up, the majority have just proven that this evaluation works best for me!
Katharina Mattioli (Graustein) SWITZERLAND
Linda Martin (Martini) Greensboro, NC - USA
Reverse scissor is ideal for me (very tight undershot) I don’t like level because it can go either way and can end up a scissor bite. I think what people miss is the canine placement and how you can see early if a pup’s mouth will go wry.
As a breeder, I like square on square. A square head with a square muzzle, not pug like with no stop or down faced with too much flew to make the face look jowly. I like the jaw slightly undershot but not so much to show the teeth.
Joy Attwood-Howard (ASureBet)
Vicki Kennedy (Kennedy)
Westford, VT - USA
Orange, MA - USA
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Do you believe there are dogs that have show potential while others have breeding potential, or should we only breed what can finish? Write us at pointofview@letstalkbostons.com with your name, kennel name, location and answer! October 2013 - 97
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CHAMPIONS Meet the Boston Terriers that are the newest Champions (or Grand Champions) in their countries. Let’s Talk Bostons Magazine wishes to congratulate each and every one of them, along with their dear humans!
Aug 2013 - Greensboro, NC - USA
NEW AMERICAN CHAMPION
Mauldin’s A Little Shot of Tequila Owners: Elaine & Darrell Mauldin
August 11, 2013
NEW INTERNATIONAL CHAMPION
Italian CH Liberty Pons Aureoli Owner: Himalia’s Style
August 8, 2013 - Massachusetts, USA
NEW AMERICAN CHAMPION
ASureBet’s He’s Got Swagger Owners: Joy Howard
If you have a Boston Terrier that finished a Championship between September 2013 and December 2013 and you want the WORLD to know, then your Boston could be here! Write us at champions@LetsTalkBostons.com and get more info. LIMITED SPOTS! 102 - LetsTalkBostons.com
Let’s Talk CHAMPIONS - New Champions October 2013
August 10, 2013 - Cadahay Winsconsin KC, USA
NEW AMERICAN CHAMPION
High Voltage Des Gardiens Du Bois Clerbault CGC
Owners: Sandra & Patrick Radureau, Suzanne Shiloh & Corina Munch
Aug 2013 - Keene, NH
NEW AMERICAN CHAMPION
Cottage’s by Crane Live Long and Prosper Owner: Jessica Freni
August 2013 - Reno, NV - USA
NEW AMERICAN CHAMPION
ChriMaso Are We There Yet? Owner: Pamela Preston
September 9, 2013 - Bern, Switzerland
NEW SWISS CHAMPION
JCh Andridz Dandy’s Elite
Owners: Katharina Mattioli, Christoph Windisch & Coreen Zygar
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Let’s Talk CHAMPIONS - New Champions October 2013
August 4, 2013 - Dixon - CA, USA
NEW AMERICAN CHAMPION
Campbell Clan Sharp Dressed Man Owners: Jamie Duncan & Danielle Campbell
September, 2013 - Petaluma - CA, USA
NEW AMERICAN CHAMPION
Tam-Ra’s Watch It Wiggle Owner: Tamara Hough
June 23rd, 2013 - Richmond - VA, USA
NEW AMERICAN CHAMPION
CMC Adventurs In Geometry Owner: Christopher Klauder
s n o i t a l u t a r g n o C pions!
m a h C w e n to all the 104 - LetsTalkBostons.com
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