Dog News, August 6, 2010

Dog News The Digest Volume 26, Issue 31

Of American Dogs $5.00

August 6, 2010

*Breed points, All Systems **S.S. Group System

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Judge Mrs. Tomas Gomez

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*All Systems

10 ♦ Editorial

CONTENTS August 6, 2010

14 ♦ Inside Out

BY JOHN MANDEVILLE

18 ♦ Inside The Sport

BY PAT TROTTER

22 ♦ Question Of The Week

BY MATTHEW H. STANDER

26 ♦ Hey, Let’s Make A Major

BY SEYMOUR WEISS

30 ♦ Brace Yourself

BY ANDREW BRACE

34 ♦ Bests Of The Week 38 ♦ Ten Questions

BY LESLEY BOYES

42 ♦ Letter From Sweden

BY ROBERT PAUST

46 ♦ A View From The Road

BY CARLA VIGGIANO

50 ♦ Land of Milk and Camels

BY YOSSI GUY

54 ♦ Peter: An Interview With Peter Green

BY KARL M. STEARNS

58 ♦ How To Judge A Judge: The Beam Effect

BY ALESSANDRA FOLZ

62 ♦ Pet Trusts: Complete Care For Your Pets

BY CHRISTOPHER JONES

66 ♦ Off The Leash

BY SHAUN COEN

68 ♦ The World Challenge, The Judges Meeting And More

BY MATTHEW H. STANDER

70 ♦ Special Meeting Minutes

BY CARL LIEPMANN

72 ♦ What Crazy People Do On A Hot Weekend

BY PEGGY WAMPOLD

92 ♦ The Gossip Column

BY EUGENE Z. ZAPHIRIS

94 ♦ Click –Lompoc Valley Kennel Club

BY LESLIE SIMIS

100 ♦ Letters To The Editor 102 ♦ Click – The Way We Were

BY PERRY PHILLIPS

104 dog show calendar • 110 handlers directory • 112 subscription rates • 114 classified advertising • 116 advertising rates All advertisements are copyrighted and owned by DOG NEWS, Harris Publications, unless received camera-ready. Permission to reprint must be requested in writing.

4 Dog News

DOG NEWS (ISSN 0886-2133) is published weekly except the last two weeks in December by Harris Publications, 1115 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10010.

Periodical Postage paid at New York.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to DOG NEWS, 1115 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10010

10 ♦ Editorial

CONTENTS August 6, 2010

14 ♦ Inside Out

BY JOHN MANDEVILLE

18 ♦ Inside The Sport

BY PAT TROTTER

22 ♦ Question Of The Week

BY MATTHEW H. STANDER

26 ♦ Hey, Let’s Make A Major

BY SEYMOUR WEISS

30 ♦ Brace Yourself

BY ANDREW BRACE

34 ♦ Bests Of The Week 38 ♦ Ten Questions

BY LESLEY BOYES

42 ♦ Letter From Sweden

BY ROBERT PAUST

46 ♦ A View From The Road

BY CARLA VIGGIANO

50 ♦ Land of Milk and Camels

BY YOSSI GUY

54 ♦ Peter: An Interview With Peter Green

BY KARL M. STEARNS

58 ♦ How To Judge A Judge: The Beam Effect

BY ALESSANDRA FOLZ

62 ♦ Pet Trusts: Complete Care For Your Pets

BY CHRISTOPHER JONES

66 ♦ Off The Leash

BY SHAUN COEN

68 ♦ The World Challenge, The Judges Meeting And More

BY MATTHEW H. STANDER

70 ♦ Special Meeting Minutes

BY CARL LIEPMANN

72 ♦ What Crazy People Do On A Hot Weekend

BY PEGGY WAMPOLD

92 ♦ The Gossip Column

BY EUGENE Z. ZAPHIRIS

94 ♦ Click –Lompoc Valley Kennel Club

BY LESLIE SIMIS

100 ♦ Letters To The Editor 102 ♦ Click – The Way We Were

BY PERRY PHILLIPS

104 dog show calendar • 110 handlers directory • 112 subscription rates • 114 classified advertising • 116 advertising rates All advertisements are copyrighted and owned by DOG NEWS, Harris Publications, unless received camera-ready. Permission to reprint must be requested in writing.

4 Dog News

DOG NEWS (ISSN 0886-2133) is published weekly except the last two weeks in December by Harris Publications, 1115 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10010.

Periodical Postage paid at New York.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to DOG NEWS, 1115 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10010

Dog News 5

PUBLISHER

AUGUST 6, 2010

Dog News Cover Story

STANLEY R. HARRIS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

EUGENE Z. ZAPHIRIS CREATIVE DIRECTOR

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STEPHANIE BONILLA GENERAL TELEPHONE

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

IAN MILLER 212 462.9624 CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Sharon Anderson Lesley Boyes Andrew Brace Shaun Coen Carlotta Cooper Geoff Corish Allison Foley Denise Flaim Yossi Guy Mary Jung John Mandeville Billy Miller Desmond J. Murphy M. J. Nelson Sharon Newcombe Robert Paust Lenora Riddle Sharon Sakson Gerald Schwartz Kim Silva Frances O. Smith, DVM 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 Paddy Spear

DOG NEWS is sent to all AKC approved Confirmation 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.

6 Dog News

Dog News 7

Dog News 9

DOG NEWS EDITORIAL Term Limit Decisions

The September Delegate meeting should finally bring to a head the vote on Term Limit Proposal--again.

Unless there is a major change which would probably result in a delay of the vote thereby ensuring the continuation of the existing By-Law the Clubs through their Delegates should be voting on eliminating term limits in the altogether or continuing the one-year off By-law. These pages stand 100% behind eliminating term limits in any form whatsoever. However should a two-third vote fail to materialize then at the very least the existing By-law should be changed to provide for a four year term limit and not merely a one year off and then on again situation. It is hoped and urged that the Clubs will instruct their Delegates how to vote on this issue and that the vote is recorded and made public for all to see. It certainly appears as though those Delegates pushing for term limits are people who have been unsuccessful in either being nominated and elected or in running from the floor and being unable to be elected. Indeed some of them are so anxious to upset that proverbial apple cart two Delegates have submitted petitions to run from the floor even though the Nominating Committee has yet to be named nor even make its recommendations. Certainly the need for intelligent change on the Board is a recognized fact of life. The procedures are in place for the Delegates to vote in or out people with whom they are happy and/or unhappy. Term limits can and will interfere greatly in long term planning for any corporation. If one believes someone has served too long, or is too old or incapable of performing his or her duties vote them out but a blanket time limit in the long run destroys the effectiveness of any operation to succeed in its endeavors.

Pearls Of Wisdom

Quoting from an article entitled “Hey, Let’s Make A Major” which appears in this week’s issue is the opening statement written as follows ”In the contemporary dog sport situations exist in which a fancier can remain totally within AKC rules while manipulating the system enough to completely pervert the intent of these rules”. Mr. Weiss’s reference is to the building of majors by exhibitors with inferior quality exhibits. These pages take the step further to include building of majors such that championships are earned by never having beaten an exhibit of the same sex or being exhibited only against stock of the same breeder and at times of earning all points against only litter brothers and sisters! AKC’s computers certainly could and should be programmed to prevent the latter examples. How one stops inferior exhibits from being exhibited is another matter which is as old and difficult to prevent as any objective determination can be. But there is another example of people perverting the intent of the rules which is the judge who has developed a means to beat the system and get new breeds at a much faster rate than the system ever meant them to do. Not that these people are doing anything illegal but they have developed a means to push themselves through at a rate never intended to be. Just study the approval rates of some people as compared to others and you’ll see exactly what is happening. Surely AKC’s Judges Department can and should find a way to either even things up or slow those manipulators down.

A Scary Situation

Well it is finally official--a total of 13 breeds have been banned in Denmark! Not only that but the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the Rottweiler and the Bullmastiff have been added to an “observation list” of breeds which could be added to the already banned Am Staffs, Dogo Argentinos, Filia Brasileiros, Kangal10 Dog News

what is known to us as the Anatolian Shepherd and American Bulldogs to name but a few of the better known banned breeds.

They join the Japanese Tosa and the pit bull which were banned in that country in l991.Candidly had we realized that a breed specific ban was in effect since 1991 our opposition to the World Show being held in Denmark would have even been greater than expressed earlier by us. These pages had no idea that any ban on any breed already existed in Denmark. Our opposition stemmed from the proposed ban due to become effective in July 2010! The extent of the Danish Kennel Clubs involvement in these bans and exactly how hard they fought them, if at all, is difficult to ascertain but it certainly is hoped but doubted that its representatives protested in the strongest of terms.

How could a country as civilized as Denmark even consider such BSL? It is amazing to think that could be the case. As for FCI, did it apply its so-called international clout to try and stop these laws--doubtful at best is the answer. What becomes law in one EU state has the effect of a plague and seems to infect the others at one point or another. BSL has no place on any level of legislation--this fact has been emphasized over and over again. Indeed what is AKC’s stand in combating this matter in Denmark. Why did AKC even have a representative in Denmark when it was known that this BSL was to go into effect July 1!

And what about UKC--its silence is as deafening as is AKC’s!

And what about the European Kennel Clubs? What did they do about any of this--ignore it to appease FCI? This plague must be stopped at all costs and dog people the world over must fight for the full repeal of these bans Failure to do so will only open the door for more misplaced and illegal laws concerning the right of a breed to exist to be passed.

An Interesting Meeting

It seems the ADSJ and the DJAA held a meeting with AKC at the recently held Reliant Series of Dog Shows. The purpose was to discuss the proposed judges fees. Reading the Minutes which are printed in this issue it is obvious that the discussions went as far afield as one would expect them to do at this sort of meeting.

Indeed some of the discussions particularly in the registration area seemed more appropriate for a Delegate meeting than a judges meeting. Indeed the Judges sounded more into it than the Delegates. Certainly this kind of get-together encourages a better understanding for all parties concerned. Fortunately most people did not attach nor interpret the meeting as being a “management-union” sort of affair although sadly some did. It must be firmly stated that the Minutes indicated little contention and indeed read as though a better understanding of the mutual problems facing both AKC and the Judges Organizations were achieved. This can only be a plus for all of us. By the way if everyone is so concerned about increasing registrations why not have a provision that all judges breed at least one litter say every five years. Many judges today do not even own a dog much less breed a litter at all--If they all became breeders again think of the increase in registrations that would effect.

Thought For The Week

As the stories evolve PETA now joins the North Shore Animal League in shipping dogs from out of State to its shelter areas.

This shipment involves dogs from Louisiana to the Norfolk/ Virginia Beach area. Actress Pamela Anderson is paying for all the medical care and transportation being arranged by PETA for the some 50 homeless dogs and pups allegedly abandoned due to the oil spill situation. Is Ms. Anderson aware, one wonders, that PETA euthanizes over 90% of the dogs turned over to them!

While on paper it sounds fine that these dogs may be getting a second chance to live and be rescued if they fall into PETA’s hands will this really happen? Based on PETA’s history our answer is doubtful at best. As for the great Commonwealth of Virginia it may be hard for these areas to cry breeder overpopulation now that they are importing dogs to fill their shelters. Perhaps just perhaps people will realize there is room for breeders and shelters to survive and that the only means of dog ownership should not be limited to adoption but that the responsible breeder serves the community needs on a par if not better than the business oriented shelter organizations ever could. •

Ch. Whispering Ln’ Chasing That Sensation

“Little T “

The Number One Chinese Crested All Systems

Our appreciation to Judge Mrs. Robert Forsyth

0wners: Roy & Jo-Ann Kusumoto, T. Baldwin-Smart and Moe Miyagawa 12 Dog News

Presented By: Moe & Tammy Miyagawa

NEW CHAMPIONS!

Following in their Father’s Footsteps

Ch. Kamikazi Tokyo Cowboy Sire: Ch. Whispering Ln Chasing That Sensation Dam: Kamikazi Star Kissed

“Cowboy” Our appreciation to Judge Mr. Eugene Blake

Ch. Kamikazi Hot Sake

“Sake” Our appreciation to Judge Mr. Robert Jacobsen

0wners: Roy & Jo-Ann Kusumoto Moe & Tammy Miyagawa

Presented By: Moe & Tammy Miyagawa Dog News 13

HOT AIR IN HOUSTON

InsideOut

by John Mandeville

I

was emailed the minutes of the meeting between the judges groups and AKC that took place in Houston on July 25. The minutes were prepared by the American Dog Show Judges.

Two things struck me about the ADSJ minutes: First, AKC holds all the cards.

Second, no doubt as a consequence of number one – the master-peon relationship – for all the cordiality expressed by the Lords, the judges groups representatives’ come across as whiny. Not that AKC gets off in that department.

The minutes state AKC Dog Show Judges VP, Darrell Hayes, “said that cost cutting has been introduced throughout the AKC and that he is operating on a six-year old budget.”

Followed by, “He (Mr. Hayes) believes that they (AKC) have a revenue not a cost cutting problem.” Such statements must have been made – they’re in the minutes.

Why? And by the way, it’s ill-advised for any employee of any organization to ever say we “have a revenue not a cost cutting problem.” Many would say that is patently foolish. There has never been a bureaucracy that can’t be run more efficiently. None. At most it takes a fresh set of eyes.

And, not to pick on Darrell Hayes – too much – why the gratuitous complaining about how hard it is to hire new field reps, “in the past when he needed to hire field staff there would be over 100 applications…. now he is lucky to get three or four.” This because of “the number of clusters…” and the “increased time away from home that is now required.”

Pardon me, but here’s a twofer: Have the reps only cover weekend shows. The reps might be happier, major expense money will be saved and the world as we know it won’t 14 Dog News

come to an end. In that vein can AKC really believe covering 97% of all-breed shows is required? Or that it’s even the best expenditure of money tight times or no? Hell cut the number of all-breed shows covered in half and have someone on call in case of problems.

The next thought I had re the AKC-judges groups’ summit was, what would’ve happened if the judges groups had shown up with a lawyer? Not necessarily even a real one – just a distinguished looking man or woman of a certain age introduced as, “Our representative: Here as an observer not a participant in any way.”

What the judges groups should have done is have as part of their representation members who are attorneys, “We’ll see your bureaucrats and raise you a couple of lawyers.”

One might think the minutes of a meeting between AKC and the judges groups would have some quality of a meeting between management and labor, the bosses and the union. I have no idea to what extent, if any, the participants, singly or collectively, might view their discussions that way, but it’s understandable if they do.

(Ed. note: Let’s hope not!)

Not me. I see the whole thing as much more akin to kabuki theater – actors in a highly structured, stylized, predetermined performances carrying out their defined roles. That and if the two sides want something accomplished put Joe Purkhiser and John Wade in a room and agree to go with what they work out.

Of course the judges groups’ members are cranky.

Of course the judges groups will complain about being taxed. Of course the judges groups will be asked to put their concerns and proposals in writing which will be brought to AKC’s Board’s attention.

No surprises. At all, save one amusing part complaint, part threat, “the no charge to the delegates” (judges)… which would be discriminatory and “could very well result in litigation.” Boys and girls you’ve got to lay off the Kool-Aid. You can always sue over anything. But who’s going to pay for it? If the judges groups think they can out lawyer AKC, they are either stupid or insane; besides threatening to sue is so yesterday.

AKC is a private organization. It has the right to establish its own rules – like them or not. Yes there are always legal grounds on which to frame a case. I bet I know them better than the judges groups, and I am the next thing to certain AKC would easily prevail.

So, how much will AKC reduce the fees they originally proposed for judges? •

Dog News 15

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Dog News 17

InsideTHESPORT

by Pat Trotter

Does Misery Love Company?

“M

isery loves company” is an old saying that has been around for some time. It took the New England naturalist, tax resister, abolitionist, poet and philosopher Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862) to observe “If misery loves company, misery has company enough.” Certainly our dog fancy is not the only interest group to feel both the pain of the current economy and the lack of interest in ascertaining the future well-being of many activities. So yes, we have plenty of company.

The horse racing industry is experiencing a tremendous drop in foal registrations, participation in events and attendance just as is the sport of dogs. Enormous investments in thoroughbred stud farms and stallion shares are feeling the hit as stud fees have been lowered by the thousands across the Blue Grass, and breeders have struggled to cut costs in dealing with lower revenues. There is a general nervousness within the Jockey Club and across the industry about the declines in yearling sale prices, attendance at the track and even betting on those tracks with no slot machines to lure bettors. Purses are down at many tracks and the expense of keeping horses in training means fewer starters to spread across the tracks.

Sound familiar?

Many mare owners opted to skip their mares in the 2010 breeding season rather than make the investment of breeding costs and stud fees. If you think the shipping, stud fees and breeding of dogs is expensive, you should check the numbers when it comes to horses.

Across the American “home of horse racing” in Kentucky, gimmicks to lure fans to the tracks include such whimsical ideas as offering wagering on old rebroadcasted races without the names of horses, jockeys or trainers identified. There are all sorts of unusual ideas being utilized such as those conceived by the organizers of the Preakness Stakes in Maryland in May. The staging of a humongous “Infieldfest” sponsored by a beer company attracted thousands of race goers to the all-day party that featured Emmy-award winning bands, concerts and other activities between races for the fans to enjoy. To many the actual running of the Preakness must have seemed like an afterthought that went with the festival rather than vice versa!

As recently as 2006 NASCAR races were attracting an average daily attendance at the big Sprint Cup races of 125,986 fans. To date in 2010 the popular stock car events are averaging 99,853 fans per race, a drop that has officials very concerned.

Even baseball, always known as America’s “national pastime,” is big time feeling the drop in attendance. Interestingly enough, the drop today is more at the major league level than in the minor league ballparks. This could be a signal that minor league parks offer a much more user-friendly venue for families strapped by the continuing downward economy. Some such signals are out there in our sport too.

A conversation with AKC president Dennis Sprung last weekend in Houston convinced me that this man is doing his homework and trying his best to preserve the sport in which he grew up. In discussing how we could attract more young people and newbies to the sport, Dennis observed that our society is being influenced by so much more than just the troubled economy. It’s been about twenty years since most youngsters have acquired their own cell phones and/or computers which consume so much of their time. When you add to that the explosive expansion of other activities that attract kids such as karate, judo, soccer and mall browsing, our sport is facing competition from the outside world that simply did not exist just a few decades ago. And of course as each generation grows up uninvolved in dogs, the more unlikely their offspring will become involved.

Perhaps the most alarming report President Sprung 18 Dog News

provided had to do with the Boy Scouts of America membership declines. In February 2010, the Boy Scouts of America celebrated its 100th Anniversary with one of the lowest percentage of American youth involved in its program in its history. Evidently kids have so many other things on their agendas today that the BSA is no longer as attractive to them as it once was.

These seemingly unrelated examples of “misery” in other troubled activities besides our own sphere of dogdom do send some strong messages. These messages should help us realize: There is a lot of competition out there these days to draw people’s interests. Ideas aimed at keeping interest in the sport and giving it a much needed blood transfusiontype boost are to be embraced by all of us. This includes incentives such as the Grand Championship Title.

People are so busy with other activities that even if they are into our dog show world, they may not have much time to spend at the show unlike many of us did in our youth when so many shows were benched. Thus we need to do all we can to welcome them and encourage them to learn and spend more time at each show.

J

udges, exhibitors, handlers, club personnel and anybody else involved in the sport need to go out of their way to say something nice to obvious newcomers and kids if you want them to come back. A judge at a recent California show was truly kind to an eleven-year-old exhibitor obviously at his very first dog show ever. The boy showed one of my youngsters on the day while waiting for his own to come of age and went home wanting to come back!

Next time he will show his own puppy.

Assorted activities such as rally, agility, fly ball etc. not only bring more people through our doors, they offer the possibility that some of those folks will become interested in conformation. I had such a conversation with a potential show exhibitor at Houston who does earthdog events with her Jack Russell. This conversation took place at ringside while she stayed to watch groups and become more interested in conformation.

No matter how mediocre some of these exhibits may be, when all of us offer courtesy and kindness to their owners, it influences them to want a better specimen.

Many great breeders started with mediocre specimens and aided by knowledgeable mentors were able to get past those early dogs to produce great ones. All of us need to reach out to the newcomers. We need to think of ways to make our sport more attractive to them. Last week’s Houston event is very inviting for newcomers and features activities designed for all.

Being realistic means acknowledging that our dog fancy is not the only element in our world on the downward spiral. The fact is that life as we have known it is threatened by dynamics far beyond the control of the AKC and for that matter the U.S. government. People will need to tighten their collective belts and do with less. Life styles will have to adjust to less energy, less resources and less extravagance.

Thus we are compelled to be as user-friendly as we can possibly be to appeal to potential newcomers more than other activities which might interest them. Thank God for the dog itself with the ability to draw people close whether they ever attend a dog show or not. During troubled times we can be comforted by the individual beauty, warmth and love they bring to our world. •

Dog News 19

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*The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed

20 Dog News

Dog News 21

BY MATTHEW STANDER

T he

of t he Week Which married couple no longer judging or with us did you enjoy showing a dog to the most?

Including but not limited to in alphabetical order: The Clarks Annie and Jim The Fancys Jean and Glenn The Feltons Judith and Herman The Godsols Bea and Major The Stevensons Ann and Tom The Tongrens Babbie and Bob The Van Courts Ramona and Kippie

22 Dog News

Joy Brewster The Godsols - Bea and Major, though the Stevensons were a close second.

Jane Forsyth I have to say Bea and Major Godsol. Both top judges. Fair, gracious and pleasant.

Bob Forsyth Have to agree with Jane on this although I also enjoyed the Tongrens and Van Courts Ken McDermott Thanks for asking and that’s easy for me since Terriers have always been my main love. It would have been Jack & Bea (Mr. & Mrs. John T.) Marvin.

They were extremely knowledgeable about Terriers and any win under them was truly treasured.

Chuck Winslow My answer would have to be hands down the Stevensons. They both actively judged Brussels Griffons and Poodles beautifully and one knew what type of dog to bring to them both.

Mrs Stevenson so clearly loved judging that one could often hear her whistle softly as she was examining her entry. The Stevenson’s unquestionably esteemed position in our sport never stopped an unknown player with a dog of type from being the quick and easy winner. This was one

of the many reasons they were held in such respect and they made it fun.

Terry Hundt Ann and Tom Stevenson were the ones for me.

Thomas H. Bradley 3d What a great question.

I will be curious to see who you sent it to.

Unhappily, so many will be “unknowns” in today’s sport. Ann and Annie- of course- Sporting ladies.

Herman indeed. I only had Sporting dogs in those days and I don’t believe that Judy judged Sporting. Jimbo and Tom didn’t do Sporting either. I rarely had the opportunity to show to either of the Fancy’s. Babbie to be sure as I was one of the “adopted” ones. And, as Bob used to say- “Tom and I were classmates at Penn but in different years!!”. The Godsol’s and the Van Court’s!!

Only Frank is old enough to answer that question!!

Pat Trotter ALL THE ABOVE! And I would have to add the Hartleys, Inez and Haywood, and the LaHams, Betsy and Quentin.

Peter Green The Godsols, though probably not too many current exhibitors know who they are.

Caylee Carlee By

The 2005 Westminster Best in Show Winner

With

Clint

Best in Show and Multiple Group Winning

Grand Ch. Autumn’s Stardust and Roses Owners: Brian & Cathy Matise Aurora, Colorado Richard & Linda Stark, Breeders Conifer, Colorado Handlers Clint & Karen Livingston Brighton, Colorado

Two Group Firsts and a Best in Show at Roaring Fork Kennel Club Judge Ms. Joyce Vanek Dog News 23

24 Dog News

Dog News 25

HEY, LET’S MAKE A MAJOR

by Seymour Weiss

I

n the contemporary dog sport situations exist in which a fancier can remain totally within AKC rules while manipulating the system enough to completely pervert the intent of those rules.

Building majors constitutes one of those situations. Majors are often difficult to come by, especially in locations where many breed populations are sparse and/ or widely dispersed. Without fanciers pooling their canine resources it can be nearly impossible to earn championship titles in some regions.

On the flip side, where a number of active breeders and exhibitors regularly attend shows, one can reasonably expect stronger competition with most of the dogs being above average in quality – in other words, real show dogs.

As we all know, the USA is a very large country and finding a show with little or no entries in many breeds and in many places is fairly easy. These shows provide a golden opportunity to load the classes with dogs of questionable merit. It sometimes happens that a regular exhibitor who happens also to be a “volume breeder” (read puppy mill) swoops down on a show, loading the classes with mediocre animals and worse to create such ill conceived majors. Some might say that the cost of entry fees might discourage this practice. It might, but the chance of making up bogus champions to produce puppies to sell could make the practice totally cost effective. Also, this does not mean that all the dogs being shown in such circumstances are owned by the same person. The person capable of this sham practice is often able to marshal owners of the dogs he or she sells to enter shows to up the body count and the probability that majors will be present.

If judges find themselves facing a gaggle of exhibits that bring to mind a parade of rescues (with no disrespect meant to rescues) rather than a parade of potential and actual champions, there is something they could, nay, should do. Sadly, most judges including some of our most popular arbiters sidestep this implied responsibility. That responsibility is to withhold awards to any and all dogs displaying lack of merit in the opinion of that judge.

I think the main reason that judges withhold so seldom is to avoid distressing or angering exhibitors showing dogs that just do not belong in the ring.

However the exhibitor’s feelings are not the judge’s concern. If you liken the judge’s role to that of a quality control inspector, it becomes easy to see that the judge is charged with the responsibility to protect the gene pool just as the quality control person protects our food supply or the safety of the vehicles we drive or the appliances basic to our lives.

An opportunistic exhibitor making her own majors can do or not do as she pleases in orchestrating her production. Not enough hands to groom all the dogs? No problem. In fact why bother to groom any but the dog(s) she wants to win with? If she wants, she can cut all the corners she likes. Actually, the reason is this. Every dog in competition is assumed to be a compliment to a judge’s expertise and integrity, so when a motley bunch of fillers is presented, 26 Dog News

that says someone is manipulating the judge to gain cheap titles. If dogs are presented in poor condition, it may or may not be a mark on someone. But when a judge’s hands are black after touching a dog or the stench of a filthy exhibit is obvious to anyone within a four foot radius, something is very, very wrong.

Consider • Not everyone can condition effectively.

• Not everyone can train effectively.

• Not everyone can handle skillfully.

• Not everyone can trim and groom to maximize a dog’s assets • BUT EVERYONE CAN PRESENT A CLEAN DOG. Actually, judges who sidestep judicial responsibility in dealing with dogs they should excuse may find their largesse coming back to bite them in the quarters shall we say. The dog that wins under judge Pretzel may finish with that win and go on to produce, we can only speculate, a fair number of puppies. If like has the potential to beget like, judge Pretzel has opened a floodgate, regardless of size, to perpetuating mediocrity within the gene pool.

Rather than be concerned about losing the status of “Mister Nice Guy”, the judge who does the right, albeit, difficult thing may find himself lauded by exhibitors for having the courage to purge the geese in order to honor the swans. And we all know that dog fanciers keep an active network and such news travels – fast! Hey, we even managed to keep in touch before the Internet. Next time he judges, this judge could find himself drawing large entries filled with quality. That’s good for all of us.

At the start of this offering I wrote that one could manipulate the system and still stay within the rules. Admittedly, this condition has always existed within the dog sport. The condition and the regulations regarding it are sound and need not be altered. Perhaps what needs to be altered is the integrity of those who breed substandard dogs and finish them where competition is weak or non-existent and the resolve of the judges who go along with a manipulation of the system for the most unacceptable reasons.

P

erhaps I am preaching to the choir, but it is obvious that our shared responsibility is to endeavor to produce dogs that truly answer their breed standard. It is also a given that some of those dogs could not be considered show worthy and those dogs need to be spayed or neutered and placed in loving pet homes. Seems simple, right? But ask yourself how many times your dogs have competed alongside animals to which you would not give house room. Unfortunately, more than a few of those dogs finish. And many of those dogs will also be bred so the downward spiral continues merrily apace.

It has been said that under our system almost any dog can finish, but that does not mean they should. Building a major is, by itself, okay. As I said earlier, in sparse populations or in rare breeds it is almost necessary to martial numbers to bring in those titles. But this exercise must be done with integrity otherwise it could be possible to lose the ideal we should all seek.

Just because it is possible to fly under the radar to finish dogs, it doesn’t mean that such a strategy is acceptable. If dog fanciers want or need to build majors, they should do it with dogs that look like their breed and deserve to carry the championship title. It’s not enough to be proud of our dogs’ achievements. First we need to be proud of our dogs. Thank you for reading. •

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The Sense Can Be More Important Than The Words

BRACE YOURSELF

by Andrew Brace

T

he recent changes that the Kennel Club in Britain has made to many long-standing Breed Standards has caused great anxiety with many long-term breeders who feel that, in time, these changes could well result in a different look becoming established in their breeds. It is important that we take on board the fact that Breed Standards endeavour to convey the very essence of a breed, and so it is sometimes more important to understand the sense of the Standard rather than rigidly memorise the words.

From the time when dog shows first began, breeders have striven to produce examples of excellence in their given breed, given the historical purpose of the breed and the written blueprint of perfection in that breed, namely the Breed Standard. Whilst breeds were being developed, the main priorities would have been functional construction, correct and sound movement for the breed, the specific coat type and right sort of temperament. Initially it was a case of getting the “nuts and bolts” right, and then when dogs reached a certain level of correctness, other factors would have come into play – the level of presentation of dogs, the way they conducted themselves in the show ring and indeed the skill of their handlers. Once a breed had reached a plateau, these extraneous factors were bound to figure in the equation and influence judges’ decisions, and breeders found themselves looking for anything that would give them an edge over their competitors, and invariably that led to them looking for “excitement” in the dogs they produced.

This excitement could manifest itself in one of several ways. To the purist, they could sense excitement from a dog whose overall balance was utterly correct for the breed, who had a head and expression that simply screamed the breed, and whose temperament was such that, whilst it handled the most rigorous of show situations, remained typical for the breed it aimed to represent.

To others, excitement was more easily identified in the form of exaggerating one aspect of the dog – shorter back, longer neck, bigger head, longer coat or whatever, and invariably in a temperament which, whilst perhaps not being typical for the breed, lent itself to the show ring – the highly-strung dog, always on its toes, always looking over its shoulder, and never relaxing for a moment.

No matter how biased we may be, we have to admit that in the process of trying to breed a better one, some breeds have improved yet others have not. Exaggeration through putting appearance before performance has transformed some breeds into mere caricatures of their ancestors, and given scant regard to the functions for which these breeds were originally developed. To this end, the recent “tinkering” with some of the breed standards may not be such a bad thing, and actually bring us back to basics. Whilst we, as judges, are unable to say that any given dog can pull a sledge, retrieve a duck or bring down a boar, we should with some degree of confidence be able to say that it has the mental and physical makeup to do so if required and trained.

In the history of many breeds it is a documented fact that key dogs were produced that did in fact possess exaggeration of one kind or another, and that, sensibly used, these dogs contributed to their breeds when sensibly used. However, when a breed improves to the extent that the majority of specimens have reached an acceptable level of type, conformation, movement and temperament that bring them into close line with the relevant Breed Standard, then exaggeration in any form can no longer make a worthwhile contribution to that breed.

30 Dog News

In fact to condone such exaggerations is to hinder and beleaguer the breed.

True fanciers and connoisseurs of a breed that is established to a high degree are much more impressed with classic breed type than they are with flat-catchers and fancy animals that so quickly take the eye of the uninitiated. Furthermore, they will be rightly concerned by the fact that dogs that are rather “off beat” can so easily make their presence felt at group and Best in Show level, possibly at the expense of other dogs that remain more faithful to their own particular Breed Standard.

Thankfully we still have amongst us many old-time breeders who have watched breeds develop, reach a peak and then slowly drift away to join the generic masses. The comments of such people when they visit modern dog shows can be most enlightening and should always be listened to and considered. What may be thought of as superficial characteristics in the modern show dog are often considered to be hallmarks of the breed by the old school, and their regret at the loss of these characteristics should be heeded.

Whilst judges can only judge the dogs the exhibitors place before them, it is their responsibility to show loyalty to the breed rather than any individuals. Oftentimes we are told that all judges can do is interpret a Breed Standard, using their natural eye, which is a rather simplistic view of the judge’s remit. It is true that the Standards give us a written description of perfection – some to a greater or lesser extent – but few Breed Standard really go far enough in giving any of its readers a real “feel” for the breed. That will only come through detailed study of a breed’s history, right through its stages of development.

With careful study, and wherever possible consultation with our elders who remember past generations, Breed Standards can begin to take on a totally different perspective. Rather than simply reading that a dog should have a dish face with flaring nostrils, research should inform us as to why that breed required this characteristic. It is a simple exercise to mentally create a blank sheet and ask ourselves what this breed was developed for, and then clearly analyse what specifics would enable it to excel at its job – and even the most glamorous and utilitarian of breeds have good reasons “Why” if you look hard enough.

As our blank sheet begins to fill we can establish in our own heads what is important in any breed – what gives any breed its essence – and these characteristics should always be prioritised in our heads. Whenever we judge any breed we should be ever conscious of the “must haves” and rank the cosmetic and superficial much lower on our list of priorities.

Of course the Breed Standard is an essential tool of the judge, but the reality of the situation is that a deep knowledge of where a breed has come from is guaranteed to place any judge in a better position to be able to steer it in the right direction and contribute to where it is going, and understanding its sense rather than its words is far more important. •

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The Bests oftheWeek

AUGUST 6, 20 2010

Hurricane Ridge Kennel Club Standard Poodle Ch. Brighton Lakeridge Encore Judge Mr. William H. Holbrook Owners Toni and Martin Sosnoff Handler Tim Brazier

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

Dan Emmett Kennel Club Welsh Terrier Ch. Bayleigh Shaireab’s Super Hero Judge Mr. David R. Miller Owners Marilyn Jacobs, Keith Bailey & Sharon Abmeyer Handler Jorge Olivera

Bald Eagle Kennel Club Standard Poodle GCh. Unique Jewel of the Crown Judge Mrs. Nancy Dinkfelt Owners Kathleen Stockman, Diane Keeler, Gail Wolaniuk Handler Gail Wolaniuk

Marion Ohio Kennel Club Saint Bernard Ch. Opdyke’s Drives Me To Drink Judge Mrs. Loraine Boutwell Owners Carolyn Cataldo & Glenn Radcliffe Handler Sandy D’Andrea

Waukesha Kennel Club- Sunday 15” Beagle Ch. Torquay Midnight Confession Judge Mrs. Karen S. McFarlane Owners Mr. & Mrs. Marco Flavio Botelho & Marcelo Chagas Handler Marcelo Chagas

Longview Kennel Club (2) Pharaoh Hound Ch. Northgate’s As You Like It Judge Mrs. Alane L. Gomez Owners Jennifer Mosing & Jenny Hall Handler Brian Livingston

Waukesha Kennel Club- Saturday Smooth Coat Chihuahua GCh. Ayrwen Star Kissed Delight Judge Mr. Randy Garren Owner/Handler Gloria Johnson Longview Kennel Club I Pekingese Ch. Franshaw Hear Me Roar Judge Mr. William Usherwood Owner John Shaw Handler Hiram Stewart Hendersonville Kennel Club Standard Poodle Ch. Dawin Spitfire Judge Mr. Jon Cole Owner Linda Campbell Handler Sarah Riedl Spartanburg Kennel Club - Sunday Boxer Ch. Winfall Brookwood Styled Dream Judge Ms. Pluis Davern Owners D. McCarroll, Mrs. J. Billhardt & S. Tenenbaum Handler Diego Garcia

34 Dog News

Lackawanna Kennel Club - Saturday & Sunday Smooth Fox Terrier Ch. J’Cobe Kemosabe Vigilante Justice Judge Dr. Anthony DiNardo Judge Mrs. Keke Kahn Owners Howard & Sandra Hoffen and Phil & Amy Booth Handler Amy Booth Hurricane Ridge Kennel Club Irish Water Spaniel Ch. Poole’s Ide Got Water RN Judge Mrs. Denise Cornelssen Owners Stacy Duncan, Colleen McDaniel, Cathy Shelby and Greg Siner Handler Stacy Duncan Dan Emmett Kennel Club Marion Ohio Kennel Club Pekingese Ch. Palacegarden Malachy Judge Mr.Douglas A. Johnson Judge Dr. Robert D. Smith Owners Iris Love, Sandra Middlebrooks & David Fitzpatrick Handler David Fitzpatrick Burlington Kennel Club - Monday & Tuesday Smooth Fox Terrier Ch. Slyfox Sneaks A Peak Judge Mr. Luc Boileau Judge Mr. Frank Sabella Owner J.W. Smith Handler Edward Boyes

*

*Breed points, All Systems

Dog News 35

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Dog News 37

1

What is your favorite dog show moment exclusive of a win?

2

My first year to the Garden on my own. Ric Chashoudian was judging, an entry of 17 Miniature Schnauzers after the individual judging he sparred the dogs 2 at a time. I counted down the line.

It was Joan Huber and myself. When it was our turn we both made a huge circle came together in the center, the dogs hated each other, it was intense! Cameras were flashing everywhere! I Made The Cut. Even though I didn’t win the breed that year it was one of the most exciting times of my career, to use what I had been taught against the person who had taught me. It was fun.

3

“Really?” and Which “That’s fine” words or phrases do you most overuse?

4

To be able to Which sing outside talent of my car. would you most like to have?

Joan Huber. She really took me Who is under her wing and taught me what your real life she knew. Besides the obvious hero or grooming I learned from her, but to dress professionally and be a heroine? professional breeder who wants to bred only the best.

5 6 7 If you could Learn to be on time change one and slow down. thing about yourself what would it be?

Other people think I am: I’m a bitch. LOL.

How would you describe yourself in a personal ad?

8 9

Blunt in the nicest way possible, likes to work, can’t cook!

What was your most embarrassing moment at a dog show?

Which judge, no longer alive or judging, do you miss the most?

When I wiped out in a Best in Show ring and yelled out a 4 letter word in front of several peers I totally respected. I was mortified.

Anne Clark. I really looked up to her as a woman who had paved the way for future women breeders and handlers. When I showed to her I was always humbled. And I treasured any advice she ever gave me.

10questions What do you miss the most at dog shows?

That assistants who worked for handlers/breeders for more than 6 months before they knew everything.

Asked of Shawne Imler Born: Baltimore, Maryland Resides: Baltimore, Maryland Marital Status: Married

38 Dog News

By Lesley Boyes

Another Role- Another Costume Fitting Owners: Joan L. Fisher Robert D. Speiser Barbara Wolfe

Handler Extraordinaire!

Phoebe J. Booth 203 938-0226 Dog News 39

40 Dog News

Dog News 41

Last weekend I realized that the hardest part of the year was over for me. Waking up in the morning with only two or three emails and not the 50+ that I had every day since the end of April.

Letter from

Sweden

by Robert Paust

Away for the first two weeks in May, judging in the USA, helped keep me behind in my work. Hotel and friends’ computers did help to cut down the load, but a laptop from a club would have been a huge bonus.

I had an unofficial show when I arrived home to take care of. At the same time entries for the Sighthound show and organizing the big allbreed show we have in the beginning of July was on my plate.

Clubs here usually do all the entries themselves for the smaller shows. We do have a Swedish superintendent doing the all-breeds, which takes a lot of work off our shoulders.

Entries at shows have been down, several shows had up to almost a thousand dogs less than the year before. This has been the result from the planned three day show, here in Sweden, the weekend before the World Show in Denmark, as well as the Denmark show itself. You can only go into an exhibitors pocket so many times before it is empty. And nether one of those weekends were going to be cheap.

The Western Sweden Sighthound club this year had a good entry. At the moment the rules for being a Sighthound champion, includes having a certificate from a Sighthound show or official Sighthound breed club show. Yes it does give us a better entry at the shows, but the idea was to keep the quality of champion sighthounds at a higher level. Unfortunealy the breed clubs have voted to remove that rule from 2012.

This year we had invited three ladies from the USA, Sandi Frei, Betty Richards and our BIS judge Edith Hansen. The rest of the panel included Fredrik Maison (France), Ulla af Huerlin(Finland);Felicty Thompson(Ireland) and Barbara Ruth Smith(USA-Sweden) The day before the show we had decent weather for most of the day, a little rain came in the afternoon, just to help keep the grass green. But, Saturday morning we woke up to a windstorm. On arrival to the show grounds, the perfect show rings we setup the day before were a mess.

Five of the six large party tents were blown over. One was completely unusable and was forgotten about.

The others were twisted and bent into some shape, that could be used, to have the secretaries table and judging under. Within a few minutes we had several people helping and after two hours work we had the makeshift tents put up, tied down and ready to be used with only a ½ hour delay.

One thing that is always amazing is how dog people always have a positive and help fill attitude when it comes to bad weather. Complain yes, but stand there and accept the fact that it is pissing down rain, there is always a laugh and a story about a show that was worse.

The show ended on a better note with the wind dying down and giving Edith the chance to examine the 16 breed winners. She gave Betty Richards BOB saluki Ch.Badavie Konquestador, owned by Anette Nihlen BIS. The weekend after I had the pleasure of judging in Finland, the Red Rose of Kotkan show, held close to the Russian border. Arriving late on Friday I missed the chance to take the sauna and a swim in the ocean!

And back home in Sweden, it was the three day weekend in Jönköping. The Saturday to Monday show had an entry of 11,153 for the three days. Each day having a different dog winning the top prize.

42 Dog News

Swedish bred and owned Standard poodle Ch, Huffish Intensive Care, bred and owned

by Charlotte Sandell, started the weekend for winning under British judge Brenda Banbury..

He is a champion in five countries including the USA. From Russia came Stefan Sinko´s Sunday BIS winner. The Giant Schnauzer, Gloris Rumba was bred and is owned by Olga Seliverstova.

On the last day , Dutch all-breed judge Rony Doedijns found the Pembroke welsh corgie to be his BIS winner. Ch.Nebriowa Cole Haan, another American CH. was bred by Thomas Mathiesen, and the owner is Rita Wilburg and Thomas.

WORLD SHOW 2010, Herning The total entry was just under 20,000, basically a good entry. But some of the club shows, held in conjunction with the World Show had a smaller turnout, than expected.

One of these being the Terrier club. I was to judge three small breeds, Glens, Lakeland and Sealys. An email informed me that the entry was low and my assignment was cancelled. Strange I thought that they could do that without first asking if it would be acceptable to me. I later found out the breeds were given to not a judge on the panel, but a new judge and that my entry for those breeds were 40. Not a bad entry for three small number breeds.

Unfortunately, I was not the only judge to have had that happen. Several others were also suddenly cancelled and I hope they did not lose out on money already paid to attend.

Living in this area, we knew that the grounds and building were large enough for a World Show, but most foreigners were not ready for the 8 halls housing the rings. Rings were also located outside on the way to the camping area. There was also one hall for Obedience and one just for the finals. Two buildings were for the commercial sellers.

The rings were of good size and one building, I felt, could have had better lighting.

The trimmed down judging procedure, no critiques, allowed judges to judge more dogs and be finished in good time for the promptly started finals at 3:30.While the breed judging was done in good time, the finals seemed to take much longer. Some groups were fully represented by each breed within that group.

Group 6,the Scenthounds, seem to be nonending. The poor announcer even had a hard time knowing what breed was walking into the ring.

The extra lap around the ring, taken by everyone in every group, alone took up a lot of time. But, you were kept awake by the high noise level of the music being played.

Parking was free of charge and there seemed to never be a line to get into the show.

By now everyone knows who has won, so there is no need for me to list them. But the big talk was about the next years World Show to be held in Paris the 7-10 of July.. The French tried to be more world wide than the Danes were; five –English judges and one American are on the panel.

If you are interested and want to make plans now, in 2012 the World Show will be held in Austria, followed by Hungary in 2013. •

*

*The Dog News Top Ten List

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Dog News 45

ViewFrom TheRoad

by Carla Viggiano

The Blue Crab Cluster

There are few shows that come to mind, where it can be said that a full range of evening activities to complement the daytime schedule is offered to the exhibitor. I can think of no other venue that is quite so attentive to the needs of both man and dog as the Blue Crab Cluster held in Bel Alton, Maryland.

In a time where it seems that most clubs are cutting back in many areas, the folks that put on the 5 days of events in Southern Maryland have held true to our expectations, and in some cases have exceeded those previously held. For us, the Blue Crab Cluster has become somewhat akin to that annual family get together over the 4th of July weekend- and we look forward to it as such.

For the average exhibitor there are any number of Specialties and Supported Entries in a wide variety of breeds. The choice of the various breed clubs to hold them at Bel Alton is due to the Southern Maryland Kennel Club’s and Rock Creek Kennel Club’s diligence and dedication in helping to maintain (and improve) the “exhibitor friendly” location. Indoor rings within well air conditioned buildings welcome breeds that may prefer a climate controlled environment. And for the performance events there are buildings that offer the same in addition to be separated from the conformation events. There is even a stand alone building for four days of Sporting Breed specialties and supported entries. While this alone drives a continuous solid entry in those aforementioned breeds, there is also attention paid to those showing outside.

Although the Blue Crab Cluster has a reputation for being held during a period of infamous Maryland heat, large fans continuously circulate air under the tents and children’s wading pools provide relief for those canines who choose to jump right in.

Fresh water is readily available throughout the site, for bathing and drinking. And did I mention the indoor toilet facilities (also air conditioned!) which are kept clean and well supplied by the fairground staff. This may seem like a minute detail, but in warm weather this is a big deal for some of us! If this isn’t enough, then there is the ice cream truck. Not just any run of the mill “Good Humor” peddler or “Mr. Ding Dong, “ the frozen delight offered by this gentleman is home made and not to be missed. Flavors ranging from Peanut Butter with Fluff (do you recall that goo-ey

delight of our youth?) to my personal favorite, Coconut Chip- a delectable concoction of vanilla swirled through with chocolate pieces and liberally highlighted by the chewy the delight of coconut. Okay, so I didn’t miss a daily trip to the familiar blue truck, (and I have the extra poundage to prove my dedication) which was wonderfully compounded by the folks at Purina who were kind enough to offer FREE ice cream coupons on one sultry afternoon! But now I’m getting ahead of myself!

The first day of the Cluster kicks off with the Potomac Hound Club’s event, chaired by Ms. Ingrid Gleysteen. Welcoming hounds from all over the country, it pulled in an entry of over 200. I was summoned to the entrance of the fairgrounds to photograph the Blessing of the Hounds, prior to the day’s events.

Early morning light welcomed a new young huntsman and a couple of other riders from the local hunt club along with a selection of “Marydel” hounds from their pack. Adept with both horn and hounds, I was later informed that this young man had been a competitor in 3 Day Eventing prior to his full time position with the hunt. His balanced seat and comfort from his experience in the field was evident, as the small crowd of spectators were treated to an informal show of the packs ability to work as a group. One particular hound by the name of Mayhem caught my eye with his rollicking attitude, however he was called to order quickly by the young huntsman and his assistants. These dogs were in top condition, well trained and presented in expert manner. It was a joy to watch them and an absolute to treat to behold. The good Reverend blessed the pack and then we were all invited to join him in having our own hounds receive his blessing.

Medals of protection were offered to all as the canines received their individual blessings. So the day’s events began...

Although the entry may not have been quite as big as in past years, there was quite a bit of depth throughout the classes and into the Breed. Best in Sweeps Judge Mr. Walter Sommerfelt chose his top four from a ring full of gorgeous hounds. His Best in Sweeps winner was a stunning young Basenji bitch bred by Damara Bolte and Jane Lodge and presented by Ms. Lodge. The placements which followed went to another standout young dog, the Plott owned by Amy Dan and Amanda Alexander (who always seems to have some striking examples of the breed) and handled by Corrine Miklos, then a lovely young English Foxhound handled by the very competent Whitney Meeks, and receiving a SG4 was the 13” Beagle owned by Donna and Clifford Craft. The regular Hound Group followed. Judge W. Everett Dean Jr. presided over the ring and found quite of few of the nation’s top hounds from which to make his final placements from. The weather was really quite pleasant (an unusual experience for some of us at this time of the year, in this particular neck of the woods) and both man and beast enjoyed sunny skies and soft breezes as the day’s judging wound down.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 74

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Dog News 47

Absolutely Smooth Fox America’s Number One* Smooth Fox Terrier Number Two** Among All Terrier Breeds and Number Nine** Among All Breeds

Owner J. W. Smith Absolutely Smooth Fox Terriers 48 Dog News 00

Breeders Joan & Mark Taggart *Breed Points, All Systems **The Dog News Top Ten List & C.C. Systems

Handlers Edward & Lesley Boyes Grass Valley, California 530.272.4940

Terriers

Judge Mrs. Keke Kahn

Multiple All Breed Best In Show & Specialty Winner

Ch. Slyfox Sneaks A Peek

Dog Dog News News 00 49

LandofMilk andCamels

When people from overseas think of Israel, many have the image of a desert country, with people riding camels, wearing bed sheets and living in tents.

Text and photos by Yossi Guy

T

he surprise they get upon landing at the ultramodern Ben Gurion Airport, people in modern clothing, driving late model cars and living in modern buildings – is sometimes quite big.

However, there are still Israeli citizens who answer to the above description – the Bedouins. Arab nomads who roamed the Middle Eastern deserts from Saudi Arabia and Jordan in the east, Egypt in the south and what it now Israel and the Palestinian territories in the west. Although most of them have stopped rov-

ing, they still uphold a large number of their traditional customs, including a distinct division of labor between men and women with the women doing the household and farm chores and the men interacting with other parts of the population. They have almost stopped living in tents and are gradually converting their makeshift tin huts into large stone buildings.

Children attend public school, some go to university, and it is quite rare to find a self-respecting Bedouin without a cellular phone and satellite TV. Among the more traditional of their customs is sheep and goat raising. The flocks are kept in shelters near the owners’ homes, go out to pasture during the day and return at night. Since many a Bedouin regards his flock as prized possessions that display his personal wealth, they do their best to avoid being robbed – another traditional activity in this society.

To this avail, the Bedouins use the local pariah dog, what we now identify and tag as the Canaan Dog, Israel’s only national breed, recognized by the AKC and FCI. One important remark before we continue: the Canaan is not a herding dog in the classical sense of the word, i.e. it does not run hither and thither at its master’s beck and call, driving the goats and sheep in the required direction. It is strictly a flock guardian and its manner in the field adequately displays this.

The fact that some American bred Canaans take part in herding trials is a tribute to their owners, but this CONTINUED ON PAGE 78

50 Dog News

Ch. Saravilla’s Sweet Misty Isle

“Mist y”

Pictured with Judge Ms. Karen Billings.

Handled by Joel Rosenblatt Breeders Mimi Kim Rebekah Mursencavage

Owners Paula Sweet John Lilliston Mimi Kim Dog News 51

52 Dog News

Dog News 53

PETER An Interview with Peter Green

by Karl M. Stearns

Mention the name “Peter” at a dog show, and you almost don’t have to add the last name. Peter Green has spent 60 years in dogs, and 2010 was his 50th Westminster Kennel Club Show. This past show he spent it judging Terriers, but in other years his dogs have been the recipient of Best in Show at Westminster four times.

“Dogs have been very, very good to me”, he told me recently. “I didn’t have a university education. In fact, I left school early. At fifteen years old, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in dogs, so I stopped attending school.”

54 Dog News

GREEN BEGAN HIS LOVE OF

dogs when he worked for his uncle in a kennel in Wales, at the age of 10. “I spent my days helping to care for the 25-30 Welsh Terriers that were in the kennel all the time”, said Green. “It was hard work. I cleaned kennels, helped feed and care for the dogs.

People didn’t have cars or TV then.

We’d take dogs to the local pub and have our own dog shows.” After a few years, at the age of 15, he was allowed to show at Crufts. “I was crazy about the dogs. I knew this is how I wanted to spend my life. I have never wished I could do anything else.” His cousin continues to operate the kennel in Wales to this day.

What a career it has been. Best in show at Westminster four times, Montgomery County Kennel Club eight times, and of course Crufts.

He’s judged Best in Show at Crufts, Montgomery County KC, and has judged 3 years at Westminster.

“I’ve done all the important judging assignments I ever dreamed of doing”, he commented.

At age 20, Green did two years in military service. At discharge, he was offered an opportunity to manage a kennel in Malibu. “You can imagine what that was like for me”, Green recalls. “A young guy from Wales thrown into an entirely different world.

I came from a working class family.

Malibu was a small place, but much different than I was used to. It was quite an experience, but it was an overwhelming one.” After 18 months, Green became homesick and decided to return to Wales, but not without making a stop to show at Westminster in 1960 for the first time.

Green wasn’t to stay in Wales very long. In 1963, an opportunity to run a kennel in Pennsylvania presented itself.

He decided to give the US another try, and ran the kennel for 3 or 4 years. In 1967 he started his own kennel and ran it until he retired 40 years later.

P

eter looks back at those years and pronounces them to be good years and a good life. “It’s hard work to do what professional handlers do. You’re at dog shows at 6:30 AM getting dogs ready.

You get started and show all day, then try to have dinner at 6 PM. After that, dogs need to be let out and fed, then put away for the night. You’re fortunate if you can go to bed by 9:30 so you can get up and start all over again early in the morning. All week long you spend your time trimming dogs. If you get new ones in, they have CONTINUED ON PAGE 82

BEST IN SHOW AND SPECIALTY WINNER CH. SOMERRI DUNHARROW’S DEVIL RAY FLASH GROUP T JUDGE HIRD M KEKE K RS. AHN

A RED, WHITE AND BLUE WEEKEND FOR BRYCE! GROUP FIRST ★ GROUP SECOND ★ GROUP FOURTH Judges Mrs. Robert Smith, Dr. Robert Smith, Mr. Kent Delaney Followed by BACK-TO-BACK PLACEMENTS at Nita-Nee Kennel Club Judges Mr. Lawrence Terricone, Dr. John Reeve-Newson

Co-Owners: SOMERRI KENNELS, REG. Merrimack, New Hampshire

Breeders: Ed Hall Roland Masse Laura Lewis

Owner-Handler: Judy Silker DUNHARROW Winfield, Pennsylvania Dog News 55

y d d u

B ch.

cragsmoor

owners carolyn koch victor malzoni, jr. handlers larry cornelius marcelo veras breeders eugene z. zaphiris matthew h. stander

56 Dog News

goodman

the number one* skye terrier number four* terrier and number twenty-five** all breeds

pictured winning back-to-back group firsts and best in show judge mrs. elaine mathis judge col. joe purkhiser judge mr. joseph joly III

*the dog news top ten list - all breed **purina pro plan top 100 all breed champions Dog News 57

How to Judge a Judge:

TheBeamEffect

By Alessandra Folz

M

s. Maxine Beam has always scared me. I’ll be honest.

She intimidates me like no other. Granted, I am now a foot taller than she is, but I always think of her like I saw her when I was a little kid – towering, in spirit, if not height; keen; sharp and measured. And this fear had always kept me from really appreciating what she offers to the sport.

About a year ago, I watched Ms. Beam judge a very large Weimaraner specialty. And I don’t think it took long for anyone to figure out how she was judging – she did the individual examinations on each dog, and as they were all stacked up together, she walked down the line and made a cut.

She did the one thing judges always talk about doing. People have written so frequently and profusely on the topic. When you bring it up in a judging seminar, people always nod their heads and look agreeable, but I have hardly ever seen anyone do it. And I have never seen anyone do it so obviously, so bluntly. But I suppose there is not much about Ms. Beam that is not blunt.

She sorted the class out by their silhouette.

I know. It seems obvious. But when you really think about it, when was the last time you saw anyone do it? If you did not have the proportions and the lines of a Weimaraner, you went no further.

I was so in shock about the whole

58 Dog News

thing. So amazed. And with this simple foundation to her judging, Ms. Beam went on to have the most consistent Winners Dog, Winners Bitch, Best of Breed and Best of Opposite that I have possibly ever seen.

All too often, we, as breeders, exhibitors and judges, forget the very basics of our breeds. I know as breeders, we do all too much shifting of our opinions of the breed standards to fit what it is that we happen to be producing at the moment. We are afraid to hurt our own feelings, and are unable to be constructive, instead of hurtful, with others.

We, being so emotionally and financially invested in our dogs, fail to evaluate them as breeding stock.

And this is the great success of Maxine Beam. She is no nonsense, efficient and so competent that you cannot get a trick past her. She is unimpressed by our shenanigans as handlers. She is there, simply and beautifully, to evaluate our breeding stock to the written standard. And at it’s most basic, any breed, I would argue, is its silhouette. •

Dog News 59

60 Dog News

Dog News 61

PET TRUSTS

CompleteCareForYourPets

By Christopher Jones

WHY ESTABLISH A PET TRUST? We all know how much our pets provide for us. They give us unconditional love, and are our faithful companions. Studies have even shown that pets extend our life expectancy! With all that our pets provide us, we have the opportunity and responsibility to provide for them. Besides food, shelter and medical care, they rely upon us for companionship and protection. If we do not speak for them, who will?

Approximately 500,000 pets are placed into animal shelters each year because of their owners’ deaths or disability. Of these animals, approximately half will be adopted into homes, and the other half will be euthanized. All of them will go through the trauma of being in a strange environment. We can directly protect against this from happening by providing for the care of our pets in the event of our disability or death. While all states have laws against the abuse of animals, it is only recently that laws have been enacted for

the use of pet trusts: trusts designed for the care of your pets when you are no longer able to do so. Our pets can’t speak for themselves; pet trusts provide them with a spokesperson and protector throughout their lives.

WHAT IS A PET TRUST? A trust is a legally enforceable document that appoints a person or agency, called a trustee, to take custody of specified property, managing and distributing it for the benefit of the trust’s beneficiaries.

With a pet trust, the beneficiaries are your pets, and the trustee provides for their proper care if you become disabled or pass away.

Besides creating and signing your pet trust, you also need to transfer title to the assets that you identify to be used for your pets’ care. This can be a bank account, investment account, life insurance proceeds, real estate, cars, collectibles, or other property. You will need to “transfer” it into the pet trust by changing the title on it from your name to the trustee’s name.

Y

ou should carefully consider your choice of trustee. A trustee is an individual or organization that agrees to be legally responsible for securing, investing, managing and distributing trust assets. Trustees have the duties of a fiduciary to do what your Pet Trust instructs them to do and, must always act strictly for the benefit of your pets.

The trustee will use the property that you transfer to your trust to pay for your pets’ care, and pay fees to the trustee and caregiver, if you so provide. Besides managing the financial part of a trust, a trustee also CONTINUED ON PAGE 86

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Dog News 65

H

ow often do you find yourself wondering, where does the money go? Whether its personal finances or federal bailout money or charitable contributions, it seems that there’s never enough to go around or it always adds up to a lot less than what one expects. As the recession has taken a toll on everyone’s expenses, non-profit organizations have also seen a drop in donations and an increase in the use of Charity Navigator, a web site that rates charities so philanthropists can make informed choices on which ones to support. The ratings may open some eyes, while also shedding light on the goings-on at some organizations and raising questions about others.

The American Kennel Club’s Canine Health Foundation gets a four-star or “exceptional” rating on Charity Navigator, with an overall rating of 60.83, which is a summation score of its combined organizational efficiency and organizational capacity. (For a full breakdown of how Charity Navigator composes its scores, log on to www. charitynavigator.com). Founded in 1995, the CHF is, according to its mission statement, the largest non-profit funder of exclusively canine research in the world. With an emphasis on canine genetics, the CHF seeks to improve the quality of life for dogs and their owners by providing funding for research so diseases can be more accurately diagnosed and treated. According to Charity Navigator ratings, the most recent income statement provided by the CHF is for the fiscal year ending December 2008, which shows total revenue of $3,904,038. However, Program Expenses total $3,959,335, with Administrative Expenses of $517,266 and Fundraising Expenses costing $303,524, bringing its Total Functioning Expenses to $4,780,125, which accounts for a deficit of $-876,087 for the year. The Executive Director of the CHF, Deborah DiLalla, was compensated $153,532 dollars for 2008.

2008 brought the beginning of the downward spiral into the deep

recession we’re still in now, and one would expect to see a drop in revenue for the next couple fiscal years until the economy fully recovers. But, perhaps, with a greater emphasis on touting its high ratings, the AKC can position its CHF as a non-profit worthy of receiving contributions. Of the other charities listed as “Performing Similar Types of Work” as the CHF, two received four stars, the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation with a 61.94 overall score, and the North Carolina Veterinary Medical Foundation with a 60.42 overall score, while two others, the Humane Farming Association in California received three stars (or a “good” rating) with a 56.89 score and the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals received three stars and a 55.23 overall rating.

For the fiscal year ending July, 2008 PETA reported net assets of over $16.8 million, with Total Revenue of $33,202,630 and Total Functional Expenses of $32,996,677, for an excess of $205,953. Its mission statement claims that PETA has “more than two million members and supporters” and it’s “the largest animal rights organization in the world.” It’s President, Ingrid Newkirk, reported a salary of $35,462, while its Senior Vice President had a reported salary of $74,453; a veterinarian, Wendy Taft, had a reported salary of $100,423; and its Director of Media Campaigns, Michael McGraw, made a reported salary of $73,747. At first glance, those numbers may have some scratching their heads. The vice president and the director of media campaigns made more than double the president’s salary?

Then again, PETA does an awful lot of picketing, produces incendiary videos and stages elaborate public demonstrations. Those buckets of blood that PETA supporters toss on people wearing fur cost money, as do those videos depicting purebred dog owners as Klansmen. Other points of interest raised by Charity Navigator regarding PETA: of the four Charities Performing Similar Types of Work, all receive higher overall scores than PETA, with

OFF LEASH

by Shaun Coen

THE

66 Dog News

PetSmart Charities based in Arizona scoring more than ten points higher in overall score (65.91 to 55.23).

Charity Navigator also reports some interesting numbers for The Humane Society of the United States. The HSUS receives a three-star rating, with an overall score of 51.57; five points lower than PETA and nearly ten lower than the AKC’s CHF. It’s Total Revenue for fiscal year ending 12/08 is a whopping $85,837,220. However, with its Program Expenses tallying $71,203,246, and Administrative Expenses registering $4,245,918 and Fundraising Expenses racking up $24,215,236, the HSUS reports its Total Functional Expenses to be $99,664,400, resulting in a deficit of $-13,827,180.

Despite the almost $14 million operating deficit, the HSUS claims to be “the nation’s largest and most effective animal protection organization.”

This, remember, is an organization that spends less than one half of one percent of its budget on hands-on animal shelters, as humanewatch.org reports. There’s an old saying, “You have to spend money to make money,” but $24 million dollars in fundraising expenses? That’s an awful lot of Armani suits for the HSUS’s President and CEO Wayne Pacelle, who was compensated with a healthy salary of $228,981. In the category of other “Charities Performing Similar Types of Work,” the HSUS had the lowest overall score of 51.57, compared to 58.57 for FACT in Illinois, 57.19 for Farm Sanctuary in NY, 59.63 for Animal Welfare Institute in DC and 57.74 for the ASPCA in NY.

F

or anyone considering donating, Charity Navigator helps to understand just exactly where the money is going. It explains how it measures accountability, transparency and a review of each charity’s web site.

In this area, the CHF stands out.

Hopefully, the AKC can capitalize on maintaining such a worthy endeavor held in such high regard and good standing. At a time when the Madoffs and the Wylys of the world continue to garner headlines for making money disappear, it’s comforting to know that the AKC’s CHF is performing as advertised, providing funding for canine research that our beloved companions deserve. The AKC CHF has approved nearly $1 million in new grants for 2010, including studies of heart disease and various cancers, and is seeking blood samples from purebred dogs for its melanoma study. Anyone interested in supporting these causes can log on to www.akcchf.org. •

Mondo Stays in the Blue!

Mondrian

CAN. CH. & AKC GCH., CH. & CKCSC USA CH. Mondrian V.H. Lamslag of Piccadil RE

Thank you Judge Mrs. Ann Hearn for this Group First Win!

Thank you Judge Mr. Timothy Robbins for this Group First Win!

National Specialty Winner 2010 Number 1 Cavalier All Systems 2009, 2010 With 13 Best In Shows!

And 50 Plus Group Firsts! & Multiple Specialty Wins!

Always shows naturally by

Owner-Handler Janet York Dog News 67

I

AND MORE

The World Challenge, The Judges Meeting...

by Matthew H. Stander

Reliant Park World Series of Dog Shows photos by Matthew H. Stander

68 Dog News

see where at the World Show in Denmark a draw was held to determine which section the 43 participating countries would be placed in at the Eukanuba World Challenge Event to be held in Long Beach California. When this event was originally introduced the sections were based on a world-wide categorization primarily based on the Continents from where the participating countries where located.

At some point in refining the processes it was decided to do away with a geographical distribution and to introduce four nongeographical sections arbitrarily drawn by four representatives of various organizations.

Rafael de Santiago, Treasurer of the FCI drew the names for section 1, Jose Luis Ibanez, Eukanuba European Breeder Manager drew for Section 2, Vibe Madeson on behalf of the Danish Kennel Club section 3 and Michael Canalizo Director of AKC Event management drew for Section 4. Section 1 comprises of Argentina, Australia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Mexico, Norway, Puerto Rico, Spain, Taiwan, United Kingdom and the USA. Section 2 Chile, China, FCI Americas & Caribbean Section Show BIS Winner, FCI European Section Show BIS Winner, Finland, Ireland, japan, New Zealand, Poland, Russia, South Korea. Section 3 Belgium, Brazil, Estonia, Greece, Latvia, Netherlands, Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, Sweden Uruguay whilst Section 4 is Austria, Denmark, FCI Asia Section BIS Winner, France, Germany, Italy, North American Breeders Stakes Champion, Portugal and Switzerland. Eukanuba will also in what I believe is a major new sponsorship for them enter a three year contract with the Societe Centrale Canine--the French Kennel Club to include the Centenary World Dog Show in 2011.

One or two personal observations CONTINUED ON PAGE 88

Dog News 69

ADSJ/AKC/DJAA PROPOSED JUDGES FEES SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES July 25, 2010

By Carl Liepmann

T

he meeting commenced at 8:50 at the Reliant Center in Houston, Texas. Present representing the AKC were Vice President of Judges Operation Darrell Hayes and Director of Judges Operations John Wade.

Representing the ADSJ were President Dr. Gerard Penta, and Secretary Carl Liepmann.

Present representing the DJA were President Col. Joe Purkhiser and Assistant Secretary Karen Wilson.

Mr. Hayes advised the group that we will only be discussing the fees and not other suggestions such as closing New York offices etc. He requested that both groups put their recommendations in writing for presentation to the AKC board. He also advised the group that the board wants to revisit the fee idea because income from other charges only results in about $12,000,000 of an annual outlay of about $20,000,000. It was stated that he does not believe that the AKC wants to get into setting judge’s fees (those that judges charge clubs), he felt that it would be improper for AKC to get involved in private contracts. Whatever fee structure comes out of this meeting should not increase the need for additional staff which would be cost prohibitive.

Mr. Hayes said that cost cutting has been introduced throughout the AKC and that he is operating on a six-year-old budget. He believes that they have a revenue problem not a cost-cutting problem. Expenses are escalating and the cost of liability insurance (that has reached $100,000) is just one of the items that falls into that category. Registrations are down, the cost of the ISD department is staggering, and the judges department constantly makes requests for things to streamline the department but everything has to be prioritized.

Because of cutbacks the field staff has been reduced and yet they are still covering about 97% of the all-breed shows but are attending very few specialties. With the cutbacks and the number of clusters it has become very difficult for the office to hire new field staff personnel due to the increased time away from home that is now required.

Mr. Hayes stated that in the past when he needed to hire field staff there would be over 100 applications and now he is lucky to get three or four.

70 Dog News

The AKC representatives then asked for our views. Dr. Penta stated that the ADSJ is opposed to any annual fee for judges whatsoever, for the reasons which have been addressed elsewhere. We (ADSJ) realize that AKC has the authority to levy a fee over our objections. However, if AKC insists on a fee it should be a nominal fee of perhaps $25.00 and apply equally to all judges including delegates and nonconformation judges such as herding, field, agility, etc. We understand that there are between 13,000 and 20,000 approved AKC judges throughout the judging community. We believe that if there must be an annual fee for judges then we should all pay the same amount towards the basic maintenance of mailings, maintaining our web page information, the judges newsletter, etc. Mr. Hayes reported that we have 2,429 judges with 10 breeds or less, 256 with 11 breeds but no group, 799 group judges and 22 all-breed judges. We discussed the no charge to the delegates and Mr. Liepmann said that failure to charge delegates because they cannot charge a fee to the clubs could very well result in litigation. Mr. Wade said that they had already heard that same rumor. The reason that could happen is because there are regular judges who do not charge a fee and therefore they would be discriminated against.

Discussion was held about the cost of processing judges’ applications and Mr. Hayes said that it costs about $180. Mr. Liepmann asked if all judges other than conformation were charged the $25 application fee. The answer was that they did not think so but they would check it out and get that information. They also advised that performance judges must take additional training every five years and they pay for that. We reverted back to the liability insurance at this time and the cost of $100,000. Col. Purkhiser suggested that AKC consider instituting a group policy that individual judges could purchase if they are interested. That would save AKC the cost of the premium. Dr. Penta advised the group that ADSJ has a legal defense fund which provides up to $5,000 of legal fees for our members which preceded, and CONTINUED ON PAGE 90

ch. yarrow venerie starlite express The Number One* Norwich Terrier.

*Breed points, All Systems

Thanks You Judges Mr. Kenneth McDermott, Mattponi Supported Entry, and Mr. Clay Coady, Columbia Terrier Specialty Owner William Pape Breeders Beth Sweigart & Pam Beale Handlers Jessy and Roxanne Sutton *Breed points, All Systems

Dog News 71

By Peggy Wampold • Photos by Christine Kasulis

WhatCrazy PeopleDo onAHot Weekendor “TheDogDaysofSummer”

A

couple of weeks ago, South Windsor Kennel Club received a letter from Cabela’s Sporting Goods store inviting us to participate in their Dog Days of Summer Promotion. I called to get more information and Diane, their contact person, could not give me any information other than there is plenty of shade and electrical outlets and they would provide tables and chairs. This is a corporate promotion and they have never done this before. I don’t know if the company has never done this before or it being a new store, they had never done it before. We decided it would be something new and to give it a try.

Lee and Roger Gerrish agreed to organize and chair the weekend. Ed Lyons who is the treasurer of CDF (Connecticut Dog Federation), President of Windham County Kennel Club and a member of South Windsor Kennel Club said that both CDF and Windham would like to join us. Sue Carr, a dual member of Farmington Valley Kennel Club and South Windsor said that Farmington would like to join us. It is amazing how an embryonic idea can come together so well and so fast with so many different insights and perspectives. We decided to do this, not as individual kennel clubs, but under the Connecticut Dog Federation banner. The reasoning being that in these highly charged legislative times, it is important that we stand together and promote the

concept that we, the dog people in the state of Connecticut, are a large organized block of voting constituents and the best way to publicize this is to get out into the public with our dogs and clubs.

I do not know if you are familiar with Cabela’s, I had never been to the store. It is a gigantic high end sporting goods store. The physical features were ideal for us as it has a very large wrap around covered gallery outside the store. Inside are some very large and impressive displays of wild life in their natural habitat. These displays are museum quality.

Consequently a lot of families bring their children on hot summer days in order to spend time in air conditioning and give the children something to do that is interesting as well as educational. The number of people who come into the store on a weekend was amazing. On Sunday morning there were more than a hundred people waiting at the door when it opened.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 96

72 Dog News

Dog News 73

ViewFrom TheRoad CONTINUED FROM PAGE 46

Mr. Dean chose the beautiful Afghan of John Shaw, and presented with flourish by Marcelo Veras, as his Group Winner, with a lovely Whippet bitch(owned by Bert and Amy Carlson and presented by Justin Smithey) in 2nd place, followed by an elegant Norwegian Elkhound (who is owned by Judith Silker and Somerri Kennels) and another beautiful Basenji (bred by Ms. Bolte & Ms. Lodge and once again presented by Ms. Lodge)in the Group 4 position.

Day two of the cluster brought more of the same incredible weather along with the first of the two shows put on by the Southern Maryland Kennel Club, chaired by Lisa Miller and her very competent team. If ever there should be a guidebook written on the in’s and out’s of a club’s responsibilities and the tasks involved in running a successful dog show, this club should have a chapter all of their own. As I may have mentioned previously, this group of dog show folks knows what it takes and makes it happen in a way that few clubs do. From the littlest of details to the “big picture,” they make it look easy in addition creating an venue where we all feel like we are guests and family members at the event. My day began with the honor of shooting engagement photos of the beguiling Miss Brittani Kettleson and her handsome and always-makes-me-laugh fiance, John Miller. The various backdrops of flower gardens and gazebo’s that are scattered throughout the fairgrounds made it easy to pick a great photo op for the beaming couple. Being a true romantic (and quite the sap!) I was overjoyed to capture the evidence of their love! Across from the gazebo where I was shooting, Ms. Sue Whaley has presided over “the garage sale,” a unique charity benefit which she has organized for the last couple of years. More like an invitation to dive into your best friend’s over flowing closet, the building where Sue has set up her “shop” invites everyone to stop a moment to rummage through the treasures for that perfect item of clothing or antique. I observed hardly a entrant leaving without a bag of goodies, for the benefit of Take The Lead. With a panel of top notch judges to present to, the first day’s entries hovered close to 1,000 dogs. Those dogs who went on to be BOB winners saw some stiff competition in the throughout the Groups.

The afternoon’s weather was still comfortable and all those who gathered around the Group ring were treated to a grand array of fruit presented (but not for long) artistically for those who were fortunate enough to be at the table first! Nothing like a juicy slice of watermelon or a luscious ripe strawberry to nibble one while taking in the judging! Of course that offering was quickly demolished by the appreciative crowd...leaving room for ice cream of course! At the end of the day the Best in Show line up included the Afghan, (yesterday’s Hound Show winner), the very elegant Wire bitch presented by Jane Meyers, the Pyr shown by Mr. Wayne Boyd, the top winning Skye Terrier shown by Larry Cornelius, Kaz and the Toy Poodle, Phoebe Booth and the irrepressible Bulldog bitch, Uli, and Joan Scott presenting her Briard dog. Mrs. Rita Holloway took the helm of her Best in Show arena and with her customary professional demeanor made her decision. This

evening’s Best in Show presentation held special importance to many of us. The day was dedicated to the memory of Mr. D. Roy Holloway, father of retired professional dog man and current AKC Judge, Doug Holloway (and father in law to the evening’s Best in Show Judge) in addition to an icon in the sport of dogs. Doug took his place beside the show chair and BIS Judge, holding the BIS trophy, an incredible wooden chest, artfully adorned with a hand painted trompe l’oeil rendering of the day’s Best in Show ribbon. In our weekly travels I have the opportunity to see plenty of Group and Best in Show awards that clubs offer, and let me to you, this is truly one I would personally like to win! Each Group winner received similar presentations of the day’s ribbon embellished with the club’s symbolic flower (and our beloved Maryland’s) Black Eyed Susans, but done on substantial pieces of natural stone (marble or granite) and set on wrought iron easels, rather than on that wonderful wooden trunk. Purina added their support too, and prizes of dog food in addition to other Purina items were also offered to the various winners.

Additional Breed specific trophies were liberally offered for many breeds, too. And I am enjoying my morning coffee as I write this, in one of three Group placement mugs that were offered in the same theme of the Group ribbons-just don’t tell Mom Strong that I confiscated it before she had a chance to see her Group goodie! And finally the judging finale: Judge Mrs. Rita Holloway chose the multiple Best in Show winning Toy Poodle, Walker, as her choice for the day’s Best.

Where one show’s activities culminate with the the final point to the Best in Show winner, the Blue Crab Cluster just starts to heat up! Last year’s Blue Crab Cluster may have kept us talking about the “talent” among us, for months later, but this year’s performance was one that I doubt many will soon forget either. The always entertaining, Mr. John Miller’s choice to provide a professional hypnotist for the evening entertainment was spot on! Not quite knowing what to expect from the gentleman who graced the Blue Crab stage this year, many of were reduced to tears of laughter as well as outright awe. A local entertainer (from the Eastern Shore of MD) the

H

ypnotist kept us focused on a performance that he has perfected on stages from Las Vegas to Baltimore.

The nonbelievers among us became active participants as well as observers. About fourteen intrepid volunteers from among our crowd of dog show folks (judges, handlers, juniors, breeders and exhibitors of all shapes, sizes and ages) sat facing the audience as we tried to anticipate the unfolding of our presenter’s skills. Personally, I had no preconceived notions of what I was to see and I treated to a night’s worth of entertainment that was nothing short of marvelously intriguing and hilariously enjoyable! Looking to my left I watched with surprise and delight as my usually controlled and contained partner and the equally composed, Mrs. Holloway, dissolved into tears of laughter (bordering hysteria, I might add) watching the cast of characters up on that stage react and behave in all manner of atypical behavior.

Seriously, I thought I would have to separate those two for fear of disrupting the air of quiet concentration necessary for the hypnotic trance to take hold! Returning my attention on the group, the Hypnotist put his subjects through a series of scenarios from driving the car of their dreams and being pulled over by a cop to a number of individual exercises that required the person to respond in ways that only could have been ingrained during the hypnotic trance. Subjects varied in their responses from those who could not focus on the trance and were asked to return to the audience(there were only 3 or four of these folks), to the members of the volunteer group who could not even remember their own names or would CONTINUED ON PAGE 74

74 Dog News

Lola

Introducing

and her New Handler Chris Berg Pictured winning Best of Opposite Sex at the 2010 Westminster Kennel Club, handled on this occasion by Kathy Lake.

Ch. Wise Choice Geliato Sire: Ch. Quiche’s Demetrius

Dam: Ch. Wise Choice Elegant Earnhardt

The Multiple Best In Specialty Show & Group Winning American & Canadian Champion is now being shown by Chris Berg Owners Kenneth & Nancy Almgren Annapolis, MD

Breeders Kathy Wise-Steiner & Nancy Wilder

Handler Chris Berg 302.547.1431 Dog News 75

ViewFrom TheRoad CONTINUED FROM PAGE 74

break out into hysterical laughter or tears dependent upon the cue from the Hypnotist. Not one given to automatic belief in the unexplained, I watched in awe as one of our assistants was told that they saw a movie star (in this case it was believed that they saw Matt Damon amongst the crowded audience) and then was prompted to go get his autograph. Now this particular person that I am speaking of, is not prone to overly dramatic or outgoing behavior while in public, in fact I would even say that she can be somewhat shy given a particularly public moment. But in this case she leapt from her seat in the line of participants and ran directly to the person whom she believed was truly Matt Damon. Imagine our surprise and delight when she threw her arms around the unsuspecting and VERY surprised, John Ashby, and firmly planted a kiss upon his cheek!!! If only I could have stopped myself from laughing and grabbed my camera to catch that memorable shot!!! In any case, the evening’s entertainment is one that most of us will remember for many years to come.

The heat joined us on the second day of the Southern Maryland Shows, which fell on Saturday the 3rd of July and brought in an entry of about 1200 dogs. Specialties continued throughout three air conditioned buildings and while obedience was held in a fourth. The Garage Sale hosted a steady flow of shoppers and lookers throughout the day and Meet The Breeds took place in yet another cool building. As one of many who chose to “camp” while we attended the Blue Crab Cluster, we had the opportunity to hook up to electric and fill our water. An added bonus was one free “pump out,” which was included in the price of our stay. Groups began under a warmer sky than on previous days, but the gigantic fans on either end of the tent kept the air circulating and the people and dogs comfortable. Once again we were treated to a bountiful fruit platter as the judging began. The day’s BIS line up included a young Vizsla dog piloted

by Corrine Miklos (and co-bred & owned by herself and Joan Toepke, Sue Lonabaugh and R. Bernstein), the Afghan captured the Hound Group again, a nice Standard Schnauzer that was owner handled, the beautiful Mini Schnauzer shown by Shawne Imler (you may recall this handsome dog received a Group placement under Peter Green at the Garden), the white Toy Poodle (yesterday’s BIS winner), an outstanding Lowchen bitch (a personal favorite of mine and a multiple Group winner) and a lovely tricolor Pembroke owned by Deb Shindle and Victor Malzoni, presented

by Jane Meyers. Best in Show Judge Mr. W. Everett Dean had his work cut out for him with this group of dogs. But in the end, Corrine and her Vizsla dog won BIS accolades and the coveted wooden trunk!

The evening program was another opportunity to enjoy great food and great company. The AKC Registered Handlers Program offered a Juniors clinic which allowed for one on one instruction with some terrific teachers. Small groups broke out into three separate buildings for in some cases, an hour’s worth of valuable lessons in handling and ring tips. Meanwhile the band started to play in the pavilion while the crowd 76 Dog News

formed a line in front of the food tent. The night’s much anticipated event was the Crab Feast, a Maryland tradition of delight for both epicureans and socializers alike. Not only are the crabs themselves a treat, but the enjoyment of sittin’ and pickin’ and talkin’ while you’re engaged in all of it is an event not to be missed while on the DelMarVa peninsula.

Of particular note were a couple of tables of judges. At one table a noted breeder/judge handled her own libations in a very stylish manner-carrying her “girlie drinks” in a little tin pail. Meanwhile at the adjacent table, one of our well tenured members amongst the judging ranks had forgotten an item of most importance while one is partaking in the crab eating procedure: the apron. Fortunately one was available and the flowers and colors looked sublime on the judge! Dancing and eating continued as the sun began to set on another full day.

E

arly morning dawned on the fourth of July as the Rock Creek Kennel Club, with Show Chairman, David Lidie at the helm, for day three of the all breed shows. Heat and humidity stepped it up a notch, but there were plenty of places for everyone to cool down. And oh, did I mention that there was plenty of ice cream, too?!?!

Close to 1200 dogs were entered for the Independence Day show and it came down to this illustrious seven for Best. Representing the Sporting Group was Judge Terry DePietro’s choice of the Vizsla, yesterday’s BIS winner, Hound Group was the Afghan again, the Pyr got Mr. Dean’s nod in the Working Group, while the previous day’s Terrier winner, the Mini Schnauzer was picked by Mr. Ward. Judge Ann Hearn pointed to the same Toy Poodle and the Non Sporting winner was Uli, the Bulldog, chosen by Judge Joe Walton. And the Herding Group winner, pointed to by Judge Tom Feneis was the beautiful Pembroke bitch once again. Judge Mrs. Ann Hearn’s choice for the 4th of July BIS was the elegant Afghan shown by the equally elegant, Marcelo Veras.

A quiet evening left us all the more refreshed and ready for the final day’s events, once again hosted by the folks of the Rock Creek Kennel Club. The weather continued to heat up, but we were spared any thunder or rain. Free ice cream coupons highlighted the day’s free offerings and who are we to turn down our favorite ice cream....for free???? A decision to hold BIS indoors was well supported by the steamy crowd of dogs and people. How many shows can offer this sort of benefit at the drop of a hat? Although not as spacious as the outdoor rings, it was certainly adequate and much appreciated by all! Group judging culminated in the Sporting Group winner being an exquisite Irish Setter dog, the Hound Group winner was the Afghan (which gave him 5 days straight!), Working Group found a beautiful red Dobe dog handled by the equally beautiful Carissa Shimpeno, as the winner, the wonderful Skye Terrier shown by Larry Cornelius captured the Terrier honor, with the Non Sporting Group win going to the Bulldog and Phoebe Booth. The Herding Group honor was won by an excellent young Border Collie handled by Miss Sara Miller, assistant extraordinare, for my better half, while the Toy Group win was captured by a red IG handled by Justin Smithey for Carol Harris. Best in Show Judge Mrs. Christopher Tilghman Neale’s choice for Best was the Italian Greyhound.

With the coach’s engine running, we finished putting up dogs and equipment and headed into the Southern Maryland sunset and back to the Eastern Shore. Glad to have had the opportunity to share five wonderful days amongst friends and acquaintances at a cluster of shows that have become more than just a “few more shows to attend,”....but more like an opportunity to enjoy time with some mighty fine folks at a real fine venue. Hope to see you there next July! •

MEXICAN CH. ARABY HIGH FALUTIN’ T.T. Sire: Ch MGM’s Man For All Seasons

Dam: Ch Draco On Fire At Araby

COMING TO AMERICA!

FLASH og D s r e n n Wi e Shawne lub C l e n n Ke

Flute quickly acquired his Mexican title and is now back in the U.S. to earn his AKC Championship. He is the product of selective line breeding of very old Boxer bloodlines known for correct breed type and construction.

Look for this very stylish dog at select East coast shows handled by his breeder co-owner, Patricia Dollar Efren G. Soto –Esoto Boxers Patricia Dollar.

Araby Boxers -Since 1969 Hopewell Run Farm www.arabyboxers.com

Victor Bretado Torreon, Mexico www.esotoboxers.com Dog News 77

LandofMilkandCamels CONTINUED FROM PAGE 50

is not the job they were bred for. And actually, they were not bred but just developed at the outskirts of the Bedouin camps, displaying a tight social hierarchy that only allowed the alpha male to breed that alpha female with all other pack members helping with the offspring. Survival of the fittest at its best, with hardly any human intervention.

They are definitely alert and extremely suspicious of any strange noise or person, raising up an orchestra of barks if they decide their territory or charges are in any danger. They may even run threateningly up to the suspect, barking and baring their teeth in a no-nonsense manner.

And since they are usually kept in pairs or small groups, they support each other in this task.

All the above narrative did not come from books, although there are good books on the breed. Just last month, I recruited Marvin Friedman, a local biologist now retired and his friend Tony Penn (both immigrated to Israel decades ago), to take me to the Bedouins living in the vicinity of the town of Arad, where the Israeli Kennel Club held an all-breed show.

Traveling down the road leading from Arad, we noticed a herd of goats and sheep not far off, and sure enough a couple of Canaan dogs with them. I would like to note at this stage, that these dogs were Canaan-like in type, but since they do not have pedigrees only authorized Kennel Club experts are permitted to classify them.

The shepherd did not mind us slowly approaching his flock but when we got relatively close, the dogs began taking an interest in us. In general, one of the dogs was slowly walking along the herd while the other was lying with its head up. Like true guardians, they did not focus on the sheep but on the surroundings, since their job requires them to warn against danger from without, not manage the flock. Since we kept a respectful distance, the flock continued its slow advance down the path and the dogs remained with the goats.

We then dropped in to say hello to an old-time

acquaintance, Eyal Lifshitz. Eyal actually has a camel dairy farm populated with camel cows leased from the locals. He is the biggest (and only) producer of this special product in Israel. Following years of legitimate scientific research by an expert at Ben Gurion University, the milk is proven to have therapeutic properties, including positive influence over auto-immune diseases, gastrointestinal diseases, atherosclerosis and even neurological disturbances, e.g. autism. After gazing at the camels for a while, we asked Salah, Eyal’s camel herder, whether he kept any dogs.

Salah claimed he would never keep dogs because he observes Moslem religious customs that classify dogs as unclean. However, he told us, his brother, the local Sheik, kept a few dogs with his flock. So he took us to his brother’s quarters, another maze of makeshift homes and barns along with new houses under construction. At the edge of the camp were two goat folds. One held several goats and was guarded by a lone dog who turned out to be quite scared of the local man after the latter tried to grab his attention by making intimidating noises. He eventually returned to the shed door and plonked himself down outside it, eyeing us from the corner of his eye.

The other goat shed was a bit larger and at first we could make out a dog a couple of dozen meters from the shed.

With a bit more trouble, we noticed another dog inside the pen with the goats. That dog emerged and seemed happy to see his mate. They were then joined by another dog, had a scratching session together and after noticing no suspicious events gradually roamed away from the shed into the camp.

The third camp we went to was a bit off the beaten trail, but Marvin professed to know one of the men there. Upon approaching the little group of buildings, we noticed no sign of representatives of the male species whereby Marvin warned us to refrain from taking photos of the children and in particular the women. That was an absolute taboo. We noticed a lone Canaan dog at the camp, just lazing around doing nothing in the absence of any noticeable livestock, besides a single baby camel with a hobble. Soon a masculine figure emerged from between the houses and a young boy – young, but old enough to be considered a CONTINUED ON PAGE 80

78 Dog News

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Thank you to the following Judges for recognizing this outstanding dog.

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Owners Pam Charen - PamMar Philip Martin - Phillmar 803 502-0708

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Thank you to Jerry & Joy for selling us this special Boy Dog News 79

LandofMilkandCamels CONTINUED FROM PAGE 78

male representative, came to us and inquired as to our objectives. We attempted to explain we were interested in the dog, of all things, and he sort of understood, but we decided to leave well enough alone and abandoned this camp.

Myrna Shibboleth, a Chicago-born Israeli, resides in a picturesque farm on the foothills of Jerusalem where she breeds Canaans true to standard, sometimes adding outcross blood from dogs acquired from the Bedouins. I asked her when was the last time she had done this.

I brought back two wild born dogs about two years ago, one was a year old male that was caught for me, and the other was a five week old puppy. I have had a litter from each of them, kept a female from the first, and now have a litter from the second, who has grown up to be a gorgeous dog. The puppies are now nearly seven weeks and looking very good, and the dog has been bred to another bitch.

You can see all of them on my website (www.canaandogs. info) - the year old is Sharav me Arad, the wild born puppy is Tsuk Al Kashhar, and the daughter of Sharav is Briza me Shaar Hagai. There is a lot of information and photos on the site about dogs in the desert, also under “Judging the Canaan”, where there is a long article about Canaans in the desert.

Could you please tell me, from your experience and knowledge, do the dogs we saw in the desert look enough like Canaans bred to standard?

None of these are Canaans, they are mixed breeds. It is very rare to find pure Canaans with the Bedouins that live and spend a lot of time in the vicinity of towns - survival is much easier (garbage and such), and all sorts of mixed breeds are able to survive easily. The only pure Canaans now come from remote areas and from the Bedouins leading a very traditional lifestyle.

Why do the Bedouins crop the dogs’ ears?

Most of them don’t anymore. But two reasons - one, because the ears are easily torn in fights, and this way they are preventing injury, and second as a sign of ownership. In some countries, like Syria, they do this with salukis also.

From what I saw, they are still treated as pariah dogs even though they get fed. I saw no relationship with humans, including the shepherds they accompanied. What is your opinion on this point?

80 Dog News

They are pariah dogs. They are not pets, they may have a relationship with the children and sometimes the women, the men do not have any relationship with them. Remember also, that mostly it is not the men that go out with the herds, it is the women and children. They throw them the leftovers, otherwise the dogs have to fend for themselves. They do not breed them, breeding is only by the natural selection of the dogs, and if the Bedouin need a guard dog, they catch a puppy and tie it in the camp until it gets used to them. However, they very much value them as a working tool, and it is rare to find a Bedouin that will be willing to give or sell a dog that is a good guard dog, they are too valuable to them.

Always remember that we are talking about the traditional Bedouin society, not the ones who live in townships and work in the city.

Given half the chance, are Canaans affectionate or do they remain aloof?

Very affectionate and very devoted to their own people, aloof to outsiders. Much more affectionate than any other breeds I have had, but not in an all-over-you silly sort of way - they communicate with you in a way that is absolutely amazing.

Despite Myrna’s plaudits, Canaans are not the pet of choice in Israel. They also tend not to do very well at shows due to their very light stride that does not have the pleasing drive and reach most judges look for. However, one of Myrna’s dogs was reserve BIS a long time ago and presently we have another star, this time a bitch bred, owned and handled by Inna Blayvas (born in Russia). Bat Yerushalayim Shel Zahav has amassed about 10 championship titles in Israel and Europe, has several group wins and last year became the first and only Canaan to ever win BIS at an all-breed show in Estonia. She still preserves the breeds’ characteristics and is true to type.

So this is another Israeli tale of immigrants from the world over, a Bedouin dog adopted as a national symbol and two immigrant ladies doing wonders with the desert-born breed. •

Dog News 81

PETER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 54

to be trained and worked with to prepare them. In spite of all the work, when you don’t do it anymore, you miss it.”

While new exhibitors can get help from their breeders, what do you tell the ones around 10 years or so and who want to advance? “The best way to learn is to work for someone who can teach you to be a good trimmer”, was his answer. “You won’t earn much money, you’ll work hard, but you’ll learn. The people who do this typically work 16 hour days. It’s a lot of hard work. Dedication is required. Now it takes gumption to stand and groom for hours when you could be watching a football game. Grooming takes patience.”

G

reen has more advice: “Watch who’s good at trimming and showing. Practice doing what you see them do. People complain ‘It’s the professionals who always win’. Well, amateurs can have just as good a dog, but it’s the handling that will often win for the handler’s dog. They show so well that they make the competition look poor even though the dogs may be very similar. You don’t have to be perfect, but you have to WORK at being good.

You need to know when to look at the judge, when the judge is watching your dog, when your dog is showing at the right time. Time it. The dogs get bored, too. You need to--save the dog, save the dog, save the dog--then get it at its best the moment the judge is looking.” He continued: “The handler may not seem to be paying any attention, but they are.

Good handlers know when they have to perform, when the dog has to be ‘up’. The lead is in the right spot, the dog is doing the right things.” I asked, “How much time is spent training a new dog?” “A lot of the training takes place on the table while the dog is being worked on,” replied Peter. “They talk to the dog, perk them up. Some dogs are ‘naturals’—just make them interested and they do it on their own. Others need some work to get their 82 Dog News

interest so you talk to them, stack them. Set them up, stand back, look at them, make some noise to get their attention. Expression is very important.

You can take the best dog in the world in the ring, and if he’s not being animated the judge may walk right by because the dog doesn’t look interested.

Terriers need to be animated, keen, or you’ll lose.”

Speaking of terriers, Green had some interesting observations. “In terriers, you must spend a lot of time grooming and training--it’s 80% of showing them. 20% is how you handle. Once you get in the ring, the dog can make himself look great, or very bad. They need to look as if they’re enjoying being in the ring. Sometimes you think you’ve got this one won, and then when you go in the ring the dog decides it doesn’t like the wall or there’s a noise he doesn’t like, he doesn’t like the floor. So you lose out. Try to copy the experience again early morning at a show or take him out to parks, etc., to get him used to noises.”

“Some dogs are real naturals. I remember when I was a kid some fellow came up to me and said ‘I never thought you were such a good handler! You had that dog looking superb. I never saw anyone handle like that.’ Actually the dog was doing it all himself. Anyone could have done what I was doing.

The art is bringing it out of a dog that doesn’t want to do it. Terriers are hard, they’re not like poodles, not like some of these working dogs that will just stand there and look at you. Terriers lose interest quickly. One minute they’re looking at you, then they want to fight the dog behind them. They’ll CONTINUED ON PAGE 84

*Cavalier - The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed

Dog News 83

PETER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 82

remember another dog, something that’s gone on between them, and they’ll want to go back and take another look at the other dog.”

Where do you go from here? “I’ve been judging out of the US for a long time. I’ve been all over the world judging but only recently have worked within the American system. It’s a very slow process, especially at my age. In England it can be slow, too. You have to be invited and there are only 27 major shows. In the US, I’ve got 13 toy breeds, all the terrier group. It’s a slow process.

People who have been showing for 35 or 40 years then want to judge find this system is too slow to get them up to speed fast enough.”

“W

hen you retire from handling, and stop going to shows, it’s like a whole new life.

You’re sitting at home, then you get out to some shows. AKC treats someone not at it very long the same way they treat someone like me. For someone my age (now 73), this system takes way too long. We’re too old to be hanging around. How long can we wait around? I’ll be lucky if I end up with 2 or 3 groups at the most. There are a lot of chaps who’d like to retire and judge, but this is a way of

84 Dog News

life and you don’t want to lose touch with it. If you’re not out showing and at shows, you can lose touch quickly.”

Peter continued his observations: “Good judges are getting older and older. Many in their 50’s would like to quit handling and become judges but they’re not given the opportunity. The process is too slow for them and they can’t afford to quit handling and spend the time it takes to get enough breeds to make it worthwhile.“ Do you think it’s having an impact on the quality of judging? “Yes, you don’t have enough people with enough background to judge well. They might do all the seminars, get through all the paperwork, but never had more than a few breeds. Maybe they never even had any really good dogs. You’ve had to have good dogs in your care, or bred them if you’re going to be able to recognize them. I’m not griping about the system, but it IS a problem.”

KS: You have always taken the time to encourage people.

Peter: “What always annoyed me is an arrogant judge ordering people around. They don’t realize the exhibitors are keeping this business going. Without exhibitors we wouldn’t do this. If I see someone who seems very keen, but has a poor dog, I encourage them privately to try to find a better dog or get a new breed.

The problem is that if they’re not encouraged, then they may get frustrated and quit. Or they think that it’s all fixed, there’s no way to win, but that’s not really true. Sometimes there just are better dogs. I once told a judge who was pompous, ‘How can you treat people that bring you 20 or 30 dogs this way?’. Often if I judge a dog that’s really nice, I try to help the person handling to get the dog to show better to me. Some people have really nice dogs but they mess them up. I think people would be good to go to handling classes to learn better techniques.”

“I’m not planning beyond dogs. I have pretty good health, I have my son still in dogs, Bethie is still breeding. I get up every morning with two dogs sitting on the bed. From where I came from as a young person, life is very, very good for me now.

I think it’s important to be nice to people.

It’s a good thing.

You never stop learning, you can’t. You always learn in this business. It’s a good life. •

Judge Mrs. Ruth Zimmerman Owners Dr. Ellen Kennedy & Mary Ann Gallagher & Carole Mohr-Rio Keynote Boston Terriers Philadelphia, PA

Professionally Presented By Chris Berg & Kellie Fitzgerald

Breeder: Carole Mohr-Rio Classic Ocala, FL Dog News 85

PET TRUSTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 62

“

Still not sure who to name? Start by asking your local or regional rescue organization or shelter for ideas; they may even have programs in place that you can use.

”

provides a basic checks and balances by reviewing the caregiver’s fulfillment of pet trust instructions.

A caregiver is an individual or organization that agrees to be legally responsible for the day to day care of your pets. Their role is similar to a guardian for minor children. Their duties include providing housing, food, exercise, training, grooming, socializing, and medical care for your pets.

The caregiver will care for your pets as you instruct them in your pet trust.

You should always verify with the people you choose to be trustees and caregivers that they are willing to do so. Recommendations include: friends that already have similar types of pets, family members who already have pets and would be willing to take on yours, family or friends that maybe do not have pets but would be willing to take care of your companions when the need arises.

Still not sure who to name? Start by asking your local or regional rescue organization or shelter for ideas; they may even have programs in place that you can use.

While you can provide for your pets in a will, this approach has several limitations. Wills only address what happens when you die, and do not address the care of your pets if you become disabled. Wills require court involvement to appoint an executor and oversee the distribution of your estate. There is a delay between the owner’s death and the probate of the will.

What happens to your pet companions during this waiting period which could last 86 Dog News

months? Money will not be available for your pets’ care until completion of that court involvement.

Living trusts, on the other hand, are in effect the moment that they are signed.

Typically you serve as the initial trustee, and your successor can take your place with no delay in the care of your pets. Trusts are more flexible than wills; you can specify, in detail, the care that you want provided. No court involvement is necessary.

HOW MUCH MONEY IS NEEDED TO CARE FOR YOUR PETS? The amount needed for the care for your pets over their remaining lifetimes includes determining your pets’ longevity, the cost of their regular annual care including insurance, the cost of possible extraordinary medical expenses, and the trustee’s and caregiver’s fees. We recommend that your caregivers and trustees receive compensation for their generosity in providing the continuing care for your pets as well as a pet insurance policy to make sure they are properly cared for in emergencies.

A

great resource for annual pet costs is the ASPCA (http://www. aspca.org/adoption/ pet-care-costs.html).

We recommend using ASPCA’s estimates as a guideline, then, review your actual expenses in each of the categories listed to come up with your own annual expense. Add what you would like for your trustee and caregiver compensation and you now have a realistic annual budget.

Now simply multiply by your pet/companions estimated remaining life expectancy.

Remember that your pets depend upon you to provide for their care and well being.

Don’t wait to take the steps to protect them for the rest of their lives. A little effort now will provide you with peace of mind, and you pets with lifelong care.

Christopher Jones is an attorney specializing in estate and trust law. He is also a co-founder of Trusted Pet Partners, www. trustedpetpartners.com, an online document preparation service that gives pet owners an affordable, simple-to-use option to create their own pet trust. •

GCh Bruno Della Vecchia Roma the Number One Neapolitan Mastiff All Systems Multiple National Specialty & Multiple Group Winning “A Working Dog Contender” • “The Real Deal”

Judge Dr. Ronald Spritzer

Owner: Janice Wolf DVM

Stud Inquiries (806) 367-0606

Conditioned & Presented by: Anthony Gurrola (806) 367-0606 Dog News 87

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 68

about the above--last year there were a total of 42 invitees--the new guy on the block is the winner of the North American Eukanuba Breeders Stakes which will be selected by a Judge yet to be named from I believe it is three or four US winners of these Stakes and one from Canada. Draw your own conclusion about that category. I have mine which is Eukanuba’s ball game and they can do what they want. Do I consider these stakes on a par with a national representative from a kennel club or with a sectional BIS Winner-no I do not but really some of the representatives and the countries and or territories they represent insofar as the quality of the dogs being shown there maybe equally questionable. Makes for excitement and good press for sure but is there automatic quality in competition because one is a top dog from a club recognized

by FCI in a particular country--I think not. Similarly I think that the new break down--non-geographic in nature dilutes rather than increases competition amongst the competing countries but there again the original geographic setup was probably changed in order to make for more even competition amongst the representatives than to provide excitement in the competition itself.

Another observation I would make about the World Challenge Competition held in Long Beach California as the EUKANUBA-AKC INVITATIONAL is that it seems to be run by Eukanuba Europe.

Now then I don’t get to see all the dog

AND MORE

The World Challenge, The Judges Meeting...

88 Dog News

papers published in Europe other than OUR DOGS and DOG WORLD in the UK. If there are other weeklies I don’t know them and even if there are monthlies they are not printed in English so I would not know what was being said in any event. But one thing is clear--OUR DOGS is surely being used as the promotional vehicle in the UK for Eukanuba Europe and the FCI as well. FCI by the way is largely a non-entity for the powers that be in the UK. Indeed one of the OUR DOGS issues had a supplemental section devoted to the World Show in Denmark (which made no mention I may add of the Danish Governments ban of 14 breeds and the alert status of three other breeds - see Editorial this week) treating it as the FCI itself does as though this horrendous BSL situation does not exist at all. If they did mention it I missed it totally unlike DOG WORLD which properly reported the new laws. Anyways in this section was a full page advert congratulating the three dogs which would be representing their countries in Long Beach as a result of their victories at the World Show.

Included in the advert were the logos of the FCI AND The American Kennel Club which are printed with this story. Since FCI has no official place in America I could not understand what this means. I called AKC and was told oh that’s a decision of Eukanuba Europe and they have used our logos in the past in this manner. You mean to tell me that this use of AKC’s logo with FCI is just bandied about without any one’s okay--I doubt that strongly. Just what has our relationship with the FCI developed into I would like to know.

In another matter in the altogether I see where AKC Judges Department met in Houston with two of the Judges Associations. The Minutes of the judges associations are printed elsewhere in this issue--Was this a public meeting? I mean I was in Houston and nary a word about the meeting was mentioned to the press.

Well maybe it does not have to be but let me tell you one thing this is a perfect example of selective reportage AKC has become so famous in implementing.

They tell you what they want to tell you when it is convenient for them else nothing is said. Was the meeting even necessary--not to my mind since this is not a management-union relationship but so long as AKC got hornswoggled into holding the meeting why not go public with it is something to ask.•

Westchester Kennel Club 2010

T

his year, the Westchester Kennel Club – an entity with a proud and fulsome tradition constructed over more than a century – is shifting an element of that tradition.

Beginning in 1905, our Show moved from site to site across Westchester County, from fairgrounds to polo grounds to county parks. But, for the past thirty-six years, our All-Breed Show has been held at Lyndhurst, the historic estate on the banks of the Hudson River.

Not in 2010. We have decided in this year to join with the Somerset Kennel Club and the Tuxedo Park Kennel Club, and, on Sunday, September 12th, we shall be the final Show of a grand three-day cluster at North Branch Park in Bridgewater, New Jersey.

We hope that this relocation will serve the interests of the Fancy, affording convenience and avoiding the necessity to shift location on a Saturday evening. (And we apologize to the Tappan Zee Bridge.)

Elements of our tradition will certainly travel with us. The Sabatino Duo will perform the National Anthem; David Frei will resonate on the speaker system; Bob Seaver will sketch your dog; Roger Knoop will conduct Canine Good Citizenship; and Chris Reid and Debbie Menichelli will afford informative Show Tours for spectators.

None of this could have been executed without the enthusiastic and very professional guidance of the Somerset Kennel Club, and, in particular, we thank Dave Helming, Lee Walker, and Lisa Warren for their support. (And Kuno Spies for broaching the opportunity.)

And none of this would even be possible without the diligence and commitment of our own adminstratrix extraordinaire, Linda Duane, and the continuing support of our Chairman Emeritus, Judson Streicher.

We thank Pedigree, our loyal sponsor, and trust that this initiative, tailored to the convenience of the Fancy, will redound to their benefit as well.

And we look forward to seeing you – and your dog(s) – on September 12th.

The Officers and Members of the Westchester Kennel Club Dog News 89

ADSJ/AKC/DJAA PROPOSED JUDGES FEES SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES

July 25, 2010

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 70

perhaps prompted, the AKC insurance.

Mr. Wade asked if we felt that the $25 application fee should be increased. Both organizations responded with “no” and Col. Purkhiser stated that if the proposed judges fee is more than a nominal amount then the application fee should be abolished.

Mr. Hayes said that speaking for himself, the board, and staff that the AKC values their judges, they are important to the sport, but the breeders are the foundation and with the drop in registrations it has become very evident why they are so important. Registration is the biggest income source for AKC. Dr. Penta asked if the board was going to engage in more P.R. to promote the AKC. Mr. Hayes gave an overview of the possible use of celebrities to get the message out. It was agreed that our brand name needs to be promoted more. Mr. Hayes stated that the cost of a TV spot is prohibitively expensive. Dr. Penta suggested that the AKC look into print, radio and internet ads.

Mr. Wade again asked what can we do to continue to provide a service, what would we suggest as alternative sources of income. Dr. Penta asked how many registries there are now across the U.S. Mr. Hayes said that there are about 53 and most of them are having the same problems as AKC. The Continental KC is registering almost all of the pet store puppies because they rebate a portion of the registration fee back to the store. Therefore, the store promotes that registry over the AKC. Many of these registries do far more promotional programs than the AKC. Dr. Penta suggested that the AKC explore regaining some of those lost registrations but first must educate the public of the advantages of an AKC registration through more intensive PR work.

We went back to the fees that judges charge clubs for judging. Mr. Liepmann said that it should not be construed that a judge’s fee is all profit. All have out-of-pocket expenses for cleaning, dog sitters, missed flights, overnight stays at airport hotels because of flight cancellations, and many more additional expenses. In other words is not all profit.

Mr. Hayes asked if we had any thoughts on a judges fee based on the number of groups a judge has. Dr. Penta said that doing it by groups or number of breeds is an attempt to mimic an income tax. He said that a modest flat maintenance fee is the least objectionable because all judges are listed in

90 Dog News

the directory and it costs AKC the same to keep records on every judge regardless of the number of breeds.

Col. Purkhiser relayed that his judges group sent out a questionnaire and 21% of his membership said no fee should be charged, 5% said maybe, and 74% said yes. The clear majority were in favor of the fee being a $50 flat fee. They also felt that people with 10 breeds or less should not be charged. All felt it should be across the board including delegates. The DJA board voted to present, to the AKC the figures as received from their membership. Their memberships also voted that judges with less than five breeds not be charged. They also asked their memberships if solicitations should be allowed and the results were 46% yes, 54% no.

We were all in agreement that if you already have an assignment then you should be allowed to notify the club of your new provisional breeds. Mr. Wade will propose that change to the board. He also will proposed that AKC do away with the 30-day waiting period after publication of new breeds. Everyone agreed that would streamline the application process and would be a welcome improvement.

Discussion went back to the question of fees. Mr. Hayes said that it is his understanding from our discussions, that if there must be a fee then it should be a flat maintenance fee, and across the board to all conformation, obedience, and performance judges. Dr. Penta said he wanted to make the ADSJ position clear. Although we have been discussing this option, we are opposed to all annual fees for judges, including a nominal flat fee for all judges, which we recognize is the least objectionable of the alternatives. Mr Hayes again requested that each group provide him with written proposals and suggestions prior to August 20, 2010 and limit the presentation to three pages. Dr. Penta asked if the board had given staff a dollar figure that they were trying to attain. It was given to them as 30% of costs and that amounted to between 2.1 and 2.6 million dollars.

ADSJ and DJA thanked the AKC staff for seeking our input and the meeting ended at 11:30 AM. Respectfully submitted by, Carl G Liepmann for the ADSJ •

Dog News 91

the

Gossip column The Next Generation arrived last Monday, August 2nd with the birth of ISABELLE VOGELS, weighing in at 7.2lbs., daughter of MEGAN & PHILLIP VOGELS, who is the son of DAVID & CINDY VOGELS, who is the daughter of GENE & JACKIE GOTTLIEB… you get the picture… so a big family group hug to all and our love and congratulations.

Imagine having JACKIE GOTTLIEB for your Great Grandmother, what a lucky little girl. Now if ISABELLE can only keep up with her!!! Holidaying at DAN & AMELIA MUSSER’S very grand and tranquil Grand

92 Dog News

By Eugene Z. Zaphiris

Hotel on Mackinac Island were BOB & JANE FORSYTH, GEIR & NENA PEDERSEN, BETH SWEIGART & PETER GREEN. I’m sure that there was a lot of golf, except for BETH & PETER and JANIE, who has just started hitting balls again following her recent shoulder surgery. According to the US DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, in the last five years CONTINENTAL AIRLINES had the most deaths of dogs and cats on their flights than any other airline.

The five-year

period, which ended in May of this year, claimed the lives of 41 animals. Mark your calendars for Saturday & Sunday, October 16th & 17th for the second stand alone MEET THE BREEDS, a joint venture of the AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB and the CAT FANCIERS ASSOCIATION, the pedigreed cat registry.

Last year’s event drew over 36,000 people and this year with a larger advertising budget a larger crowd is anticipated.

Also, last year some parent clubs were not in attendance, which totally misses the point of the event. Hopefully, this year every breed will have a presence and

be represented.

Just imagine all recognized breeds by the American Kennel Club joined by all the breeds recognized by the CFA under one roof. If any parent club has yet to sign up for booth space at this event, contact GINA DINARDO at 212.696.8350.

The event is underwritten by PET PARTNERS, the pet insurance company used by the American Kennel Club. Pet insurance in this country is catching up in popularity as it is in England, where a great percentage of dogs are insured. DANNY DUNLAP, the

longtime assistant to retired handler KYLE ROBINSON, passed away at the age of 46.

After calls to his home went unanswered, DANNY was found dead by a friend. When KYLE retired, DANNY went out on his own as a handler for a brief period and then went to work for DENNIS MCCOY & RANDY GARREN. Our deepest sympathies to his family. KYLE, of course, for those one or two of you who didn’t know, works as the ace travel agent for ONOFRIO DOG SHOWS ticketing judges, handlers and most of the dog traveling public.

LLEY A V C A LOMP LUB C L E N KEN

k c i cl y photos b SIMIS E I L S E L

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Dog News 95

WhatCrazy People Do...

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Saturday was unbearably hot and humid, but our dogs were back against the wall in shade and with many fans on them. We had the dogs in ex pens, on grooming tables or just setting with their owners. We also had dogs in crates to demonstrate that crates are not the horrid things some people perceive them to be and that dogs feel comfortable in their crates. The people manning the tables were not as fortunate as the fans were for the dogs. Lee and Roger had scheduled the people coming with dogs to come for three hours shifts as it is very exhausting to the dogs to have to be so entertaining, get so much attention and to give so many warm slurpy kisses. We hung the individual club banners high on the wall up and behind the dogs and covered the tables with the AKC runners and literature. We gave out crayons with the AKC coloring books and purple and gold beads. Purple and gold are South Windsor Kennel Club’s colors and we throw the beads from our float when we are in parades. I was born and raised in New Orleans, need I say more. Kids and adults loved the beads; you would have thought they were real gold and amethyst, the way the people carried on.

Lee and I did grooming demonstrations and explained to the inquisitive people watching us the why and the how of what we were doing. We had quite a few people ask us about the Canine Partners Program and Lee, who is very active in obedience and agility, talked to them about what they can do and how much fun it is. They took the applications to send in to AKC, now we just have to wait and see if they do send them in. We answered many questions on registration and why they should register their dog with AKC and not some other registry.

W

e were mobbed with families coming to see our dogs and were rather hoarse at the end of the day from talking to them.

I had my two Irish Setters in an ex pen. After their morning stint of grooming and being canine ambassadors they laid down and went to sleep.

I cannot tell you how many people came by and looked at them and told me how beautiful they were but that they had always heard that Irish Setters were hyper nut cases (their words, not mine). I would explain that they are a very intelligent breed, bred to hunt and think for themselves and that they need a lot of exercise, but if bought from a reputable breeder and given a lot of exercise they are not the least bit of a “nut case”, and then I would ask “Do those two look hyper?” They were too exhausted from their morning’s activities to as much as lift up their heads. I heard all of the others with dogs explaining about their breeds and trying to correct some of the misconceptions that the general public has about our breeds.

I can only encourage all of you, that if you get an invitation from Cabela’s to participate in their Dog Days of Summer promotion to do it. We were not the only participants, there was a training facility or two, a veterinary hospital, several rescue groups, Fidelco and the East Hartford Police Dog unit was there also. If you think you carry a big tack box, it is nothing to what the police dog’s handler’s carry. The whole trunk of the cruiser is their tack box and the cruiser has a special sensor so if the temperature goes to a certain temperature, an alarm goes off and all of the windows open automatically. I was very impressed.

We were there to promote responsible dog ownership, The American Kennel Club and the Canine Partner’s Program. People, please do not be complacent and think that you and your breed are not affected by what is going on all over the country. We all have to take the time and get out at every opportunity to promote pure CONTINUED ON PAGE 98

96 Dog News

TRUTH BE TOLD

IT’S BRANDO! BEST IN SPECIALTY SHOW WINNING

GCH. HOLLEDANE’S KID RIO V SLIGO Thank you, Judge Mr. Jim Briley for this Group Placement 7/11/10.

Thank you, Judge Mrs. Judith Goodin for the Breed win on 7/9/10.

Owners Ken & Shannon Wall shannonwall5@msn.com Suzzane Kelleher-Duckett

Handler Dick Schaefer 818-421-1080 Assisted by Josh Washnesky Dog News 97

WhatCrazy People Do...

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bred dogs. Remember the animal rightists are telling people they do not want a pure bred dog, so it is up to us (that means you and me) to tell them why they want a pure bred dog. It is up to us to tell them why they should register their dog with AKC and that not all registries are the same. We met a man who brought his dog and insisted it was a pure bred Portuguese Water Dog and was registered with some registry, we were not familiar with. It no more looked like a Portuguese Water Dog than I look like a candidate for the Miss America competition. Ed Lyons had brought a big pile of dog magazines and showed him a few pictures of Portuguese Water Dogs and he was flabbergasted. (tip: If you do these kinds of public education events, bring your old and well read dog magazines the people took them as if they were gold).

Please think about this. It won’t do you any good if your dog is a champion, if no one wants to buy your puppies because they are pure bred dogs and they have been sold the bill of goods that shelter dogs are better. It is up to you to promote the virtues of pure bred dogs and your breed. It is up to you to promote the advantages of having a dog registered with AKC, remember there are over 30 other registries out there.

Unless you promote the AKC registry as the best, you are eventually going to have to sell your puppies for the same amount of money that the shelters are getting for their animals, or maybe less because they are pure bred dogs. If you are not willing to give of yourself and your time to get out and do public education and promote the sport and pure bred dogs, you may not have the sport to participate in and your breed may be extinct in a few years. It really comes down to how much you love your breed and the sport and how much you are willing to give back to it to keep all alive. You may not want to acknowledge this, but you better, because we are at war and our very existence is at stake. PETA and HSUS are spending millions of dollars each year to campaign their agenda which simply put is that pure bred dogs are bad, dog shows are bad, breeders are bad and we, in general, are bad.

We need to be out there at every opportunity to tell the public the truth. We do not have the millions of dollars that they have, but we do have the people and the dogs to dispute every accusation they make and we need to be pro active and not reactive. Please get out at every opportunity and try to educate the general population about the wonderful nature of our pure bred dogs and our sport and that the American Kennel Club is the best thing that pure bred dogs have going and all dogs benefit from all that AKC does for dogs.

Everyone should be willing to give back as much as they get out of something they enjoy and now is the time that we all have to give of ourselves and our time to promote our breeds that we love and the sport that has given so much pleasure to us.

T

he other great aspect of doing public education is that your club members get to be good friends, sitting around with their dogs at these events, they get to know each other and your club becomes a very cohesive group. Also, people come see the fun the club is having and want to join the club. Public education is a win win for the club, for the members, for the sport and for the participants. Tomorrow South Windsor Kennel Club is taking our dogs to the Channel 3 Kid’s Camp, something we do several times each summer. The kids love it, the dogs have a great time and so do we. Remember a dog’s show career is a very short time compared to the time you have him and it is fun to do things with him other than bathing, grooming and running around a show ring. •

98 Dog News

The Multiple Best In Show Winning

Ch. Aned’s Le Rocher Noir

“Stoney”

Judge J d M Mr. M Mark kK Kennedy d Owner: Judy Wells Breeder & Handler: Ed Simanek Breeder & Owner: Maryann Simanek Dog News 99

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