Alaska
DOG News
March/April 2011 Alaska’s only companion dog publication since 2008
Irish Wolfhound Iestyn’s Cüchülin Page 7
free!
In this issue Page 2 Editor’s note: THANK YOU! Page 3 Dressing for the cold- Claudia Sihler Page 4 & 9 Club listing Page 5 Save-the-Date Page 6 Village Dog News from Aniak Page 7 Meet the breed – Irish Wolfhound Page 8 Alaska SPCA News Page 10 Shelter page
www.AlaskaDogNews.com
Page 2
Alaska Dog News • March/April 2011
Dear Alaska Dog News Readers, The New Year kicked off with a large seizure of dogs in the Mat-Su borough that rocked dog lovers far and wide. While the case is still in process, a lot of good came from the event. Alaska Dog News received a number of phone calls and emails with requests for ways people could help. We got in touch with borough administration to find the best way for the public to donate. We joined with Julia Durand of Alaska Dog and Puppy rescue and set up an account at Wells Fargo Bank. The bank account number was made public for donations and we watched in awe as the donated funds gained momentum. At the same time, pet supply stores set up donation accounts for goods and food. Within 24 hours car load after truck load dropped off everything a shelter could use. Volunteers and staff set up a supply chain packing food, blankets, towels and pet supplies at the shelter. So much came in that storage units had to be brought in. The outpouring was completely unexpected and so overwhelming that the shelter staff had to close one day just to take stock, catch up on cleaning and catch their collective breaths. Residents and rescue groups stepped up to nearly clear out all of the adoptable dogs that were in the shelter before the kennel seizure. Volunteer orientations have been packed with new recruits. I think we can say, as a community, we have done everything we could do to help. At this point the Mat-Su shelter estimates more than $100,000 of goods and funds have been donated. Alaska Dog New wants to personally thank a few people. They are the reason we were able to reach above and beyond our original goal: KTUU Channel 2Mike Ross Todd Walker Rebecca Palsha, Lori Tipton and Maria Downey for keeping the rescue efforts in the news. ADN- Kyle Hopkins (journalist) and Mike Lewis (DogBlog moderator) Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman KTVA - Andrea Gusty And Paul Leishaman at Wells Fargo Wasilla Branch for helping us manage over $38,000 in donated funds.
About Alaska Dog News Published since 2008, Alaska Dog News is published monthly and distributed throughout Southcentral Alaska and at events in Alaska as time permits. It’s mission is to get people out and active with their dogs and to help curb the cycle of returned dogs to our shelters. Purebred and mixed breeds are represented equally. We support the good works of our municipal shelters and rescue organizations as well as responsible breeders working to improve their breeds. We welcome thoughtful contributions to the publication from writers, photographers and animal professionals. Feel free to contact us at: www.alaskadognews.com Through FACEBOOK “Alaska Dog News” AlaskaDogNews@mtaonline.net 907-357-9386 Monday – Friday 8am-6pm Alaska Time (one hour earlier than PT) Ad pricing can be seen on the web site.
Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, our cover boy and meet the breed this month is the Irish Wolfhound. Thanks for reading Alaska Dog News. Linda Henning – editor/publisher 357-9386
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Alaska Dog News• March/April 2011
COLD WEATHER: WARM CLOTHING
L
Page 3
Find your new best friend at the Mat-Su Borough Animal Shelter
et’s face it; we’re all tired of this extremely cold weather. We like snow, we like winter, but ongoing temperatures below 20F are hard to sustain.
Monday – Saturday 11– 6:30 Closed Sunday
This year I even had to take my sled dogs in the house. At below zero one of my 10 year old sled dogs started shivering, no matter how much straw I put in her dog house, so I decided to take her in. Then I thought I’d better take the other 10 year old as well, and then I didn’t want to leave the 5 year old out alone – So they all ended up in the house for quite a while.
907-746-5500 Search for a lost or new pet at
But, in the end they’re still sled dogs, and enjoy running around out in the cold. Even at -5F, I dress myself in arctic winter gear and take them mushing whenever time allows. That means I wear super warm boots, snow pants over a pair of thick sweat pants, a coat that could even serve as a sleeping bag, with a ruff to keep the wind off my face, a hat, scarf for the face, and warm gloves with hand warmers.
www.petharbor.com
updated hourly
My sled dogs don’t need any gear when they’re running, but because of their stay in the house they stand in front of the door when we come home, instead of at their dog houses. They learned fast. I guess we now have 5 house dogs.
Help us help the abandoned, and abused animals of our borough. We cannot do it alone, but with your help, we can do so much. If you see animal abuse, neglect, have lost your pet or find a lost animal please, call the shelter. Volunt e 9470 E. Chanlyut Circle, Palmer Do you ers Wanted love a Y o u Off the Palmer-Wasilla Hwy. can be a valua nimals? ble v the Ma at 49th State St. t-Su She olunteer at lter. Learn n next to Central Landfill Prepa ew s
I always take Sally with me when we go mushing. Alaska Dog News’ Daisy in her Manmat jacket She runs in harness with the team but doesn’t really pull anything unless she sees a moose on the trail. Sometimes she gets to run free with the team, which she likes the best. She needs to wear booties below 10F, otherwise she starts lifting her feet from getting too cold. It looks like a bad limp, like she stepped in a needle. As soon as she’s on warm ground again (in the house), the limp is gone. With booties she can be out in the cold for hours without getting cold feet. She likes it out there. No surprise, she’s half a sled dog, and her grandma went to Nome. I like to take Lucy with me, too. But that non-existing undercoat of my Jack Russell Terrier is always a challenge. She wants to go so badly, and I don’t want to come home from mushing, being tired, and meeting a dog that’s full of energy. I have booties for her and several different coats: knitted, wool, fleece, anorak-like, you name it. I tried everything to keep her warm. The best is if it’s above 20F and she can run in between, only wearing a thinner sweater. Below 10F I have to bundle her up so much that she can hardly move anymore.
907-746-5500
Versatile Hunting Dog Training Clinic in Alaska June 17-19
Cantwell, Alaska The Greatland North American Versatile Hunting Dog Club is holding a field work training clinic led by Jon and Cindy Hann in Cantwell, Friday evening, June 17th, through Sunday afternoon, June 19th.
We were out again for a couple hours with the ultimate clothing: Thick neoprene booties to keep her feet warm, a fleece suit with four legs, covered with a snowsuit with four legs (covering the whole belly), and a “neck round” for her head and ears. She was cozy and warm, sitting inside my sled bag, and very tired from the trip. Of course she had to stick her head out and watch everything, including when we met other dog teams. The only times when we were grounded this winter, were the windy days. At 20mph the wind chill makes it really very uncomfortable, and above 40mph I think it’s flat out dangerous to be outside. But cold doesn’t bother us as much anymore – we just dress up right! Happy outings, Claudia Claudia Sihler, CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer www.bettercompanion.com
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The clinic will cover basic training techniques and more advanced field skills (no water work) for Versatile Hunting dog handlers and dogs. What you will learn: • Understand your dogs instinct and learn to work with it • Build confidence in the field • Understand productive electronic collar use • Retrieving, whoa and MORE.
www.AlaskaDogNews.com
John and Cindy are exceptionally skilled training instructors who have conducted clinics across the country for many years. See more about them at www.perfectionkennel.com For beginners to advanced handlers. $350. The size of the clinic will be limited to 20 people
For more information visit http://greatlandnavhda.org Contact Judy 907-561-3211 jeffanjudy@yahoo.com
907-357-9386
Page 4
Alaska Dog News •March/April 2011
Alaska DOG News
ALL BREED CLUBS Alaska Kennel Club Barbara Brant POB 232151 Anchorage, AK 99523 346-1601
www.alaskakennelclub.org Affiliations: AKC General membership meetings fi rst Monday of each month 7:30 Chugach Electric Building, 5601 Minnesota Dr. Guests welcome. Show-n-Go classes every Friday evening Alyeska Canine Trainers, 549 W. International Airport Rd. Anchorage, AK Junior handlers 5:30 & 6:00 Adult handlers 6:30 March 26 & 27 All Breed Dog Show w/Tanana Valley Kennel Club, Egan Center, Anchorage June 25 & 26 - All Breed Dog Show State Fairgrounds Palmer
Capitol Kennel Club of Juneau
Camille Stephens 9174 Glacierwood Dr. Juneau, AK 99801 info@ckcoj.org www.ckcoj.org 907-789-1157 June 18 Sat & 19 Sun NADAC Agility Trials Dimond Memorial Park #4 (2961 Riverside Drive), Juneau, AK
Cook Inlet Kennel Club Renea Clayton 2935 N. Mosier Ct. Wasilla, AK 99654 (907)745-3674 www.cookinletkennelclub.com Affiliations: AKC Show N’Gos 7-8 Thursdays
July 29-31 All Breed Dog Show November 5-6 All Breed Dog Show at Alaska Fairgrounds, Palmer Alaska
Tanana Valley Kennel Club
Judy Shapiro 907-479-6510 P.O. Box 72019 Fairbanks, AK 99707 Beck@ gci.net Affiliations: AKC www.tananavalleykennelclub.com Obedience, conformation, tracking April 8,9,10 agility trial June 28,29 All breed conformation, obedience, rally July 2,3,4 agility trial
Yukon Kennel Club
Sheila Robertson P.O. Box 31511 RPO Main St. Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 6K8 Phone: 867-668-6634 www.yukonkennelclub.com Janice Gunn:Competition Obedience Training seminar coming April 16 & 17, 2011 June 10,11,12 Conformation, obedience and Rally trials.
SPECIALTY BREED CLUBS Alaska Great Pyrenees Club
Affiliations AKC and the Great Pyrenees Club of America. 11146 Totem Road, Anchorage, Alaska 99516 President, Dale Sherman, dale.sherman@gmail.com. Secretary, Ruth A. Marcy, marwell-1966@gci.net www.alaskangreatpyrenees.com
Alaska Labrador Retriever Club
Affiliations: AKC Zoelea Vey 945 S. Homestead Cir., Palmer,AK 99645 ezvey@mtaonline.net http://thealaskalabradorclub.com Check back for a Sanctioned B match in Fairbanks.
Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Alaska
Tracy Corneliussen 2751 W. Resolution Bay Circle Wasilla, AK 99654 www.bmdcofak.com Affiliations: AKC Call Bob Schmidt (907) 232-1736 bschmidt@akroteq.com
German Shepherd Dog Club of Alaska Sharon White president, 907-333-2346 SLWhite@alaska.net 3553 Robin St Anchorage, AK 99504 Affiliations: AKC
Great Dane Club of Mat-Su Alaska Patty Wolf 907-344-1567 4010 E. 66th Ave. Anchorage, AK 99507 www.gdcm.org PSWolfPack@gci. com Affiliations: AKC, Great Dane Club of America (GDCA)
Midnight Sun Boxer Club Tina Spain PMB 385, Wasilla, AK 99687 www.midnightsunboxerclub.org Shadowriverbxrs@yahoo.com Affiliations: AKC
Midnight Sun Golden Retriever Club
Danette Scholoeder POB 242034 Anchorage, AK 99524 GoldenViewGR@gmail.com Affiliations: AKC www.msgrca.org 262-5369 June 18-19 Independent Specialty and Obedience, Rally Trials VFW Post Anchorage barbara8910@sbcglobal.net
club listings
Rottweiler Club of Alaska
Dian Tamas P.O. Box 140242 Anchorage, AK. 99514 www.rottweilerclubofalaska.org Affiliations: AKC April 16 &17– Pending AKC approval: Rottweiler Club of Alaska Obedience/Rally Trials & Canine Good Citizen/Therapy Dog International testing
Shetland Sheepdog Club of Anchorage
Sherry Sims 10261 Our Rd, Anchorage, AK 99516 simco@alaska.net Affiliations: AKC
Siberian Husky Club of Anchorage
Susan Striebich striebich@aol.com 12041 Jerome St., Anchorage, AK 99516 Affiliations: AKC
Siberian Husky Club of the Last Frontier www.siberianhuskyalaska.org
St. Bernard Club of Alaska Reba Nelson 3900 W. Fairview Lp. Wasilla, AK 99654 907-357-5009 Affiliations: AKC Obedience Clubs
The Working Group Dog Club of Alaska
http://wgdca.org/ For AKC Working Dogs– The WGDCA meets the second Thursday of the month at 7 pm at Pizza Man in Eagle River. Contact marti.rhyne@hotmail.com for more information March 13 Sunday Conformation, Obedience, Rally & Jr. Handling Working Group dogs only ACT training center 549 W International Airport Rd, #A15 Anchorage, AK
PERFORMANCE & TRAINING CLUBS Alyeska Canine Trainers
549 W International Airport Road, Suite A15 Anchorage. AK. Open to the public 6 - 9 pm, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. 907 - 563 - HEEL (4335) Email: ACT@alyeskak9trainers.com http://www.alyeskak9trainers.com
Arctic Streakers Agility Club Find them on Facebook streakerstrials@aol.com
Dog Obedience Training Club of Anchorage Valerie Tomkins info@dotcanc.org 3701-B Checkmate Dr. Anchorage, AK 99508 www.dotcanc.org Obedience, tracking.
Mar. 5-6 Obedience Trials at ACT July 23-24 All breed agility trials October 22-23 Obedience and Rally Trials Affiliations: AKC
Matanuska Agility Canine Handlers
P.O. Box 874015 Wasilla, Alaska 99687 Colleen Cook 907-352-3647 April 30-May 1 NADAC agility trials Sirius Ranch www.AlaskaAgility.org MACH@AlaskaAgility.org
Obedience Training Club of Chugiak Judy Rideout- Pres SitStay@otccalaska.com www.otccalaska.com Obedience, tracking Affiliations: AKC Located at Chugiak Benefit Assoc.,18606 Old Glenn Highway in Chugiak. tervmom2@aol. com
May 13 AKC Tracking May 14-15 AKC Obedience/Rally June 18-19 AKC Agility August 13-24 Agility TBA
Peninsula Dog Obedience Group 907-262-6846 Info@pendog.org Soldatna, AK 99669 www.pendog.org
Whitehorse Woofers Dog Club Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, Canada. Joanne Rough 4061 4th Av Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, Canada T1A 1H1 (867) 633-3586
SPORTING DOG CLUBS Alaska Working Retriever Club
PO Box 670248 Chugiak, Alaska 99567 Kelli Toth alaskalabs@gmail.com 907-240-6314 Beginner and advanced classes ongoing, call for details www.alaskaworkingretriever.com Affiliations: AKC May 1 Sunday- Picnic Fun Day and Club meeting. Rebarcheck Field at the State Fairgrounds in Palmer June 3-5 - AKC Retriever Field Trial Pt MacKenzie
Club listings continued on page 9
Alaska Dog News • March/April 2011
Page 5
Spring/SuMMer 2011 Alaska Dog News
calendar go to www.alaskadognews.com to see updates and Club Listing.
What?
Feb 26
Club & Location
43rd Annual World Championship Dog Weight Pull Weigh-in 9:45 – 11:15 , Handler’s meeting 11:30 Pull starts at 12noon to 5pm (until finished) Fee $50 Cash prizes for division placements 1st -4th
Sponsored by the St. Bernard Club of Alaska Park Strip Ball Field, Anchorage
Mutt Show Dog sport demos, costumes, well behaved dog invited
ACT training center
Mar 5-6
Obedience and Rally Trials
ACT Training Center
Apr 9-10
Spring Fever Flyball Fest
Dogs Gone Wild Valley Canine Camp, Wasilla
Apr 16- 17
Competition Obedience Training seminar by Janice Gunn
Yukon Kennel Club Whitehorse, YK
Apr 16 - 17
Rally Trials & Canine Good Citizen/Therapy Dog International testing
Rottweiler Club of Alaska Obedience Valley Canine Camp, Wasilla
Apr 30May 1
NADAC agility trials
MACH Sirius Ranch
May 1
Retriever Picnic Fun Day and Club meeting.
AWRC Rebarcheck Field at the State Fairgrounds in Palmer
May 13
AKC Tracking
OTCC Chugiak
May 14-15
AKC Obedience/Rally
OTCC Chugiak
May 14
Retriever Picnic Fun hunt test 9am (unregistered retrievers and mixes who will retrieve are invited)
MSDGA Heaven’s Field, Wasilla
NAHRA Al Roggow Memorial Hunt Test (retrievers)
MSDGA Falcon Ridge Pt MacKenzie,Wasilla
Feb 27
May 21-22
549 W International Airport Rd, #A15,Anchorage, AK
Date
What?
Club & Location
May 22
Retriever picnic trial FRC/IAGDA (any hunting breed or Chena Lakes mix who will retrieve Fairbanks and has good recall is welcome to come and play)
May 28-29
HRC Retriever Hunt Test IAGDA Chena Lakes Fairbanks
Jun 3-5
AKC Retriever Field Trial AWRC Pt. MacKenzie Wasilla
Jun 10 -12
AKC Retriever Field Trial RCA Pt MacKenzie Wasilla
Jun 17
AKC Hunt Test (retrievers with AKC ILP registration are permitted)
FRC Chena Lakes, Fairbanks
Jun 17-19
Upland bird dog training clinic
GNAVHDA Cantwell
Jun 18-19
AKC Agility
OTCC Chugiak
Jun Flyball Tournaments 22,23,25,26
Dogs Gone Wild State Fairgrounds in Palmer
Jul 10
Chukar Challenge
ABDA Pt McKenzie Falcon Ridge
Jul 9-10
NAHRA Richard Voth Memorial Hunt Test Alaska 2011 Regional
MSDGA Boyd’s Potato Farm in Palmer
Jul 9-10
HRC Retriever Hunt Test IAGDA Chena Lakes, Fairbanks
Jul 15-17
AKC Field Trials
FRC Chena Lakes, Fairbanks
Jul 16-17
Pointing Hunt Tests
ABDA Pt MacKenzie
Jul 23
All Breed Agilty Trial
Jul 29-31
AKC Retriever Field Trial AWRC Turnagain Arm
Jul 30-31
UKC/HRC Retriever Hunt Test 9 AM
MSGDA Pt McKenzie Falcon Ridge
Jul 30-31
AKC Spaniel Hunt Test
ABDA Pt McKenzie Falcon Ridge
Download this calendar formatted for a convenient 8 1/2 x 11 sheet at www.alaskadognews.com See club listings on pages 4 & 9
Date
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Page 6
Alaska Dog News • March/April 2011
Village Dog News:Recap for 2010
W
ell, it has been another busy year for Canine Comfort! We have had many success stories that would not have been possible without the help of our supporters - so THANK YOU for your generous donations. We are happy to report that we are now recognized as a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Our organization is staffed entirely by volunteers and supported by donations. All of your donations are taxdeductible. Together we are making a difference! Twenty-two puppies were taken in, wormed, vaccinated and held for a period of time to be sure all were healthy. They Jr. and the only boy pup, Apollo were then surrendered to Alaska Dog & Puppy Rescue .(ADPR) for adoption. All the puppies have found forever homes thank you ADPR! Nine adult dogs were given up to Canine Comfort. Lady Bug, a fourteen year old husky, will stay with Canine Comfort to live out her remaining years in Kathy Sweeney’s warm home. She came to us emaciated. She is now a happy and healthy lady. Two adult dogs were surrendered to Alaska SPCA. Thank you Alaska SPCA for finding homes for these two special dogs. Eight loose/stray dogs were taken in until the owners were found and notified. Dr. Sept visited Aniak in April and October to provide veterinary care. Canine Comfort, Inc. was proudly able to provide pet owners monetary help for eleven dogs by subsidizing the cost of surgeries by approximately 40%. Thank you Dr. Sept for your continued support! Many calls for medical treatment were dealt with. These treatments were the vaccination of dogs and puppies, dog fighting injuries and two dogs that were shot. We are happy to let you know that Bethany, a momma dog rescued out of the village of Sleetmute, who was found wandering around on three legs due to a gun-shot wound in her left rear ankle, is recovering nicely and has found a loving home. Canine Comfort, along with Bethany’s “guardian angel” was able to provide the cost of the surgery to repair her ankle that Dr. Sept performed.
Puppy love & learning
Heidi and Promise
Special thanks to Sheila Wolf who organized a fund-raising event for us during the summer in Anchorage. We are deeply grateful to you and your friends who have supported our efforts. Building material and supplies were purchased to construct our small shelter. However, due to inclement weather, rain the entire summer, construction came to a halt. Keep your fingers crossed for us for the summer of 2011!
These puppies will be sent into ADPR for adoption and Momma dog will be given back to the owner. These pups were in danger of dying from ravens, other dogs and the elements. Canine Comfort, Inc. offered to take them in until ready to leave their Momma.
So once again, thank you for your support! We wish you and your canine buddies joy, peace and good health in the New Year! P.S. check out our improved website!
www.canine-comfort.org Donnie Darilek:in memoriam Waureen Lucille “Donnie” Darilek was born March 3, 1949 in Dal Hart, Texas where she was also raised. She moved to Anchorage, Alaska in 1990 and on to the Mat-Su Valley in 1995. Donnie left us on January 2, 2011. She passed away suddenly at her home with her loving husband, Stephen, at her side.
Heidi with Poppy a 4 week old Alaskan Sleddog puppy
Donnie was very dedicated to her family. friends and community. She loved hunting, gardening, fishing, gold panning, community theater, but most of all she loved to get involved in charities. She was the inspiration for the Mat-Su Moose. She kept herself busy with various business enterprises including her own dog grooming business, Canine Design in Meadow Lakes.
Naomi, a 7 year old, wanted to do something with dogs. As new members of the Aniak community their mom asked if they could volunteer to help with all the dogs at Canine Comfort, Inc. They have learned how much dogs can eat, how cold it is that we have to give them hot soup with their food to get enough water into them and how it is freezing work to clean up everyday after each dog, even the puppies. Right now their most important job is to socialize these gorgous puppies so they will be accustom to human handling. Photos and text submitted by: Kathy Sweeney, President Bev LeMaster, Vice President Sue Luchsinger, Treasurer/Secretary
She was loved by all who knew her because of her desire to help those who were in need. She was loved by children and had a special way with animals. She will be greatly missed.
Canine Comfort, Inc. PO Box 242, Aniak, AK 99557
Donations are requested in Donnie’s name to her beloved cause. The Orphan Moose Calf Rearing and Release Program administrated by the Alaska Moose Federation and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game partnership. www.savethemoosecalves.org Alaska Moose Federation P.O. box is 110741, Anchorage, AK 99511 Services were held on January 15, 2011 at the Meadow Lakes Baptist Church in Wasilla Submitted by Tim Swezey, President Meadow Lakes Community Council with Shane the Assistance Dog
Naomi with Lilly and River
canine.comfort@hotmail.com
the breed: Irish Wolfhound Meet
Alaska Dog News • March/April 2011
Page 7
The Irish wolfhounds are the largest of all dog breeds. Their history is an ancient one going back over 3,000 years and time has not changed their old world looks. These dogs were hunters of Irish elk, wild boar, wolfs and deer. They ran with the noble Viking and Celts in to battle; this is where they were known as the war dogs. In the ancient times they were considered evil so the people would put a bounty on them; this had all but destroyed them. In the 19th century captain G. A. Graham set out to revive the bread and over time they are slowly coming back.
Wolfhounds as a rule generally don’t bark, maybe once or twice when the postman comes or someone comes to the door but that is it. They do like to howl when there is more than one. My husband likes to get them started, then all four heads go up and the singing starts.
Irish wolfhounds are so old fashion that they still do very well in packs and take care of the young as a group. It is not uncommon to have 10 to 16 pups in a litter and weigh from 1 to 2.5 lbs each at birth. Their colors vary from pure white, black, red, white Wheaton, and red Wheaton brindle. Males can reach 35 to 39 inches at the withers ( back ) and about 135 to 170 lbs. They have a broad square type head and have longer beards under their chin. Females reach about 32 to 35 inches at the withers and about 115 to 140 lbs.; more of a longer narrower head. All the wolfhounds have the longer hair around the eyes and all have the rosin ears (Greyhound like in carriage) which lay back tight to their head and form a rose look. These dogs should be very mellow temperament and very affectionate to all. This trait causes them to be poor guard dogs. Their sheer size is the most intimidating factor they have. A devoted wolfhound will give their life for you with no hesitation. They are the true gentle giants. The breed does have some health problems that come with the big breeds; not so much their hips but they can have bloat, heart issues and being a true sight hound, problems with their eyes. But for all of their possible problems, to me they are worth having one or two or more; in our home we have four. Wolfhounds have a shorter life then smaller dogs. Some live 5 to 6 years; others live 10 to 12 years. Careful breeding and health makes a big difference. They have very human like characteristics such as sitting on the couch, taking up the whole bed, and making you laugh. As time goes by the Irish wolfhounds are dwindling in numbers. We are down to under 1,000 registered Irish wolfhounds in the United States. This breed makes for a great pet, does very well with small children and other animals, and doesn’t take a lot of room as they are very lazy. Wolfhounds grow rapidly for the first 6 months, and then slow down after that but they don’t finish growing until 2 ½ years old. Things to think about when looking for a puppy: • a vehicle to take them places • a vet that knows about the breed • then you will need a house that has a very comfortable couch.
Feeding a large breed should be twice a day. My guys get 3 to 4 cups morning and night. They also love fruits and vegetables. They will actually pick the apples from my tree and eat them. The wolfhounds need to be brushed and their nails done but as far as baths they can go at least two months and be fine. They need their ears cleaned on regular bases. The Irish wolfhounds are a beautiful dog and love their families very much and have to be part of everybody’s life. They are not a loner, so think before you choosing this breed or any breed. Enjoy whatever breed you decide on and have fun with them and they will give you their all. Vicky Palmer, Scooby’s Bath House
Scooby’s Bath House 8878 Mike Ardaw Rd Ste. B Mile 64.5 Parks Hwy. Willow, AK 99688 (Next to the PUFFIN Cigar Shop)
Bathing & Brush-out Tue-Fri NEW! PROFESSIONAL GROOMING SATURDAYS! Made in Alaska toys, homemade treats, orthopedic dog beds
907-495-3325
Page 8
Alaska Dog News • March/April 2011
Alaska SPCA
Servicing Alaskans and their animals since 1966.
Mocha
Smokie & Oreo
Sparky
Photo by David Jensen
T
hese are just some of the wonderful animals at the Alaska SPCA Adoption Center waiting for their new forever homes to find them! All are healthy, socialized adults who lost their former homes. For one reason or another, their lives changed quickly! We are so fortunate that they have joined the Alaska SPCA family. Each one has a loving and unique personality, and a wonderful capacity for companionship and loyalty. Please come and Shar-Pea visit these and other deserving pets … your heart will be Photo by David Jensen touched and who knows—maybe your life will quickly change, too, when you decide to share it with one of these special animals. ~ An animal’s eyes have the power to speak a great language. Martin Buber
How to Find Us Low Cost Spay Neuter Clinic 549 W. Internat’l Airpt Rd., #B2 Anchorage, AK 99518 (907) 562-2999
Fix-A-Feline 907-230-2171
Thrift Shop
Dasha
Editorial
Heartbreaking Rescue
Jerry
The recent rescue by Mat Su Borough Animal Care and Regulation is a stark reminder of the unfinished business in Alaska of closing the gap between the letter of our animal cruelty laws (such as they are) and the intent of the laws. And as the Frank Rich case demonstrates, the gap is wide. Previous complaints. Previous euthanasia to reduce numbers of animals for the sake of compliance. Insufficient follow-up. And apparent, serious loopholes in the applicable laws and their enforcement.
549 W. Internat’l Airpt Rd., #B2 Anchorage, AK 99518 (907) 561-1092
Twenty-two dogs dead. One hundred fifty more taken into protective custody. Fifty counts of cruelty. Is there something wrong with this math?
Pet Adoption Center
There is no way to go back and undo the miserable suffering here. The only thing left is to make sure this never happens again. Investigate and prosecute to the fullest extent of the law. Forget changing judges, changing venues, finding loopholes, making excuses and endless motions. Forget trying to make up excuses why this is OK. It’s not OK. For the DA’s office and the Borough to do anything less than prosecute quickly, decisively, without whitewashing the horror of it, would be a tragic miscarriage of justice—a breach of public trust. These dogs, and all those who have given their hard volunteer labor, money, food and supplies to do what the borough and state cannot do, deserve an honest, open, straightforward and aggressive effort by the judicial system. ~
7309 Arctic Blvd. Anchorage, AK 99518 (907) 344-3602
Visit our website, and sign up for regular e-bulletins! www.alaskaspca.org info@alaskaspca.org And visit us on Facebook! IRS No. 92-0068910
Alaska SPCA page designed by Alaska Spca
Alaska Dog News • January 2011
Continued from page 4
Arctic Bird Dog Association
P.O. Box 90914 Anchorage, Alaska 99509 Gareth Stillman- Pres StillsKennelsAK@yahoo.com (907) 243-5809 www.arcticbirddog.com Novice Dog Training Classes: Start April 12 (Tuesday) see the website for more details June 4 Fun Day- come out to see what upland bird dogs are all about. July 16-17 & August 27-28 Pointing Hunt Tests July 30-31 &August 20-21 Spaniel Hunt Tests Fundraiser hunting competitions (open to any hunting dogs) July 10 & August 6 Chukar Challenge September 24-25 Pheasant Shoot Most events held on Pt. MacKenzie at Falcon Ridge
Fairbanks Retriever Club
P.O. Box 60463 Fairbanks, Alaska 99706 Corrie Elmes - President 907-687-5965. corrie@imagecraftdesign.com www.fairbanksretrieverclub.org Affiliations: AKC Classes: Indoors March 6, 13, 20, 27, April 3 Outdoors: April 17, 24, May 1, 8 Contact Karen Wilson through the website. May 22 FRC/IAGDA picnic trial Chena Lakes (any hunting breed or mix who will retrieve and has good recall is welcome to come and play) June 17 AKC Hunt Test ( retrievers with AKC ILP registration are permitted) July 15,16,17 AKC Field Trial
Greatland North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association 10140 Kasilof Blvd. Anchorage, Alaska 99507 Roger Hull - President (907) 346-6279 rogerhull@gci.net www.greatlandnavhda.org NAVHDA Tests held every August
Midnight Sun Gun Dog Association
P.O. Box 241291 Anchorage, Alaska 99524-1291 Kody Bull, President kodyb@controlcontractors.com 907 223-2680 www.msgda.org May 14 Picnic Fun hunt test 9am Heaven’s Field, Wasilla May 21-22 NAHRA Al Roggow Memorial Hunt Falcon Ridge Test Pt MacKenzie June 5 Picnic Fun Hunt test in water. 9 am Boyd’s Potato Field Palmer July 9-10 NAHRA Richard Voth Memorial Hunt Test Alaska 2011 Regional (Boyd’s Potato Farm in Palmer) July 30-31 UKC/HRC Hunt Test 9am Point McKenzie’s Falcon Ridge
Retriever Club of Alaska
P.O. Box 100703 Anchorage, Alaska 99510-0703 Bill Barstow - President (907) 337-2991 wbarstow@gci.net retrieverclubofalaska.com Affiliations: AKC June 10-12 AKC Retriever Field Trial
DOCKDOGS Alaska Dockdogs
Alaska Dockdogs Cathy Hviid akdockdogs@yahoo.com Check for updates on Facebook Page “Alaska DockDogs” Contact by email or join them on facebook page “Alaska Dockdogs “
FLYBALL Alaska Dogs Gone Wild
Curtis Smith alaskaflyball@gmail.com flyballdogs.com/alaska/events. html Flyball tournaments at the Alaska State Fairgrounds in Palmer, AK on June 22-23 and June 25-26, 2011. Check out our archives for our previous Summer Solstice Tournaments.
June 17-19 field work training clinic led by Jon and Cindy Hann held in Cantwell for the convenience of Interior and SouthCentral Versitile Hunting Dog owners. See more about Jon and Cindy here www.perfectionkennel.com Contact Judy Deaver at (907) 337-6286 jeffanjudy@yahoo.com
Interior Alaska Gun Dog Association (retrievers) P.O. Box 73043 Fairbanks, AK 99707 www.iagda.org Cindy Udarbehrchsplash@hotmail.com 488-4531 Wes Wilson WilsonW@alyeska-pipeline.com
May 28-29 hunt test Chena Lakes July 9-10 Hunt test Chena Lakes Affiliations: HRC
HERDING Alaska Herding Group Club
An All-Herding Breed Specialty Club P.O. Box 770173, Eagle River, AK 99577-0173 www.alaskaherdinggroup.org Peggy Crawford (907) 688-5921 crawfordrn@aol.com Secretary: Robin Miller (907) 694-1454 akglenmist@gmail.com AKC conformation for Herding breeds only shows, Obedience and Rally trials for herding and all breeds. 2 AKC Herding trials normally in Sept.
MUSHING Willow Dog Mushing Association
president@willowdogmushers. com (907) 495-0671 P.O. Box 858,Willow, AK 99688 www.willowdogmushers.com
Montana Creek Dog Mushers Association Helen Lundberg 907-495-6762 president@mcdma.org www.mcdma.org PO Box 971 Willow, AK 99688 Races take place at Mile 94.2 Parks Hwy.
LURE COURSING Alaska Winds Coursing Club Sue Ann Kelly 907-357-7884 coursing@alaska.com www.akwinds.com
Alaska Hound Group President, Mary Hermon Box 4367 Palmer, AK 99645 bark@akhoundgroup.com www.akhoundgroup.com
SKIJORING Anchorage Skijoring Club www.skijoring.org Bud Rice President (907) 696-0221
Northern Lightspeed Flyball Club drag racing canine style
www.northernlightspeed.com timber@northernlightspeed.com Linda and Ken Bullard Info at the web site or Valley Canine Camp in Wasilla 357-2267 Spring Fever Flyball Fest April 9-10 Races at regular intervals from 10 am - 3 pm (with a lunch break)
See the web site for more details. March 5-First Saturday Practice Session March 6 Tour of Anchorage Show and Go March 19-20 EagleQuest Tour April 2-3 Lulie’s Cabin Tour
Page 9
Interior Freight Dog Association
Cody Preuett Fairbanks www.interiorfreightdog.com/ IFDAssoc@hotmail.com Pulls & Practice March 5 Practice Pull Cold Spot Feed Noon - 2p.m. March 19-North American Pull Big Ray’s parking lot downtown Fairbanks. Cash purse sponsored by Kiewit Building Group and North Haven Communities. April 2- Bentley Mall Pull Bentley Mall Fairbanks April 16- the Outdoor Show Pull Carlson Center Fairbanks May 7-Pet Awareness Day Tanana Valley Fairgrounds May 28-30 -Fundraiser Cold Spot Rental Lot Steese Highway Times to be announced July 4-Pull-Pioneer Park Fairbanks August 6- Pull Tanana Valley State Fair
Dog Rescue Events March 5
Mardi Gras Bow-Wow Masked Ball at the Historic Train Depot in Palmer. 6-10 pm New Orleans Buffet Cash Bar Music Door Prizes Silent Auction Costume Contest $50 per person, all proceeds go to Alaska Dog & Puppy Rescue
Ticket Locations
PawPrince & Doggy Decadents 1120 Huffman Rd. Suite 15&16 Anchorage, AK, 99515 Mon - Sat: 11:00 am - 7:00 pm Alaska TLC Kennels Behind Builders Bargains off of Parks Frontage Rd. 745-5380 Non Essentials Downtown Palmer Plaza 550 South Alaska Street Suite 105 Palmer, AK 99645 745-2258
May 7
Pet Awareness in Fairbanks, Tanana Valley Fairgrounds Every year up to 20 pet related groups attend this event to support rescue and education about responsible pet ownership. Various dog events including Weight –pull are scheduled
Montana CreekDog Mushing Association Skijoring after race starts see listing under MUSHING
WEIGHT PULLING Alaska K-9 Weight Pulling
Rob Gambill 3900 W. Fairview Lp. Wasilla, AK 99654 907-357-5009 www.ak9wpa.org Practice pulls at Animal Food Wearhouse, Palmer Wasillla Hwy, Palmer AK
Clubs Please Note!
Club listings and calendar information space is limited, is provided free of charge to nonprofit organizations and at the discretion of Alaska Dog News. More advertising space is available. 907-357-9386 or e-mail for rates and schedule. alaskadognews@mtaonline.net
Page 10
Alaska Dog News • March/April 2011 Animal Shelter continues to grow. Within a few days hundreds of new friends joined the Borough facebook page to learn how they could help and to stay tuned to news about the dogs.
Matanuska—Susitna Borough
Animal Shelter News Always check at the shelter for your lost pet! 907-746-5500
Animal Care Manager Richard Stockdale says the huskies rescued in January have gained KTUU’s Rebecca Palsha interviews Stockdale, shelter between 25 and 40 percent of their body weight. Richard manager Dr. Katrina Zwolinski, Borough Veterinarian, has been keeping a close eye on their medical needs. As the dogs become healthy enough for adoption you’ll be able to see them on www.petharbor.com. Some dogs are headed out to Point MacKenzie Correctional Farm to be socialized and learn to be loved. Three husky moms were sent to rescue groups to deliver their pups, and these groups will be finding homes for the puppies when the time is right. Volunteers provided over 1700 of service in over the last month. Approximately, $100,000 of goods and cash donations is avoiding a shortfall in the shelter budget. At this point the shelter supplies are stable, As usual there are a large number of cats and kittens that need forever homes. Volunteer opportunities include helping socialize the cats and keeping them happy. The Animal Shelter closed to the public on January 26 to allow staff to catch up on cleaning the facility and organizing the
Donations came in from everywhere and in all forms: dog food, dog houses, carpet samples, cash, etc. The carpentry students at the Alaska Job Corps Center recently built 74 dog houses for the shelter.
Dates to remember
Volunteer Orientation and Training -March 12th or 13th 10-2 (bring a lunch) March 19th Crevasse Moraine hike (you must be certified as a volunteer. ) See Mat-Su Shelter dogs at the ACES hockey game March 11th and 12th Photo contest-Do you have the cutest pet? Submit your pet’s photo (hard copy 4 x 5 to 8 X 10 ) in person to the Mat-Su Shelter by March 16th. Winners will be chosen on March 17th where prizes will be announced. Dog Days at the Outdoorsman Show March 26th at the Menard Sports Complex. Noon -4
Do you have some free time to share? Join our Volunteer Program and help care for our Shelter animals. Watch this video of some volunteer activities. www. youtube.com/watch?v=T8G4oHogRxM
Activities include:
KTUU Channel 2 at the shelter
donations. On Jan. 10 Animal Shelter staff rescued 157 dogs from a breeder’s lot in Montana Creek. The dogs were emaciated and living in poor conditions. Since then, long hours have been put in by staff to manage the influx of dogs. And tremendous interest in the dogs and the Volunteer Metis Riley helps move the flood of donations.
• • • • • • • • •
walking dogs socializing cats grooming kennel cleaning laundry folding linens running the dishwasher decorating tidying
907-746-5500 Open Monday -Saturday 11am- 6pm www.matsugov.us/animalcare
Anchorage Animal Care and Control
Davie
is an adult, neutered male, lab mix. He is inquisitive, active, full of energy, very goodnatured, and sociable. He likes to romp in the snow, explore and play. He sits for his treats and takes them nicely. He’ll best in an active home that can provide lots of exercise, attention and structure. Special thanks to the Alaska SPCA for providing Davies neuter surgery, reducing his adoption fee by $80! Davie can now be adopted for $72, as he is already neutered, which includes his MOA license, vaccinations, and microchip.
“One True Love” Valentines Day adoption fair with was held on
February 13 where the public could check out cats, dogs, and rabbits. See the KTUU Channel 11 report here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aL38nBi0l1k
Volunteering at the Animal Care and Control Center
Becoming a volunteer at the Center: Volunteers must be 12 years of age and accompanied by an adult if under 16 years of age. Complete a Volunteer Application. Attend one Volunteer Orientation and Training. If you are interested in volunteering at the Center or have any questions please call the Volunteer Coordinator at 343-8252. You may also download the appropriate paperwork for review from the link on the website
Foster
Brutis
is a 12 year old, neutered male, domestic longhair cat. He is friendly and outgoing - a sociable and mature gentleman. He is loving, full of affection, and really enjoys being held and petted. He has a lot of personality, which this talkative guy will tell you about in chirps and small meows if you take a moment to meet him. He’s lived with children, cats and dogs and did great with all, but avoided the dogs. This is one love sponge extraordinaire! Brutis can be adopted for $62, as he is already neutered, which includes his vaccinations and microchip.
AACCC is looking for people that are willing to provide care for animals that need some TLC before they can go up for adoption. This includes adult animals with minor medical issues, and puppies and kittens that need to grow a bit to meet the age and weight necessary for adoption. If you think you might have the time, space and resources to give these animals the extra time and attention they need, open your heart and your home… foster! HOURS: Monday through Friday 11:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. Saturday and Sunday 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. Closed: New Years Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day,and Christmas Day.
4711 Elmore Road, Anchorage, Alaska 99507
343-8122
www.muni.org/animal Be a h ero an d the A nchor sponsor a p age A age fo Call 9 nimal r 07-357 S Alask h elter -9386 o aDogN r ema ew il to find s@mtaonlin e.net out h ow.
Alaska Dog News • March/April 2011
Page 11
Basic Upland Bird Dog Hunting
VALLEY CANINE
Novice & Puppy training Class Have a better hunt with a trained dog!
Tuesday April 12th
indoors at Valley Canine Camp in Wasilla (next to Lowe’s) Parks Hwy and Hermon Road
Camp & Training Center, Inc.
A Great Way for Your Dog to Spend the Day!© VALLEY CANINE DAYCAMP
Is your dog bored, lonely or getting into mischief when you are gone? Day camp provides an interactive experience so that your dog is exercised, socialized and relaxed when you go home.
LEARN
VALLEY CANINE OVERNIGHT CAMP
Handling commands Field obedience Training equipment & uses Proper training sequence & continuing training resources Ending with outdoor training & introduction to live birds.
Your dog will spend all day in Day Camp and then sleep in a suite with Animal Planet on HDTV. Around the clock CPCT technician on duty.
VALLEY CANINE GROOMING
Professional Certified Groomer Self-service grooming with state of the art walk in tubs. Mon through Fri 7am - 7pm Sat 9am - 3pm
VALLEY CANINE TRAINING CENTER
Ongoing classes for puppies to advanced dogs. Basic and Advanced Obedience classes. Rally, Flyball, Agility classes too! Conformation & Show n’ Gos every week.
Six week class $150
UNIQUE PRODUCTS FOR YOUR VALLEY CANINE
Spaniels start at 7pm
Lupine & Canny Collars safe control of most dogs. Plush Puppy grooming products, special products for special dogs. Super Dog Treats, a high end Holistic dog treat with human grade ingredients.
Pointers start at 8pm
907-357-CAMP(2267)
2521 E. Mountain Village Dr. (next to Lowes) Wasilla, Alaska 99687 www.valleycaninecamp.com
Class registration forms at http://arcticbirddog.com/puppyclass.htm
Contact
SPANIELS Mike Kasterin 907-333-0156 1skye000@gmail.com
POINTING DOGS Dale Sweetser 907-357 1181 dhsweets@mtaonline.net
Join over 860 Alaska Dog News Fans on
http://tinyurl.com/alaskadognews
Home Loans You Can Use™ Buying your new Canine Castle or refinancing your current Digs? Call me for the Right loan for YOU!
Hilde Stapgens, CMB ▪ (AK193345) 907-222-8877 or 888-480-8877 www.HomeLoansYouCanUse.com stapgensh@residentialmtg.com 100 Calais Dr, Anchorage, AK 99503
www.AlaskaDogNews.com • 907-357-9386
Page 12
Alaska Dog News • March/April 2011
Grooming • Training • Massage at Your Dog E.T.C.
(everyday training for canines) 360 Boniface Pkwy, Ste B9, Anchorage, AK.
Classes Puppy Play Groups Private Lessons Day-Board & Train
Holly’s House All Breed Dog Grooming
Dog Massage
for relaxation, stress reduction & balancing body/mind/spirit
Melinda Patterson Member APDT LVT, CGCE an experienced Dog Trainer
907-743-8072 www.youdogetc.com Facebook YOUR DOG E.T.C. Everyday Training for Canines
Holly Murphy Groomer will take care of your dogs grooming needs
Mary Mumma, RN, LMT Offers dog massage for relaxation and stress reduction
Diamond Animal Hospital
AND
EMERGENCY SERVICES 907-562-8384
Alaska’s only Full Service 24 hour animal hospital! Diamond Animal Hospital offers: • 24 hour care • Complete medical, surgical, dental, and emergency care • Offering the latest technology in ultrasonography, endoscopy, and comprehensive in-house laboratory • Trained and knowledgeable veterinarians and technicians always on premises • Convenient appointment and walk-in times
Pat Baugh DVM Kathy Dot y DVM Cara Elton DVM Krist en Hoolmes DVM Virginia Kunch DVM Jamie Merrigan DVM Mike Riddle DVM Marion Varman DVM 2545 E. Tudor Rd, Anchorage, AK 99507 www.diamondhospital.com
Appointments: Monday-Friday 8am - 6pm Walk-ins: Evenings, Weekends & Holidays EMERGENCIES ALWAYS ADMITTED
Fax (907) 562-6737