Dog News, March 11, 2016

Dog News The Digest Volume 32, Issue 10

Of American Dogs $5.00

March 11, 2016

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*#4 overall, The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed

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Contents

March 11, 2016

10 Editorial 14 The Way It Is: A Questionable Decision By Sari Brewster Tietjen 18 The Lighter Side of Judging: One Tuxedo, Two Tuxedo, Three Tuxedo, Four By Michael H. Faulkner 22 Question Of The Week By Matthew H. Stander 26 Irving’s Impressions: And Another Thing...! By Ronnie Irving 30 You And Your Vet By Dr. Merry Fitzgerald, DVM 34 Bests Of The Week 38 Ten Questions Asked of Sophia Rogers, 2016 Westminster Kennel Club Junior Handler Winner 42 The 2016 Westminster Kennel Club By Desmond J. Murphy 54 A History of Westminster’s Group Winning Dogs And The People Behind Them By Desmond J. Murphy 62 On Point: 140th Westminster Kennel Club Photo Essay By Chet Jezierski 74 What’s In Your Dog’s Water Dish? By Barbara Benyon 78 Dave Frei “The Dog Guy” By Karl M. Stearns 82 K9s For Warriors By Tahoma Guiry 86 True North: A Report From Canada By Allison Foley 90 Off The Leash: March Madness, Etc. By Shaun Coen 94 The RKF - A Moving Target, Doggy Day Care AKC Style, The Elections, Hasse’s Death And More By Matthew H. Stander 102 Capt. Ron To The Rescue! Beagle Helps Conserve Sea Turtles By Sharon Pflaumer 120 A Report From The Philippines Circuit By Vince Hogan 130 Wodehouse Bucks The Trend In New York City By Nick Waters 132 A Delegate’s Report By Johnny Shoemaker 136 The Gossip Column By Eugene Z. Zaphiris 138 Click: The Westminster Kennel Club & Take The Lead Theatre Benefit By Kim Langlands, Gay Glazbrook & Eugene Z. Zaphiris 141 Letters To The Editor 142 Click: The Way We Were - Colorado & Plum Creek Kennel Clubs 1992 By Eugene Z. Zaphiris • 140 handlers directory • 144 classified advertising & subscription rates • 146 advertising rates DOG NEWS (ISSN 0886-2133) is published weekly except the last two weeks in December by Harris Publications, 1115 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10010. Periodical Postage paid at New York.

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C O V E R S T O RY • M a rc h 1 1 , 2 0 1 6 • V o l u me 3 2 , I ss u e 1 0

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STANLEY R. HARRIS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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Ian Miller 212 462.9624 Contributing Editors Sharon Anderson • Andrew Brace Agnes Buchwald • Shaun Coen Carlotta Cooper • Geoff Corish Michael Faulkner • Merry Fitzgerald, DVM Denise Flaim • Geir Flyckt - Pedersen Allison Foley • Yossi Guy Ronnie Irving • Roz Kramer John Mandeville • Sidney Marx Linda More • Desmond J. Murphy M. J. Nelson • Sharon Pflaumer John Shoemaker • Kim Silva Matthew H. Stander • Sari Brewster Tietjen Patricia Trotter • Connie Vanacore Nick Waters • Seymour Weiss Dog News Photographers Chet Jezierski • Perry Phillips Kitten Rodwell • Leslie Simis

DOG NEWS is sent to all AKC approved Conformation Judges with more than one breed every week and have adjudicated at a licensed AKC show within the past three years on a complimentary basis. No part of this publication can be reproduced in any form without written permission from the editor. The opinions expressed by this publication do not necessarily express the opinions of the publisher.

The editor reserves the right to edit all copy submitted.

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The Editorial Appropriate Or Not??

Last week’s official announcement the day before the Delegate Meeting on Monday March 7th, first as an exclusive to The Wall Street Journal, followed by the DOG NEWS Facebook report and then finally a Press Release from the organization itself that AKC was going into the dog care business on 57th Street in New York City caught most in the Fancy by surprise to understate the actual reaction. This notwithstanding the fact that the Board and others within AKC had been working on the project for several months at least. What is of particular interest is that nowhere until these pages confirmed the fact with Alexandra Aleskovsky (hereinafter referred to as Mrs. AA) the newly appointed Chief Growth Officer at AKC was there any mention that indeed this new venture into the pet sector was being done through an LLC established by AKC and not by the organization itself.

This is now the second project of which these pages are aware for which AKC has initiated and used an LLC. The first being the delayed and controversial dog collar.

An LLC allows AKC, a 501c4 not for profit, to legally engage in for profit businesses.

The initial LLC called Smart Pet Technologies located in Stamford, CT has Dennis Sprung as its President and Mike Basone, the former head of IT at AKC, as its Chief Executive Officer. Whether doggy day care is part of this LLC or a separate LLC was formed is unknown as of this writing but the doggy day care project is definitely an LLC per Mrs. AA for sure! And also for sure this project falls into the heading written about in last week’s Editorial of AKC “BUILDING THE AKC BRAND IN THE PET SECTOR” specifically under the guidance of the Chief Executive Officer Mrs. AA. Now then no one can hold the aforesaid lady responsible for initiating this particular project since it was started way before she was hired at AKC but one would have thought that her quote in the WSJ about the project being designed for “pet parents” would have been worded differently.

But of course that’s nitpicking. Forgetting the legality of the project as an LLC, the question to ask is how appropriate is it for AKC to finance and to get involved with a doggy day care center that includes dog walking, dog training and dog grooming amongst other things? From the standpoint of these pages it cheapens the AKC brand and is totally inappropriate! The potential profit be damned this kind of operation is totally foreign to the mission statement and while it is obvious that in this day and age the Mission Statement can use a little expanding a doggy day care center in the opinion of these pages is the wrong way to go. How the Board could have failed to try to get a reaction from its constituents to this scheme prior to announcing it boggles our mind. If Mrs. AA is to be truly successful in her attempt to build the AKC brand in the pet sector, 10 Dog News

as stated in the Board Minutes of February, and to rise further within the organization there has to be a better and less expensive way to do it than through doggy day centers throughout Metropolitan areas of the United States of America.

Perception Is Reality There is a Letter to the Editor in this week’s issue from a Delegate as well as a Delegate Report raising the specter of the Delegate Body having been manipulated by rumors concerning the fate of the President and Chairman of the Board were certain people running from the Board be elected. These pages were sent this information two or three weeks ago and as a result all the people alleged to be in such a plot were contacted privately by these pages and assured by each and every one that these were unfounded and untrue statements. Indeed these pages have documentation to that effect. Nonetheless the rumors persisted, and indeed it is reported to these pages they abounded throughout the Delegate Body for the two days of its meeting.

It was a very clever and successful play on the part of those spreading these questionable rumors but one would have hoped that the Delegates would have checked the rumors more closely instead of perpetuating them.

This in no way is meant to take anything away from the three victors who worked hard and meticulously to earn their Board seats. Congratulations to the reelected Board Members Pat Cruz and Bill Feeney (who received to our surprise the most votes from the Delegates) and to the newly elected Karolynne McAteer on her first try. It is apparent that Bill Feeney had the strong support among the parent club crowd and people that are concerned about health and welfare of dogs. Notice of course that no one nominated by the Nominating Committee was elected. Some say this was a reaction to the extension of the submission of a time deadline to allow another Delegate to apply and who in fact received the endorsement of the Nominating Committee. The Chairman of that Committee defends his Committee’s decision in this week’s issue (see the Shoemaker report) but there is no denying the fact that many people were unhappy with the Committee’s decision notwithstanding the fact that this extension was legally approved by the very fair-minded and knowledgeable Secretary of AKC Jim Crowley.

Candidly these pages were one of those who contacted John Shoemaker and is referred to as doing so (without being named) questioning that decision. It just looked bad there was no denying that. But to punish those so nominated by the Committee was not a good call presuming this was a factor with which to begin. Ron Menaker was unanimously elected Board Chair again (despite those rumors) and Carl Ashby narrowly defeated Tom Davies for Vice Chair after the Board jockeyed to and fro.

Carl can be very controversial and people are either very pro or anti his positions and attitudes.

The $150 Turn Down Changing any By-law requires a 2/3rd vote by the Delegate Body which almost all of the time prevents any real substantive modernization within the AKC. Some of the legal beagles within the Delegate Body objected to the language of the amendment, which would have permitted the delegate/judge to receive up to $150 on top of the fees they received when they judge a licensed AKC show. A majority or very close to a majority it is reported to these pages voted in favor of the change but nowhere near a 2/3rd plurality. These pages always have thought these votes should be recorded instead of having a head count determined by an AKC employee. Being on the record is one thing which cannot be denied and letting your peers and constituents see how their Delegates actually vote should be public. The same is true insofar as the Board elections are concerned in the opinion of these pages, notwithstanding the argument that it would take too long to do this--come on in today’s computer age some program could be developed by one of AKC’s computer geniuses to accommodate this proposal. As it turns out these pages thought there should have been no limit placed on what a delegate/judge could charge but nonetheless just Delegates should not be paid, in our opinion, to attend Delegate Committee meetings nor should Board Members be paid a stipend to attend AKC related events it’s hard to justify paying delegate/judges over their fees too.

Dog News Print Shelf Life A survey taken by DOG NEWS indicates that the print issues of DOG NEWS have a weekly shelf life of at least three if not four weeks.

There is the print date of Friday which issue is sent to many shows Fed Ex (at a considerable cost) for Saturday delivery. On that same day all subs and judges issues are mailed which arrive depending on geographic location within two or three weeks of publication.

Additionally on Monday or Tuesday all shows held the following week receive any number of boxes sent to them for shows being held that week. So much for the argument that the weekly issues have a short shelf life, which fortunately both our readers and advertisers happily recognize while of course on the Internet our web pages each week begin to go up on Tuesday and are archived forever.

Thought For The Week Well the PR department that reports to our good friend, VP Gina DiNardo, has allowed with the alleged consent of the Board apparently exclusive press releases about AKC activities to the non-dog press. The example being the WSJ release about the dog care centers. This hardly sits well with these pages for sure and will no doubt affect AKC’s ability to get future releases in the non-dog press and the dog press too when people learn of this new policy. This was hardly the case when it came to Breed Registration figures when the world was alerted led of course by the meaningless headlines and front page photos in the AM New York daily. That’s hardly the way to make friends in the press one would think.

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*The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed 2016, All Systems 2015

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the way it is

A Questionable Decision

By Sari Brewster Tietjen

T

he Mission Statement of the American Kennel Club states that the organization is “... dedicated to upholding the integrity of its Registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function.” It continues to state that together with its affiliated organizations it will “. . . advocate for the purebred dog as a family companion, advance canine health and well-being, work to protect the rights of all dog owners and promote responsible dog ownership.”

According to the Statement, its objective is to “Advance the study, exhibiting, running and maintenance of purebred dogs.”

AKC is a not-for-profit membership organization with a nontaxable tax status as a 501-c (4).

Its members are not individuals, but purebred dog clubs dedicated to conformation, companion and/ or performance events. It presently has over 600 member clubs many of whom raise money from training and handling classes or have club members who for a living are groomers, handlers, trainers, boarding kennel operators and, in general, do everything dogs.

Why is all of the above important?

The American Kennel Club has its sights on becoming a major player in the dog-care “business.”

According to the Wall Street Journal, its initial foray into the business will be in New York City in a prime location on upper West Side. Being billed as a dog-care center, this 4,000 square feet shop is supposed to offer day care, boarding, training, grooming, and walking services and is expected to open this fall.

AKC has plans to expand these dog centers to other areas around the country. Whether or not this means AKC’s idea is to eventually develop this concept using its name 14 Dog News

into a franchise business is not known at this time, but it is not hard to imagine that, if successful, this would be a logical next step.

However, what is known is that there is NOTHING in AKC’s Charter, Constitution or Mission Statement or present tax status that lays out any groundwork for its single-handedly ownership of a for-profit business utilizing AKC’s name in direct conflict with the work and livelihood of its member and licensed clubs and their individual members.

Furthermore, this “doggy everything center” concept was dropped on the delegate body and the fancy after the multi-year lease for the shop/store had already been signed. There were no indications in the often “washed” Board minutes that anything was afoot. Indeed if the Board was aware of this entire concept – and surely it must have been and must have approved it – it had to have looked down the road, studied the pros and cons, the liability factor, reviewed the consequences of competition for its clubs and club members and voted for a brick-and-mortar store using AKC’s mantle or rather our mantle because we – members of the fancy, exhibitors, dedicated, responsible breeders – are what has made the AKC brand into the value it has today.

Has AKC leveraged this value? Is it entering unchartered waters?

Yes and Yes! There is no question that in recent years AKC has become more and more about money and less and less about its original purpose. There is nothing wrong with trying to make money to keep the business running, as long as what you are doing stays within the original parameters of your founding purpose and as long as you do not lose your tax status.

Somehow, owning a brick-andmortar store, a grooming and boarding shop, an everything doggy day

care center with the distinct possibility of becoming a franchise to be contracted to others using AKC’s name is outside of the original founding Charter, current Constitution of AKC and present its Mission.

One wonders if AKC is on the brink of becoming two organizations: one which truly cares about the dog sports and everything associated with purebred dogs as defined in its Charter; and the second which only cares about “using” AKC’s name to make money anyway it can.

If the above paragraph is true, perhaps now is the time to think about returning the dog sport to the dog people and let the money people do their thing – especially if their thing involves areas that are in direct competition with activities engaged in by dog people – and then prohibit them from using AKC’s name, logo or anything associated with AKC as they engage in their for-profit ventures.

The real problem with this whole thing is the fact that AKC is going into competition with its own people which could affect their livelihood. There are many doggy day care centers in urban areas that are run by or have employees who participate in dog events, many kennel operators who show dogs, many groomers who handle dogs, many trainers who also show their dogs in agility, obedience, and other dog sports.

Did anyone question any of this? Has anyone seriously studied the potential harm that could be done, especially if there is an expectation of a Franchise situation being developed? Was any thought given to the legal aspect?

The Charter? Tax Status? Another company being formed?

One could go on and on. A brick-and-mortar store is totally outside the realm of anything AKC has ever done and to embark on a project that is in competition with its own constituents and customers is questionable at best.

Ch. Absolutely Signature

Bradley

Judge Ms. Betty-Anne Stenmark

Best of Breed Westminster Kennel Club 2016 Best of Breed Montgomery County Kennel Club 2014 American Fox Terrier Club Grand Challenge Cup 2015 J.W. Smith

Dana Gabel Dog News 15

New Champion

Southport Oh Danny Boy A Year Old!

Celebrating His First Birthday on St. Patrick’s Day!

Thank you to all the Judges for the recent recognition

Southport Mastiffs Established 1982 America’s Finest Mastiffs for over 30 years JOE AND CARLA SANCHEZ 16 Dog News

Owner Breeder Handler Carla Sanchez

e g r Sa

The Mastiff National Specialty Best In Show Winner

Judges Mrs. Tomas Gomez, Mr. Robin Stansell & Dr. Ronald Spritzer Breeders/ Co-Owners: Jack & Debbie Friend

Southport Mastiffs Established 1982

America’s Finest Mastiffs for over 30 years JOE AND CARLA SANCHEZ Dog News 17

the

One Tuxedo, Two Tuxedos, Three Tuxedos, Four…

Lighter Side

JuDging

of

By Michael H. Faulkner

F

or those who truly know me, they know that my attire of choice, no matter what the occasion, consists of blue jeans, t-shirt, white button down shirt, no socks, and leather loafers. Yes, I would be totally comfortable judging dog shows, attending weddings, or speaking at professional conferences in my attire of choice, rather than suits or worse yet ---the ever-dreaded tuxedo.

Speaking from the male perspective, if you are ever fortunate enough to be invited to judge the Westminster Kennel Club, you are required to dress in formal wear Sunday evening for the Judge’s Dinner and both Monday and Tuesday evenings during the Group and Best in Show judging. Add to your list co-emceeing the Purina Pro Plan Show Dog of the Year Awards Dinner and your required days in the penguin suit jumps to four in a row.

“Now, I ask you. How in the hell can you look the part and not look like you wore the same damn thing four nights in a row? In reality, that is exactly what I did!” Unlike female judges who can easily roll and pack several St. John knit outfits with ease, I rely on four separate tuxedo shirts, four different ties, two pairs of black shoes, and four different sets of studs and links. If only I were Robert Crawley, the 7th Earl of Grantham, I would have the luxury of traveling with MR. BATES, my personal valet. Often, I remind BIG MICHAEL of his and MR. BATES’ similar phenotypic traits, and that just maybe this is a true sign of things to come during our four-nights-in-a-row tuxedo transformations.

BIG MICHAEL, two days prior to our departure to Penn Station, from the Richmond Train Station on Staples Mills Road, removed his practically new tuxedo from the garment bag to make sure everything was in order. To our dismay, his tuxedo jacket was covered with little holes. At first, we thought…MOTHS!!!... but quickly realized the storage area was protected and nothing else appeared to be damaged. After careful inspection, it was obvious that flaws in the garment and the integrity of the fabric weave were the culprits. BIG MICHAEL gathered the tuxedo, returned to Washington, D.C. to discuss the situation with the retailer, from whom he purchased the garment. Having been a loyal customer for thirty years, he was able to procure a new jacket with relative ease, at no additional cost, and return home to pack for our Thursday departure, and for our four-day18 Dog News

in-a-row black tie survivor reality show. He is relieved that no one will now think he inherited his suit from the estate of William Powell, who wore it while filming an original episode of The Thin Man. Our arrival at Penn Station is on schedule. It is such a relief to not have experienced airport security lines, delays, baggage restriction, small spaces, and…need I go on? Instead, we traveled in the comfort of our own private suite aboard Amtrak. BIG MICHAEL and I gather our collection of black-ballistic-nylon-bags, both rolling and over-the-shoulder models, proceed up the escalator, exit, and whistle down a taxi to take us the short distance to the Marriott Renaissance. Since BIG MICHAEL spends more time in Marriott properties than he does our home, the perks of Platinum Elite will surely leave me feeling like Robert Crawley. And, once we have completed our four evenings in a row tuxedo transformation, the hotel staff will surely think I am of royal stock.

As promised, our room is large by NYC standards, with wonderful views of Times Square. BIG MICHAEL and I arrive a day before the start of my official dog show duties which include: early morning train travel to Rye, New York to judge the English Setter and Gordon Setter Specialties on Saturday, co-emceeing the Show Dogs of the Year Awards Saturday evening (tuxedo), early morning train to Rye, New York to judge the Irish Setter Specialty on Sunday, the Westminster Judges Dinner Sunday evening (tuxedo), Westminster judging on Monday, Group judging Monday Evening (tuxedo), Take the Lead Benefit after group judging (still in tuxedo), Westminster Dog Show Tuesday, Group and Best in Show Judging Tuesday evening (Yet again in tuxedo), followed by the Best in Show party.

Thursday and Friday our days and evenings are filled with Theater, cocktails, and dinner with friends. It is exactly the pre-performance activity required to get me through the next four days.

I rise at 5:00 AM to complete my morning makeover without the assistance of my valet Bates, I mean BIG MICHAEL, who continues to soundly sleep. I manage to shower, dress, tie my bowtie, polish my shoes, make a cup of coffee, and journey the short distance to Grand Central Terminal. DOT (Daughter of Thor), JOHNNY VEGAS, MWFC & MISS. SANDY, who are all traveling to the specialty shows for judge’s education and mentoring, greet me upon my arrival. The train conductor is somewhat baffled why such a colorful collection of individuals (Especially JOHNNY VEGAS, whose not-to-be-missed sparkles are in abundance) are up so early, and why they would be traveling to Rye? She laughs hysterically when I tell her we are going to a dog show.

After a full day of judging, I am transported back to the Renaissance by a member of the English Setter Club, BARBARA FRANFURT. BARBARA, a lifelong resident of New York City, is charming, witty, and one badass city driver. She manages to return me to my hotel at exactly 4:15 pm, plenty of time to prepare for my first of four tuxedo transformations.

Big Michael is surprised to see me so early. “Wow! I did not expect you for another hour or so. This is great.” “Yes, I am relieved to be back in plenty of time to get ready and don my tuxedo,” I offer. The two of us dance around one another, collecting and assembling our formal wear for the Show Dogs of the Year Awards. BIG MICHAEL pulls his new tuxedo jacket from the closet.

“Holy shit, this is not good!” “What in the hell is wrong?” I nervously reply. “Look, they forgot to remove the damn ink security tag from the jacket.” “No freaking way!” “Quick, call a local JOS A BANK and ask them to remove the tag. Explain the situation.” BIG Continued on page 98

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Question the

Of the week

By Matthew H. Stander

WHAT DID YOU LIKE THE MOST ABOUT WESTMINSTER AND ARE THERE ANY CHANGES YOU WOULD SUGGEST FOR FUTURE WESTMINSTERS?

Karen LeFrak

The crowd’s enthusiasm was palpable. What fun to hear the applause and cheers for the different breeds they favored! How about one last run for the winning dog...

Jean Hetherington

Always love Westminster and I liked winning, of course. Suggested changes. I was at the Pier or the Garden from 8 am until 11 pm on Monday and then on Tuesday from 11 am until 11 pm with two hours to eat and change between 3 and 5. Too much for the Monday winners. Also, I found the spotlights in BIS blinding.

Nancy Battaglia

What I liked about Westminster was the chance to see some of the finest dogs in the country competing and also to see the many friends I have made in the dog world during the 20 years I have been fortunate to be part of it thanks to being married to Dr. Carmen Battaglia. It is nice to be able to visit the dogs in the bench area and not be so crowded like we were at the Garden. For future Westminsters, I would like to recommend more seating around the breed rings. You can’t see if stuck behind the stands they put up. What I miss about not being in the Garden during the day was that fact that you could sit in the stands and see several rings at once. The other thing I would love to see is for a herding dog to win Best in Show. It has been 27 years since the last herding dog won. During that time Terriers (8) and Sporting (7) and Toys (5) seem to be the favorites. I was disappointed that Rumor didn’t break the losing streak this year after having 101 Best in Shows in 2015. However, I realize this is not a “future change” one can control as no one knows how any dog will look or perform when in the ring that particular time or what the judge sees or is looking for that day.

So wishful thinking on my part.

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Karen Mammano

The addition of the stairs up to Pier 92 was wonderful. As well as the way they put the benching and Pier 94 made the flow of traffic much better.

Andrew Green

Well the highlight of Westminster 2016 for us was winning the Working group with our home bred Samoyed.

If we were to suggest one change going forward it would have to be to stop allowing spectators into the benching/ grooming area before the groups. It gets crazy back there not to mention a dangerous situation for everyone.

Jackie Beaudoin

I loved watching two of my closest friends win their groups!

I always think that it is fun and informative to see the new breeds that have come in. I really liked the metal staircase that went between the two Piers and thought it was much faster than waiting for the elevators. I really like the venue at the Piers and think it is an improvement and every year they work out a few more little details. The ONLY downside I see to the Pier is the inconvenience for the group winners on Monday night. I am sure that having to move back over to the Piers for a few hours the next day for benching and then back over to the Garden for the evening benching has got to be nerve-wracking. There may be no help for this at this time but I am sure that it would be nice if this move didn’t need to be made. Don’t get me wrong, I am sure that every group winner is thrilled that they are the one having to do this but it would just be nice if something else could be worked out.

Doug Johnson

The best part of Westminster for me, is that each year it brings together friends from all around the country and the world. I have often had the fun of hosting friends from other countries — this year it was Norway — and introducing them to the pageantry of Westminster. There is nothing like it for sure. One thing that I would encourage is for breeders to start supporting the entry with class dogs.

We are missing an opportunity to showcase our breeding programs on this level at this show.

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y t s o r F

Our since re apprec iation to at Westm Breed Jud inster, Mr ge . Richard William Powell for this excit ing win!!

GCh. Monamour JP First Kiss Frosty is owned & loved by Marilyn Title Carolyn McKenzie Carla Viggiano Kao Miichi

Bred by Kao Miichi Monamour Russell Terriers

Always presented by Greg Strong, AKC reg’d (410) 822-2187 Assisted by Ariel & Sarah Cukier

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*CC All Breed through 1.16

Dog News 25

AND ANOTHER THING...!

Irving's Impressions

By Ronnie Irving

ALL ROUNDER VERSUS BREEDER JUDGE

It is not the first time that I have compared and contrasted the all round judge and the specialist adjudicator and looked at the rather different proportions of such judges that we have here in the UK as compared to the USA. I don’t suppose it will be the last.

I think that it is the disparity in these proportions that creates some fundamental differences in the nature of dog judging on the two sides of the Atlantic. This in turn causes some other fairly fundamental dissimilarities between the fancy in the USA and the dog game in the UK. Let us first of all look at some facts. I don’t have the statistics for the USA but I imagine that in most breeds the number of breeder judges who are officiating in the USA is fairly small.

Would it be safe to say that less than five percent of the judging assignments under AKC rules are carried out by true one breed only specialist breeder judges?

I have looked at the situation in the UK and for my breed – Border Terriers which in the UK is a relatively large breed numerically at shows – in the last two years we had the following percentages of judges at championship qualifying shows. And here I have listed as specialists, those people who only judge that one breed and officiate in no other.

For Border Terriers the figures were: Specialist 81% All Rounder 19% For Labradors, our biggest breed, the proportions were: Specialist 82% All Rounder 18% For a numerically small breed such as say Clumber Spaniels they were: Specialist 47% All Rounder 53% And for an even smaller breed numerically such as say Sealyham Terriers the percentages were: Specialist 40% All Rounder 60%

What to take from these figures? First of all it is clear that the proportion of specialist judges, no matter which breed, is far greater in the UK than it is in the USA. Secondly, the reason for the greater preponderance of specialists in the numerically bigger breeds here is that the organising shows know that most breeder judges are far more popular with exhibitors than most all rounders are. The shows therefore pay rather more attention to selecting ‘the right judge’ for the breed, in the more popular breeds. This can make quite a difference to their entries. For example, the difference between a good entry and a bad entry of Border Terriers could mean as much as $2,400 to $2,700 of revenue for the show. For Labradors the difference could be as much as $3,500. For a smaller breed such as Lakelands however, the difference between a good and bad entry may amount to only around $200 to $300. Little wonder therefore that the numerically larger breeds are allocated rather more specialist judges than the smaller breeds.

DEEPER KNOWLEDGE OF BREED TYPE

What of the advantages and disadvantages as between specialist and allrounder judges. I have quoted before the tongue in cheek definition of these two types of judge as follows: “The Breed Specialist is a judge who learns more and more about less and less until he knows everything about nothing. The All-rounder, on the other hand, is a judge who learns less and less about more and more until he knows nothing about everything”!

Taking the specialist judge first, what are the advantages?

There is no doubt that the main advantage is that the specialist usually has a far deeper knowledge of the breed standard and of breed type. They often regard it as the first and most important thing to preserve. Surely no one can deny that this is a good thing. That then is the main advantage, but what of the disadvantages? If concentration on type is carried to excess, it can result in specialists being far less aware of, interested in, or even knowledgeable about, movement and conformation than they should be. Some specialists pay far too much attention to certain aspects of type and not enough to movement. If too many specialists judge a breed and pay too much attention to type and not enough to soundness, this can also lead to a greater and greater exaggeration of certain breed points.

Another disadvantage of specialists here is that, because they only judge once every year or two, they actually do not Continued on page 100

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Our since on appreciati to Judge Mr. Jaime r Ganoza fo g recognizin this Buddy in g outstandin oup Hound Gr line up

America’s Number One PBGV 2015

*

GCh. Celestial CJ’s Ringmaster at Talus Buddy is Owned & Loved by Jeanne & Charles Hurty Lynne & Mark Florian Cindy Wilt Bred by Jeanne Hurty Cindy & Phil Wilt Presented by Greg Strong, AKC reg’d (410) 822-2187 Assisted by Ariel & Sarah Cukier *The Dog News Top Ten List - Breed

Dog News 27

28 Dog News

*The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed, through January, 2016

Dog News 29

What can I give my bitch to dry up her milk?

and

your

VET

By Merry Fitzgerald, DVM.

Lactation, or milk production, in dogs usually lasts for 4-6 weeks. Milk production is at its peak 3 weeks after the puppies are delivered. Milk will continue to be produced as long as the puppies are nursing. When the puppies are weaned, it can take 1-2 weeks for the milk production to dry up.

Most bitches stop lactating gradually as the puppies begin to eat solid food. For a mother that produces excess milk, or in the case of a pregnancy with no surviving puppies, there are a couple of things you can do to help speed the drying up process.

Sage contains a natural form of estrogen and can decrease the supply of milk. You can buy sage at the health food store or use the spice from your kitchen. When using the dry sage, you can put ½ teaspoon of sage into her food twice a day for a 15 pound dog, and 1 teaspoon for a 30 pound dog.

Sage can also be made into tea by adding 1 teaspoon of sage to 1 cup of hot water and letting it steep for about 15 minutes. You might want to add some milk or honey to it as the sage can have a bitter taste. One full cup every 6 hours will usually dry the milk up quickly in large dogs. Sage works best if you use it along with cabbage leaf compresses.

Cabbage leaf compresses are a remedy that has been used for over a hundred years to reduce milk production in both human and canine females. Here are some directions for their use: Buy plain green cabbage. You can use either green or red cabbage, but the red cabbage is more likely to stain the fur. The cabbage leaves need to be cold, so after rinsing and drying the inner leaves, put them in the refrigerator. When they are chilled, carefully cut out the stem from the center of each leaf.

Wrap the leaves around the breasts, leaving the nipples exposed. Ace bandages can be used to secure the leaves in place. Change the cabbage leaves every 20-30 minutes or sooner if the cabbage becomes warm or wilted. This can be done several times a day. Bitches will usually dry up within 1 week after they have stopped nursing.

Why do I have to x-ray my dog’s elbows before I can breed him?

Similar to hip dysplasia, dogs should be cleared of elbow dysplasia before being used for breeding. This is a developmental abnormality that occurs in the elbow joint of dogs, mostly in the medium and large breeds. There are three problems that may be called elbow dysplasia, which are an ununited anconeal process (UAP), a fragmented coronoid process (FCP), and osteochondritis dissicans (OCD). Dogs with elbow dysplasia typically only have one of the three conditions.

It is rare for a dog to have all three components of elbow dysplasia.

The elbow joint is composed of 3 bones; the humerus of Continued on page 104

30 Dog News

The JR Granddaughter

Y SK

Presented by Cecelia Ruggles, High Ridge Kennels

Best of Breed - Thank you Judge Mr. Elliott B. Weiss

GCh. High Ridge The Sky’s the Limit with Gaylor Owned by Cecelia Ruggles, High Ridge Scott Sommer Laurie Scarpa, Gaylor Krista Fileccia

Bred by Cecelia Ruggles Scott Sommer Billie H. Steffee

Breeder-Owner-Handled by Scott Sommer assisted by Connery Cole Dog News 31

32 Dog News

*

*CC System

Dog News 33

Bests of the

Week

Pensacola Dog Fanciers Association - Saturday Affenpinscher

GCh. Tamarin Tailback Judge Mr. Houston Clark Owner Doyle & Carol Girouard Handler Alfonso Escobedo

Belle-City Kennel Club - Sunday Golden Retriever

GCh Xcelerate Kaleo Pretty As A Picture

Judge Dr. Dana Ann Smith Massey Owner Shari & Haley Curran Handler Lauren McIlwraith Connecticut River Working Group Association Samoyed

GCh. Pebbles’ Run Play It Again Ham Judge Mr. Peter Gaeta Owners Barbara Bruns, Wolfgang Stamp, Amy and Andrew Green Handler Andrew Green

34 Dog News

To report a AKC All Breed Best In Show or National Specialty Win Call, Fax or Email before 12:00 Noon Tuesday. Fax: 212 6755994 Phone: 212 4629588 • Email: dognews@ harris-pub.com

Superstition Kennel Club German Shorthaired Pointer

GCh. Vjk-Myst Garbonitas California Journey Judge Mr. Brian Meyer Owner V Atkinson, A Manning & Y Hassler-Deterding Handler Valerie Nunes-Atkinson Valley Isle Kennel Club of Maui Hawaiian Kennel Club - Sunday West Highland White Terrier

GCh. Lotrando Sunshine Celebration Judge Ms. Beverly Capstick Judge Mr. Robert Shreve Owners Zane Smith & Vanessa Skou Handler Vanessa Skou Belle-City Kennel Club - Saturday Bulldog

Ch General Sherman Tank VII Judge Mrs. Beth Speich Owner R & S Doyle Handler Perry Payson

Dog News 35

36 Dog News

Dog News 37

Ten Questions asked of

Sophia Rogers

Best Junior Handler Winner at The 2016 Westminster Kennel Club

1

Born: Hopewell, NJ • Reside: Mansfield, NJ Marital Status: Single • Astrological Sign: Capricorn

When did you start showing and how did that first show go?

I was twelve years old when I first started showing our family’s lovely, six month old fawn Great Dane puppy .It wasn’t very pretty.

She was all paws and I a nervous beginner. I asked the steward for the wrong number, so we missed our class, but everyone was very kind, and since she was the only one in the class, the judge was gracious enough to let us compete in our class before winners. We had a lot of fun, and with that first blue ribbon I was definitely bit by the dog show bug.

2 3 4

How difficult was it to finish your championship?

Finishing my first champion was difficult in the beginning, but as we learned together, she finished quickly.

Other than your own breed, what other breeds do you like?

Besides Great Danes and American Foxhounds, I admire all breeds, but some of my favorites are Tibetan Spaniels, Doberman Pinschers, English Setters, and English Pointers.

I feel it is a work in progress, filled with good people who are trying to do their best for our sport.

How many shows do you attend a year, and which three are your favorite ones?

The amount of shows I compete in varies, as we try to balance life with a large family and other commitments.

Some of my favorites are the Blue Crab Cluster in VA, Eukanuba National Championship, and Westminster.

Who from dogs would you like to see on the television show “Duck Dynasty?”

Harry Miller or Jeff Lentsch.

What things in the world of dogs brings you the greatest joy?

The human canine bond. This past December I was privileged to attend The ACE Awards Dinner and meet and speak with the owners of those amazing dogs and hear their stories. I think that there is truly nothing more beautiful then the unconditional love that the dogs in our lives give us.

9 10

Which dog person of the opposite sex would you be?

I would be David Frei because he is a superb spokesman and advocate for purebred dogs. He is an inspiration with his work with therapy dogs through Angel on a Leash, and he has big, kind, compassionate heart that is a tremendous force for good in the dog show community.

38 Dog News

5 6 7 8

How do you feel about AKC’s role in our sport?

What characteristics do you admire in others and strive to emulate?

Kindness, integrity, truthfulness, a good sense of humor and always having a cheerful positive attitude.

If you could afford to host an elegant catered dinner party, name at least three dogs and/or people you would like to invite?

Dianne Reimer, Anne Rogers Clark and George Alston.

I would love to be able to listen to all their wisdom and knowledge.

s u o i c e r

Thank you to all the Judges who recognized Precious’ quality and type throughout the year.

Best of Breed Westminster Kennel Club 2015 & 2016

GCh. Touche’s Snapdragon Owned by Bill Gorodner & Alan Bower Bred by Touche Beautifully presented by Angela Lloyd AKC reg handler Assisted by Erin Nesbitt AKC reg. apprentice and Tyler Mills Dog News 39

40 Dog News

Dog News 41

February 15th & 16th, 2016

The Westminster Kennel Club

By Desmond J. Murphy • PHOTOS BY EUGENE Z. ZAPHIRIS

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his year was the 140th show. It is the second oldest sporting event in America.

The Kentucky Derby is just one year older.

The first show was held in 1877. Back then a panel of 10 judges decided who would be the winner. Starting in 1912, the number of judges judging "Westminster BIS was cut down to three. is the Western Then some later year it Hemisphere consisted of five judges version of Crufts. picking BIS. The legendary C. Hopton was one Both shows are Charles of the judges who judged steeped in such BIS in 1916, 1918 and 1921. great tradition. In 1920, Mr. Hopton judged Both shows are not the second Santa Barbara easy for exhibitors, Kennel Club. It was a threebut the tradition day event and had over entries. Mr. Hopton of showing at 500 judged the entire show. these shows He was considered the outweighs all the foremost judge in America inconveniences. at that time.

My first memory of The biggest was watching difference is in Westminster my father, Harry Murphy, size." winning the Hound Group in 1958. He was handling the Whippet, Ch. Laguna Lucky Lad, the first Whippet to win the Hound group at the Garden.

That year Bob Gorman handled the Standard Poodle, Ch. Puttencove Promise, to Best. My father and Bob Gorman had grown up in the same little town in Scotland together. Since this year was my 58th Garden, I certainly have seen so many changes through the years. It was in 1969 that the show was held at the present 42 Dog News

Garden. This new up to date venue was a welcome venue from the previous Garden.

Quickly it became outdated and more and more difficult to hold the show at this venue.

Finally just a couple of years ago the breed judging had to move to Pier 92 and 94.

There were pros and cons about having to move the breed judging. Immediately the first year, it was realized it was much easier for the exhibitors, handlers and the dogs to be judged at the Piers. Each year it only continues to be improved upon.

The enormous committee has overcome all obstacles that have been thrown at them. Look at how many years the show has had to cope with major blizzards. Often people have difficulty getting to New York or get delayed for days trying to return home.

Westminster is the Western Hemisphere version of Crufts. Both shows are steeped in such great tradition. Both shows are not easy for exhibitors, but the tradition of showing at these shows outweighs all the inconveniences. The biggest difference is in size. Westminster has about 2,700 dogs and Crufts about 22,000 dogs. The Westminster entry is comprised of 99% champions and Crufts is mainly nonchampions.

In recent years the social scene of Continued on page 46

Dog News 43

Dog News 45

The Westminster Kennel Club Continued FROM page 43

the weekend has seen major "Last year changes also. We no longer "Meet the have the fabulous Pedigree Breeds" only dinner. The magazines have used one of given up their lavish parties.

There used to be so many the Piers on private parties that it was Saturday and impossible to attend all. This people had year it was down to just three to stand in social affairs - Friday was long lines in the Take The Lead Theatre Party sponsored by AKC's extremely cold pet insurance company Pet weather to Partners, Saturday the Purina/ get in. This Dogs in Review dinner and year again another Take the Lead party on the weather Monday after the groups. All was frigid, three were lovely affairs and enjoyed by so many. but having Like Crufts, the World Shows both Piers and the AKC/Eukanuba (now alleviated the Royal Canin) these shows long lines to attract fanciers from all over enter." the world. At the recent AKC/ Eukanuba two of the group winners came from Asia. Here at the Garden, the Borzoi (the Hound Winner) hails from Japan. Crufts last year went to the American Scottie owned by a Russian. These are just a few examples of how the entire sport is coming closer together.

Arriving midday at the Affinia on Thursday, it was good to run into friends I had not seen for so long. That evening I enjoyed a lovely dinner party consisting of twenty plus friends. The group consisted mainly of the leading Frenchie fanciers from all over the country and also from Japan and Thailand.

Friday evening I so much enjoyed the Theatre Party, for which this year the show was "School of Rock". This is a great show and I hope 46 Dog News

longer. This means that the general public goes to be able to see it again. The dinner at "Club to very few dog shows. Westminster and the 21" is a lovely affair, but does make for a very Philadelphia shows are the only shows shown on late night. We did not get back to the hotel until national television. I believe the AKC/Eukanuba 1:30 AM. Pet Partners has to be thanked for does have some TV coverage now. I know so sponsoring this great evening, which raises many people that came into the sport because large funds for Take The Lead. of seeing the Garden on TV. The SBKC this past Progressive Toy Dog Club has always put year no longer charged an admission on its annual event at the Pennsylvania Hotel. This year “This later start of fee, in hopes of getting more people to the show was finished early judging was very attend the show. I believe it did attract enough to allow everyone much welcomed by more spectators because several of the vendors told me their sales to get themselves ready for all exhibitors and were up. Even though Monday was their Friday evening activities. handlers.

The very a holiday the gate seemed larger on The Penn is host venue for late nights make for Tuesday. In recent years the stands are many specialties on Saturday and Sunday. It is a very costly such little sleep for much more packed Tuesday evening venue and not the easiest man and beast.� than on the Monday evenings. I do know some friends go back to their place to hold specialties. rooms Monday and watch the show Luckily Progressive and the on TV in the comfort of their room. On Tuesday specialties attract a huge gate. Without the they want to be in the Garden to personally see income from the gate these clubs could not the great climax. afford the venue. The French Bulldog Club of America holds a specialty on Saturday and Sunday. This year their entry grew by about ecause of nearly all the judging getting another 20 entries. Due to the small size of finished last year around three o'clock, the ring it makes it somewhat difficult for the the committee realized judging could start judges to manage the ring properly. Hopefully later this year. On Monday, judging did not start next year somehow the ring size can be made until 8:30 AM and Tuesday not until 9:00 AM. This a little larger. later start of judging was very much welcomed Last year "Meet the Breeds" only used one by all exhibitors and handlers. The very late of the Piers on Saturday and people had to nights make for such little sleep for man and stand in long lines in extremely cold weather to beast. Not being a fast mover in the morning, get in. This year again the weather was frigid, with no obligations, I was awake by 6 AM so I but having both Piers alleviated the long lines would not have to rush to settle in before judging to enter. The AKC and Westminster have to would start. be congratulated on showing the public what Like all parts of the world today, the three purebred dogs are about. Purina ProPlan is largest entries were Goldens with 50, Labradors also a large sponsor of this wonderful event. with 51 and Frenchies with 46. With the depth Sunday the Piers had Dog Diving and of quality being so strong worldwide it attracts Agility. Between Saturday through Tuesday the a huge audience. Each year for Top Frenchie it public got to see the sport in a very favorable nearly always goes down to the last weekend Continued on page 50 light. There are so few inner city shows any

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Dog News 47

A Repeat Win for ch. cragsmoor good time

at the Westminster Kennel Club Owners Victor Malzoni, Jr. Hampton Court Kennels Sao Paulo, Brazil Nancy Shaw TXStar Kennels Fredericksburg, Texas Handlers Larry Corneluis Marcelo Vera Assisted by Kasey O’Brien Breeders & Co-Owners Eugene Zaphiris & Matthew Stander

Cragsmoor Kennels Oyster Bay Cove, New York 48 Dog News

Group First

Judge Mr. Geir Flyct-Pedersen

Best of Breed

Judge Mr. Richard Powell

He retires as the Top Winning Skye Terrier in Breed History with 79 All Breed Best in Shows 53 Reserve Best in Shows 253 Group Firsts Dog News 49

The Westminster Kennel Club Continued FROM page 47

greatly enjoyed. of the year. Orlando always draws a very In the age of such advanced huge entry and makes the difference on technology, people from all over the which exhibit will be number one on both all world can watch the live streaming and breed and breed point systems. This past immediately see all the winners. Even the year was no exception. Larry Cornelius and audience in the Piers did not find out the his charge ended up number one breed winners in various breeds as quick as points and on the AKC system for most all people at home on their computers. The breed points. Jodi Longmire with her charge one advantage was when breed judging finished number one all-breed on the "Dog was in the Garden one could have an eye News" system, which counts the points on several rings at the same time. But for for Reserve Bests. With these two leading the comfort of the dogs, exhibitors and the pack for the start of the year, the battle handlers, the breed judging works of Frenchies was of interest to so many. Both "In the age of much better in the Piers.

The one thing that was very Jodi and Larry will admit such advanced different this year from previous there were many top technology, people years, there were no huge upsets specimens they could from all over the at the breed level. In past years so not have complained of standing behind as the world can watch the many of the top dogs in the country ribbons were passed live streaming and did not win their breeds. I cannot think of one huge winning dog that out.

The handlers, immediately see all went down in the breed this year. owners and breeders the winners."

Often several of the dogs that were in Frenchies have to be thought might go BIS would not get congratulated on the out of their breeds. This year a lot of great sportsmanship the dogs that people felt had a chance to witnessed in their wonderful breed. Even go Best all got through their breeds and the exhibitors that did not get a ribbon either won the group or placed second. were so complimentary about the judge, The "dark horse" was the Borzoi. She just Mary Miller, on how she handled her started her campaign in the States in assignment. There were many exhibits of January. But this is a great example, like top, top quality that had to go without an "Swagger" the OES, that an unknown dog AOM. can go to the top at Westminster. When Both Monday and Tuesday many of the great winning dogs get beat in their us enjoyed a very early dinner right in the breeds to just mediocre dogs it certainly Affinia. This allowed a good two and a creates a lot of drama. Last month at half hours before walking over for group the Portland Cluster, the biggest shows judging. When I said a very early dinner to other than Eukanuba and Palm Springs, my South American friends, they said Desi, phones and the internet were ringing you mean a late lunch since we started at off the wall. "CJ", the Shorthaired Pointer, 5 PM. Not having lunch at the Piers, a very went BIS three of the four days against a early dinner or late lunch was something I 50 Dog News

lot of the great dogs of America. On one of the days "CJ" was beaten in the breed. "CJ" went to the specialty in Orlando in 2013 as a puppy. Here at his first show he won the sweeps and also the specialty. Since then he has only ever been defeated three times in his life. I cannot think of any of the greatest winners that never lost a breed. This would make an interesting article for one to research.

Even "Charlie," the Skye Terrier, lost a breed in his long career. "Rumor" the Shepherd did not have a 100% record of BOB. Nobody ever remembers the judges who award great dogs their great wins, but people always remember the judges who make for startling news. As a judge, I have always felt I would rather be remembered as awarding a dog its first big win, not its first defeat. Several years ago at Hatboro, people asked if I was excited to have awarded "Sky," the Wire Fox, her 100th Best. I said, “No. I was a lot prouder that I had awarded her her first BOB from the classes.�

The legendary Joe Faigle always said, "He was not so concerned about finding the next great one. He was more concerned that a great one would slip past him." I can bet that Valerie will never forget the names of the three judges who did not award "CJ" BOB and she probably cannot remember all of the judges who have put him BIS. Over 50 years ago, I won my first blue ribbon under Percy Roberts, my first points under Alva Rosenberg, and forty plus years ago my first BIS under Billy Kendrick.

I also remember some of the greatly unwarranted defeats I suffered. Nobody will remember that "Sky" the Wire won her first breed under me, but they will remember the one or two breeds she ever lost.

It is what makes the Garden what it is, the dreams coming true and the great heartbreaks.

Dog News 51

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Dog News 53

A History of Westminster’s Group Winning Dogs And The People Behind Them

By Desmond J. Murphy

Old English Sheepdog “Swagger,” Bugaboo’s Picture Perfect, being awarded Reserve Best In Show at 2013 Westminster Kennel Club

T

here is a saying that “One show cannot make or break a dog”. In general this is certainly true, but there are exceptions.

When “Swagger”, the OES, in 2013 went Reserve Best from the classes, it certainly launched his great career. Years ago many great dogs made their debut at the Garden in the classes. It was hoped they would win the breed at this show and would get national attention. Most of the group winners at the Garden are usually dogs that have already done a tremendous amount of winning. In the final this year, the German Shepherd and the Skye both have gone BIS at the AKC/Eukanuba show. The Skye was also Reserve Best at

54 Dog News

the Garden last year. Several of the other group winners had tremendous records behind them.

This year we did see two group winners that did not have tremendous records due to being so new to the campaign trail. The lovely Borzoi bitch was a class bitch at Santa Barbara in August.

She drew a great deal of attention because of winning both the “Sighthound Spectacular” and the “Foreign Bred Competition”. She and her owners immediately returned with her to Japan. Between these two very exciting events she won several thousands of dollars in prize monies. But, it was the prestige of these wins that excited her owners most. This young bitch only returned to the US about six weeks before the Garden. The Shih Tzu that won the Toy Group came to New York without a big record. He won both Specialties in New York last year, but it is just recently he has been campaigned more seriously.

A great win at times can make a dog, but it takes a great judge to recognize these relatively unknown dogs. All of the group and BIS judges come with an average of over half a century of background in the sport. The Hound Group judge has the longest background dating back to 1953. Geir Flyckt-Pedersen, who judged the Terrier Group, just about as long. Geir started in dogs in the mid 50's. Bonnie Threlfall started showing in juniors in the late fifties. Bonnie started her “Edgewood” English Cocker breeding program in 1969. The Working judge, Norm Kenney, started in the sport roughly fifty years

ago and the same for Dorothy Collier, who judged the Herding Group. Luc Boileau, who judged the Non-Sporting group, also has been in the sport for over half a century.

When Luc went BIS at the Garden in 1990 with the Peke, “Crown Prince,” he had already been a legend in Pekes and so many other breeds.

Last year so many of the group winners were handled by handlers of Canadian birth. This year we saw judges Dick Meen, Virginia Lyne and Luc Boileau all with Canadian roots.

The accomplishments of all the group and BIS judges would make for a book in itself. Volumes and volumes could be written on what they have to be credited with. The only group judge who has not been in the sport half a century or longer was the Toy Group judge, Jason Hoke. Jason is only forty-five, but has been involved in the sport since he was five years old. He and his family had great success breeding top Great Danes. As a teenager and through college, Jason worked for some of the top handlers in America and then as a handler showed some great winning dogs.

Jason would have to be considered the junior judge since he has only been approved to judge since 2010. His judging career took off quickly when the AKC invited him to apply for twenty-nine breeds. In his short time of judging he has been invited to judge many National Specialties and some prestigious International assignments. This past January at the famous Philippines Circuit, he was the lone American. Thes twelve shows, within four days, are always judged by the most distinguished FCI judges from all over the world. I was pleased to learn that many of these famous judges were very impressed by the talent of the young American – Jason. Although being so new to judging Jason has already acquired a strong International reputation.

It is the dream of every breeder, owner and handler to win the Garden. This year Valerie Nunes-Atkinson had her dreams come true threefold, since she is the breeder, owner and handler of “CJ”, the German Shorthair Pointer. In 2005 Valerie saw her co-bred, co-owned bitch, “Carlie” go BIS at the Garden. “CJ” is a grandson of “Carlie”. To breed a Garden BIS winner is a thrill of a lifetime, but Valerie now goes into the history books as one of the very few to have ever done it twice. People forget that Valerie was also the

Luc Boileau handling the Pekingese “Crown Prince” en route to Best In Show at the 1990 Westminster Kennel Club.

co-breeder of the world famous Saluki, “California Dreamin,” which won the World Show, won well at the AKC/Eukanuba World Challenge and set all kinds of records in Europe and Scandinavia. It is hard to realize that it seems like just yesterday Valerie was a teenager. I well remember she, Amy Booth and Susie Olivera as young teenage girls with a passion for the sport.

Just seconds before Dick Meen announced the “CJ” was BIS, he had declared “Lucy”, the Borzoi as Reserve Best. I can imagine the emotion that ran through Valerie when “Lucy” was awarded Reserve Best. This Borzoi bitch is now starting her campaign with Vale, but was shown in New York by her owner-handler from Japan. Valerie just started the campaign in January and for her to go Reserve at the Garden just after a couple of weekends is something that is practically unheard of. This win has such very, very special meaning coming from Dick Meen, who is “Mr. Borzoi”. Dick and his partner, John Reeve-Newson, and their “Kishniga” Borzois' are legendary. I cannot imagine the emotion that ran through Valerie when within seconds that “Lucy” was Reserve, “CJ” became Best. I am confident that at no show in the world of this stature any handler went Best and Reserve. I am confident that I will not live long enough to witness this ever again. When “CJ” won the group under Bonnie Threlfall, Valerie had to be so honored. Bonnie, like Valerie, was a great handler and is still a leading breeder for the past forty-five years.

When Andrew Green was growing up as a young teenager I am sure he had dreams of winning big at the Garden with a Terrier, as his Continued on page 58

Dog News 55

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Dog News 57

A History of Westminster’s Group Winning Dogs And The People Behind Them

Continued FROM page 55

German Shorthaired Pointer “Carlie,” co-bred and co-owned by Valerie NunesAtkinson, goes Best In Show at 2005 Westminster.

2016 Best In Show Winner “CJ” is a grandson of “Carlie”.

Dad has so many times. I am sure he never would have thought he would win a Working group with a Samoyed. Andrew married into the Sammy world. His wife, Amy, is an incredible breeder. Her “Pebble's Run” homebreds have become such a major force. This year they went BOB, BOW, BOS and at least one of the selects. Several years ago Mike Billings told me a bitch from this kennel was the best Samoyed she had ever seen. Even though I am not approved for the Working Group, several years ago I had the pleasure of giving their super bitch her first group win.

Last year when “Charlie,” the Skye, won the group under John Reeve-Newson, it had to have special meaning. John and Dick Meen, under “Kishniga” have and still do breed top winning Skyes. To come back again this year and win the group under Geir, “Mr. Louline Wire Fox,” ended a legendary career for “Charlie”. “Charlie” broke the record set by his kennel Mate, “Buddy”. These dogs go back to breeding based on Ch. Glamoor Good News. “Susie” was breeder/ owner/handled to Best at the Garden in 1969. Her mother, Ch. Jacinthe de Ricelaine, held the record for close to fifty years until “Buddy” broke it. Now “Charlie”

58 Dog News

has nearly doubled the record of “Buddy”. Only two Skye Terriers have won the group at the Garden in the last forty plus years. Other than “Charlie”, it was his sire Ch. Finnsky Oliver in 1996. They are the only father and son to ever win the Terrier Groups at The Garden.

Gene Zaphiris owner handled him to this win under Ken McDermott, who showed some top Skye Terriers.

I remember “Oliver” so well because the first Terrier group I ever judged, he was my winner. “Charlie” has been the first Skye to win Best under me. As a very young teenager I spent a great deal of time around the breed. I traveled to shows with Walter Goodman and babysat for the dogs at times. Kathy Bilicich, who handles the Shih Tzu, Ch. Wenrick's Don't Stop Believing, has been a fixture in southern California for more years than people realize, because of her very young appearance. This dog was bred in Canada by Wendy Pacquette and her ex-husband, Richard. Kathy's mother, Sharon Bilicich, co-owns the dog with Jody Pacquette-Garcini. When Jody moved to the States from Canada she quickly became a major force in handling, especially in Shih Tzu. Upon her marriage to Leonardo Garcini, Terriers have become a major part of life. This dog, without a huge record, had to win a very highly competitive breed. The Toy group, as at most big shows, was extremely steeped in quality. Just several days later, Jason Hoke awarded Best to his second place winner, David Fitzpatrick and the top winning Peke.

The top winning Pom in history was third in the group. The top winning Chihuahua in history was also in the group.

It was in 1983, 33 years ago, that we showed a Bulldog winning the group at the Garden. Earlier in the weekend I was enjoying a glass of wine in Niles with Jean Hetherington.

Jean said it was 50 years ago that she and Bob won the breed at the Garden with their first homebred, Ch. Hetherbull Arrogance. Although I was only sixteen I remember “Harry” very well. Bob and Jean lived just down the road from my uncle, John Murphy. A few years later, Sam Draper and I lived at “Hetherbull” for a couple of years. Living full time at a prominent Bulldog kennel gave me a first hand knowledge of the breed. I remember so well at their home being in conversations with so many legendary Bulldog breeders.

Although Jean did not breed “Annabelle,” she is sired by a Hetherbull sire. When Jean judged BOB at the Nationals several years ago, “Annabelle” was very young and Jean awarded her BOS. Shortly after she was lucky that her cobreeders and co-owners let Jean be one of the owners.

Jean has been able to take “Annabelle” to great wins. Ellen Charles and Jean have been close friends for 40 plus years.

BreederOwnerHandler Gene Zaphiris handling the Skye Terrier “Oliver” to Group First at the 1996 Westminster Kennel Club.

Ellen is one of the co-owners and has helped with her campaign. In 1973, we saw Ellen's Mother, Mrs. Augustus Riggs, IV judge BIS at the Garden. Mrs. Riggs, known to her close friends as Adalaide, was a legend in her own time. She was one of the few women up until then to judge best at Westminster. She started the “Hillwood” kennels and through Ellen might be the longest running kennel name in AKC history. Mrs. Riggs, the daughter of Mrs. Merryweather Post, was a great character of the sport. It is believed that “Annabelle” is the first Bulldog bitch to win the group at the Garden.

Dorothy Collier has also been in the sport for roughly fifty years. Long before marrying Chet, Dottie Stevens started in the Metro area with Komondorok when she first became known. Before she became famous for her “Summithill” Komondors, she was also involved with OES and Dobes. Dottie was privileged to be surrounded in the sport by great breeders and dog authorities. With her keen eye, she quickly started her judging career in the early 80's. She was presented with a super strong Herding group. Over the last close to fifty years, she has seen or judged all the great Shepherds. She had found “Rumor” to be of exceptional quality and awarded her first in that group. The AKC/Eukanuba was the 100th BIS for “Rumor”. What is remarkable about this year,

is that it was done in such a short period. She was only campaigned hard in the space of about 15 months. The closest dog to her this past year was over 50,000 points behind. It was the first time in so long that there was not even a race for Top Dog. The breeders, owners and handler of “Rumor” have to be congratulated on her career that was managed with such great taste and style. She was never flown all over the country on a weekend chasing wins. Kent would drive to a weekend and stay there for all the shows. Hopefully in the future we will see more dogs campaigned in this style. Years ago that was the norm. “Rumor,” like “CJ,” did get best in the breed less than a handful of times. An article of the few defeats of some of the great winning dogs would make for an interesting read.

Between the owners, breeders, handlers and judges the seven group winners represent literally thousands of years of experience in the sport. The dogs come from many, many generations. Some of the humans also come from several generations of great dog people. It was a very interesting year for me. Having a strong opinion, I did not witness any judging that I thought was completely out of line or could not understand. Some years we all have seen judging when you do not know whether to laugh or cry. Any of the judging that came as a surprise this year was with some great dogs that went on to win bigger than had been predicted.

It is because of many, many breeders, owners and handlers that we get to see so many great dogs competing. We do not realize the amount of hours it takes to stage a show of this magnitude. Séan McCarthy, President, has an enormous committee that works all year long to plan so much. Florence Foti, Director of Operations, oversees so many different parts of the operation of the event all year long. We forget just dealing with unions is a nightmare in itself. The unions are a large part of the reason we see less and less inner city shows.

Like so many of the great events today, Purina Pro Plan helps to sponsor these events in the style they do.

This year in Moscow, the World Show will have Purina Pro Plan as a major sponsor. I imagine Pro Plan will also be a major sponsor of the World Show in Shanghai in 2019.

Purina Pro Plan has to be also thanked for sponsoring Progressive and all the specialties held Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The fabulous “Dogs In Review” awards dinner also has Purina Pro Plan as a major sponsor. All of us in the sport owe a great deal of gratitude to Pro Plan.

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What’s in Your Dog’s Water Dish?

by B a rb a ra Bey n on

M

ost people have heard the story of contaminated drinking water in Flint, Michigan. The City of Flint originally built its public water treatment plant in 1952. In 1967, the City began buying treated water (from Lake Huron) from the City of Detroit and stopped treating its own water.

At the time, Flint’s population was close to 200,000, and the City used 100 million gallons of water per day.

In April, 2014, Flint’s population had declined to 99,000 and the City was pumping less than 16 million gallons of water per day.

The City was in receivership; and to save money, the City switched from purchasing Detroit’s water and began treating water from the Flint River. Soon citizens began complaining of the water’s taste, color, and odor. In October, 2014, the General Motors plant in Flint stopped using the water because they claimed that it was corroding car parts.

Early in 2015, the crisis came to its breaking point as lead concentrations in the water were documented exceeding drinking water standards. Political infighting, multi-agency bickering, and plenty of fingerpointing is now going on as multiple lawsuits have been filed. Unfortunately, the people left in the middle are the citizens of Flint who must pay for water they cannot use.

So what does this have to do with dogs?

Plenty- our dogs share our environment with us. If something affects us, it is likely to have an effect on our dogs.

Contaminants such as lead and copper have toxic doses, which are dependent on the size of the person (a child is more susceptible than an adult because of their small size and their rapid growth) or dog (small breeds are more susceptible than large breeds, and puppies more than adults). Lead

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interferes with a variety of body processes and is toxic to many organs and tissues including the heart, bones, intestines, kidneys, and reproductive and nervous systems. It interferes with the development of the nervous system and is therefore particularly toxic to children and puppies, causing potentially permanent learning and behavior disorders. Symptoms include abdominal pain, confusion, headache, anemia, irritability, and in severe cases seizures, coma, and death.

HOW DO YOU GET YOUR WATER? How your water arrives into your home is important when it comes to determining where you go to find information on your water quality.

If you live in a city, you probably get your water through a municipal supply or local utility district- these are called “public water supplies”.

If you live in rural areas, you may still get water through a public water supply (PWS) or you may have a private well.

Public water supplies are regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), your state, and possibly by local ordinance or laws. You can call your local health department and ask what agency regulates drinking water in your area. Your state agency could be your state’s EPA, Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), or State Health Department.

To assist you in determining who regulates your local drinking water, you may want to consult the webpage on EPA’s site: http://water. epa.gov/drink/local/.

Drinking water is purified and disinfected and then delivered to customers via an underground piping system. Some people worry that if the pipeline breaks, contaminants could leak into the pipe and get in their water. Public Continued on page 108

GCh. Vin-Melca’s Daggarwood Delight Standing up to her Vin-Melca Westminster HeritageH under Hound Group Judge Ms. Virginia Lyne

America’s Number One Norwegian Elkhound All Systems for 2015 with Multiple All-Breed and Specialty Best In Show wins

Thank you to Judge Mr. John Walsh, Sr., for this Best of Breed win!

H Vin-Melca Norwegian Elkhounds have won Ten Hound Group Firsts, Eight more Group Placements & 40 Best of Breeds at Westminster since 1969.

Handled By Owner Pat Trotter

Handled By Best Friend Jen Reed Dog News 75

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photo BY Jack Grassa

27 Westminster Broadcasts, A Westminster Record...

B y Ka r l M . S t ea r n s

L

ast October, David shook up some in the dog world with his announcement that he had resigned as Director of Communications for the Westminster Kennel Club. “I’ve always loved Westminster Kennel Club,” he told me recently. “Hey, I wish them well, and only want to see the best for them.” David was quick to reassure everyone he would still be doing the broadcast for 2016, albeit for the last time. “This will be my 27th broadcast,” he said. “That’s a record!” Indeed, the only other long-standing “voice” was PA announcer Roger Caras, who had that job for 22 years.

The broadcast and David’s position at Westminster, although intertwined, were actually two separate entities.

Under contract with NBC, David has spent many years handling the Westminster broadcast (since 1990) as well as the National Dog Show presented by Purina on Thanksgiving Day since 2002. The recent announcement by Westminster that they signed a 10-year deal with Fox Sports 1 to broadcast the show starting in 2017 was certain to have an impact on Frei, due to his long affiliation with NBC. Many in the dog world know about David’s history, and how he achieved the position of being the broadcast “Voice of Westminster”. It’s an interesting story to tell, and there are a few details not everyone knows that might be very intriguing. Of course, David is a dog person. With his previous wife, Sandy (who judged last year at Westminster), David bred and exhibited Afghan Continued on page 112

78 Dog News

DavidFrei

“

The

Dog” Guy

Mr. Frei started out as a good interview subject for me many years ago. Then he invited me to join “the crew” – the Westminster Kennel Club Press organization.

And we became friends. I’ve learned a great deal from this man who is a friend to all, a genteel soul who reminds everyone to “do the right thing and I’ll back you up,” and the true “voice of the dog”.

Photo by Diana Han

Heronsway Corgis Past AKC Herding Group Breeder of the Year Breeder/Owner/Handled Pembroke Welsh Corgis since 1968

Photo by FRITZ CLARK

S A NIGHT TO REMEMBER S Julia was Breeder/ Owner/ Handled to BEST OF BREED at Westminster Kennel Club under Judge Ms. Peggy BeiselMcIlwaine AND recognized in an outstanding Herding Group Judged by Mrs. Dorothy Collier!

S DREAMS CAN COME TRUE! S GCh. Heronsway Comedy Central Sire: GCh. Sandfox Cadenza

Dam: Ch. Heronsway Cockatoo Ridge, ROM

Heronsway Corgis, Reg’d.

ANNE & RICK BOWES EMAIL: heronsway.corgis@verizon.net Dog News 79

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K9s For Warriors Saving The Lives Of The Men And Women, Who Were Willing To Put Theirs On The Line For Us B y Ta h om a G u i ry PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla, - According to a study by the Department of Veterans Affairs, every day, 22 veterans decide to take their own lives, because they cannot cope with the struggles of post combat deployments after 9/11.

To put that disheartening suicide statistic in perspective, that is almost at the rate of one per hour, in a day’s span.

This is daunting for families of these veterans, because they don’t know how to help them recover and reintegrate back into civilian life.

Shari Duval knows this plight first hand. Her son, Bret Simon, deployed as a defense contractor to Iraq, twice.

After he returned home, he was diagnosed with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), faced the realization that his wounds were deeper than he first believed.

Duval wanted the Bret she knew before back, so she began researching the best ways to treat PTSD. She knew Simon had a fondness for dogs since he was an experienced police K9 and bomb dog handler. She knew he’d benefit from more time spent with canines.

Soon after, K9s For Warriors was born. Then they both realized that the need to help other veterans afflicted with PTSD was very apparent.

K9s For Warriors is a non-profit veterans assistance 82 Dog News

organization dedicated to providing service canines to warriors suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury and/or military sexual assault trauma as a result of military service post 9/11.

Their goal is to empower them to return to civilian life with dignity and independence.

As of February 2016, 213 warrior-canine teams have graduated with 100% success rate in suicide prevention.

The intense, three week in-house recovery program is of no cost to the veteran. Ninety-five percent of the dogs in the program come from rescue shelters or are owner surrendered.

K9s For Warriors is saving two lives, the warrior and their new, canine battle buddy.

“The biggest accomplishment of the program is that we are saving lives and the dogs are taking place of the prescribed medication giving veterans who need help, a reason to stop isolating themselves and to get out there and to live again,” Duval said.

Gold GCh.

Aksala’ s

Peyton CGCA

The NUMBER ONE Saint Bernard All Systems in 2015 scores another Touchdown at Westminster and kicks the extra point for recognition in the Westminster Working Group Team Peyton h named him th as eM Valuable Pla ost yer.

Judge Mr. David W. Haddock Proud Team Owners: Linda and Edward Baker Raina & Steve Lewis, Aksala Saints

His expert Coach: Melody “Snooki” Salmi Dog News 83

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True North A REPORT FROM CANADA

By Allison Foley

The amazing race dog show style, or the tale of getting to Westminster from the True North

H

ave you ever watched “The Amazing Race” and seen all the crazy things they have to do?? They race all over the world on no sleep and horrific flights. Then they have challenges (as if the itinerary wasn’t a challenge enough). The challenge could be “lead a llama up a hill, fill the bag with rocks bearing a symbol of the Mayan Culture, lead the llama down the hill, unload bricks on the scale, repeat until you have one ton of rocks, oh and do this with one arm tied behind your back.”

Well let me tell you if you have ever gone to Westminster, especially from far away, whether as a judge, exhibitor or club official, then you would just call this your commute to work!

First you have to have the right vehicle. Then the vehicle has to be devoid of anything that would make a human being comfortable. That means no fancy seats, no extra seats in the back, no extra padding or cushioning. Luckily in this age of the safety conscious we do actually get a seatbelt- which is a long cry from when I was an assistant and we would drive 14 hours through the Rocky Mountains, on Canada’s most dangerous road sitting on a cooler...

Those roads now actually star in a reality TV show called “Highway to Hell” but that’s another story.

Once you have the vehicle then you get to

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start putting “stuff” in it. Remember it is all about the dogs. You are limited to one small suitcase-if you’re lucky.

But the glorious equipment that gets loaded into the vehicle.

Dog crates, jugs of water for the dogs, because God forbid they drink water out of the tap at the local hotel! Bags of dog food, cans of dog food, frozen dog food in a coolerhomemade dog treats, commercial dog treats, cooked chicken, cooked liver, maybe even different kinds of liver for bait. No room for healthy food for humans, not even a lone protein bar.

Then there are the dog beds.

Extra beds, big comfy goose down filled beds that are for your dog. All the while you cross Canada or the interstate journey sitting on a slippery cooler trying to keep your balance.

And then when you think it is all over you arrive at your hotel and this is what happens. You now get to take all of your stuff out of the truck in front of people who have no idea what you’re doing! You are in New York City, on Seventh Avenue, unloading this mirth of equipment in front of people who have no idea what you are doing. They are wearing Prada and Chanel just heading to the theatre. You have driven 17 hours in a blizzard.

You are undaunted. You begin unloading your dog show life. You have suitcases, you have suit bags, you have make-up bags of hair accessoContinued on page 122

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By Shaun Coen

Off TheLeash

March Madness, Etc.

T

he American Kennel Club made what to many was a surprising announcement on Monday, March 7, when it disclosed that it was entering the brick and mortar business by signing a lease with The Durst Organization for a pet care facility in the VIA 57West building, the glistening, ‘triangular’ shaped glass structure that dominates the West Side of Manhattan’s new landscape. A press release supplied by AKC’s Director of Public Relations and Communications Brandi Hunter reads, “The 4,000 square foot pet care facility, which will be an amenity to the building and open to the dog owning public in the neighborhood, offers a premium one stop pet care facility including daycare, boarding, training, grooming, and walking services.”

A Wall Street Journal article also reported the news on March 7, but readers of this column were made aware of the AKC’s intentions to enter the pet care facility business back on January 29 (Off The Leash: Not Your Father’s AKC). In early January, the AKC had posted to its website under Job Opportunities that it was searching for a “Store Manager” because it was “opening a dog daycare facility in one of Manhattan’s most prestigious new addresses,” and that “A state-of-theart dog daycare facility will serve the residents of this top-flight destination as well as dog owners in the neighborhood.” At that time I questioned Alexandra Aleskovsky, the AKC’s Executive Vice President and Chief Growth Officer about these new endeavors and whether or not the AKC intended to open pet care facilities in other areas, but received no reply. Shortly after my inquiry, the job posting vanished from the website. After the March 7 formal announcement, Aleskovsky promptly replied to my subsequent inquiries, stating, “We are certainly looking to expand the expand the AKC brand nationally. As for the dog-care centers, we will evaluate opportunities, and expand accordingly.”

Time will tell how significant a development this will be for the AKC, but as Aleskovsky stated in the press release, “The pet care segment is a very exciting growth segment and it’s a great opportunity for AKC to leverage its credibility, expertise and history in dog care.”

Judging from the initial reactions from constituents (see the Editorial, Matthew Stander’s ‘And More’ column, Sari Brewster Tietjen’s column, and Letters to the Editor in this issue and comments on the Dog News Facebook

“New Yorkers are urged to support a new bill that will allow for companion animals to accompany their owners on public transportation when states of emergency are declared.”

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page), many are questioning the AKC’s involvement in a pet care facility and if it is in keeping with the registry’s mission statement.

There’s nothing wrong with making money as long as the nonprofit puts it to proper use and it’s hoped that the AKC doesn’t put dollars before dogs with its pet care facilities venture.

West Virginian dog lovers are rejoicing this week, as a measure seeking to institute mandatory spay/neuter for all dogs and cats was not considered in committee prior to the hearing deadline and as a result the bill will not advance this year. A resolution has been introduced that would require the Committee on Government Finance to study the most effective, humane, and cost-efficient means of reducing the population of unwanted and stray dogs and cats in the state and then provide recommendations to the legislature in 2017. The resolution states, “Independent research from thirty-eight reporting counties has suggested approximately fifty thousand homeless pets require shelter-provided care at a cost of $100,000 annually in West Virginia.” Offering low-cost or free spay/neuter to pet owners and regulating the adoption drives and shelter rescue operations that allow unscrupulous puppy mills and farmers to thrive would certainly put a dent in those figures. We’ll continue to monitor the situation and remain hopeful that viable alternatives will continue to be found for all MSN measures.

Kudos to all who enlightened legislators in West Virginia and to Senators Unger and Stollings for drafting the resolution. This serves as another sterling example of concerned dog owners uniting out of concern for their companions and helping lawmakers craft better legislation.

New Yorkers are urged to support a new bill that will allow for companion animals to ac-

company their owners on public transportation when states of emergency are declared. This is a no-brainer, and quite frankly, one wonders why New York has lagged in this area, considering the devastation, destruction and confusion caused in the wake of 9/11 and more recently with Superstorm Sandy. The neighboring Garden State passed legislation back in 2014 that will allow companion animals to board mass transit during emergency situations and this measure is meant to partner identically with that. This is something that all state legislatures should address if they haven’t already. The NY law states that all animals must be under their owner’s control and the boarding must be consistent with local emergency plans, and it does allow for animals to be refused if there is a health or safety hazard. Furthermore, all passengers must receive a seat before an animal does. This common sense approach to creating orderly evacuations from chaotic scenarios should pass easily but the fact that such a law doesn’t already exist makes one wonder.

T

his week’s issue also features Ten Questions asked of Sophia Rogers, who was awarded the 2016 Best Junior Showmanship title at Westminster for handling her American foxhound Bobby. This win was also featured in Sports Illustrated’s Faces In The Crowd section that celebrates young student-athletes in its March 7 issue, along with photos of Sophia and Bobby. The article mentioned that Sophia was awarded a $6,000 scholarship for this win. What great recognition for Sophia, American foxhounds, and the sport of purebred dogs, and hope for the future that more youngsters will be inspired to get involved. Kudos to Sophia, Bobby and SI!

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*

**

*The Dog News Top Ten List - Breed points **All Systems

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Dog News 93

The Rkf-- A Moving Target, Doggy Day Care Akc Style, The Elections, Hasse’s Death...

! e r o And M

By Matthew H. Stander

T

he Russian Kennel Federation, host in Moscow to this year’s 2016 FCI World Show, has been shaken by monetary scandal according to reports reaching my desk. Indeed I am told that on March 15th an entire new slate of officers are to be named by this Federation. Whether this will come to pass remains to be seen but according to sources from the UK, Finland, Russia and here in America some of the existing officials allegedly are already paying the piper. The following is part of a letter sent by the President of RKF defending his position although I must say I have been told privately he will be terminated as President on March 15th as well.

Whether or not this comes to pass whatever the situation is it certainly does not sound good for the existing officers nor for the upcoming World Show.

“Message from the President of the RKF A. Inshakov I.

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Dear friends!

Now comes raider attempt to capture a RKF with order to win the World Cup 2016 and to discredit the team and the leadership of the Russian Cynological Federation in the eyes of the public.

The event was initiated by a group of persons trying to misuse the official position and direct the activities of RKF for their own purposes. The person who heads this group is well known not only to the canine community...

I suspended some employees and initiated the audit of all units of the Russian Cynological Federation. Nevertheless, RKF operates in the normal mode. Preparations for the World Cup 2016 is underway according to plan. To date, the show recorded almost eight thousand dogs. About six thousand of them live in Russia, the rest will come from CIS countries, Europe, Asia, USA, Latin America and even Africa.”

That was his statement--here’s some

AKC’s Day Care Building in NYC.

background to the story as reported to me by a Russian judge who has lived in Finland a number of years but who still has close connections to Russia: the CEO and the director of RKF responsible for the financial affairs have been imprisoned for at least two months. The chairman has bought himself free by repaying the monies allegedly taken. It seems that from the European Winner show in Oslo the Russians left in a hurry, as the RKF office had been investigated by authorities. This information was given directly to the Russian judge as well as to others who have confirmed these allegations. After Oslo during this winter there has been also another investigation done, the bookkeeping and some computers were taken. There are basically two possibilities: 1. either there are some financial troubles or 2. this is purely a political attack in order to get rid of certain people. Either or is possible.” The person referred to in Mr. Inshakov’s letter above as being well known to the canine community remains nameless by me for the time being but if what I am hearing is true he maybe named the new President March 15th. I have written to Rafael de Santiago the President of FCI to get his read of what is going on in Russia and how this will or will not affect the World Show. Here is his response, “Every FCI World or Section show has an official observer appointed by the General Committee.

We have asked for him to visit the Continued on page 124

Eli’s first trip to the Big Apple, Eli wins the Purple and Gold...

Westminster Kennel Club • Best of Breed Entry: 39 Siberians • Judge Mr. David W Haddock Multiple Best In Specialty Show Multiple Group Winner

Gold GCh. Snowfire’s Holy Moses Sire: Multiple Best In Show, Multiple Best In Specialty Show GCh. Kontoki’s Isaiah Little Prayer for You Dam: Best In Specialty Show Am/Can GCh. Snowfire’s Avon Calling

Breeders/Owners/Handler: Melinda Lehman • Linda Lehman Round Lake, New York • FB: SnowfireSiberians Dog News 95

+

+

+

+

BELLA

Best In Specialty Show

GCh. Black Boots Pardon Me Boyz Select Bitch

Westminster Kennel Club Thank you to Judge Ms. Mary Miller Expertly handled by Lynn Meyer Owners: Polly Naumann and Pat Keen Fernandes Riverview Hylan ShoTru Lhasa Apsos Rviewlhasa@aol.com 96 Dog News

Breeder: Anna Friberg Anderson and Linda Anderson BlackBoots

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the

Lighter Side

JuDging

of

Continued FROM page 18

MICHAEL activates his SAMSUNG DROID and calls. “I listen to the one-sided conversation and determine that BIG MICHAEL is getting brushed off, as a potential thief, who recently acquired an expensive tuxedo jacket, via the street, who now needs assistance in removing the ink security tag.

He ends the conversation anxious, frustrated and totally pissed. In the meantime, sitting on the bed wrapped in the somewhat too feminine, hotel-provided black bathrobe, I engage my personal DROID system and Google through several online strategies to remove ink security tags at home, or in this case, from the comfort of your hotel room. Online support offers everything from using a lighter, a hammer, or a collection of rubber bands. All of the methods do not guarantee a successful removal of the security tag device. I determine that we must leave this delicate situation to the professionals.

Twenty minutes to five. I am required to be at Gotham Hall (I know…sounds a bit like Batman’s lair) at 6:00 pm to meet my good friend and coemcee DR. DONALD to review the script for the evening and to go over production details, and BATES, I mean BIG MICHAEL, still has an ink security tag hanging from his tuxedo, and no means to remove it. “Okay, I think you should call the Washington, DC store, explain the situation and have them call the New York store and validate your integrity and honesty. After which, you will jump in a cab with your tuxedo jacket, rush to the store, have them remove it, return to the hotel, dress without my assistance, and meet me at Gotham Hall.”

I can tell by BIG MICHAEL’S expression, that he truly would like to use this as an excuse to remain in his blue jeans and drink bourbon

at the hotel bar, overlooking Times Square. “Okay, okay, I will give it a try.” “Great, I will wait until you call Washington.” With a half-assed grin, he once again activates Samsung. “Hello…. MICHAEL RAWLINGS….Tuxedo jacket….security ink tag….New York City……Yes, removal…” The conversation continues for several minutes, before BIG MICHAEL says, “Thank you for your help, I will wait for your call.”

“Time is running short. I am going to jump in the shower while you wait for your call.” “Don’t hurt yourself,” Bates, I mean BIG MICHAEL, jokingly offers. Half way through my very quick shower, BIG MICHAEL sticks his head through the sliding glass door. “D.C. called NY, and NY just called me. All is a go! I have to leave immediately, with my tuxedo jacket, meet with the store manager and with any luck, no ink.” “I will see you at Gotham Hall,” I project through a thick wall of steam.

In a matter of minutes, I am showered, shaved, and ready to decorate myself in black and white, without the assistance of my valet. Underwear, tshirt and black socks with narrow stripes go on like a breeze. I gather my tuxedo trousers and button the back straps to the coordinating buttons on the back of the waistband. Next, I repeat the same with the front straps, aligned with four buttons, two on each side of the front of the trousers. I let the loose suspenders hang to the side, as I slide my right leg, then my left leg through. Before zipping and buttoning, I collect the left suspender through my left arm and the right one through my right arm, pull forward, and adjust for support and tension. Feeling pretty good that I managed to perform the task without my valet, I turn slightly in front of the long mirror to admire my workmanship.“Damn it! The left suspender is twisted and I will have to try again,” I share with the mirror. Removing the slacks, I adjust the stretchy supports and repeat the same sequence. To my dismay, the right one is now twisted.

Sweat begins to form on my red, bald head, and I am becoming extremely agitated. I pour a glass of white wine--for medicinal reasons--and try another approach. Again, I remove the slacks, remove the suspenders from the front, double check the alignment of the back and return my legs through the holes, and pull them up and onto my lower frame. With the suspenders hanging to the floor, I move towards the mirror. From the side, I bend at the knees, lower my back, grab each suspender with the corresponding arm and make sure they are not twisted. I can practically kiss my own ass. “MICHAEL, on the count of three flip these F$%*(#$)$ing suspenders up your shoulders and pray they land straight. One…..Two….Three…..” I count, take a

“A black stocking cap squeezed the top of the fleshy bald head. The black earmuffs, full of large ears and the occasional stray, thick hair that grew in the ears themselves, stuck out on either side like turn signals indicating two directions at once.”

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deep breath, admire my foolish reflection in the long mirror and flip the two straps upward. I grab the ends, and slowly rise to the occasion, thrilled that I did not end up with my ass on the floor, and strangled. Feeling like I just completed a thirty-minute cardio workout, personal integrity is restored when I witness my individual valet success – no twists in the straps. “Thank God!” Honoring my success, I take another drink of white wine prior to and in aid of putting on my dress shirt, my studs, my cufflinks and tying my bowtie. DROID rings at the start of tying the black silk fabric around my neck. It’s BIG MICHAEL. “Good news, no longer is there an ink security device adhered to my jacket. I am headed back to the hotel. See you at Gotham.” “Perfect!

I am almost ready, too BATEMAN. I will be leaving in a few minutes.” I chuckle.

I manage the tie in the first attempt, followed by shoes, jacket, scarf, overcoat, earmuffs, stocking hat pulled over my bald head, and gloves. Before exiting the room, I sneak a glance in the mirror. Looking something like a sophisticated Ignatius Reilly, from Confederacy of Dunces.

“A black stocking cap squeezed the top of the fleshy bald head. The black earmuffs, full of large ears and the occasional stray, thick hair that grew in the ears themselves, stuck out on either side like turn signals indicating two directions at once. Full, pursed lips protruded and, at their corners, sank into little folds filled with drops of white wine. In the shadow under the black cap’ MICHAEL H. FAULKNER’s dark brown eyes look down upon the other people waiting to enter Gotham Hall, studying the crowd of people for signs of bad taste in dress.”

DROID vibrates, signaling a new text. “Hey there, listen, I am all dressed and I will be leaving the hotel for tuxedo-day number one.

All is good.” I text back: “Great! I am at Gotham Hall, with DR. DONALD. Be safe and see you soon.

Just think, in less than five hours we can change into our blue jeans.”

Ch. Valcopy Pipin Hot Niklby

• Select Bitch at the 2015 AKC/Eukanuba Show

• Best of Breed at NYC Progressive Toy Dog Show •

Youngest Toy Fox Terrier in the History of the Breed to win Best of Breed at Westminster at just 10 months of age

Watch for this dynamic team in the Specials ring this year!

Handled by: Ashley and Betty Cuzzolino Bred and Owned by: Betty Cuzzolino, Dana Plonkey & Michelle Starry Dog News 99

Irving's Impressions Continued FROM page 26

have the same experience of the mechanics of judging as the all rounder judge has. They may indeed be evaluating their own dogs of that breed every day in life, but the practical aspects of judging a number of dogs in different classes under the studied gaze of the public and other breeders, may not come easily or naturally to them.

Another disadvantage of the specialist judge, especially here in the UK where geography means that most breeder judges know many of the dogs and their show records, there can be at least the perception that too many judges evaluate the dogs on their reputation, their pedigree or their ownership rather than on their appearance and performance on the day. And the final disadvantage is that friendships and associations between one breeder judge and another can make it look as though these associations play more part in the judging than do the dogs themselves. Having said all of that, many specialists do in fact make a very good job of judging and they are good guardians of their breed in terms of maintaining true type as well as good conformation, movement and appropriate temperaments.

CONCENTRATION ON CONFORMATION AND MOVEMENT

What of the all-rounder judge? The advantage they have is that they do have far greater experience of the process of evaluating dogs on a regular basis than does the breeder judge. They are usually, depending on their background in dogs, far more experienced in assessing the movement and soundness of dogs of what you might call ‘normally constructed breeds’. But do they have enough knowledge of the breed and its standard to have a totally valid opinion of the dogs before them?

You have to ask whether it is really possible for a true all rounder, someone qualified to judge every one of 170 breeds in the USA, 215 in the UK or in FCI terms 343 breeds (the latest figure), to have enough knowledge of all of those breeds to have a valid enough opinion on them, for a dyed-in-the-wool breeder to truly respect it.

The vision of an all round judge officiating in 343 breeds, always makes me think of the poem by Oliver Goldsmith ‘The Deserted Village’. In that work there is a section on the subject of the village schoolmaster who seemed to the humble villagers to be very knowledgeable about almost every subject on earth, but who was probably not much more knowledgeable than they were themselves.

The poem says of him:

“While words of learned length and thundering sound, Amazed the gazing rustics ranged around, And still they gazed, and still the wonder grew, That one small head could carry all he knew.”

100 Dog News

Just how I think at times of some all-round judges!

Another disadvantage of some all round judges, particularly in the USA, is that they know that they are dependent on professional handlers for future entries. Some of the weakest of them may therefore be influenced by the presence of a well known handler and his or her dogs and may, as with the weak specialist in the UK, not always judge the dogs themselves. Some may appear instead, to judge their reputations.

SOUNDNESS SACRIFICED TO TYPE

What fundamental effect does all this have on the fancy and on the breeds in our respective countries? It is always dangerous to generalise but here goes! In my view the preponderance of specialist judges in the UK means that soundness in some breeds is often sacrificed in favour of breed type. The danger is that an obsession with single points can lead to over exaggeration and that can, in the end, have a damaging effect on some breeds.

On the other hand in the USA with the emphasis away from breeder judges, the dangers of exaggeration may not be so great. But there are other dangers. One is that presentation can become too much of a consideration and exaggeration in that sphere will result in over-the- top appearance. The second danger is that concentration on movement, particularly on dramatic movement when seen in profile, can also lead to the production of a generic type of dog that doesn’t always fit the breed standard. That trend can be further exacerbated by the fact that in the USA the breed competition is often less deep than it is in the UK. As a result there may be more concentration on group wins.

This can mean that the type of dog that judges make best of breed and send forward to the group may have some dramatic features, but may not always be the features demanded by good breed type.

LOOK FOR CONCERT PIANISTS

In the end of course what we need is a sensible mix of good breeder judges, good group specialists and good all rounders – with the emphasis on the word ‘good’. We need enough breeder judges to maintain real breed type but also enough multi breed judges to keep the breed sound and free from unnecessary exaggeration. Above all, the emphasis must be on having good judges who are well trained and have a good eye for a dog. Whether they are specialists or all-rounders matters much less than that they are judges of high quality and great knowledge.

I have mentioned before in this column that a friend often talks about the fact that judges as a group of people are quite like pianists. Some people will never learn to play the piano. Others with a good teacher and plenty of training will learn to play reasonably well. Others, but only very few, will play well enough to become concert pianists. And so it is with judges.

What we therefore ought to be trying to do - however we train, develop or approve judges - is to produce as many adjudicators of the concert pianist standard as possible, and less of the type that constantly hit the wrong notes!

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*The Dog News Top Ten List

Dog News 101

Capt. Ron

Beagle Helps Conserve Sea Turtles

To The Rescue!

By Sharon Pflaumer

Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts

Although Capt. Ron is a Disney® hero, he’s not a cartoon character.

The 3 year-old Beagle helps conserve sea turtles by finding where they laid their eggs on the beach near Disney’s Vero Beach Resort in Florida. Knowing nest locations enables researchers to monitor and protect sea turtle babies before and after they hatch. That increases the chance they will survive.

C

After Capt. Ron locates the clutch of eggs, stakes are placed apt. Ron is a scent detection trained K9 around the sea turtle’s nest so it can be monitored and protected. that finds sea turtle eggs by detecting the odor of a protein in the mucous coating their eggs, or “clutch.” Finding and protecting the clutch is critical because sea turtles return to the ocean and leave their eggs portant because he helps ensure sea turtle babies to develop on their own after they lay them. Not long after the eggs survive from the time eggs are laid until hatchlings hatch, the hatchlings emerge from their nests and make their way to reach the sea. the ocean where they grow to adulthood. Capt. Ron’s work is so imPhoto by Pepe Peruyaro/Pepedogs: J&K Canine Academy

Capt. Ron and his owner/handler Pepe Peruyaro with a life size replica of a sea turtle that’s used during educational programs.

102 Dog News

One Stood Out

Capt. Ron’s owner/handler is Pepe Peruyaro, the Director of Training and owner of Pepedogs: J&K Canine Academy, Inc. in Alachua, FL. Before he opened his training center, Peruyaro had a long history of detection work as a K9 Handler with the Gainesville Police Department. He also has authored several papers on scent discrimination training that were published by the University of Florida and the United States Department of Agriculture.

Sixteen years ago, Peruyaro lost his police dog partner. Although he trained other dogs for law enforcement detection work as well as many pets for private citizens, he didn’t have the heart to get another dog of his own. To him, it seemed impossible to replace the K9 partner who had saved his life.

Peruyaro had a change of heart after he trained a Beagle for a client in California three years ago. He was so impressed that he decided a Beagle would

Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts

Photo Courtesy of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts

Left: Capt. Ron and Dr. Blair Witherington, a sea turtle expert.

Right: Capt. Ron enjoys some attention from youngsters attending an educational presentation.

Below: Capt. Ron with guests at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort.

A Proof Of Concept Endeavor

Photo by Pepe Peruyaro/Pepedogs: J&K Canine Academy

be his next dog. Six months after he contacted the Beagle’s breeder, she had another litter of puppies available.

When Peruyaro watched a video of them, one stood out.

“I was looking for a Beagle capable of multitasking.

So, I watched the puppies’ body language when I evaluated the litter,” he says. “Their posture and what they did with their eyes and ears told me a lot about which one would be good at performing more than one task. For example, most young puppies are oblivious to noises around them when they’re focused on playing with a toy. But--if a puppy is focused on an object yet his ears are still moving around or his breathing increases when someone approaches because he thinks they might take the toy away that indicates he’s still aware of his surroundings despite being focused on an object. Capt. Ron was like that.

“He also was a confidant puppy with a lot of attitude. When he stepped out of his crate at the airport at 12 weeks of age, he acted like he’d been shipped dozens of times before—like it was no big deal.”

(Note: Capt. Ron was named after Peruyaro’s favorite movie, “Captain Ron.”)

Although Peruyaro began basic training with Capt. Ron soon after the puppy arrived, scent detection training didn’t begin until the Beagle was 2 years old and his owner had been contacted by Disney.

“The Disney project to protect sea turtle populations by locating their nests with a detection dog was a proof of concept endeavor initially, because it was something that had never been done before. In addition to being top notch at detection work, the dog chosen for the task needed to be good with people in order to participate in educational programs about sea turtle conservation at Disney’s parks and resorts. When the opportunity came along, I thought let’s give it a try and see how Capt. Ron does,” he says.

While it normally takes two weeks for a dog to learn odor recognition and get really good at it, Capt. Ron mastered it in less than a day according Peruyaro.

“In order to train him to detect the target odor—the scent of the protein in the mucous on sea turtle eggs when they are laid--we created a mock beach at my training facility. We had 18 yards of beach sand brought in; then, poured salt water on it so Capt. Ron could get used to the smell and taste. We also brought in sea weed and shells and all of the other things normally found on a beach.

Once Capt. Ron was acclimated to playing in that environment, we introduced the target odor and began teaching him how to find it. He caught on right away,” Peruyaro says.

A Time Consuming Process Prior to using a detection dog, members of Disney’s sea turtle conservation team monitored the number of sea turtles that laid their eggs on the beach near Disney’s Vero Beach Resort by reading the clues left in the sand.

(Six of the seven sea turtle species are found in U.S. waters; the loggerhead, green- and leatherback all nest near Disney’s Vero Beach Resort.)

“That meant they had to walk the beach, find each sea turtle’s nest, and then locate where the clutch of eggs was laid. After researchers confirm the presence of a clutch by digging down into the hole in which the eggs were laid, they mark the area. The entire process took them up to 45 minutes to complete,” Peruyaro says.

(After marking the location, researchers monitor the area to make sure conditions are favorable for hatchlings Continued on page 126

Dog News 103

You and your vet Continued FROM page 30

the upper arm, and the radius and ulna of the forearm. An ununited anconeal process (UAP) occurs when a small bony projection called the anconeal process fails to fuse with the ulna. The anconeal process forms part of the back surface of the elbow joint and provides stability to the joint, especially when the leg is extended. The growth plate between the anconeal process and the ulna normally fuses by about 5 months of age. If the anconeal process does not fuse to the rest of the ulna correctly, it causes the condition known as UAP. Dogs with UAP will experience swelling, pain and lameness in the elbow.

The coronoid processes are two small, bony protrusions on the end of the ulna within the forward-facing aspect of the elbow joint. When one of the coronoid processes develops a crack and separates from the rest of the bone, the condition known as fragmented coronoid process (FCP) develops. It most commonly occurs on the inner process. This separation causes pain and joint instability.

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is an inflammatory condition that occurs when defective cartilage separates from the underlying bone. It most commonly affects the shoulder joint but the elbow, hip, or stifle (knee) may also be involved.

Dogs that are affected with OCD may have mild, intermittent lameness or, in more severe cases, avoid bearing any weight on the leg. When the joint is manipulated, the dog will often cry out in pain.

These conditions do appear to have a genetic basis and are hereditary in certain breeds. There is a higher incidence in male dogs, typically between the ages of 6 to 9 months. Certain breeds such as German shepherds, golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, Rottweilers, and Bernese mountain dogs are at higher risk, but the conditions can occur in any breed. There may be dietary factors involved, since some researchers find a correlation between high-calorie, high-calcium diets and the development of elbow dysplasia.

Radiographs will confirm the diagnosis of these conditions. Surgery is generally recommended. In the case of UAP, the fragment may be reattached with screws or removed completely. Surgical treatment of FCP involves removing any abnormal cartilage or bone. If the OCD lesion does not heal following strict rest and exercise restriction, surgery can be performed to remove the defective flap or floating piece of cartilage.

In most cases, some degree of arthritis will develop in the elbow joint. With surgical treatment, 104 Dog News

the arthritis will be less severe and there will be less long-term pain involved. Medical treatment such as joint protective supplements and the periodic addition of anti-inflammatory medications are recommended to slow the progression of degenerative joint disease.

Dogs with elbow dysplasia would not be suitable for breeding.

What is Water Diabetes?

The two forms of diabetes in dogs are diabetes mellitus (“sugar” or “insulin diabetes”) and diabetes insipidus (“water diabetes”). Diabetes insipidus (DI) is a rare disorder that affects water metabolism, preventing the body from conserving water and releasing too much of it. This condition is characterized by increased urination, dilute urine, and excessive thirst and drinking. This disease is not related to diabetes mellitus.

The kidneys continually filter the blood that passes through them and maintain the balance of water in the body by excreting or reabsorbing fluid as required.

Efficient re-absorption requires an adequate level of a hormone known as anti-diuretic hormone (ADH), or vasopressin, which is produced by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland in the brain. If this hormone is not produced in sufficient quantities or if the kidney fails to respond to it, diabetes insipidus can develop.

Generally, DI is considered idiopathic, which means the cause is unknown. Possible contributing factors include congenital issues, trauma, metabolic conditions, kidney disease, adverse reactions to certain medications, or tumors of the pituitary gland.

Despite the underlying cause of DI, the symptoms are the same. Along with the increased thirst and urination, dehydration, disorientation, seizures, and weight loss may occur.

The diagnosis of DI can be challenging and may require extensive and complicated tests. Basic blood chemistry and urine screens can rule out diabetes mellitus, kidney and liver diseases, and urinary tract infections. A water deprivation test is performed to see if by withholding water systematically, the kidneys are able to concentrate the urine. Also included in this battery of tests may be a desmopressin stimulation test, evaluation of pituitary hormone levels, and a CT scan or MRI. Treatment of DI will depend on the underlying cause. This condition cannot be cured. However, like sugar diabetes, it can be controlled. Diabetes insipidus is treated by administering ADH, or vasopressin, either by injection or in the form of nasal drops.

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106 Dog News

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*The Dog News Top Ten List

Dog News 107

What’s in Your Dog’s Water Dish?

Continued FROM page 74

water supply systems are designed to maintain a higher pressure so in the event of a line break, the water flows out of the system rather than into the system. That’s why water main breaks cause pavement to crack so that the water flows out onto the street and down the storm sewer.

PWS owners and operators are required to test the pressure along their systems. If the pressure drops below a specific threshold, typically around 1520 pounds per square inch, the owner/ operator will issue a “Boil Water Notice” to its customers because of the potential for contamination. The Boil Water Notice specifies that water should be treated by boiling at a rolling boil for 1 minute or longer prior to consuming (after appropriate cooling time).

Most public water customers live some distance from their water treatment plant, so PWS owners and operators are required to monitor for residual chlorine and possible harmful bacterial in their systems at designated locations, typically several times per week. Low chlorine levels or the presence of harmful bacteria must be reported immediately to the overseeing agency, and Boil Water Notices are quickly issued through local media- TV, radio, newspapers, etc..

If you live in an area that is included in such a notice, you should not consume tap water that has not been disinfected, or ice and drinks made from tap water that has not been disinfected, or raw foods rinsed with tap water that has not been disinfected. To be safe, empty your icemaker. Safe alternative sources of potable water include bottled, treated, or distilled water. You may wash clothes and shower using tap water.

Provide all pets with either bottled water or water which has been boiled and then cooled. If your kennel has automatic watering devices, these should be turned off and the tap water in the containers removed from all animals.

All PWS customers are entitled to receive a copy of the annual report of water quality. EPA mandates that these reports are to be made available each 108 Dog News

July. You can find the report on-line in most states and localities. If you have not been sent a copy of the report in your water bill during the past year, call your local water supplier and ask for one. If they do not send one, call your state’s drinking water agency for assistance.

If you live in a rural area far from a PWS, then you use private well water.

The EPA and most states do not regulate private water wells, and you must pay for any testing of your well. As the owner, you should have a coy of all paperwork from the water well driller who installed the well or the company who services your well. You should know the depth of your well, where it is screened (depth of the producing interval and its geologic name), and the depth at which the pump is set (if equipped). You should also know what materials were used for the well construction, the pressure tank, and the pipes into your home and/or outbuilding(s).

Never allow any contamination on the ground near your well. If you have kennels or a barn, do not allow any manure or disinfecting residues to wash off and flow near your well. Try to keep such water at least 20 feet from your well, and a greater distance if your soil is sandy or contains gravel. Do not store or use chemicals, such as solvents, cleaners, insecticides, or herbicides, within 20 feet of well, and maintain a greater distance if your soil is sandy or has gravel.

If you want to test your water, talk with your local health department or water well driller. You should use an independent lab that meets EPA standards for all testing.

You also must determine what you want to know from the testing: If you want to know the quality of the water as it comes out of the ground, then you would sample the water between the well and the pressure tank. If you are concerned about the water that you and your animals are actually drinking in your home or outbuilding(s), sample from a faucet located in that building.

IT’S YOUR HOUSE Even if your local PWS delivers clean, safe water to your home, you may still find yourself with a water-quality problem.

You own the pipe that delivers the water from the PWS tap (along the street) to your house as well as all of the pipes within your home. The rural well owner owns all of the pipe- from the pipe in the well, to the pressure tank, to pipe in the distribution system on his land. You must know the materials that these pipes and all of their connections are made from.

Lead pipes were used for plumbing in many parts of the country because they were cheap and easy to manipulate.

Alloys, such as bronze and brass, contain both lead and copper; and lead solders are still used to join metal pipes. If the water in these pipes is “corrosive” to any extent, lead and copper will be leached from the pipes and into the water. Lead pipes, both along the City’s distribution route and in many private homes, were the source of the lead in Flint’s water.

If you have an older home, or your kennel was constructed from an older building on your property that had “old” plumbing, you should test your water for the presence of lead and copper. These tests should be made from your faucets and take the “first draw”, meaning water that has been sitting in the pipes overnight.

For many years, modern home construction in the U.S. has used plastic PVC pipes, so lead and copper should not be a problem if they are not present in the water coming into your home or kennel.

The Flint water crisis will likely not be the last one that our nation will see as the infrastructure continues to decline.

Please don’t rely on government- at any level- to protect you, your family, and your dogs. In the end, you are responsible for your own safety.

Barbara Beynon holds a BA and MS in Geology and is a licensed Professional Geologist in the State of Texas. She worked in the petroleum industry before moving to the environmental field in 1990.

She is retired from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and is currently working as an independent consultant.

She is a breeder-judge and ownerhandler of American Eskimo Dogs.

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*The Dog News Top Ten List - Breed points

DavidFrei Continued FROM page 78

The Dog Guy “

Hounds. His career in Afghans spanned 30+ years, as a breeder-owner-handler. One of their Afghans, Ch. Stormhill’s Who’s Zoomin’ Who (Zoomie), was the top Afghan in 1989, and retired as the top winning Afghan bitch in history with 20 all-breed Best In Shows. It’s a record he’s rightfully proud to discuss.

Approved to judge Afghan Hounds, Brittanys, and Cavaliers, he’s judged the Afghan National, also national sweepstakes in both Brittanys and Cavaliers.

He still gets in the ring occasionally to show his dogs.

He joked, “People don’t believe it, but yes I actually DO know how to take a dog in the ring and show it.

And I do a pretty good job!” It’s no exaggeration. He estimates that he handled about 20 Afghans and 2 Brittanys to their titles.

Along with his involvement in purebred dogs, David had a career in professional sports. He worked for the Denver Broncos from 1976-1978 as the assistant director of public relations, and the director of promotions. In that position, he created the “Orange Crush” promotion for the great Bronco defense in its first Super Bowl season. He was with the team in January 1978 when they played – but lost - in Super Bowl XII—hence the Super Bowl ring he’s proud to wear every day. He also inherited a Super Bowl ring from his father, one from the Broncos’ Super Bowl XXXIII, “which makes my own ring look like a pinkie ring,” he laughs. He wears it in February because his father died right around the time of the dog show 15 years ago. He’s always happy to show it to anyone who inquires, welcoming the opportunity to talk about his father.

He went from Denver to a short stint, in 1978, as the Director of Public Relations for the San Francisco 49ers. From there, he moved to Seattle and got into the public relations agency world.

During that period, David’s involvement with Westminster began. “I had lived with Dennis and Susan Sprung in 1980 when I worked for ABC Sports in New York. When Sandy and I were campaigning Zoomie all over the country in the late 80’s I had some time with a number of people such as Dennis and Susan, Terry Stacy and Chet Collier. I think that may have planted the seed for the Westminster TV offer as Chet was looking for someone.” Frei observed, “It seems my life has been like that. Being at the right place at the right time.”

As most know, Chet Collier was a driving force in the world of television—and responsible in his long stint first as Show Chair and then as President for turning the Westminster dog show and broadcast into what it is today. Chet had the proverbial “golden touch,” turning one idea after another into huge television successes. He found Roger Ailes, at 22 years old, and made him an assistant producer on 112 Dog News

” “Along with his involvement in purebred dogs, David had a career in professional sports. He worked for the Denver Broncos from 1976-1978 as the assistant director of public relations, and the director of promotions.

In that position, he created the “Orange Crush” promotion for the great Bronco defense in its first Super Bowl season. ”

The Mike Douglas Show. Today, Ailes is CEO and Chairman of Fox News. “You use the best elements of the entertainment world and you present news in that package,” Mr. Collier told Scott Collins in an interview for “Crazy Like a Fox” (Portfolio, 2004). “And you cast it with the best possible people, because people watch television because of the individuals that they see on the screen.” Collier had a vision for the Westminster broadcast, and David Frei was his choice to make it happen.

Collier’s direction to David included staying out of controversy and activity involving legislative challenges. “It’s tempting,” said Frei. “Especially when you feel so passionate about the cause.” David told me, “Right up until the year he died, Chet was quite active in what happened with the broadcast and Westminster. I could depend on Chet contacting me after the broadcast with comments and suggestions.” He continued, “Chet understood and believed in the traditions of Westminster and the need to preserve it as something special. He always felt we had to protect the purebred dog world, but not at the expense of a concern for all dogs. It was a fine line to walk, but I was able to help nudge us toward making this great show a celebration of all dogs. I’m aware it can be a bit of a tightrope. But once again, bearing in mind who’s watching us, it’s not about neck sets, pasterns and movement. It’s about the role of purebred dogs in our lives. Of course that has to be extended to all dogs, shelter and mixed breeds, because they are all part of our lives.”

Thirteen years after beginning his broadcast efforts with Westminster, David moved to New York City and spent a year as the spokesman and director of media relations for AKC. Approached by Westminster in 2003, he was hired away to become their first ever Director of Communications and its second full-time employee. As the Westminster spokesperson on TV and now year-round he would make his mark, for sure, in the dog world.

During his tenure, he created the breed judging coverage of the show that would eventually involve the Internet with streaming video of breed judging. “In keeping with my philosophy of surrounding myself with smart and talented people, I was smart enough to find Karolynne

Continued on page 116

Dog News 113

Make An Impact On Canine Health By Supporting Chf!

®

PR EVEN T T R EAT & CU R E ® Cancer, chronic skin disease, biotechnology and immunotherapy – important problems and new answers. Thanks to dog lovers like you, the AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) is taking significant strides to improve canine health. By supporting CHF, your gift has a direct impact on the lives of our dogs.

W

e are excited to share with you our newly approved grants for 2015. These innovative new studies build on the depth and breadth of our 20-year history of helping dogs.

The leading scientists at the top veterinary colleges and research institutions in the United States and abroad are meeting our demand to improve the health and well-being of all dogs.

Studies supported by CHF lead directly to better treatment options and more accurate diagnoses for both the common and the complex health conditions facing our beloved dogs. What’s more, many of these grants awarded by CHF impact not only canine health, but human health as well.

For example, Dr. Meghan Davis, DVM, MPH, PhD of Johns Hopkins University is studying common

skin and respiratory diseases in inner-city dogs living in the homes of children with asthma. She seeks to scientifically answer the age-old question -- are there health benefits to owning a dog? Dr. Davis will evaluate how bacteria change over time, and determine how the children and the dogs share these bacteria. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is funding the human arm of the study, and CHF is funding the dog study – a unique and much-needed approach to understanding disease in the dogs’ home environment and the real world we share.

With your support, we can continue to fund the groundbreaking research of Dr. Davis and other investigators like her who are working to truly advance our understanding of canine health. Your donation will

have a lasting impact on all dogs.

You have an opportunity to help bridge the gap in funding that exists for our canine partners; we have an obligation to improve their lives. Join us – the dogs will be grateful for your support, and we are thankful for your commitment to all dogs.

As a veterinarian and lifelong lover of dogs, I joined CHF because I know we can make a difference and bridge the gap between canine and human health. Won’t you help me make our dream of healthy dogs a reality?

Diane Brown, DVM, PhD, DACVP CEO AKC Canine Health Foundation chf@akcchf.org

Established in 1995, the AKC Canine Health Foundation’s (CHF) mission is to advance the health of all dogs and their owners by funding sound, scientific research and supporting the dissemination of canine health information.

114 Dog News

STELLA

F 46

Group Winning, Best In Specialty Show Winning, and Multiple Group Placing

2015: #2 Bitch #7 Breed #13 All-Breed *

*CC Systems, Great Pyreness

Thank you Judges for her recent Best of Breed wins: F 46 Mrs. Patricia Hastings ((pix in digi)) Mr. Edward W. Hall Mr. William deVilleneuve Impyrial@aol.com <Impyrial@aol.com> Ms. Angela J. Porpora F 46

BREEDER/OWNER: Susan Blevens CO-BREEDER : Valerie Seeley HANDLED By Rick Krieger, PHA Jenny Krieger, PHA

GCH PYRLESS & ASHBY SHEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ALL THAT! Dog News 115

DavidFrei Continued FROM page 112

The Dog Guy “

McAteer and Chris Terrell to make all this happen.” That became live streaming video and then David helped WKC also launch its social media efforts.

Other accomplishments during his 12 years as WKC’s Director of Communications? You might be surprised. How about that purple and gold lighting on the Empire State Building during the dog show? A Frei accomplishment. The posters that serve as the artwork on each year’s promotional material? Another Frei initiative. The annual Media Guide Book, full of historical data, was also a David Frei creation.

“I spend a good part of my days at Westminster walking and talking,” he told me. “I try to rest up, which was usually impossible with my full-time duties for Westminster.

During the days of Westminster, there was a small, intense staff that worked closely with David accumulating information, assembling it into proper order, and having it ready for the evening broadcast. Anyone who has won a Best of Breed at Westminster knows about the infamous “blue card” they are asked to fill out and submit. During the day, runners are dispatched to track down missing cards.

Those cards are collected, digested, and prepared for David.

He’s worked with quite a list of who’s who in the broadcast world over the 27 broadcasts.

His partners have been Al Trautwig (19901991,1993) (“consummate pro….he helped me enormously—and he didn’t have to”), Bud Collins (1992), Joe Garagiola (1994-2002), Mark McEwen (2003-2004]), Lester Holt (now anchor for the Nightly News) (2005, 2007-2008), Debbye Turner (2006), Mary Carillo (2009, 2011-Present), and Tamron Hall (Today Show) (2010). “My co-hosts were always chosen for me,” he observed. “But I always had opportunity to give my input.” David continued, “My best co-hosts have been the ones that have a sense of humor, who are great reporters, who love dogs, and who realize that their job is basically to ask me questions that the people at home are wondering (e.g., “What is the story on that poodle haircut?”). It just doesn’t work if they are reading me questions or making observations off a script.” An interesting note: In David’s early years in the booth, he asked his friend Dennis Sprung to be his spotter. A lot of things have happened to them both since those days.

David pointed out something else important that is accomplished via the Westminster broadcast. “I always say that we are working to educate people about the specific breeds … talking about what they were bred to do and how that form relates to function, and conditioning needs, personality, and temperament, with the end goal of showing people what they need to consider if they are contemplating this particular breed for their own family. I would hope that we have enhanced it with an education about responsible ownership along the way. I think that I have had a lot to do with

emphasizing this is a celebration of all of the dogs in our lives, and that everyone watching us at home should appreciate their own dog more because of what we are showing them in our telecast. As I always say, the real best in show dog is the one that is sitting on the couch next to you. Hug your dog and thank them for letting you be the one on the other end of their leash.”

While it may seem David’s life is all about Westminster, the reality is much different. Many are aware of his charity “Angel On A Leash,” which supports and trains therapy dogs primarily in the metropolitan New York area. An initiative originally started by David as a Westminster outreach to the community, his vision was to have a charity that involved dogs and people (preferably children). It eventually grew to the point that David was asked to turn it into a separate entity and keep it going. He was only too happy to do so, and it continues its work today. “My wife, Cheri, and Greer Griffith, helped create what Angel has become. Greer is still our director of programs 12 years later.”

The work of Angel On A Leash is only one aspect of the Frei’s commitment to community service. David’s wife, Cheri, is the Chaplain of the Ronald McDonald House in Manhattan. Together, they spend a great deal of their time tending to the emotional and spiritual needs of hundreds of desperately and terminally ill people. Over the years, David and his dogs have spent a lot of therapy dog time at the Ronald McDonald House, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, the VA Hospital and others. David and Cheri often find themselves suffering the loss of someone they’ve grown close to, or consoling the families who’ve lost someone.

This is a side of David and Cheri much of the world does not get to see, but gives you a glimpse into the depth of their souls.

The oft-stated adage “When one door closes, another one opens” certainly is true for Frei. “I had to respect certain wishes from Westminster, and that was OK,” David told me. “I was often approached for endorsements, voice-over work, and other requests for video and broadcast work. I always knew I had a commitment to honor with Westminster. It was always an understanding I had with Chet (Collier) and I respected him as well as Westminster.”

He cryptically refers to “other projects”. I couldn’t pry anything loose from him. “But I can tell you it will involve dogs!” was all I could get out of him. Well, OK, he did say this, “I will still be involved with dogs, dog shows (my note: He said “shows” as in plural….), television. Given David’s background in football and the sports scene in general, I wondered if the future could hold more participation in other sports. It seems from his answers that his will be focused on dogs, dog activities and dog sports. So, we can only guess for now but one thing’s for certain: We’re going to see a lot more of David Frei, and that’s a good thing from my perspective!

“Other accomplishments during his 12 years as WKC’s Director of Communications?

You might be surprised. How about that purple and gold lighting on the Empire State Building during the dog show?”

116 Dog News

”

#1 Welsh Terrier* • #3 Terrier*

“

y c r e P

”

Our sincere appreciation to Judges Mr. Joseph Gregory for the Group Win leading to Reserve Best in Show under Judge Mr. Houston Clark

Multiple Best in Show & Reserve Best in Show Winning

GCh. Teritails Loyal knighT Percy is owned and bred by Terry Lohmuller Teritail Welsh Terriers Presented by Greg Strong, AKC reg’d (410) 822-2187 Assisted by Ariel and Sarah Cukier, *The Dog News Top Ten List - Breed & All Breed

Dog News 117

118 Dog News

Dog News 119

Over the years of covering dog shows and events there have been many occasions when you sit at the keyboard thinking, “What can I write about this show?”...

And not always for the right reasons!

A REPORT FROM THE PHILIPPINES CIRCUIT

BY VINCE HOGAN

Editor in Chief, WWW.OUR DOGS.CO.UK

120 Dog News

H

owever, for my recent trip to the Far East for the Philippines Circuit shows and Cebu Festival shows it’s more a case of, “wow, where do I begin?”

It’s easy to say it was a great atmosphere, but my job as a journalist is to give you an insight on how it was and to make you feel as if you were there.

To start with you have to understand that this part of the world is a growing sector in the world of dogs. The shows are not huge, maybe 600 dogs attended the shows in Manila, but the Philippines Canine Club (PCCI) have now staged three events that I have attended and they are basically as good as other shows around the world. Add in a top class international panel of judges, dramatic settings for their shows and most of all the wonderful treatment you get either as media, a judge and most importantly an exhibitor and you are on a winner... plus the Filipino factor. What’s that? Happy smiling faces, helpful and courteous and where nothing is too much trouble for them in helping a visitor to their country.

The last two years the PCCI have staged their shows at the top of a shopping centre! Now that’s not as mad as it sounds for if you have been to SM Mega Mall in Metro Manila, then you will realise that these places are HUGE! And if people in the Philippines know how to do anything, it’s shop! So on the fifth floor of that big centre was a show venue... a massive

space capable of holding a dog show and more.

But that was not enough for PCCI President Dinky Santos and his team so this year they moved us to the Araneta Coliseum; fans of boxing might just recognise the name as the home of the ‘Thrilla in Manila’, one of the iconic boxing matches of the 20th century between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier over 40 years ago.

Banners in the venue remain as testimony to the famous sporting occasion.

So this time we had our own thriller, the 12 shows that make up the Philippine Circuit over four days in late January.

The PCCI spares nothing in bringing over a top panel starting with the President of the FCI Rafael de Santiago and other well known names such as Hans Van den Berg, Laurent Pichard, Tamas Jakkel, Johan Juslin, Horst Klibenstein, and from the USA Jason Hoke (who went on to judge a group at Westminster) and from Canada Richard Paquette and Wendy Anderson.

Past USA judges have included Des Murphy, David Powers and in 2017 Edd Bivin is on the panel.

We were all billeted in the brand new Novotel, which could not have been closer to the show venue... you literally walked out of one door and into another and there you were in a massive arena that had staged a concert with the famous band Chicago just hours before on Wednesday night. The whole hall had been cleared and transformed by

the hard working boys and girls of the PCCI show crew ready for the start of judging at 12 noon, day one. What a great job they did to make sure that things were ready for everyone in the morning.

The OUR DOGS stand was my base for four days and was down on the shop floor, or more like it the basketball arena... so if you have been to Madison Square Garden, it looked just like it. Same shape, same high rise seating, similar ring layout from the ‘old Garden layout’ before the Piers. More crowds are needed in the seats in the future, but it soon became the buzz word to call the show the mini Westminster...it just had that feel.

Exhibitors from all over the world set up their crates and tackle in designated spots and at 12 noon on day one all the judges gathered for the official welcome by Dinky Santos PCCI President and Rafael then declared the show open!

So how was it for you?

Rather than take my word for it... read an exhibitor’s perspective!

Here are the thoughts of a well known and experienced dog show person in Europe, Alice Varchi from Italy.

She told me: “I had the pleasure to attend to one of the most important Asian Shows in January. The Philippine Circuit 2016 can be described with very positive comments as it presented a very good organization and Continued on page 128

Dog News 121

True North A REPORT FROM CANADA

Continued FROM page 86

ries; oh and then you have dogs. You have eight dogs and you’re unloading them into the middle of Seventh Avenue. You have dog food, dog kibble, things are falling out, the coolers opening up and pork patties and hamburger and turkey legs are rolling down the sidewalk.

And that’s if you’re lucky -if you’re not lucky your box of tampons that you use to post Doberman’s puppies ears roll out in front of the mayor of New York; trust me, it’s happened.

Then you have to actually ask somebody to help you get all of the stuff on luggage carts, various dollies and a rented Sherpa. Out of the van, over the curb, on the sidewalk, through the doors, up the service elevator, check into your hotel, then up another set of elevators and somehow cram and jam all of this into a hotel room.

Westminster week the only time eight dogs, four people, three grooming tables, exercise pens, white paper, dog food, dog grooming equipment, dog towels, shampoo-are all expected to live together in a hotel room for 7 days- this is just as much a season of “Survivor” as it is “The Amazing Race”- maybe next year we call it “Surviving the Amazing Race” I always return from Westminster and have my doggy and non doggy friends

comment of how glitzy and glamorous it all looks, Madison Square Garden, the women in their gorgeous suits, the dogs all looking perfect, the judges looking like they walked out of a magazine. If they only saw what we all went through to get there! I guess I for one am glad that we make it look so easy-but if they only knew…..

Top Dogs as of March 8, 2016 according to Dogs in Canada: 1 Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen

Ch Auriga Peter Parker 2 Old English Sheepdog

Ch Tumbleweed’s Valubal Maui Nani 3 Australian Shepherd

Ch. Hearthside Riveredge Sure is Summum 4 Newfoundland

Ch Heartsease Empress of India 5 Bichon Frise

Ch Paray’s Molto Particulare 6 West Highland White Terrier

Ch Flashlight Thunder v. Paradise of Wind 7 Papillon

Ch Salatino La Dame Sans Camelia 8 Kerry Blue Terrier

Ch Torum’s Calico Jack at Irisblu 9 Akita

Bearfactz Rumor Has It 10 Miniature Schnauzer

Ch Sparx Rich Dark N Delicious 122 Dog News

Katzenjammer Thank you Judge Mr. Edd E. Bivin

GCh. Evergreen Bella Ridge Vera

Co-Owners: Allan Routh & Linda Wayne katzenjammersfrenchies@gmail.com

Thank you Judge Mrs. Ann Hier

Breeders & Owners: David Waterhouse MD & Jane Cooney-Waterhouse and Jane Flowers

Handled by Jane & Stan Flowers DHG • 612-747-5770 • www.stanandjaneflowers.com Dog News 123

The Rkf-- A Moving Target, Doggy Day Care Akc Style, The Elections, Hasse’s Death...

! e r o M And

Continued FROM page 94

offices and facilities to find out what is going on. So far we have not receive[d] an official document from the Russian Federation,” Rafael de Santiago.

The announcement about AKC entering the dog care business in New York City together with plans to open other such centers in many metropolitan communities drew gasps of surprise by many although the plans for this project have been going on for quite some time now. This was first reported in the January 29th issue of Dog News by Shaun Coen in his column. Brandi Hunter in releasing the information thought she had given an exclusive to the Wall Street Journal with according to her the concurrence of the Board at AKC and the Durst Organization. The building is on West 57th Street between 11th and 12th Avenues right near the 55th Street Piers where Westminster holds its various shows. It is pictured herein. In fact Shaun broke the news when he noticed an ad on the AKC web site for a store manager for an AKC Day Care Center. He wrote Hunter and Mrs. AA (Alexandra Aleskovsky)) asking what this was all about.

The ad was immediately taken off the web site!!--Hunter called Shaun and said she would get back to him about the story which she never did and deus ex machina it appeared in the WSJGreater New York Section March 7th!!

Shaun nevertheless wrote about these plans in the aforementioned January 29th issue. That’s really a way to make friends with the dog press overall--I hardly would think. Mrs. AA never replied at all. As to AKC making this kind of a deal to increase profits I am told

by Mrs. AA, who did respond to my question in the affirmative, that indeed these doggy pet centers are under an LLC recently formed by AKC. The original LLC formed was to develop its “infamous” dog collar which has been in the development stage for at least two years. Personally I think this day care thing is so inappropriate for AKC I cannot begin to tell you--when we have 124 Dog News

linking their names with Dennis and Ron accusing others of wanting to get rid of both Ron and Dennis. See Letters to the Editor in this issue for an opinion on this matter. This never was the case and I have pretty good documented testimony to that affect but whomever spread that word convincing people that either Ron or Dennis were vulnerable and needed their help by voting for Pat and Bill hit the right chord with the Delegates that’s for sure. I never bought that argument I must say for one minute but it obviously worked.

official AKC groomers and AKC dog walkers and AKC trainers I really wonder where and how this fits into its mission statement at all.

Legally I suppose using these LLC’s permits 504c4’s to make a profit anyways they want but I just find it an inappropriate form of business for AKC to be in. It cheapens the brand image to my mind for sure. Also, who is going to run this LLC? So far the only three The death of Hans Lehtinen affecemployees who have been announced as tionately known as Hasse shook me being involved with the original LLC, which is hard as I met Hasse when he judged called Smart Pet Technologies, are the pres- at Santa Barbara for Ann and Tom Steent officers Dennis, and Messrs. Basone venson for the first time in this country. and Smith, none of whom of As I recall that was in 1977 course are capable nor would or 1978. He was traveling want I am sure the job of runwith Rainer Vuorinen at ning a doggy day care centhe time and Gene and I ter with which to begin! One became fast friends with must presume yet another them both-a friendship LLC has been formed to run which lasted through the the day care center. None of years but as time passed this has been explained nor tended to revive itself made public so far. It’s a wonwhen we saw one or the derment for sure! other but lessened with But it is of course interestage insofar as closeness ing to note that in the WSJ Mrs. was concerned. I rememAA is quoted as saying AKC ber only too well the upis hoping to appeal to “pet “Hasse” 1937-2016 roar their judging caused parents”, particularly millenin Hounds at SB and nials in this project. Do you dislike the term Channel Cities when they both turned “pet parents” as much as I do? Dog owners down a top-winning Hound of the day. are not parents to dogs--they own them. At I also recall how they eventually came least in Hunter’s press release to the Fancy to our home and stayed with us prior there was no mention of “pet parents”-- to Bucks and how influential they both thank heavens for that. were along with Kari Jarvinen in getting Kirsi to let us take Willie (Ch. Finnsky Oliwill have a lot more to say about the ver) home with us after we saw him in Board elections in future issues-First I 1995 in Helsinki. That decision encourwant to congratulate Pat and Bill on their aged by Hasse certainly had a major re-elections to the Board as well as Kar- impact on the dog world generally in olynne McAteer who on her first try was America insofar as Skyes were conelected as well. I think she is an excellent cerned to say nothing of the sport genselection for oh so many reasons but let me erally, as well of course on our breeding tell you anyone who expects a push-over program as well. For that alone we revote from her had better reconsider, as this main eternally grateful to Hasse but his is one tough-minded, opinionated woman guidance and friendship at international who I have known since she was a child in shows was always there for us both and Bermuda where her Mother was so active in so we remember him with the fondest running the Bermuda Kennel Club in its day. of thoughts. I considered him to be the Oh the times we had going to those shows- premier dog show judge of today’s dog -we could write a book. Ron was unani- world and his opinion about a dog of mously re-elected Chairman I am happy to any breed as valuable and important as say while Carl by the skin of his neck was anyone living today. He will be missed elected Vice-Chair again. I thought whom- by us all and my thoughts are with his ever planned the Board campaign for Pat partner of the last 35 years or so Johan and Bill were very clever in psychologically Juslin.

I

Dog News 125

Capt. Ron

To The Rescue!

Continued FROM page 103

to make it to the ocean when they emerge from the nest.)

The process was time consuming because locating the clutch is not as easy as it might seem.

“Although nests are very visible because sea turtles leave tracks in the sand, nest location can be complicated by the fact sea turtles sometimes make false nests where they don’t lay eggs,” Peruyaro says. “Nests also can be very large; anywhere from 8 to 30 feet in diameter. Within that area, the clutch of up to 115 eggs is only laid in one hole that’s 5 to 6 inches in diameter and 1.5 to 4 feet deep.”

During peak nesting season, there can be more than 100

A

nests to check. Capt. Ron’s scent detection ability allows researchers to have quicker access to them because it only takes him 30 seconds to check a nest and determine if a clutch was laid there. If he does find a clutch, he shows researchers exactly where it is. As a result, what used to be a time consuming process now only takes minutes. Thus researchers can move on to the next nest sooner and cover more of the beach before the hottest part of the day.

“Last year, the trial program using Capt. Ron was completed. His ability to find sea turtle eggs was so good he easily outperformed his human counterparts. Hopefully, the use of conservation dogs to protect sea turtles will be expanded to other Florida beaches as a result of the trial’s success,” Peruyaro says.

Find Your Babies!

When Capt. Ron and Peruyaro go looking for sea turtle eggs, they begin at a designated area, i.e., one that was “tracked up” by a sea turtle and thus appears to be a potential nesting site.

After Peruyaro tells Capt. Ron, to “Find your babies,” the Beagle takes off in search of the clutch.

Capt. Ron is both an area scenting dog and a trailing dog, i.e., he can pick up whiffs of the target odor from a distance by

Sea Turtles PhotoS Courtesy of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts

ll sea turtle species are protected under the Endangered Species Act due to severe population declines resulting from overfishing, i.e., harvesting them for their shells, meat and eggs.

Coastal development also threatens the beaches where they need to lay their eggs. Sand castles, beach furniture, pits and trash all can block the hatchlings path to the ocean or their mother’s attempts to lay eggs in the first place. Nests can be preyed on by raccoons during incubation. And sand crabs can prey on hatchlings

The contents of each sea turtle nest are removed so the number of hatchlings can be counted.

126 Dog News

Loggerhead hatchlings in a sea turtle nest.

air scenting. But, as he closes in on the location of the clutch, he drops his nose to the ground and trails like a Bloodhound. He “passively alerts” when he finds the exact source of the odor, i.e., he sits with the opening to the hole containing the clutch between his front paws. Although Peruyaro rewards him with a toy after every successful find, Capt. Ron is motivated more by a strong desire to please.

“He loves to work and really shines when you tell him he’s a good boy. There are days when we search the beach for so long he’s too tired to take his reward. But he’ll keep working,” Peruyaro says.

Beagle Style Public Relations

Loggerhead hatchlings making their way to the ocean.

after they emerge from their nests. Given the above, it’s not surprising researchers estimate only one in a thousand survive to become an adult sea turtle.

Note: When walking dogs on a sea turtle nesting beach, check local ordinances for the official guidelines, i.e., keep dogs on a leash, don’t allow them to dig in the sand because they may accidentally harm a sea turtle nest, etc.

Capt. Ron and Peruyaro also do “Meet and Greets,” the annual “Tour de Turtles” at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort as well as participate in educational programs.

During the latter, Capt. Ron shows guests what they can do to help protect sea turtles. In order to keep beaches free of plastic items that turtles might ingest for example, Capt. Ron retrieves them and puts them in a recycle bin; thereby demonstrating one way to keep beaches safe for nesting sea turtles.

“He also interacts with visitors and you can tell he really loves doing it. He especially loves being around kids and posing for pictures with them. It’s almost as if he can flip a switch and go from a detection dog working to find the target odor to a public relations dog interacting with people. That ability makes him perfect for the job,” Peruyaro says.

Capt. Ron has a powerful impact on the children in particular, who attend the educational programs.

“Kids may not remember if you can tell them what needs to be done to help sea turtle babies survive such as flattening any sand castles they made before they leave the beach,” Peruyaro says. “But--if you ask Capt. Ron ‘What do we do to sand castles before we leave the beach?’ and he runs over and knocks one down--you can bet they remember that.”

Dog News 127

A REPORT FROM THE PHILIPPINES CIRCUIT Continued FROM page 121

atmosphere. When you have to face an intercontinental trip for dog shows there are always plenty of questions: which documents I may need? What are the rules of the country and the Kennel Club?

What are the distances from the airport to the hotel and to the show... And many more questions?

Well, no headaches this time! PCCI provided a well informed staff; they were super helpful to get through any doubt and problems even before leaving your country. All contacts’ details were given on their website and the Judges panel was clear. Once we landed in Manila they supplied free shuttles taking dogs and people from the airport to the show hotel. The PCCI also provided for a desk at the reception to give you all sorts of information you would need about the show and where you collected all you needed for the show. The Novotel was just 20 meters from the showground and the hotel also supplied a huge dog walking area which was very appreciated also because of its beautiful pool and Manila skyline view up on the sixth floor. The arena looked like Westminster, rings in the middle of it, with a massive screen above you and grooming areas all around with water and light facilities and electricity. Everyone had an allocated space. The entry of dogs was an interesting number and also interesting were all the BIS line ups. Experienced judges were invited from all around the world and, as you can imagine, they were having different opinions on the winners.

This made the 12 shows’ finals different one from the other one, and you could see different breeds and types placed on podium each day. I could feel a very nice atmosphere the whole time long, based on sportsmanship and love for dogs, love to share moments together that sometimes is missing in other countries.

So big congratulations to PCCI and all involved to make this happen, I am sure that visitors to Philippines will always be more and more.”

So you cannot say fairer than that.

Alice was also one of the hardy brigade who went on to the fabulous Festival Shows in Cebu, another island a one hour flight away from Metro Manila.

Before we left however, the PCCI hosted a post show party for everyone...guests, judges, exhibitors, sponsors, media.... this really was a show for everyone!

128 Dog News

USA CONNECTIONS There seemed to be more American handlers at the event this time in addition to a Westminster group judge in the form of Jason Hoke.

Winning well over the weekend was the Beagle Foxtails Race for the Chase co-owned by Sheri Berndt Smith and Darrell Smith from Washington State; handlers over for the show with the Beagle were Mike and Karen Kurtzner from Sacramento, California...first time in the Philippines.

Genevieve Garcia came from Virginia to handle a Pug. Kimberlie Steele Gamero had a lot of running round with Boxers and Dobes over the six days of showing and Lauren House also had a busy time showing Siberian Huskies, as did Cheryl French.

I suspect 2017 will see more Americans attending and enjoying a new experience.

PARADISE ISLAND This year the PCCI played host to the FCI commissions for judges and shows and this took place in Cebu the week after the main shows in Manila. That meant a large influx of FCI delegates from all over the world; Europe, South America, Scandinavia and of course Asia itself, this being the first time such an event had been held in this part of the world. So we also had a dog show to enjoy in the lovely setting of the Chateau by the Sea... perhaps one of the loveliest venues and positions I have ever attended a show. The views were to die for and I have never seen a benching area situated in such a fabulous setting as this! Contrasting this however, as in many countries, you did not have to travel too far away from the plush hotels to find what we would consider poverty and poor living standards just a few streets away.

The shows here were not large, only a few hundred dogs, but still we had people from USA, Czech Republic, China, Italy, Japan and many more places to make it feel quite international. The Beagle from the USA collected more top honours, continuing on from Manila. The rainy start to proceedings did not affect the show...

All indoor and air conditioned, and soon the sun came out. Once the shows were completed we moved hotels yet again to get on with the official proceedings with the meetings. All FCI meetings took place at the stunning hotel, the ShangriLa Mactan. The hotel staff were excellent

and obliging and delegates from over 40 countries soon got into the swing of things.

FCI Committee chair people were Barbara Muller from Switzerland and John Wauben from Holland; both reported excellent meetings as new representatives were elected and many subjects discussed. I was pleased to be invited to attend as an official observer with OUR DOGS. All judges and delegates had praise for the PCCI team for their dedication and sheer hard work making all these events run like clockwork. Special mention has to be made of Joselito “JoJo” Rosales the General Manager of PCCI, Ronnie Natividad, PCCI Vice President, and team members Annabelle, Annaliza and all the ladies of the team and of course Bryan, the steward voted the favourite of the judges; this is another nice touch on the last day of the show. Everyone is so helpful and friendly and seem to do their utmost to make things go well. It’s a pleasure to attend events like this.

So eventually we all started to drift away and head for airports and return to all parts of the world. You could tell people were genuinely sorry to leave; friendships had been forged, great times had been enjoyed and many made promises to return next year. There will not be any shows in Cebu next time but the main Philippines circuit will use the same hotel and show venue in Metro Manila in early January. Dinky and the team are making their dream happen and they deserve both congratulations and support as their shows have grown from humble beginnings to now take a place on the international circuit.

So start making those plans and experience for yourself, it’s not too hard to fly in from the States ...and it’s more fun in the Philippines! (There’s a big sign at the airport that says it all!) I’LL BE THERE FOR SURE...so see you in Manila!

And finally...The PCCI have set themselves rather high standards when it comes to having ‘extra happenings’ in town to coincide with their shows.

Last year the visit of Pope Francis brought the city to a standstill and in 2016 we had the visit of local girl Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach...also known as Miss Universe.

Not only was Pia in town, but she was staying in the hotel much to the delight of all the dog people and staff at the hotel.

Despite my offer, Pia declined the opportunity of dinner for two; ah well, there’s always next year!

Wonder what side show the PCCI will dream up next time!

*

*CC System

Dog News 129

Woodhouse Bucks The Trend It is perhaps premature to make predictions on the result of one sale but has the bubble burst on higher value sporting and dog pictures? This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dogs in Show and Field sale would tend to indicate that and certainly will not go down as a vintage one with most of the higher value pictures failing to sell.

130 Dog News

In New York City B y Nick

A

spokesman for Bonhams commented that people Waters seem to be more careful in the current market and are perhaps waiting to see what happens, particularly with large value items. American sporting art that was once good in the States is now tough.

All though was not quite doom and gloom for the sale, nor indeed for what was hoped would be the star lot. With expectations up to $250,000, John Emms Hounds and a Terrier in a Kennel failed to sell but managed to get away afterwards to a private collector on the Eastern Seaboard.

Another failure that found a new home afterwards was Arthur Wardle’s Gone to Ground, a predictable Wardle of two Wire Fox Terriers at a rabbit burrow.

Wardle’s Fox Terriers had a bad day apart from Terrier by a Burrow that nearly doubled expectation selling for $14,375. Perhaps the dog reminded the new owner of their own pet.

Staying with Wardle, a little group of Bulldog pictures all found new homes in the States mid estimate, this in a breed that only a few years ago proved difficult to shift anything.

The dog art market is certainly a fickle one. An oil of an Irish Setter by Florence Jay sold above estimate at $10,000 whilst an oil of two Irish Setters by the better known Wardle failed to find a new home.

It does have to be said that Jay appeared to have paid more attention to capturing the character of her subject than Wardle had and it obviously paid off.

William Woodhouse bucked the trend and did offer a glimmer of hope.

His Pride of Place had all the elements of a Victorian sentimental decorative picture with a hint of a sporting picture thrown in. An English Setter sits on a tiger-skin rug, its head resting on the arm of a chair on which lies a black and tan terrier.

With expectations of up to $18,000 it found a new home in California for $33,750 having travelled from Scotland.

Woodhouse was only just behind Edmund Henry Osthaus’ Setters and a Pointer in a Landscape, one of the high value American sporting pictures that did get away in a dull market,

albeit below estimate for $35,000 but it did prove to be the star of the sale.

A particularly fine Maud Earl that was fresh to the market was her study of three coursing Greyhounds owned by the Dennis brothers, James and Stanley, North of England industrialists and two of the most important figures in the coursing world in the early 20th century. It came to auction with a particularly good family provenance and sold within estimate at $20,000. It was one of only four pictures bought by UK buyers and this one is destined to grace the walls of the new Kennel Club building in London.

The sale’s final outcome was 69% sold by lot and 67% by value bringing in a total of $560,000, 10% down on last year and given the current climate perhaps not too disappointing. The bulk of the buyers were private collectors in the States.

One of the features where Bonhams have scored over other similar auction house sales has been the ephemera, objects and books and this year this section was very sparse.

It is a case of feast or famine, not knowing what is likely to turn up, and this year was one of famine. The lot that did stand out was the Victorian silver collar that had been worn

by Help, one of the most successful of the railway collecting dogs that abounded during the Victorian era. It came to auction with quite a long provenance and crossed the Atlantic as long ago as 1967 when it was acquired

by Mrs. James B. Stoddard of Corona del Mar, California. Not surprisingly it exceeded expectation selling to a collector on the Eastern Seaboard for $5,000.

One of the longest established and most successful kennels in the UK is the Ware Cocker Spaniel kennel currently on its third generation of family ownership having been founded in the 19th century. The sale featured one of the many champions owned by H.S. Lloyd, the father of the current incumbent, Jennifer Lloyd Carey. Ch. Exquisite of Ware was born in 1926 and his picture by Reuben Ward Binks, was secured by a New York collector within estimate for $2,125.

There is very little art available on the German Shorthaired Pointer, so from a bred point of view C.L. Fong’s oil of one lifting a covey of partridge was one of the most interesting pictures in the sale and the market responded with a good result, it selling well above estimate for $2,125. Mirroring the Westminster result, a Bonhams spokesman commented “we stayed on point with this picture.”

All in all there were some good results in a difficult sale where the quality was comparable to last year.

Dog News 131

Views From A Delegate

By Johnny Shoemaker, Delegate, Redwood Empire Kennel Club

W

ell, it is finally over!!!! The AKC Board of Directors Class of 2020 has been elected!! The three Directors elected were: Patricia M. Cruz Delegate from the Heart of the Plains KC William J Feeney Delegate from the Sir Francis Drake KC Karolynne M. McAteer Delegate from the Irish Setter Club of America, Inc. I congratulate the above Delegates and wish them well as members of the Board of Directors of the AKC. That being said, I have something to say that may not be popular or politically correct…but those that know me know that it manners not to me. I do not care or wish emails or phone calls on this subject, as I will delete the emails and not discuss or respond by phone.

I spoke out at one of the committee meetings about a very sensitive subject on my part, and of others on the nominating committee that were assigned the task of coming up with three nominees for the three positions for the class of 2020. I do not know what happened with precious nominating committees and hope that this is not the norm. After our nominating committee (of which I was the Chairman) had completed eight of the interviews in person with those wishing to run for the Board and had scheduled another telephone interview we decided to extend the deadline for those still interested in becoming a candidate for the Board to still submit their resume. We checked with James Crowley to see if we could extend the deadline (we had more than a month to submit our nominees) and he said that the committee could do as they wished as long as the nominees are submitted

132 Dog News

to him by the deadline. During this time after getting permission, we heard from two people who expressed interest in submitting their names. One of the two people did follow up with a resume. That person was one of the three persons our nominating committee submitted as our choice for the Board of Directors for the Class of 2020.

YOU WOULD HAVE THOUGHT THAT WE HAD MURDERED SOMEONE OR BROKE EVERY RULE IN THE BOOK!!

I received calls from one Board member who wanted to know the real reason the deadline was extended and others questioning the reason for that decision. I was also asked by some dog magazine editors about the reason also. That is not all!! Once our choices were announced to the Delegate body the behavior of a couple of those not chosen by our committee was, in my opinion, upsetting, unexpected and childlike. Two of those not nominated refused to acknowledge my existence and would not make eye to eye contact at the following Delegate Meeting in December 2015. One of those not nominated by our committee approached one of those nominated by our committee and was not ladylike or a gentleman. (I will not say if that person was a neither man nor woman). The words expressed by that person were that our committee had been corrupted and that we had been instructed by the Board to extend the deadline and that we were in fact, dishonest in what we did. I think when you read the amount of votes our nominating committee candidates received you will see that those persons who that our committee was corrupt was very successful in their campaign to defect all of our nominees. To me I hope the Delegate Body voted for whom they thought was the best and not have been persuaded by those that placed phone calls to them with an agenda to defeat our committee’s nominees.

Our only goal in our committee was to choose three people we thought would make good and productive Board members and work well with others on the Board. By “working well with others on the Board” we did not mean a “yes” person but one who would be proactive in their thoughts and suggestions and not reactive in a bad way with the ideas of others. Another thing was to support or offer suggestions of how to improve the image of the AKC. This behavior was a complete shock to me. Once that position that the nominating committee was “corrupt” by some Delegates, a certain member(s) of the Delegate body started a campaign to make sure that those we nominated were not elected. That is what happened.

Again, I wish to honestly congratulate those elected and I hope they will do a good job on the Board. We had 10 great candidates that were well qualified but we as a committee could only nominate three of those candidates.

Another thing I believe should be done before the election next year is for the Board to come up with guidelines for the nominating committee as there is none and that could have helped prevent the bad experience I for one experienced as a member and chairman of that committee.

That being said I will now get to the business at hand of the goings on of the March AKC Delegate Meeting. I had the pleasure to be a Delegate mentor to a new Delegate from the Tucson Kennel Club, Dr. Kenneth H Levison, who I had known and admired over the years. He will be a great asset to the Delegate Body.

The Dog Show Rules Committee had a very productive meeting and I am proud to be a member of that committee.

Harvey Wooding, AKC Board Liaison, stated that the AKC is opening a retail store in Manhattan. The following story was reported in the Wall Street Journal and announced by Jim Crowley to the DelContinued on page 134

Thank you Judge Mrs. Francine Schwartz

GCh. Evergreenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for the Love of Ivy Handled by Jane & Stan Flowers DHG 612-747-5770 www.stanandjaneflowers.com Dog News 133

Views From A Delegate Continued FROM page 132

egate Body. Brandi Hunter, AKC Director of Public Relations and Communications, stated that “American Kennel Club’s new venture into pet care with a facility in the VIA 57WEST building in NYC….the AKC working with the Durst Organization, the desire for our growth in the pet care industry and what the new venture means for both organizations. We have taken the time and care to research the decision to enter into the pet care industry, and have found that dog daycare is a logical step to increase our brand equity and to expand the expertise of the AKC to dog owners everywhere.” The WSJ reported that the new venture is expected to open this fall. It is a leased 4,000 square feet and is bounded by the West 57th and West 58th streets which have two other Durst apartment building properties, the Helena and the Frank. “ We are experienced people with lifetimes involved with the care and showing and exhibiting of dogs, said Dennis Sprung, the club’s chief executive. “We bring that knowledge and experience to the table, and now we are just applying it to the brick and mortar.” Designs for the space are still being developed, but club officials said they want the highest conditions for safety and comfort, including indoor runs for both smaller and larger dogs. The AKC is nonetheless planning to “roll out dogcare centers in the other metropolitan areas.” There was no financials offered by Harvey or others on the cost of this but when I asked Harvey he stated that they had gotten a good deal on the lease. I will have a “wait and see” attitude and will make my decision on whether this is a good idea or not. My question on this is it part of the Charter of the AKC to open retail shops? Others have spoken about the past history of retail shops and their success or lack of when you have a brick and mortar business. Could this money be better spent developing TV ads/print media promoting the idea of the advantages of owning the purebred dog and what AKC is doing for the dogs and the health of our dogs such as our AKC CHF? We shall see. Gina DiNardo, AKC staff and one of the best assets the AKC has as far as knowledge on all subjects and great spokesperson for the AKC, spoke about the Puppy of Distinction and how it can help to attract new exhibitors and especially puppies into our Sport. The POD title will perhaps bring some new exhibitors that will remain in the Sport.

134 Dog News

The POD is a suffix title awarded to dogs that have earned ten points from winning the regular puppy classes and the 4-6 month puppy class. Over the past ten years, the number of dogs exhibiting in the regular puppy classes has decreased by 33%. There was also a very intense discussion on the reinstatement process that will continue to the next meeting.

The venue issue is being looked at by the AKC legal department regarding various legal issues in each state regarding commercial venues.

At the Parent Club meeting Pat Laurans stated that Mark Dunn had spoken about the Bred With Heart program.

They are hoping for more Parent clubs to become member clubs. I believe that there are 38 AKC breed clubs that are not member clubs. There was discussion of not charging Parent Club Rescue Groups for any fees on the AKC Marketplace site.

Other committees discussed the Group Realignment and possibly working on that again. I believe it will be a one group at a time procedure which I had suggested the last time I was on the Group Realignment Committee. This was a surprise to me but if a breed club is not a member club the Board of Directors can change the breed standard or not allow any change to the breed standard, and a process is in place that the AKC Board can approve or disapprove any membership of a Parent Specialty Breed Club.

The following day the AKC Delegate Meeting was held.

Ballots for the election of the AKC Board of Directors class of 2020. The following candidates’ vote totals are as follows: Linda Ayres Turner Knorr- 57 votes Gretchen Bernardi- 135 votes Rita Biddle- 110 votes Pat Cruz- 205 votes William Feeney-207 votes Karolynne McAteer-189 votes Thomas Powers-86 votes There were 366 ballots with a vote of 184 to elect.

Ronald Menaker, Chairman of the Board, (congratulations to Ron on being reelected at the March, 2016 Board meeting) stated that AT&T Sports and UVERSE and Direct TV have been running a film on the AKC Eukanuba show with people showing their dogs in con-

formation, performance and juniors, which has been very well received. It was true to the message on all facets of the Sport. It will have a 90-day run and you can go to the AKC.ORG website to a link to the channel. FidoTV will also be running it from April 1-June 1.

Dennis Sprung, President/CEO, gave a great report, which was available to the Delegates regarding 2015-The Year in Review accomplishments. “I will highlight some accomplishments and also provide details.

We grew litter registrations, individual registrations, EZ Reg. Pedigree sales, unique visitors to akc.org, Facebook/ social media, web advertising, licensing, Good Dog Helpline, breeds with full recognition (miscellaneous and FSS), added classes and titles, expanded health commitments, public relations triumphs, enhanced education and added to our capability to honor our own. From a personnel perspective, 46 employees became remote workers, changing our business model. For the year 2015, AKC had revenues totaling $62.2 million, which represented a 3.8% increase over the 2014 fiscal year. Total operating expenses in 2015 were $53.3 million. This resulted in an (unaudited) of $8.8 million for the 2015 year, which equals $3,100,000 above budget.” Registration for 2015 was the first year since 1996 wherein both the total registered dogs and the total registered litters exceeded the prior year’s totals. AKC registered 494,427 dogs, 3% more than in 2014. Registered AKC Litters totaled 211,178 exceeding last year’s litter volume by 1%. In February in Real Estate the AKC surrendered half of the 3rd floor in Raleigh to Arco Realty without any payment to the landlord. In addition to the $1.9 million in basic rent savings, AKC spent only $75,000 of the $150,000 construction budget and were further enhanced by a $27,000 refurbishing allowance from the landlord. Following ample due diligence on behalf on the Real Estate Committee, consultants, staff and the Board of Directors a decision was reached. In October the Board announced that the AKC will maintain our Operational facility in the Research Triangle area of Raleigh, North Carolina and the headquarters will reside in the metropolitan New York area.”

The proposal to amend the AKC By-Laws did not get the 2/3 vote to allow a Delegate Judge to charge a minimum of $150 per event.

Until next time.

Dog News 135

The Gossip Column

By Eugene Z. Zaphiris

B

uy wholesale, sell retail, that seems to be the new mantra of the AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB, as its readies to open its first retail store on the far West Side of Manhattan (interestingly enough, the thinking is Manhattan is the perfect location for the store but not for the offices). This is to be the first of many others to open in other cities. To give an idea of the location it is on West 57th Street between 11th and 12th Avenues. WESTMINSTER at the Piers is on 12th Avenue. The store will offer dog day care, boarding, training, grooming and dog walking services. Googling grooming and boarding in Manhattan has page after page of businesses that offer what the kennel club will offer. How this decision further promotes pure bred dogs escapes me.

But according to the newly hired chief growth officer ALEXANDRA ALESKOVSKY, who some say is being groomed as the next president, she thinks this is a positive move. There is a big difference between branding the AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB and being branded.

Global warming, climate change, call it what you will, but they had to send snow by train from Fairbanks to Anchorage, Alaska (where only two inches of snow fell last month) for last Saturday’s start of the sled dog Iditarod race.

In a race closer to home, is the elections for the Board of Directors at the American Ken-

136 Dog News

nel Club. The seven Delegates who ran for the three available seats for the Class of 2020 were seated directors PATRICIA CRUZ, WILLIAM FEENEY and THOMAS POWERS plus three additional delegates LINDA KNORR, RITA BIDDLE, GRETCHEN BERNARDI and KAROLYNNE MCATEER. When the votes were finally counted two of the three triumphant Delegates were incumbents PAT CRUZ and WILLIAM FEENEY, and the other in a first time attempt, KAROLYNNE MCATEER, on the first ballot. One needed 184 votes to be elected. The vote count was FEENEY 207, CRUZ 202, MCATEER 189, BERNARDI 135, BIDDLE 110, POWERS 86 and KNORR 59.

RON MENAKER was reelected as Chairman and CARL ASHBY Vice Chairman. Onto lighter news, RICHARD & KEKE KAHN are celebrating their 29th wedding anniversary with a Central America cruise. According to KEKE, the late poker playing CONNIE BARTON said it would never last. Well, happily this is one pot CONNIE would have lost. AMY & ANDREW GREEN are spending a long weekend at the Mustique home of BARBARA BRUNS & WOLFGANG STAMP. TAMMIE & JOHN WILCOX are attending the Crufts Dog Show as well as BARBARA (LOUNSBURY) ANDERSON, LOUISE LEONE and BARBARA MILLER. Celebrating Birthdays…JANET YORK, DAVID VOGELS, JUDY COOPER, TUNI CONTI.

” “Ella Our sincere a pp Group Judge reciation to Mr. for this Group Jon Cole Honor!

Best in Show, Best in Specialty Show, Multiple Group Winning

GCh. Kellyglen’s Twilight Affair Ella is owned & loved by Marilyn Title Carolyn McKenzie Patricia Kudla & Suzanne Walker Presented by Greg Strong, AKC reg’d (410) 822-2187 Assisted by Ariel & Sarah Cukier Dog News 137

THE WESTMINSTER kENNEL cLUB & Take The Lead Theatre Benefit Photos by Kim Langlands, Gay Glazbrook & Eugene Z. Zaphiris

138 Dog News

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TO MY FELLOW DELEGATES, I am sitting in an airplane on my way home from the delegates meeting thinking about today’s election. I am disappointed, but not about what you might be thinking. I am disappointed about the actions of some within our body in the days and hours leading up to the election. I am disappointed in individuals who started rumors about candidates running for seats on the board as well as about those who supported these individuals. Many of those words were innuendo and blatant lies. I am disappointed in those individuals who blindly believed what they were told and spread these lies to others without having facts to support what they were told.

Yes, I am disappointed, but not so much with the results. All of the candidates had some excellent qualifications to support their candidacy. All of them could contribute well to the affairs of the board. It is very possible that the election results would not have been any different without the rumors and innuendo. We will never know, will we........

And that saddens me greatly.

Dr. Sophia Kaluzniacki, Representing only myself Green Valley, AZ A RETAIL STORE? WHAT IS AKC THINKING? I am curious if anyone is wondering what AKC thinks is important. The new retail store seems a long way from their mission statement: The American Kennel Club is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its Registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Founded in 1884, the AKC® and its affiliated organizations advocate for the purebred dog as a family companion, advance canine health and well-being, work to protect the rights of all dog owners and promote responsible dog ownership.

The “member clubs” are struggling to financially support shows (their primary source of funds), let alone generate enough revenue to support additional programs or giving back. Promoting and supporting purebred dogs is important as we see every day that we are in jeopardy of laws, politics or finances making it difficult or even impossible for some.

We need to encourage new participants, breeders and even spectators. AKC could help clubs by reducing the ridiculous amount of fees we pay for putting on a show, putting money toward the promotion of purebred dogs, and also rethink the idea that more is better.

Why do celebrities support HSUS/PETA but not AKC? How can AKC get better press for purebred dogs? Maybe they need to refocus on the mission of promoting purebred dogs instead of becoming a dog conglomerate!

Maggie Peat San Jose, CA

Letters to the Editor

RE: AKC’s Boarding Kennel and Grooming Initiative In the other side of my life beyond dogs, I speak nationally on small business topics and also consult with companies to assist with their marketing and/or sales. I have spoken numerous times to the pet supply industry at their trade shows in Orlando, Chicago and New York. I’ve also consulted with a large veterinary specialty practice.

The boarding kennel/grooming business model is an interesting study, and is not as simple as one might assume. I’ve met owners of big facilities that have large financial investments in them along with large staffs. The single

For The Love Of Dogs

(inspired by the Westminster Kennel Club Show) Every February, for two days, Madison Square Garden becomes home to the Westminster Kennel Club dog show and three thousand canine competitors.

They come to New York from fifty states and a dozen foreign countries.

What an assemblage they are!

The ponderous Neapolitan Mastiff owes his massive, wrinkled visage to the giant war dogs of Alexander the Great, while the Toy Fox Terrier was intentionally bred down from substantial, rat-killing farm dogs to a diminutive but feisty little creature that would fit into a handbag.

Ancient breeds from the Fertile Crescent are slender, elegant animals with deep chests for stamina, long legs, and a flowing gait that effortlessly covered the vast Arabian Desert in the company of tent-dwelling nomads.

The dog world is full of history and romance but it is the steady, unconditional love of a long marriage that has sustained this relationship for thousands of years, and still brings dogs and dog lovers together.

Sydney Eddison Newtown, Connecticut

biggest common issue boarding kennels and groomers have is getting reliable help. The work is hard, the hours are demanding, and the customer dissatisfaction issues can sometimes be very hard to deal with. The workers in large veterinary facilities are a very unusual lot—not a bad thing, but many march to their own drummer and it is very hard to keep them. How on Earth is AKC going to support this kind of business model which is critically dependent on staff that must be willing to work for relatively low wages—and in Manhattan at that? Every time I have a glimmer of hope that maybe AKC is making some headway toward engaging the public and championing the purebred dog, something like this comes along. How they think this is going to further their cause is beyond me, especially when people begin complaining on Yelp, Google and elsewhere about service problems, bad experiences, or issues with staff, and then the “initiative” has to be shut down. Don’t be surprised if many of those negative reviews are initiated by groomers and boarding kennels that the AKC will be competing against.

Shaking my head.

Karl Stearns, Mountainhome, PA ACCOLADES AND FOLLOW-UP TO EARLY SPAY/NEUTER ARTICLE IN D MAGAZINE Applause Applause Applause!! The early spay/neuter [article by Sharon Pflaumer] was right on the mark! I have been following this issue for years, and already knew most of it, but your article was very concise and easy to understand for someone who has no knowledge of this!!

I do have one request! The info given was well documented via the studies!

But, the second to the last paragraph states “some studies show the incidence of breast cancer is higher in unspayed females.....” - I have heard this for many years, yet having asked three different vets, and one vet university, no one has been able to give me documented scientific evidence to this! One vet even questioned if it had just been the “norm” for so many years, and the fact that early spays are easier on the vet and the female!

Anyway, if she has scientific verificaContinued on page 145

Dog News will consider all letters for publication but reserves the right to edit these as required.

Letters will not be considered for publication unless full name and contact details are supplied, including telephone number. Letters may be mailed to Dog News 1115 Broadway NY, NY 10010 or emailed to dognews@harris-pub.com.

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Letters to the Editor Continued FROM page 141

tion of the breast cancer issue, I would love to know about it!

Thanks so much for the great magazine, and especially the articles!

Yours, Rita Figg Laurel, Florida

Veterinarian’s Response: Your question regarding scientific documentation of the correlation between spaying and breast cancer is a good one. The main scientific report indicating that spaying before 2.5 years of age reduces the incidence of breast cancer in dogs is here- http://www.ncbi.nlm. nih.gov/pubmed/2018024. Most any veterinarian who has been in practice for awhile will concur with this correlation. I hope that helps and thanks for reading the article Sharon Pflaumer and I put together [for D Magazine].

Dr. Nancy Kay, DVM VETERINARY SUPPORT AT SHOWS Following the recent announcement of a change to the regulation relating to the required level of veterinary support at shows, a further review has been undertaken taking into account the feedback received.

Consequently, the Kennel Club has announced that with immediate effect the requirement that all shows scheduling 200 or more classes are to have a veterinary surgeon on site has been removed and is now replaced with the following amended regulation: Regulation F12 ‘A Show Society is required to arrange veterinary support compatible with the arrangements for the show and the anticipated entry. At shows at which a veterinary surgeon is present, he/she must be on site when the show opens and for the duration of each day’s judging. All General and Group Championship Shows must have a veterinary surgeon on site.’

Show societies now have the discretion over their veterinary arrangements, regardless of the number of classes scheduled at their shows. The only exception is general and group championship shows, which must continue to provide an on-site veterinary surgeon.

Despite the change to the regulation, show societies are still required to undertake a risk assessment to decide whether an on-site vet is needed. Some relevant factors may be: the number of incidents at previ-

ous shows where a vet on site would have been beneficial the number of dogs entered at the show – with more dogs, comes the risk of increase in incidents the logistics of providing facilities for an on-site vet The health and welfare of dogs must be of paramount importance and it is beholden on show societies to provide the appropriate level of veterinary cover for their show.

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary said: “Having reviewed the feedback received on this matter, the General Committee felt strongly that it was no longer appropriate to have a baseline requirement to determine a show’s level of veterinary cover, except at general or group championship shows. It was appreciated that for some show societies it is no longer financially viable to appoint a vet to be on-site throughout the show, and that the alternative arrangement of having a vet ‘on call’ had become custom and practice without significant adverse effect on the health and welfare of dogs at shows.”

Laura Quickfall London, UK

Javi Changes Our World A tenacious little boy frolics in the rain in the empty ring at a dog show.

His mom happily records his video while cheering him on. Stomping in the rain means more to this little guy than it does to most. You see, Javi has cerebral palsy.

Ninety thousand social media fans and counting have viewed Javi’s video on that rainy day. His persistence has inspired the world. He is walking. He is smiling. He wants more.

The sacrifices his family has made to get him to the point of being able to walk are immeasurable.

His parents diligently encourage him, pick him up when he falls, and remind him that he, like any other child, can do anything he sets his mind to.

The world is proud of Javi. We are rooting for him. And, not many of us would have been aware of his miraculous abilities were it not for the harsh words of the unkind.

Recently, Javi was scolded for using his walker at a dog show.

The walker makes no noise. Neither does Javi. His father has taught him to be respectful of show dogs, and

the handlers who work so diligently to make them shine. His mother tried to explain why Javi needs his walker, and that he had every right to be present watching his father in the ring. She was dismissed. Javi’s father tried to explain, and was told it was not the time or place. The administrators left the building, and were not amenable to correcting the wrongdoing. A devastated family took to social media to express their pain. Meanwhile, Javi did not understand.

Children do not understand the politics of adults, nor should they. Children understand right and wrong. Javi’s feelings were hurt. It took his parents over a week of persistence and encouragement before Javi would consider using his walker again.

When I heard of this situation, my heart sank. Not just for Javi and his family, but for all the injustice and unkind words in our world today. While adults frequently disparage each other, including our show dogs, there is no excuse for admonishing a child for simply being present.

Those of us who have sunk huge sums of money, our time, and our passion into the sport of purebred dogs understand this sport is dying. There is no new blood. We “snob newcomers to our sport away.” We critique their dogs, and their efforts. WE want to win.

Who are they to come in and try to take that from us, the elite?

This used to be a family sport. Parents and children would show their dogs, cheer on their favorites and barbeque at the end of the show day. What are we left with now? A collection of inconsequential ribbons for wins that were hard fought between bitter rivals.

None of it really matters. By definition, this is a sport. We take ourselves too seriously. We have lost the joy that Javi has every day when he puts one foot in front of the other.

While there will be consequences for the mistreatment that Javi and his family experienced, those cannot negate the blows to Javi’s self-confidence, and his rehabilitation.

I have strongly implored the administration at the highest levels to uphold the AKC Code of Ethics, and the law. None of us are exempt from respecting civil liberties and following basic social détente.

I encourage the rest of us to sit with the discomfort of this situation. Javi has reminded us what is important in life. Winning is not worth breaking a child’s spirit, or causing his family lasting pain.

Let us hold ourselves to a higher standard: a standard of respect, integrity, and appreciation for what truly matters in this world. Thank you, Javi, for reminding the adults of our responsibility to leave this world a better place for you and all our children (furkids included). #IRUNWITHJAVI Respectfully, Dr. Megan L. Rheingans Michael Physician, Mother Minnetonka, MN Dog News 145

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