There have been many changes in the look and feel of shows here during the past couple years. Many changes within the Canadian Kennel club as well. As spring turns to summer we find new support for our Junior Handlers and a disappointing lack of support for Breed Specific Legislation.
F
or the past several years Proctor and Gamble, through Eukanuba Dog foods, had been the sponsor for Junior Handling Zone Finals competitions throughout Canada and also sent our National winner to Crufts every year. This ended rather suddenly earlier this year. Nigel Phillips did eventually get to the UK and represented us well but not without a few tense moments wondering where the funding would come from. As well several zones who had their Finals in March and April were left without awards for the Juniors. We are now happy to report that Royal Canin has jumped in and will sponsor Junior handling finals across Canada for 2012. The CKC released this statement to their members announcing their new partnership with Royal Canin: “Royal Canin, a worldwide manufacturer of high-quality, specialized dog and cat foods, will sponsor the Junior Handling Program with support for the Junior Handling Zone Finals right across Canada this year. Royal Canin will also provide support for the National Junior Handling Championships, held in scenic Orillia, Ontario on August 4th 2012, with financial assistance for competitors, gift packs and a dinner celebrating the Juniors’ outstanding achievements this year. Royal Canin Canada has also committed to help send the National Junior Handling Conformation Champion, chosen at the National Championships in Orillia in August, to compete internationally and represent Canada at Crufts, one of the world’s great dog shows, in March 2013” This announcement certainly came as welcome news to the CKC as well as the many Junior Handling Representatives across the country. Another matter plaguing Canadian Dog Fanciers, is the Breed Specific Legislation that has come to affect many dog owners in different parts of Canada. Unfortunately on May 9, 2012, in Ontario, Continued on page 84
62 Dog News
by ALLISON FOLEY
True North (Strong and Free)