D The Dog News Annual Magazine II

2010 ANNUAL

TWENTY DOLLARS

THE DOG NEWS ANNUAL MAGAZINE

BEST IN SHOW

BRED BY EXHIBITOR

AGILITY

WORLD CHALLENGE

OBEDIENCE

BEST JUNIOR

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SUMMARY

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es, exhibitors, handlers, and anyone else who wants to pay $50. SCJA also produces a newsletter (“Sound Judgment”) although that seems to be rather sporadic and based on what is happening at the time (on its Web site, a Fall 2009 newsletter is preceded by Fall 2007 and then several copies of 2006 correspondence when AKC attempted to establish a policy of, essentially, not letting its judges judge for other organizations.) Annual dues are $40 ($50 for husband and wife). Further information can be obtained from www.scja.org

ADSJ

A

lthough at first glance one may think that the three organizations are alike – they are not...

DJAA is strictly founded for educational purposes – it constantly seeks out the best and most knowledgeable presenters it can find. Its seminars before Westminster are considered by many to be a “must” for attendance by those who want to learn. DJAA’s co-sponsorship with AKC of group institutes takes educational options to a different level.

Also, DJAA’s educational seminars are not under the umbrella of some other organization. DJAA prime purpose is the education of judges and providing benefits for those judges.

W Which OneIs Which?

The American Dog Show Judges’ has the distinction of being the youngest and largest of America’s three dog show organizations.

Established in 1991 by some judges who were unhappy with the way SCJA was being run, ADSJ presently has over 1000

members. It is characterized as, “A professional association that advocates for dog show judges, represents their needs and interests with the AKC, seeks to afford them quality educational experiences and in all ways to enhance their professionalism as American dog show judges. Through this work we contribute to the preservation and advancement of purebred dogs.”

Although ADSJ can be described as being an advocacy organization, it states that it does not act as a union in any of its dealings. Its philosophy is: “ADSJ will respond to the needs of the judging community in a positive, responsible and non-confrontational manner. The principles of the organization are based on the ideals of democracy and equality.”

ADSJ cites as its principle member benefit the fact that it has so many members and can interact with AKC on the basis of that large membership.

“Your views and concerns, together with those of so many others, combine through the vehicle of the ADSJ to create a voice which must be heard.

We, the officers and directors of the ADSJ, gather, amplify and articulate this voice. It is heard by the governing body of our sport in a variety of ways, namely, informal conversations, letters to the AKC board and management, position papers and articles in The Voice, and most notably, through our AKC/ADSJ liaison meetings with key AKC Board and management personnel. Through these avenues we endeavor to build a relationship with the AKC based on reason, open communication and mutual respect.”

With regards to its educational endeavors, ADSJ supports (at $15,000 a year) – but is not a legal part of – an organization that sponsors a weeklong institute in August and a mini-institute in July – both in Western Pennsylvania. The Dog Judges

Educational Foundation is the privately owned educational enterprise that actually sponsors the American Dog Show Judges Advanced Institute. According to tax filings as listed in GuideStar (an online non-profit information service), the DJEF pays its president and its secretary-treasurer annual salaries. In addition, it offers some remuneration to its seminar presenters and handlers to offset their travel expenses. This educational opportunity is open to member and non-member judges, but is not open to non-judges. The goal of the institutes are to offer enough educational opportunities to cover one half of each group each year.

ADSJ holds its Annual Meeting in conjunction with the Westminster Kennel Club show and its Board meets semi-annually. The organization communicates with its members through its newsletter, “The Voice,” via email and snail mail. Members are also encouraged to contact the officers with any problems or questions.

Membership dues are $40 a year, for which one receives not only a name badge, logo pin, the newsletter three times a year, but a $25,000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance coverage while on any judging assignment, $5,000 legal protection policy while judging, a breed disqualification booklet, access to a video lending library of AKC breed videos, online member photo directory, and various other benefits. Dues for two members of the same household are $70.

Additional information may be obtained at www.adsj.org

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SCJA has a separate organization serve as its educational exposure – education that is open to anyone, including UKC judges and other non-AKC judges. SCJA is known for being tightly run and controlled by a single individual who is not afraid to jump into the fray. It is not above getting involved in the politics of the sport and the AKC.

ADSJ’s educational opportunity is totally owned and managed by a different organization. ADSJ offers a variety of member benefits that the other judges’ groups do not. It will champion a cause if necessary and does contact its members for input regarding political decisions and input regarding AKC decisions as they affect the judging community.

Some judges belong to all three associations; some to two; some to one; and then some to none of them. There has long been a lot of discussion about the function of these associations and whether or not they have value. Certainly from an educational viewpoint, they have tremendous value. From a political viewpoint, it depends on whether or not the membership is consulted.

With regards to intervention on behalf of an individual judge with the AKC, the value can only be a positive one if such intervention is necessary, just and fair and conducted in a non-confrontational manner.

Obviously given the size of the associations, a great many AKC judges feel that such organizations fill a gap in providing education, shared experiences and camaraderie.

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n the beginning of March the AKC was well represented by Marcus Topps and his Border Collie, Juice, at the Crufts Dog Show in Birmingham, England. There were 21 countries represented in the international competition. This was the first year they held a three round competition and agility was featured at the evening slot before groups. Marcus took second overall just 71-hundredths of a second behind first place England. The support for the USA was evident from many countries and Marcus proved the popular exhibitor of the weekend whose advice and expertise was sought after by agility exhibitors from other countries.

I

March also held the very exciting AKC Agility Championship in North Carolina. This involved a large number of staff from AKC as volunteers due to the close location of the event to the AKC offices. The conditions at Cabbaras Arena were top drawer and the competition fierce. There were 43 states represented with Ohio carrying the largest number. The entry number was 890, which encompassed 599 Master Agility Champions and 54 Breed Champions.

The Border Collie had the largest number for a breed entered but followed closely by the Shetland Sheepdog. The first day was International competition and the next two days were for the Championship title of 2009. It came down to the top five dogs that earned the right to list National Agility Champion (NAC) before their dog’s name. The five crowned were a Papillion in the 8” class, Shetland Sheepdogs in both the 12” and 16” class and Border Collies in the 20”, 24” and 26” classes.

In the spring, May brought the World Team Tryouts to Minnesota. The top 10% of the sport vied for the opportunity to represent the United States at the World Agility Championship. Only 12 handler and dogs are chosen for the three teams (14”, 18” and 26” jump heights). The cream truly rose to the top and a well rounded, competitive team was chosen.

In 2009 the World Agility Championship was held in the beautiful country of Austria at the end of September. The competition held on carpet was a three-day long, intense event. The 12 dogs and handlers gave their all when they stepped to the line. The live streaming coverage of the event was a first and watched by agility enthusiasts all over the world. The USA/AKC World Agility Championship team was expertly coached by Nancy Gyes who helped guide them through the most difficult courses presented to date. Winning two medals by one country is always outstanding and CONTINUED ON PAGE 168

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CRAGSMOOR Skye Terriers Home of Multiple Best In Show Winners • Multiple National Specialty Best of Breed Winners • Multiple Westminster Kennel Club Best of Breed Winners • Westminster Kennel Club and World Dog Show Group Winner • Top Producing Sires and Dams

CRAGSMOOR KENNELS, reg.

Eugene Z. Zaphiris

Matthew H. Stander

Ezzdog@aol.com

Oyster Bay Cove, New York THE DOG NEWS ANNUAL

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the upside of the seesaw CONTINUED FROM PAGE 164

the USA did just that. Silver was won by the medium team of three Shetland Sheepdogs and a Pyrenean Shepherd. An individual Silver medal won by Marcus Topps and his Border Collie, Juice.

An incredible year for Juice with wins at both the Worlds and Crufts. Many outstanding performances were given by the AKC team in both individual and team competitions. he year ended in December with the AKC Agility Invitational. This event represented almost all the breeds that do agility in AKC as the top five per breed were invited to compete based on the MACH points earned throughout the year. The entry of 457 in Long Beach, California remained consistent from the previous years. All previous events had always been held indoors next to the conformation rings but 2009 was the 125th anniversary of AKC and a different format forced the agility competition outside to a Pavilion tent. The unthinkable happened and it rained in Southern California. Unfortunately ill will was created when the water flowed freely through the crating area of the agility dogs. The main area of the tent also had water but thankfully the competition rings remained a perfect grass running surface from first to last run. The loss of Animal Planet filming an independent agility show due to the tent situation was another setback but hopefully they will return for the 2010 event. This filming loss did not affect the finals, which proved a top notch competition. The filming of the most incredible cake with the agility theme certainly had all in attendance in awe of the 6’ cake that was a masterpiece. The “Cake Off” show will be in Feb. The final top dogs were 8” Pembroke Welsh Corgie, 12” Cardigan Welsh Corgi, 16” Pyrenean Shepherd, 20” Border Collie and 24” a Doberman.

T

The highlight of the year was the acceptance of Mixed Breed dogs in the AKC Companion Events program. The Canine Pet Partners will go far to make the AKC a representative of all dogs, bring in many more youth into the program by embracing the current 4 H young people, and gathering in all the mixed breeds in agility that compete in other venues. The removal by the Board of Directors of all the obstacles that were first placed on the mixed breeds will surely prove a positive outlook for AKC agility. Purebred dogs will always be at the forefront of the organization but the inclusion of all dogs bodes well for the future of AKC.

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*2009

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I Touched A Wolf...

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”

owever, the wolf, or canis lupus, has also been man’s partner in the past 50,000 years of their mutual existence, mainly in the form of the dog – man’s best friend. Stories of partnership between man and wolf are as common as those that portray the wolf in a negative light. One only need remember the story of Remus and Romulus, founders of Rome, who were nursed by a female wolf. So too is the story of the wolf tamed by Saint Francis of Assisi in the Middle Ages: “Brother Wolf,” said Francis, “I want to make peace between you and the people of Gubbio. They will harm you no more and you must no longer harm them. All past crimes are to be forgiven.” The wolf showed its assent by moving its body and nodding its head. Then to the absolute surprise of the gathering crowd, Francis asked the wolf to make a pledge. As St. Francis extended his hand to receive the pledge, so the wolf extended its front paw and placed it into the saint’s hand. Then Francis commanded the wolf to follow him into town to make a peace pact with the townspeople.

The wolf meekly followed St. Francis.

H

The study of wolves sheds light on the almost symbiotic relationship with man. A unique research station, the Wolf Science Center in Austria, explores the similarities between wolves, dogs and humans. The wolves are hand raised by scientists, developing a close and trustful working relationship with them. They regularly participate in cooperative and cognitive tasks that study their mental abilities and keep them physically and mentally busy, benefitting their welfare.

Professor Kurt Kotrschal, associate professor of zoology at the University of Vienna, joint director of the research center with Zsofia Viranyi and Friederike Range, explains its premise:

“A

ll dogs have originated from wolves. Through the process of domestication they have adapted to live among people. It still remains unknown whether and to what degree they continue to think in a wolflike way, or in exactly which way their problem solving, learning skills and cooperative disposition towards humans have changed in comparison with wolves.”

Many assume that dogs have lost some cognitive skills and problem solving abilities because they manage to engage humans as assistants and troubleshooters. Wolves, on the other hand, are still required to cope with the challenges of the wilderness. Others believe dogs’ physical insight is no worse than the wolves’ but domestication has increased their sensitivity to humans.

“Although our current understanding of dog behavior is rapidly increasing, information about wolves is lacking,” explains Prof. Kotrschal.

“Our main goal is to try and collect this data and understand the influence of wolves’ and dogs’ social relationships among themselves and between them and humans on their cognitive and cooperative development and performance.”

Hopefully, the studies at the center should shed light on the issues of dog training on a firm scientific basis, enhance comprehension of human-dog companionship and support educated decisions regarding animal-assisted therapy.

Upon approaching the center, one enters a long lane with a stone wall on one side and a row of shady trees on the other. The wolves are kept behind the stone wall, in a large enclosure divided into two. One side holds the black Timberwolves, about 18 months old, on the verge of adulthood, acquired from an Austrian zoo. On the other side are several younger wolves, about six months old, flown in from the Triple-D Ranch in Montana.

“We look into the wolves’ cognitive abilities CONTINUED ON PAGE 180

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“

I Touched A Wolf...

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”

and it is useful to have more gentle specimens,” notes Zsofia Viranyi, a post-doctorate scientist who hails from Hungary. “In general, the Timberwolves adapt more easily to humans.”

Several dogs stroll around within the wolves’ enclosure, responding to commands given by the trainers. “The wolves actually learn from the dogs,” explains Viranyi, “in the same way puppies learn from adult dogs.” They have already amassed a repertoire of 25 different commands, including “sit,” “down” and some that are more difficult for a feral animal such as “stay.”

At the moment, since the wolves have not reached their full adulthood, the dogs are actually in command and treat the young wolves like puppies, chiding them for misbehaving.

not to look them in the eyes since they may construe this as aggression. The beautiful beasts do as they please and we were quite grateful when they came up to us, sniffing us thoroughly and eventually allowing us to pat them. When we left this enclosure, another part of our group entered and the poor people waited for about 30 minutes while the disinterested wolves did everything but approach them.

Upon accessing the other pack’s home territory, that of the older black wolves, one feels the trainers’ open eyes

These wolves have been known to steal objects from visitors, including cameras, cellular phones and other devices. Prying these objects on the lookout for any sign of trouble.

away from the creatures is a daunting task and one usually ends up with an unusable piece of paraphernalia. Thus we were stripped of all such objects upon entering the enclosure, bringing only our cameras and hoping they would not take The situation may turn for the occupants’ fancy. the worse next year, when the The most prominent feature of the black wolves is their wolves reach adulthood. Then yellow eye, even more daunting than that of the grey-colored the dogs may be in danger wolves. They are also less eager to make contact with strangers, although happy to perform various commands for from the wolves’ jaws and their their trainers. coexistence in this environment The major objective of the center is to facilitate scientific will have to end. studies involving wolves, dogs and humans.

The scientists, on the other hand, treat Since the institution is relatively new, only one the wolves with caution in an attempt to study has been completed and published as of consolidate a partnership devoid of coercion, based on positive yet. This study attempted to reveal differences reinforcement. Kotrschal takes a long pole and drags it along between wolf puppies and dog puppies of while two of the wolves play with it. The distance between the the same age when interacting with human man and the wolves lets the animals believe the man has no beings. It demonstrated that at the early age of relation to the pole they are chasing.

3 to 5 weeks – despite unprecedented intense Some visitors are allowed to enter the enclosures and socialization and comparable social (human) meet the wolves first hand. They are required to sign a waiver, environment during early development – there even though the wolves are not considered dangerous. The are specific behavioral differences between wolves are wary of strangers, wolves and dogs, mostly with regard to their but when engaged in familiar interaction with humans. actions they are more Among the more intriguing studies carried approachable. out at the center is one that involves the wolves Touching a wolf is quite using a touch-screen computer to figure out an emotional experience. various puzzles. Although we were eager to Perhaps it encapsulates all watch this experiment, the scientists were the primal fears we have been reluctant to allow strangers into the room with inundated with for centuries. the wolves since they were still quite new at the The six-month-old babies task and so we were only able to see a dog doing are larger than the average these functions. dog, with huge teeth and Hopefully, the studies at the center should yellow eyes. Their grey coat shed light on the issues of dog training on a resembles the colors of a firm scientific basis, enhance comprehension Siberian Husky, but it is much of human-dog companionship and support thicker and extremely coarse educated decisions regarding animal-assisted on the exterior. I did my best therapy.

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Angel On A Leash CONTINUED FROM PAGE 36

On that weekend, U.S. Marine Hero Josh Bleill, now a member of the Angel board, visited the Ronald McDonald House of New York along with Uno. The Second Annual Best In Show event is being staged in 2010.

In fact, three of these members of dog show royalty were very active as celebrity “spokes-dogs” for Angel On A Leash and therapy dog work.

James (2007) continues to be very active as a star therapy dog and celebrity for many causes. Uno (2008) did a number of appearances around the country, including holding court at the Angel booth at the American Kennel Club’s resoundingly successful “Meet the Breeds.” Rufus (2006) was a star everywhere he went and was featured on NBC’s National Dog Show in front of a television audience of nearly 20 million viewers.

They are three of the most visible dogs visiting health care facilities around the country, with hundreds of additional teams working through 13 Angel partners (see list).

Other Angel highlights for the past year: • Angel On A Leash therapy dog teams will soon be helping Ameri-

PHOTO BY JACK KENNER

“Therapy dog teams will soon be helping America’s rehabilitating military heroes and their families” ca’s rehabilitating military heroes and their families, thanks to a grant from the Fluor Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Fluor Corporation. The grant will fund development and implementation of an Angel On A Leash Therapy Dog Program for six months at the Fisher House supporting the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston. This program will focus on supporting both the rehabilitation of our armed forces members and their family members.

Fisher Houses are homes away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at VA and other major military medical centers around the country. Housing fees for the military members are underwritten by the Fisher House Foundation.

• Angel On A Leash and the Ronald McDonald House of New York City were honored in March with a Community Partnership Award given by Mutual of America. Angel On A Leash teams have been visiting at the Ronald McDonald House since 2006.

“Fisher Houses are homes away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at VA and other major military medical centers around the country.”

The prestigious award, given annually by Mutual of America since 1996, recognizes “outstanding nonprofit organizations in the United States that have shown exemplary leadership by facilitating partnerships with public, private or social sector

PHOTO BY MARY BLOOM

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Angel On A Leash CONTINUED FROM PAGE 182 PHOTO BY LISA CROFT ELLIOTT

leaders who are working together as equal partners, not as donors and recipients, to build a cohesive community that serves as a model for collaborating with others for the greater good.”

Angel teams and Ronald McDonald House families attended a special luncheon at the New York Athletic Club for the ceremonies hosted by Mutual of America. The next day, eight Angel therapy dog teams and Ronald McDonald House families rang the ceremonial closing bell for the NASDAQ Stock Market.

• Angel On A Leash was named “New Yorker of the Week” by cable station NY1 and the subject of a feature for its work at the Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital of NewYork-Presbyterian; was featured in the New York Daily News, Guideposts, New York’s WPIX TV, Animal Planet’s “Faithful Friends” and Animal Planet’s “Underdog to Wonderdog” shows, and many more national and local media.

PHOTO BY MARY BLOOM

• Angel teams became the first dogs ever allowed in the Ronald McDonald House of Milwaukee, and will visit there through the Angel program from Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. A visit by Uno a year earlier helped lay the groundwork for this to happen.

• Dance Times Square, best known for “So You Think You Can Dance,” staged an exciting benefit for Angel called “Ballroom Unleashed.” Melanie Lapatin and Tony Meredith created the show for dance fans and ballroom lovers held at the Danny Kaye Theatre at New York’s Hunter College. The show featured SYTYCD finalists Sabra and Twitch, World Latin Champs Eugene Katsevman and Maria Manusova, and numerous other stars from the world of ballroom dance.

It was a wonderful year for Angel On A Leash, and the smiles and good feelings that the Angel teams brought to all they visited made it even more so. For more information, please visit www.angelonaleash.org

Angel On A Leash Partner Facilities Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital of NewYork-Presbyterian Ronald McDonald House of New York City Providence Health System (Portland, Oregon) New Milford (Connecticut) Hospital New Alternatives for Children (New York)

“It was a wonderful year for Angel On A Leash, and the smiles and good feelings that the Angel teams brought to all they visited made it even more so.”

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (Memphis) Hackensack (NJ) University Medical Center Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (New York) Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin (Milwaukee) Ronald McDonald House of Milwaukee Fisher House at Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center (Houston) Mid South Therapy Dogs (Memphis) Reading Education Assistance Dogs (R.E.A.D.) (Salt Lake City)

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The AKC Museum of the Dog

Collect

Preserve

Exhibit

Frank T. Sabella, a former AKC judge, holds the distinguished honor of being the first contributor to the Museum’s collection of art. His gift donation of several paintings, lithographs and six bronzes by the American artist June Harrah were the first items to be catalogued as works of art owned by The Dog Museum of America.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 41 Donations by the Westminster Kennel Club Foundation followed with gifts of art that included the outstanding oil, A Setter In The Field, by Percival Rosseau dated 1900, four paintings of Beagles and Dalmatians by Gustav Muss-Arnolt, and several important sterling silver trophies dated 1881, 1884 and 1885. Additional acquisitions continued to enhance the collection with donations of art given by Mastiff fancier and dog show judge Marie A. Moore and numerous German Shepherd figurines given by the Dornwald Kennel Collection and Pamela S. Cole.

By 1985 it was apparent The Dog Museum of America had quickly outgrown its original space and was in need of a larger, permanent facility.

The move to historic Jarville House by invitation of St. Louis County in 1987 offered an ideal solution. The 19th century Greek Revival-style home located in spacious Queeny Park was expanded to include a 14,000 square-foot addition with four large exhibit galleries and an events room. The lovely Charing Cross Courtyard completed in 1991 is frequently used for various social gatherings, cocktail parties and receptions. On exhibit at the north end of the courtyard is the fabulous life-size English Setter bronze by the well-known artist Walter T. Matia. The sculpture is one of copious works of art given to the Museum by the Janet A. Hooker Charitable Trust and Gilbert S. Kahn.

The art collection received a major boost in 1993 At The Garden Gate with a gift of 19 paintings valued at more than Matilda Lotz $1 million bequeathed by the Cynthia S. Wood Oil on canvas Gift of Ronald H. and Chickadee estate. Cynthia’s gift of a superb painting of a Kathleen S. Menaker Louise Peterson (American) Bronze Foxhound and Scottish Deerhound, dated 1838, Twentieth Century by the accomplished artist Sir Edwin Henry Gift of The Art Show at The Dog Show Landseer is without question one of the Museum’s finest paintings. A favorite painter of Queen Victoria, Landseer’s outstanding talent as an animal painter is well documented in the 179 paintings he exhibited at the Royal Academy. Wood also gifted to the Museum the fabulous painting of Salukis by the English artist James Ward. Brilliantly painted, Ward’s depiction of Salukis pursuing prey vividly portrays the speed and agility of the breed. Ward’s oil predates the Landseer portrait by more than 30 years.

Subsequent gifts to the Museum’s holdings include important paintings, drawings, watercolors, prints, bronzes and fine porcelains by artistic masters through the ages. Herman L. and Judy S. Fellton bequeathed a large collection of figurines and several garden sculptures along with an impressive bronze of a hound currently on display in the Museum’s lower level gallery.

Interpret

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PYRLESS GREAT PYRENEES – 2009 CH. PYRLESS LES MONTS DE LOURDES, HOF

“Monti”

Sire: Ch. Pyrless Fast Forward, HOF Dam: Ch. Pyrless Fancy Free, HOF

Multiple Group Winning Number Four* Great Pyrenees All-Breed Number Five* in Breed Handler: Nina Fetter, PHA Owners: Drs. Robert & Kathy Piston

CH. PYRLESS BROTHER LOVE, HOF

“Chico” Sire: Ch. Pyrless Hold On My Heart Dam: Ch. Pyrless Snow White

Multiple Group Winning Number 11* Great Pyrenees in All Breed Handlers: Vic & Sue Capone, PHA Owners: Valerie Seeley& Joanne Krausman

BREEDER: Dr. Valerie Seeley *C.C. system THE DOG NEWS ANNUAL

TWO Great Pyrenees Club of America HALL OF FAME ENTRANTS & ONE “BIG” YEAR CH. PYRLESS STILISTIC LAW-ORDER

“MR. BIG” Sire: Ch. Wander Boy of Mayu Dreamer, JP Dam: Pyrless Dream On

Group Winning Number Eight* Great Pyrenees All-Breed Number 13** in Breed Handler: Greg Strong, PHA Owners: Mark & Josephine Stiles

O

ur thanks to a wonderful group of owners for their support of our breeding program. We also want to express our appreciation to the handlers who have presented these specials, and our gratitude to all of the judges who have made this one of the best years for the Pyrless Great Pyrenees.

We look forward to a “Big” 2010.

PYRLESSGREATPYRENEES.COM *The Dog News Top Ten List **C.C. system

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The AKC Museum of the Dog

An unusual pair of very fine quality woodcarved Japanese Foo Dogs or Temple Dogs, dating from the 16th century and given by the Felltons, is on exhibit in the grand Westminster room of Jarville House. Jean Ann Cone, a Bulldog fancier, gifted more than 350 Bulldog statues. A significant gift donation given by the Nancy-Carroll Draper estate in 2008 includes a lovely oil of a Great Dane painted by the well-known English artist Maud Earl as well as an early drawing of a Great Dane entitled Bluker

by Sir Edwin Henry Landseer. A multi-talented individual, Draper’s interest in Great Danes began in the 1940s and ultimately led to the founding of the Danelagh Kennel line.

Visitors to The AKC Museum of the Dog in St. Louis will see more than 100 dog porcelains by Rosenthal, Nymphenburg, Royal Doulton, Meissen, Royal Copenhagen, Bing and Grondahl, Dresden, and Staffordshire on exhibit in four sizeable display cases located in the main level hallway. Additional porcelains as well as numerous bronzes by well-known artists can be seen throughout the galleries. A favorite with Newfoundland fanciers, the life-size statue in bronze of Ch. Dryad’s Strong Sea Pirate by June Harrah, dated 1978 and given in memory of Elinor C. Ayres, greets guests at the admissions desk. A marvelous bronze of the Irish Setter, Sky, by the American artist James Gion, donated by the Linda L. Beck estate,

Collect

Preserve

Exhibit

Interpret CONTINUED FROM PAGE 186

Japanese Chins Cleanthe Carr (American) Oil on canvas Gift of Gilbert S. Kahn

is also on display in the admissions hallway.

Open year-round, the Museum exhibits more than 800 works of art with different thematic shows displayed in the Sally Johnson Spillane Special Exhibit Gallery. Permanent Museum exhibits include selections from the collection; an extensive photo exhibit paying tribute to the countless brave and loyal dogs of war, WWI through the Bosnian conflict; the Hall of Fame; and the soon-to-beinstalled exhibit on the invaluable community services provided by St. Louis County Police K-9 unit. The Police K-9 display opens to visitors with a grand reception to be held at the Museum at the end of May.

Pointer, ca 1750s Jean-Baptiste Oudry (French) Oil on canvas Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Phillip S. P. Fell

The Dog Museum reaffliated with the American Kennel Club in 1995 and changed its name to The American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog. The Museum is supported mainly by private and corporate gift donations. Information on the collection, facilities and events is found at museumofthedog.org

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General Information: Hours: Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. a nd Sunday 1 to 5 p.m.

(Closed Mondays and holidays) Admission: Adults $5; Seniors $2.50; and Children $1, Members Free Admission TEL 314-821-3647 e-mail: dogarts@aol.com Chairman: Gilbert S. Kahn President: Dorothy Welsh Executive Director: Barbara Jedda McNab

IT’S BEEN FIVE YEARS SO MARK YOUR CALENDARS

OCTOBER 7, 2010

HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL THERE THE DOG NEWS ANNUAL

WE’RE OFF TO

CH. ECHOLANE-DARLIN’S Sire: Sire: Ch. Lamar’s Sun of Dreamaker

u uincy Q incy

“

”Takes a GROUP SECOND

on the Prestigious Florida Circuit

Thank You Breeder-Judge Mrs. Robert Thomas for Best of Breed and Group Second Owners/Breeders Lynn Moser, Jan Brungard, Darryl Davis opblake@bellsouth.net 678-232-3321 THE DOG NEWS ANNUAL

A GREAT START!

BEYOND A SHADOW OF A DOUBT

u uincy Q incy

“

Dam: Ch. Dar-Lin’s Creekside By Chance

”Takes a GROUP FIRST

on the Prestigious Florida Circuit

Thank You Breeder-Judge Mr. Robert Thomas for Best of Breed and Group First Handler Lynn Moser THE DOG NEWS ANNUAL

RARE BREEDS OF THE WORLD CONTINUED FROM PAGE 44

L

Berger de Picard

A

miens, the capital of Picardy, renowned city of art and history, is famous for its gothic cathedral: the Cathédral Notre-Dame d’Amiens, the largest in France. Finished in 1266, its 42-metre, perpendicular nave is a truly spectacular sight, listed as a World Heritage Site

by UNESCO. It had been standing tall for over three centuries when in 1539 King François I signed an edict officially changing the country’s language from Latin to French.

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hen talking about France’s Picardy we realize again that thousands of books can’t contain the description of its richness, both geographically and historically speaking.

It is not a surprise that also one of the greatest dreamers of the world, the 17th century fable writer Jean de La Fontaine, was born in Picardy because his incredible imagination was colored by the surroundings of the most magical atmosphere. Forests, fields, rivers, beaches, birds, trees and flowers offered the proper scenario for his tales.

The Amiens region contains a large amount of rich woodlands (about one million acres) with vestiges of medieval royal hunting grounds (deer and wild boar still live there). Picardy’s geographic location made it the battleground of both world wars. The Battle of the Somme (1916) lasted nearly five months, killing nearly half a million British soldiers. Battlegrounds, ancient or recent, are never far from view.

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Jules Gabriel Verne (1828 – 1905) lived in Picardie. He is best known for his novels “A Journey to the Center of the Earth,” “From the Earth to the Moon,” “Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea,” “Around the World in Eighty Days” and others. His books were translated to great movie hits. Verne wrote about space, air and underwater travel well before airplanes and submarines were invented and before space travel had been devised. He is often referred to as the “Father of Science Fiction.” When not living in Amiens, Verne spent much time sailing on his ship, the Saint-Michel. His own sailing adventures provided much fodder for his popular novels. Now he rests in La Madeleine Cemetery in Amiens. A big marble statue of a man emerging from the earth reaching towards the sky adorns his grave.

Alexander Dumas (senior), author of “The Three Musketeers” (“One for all, and all for one,” exemplifying the major theme in Dumas’ works of loyalty and honor among men), was born in Villers-Cotterêts, his other well known works are “Man in the Iron Mask,” and “The Count of Monte Cristo” (1844) among many other great books, and essays.

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Berger de Picard

he Ornithology Park of Marquenterre at the Somme district offers famos bird-spotting opportunities. Also from the Bay de Somme is the famous dish called aagneau de pré-salé, made from local lamb meat whose special flavor comes from the animals grazing on salt marshes. In the Northwest of the department, St-Quentin is surrounded by canals and rivers and its famous museum.

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ment, which are perfectly symbolized by the Chantilly cream. This smooth, sweet cream dish was created by François Vatel (1631 – 1671), a French chef famous for inventing this sweet, vanilla-flavored whipped cream for an extravagant banquet of 2,000 people hosted in honor of Louis XIV by the great Louis II de Bourbon, Prince de Condé in April 1671 at his Château de Chantilly; hence the name crème Chantilly.

Horse riding is an important regional sport and Chantilly is the country’s thoroughbred capital. Archery has also been a popular sport since the Middle Ages and there’s a major archery festival each spring.

For golfing enthusiasts there are many golf courses, including two of the oldest and finest in France.

Picardy, the very cradle of France, still harbors many of its old values and traditions.

From the Château de Chantilly to the Imperial Palace of Compiegne, no less than 300 castles were built between the reigns of François I and Napoleon III. Today many of them have been converted to superb museums. The Condé Museum has the second largest collection of paintings in France after of the Louvre.

I can keep talking about this incredible part of France (honestly I hardly can restrain myself). I can go on and on but it is hard to keep control when there is such a bevy rich of material to talk about within Picardy. I think that you will agree that the Berger de Picard is a breed that has the magical touch that embraces the whole region.

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In the Oise at Plailly we will find Park Astérix. (In my article about the Basset Fauve our readers may remember how much I prized this historically correct but humorously told pictured history of France in the monthly published magazine ”Adventures of Asterix and Obelix.” The park is based on the cartoon character devised by Gosciny and Uderzo, and is the first French theme park. Here Astérix and his friends do battle with the “crazy” Romans, amidst fun attractions including a recreation of Astérix’s village. Not far from Park Astérix is another main attraction: Chantilly and its Living Museum of the Horse, (please visit http://www.museevivantducheval.fr/uk/grandesecuries/histoire.html ) more of a ballet school for horses than a museum, housed in one of the most beautiful and grandiose stables in the world.

Amiens is also remarkable for its vegetable market that can only be accessed by boat. Fishing has always been the principal activity of nearby Le Crotoy. The local wine is the Picardy Calvados; this region also provides fine beers and ciders from local producers. There is no way to spend time in France without an paying special attention to its world famous cuisine. It is a must to taste the local specialties including ficelle picardie (a thin crêpe wrapped around a slice of ham and to topped with a cheese cream sauce) and carbonnade flamande (beef and onions cooked in beer), the bread, the foi gras (duck liver spread) along with a really good French vine.

The cuisine of Picardy is based on natural products and a certain lightness and refine-

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Berger de Picard

ossibly the oldest of all the French shepherds the Berger de Picard arrived in Picardy with the Celts in 800 AD. This Shepherd inherited its name from the region of where he was first selected. There are some researchers who guarantee that the breed is related to the better known Briard and Beauceron, whereas others think that it is related to the Belgian and Dutch Shepherds.

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Although the Berger Picard made an appearance at the first French dog show in 1863, the breed’s rustic appearance did not lead to popularity as a show dog. The two World Wars nearly caused the extinction of the breed, which is still rare. In France there are approximately 3,000 dogs and in Germany approximately 350 of this breed.

Its standard points out that to bring up and prepare a Berger de Picard (BP) for its future life it needs a well balanced owner who can give the dog reassurance in every day life along with daily pack walks. It has to be a member of the “pack,” not to be locked away in a kennel and not to be isolated from the family. Intelligent, the BP learns quickly, but if the handler is not displaying a natural authority the dog will become stubborn and may not always want to learn. Meek or passive owners will most certainly run into behavior issues. It is a real task to train a BP for any kind of dog sport. These dogs are very sensitive to the voice so being harsh with them is not necessary. One needs to be patient and calm, but firm, confident and consistent, making the rules clear and sticking to them. It needs to be well socialized when it is still young with close contact to friends, children and even strangers, to give it the best start possible for a good and long life in society.

When hunting, the BP uses its sight more than its scenting abilities. However, some lines do have stronger hunting instincts. Some like to bark and do so frequently unless the owner teaches the dog that barking obsessively is an unwanted behavior.

Without proper communication between the master and the dog the barking can become a problem if one lives surrounded by neighbors. Contact with other animals is not generally a problem. Energetic, alert, loyal and sweet-tempered, it is a fine sheep and cattle herder and a good farm guard.

The BP is a medium-sized, well-muscled dog, slightly longer than tall. The natural tail

normally reaches to the hock and is carried with a slight J-curve at the tip. The coat is harsh and crisp to the touch, and about 2–2.5 inches (5-6 cm.) long all over the body. The thick strong hair is not fluffy and light, therefore it does not fly around in the air. Coat colors include grey, greyblack, blue-grey, red-grey, and light or darker fawn. A small white patch on the feet is permissible in the show ring but not favored. The ears are erect, high-set and quite wide at the base.

The eyebrows are thick but do not shield the eyes.

The BP will do well in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised during the day. However, the Picard always tries to stay close to its owner and family, so even if you have a big yard and give the dog the choice to pick where it wants to be, it will rather stay inside with you than alone outside. Inside the house the Picard is usually a very quiet dog. If the dog is trained to stay on its own for some time during the day it doesn’t cause problems (if you have two dogs it’s even easier). However, in France lots of people take their Picards to work with them. They lay themselves down under a table near their owner and just wait to leave again or to go for a walk.

Thankfully, beside the French several North American and Canadian dog fanciers are taking care of the well being, and preservation of the breed. The BP is a different looking sweet-tempered dog, which like the other “rare breeds” deserves our best efforts and attention to avoid its extinction.

The Berger de Picard was accepted and its standard recognized by the FCI, and it is judged in Gr.1 – Shepherds. (The FCI, and the FKCC sites has the complete official standard published) FKCC = French Kennel Club Commission.

UKC = United Kennel Club CKC = Continental Kennel Club NKC = National Kennel Club APRI = American Pet Registry Inc. ACR = American Canine Registry DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

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ince I had only just returned from China the Tuesday prior, my travel agent convinced me to take two nights at home. Normally I would have started the trip to Chile on Wednesday afternoon because most international flights only have one flight per day. This trip was the exception since I knew there were other airlines flying from Atlanta to Santiago. I did book a flight out of Newark with lots of extra hours to reach Atlanta in case of delays, which New York is famous for and it did occur on this trip. There was a two-hour delay leaving Atlanta due to mechanical CONTINUED FROM problems. Several people on the flight PAGE 48 had connections to make in Santiago and before taking off they were told they would miss their connection in Santiago and therefore have to spend the whole day and night there. The other option was staying the next 24 hours in Atlanta until be able to leave a wake up call. In China the flight the following evening. It is an one had to depend on a cell phone or a example of just what disasters can happen traveling alarm clock. The icing on the on long international flights. When one is cake was when I saw an ice machine going on vacation it is not urgent, but it is was available.

So many countries have difficult to show up for a dog show one absolutely no ice available or you depend day late. I was lucky to arrive in Santiago on room service, which can be a very just two hours late. Leaving Atlanta at 10 lengthily process for a very tiny bucket of p.m. our time was great for the 10 hour ice.

Since I had been in the same clothes flight. I was able to sleep the majority for over 24 hours, a long warm shower of the flight. Normally I fly Continental and fresh clothes was also a treat. The and these long flights have a personal only minor flaw in the room was that the screen on each seat where 350 different coffee was instant, but by a stroke of luck movies are available along with HBO, I was saved. The day before leaving, I was etc. Disappointingly, being on Delta only overhead speaking with Mike Buckley who had just screens showing one moving was our option. sampled the instant coffee Starbucks has Luckily I did have some reading matter with me. introduced. When I heard a commercial for it on the radio I was very skeptical. rriving in Santiago and riding to the hotel I could Driving to the airport I had stopped at a see the city is in a valley surrounded on each Starbucks for my espresso and also sampled side by two different mountain ranges. I believe it the new instant coffee, which was being is the first time I have witnessed the famed Andes featured in a coffee challenge. I was shocked mountains close up. Upon entering the Hotel Regal to realize just how good it was. Needless Pacific, I immediately realized it was a five star to say, I bought a stock pile for traveling. hotel. It was not until I was ushered into my room

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that I very quickly appreciated certain things we normally take for granted. Just several days earlier, while in a beautiful facility in China, I did miss certain comforts. Here at the Regal Pacific was a coffee maker, which in most foreign countries is not available. Having a remote control in English for the TV with lots of English channels was also a treat. The telephone with people at the desk speaking English made me realize I would even

fter a shower I enjoyed this coffee instead of the available instant in the room. For coffee lovers this new Starbucks instant will be a life saver when traveling. I just wish I had it a week ago while in China. Their real coffee in the hotel was terrible. Like so much in life, it is a give and take. China did not offer coffee makers, ice, English TV, closets in the room, etc. but the free spa and free massages were a perk for sure. The one thing that makes foreign

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assignments interesting is one never knows what to expect unless you talk at length to someone who already has been to that city. I enjoy watching the travel station on TV when at home because it gives one a glimpse of what to expect in foreign cities or even within our own country.

When Mr. Rossi arrived around 2 p.m. we dined for lunch together right in the hotel. Mr. Rossi is from Brazil and we had never met before.

I was so glad he spoke some English. The dog world is certainly a close community. It turned out we have numerous mutual friends, not only in Brazil, but from many other South American countries and Europe. Starting lunch with the famous Brazilian drink, Caipirinha, made from Brazilian liquor, crushed limes and sugar, is always so much better in South America than at home. The food and ambience was wonderful and accompanied with lots of great Chilean red wine – the perfect lunch. As we were finishing lunch the manager of the hotel asked if he could join us. His love for dogs was immediately witnessed and he has a Golden Retriever shown by a handler. His and before the show received dog is from the USA and he wants to get another pictures of the dogs the show Golden from the states also. He said he wants a pet, chairman would be showing but quickly realized he wants a show-quality Golden to him!! One of the ladies at that mainly will be another one of his beloved pets. dinner has been breeding Yorkies for over 40 years and After a long lunch of much to drink, eat and while living for a period in Spain wonderful conversation, I decided a short nap started many Spanish breeders would replace my intent of walking the city for in the breed. She spoke of great awhile. Like so many places in the world today, we times she spent in the states with were warned not to carry our passports, wallets or Kay Finch, Carol, Honi & Fran large amounts of cash. We were told to carry a Reisman and countless others. small amount of cash and a copy of our passport, The restaurant for dinner provided which the hotel would provide for us. As not only great food but a romantic Americans we take for granted all the freedom atmosphere as well. George from and security we enjoy on a day-to-day basis.

Greece, who I recently judged the Purina Breeders Cup in Italy with, At 8 p.m. I was informed a driver would pick filled me in on the Greek world of me up, along with Mr. Rossi and George dogs. We also share many friends Kostopoulos, the other judge from in common from all corners of the Greece, to meet two ladies from the club who world. Sometimes in a foreign land would not have dogs entered. They are very I know more about the judges than I strict about exhibitors having any contact do at some of the shows back home. with the judges, even if their dogs would On occasion I am on a panel with be shown by a handler. I realized this in a lot of judges I know nothing about the communication before I went to Chile. and vice versa. It makes us realize the Several people I spoke with from the club world is getting smaller and smaller were using assumed names if they had a and America is getting more and more dog being exhibited. Each country is so spread out. For example, when I go to different about what is considered proper Mexico I know all of the handlers; in the etiquette. It really ranges from one states I know a small minority of them. extreme to the other. A foreign friend of mine was recently going to a foreign land

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Awakening Saturday right in the hotel. It was nice to sit down morning at six, it was at the table before 9:30 p.m., since we a joy to have the knew by midnight we could be back in Starbucks coffee to our rooms. We all admitted that when we start the day. Like left the show grounds around 8:30 p.m. we so many foreign assignments, our hosts did not want a very late evening. Back to at dinner were not able to tell us what the room around midnight really was a treat, we would be judging on Saturday. The since I was able to answer a few emails and only information they could supply let my head hit the pillow by one o’clock. was which of the 10 groups would be judged Saturday Dinner might have been a bit shorter,however and which ones would be judged on Sunday. We did our wonderful host and ourselves enjoyed find out the show had 380 dogs over the course of two talking about the show we had just judged. days. The procedure is different in all countries and Like all shows some breeds were really good one learns quickly to just go with the flow. In the end and this made up for the really poor breeds. all dog shows have one thing in common, which is This holds true no matter where one judges. placing the dogs in the order of quality compared to their competition. All systems have their advantages wakening Sunday at 5:45 a.m., I and the disadvantages. I really do not think one had a rush of adrenaline looking individual country has a perfect procedure. forward to spending a day like we enjoyed on Saturday. The show At breakfast Saturday, the judge from Greece said was located on a beautiful soccer 200 dogs split between the three of us would make field that is part of an entertainment facility for an easy day. The other judge and I figured that is for the use of the residents of a private being a South American show each of us would community. The three adjoining rings were judge all 200 dogs, which was true. The show completely covered by a very beautiful and large was scheduled to start at 9 a.m. and we were tent, so while judging the dogs would never have very lucky we were able to start roughly at 9:20 to leave them in the sun at any point. In front of the a.m. Some Latin shows start notoriously late. entrance to the rings another smaller tent made it In the USA we figure 25 dogs per hour, but in so the exhibitors could wait in the shade while the Latin America extra time has to be allowed classes were being judged. The examination tables for each breed and at the group level we had were draped in fine bunting. The judge’s tables four different divisions for all 10 groups. This were accompanied with very comfortable chairs starts at the breed level. There is an award for the stewards and judges also. Inside the rings given between special puppies which is there were several arrangements of beautiful roses the 3 to 6 months class. The regular pups on pedestals. Several other floral arrangements were compete against each other and the Junior placed around the ringside. The club did everything dog and bitch compete for best Junior. All possible for the comfort of the judges, exhibitors and of this does slow the process down a little most importantly, the dogs. Saturday the weather was bit. Over the course of the two days we picture perfect for both man and beast. Many people each judged the 40 different groups plus were comfortable sitting ringside in the sun all day long. four different Best in Shows. The three of us finished judging our breeds and Sunday morning only having 180 dogs each to judge, we groups around seven p.m., but there thought it might possibly be a shorter day, but due to some was over an hour of photo taking. scheduling this was not to be. With each of us having to judge the four different BIS’s in the big ring it made for a day Saturday evening a very charming that was at least an hour longer. By around 2 p.m. on Sunday it officer of the Kennel Club of Chile became a bit warm so that the handlers had to make an extra entertained us for an early dinner effort to keep the dogs comfortable. By the time we started

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the Bests, however, it had cooled off. I was surprised to see how many people were ringside at the conclusion of the show. I understand the vast majority of the entries were right from the Santiago area, so people did not have to travel far to get home. Santiago has a population of over 5 million which accounts for nearly half the population of the entire country of Chile.

come back from Chile and raved about the high level of quality. I should have realized what to expect after Mike Billings, Frank Sabella and Michael Canalizo were so enthusiastic about the Chilean Afghans.

It has been a long time since I have judged so many good Afghans. More of the other Hound breeds had a sizable entry.

The group that we would compare to our he quality of the dogs was overall good.

Working group had sizable entries in quite Like anywhere, some breeds are going to a few breeds. The Dobes were on a par with be strong and some weak. The Sporting the states and each entry could finish very groups only had entries in Pointers, easily at home. Later looking at the catalogue, American Cockers, Weimaraners, Labradors and I see many were sired by the legendary quite a few Goldens plus one Irish Setter. There Inaqui the Black Shadow. A Brazilian bred was a lovely young Pointer bitch that would be Boxer was a standout and could fare very competitive in the states. I was not surprised well in the states also. The largest entry to learn she came from Daniel O’Beim of Brazil. in the Working group and actually the Daniel has bred so many of the Pointers that have entire show, was an entry of 31 Bulldogs. been top winners in the USA in recent years. I I felt the quality of the males was below was delighted to have a beautiful specialty type average and the majority were very short black Lab bitch that was bred in the states also. of leg, which is a fault we are seeing in The Goldens were on a par with what we see the breed everywhere. The bitches were at our average size show. In the scent Hound far superior to the dogs. The bitch that group, the Beagles were a wonderful surprise to won the breed was of such quality she was see such depth of quality. The first three or four I the top winning dog of the weekend since judged I could not get over such lovely heads and she captured the Working group under all expressions. I should not have been surprised three judges. The Toy group had some nice since South America has been the leading force Frenchies of high quality, but the highlight in Beagles for quite a long time. The Brazilian in the Toy group were the Pugs. The depth bred bitch of Marco Flavio and Marcello Chagas of quality started in the baby classes and has quickly become the top winning 15” bitch in continued right through the champion history. She has accomplished this in a very short class. When it came time for BOB, I had to period. The overall quality of the Beagles was really make a contest between two dogs much higher than we see at our average show. It and two bitches and they were all owned was distressing to see the Rhodesian Ridgebacks by the same people. In all four Toy groups because the majority of them were not of show I awarded Best Baby, Best Puppy, Best Junior quality. Several I only could recognize because of and Best Adult to four different Pugs. Pugs the ridge. Hopefully these owners will realize that were certainly the highlight of the Toy group. dogs of higher quality have to be secured. It was the one breed that several entries were given less than The group which includes the Spitz type dogs an excellent rating. There were only about seven was very strong in Akitas and Siberian Huskies. or eight Afghans, but every single one of them was The breed winners could compete successfully of top quality. In the past year, several judges have anywhere in the world today. In the group it

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was a real contest between the Akita and the Siberian.

The Akita was the victor because he is a big powerhouse of a dog and yet goes around the ring so light on his legs. Being a real stallion of a show dog makes him hard to deny. The Herding group is similar to ours except there are several breeds I was not familiar with. I put second in the Herding group a big white dog, but had never seen one before. The committee was very pleased and felt I might be an expert on this rare breed. I confessed I did not even know what breed it was. This was the only breed in the show that I have never judged or seen before, but this will be happening much more often now in the states.

the condition he has this bitch in. There was a junior Smooth Fox that had a lot of quality, and I see he is bred by the Spectors who have bred so many top Smooths. In many different countries of the world I have give high awards to Smooths of their breeding. Just several months ago in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, my Best of Winners Maltese was owned by Elena Spector.

here were three shows over the two days. Each of us did an entire show, so we gave the Bests to the dogs we judged at breed and group level. I was lucky to have been scheduled for the first set of Bests. All of the Bests from baby right through to the fourth or adult Best had very good depth of quality. It is a rare occasion at an all-breed show when one gets to award Best to the dog you feel is the best dog in the show. So often under another judge they do not win the breed or the group. When the 10 dogs individually entered the big ring I realized it was line up of top dogs. Even though I was to award one through five for Best, I quickly realized several top dogs would go without an award. As a judge I always am glad when more than one award is given for Best.

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There are only a few handlers or owners in Chile that are good with Terrier coats.

Because of this the Terriers do not have many entries except for Bull Terriers,which had an entry of 10 or 12. We normally do not see this many at our shows, unless it is a R.O.M. show. Bull Terriers are one of my favorite breeds to judge and my adrenaline started to flow because of the very good quality. I carried a Junior dog on to Best Junior in Show and also fifth Best in the regular Best. This young white dog had a powerful well filled head and beautiful eye. His make and My choice for Best was a lovely black and silver Afghan shape coupled with a great attitude male that had to defeat several other top quality dogs at made for an undeniable picture on the breed level. He is owned by Ramon Podesta, who had the go around. There was an adult several winning dogs at the American Afghan National just male that pushed him hard, but was a couple of months ago. Mr. Roberto Rossi, the Brazilian not quite as impressive on the go judge, gave the breed to another black and silver Afghan around. I learned later they are male and carried him all the way to BIS. This shows just how half brothers. The best conditioned strong the competition was in Afghans. George Kostopoulos terrier was a Norfolk from the Maxfrom Greece was doing Best as I was busy getting photos done.

Well Kennels, of our own Barbara Between the three judges it must have been well over two Miller.

The handler, Mariano hours of photos. I started taking photos while the remaining Gatica, has to be congratulated on two judges were doing their four Best, so I really did not see any of their decisions. With any foreign assignment you can always count on at least one hour or more of photos after the show is over. It is so different than the way we do it in the states.

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While on one of my recent trips to China, I did convince the photographer to take some of the pictures during the day when I had a break in judging. He also felt it was a new and very good idea.

The vice president is Juan Eugenio Gonzalez Aquilo and Paula Andrea Machuca Valenzuela acts as secretary with Edda Wollstein Brandenstein as treasurer. These four plus five Board of Directors are responsible for managing the Kennel Club of Chile and putting on all the dog shows throughout the year.

Because of being such a small group of people it takes a lot of juggling to care for the judges. They are all working very hard to organize the show right up to the last minute. It is also hard since some of them still exhibit and even though the dogs are handled by someone else they make every effort to have no social contact with the judge until the show is over. This meant each evening someone had to volunteer to entertain us for ll of the shows in Santiago dinner. This worked extremely well since it would be are put on by the Kennel the three judges and one or maybe two members Club of Chile. This might be the to entertain us. Each of us had a fabulous steward. first time I have ever seen that My steward and also George’s steward spoke fluent the registration body of a country English. The young man that stewarded for me is organizes all of the all-breed shows. studying to be a judge and his father is an all-breed It is a tremendous amount of work judge. This young man has a tremendous passion for them and is also costly. They for dogs and is a very bright student of all breeds. lose money putting on a show. It is We spent a lot of time discussing the reasons from registrations that they can afford for the placements throughout the two days. to put on shows. It was three shows held over the course of two days so On Monday George and I joined the officers for they collect three entry fees for each lunch. Mr. Rossi had a very early flight home dog. At 380 dogs times three that is Monday morning. The officers entertained us at 1,140 entry fees which would appear to a very lovely private club. It was a long lunch be quite a bit of income. The problem since dog people enjoy discussing dogs for is that they charge a very small fee. For hours on end. Over lunch it was very evident the three shows it is quite a bit less than that they are very serious about improving we pay for one show. Even though they do their stock even though they already have not pay the judges a fee, the panel is very top quality dogs. Not having a flight until late expensive when they have three judges’ Monday evening, I got a chance to see the expenses from around the world. There was city of Santiago after lunch. I wish I could a lot of money spent on the very beautiful have spent more time in Santiago, but I had and very large tent, along with some other been in China the week before and was smaller tents. They spent a great deal of headed to Spain the following weekend money on trophies and the show I judged gave so it didn’t allow much free time in Chile. extremely large and beautiful rosettes making I only spent three and a half days in the cost over $1,000. For the small entry fees Chile, but it was memorable experience the exhibitors do get a lot for their money. of people and wonderful dogs.

The Kennel Club of Chile is made up of a very small group of individuals. Isabel Cristina Vasquez Correa is their president.

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Junior Showmanship Finals

125 Years and counting...

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BRED-BY-EXHIBITOR COMPETITION One of the most prestigious competitions held during the Best of Breed classes at the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship is the Best Bred-By Exhibitor competition. CH. RUSH HILL’S RIVER ROAD PAYOFF, a Golden Retriever known as “Vegas” was awarded Best Bred-By-Exhibitor in Show by Judge Helen Lee James, edging out more than 1,300 dogs representing 32 percent of the total competitors entered in the “Bred-By Exhibitor” competition. Vegas’ owners Mark Struble, Tanya Struble & Kelsey Dunn of Lake Stevens, Wash. were awarded a $15,000 cash prize.

BEST BRED-BY EXHIBITOR IN SHOW FINALISTS AND GROUP WINNERS Hound: CH. SPLASH’S THE PROFESSOR, a Basset Hound owned by Jo Ann & Bill & Jacqueline Nolan & S & A Ponsart Working: CH. R & G’S MYSTICAL DANCER a Boxer owned by Bezerra, Servetnick, Bachman, Desmond, Steele & Jones Terrier: CH. CASTLE ROCK’S SBIGSTAFF MAD ABOUT YOU an American Staffordshire Terrier owned by Genoa Brown & Dayna Pesenti

Junior Showmanship winner Demery Paladichuk

JUNIOR SHOWMANSHIP The Junior Showmanship competition offers sizable scholarship awards for its Junior Handler winners and requires a specific grade point average as part of the eligibility criteria. Junior handlers, between 9 and 18 years of age, came to demonstrate their expertise for an opportunity to receive a $2,000 scholarship.

Saturday preliminary rounds put 12 competitors into the final on Sunday night, where Demery Paladichuk and her English Springer Spaniel “Gleason” triumphed over 115 other juniors to win the coveted title of Best Junior Handler, along with the $2,000 winner’s scholarship.

Other placements included in second place Emalia Williams and her smooth Dachshund, third place to Cheyenne Schlecht and her German Shorthaired Pointe and fourth place to Connor Black and his Whippet.

AKC MEET THE BREEDS® A record-number of 160 AKC Parent Clubs showed their dedication to their breeds with outstanding displays at the AKC Meet the Breeds® exhibition. Learning about the dogs’ country of origins, cultural tributes and purposes of pure-

Toy: CH. FULL OF MALARKEY MILES OF AISLES a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel owned by Patrick and Tamara Kelly Non-Sporting: CH. UNIQUE JEWEL OF THE CROWN a Standard Poodle owned by Kathleen Stockman & Diane Keeler & Gail Wolaniuk Herding: CH. KALEEF’S KATERINA V KENLYN a German Shepherd Dog owned by Lange Stern & Generaeux & Ramandos & Moses The Meet The Breed booth for the Smooth Fox Terrier.

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breds along with meeting the dogs and talking with breed experts makes this aspect of the show enjoyable for all ages.

Congratulations to all the clubs on a job well done educating the thousands of spectators and dog lovers and bringing their lovely dogs to share with the public. In addition kudos go to the Rhodesian Ridgebacks for the Best Booth in Show award.

Poodle competing in National Obedience Invitational.

NATIONAL OBEDIENCE INVITATIONAL The 2009 AKC National Obedience Invitational demonstrated the highest level of training and teamwork between dog and handler and was the culmination of thousands of trials held throughout the year. More than 100 dogs competed, representing 44 breeds from 31 states and Canada.

Dogs will compete in a six-round “Round Robin” format tournament on Saturday, which will determine the finalists to continue on to Sunday’s championship. On Saturday, each dog performed each Open and Utility exercise twice and completed one set of group stays. The dogs’ cumulative scores were calculated, and the top four scoring dogs from each group advanced to the Sunday finals, along with the next top four scoring dogs of any breed. A total of 32 dogs competed in Sunday’s championship rounds.

For the second year in a row, the AKC National Obedience Invitational Champion was NOC OTCH Count Tyler Show Me the Money UDX4 OM1 a Labrador Retriever commonly known as “Tyler,” owned

by Petra Ford of Washington, New Jersey.

RUNNER-UP PLACEMENTS INCLUDED: 1st Runner Up - OTCH High Times Ris’n Above the Tide Golden Retriever, owned by Kathleen Rasinwich-Platt 2nd Runner Up – OTCH Sunsplash No Free Time – Golden Retriever, owned by Helen Smith

New two-time National Obedience Champion “Tyler.”

3rd Runner Up - OTCH MACH6 Sanew’s Abundance of Energy - Poodle, owned by Shirley Barkan AKC AGILITY INVITATIONAL Five agility dogs and their owners – one dog/handler team in each of the five height categories – were crowned at the AKC Agility Invitational, which brought together more than 450 dogs – 130 breeds from 41 states, plus Canada, Brazil and Japan. The top five dogs in each breed are invited to the Invitational, and the event shows that all dogs, regardless of size or build, can play the fun sport of agility.

Competition began on Friday with a FAST class that got dogs and handlers warmed up and moving. The competition itself got underway on Saturday with the first of four rounds that determined who advanced to the finals on Sunday evening. Dogs ran two Jump-

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ers with Weaves courses, a Standard course, and lastly, a hybrid course.

In addition, an award of a different type was presented at the event that typically only awards canines and their owners for their skills.

This year, the Ultimate Cake-Off television show challenged top bakers to create Agility theme cakes.

The winning creation was wheeled into the agility ring to the cheers of the crowd just before Round 2 got started.

The elaborate cake featured a moving teeter and a rotating tire, as well as several different breeds of dogs. Find out who the winning chef is and see the cake when the television special airs on Feb. 8 on the TLC channel. Come visit www.akc.org to see the cake and festivities after the broadcast.

AKC AGILITY INVITATIONAL WINNERS: Placing first in their height division (8”, 12”, 16”, 20” and 24” respectively) were: 8”- “Tobi” a Pembroke Welsh Corgi owned by Darlene Paul of Sykesville, Maryland 12”- “Letti” a Cardigan Welsh Corgi owned by Michelle Permann of Torrence, California 16”- “Luka” a Pyrenean Shepherd owned by Ashley Deacon of Redwood City, California 20”- “Jace” a Border Collie owned by Lisa Carol Ross of Woodinville, Washington 24”- “Flare” a Doberman Pinscher owned by Yvonne Mancino of Pataskala, Ohio

BREEDER OF THE YEAR Each year at the show, the AKC celebrates the heart and soul of the sport of purebred dogs by awarding the AKC Breeder of the Year Award. Seven individuals are honored who have left a great impact on a specific breed. These breeders have dedicated their lives to improving the health, temperament and quality of purebred dogs.

Claudia Orlandi, Ph.D. of Essex Junction, Vermont was honored with the 2009 AKC Breeder of the Year Award for her Topsfield Basset Hounds at the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship on Sunday evening. Claudia has produced more than 100 AKC champions, with Topsfield Bassets winning over 100 Best in Shows and 500 Group Firsts and holding various Breed and All-Breed records. Prominent Topsfield hounds include Ch. Topsfield Bumper Cars, CD, ROM; Ch. Topsfield-Sanchu Sports Car, ROM; Ch Topsfield Beethoven; and Ch. Topsfield Vision Silver Noodles. Bumper Cars, a National Specialty Winner, is the top Group Winning Basset Hound in the history of the breed with 250 group firsts.

Silver Noodles is the top winning Basset Hound bitch in breed history.

“Like other Breeder of the Year winners before her, Claudia represents the epitome of the responsible breeder – someone who aims to preserve and improve the breed they have dedicated their lives to and who puts the health and welfare of her dogs front and center,” said AKC Chairman of the Board Ron Menaker. “She has used her expertise to enhance the breeding programs of other fanciers and sets an ideal example for so many breeders in the sport. This recognition is very well deserved.”

All seven Group honorees were presented with medallions during the show. Group winners included: Sporting: Leslie Russell – Oregon City, Oregon Avon Farm Irish Setters Working: Judith G. Cooper – Lake Barrington, Illinois - Tip’N Chip Great Pyrenees Terrier: Maripi Wooldridge – Mebane, North Carolina - Terrydale Airedale Terriers Toy: David Fitzpatrick – East Berlin, Pennsylvania Pequest Pekingese Non-Sporting: Jean & Robert Hetherington – Oxford, North Carolina, Hetherbull Bulldogs

Rhodesian Ridgeback running a course in the AKC Agility Invitational.

Herding: Michelle Edling – The Dalles, Oregon Sky Acres Belgian Tervuren

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Bill Berloni Animal Trainer CONTINUED FROM PAGE 62

William Berloni’s Theatrical Animals have been featured in 22 major theatrical productions, in over a dozen films and in countless television shows and commercials, from a production of Camelot starring Richard Harris to Sesame Street to The Merv Griffin Show. If that wasn’t an impressive enough resume, consider this: all of Berloni’s animal actors have been rescued from shelters and humane societies.

Berloni grew up in central Connecticut with a collie and a beagle and had dreams of being an actor. In the summer of 1976 he found work at the Goodspeed Opera House, as an apprentice building scenery.

It was a job in which Berloni admits, “I was not at all skilled.” When mounting the last show of the summer season, the initial production of Annie, the producer, Michael Price, hit a major roadblock when it came to casting the role of “Sandy,” a dog that had to stand center stage, bark on cue, and ignore the audience. Enter Bill Berloni, and the beginning of William Berloni’s Theatrical Animals.

“The producer tricked me into it,” Berloni said. “I saw a chance to be in a play and I grabbed it.”

Martin Charnin, the director, lyricist and conceiver of Annie, recalled, “The reality was for thirty seconds the feeling was we wouldn’t be able to find a dog.

Bill was assigned to hunt down a dog. I had pictures and drawings of the dog we wanted and I had an idea based on the play that it couldn’t be a cocker spaniel.”

Berloni didn’t have a dog at the time. “I was 18 years old and the last thing I wanted was responsibility,” he said. Someone tipped him off that he could get a cheap dog at a shelter, so he went to the Connecticut Humane Society. Up until that point, he was ignorant of the shelter system. “I was mortified at the horrible conditions these dogs were living in,” he said. “It was really upsetting. But I found sort of a match. He was a year and a half old and scheduled to be put to sleep the next day. I didn’t have enough for the adoption fee, so I went home, came back the next morning before the shelter opened and adopted him. He was a stray with no name so I called him ‘Sandy’.”

“Bill had found exactly the right dog,” Charnin said.

Plucked from death’s door and shown the stage door, Sandy performed 2,333 times on Broadway – the longest running ‘show dog’ in the most produced musical in the history of Broadway theater. But Sandy didn’t become a star overnight.

In fact, that initial summer production of Annie in Connecticut didn’t do very well. In the fall, Berloni enrolled in New York University to pursue acting and brought Sandy with him. But someone saw that production in Connecticut and thought it had potential. So much so, that he optioned the show and decided to bring it to Broadway.

“Around Christmas time,” Berloni explains, “Mike Nichols called offering Sandy the role in Annie on Broadway.”

Berloni accepted on Sandy’s behalf, provided he came on board as his handler. The show ran for seven years. Not bad for an animal trainer who never even read a book on the subject. “I made it up,” Berloni said. “I just used positive reinforcement, which I knew from my own dogs. Prior to Annie, nobody thought you could do it, and that was the first time a character was written for an animal. When I realized I was much more talented as an animal trainer than I was as an actor I created this niche industry.”

Charnin said, “Had Annie not happened, Bill may have been an actor or an engineer or I don’t know what. But he fell in love with the dogs and they with him and he became an entrepreneur in the animal trainer business. It’s a very specific art. I don’t know if many people consider him an artist but he is.”

The beginning of William Berloni’s Theatrical Animals was the end of NYU for him. He dropped out to commit himself full-time to his rewarding profession in which he rescues dogs, finds

“Plucked from death’s door, “Sandy” performed 2,333 times on Broadway – the longest running ‘show dog’ in the history of Broadway theater.”

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“Sometimes actors are cast who don’t like dogs, or they’re allergic or afraid, or they lied to get the job and you have to make them animal lovers...” them work and lets them retire to his farm in Connecticut. He resides with his wife Dorothy and 14 dogs, with eight more of his animals currently in touring productions of Annie, Legally Blonde, and The Wizard of Oz. His company employs seven people full time.

“After the experience with Sandy I decided I’ll only adopt,” Berloni said. “All of our animals are rescues and we’re very proud of that.”

That’s not to say that every dog can be an actor. “I previously thought that you can train an animal to bend to your will,” Berloni said. “But you can’t. They need certain personalities.

You can’t take shy dogs or people and train them to be outgoing. If the dog doesn’t want to be there it won’t perform.

In that case, we re-home it.”

Training the dogs to perform may be the easy part. Dealing with their human co-stars can be problematic. “Sometimes actors are cast who don’t like dogs, or they’re allergic or afraid, or they lied to get the job and you have to make them animal lovers,” he said. “There’s an actress working today in the touring company of Legally Blonde who’s afraid of dogs and a bulldog has to leap into her arms.”

This particular scene presented several problems. “Bulldogs are sixty pounds,” Berloni said. “And this one has to jump into the arms of a small actress. But we found a freakishly small bulldog to do it.” Also in the cast of Legally Blonde is a notoriously difficult breed of dog, the Chihuahua.

“Working with Bill on developing the dogs for Legally Blonde was a terrific experience,” said Jerry Mitchell, director of both the Broadway and touring production of the musical. “While I know what I was asking of Bill and the dogs was a big order, Bill’s dedication, knowledge and sheer determination to not settle made the characters of Bruiser and Rufus come to life…

He and Dorothy have such love and care for all the animals they work with it’s no wonder the dogs love to perform.”

Berloni acknowledged that he has encountered casting problems when “the breed’s behavior doesn’t match the script.” For instance, the role of “Toto” in The Wizard of Oz calls for a sweet, loving Cairn terrier, but as Berloni noted, “terriers can be tough.”

Some productions can be tough, too. While he has enjoyed working on all of them, mounting Chitty Chitty Bang Bang was a trying experience. “It was a tremendously expensive show that was brought over from England and featured a flying car and called for ten dogs but the producers complained about how expensive the dogs were,” Berloni said. The budget was cut, as was the number of dogs in the show.

“There’s a lot of overhead with dogs,” Berloni said. “They have

to be fed and homed and transported and handled.” They also need understudies. “We always have understudies. Dogs get sick, too. Live theater takes so much prep work and rehearsals that every production has one day a week for understudy rehearsals, so the understudy dog works with the understudy actors. We train them all to be handlers.”

Said Charnin, who still directs productions of Annie, “I can’t praise Bill enough. He’s been on every production that I’ve directed. Thirty-three years after I got the rights from the Chicago Tribune, where the cartoon came from, it’s still going strong. Bill has been invaluable to the Annie team. I can count on it being right with Bill. He brings a sense of reliability. What he’s really good at is the care and concern he displays when he works with kids.”

While the career choice is certainly rewarding, “it’s not as lucrative as people would think,” Berloni said. “We’re the lowest paid people in showbiz. Unlike actors, we don’t have a union. Actors in a musical make $1,800 a week. Stage hands make $2,400 a week. For us, there’s no minimum standard.”

Berloni’s Theatrical Animals also operates as an agency, where movie and commercial work can fetch $500 a day for an animal actor. Berloni and his handlers have provided animals of all species and sizes for all sorts of productions and special events – even the New York City Ballet - and all of them were found in shelters, humane societies or rescue leagues.

His secret for finding and training a finicky feline that will work for food? “I look for cats that act like dogs,” he said. “The one that’s sitting on the receptionist’s desk at the shelter, or hanging around the lobby and is food motivated. You can’t train every cat. They have to be social as opposed to independent.”

Berloni just closed a production of The Royal Family in NYC and for now, there are no big shows with animals in them lined up for 2010. He’ll keep his eyes open for the next top dog to rescue but he has plenty to keep him busy before walking the boards – or waiting in the wings – again. In addition to his dalliances on Broadway and in Hollywood, he’s also a published author, and the Director of Animal Behavior for the Humane Society of New York, with an office in Times Square.

His duties include setting training policies, temperament testing the dogs that come in and correcting their behavior problems, approving people for adoptions, and acting as the Humane Society’s media spokesman.

Sounds like Berloni lives quite a full life while saving the lives of dogs. In fact, his life story might make for an interesting evening of theater… but he may have to train all the animals for the show himself. And they’d all have to be rescues, of course.

THE DOG NEWS ANNUAL • 207

THE JOY OF E L S W O R T H AND PUBLISHING

H O W E L L ANN SERANNE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 66

He tells her Howell Book House can’t afford the big advances She wrote back immediately that she she was getting for her cookbooks. “However, good dog books desired to write a book that might be called, have a long life, many times that of fleeting best sellers. This “The Fascinating Hobby of Breeding Your longevity is what keeps HBH in business. Even our oldest books Own Show Dog” in which she would “take continue to sell about the same quantity year in, year out. So the the mystery out of genetics. All the works cumulative royalty to our authors over a decade’s span can be in print on this topic are too technical for the handsome.” rank novice.”

They met for the first time in December of 1978 and found She couldn’t have known that this was they were very much of the same mind; both passionate about one of Howell’s big dreams. He wanted to breeding and showing, both convinced that what was needed publish the ultimate book on dog breeding, was an intelligent book on breeding. That was the genius of Elsone that would be valuable to show breeders, worth Howell; his books were for true fanciers, not pet owners. people he spent time with every weekend.

Any Howell book about dogs was specific, detailed and full of It should be detailed and fulsome, a referinformation. ence source for both novice and experienced They agreed on an advance of $1,000 on delivery of manubreeders. He had been searching for the perscript and $1,000 on publication. Howell’s largest first run printing fect writer for that book for some time. to date had been 3,000, They wrote back and but he told Seranne he forth throughout 1976, was considering dosharing ideas about what ing more than that for should be covered. Howell RECIPE FROM “ANN SERANNE’S her book. At any rate, said he had a backlog of 22 GOOD FOOD WITHOUT MEAT” he said, the first 3,000 books to publish, so there (from Chapter 5: Eggs & Cheese) copies would pay back was no hurry. But when a her advance, and she’d year passed, in which SeWelsh Rabbit be making royalties at ranne did not produce an Serves 4 or 6. This is a variety of fondue in which the rate of 10 percent outline and sample chapter, sharp natural Cheddar cheese is melted with beer or cream. It is usually quite highly seasoned with musof net sales thereafhe wrote to her on August tard, cayenne, and Worcestershire. Ladle the melted ter. Seranne agreed to 24, 1978. “We’re not pressmixture over hot buttered toast. the terms and said she ing you for this, but just a BUY 1 pound sharp natural Cheddar cheese could deliver the comgentle nudge in the hope HAVE ON HAND; pleted book by October that it will be forthcoming Beer or ale 1, which would give one of these days.”

Worcestershire sauce her seven months to Even with her Gourmet Dry mustard write it, not a long time magazine editing and sevCayenne in book writing terms. eral cookbooks in producHot buttered toast COOKWARE: In addition to her tion, Ann had been workHeavy skillet busy New York editing on it in her spare time.

1. Shred the cheese and set aside. ing career, she had She quickly sent him the 2. In skillet combine 1/2-cup ale or beer, 2 teaformed a partnership outline and first chapter. spoons Worcestershire sauce, 1/2-teaspoon dry muswith another Yorkie The first line in the book is: tard, and a good dash of cayenne pepper. Place over breeder, Barbara Wolf“Breeding dogs is a serious low heat until beer is hot but not boiling. erman. The women debusiness and should not be 3. Gradually add the shredded cheese, and stir cided to combine Ann’s undertaken without a great constantly until it is smooth and melted. Serve imMayfair kennel with deal of thought and purmediately on the toast.

Barbara’s Barban kenpose in mind. It is a combinel. On a mountain in nation of art and science, northwest New Jersey, of common sense and intelthe two women built a ligence, to which must be large home with two equal sized wings. The center of the home added a modicum of luck and a tremendous contained a living room and kitchen area that they shared. The amount of intestinal fortitude.” wings on either side contained each woman’s private bedroom Howell was ecstatic. He wrote, “I’ve long and sitting room. Their Yorkies shared a comfortable kennel, had in mind the phrase ‘The Joy of’ for certain where they were cared for by kennel manager Peter D’Auria. The how-to dog books. As – THE JOY OF BREEDarrangement meant that the Yorkies received the best possible ING YOUR OWN SHOW DOG. care, even when she spent long days in New York pursuing her “The tremendous success of “THE JOY career in food writing.

OF COOKING” and “THE JOY OF SEX” has “Basically I am a shy person, easily discouraged,” she wrote established the phrase as a ‘grabber’ beyond to Howell, “but I have a strong feeling that you are one to get the question…. I know no greater joy for a dog best out of an author by gentle praise and correction. Your editfancier than breeding one’s own champion or ing is super, and I will try to give you a tightly written book.” flyer.”

THE DOG NEWS ANNUAL • 208

“T

he book sold steadily every year, as Howell had promised.

Breeders said it was a book they referred to again and again, even when they became accomplished breeders.”

vealing that no other book has come close to it in sheer Howell wanted to spend a maximum of $500 amount of information. It has remained in print continuon any photos or illustrations, which didn’t go ally since 1980. In 2004, an updated edition was pubdown well with Seranne. “I have just ordered four lished. The advice of the book itself is timeless.

1-ounce jars of white truffles for a total sum of $64.

The book sold steadily every year, as Howell had Since I would not limit a good dish that calls for promised. Breeders said it was a book they referred to white truffles by substituting mushrooms, I do not again and again, even when they became accomplished feel we should put limitations on cost of illustrabreeders. One Yorkie breeder wrote, “This book protions, should we feel that more would add to the vides easy to understand instructions along with picusefulness of the book.” tures and graphics for The manuscript was breeding, the whelping delivered only a few weeks process, and care of the late, which Seranne exHOW TO MAKE ANN SERANNE’S pups afterwards, inplained was because of the ROSE PETAL JAM cluding tube feeding if difficulty of getting good necessary. It details the photos of a C-section and Ingredients warning signs of a faila natural whelping. How1-pound petals from fresh red roses ing pup so that you can ell was delighted with it.

2 cups sugar 1/2-cup water take proactive action.

He assigned an editor, SeyThis is the only book on mour Weiss, to work with Rinse the petals gently and dry them. the subject that you will her. Howell said, “Yours is Dissolve the sugar in the water and stir ever need. Amen.” certainly to be the clearest into the petals.

The Joy of Breeding and most comprehensive Place the petals and sugar in a shallow pan, turned out to be a clasguide to dog breeding ever cover with a sheet of glass and place under clear sic of its kind, a book published.” sun for eight hours. that has been imitated Seranne wrote, “If I Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer but never replaced. had known you years ago, twenty minutes, stirring constantly.

Pour into jars and seal.

Ann Seranne spent I might have more confias much time as she dence in my writing ability could at home with her than I have. Your letters alYorkies, two Shih Tzu, ways make me stand up a two Standard Poodles, and “one incorrigible miniature littler straighter.”

Dachshund.” By 1985, the Yorkshire Terrier she and In February of 1980, she spoke about her food Barbara owned, Ch. Gaytonglen Teddy of Mayfair, had editor schedule, “I’m judging the Thrifty Chef become the All Time Top Winning American Male. She Contest, with more than 12,000 entries to date. was famous for “The Complete Book of Desserts” and I’m testing recipes for an article for Family Circle, wrote the revolutionary “Good Food Without Meat,” a editing the fourth in a series of Junior League vegetarian cookbook in an era when vegetarians were Cookbooks, and creating 100 salt-free, sugar-free, not widely approved. low-fat, high-fiber recipes (that are supposed to Elsworth Howell spent his weekdays publishing taste good!) for a diet book for Random House – all and his weekends judging. He became an AKC judge due by March 1.” in 1938, eventually approved to judge all 133 breeds. A However, she made time to work with Weiss, highlight was 1985, when he judged Best in Show at exchanging letters every few days. For instance, Westminster Kennel Club, awarding the honor to the Weiss queried, “If selenium is thought to cause Scottish Terrier, Ch. Braeburn’s Close Encounter. crib death in human infants, why would I want Unfortunately, neito feed this element to a brood ther author nor publisher bitch or litter of weanlings?”

When the editing process DOG BOOKS BY ANN SERANNE: lived to see much of the book’s enduring popularwas over, Weiss wrote, “Personity. Elsworth Howell died ally, I believe this is the most “The Joy of Breeding Your Own Show Dog” “The Joy of Owning a Shih Tzu” in 1987. Ann Seranne wonderful dog book I have ever “All About Small Dogs in the Big City” died in 1988. But the book seen. Any serious breeder of lives on. Even though scidogs is going to bless you up ence and medicine have one side and down the other brought advances, the basics of planning, mating and – forever. Now if we can figure out a way to get whelping have not changed. “The Joy of Breeding Your some of these turkeys to listen, maybe we can Own Show Dog” continues to enlighten new generahope to upgrade future generations of all show tions of breeders. It is the symbol of a partnership bedogs. Maybe!” tween two great minds of the dog show world.

“The Joy of Breeding Your Own Show Dog” This article was suggested by Peter d’Auria, Ann was published in June of 1980. It immediately reSeranne’s kennel manager, who carefully preserved her ceived critical praise from fanciers. The book is so correspondence with Elsworth Howell. detailed and the photos and illustrations so re-

THE DOG NEWS ANNUAL • 209

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 70

field ttrials i l and d where h th the parentt clubs had, through their working certificate programs, strongly encouraged owners to maintain both the conformation and field standards for the breed— started showing up and succeeding in the hunt test program, it encouraged other people who also believed that it was critical to preserving the essence of the breeds for dogs to be able to meet the conformation standards and also be able to do the work for which the breed had been developed. While Chesapeakes are the only retriever breed still producing dual champions, the hunt test program created a much better opportunity for the breed’s show champions to demonstrate their field bona fides. For breeds like Flat-Coats, which have never been a factor in traditional field trials, the hunt test program proved to be a godsend to the point where it has now almost become a requirement that conformation champions in that breed also possess at least a junior title in the field.

A

s more Chessie, Flat-Coat and Curly-Coat folks proved that it was no longer beyond the realm of realistic possibilities for a dog to have both a conformation and a field title with increasing numbers of Ch/SH and Ch/MH dogs showing up in the breed, the idea began to spread not only to the other retriever breeds but also to the rest of the breeds in the sporting group including those where there was an enormous gulf between “show” dogs and “field dogs.” In the 25 years since the beginning of the hunt test program, the concept that show dogs also ought to be good field dogs has progressed to the point where even in the breeds where show dogs generally were considered to be “hopeless” by people who actually hunted—English Springer Spaniels, American Cocker Spaniels, Irish Setters to name just a few of the

worst cases—there are dogs that are conformation champions and also have established clear credentials as field dogs including some with master titles.

AMERICAN COCKER SPANIELS such as Venée Gardner’s Ch.. Gardian Angel of Sher-Rod SH OA OAJ WD provide evidence that even with breeds deemed “hopeless” by hunters, there are still show-bred dogs with field ability.

KATHY SAVILLE’S AFGHAN, BIS MBISS Am/Can Ch. Elmo’s Don’t Shake Pyramids FCh JC is unlikely to suffer from the dull-mindedness she sees in dogs that dogs go from the crate to the grooming table to a home where the dog never gets to build up muscle by digging their rear gear into the ground and really pushing off because they are on cement or carpet all the time.

THE PERCEPTION that the conformation ring is growing more subjective in recent years may be causing breeders and owners to look for other, more objective, playing fields for dogs like Dr. Denise Wedel’s American Staffordshire Terrier, Ch Dauntless Barkley Indy Zimmer UD AX OAJ

THE DOG NEWS ANNUAL • 210

“Sometimes I think the only thing keeping American Cockers from being shunted off to the toy group is the fact that the breed has had success in the hunt test program,” said Venée Gardner, who owns or has owned several Cockers that are conformation champions and have earned hunt test titles including Ch Gardian Angel of Sher-Rod SH OA OAJ WD. “Also, we have done a number of instinct tests in conjunction with our national specialty and these have demonstrated that the show-bred Cockers still have field ability and instinct which is encouraging. I think this is causing more Cocker people to realize that this breed has a long and proud heritage in the field and that this is something that needs to be preserved.”

With some of the pointing breeds, Brittanys and German Shorthaired Pointers for example, the separation of the breed into “field” and “show” types was never much of an issue.

These breeds through the years have produced many, many dual champions and the hunt test program merely added to the number of dogs in the breed that held both a conformation championship and a field title. In the past few years, with the development of such dog sports as agility and rally, it is becoming increasingly common to find dogs with titles in three, four or more different disciplines.

But, among the pointing breeds where there was not quite the same dedication to the idea of the need to preserve both the standard and the field ability of the breed, there has been no more spectacular recovery than that shown by the Irish Setters. Irish setters from show stock were truly considered worthless as hunting dogs as little as 15 years ago and there was some justification for this belief. There was a huge gulf between “show” Setters and “field” Setters and there were a lot of show Irish Setters that in the words

of old time hunters, “couldn’t find a pork chop in a telephone booth.”

But to their great credit, a number of Irish Setter breeders decided this state of affairs was intolerable and set about doing something to remedy it. The result has been a number of Irish Setters that are conformation champions and also hold a master hunter title. In addition, at least three dual champion Irish Setters have earned that distinction in the past few years with the number of show dogs being bred to good looking, but highly capable field dogs also increasing.

One of the reasons for this improvement, cited by Irish Setter fanciers, has been the Irish Setter Club of America’s decision to hold its national hunt test in conjunction with the national specialty thus forcing “field” and “show” people to spend some time with each other.

Among the hound breeds, sighthound and Dachshund fanciers have done an exceptional job of preserving the field ability in their conformation champions. Dachshunds have the option of field trials or competing in earthdog events and many Dachsie owners have taken advantage of one or the other with their conformation champions.

Every sighthound breed has some AKC dual champions or dogs that have earned an AKC conformation championship and a field championship from the American Sighthound Field Association as well as dogs that are champions and have lure coursing titles including some breeds like the Afghan where conventional wisdom says dogs with long coats like the Afghan are only fit to be show dogs. To which Kathy

Saville who owns BIS MBISS Am/Can Ch. Elmo’s Don’t Shake Pyramids FCh JC, snorted, “There is nothing worse than going over a soft Afghan with no second thigh muscling, no strong muscle to hold the shoulder together properly, and not enough wind to get around the ring five times without panting. I take issue with Afghan owners whose dogs go

ONE OF THE PROBLEMS faced by dogs like”Toby” (DC Antrieb von Boylan CDX HX HXAsd HXBd CI Sch II Bh BST VX CGC), Janet Noble’s Rottweiler, is that more and more conformation judges are coming from the ranks of professional handlers who have only SHOWN dogs, never worked with them in the field, with livestock, hunting varmints or chasing bad guys.

from the crate to the grooming table to a home where the dog never gets to build up muscle, dig that rear into the ground and really push off because he is on cement all the time. I personally find a lot of dull-minded dogs live this kind of existence.”

To the surprise of “show” and “field” purists, many of these dual-titled or multi-titled dogs have also been standout performers in both the show ring and the field. There are also some that have been standout performers in the field, the show ring and what the AKC calls a “companion” activity. There are a number of dual champions or champions with a senior or master title that have earned a Bestin-Show or a Best-in Specialty-Show.

There are even a few dual champion sighthounds that have both a BIS and a Best-in-Field. Others, like Carolyn Gold’s dual champion Gordon Setter “E.T.” (DC Sun-Yak Spellbound Heaven Scent) have important breed wins at Westminster or the National Dog Show to add to their bests-in-show.

E PROBLEMS SUCH DOG SHOW JUDGES seeming not to care if a dog is in great athletic condition and has great movement threaten the advances made toward producing dogs like Melissa Newman’s “Hadji” (DC Can Ch Set’r Ridges Solid Gold CDX MH HDX CGC still exist and the great danger is that these advances will disappear.

“I take issue with Afghan owners whose

dogs go from the crate to the grooming table to a home where the dog never gets to build up

muscle, dig that rear into the ground and really push off because he is on cement all the time.”

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ven among breeds not normally considered to be great performance dogs, titles in agility, rally, obedience or tracking are becoming increasingly important. One reason for this may be that there is a perception that subjectivity is increasing in the breed ring. “I wonder whether the perception that the conformation ring is growing more subjective in recent years is not causing breeders and owners to look for other, more objective, playing fields for their dogs,” said Denise Wedel M.D. who breeds and owns American Staffordshire Terriers including Ch Dauntless Barkley Indy Zimmer UD AX OAJ. “I have certainly found competing in performance events is more satisfying in terms of fairly rewarding the amount of effort you put into the ‘team.’ I have also seen a trend towards some enlightened breeders wanting to have performance titles in their line. This does appear to be an increasing move-

ment and is probably due to the fact that more ‘fun’ titles such as rally and agility have made that more possible. They may also find that performance titles enhance their reputation and increase interest in their dogs. I know I’m getting many calls these days from folks who want a ‘performance’ Am Staff.” number of breed clubs have recognized the drift toward producing a sort of generic show dog that will be competitive with other breeds in the group ring and are attempting to bring that drift to a halt for their respective breeds. “Back in 2002, the board of directors for the American Rottweiler Club agreed that the top ten dogs in each performance category deserved to be recognized with an appearance performing in their specialty— agility, carting, obedience, rally and even herding—at the annual Top Dog Night at the National Specialty,” said Janet Noble who owns DC Antrieb von Boylan CDX HX HXAsd HXBd CI Sch II Bh BST VX CGC and also serves as the chair of the ARC’s Top Dog Committee. “In 2008, of the 190 top ten performance dogs and bitches in the breed, 53 were also conformation champions. In 2010, the ARC will be offering a non-regular conformation class at the Nationals for those dogs and bitches with trial level AKC working titles or an ARC carting title. I hope these classes are so successful that more shows decide to offer it. It took the AKC Eukanuba Bred-by competition to get shows, judges and exhibitors to recognize the importance of this class.

If we can get widespread acceptance of a class that showcases working dogs in working condition it will give judges and exhibitors a reason to stop rewarding fat, unfit dogs. One of the problems we face, and I include all breeds in this not just Rotties, is that more and more of the conformation judges are coming from the ranks of professional handlers who have only SHOWN dogs, never worked with them in the field, with livestock, hunting varmints or chasing bad guys. How are they truly going to understand the structure, temperament and character needed to preserve the essence of sporting dogs, hounds, working breeds, terriers, herding dogs and yes, even dogs in the non-sporting group and toy dogs?”

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A very good question and one that demands an answer. Part of the answer has been provided by performance seminars conducted by the American Kennel Club and a number of breed clubs which highlight the kind of work breeds in a group are expected to do outside the show ring. But, the most important part of the answer has to be conformation judges taking an interest in and acquiring necessary knowledge of the job the breeds they judge were designed to do.

THERE ARE A NUMBER of dual champions or champions with a senior or master title that have been standout show dogs including some that earned a Best-inShow or a Best-in Specialty-Show including this Brittany, BIS BISS DC AFC Can Ch Awards Rusty Ridge Jake MH hunting ptarmigan near his home in Alaska. In 2009, the winner of the American Brittany Club’s national specialty was DC AFC Jayhawker Tequila With a Twist.

OTHERS, LIKE DUAL CHAMPION Gordon Setter DC Sun-Yak Spellbound Heaven Scent have important breed wins at Westminster or the National Dog Show to add to their bests-in-show.

“It

is

that

essential

you

keep

uppermost in your

mind what these dogs are supposed

to do in the field when

you

are

judging them in the conformation ring.”

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“It is essential that you keep uppermost in your mind what these dogs are supposed to do in the field when you are judging them in the conformation ring. You have to judge their conformation based on whether it helps or hinders their ability to do their work,” said Carl Liepmann who judges sporting dogs, herding breeds and a number of breeds in the working group.

Pat Hastings, who judges working dogs, herding breeds, non-sporting dogs and terriers goes even farther. “Judges need to get out and see what these dogs are supposed to do in the field and understand what breeds were meant to do. I don’t think a person should be allowed to judge until they do understand what a breed has to do and why they have to be made in a certain way in order to do it. The structural defects that are present in show dogs that inhibit a dog’s ability to do its work exist in all seven groups. There are some people in the dog world who simply don’t know what constitutes a structurally sound dog and you can’t blame them for what they don’t know. But you can blame them for not wanting to learn.”

Problems that threaten the advances made toward producing dogs that are not only pretty but can also do what they were bred to do still exist and the great danger is that these advances will disappear. “Disappointing as it is, few dog show judges seem to care if a dog is in great athletic condition and has great movement,” said Melissa Newman whose dual champion English Setter “Hadji” (DC Can Ch Set’r Ridges Solid Gold CDX MH HDX CGC) had eight bests-in show. “They look much more at who is showing the dog instead of looking at the overall dog as a hunting dog or a working dog with great athletic ability, endurance and balance. Unfortunately, we are losing the older generation of judges that judged dogs and not people.”

The 100 Club CONTINUED FROM PAGE 75

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n 2009 the first Pointer and the fourth Sporting Dog in American history joined the list of dog show exhibits to become a 100 Club member.

Of particular interest in the case of Ch. Cookieland Seasyde Hollyberry, now the top winning Sporting dog of all time in terms of Bests, is the comparatively short period of time she had been campaigned in order to achieve this amazing accomplishment. Holly as she is called began her show career in late 2007 and was not campaigned in earnest until March of 2008. This is probably the shortest time period in our history for an exhibit to have gained this monumental honor. And candidly up until the AKC/Eukanuba National Event she had never been flown to compete in a dog show! Imagine an American dog not only winning close to 90 shows in one year but also competing to become the number two exhibit all-breed without having earned one advantage mile for the handlers Michael and Michelle Scott until the last month of the year.

That’s got to tell you the regard with which Holly has been held by the American judging community.

Watching Holly in action in the show ring is a very special experience as she never has for one moment let handler Mike Scott down. But as importantly is her attitude out of the show arena. Pointers do not have the reputation for being the steadiest of animals in crowded social situations. As a former owner of the breed I feel safe in making that generalized kind of statement. But I can tell you without hesitation this is not the case with Holly. After her glorious, well-earned and deserved National win she was introduced to the throngs of people celebrating

the two-day event at the after show party. To the great credit of her breeders Cheryl Laduc, A. Cantor & A. Walker and of course her owners Sean and Tammy McCarthy and Helyne Maderias, she walked into this buzzing room, took one look around and owned the place! Visiting table after table and one celebrant after the other as though they were long lost friends, while totally off her leash, she made friends of everyone. If ever one doubted a dog’s ability to captivate and mesmerize a roomful of over 200 partying people just keep in mind the story of Holly on that night.

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hen I wrote in the 2007 ‘D’ “100 Club” article that many exhibits were on the threshold of entering the elusive “100 Club”, the toy poodle Ch. Smash JP Win a Victory with “only” 38 all-breed bests in show in 2006, was not high in my mind as a likely entrant. But Vikki, as she is called, defied all odds by winning 67— yes, that’s right, 67!—all breed bests in 2007, becoming the 23rd exhibit in AKC history to earn this coveted distinction. Furthermore, she is the first and only exhibit to achieve this distinction since 2005. She now has a total of 105 all breed bests as we go to press. And guess what… this incredible show animal and truly great toy poodle is still going strong! Of interest to many people, of course, is that AKC did not officially award the Best in Show ribbon until 1925, so that the span is over an actual period of 82 years in which, including Vilkki’s award, only a total of 22 other exhibits have earned such a distinction.

Personally, I am particularly pleased with her achievements, since I spotted her in the classes THE DOG NEWS ANNUAL • 213

as a mere puppy and immediately asked Kaz Hosaka, her handler, about her. The rest, of course, is history. Bred in Japan by the most successful of breeders, Yukiko Omura of Smash Kennels, whose toy poodles are internationally acclaimed. She is an unstoppable show dog with an exquisite attitude. Her very presence demands your attention, and to deny her is indeed a most difficult task. Of course, Vikki is handled by one of the master handlers and craftsmen of our time, the aforementioned Kaz Hosaka. Originally mentored

by Annie and Jim Clark, Kaz has earned the role of mentor himself! Today Kaz helps set the world standard in the presentation and exhibition of all poodles—toy, miniature, and standard. He is a unique, loving caretaker of all his dogs, and in my opinion, one of the leaders within the professional handling community.

This having been said, my not yet mentioning the owner of Vikki until now is done for a particular reason. The owner, of course, is Ron Scott. The reason I wanted to write about Vikki and Kaz first was to emphasize the dog aspect of the “100 Club.”

The human and practical side involves one of the great (and I use the word “great” deliberately) owner-handler teams of our time. You know as well as I that it takes more than just money to put a dog over. How many people do we all know who have attempted to buy their way into our sport, only to fall flat on their you know what? Ron Scott has been involved for years and has remained committed to both dogs and to Kaz for what seems an eternity. This team has developed an unusual rapport and a friendship grounded in a loyalty hard to find in most client-han-

The 100 Club dler relationships. Ron and Kaz stand out as a team for us all to admire and respect.

“D” Magazine warmly welcomes Vikki, Kaz, and Ron to the prestigious “100 Club!”

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nglish and American Champion Yakee If Only, earned the distinct honor of becoming a member of the 100 Club! The years 2004 & 2006 saw no new entrants, but in 2005, Jeffrey, as this exhibit is called, racked up his 124th All-Breed Best in Show, to the delight of his owner, Kit Woodruff, and his handler, David Fitzpatrick.

Lest one wonder about this dog’s credentials, keep in mind that he was number one exhibit All-Breed for the year 2005 and became the first Toy exhibit in history to defeat over 100,000 other exhibits in one year. In 2004, Jeffrey was number 2 AllBreed but had the most All-Breed Bests for the calendar year, with 58. His 64 All-Breed Bests in 2005 set a new record for Toy Dogs in a single year. And, yes, I failed to point out that these feats were accomplished in less than a twoyear time period.

His first show was late in January of ’04, when, of course, he was awarded Best, and this past January Jeffrey just turned four years of age! Those are some pretty incredible figures to appreciate, but his lineage is equally as dazzling to every respectable breeder. This is particularly true in these days of the so-called “designer dogs,” whose breeders are attempting to pass off their own creations as purebreds, when, in fact, anyone involved in any form of animal husbandry is aware that these dogs are purely of a mixed-breed lineage.

Let’s talk a little about Jeffrey and the fact that his sire, Eng. Ch. Yakee Dangerous Liasons, was the Crufts 2003 Best in Show winner, and that his kennelmate, Ch. Yakee Leaving Me Breathless (Les, as he was called), broke into the 100 Club in 2003 as well. And if you were wondering whether there is a common denominator in both of these dogs’ pedigrees, the answer is a resounding yes. The exhibit Eng. Ch. Yakee For Your Eyes Only is that individual. The success as breeders of the owners of the Yakee kennel prefix, Albert (Bert) Easdon and Phillip Martin, is world-renowned. Nigel Aubrey-Jones and Bill Taylor introduced me to Bert years and years ago at a show in the U.K. The Yakee kennel is located in Glasgow, Scotland, and the over25 years of successfully breeding Pekingese is the hallmark of their dog life achievements.

But as we all know, it takes an awful lot to put a top-winning dog over in America. Kit Woodruff, who is a native of Colorado and who presently lives outside of Houston, has been a patron and owner of Pekes (and other dogs) for more than the past 10 years. She wisely selected as her handler the longtime involved, knowledgable and very well liked professional handler David Fitzpatrick to work with her.

This was to both show Jeffrey and to develop her own breeding program. David I have known from his working days—first with Hermine Cleaver and then Mrs. Walter (Kay) Jeffords. While he started working for Hermine at the tender age of 14, it was in the Jeffords era that he fully blossomed and gained the dog knowledge for which he is so well known. With over 250 dogs of various breeds to work with at

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Mrs. Jeffords’ famed Chinatown Kennels (the great majority of which were Pekes), he became steeped in understanding animal husbandry to a degree few people in the dog world can lay claim to. This kind of invaluable exposure is what makes him a true dog person, entitled to at least one Group should he decide to judge, wouldn’t one think!

As for Jeffrey, when David first saw him, he was fearful that in America he would not be understood because he was “too Pekey and too typey.” As far as David was concerned, this dog had nothing generic about him, but was, in fact, the perfect representative of what makes a Peke “different than any other dog.”

He was delightedly surprised and happy to be wrong in these fears, as quite obviously, the American judges took to Jeffrey as one of their own. Welcome to the 100 Club, Jeffrey, David and Kit!

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n 2003, Ch. Yakee Leaving Me Breathless At Franshaw won his 100th All-Breed Best in Show award in an amazing 17-month period of time.

“Les,” as this British import is called, is truly a storybook dog.

Since his “breathless” debut in February 2002 in New York, where he was awarded Best of Breed at the Garden, he became the first Pekingese to break a 45-year-old record held by the famous Ch. Chik T’Sun of Caversham for the most All-Breed Best in Shows to be awarded a Pekingese. As of this writing, Les has a total of 113 All-Breed Bests. Interestingly, his breeders, A. Easdon and P. Martin, showed and breed the Crufts 2002 Best in Show winner as well. The Yakee Kennel prefix is known worldwide as one of the most respected breeding programs ever

“The additions that achieved membership in the coveted 100 Club in the year 2002 are two of the best-known exhibits to have ever competed on the American dog show circuit.” designed. Les has only added to this reputation as the cognoscenti as well as the lay individual continue to recognize this exhibit’s outstanding attribute.

Owned by John Shaw and Maria Francis and handled by Hiram Stewart, this team of individuals combines to make one of the most formidable owner/ handler teams in America today.

Under Hiram’s expert guidance and conditioning, Les’s rapid rise was eagerly anticipated. That this exhibit succeeded in reaching the pinnacle of success it did came as no surprise to those of us in the dog world who recognize quality on both ends of the leash.

Without too much fear of being contradicted, I think it is safe to say that the additions that achieved membership in the coveted DOG NEWS 100 Club in the year 2002 are two of the best-known exhibits to have ever competed on the American dog show circuit. Both were the Top Winning dog of the year in terms of points accumulated— the Bichon Frise in 2000 and the Kerry Blue terrier in 2001. I refer, of course, to Ch. Special Times Just Right, the Westminster and AKC/Eukanuba 2001 victor, and Ch. Torum’s Scarf Michael, the Crufts 2000 and Montgomery 2001 victor. Both dogs were and remain internationally recognized and have had myriad American followers both within and outside of the Fancy. With the growth of the sport being encouraged by continuously growing TV coverage in many homes, both “JR”—the Bichon— and “Mick”—the Kerry—have become as familiar as sports or movie star names.

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et’s start with JR. When he was awarded Best at Westminster it, was his 98th all-breed achievement. He was exhibited three more times and won his 100th Best at the prestigious Long Beach June show in a fiercely fought competition against Mick. He was exhibited one more time at the first AKC/ Eukanuba Invitational, where once again he prevailed. While Mick did not compete, as most of you very well know, the breed and group competition at this show was highly competitive for not only were there great “bragging” rights involved, but both the breeder and owner received monetary awards of over $25,000 each! JR was the sort of showdog who never let his handler, Scott Sommer, down in the ring. He was always up and totally reliant as a performer— indeed, some may say overly extroverted, but this was said positively. Indeed, this very attitude is strongly supported by the Bichon Frise standard itself.

Eleanor McDonald, who had the good fortune to see him win the Westminster event before, sadly, passing away prior to the Invitational, bred JR. Unfortunately another co-owner, Flavio Werneck, met an untimely death three months prior to the Big W. The happy news, of course, is that the third co-owner—and if truth be known, the force behind JR’s career—was the gracious and lovely Cecelia Ruggles. Ceil and Scott have formed one of the most powerful and respected owner/handler teams within the history of our modern day sport, and JR now lives, most happily, at home with Scott in Houston.

Mick, of course, is a British import who had mesmerized the dog show goers in the U.K.

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His victory at Crufts capped his career cross the pond. As of this writing he has 109 all-breed Best in Shows and is still being exhibited, seemingly on a somewhat random basis.

He is now six years old and was first shown in the States when he was four. He captured the hearts of most American terrier people in his initial California outing and continues to captive people today. On occasion his performance may have been somewhat erratic; however, when he is on, he is tough to beat. His handler, who has done an incredible job of presenting him here in America, is Bill McFadden. When Marilu Hansen brought Mick over from England, there was some talk that Mick might not have been able to withstand the pressure of American campaigning. Obviously the British show circuit and ours is totally different, and the American circuit much more demanding. Nonetheless, and I believe through the good works of Bill, the dog basically held up 95 percent of the time. Personally, I am not too sure how successful other American handlers would have been with Mick, since I saw him in England on numerous occasions—sometimes he showed well; others not so well.

And that takes nothing away from the British handler Geoff Corish, who did a great job with him, particularly since the dog was truly a housedog of breeder Ron Ramsay and his family. It’s one thing when a dog stays with the handler all of the time; another when it’s brought the day of the show or a day before for trimming.

There is no doubt that JR and Mick will go down in history, both in the U.K. and in the States, as two of our greatest

The 100 Club show dogs of all time. And perhaps even more importantly to the sport of purebred dogs is the fact that both are proving to be great sires, thereby only improving considerably the future for both the Bichon and the Kerry Blue terrier.

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n 2001 we were delighted to announce the addition of an American Toy exhibit, Ch. Ta-Jon’s Tickle Me Silly, a Maltese, who has reached this incredible pinnacle and has now a total of 103 all-breed Best in Shows. A multiple National Specialty Show winner, Silly, as she is called, was also Winners Bitch at her National at only 14 months of age. Tammy and John Simon bred her seven years ago. Since her retirement she has whelped three litters and is the proud producer of champion get. A credit to the breeding program of Tammy and John, which started in 1989. The “Ta-Jon” prefix is established internationally as breeders of quality Maltese.

Tammy personally handled this incredible bitch throughout her career. In 1998 she broke the record for Toy exhibits by amassing over 60,000 all-breed points.

This record, in turn, was broken by a sharing Cross Shih Tzu two years later.

Tickle Me Silly was owned and campaigned throughout her career by Samuel and Marion Lawrence. Sam and Marion now have the unheard total of four members of the DOG NEWS 100 Club!!! In addition to Silly, they owned the Doberman Pinscher Ch. Brunswig’s Cryptonite, the Wire Fox Terrier bitch Ch. Registry’s Lonesome Dove and the Black Cocker Spaniel Ch. LaShay’s Bart Simpson. It is unlikely that this kind of ownership will

ever be achieved in our dogs exhibited by lifetime again. In addition the Lawrence’s through June 13, 2001 have been awarded 707 all-breed Best in Shows with all of their dogs! What a mind-boggling accomplishment.

As a further point, three more exhibits entered the elusive 100 or more all-breed Best in Show Club since 1999. A Standard Poodle Dog, which was number one dog all breed two years in a row (1998 and 1999), Ch. Lake Cove That’s My Boy, was awarded his 169th Best, while the Lakeland Terrier Bitch.

Ch. Revelry’s Awesome Blossom was awarded her 100th. Another member of the “Club” which had been retired for motherhood in 1996 was brought out in April of 1999 and increased her all-breed bests from 133 to 161. She was the Afghan Hound bitch Ch. Tryst of Grandeur. And last but not least was the incredible and great show dog Ch. Anasazi Billy The Kid. Billy is owned by Bruce Schwartz and was handled by Wood Wornall. Billy was awarded his 100th Best in January 1999 and is the sire of three Best in Show winners, including the classy and top winning Welsh bitch owned by Bruce and campaigned by Wood, Ch. Wyndam Worth The Wait. Billy is but another example of the devotion which Lillian and Bruce Schwartz have, both toward the sport generally and the Welsh Terrier breed specifically.

Blossom, who is owned by Jean Heath and Bill Cosby, had been retired to become a mother, but when the litter missed she was brought out again to join this exclusive group of show dogs.

Shown expertly by Clay Coady, who in the same year retired from handling to begin a judg-

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ing career, Blossom attained this coveted win early on in 1999.

Tré is well-known to anyone associated with the world of the exhibition of the purebred dog.

Shown by Dennis McCoy and expertly conditioned and groomed by his partner, Randy Garren, he was number one dog all-breeds for an incredible 24 consecutive months. He is attributed to be the number one non-sporting dog of all time and is owned by that dog person extraordinaire Mrs. Alan Robson.

Tryst, of course, ended up top Hound in 1999, being shown only from April on. She is the topwinning hound of all time and broke the 100 in January 1996.

The year before, she was the topwinning dog of all breeds. The owners, the Rechlers, father and sons, are well known breeders of Afghans, having long been associated with the Grandeur Kennels originally conceived by the late and great Sunny Shay. Michael Canalizo has been responsible for the incredible career of this bitch, as well as the presentation and promotion of the kennel and the dogs attendant thereto.

It is interesting to note, of course, that all of the professional handlers associated with the three dogs mentioned above have now retired from handling and will now assume the role of professional judge under the American Kennel Club. We all wish them well in their new endeavors.

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s of the original writing, only 15 exhibits have been awarded 100 or more All Breed Best in Shows in the United States. Of this number, four have actually been awarded 200 or more all-breed bests.

“The practice of going out of ones territory for wins was probably introduced by Mr. Holt of Rock Falls Kennel fame—little did he realize the influence this practice would have upon the showdog of today!“ Within the last several years and since 1990, the ranks of those dogs and bitches achieving these astronomical Best in Shows have practically doubled. Through 1990, only two exhibits had 200 or more Bests and five others had 100 or more wins. Since 1990 two more exhibits surpassed the 200 high water mark and four others went over the 100 figure! Considering the tremendous increase in the number of All-Breed championship events now being held in America—in 1994, there were 1,220 such shows—and with the ease of modern transportation, it wouldn’t be surprising to see these figures triple or even quadruple within the next decade.

Certainly the astounding record of the German Shepherd bitch Ch. Altana’s Mystique is considered unbreakable today with her 275 all-breed awards. While the records of father and daughter Select Am/Can Ch. Kismet’s Sight For Sore Eyes with 101 bests and his (daughter) Ch. Kaleff’s Genuine Risk with 101 bests, both under the guidance of handler Jimmy Moses will probably never be broken either. Nonetheless, one must wonder whether any record is indeed unbreakable— just look at Lou Gehrig and Cal Ripken’s feat—and keep in mind, nothing is forever insofar as record making is concerned.

Indeed, when Ch. Rock Falls Colonel, an English Setter, succeeded in the very early fifties of being awarded 100 Best in Shows, whoever would have thought that some 44 years later he would remain the only exhibit to have been handled to this feat by breeder and owner Mr. William Holt. And this was the case even though his brother (Ch. Rock Falls Racquet) actively campaigned against him through the formidable team of owner Ellsworth

Howell and handler Jane Camp (Forsyth). Who says owner/handlers can’t win against the ‘”big boys?” Mr. Holt put exactly 100 Best in Shows on this dog. The next dog to achieve this number was the incredible Boxer Ch. Bangaway of Sirrah Crest, owned and bred by Dr. and Mrs. R.C. Harris.

Bangaway was primarily handled

by Nate Levine except when shown on the West Coast when Harry Sangster did the job. In the mid-fifties, it was more acceptable to fly only the dog coast to coast rather than the dog and its handler, which is why Bangaway basically had two handlers. To tell the truth, the practice of going out of ones territory for wins was probably introduced by Mr. Holt of Rock Falls Kennel fame—little did he realize the influence this practice would have upon the showdog of today! Bangaway was awarded 121 Best in Shows.

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he first imported dog and the next in line to go over the 100 mark was the Pekingese Int. Ch. Chik T’Sun of Caversham, who had 127 Best in Shows. Bred

by Mary de Pledge and Mrs. Herminie Lunham in England, Chik T’Sun was imported to Canada by Nigel Aubry-Jones and R. William Taylor, and subsequently sold to Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Venable and handled in America by the beloved Clara Alford. He was the “winningest dog” of all time in America; his record maintained from 1959 until 1980, when the Standard Poodle Ch. Lo-Gin’s Kiss Me Kate returned the record to an American-bred exhibit by achieving 140 Best in Shows. Louis Duncan bred Kate, who was owned

by Mr. and Mrs. Jack Phelan and Terri Myers, and in 1979 she broke Chick T’Sun’s record before hitting the 140 BIS mark in 1980. Can

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you believe throughout that entire time period not one exhibit, and this through a twenty-year period, won over 100 Best in Shows? Kate was handled by Bob Walberg throughout her illustrious career.

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ow comes the early and mid eighties and not only is a rush made on the 100 mark, but, miracle of miracles, the 200 mark is made and broken by two exhibits! The first, the incomparable Scottish Terrier bitch Ch. Braeburn’s Close Encounter, hit the 100 mark in 1983 and the 200 mark in 1986—records which she held until the mid nineties.

Shannon, as the bitch was known to the dog world, was bred by R.E. and H.M. Gurling and first shown by George Ward for her owner, William MacInne. In 1983 her ownership was transferred to Alan and Sonny Novick, and in 1985 re-transferred to Mr. MacInne. From the time she was six months old until her death in January of 1994, she was kept by her handler, George Ward. For many years throughout this period, an intense rivalry between Shannon and another record-breaking dog—the German Shepherd Ch. Covy Tucker Hill’s Manhattan— blossomed. Manhattan broke the 100 mark in 1985 and the 200 mark in 1987. Manhattan won the Garden in that year, and Shannon won it in 1985. The two dogs, on more than one occasion, were shown against each other in Best in Show line-ups in the days when deals between handlers as when to show and when not to show were common. Deals, I might add, never entered into between Jimmy or George. If you think competition is hot today, the rivalry between Manhattan and Shannon and George and Jimmy was unbelievable. James Moses,

The 100 Club of course, handled Manhattan for owners Shirlee Braunstein and Jane A. Firestone. He accumulated 204 Best in Shows and was bred by Cappy Pottle and Gloria Birch.

Another import, this time Wire Fox Terrier Ch. Galsul Excellence, was making his mark during this period of 1986 and 1987 as well by breaking the 1OO mark with 103 Best in Shows in 1988. Owned by Ruth Cooper and the MacKays, his career was shortened by the unhappy “MacKay affair.” Whether a dog should be penalized for the faults of an errant co-owner remains an unanswered question philosophically in our sport even today, but certainly Paddy’s career came to an early end. He was handled by Peter Green and bred by J. Galvin.

Eventually he became the sole property of his then co-owner Ruth Cooper.

As we entered the nineties, specifically from 1990 through 1995, nine exhibits, three bitches and six dogs would break the 100 Best in Show mark, with two of them, both bitches, going over 200. As mentioned in the beginning of this story, Ch. Altanta’s Mystique set the new record for wins with 275. A bitch who excelled at specialties as well as all-breeds, Mystique was owned by Jane A. Firestone and handled by James Moses— the same team which stood behind Manhattan. Mystique is in the Guinness Book Of World Records as the top-winning showdog ever. This formidable duo was shattered by Jane’s untimely passing in December 1994, but hers and their devotion to the sport generally, and the German Shepherd specifically, are what legends are made of. In 1991, entering this select circle of winners and record setters was the Standard Poodle

Ch. Whisperwind On Carousel, owned by Dr. and Mrs. Frederick Harsock, bred by Linda Blackie and handled to perfection by Dennis McCoy and Randy Garren. “Peter” accumulated 105 Best in Shows. He basically was shown in his home territory and truly not flown throughout the country to accumulate his victories. Similarly, the English Springer spaniel shown by Mark Threlfall for breeder-owner Julia Gasow and co-owner Herzig was a territorial accumulator of 103 or 104 all-breed bests. He carried the legendary Salilyn kennel prefix and was registered as Ch. Salilyn’s Condor.

And lastly are the three dogs owned by Sam and Marion Lawrence, which set enviable and amazing records in the mid-nineties. First there was the Doberman Pinscher Ch. Brunswig’s Cryptonite breaking the 100 mark with ease, with a total of 123 all-breed Best in Shows. Handled by George Murray and bred by R.G. and P.K. Farrer. His career was established and guided by the firm hand of owner Sam Lawrence and the handling of George Murray. During Cryptonite’s campaigning, the Lawerences acquired the Wire Fox Terrier bitch Ch. Registry’s Lonesome Dove, who probably exceeded even the wildest dreams of their owners as she accumulated 216 Best in Shows throughout her career. Handled by Mike Kemp again, Sam provided the course to follow, as Lacey just this past year broke Shannon’s longstanding terrier record for Best in Show wins. And to top the cake, just one month ago, the Lawrence’s Black Cocker Spaniel Ch. La-Shay’s Bart Simpson established himself as the top-winning sporting dog, beating the Springer record with 106 Best in Show awards. The

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handler herein was Bob Covey, but again the long and able guidance of Sam Lawrence was apparent to all. Bart’s breeder is Sherry Marley.

In 1991 the Bouvier des Flandres Ch. Galbraith’s Iron Eyes achieved the win of his lifetime when he was awarded his 100th all-breed Best in Show win at the Santa Ana Valley Kennel Club. This outstanding exhibit joined the list of top winners campaigned and owned by Nat and Gloria Reese who were no strangers at all to top winners. With the handling team of Corky and Sue Vroom, the Reeses and Vrooms presented one of the most formidable top winning dogs ever to perform in the showring. Iron was bred by the Galbraith’s—David and Joan— who have long been involved in the breed and have devoted many years to producing some of the top Bouviers to be shown in America.

S

o there you have it, folks, the dogs that have set the records insofar as Best in Show wins at all-breed shows are concerned. Records no doubt meant to be broken, but these numbers, for whatever they are worth, add up to staggering successes of individual dogs over other dogs. They are imposing figures, and while some may question the value of these types of wins, since we all agree there are many fine dogs that for geographic, economic or other reasons are shown only on a limited scale, the winning competitive spirit established by these dogs and their owners, handlers and breeders not only serve the sport well but add an excitement and interest which are impossible to beat.

Integrity.

Commitment.

Passion.

The American Kennel Club Registered Handlers Program “the care and well being of the dogs is of prime importance.”

AKC Registered Handlers Current Membership Roster Barbara Beissel Doug Belter Adam Bernardin Jamie Donelson-Bernardin Mark Bettis Amy Booth Phillip Booth Shirley Boxer Heather Bremmer Kim Calvacca Sue Cannimore Amanda Carlson Douglas Carlson Rebecca Carner Beth Carr Mark Carr Tracy Lynn Carroll R.C. Carusi Paul Catterson Kevin Chestnut Marianne “Tuni” Claflin Linda Clark Gretchen Conradt Timothy Conradt Larry Cornelius Tom Davis Geoff Dawson Lance Deloria Tracy Deloria Gwen DeMilta Mark Desrosiers Pam Desrosiers James Dickson Diane Engelking C.J. Favre

Larry Fenner Laurie Fenner Nina Fetter Charles Fishel Guy Fisher Nicole Fisher Paul Flores Karen Galipeault Lisa Gallizzo Rindi Gaudet Rhanda Glenn Andrew Green Sara Gregware Eileen Hackett Kassandra Hamaker Shelley Hamilton Dee Hanna Dick Hanna James Harbert Tina Harbert Tara Krieger Hartman Jeanne Henderson Cynthia Huckfeldt Frank Jewett Maureen Jewett Colton Johnson Elizabeth Jordan-Nelson Bergit Kabel Laura King Scott Kipp Susan Kipp Correy Krickeberg Cynthia Lakowski Ernesto Lara Angela Lloyd

Karen Mammano Sam Mammano Bryan Martin Cathy Martin Nancy Martin William Martin Coleen McGee Lisa Miller Kathryn Mines Roslyn Mintz Moe Miyagawa Tammy Miyagawa Lori Mowery Frank Murphy Pat Murray Krista Musil Christine Nethery Mary Norton-Augustus Lynda O’Connor-Schneider Jorge Olivera Susie Olivera Julie Parker Betty Jo Patterson Clark Pennypacker Matt Perchick Tray Pittman Ric Plaut Chris Rakyta Gabriel Rangel Ivonne Rangel Louise Ritter Neil Ritter

Susan Sanders Lori Sargent Randy Schepper Cheri Schmitz Dave Schneider Bruce Schultz Robin Seaman Bruce Shayne Michael Shepherd Dave Slattum Norma Smith Stacy Snyder-Work Scott Sommer Catherine Sorenson Diane Steele Gary Steele Hiram Stewart Gary Stiles Ann Storniolo Greg Strong Debbie Struff Alison Sunderman Sharon Svoboda Judy Thompson Louis Torres Charlotte Ventura Peter Ventura Marcelo Veras Alissa Welling John Wilcox Tammie Wilcox Linda Williams Michael Work

• www.akc.org/handlers • handlers@akc.org • 919 816-3590

THE DOG NEWS ANNUAL

Handler’s Directory 8.10

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SHOWDOG HANDLERS

--ALL BREEDS--

Jimmy & Mary Dwyer www.PRODOGHANDLER.com

407 321-6426 or 407 810-4036 akcdogs@aol.com 3.10

12.10

1.10

BRUCE & TARA SCHULTZ Board CertiÀed Professional Handlers Members of P.H.A.

12.10

12.10

5540 San Miguel Rd. Bonita, California 91902

Bruce: 951 314-8357 Tara: 951 515-0241

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2.10

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