Kennel Gazette July 2024

Watchful dignity

Akita A courageous dog that is aloof but very loyal and protective

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Contents July 2024

Opinion

04 Kennel Club news

The Irish Red and White Setter Club of Great Britain’s 40th anniversary celebrations, Holyrood Dog of the Year returns to Edinburgh, a unique sculpture and a new book on dog grooming

Features

06 Connecting to grassroots

18 Mantrailing – the search continues

Del Richards and Newfoundland Sula get back on track with their favourite activity

Health matters

12 The eyes have it

A simple, uncharacteristic look or expression can betray illness in our dogs

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COVER IMAGE: Breed and bitch Challenge Certificate record holder Ch Stecal’s Love at First Sight JW, ‘Chanel’, winner of 46 Challenge Certificates, 31 with Best of Breed and 11 Reserve Challenge Certificates. Bred by Faye and Carol Bevis, co-owned by Faye and Carol Bevis, Rachael Corr and Keith Venezia. Chanel was four years old when this picture was taken at a hotel in Builth Wells.

by Anna Szabó

Alison Scutcher talks to Bill Moores about joining The Kennel Club Board and her plans for the future

14 Spotlight on Thelma Gray

A look back at Rozavel kennel founder Thelma Gray’s influence on breeds from German Shepherd Dogs to royal Corgis

Judges’ Choice

22 Akita

Discover the Japanese origins of this dignified breed, Crufts winners from recent years, the latest on health and welfare, and Akitas at Crufts Discover Dogs. Plus, seven judges choose their three favourite Akitas they have judged in the show ring

Photo

Kennel

When the going gets tough, you just have to trust and follow your dog! Del Richards continues her mantrailing journey. See page 18. Chris Lawrence/ Taff Trailers©

Kennel Club News

The latest developments to help make the most of owning a dog.

Ruby celebration for the Red and Whites!

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Irish Red and White Setter Club of Great Britain, on 21 July at The Kennel Club Building, Stoneleigh, it will be holding its championship show. The event will welcome many of its founder members and a parade of over 20 show champions. Members of the club who take part in other activities, such as canicross, agility, mantrailing, scentwork and field trials, will be available to talk and encourage breed enthusiasts to try something new with their dogs. The club’s rescue sub-committee will also be in attendance to explain how people interested in the breed can help or enquire about a rescue dog. Everyone is welcome to the show to meet these beautifully marked gundogs. It is a breed that is at risk of disappearing. Only 46 puppies were registered last year and it is on The Kennel Club’s Vulnerable Native Breed list. However, breed enthusiasts are working hard to ensure its future is in safe hands. For more information, please visit irishredandwhitesetterclub.com or its Facebook page Irish Red and White Setter Club of Great Britain.

Political Progress

By Danielle Knight

MSPs and their dogs

The much-loved competition, Holyrood Dog of the Year, which The Kennel Club organises with Dogs Trust, returned to Edinburgh in April. The theme of this year’s event focused on the unique bond between humans and their dogs and celebrated the important role that dogs play in our lives. The event was sponsored by David Torrance MSP, who returned as a guest judge after winning Holyrood Dog of the Year 2023 with his Golden Retriever, Buster. This event gives us the opportunity to engage with dog-loving MSPs and identify those who are willing to raise canine issues and policies in the Scottish Parliament. Heidi, a Biewer Terrier (a toy breed originating from Germany but a descendent of the Yorkshire Terrier, which was only recognised by the American Kennel Club in 2021), was crowned the winner of Holyrood Dog of the Year 2024 with Marie McNair MSP. Heidi impressed the judges with her lovable character as well as her strong bond with her owner. Second place went to Sue Webber MSP with her Hungarian Vizsla, Alfie, and third place was awarded to Bramble, a Cocker Spaniel/ Poodle cross, accompanied by Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP. There was also a ‘pawblic’ vote, which was won by Shirley-Anne Somerville MSP and her Cocker Spaniel/Poodle cross, Oscar.

Euan Cherry/PA©

Crufts Discover Dogs 2024. Del Richards©

Water good idea!

Earlier this year, The Kennel Club Art Gallery team was invited to the Sladmore Gallery in London to view the unveiling of artist Mark Coreth’s latest sculpture. Jeremy Cassel, Patron of York Racecourse, came up with an idea of having a dedicated drinking bowl set up for the guide dogs of people attending the racecourse. He was introduced to Mark, who captured the grace and personality of Jeremy’s beloved guide dog, Grady, and the result was an exceptional bronze sculpture that was unveiled at York Racecourse in May.

The life-size sculpture is an edition of nine casts. The sale of each one will help to raise money for the work of Guide Dogs, as will the smaller bronze model of Grady that was also part of the exhibition.

What also makes this sculpture unique is that it is engineered to have a fresh water supply, without bacteria

being left behind and passed on from one user to another. It is hoped that this editioned piece will also find homes in parks and gardens, mainline stations or other public spaces in order to spread fundraising opportunities and raise the profile of Guide Dogs. When asked about working with Jeremy and Grady, Mark Coreth said, “There are times when one knows something is right. On meeting Jeremy and his dog Grady, discussing his dreams and aspirations for creating a portrait of Grady was one of those moments. Grady was reaching the end of his days and indeed is now sitting on his cloud, but master and dog visited the foundry at the start of the project. Grady sat on various occasions to be sculpted, including the final sitting. Jeremy visited the foundry again at the end of the project, this time to be reunited with his beloved dog, but now in bronze.”

The catalogue for Mark Coreth, Maquettes In Bronze can be viewed on the Sladmore Gallery’s website.

Book Review

By Agnes Murphy

If you own a dog of any breed, coat type or size, then this book deserves a look. Agnes Murphy has a wealth of experience that she has poured into it. At only 140 pages, it is crammed full of information within its ten chapters.

Laid out in an easy-to-follow style with lots of helpful photographs that take you through all the essential knowledge, from correct selection of tools to safe handling, it gently encourages you to look deeper into

your dog’s skin to uncover any potential problems. Covering both low- and high-maintenance coats, Agnes gives invaluable tips on keeping your pet’s coat healthy, while guiding you through the grooming, bathing and drying process.

The student groomer will discover more in-depth information to lead them through their training, with helpful pictures showing how to handle the more advanced equipment. The hand-stripping section is useful, too, with the inclusion of some beautiful Setters demonstrating the different direction requirements regarding their ears – something that I have always found confusing.

This book is an extremely helpful tool for dog owners who need guidance in maintaining their pet’s coat at home – in between professional grooms, of course – with additional information on basic trimming provided for students training and considering a career in dog grooming.

Far left: Mark Coreth with Grady during the portrait sitting at Morris Singer Foundry. Hugh Gilbert© Left: Mark Coreth, Jeremy Cassel and his wife Vivien. The Kennel Club©

Connecting to grassroots

Alison Scutcher talks to Bill Moores about joining The Kennel Club Board.

Congratulations on your election. What made you interested in joining the Board? I was asked to stand for the Board, and it wasn’t an easy decision! However, I wanted to ensure there was a connection between The Kennel Club and people like me that run grassroot events like breed club shows, general open/limit shows and ringcraft.

What was it like being at Crufts this year as a Board member? It was a completely different experience

from being there as an exhibitor. I was given the role of presenting the Discover Dogs Best Stand in each group awards with Nicky Ackerley-Kemp. I really enjoyed doing this, as I have been involved in organising the Labrador Retriever stand for Discover Dogs, London, with the Kent, Surrey & Sussex Labrador Retriever Club. Discover Dogs has always been one of my favourite Kennel Club events and plays an important role in engaging with our future dog owners, breeders and competitors. I have great

admiration and appreciation for all of those dedicated breed enthusiasts who volunteer to set up the breed booths and organise the volunteers and dogs to man it over the four days. The Labrador booth, in particular, always drew a huge crowd to cuddle and stroke all of the eager Labradors, as well as ask questions. We had great fun creating a whole Discover Dogs feature in the club year book called ‘Daisy does Discover Dogs’ featuring some special Kennel Club guests who visited the stand, including Kennel

Club Chairman Tony Allcock OBE, Chief Executive Mark Beazley, and Health, Welfare & Breeder Services Executive Bill Lambert, among others.

Do you also serve on other committees at breed club level?

Yes, I have had a long association with committee work and putting on events. I have been Secretary of the Kent, Surrey & Sussex Labrador Retriever Club for approximately 18 years, which runs open and championship shows, Retriever working tests and field trials. I am also Show Secretary for the United Retriever Club and sit on both the parent body committee as well as the local United Retriever Club Essex area committee.

In the world of dogs, who has been your greatest influence and why?

There are core people who still continue to influence and guide me should I need their counsel, and for this I am always grateful. The one person who I would say has influenced me greatest, and is no longer here, is Vic Cole (Stajantor). We would literally speak for hours and he provided such wisdom and encouragement about

“Discover Dogs has always been one of my favourite Kennel Club events and is important for engaging with our future dog owners, breeders and competitors”

judging, conduct, integrity and all sorts of things. I miss him terribly and I am sad he wasn’t around to see me elected to The Kennel Club Board.

Many people have appreciated spending more time at home with their dogs in the last few years – what about you?

When Covid hit, I spent two years working at home, so my only company was my dogs, and in truth I would have been very isolated without them. The benefit, I guess, was the change in working practices following the pandemic and I enjoy being able to mix working between home and an office.

What in your opinion are the benefits of dog ownership?

Companionship and unconditional love and affection – my dogs live with me as much

Vic Cole, a great friend to Alison. Courtesy of Alison Scutcher

Above: The Discover Dogs stand, when it was held in London. Alison Scutcher©

Left: Tony Allcock OBE with Daisy. Alison Scutcher©

Opposite: Alison with (from left to right) Winsleywood Wild Jasmine, Winsleywood Wild Daisy JW and Winsleywood Wild Anise JW ShCM WGC. Sharon Rogers©

loved pets. They give so much during their time with us and it is never long enough, but still we don’t want to live without one.

Do you enjoy showing or working dogs?

I actually enjoy doing both. They are all show-bred dogs, but about 16 years ago I got involved in Gundog training, so have subsequently loved training them to do what they were bred to do and continue to do so. I have competed in a few working tests, obtained Show Gundog Working Certificates, Working Gundog Certificates on both game and dummies.

Other than showing do you have an interest in any other breeds or canine activities?

I can often be found helping at various Retriever working tests and field trials. I particularly love helping at field trials. I love being able to watch the dogs work and even attended and passed a J Regulation Seminar so I can understand and learn more about the mechanics of judging and running the tests/trials. If I had the facilities and space, I would probably have a working-type Labrador to try and compete with, but for now I am content with what I have.

How did you choose your kennel name?

The Winsleywood affix originated from a name combination of Winsley Court Alms Houses in Colchester, which I lived opposite, and Bourne Woods, Colchester, which was behind my property.

When not involved in canine-related activities what else is of particular interest to you?

I don’t think there is any time when I am not involved in a canine-related activity!

Left: Ch Winsleywood Waterloo JW ShCM, ‘Charlie’, also had his Show Gundog Working Certificate (SGWC) that made him a full Champion, a Working Gundog Certificate (WGC) on game and a few working test awards. He won Reserve Best in Show and the dog Challenge Certificate under John Crook OBE at the Labrador Retriever Club in 2007, pictured with Maureen Floyd (bitch judge). John Jackson©

Below: Charlie pictured on his way back with a retrieve. He had an aptitude for the working side. Sharon Rogers©

Peter Clayton and his team of underkeepers from Windsor Great Park Estate and the committee of Kent, Surrey & Sussex Labrador Retriever Club, November 2023, with Windsor Castle in the background. Linda Grinham©

“I believe in a level playing field for everyone involved in our hobby, so that everyone can enjoy the pastime of taking part in activities with their dog”

Are there any elements of your professional life that you think are of particular use to The Kennel Club? That remains to be seen, but professionally my work as a civil servant is that of ‘promote, prevent and respond’, and I will say the two organisations are remarkably similar!

Where do you see The Kennel Club in the future?

I strongly believe in a level playing field for everyone involved in our hobby, so everyone can enjoy the pastime of taking part in activities with their dog. There are several challenges that we need to deal with:

• Education and support of our future and existing judges. This is an area causing much anxiety and confusion among exhibitors. We need to have conversations as to how best to serve the competitive side of our activities being mindful to protect and preserve the breeds that we are judging and to always take dog health and welfare into consideration.

• Health. We need to ensure the continued work on promoting healthy dogs in the show ring by using Breed Watch in order to monitor and improve pedigree dogs.

• Support of our clubs. We need to focus on our volunteers and how to get people

interested in supporting their local societies. We need to attract more people to join committees and to help in the organisation and running of events.

Engagement is important. We need to ensure that there is open and honest dialogue between the dog-owning public, breeders, exhibitors, judges, and legislative bodies.

Thank you for talking to the Kennel Gazette; we wish you every success on the Board.

A training day with trainer Jason Mayhew. Alison with Winsleywood Wild Anise JW ShCM WGC. Linda Grinham©

Alison and Joy Venturi-Rose, Acting Field Trial Secretary, at the Kent, Surrey & Sussex Labrador Retriever Club two-day field trial, Windsor, discussing which competitors were still in the trial. Linda Grinham©

Above: Alison with Winsleywood Wild Honey JW ShCM SGWC. Best Veteran in Show at the Labrador Retriever Club with judges Jackie Hodge (left) who judged dogs and Fiona Braddon who judged bitches. Richard Gill©

Top: Alison with Winsleywood Wild Anise JW ShCM WGC after winning her class at Crufts in 2018. Sharon Rogers©

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The eyes have it

As breeders and owners we all get to know our dogs and their individual personalities and these simple traits often betray signs of illness that others may just dismiss as an ‘off-day’.

BY KATHY MOORES

I’ve never had the luxury of being able to spend all day with my dogs due to work commitments, but for the limited time we spend together, I have got to know their individual characters over the years. I have owned and bred both Brittanys and Welsh Springer Spaniels since 1982 and have found both breeds to be extremely stoical and to bravely put up with various minor upsets and illnesses without complaining. Of course, during the Covid pandemic

period, we were all together 24/7 for 15 months, the result being that I was able to get to know each one much better and observe very closely how they interact with each other and with family members. Fast forward to July 2023, a very hot period in France, with temperatures of over 30°C, when my six-year-old Welsh Springer bitch came into season. This was a little unexpected as she normally goes for eight months between seasons and this was only just over six months since her last one. I don’t know if it has any relevance here, but I had tried several times to have puppies from her without success. On the first occasion, when I took her for an ultrasound scan, the vet showed me the image of the ‘sac’ on the screen, which indicated that she had been pregnant but had most probably aborted or absorbed the foetuses. That was another very hot summer and she informed me that many cows had aborted that year too. On subsequent occasions, the scans showed she was unfortunately ‘empty’, even though my dog, with whom she was mated, had sired litters along the way with other bitches.

She was kept separate from the boys during her season and after two and a half weeks came back into the family. The first slightly odd piece of behaviour was when she took herself off to lie in the grass next to the fence, away from the other dogs. I just took this to mean that she was trying to cool off, despite the fact that the heat of the sun does not normally affect her. In fact, one of her favourite activities is to lie out in full sun, waiting for lizards to appear, and we have to keep bringing her back into the shade. She seemed a little less active than usual but again I put this down to the heat. Her appetite had not changed and she was not drinking any more than usual. She was still very keen to go for walks in the cool of late evening. There was no sign of constipation or diarrhoea and she was not vomiting. She did

Ffion’s eyes. williammoores.com

“It was incredible to think that she was so ill and that it was just the look in her eyes that saved her life”

not have any discharge, there was no swelling or redness of the vulva.

The next day, she still had an appetite but just took a little longer to eat than normal. However, on this day, there was something in her eyes and the way she looked at me that indicated to me that all was not well with her. I decided to take her to the vet for a cautionary check-up. He said she did not have a temperature but decided to X-ray her and give her an ultrasound scan. To my horror and disbelief, he reported that there was a huge mass of pus in one horn of her uterus and a little less in the other side.

She had a closed pyometra and the vet said he needed to keep her in and operate immediately. He said it was very fortunate that I had brought her to the surgery that morning or we could have easily lost her.

I had never had a bitch with a pyometra before –neither open nor closed – and it was incredible to think that she was so ill and that it was just the look in her eyes that saved her life. I was so pleased that I knew my dog so well and took the action I did just in case there was something wrong with her. She underwent a complete spay that day and I am pleased to say she recovered extremely well.

As an aside, at a time when veterinary fees in the UK are under review, it may be of interest to readers that the whole emergency procedure, overnight hospitalisation, medication, aftercare and a ‘medical shirt’ in France, cost me a total of the equivalent £411. A friend in the UK had a similar experience with her Welsh Springer, about three weeks earlier, and it cost her a total of £1,750!

MOORES Kathy has bred, shown and worked Brittanys and Welsh Springer Spaniels under the Walgoreg kennel name since 1982. As well as being a Kennel Club Accredited Trainer in Conformation and Movement, she awards Challenge Certificates in all gundog breeds, two utility, one terrier breed and the Gundog group at championship show level. She has been invited to judge the Gundog group at Crufts in 2025. She was owner and Managing Director of Fosse Data Systems for 30 years.

KATHY

Spotlight on Thelma Gray

The Rozavel kennel was best known for the Corgis that became royal favourites, but there was so much more to its founder, Thelma Gray.

Over the years, few ‘dog people’ have matched the sheer versatility of Thelma Gray, whose impact as a breeder, exhibitor, breed pioneer, publicist, author and judge is felt even today, 40 years after her death. She was born in 1910; her father, John Percy Thomas Evans, was an insurance broker, himself the son of Sir David Evans, Welsh-born partner in a firm of silk merchants, who was elected Lord Mayor of London in 1891. Her mother, née Daphne Oppenheimer, came from a family of German origin involved with innovative silk and chemical manufacture. Some hint, then, of the sources of the enterprise and business sense Thelma brought to her canine activities, as well as of the countries where her first two breeds originated.

Thelma’s interest in dogs began when her parents bought an Alsatian, as the German Shepherd Dog (GSD) was then known, when she left school in 1927. ‘Gretchen’ was neither a very good specimen, nor well reared. She soon succumbed to distemper, the scourge of the age, but inspired a lifelong enthusiasm for the breed, and in dogs in general. Other GSDs followed and soon Thelma decided to devote her life to breeding and exhibiting. She did her apprenticeship for a year at the Cabra Shepherd kennel, and then the family moved from London to the Surrey countryside where there was more room to establish a kennel.

Her father gave her £25 to buy a dog from Germany, so aged 19 she travelled around the kennels there until she found a male who, back home, quickly became her first champion. An imported female champion followed, and a distinctive line was founded which continued for 50 years.

BY SIMON PARSONS

and an eye for quality to take it forward. Gradually, several young keen dog people from England took up the task, and Thelma quickly established herself as much the most prominent. She wrote in later years about her trips to Pembrokeshire with a friend in her tiny car – they would visit the local breeders on their farms and return home with a car full of Pembrokes!

One of her early purchases was Crymmych President. Thelma quickly made him a champion and decided he should be the cornerstone of the Rozavels. As a stud dog, he justified her faith, but his record was soon eclipsed by a spectacular son, Ch Rozavel Red Dragon, bred in Wales by Gwyn Jones, who had a reputation for finding ‘stars’ and selling them to other breeders. With his flame-red colour, style and personality, Dragon dominated the breed in the show ring, and as a sire of champions (including a couple post-war), he held the record until the 1990s.

Post-war came a home-bred champion, Ch Sergeant of Rozavel CD, with beauty and brains, and later Ch Archduke of Rozavel, who was Best in Show at Southern Counties in 1968. I can recall her with a black GSD in much later years, and with her flair for something ‘different’, she bred white GSDs during the war years, marketing them as easy to see during the blackout!

The Welsh Corgi (then officially one breed) had been established as a show dog during the late 1920s by breeders from South West Wales. Not only did the show ring contain dogs of two very different types, Pembroke and Cardigan, but there was great variation within each type, and the Corgi was crying out for a clever breeder with energy, verve

The breeding programme was extensive and many new breeders in Britain and beyond started with a pup from Rozavel. Thelma also played a significant role in persuading The Kennel Club to separate the two Corgi breeds which, after much confusion, eventually happened in 1934, and then sorting out which dogs were which breed (not always obvious!).

With her phenomenal energy, Thelma was a brilliant publicist for her up-andcoming breed and a big stroke of luck was when the Duke and Duchess of York and their daughters, Elizabeth and Margaret, opted to get a Corgi, having seen a pair (one a Rozavel) owned by family friends. The story has often been told and soon Dookie (Rozavel Golden Eagle) and then

Thelma with Ch Crymmych President and his son, Ch Rozavel Red Dragon. President, born in 1929, was chosen by Thelma to be the cornerstone of her Pembroke kennel and is tail-male ancestor of every Pembroke today. Dragon was the breed’s outstanding winner and stud dog of the pre-war era. By permission of Karswood Ltd/

Photo by Walter Guiver

with Ch/Am Ch Rozavel Rainbow who in 1950 became the first Pembroke to win Best in Show at a UK general championship show, and later went on to an exciting career in the US; she was bred from before she ‘emigrated’ and a line down from her still exists through Queen Elizabeth’s Windsor strain. Photographer unknown/Courtesy of Wayne Simmons

Jane (Rozavel Lady Jane) joined the royal household.

The press took an enormous interest in these rather curious little dogs, still more so when the Duke unexpectedly became King, which created a huge demand for the breed. Registrations rose dramatically and even the outbreak of war caused only a brief blip in the Pembroke population explosion.

As we know, the Yorks’ elder daughter, later Queen Elizabeth, never lost her love for the breed and Thelma became her friend and mentor in Corgi matters. When the new Windsor line was established after the war, for many years Rozavel lines were used to continue the strain.

Left: In the 1950s Thelma resurrected the blue merle colour pattern in the Cardigan Corgi, which had almost died out. Her first champion in the colour was Ch Rozavel Blue Rosette (right), taking Best of Breed at Cheshire Championship Show in 1963 with her grandson Ch Kentwood Brenin (dog CC winner) and his breeder/owner Sonnica Godden. Coincidentally, the judge was Alec Murray, who nine years earlier had awarded Rozavel Diaz the first Chihuahua CC. C M Cooke/Courtesy of Wayne Simmons

Above: Windsor Loyal Subject’s transfer certificate.

Left: Thelma at home with her dogs. Both courtesy of Wayne Simmons

“With her flair for something ‘different’ she bred white GSDs during the war years, marketing them as easy to see during the blackout!”

Thelma was a leading figure in founding the Welsh Corgi League in 1938, and when the original Pembroke club, the Welsh Corgi Club, started to cater also for the Cardigan post-war, she judged its first championship show.

By now married to Phil Gray and with a young baby, Thelma found maintaining a kennel during the war years a challenge,

especially after her home was requisitioned, but she managed to keep a nucleus and put others out on terms, eventually settling down near Guildford.

The Rozavel kennel remained prominent in Pembrokes after the war and its final champion was Ch/Am Ch Rozavel Rainbow who, at City of Birmingham in 1950, became the breed’s first Best in Show winner at that

Thelma

Top right: Windsor Loyal Subject was a gift to Thelma from The Queen, whom she had advised on Corgi matters since the 1930s. He was a son of Leila Moore’s Ch Kaytop Marshall, a dog Thelma very much admired and whom she awarded the Working group at Crufts in 1972. Loyal Subject won two CCs and later accompanied his owner to Australia. Diane Pearce Collection/The Kennel Club©

level. Like many other Rozavels, she went on to further triumphs overseas.

Thelma kept a few Pembrokes for the rest of her life, though not showing them as much. In the early 1970s, The Queen bred a promising pup whom she gave to Thelma. Her Majesty’s own dogs were never shown, but she was happy for Thelma to campaign Windsor Loyal Subject and she won two Challenge Certificates (CCs) with him.

Thelma was never afraid to experiment in her breeding programme, and in the 1950s, she identified a new challenge. A traditional colour pattern in the Cardigan Corgi was blue merle. There had been a champion pre-war, but her owner was not keen to share her stock and the colour virtually died out. Thelma, however, worked out a cunning plan to revive it, stemming from a wall-eyed red dog, and eventually was rewarded with some beautiful clear blues who were also

quality examples of the breed. Ch Rozavel Blue Rosette caused quite a stir and her descendants founded blue lines that survive today.

Around the same time, Thelma fell for the Chihuahua and bought one – no oil painting but a great character. Only a few breeders were active then and many were the pitfalls in those days when veterinary technology was somewhat hit and miss. Her first venture was to import a bitch in whelp. Three male puppies arrived, among them Rozavel Diaz. The next two bitches imported produced one puppy between them. A visit to the US resulted in further imports; there were many disappointments, but eventually, a major kennel was established. No doubt Thelma’s long experience in other breeds, as well as assistance from friends in America, helped her select the dogs that would set consistent type and soundness in this challenging ‘new’ breed.

When CCs arrived in 1954, Diaz won the first offered for males and soon became one of the first pair of champions. Many more followed, most notably Ch Rozavel Chief Scout, an exceptional sire and behind the vast majority of later winners in both coats. The champions included several Long Coats, among them one with whom Thelma will be

Above: In 1954, the first Chihuahua CCs were scheduled to be awarded at Crufts; the show was cancelled so the big day came at the Scottish Kennel Club. For his winners, Alec Murray chose Thelma Gray’s dog Rozavel Diaz (right) and Marjorie Fearfield’s bitch Bowerhinton Isabella. Later that year, these two Smooth Coats became the first two UK champions. Marjorie’s granddaughter Treena Maun is a leading breeder of Norwegian Elkhounds today and still uses the same affix. The Chihuahua by Thelma Gray/C M Cooke

Left: A ‘can do’ attitude was characteristic of Thelma. This press cutting from Tatler magazine, 7 November 1934, shows her learning how to fly. Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans Picture Library©

forever associated, Ch Rozavel Tarina Song, a stylish showgirl bred by Gilbert and Jean Grevett. She was Reserve Best in Show at Crufts in 1971, and at Paignton, gave Rozavel its third Best in Show winner from three breeds, the first Chihuahua to win so high in the UK.

Another venture of the 1950s was the Beagle, just beginning to become popular in the ring, and several well-known breeders of Corgis and GSDs decided to import from America some of the smaller type that were popular there. Again, Thelma sought out and imported top-class stock, among them the tiny (12½ ins) Am Ch Renoca’s Best Showman, co-owned with Joan Beck, and some champion bitches in whelp, followed by her favourite, Ch Rozavel Elsy’s Diamond Jerry. Again, progress wasn’t easy but there were several Rozavel champions and some left a lasting mark, even if the fashion for very small ones didn’t really take off in Britain.

Over the years, Thelma kept and bred a number of other breeds, including racing Greyhounds at one point, but without the lasting impact of those I’ve mentioned. Her biggest disappointment was her attempt to introduce Rottweilers to England in the late 1930s. As usual, she chose superb foundation stock, if the photos are anything to go by, and if anyone could have got the breed off on a sound footing, it would have been Thelma. Sadly, the war intervened; the dogs were sent to Ireland for ‘safe keeping’ but had disappeared by the time peace arrived. It was left to others to try more successfully in post-war years.

Talented dog people in the old days were quickly invited to judge, and Charles Cruft invited 22-year-old Thelma to award her first set of CCs at his show in 1933. Although exhibiting remained her passion, in later years she became one of the country’s busiest judges, climaxing her career with awarding Best in Show at Crufts in 1975 to the Italian-owned Wire Fox Terrier, Ch Brookewire Brandy of Layven. She had judged the working group three years earlier, selecting the Pembroke Ch Kaytop Marshall, whom she described as the best of the breed she ever saw. These were the years when

the great British judges were in constant demand overseas and many were Thelma’s trips around the dog world.

Phil Gray died in 1969, and after a while, Thelma conceived the idea of selling up and moving to Australia, a country she loved and where she had many ‘doggy’ friends, including David Roche. Eventually, all was sorted and she and her son Jeremy moved to the Adelaide Hills in 1976 with her belongings in a container, taking along a collection of Chihuahuas and a few of her other breeds. A number of the other Chihuahuas stayed in Britain with her head kennel maid, Daphne Slark.

A big adventure for someone in her mid-60s, but she seems to have loved her new life, enjoying much success with the Chihuahuas in particular over the next eight years, before her death from a bravely borne cancer in 1984. A quote from her

friend John Holmes sums her up: “No one tried harder to win than Thelma Gray but I never heard her complain when she was losing – right to the end.”

She never lost touch with The Queen who, after Thelma’s death, presented a special trophy for the Pembroke Best of Breed at her local show in Australia.

Thelma’s legacy lies not just in the impact her dogs had on her breeds – she was also a superb communicator with an easy writing style and the ability to tell a good story. During the 1930s she wrote a definitive book on the Corgis, which went to three profusely illustrated editions and is an invaluable source of detail about the early dogs. Later came standard works on the Chihuahua and the Beagle, and she revised Schwabacher’s tome on the German Shepherd Dog. With their commonsense approach, all these must have helped

many generations of later breeders set out on the right lines.

I’ve always regretted that, as a Corgi-mad youngster, I wasn’t brave enough to approach this legendary flame-haired figure to find out more about the breed’s early days.

Fortunately, in later years while he was living in Australia, Bo Bengtson did interview her for National Dog magazine and this, along with her own writings and input from Bryan Mitchell, who bred one of her Chihuahua champions, has been useful in preparing this piece. My thanks to Wayne Simmons for assisting with photographs.

If you have an interesting story about a prominent person in the world of dogs that made a considerable impact, please contact the editor, details on page 3.

Far left: The outstanding stud dog Ch Rozavel Chief Scout, born in 1964, was Thelma’s most important Smooth Coat Chihuahua. Diane Pearce/Courtesy of Wayne Simmons

Left: The American import Ch Rozavel Elsy’s Diamond Jerry, Thelma’s favourite Beagle. Thomas Fall/Mary Evans Picture Library© Below left: Ch Rozavel Tarina Song among her many trophies. This Long Coat was the first Chihuahua to take Best in Show at a UK general championship show and the first to win Reserve Best in Show at Crufts. Sally Anne Thompson/ Courtesy of Wayne Simmons

Below: Thelma’s first breed was the German Shepherd Dog, then known as the Alsatian. Among her champions was Ch Sergeant of Rozavel CD, a dual-purpose dog who also had a working trials qualification. Thomas Fall/Mary Evans Picture Library©

Mantrailing –the search continues

One dog and her handler’s re-introduction to this skilled activity.

Since beginning this discipline some five years ago when I first reported on mantrailing in the April 2020 edition, and finding it to be one of my favourite activities with my Newfoundland, Sula, I was delighted to have been able to continue training once Covid restrictions were eased.

Sula’s progress was halted for a while due to an uncommon lung allergy, but once her medication became effective, in January of this year, I recommenced training with her.

Each owner is issued with a logbook of progress for their dogs. The number of training sessions completed by Sula enabled her to be considered for her Level 1 assessment – the first in an escalating

BY DEL RICHARDS

level of competence for the dog and handler team.

I joined Taff Trailers and their highly qualified mantrailing instructors, Chris Lawrence and Rhiannon Bevan, at Mynydd Mawr Woodland Park in Carmarthenshire to put Sula through her paces. This is a very busy and popular location with dog walkers, cyclists and runners, providing many distractions. However, as each owner completes a profile form for their dog, with such details as level of reactivity, health issues and previous experience, the trainers can tweak the exercises to accommodate (i.e. avoiding high human and dog traffic areas or creating a trail that would be suitable for disability sufferers). The assessor was Chris Lawrence and he decided

that as Sula had not trailed for such a long time, a mock assessment was a better option at this stage. The Level 1 assessment consists of a number of given challenges. These are globally recognised as follows.

A ‘scent start’, where the trail layer (previously known as the misper) is not present when the dog is harnessed up, but a sealed bag containing the person’s glove or similar item is the only means of identifying the person. In earlier training, the trail layer is present at first and quickly tempts the dog with the reward (a favourite toy or a sealed pot of irresistible treats) before setting off. This is called an ‘intense start’.

An ‘aged’ trail is where the trail layer has been gone for 30 minutes – in Sula’s case this was reduced to 15 minutes.

Level 1 is described as a ‘single blind trail’, where the assessor or trainer knows the location of the trail layer but the handler is not made aware of it and will need to rely on reading the dog’s body language to know when to assist the dog in some way. This is very much a part of mantrailing –dog and handler work as a team, with the owner needing as much training as the dog. It is a common misconception that the owner offers the scent to the dog then just hangs on to the long lead while the dog figures it out itself. In operational searches by police or search and rescue organisations, it is important that the handler can recognise the signs where the dog needs help and takes appropriate action. In real-life situations, speed can often make a difference to the safety or health of the missing person and mantrailing replicates this as much as possible.

Border Collie Spud, eager to take the scent from the dropped scarf.

LEVEL 1 CRITERIA

• Trail length of 200 to 400 metres

• One 90 degree change of direction

• 30 minutes to find the trail layer

• Rural terrain

• Trail layer can be sitting, standing or lying down

No ‘indication’ is required by the dog (i.e. at higher levels the dog is taught to bark or sit and ‘freeze’ by the trail layer). At this level, simply going to the person and being praised for it is sufficient.

Along with other participants, I was briefed before the trail took place. This included being told to take note of wind direction, terrain and ground conditions. There was a stream nearby and the motion of the water can carry scent along, just above the surface, creating a diverted scent surge which can mislead the dog to a degree. The constant movement of other walkers could also disrupt the scent. Think

of walking briskly through a room full of dust motes with the doors open – scent particles also react in a similar way. At the start of her trail, Sula showed interest when I pointed out the scent article (a glove owned by the trail layer), which was left on the ground. This ‘target sniff’ of getting the dog to take the scent is preferable to picking it up and holding it by the dog’s nose for several reasons: the dog’s nose is sensitive enough to identify scent without it being physically forced on them and in some trails the dog may be asked to take a scent from something that cannot be physically lifted – such as a car seat or a stone wall that the person has sat on. Sula set off steadily despite a sudden distraction in the form of several dogs and owners appearing unexpectedly. At the first junction in the path, she showed interest with a ‘head flick’ (turning her head and scenting the air in that direction) for a few seconds, before discounting it and continuing forward. At the second junction, she turned into it before giving a clear negative indication by slowing then turning around

Loki the Spinone cross, an experienced mantrailer, following ground scent on a complicated trail.

Del dropping the bag containing the scent article for Sula to check. Photos: Chris Lawrence/Taff Trailers©

to go back the way we had come. It was interesting to learn later that this particular path was adjacent to the trail layer, and despite being more than a 100 metres away, some air scent had obviously drifted that way due to the direction of the breeze. Back on the main path, she pushed forward with some keenness before giving a negative indication – head coming up, pace slowing to very slow then turning around and stopping completely. Chris then explained to me that this is where the handler needs to observe when the dog needs help. “Sula is telling you that the trail doesn’t go any further forward but she doesn’t know what to do next, so you need to take her back to the point where she last showed interest.”

It was an eye-opener for me! As we got nearer to that point, Sula caught the scent again and pushed on, increasing her pace, that suggested she was getting closer. Unfortunately, while negotiating the trees around us, I accidentally jerked the long line and this caused her to think she had gone wrong, so she turned around and came back the way we had come. After a few metres, she gave another negative indication and headed off in the right direction again – probably

BREAKDOWN OF SULA’S TRAIL

• Distance covered by trail layer: 280 metres

• Distance covered by Sula: 560 metres

• Time taken to find trail layer: 11.29 minutes

• Weather: fairly dry, cloudy with some wind. Human scent is hydrophilic so the moisture on the ground helped preserve scent particles

• Temperature: 1˚C

• Wind speed: 7 kilometres per hour

rolling her eyes at me while doing so! From then on, she worked steadily with a brisk pace and found her trail layer hidden among the shrubs and trees off the path.

I had an interesting discussion with both trainers later. I explained that I often saw Sula sniffing at reeds or grasses on a rural trail and I suspected she was being distracted by wildlife scent rather than the trail layer’s. I asked, should I discourage her from doing this?

Rhiannon explained, “We don’t know exactly where the trail layer’s scent particles

have landed, so we have to be careful about not ‘stopping’ the dog when they appear to be investigating other trails.

“This is where learning the individual dog’s body language is so important. Checking all the scents available is absolutely OK. We call it ‘completing the scent picture’. Once this is done, we look for signs that the dog is ready to return to their task once they have checked everything. They normally indicate this by a shake-off or turning themselves around. The only time it becomes a problem is when the dog prioritises other scents over the one they should be following. We call this ‘crittering’ and there are numerous ways of identifying this and halting it while trailing.”

While Sula’s trail was not good enough to have been a pass had she been assessed formally, it was good to be told that she clearly had not forgotten anything and that it was more a case of the handler becoming more fluent in reading her body language!

Our mission continues…

Sula making a deliberate scent choice at a path junction. Chris Lawrence/Taff Trailers©

A phone app record of the course Sula’s trail layer took (blue) and the direction she took to find her. Courtesy of Del Richards

Akita

Strong, courageous dog of Japanese origin.

The largest breed in the Utility group originates in Japan where he was developed for hunting bear, deer and wild boar, and unfortunately, was also used in fighting competitions. The Akita as we see it today was developed in America, becoming stronger in bone and substance, making an impressive sight. Like many of the Japanese breeds, brilliant and clear coat colours are much valued.

Breed and bitch Challenge Certificate record holder, Ch Stecal’s Love at First Sight JW, ‘Chanel’, winner of 46 Challenge Certificates, 31 with Best of Breed and 11 Reserve Challenge Certificates. In 2018, Chanel won the Utility group at Crufts and the Eukanuba Champion Stakes Final that Crufts hosted for the first time. She won the Pre-National Best of Winners/Best Bred By at the Akita Club of America in 2018, multiple all-breed Best in Shows and Best of Breed at Crufts in 2017, 2018 and 2019. Chanel was the dam to the number one Akita in 2021 and Crufts Best of Breed winner in 2022, Ch Stecal’s Another Level, also co-bred with Rachael Corr. Bred by Faye and Carol Bevis, co-owned by Faye and Carol Bevis, Rachael Corr and Keith Venezia, handled by Faye in the ring. Anna Szabó©

GENERAL APPEARANCE

Large, powerful, alert, with much substance and heavy bone.

CHARACTERISTICS

Large, broad head, with relatively small eyes and erect ears carried forward in line with back of neck; large, curled tail, in balance with head.

TEMPERAMENT

Dignified, courageous, aloof; tends to show dominance over other dogs, though the trait is not encouraged.

HEAD AND SKULL

Large, in balance with body, skull flat, forehead broad, defined stop and clear furrow. Head forms blunt triangle when viewed from above, free from wrinkle. Muzzle broad and strong, cheeks well

developed. Nose large and black, bridge straight. Lips tight and black. In white dogs flesh colour pigmentation is permissible on nose and lips. Length from nose to stop is to length from stop to occiput as 2 is to 3.

EYES

Relatively small, almond-shaped, clean, moderately set apart and dark brown. Eye rims dark and tight.

EARS

Relatively small, thick, triangular, not low set, carried forward in line with the back of the neck when viewed in profile. Moderately set apart, slightly rounded at tips.

MOUTH

Jaws strong, with a perfect, regular and

complete scissor bite, i.e. upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws.

NECK

Thick and muscular, comparatively short, widening gradually toward shoulders. Pronounced crest blends with back of skull.

FOREQUARTERS

Shoulders strong and powerful, moderately laid back. Elbows very tight. Forelegs well boned and straight when viewed from front. Pasterns inclining at approximately 15 degrees.

BODY

Longer than high, as 10 is to 9 in males, 11 to 9 in bitches. Chest wide and deep, depth of brisket is one-half height of dog at shoulder. Well-

Dog Challenge Certificate (CC) record holder, Ch/Am Ch Redwitch Heaven Can Wait, ‘Dollar’, winner of 42 CCs, 33 with Best of Breed (BOB) and 14 Reserve CCs. He won six group 1s and many group placements. Dollar made his debut at 11 months of age at Birmingham National in 2004, where he won the Reserve CC and Best Puppy in Breed. Throughout that year he was undefeated from puppy to open classes, amassing nine CCs along the way and doing ‘the double’ with half-sister, Ch Redwitch Lap Dancer, seven times. Over the next two years they did the double an amazing 15 times, and at Manchester in January 2007, Dollar won the dog CC, BOB and group 1, taking the breed record at that time of 31 CCs. In 2008, he spent six months in America taking his American title in two weekends and winning two groups and four group placements. He returned to the UK and was lightly campaigned. Dollar retired from showing at Crufts in 2012, where he won the dog Reserve CC from the veteran class. Bred by Dave and Jenny Killilea and Arlene Clure, co-owned by Jenny Killilea and Arlene Clure, and handled exclusively by Jenny.

Pictured are Jenny and Dollar at Welsh Kennel Club in 2006 taking group 1, with group judge Jim Outerside and Betty Ince from the Welsh Kennel Club committee. Carol Ann Johson©

developed forechest. Level back, firmly muscled loin, moderate tuck up. Skin pliant but not loose.

HINDQUARTERS

Strong and muscular, with moderate angulation. Well-developed thighs, strong hocks, well let down turning neither in nor out.

FEET

Thick, well knuckled, very tight, turning neither in nor out. Pads hard. Nails hard.

TAIL

Large and full, set high, carried over back, full or double curl, always dipping to or below level of back. On a three-quarter curl tail, tip dips down flank. Root large and strong. Hair coarse, straight and full with no appearance of a plume. Sickle or uncurled tail highly undesirable.

GAIT/MOVEMENT

Vigorous, powerful and fluent with strides of moderate length. Back remains firm and level. Hindlegs move in line with front legs, whilst gaiting may single track.

COAT

Outer coat coarse, straight, and standing off body. Undercoat soft and dense. Coat at withers and rump is approximately 5 cms (2 ins), slightly longer than on rest of body more profuse on tail. No indication of ruff or feathering.

COLOUR

Any colour, except merle, including white brindle or pinto. Colours are brilliant and clear. Markings are well defined with or without mask or blaze.

SIZE

Height at withers: dogs: 66-71 cms (26-28 ins); bitches: 61-66 cms (24-26 ins).

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog and on the dog’s ability to perform its traditional work.

NOTE

Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum.

Background of the brave Akita

The Akita is a magnificent breed, but only for the right owner. They are intelligent, aloof, free thinking and extremely loyal to their families.

Akitas originated in the mountainous areas of Japan where they were used in male and female pairs to hunt and hold elk, bear and wild boar. At the end of the Second World War, a number of Akitas were taken back to America, as the breed was in danger of dying out in its native Japan. Food shortages and being culled for their fur had taken its toll. Early breed enthusiasts worked hard to preserve the Akita by following careful and selective breeding programmes. The breed became firmly established in the USA during the 1970s and 1980s and gained popularity in the UK. It was known as the Japanese Akita in the UK until 2001 when it was changed to Akita. Kennels such as O’BJ of

BY SANDRA BELCHAMBERS

Barbara ‘BJ’ Andrews, who owned and bred world famous dogs, such as Am Ch Okii Yubis Sachmo of Makoto ROMPX, Am Ch The Widow-Maker O’BJ, Am Ch The Real McCoy O’BJ and Am Ch The Same Dame O’BJ (Imp), made their mark in the show ring.

In 1980, the first Akita was imported into the UK by Marion Sargent of the Tegwani kennels, a bitch called Davos Watakyshi Tomo-Dachi of Tegwani. The first dog was imported by a partnership of Mike and Joyce Window and Gerald and Kath Mitchell. He was called Kosho-Ki’s Kai of Lindrick And Tegwani.

Meg Purnell-Carpenter, of the Overhill kennels, fell in love with the breed while

caring for two Akitas who were spending time in her quarantine kennels. She contacted Barbara BJ Andrews and imported a bitch, O’BJ White Hope at Overhill, whose sire was top-winning American male, Am Ch Kakwa’s Orca.

Shortly afterwards, the first American Champion was sent to Meg from the O’BJ kennel, Am Ch O’BJ Sachette No Okii Yubi, a daughter of the famous Sachmo. Sachette was the dam of the first litter born in the UK, sired by O’B J Aces High, who was completing time in quarantine on his way to Australia.

The number of Akitas in the UK was growing. At shows, the Japanese Akita,

Left: O’BJ White Hope at Overhill. Above: Davos Watakyshi Tomo-Dachi of Tegwani.

Right: Am Ch O’BJ Sachette No Okii Yubi. Courtesy of The History of the Japanese Akita in the UK by Meg Purnell-Carpenter

as it was still known, competed in the any variety not separately classified (AVNSC) classes, being one of the last breeds to come into the country without having to go on the Imported Breed Register.

At Crufts in 1985, Barbara BJ Andrews handled Overhills Lizies Girl to Best AVNSC and was the first Akita and American to win this honour. Lizies Girl was from the first Sachette litter born in the UK. She and her sisters, Overhills Marlow’s Miracle and Overhills Kitamouri, were all extremely successful show dogs and producers, most of which are behind many pedigrees of today.

The Japanese Akita Association (now the Akita Association) was formed in 1987 and registered by The Kennel Club on 12 January 1988. It held its first breed club open show on 1 October 1988 and Ellis Hulme judged dogs and Ann Arch judged bitches. Best in Show was the dog Vormund Hot Shot of Fantasa co-owned by Liz and John Dunhill, Best Bitch was Lizda

“In the UK, the Akita has gone from strength to strength”

Zee-Zee Flash co-owned by Dave and Jenny Killilea and Reserve Bitch was Overhills Wituwa at Freestead owned by Angela Rickard. All three of these dogs went on to become champions.

The breed was awarded Challenge Certificate (CC) status in 1990 and the first dog to win a CC was Ch/Am Ch Tamarlane’s Veni Vidi Vici ROM at Crufts. He was imported by Mike Window and Marion Sargent and was the first Akita to win an all-breed championship show Best in Show at Welsh Kennel Club in August 1990. The first bitch CC went to Ch/Am Ch Goshen’s Classy Sassy at Redwitch co-owned by Dave and Jenny Killilea of the Redwitch kennels. The club’s first championship show was on 2 October 1993 and the dog judge was Jackie Ransom and the bitch judge John

Dunhill. Best in Show was the dog Ch Keskai First Class co-owned by Sue and Saggy Sadler. The popularity of Akitas was steadily increasing. Recognisable kennels such as the Brandeezi kennel of Eddie and Pauline Hayes, Redwitch and Stecal were all instrumental in the growth of the breed.

The first home-bred UK Champion Akita dog was Ch Brandeezi Quite A Gent at Stecal handled by owner Carol Bevis, followed by the first home-bred bitch Ch Lizda Zee-Zee Flash.

Over the years, there were two distinct types of Akita in the UK, both still being shown in the same classes. In 2006, after much consultation, the breed was split into Akita and Japanese Akita Inu, with separate classification for both breeds.

Above: First home-bred CC winner Ch Brandeezi Quite A Gent at Stecal, handled by Carol Bevis with judge Mrs P Bailey. David Bull for Dog World/The Kennel Club©

Top left: Ch Vormund Hot Shot of Fantasa handled by co-owner Liz Dunhill taking Best in Show at the first Japanese Akita Association Open Show in 1988. Dog World/The Kennel Club©

Left: Ch Keskai First Class co-owned by Sue and Saggy Sadler, taking Best in Show at the first Japanese Akita Association Championship Show on 2 October 1993. Hartley©

ACCOMPLISHED AKITAS

Dogs that have had a major impact on the breed over the years are:

Ch Redwitch Prince Consort at Stecal, born 7/10/1991. Winner of 13 CCs, seven with BOB, eight RCCs. Bred by Dave and Jenny Killilea, owned by Carol Bevis.

Ch/Nor Ch Redwitch Dancin In The Dark, born 28/4/1992. Bred and co-owned by Dave and Jenny Killilea. See page 27.

Ch Oktumi Love Action, born 14/2/1994. Bred and co-owned by Carl and Shirley Jones. See page 27.

Ch Stecal’s Step Out With Style, born 7/2/2000. Winner of 29 CCs, 14 with BOB, 13 RCCs. Bred by Steve Dutton and Carol Bevis, co-owned by Carol and Faye Bevis.

Ch Ruthdales Ready To Rule, born 13/8/2005. Winner of 30 CCs, 19 with BOB, including Crufts in 2007, and 15 RCCs. Bred by Matthew Bostock, co-owned by Matthew Bostock, Janet Armstrong and Chris McLean. The first Akita to be conceived via the Pet Travel Scheme, formally known as the pet passport scheme, after Matthew took his dam (Ch Ruthdales Personal Vendeta) to

the USA to breed her with the number one Akita in America (Am Ch T’Stone Raja Regalia On Buckridge).

Ch Ruthdales Notorious, born 18/2/2010. Winner of 12 CCs, three with BOB, six RCCs, three top Akita awards and sire of the breed record holder Ch Stecal’s Love at First Sight JW. Bred by Matthew Bostock and Janet Armstrong, co-owned by Matthew Bostock, Janet Armstrong and Richard and Nicola Hartigan.

Ch/Multi Ch Dynamic Force Sharp Dressed Man With Ruthdales (Imp Nld) x Ch Satrebor Krazy produced two male pups. Both became international champions, one being Ch/Multi Ch Satrebor Steal The Moment Ruthdales co-owned by Allan and Anette Pedersen of Akidan kennels in Denmark. Bred by Roberta Wright (Satrebor) and winner of three CCs, two with BOB, and two RCCs.

The breed and bitch Challenge Certificate record holder is Ch Stecal’s Love at First Sight JW with 46 CCs. See page 22.

In the UK, the Akita has gone from strength to strength. Kennels compete internationally and breeding programmes have been expanded to increase and improve the gene pool.

UK kennels are a force to be reckoned with and are having a significant impact on the international show scene, raising the profile of our breed wherever they go. The time, effort and resources these kennels commit to ensuring the breed goes from strength to strength should not be underestimated. Akitas are unlike any other breed. They are complex dogs that require a certain type of owner, but the joy of sharing your life with an Akita cannot be put into words.

Far left: First dog CC awarded to Mike Window and Marion Sargent’s Ch/Am Ch Tamarlane’s Veni Vidi Vici ROM. Pictured at Welsh Kennel Club in August 1990 with breed judge Meg Purnell-Carpenter.

David Dalton©

Left: First bitch CC went to Dave and Jenny Killilea’s Ch/Am Ch Goshen’s Classy Sassy at Redwitch. Pictured at Manchester in 1991. The Kennel Club©

Below: Anette and Allan Pedersen’s Ch/Multi Ch Satrebor Steal The Moment Ruthdales taking Winners Dog and Award of Merit at the Akita Club of America (ACA) Pre-National Specialty in 2016. From left: Judge Cynthia Hutt, Allan and Anette Pedersen and Keith Venezia, ACA President and co-owner of breed CC record holder

Ch Stecal’s Love at First Sight JW. Martin Pedersen©

1996 and 1997

Headliners

This dignified breed always stands out at Crufts. Since 1996, the Akita has won Reserve Best in Show once, plus the group an additional four times.

Utility group winner Ch Oktumi Love Action, ‘Paris’, bred and co-owned by Carl and Shirley Jones and handled by Shirley. Winner of 23 Challenge Certificates, 14 with Best of Breed, and 11 Reserve Challenge Certificates. Paris was the first home-bred bitch to win a General Championship Best in Show at Ladies’ Kennel Association in 1995 under world renowned judge Anne Rogers Clark from the USA. The entry was over 16,000 and Anne judged all the groups, including Best in Show. It was the first time Anne had judged such an appointment in the UK. David Dalton©

1999

Reserve Best in Show and Utility group winner Ch/Nor Ch Redwitch Dancin In The Dark, bred and co-owned by Dave and Jenny Killilea, handled by Dave. Winner of 30 Challenge Certificates, 28 with Best of Breed, and two Reserve Challenge Certificates. ‘Rave’ won six all-breed Best in Shows and three Reserve Best in Shows at championship shows, as well as 14 group 1s. Pictured with Utility group judge Dennis Coxall, who had previously awarded Rave Best in Show at Driffield in 1997. Carol Ann Johnson©

2018 and 2019

Utility group winner Ch Stecal’s Love at First Sight JW, ‘Chanel’. Breed and bitch Challenge Certificate record holder with 46 Challenge Certificates, see page 22. Bred by Faye and Carol Bevis, co-owned by Faye and Carol Bevis, Rachael Corr and Keith Venezia, handled by Faye in the ring. Pictured in 2018 with group judge Mike Gilchrist. Yulia Titovets/The Kennel Club©

Judges’ Choice

We asked a number of breed-specialist and all-rounder judges to pick their three favourite Akitas from those they have judged in the show ring.

I’ve been involved with Akitas since 1994. My first bitch came from the Redwitch lines, which I much admired. After some years, I established a very strong bitch line that produced my male, Ch/Ir Ch Melodor All Hell Broke Loose, who has produced many champions worldwide. I have also bred many champions in the UK, Europe and Russia, and have judged in many countries, including the UK, Spain, Italy, Finland, Russia and Chile.

1 CH ROSSIMON NORFOLK AND CHANCE WITH MINIOSO

I judged this male at Border Union in 2009 and awarded him the dog CC and BOB. A very well-balanced male, with a super typical Akita headpiece. He had great bone and substance, correct tight, cat-like feet, strong firm rear with well let down hocks, moved clean with great reach and drive. Not shown often but still became a prolific sire producing both UK and overseas champions.

1 CH RUTHDALES NOTORIOUS

I awarded him the CC at the Akita Association in 2010. Although still a puppy, he was so outstanding that he couldn’t be denied. He was all male, strong head with small ears, arched neck and so well constructed. He had much bone and substance, a beautiful red/white coat and the soundest of movement. He went on to Best in Show that day in agreement with my co-judge Frank Wildman.

2 MULTI CH SENSEO THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH

I judged this Danish bitch in 2017 at a Swedish Akita specialty, awarding her Best in Show. She was a stunning Akita both in profile and in movement, carrying a beautiful feminine headpiece with the darkest of eyes. She stood on great bone and was full of substance with such a super spring of rib. When she moved round that ring she seemed to float with minimum effort!

2 CH REDWITCH WILL I AM

I gave him the dog Challenge Certificate, Best of Breed and Best in Show at the Akita Club of Scotland in 2017. A big upstanding red/white dog of correct proportions and good shape and angles, well constructed and with plenty of bone and substance. He had a firm topline, which he held on the move, and super tail set. A lovely dog who took many top awards.

3 CH/AM CH/SPA CH KYODAI ONLY FOR BRAVES

I judged this bitch at Crufts in 2024, awarding her the CC. Headpiece full of quality, correct shape and sparkling dark eyes, strong bone and plenty of substance. Tight, cat-like feet, correct moderate rear angulation. Super tail and carriage. On moving around the ring, the harmony and sync with her owner was a joy to watch. Her first two CCs were also won at Crufts, in 2020 and 2023.

3 CH/IR CH GEILSAVEN DIDDLEY BO

I judged him at LKA in 2021, giving him his third CC, and thus his Champion title with BOB. A large, powerful dog of super type, lovely masculine head with dark eyes and small ears. Well constructed with good bone and substance, balanced body, correct tail carriage and soundest of movement. He’s also a big winner in Ireland with many top awards including Best in Show at an all-breed championship show.

I became involved in Akitas in the early 1990s, making up my first champion in 1996. In 2002, I became a partner in Redwitch Akitas, who have been top breeders for 25 years, producing numerous champions both in the UK and overseas. Many of our own dogs became group winners, reserve and Best in Show winners here in the UK, while dogs overseas also became group winners. I had the pleasure and honour to judge Akitas at Crufts in 2024.

CHRIS M c LEAN MELODOR

Stecal©

Jovana©

Ellen & Joe O’Neill©

ARLENE CLURE REDWITCH

T Morgan© Heidi Thomsen©

Beltrán Hortigoela Alonso©

Ruth Dalrymple©

My passion for Akitas started as a young boy aged 14. I read all I could about the breed and attended many shows as a youngster. I realised very early on I had much to learn so I dedicated myself to researching pedigrees. We have created one of the strongest bloodlines in the breed worldwide producing many top Akitas, as well as winning BOB at Crufts four times. We co-owned the BOB winner at the World Dog Show on two occasions. I have judged the breed three times at CC level, as well as judging specialties in Russia, Chile and Finland.

1

CH/IR/INT CH MELODOR

THE GODDESS

I gave this bitch the CC at the Akita Association in 2016 and in agreement with my co-judge this stunning girl took Best in Show. She took my eye straight away –large, powerful and alert, carrying heavy bone of much substance with excellent conformation, topped off with a beautiful red and white coat. She had that ‘look at me’ presence, her head was a symphony of triangles, she was a joy to go over and moved superbly. One of the greats.

judged this beauty at

in torrential rain and high winds. I awarded her the bitch CC and Best of Breed. She took my eye as soon as she entered the ring, such a pretty girl with a beautiful front, excellent length of leg held on excellent tight, cat-like feet, super topline, double curled tail and another lovely red and white that showed her socks off despite the weather conditions. ‘Maddie’ went on to be a top winner.

3 CH NOSFERATU’S KICKIN UP A STORM

I awarded this dog the CC at Blackpool in 2012. A handsome red and white male with correct heavy bone of much substance, best of heads and expression, super, well-filled front and good length of leg; perfect height to length ratio 9 to 10 for males. Correct moderate rear angulation, moved soundly and so true. So impressed by this male that I used him at stud three times and he produced many winners worldwide.

I have owned Akitas since the 1980s and judged the breed with CCs for the first time in 1995. I have owned/bred six UK champions, including a group winner. I later professionally handled Akitas for Ruthdales and Stecal with many champions, top winners and group and Best in Show wins. My first champion was bred by John and Jenny Dunhill (Killilea), Ch Vormund Hot Shot of Fantasa, who won the dog CC at Crufts in 1992. I travelled to Westminster to learn handling/grooming skills under all-breeds handler, Fran Wasserman, and also learnt from Vic Capone, Bev Bonadonna Vics and Judith Dunn.

1 CH/NOR CH REDWITCH DANCIN IN THE DARK

I gave him the dog CC and BOB at Three Counties in 1998. ‘Rave’ had it all for me – the epitome of breed type, coupled with great structure, movement and balance. Strong masculine classic head, broad muzzle, with great foreface, with such a good eye and expression. He had excellent bone and substance, retaining topline and had a perfect tail set. He was dynamic on the move and quite the showman, owning the ring with charismatic attitude.

He was a stallion of a dog, which was classic ‘regalia’ type. His outline and crested neck was copy book for the breed. Great angles fore and aft with super tail. Well boned, great forechest and powerful hindquarters. Super head and expression. This dog had so much power on the move, holding excellent outline in static and kinetic balance. He was my CC and BOB winner at Crufts in 2007.

3

I gave this fabulous bitch the CC and BOB at LKA in 2011, where she went on to win the group. She had the most beautiful head and expression, perfect cupped small well-placed ears, almond eye and melting expression, which has been a trademark in her progeny. Super bone and plush red/white coat. She had strength with femininity. Moderately balanced angles and sturdy compact body, she was balanced all through. She produced many top winners.

CH DYKEBAR REVENGE IS SWEET AT STECAL

Will Harris©

Carol Ann Johnson©

Tina Thomas©

Carol Bevis©

MATTHEW BOSTOCK RUTHDALES

LIZ DUNHILL VORMUND

Carol Ann Johnson©

Alice van Kempen/The Kennel Club©

2 CH DYKEBAR REVENGE IS SWEET AT STECAL

2 CH RUTHDALES READY TO RULE

I

Blackpool in 2012

TRACY MORGAN ROSSIMON

Akitas caught my interest in 1985, my first won more than 125 BOBs and group placings (before CC allocation).

We titled the first brindle female in the UK. We’ve bred a total of 56 Akitas. Am Ch Rossimon By The Boss produced 18 American champions, including Am Ch Rossimon Sakari. Ch Rossimon Norfolk And Chance With Minioso sired champions in the UK, Croatia, Russia, Netherlands, USA, Germany, Denmark and Ireland. I started judging Akitas in 1989, including overseas appointments. I was honoured to judge exceptional quality Akitas at Crufts in 2023.

1

CH/AM CH REDWITCH HEAVEN CAN WAIT

An upstanding male who I awarded the Challenge Certificate and Best of Breed at Border Union in 2005. I also awarded him group 1 at Three Counties in 2006. This male was an upstanding dog of great strength and type, beautifully balanced, with a superb headpiece, firm back, correct angles and strong quarters. He was so sound on the move and covered the ground effortlessly as he powered round the big ring with a commanding presence.

1 CH/AM CH/SPA CH KYODAI ONLY FOR BRAVES

I judged her at Crufts in 2023 and awarded her the CC and Best of Breed – she epitomises the breed. Vibrant red and white jacket, beautiful headpiece and expression, strength with undeniable femininity, moderate all through. She can move all day, at any given pace, and appreciated from any angle whatsoever. Her beautifully balanced outline is breathtaking, her rapport with her breeder/owner/handler is amazing. They work together as one complete unit.

2

CH STECAL’S STEP OUT WITH STYLE

She certainly did just that! She is perfectly balanced, strong and powerful, yet in a totally feminine package and with a beautiful headpiece. She was always in tip-top condition and at one with her handler. I awarded her the Challenge Certificate at Border Union in 2005 where she was Best Opposite Sex to my first choice, Ch/Am Ch Redwitch Heaven Can Wait. Then, in 2007, she topped a strong group under me at Richmond.

2 CH/FIN/SWE/NOR/DAN CH REDWITCH THE HEAT IS ON (RE-IMPORT)

I judged this dog at SKC in 2005, awarding him the Challenge Certificate and Best of Breed. He impressed greatly, a stunning headpiece, awesome expression, strong crested neck, moderate all through, free of exaggeration and sound moving when viewed from any direction. A rich fawn and white, with a perfectly set and carried tail. He went on to win the strongly contested group that day under an American judge. His rapport with his breeder/handler was envious.

3 CH DYKEBAR REVENGE IS SWEET AT STECAL

My third choice also belongs to the Stecal kennel. I gave her the bitch Challenge Certificate from junior at the Akita Association in 2011 where she also went Best in Show, and then the Utility group at South Wales Kennel Association in 2012. She excelled in breed type and was elegant and feminine with a classic head. She commanded the ring from start to finish in effortless sound movement, and as always from her handler was shown and presented to perfection.

3 CH RUTHDALES PERSONAL VENDETA

I judged this beautiful girl at the Akita Association Open Show in 2002. Red and white quality lady with a beautiful headpiece, strength with femininity, lovely expression. Moderate in angles, sound when viewed from any angle. A lovely balance of outline, topped with a high set, well carried tail. She had a lovely rapport with her breeder/ owner/handler. I was happy our referee agreed to awarding her Best in Show. She was too beautiful to be denied, even in the strongest competition.

CAROL HARWOOD MINARETS

In 1960, our foundation black Miniature Poodle arrived, the following year came our white foundation bitch and I have been involved in the show world ever since. Minarets is a family affair and we are very proud to have bred/owned the breed record holder, Ch Minarets Secret Assignment JW, and his grandson, Ch Minarets Best Kept Secret, who was RBIS at Crufts in 2017 and 2020. My love of Akitas started in the late 1980s. I feel very privileged to have judged some extremely beautiful Akitas and selecting three was not an easy task.

Higham Press© Alan V Walker©

Alan V Walker©

Graham Bundock©

Lillemor Böös© John Hartley©

I first awarded CCs in the breed in 1995 and have always found them a joy to judge. We no longer have the huge entries and I feel the breed has fewer outstanding exhibits than we had some years ago. The breed owes much of its progress to the dedication of Dave and Jenny Killilea (Redwitch) whose knowledge and wisdom brought a number of outstanding examples of the breed from top American breeders. Other dedicated and influential breeders include Chris McLean (Melodor) and the wonderful Ruthdales.

1 CH/NOR CH REDWITCH DANCIN IN THE DARK

It is hard to mention just three greats but one of the earliest I loved was this dog. In 1998, I placed this charmer group 2 at City of Birmingham, glamour personified, stunning head and expression, so well constructed and, as always from the owners, perfection in presentation and showmanship. Just one of the many super champion Akitas produced by this outstanding kennel.

2

I awarded her the CC at Belfast in 1999. She was an outstanding showgirl with many European and Russian titles as well as her UK crown, and her progeny have contributed so much to the quality of UK stock. She had star quality in spades, had that ‘look at me, I’m it’ totally feminine expression, yet still oozing power in her frame as she circled the ring with such reach and drive.

3 CH STECAL’S ALL GUNS BLAZING

I awarded this male the CC and BOB at Darlington in 2023. Again immediately eye-catching, he was flawless in presentation and showmanship, had ample substance throughout, very shapely with that so knowing impressive ready-for-anything gaze from such expressive eyes. Then he drifted around the ring with athletic and purposeful drive, foot perfect and oozing dominance. To top my day, Lee Cox gave him the group!

Best of the Best

1990 CH/AM CH TAMARLANE’S VENI VIDI VICI (IMP)

1991 CH/AM CH GOSHENS HEIR APPARENT AT REDWITCH (IMP)

1992 CH OVERHILLS CHEROKEE LITE FUT

1993 CH GOSHENS DARK’N DEBONAIRE AT REDWITCH (IMP)

1994 CH GOSHEN’S BIGGER IS BETTER AT REDWITCH (IMP)

1995 CH GOSHEN’S BIGGER IS BETTER AT REDWITCH (IMP)

1996 CH OKTUMI LOVE ACTION

1997 CH OKTUMI LOVE ACTION

1998 CH/NOR CH REDWITCH DANCIN IN THE DARK

1999 CH/NOR CH REDWITCH DANCIN IN THE DARK

2000 MELODOR CASTING SPELLS WITH REWARI

2001 CH REDWITCH CHIPPENDALE

2002 CH KESKAI BEST OF BRITISH

2003 CH KESKAI BEST OF BRITISH

2004 CH REDWITCH STARE IF YOU DARE

2005 BEAUFLEET’S BEARING ALL

2006 CH STECAL’S STEP OUT WITH STYLE

2007 CH RUTHDALES READY TO RULE

2008 RUTHDALES EYE OF THE TIGER

2009 CH RUTHDALES REGIME CHANGE JW

2011 CH RUTHDALES CANDY FROM A BABY

2012 CH REDWITCH LEATHER AND LACE

2013 CH DYKEBAR REVENGE IS SWEET AT STECAL

2014 CH REDWITCH WILL I AM

2015 CH REDWITCH WILL I AM

2016 ESTAVA RAIN ONLY STYLE REMAINS

2017 CH STECAL’S LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT JW

2018 CH STECAL’S LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT JW

2019 CH STECAL’S LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT JW

2020 CH/AM CH/SPA CH KYODAI ONLY FOR BRAVES

2022 CH STECAL’S ANOTHER LEVEL

2023 CH/AM CH/SPA CH KYODAI ONLY FOR BRAVES

2024 ITA CH DOUBLEDRAKE SAMUEL GRANT

ALBERT WIGHT SHARVAL

Alan V Walker©

Carol Bevis©

Derek McLean©

BREED SERVICES

Breed clubs take the welfare of their breeds very seriously and work tirelessly to provide help, support and homes for dogs in need. The three Akita breed clubs offer a range of events including shows, judges’ training days and educational seminars, plus advice on the breed to people looking for a puppy or rehoming an older dog. The clubs are very proactive and can also offer owners advice and help with training, socialising, breeding, grooming and health testing for their Akita. There is a well-established link between the breed and The Kennel Club on matters of health and wellbeing. Please contact a club secretary for more information.

Akita Association

Mrs Sandra Belchambers Tel: 07871 528716 boxtyakitas@gmail.com

Akita Association

Akita Club of Scotland

Mrs Mandy Kirk Tel: 07846 864301 ivoryridge@btinternet.com

Akita Club of Scotland

Akita Club of Wales

Mrs Tracy Morgan Tel: 07813 019812 tracymorgan743@gmail.com

Akita Club of Wales

Akita Club of Wales Welfare

Mrs June Harper (Acting) Tel: 07931 920239 jjheatherw@live.co.uk

CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW JUDGES AKITA

13/07/2024 Scottish Utility Breeds Club Pearl Crawford

20/07/2024 Akita Club of Scotland Helen Burke

Akita Rescue & Welfare Trust (UK)

Miss Stephanie Brown Tel: 0345 260 2206 info@akitarescue.org.uk akitarescue.org.uk

Akita Rescue & Welfare Trust (UK)

Friends of Akitas Trust (UK)

Ms Julie Marsden Tel: 07738 638091 info@friendsofakitas.co.uk friendsofakitas.co.uk

The Friends of Akitas Trust (UK)

Japanese Akita Welfare Trust (JAWT)

Mrs Samantha Desforges Tel: 0844 225 3878 samantha@jawt.co.uk jawt.co.uk

Japanese Akita Welfare Trust (JAWT)

26/07/2024 Leeds City & District Canine Association Lee Cox Both 02/08/2024 Paignton & District Fanciers’ Association Jill Peak Both 10/08/2024 Bournemouth Canine Association Joe Smith Both 15/08/2024 Welsh Kennel Club Anne Macdonald Both 13/09/2024 Darlington Dog Show Society Ltd Chris Thomas Both 28/09/2024 Belfast Dog Show Society Maria Harding Both 11/10/2024 South Wales Kennel Association Ian Rimmer Both 13/10/2024 Akita Club of Wales David Killilea Both 07/12/2024 British Utility Breeds Association John Ritchie Both 12/12/2024 Ladies’ Kennel Association Brian Hindley Both 16/01/2025 Manchester Dog Show Society Gillian Marley Both 06/03/2025 Crufts K E Pearson-Smith Both

This information is correct at the time of going to print. However, appointments may change due to unforeseen circumstances. For further details on upcoming shows please see: thekennelclub.org.uk/fas

If you would like to advertise in the August edition of the Kennel Gazette, please contact Gary Turner on 07702 881109 or email gary.turner@newhallpublishing.com

Second Chance Akita Rescue

Ms Teresa Prime Tel: 07951 744503 teresa@secondchanceakitarescue. co.uk secondchanceakitarescue.co.uk

Second Chance Akita Rescue UK

Breed Education Co-ordinator

Mrs Tracy Morgan Tel: 07813 019812 tracymorgan743@gmail.com

Breed Health Co-ordinator

Mrs Sandra Belchambers Tel: 07871 528716 boxtyakitas@gmail.com

ASSURED BREEDERS SCHEME

Breed-specific requirements and recommendations including health screening for the Akita under the Assured Breeders scheme.

Further information can be obtained from The Kennel Club Assured Breeders scheme department via email abs@thekennelclub.org.uk or call 01296 318540.

Requirements for health screening of breeding stock Hip Scoring

Recommendations for health screening of breeding stock

1 Eye testing

2 Check inbreeding calculators for each mating

Testing times

While Akitas generally have a relatively long life, it pays to only buy a puppy from a breeder who routinely tests for certain conditions.

The Akita lifespan is usually around 12 to 14 years. They are a very stoic, primitive breed that tend to hide any illnesses or injuries. For example, your Akita could be limping at home, but he will trot into the vets like nothing is wrong!

The Akita Association supports The Kennel Club health schemes and actively encourages all breeders to follow The Kennel Club’s guidance when considering breeding from their Akitas. We always advise potential owners to only buy a puppy from a breeder that participates in the KC/BVA health schemes.

Hip scoring

All Akitas should be hip scored under the BVA/KC Scheme before entering a breeding programme. This can take place from 12 months of age. Depending on the veterinary practice, this is performed under general anaesthetic or heavy sedation, to ensure optimal positioning of the dog before the X-rays are taken. Once the X-rays are complete, they are sent to the BVA to be assessed by a panel of vets, who look in detail at each hip structure and apply a score to the different anatomical structures within the hip. The score for each hip is added together and that gives you the total hip score. It is recommended that only dogs who have a hip score at or below the average hip score for the breed are used in a breeding programme. The breed average hip score for Akitas is 7.0.

Eye testing

It is recommended that Akitas in a breeding programme undergo eye testing every 18 months. The conditions tested for are

BY SANDRA BELCHAMBERS

progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and entropion. Breeding from a dog that has PRA or entropion is strongly discouraged. Ethical breeders wouldn’t knowingly breed from affected dogs.

Health test results are published quarterly in the Breed Record Supplement. They can also be viewed on The Kennel Club website by entering the kennel name of the dog. Microphthalmia is a condition whereby pups are born with small, under-developed eyes or in some cases with no eyes at all. It is a rare condition but seems to be becoming more prevalent in pups from less reputable backgrounds, such as puppy farms or backyard breeders. This only emphasises how important health testing is.

Autoimmune diseases

Akitas can suffer from autoimmune conditions. Autoimmune symptoms usually only manifest when the affected dog reaches around three years of age. The most commonly seen autoimmune conditions are:

Hypothyroidism. This typically affects the dog from three years of age. The dog may lose hair from the flanks and tail and become lethargic as well as gain weight. Blood testing is the diagnostic tool and once diagnosed can be managed with daily thyroid medication to supplement the thyroid. Older dogs can develop geriatric hypothyroidism. This is typically just an age-related condition that is treated with thyroid replacement medication.

Sebaceous adenitis. This destroys the sebaceous glands. It usually presents from the age of three upwards. It leads to a dry, dull coat, flaky, crusty skin and lesions on

the head and back of the dog. Secondary skin infections are common too, which can become severe, leading to sepsis. Dogs are described as looking moth-eaten. Treatment consists of baths, using topical treatments to soothe the skin and treat any bacterial infections, and steroids and cyclosporine given orally to try and suppress the body’s immune response. The dog will be on this treatment for life.

Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH). This is rare and affects melanin-producing cells in the dog’s body. In affected dogs, the first signs are often changes in colour to the nose pigmentation or the pigment in the hair around the eyes. Ulceration occurs, causing painful lesions on and around the eyes, nose, lips, anus etc. Dogs affected by VKH often end up having surgery to remove the eyes as they become painful. Treatment during flare ups is usually steroids and immunosuppressive agents such as cyclosporine. Some dogs live a relatively normal life if they are mildly affected. However, more commonly, the prognosis is always guarded once a diagnosis is made.

Inbreeding Coefficient (a tool to help you examine the degree of inbreeding from a mating) is recommended prior to any mating. The coefficient of inbreeding score for Akitas is 8.5%. In general, the lower the score, the less the degree of inbreeding, leading to a lower risk of health issues.

Akitas are a strong, intelligent and powerful breed. Following The Kennel Club’s breeding guidelines not only helps to protect the future generations of our breed, it also highlights breeders who care about their dogs and the future of the breed.

Superheroes without capes

Some heartbreaking stories from Akita rescue organisations.

BY TERESA PRIME, TRUSTEE OF SECOND CHANCE AKITA RESCUE

In 2023, we had a total of 63 Akitas come into our care, including two pregnant bitches, and we managed to rehome 52 dogs. The remaining 11 stayed with us until suitable homes became available. So far this year, we have found homes for 16 dogs.

When we rehome one, we take another one in so that we always have between

10 to 15 dogs with us. Our vet bills last year were in excess of £20k and already this year we have spent £18k. Part of this was spent on treatment for two eight-month-old puppies with parvovirus. We were very fortunate to be given a £2.5k donation towards last year’s bills, but the rest we have fundraised ourselves.

The pandemic has seen an unprecedented

A lost and broken soul on the brink of losing her life

In 2022, we had a young Akita come to us who was estimated to be under a year old. She had been abandoned on the moors to die and had previously had a litter within 48 hours! We never found out where she came from or sadly what happened to her puppies. We can only assume they must have passed and this was why mum was no longer wanted. She was still bleeding when she came to us and was clearly very unwell. We rushed her to the vets where she was scanned to make sure nothing serious was going on inside, and thankfully, there were no more pups inside of her. She received emergency care for a serious infection and her treatment was ongoing. The road to recovery both mentally and physically was slow, but we could tell she felt relieved after having her first medicated bath that helped ease that nasty itchy skin. She took her medication with no fuss – like she knew

it would help her. The vet gave her a special weight-gain supplement, which we administered steadily so as not to overload her delicate tummy.

It was hard to believe that anyone could abandon her, as she so wanted to please. She always tried to greet you and say hello, but she was frightened, so she would crawl on her tummy and wag her tail hoping to receive approval. We gave her that approval in abundance and praised her for being so brave.

On her first night, we watched her sleeping peacefully, like she knew she was finally safe. No animal should be left to suffer like that again and we will make sure of that. Since then ‘Poppy’ has healed in so many ways. She has grown in confidence and loves a cuddle from all of her family. She has so much love and trust for everyone. This rescue is one we are so proud of, as we were able to transform this poor dog’s life and give her a second chance.

increase in requests for help. Adoption rates are also slow now, due to the cost of living crisis. We have 11 dogs in our care and are receiving on average three requests to take dogs every day. We are always looking for reasonably priced kennels to help us house our dogs on a temporary basis and would appreciate anyone getting in touch if they can help.

Before and after pictures of Poppy on her journey from rags to riches – now living her best life! The above picture does not show the full extent of the suffering she had endured.

Alison Jones©

Su Pilkington©

Sasha’s story from Teresa

Sasha came to us after she and two other dogs were discovered in tragic circumstances. They had been found with their deceased owner.

When she arrived, Sasha was extremely depressed and it took the kennel team in Blackpool a while to get her to trust them. It involved hours of sitting in her kennel offering reassurance.

Sasha then contracted kennel cough which led to her getting pneumonia. She was admitted to the vets for intensive treatment and the prognosis was grim. However, when Alison, her previous fosterer, and Pieter the kennel owner visited her, she wagged her tail and showed positive signs of recovery. We couldn’t give up on her, as she clearly wanted to live. Her treatment cost in excess of £4,000. Astonishingly, a week later she was well enough to be discharged. We were so proud of her progress and that she had fought so hard to stay with us. The Akita spirit is like no other and they will fight as hard to stay with you as you do with them.

We are delighted to report that Sasha has now been adopted and is thriving in her forever home. She is a truly special dog.

Sarah Shields from Japanese Akita Welfare Trust shares Kuma’s story

Back in November 2023, the Japanese Akita Welfare Trust (JAWT) was approached by Rosevalley Boarding Kennels to help rehome an Akita who had already been in their care for five months. Her name was Kuma and she was five years old.

Kuma had been handed over by social services as her owner experienced some serious health issues. It was initially hoped that the owner would recover and Kuma would be returned, but unfortunately, this was not the case. After eight months, the previous owner’s health deteriorated, which led to her falling into the care of the council. They seized all the owner’s belongings, including Kuma.

This meant that Kuma was at risk of being put to sleep. JAWT couldn’t let this happen and we had two weeks to find her a new home.

Kuma was not an easy dog to find a home for. She had been issued with a Scottish Dog Control Notice due to an incident with the neighbours’ dogs. This meant that she had to always wear a suitable collar or harness with a muzzle while in public places. She also could not be left unaccompanied with anyone under 16. So we had to find a home with no children and no other pets – quite a challenge for us. Additionally, anyone who adopted Kuma would need to have the Dog Control Notice transferred into their name.

All of this said, Kuma had a fabulous personality, which weighed in her favour. She was a very affectionate girl who loved to be fussed and given attention. She has a playful nature and would gladly spend time playing with her toys. So Rosevalley produced some fantastic video content showing off Kuma’s personality that reached their local community and we shared it with our Akita fanatics across the UK. We both worked together to create a really strong online campaign to find Kuma a new home.

Once the ball was rolling, JAWT enlisted the help of a local volunteer who spent a week zooming around the north of Scotland in hail, wind and snow storms to complete home checks. By doing this, it became possible to find the perfect home for her.

A meeting was arranged between her prospective adopters, Rosevalley and even the local dog warden! Everyone was really keen to help ensure she found the perfect companion.

Kuma finally found her forever home with Robert, just a stone’s throw away from Rosevalley, and she still gets to visit her much loved kennel family from time to time. Kuma also now gets to enjoy an outdoor lifestyle with her active owner, which is a huge difference from her life in kennels.

We are grateful for the kindness of Rosevalley and our dedicated volunteers as it enables us to continue to step in and help Akitas in need.

Alison Jones©

Courtesy of Rosevalley Boarding Kennels

Discovering Akitas at Crufts

The hard work that goes into transforming the stand at Discover Dogs to the delight of visitors, some of whom return every year.

I have been part of the Discover Dogs team for ten years now, although Sandra Belchambers has been organising it for longer! It is due to visiting Discover Dogs and meeting the breed that made me decide on getting an Akita. Since then, one turned into two, and I volunteered to take on the decorating of the stand.

The preparation for Discover Dogs starts well in advance of the actual event. We organise a rota system to ensure the dogs have plenty of rest time, as it can be rather overwhelming for a breed known for being aloof with strangers. We recruit a range of dogs, including champion show dogs, rescues and family pets for the public to meet. We also promote the importance of a good breeder as opposed to an unethical one, as there is a distinct difference in those dogs who have come from diligent breeders that carry out the relevant health tests in their breeding programmes. Providing balanced and salient information is the team’s aim and some of our biggest successes are not from those that choose to get an Akita, but those who decide the breed isn’t for them.

We are always thrilled to meet visitors that come to see us every year – in fact, two of those couples are now part of the team. Hannah and Harley would come to see us, unable to decide if they wanted an Akita or a Rottweiler. We finally convinced them, and then invited them to be part of the Discover Dogs family with their long-coat fluffy ‘Alan’. Grant and Hannah also made regular visits until they finally took the plunge and got a rescue, and the lovely

BY LISA SLACK

‘Kira’ has been on the stand for the past three years promoting the positives of rescue. We hand out small souvenirs to visitors, including handmade key rings that contain pictures of the dogs, as well as little wooden Akita-shaped heads and stickers of all the dogs that feature on the the stand. We design and print leaflets that explain the joys and pitfalls of owning an Akita and have a dedicated Facebook page called Discover Dogs-Akitas-Crufts where people can post photos, keep in touch, or message us after the event with questions.

It’s extremely rewarding to meet returning visitors, as they like to come and see the dogs – some of whom have had their own fan clubs. We have developed friendships and have passed on what we know to the younger

generation. Maddison Parry is now aged 14 but was only six when she first visited the stand. Her favourite boy was ‘Logan’ and she carried out a show-and-tell at school using information that we had given her. Logan has now gone over the rainbow bridge but is remembered by the team for his funny antics and being the most loved member of the Discover Dogs team. He made his TV debut in 2017 when the Akita Association was asked by Channel 4 to nominate a volunteer to take part in a ‘Where did the breed originate?’ segment on the Crufts programme that year with comedian Alan Carr and vet Professor Noel Fitzpatrick.

Four days in the NEC are exhausting for the team, but each one of us does it for the love of the breed.

Setting up the very eye-catching stand. Lisa Slack© Maddison Parry and her favourite, Logan. Claire Parry©

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