Kennel Gazette September 2018

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Kennel Club Dog Photographer of the Year 2018

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Contents

Contents Opinion Viewpoint

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Simplicity is key when it comes to supporting the volunteers who help to keep the show world going, discusses Simon Parsons

News Puppy Awareness Week

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This annual event encourages prospective owners to think before they buy

6 Letters and news

Our readers’ views and thoughts and news from the dog world

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London’s biggest dog event

Are you ready to meet your match at Discover Dogs?

Special features National memorial to celebrate ‘dogs of war’

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Military working dogs are to be honoured with an animal cenotaph

14

Rescue remedies

The Kennel Club’s biennial Breed Rescue Conference supports the

The Kennel Club, Clarges Street, London W1J 8AB www.thekennelclub.org.uk Chairman: Simon Luxmoore Vice Chairman: Steve Croxford Chief Executive: Rosemary Smart Secretary: Caroline Kisko

September 2018

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Dog Photographer of the Year 2018

outstanding work of volunteer breed rescue co-ordinators

Photographer 16 Dog of the Year 2018

Winners of the Kennel Club’s 13th annual dog photography competition

22 A different kind of reward

Could veterinary nursing be the career for you?

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Health matters WANTED: 10,000 puppies

Car Careers C areer eerss with dogs

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A hugely ambitious research project aims to follow thousands of dogs throughout their lives

Art & culture The legend of Swansea Jack

25

The life-saving dog who became a local celebrity

Judges’ choice The Russian Black Terrier

26

The breed standard, breed health and experts pick their three favourite dogs

Editorial enquiries: kennel.gazette@thekennelclub.org.uk The Kennel Club, Clarges Street, London W1J 8AB Subscriptions: 020 7518 1016 subs@kennelgazette.org.uk

Customer services: 01296 318540 Petlog Main Number: 01296 336579 Petlog Lost & Found: 01296 737600 Library/Gallery: 020 7518 1009 Insurance Enquiries: 0800 369 9445

Kennel Gazette is published monthly on behalf of the Kennel Club by Warners Group Publications Plc www.warnersgroup.co.uk To advertise contact Andrea Walters andrea.walters@warnersgroup.co.uk Printed by Warners Midlands Plc

Editor: Carrie Thomas Editorial Manager: Sara Wilde Editorial Panel: Bill Moores (Chairman), Terrie Cousins-Brown, Ian Gabriel, Philippa Gilbert, Robert Greaves, Revd. Bill King, Gay Robertson

Kennel Gazette is the monthly publication of the Kennel Club. Views and opinions expressed within the Kennel Gazette are the personal opinions of the original authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Kennel Club.

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Judges’ choice

Cover photo: The overall winner of Dog Photographer of the Year 2018 Monica van der Maden, from the Netherlands, with a portrait of a regal Great Dane sitting in the forest, which was placed first in the Oldies category by the judging panel. Monica said: “Winning Dog Photographer of the Year 2018 is one of the biggest honours a dog photographer can achieve. It feels great to win such an honour.”

Photographer: Monica van der Maden© To see the full image within the Dog Photographer of the Year 2018 feature turn to page 18. /The KennelClubUK @thekennelclubuk @TheKennelClubUK

The paper used for this publication is a recyclable and renewable product. It has been produced using wood sourced from sustainably managed forests and elemental or total chlorine-free bleached pulp. This magazine can be recycled either through your kerbside collection, or at a local recycling point. Log on to www.Recyclenow.com and enter your postcode to find the nearest sites.

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Viewpoint

Viewpoint

By Simon Parsons

I

’m writing this on the day that the Kennel Club has issued the first list of Breed Education Co-ordinators (BECs).

The occupants of this post will play a crucial role in the progress of the new Judges Competency Framework (JCF), bringing together the candidates who wish to learn more about the breeds (and hopefully qualify to judge them), with the opportunities to do so – the Breed Appreciation Days with tests on the standard, the chance to be mentored by breed experts, the Breed Competence Assessments and the supported entries at open shows.

The task will be a significant one, with differing challenges in different breeds depending on their numerical strengths and on the degree of unity within the breeds.

Some have fairly dramatic contrasts in how their standards are interpreted and that situation brings challenges of its own.

The BECs will therefore need a number of qualities – both organisational skills and people skills of tact and diplomacy, as well as being prepared to give a considerable amount of time in the interests of the breed they love.

Bearing all this in mind, one cannot fail to be impressed that already all but a very few breeds have managed to find someone willing to take on the BEC role. We must say thank you to them all and wish them the best of luck. They will certainly have friendly

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back-up from dedicated staff at the Kennel Club offices who will be able to answer the queries which as in any new initiative are bound to arise.

This all reinforces something that I’m sure I have written about in earlier articles — the degree to which the continuation of our world relies on the co-operation of a huge team of volunteers who willingly take on the administration of the show

scene (and also, of course, the other disciplines controlled by the Kennel Club), as secretaries and other club officers and committee members, stewards and so on. Without them, the whole sport would quickly grind to a halt.

My plea would be that for all these volunteers, life is made as uncomplicated as can be. There have been quite a number of changes to the show regulations over the last few years, and a whole new situation to take in in the shape of the JCF.

I must admit, I get confused at times, and I can only imagine how relative newcomers to the show scene must feel about it all.

Having recently received through the post the latest 600-page ‘Red Book’ (the Kennel Club Year Book), I was tempted once again to wonder why does it all have to be so complex.

I guess it’s partly a symptom of modern society in which there have to be regulations to cover every possible eventuality. But after all, for the vast majority our pastime is just that — a hobby and a relaxation. Perhaps I’m being totally divorced from reality in wishing that the bureaucracy could be cut by half.

In addition, it is very likely that breeders will have to contend with a great deal more paperwork imposed by government and local authority regulation. It’s a far cry from the old days when all you needed was a dog licence costing seven and six (37 and a half pence)!

I do hope that one day there will be time for those in authority to go through the rules and regulations, policies and guidelines relating to our hobby and see if there is some way it can be made simpler for us all. ●

SIMON PARSONS Simon Parsons has owned a variety of breeds but his first loves are the Corgis.

He worked for Dog World newspaper for 39 years and awards Challenge Certificates in 13 breeds. In 2014 he instigated the revival of the Kennel Gazette

08/08/2018 09:47

Puppy Awareness Week 2018

This annual event encourages the public to buy healthy, happy dogs from reputable breeders

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pets, and while there are many responsible breeders across the country, including members of the Kennel Club’s Assured Breeder Scheme, there are also those waiting to take advantage of unsuspecting buyers.

Puppies are irresistible to a lot of people, and unless they appear to be unclean or have a visible health condition, there is no way to tell just from the look of a dog what conditions it has been bred in. Knowing how to spot the signs of a bad breeder and how to find somebody who breeds and sells their pups responsibly is vital, however the answer isn’t at all clear to the puppy buying public, with one third saying that they do not feel confident about how to spot the signs of a responsible breeder, or where to find them.

The Kennel Club has put together a list of top tips for puppy buyers to help them through the process. One of the key things to ensure is that people always see a pup with his or her mum – a staggering 36 per cent of dog owners in 2017 admitted that they did not do this before paying for their new pet.

Finding a dog to buy on the internet is increasingly common. In this day and

age of people being short on time and wanting things immediately, it can be all too tempting for some to make a quick purchase without taking the time to find out about the breeder or the puppy’s background.

Many animal welfare organisations will advise people to never buy a dog from a pet shop, as there is no way of knowing what environment the pup originally came from; meaning it could easily be from a puppy farm.

Established in 2004, the Kennel Club’s Assured Breeder Scheme helps give people assurances that they are buying happy, healthy puppies. All breeders in the scheme have had their premises inspected by the Kennel Club (which has UKAS accreditation to carry out the checks, meaning they’re robust, impartial and reliable). They also have to meet a vast range of criteria that entails putting the puppy’s health and welfare first.

More information on the do’s and don’ts of buying a puppy can be found on the Kennel Club website. Puppy Awareness Week runs from Monday, 3rd – Sunday, 9th September 2018. ●

Photo: Grant Hyatt/The Kennel Club©

uppies are adorable bundles of fun that can make people fall in love in an instant, so much so that thousands of puppy buyers are continuing to make uninformed, impulsive decisions by letting their hearts rule their heads. According to a Kennel Club survey, one in five people admit to spending no time researching where to buy their puppy from, with a significant number of these people then suffering both financially and emotionally as a result.

Choosing a puppy hastily leaves people more vulnerable to the scams of puppy farmers who are looking to make money quickly without prioritising the health and welfare of the animals they are selling and breeding from. Every year, during the first week of September, the Kennel Club holds its Puppy Awareness Week to educate prospective puppy buyers on the best and most responsible ways to buy or adopt a dog. This annual campaign offers advice to those considering getting a new dog while increasing public awareness of the puppy farm trade and how to avoid being scammed.

With an estimated 850,000 puppies born each year in the UK, demand has never been higher for these wonderful

Puppy Aware ness W eek, Monda y – Sund 3rd a Septem y 9th ber 20 18

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Letters and news

Letters and news

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Photos: Watts Gallery Artists’ Village©

am contacting you from the Watts Gallery Artists’ Village. We recently saw the wonderful piece Finding the Unusual which featured Alfred, Lord Tennyson and his faithful dog Karenina which appeared in the June Kennel Gazette.

The original gesso-grosso model for the sculpture (a plaster version from which the original was cast) is on display at Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village, Surrey, and we have some wonderful images of it being created in the late 1800s. I have included some of these images for you to have a look at and would be delighted for you to print them within the Kennel Gazette.

Susanna Plummer Watts Gallery Artists’ Village Thank you for getting in touch, and the editorial panel have enjoyed looking at these historical images. We really appreciate being allowed to print them as I’m sure it will be of interest to our members.

Editor

The Rijkmuseum in Amsterdam is home to many Dutch masters including paintings that feature the very English 16th century trend of being portrayed with dogs, particularly hounds and gundogs. Among the treasures there is this life-size carving in oak of a Greyhound by Artus Quellinus (1609 -1668). The breed was popular among the elite of the time and this was thought to have been commissioned in Antwerp by the wealthy Roose family whose descendants included the politician Pieter Roose. The family crest is included on the dog’s collar.

August 2018

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The noble Skye Terrier is this month’s judges’ choice

Photo by williammoores.com

A favourite among the elite of the 16th century

Feedback...

We would appreciate any feedback you may have on the Kennel Gazette and we welcome reading your news and views.

Please write to: Kennel Gazette, Clarges Street, London W1J 8AB, or email kennel.gazette@thekennelclub.org.uk and put ‘Letters page’ in the subject line.

The official publication of the Kennel Club

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Letters and news

Are you looking at getting more involved in the world of dogs?

Do you enjoy going to shows and meeting new people?

Could you be a Kennel Club field officer?

If you live in the surrounding areas of the South East of England; Surrey, Sussex, Kent and Essex, and have knowledge of all aspects of dogs shows, in particular dog showing, why not consider becoming a Kennel Club field officer.

Their role has always been to help and support the show secretary and to provide impartial advice where needed and this has undoubtedly helped to raise the standard of dog shows for the benefit of all dog enthusiasts.

For more of an insight into the role, and to hear from current field officers please see the article as featured in the April 2018 Kennel Gazette.

This can be viewed online by visiting www.issuu.com/thekennelclub/docs/kg_april_online

nearly £675,000.

Your support is essential to us and by giving whatever you cansupport afford,isyou can help difference Your essential to usmake and bya giving whatever foryou dogs. can afford, you can help make a difference for dogs.

Jacqueline Ferris-Woods / The Kennel Club ©

The Kennel Club Charitable Trust (KCCT) provides grants to various canine organisations nationwide, The Kennel Club Charitable Trust (KCCT) provides many of which are involved in the rescue and welfare grants to various canine organisations nationwide, of many dogs.ofInwhich 2017,are theinvolved KCCT gave grants totalling in the rescue and welfare nearly £675,000. of dogs.

In 2017, the KCCT gave grants totalling

Photo: Heidi Hudson/The Kennel Club©

Jacqueline Ferris-Woods / The Kennel Club ©

Field officer Jenni Connery who covers Northern Ireland said: “If you enjoy all types of dog shows and dog activities and care about the future of ensuring the highest standards are maintained through the UK’s largest organisation dedicated to the welfare of dogs, go ahead and apply”.

Jacqueline Ferris-Woods / The Kennel Club ©

To express an interest or apply please send a covering letter outlining how you will contribute to and enhance the role of a Kennel Club field officer and CV to Steven Arnold in the Society and Show Services Department, Clarges Street, London, W1J 8AB or email janet.daly@thekennelclub.org.uk Closing date for applications is 30th September 2018.

The KCCT has three objectives, the funding of: The KCCT-has three objectives, the funding of: health • Science research into diseases and other • Science - in research conditions dogs into diseases and other health conditions in dogs • Support - The training of dogs to help humans • Support - The training of dogs to help humans • Welfare - The rescue and re-homing of dogs which • Welfare - The rescue and re-homing of dogs which need needhelp help ForFor further to make makean anonline online furtherinformation information and and to donation, donation,please pleasevisit: visit: www.kccharitabletrust.org.uk www.kccharitabletrust.org.uk

Registered Registered Charity Charity Number Number 327802 327802

September 2018 - Kennel Gazette 7

Special feature

National memorial to celebrate ‘dogs of war’ Westminster pledges support in recognition of military working dogs

By Isabel George

All photos courtesy of the National Military Working Dogs Memorial UK

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lans for a national memorial honouring the courage of all military working dogs have been announced at a special event in London.

Westminster’s Portcullis House was the venue for the launch hosted by the Rt. Hon. David Hanson MP who, accompanied by fellow Members of Parliament, welcomed representatives from the British Armed Forces and their families, and special guests from all sectors of the arts, literature and the world of dogs. All pledged their support for the new memorial – the first permanent tribute to singularly recognise the life-saving contribution of military working dogs and canine service mascots.

In his launch speech David Hanson praised the dedication of the team behind the memorial project, saying: “The passion shown by all those working to make these plans a reality is truly inspiring and having the support of key Members of Parliament means that we can press forward with the fundraising efforts to build a lasting memorial to our service dogs.”

The proposed design for the animal cenotaph, features bronzes of four heroic war dogs positioned as guardians of a central monument dedicated to the service dogs of the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force (RAF): Judy, a Pointer, was a Second World War Naval mascot, who spent three years in a Japanese labour camp in Sumatra.

She became the only dog to be officially registered as a Prisoner of War. RAF terrorist tracker dog, Lucky, served during the Malayan Emergency from 194952. The German Shepherd Dog was the only survivor of a four-dog team who successfully tracked-down insurgents, and in doing so

From left to right; Rt. Hon. David Hanson MP, Flight Sergeant ‘Will’ Barrow and Kennel Club Chairman Simon Luxmoore

saved many lives.

Theo, a Royal Army Veterinary Corps Arms and Explosives Search Dog was serving in Afghanistan in 2011, when his handler Lance Corporal Liam Tasker came under

fatal enemy fire. Springer Spaniel Theo died from a seizure just hours after L/Cpl Tasker lost his life in the line of duty.

Air Dog Buster served in Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan as an Arms and Explosives

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Special feature

The planned memorial is designed to represent all the branches of the UK Armed Forces, the basic design represents a compass

Search Dog saving, it’s said, over a thousand lives over five tours of duty. When the brave Spaniel retired he retained the honorary position of mascot of the RAF Police until his death in 2015.

Buster’s handler, Flight Sergeant ‘Will’ Barrow, commented at the launch: “Many thousands of dogs have served with the Armed Forces in many conflicts. They are a great force and have saved lives in many ways. To finally have them and their contribution recognised in this way is superb.”

The event in Parliament simultaneously launched the National Military Working Dogs Memorial (NMWDM) Trust, the charity set-up to raise the £150,000 needed to construct the memorial, which will enjoy

a perfectly peaceful setting in Brynford, Flintshire. John Ward, owner of the Brynford Pet Cemetery, where the memorial will have its home, said: “Brynford is already a popular pilgrimage for dog lovers and owners and, as hosts of this military memorial, we offer a focal point for those who wish to pay their respects to the dogs who also serve.”

The charity already has the support of key guests at the launch including the Chairman of the Commons Defence Committee, the Shadow Welsh Secretary and Shadow Defence Secretary, in addition to all branches of the Armed Forces and families of military dog handlers past and present.

Kennel Club Chairman, Simon Luxmoore, said in response to the heartfelt presentations at the event: “The

contribution of the military working dog should never be underestimated in peace time, as well as in conflict. They have served and continue to serve, alongside their handlers, with unstinting courage.

This memorial charity, and the ethos behind its formation, confirms that our military working dogs have earned eternal remembrance. This memorial will honour them, now and always.”

The Kennel Gazette will feature a follow up on the National Military Working Dogs Memorial charity in an upcoming edition. ●

ISABEL GEORGE Isabel George is a writer, journalist and PR, who has worked with animal charities for many years. She has previously written for children and has also worked with the Imperial War Museum on various events and exhibitions connected with the ‘animals at war’ theme. Isabel wrote ‘Buster: the dog who saved a thousand lives’, reviewed in the August 2016 Kennel Gazette, and ‘Dog Soldiers: in the presence of heroes’ National Military Working Dogs Memorial trustees and patrons

For more information on the National Military Working Dogs Memorial charity, fundraising events and to donate please visit: www.nmwdm.org.uk or email: info@nmwdm.org.uk

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Discover Dogs

Photo: Sportsbeat/The Kennel Club©

Photo: Sportsbeat/The Kennel Club©

London’s biggest dog event

Photo: Yulia Titovets/The Kennel Club©

have come across before, as well as providing a fun day out for all the family.

As well as the popular breeds of dogs that visitors will be used to seeing and the new breeds already mentioned, visitors will also get to meet some of the British and Irish vulnerable native breeds, such as the Dandie Dinmont Terrier and the Sealyham Terrier, breeds that are struggling with fewer than 300 registrations a year and very much need some exposure to try and increase interest. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the issues that these breeds face and it is hoped that giving them extra profile will encourage some of those looking to buy a new dog to consider these more unusual breeds.

Back for a second year due to popular demand will be the Kids Zone, as well as the return of the Young Kennel Club interactive activity ring, providing opportunities for younger visitors to have a go at agility, learn to train a dog and take part in an obstacle course with some of the ‘professional’ dogs at the event. These young visitors will be assisted by volunteer handlers to guide them and give them advice with whatever they try.

Other old favourites will also be returning, such as the Metropolitan Police with some of their new recruits – puppies!

The Scruffts semi-finals, the Good Citizen Dog Scheme Obedience Stakes, and the Junior Warrant semi-finals will also all be returning, making this event a real forerunner to Crufts 2019.

Kennel Club members, associates and affiliates receive discounted tickets to all Kennel Club events. For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.discoverdogs.org.uk ●

Photo: Yulia Titovets/The Kennel Club©

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iscover Dogs returns to ExCeL London on 20-21 October this year. Celebrating its fourth year at ExCeL, and 23 years in total, last year’s event saw a record breaking 33,000 visitors through the doors over the course of the weekend.

The event allows the Kennel Club to offer thousands of dog lovers the opportunity to meet and greet around 200 different pedigree breeds, and to educate members of the public on how to choose the right breed for them, to tell them about the many joys dog ownership can bring and how to look after a dog. New breeds for this year will include the French gundog, the Barbet, as well as the Black and Tan Coonhound, which only gained recognition in July.

The event provides the opportunity for the Kennel Club to reach out to thousands of prospective dog owners and lovers, and provide them with the unique chance to meet breeds of dogs that they may never

Photo: Heidi Hudson/The Kennel Club©

Meet your pawfect match at Discover Dogs

The Metropolitan Police will be returning with some new recruits – puppies!

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06/08/2018 12:42

Health matters

WANTED: 10,000 PUPPIES Generation Pup aims to follow thousands of dogs throughout their lives

By Gay Robertson

Photo: Terrie Cousins-Brown©

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ristol University and Dogs Trust are hoping to recruit thousands of puppy owners to help with a hugely ambitious research project, following puppies less than 16 weeks old to the end of their lives. The aim is to discover influences on the development of disease and behaviour by asking owners to keep a diary of events, good and bad, in their dogs’ lives and answer quite detailed questionnaires on a regular basis. Owners will also be invited to send photographs of their puppies and if possible, swabs and samples, using kits that will be provided, with prepaid return envelopes.

The project was initiated at Bristol University by vet Dr Rachel Casey, European Specialist in Veterinary Behavioural Medicine and Welfare Scientist, with Dr Jane Murray who had set up and led a similar project for cats, vet Professor SéverineTasker, European Specialist in Internal Medicine and a researcher in infectious diseases, and Professor Toby Knowles, a researcher in animal welfare across a range of species and experienced statistician. They obtained a three year grant from the Canine Welfare Grants Committee of Dogs Trust who have now taken on the project long term, employing Dr Casey as Director of Canine Behaviour and Research and lead researcher on the project and Dr Murray as their Veterinary Epidemiologist.

At Bristol Veterinary School, Dr Tasker and Professor Knowles are still involved with the study while the Dogs Trust team has been considerably enlarged. So, too, has the target of dogs involved, from 3,000 to 10,000 (by 2020). Serious recruiting began in July last year and 1,500 have already been registered.

Project Manager Jane Murray recognises that only owners committed to dog health and welfare will stay the course but the hope is that with a sufficiently large cohort to allow for drop-outs, robust data will be collected on a wide range of developments

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Health matters

and outcomes. Signing on two puppies I found to be a lengthy process, but the questionnaire can be saved, section-bysection like a tax return, and continued later.

It helped that there was the possibility of clicking on an answer about the first puppy as also valid for the second one. Breeders will be able to skip large sections designed to evaluate a puppy’s reaction to a totally new environment when he first arrives at his new home, and I was grateful for the tick box ‘can’t remember’ for many situations!

It is not only behavioural issues that will be under scrutiny. Where puppy owners have given consent for their vet records to be consulted and have sent urine, faecal or hair samples or buccal or skin swabs, medical research will also benefit. Generation Pup is already working with research into antimicrobial resistance and the Royal Veterinary College has set up a study into epilepsy in German Shepherd Dogs and Border Collies, using some of their data. The possibilities are almost limitless. As these puppies go through life, some will sadly but inevitably encounter medical problems, but with detailed information on every aspect of their lives, researchers will be able to compare and contrast any possible influences in the onset of the disease.

Some studies may be triggered by the data itself - maybe something like, does annual vaccination predispose to immunemediated diseases or does nutrition play a part in cardiac disease? (These are

Photo: James Skinner©

Photo: Revd. Bill King©

Benefits of research

imagined examples).

Other studies are already under way.

Dog to dog communication sounds a fascinating one and something even more intangible, epigenetic changes (a change in gene expression without a change in DNA) following neutering. Generation Pup is not

Generation Pup

Photos: Gay Robertson©

Although when joining this project, nobody asks you to do anything specific with your puppy, or change your normal interactions in any way, there is no doubt that having at the back of your mind a puppy diary to fill in, makes you more aware of the amount of education your puppy is receiving each day and also, how much you are learning about that individual puppy’s character and temperament, which makes for a win-win situation.

Generation Pup is a big and ambitious project in every way. Already six researchers are analysing data from participating puppies and a ‘results page’, in the form of infographics, should be live by the time you read this. Big data sets are every researcher’s dream, and if enough puppy owners take part, scientists will have the tools to solve a great many problems.

Separation-related behaviour, for instance, is of major interest to Dogs Trust, so having detailed information on the life style and circumstances leading up to a dog developing it and being able to compare these with others of similar age will go some way to understanding any related influences in onset, its prevention and even cure.

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Photo by williammoores.com

Health matters

designed to target diseased dogs, but to provide a cohort study with samples from dogs in all stages from healthy to clinically ill.

Interestingly, in spite of the huge numbers of Pugs and French Bulldogs in the UK population, they have attracted very few, so are hoping to recruit more of these breeds.

Others, engaged in breed specific research, are hoping for significant numbers of Labradors, Dachshunds, English Springer Spaniels, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, as well as Border Collies and German Shepherd Dogs.

Lest you think this is a box-ticking exercise, fed into algorithms, Jane Murray

explains there is a team of researchers looking at the data and liaising with owners, as well as sending out sampling packs.

“The study is very much in the early stages,” she says. “We need to wait for sufficient numbers of dogs to register, and for them to reach specific ages for outcomes of interest. We will be using advanced statistical techniques to investigate which factors increase/decrease the risk of certain outcomes.” Responding to a comment on the several pages of boxes to tick at the outset, which might be a turn off for owners, she says: “We realise that the questionnaires are long – and have tried to mitigate this by enabling owners to complete them in distinct steps. The detailed data we are collecting on behaviour also mean that the questions can seem repetitive – but this detail will provide us with incredibly powerful data and enable us to generate results that can be used to provide evidencebased recommendations for owners, breeders, vets and policy makers to help the welfare of dogs in the future.”

Photo: Robert Greaves©

Photos: Gay Robertson©

Taking part Looking at this project in detail, the title of this article should probably have been, “Wanted, thousands of committed dog owners” and one can only hope that they will be found over the next couple of years.

Taking part would certainly be “putting something back into dogs” by people whose hobby they are, but one wonders if the average dog owner will be prepared to contribute.

“We recognise that our cohort is likely to consist of highly-motivated dog owners who have an interest in canine welfare, and that these owners might not be ‘typical’ of the ‘average’ dog owner,” says Jane.

“However, as our focus is identifying the factors that increase or decrease the risk of disease and behaviour problems rather than the prevalence of disease/problems within the dog population then this is not a major concern for us. Including ‘real’ dogs and ‘real’ owners – dogs with/without health or behaviour problems, means that we are able to identify factors and quantify the extent to which they are associated with outcomes of interest.

“The additional data that we will have (samples from dogs, veterinary recordswhere owners have provided consent, data from vets on body condition scores, heart murmurs, oral health) really does make this such an exciting and powerful study”. ● For more information on Generation Pup - this exciting new adventure in canine science visit www.generationpup.ac.uk

GAY ROBERTSON Gay Robertson’s first dog was a Cocker Spaniel but in 1970 a rescue Whippet led to 20 years as chairman of the Whippet Club, and a lasting enthusiasm for all dual-purpose show dogs

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Special feature

Rescue remedies

Reporting on the Kennel Club Breed Rescue Conference

By Revd. Bill King

Every two years the Kennel Club organises a one day conference for breed rescue organisations.

Its sole purpose is to support the outstanding rescue work being carried out by volunteer breed rescue co-ordinators. The Kennel Club invited a number of speakers to talk about breed rescue in more detail as it is always a hot topic in today’s society.

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Kennel Club Breed Rescue deals with the rescue and rehoming of pedigree dogs, and over 100 delegates representing more than 45 breeds came together to listen to five top speakers share their experience and ideas; to engage with each other and to ask questions.

Tom Mather, Kennel Club Board member, opened the conference. A keen exhibitor and judge, Tom has a personal involvement with Guide Dogs, described as “a dream job for any dog lover.”

The first speaker was Lorraine Tannatt Nash Head of the Rehoming and Charity Channel at Agria Pet Insurance. After giving a brief history of Agria, Lorraine explained how Agria supported breed rescue by providing a health care policy, which

Photo: The Kennel Club©

ne of the most interesting and compelling facts learned during the Kennel Club Breed Rescue Conference on 14th June, emerged in the very last talk given by Bill Lambert the Kennel Club’s senior health and welfare manager. Bill said: “In total, Kennel Club Breed Rescue deals with more dogs every year than many of even the larger charities, with the average for 2014 and 2015 amounting to 20,000 each year.” The network of breed rescue groups, individually small operations, collectively, help as many dogs as Dogs Trust and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home put together. That simple fact answered the first question — why hold a conference in the first place?

Lorraine Tannatt Nash Head of the Rehoming and Charity Channel at Agria Pet Insurance

gave five weeks free cover to dogs being rehomed — with older dogs, age restrictions were removed. Their style was to be ‘light touch’; supportive and when the new owner converted that free cover into a permanent policy the breed rescue received commission each year it was in force. In short, peace of mind for breed rescue, the new owners and a revenue stream to help more dogs.

Trevor Cooper, a solicitor specialising in dog law, spoke next. No stranger to many of the delegates, and while professing to speak on a subject (the law), which could challenge our concentration and sleep pattern! In fact Trevor delivered an informative, entertaining and at times challenging summation of the role of the law in relation to dogs. Trevor has practiced in this specialist area for 24 years and he combined knowledge with a streetwise assessment of what would and wouldn’t work. For example, the ownership of a dog falls under contract law, and if the breed rescue sells the dog, in the matter of getting the dog back it has no enforceable right of law.

If the breed rescue retains ownership of the dog it still could find itself with a return clause, which is unenforceable. In practice his advice in both cases would be to keep the return clause in the contract because while it is unenforceable; ‘most people are honourable.’

He gave a timely warning about home boarding and dog day care which is to be licensed, (effective 1st October 2018), and will be viewed as a business. As to breeding, if a breeder advertises puppies for sale, under the new regulations coming into force this year – that activity may be viewed as a business and the number of litters per annum irrelevant. You can imagine there were numerous questions raised about this.

Cathy Pollendine – Animal Partnerships Manager at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home gave the conference a fascinating insight into the thinking of the charity. Her theme was, ‘working together’. She presented a chart showing the range of pedigree breeds as well as crossbreeds Battersea had.

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Photo: The Kennel Club©

Special feature

Trevor Cooper, a solicitor specialising in dog law

Photo: Adrienne Hammill/The Kennel Club©

being a companion dog is the hardest job we ever ask a dog to do, and on the downside, if it fails, returning the dog isn’t the worst thing; it is a safe haven.

Finally, Bill Lambert took to the stage and explained the role of the Kennel Club Breed Rescue. As stated, it is the biggest rehoming organisation for pedigree dogs and there is a wealth of support available to breed rescue including; ‘Find a Rescue Dog’ service which is a website (www.findarescuedog.org.uk) where by entering the breed of interest the service provides contact details for breed rescues in a specific area.

(Interestingly they use the word mongrel rather than crossbreed.) The dogs in their care are rehomed not just to families, but working dogs may go to the police or prison services, or charities, for example search and rescue and medical detection. Apposite to this audience Cathy said: “Last year Battersea rehomed 64 dogs to breed rescues.

In respect of pedigree dogs the drive behind working with breed rescue was looking for advice, sharing of homes, a mutuality of interest, and the opportunity to upskill the care team.”

After lunch we heard from Carolyn Menteith, an accredited dog trainer and behaviourist, her theme was: ‘Matchmaking – how to prevent dogs coming into rescue.’

Her thought provoking openers such as ‘our

relationship with our dogs may well last longer than our marriages....’; ‘choose wisely’ and ‘matchmaking not rehoming’ were just the kind of attention grabbers needed for the post lunch slot. Her take on placing dogs in forever homes was grounded in the practical – dogs change lives. Be realistic about your breed and why dogs do what they do. A telling point, which brought a chuckle, was her stricture; ‘assess potential owners – but remember – everybody lies.’ And: ‘Do not think that any home is better than no home.

Assess each dog; there is always one who is different, and discover – don’t assume’.

Breed rescue should teach relationship skills, walking on a lead, toilet training, basic manners. Toilet training or the lack of is a deal breaker! Carolyn continued saying that

This great day ended with a lively question and answer session, and I would recommend anyone involved with breed rescue to sign up for the next conference. ●

REVD. BILL KING Bill has substantial experience of dog shows, obedience, heelwork to music and field trials. He has finally managed to soothe an itch which began in 1965 when in 2015, at Lincoln Cathedral, Bill was ordained as a priest.

He is now an associate priest in the Trinity Parish, Grantham

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Dog Photographer of the Year 2018

Winners of the Kennel Club’s 13th annual Dog Photographer of the Year The world’s largest and greatest dog photography competition

Photo: Elinor Roizman©

regal Great Dane sitting in the forest, which was placed first in the Oldies category by the judging panel. Monica is a professional dog photographer from Rijen, in the Netherlands. For many years she has photographed dogs with enthusiasm, passion and joy, both in her spare time and as a professional.

After finding out she had won the world’s largest canine photography competition, Monica said: “Winning Dog Photographer of the Year 2018 is one of the biggest honours a dog photographer can achieve. It feels great to win such an honour.”

Elinor Roizman from Israel, winner of the Dogs at Play category

T

he Kennel Club announced the winners of its annual Dog Photographer of the Year competition on 16th July to great expectation. Dog Photographer of the Year started from modest beginnings in 2005, as a means for the Kennel Club to promote positive dog images by engaging professional and amateur dog photographers through a skill-based photographic competition.

By promoting Dog Photographer of the Year winning images each year through worldwide media, we are helping to promote a positive perception of dogs through engaging and positive dog photography.

With a variety of camera lenses, dog

photographers can visually capture the positive benefits of dog ownership, such as companionship, friendship, family, loyalty, assurance and reliability, which dogs bring to our lives every day.

Now in its 13th year, the international competition received almost 10,000 entries from 70 different countries around the globe, including China, Israel, Russia, Argentina, Australia, South Africa and a large increase of entries from the United States.

Overall winner Monica van der Maden from the Netherlands had been selected as the overall winner of the competition with a portrait of a

The Kennel Club’s Dog Photographer of the Year competition comprises 10 categories: ● Portrait ● Man’s Best Friend ● Dogs at Play ● Dogs at Work ● Puppy ● Oldies ● I Love Dogs Because… (for entrants aged between 12 and 17 years old) ● Young Pup Photographer (for entrants aged 11 and under) ● Assistance Dogs ● Rescue Dogs The other category winners were: Elinor Roizman from Israel, who won the Dogs at Play category with a photo of Lili the Pomeranian playing on the beach; Klaus Dyba from Germany, who won the Puppy category with a lovely studio portrait of Ceylin the Italian Greyhound; Carol Durrant from the UK, who won the Dog Portrait

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Photo: Joana Matos©

Dog Photographer of the Year 2018

Joana Matos from Portugal, winner of the Man’s Best Friend category

category with a stunning and colourful image of her Flat Coated Retrievers among the ash rangers; Tracy Kidd from the UK who won the Dogs at Work category with a portrait of seven working dogs posing steadily in the back of the boot of a truck; Young Pup Photographer winner, 11 year-old Mariah Mobley from the United States; Tamara Kedves from Hungary who won the I Love Dogs Because… category; and Joana Matos from Portugal, who won the Man’s Best Friend category with a portrait of her husband and rescue dog Godji resting under an old umbrella on the beach.

who assists an ex-service man with his PTSD. Dean has nominated the charity Service Dogs UK for a £500 donation from the Kennel Club Charitable Trust in recognition of his placement for this charity category. Sonya Kolb from the United States won the Rescue Dog category for her endearing portrait of rescued crossbreed dog, Cooper, with his owners. Sonya has nominated her local dog rescue, Monmouth County SPCA where she is a regular volunteer photographer for the £500 donation from the Kennel Club Charitable Trust respectively.

Charity winners

This year’s Dog Photographer of the Year competition is sponsored by SmugMug, the dog-loving photo sharing site for professional photographers, and

Photo: Tamara Kedves©

The winner of the Assistance Dogs category was Dean Mortimer from the UK, who took a portrait of a German Shepherd Dog, Rocko,

Superb sponsors

Nikon School, a photography training establishment, which aims to educate and inspire photographers.

SmugMug’s European Manager, Alastair Jolly commented: “SmugMug’s continued involvement in the competition is one of the highlights of the year for a company like ours that loves celebrating photography, and is passionate about dogs. It is an honour to be asked to judge such a prestigious competition, even if it is such a hard task with so many amazing images entered again this year. It is a thrill each year to see such wonderful images from all corners of the world, quite clearly captured by people as passionate as we are.”

Neil Freeman from Nikon School added: “Nikon School is proud to support the Dog Photographer of the Year competition and looks forward to working with the Kennel Club on upcoming dog photography courses.”

All category winners have their images on display in the Kennel Club Art Gallery foyer in London, and have won a SmugMug

Tamara Kedves from Hungary, winner of the I Love Dogs Because… category

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Dog Photographer of the Year 2018

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Photo: Monica van der MadenŠ

Dog Photographer of the Year 2018

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business account to showcase their work online, and a one day course at the prestigious Nikon School in London, as well as a trophy and art panel by Loxley Colour of their winning image presented during the annual award ceremony on September 5th.

All of the winning images for each category are on display at the Kennel Club in London until October 5th. The exhibition is open to

the public and free to visit by appointment to all visitors from around the world.

The judges for this year’s competition were Technique Editor of Amateur Photography Magazine, Hollie Latham Hucker; professional dog photographer, Martin Hill; Nikon UK representative, Neil Freeman; SmugMug’s European Manager, Alastair Jolly; and Kennel Club

Photo: Sonya Kolb©

Photo: Carol Durrant©

Carol Durrant from the UK, winner of the Dog Portrait category

representatives Rosemary Smart, Chief Executive; Simon Luxmoore, Chairman, and Pauline Luxmoore-Ball and special guest, professional photographer, Elke Vogelsang from Germany.

Rosemary Smart, Kennel Club Chief Executive said: “The quality of the entries to the Dog Photographer of the Year competition never ceases to amaze.

This year there has been a huge number of beautifully executed and impressive photographs, making it incredibly difficult for the judges to choose just one winner for the overall prize and a single winning photographer for each category. All of this year’s entrants beautifully captured the qualities that make dogs so very special and dear to our hearts, and we look forward to seeing more work from the winners in the future.”

The 13th annual Kennel Club Dog Photographer of the Year competition was kindly supported by various prize sponsors; SmugMug, Loxley Colour, Nikon School UK and Sara Abbott, who all donated prizes for photographers. To view all the winning images, and for information about the competition please visit the official website www.dogphotographeroftheyear.org.uk Dog Photographer of the Year 2019 will open for registration and entry in February 2019 ●

Photo: Dean Mortimer©

Meet the guest judge

Dean Mortimer from the UK, winner of the Assistance Dogs category

Elke Vogelsang is a German photographer. She used photography as a healing creative outlet after being faced with sudden, significant challenges in her life due to sick family members. The passion turned into a rewarding profession when she decided to change her life for the better and live her dream. She specialises in dog portraiture and her photography has appeared on US and German television as well as been published in books, newspapers, and magazines worldwide, including National Geographic.

She is the author of the book: ‘Nice Nosing You – for the love of life, dogs and photography’.

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Photo: Tracy Kidd©

Dog Photographer of the Year 2018

Tracy Kidd from the UK, winner of the Dogs at Work category

Photo: Mariah Mobley©

Photo: Klaus Dyba©

Photo: Sonya Kolb©

Sonya Kolb from the United States, winner of the Rescue Dog category

Klaus Dyba from Germany, winner of the Puppy category

Eleven year-old Mariah Mobley from the United States, winner of the Young Pup Photographer (for entrants aged 11 and under)

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Special feature

Photo: Courtesy of de Montfort Veterinary Hospital

A different kind of reward

Second year trainee Sofia Texeira practises bandaging at de Montfort Veterinary Hospital (an RCVS accredited training practice)

How to become a veterinary nurse

By Kate Beavan R.V.N. Cert.Ed., BSc (hons), MSc., SFHEA

I

f your main reason for getting a job or changing careers is to make lots of money then you may as well stop reading this article right now. If however, you are a calm, hands-on person who is passionate about animals and looking for a rewarding career working as part of a team dedicated to the welfare of animals, then veterinary nursing may be the career choice for you!

I’ve been extremely fortunate to have worked with animals all my life, including an enjoyable career in veterinary nursing and have no regrets (so far), but it isn’t for everyone, so let us start with the not so good bits.

For a start, you’ll be working shifts, and some of these may be during anti-social

hours including nights and weekends.

Sometimes animals need to be euthanased (put to sleep), which is something you never really get used to.

Understanding stages of grief and dealing with people through bereavement is something veterinary nurses have to do and a great deal of empathy is required.

Some animals don’t pull through surgery and some get distressed at being separated from their owners. This can be difficult to witness, and at times you will need to separate your own feelings and get on with the job. You must be caring but rational too.

Be prepared to get bitten and scratched alongside injuries from dogs, cats and large animals, I’ve also been bitten by a python and zapped by a tarantula.

It is hard work and some of the job is messy; you’ll be cleaning up after sick animals, so you need to be prepared to get dirty.

Okay so there are difficult parts of the job, now let us look at the good bits. Seeing the difference you can make to an animal’s life makes a hard day’s work worthwhile.

You’ll also play a significant role in educating owners on managing the health of their pets, the results of which are hugely rewarding.

You will become skilled in undertaking a range of diagnostic tests, medical treatments and minor surgical procedures, under veterinary direction, and can also choose to specialise in a particular area through further study, such as equine

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veterinary medicine.

The UK Veterinary Nursing qualification is highly respected and can lead to positions outside veterinary practice, including work in research establishments, laboratories, universities, colleges, zoos, charities, pharmaceutical companies and breeding/boarding kennels. There are also opportunities to travel and work overseas as it is internationally recognised.

As a registered veterinary nurse (RVN) I have worked in small animal practice (dogs, cats and small pets), large animal practice (farm animals and horses) and zoo veterinary practice. The qualification has also been the lynch pin in my other jobs including working with wildlife (particularly marine mammals), exotics, teaching animal health and welfare and farming.

I’ve been fortunate to be involved in television work (also involving animals) including Lambing Live (BBC), The One Show (BBC), and have been the health and welfare reporter for Crufts (Channel 4) for the past five years. During this time I’ve worked with some amazing canine organisations including Medical Detection Dogs, Animal Health Trust, Pets as Therapy, Dogs for Good and many more. How dogs are helping us is becoming more apparent and keeping up to date with research is important in all professions. I enjoy learning and passing this knowledge on.

Teaching veterinary nurses at Coleg Gwent, South Wales is one of the ways I can do this. We offer different routes including level 3 (vocational route), Foundation Degree (higher education) with a new BSc

Photo courtesy of Kate Beavan

Special feature

Filming Medical Detection Dogs for Crufts

throughout the UK that offer qualifications approved by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and their linked veterinary practices.

(hons) top up starting September 2018.

These are the two main routes to become a qualified veterinary nurse. All routes lead to registration as an RVN. Veterinary nurse training is conducted through colleges and universities

Vocational training The qualification has a core and two option pathways, one in small animal nursing and one in equine nursing.

Level 3 diplomas are usually offered on an apprenticeship-style learning scheme alongside a job in veterinary practice. You need to have a minimum of five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above which MUST include Mathematics, English Language and a Science subject. Alternative qualifications of a comparable or higher standard may be accepted, these would be checked on initial enrolment.

Photo courtesy of Kate Beavan

Higher Education

Kate teaching veterinary nurses at Coleg Gwent

Courses often include additional subjects such as practice management or animal behaviour. Training takes between three and four years depending on the type of course you choose. Degree courses include a significant proportion of practical training based in approved training practices alongside an academic programme.

You will need to meet minimum entry

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Special feature

So which route should you choose?

Vocational and higher educational qualifications in veterinary nursing both lead to registration as a RVN. If you are very practically minded, and prefer to work ‘hands on’ in a veterinary practice, vocational training is probably for you.

A degree course will take a little longer, but could lead to additional career opportunities such as research, the pharmaceutical industry or teaching.

Once qualified, RVNs must pay an annual fee to the RCVS to ensure they are registered on their Register of Veterinary Nurses. This enables the RVN to undertake certain privileges under the Veterinary Surgeon’s Act 1966 (Schedule 3 Amendment) Order 2002.

At college, we interview all prospective students to ensure not only that they have the relevant qualifications to train but also practical experience. Gaining work experience or a placement is very competitive and demand for placement often outweighs availability. You therefore need to stand out from the crowd and having a ‘sparkling’ CV can help.

Being a veterinary nurse is a demanding and sometimes difficult job, but is also one of the most rewarding jobs you can choose.

If this is the career for you my advice is to work hard at school (good GSCE grades are essential), gain some practical experience, build up your CV and go for it. Good luck! ●

Photo: Courtesy of de Montfort Veterinary Hospital

requirements, which will be set by the university and you will need to apply via UCAS.

What you can be doing now • Get some practical work experience at as many animal establishments as possible. Ensure you detail this in your CV and ask for references (if you did a good job!).

• If you are 16 or over you may be offered work experience in a veterinary practice, this is invaluable for you not only for your CV but also to see if the job is for you.

• Have a look at the BVNA and RCVS websites for further detail and also current vacancies.

• At Coleg Gwent, like other colleges, we offer open days for prospective students where you can come and chat with tutors about entry requirements, detail of course content and possible placements available. Have a look at your local college provider and pop along for a chat.

• Whatever career you are considering, it is always a good idea to talk to someone doing that job. Chat with veterinary nurses at your local practice and see how they entered the profession.

Sofia runs a urine analysis at the de Montfort Veterinary Hospital laboratory

KATE BEAVAN Photo: Courtesy of de Montfort Veterinary Hospital

R.V.N. Cert.Ed., BSc (hons), MSc., SFHEA

Dayna Johnson, in her first year at de Montfort Veterinary Hospital, learns physiotherapy on Mabel the Labrador

Kate Beavan is a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) with a double honours degree in Natural Sciences & Biology and a Masters in Environmental Conservation Management. She has over 20 years’ experience lecturing in Animal Health & Welfare at Coleg Gwent, South Wales and is a STEM ambassador and Senior University Fellow. Kate is also a mum of two, farmer, founder of ‘Kate’s Country School’, eternal optimist, county vice chair for the NFU and is the health and welfare reporter for Crufts (Channel 4)

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Finding the unusual

The legend of Swansea Jack A memorial statue to a canine life guard

By Terrie Cousins-Brown

Photo: ©Terrie Cousins-Brown

T

Jack’s memorial on the promenade at Swansea Bay

Photo: © West Glamorgan Archive Service

he promenade at Swansea Bay stretches some five miles from the city’s Maritime Quarter to the fishing village of Mumbles, once a popular holiday destination in Victorian times. The promenade was the site of the world’s first passenger railway and is punctuated by some interesting monuments and statues; among them the city’s famous literary talent Dylan Thomas, a memorial to the fallen of the Second Boer War, and a marble and bronze sculpture to a famous ‘sea dog’ – quite literally!

Born in 1930, a rather average-looking dog called Jack became a legend in his life time and a hero to many. His breed may be a source of some dispute, but his deeds are well documented. Jack lived with his owner, William Thomas, in the North Dock/Tawe River area of the city. He was described at the time as a Black Retriever, possibly something similar to a modern day Flat Coat, although other sources describe him as a ‘Newfoundland type’ dog.

It was said that Jack would always respond to cries for help from the water and in June 1931 he rescued a 12-year-old boy, pulling him to the shore by the scruff of his neck. There were no witnesses at the time and this remarkable rescue went unnoticed. Within a few weeks, Jack rescued another swimmer from the docks, this time in front of a crowd. His photograph appeared in the local paper and the Council presented William Thomas with a silver collar for Jack.

‘Swansea Jack’, as he was soon nicknamed, continued to save lives and became a local celebrity, frequently appearing at village shows and fetes. In 1936, he was awarded ‘Bravest Dog of the Year’ by the London Star newspaper, and received a silver cup from the Lord Mayor of London. He was also awarded two bronze medals (the canine Victoria Cross) by the National Canine Defence League (now Dogs Trust). Legend has it that Jack saved 27 people in his lifetime and two dogs, although press reports vary from 23 to 29.

He died in October 1937 at the age of seven, having apparently eaten rat poison, one of the hazards of living in the docks.

On 1st October 1938, the then Mayor of Swansea, Councillor WD Rees, unveiled a memorial by local monumental mason Cecil Jones close to St Helen’s rugby ground. It was publicly funded; a mark of the high esteem in which Jack was held by the local townsfolk.

A nearby pub still bears his name, and Jack himself is buried somewhere along the seafront.

Swansea Jack’s name will be forever enshrined in popular culture. The people of Swansea and the fans of the city’s football club are also known by the same nickname. There are two possible origins, one that it comes from the clothing worn by 19th century Swansea-born sailors which was jack tarred in order to provide some protection from the harsh elements of the sea. The other, that it is thanks to the exploits of the lifesaving retriever. I know which story I prefer. ●

This photo dates from 1935 and shows a civic reception outside the Guildhall. Jack’s owner, William Thomas, is second from right on the front row. The Mayor of Swansea for that year was Albert Richard Ball

Thank you to the West Glamorgan Archive Service for their kind assistance. For more information visit www.swansea.gov.uk/westglamorganarchives If you have come across a dog statue while on your travels, do get in touch with the editor and share the story.

Please email kennel.gazette@thekennelclub.org.uk or post your photographs and story to Kennel Gazette editor, The Kennel Club, Clarges Street, London W1J 8AB and we will ensure that they are returned

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Russian Black Terrier breed standard

Russian Black Terrier breed standard Breed standard

A

relatively new breed, the Russian Black Terrier was developed by the Russian army after the Second World War as a specialised guard dog and as a general service dog. One of his duties was to round up fugitives.

The Russian dog population had suffered during the World Wars and there was no breed left to fulfil the

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needs of the forces: a dog able to work independently and cope with the differing terrains and extremes of climate in Russia. A mixture of breeds formed the foundation but it is acknowledged that a Giant Schnauzer was the centre of the breeding programme. He was mated with Airedale Terrier and Rottweiler bitches and the progeny were bred together

with an input of the Moscow Retriever, a dog bred from Newfoundland and Sheepdog stock.

In 1955 the first working examples of the breed were put on show at an exhibition in Moscow and the first breed standard was published in 1958, which was then adopted by the FĂŠdĂŠration Cynologique Internationale in 1984.

Russian Black Terrier breed standard

● GENERAL APPEARANCE Large, imposing dog, above average size, strongly built with heavy bone. Well proportioned general appearance, sturdy and robust frame. Well developed muscles.

Body almost square. A medium texture, weatherproof coat, well furnished on head and limbs. Trimmed.

● CHARACTERISTICS Natural guarding instincts. Easily trained.

Very adaptable.

short and straight. Elbows carried close to body.

● BODY High withers clearly marked above topline, back level and muscular. Depth of chest level with elbows or slightly below. Chest deep with well-sprung ribs. Moderate tuckup. Loin short, wide, muscular and slightly arched. Rump large and muscular with a barely visible slope towards the tail which is set high on the croup.

● HINDQUARTERS ● TEMPERAMENT Alert, lively and even-tempered, wary of strangers. Resilient, brave and selfconfident.

Well proportioned with moderately broad skull and rounded cheekbones. Eyebrows slightly pronounced. Skull flat, medium stop, not too accentuated. Top line of muzzle parallel to top line of skull. Muzzle solid with slight tapering towards the tip and length a little shorter than skull.

Whiskers and beard give muzzle a squaredoff shape. Lips thick and black in colour, tightly fitting. Large black nose.

● EYES Medium, oval in appearance and dark. Set obliquely and wide apart. Eyelids dark and fitting tightly.

● FEET Large, well arched and rounded with thick pads. Black nails.

● TAIL Set high and thick. Previously customarily docked, leaving three to four vertebrae.

Undocked, the tail set is more important than carriage. The tail may also curl over the back, but not gay. The length and thickness is determined by the proportions of the dog.

● GAIT/MOVEMENT At the trot, legs move in a straight line, with forelegs converging slightly. Fairly elastic movement. Ground-covering movement

● COAT Medium texture weatherproof coat, with dense undercoat. Not wiry or soft. When brushed the hair is broken coated and slightly waved. Furnishings well developed on eyebrows, beard and legs. The ears (from fold to tip), skull, cheeks, throat to sternum, underside of tail, buttocks and rear of stifle are closely trimmed.

● COLOUR Black; or black with grey hairs distributed through the coat, but not in confined areas, and in total no more than one third of the coat.

● SIZE Height at withers: dogs 68-77 cms (27-301/2 ins), bitches 66-72 cms (26-281/2 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 Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum.

● EARS High set, pendant, not too big, triangular in shape, with the inner edge lying tightly against the cheekbone.

● MOUTH Jaws strong, with perfect, regular and complete scissor bite, i.e. upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws. Full, strong dentition desirable

● NECK Photo courtesy of Marina Simonova

Photo courtesy of Marina Simonova

● HEAD AND SKULL

Seen from behind, legs straight and parallel, set wider than the front legs. Thighs muscular and well developed. Stifles well bent and hocks set low.

with good reach in the forequarters and good driving power in the hindquarters.

Reasonably long, powerful, muscular and clean cut. Flows into the topline at an approximate 45º angle.

● FOREQUARTERS Shoulders well laid back. Seen from the front, legs straight and parallel, pasterns

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Breed health

Russian Black Terrier health

Genetic illnesses to be aware of in this relatively new breed

By Paul Perks, Russian Black Terrier Health Co-ordinator dog must inherit two copies of an abnormal gene (one from their mother and one from their father) before his health is affected.

A dog that inherits only one copy of the abnormal gene (from his mother or his father) will have no signs of the disease, but will be a carrier and may pass the gene on to any offspring. Carriers can still be bred from, but must only be mated to clear dogs, otherwise there is a risk of producing affected puppies.

Breeding outcomes Clear male

JLPP Affected puppies do not survive past the age of six to seven months. Signs of the condition may be seen at around 13 weeks old and initially effects the long nerves that supply the muscles of the voice box, (larynx), causing muscle weakness and laryngeal paralysis. The vocal folds vibrate noisily, and can obstruct the flow of air into the lungs when the dog is exercised or when it is hot. The dog may also choke on or regurgitate their food or water, leading to pneumonia. The disease then progresses to the nerves, which supply the muscles of the back legs, resulting in difficulty getting up and a wobbly gait, which then progresses to the front limbs.

Clear female

Carrier female

Affected female

All puppies will be clear

Carrier male 50% chance of each puppy being clear 50% chance of each puppy being a carrier

Affected male

All puppies will be carriers

50% chance of each puppy being clear

25% chance 25% chance of each of each puppy puppy being being clear affected

50% chance of each puppy being a carrier

50% chance of each puppy being a carrier

50% chance of each puppy being a carrier

50% chance of each puppy being affected

All puppies will be carriers

HUU In affected dogs, uric acid does not dissolve in urine and accumulates. The uric acid may form crystals, which can become hard stones in the urinary tract. As the stones move through the tract they can cause pain and inflammation and may even cause a blockage. These stones may need to be removed surgically.

Both JLPP and HUU are known as autosomal recessive conditions. This means that for each of the individual conditions a

Photo: ©Paul Perks

T

he Russian Black Terrier has two extremely important genetic illnesses that there are DNA tests for. The results for both of these tests are recorded and published by the Kennel Club, along with BVA/KC Hip and Elbow scores.

Juvenile Laryngeal Paralysis & Polyneuropathy (JLPP), and Hyperuricosuria (HUU) are both hereditary conditions. The Russian Black Terrier Club recommends testing both sire and dam and that at least one of the parents should be clear for JLPP and one should be clear for HUU.

The chart above shows the results of how potential puppies would be affected by certain mating decisions.

It is important not to rule out breeding clear to carriers at this time, as it would decrease the gene pool and force other genetic problems to the forefront. With ethical breeding there is no need for any future dogs to suffer from these two illnesses.

50% chance of each puppy being a carrier 50% chance of each puppy being affected

All puppies will be affected

Because these illnesses are inherited and tests are readily available in the UK, insurance companies will not cover vet bills, so it is worth checking the HUU and JLPP status of your puppies before purchasing.

Health tests are an invaluable tool for breeders to continue to improve the health of the breed, the Kennel Club website lists the breeds’ recognised health tests and the UK results on their website. ●

28 September 2018 - Kennel Gazette

28 Breed Health.indd 28

10/08/2018 09:43

Russian Black Terrier judges’ choice

Tom Huxley ■ Robroyd Moscow, Russian Black Terrier (RBT), ‘Dmitrov’, magical words to anyone who is involved in the breed. The ultimate show in the world for the breed. It was like a dream come true when I received the invitation to judge the National Russian Black Terrier Club Specialty International Show Dmitrov in 2005. I was on cloud nine and felt a daunting feeling all at the same time.

The entry for the two-day show was 170 dogs. I judged 110 dogs from intermediate, open, working, winners and champion classes in both dogs and bitches. Following this I again very much enjoyed judging the brace then the kennel specialties. Exhibitors had travelled from five different countries to attend this, the club show of the year. When we arrived at the sports arena on the morning of the show, we walked into the centre of the running track and just looked around in awe of 170 Russian Black Terriers, trimmed to perfection and all milling around together; the odd grumble could be heard as massive males walked past and glanced at each other. When it came down to judging there was no disappointment going over the dogs — they were incredible, one after another with such quality in depth. My first three in any of the classes could change places with the first, which made my job much easier.

ast stii ii 1Lukomor Char Iz Russkoi Dinastii

Mr LM Smith ■ Fernwood Photo courtesy of Jan Huxley

To make a choice of three dogs for this article has proved a difficult challenge. To o begin, Lukomor Char Iz Russkoi Dinastii must be the opening to my choice of RBTs. Bred/owned and handled by Olga Vorobyeva (Moscow). He was my BIS at the Dmitrov Show. A superb showman, and going over him was an education for me as he was so near to the standard that he was a pleasure to judge. He also made hi his markk iin the h UK. We were lucky enough to travel to Italy to see him in a show at Bergamo. His owner had been invited by the Italian Russian Black Terrier Club to do a grooming demonstration at the club event, and they stayed for a week. That’s when we found out that our bitch Krasnaja Ploscad at Robroyd, ‘Red’, had come into season. We rushed home, picked up Red, and shot back to Italy and Red was successfully mated, and produced two puppies; one male and one female. The male was Robroyd Lukomor who went on to sire Robroyd I Lyka. Sadly as I write this we said goodbye to Lyka on 9th July 2018 — aged 11 years.

Moving on another five years, and I was once again judging in Moscow at the Derzhava International and Russian Black Terrier Club Show on 30th October 2010. My next choice was a bitch, another great dog, owned/ bred and handled by Svetlana Zolotova, Vinovnitsa Torzhestva S Zolotogo Grada.

Very feminine, but with a strong body and substance, with wonderful angles and moved as though she was floating across the floor. She was always in wonderful presentation and d condition d with fantastic character. Such a wonderful bitch, the only thing wrong was I did not own her, and she was only 18 months old.

Photo courtesy of Jan Huxley

2Vinovnitsa Torzhestva S Zolotogo Grada

1Int Ch/Rus/Dan Ch Kris

My favourite RBT of all time is Int Ch/Rus/Dan Ch Kris. He had great substance, and one of the best moving dogs I have ever seen, and his presence in the ring stands him as being the best.

2Int/Rus/Bel Ch Kait Krait Photo courtesy of Jan Huxley

3Ir Ch Dromnagus Black Ice

My third choice was a young lady I judged and awarded her BOB when she was only six months old; Ir Ch Dromnagus Black Ice. A real eye-catcher, she walked into the ring full of herself and there was no disappointment when going over her.

She had great movement, and she moved as if she was gliding on ice! She has gone on to be a top RBT several years running. At UK championship shows she has won 60 best bitch awards with 18 BOBs, 20 RBB including best bitch at Crufts in 2018, best puppy at Crufts in 2013, seven Green Stars; three with BOB, and five best bitch awards at the RBT Club shows and two CACIB.

Together with my wife Maureen we have owned/shown and bred dogs for over 50 years. Originally we had Labradors, and in the mid 1970s we progressed to Rottweilers and we were very successful breeding many UK champions and numerous champions worldwide. On a Rottweiler judging appointment to Russia in 1994 I was introduced to Russian Black Terriers, (RBT), and I was determined to obtain them to work and show with, which we have done with great success. To date, however, I am sorry to say that we in the UK have not progressed well to improve the breed, however recently due to the work of one Latvian lady the breed is steadily showing signs of improvement due to the influence of east European dogs. There are many great kennels in Eastern Europe, and we need to follow their example; like Russian Dynasty, Red Stars, Malakhovka Chiga Song, Zenitsa Oka and Barbi S Bronich to name just a few. In my opinion the English judges should familiarise themselves with the finer points of the breed; judge to the breed standard and dogs should be fit for purpose. I have seen examples of judges’ critiques saying: ‘Nice level topline’, in fact the topline of a RBT is not level but should slightly slope from withers to croup. The RBT is not a dog for the novice, but is a very trainable and outstanding animal with excellent eye and substance. I have judged in Russia, Latvia, Austria and France and have seen some magnificent animals. The eastern European dominance is notable throughout, and is due to the strict breeding criteria held by the top kennels.

Another good dog is Int/Rus/Bel Ch Kait Krait. He is also of great substance with excellent bone and body conformation. In fact an all sound and excellent breed type, with great powerful movement. Both Kait Krait and Kris have been campaigned throughout Europe and have been admired everywhere. They have both been used at stud and have greatly improved the RBT all over Europe.

Ch Nord Praid Primadonna 3Rus/Est/Ukr/Pol Malahovskaya Dogs alone do not make a breed and great bitches also play a great influence. Two really great bitches are Rus/Est/Ukr/Pol Ch Nord Praid Primadonna Malahovskaya and Int/Rus Ch Barbi S Bronich Valencia Vandeya. Both are outstanding examples of preferred breed type but my favourite has to be Rus/Est/Ukr/Pol Ch Nord Praid Primadonna Malahovskaya.

September 2018 - Kennel Gazette 29

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14/08/2018 09:08

Russian Black Terrier judges’ choice

Richard C Kinsey ■ Kitarn I have been following this breed with interest for the past 15 years or so, and have watched them develop into a real force in terms of type and certainly in temperament, which is a testament to the breeders and owners of this majestic breed. I have been lucky enough to have judged them in their land of origin in 2005, and saw some stunning dogs there that were truly imposing. It is difficult to select just three as I have had my hands on some excellent examples, but as asked, I have narrowed it down to the required final. I truly believe the time is right for the breed to gain CC status in the UK. My three favourite dogs are in no particular order.

1Robroyd I Lyka

3Ir Ch Dromnagus Black Ice

Photo: ©Paul Perks

This time another female, and she was my best bitch at Crufts, and I feel she also has a lot more to come as she matures. I have had the pleasure of judging her several times and she gets better each time and she certainly gave the dog a run for his money at Crufts this year, matching him stride for stride. So well made in head again strong, but no doubting her femininity at all. For me she is all that a Russian should be; strong and sturdy, with an ideal silhouette of natural balance and symmetry which all comes together on the move. This kennel seems to have found their way well within the breed, and is consistently producing dogs of good type.

Photo: ©Carol Ann Johnson

I had the pleasure of judging this female in my first Working Group in 2011 and placing her a creditable fourth, and found her to be quality all through from her strong yet feminine head to her

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superb quarters with top class angulation and muscle toning that allowed her the freedom and style to move around with minimal fuss and style. She was, as ever, from this kennel presented to the minute in conditioning and jacket. I feel sure she helped put the breed in the spotlight at that time, certainly for me anyway.

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Russian Black Terrier judges’ choice

Sandra Marshall ■ Lowerdon

Liz Dunhill ■ Fantasa I met Janet and Tom Huxley due to their involvement in this new breed when it was newly imported into the UK. I immediately fell in love with the Russian Black Terrier and I attended grooming seminars, as well as the first breed seminar in 2002 with assessors Marco Galli and Svetlana Dervyn, who are both breed experts. It was an honour to receive breed information from such highly acclaimed and knowledgeable breeders. I am pleased to say that I received a distinction, and later attended another Judges Development Programme carried out by Tom Huxley and attained a credit. I have handled and groomed the breed on many occasions, and kept up my interest. I had the honour to judge the breed at Crufts in 2013.

Tom and Janet Huxley took the breed forward and have left behind a legacy for all to follow.

I have not owned a Russian Black Terrier (RBT), but have taken a great interest in the breed and attended, especially in the early days, the events organised by the Russian Black Terrier Club. I had the honour of judging the club open show in 2010. Although heavily involved in breeds in the Hound and Gundog Groups I have owned a Mastiff and a Bullmastiff and award CCs in Tibetan Mastiffs, so do have some links to the Working Group.

Ploscad at 2Krasnaja Robroyd

3Rus Ch Moskvorechie Yason

I had the privilege to judge the breed at Crufts in 2013, and my first class veteran dog set the standard for the rest of the day. This dog most certainly had the wow factor, size, bone, substance and balance, and correct proportions. He had a fabulous head and expression, excellent conformation and movement, good coat with superb texture. He owned thee ring with his spectacular movement, harmonious powerful with excellent footfall. He won the BOB, and did so the following year under Jill Peak.

My second choice was my BOB at Driffield in 2011 namely Robroyd I Lyka; a daughter of Robroyd Lukomor ex Robroyd Evdoksii Iz Claybrook (who was runner up top bitch in 2006). Lyka was another lovely example of the breed. She had the construction, shape and balance and moved on a reachy driving stride. Lyka was top RBT in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011, winner of 22 BOBs, five BOS, S BIS at the h club l b show h and d was top brood in 2011 and 2012.

3Ir Ch Dromnagus Black Ice

My third choice is another Robroyd Lukomor daughter; Ir Ch Dromnagus Black Ice who was born in 2012.

I judged her at Darlington in 2014, where she was my best bitch. Another typey bitch who was well proportioned and of a pleasing size. She also moved on a ground-covering stride. Her wins include; best puppy at Crufts in 2013, five best b bitch bi h wins i at the h RBT Club shows in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018, top RBT in 2016, top RBT bitch in 2014/2015 and best bitch at Crufts in 2018.

Photo: ©Carol Ann Johnson

Photo: ©Carol Ann Johnson

2Robroyd I Lyka

Photo: ©Ruth Dalrymple/The Kennel Club

The Italian bred mother of Robroyd Lukomor, and she certainly produced a fabulous son. A beautiful female of excellent proportions and type, passing on her many attributes.

Classic head and expression, super outline, and impressive mover. She produced well for the Huxleys, who are very clever breeders, and in my opinion set the standard in the breed here in the UK. They are pioneers of the correct type and their passion and teaching certainly inspired me with this fabulous breed.

©Wendy Thompson-Moon Photography

This dog was one of the early top winners, and for me set the standard on type for the breed in the show ring. He was a stallion of a dog, so correct in proportion and balance.

A fabulous head piece, and construction throughout; breathtaking on the move, with a fabulous coat. His character b being i all ll male, l and d iimpressive i in every department. He had size, bone, substance and a great topline and carriage on the move. He commanded the ring with his presence.

Photo: ©Marc Henrie

1Robroyd Lukomor

My first choice must be Robroyd Lukomor, sired by Rus/Multi Ch Lukomor Char Iz Russkoi Dinastii ex Krasnaja Ploscad at Robroyd (top RBT bitch in 2003, 2004 and 2005).

Robroyd Lukomor was my BOB at the Scottish Kennel Club in May 2006. For me he was an outstanding example of what a RBT male should lookk like He lik and d fitted fitt d the th standard t d d tto a ttee. H was a strong-willed dog, but he and Tom Huxley were a formidable partnership and his many wins included; top RBT in 2005/2006, BIS at the first Russian Black Terrier Club Open Show under Terry Thorn, 21 BOBs, 10 BOS and three RBD wins. He also made several forays onto the continent, winning four CACIB, five CAC wins and several group placings including Verona. He was also top stud in 2012, 2013 and 2014.

Photo courtesy of Janet Huxley

1Robroyd Lukomor

September 2018 - Kennel Gazette 31

29-32 Judges Choice.indd 31

14/08/2018 09:08

Russian Black Terrier judges’ choice

Karlynne Sellstrome ■ Kaviking I have served on the Russian Black Terrier Club committee, assisted in the organisation of fun days, and the Russian Black Terrier International Day. I have handled Russian Black Terriers (RBTs) and judged at championship show level. I hold a great interest watching the breed today.

1Robroyd Lukomor

underneath was construction that could be seen as she flowed round the ring with ease. She notched up 22 BOBs and went on to take group wins at many championship shows. Top RBT 2008, 2010 and 2011.

Top brood, 2011 and 2012.

2Robroyd I Lyka

Photo: ©Carol Ann Johnson

A bitch, born 23rd March 2007, bred/ owned by Tom and Janet Huxley. A spectacular bitch, and another ‘top drawer’ RBT; easily recognised as female as she stood out due to her superior qualities. A kennel that always presented for top honours and this bitch was no exception,

Another dog from the same kennel, born 20th August 1995, owned

by Tom and Janet Huxley. A seriously impressive male. It must be around 20 years since I saw this male, who I believe could win in the ring today. He shouted from the roof top the RBT standard!

Boasting a marvellous character and everything you would want in the breed. His loving nature, amazing qualities, and the presence of this particular male stays with me today for all the right reasons.

A dog I would have taken home had it been possible.

Winner of the Imported Breed Register 2001; top stud and top sire 2001 and 2002. Some of his winning progeny from 2001; dogs: Tiggis Prince Charming at Meshugah, Tiggis Goody Two Shoes and bitch Tiggis Amazing Grace Clanheir taking top brood 2006. Robroyd Russkoe Zoloto, along with two bitches; Robroyd Gemtchugina and Robroyd Broshkaat Fernwood who was top RBT in 2001. Without doubt he left some excellent qualities that can be seen behind pedigrees today.

Photo: ©Huxley

3Eestiless Joker Arbat-Roz at Robroyd Photo courtesy of Janet Huxley

A dog, born 8th April 2004, and bred/ owned by Tom and Janet Huxley. For me he personified the standard of the breed. A dog that commanded your attention when entering a ring; sporting correct presentation. A topnotch dog standing the correct height, strongly built, heavy bone in an almost square robust sturdy frame. His head was a classic example of the breed standard. He oozed quality in silhouette and on the move. An incredible character; always willing to please. He had an impressive career in the UK and on the continent. Top RBT 2005 and 2006. Top stud 2012, 2013 and 2014.

Please note that judges are asked to make sure that all information supplied is factually correct. This information is again checked when submitted, but please note that unfortunately errors may still occur.

Are your dog’s microchip details up to date?

Recent research revealed that 53% of microchips show inaccurate keeper details rade Upg y! toda

Upgrade to Petlog Premium to give your pet a better chance of being found if they go missing

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32 September 2018 - Kennel Gazette

29-32 Judges Choice.indd 32

14/08/2018 09:08

Russian Black Terrier judges’ choice

Breed clubs and societies take the welfare of their breeds very seriously and work tirelessly to provide help, support, and homes for dogs in need.

Assured Breeder Scheme Further information can be obtained from the Kennel Club Health and Breeder Services Department Email abs@thekennelclub.org.uk or call 01296 318540 Breed-specific requirements and recommendations, including health screening for the Russian Black Terrier under the Assured Breeder Scheme Breed

Requirements for Health Recommendations for Screening of Breeding Stock Health Screening of Last updated July 2018 Breeding Stock Last updated July 2018

Russian Black Terrier

1) Elbow grading 2) Hip scoring

Russian Black Terrier Club Ms J Bunting

Tel: 07305 316363 dromnagus@sky.com www.rbtclub.com Russian Black Terrier (UK) Information Group

1) Breeders should issue grooming advice 2) Bitches under two years not to produce a litter 3) DNA test - HUU

Russian Black Terrier Club Welfare Ms Lisa Bridges

Russian Black Terrier 2005 – 2018 2005

YEVDOKIYA IZ RUSSKOI DINASTII*

2006

ARBAT BAHRAI

2007

ALEKSANDER

2008

MALAHOVSKIY ADAM

2009

LISANDER ENJOYYOURSELF

2010

HOLLYWOOD HAELLEAS BOHEMICA

2011

MOSKVORECHIE YASON

2012

TSARITSA EKATERINA IZ RUSSKOI DINASTII

2013

MOSKVORECHIE YASON

2014

MOSKVORECHIE YASON

2015

ETALON IZ RUSSKOI DINASTII

2016

ETALON IZ RUSSKOI DINASTII

2017

MEDVEZHYA STAYA ILYA MUROMETS

2018

MEDVEZHYA STAYA NASLEDNIK PRESTOLA

* It was subsequently registered as EVDOKIE Russian Black Terrier Championship Show Judges 2018 There are no championship show judges for the Russian Black Terrier, as it is a non-CC breed.

Breed Education Co-ordinator for the Russian Black Terrier Mr Richard Kinsey 01529 462000 or 07809 211135 kitarnleos@aol.com For further information of breed rescue contacts in your area, please visit www.thekennelclub.org.uk/services/public/findarescue or contact Anita Tabrett, the relationship manager – welfare & breed rescue on 01296 718154 and anita.tabrett@thekennelclub.org.uk

NEXT MONTH

Collie (Rough) For advertising opportunities within Judges’ Choice please contact andrea.walters@warnersgroup.co.uk

Photo: ©Diane Pearce Collection/The Kennel Club

Crufts BOB Winners

Tel: 01332 792567 lisabridges976@btinternet.com www.rbtclub.com

September 2018 - Kennel Gazette 33

29-32 Judges Choice.indd 33

14/08/2018 09:09

Book review

Book corner The Kennel Club Library is Europe’s largest collection of canine literature and these two books are recent additions to its shelves

By Lucy Davies (Hoxton Mini Press & Penguin Books)

By Yann & Gwendal Le Bac (Walker Books)

Reviewed by Heidi Hudson

T

©Ruth van Beek/Really Good Dog Photography

©William Wegman/Really Good Dog Photography

contemporary art since the 1970s. Artists included are conceptual artist William Wegman; satirical Magnum photographer, Elliott Erwitt; Peter Hugar, Alec Soth, Daniel Naudé, Tim Flach, Ruth van Beek, Charlotte Dumas, Martin Usborne and Jo Longhurst.

©Tim Flach/Really Good Dog Photography

his is an excellent dog photography book for those that appreciate dogs and art, but really appreciate dog photography as art. This book published

by Hoxton Mini Press & Penguin Books is a prodigious effort at focusing on the dog within the context of photography as art.

This is not your typical kitsch, sentimental compilation of popular dog photographs, rather than a modern-day offering of photography as art. Really Good Dog Photography focuses in on the artists who employ dogs as muse and subject matter exploring their complexities, personalities and their truthfulness as man’s best friend.

This Really Good book on dog photography is recommended for the aspiring dog photographer as an additional study for composition and subject matter. The book contains 27 dog photographers in total, and offers a robust offering from both female and male international photographers, which gives the book a weight both in artistry and subject matter. The book includes many influential dog photographers who have succeeded in elevating the dog within

T

his is a story of an ordinary dog which, for a time, had an extraordinary life. It is also a story with a moral and can be read on two levels.

From his days as a care-free dog enjoying the simple things in life, Raymond develops a taste for the celebrity life-style after achieving success as an editor-at-large with ‘Dogue’, a glossy magazine aimed at those dogs with considerable disposable income.

Coming to the notice of TV moguls Raymond is then approached to host ‘Dog News’ a new channel for discerning canines. His life becomes busier than ever and ‘everyone wants a slice of Raymond’.

Thankfully common sense prevails and on holiday with his humans he realises that he has lost his way and longs for the simple things in life.

Beautifully illustrated by the joint authors, it could be the one book to delight children time and time again or the one book that reminds parents to appreciate the simple things in life!

ou’ve r book th ead a dog at like to t you would ell our r eaders about, p lease le t our editor k now

Really Good Dog Photography

Raymond

Reviewed by Bill Moores

Boo off the k shelf If y

The Kennel Club Library is happy to welcome visitors and help with research. Opening hours by appointment: Monday to Friday, 9.30am–4.30pm. Contact us: library@thekennelclub.org.uk

34 September 2018 - Kennel Gazette

34 Book corner.indd 34

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