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Best In Show - Judge Dr. Alvin Grossman
Ch. Dalane Doizaki Buckingham’s Pride A Top Ten* Golden Retriever in 2009 A Best In Show and Specialty Winner Multiple Group Winner First Award of Merit - AKC/Eukanuba National Championship 2009 Golden Retriever Club of America SDHF at 23 months of age Award of Merit at Golden Retriever National 2009 Bred by: Dale & Jane Jensen Dalane Golden Retrievers
Owned by: Hisato Doizaki & Jane Jensen *The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed
Handled by: Bruce and Tara Schultz
10 ♦ Editorial
CONTENTS
February 26, 2010
14 ♦ Inside Out BY JOHN MANDEVILLE
18 ♦ A Delegate’s Journal BY CONNIE VANACORE
22 ♦ Question Of The Week BY MATTHEW H. STANDER
26 ♦ Inside The Sport BY PAT TROTTER
30 ♦ Brace Yourself BY ANDREW BRACE
34 ♦ Bests Of The Week 38 ♦ Ten Questions BY LESLEY BOYES
42 ♦ Cruz-ing Through Westminster BY PATRICIA M. CRUZ
44 ♦ Westminster Photo Essay BY CHET JEZIERSKI
54 ♦ The Way It Is BY SARI TIETJEN
62 ♦ A Westminster Tempest In A Teapot BY DENISE FLAIM
70 ♦ Remembering Gilbert Kahn BY TONY ROSATO
74 ♦ The Fancy Speaks BY CINDY COOKE & W. JEAN DODDS
78 ♦ Miniature In Name Only BY M.J. NELSON
82 ♦ Jerry Speaks BY GERALD SCHWARTZ
86 ♦ Off The Leash BY SHAUN COEN
90 ♦ Taking It On The Chin For A Change And More BY MATTHEW H. STANDER
104 ♦ The Gossip Column BY EUGENE Z. ZAPHIRIS
106 ♦ Click – Theatre Benefit BY PHOEBE BOOTH
112 ♦ Click – The Way We Were BY EUGENE Z. ZAPHIRIS
110 dog show calendar • 116 handlers directory • 118 subscription rates • 120 classified advertising • 122 advertising rates All advertisements are copyrighted and owned by DOG NEWS, Harris Publications, unless received camera-ready. Permission to reprint must be requested in writing. 4 Dog News
DOG NEWS (ISSN 0886-2133) is published weekly except the last two weeks in December by Harris Publications, 1115 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10010. Periodical Postage paid at New York.
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FEBRUARY F EBRUARY 26, 26, 2010 2010
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IAN MILLER 212 462.9624 CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Sharon Anderson Lesley Boyes Andrew Brace Shaun Coen Carlotta Cooper Geoff Corish Yossi Guy Mary Jung Barbara Lounsbury John Mandeville Billy Miller Desmond J. Murphy M. J. Nelson Sharon Newcombe Robert Paust Lenora Riddle Sharon Sakson Gerald Schwartz Kim Silva Matthew H. Stander Sari Brewster Tietjen Patricia Trotter Connie Vanacore Carla Viggiano Nick Waters Seymour Weiss Minta (Mike) Williquette DOG NEWS PHOTOGRAPHERS Chet Jezierski Perry Phillips Kitten Rodwell Leslie Simis Paddy Spear
DOG NEWS is sent to all AKC approved judges every week on a complimentary basis. No part of this publication can be reproduced in any form without written permission from the editor. The opinions expressed by this publication do not necessarily express the opinions of the publisher. The editor reserves the right to edit all copy submitted. 6 Dog News
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EDITORIAL
A Planned Attack – Thwarted Somewhat Last week we warned of Wayne Pacelle’s “war” on purebred breeders as posted on his HSUS site on February 16th. Amazingly the very next day in the New York Times.com blog appeared four extensive condemnations by people long critical of AKC and the purebred dog world presented “By THE EDITORS” headlined, “Feeling Guilty About Your Purebred Dog?” The coincidence of the timing of these two posts and the one-sided biased diatribes which followed leads one to conclude that the writers and Mr. Pacelle to say nothing of “THE EDITORS” (to whomever unknown parties that may refer) were in cahoots on this project from the beginning. If the “EDITORS” truly were indeed interested in presenting a debate and a running commentary on the news as is headlined on the banner of this blog wouldn’t they have presented at least one alternative viewpoint? So much for fairness from that blog, that’s for sure. Can you just imagine the likes of Mark Derr – a well-known long time critic of anything purebred except a border collie and/or Francis Battista of Best Friends Animal Society conceding and/or admitting one favorable point about AKC, pure-bred breeders and/or Parent Clubs? Anecdotes are stated as facts as usual by these people whilst the good works and millions of dollars expended by breeders – not the HSUS or PETA but by concerned purebred breeders to study and eliminate health problems for all dogs through the Canine Health Foundation and the Morris Animal Foundation to name but two organizations is ignored as though they and their contributions never even existed. That’s de rigueur for these people though as they ignore the facts in an effort to appeal to gain the sympathies of John Q. Public in an never-ending attempt to fill their own coffers at the expense of mainly concerned and well-directed purebred breeders. Center for Consumer Freedom Still smarting from the obnoxious attacks as described above and the lack or reaction on the part of AKC to this war imagine the surprise of awakening on February 23rd to a full page advert in the New York Times on page 9 headed,”Shouldn’t the ‘Humane Society’ do better?” followed by a two or three line description questioning the financial motivation of the “great” HSUS organization. Claiming that the dog-watchers need a financial watchdog and asking for one and all to join a discussion about HSUS at HUMANEWatch.org the nonprofit Center for Consumer Freedom challenged the living bedevil out of Wayne Pacelle and the organization he operates. Indeed Goldman-Sachs – yes, that Goldman-Sachs – is the financial advisor for HSUS which is alleged to divide its non-profits into over 30 different corporations so that the salaries of the top level executives never appear to top $25,000. Except for the fact that in many instances its that sum times the 30 odd corporations which is the total salary paid an individual. This gives you a better idea why in 2008 HSUS made $2,532,167 in pension contributions for its own employees. Further, HSUS only gave out of a 100 million dollar budget onehalf of one per cent – $452,371 to hands-on pet shelters. How much did they give for health and welfare research, sort of like FCI one must presuppose? Nada. Thank heaven for CCF getting these facts out about HSUS. When it comes to PETA Ms. Newkirk one suspects had better head for the hills. Meanwhile where is AKC in all of this???That’s what these pages would like to know. These pages find their silence deafening. More On The Coming Election The Dog News Directors Questionnaire has been posted on the Delegates e-line at the request of some Delegates. We were happy to provide that service and hope it will be helpful to all in the coming March elections. Last week these pages stressed our belief in the need to intelligently and effectively shorten the number of meetings for both the Board and the Delegate 10 Dog News
Body. For some obtuse reasoning, and as these pages and a number of our writers predicted when the Delegate Committees were originally established the time would come that most major constitutional changes would be forthcoming from the Delegate Committees with the Board sitting back awaiting their input before taking action. Certainly this was the case with the term limit problem which the Bylaws Committee just squeaked out of its Committee. Now the Delegate Advocacy and Advancement Committee (DAAC) has taken the lead in reducing, peculiarly for sure, the number of delegate meetings but increasing the length of them as well as designating in the Judges Directory the fact that Delegates do not charge fees. Are these really the jobs of these Committees? These pages think not but it sure gives the sitting Boards an easy out at election time, doesn’t it? And speaking of election time – everyday seems to be election time at AKC. Why within three months of this March’s election a new Nominating Committee will be named for the March 2011 election? Can’t we reduce the number of elections too – say hold one election every two or three years instead of every year. Then maybe some real work can be accomplished on the Board level for sure Thought For The Week The distressing and shocking news of the passing of Gilbert Kahn resounded throughout the dog world last Monday evening and Tuesday morning. A long time devotee and supporter of all things canine, Gilbert was a friend to all. He not only worked the Take the Lead Booth at the Garden this past Westminster but appeared full of life and vitality throughout the week’s festivities. This made his sudden death all the more shocking. Through the years he was been a loyal and staunch supporter and benefactor within the dog world. He had been a consistent leader and contributor financially and personally to the Museum of the Dog, the University of Pennsylvania Veterinary School and Take the Lead, to name but a few of these institutions. His devotion to the Metropolitan Opera Company in New York City is extremely well documented, while his personal art collections were extensive, his homes tasteful and diverse but above all he was a caring and thoughtful man. Gilbert Kahn will be missed on too many levels too elucidate but be assured he will be remembered and loved by all with whom he came in contact. •
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Westminster Wrap Up & 2010’s Directors’ Election
InsideOut by John Mandeville
W
estminster 2010 is in the books. It reminded me again there are a lot of great stories in dogs. None does more for me – and as far as I’m concerned for all of dogs – than Gabriel Rangel’s taking the Scottie Ch. Roundtown Mercedes of Maryscot to Westminster’s 134th Best in Show. I gladly admit I think Gabriel is one of the sport’s good guys. He has earned our respect through hard work and dedication combined with talent. I also admit Scotties are number one on the list of breeds I have always wanted to own. I can produce witnesses to this more than four decade desire… including a spouse who keeps waving a blank check at me… unfortunately they will almost certainly add, gratuitously in my opinion, I have neither the smarts nor strength required for Scotties. As for Sadie being this year’s Westminster winner, the cynics will say, “What’d you expect? She won the Group last year and was going away 2009’s Top Dog.” Tell that to the surprisingly long list of owners, handlers and breeders – including many of the Twenty-first Century’s Top Dogs – who will to their chagrin attest going into the Garden with the top winning dog doesn’t mean you walk out of the building with the Best in Show trophy. As much as I think Westminster’s place at the pinnacle of the sport automatically imbues wins there with special cachet, 2010’s Best was especially notable for me – it goes into the handful of my most favorite Gardens. I considered saying nothing about the two women who barged onto the Garden’s floor Tuesday evening, but couldn’t resist after poking around the Internet and coming on “SodaHead.” SodaHead is a general interest site for “Hot Discussions” on current events, one I had never previously encountered. After describing what happened and the signs the turkeys carried, SodaHead asked, “Are you sick of PETA?” What’s not to like about that? Responders were given two choices: “Yes! The Westminster Dog Show incident just proves how ridiculous PETA can be. Give me a break!” or option number two, “No way! The Westminster Dog Show incident clearly shows how dedicated these people are. They’re great!” Any twinges I had over the choices people would make were quickly relieved by a count of responses. Choice number one, “PETA is ridiculous,” was overwhelmingly what responders were choosing, by 8 to 1. P. T. Barnum was right, “You can fool some of the people all of the time…” and so on. 14 Dog News
The people in charge at SodaHead selected this as their “Top Comment,” carefully transcribed exactly as posted, typos, misspellings, et. al.: “peta can suck it, i can understand why they protest animal crulity but it’s a freakin dog show they aint hurt them, they are showing them off jesus peta grow up and go away.” A nice skewering of PETA which makes up for its lack of elegance with a stylish argot entirely suitable for publication in a family publication like DOG NEWS. The folks doing Westminster’s telecast did exactly what’s required whenever zealots try to grab national TV attention: Don’t acknowledge anything. Dave Frei and Tamaron Hall in the booth said not a word and the camera crew’s producers made the split second decisions necessary to never let them get on screen. Good work by all. The would-be attention grabbers were charged with criminal trespass. That sounds better than it turns out to be. The maximum fine is $500 with no community service or jail time possible. It was reported as a result of the incident lawmakers would introduce legislation increasing penalties… better late than never. Bottom line: Westminster 2010 was especially pleasing for this household. Onto the 2010 AKC Directors’ Election. Most readers will see this with less than a week until Tuesday, March 9th’s AKC directors’ election. I have previously said I hate this election. This has nothing to do with the candidates. It’s because all five candidates are either serving directors still eligible for reelection or immediately past serving directors having been off the Board for a year and are now eligible to run again. This has resulted from the asinine institution of term limits. Term limits were supposed to bring new blood onto the Board. How’s that working out for you, delegates? Not at all, with the possibility term limits are counterproductive to bringing on new faces. Concerning the specific candidates: They could not have been more cooperative in answering our annual Questionnaire, appearing in the Westminster issue and online at dognews.com. Concerning the candidates’ responses: Not surprisingly Carmen Battaglia was the most long-winded of the candidates. Easily. Too bad length in this case doesn’t equate to quality. The inclusion of too much background often made getting to what would’ve been a reasonable answer painful. Pat Scully was easily the most succinct. This is all to her credit. More important than her brevity is her answers contain clear, worthwhile points that speak to the questions posed. Charlie Garvin and Bill Newman made reasoned answers containing specific points of concern or emphasis for them. Their answers were solid, if lacking a “that’s impressive” or “interesting” touch. When you write questions you “know” what constitutes a “good” answer. Steve Gladstone’s answers are better than I could’ve done myself. That has never happened in the 12 years I have written the questions. So, who gets elected to AKC’s Board on March 9?
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*All Systems
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ADelegate’sJournal by Connie Vanacore
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n involuntary hiatus from keyboard, and indeed, from most of life’s pains and pleasures, has caused this writer to miss being in New York for Westminster for the first time in over a quarter of a century. There were many sighs of regret, but then one looked out the window and saw the customary February snow and slush. The thought briefly crossed my mind that I would have gladly braved the elements yet another year.
Watching Westminster from the couch and from the computer screen, however, had some compensations. Stay-at-home viewers were able to get a good feel for the excitement in the arena due to the expert camera work and the knowledgeable and smooth presentation on air by David Frei and his fellow commentators. This was the first year I was home to watch the streaming video presentations and I must confess that I was impressed with both the quality of the videos and the complete coverage given to every breed. It was a really worthwhile effort for those who are intimately involved with the show and couldn’t possibly be at every ringside to watch every breed being judged. The audience at Madison Square Garden was as big as I can remember and as enthusiastic. It was interesting to pan across the audience to see who is recognizable on TV. It’s surprising how many of one’s friends show up on the screen. That is particularly true when one watches the individual breed videos which you can do at your leisure. Folks should bear in mind that they may be on “candid camera” as they stand or sit at ringside in sight of the video operators huddled in a corner of every ring. I particularly missed the center aisle on the floor of the Garden, where one usually encounters most of the candidates vying for seats at the March AKC Board elections. One has to be tall, however, to even be noticed amongst the throngs of spectators and rushing handlers trying to get to their next assignments. The pulse and adrenalin are almost palpable when you are in the arena. It is, one imagines, like being at the Olympics, instead of watching the high flyers perform on TV. Westminster and its ever-expanding auxiliary events provides enough variety of places to go and things to see to keep the most energetic spectator, participant or novice show goer entertained for much longer than the two days of the actual show. An exhibitor can start on Thursday before the show and not end, day or night, until the following Wednesday when the curtain comes down on the final luncheon at which the Group judges give their critiques and the Best in Show winner is presented for a final time. Most people who have had a long history of attending Westminster have special moments which stand out for them. Here are just a few of my memories. Of course, there was the week of the big snow when all the hotels were packed solid with people and dogs for days. That was the era of Mayor John Lindsay in the 1960s, who never recovered his stature after 18 Dog News
the streets were unplowed and cars immovable stuck in parking garages or lots near the Garden. Stores ran out of food, hotel restaurants scrambled to provide sustenance for trapped visitors. Many of the most memorable moments do involve the weather. In addition to the blizzard just mentioned, the most memorable is one which we watched from our room at the Affinia two years ago. We were on a high floor with a little balcony which overlooked the Empire State Building. The balcony filled with snow and the New York skyline disappeared behind a blanket of snow falling in drifts. All that was left of our view was a faint glow from the lights atop New York’s tallest building which was obscured by the swirling flakes. It was a magical scene.
The other wonderful reminiscences of New York at Westminster have less to do with the show itself, and more to do with typical city scapes. A trip to the Breakfast at Bonhams is always a highlight for me. Beautiful artwork is mounted in the gallery. Delicious food is provided for visitors and their pets. It is a typical New York scene to watch the dogs and their owners greet each other. Many are friends from the park, seeing their mirror images on the walls. The brunch is hosted by AKC with profits benefiting the AKC Humane Fund. It’s a welcome introduction on the Sunday prior to the opening of the show. New York has so much to offer besides the show itself. Next year visitors should make it a point to step outside the walls of Madison Square Garden and stroll one of the many neighborhoods and venues which New Yorkers call home. Matt Stander’s “Bite of the Apple” is an excellent place to start. Keep that issue for next year’s planning.
One of my favorite memories is of an installation of “living art” in Central Park. The paths through the park, starting at 57th Street opposite the Plaza Hotel and winding through the park were lined with flags fluttering in the wind. The concept and execution of this project was through the magic of the artist Christo. It was a transporting experience, one that cost nothing but a walk in the park on a nice day. Since our New York Westminster adventures extend back generations I should mention the suite we had at the Pennsylvania Hotel. That is, until the management took them off limits to everyone but basketball players. It was a huge, multi-bedroom suite into which we put several friends and their dogs, and even held club meetings there. Aside from the crummy elevator service, which still remains, we enjoyed our stays at the “Old Pennsylvania,” despite on occasion having to walk down many flights of stairs. Having to haul our own foldaway cots to the suite was only one of the many joys and remembrances of the old days at the Penn. Aside from the highs and lows of the show itself, attending Westminster is one of the traditions that carry its own memories of times, both happy and sad, that sustains one throughout the year. Let’s not forget the Terrier specialties being held at the 168th street Armory. Most folks took the subway uptown, since cabs wouldn’t take dogs, and during the days of the big blizzards subways were the only way of getting around in the city. Parking was out of the question in that neighborhood. Specialties were held all over town. Setters were at a high school on the East Side. Toys were at the Pennyslvania, where they still hold court today. Westminster is also the unofficial kick off of the campaign for AKC Directors. It is important for Delegates to be informed about the issues facing the candidates for office. The Westminster issue of Dog News contains extensive interviews with all of the candidates. Take time to read them, communicate with your Delegates before the election which will be held at the annual meeting of AKC Delegates on March 9, 2010. The issue is also at Dog News online, in case you do not subscribe. •
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InsideTHESPORT WESTMINSTERTHERE’S ONLY ONE!
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he 134th version of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show proved all over again that there truly is “Only One.” The magic of the dog show at Madison Square Garden is infectious, and those who come for the first time leave with a new sense of respect for our sportwhether they are non-doggy spectators or true dog fanciers. Those who come for the 20th or 50th time know that, no matter what, they’ll be back next yearGod willing. The excitement of the two-day gala acts as the grand finale for the previous year’s big winners at the same time it accentuates that the current younger stars have hit the ground running. The lovely Scottish terrier bitch Ch. Roundtown Mercedes Of Maryscot put the exclamation mark on her career. Her string of honors includes Top Dog All Breeds in 2009 as well as the winning of Montgomery County, the National Dog Show and the 125th American Kennel Club Anniversary Show sponsored by Eukanuba. Her handler Gabriel Rangel deserves all the credit in the world for the continued excellent conditioning and presentation of this lovely bitch throughout a tough campaign that took on all comers and garnered 112 BISs. Her owners-the marvelous Mussers---- rightfully go on the exclusive list of notable names that have won Westminster after decades of supporting the wonderful world of dogs. And the kennel name of Anstamm, co-breeders with Mary O’ Neal of Maryscot, is one that merits great respect in the annals of terrier history. Sired by Ch. Anstamm Like A Rock X Ch. Maryscot Painted Black, “Sadie” was raised by her mistress from puppyhood and no one does it better than Amelia Musser. Only Wire Fox Terriers have won more bests at Westminster than the “diehard” Scottish Terriers with 13 over the latter’s eight. My first Westminster trip in the late 1950’s started from the Virginia Beach area where the first leg of the jaunt was a long ferry ride across Chesapeake Bay, now spanned by a bridge-tunnel connection that keeps the traffic moving and saves hours on the way to Manhattan. It was in the Old Garden where the dogs where shown upstairs and the benching was downstairs. This arrangement allowed this youngster the opportunity to do plenty of early study. One of my late mentors Bill Holt, of English Setter
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fame as the breeder-owner-handler of Ch. Rock Falls Colonel, encouraged this as he commented that some of the best dogs are down here on Tuesday night! Because our Parent Club held its annual meeting there, we always had a good Norwegian Elkhound entry supported by famous names such as the Pecks, the Phillips, the Fowlers, the Woods and Judge Timbers -who later became chairman of the AKC boardthe Crafts and others who contributed so much to our breed. Mr. Peck, of Peck and Peck fame, graciously hosted a Scandinavian dinner in Manhattan for all Elkhound exhibitors following the meeting while his kennel manager cared for all the dogs on the benchnone of which were crated! Those were the days! Consider the history of the president of Westminster-Peter R. Van Brunt. A member of the Board of Governors for more than four decades, Peter is nonetheless part of the forward thinking Westminster group of officials along with show chairman Thomas H. Bradley III that have worked so hard to adjust to changing times while still keeping the customs of the dog show that date back to the founding of the club by gundog men at the old Hotel Westminster 135 years ago. Interestingly enough, Westminster remains true to its tradition as a gentlemen’s hunting club and still holds hunting dog activities in nearby New Jersey. Peter’s own distinguished family long bred Irish Wolfhounds under the respected Riverlawn prefix, and he himself retains his interest and support of the breed today. While the Bradley Luftnase kennel name traditionally is associated with Sporting dogs, the Border Terrier is now also a major focus of interest in his Watertown NY home. Their leadership of Westminster has continued in the vein of those who founded this gentlemen’s club and its classic dog show. Director of Communications Dave Frei’s contribution to the cause is gold star, as his public relations work can be seen in the very fact that Westminster sells out most years these days, especially if the show falls on one of the February holidays. One spectator remarked it was like getting tickets to a championship sports event at the Garden: “Do it early!” BIS judge Eliott Weiss carefully evaluated the seven finalists with skill and expertise. Elliott knows his way around the Westminster ring from his years of handling dogs there as well as the seven previous times he has judged
by Pat Trotter
at Westminster. His discerning eye appreciated the seven finalists from the very moment he initially looked over his lineup through the entire process to his closing congratulations to all as he selected “Sadie” the winner. Just how poised this elegant New York native is under pressure became evident when animal terrorists disrupted his show, entering the ring and holding up signs that stated MUTTS RULE as the first dog ended its go-around. Their take-off on the sponsor’s Pedigree slogan DOGS RULE was their sick way of voicing their ugly displeasure of our beloved sport. Dog people booed their nastiness as authorities escorted them out and subsequently “criminal trespass” charges were filed against them. Eliott quietly instructed the handler of the next dog, “Don’t pay attention.” His courteous behavior and settling influence diffused the entire situation in the wink of an eye! Such presence of mind is most enviable. When interviewed by the network following the victory, the understated Rangel said simply that he “truly enjoyed the moment” and was very happy with Sadie’s performance. Gabriel runs a very professional operation, and his clients love him like a son. Mexico’s loss was truly our gain, as he and his hard-working crew bring so much professionalism to our sport.
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ne of the many rewarding compliments I heard from spectators included reference to the fact that dog shows seemed to profile welldressed people. In thinking about this, I realized that jeans and all sorts of casual attire are worn almost everywhere these days-social events, weddings, church; cocktail parties and what have you. Yet, business attire is the order of the day at any dog show in our country. Perhaps dog people are too proud of their quality dogs to demean them by wearing anything less than attire that reflects their respect for their dogs and the sport. It makes me proud to be part of their civility. Stunning gowns and jewelry, tuxedo clad gentlemen; families out on the town, hard-working personnel and beautiful dogs are all part of this glorious event in the “Big Apple.” It’s a yearly reminder that America’s elite dog shows may not have the sheer numbers of other dog shows around the world, but they certainly do showcase the best of the best. In the case of Westminster, there truly is “only one.” •
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BRACE YOURSELF by Andrew Brace
The Excitement Of The Garden
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aving visited Westminster on numerous occasions as a spectator I have always been impressed with the great sense of excitement that the show generates. Whereas Crufts is huge, you really do have to go searching to find dogs in the massive trade show. At The Garden the judging rings are the focal point – less than Crufts of course and smaller but what is lacking in size is more than made up for with atmosphere. Experiencing the show for the first time as a judge I can honestly say that nothing comes close to the overwhelming sense of occasion felt inside the ring. The build-up to the show was gradual, judging at a couple of specialty shows on Long Island, then coming into the city for the McCarthys’ cocktail party, then the ProPlan Showdogs of the Year awards dinner and finally the Governors’ dinner at the beautifully opulent Racquet Club. When Monday morning dawned I suddenly felt the enormity of the assignment and am not ashamed to admit I was extremely nervous. On arrival at Ring One the smiling faces of stewards Edd Bivin and Susan Sprung helped to put me at ease, but already the ringside was heaving. The sounding of the National Anthem heightened emotion – strangely hearing my own Anthem never seems to have the same effect. We began with Pugs, the largest entry in the Toy group, and a breed that is generally accepted to be strong Stateside. I was bothered by some rather heavy over-nose wrinkles that obliterate the nose leather and I found a few that were longer cast than the ideal, but having worked through several cuts I was still drawn to a male that had caught my eye on the first go-around, and who had one of the most laid-back handlers in the ring. I admired his very well laid out open features, his close-fitting skin and his sound and typical movement. He won the breed well I felt. Later in the day I learnt that he had been Mr Bivin’s winner at the Pug National last year which gave me confidence. The BOS bitch had the type I wanted and for all her femininity she lost nothing in substance, though she just gave a little in topline against the male. Interestingly I believe it was she who was also Mr Bivin’s Opposite at The National. Toy Poodles came next, not a big entry, and for me a comfortable winner was the white male, Japanese bred, and who had won the breed under me last year. He was as on-form at The Garden as I have ever seen him and gave me a wonderful overall picture. BOS was a very pretty black bitch with a lovely head and expression but for sheer performance she couldn’t get past Walker. Papillons then assembled, lots of them and whilst there was some variety in type and size overall quality was high. As with Pugs several 30 Dog News
cuts were necessary and the dog I kept coming back to was a very stylish tricolour male in the most marvellous condition whose movement was flawless and who had the correct Papillon coat. He sailed through to win the breed, whilst BOS was a very feminine and dainty bitch shown by her Japanese breeder Chie Ejima, appealing in so many ways but just not so clean out and back as the male. Edd and Susan then left me in the capable hands of Pat Laurens and Terry Hundt and we carried on with Pekingese. Not a big entry and in essence something of a two-horse race I felt. The BOB winning male pleased me on the table with good body shape and weight and very much all of a piece. He moved sedately and typically for the breed, and I gather from handler David Fitzpatrick that this was his retirement show. BOS was the bitch who won the breed at Crufts last year, somewhat more upstanding than the male, but with a glorious face and features. In this breed I opted to award only one of the two available Awards of Merit. Pomeranians then came in, another big entry, and quite varied in type. I had difficulty in finding that really foxy Pom expression with a lot of rather full eyes and short muzzles present, and I felt that many of the dogs had been over-scissored which does tend to destroy the lovely soft lines that the breed should display. That said, my final cut gave me some interesting dogs to work with. Eventually the BOB winning male had the shape I admire and he moved so well at all times. I note that the BOS bitch who matched him well is not only his kennelmate but a half-sister. We then had to leave for lunch which meant that I missed Patti Keenan judging my beloved Beagles, and we were back for 12:45 when the Miniature Poodles were waiting along with Mr Bivin and Dennis McCoy as stewards. From the start I was drawn to a young black bitch but unfortunately she hasn’t quite got her act together and wasn’t as composed on the leash as she could have been, but she still managed an AOM and I am sure with experience she has huge potential. The breed decision was close but in the final analysis I went with the black male, not shown in continental trim like the majority, but he was a great dog to go over and had movement and carriage to burn. A very satisfying silver bitch took Opposite who I believe is Number One in her breed and I can see why she has had so many admirers. Bichons Frisé came in next with a good entry, again some difference in basic shape and head proportions but plenty of good ones. The one dog who had caught my eye on the first go-around caused me a minor panic attack on the table when I could only find one testicle, but obviously Garden Pressure had got to him, and after getting him back on table
after an out-and-back and around he had two normal descended testicles for all to see. He ended up taking the breed, largely due to his excellent head and expression, correct coat texture and stunning outline. BOS was a very pleasing bitch who had all the breed essentials but didn’t give me quite the expression of the male. With a rather high-powered ringside we then moved on to Standard Poodles and the anxiety of how to make the best of a rather small ring for dogs of this size, but I did the best I could. This breed gave me the biggest buzz of the day and despite having a few dogs in the ring who had previously done well under me, I figured the breed was between two blacks, one bitch and one dog. Both had wonderful Poodle attitude and balance and showed proudly on loose leashes for their clever handlers. The bitch I figured had been the one I had seen from a distance at Long Beach in December, but at close quarters I found her quite breathtaking with a head and expression that was utterly bewitching. She had the perfect outline with the bonus of a tail in the right place. I loved the movement and determination of the male, but when I had them facing me the bitch’s exquisite headpiece made it a done deal. Still they made a truly exciting pair. I also had to suffer some ribbing from friends in view of the fact that in the past I have been critical of the quality of some Canadian Champions. The fact that both these Standard Poodles were bred in Canada at least proved that I am not against dogs from that country – just the unworthy ones – and I have always maintained that Canada has some excellent breeders and some excellent dogs. Having changed into our glad rags we dined with friends at the excellent Benjamin’s Steakhouse at the recommendation of Dennis Sprung and got back to The Garden with minutes to spare before group judging. Obviously I was keen to see what Canada’s Shirley Limoges would make of the Toys I had sent her and was delighted that the Toy Poodle, Pekingese and Papillon made Group 1, 2, and 4. My Non Sporting BOB winners didn’t do quite so well but I was proud of them, particularly the Standard who had many admirers. And so to Best – no one could dispute the fact that Gabriel got a stellar performance out of the Scottie bitch, and Elliott Weiss’ choice was clearly a popular one. Wearily we made our way to the aprèsshow party where Mercedes’ win continued to be celebrated. And so ended another Garden. It had been a wonderful trip and certainly given me one of the most unforgettable days of my career in dogs.•
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*All Systems
Dog News 33
The Bests oftheWeek
FEBRUARY 26, 2 2010
The Progressive Dog Club First Company Governor’s Foot Guard Athletic Association Toy Poodle Ch. Smash JP Moon Walk Judge Mrs. Barbara Dempsey Alderman Judge Mrs. Janet Turnage Nahikian Owners Ron Scott and Debbie Burke Handler Kaz Hosaka
Sara Bay Kennel Club - Friday & Saturday Lakeland-Winter Haven Kennel Club - Monday Irish Setter Ch. Shadagee Caught Red-Handed Judge Mrs. Christine E. Pollender-Calcinari Judge Mrs. Peggy J. Haas Judge Ms. Rita A. Bell Owners Debra S. Burke & Nancy Lee Conner Adam Bernardin, Agent Southern Arkansas Kennel Club - Saturday & Sunday Smooth Fox Terrier Ch. J’Cobe Kemosabe Vigilante Justice Judge Mrs. Michele Billings Judge Mrs. Barbara Dempsey Alderman Owners Howard & Sandra Hoffen and Phil & Amy Booth Handler Amy Booth Lakeland-Winter Haven Kennel Club Standard Poodle Ch. Dawin Spitfire Judge Mrs. R. Ellen Fetter Owner Linda Campbell Handler Sarah Riedl Spartanburg Kennel Club Hendersonville Kennel Club Scottish Deerhound Ch. Foxcliffe Hickory Wind Judge Mrs. Betty-Anne Stenmark Judge Mr. Michael H. Faulkner Owners Sally Sweatt, Cecilia Dove, Dr. R. Scott Dove Handler Angela Lloyd Santa Clara Valley Kennel Club Alaskan Malamute Ch. Catanyas Latin Lover Judge Miss Virginia Lyne Owners Alisa Syar, PJ Kendrick, A.Martinez Handler Mike Stone 34 Dog News
To report an AKC All Breed Best In Show or National Specialty Win Call, Fax or Email before 12:00 Noon Tuesday Fax: 212 675-5994 Phone: 212 462-9588 Email: Dognews@harris-pub.com
Linn County Kennel Club Akita Ch. Mojo’s Rock’N Your World Judge Mr. Richard L. Reynolds Owners Stacey Borrmann & Bill Rule Handler Alvin “Beep” Lee Guadalupe Valley Dog Fanciers - Saturday and Sunday Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Ch. Afterglow Ebeneezer Judge Mr. George E. Marquis Judge Col. Joe B. Purkhiser Owners BJ Thompson, Scott Russell, Fred Ellingford, Michael Gadsby Handler Clint Livingston Linn County Kennel Club - Sunday Golden Retriever Ch. Dalane Doizaki Buckingham Pride Judge Dr. Alvin Grossman Owners Hisato Doizaki & Jane Jensen Handler Bruce Schultz Cyclone Country Kennel Club of Ames - Saturday Saluki Ch. Aurora’s Walk This Way Judge Mrs. Nancy Smith Hafner Owners Julie L. Mueller & Eugene Blake Handler Eugene Blake Cyclone Country Kennel Club Of Ames, Iowa - Sunday Rottweiler Ch. Cammcastle’s Friar Tuck Judge Mrs. Wendy Willhauk Owners Vicky and Tony O’Brien Handler Holley Eldred Santa Clara Valley Kennel Club - Sunday Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Ch. Javahill Steal My Heart Judge Dr. John V. Ioia Owners Amy and Paul Soderman Handler Amy Soderman
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*The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed
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1
What is your Ha, ha, ha – What an appropriate question. favorite dog show moment exclusive of a win?
3
2
I’m so talented at most Which everything that it’s hard to talent single out a specific. would you most like to have?
4
Who is your real life hero or heroine?
“Are you Which kidding?” words or phrases do you most overuse?
My mother, who was an extraordinary woman and my husband, Carl, who was a gentle man and a gentlman.
5 6 7 What is in your wallet/ purse right now?
A bus pass, credit cards and small change.
Other people think I am:
Truly adorable
How would you describe yourself in a personal ad?
The same way – “truly adorable.”
8 9 What was your most embarrassing moment at a dog show? I never really had an embarrasing moment at a dog show.
Which judge, no longer alive or judging, do you miss the most? Nigel Aubrey-Jones who was both smart and funny.
10questions What do you miss the most at dog shows? I miss some of the old, wonderful, outdoor East Coast shows.
Asked of Joan Fisher Born: New York City Resides: New York City Marital Status: Widowed
38 Dog News
By Lesley Boyes
Ch. Willowick Talltean
Westminster Kennel Club Sporting Group First Winner Judge Dr. Donald Sturz, Jr. Best of Breed Judge Mr. Michael Faulkner Breeder-Owner Catherine Fitzgerald cgirefitz@comcast.net
Owner-Handler Kelly Miller zaffres@aol.com
Dog News 39
Ch. Cordmaker Westminster Herding Group Winner for the Second Consecutive Year! Group First Judge Ms. Linda More Best of Breed Judge Mrs. Helen Lee James
Owned By: Jackie Beaudoin Sue Huebner 40 Dog News
Our Special Thanks: Lajosmegyi Kennels The Fuzzy Farm
Presented By: Michael & Linda Pitts
Field of Dreams
The Number One*Herding Dog for 2009
Conrad *The Dog News Top Ten List
Dog News 41
Cruz-ingThrough Westminster T by Patricia M. Cruz
he finest athletes in the world train to compete at Madison Square Garden and the seven best athletes in our sport wowed a sold-out crowd as the 134th annual Westminster Kennel Club came to a close last Tuesday night. Every one of the 2573 dogs entered in 173 breeds and varieties is a champion and a trained, conditioned athlete in their breed.
And with Fashion Week in NYC going on at the same time as Westminster, the ladies – Donna, Vera, Betsy and Carolina – had nothing on our own “Sadie” who had a runway of her very own in the noted sports palace. Formally known as Scottish Terrier, Ch. Roundtown Mercedes of Maryscot and just a month shy of her fifth birthday, “Sadie” repeated her 2009 Westminster Terrier Group win en route to her 112th Best in Show. Owned by Amelia Musser of Mackinac Island, Michigan and handled by Gabriel Rangel, “Sadie” was bred by Mary O’Neal and noted Scottie breeders Anstamm Kennels. In a space of about five months, “Sadie” has won Bests at Montgomery KC, KC of Philadelphia, AKC’s Eukanuba, and Westminster. Mrs. Musser, along with husband Dan, own and operate the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island often seen on travel shows where they play host to many celebrities and well-recognized names and faces. “Sadie” will fit right in with this crowd as her year of being the nation’s top dog comes to a close. Gabriel, who with better half Ivonne, operates Rangel Kennels in Rialto, California, became the second Latin American to earn the CONTINUED ON PAGE 92
42 Dog News
A HISTORICAL WIN!
NON-SPORTING GROUP FIRST Thank you Judge Mrs. Dorothy Dalton and to Breed Judge Mr. James G. Reynolds
Thank you also to all the fans for their support.
This was the first Westminster Kennel Club Group Win in Breed History!
“Bru”
Ch. Robobull Fabelhaft Im On Fire Sire: Ch Robobull Fabelhaft Inferno
Dam: Escapade De La Parure
Proudly Owned & Loved By: Shelley St. John & James Dalton Handled Exclusively By: Perry Payson Dog News 43
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the Way Itis by Sari Tietjen
“S
ay it ain’t so, Joe” has become a popular catch-all phrase to use when one hears something especially incredulous. This phrase precisely reveals my disbelief when I heard that the Delegate Advocacy and Advancement Committee (DAAC) wants to have a special designation in the Judges’ Directory and on the AKC website to denote that they are Delegate-Judges who cannot charge a fee for judging. When I was told about this my first response was “you have to be kidding!” Then, I asked for proof which I was given. In the December minutes of the DAAC, it was recorded by unanimous vote of those committee members present to ask AKC to implement a computer program to give delegatejudges a special designation. The reasoning as recorded was: “Delegate judges can charge no fees beyond expenses for their judging assignments, somewhat like provisional judges. To add a designation for delegate judges in addition to the current designation for provisional judges and judges’ addresses (to find local judges) would give clubs another possible way to find savings as they plan their shows.” Aside from the fact that one can wonder whether or not this is a topic that comes under the scope of the purpose of the DAAC (. . . review and make recommendations on issues and proposals affecting the future structure of the Delegate Body, Delegate empowerment, changes relating to Delegate meetings and Delegate eligibility.”), such a designation represents a clear form of solicitation by delegate-judges under the guise of helping clubs save money by giving them easy access to “cheap” judges. Indeed, the question must be asked is why delegate-judges want clubs to hire them just because they are “cheap.” Such a public designation is akin to branding the Scarlet Letter – in this case a “C” – on their forehead. With regards to clubs, why would any club want to hire a particular judge just because he/ she is “cheap?” Whatever happened to the notion that the most important requirement for a judge to possess is dog knowledge, judging ability, pleasing nature, and good hands? Everyone knows that times are tough economically, but “cheap” only cheapens the process. This, of course, brings up the whole topic of delegate-judges not being able to charge a fee over expenses of transportation, lodging and meals in accordance with AKC Bylaws. This inability is the direct result of the Delegate Body being unwilling to amend the Bylaws to permit delegate-judges to even 54 Dog News
get reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses (although some have been known to either pad expenses or charge an additional set sum to cover such expenses – which, although not permitted under the Bylaws, is accepted by clubs with a winkand-a-nod.). As professionals in other dog-related fields are able to serve as Delegates, it is unfair that judges are so restricted. Indeed, the reason often given by those who oppose amending the Bylaws to permit fee-charging judges to be eligible to serve as Delegates is that the Delegate Body is suppose to be comprised of amateurs in the sport. Since there are seated Delegates who are paid dog writers and professional photographers, to name just two professions that come readily to mind, it is hardly comprised of just amateurs. However, this status is not likely to ever change. It is unfortunate that the Delegate Body restricts itself in such a fashion as it refuses to benefit from deriving deliberative input from some of the most active members of the fancy. It has been acknowledged by all that there is a tremendous turnover of Delegates and that it takes a newcomer a long time to learn the ropes of being a Delegate and to become an active member of that legislative body. With well over 600 member clubs and an average quarterly meeting attendance of less than half that number, one wonders just how effective the Delegate Body could be if it would take the necessary steps to revamp and revitalize its legislative process. In addition to allowing anyone to serve as a Delegate who has been appointed/elected by a member club as long as they are not a convicted felon, someone who has taken funds from a club (even if paid back), and/or not in good standing with the AKC, an upgrading of the Delegate Body would include a reduction of the number of meetings from quarterly to once or twice a year and the use of electronic technology for online committee meetings, debates, and other communications. Other ideas to consider is creating Sub-delegate Bodies within the Delegate Body, such as a separate sub-delegate structure for all Agility clubs, another for all Field Trial clubs, and so on to cover all of the different types of AKC events – with those subdelegate bodies voting on topics that pertain to their area within the sport; a requirement that all AKC event clubs must become AKC member clubs; dividing the country into regional Delegate bodies, who elect Regional Directors to serve on a National Directors Board; the National Directors Board would elect an Executive Board to oversee AKC matters; a reduction in the number of Board meetings to four a year from the current eight a year with a corresponding reduction in the Executive Directors’ (current Board of Directors) fee presently paid from $12,000 a year to $4,000 or less or none; and the sponsoring of one National convention a year that lasts a week and covers all things relating to dogs. Instead of considering any of the above, the Delegates’ DAACommittee decides to pave the way for delegate-judges to solicit assignments (which heretofore has always been considered against AKC’s policy) and wants to establish criteria for clubs to use when electing/appointing their Delegates. Some of the criteria includes not just specified background in dogs, but mandating a service as a Delegate for at least five years, attendance at two of the four Delegate meetings a year, and various other instructions for Delegates to follow regarding their contacts with their clubs. None of this goes to the heart of the problem – the Delegate Body is too restrictive, the meetings are very expensive and time-consuming with little business taking place, if all 600+ Delegates attended the meetings its sheer size would be overwhelming, too many event-giving clubs are not represented, and the present governance model is outdated. It is this bigger picture that begs exploration! •
Starts the New Year with Three Best In
JJudge d M Mrs. Ch Christine i ti PPollender-Calcinari ll d C l i i Owners: Joan L. Fisher Robert D. Speiser Barbara Wolfe 56 Dog News
Handler Extraordinaire! Phoebe J. Booth 203 938-0226
Shows and Seven Group Firsts
JJudge d M Mr. JJon CCole l
Dog News 57
Dog News is now online
every page, ever y issue, ever y week.
visit us at www.dognews.com providing you the most coverage for your advertising dollar
58 Dog News
In loving memory
Gilbert Stanley Kahn March 11, 1928 — February 22, 2010
Joe and Bobbi Walton and our Charing Cross Shih Tzu, Topper, Mort, Denny, and Poppy Dog News 59
A Westminter Temtpest In A Teapot by Dennis Flaim
W
estminster was pre-empted last week – briefly but dramatically – when two placard-waving animal-rights activists stormed the Best in Show ring and took literal center stage to wave their message to the 15,000 spectators at the Garden and the millions more tuning in at home: “Mutts Rule” and “Breeders Kill Shelter Dogs’ Chances,” the latter one of PETA’s pet slogans. Perhaps the surprise is not that this happened, but that it has taken this long. Anti-purebred-ism is arguably on the rise, and the dog fancy’s most high-profile event makes an appealing and somewhat inevitable target. Large gatherings of any subculture – whether it’s Trekkies queueing up to ogle George Takei or phlebotomists doing the macarena at their national convention in Vegas – underscore their eccentricities. We are sitting ducks – or is that tollers? – when it comes to pokes from the media about everything from poodle coifs to the oftentimes inverse relationship between toy dogs and the poundage of their handlers. Reporters need color, and we certainly provide that. And their jabs, while stinging for the moment, soon fade. (See The Onion’s very tongue-in-um-cheek parody, “Chinese Crested Dog’s Beautifully Descended Testicles Bring Divided Nation Together.”) We have bigger problems than a few teabag jokes. The very factors that made purebreds popular – perhaps too popular – in the middle of the 20th Century are today their weaknesses, first and foremost the telegraphing of “elite” status. In today’s culture, where nobody wants to be looking like they try too hard, a mixed-breed gives just the right dollop of insouciance. Viva la underdog. On the Sunday before the Garden, I attended the Alliance of Purebred Dog Writers’ luncheon, where Patti Strand was the guest speaker. Her group, NAIA, gives fanciers the facts and statistics to combat accusations that purebreds are to blame for everything from the national deficit to global warming. 62 Dog News
Ultimately, however, logic is not powerful enough. Of all the images that flashed by on Patti’s PowerPoint presentation, the one that still stays with me is the shelter dogs after euthanasia, piled high in garbage cans, inert, stiff with insignificance. That photo illustrates the biggest hurdle we face in the anti-purebred movement – emotion. As any Catholic school survivor can tell you, there is no emotion quite as destructive as guilt, and its ugly stepsister, shame. Guilt is the emotion that the anti-purebred movement has built its firmaments on: Guilt that purebred dogs sell for thousands when random-bred shelter dogs languish and die. Guilt that we cultivate for beauty as well as companionship. Guilt that heritable disease happens in our gene pools (though statistically not significantly more than in random-bred dogs … whoops, lapsed into logic there for a moment. That won’t happen again.) Is it any wonder that The New York Times’ “Room for Debate” blog posted this query the day after Westminster: “Feeling Guilty About Your Purebred Dog?” The blog offered up four responses, all with varying degrees of nuance, three of which point out some of the oft-heard criticisms of purebred dogs. Francis Battista, co-founder of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, described the only CONTINUED ON PAGE 94
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by Tony Rosato
Remembering
Gilbert Kahn
T
he sport has lost one of its best patrons and a devoted breeder -- Gilbert S. Kahn who passed away unexpectedly Monday evening at his Palm Beach, Fla. home which he shared with his partner of 20 years, John J. Noffo Kahn. A philanthropist, international judge, patron of the Arts, collector of 18th and 19th century dog paintings, and member of the famed Annenberg family of art collectors and philanthropists, Gilbert was one of the kindest and most generous individuals we had in the sport. His family’s Annenberg Foundation is one of the foremost philanthropies in the country if not the world with assets of around $3 billion -- a foundation dedicated to enhancing education, culture, the arts, and community life in America. We all knew Gilbert as warm, approachable, magnanimous and modest -- a true sportsman who showed respect for fellow competitors. Those closest to him remember him as “truly a gentleman and a very kind person.” One of his close friends, Marian Burger who for 17 years was Show Chair of Evansville KC said “Everything about Gilbert was special. And yet people may not realize that he took pleasure and found simple joy in the little things in life. No matter what happened, he always saw only the good side of things and people.” AKC President and CEO Dennis Sprung said, “Gilbert S. Kahn was a good and longtime friend of the entire dog world. He will be remembered most positively by the entire sport as a breeder, judge and supporter of the Dog Museum of America and Take The Lead. Personally, Susan and I will miss him as a friend.” The sport has been enriched by Gilbert’s contribution to it as he brought his sense of style and sophistication to his judging and his own breeding program. His values on esthetics reflected his eye for the best in dogs and enabled him to elevate the quality in his chosen breeds. He was clearly a man of superlatives -- an admired person who was active in many aspects of the sport including as Chairman of the Board of the AKC Dog Museum of America in St. Louis. Gilbert donated major paintings to the museum, and on the museum grounds there’s a courtyard
CONTINUED ON PAGE 96
70 Dog News
Gilbert with Ch. Dragonwyck of Charing Cross
Austin Group Third Judge Mrs. Shirley D. Limoges
Best of Breed Judge Dr. Steve Keating
Multiple Best In Show Winner
Ch. Hallmark Jolei Austin Powers Owners Joe & Roberta Walton
Breeders and Handlers Luke & Diane Ehricht Dog News 71
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Fancy Speaks THE
Two Points of View
by Cindy Cooke
R
eaders of your magazine should remember Jean Dodd’s testimony before the California Senate Judiciary Committee in 1998, where she supported SB 2102. This bill was designed to license, tax, and regulate dog breeders. Dr. Dodds’ testimony was reported in the May 1998 issue of Retriever Reflections, published by the Golden Gate Golden Retriever Club. According to the report furnished by Sharon Coleman of the Animal Council, here is a summary of that testimony: “Dr. Dodds read a long statement, cut short by the Chair and author, asserting that increasing genetic diseases among purebred dogs necessitate more ‘teeth’ in state and national efforts to prevent needless suffering by genetically defective and abandoned pets. She cited the role of breed popularity exemplified by the movie, 101 Dalmatians promoting a breed with ‘serious genetic defects including deafness, kidney stones and unpredictable social behavior...’ She went on to say generally, that both parents must be ‘free of genetic disease’ in order to produce sound dogs. She cited as examples the numbers of breeds affected and the prevalence of hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and unstable temperaments. These result from denial, dishonesty, greed and ego of breeders. Breeders genetically manipulate types causing defects in Bulldogs and other short nosed breeds, Dachshunds, French Bulldogs and Neopolitan Mastiffs among others. She conceded that a growing subset of breeders are screening breeding stock and funding research, but the larger majority does little and misleads the public with club memberships and show awards, and she urged support for legislation that gives consumers protection and forces breeders to be accountable.” As one of the many Scottish Terrier breeders who worked long and hard to support Dr. Dodds’ early vWD research, which research made her famous in the dog breeding community, I was stunned by the way she turned on us at that hearing. Remember who she really is, folks, before you spend any more money supporting her.
74 Dog News
Answered by W. Jean Dodds, dvm
President, Hemopet and Co-Trustee, Rabies Challenge Fund
F
irst, I’d like to congratulate Sadie the Scottie for winning Best In Show at Westminster. She’s certainly beautiful and a credit to the breed. With regard to Ms. Cooke’s letter to Dog News, she should know as an attorney that relying on quotes of second-hand summaries of testimony places her on shaky ground. My testimony to the California Senate Judiciary Committee in 1998 was submitted in written form and is a matter of public record, so there is no need to rely on reports published in breed magazines to obtain a factual account. As a recipient in 1979 of the Anstamm Achievement Award from the Scottish Terrier Club of America, given in memory of Senator Anthony Stamm (MI), I am proud of the original research our laboratory performed on vWD and the subsequent patent of the diagnostic test used throughout the world today to measure the activity of this protein in animals. This work not only benefited Scotties at the time but has helped many other breeds as well. Over more than four decades, I’ve often placed myself at the forefront as an advocate for responsible breeders and have worked to help protect the rights of all these breeders. This resulted in my being honored with the Gaines Fido Award as Dogdom’s Woman of the Year in 1978 and again in 1990. As a result, at times I’ve been subjected to misrepresentation and attempts to discredit me and my work. I accept that as part of being a visible public figure. On the other hand, I’m always grateful to the thousands of people who have supported my work and have expressed their gratitude many, many times for the help I’ve rendered. I’m pleased that I’ve been able to have a good impact on the lives of thousands of our canine companions, no matter what breed they are. The article written about me that appeared in Dog News did not solicit any funds for my own work. It directed attention to the Rabies Challenge Fund Charitable Trust which is a research project being conducted by Dr. Ronald Schultz, Chairman of Pathobiology at the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine. All of us connected with this Fund have and continue to donate their time. The staff time required to manage the Fund is donated by Hemopet because I believe in it, and that it ultimately will benefit all dogs whether purebred or not. Any monies donated to the Fund do not benefit me personally, and do not support me.
THE BEST IN SHOW AND SPECIALTY WINNER
CH. SOMERRI DUNHARROW’S DEVIL RAY
THE NATION’S NUMBER ONE* NORWEGIAN ELKHOUND Has Another Winning Weekend With GROUP PLACEMENTS At Erie And Potomac Hound Club Our Appreciation To Breeder-Judge Dr. Robert Indeglia and Judge Mrs. June Penta
Co-Owners: SOMERRI KENNELS, REG. Merrimack, New Hampshire *Dog News & C.C. All Breed Systems
Breeders: Ed Hall Roland Masse Laura Lewis
Owner-Handler: Judy Silker DUNHARROW Winfield, Pennsylvania Dog News 75
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*C.C. All Breed System
Dog News 77
by M.J. Nelson
Miniature In Name Only
A
sk the average bird hunter what he or she thinks of Miniature Poodles as bird dogs and the response is likely to be hysterical laughter followed by “You are kidding, right?” When they discover you are serious, their next move may be to call for the guys wearing white coats carrying butterfly nets. To many people, especially those outside the Poodle world, Miniature Poodles are topped in the “ultimate foo-foo” rankings only by their smaller cousin, the Toy Poodle.
But, according to the people who have participated in a variety of dog sports with their Minis, it’s a bad rap. The Miniature Poodle is admittedly a smaller dog but they have a big heart, say their owners. “Miniature Poodles have earned great respect in agility,” said Nancy Palauskas who owns Ch Songbird Rainbow Sky AX AXJ AD (“Sky”). “Their athletic build , speed and ability to keep the bars up make them formidable competition. They have drive, a desire to work and they are trainable.” “I enjoy a variety of activities with my dogs and the Poodle is one of the most ver-
satile breeds. They are agile, athletic, fast and smart. They bring a lot of joy and animation to their work and they don’t usually take things to seriously. They are quick to learn new things,” said Cathi Winkles who owns a triple champion Ch OTCH MACH Ravendune Right On Q UDX RE NF WC (“Q”) and Ch. MACH2 U-CD Ravendune Right on Target CDX CCD RE OF (“T”.) “I am always interested in new things. My husband and I spend most of the year on the water and we need a dog that has a bright, trainable personality and is good in the water. Jib (Ch CT MACH2 Kallista’s Silver Sails Aloft UD XF VCD3 RE CGC USDAA - ADCH TM-silver SCH-bronze RCH-bronze JCHbronze SACH-bronze GM NADAC- NGC Poodle Club of America - WC/WCX bronze medal winner Versatility in Poodles - VCX UKC - Weight Pull title Wetdog/ Dog Scouts - WETX - water rescue advanced title BPJ - back packing CONTINUED ON PAGE 100
Jib (Ch CT MACH2 Kallista’s Silver Sails Aloft UD XF VCD3 RE CGC USDAA - ADCH TM-silver SCH-bronze RCH-bronze JCHbronze SACH-bronze GM NADAC- NGC Poodle Club of America - WC/WCX bronze medal winner Versatility in Poodles - VCX UKC - Weight Pull title Wetdog/Dog Scouts - WETX - water rescue advanced title BPJ - back packing junior title Novice Dock Dog Title) Suzi Cope’s Miniature Poodle demonstrates that he can do the job for which Poodles were originally developed. (Cathi Winkles Photography)
78 Dog News
Back To Back Group Firsts
Mondrian
Can. Ch. & AKC Ch. & CKCSC USA Ch. Mondrian V.H. Lamslag of Piccadil RE Flash
Westminster Kennel Club Best of Breed Win Judge Mr. Joseph Joly III
Our appreciation to Judges Mrs. Gloria Geringer and Mrs. Ann Hearn for these Group First Wins!
The Number 1* Cavalier 2010 The Number 1 Cavalier All Systems 2009 Number 8* Toy! With 11 Best in Shows! Number One* Cavalier 2008 Always shown naturally by
Owner-Handler Janet York *The Dog News Top Ten List, All Breed
Dog News 79
Here we go again!
Introducing
Ch.Cracknor Group Second
Judge Mrs. Karen C. Wilson
Group Second
Judge Mr. Richard William Powell
80 Dog News
the Co-Co granddaughter -
Cross The T’s
Group First
Judge Mrs. Lydia Coleman Hutchinson
Best In Show from the Classes Windham County Kennel Club Judge Ms. Marion Dee Ward
Co-Owned By Elisabeth Matell, her Breeder
Owners Pam Beale & Beth Sweigart
Watch for her with Roxanne Sutton or Co-Owner Beth Sweigart
Dog News 81
I
have been involved with dogs both purebred as well as mixed breeds all of my life and enjoyed them all. Just what the American Kennel Club’s present position on the status of mixed breeds is of little personal concern, I love them all! Having been more than somewhat interested in AKC registered pure breeds for the last 60 some years, I do have a question. I direct my inquiry to those “powers that be.” Just exactly what is the “bottom line” for the AKC? by Gerald Schwartz
Jerry Speaks
I Don’t Care, I Really Don’t Care!
Is that “bottom line” to encourage and promote the advantages of ownership of AKC registered purebred dogs? Could it be to encourage and promote the advantages of ownership of dogs of any and all description? Just perhaps is it simply to survive at any cost or any compromise? Not unless and until their goal, their mission, and their position is explained, many who now do care, won’t care! This rather personal and pained preamble is to express my dismay at the AKC’s apparent move towards the integration of mixed breeds and AKC registered breeds at show events. This to some may seem a civil rights issue, kind of an all dogs are created equal statement. Many, many years (decades) ago I became involved in the nation’s civil rights movement. It was then that I became and remain, as my friends labeled me, a “bleeding-hearttree-hugging-liberal.” I do, however, draw a clear distinction between human civil rights and any dog’s right to compete in all AKC sponsered events! Call me a hypocrite. Apparently any and all dogs that in one way or another ($$$) affiliate themselves with the AKC will be eligible to compete at any show. The only restriction would (at least for now) be in the conformation ring. Please keep in mind I enjoy and love them all, from the registered purebreed Whippets to the Goldendoodles to the cute “Whatevers.” The point being, at least from my perspective, is by accepting for intergrated competition the “Poodledoodels” and the “Cuteypies,” would demean the advantage of owning a purebred American Kennel Club registered Whippet? It should be noted there are many who see no advantage at all in an AKC pedigree or the ownership of a dog so registered. Some may wonder if these policies are as ennobling as they are detrimental to the health (number of registrations) of the AKC?
82 Dog News
In the effort to better understand the need for the mixed breed policy, I scanned the classified section of my local daily newspaper. Under the heading “Dogs for Sale” I noted the following: Out of some 20 offerings, five indicated AKC registered, six indicated registered with no identifying registry or registries that I had never heard of. The rest were designers (Odeldoodels etc.), a specific breed or just plain mixed. All of which would be eligible for most competitions at AKC events! I do worry that this policy would fade the line distinguishing AKC pedigrees from all the rest. While I’m on my soapbox, I must comment on a T.V. commercial advertising an American Kennel Club approved “Pee Pee Pad.” This amazing product allows your dog to soil in your house without soiling the the rugs in your house! Will wonders never cease? It seems our esteemed AKC is now promoting this eighth wonder of the dog world. The price as I recall is practically a give away at $39.95 plus shipping and handling. Hold on dear friends, those of you who would order in the next30 minutes will receive a second “P.P.P.” absolutely free, plus of course separate shipping and handling. Has our AKC truly reached the point for the need to promote and sell the likes of “choppers, dicers and slicers” on late night T.V.? The solution to the American kennel Club’s declining registrations is questionable. What is not questionable is that solution will not be found under the pads of “Pee Pee Pads!” Come to think of it, I do care, I really, really do care!! •
*
*The Dog News Top Ten List -& C.C. Systems
Dog News 83
Are you tired Flash: Two-time er Westminst b Kennel Clu ed Best of Bre Winner
............................................... BEST IN SHOW - North Star TOY Dog Club Judge Mr. Arley Hussin
84 Dog News
Number One* English Toy Spaniel 2010 *The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed points
of the SNOW??? TWO MO Flash: RE GRO UP FIRS Thank yo TS u Judges !! Mrs. Hel en Lee Ja mes Mrs. Sall y Ray Ba ugniet
.......... Let it REIGN! Group First - Corn Belt Kennel Club Judge Mr. Frank Sabella
Owned By: Doug Johnson Jamie Hubbard Jeane Haverick Wayne Holbrook Jackie Rifenbergh
Presented By Laura King Erin Gimbut Assisted By Alex Romero
Dog News 85
U
nfortunately, it seems that PETA and the Humane Society of the United States have stolen some of the thunder from the fancy’s crown jewel of dog shows, the Westminster Kennel Club. Perhaps that’s because Sadie, the Scottish Terrier, was the heavy favorite to win Best In Show, as she entered the ring as the top dog among all breeds for 2009 and had already been adjudicated top dog at the AKC/ Eukanuba National Championship in December. While Sadie winning Best In Show may have been expected, no one could’ve anticipated her being upstaged by two animal rights activists who made their way to center stage brandishing slogans that read “Mutts Rule” and “Breeders Kill Shelter Dogs’ Chances.” Fanciers weren’t prepared for conversations since to be dominated by animal rights activists. The problem is, they should’ve been. For far too long fanciers have been taking a reactive rather than a proactive stance towards battling animal rights extremists, who dupe the uninformed general public into thinking that their donations will put an end to euthanasia and animal shelters. All fanciers would love to see a day when every dog lives in a loving home. And while we’re at it, we’d love to see a cure for cancer, and the end of homelessness, joblessness and home foreclosures, too. A tall order, and not a very realistic one in this day and age. The goals of the animal rights extremists aren’t very realistic either…or are they? Can they really accomplish their goal of “total animal liberation”, which would mean an end to pet ownership? Well, if they continue to attract celebrity spokespersons to bolster their appeal, manage to get free airtime, flashing their messages to millions, and continue to successfully solicit unsuspecting millions more to open their purse strings by tugging at their heartstrings, then maybe so, unless fanciers take a more proactive approach to getting their message across. While millions watch the Westminster Kennel Club on television and tens of thousands more attend the show in person, they don’t donate large sums of money to worthwhile organizations devoted to the betterment of the health of dogs, such as the AKC’s Canine Health Foundation. The irony of this is many of the same individuals who attend or watch dog shows give money to organizations such as PETA and the HSUS, whose high-
profile shenanigans play on human emotion and pry their hard-earned dollars. By engaging in well-publicized stunts and raids on puppy mills, by accumulating massive email lists and bombarding the general public with snippets of propaganda and the blurring of its mission, the HSUS has successfully socked away over $100 million in donations. It uses this war chest to successfully lobby lawmakers into crafting legislation that threatens the future of dog shows and pet ownership. Mandatory spay/neuter laws and breed specific legislation and breeding limit ordinances all pose a serious threat to responsible dog owners and breeders, and some newer legislative movements have cropped up that also smack of the handiwork of the HSUS. House Bill 2375 was introduced in Arizona, which seeks to ban the ownership, sale, harboring or transportation of “dangerous wildlife”. As introduced, dogs fell under this umbrella of “dangerous wildlife”, so residents of the Grand Canyon State would be prohibited from owning or selling dogs. The bill, which passed the House Natural Resources & Rural Affairs Committee this Tuesday, has been amended to clarify that domestic animals are not dangerous wildlife and are exempted from the bill, but a provision remains that allows the Arizona Game and Fish Department to add to the list of species that qualify as dangerous wildlife at any time through the rulemaking process. Watchdogs are needed to make sure a few choice words aren’t added or deleted from the bill to ensure that the rights of dog owners and breeders are upheld. As with breeding limits, once a number is established it can be reduced to zero. Once “dangerous” animals are outlawed, dogs may wind up among them. Another tactic to watch is the effort to prohibit the sale of dogs and cats in pet stores, unless they are shelter dogs. West Hollywood just passed such an ordinance, following South Lake Tahoe’s lead last year (though WeHo’s law goes into effect sooner). Responsible breeders and owners shun the sale of dogs in pet stores and always recommend that those looking for purebreds do the mandatory research and find a reputable breeder. But a movement is afoot to put these pet shops out of business. If only shelter dogs are to be sold in stores, and it’s mandated that these dogs be permanently altered, what will become of the breeding stock
OFF LEASH by Shaun Coen
THE
86 Dog News
eventually? Who was on hand to champion the passing of this ordinance? None other than Wayne Pacelle, president of the HSUS, who deemed the law so important to his organization’s cause that he make the trek out west from his Washington, D.C. headquarters. In a perfect world, there wouldn’t be a need for puppies to be sold at pet shops. But nobody’s asking for perfection, just for marked improvements. All concerned dog owners, fanciers and clubs - and yes, the AKC - need to ramp up the effort to educate the general public that responsible breeders support the advancement of canine health and care, that our dogs mean more to us than they could ever imagine and the fact that an organization like PETA puts down nearly 90% of the dogs it “rescues” sickens us. In response to the shenanigans of the animal rights extremists and the HSUS, an organization has sprouted up called humanewatch.org, which attempts to expose their true intentions. The nonprofit Center for Consumer Freedom paid for a full-page ad in The New York Times on Tuesday, Feb. 23, attacking the HSUS, claiming that it earmarks less than one-half of one percent of its $100 million dollar budget to hands-on pet shelters. It also claims that the “HSUS made $2,532,167 in pension contributions in 2008” and only $452,371 to hands-on pet shelters out of a $99,664,400 budget in 2008. This same nonprofit organization is also behind the PETA Kills Animals campaign, which purports that PETA’s ultimate goal is “total animal liberation.” While HSUS President Wayne Pacelle and Center for Consumer Freedom’s head honcho, Rick Berman, seem to have a personal as well as professional battle going on, it’s a welcome change to see the animal rights extremists on the defensive. Only problem is, the humanewatch. org attack ad may have been too late, coming a full week after Sadie the Scottie was ordained Best In Show at Westminster while the animal rights extremists scored another knockout punch, which so far has proven more than enough to sustain the late flurry of jabs from fanciers who’ve counterattacked, yet again. To understand how well oiled and streamlined the AR machine is, Pacelle had a response to the humanewatch.org ad up on the HSUS web site within minutes, and in telling fashion, it ended with a plea for donations. Still, it’s nice to see an effort to fight fire with fire and take on the extremists with headline grabbing tactics. Would the AKC be bold enough to launch such an inflammatory attack ad? The AKC seems content with its PR campaign of being the “dog’s champion” even though the AR extremists have made it their punching bag, painting it as an organization that promotes unhealthy inbreeding and profits from the proliferation of puppy mills. While that couldn’t be further from the truth, there’s no question who’s winning the fight in the eyes and ears of the general public. •
Dog News 87
Ch. Clussexx See You ALLIGATOR takes a Bite out of the BIG APPLE! Breeders Doug Johnson Jeane Haverick Wayne and Kellie Holbrook Presented by Laura King Erin Gimbut Assisted by Alex Romero NEW OWNERS: LADIES ONLY Tracey Garvey, Sydney Australia Gail Drucker, Mill Neck, New York Jeane Haverick, Antioch, Illinois Kellie Holbrook, Alpharetta, Georgia 88 Dog News
Later Alligator
Judge Mr. Michael Faulkner Best of Breed Westminster Kennel Club 2010 Dog News 89
D
idn’t it just feel great to wake up Tuesday am, get some coffee or tea and sit down to read the paper and find on page 9 of the New York Times a full page advertisement condemning the internal workings of HSUS. My first reaction was could AKC have done this? But I should have realized they were too busy directing the show career of Sadie than to concern itself with HSUS.
AND MORE
Fortunately though the Center for Consumer Freedom had the foresight to continue its long term tirade against HSUS with a most timely advertisement headed, “Shouldn’t The ‘Humane Society’ do better?” It then in two short sentences succeeded in both demolishing the alleged goals of that organization and in indicating the true motives of why HSUS campaigns so hard for funds – to bolster its employees pension plans! Claiming, “The dogwatchers need a watchdog,” hopefully they have awakened the American public to at least question what is really going on with HSUS. Of its 2008 budget which was just shy of 100 million dollars HSUS gave just $452,371 to hands-on pet shelters but made $2,532,167 in pension contributions to its employees. Indeed it is reported – not in this advert – that in fact there are at least 31 separate not-for-profit corporations owned by HSUS which pay certain chief employees less than $25,000 PER corporation. Thereby making the actual salaries look far less than they really are!!! And from what I hear that’s only the tip of the iceberg. The financial shenanigans of Wayne Pacelle and his fellow hoodlums on the Board at HSUS should not be permitted to continue without further investigation, that’s for sure. In last week’s Editorial I wrote of the HSUS posting of Wayne Pacelle and the war he declared on all breeders in America by supporting so strongly the “Pedigree
Taking It On The Chin For A Change ...
by Matthew H. Stander 90 Dog News
Dogs Exposed” program aired in the UK. In fact Pacelle asked for the Americans to react as violently as did many in the UK. I stressed how inaccurate his facts were and as to how both AKC and all the Parent Clubs should fight against him and HSUS. I further suggested using CHF as the spokesperson. Who better than CHF to speak for the health of the dog since they are at the forefront along with Morris Animal Animal foundation in doing just that and have been so doing with time and millions of donated dollars for years now. Which foundations as far as I know have never received one penny in support of a dogs health from HSUS despite its 100 million dollar budget! And so it came as little surprise that Pacelle’s attack the day after Westminster was followed by an insidious Room for Debate Blog in the nytimes.com the very next day obviously in concert with the HSUS post of the day before. Headed by the title of Feeling Guilty About Your Purebred Dog the cabal of four writers, Mark Derr, Ted Kerasote, Stanley Coren and Francis Battista fell right in line in a well-planned CONTINUED ON PAGE 108
Photos by Ashby of the Middle Peninsula KC of VA
TUX
“
” FLA BEST SH IN SH O Judge W Mrs. W en Willha dy uk
Multiple Best In Show, Multiple Best In Specialty Show Winning, V1 Rated
Ch. Cammcastle’s Friar Tuck
Tux is shown winning one of four groups at the competitive Indy Winter Classic shows, after winning the Hoosier Rottweiler specialty the day before. Tuxs last 10 shows have resulted in 10 group placements including EIGHT GROUP ONES in a row and a BEST IN SHOW! We would like to thank the judges for helping us start off the year with a BANG! Tux is currently a Top 10* Working Dog and the Number One Rottweiler.* Breeders: Cammcastle Susan Otto and Angela Payne
Owners: Tony & Vicky O’Brien
Handler: Holley Eldred 708-280-2890
*The Dog News Top Ten List - All Breed
Dog News 91
Cruz-ingThrough Westminster CONTINUED FROM PAGE 42
coveted Westminster Best in Show. In 1995, Marippi Wooldridge topped all comers also with a Scottie bitch, Ch. Gaelforce Post Script, better known as “Peggy Sue.” Best in Show judge, Elliot Weiss, Eagle, Idaho described “Sadie” as the “total package – a pleasure to go over with your hands and that confirms what you see with your eyes.” She “had all the typical breed characteristics” and it was obvious that “she thinks highly of herself and she should!” Weiss concluded that he “was glad she was there” and that the other six finalists made it an exciting assignment.
O
verall, Westminster was a soldout crowd of about 20,000 each day. The President’s Day holiday encouraged the families to come out to visit the benches and concessions and stay for the groups at night. The Press Room hosted 75 representatives from 21 countries and nothing was left to chance by the Westminster powers-that-be. David Frei, Westminster’s Director of Communications and his Press Room stalwarts, Ranny, Linda, Eric, and Chad, made visiting press feel at home and they were ready with answers and help when needed. Monday’s Hound Group, judged by W. Everett Dean, Richmond, Virginia, went to Whippet, Ch. Starline’s Chanel, owned by Lori Lawrence and Carey Lawrence, Rancho Sante Fe, California. Handled by Lori Wilson, “Chanel” is just two years old and she flew around the big ring like an old pro. Next it was the Toy Group and Judge Shirley Limoges, Ontario, Canada, gave the final nod to the white Toy Poodle, Ch. Smash JP Moon Walk. “Walker,” owned by Ron Scott and Debbie Burke, Dillsberg, Pennsylvania and handled by Koz Hozaka, Greenwood, Delaware ended 2009 in grand style going Best in Show at the annual Progressive Toy Club show on the weekend and being the number six dog all breeds. Then it was the Non-Sporting group judged by Dorothy Dalton, Stuart, Florida. Ch. Robobull Fabelhaft Im on Fire, the first French Bulldog to take a group at WKC, “Bru,” just twoand-a-half, is owned by Marion Hulik , James Dalton and breeder, Shelley St. John , Portsmouth, Ohio with Perry D. Payson on the other end of the lead. 92 Dog News
Final group of the evening, Herding, saw Puli, Ch. Cordmaker Field of Dreams repeat his 2009 group win. Owned by Susan Huebner and Jackie Beaudoin, Raleigh, North Carolina, “Conrad” was handled, as always, by Linda Pitts and bred by P. Turner, A. Quigley, A. and S. Lawrence. “Conrad” finished out 2009 as the No. 3 dog all breeds. Judge Linda C. More, Cary, North Carolina also had two newcomers to the Herding Group this year: the Pyrenean Shepherd, Ch. Burgerhouse Grand Prix RN owner –handled by Sue Snyder and bred by Kathy Burger; and, the Norwegian Buhund, Ch. Norskwynd D’Lola of Trollheimen owned by Else Turner and Lisa Donnelly and bred by Linda Goldben. The finals of Junior Showmanship start closing night festivities and judge, Mrs. Jennifer Pahl, Princess Anne, Maryland, a Best Junior finalist 20 years back, had the honors. Raised in the business, the daughter of retired professional handlers, George and Mary Ann Alston, she put 8 of the best Juniors in the U. S. through their paces. Her top pick, Aaron Bradshaw and his Bullmastiff, came all the way from Washington State for this coveted win. Aaron, one of the 120 juniors to compete this year, is home-schooled and works on weekends for professional handler Ed Thomason. By now, his mom has relaxed that smile on her face showing pride in her son’s well-earned accomplishments – then again, maybe not! It was then time for the Sporting Group and judge Dr. Donald Sturz, Centerport, New York had the honors. It all came down to “Tally,” Ch. Willowick Talltean, a five-yearold Brittany from Lakewood, Colorado bred and owned by Catherine Fitzgerald and handled by Kellie Miller, Aurora, Colorado. First time in this group, the Red and White Setter, Ch. Shireoak Caniscaeli Windsong, owned by Y. Herrera, L. Stark, V. Malzoni and D. Johnson, Thonotosassa, Florida and handled by Greg Myers, Swanton, Ohio. CONTINUED ON PAGE 121
*
*The Dog News Top Ten List - Breed points
Dog News 93
A Westminter Temtpest In A Teapot CONTINUED FROM PAGE 62
“guilt-free zone” as adopting a shelter dog, whether purebred or mixed, though he did make a distinction between “reputably” and “exploitively” bred dogs. Ted Kerasote, author of the popular “Merle’s Door: Lessons from a Freethinking Dog,” faulted careless breeding (epitomized, he said, by kinds of dogs exhibited at the Garden) and antiquated shelter systems. Mark Derr, author of “A Dog’s History of America: How Our Best Friend Explored, Conquered and Settled a Continent,” targeted the purebred as a status symbol. All three lit on a sore point in purebred dogs, our real Achilles heel: perceived lack of genetic diversity, the ills of inbreeding, and health problems inadvertently caused by breeding for aesthetics. (The fourth respondent, Stanley Coren, a professor at the University of British Columbia, was the only one to note that the consistency and predictability of the purebred is what makes it a natural fit for our time-compressed, CrackBerry-obsessed society, given that most dogs, regardless of pedigree, are given up because of lifestyle mismatches. Hallelujah. It might now be time for Afghan-hound folk to consider forgiving Coren for listing their breed at the bottom of the smart chart in his 1995 book “The Intelligence of Dogs.”)
I
nbreeding, linebreeding, whatever we want to call it, is a hard sell to the American public. Emotion, again, plays a role, as the matings of relatively close relatives(grandfathersandgranddaughters, aunts and nephews, half-siblings) inevitably bring on the anthropomorophizing; given that incest is taboo in virtually every human culture, it is a hard hurdle to clear. No one wants to hear that in virtually every breed of domesticated animal, from chickens to cows, inbreeding is a system that is used efficiently and successfully. No one wants to hear that some of our most inbred breeds and lines are our healthiest, having gotten through the genetic keyhole by intense selection and culling. (Since the “C word” itself is a hot button, I should add that in this day and age, “culling” has come to mean relegating a dog to pet status rather than simply being shorthand for the water bucket.) No one wants to hear the tradeoff – that inbreeding brings deleterious genes to the fore, where they can be identified and
94 Dog News
then bred away from – because of the emotion (there’s that word again) of the immediate problem: What of the affected individuals who were produced in bringing this genetic information to light? No one wants to hear that in breeding dogs, as with anything, compromises are required. What argument, then, are we left with in favor of purebred dogs? It seems to me, it is the most basic and – give ’em some of their own medicine – emotional one. It is that, pure and simple, the world would be a poorer place without them.
W
e need to remember why we got into dogs in the first place, how our respective breeds seduced us. The soft, comforting eye of a spaniel … the Mastiff’s instinctive repositioning of himself to shield women and children from the slightest disturbance … the regal bearing of the Pekingese, contemplative of whether the ground beneath her feet is worthy of the honor ... these are the heartstopping essences of the breeds we love.
Purebred dogs are a link for us to where we have come from, to where we have been, to the generations on whose shoulders we stand. With modernity, the world has lost countless species of heritage sheep and cattle – and, irretrievably in the process, their gene pools. If and when those breeds teetering on the edge of extinction – Caspian horses and San Clemente goats, Milking Devon cattle and Hog Island sheep – are gone, we have lost a bit of who we are. They connect us to something bigger and more ancient. In these families of dogs that we nurture and cherish, we keep the flickering flame of history alive, from the windwhipped solitude of the Scottish shepherd to the arduous trek of the Boer farmer to the genteel parlor games of the Victorian dowager. We need to remind the world that purebred dogs are not just about a “look” or the aesthetics of the show ring. The initial appeal may be based on appearance (do we not do this in selecting our human companions, as well?), but what secures our devotion to them is their character. Each breed has its own, impossible to capture in exact words, but obvious to anyone who has taken the time to know them even a little. I cannot imagine the world without my breed … can you yours? This is the message that beats any animal-rights placard, and one we need to deliver, as eloquently and effortlessly as a pointer points, or a setter sets, or a Cavalier cuddles. •
T H E G A M E IS O N
“GUS”
Ch. Big Game Acton Augustus Gus swept the Breed all four days at Ventura, CA Simi Valley Kennel Club Judge Mrs. Shirley Limoges (pictured) San Fernando Kennel Club – Judge Mr. John Ramirez Ventura Kennel Club Judge Mr. Don Dvorak Channel Cities Kennel ClubJudge Mrs. Peggy Gutierrez Otero Group Third at San Fernando Kennel Club under Judge Mrs. Peggy Gutierrez Otero Group Third at Channel Cities Kennel Club under Judge Mr. John Ramirez. Solid as a rock, Gus grabs your eye standing or moving Owner & loved by
Dr. Larry Overly
Orange Park Acres, CA 714-614-2553
Handled exclusively by
Stephen & Linn Cabral Stephen@bergstaff.com 626-358-2891
Dog News 95
Remembering
Gilbert Kahn CONTINUED FROM PAGE 70
next to the museum shop named Charing Cross Courtyard, which was gift from Gilbert in memory of his former longtime partner, Dr. Jorge M. Sanchez, who passed away in 1987, with whom Gilbert shared his passion of dogs and dog shows. Gilbert Stanley Kahn grew up in New York, attended New York Military Academy and the University of Pennsylvania. He became active in the successful family publishing business created by his grandfather, Moses Annenberg, who was one of the greatest publishing czars in history. The son of L. Stanley Kahn and renowned philanthropist Janet Annenberg Hooker, Gilbert’s mother gave $8 million to the Smithsonian Institute National Museum of Natural History, where Gilbert was instrumental in creating the world-renowned Janet A. Hooker Hall of Geology, Gems and Minerals -- home to some of the most breathtaking jewels in the world including the Hope Diamond. Gilbert served on that museum’s board for years. Among the showstoppers in Gilbert’s mother’s gem collection at the Smithsonian is the exquisite Hooker Emerald, a flawless 75. carat beveled square of exceptional color and clarity that was once owned by one of the last sultans in the Ottoman Empire, Abdul Hamid II, who wore the magnificent emerald in his belt buckle. It was sold to Tiffany & Co. in 1911 and reset, surrounded by 109 round and 20 baguette diamonds weighing 13 carats. The stone was featured in Tiffany’s 1950 Christmas Catalog. Gilbert’s mother bought the emerald in 1955 from Tiffany’s and donated it to the museum in 1977. She also donated to the same collection the fabulous Hooker Canary diamonds suite in gold designed by Cartier, which includes earrings, ring and necklace of a special starburst cut to give them brilliant sparkle. The necklace alone has 50 matching yellow diamonds which are exceedingly rare, with the entire set having a total of 331 carats. Another generous gift from Gilbert’s mother was her donation of $100,000 matched by ten other donors to purchase half of an Etruscan sculpture exhibit for the Vatican Museum. Gilbert’s uncle Walter Annenberg was Ambassador to The Court of St. James under Richard Nixon and funded the Annenberg School for Communication at University of Pennsylvania and University of Southern California, in addition to one of his best known grants of $500 million for school reform. With the support of his mother’s foundation -- the Janet A.
1935 Miami Beach - Gilbert’s 7th Birthday Party 96 Dog News
Gilbert S. Kahn and John Noffo Kahn at Fairholme
Hooker Charitable Trust -- Gilbert made numerous donations to charities, schools, hospitals, museums and the arts. He was a great opera lover and a member of the Metropolitan Opera’s Golden Horseshoe as well as a managing director of that company. Several years ago, Gilbert underwrote the Met’s production of Wagner’s Lohengrin in 1998 and gave a $1 million gift to Miami’s Adreinne Arsht Performing Arts Center, Miami’s version of Lincoln Center. Gilbert served on the Board for the Florida Grand Opera and Florida Philharmonic for many years. In Washington D.C., he served with his aunt, The Hon. Leonore Annenberg (wife of Ambassador Annenberg ) on the Board of Friends of Art and Preservation in Embassies, of which his Aunt Lenore was one of the original founders. Gilbert’s Aunt Leonore was later honored for her philanthropic work in the preservation of British culture and in promoting British-American relations and was presented with a C.B.E. Medal of Honor (Commander of the British Empire) by Queen Elizabeth II. Since 1966 Gilbert maintained residences in Florida including residences that he owned with his partner John Noffo in Palm Beach, Vermont, and an apartment in New York overlooking Central Park. There is also the exquisite “Fairholme” -- Gilbert’s stately home in Newport, RI, built in 1875 with elegant rooms and floor-to-ceiling plate glass windows offering expansive views of the ocean. It is where Gilbert and John did much entertaining. Through his love and work with dogs and all animals, Gilbert greatly contributed to South Florida’s Animal Welfare Society. In 1994 he made a gift to the University of Pennsylvania to endow and name the deanship of its school of Veterinary Medicine, the CONTINUED ON PAGE 98
Dog News 97
Remembering
Gilbert Kahn CONTINUED FROM PAGE 96
first ever endowment of a vet’s school deanship in the US: The Gilbert S. Kahn Dean of Veterinary Medicine at University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Joan Hendricks, the Gilbert S. Kahn Dean of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania said, “Gilbert S. Kahn has left a lasting legacy in the purebred dog world and in addressing canine health issues. But he has also touched the School of Veterinary Medicine. By generously endowing the deanship at Penn Vet, Mr. Kahn set the bar nationally – it’s the first veterinary deanship to be endowed – and only speaks to his support of what we do at Penn Vet -- educating, researching and serving. I am honored to bear his name in my own title.” Gilbert began breeding dogs nearly 60 years ago, beginning in 1952 when he bought his first dog at Westminster - a Norwich Terrier bitch called Dame Elaine of High Rising. He later had Yorkies, then Shih Tzu and Japanese Chin -- two breeds on which Gilbert had major influence and brought him success, such as the Chin National in 1977 under Ramona Van Court when his UK import bitch, Gaystock Rose Aglo, won the Breed from the classes and Gilbert’s male, Ranella Johnny B. Goode (also a UK import, and half brother to Rose Aglo) went Winners Dog. Gilbert also showed Long Coat Chihuahuas, Cavaliers and a top winning Basset in the late 1990s, Ch. Deer Hills Great Gatsby handled by Bryan Martin. Many will remember that his first big winning Shih Tzu, Ch. Dragonwyck of Charing Cross was bred by Norm Patton and handled by Barbara Finanger. In 1968 Gilbert fell head over heels in love with Shih Tzu puppy in the window of a pet shop walking down a sidewalk in New York. That led to his long love affair with the breed, initially with Dragonwyck and Dragonfire breeding. Eventually he had great success as a breeder-exhibitor where he perhaps did more to raise the threshold of quality in Shih Tzu than anyone in the world, consistently producing beautiful heads, superb structure, elegant carriage and ease of movement. Together with his team, and handler Luc Ericht, Gilbert put many beautiful dogs in the ring. But Gilbert sometimes handled his own dogs, as he did at the Garden in 1987, winning the Breed in Chins under Ed Jenner with “Peepers” -- Ch. Eye Witness To Tosaho who won many BISA and BISS handled by Jorge Sanchez. Gilbert fell in love with Peepers when he saw him in the ring as a class dog at the Garden and asked if he was for sale. When the answer was yes, Gilbert handed the owner a blank check and said, “Fill out the amount.” Gilbert judged many times in England, Japan, Australia and Canada, including a large entry of Japanese Chin at Crufts in 2001, as well as in Scotland, South Africa, Finland, Sweden, Austria and Czechoslovakia and many of the top shows -- Best in Show at Bucks County, Westminster and Shih Tzu at Crufts in 2005. He was first approved to judge in 1977 and judged all Toys, and some Non-sporting and Terrier breeds. He judged the Toy Group at the Garden in 1997 and won it twice in 2000 (under Roy Holloway) and 2002 (under Helen Lee James) with “Joey” -- Ch. Charing Cross Ragtime Cowboy, who was Top Toy and #2 dog All Breeds for 2002, co-bred by Gilbert and Barbara Finanger who managed Gilbert’s state of the art Charing Cross kennel for many years, first in Miami and then Minneapolis. Gilbert’s dedication, generosity and personal achievements speak for themselves as he brought much to the fancy on many levels throughout the world. His longtime friend, Walter Goodman, had this to say about him, “Gilbert was a wonderful friend with a good sense of humor -- thoughtful and generous -- and a tremendous asset to the whole dog sport. I was glad to be with him this last Westminster. He will be deeply missed.”•
98 Dog News
Japanese Chin National with Ramona Van Court judging - Jorge Sanchez pictured with Gilbert
Gilbert at his Grandparents Annenberg‘s home - Great Neck, Long Island
Gilbert and Opera Soprano Deborah Voigt in 1995 after her Met debut in Un Ballo in Maschera
✩ o r i Z
+ Christy = Dream Team
Flash! Group Second St. Joseph Ken nel Club Thank you Jud ge Ms. Sulie G reendale-Pave za
✩
BEST IN SHOW PEAK TO PEAK WORKING DOG ASSOCIATION OF COLORADO THANK YOU JUDGE MR. ADRIAN WOODFORK
INT’L & AM. CH. RAINCOAST PARTNER IN DREAMS PRESENTED BY CHRISTY HEIMAN
Raincoast Newfoundlands Noelia Garcia Valle and Luis Fernandez Asturias, Spain www.rain-coast.com
Seabrook Newfoundlands Kathy Griffin Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin www.seabrooknewfs.com Dog News 99
Miniature In Name Only CONTINUED FROM PAGE 78
junior title Novice Dock Dog Title) is always a willing participant no matter what I do.” “Poodles are elegant, athletic dogs. They are also very smart, funny and loving. They have wonderful eye appeal. They have a way of looking at you that just captures you with the intelligence and sparkle in their eyes. They want and need to be an active part of your life,” said Debbie West who owns Ch. Baumly Annie Sez AX AXJ RN AAD (“Annie”) and Ch. Westsong Stardust Memories NA OAJ RN AD (“Dusty.”) Miniature Poodles (and Standard Poodles) have historically been used for a variety of purposes. Their first job was as a retriever for waterfowl hunters where they worked with all types of hunting from gun hunters to hunters using traps to partnering with falcons and hawks when hunters used falconry as their means of harvesting game birds. They also served as military dogs from the middle ages through most of World War II when they were used to guard defense plants, military installations and the U.S. coastline. Throughout the middle ages until the mid-1800s Poodles were frequently employed as “ships’ dogs.” They have been used as sled dogs including an all-Poodle team that finished the Iditarod in 1989, 1990 and 1991. They retrieved arrows for hunters who were less than outstanding archers in ancient times and they have been used to find truffles. Circus dog acts have been heavily populated with Poodles and they have even been successful as herding dogs where they are permitted to run in American Herding Breeds Association tests and trials. So, it is little wonder that Poodles are not only willing to try just about any new “trick” but are also frequently very good at whatever job they are asked to do. “Jib has never had a problem in anything that didn’t just disappear with time. It was always my problem. I did not understand all the rules of competition for hunt testing but
Ch. Baumly Annie Sez AX AXJ RN AAD (“Annie”), one of Debbie West’s Miniature Poodles, is an example of the elegance and athleticism of the breed.
100 Dog News
Ch Songbird Rainbow Sky AX AXJ AD (“Sky”), Nancy Palauskas’ Miniature Poodle is one of the dogs that has helped earn respect for the breed’s capabilities in agility.
he understood all that he needed to know. Instinct is an amazing thing. Agility is what we love most while obedience and rally were the toughest for me although Jib was always a willing participant. I needed to figure out what the judge wanted and then try to figure out a way to share that with Jib. His greatest asset is unlimited energy. There’s no ‘quit’ in him and this is one of the things that makes the breed very good in performance,” said Cope. “I was lucky,” said Winkles. “Q was a great dog to train, loved to work and would keep going for hours in any weather. I had to watch so he didn’t overdo it. T, on the other hand, was quite a challenge. He was so slow and uninterested in training when he was young that it took a lot of work on my part to motivate him and encourage speed, especially in agility. Fortunately, he does learn quickly and ended up as a good performer. He was high in trial at the national specialty a couple of years ago with a near-perfect score. The greatest obstacles to success with a Miniature Poodle in any performance activity are the ones created by the handler. When someone says “My dog can’t or won’t’ what they’re really saying is that they, as a trainer, are unable or unwilling to train it. As long as the dog is mentally and physically sound, the only limitations are the ones placed on it by the trainer. However, in my opinion, competitive obedience takes the most effort and concentration on the part of both the dog and the handler. A lot of proofing has to be done and mastery achieved to get the level of performance needed for an OTCH. I really love agility but it takes a lot of athletic ability. I wish it had been around when I was a lot younger and fitter!” “Annie has always been something of a worrier so the motion of the teeter bothered her in agility and we have had to work hard for her to get CONTINUED ON PAGE 102
WHEN THE COMPETITION IS AT ITS HOTTEST
WINS BIG!
Westminster Kennel Club Judge Mr. Richard Bauer
Dog News 101
Miniature In Name Only CONTINUED FROM PAGE 100
comfortable on it. In fact this is an ongoing thing with her. Dusty, her daughter, on the other hand, loves to run and jump. However, I find that I’m always reinforcing turning skills, good start line stays and contact behavior. I will say that working with my dogs in agility has made me learn patience and I’ve accepted the fact that progress, when you are working with dogs, never comes in a straight line. As far as conformation is concerned, what is most important is finding judges who will actually look at an owner-handled Poodle and then having the type of Poodle that the judge likes, always a daunting task which is why it is important to have a support system to learn from and share with,” said West. Despite the breed’s willingness to try almost anything, it is not always easy to find a Miniature Poodle that can do many different things. “Success in both conformation and performance requires a dog that is sound in both mind and body,” said Palauskas. “A dog or pup that conforms to the breed standard is an excellent place to start. Of course, the dog must have an outgoing, confident temperament and be eager to learn. There are many conformation champions but not all of these dogs possess the trainability and drive needed to successfully compete at high level performance events. However, these dual and triple titled dogs are very important to our breed. A beautiful, sound, athletic, trainable Poodle is what the breed is all about. I can’t think of a better banner for the breed than a dog that excels in both the conformation ring and in performance activities.” West added, “I think that most wellbred, well-raised Poodles can do it all. We have only recently been realizing this. The conformation and performance people need each other and they both need to be careful
Ch OTCH MACH Ravendune Right On Q UDX RE NF WC (“Q”), another of Winkles’ Miniature Poodles is one of six triple champions in the breed.
102 Dog News
Ch. MACH2 U-CD Ravendune Right on Target CDX CCD RE OF (“T”.), one of Cathi Winkles Miniature Poodles, was slow and uninterested in working as a young dog. However, he was a quick learner and wound up being a good performer.
not to use such broad and usually unflattering brush strokes when talking about each other. You want brains and drive in a well-made, biddable package. With Poodles, we can have it all. First and foremost, Annie and Dusty are house dogs and pets. I’m remarkably lucky that they are also beautiful and talented.” “There are a number of breeds that are no longer capable of doing what they were originally developed to do. There are other breeds that have a split with one type for the breed ring and another type that is a field dog and in some cases, still another type that is an agility, obedience or rally dog. I hope the Poodle never loses the beauty and brains that they can and should possess. Show breeders should always keep in mind that good movement and conformation should be paramount over the current show ring fad. Keeping the working ability strong in the Poodle and not breeding for looks alone is one of the greatest challenges facing the breed,” said Winkles. Breeders who breed for a single purpose, however, are creating problems within the breed, according to Cope. “Show breeders who only breed for the ring. Pet breeders who don’t test for genetic issues. It is becoming increasingly difficult to find a dog that has good conformation, good health and a good working temperament in the same package. Add to this an ignorant group of puppy buyers who think a Poodle cross is better than a Poodle, meaning that a mutt trumps a purebred Poodle and it becomes apparent that there are some significant challenges facing the breed. However, I do believe that a good conformation champion is more likely to have the kind of conformation necessary for the dog to do well in any performance activity. Good dogs produce good dogs!” •
CH. HEWLY CAMILLA Sire: Polk’s Final Answer
Dam: Hewly Cameo
Finishing out 2009 as one of America’s top-winning American Foxhounds; we are looking forward to 2010! Pictured winning under Judge Mr. James R. White Owned by: Gary Shultz, Robert Urban and Stanley D. Petter, Jr.
Bred by: Stanley D. Petter, Jr. and Ned S. Polk Dog News 103
the
Gossip column
GILBERT KAHN, well known breeder of several toy breeds including many top winning Shih Tzu and owner of the top winning Basset Hound of all time, passed away suddenly at home this past week. GILBERT was a multiple group judge, a former delegate and a member of the ENGLISH KENNEL CLUB and had judged at CRUFTS as well as other shows around the world. GILBERT used some of his vast fortune (he was one of the heirs to the ANNENBERG fortune) to underwrite the Dean’s chair at the UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA’S SCHOOL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE and made donations to many other dog related charities like TAKE THE LEAD and the AKC DOG MUSEUM, of which he was the longtime Chairman of the
104 Dog News
By Eugene Z. Zaphiris
Board. He had in this last year or so cut back on his dog activities, and was very busy working on the Vermont farm he had purchased with his partner, JOHN NOFFO KAHN. Arrangements have not been announced but a contribution to any of the charities that GILBERT was interested in would have pleased him. All of us at DOG NEWS send our deepest sympathies to JOHN and the KAHN family and to his many friends around the world. First it was PEANUTS, well watch out CHARLIE BROWN, cause now there might be a move to ban dogs and other pets in the passenger cabin of airplanes. The reason is allergies and the result will mean your dog will have to travel down below. Of course, the “Therapy Dog” that travels
on board with the passenger, which I might add is totally abused by some in our community, will probably not be affected. Another law that is floating around in California, is listing those who are convicted of animal cruelty the same way sex offenders are listed on the Internet. Former Princeton University professor of Russian will be coming back to the States from St. Petersburg to visit with fellow Whippet breeder SHARON SAXON. Mark your calendars for the next AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB & AKC CANINE HEALTH FOUNDATION BREEDER’S SYMPOSIUM that will take place on Saturday, March 13th at the Thaw Auditorium of the CORNELL UNIVERSITY BAKER INSTITUTE. Speakers will include SUE PEARCE-KELLY
on CERF and genetic tests for eye disease, CURTIS DEWEY on canine neurology, N. SYDNEY MOISE on cardiology and cardiac testing, RORY TODHUNTER on orthopedics, OFA and PennHip, COLIN PARRISH on vaccinations and virology, and VICKI MEYERSWALLEN on reproduction. The $95. cost includes conference materials and breakfast and lunch. For further information contact RON RELLA at 212.696.8303. Happy Birthday to PATSY WADE. The ADSJ institute to be held on June 4th & 5th is now open to all judges. For further information contact DR. PENTA at 724.834.3744 or go to www.adsj. org. I was personally saddened to hear that THOMAS SHEEHAN, father of NANCY MARTIN, has passed
away. The SHEEHANS were longtime residents of Long Island until they moved to OREGON to be closer to NANCY’S sister BARBARA. I would often enjoy their company when NANCY would visit them. All at DOG NEWS join me in sending NANCY and her family our deepest sympathies. We also send our deepest sympathies to MARY DONNELLY on the loss of her beloved brother JOHN DONNELLY. MARY is secretary to American Kennel Club president DENNIS SPRUNG and a longtime employee of the AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB. Pleasant, personable and helpful, she has outlasted many who she has worked at 260 Madison Avenue. That shows you how good she really is!!!
We see her and we love her. Best In Specialty Show Winning
Am. & Can. Ch. Bella Del Conte Rissoso, TT
WILEY
Best of Opposite Sex Westminster Kennel Club, February 15, 2010 Thank you Judge Ms. Peggy Beisel-Mcllwaine. Always shown by Adam Bernardin & Jamie Bernardin Delighted Owners: Ellen Jo Myers & Nancy Valiquiette Breeder: Tino Malinverno Sire: Vaso del Conte Rissoso ( IT) x Dam: Uma of the Coastline ( AM) Dog News 105
eďŹ t
Ben Theatre
k c i l c y photos b Booth Phoebe
106 Dog News
n d u C o l a H s e s i h c T BACK TO BACK GROUP SHOWS AND SWEEPSTAKES April 16-17, 2010 OAK CANYON PRIVATE PARK Santiago, California
Oak Canyon Park, a private, rural preserve in Orange County, California, provides large grass areas for parking and rings to showcase America’s top hounds. Specialty shows on Friday, April 15th before the two-day Hound Classic include the Afghan Hound Club of California, Orange Coast Rhodesian Ridgeback Club, the Southern California Whippet Association (back to back shows), the Pharoah Hound Club of America and the San Angeles Saluki Club (at a different location). The above clubs will sponsor classes for the Hound Group Shows and Sweepstakes, and are joined by the Afghan Hound Club of America, Basset Hound Club of Southern California, Southern California Beagle Club, and the Irish Wolfhound Association of the West Coast.
Members of the Boy Scouts of America, Wiatava Lodge, Order of the Arrow will again be on site to provide assistance to our exhibitors.
COONHOUND CAVALCADE A special area
will be designated for the disply of coonhound breeds, both those listed in the Miscellaneous Class and Rare Breeds. This will give hound judges the chance to observe American English coonhounds, Treeing Walker coonhounds, Redbone and Bluetick coonhounds, and Plott hounds. Last year’s entry totaled 1,075 for the weekend, making this event a must for judges seeking an opportunity for hound education. Entries close Wednesday, March 31, 2010. Jack Bradshaw, Supt. (323) 727-0136 or www.jbradshaw.com. For more information, contact Lou Guerrero, Hound Classic Show Chairman, 11240 Muscatel, Oak Hills, CA 92345. Phone (760) 956-3852 or www.LMGX6@aol.com. Dog News 115
Handler’s Directory Jessy & Roxanne Sutton
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Handler’s Directory 8.10
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118 Dog News
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The American Kennel Club’s Registered Handlers Program applauds our member Gabriel Rangel RHP on piloting “Sadie” to Best In Show at Westminster!
Congratulations on a job well done! For more information on the American Kennel Club’s Registered Handlers Program contact: www.akc.org/handlers handlers@akc.org (919) 816-3884 Dog News 119
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120 Dog News
Cruz-ingThrough Westminster
O
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 92
n to the Working Group and judge Kimberly Meredith-Cavanna, Pleasant Hill, California gave a belated birthday surprise to the Doberman Pinscher, Ch. Allure Blazing Star Alisaton. “C J,” turned four on Monday and was America’s No. 2 dog all breeds and the No. 1 Working dog for 2009. Owned by Nancy Bosley, Julie Porter and Carmen Pitts, Cary, North Carolina, she was handled by Carissa DeMilta Shimpeno and was bred by Carmen Pitts and Carissa’s mom Gwen DeMilta. Yet another generation of dog show winners as mother and daughter have both won coveted top dog of the year with their Dobermans. “C J” has had 51 bests to date and is rumored to be going into retirement. Judge Loraine Boutwell, Kansas City, Missouri had the final Group assignment with the Terriers and sent “Sadie,” Ch. Roundtown Mercedes of Maryscot, the eighth Scottish Terrier in Westminster Kennel Club history to go Best in Show, into the grand finale. Westminster is always exciting and this year was no exception as protesters from a group I won’t dignify by naming attempted to disrupt the Best in Show judging. Holding signs above their heads, two women were quickly escorted from the ring by security and loudly booed by a crowd who didn’t appreciate their intrusion. Their message about mixed-breeds should fall on deaf ears as the AKC will begin to recognize mixed-breeds at performance events this year beginning in April with the advent of the American Kennel Club Canine Partners Programs for Mixedbreed dogs and their owners. Makes one wonder what this group will do next to denigrate the efforts of sincere breeders and pet owners who want nothing more than to enjoy the company and satisfaction of owning a dog that is comfortable in their homes, in the show ring, in performance events, in therapy, and rescue situations. Unfortunately, I’m afraid they will find something else to “bitch”
about. We in the sport need to be as vocal and as visible as they are and welcoming mixed-breed dogs and their owners will go a long way to keep them quiet. Finally, judge Weiss did his thing and Westminster Kennel Club’s 134th was the crowd-pleasing, exciting, and well-run event it has always been under the able direction of President Peter Van Brunt and Show Chairman Thomas H. Bradley III. The tuxedos and formals have been put away until next year and a new crop of champions will be in for the 135th edition. Not to be missed, No. 135 promises to be every bit as exciting as this year. That’s part of the Westminster experience and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Mark your calendars – February 14 and 15, 2011 See you then.
W
CELEBRITIES AND HAITI estminster’s annual event usually
brings out celebrities and dignitaries. In the crowd this year were noted columnist Cindy Adams; actor, writer and, comedienne Renee Taylor; New York Yankees President Randy Levine; and Broadway’s own Bernadette Peters. Sharing the evening with AKC President Dennis Sprung and his wife, Susan, the Consul General of the Republic of Haiti, Felix Augustin sat in during Tuesday’s groups. It was a well-earned respite from his weeks of non-stop work around the clock on behalf of the citizens of his country. Augustin was really impressed that the AKC and the people at the heart of our sport were so concerned with the well being of people as well with dogs. This was based on the known efforts of the American Kennel Club and the AKC Companion Animal Recovery (AKC CAR) for their donation of $25,000 to the United States Police Canine Association Region 7 (USPCA). The donation was made in recognition of the efforts of New York Task Force One, sponsored by the NYC Office of Emergency Management and staffed by NYPD and FDNY personnel. Four Search and rescue K-9 teams were deployed to Haiti in early January to assist with recovery and relief efforts following the earthquake. After more than a weeklong stay in Port Au Prince, the teams returned home after six rescues, including 10- and 8-year-old siblings. “We are pleased to give this donation locally to the USPCA Region 7 in recognition of the good works of the NYPD K-9 search and rescues teams sent to Haiti,” said AKC CAR CEO Tom Sharp. “USPCA Region 7 is an organization with a dedicated history of supporting law enforcement K-9s and their handlers with ongoing training and educational seminars. We look forward to this donation furthering and creating new opportunity for SAR training for the members.” Created in the wake of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, the AKC CAR Canine Support and Relief fund was created and to date has provided $3 million in search and rescue grants as well as disaster relief in response to hurricanes, floods, and wildfires. Enrollment of micro-chipped animals, over 33 species, makes it possible for these efforts to continue worldwide. The fund accepts both donations and applications for grant money at the following sites: http://www.akc.org/donations/ http://www.akc.org.dogny/grants.cfm • Dog News 121
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122 Dog News