The Greater Gainesville Dog Fanciers Association, Inc.

Transcription

1 The Greater Gainesville Dog Fanciers Association, Inc. February 2018 Newsletter for Dog Lovers G.G.D.F.A. P.O. Box Gainesville, Florida General Meeting Dates: 2nd Tuesday each month PINE GROVE Baptist Church 4200 NW 39th Ave 7:30 pm Gainesville, FL Board Meeting Dates: 4th Tuesday each month Club Officers President Denise Gaboury 1st VP Pam Rice 2nd VP John McKamey Secretary Sarah Wingfield Treasurer Doris Horton Club Directors Kathy Davis Carol Lamb Claire Hedrick Marge Saucier Linda Graham alternate Newsletter Editor Claire Hedrick Membership Chair Kathy Davis 2018 is a Chinese Year of the Dog. In Chinese astrology, each year is related to a Chinese zodiac animal according to the 12-year cycle is an Earth Dog Year. Years of the Dog include 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, and An earth dog is communicative, serious, and responsible in work. This year runs February 16, 2018 February 4, People of the Earth element and a Dog year are able to distinguish good from bad, and never do things by halves due to their dedicated attitude toward life, always sticking things out. It may seem as if they are not good at dealing with people but Earth Dogs are very communicative. It s their philosophy to "go your own way, let others talk". They are always serious and responsible in work, resulting in a high chance of success.

2 REMINDER NO MEETING IN FEBRUARY ENJOY WESTMINISTER! News From AKC Published The Westminster show was first held on May 8, 1877, making it the second-longest continuously held sporting event in the United States behind only the Kentucky Derby, which was first held in (Both events were held even during the World War years.) The show originated as a show for gun dogs, primarily Setters and Pointers, initiated by a group of hunters who met regularly at the Westminster Hotel at Irving Place and Sixteenth Street in Manhattan. They decided to create a kennel club called the Westminster Kennel Club specifically for the purpose of holding a dog show. The prizes for these first shows included such items as pearl handled pistols, of use to the hunters and terriermen who worked these dogs in the field. Held at Gilmore's Garden (Madison Square Garden) the Westminster show drew over 1200 dogs and proved so popular that its scheduled three days was extended to four, with the club donating proceeds from that fourth day to the ASPCA for creation of a home for stray and disabled dogs. The Westminster Kennel Club predates the formation of the American Kennel Club by seven years, and became the first club admitted to the AKC after AKC's founding in Breed parent clubs (e.g., the Afghan Hound Club of America) create the standards for judging their breeds, with the AKC administering the rules about shows and judging. Dogs are judged against their breed standards, to see how close each dog matches the standard, which is a written description of the ideal specimen of that breed. Standards may include references relating form to function in the performance of the job that the dog was bred for, and may also include items that seem somewhat arbitrary such as color, eye shape, tail carriage and more. While many breeds no longer need to perform their original jobs and are bred mostly for companionship, they should still have the innate ability and physical makeup to perform those jobs, and this is what the judge looks for. 94. Group and Best in Show judging take place in the evening at Madison Square Garden. The entry fills immediately on the first day that entries are accepted. Since 1992, the club has invited the top five dogs in each breed to be pre-entered (determined by the number of dogs defeated at shows during the previous year) to assure that all the top dogs have the chance to compete. Today, Westminster takes place over two days and nights every February. During the day, the dogs compete at the breed level (i.e., against other dogs of the same breed). Each Best of Breed winner (BOB) advances into its respective group, of which there are seven (Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non- Sporting, and Herding). Group competition is held during the evenings, and the seven group winners advance into the final competition, which one judge will select one of them as the Best In Show winner. Since 2014, the show allowed mixed-breed dogs to compete in an agility event.[1] Competition in Junior Showmanship (for handlers ages 8 18) has been held since The eight finalists all receive scholarships for post-secondary schooling. In addition, each year the club (through its Westminster Kennel Foundation) awards veterinary school scholarships for students from six schools. The winning dog becomes "America's Dog" for the next year. It begins its reign with a media tour on the day following the show with appearances on virtually all television network morning shows, a visit to the Observation Deck at the Empire State Building, and much more. The event is embraced in New York City every February, with salutes from such world-famous partners as the Empire State Building, which lights its tower in purple and gold (Westminster colors) during the show; Saks 5th Avenue, which features a street window with a Westminster-themed display; and the New York Stock Exchange, which invites the winner to ring the opening bell following its big win. Because of space considerations at Madison Square Garden, the entry is limited to 2,800 dogs and the breed judging is done during the day at Piers 92 and

3 News From AKC Published Canine Influenza Virus Notice Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer of AKC January 29, 2018 There have been reports of recent pockets of outbreaks of canine influenza virus (dog flu) in various parts of the country. As with the human influenza, the dog flu will remain with us. The difference now is that we know what the viruses are that cause two different strains of influenza, and that helps veterinarians diagnose and treat the illness properly. There are now vaccines available for both known strains of canine influenza: H3N8 and the more recent H3N2. In fact, you may be able to obtain one vaccine for both. Dogs most susceptible to the canine influenza are those that frequent communal activities: competitive dog events, dog parks, grooming shops, day care and boarding facilities, but all dogs can contract the virus from other infected dogs or from vectors (inanimate objects such as dog bowls, clothing, etc.) that have recently been exposed to the virus. People do NOT become infected from infected influenza dogs, and dogs do not become infected from infected humans with the flu. Though dogs can die of the flu, as in humans, most do not, though many will require veterinary attention. The signs of influenza are usually: lethargy, fever, decrease in appetite, cough, runny eyes/nose, possibly vomiting. Worsening signs are the development of pneumonia. As recommended, discussion with your veterinarian regarding vaccination for influenza is warranted, especially in the previously mentioned higher risk groups. Also, owners of boarding and day care facilities may require vaccination of dogs frequenting their establishments due to the high amount of effort required to properly sanitize and quarantine as well as the possible high economic loss. Here is some additional information about canine influenza virus and tips for how to minimize the risk and reduce the spread of the disease: Canine Influenza Virus Canine influenza virus is a highly contagious disease that is easily spread through: Close proximity to infected dogs Contact with contaminated items (bowls, leashes, crates, tables, clothing) People moving between infected and uninfected dogs. Almost all dogs that are exposed to the virus will contract it, and about 80% will show symptoms of the illness. Dogs are contagious 3-4 days prior to showing symptoms and 7-10 days after symptoms subside (this may cover a period of several weeks). Dogs may contract and spread the virus without showing symptoms. Most dogs will completely recover with proper treatment, but the disease can be fatal. The most likely victims of canine influenza virus are social dogs dogs that regularly interact with dogs outside of their own family or frequent places where many dogs gather. Symptoms Dry, hacking cough (similar to kennel cough) Lack of appetite Lethargy Discharge from the nose or eyes Fever (normal temperature is ) Prevention The best prevention is vaccination. There is now a single vaccination to prevent both the H3N2 and H3N8 strains of the virus. The vaccination requires a booster shot two weeks after the initial vaccine. Vaccines take 3-4 weeks to provide immunity. Isolate sick animals and keep them isolated for up to 10 days after symptoms subside. Practice good sanitation. Use a bleach and water mixture to disinfect common areas such as tables, bowls, leashes, crates, etc. Allow items to thoroughly air dry before exposing dogs to them. Wash your hands frequently, ideally between handling different dogs. At the very minimum, hand sanitizer should be used between handling dogs. Use disposable gowns or wipe down clothing and shoes with a bleach solution between dogs or after leaving an area where dogs congregate. Treatment Treatment of canine influenza virus requires veterinary assistance. If you believe your dog may have canine influenza virus, please contact your veterinarian immediately. Untreated, the illness may progress to pneumonia or other, more serious problems. Although most dogs recover from this illness, some otherwise healthy dogs have died from it. Most dogs take 2-3 weeks to recover from the illness. Any dog suspected of having canine influenza virus should be immediately isolated from other dogs and should not attend dog shows, day care, grooming facilities, dog parks, or other places dogs gather.

4 More From AKC Published Canine Influenza Virus Notice (continued) Dogs are contagious for 7-10 days after they have stopped showing symptoms. Contact your veterinarian to let them know that your dog may be showing symptoms of canine influenza virus. If your dog is going to a veterinary hospital or clinic, call ahead to let them know you have a suspected case of canine influenza virus. They may ask you to follow a specific protocol before entering the to minimize the spread of the disease, including waiting in your car until they are ready to examine your dog. Keep sick dogs at home and isolated from other dogs and cats until you are certain the illness has run its course (typically 3-4 weeks). Containment Any dog suspected of having canine influenza virus should be immediately isolated from other dogs and should not attend dog shows, day care, grooming facilities, dog parks, or other places dogs gather. Dogs are contagious for 7-10 days after they have stopped showing symptoms. Contact your veterinarian to let them know that your dog may be showing symptoms of canine influenza virus. If your dog is going to a veterinary hospital or clinic, call ahead to let them know you have a suspected case of canine influenza virus. They may ask you to follow a specific protocol before entering the to minimize the spread of the disease, including waiting in your car until they are ready to examine your dog. Keep sick dogs at home and isolated from other dogs and cats until you are certain the illness has run its course (typically 3-4 weeks). True Love: The Love of a Dog Gorgeously delightful eyes of chocolate brown Love so sweet and tender whenever you're around ~ Head that rests so softly upon the lap within A faithful loyal friend where love truly begins. Gentleness that whispers speaks volumes to the heart Eyes convey a message they're everywhere you are ~ Powerful yet loving they speak a thousand words, And still they melt your heart within for they truly are your world! A love forever faithful how can one be without Such loyal devotion and the nudging from that snout? For a house is not a home unless one pauses to see Through the eyes of he who lives with love unconditionally. New breeds AKC this year: Nederlandse Kooikerhondje (pronounced NAY-der-lahn-seh KOY-ker-hahnd-jeh) Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen (grahnd bah-say grif-fahn vahn-day-ahn)

5 Some Odd Dog Behaviors Explained Published We d like to think we have dogs all figured out, but some of their behaviors are baffling. For instance, we humans do not lie on each other s feet, and we don t shred paper with our mouths. So why do dogs? Thankfully, animal behaviorists and other experts have decoded some of these mysterious habits. Kicks Grass After Pooping Your dog isn t intentionally destroying your lawn when he kicks the grass after pooping; he s probably just trying to cover up his mess. He also could be marking his territory. Dogs have glands in their feet that secrete hormones, and a few kicks can help release those chemicals. Still, if you want your yard to be in better shape, try walking him somewhere else to go potty. Leans on You Some dog owners can hardly sit or stand without their canine leaning against their legs or standing on their feet. You may have heard that this behavior is a sign that your dog is trying to dominate you with his weight, but that s merely a myth. Leaning is actually a sign of affection for many dogs. It s a way for your pup to cuddle and get attention from his favorite human. So next time your pup leans on your legs, smile and show him some love. Shreds Paper Ever come home to find a room covered in toilet paper confetti? Has your dog actually eaten your homework for real? Well, you ve got a canine paper shredder on your hands. And the reason all your favorite paperbacks are ruined is simple: Shredding paper can be fun. Some dogs just enjoy the feeling of tearing something up with their mouths. After all, in the wild, dogs often tear up their prey. Beyond the fact that cleaning up this sort of mess gets old really fast, this behavior can actually be dangerous. While it can be startling to see your dog moving in his sleep, it s usually nothing to worry about. If you want to wake him, gently call his name or better yet, just let him sleep. Buries Bones and Other Objects You can go ahead and blame wolves and other wild canine ancestors for all the holes in your yard filled with treats, toys and other treasured objects. In the wild, a wolf may not know when his next substantial meal is coming, so he ll bury the prey or prized food item and dig it up later when he needs to eat. Similarly, your dog may place high value on a treat or toy, and decide that he needs to hide it so he can enjoy it later. Poems about Dogs I look into your eyes I look into your eyes and can see, The trust that is built between you and me. You never judge me when I am blue, You are a friend thats always true. The life you lead is like that of a child, Sometimes your calm and sometimes your wild. We walk outside every day, And that is when we both like to play. If life was as simple as it seems to be for you, We would be content and happy too. Your loyalty is one of love, You are a gift from heaven above. Its hard to think of you as just a pet, When you are the best friend I could ever get. I know to most your only a dog that lives here, But to me your the friend that is always near. Twitches in His Sleep Your dog is sound asleep, but he starts moving his legs and perhaps barks a little bit. What gives? Is he chasing something in his dreams? Actually, yes, he might be doing exactly that. Just like humans, dogs dream and go through different stages of sleep. Animal experts think that dogs dream during the REM (rapid eye movement) stage and act on their dreams by moving their paws or twitching as if they were chasing a squirrel. For unknown reasons, puppies and senior dogs seem to exhibit this behavior more than adult dogs.

6 Heart Failure In Dogs Published Heart failure (or "congestive heart failure") is a term used in veterinary medicine to describe the heart's inability to pump enough blood throughout the body to keep the circulatory system from "backing up." Not only does this lead to a condition whereby fluid accumulates upstream of the failing chambers of the (right sided heart failure affects the animal differently than left sided heart failure), it means less blood--and therefore less oxygen--is getting to the tissues of the body. For this reason, heart failure is an unsustainable condition that must be quickly reversed if the animal is to survive. What to Watch For The symptoms of heart failure will differ depending on which side of the heart is affected, right or left. Right-sided heart failure (backward failure): abdominal distention (ascites) exercise intolerance lethargy/weakness Left-sided heart failure (forward failure): coughing breathing difficulty lethargy/weakness bluish skin/gums Primary Cause In pets, heart failure is most commonly the result of chronic valve disease (in which the valves of the heart degenerate and prove incompetent), abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) and nutritional or hereditary conditions affecting the heart muscle or the major vessels leading to and from the heart. It should go without saying that the treatment of heart failure should address both symptoms and root cause(s). Immediate Care In cases of heart failure, the timing of treatment is critical. Check for a pulse or heartbeat. Squeeze the dog's gums and see if blood runs back into them when you remove your fingers. If the gums refill with blood, the heart is still active. You may need to give artificial respiration. If the gums do not refill with blood, the heart has stopped. You will need to give CPR and artificial respiration. Seek immediate veterinary care in all cases. Because oxygen therapy and drug therapy is considered essential, hospitalization will be required. Veterinary Care Treatment Long-term treatment is required in almost all heart failure cases in which the crisis has been overcome. Drug therapy, dietary changes and/or surgery (as in the case of some congenital heart defects), can be extremely effective in preventing future episodes, mitigating the overall severity of the underlying disease and increasing the quality of life. Here is a nice feature available at Cut and paste this in Symptom Checker Welcome to the petmd Symptom Checker, where you can easily search from over 2,000 dog and cat health articles based on the symptoms your pet is experiencing. To start, click on the pet you have Choose Dog and an easy to use instructions follow Welcome to the petmd Dog Symptom Checker, where you can easily search our 1,000+ dog health articles based on the symptoms your dog is experiencing. Simply select the area of the body that is being affected and then check off any appropriate symptom(s). Articles relevant to your query will appear below.

7 Congratuations to Cynthia Schmer and Susan Iserhart for a GREAT raffle event at our Show January 27th and 28th Over sixty baskets were prepared for the reaffle with so many great items donated. Susan and Cynthia worked with so many businesses to get great items. Paws On Parole is one of our designated local prgrams we support. Located in Gainesville, Florida, our prison-based dog training programs pair adoptable dogs from Alachua County Animal Services with inmates from the Florida Dept. of Corrections and the Alachua County Jail. The dogs live with and are trained by the inmates for 8 weeks and learn the basic skills necessary to pass the American Kennel Club's Canine Good Citizen test. The adoption fee is $40.00 and includes spay/neuter, microchip, and vaccines. More specific information about the show will be published after we reconcile everything later this month. February TO DO LIST Pay Dues $ individual $ family Awards Needed Each year we acknowledge AKC Titles won by our members fur-children. Copy the Certificate and send or give copy to Denise Gaboury. Special plaques will be awarded later this year. will be sometime around April

8 GGDFA Newsletter c/o Claire Hedrick 514 NW 127th Street Newberry, Fl ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED Secretary s Notice of GGDFA Meetings The next General Meeting of the GGDFA will be Tuesday, Mar 13th, promptly at 7:30 pm PINE GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH, 4200 NW 39TH AVE, Gainesville, FL The next Board Meeting will be Tuesday, Feb 27th Training Classes LOCATION: OAK HALL SCHOOL - Covered and lighted Tower Road, Gainesville Obedience/Rally classes Thursdays 6:00 pm With Denise Gaboury Conformation classes see Susie Keel Facebook Newsletter The views and opinions in this newsletter are not necessarily those of the Newsletter Editor or those of the GGDFA Officers and Board of Directors. The editor reserves the right to edit or withhold copy that which may be detrimental to the standards of this publication. The deadline for submission of articles, announcements, and brags to the newsletter is the 15 th of each month. Materials received after that date will appear in the following month s publication, depending upon space availability. You can the editor at claire@ggdfa.org.