Headlions. Volume 43 Issue 3/ September 2011

Transcription

1 Headlions Volume 43 Issue 3/ September 2011

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3 Editor: Gillian Robertson Peggy Cropsey Dee Gardinier Donna Jones Shari McNeill Don Roback Proof Reader Billing Collection Graphics Graphics Distribution Membership Information Types of Memberships and Membership Application forms are available on the LCA website A subscription to Headlions for a non-club member is $20.00 per year. Your thoughts and comments are welcome and encouraged as well as articles, photos and ads for the newsletter. Please send your submissions via to: lcaheadlions@gmail.com The editor reserves the right to edit or return submissions. Ad Deadline Headlions is published quarterly Publication Date February 2011 March 2011 Westminster Issue* May 2011 June 2011 August 2011 September 2011 November 2011 December 2011 Covers are reserved for the Westminster, AKC/Eukanuba and National Specialty winners if not taken by winners they are available. As we are digital we can be more flexible with deadlines and will do what we can to accommodate your requests. Advertising Rates: All payments are to be sent to Dee Gardinier, Treasurer, made payable to Lowchen Club of America. Note all pictures are now in color. All ads submitted as part of Insights series are discounted 50%. There is also a 50% discount for ads submitted by our Junior Members. Outside front cover $ Inside full page $70.00 Inside half page $50.00 Above based rates based on submission of 1 photo Each additional photo $10.00 Business Cards 4 Issue $30.00 Brags, Rainbow Bridge and Litter Announcements free to members $25.00 to non-members Assistance is available for developing your ad thanks to the talent of Donna Jones bichons@southbell.net or Shari McNeill, hogan100@rogers.com Note all pictures must be submitted as jpg s and not embedded in your message. 3

4 The Lowchen Club of America is not responsible for nor does it necessarily agree with opinions expressed in Headlions, either in articles or in advertisements. Headlions is not responsible for the accuracy of received material; those submitting material to the publication are asked to please proofread copy for correctness before sending. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any medium without the written permission of the current editor COMMITTEE CHAIRS Submitted by Don Roback Committee Chair Phone address Board Liaison Awards Gillian Robertson Dayle Lewis Breeder Referral Vicki All Don Roback Headlions Gillian Robertson Can. Barbara Cecil Health Wendy Russell Barbara Cecil Historian Dana Read Judges Susa Williams Donna Jones Education Judges Selection Elaine Saxon Dayle Lewis Membership Don Roback Legislative Cheryl Hatchell Life Cycles To Be Determined Nat l Specialty Dee Gardinier Phipps@vplp.net 2011 Nat l Specialty Don Roback droback@yahoo.com 2012 Performance Barbara Cecil BBcecil@aol.com Policy Dana Read otakalhasas@aol.com Donna Jones Committee Rescue Suzanne Solin threepupmom@aol.com Cheryl Hatchell Ways & Mean Mary Billman mcbillman@charter.net Donna Jones Committee Website Don Roback droback@yahoo.com For questions, or concerns, please contact the chairperson to the committee, or contact the Director in your area. 4

5 2011 OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS President Dayle Lewis 3612 Neale Rd. Caledonia, NY, Eastern Director John C. Taylor 4775 Lee Jackson Hwy Greenville, VA (540) TABLE OF CONTENTS Business Section: Presidents Message National Section: Page 6 Page 9 (585) (Home) mardays@yahoo.com Central Director Denise Schiele AKC Latest Title - ThD Page 24 Vice President Donna Jones 1219 W. Macedonia Ch. Rd. Oxford, GA (770) (Home) (678) (Mobile) Grace Ct Downers Grove, IL (630) (Home) lowchen1259@yahoo.com Mountain Director Gary Nordahl 2981 Hanover Ct. Heath Section Wendy Russell FEATURE ARTICLE INSIGHTS Lisa Sponsler Titles Section: Gillian Robertson Page 27 Page 29 Page 34 Recording Secretary Barbara Cecil 1726 Parana Dr., Watkins, CO (303) flyinlion@netecin.net Membership Info Don Roback Page 38 Houston, TX (713) bbcecil@aol.com Pacific Director Earlemarie Dingel P.O. Box 85 Editorial Tails End Page 39 Corresponding Secretary Don Roback 4101 Macon Pond Road Raleigh, NC (919) (Home) droback@yahoo.com Escalon, CA (209) lambertsallcreatures@hotmail.com Director-at-Large Debbie King SW 56 th St. Forms for Banquet Tickets at end of issue Mentoring program info and application form. Page 40 Treasurer P. D. (Dee) Gardinier 7663 Roberts St., Mustang, Ok (405) Debbieking123@aol.com Canastota, NY (315) (Home) phipps@vplp.net Director-at-Large Dana Read Eustis, FL otakalhasas@aol.com 5

6 President s Message: July 2011 the following was posted to the LCA Members Yahoo Group. It is being reprinted here for the benefit of those that are not on the list followed by a message from our new President, Dayle Lewis. I wish to apologize to the board and the members of the Lӧwchen Club. I must step down as president effective immediately. I have thought long and hard about this but pressures from my job are making it difficult for me to devote the proper amount of time and service to the Board and the membership. Again, this is not an easy decision for me, but I cannot balance my time in order to appropriately serve the Lӧwchen Club of America. I wish the Board all the best and I know you will all do a fabulous job for our members. Cheryl Hatchell Hello Everyone, As many of you already know, Cheryl Hatchell has resigned as President of the LCA. As Vice-President it was my duty to fill the vacated position. I have tried to make the transition as seamless as possible. As your new President, I would like to give you a bit of history about me. I have been involved with dogs in one fashion or another for 55 years. Around 15 years ago, my husband and I adopted our first Great Dane and became interested in the conformation ring. We (mainly my husband) showed Danes for a number of years. I wanted something that I could keep up with in the ring. That is when I got my first Lowchen. I immersed myself in the breed, learning everything that I could and talking with anyone that had Lowchen. I have had wonderful success breeding many beautiful champions and am a staunch promoter of the breed. Currently, our household consists of one Great Dane, one Havanese, one Collie, and eight Lowchen. It s never a dull moment! As your new President, I look forward to being of service to the club and to our wonderful breed. I hope to see many of you at the Lowchen Nationals in November. Sincerely, Dayle Lewis, President 6

7 ON LINE BOARD MEETING NEWS Submitted by: Barbara Cecil, Recording Secretary TREASURERS REPORT Submitted by: Dee Gardinier Dee and Barbara apologize but both have had some major computer challenges this summer. We hope to have the full Minutes and Treasurers report next issue! Why should you be the lists? On the Littlelions YAHOO list recently there was National a post regarding Info changes Section to importing dogs to the UK! Defra news they are doing away with the blood testing and 6 month wait for dogs to enter the UK from Jan 2012 a dog can have its rabies jab and as long as it is microchiped in can come into the UK 21 Days later. 7

8 WHO HAS THE CUTEST, SMARTEST, MOST BEAUTIFUL LÖWCHEN IN THE WORLD? You do, of course, and here's your chance to prove it. All you have to do is enter your special friend in our First Annual Photo Contest! Categories include: Best Indoor photo Best Outdoor photo Best Sport shot Best Costume photo Beauty Shot (Head shot) Not so "Beautiful" shot - covered in mud, snow, etc. Most Creative Lowchen photo (the Lowchen has to be the creative one! Sweetest Puppy shot Best Litter Photo As you can see, if you have a great picture we want to see it and if it doesn t fit into any of the above categories we ll just make one up! Just send your 4 X 6, 5 X 7, or 8 X 10 unframed photo and $5.00 entry fee (all proceeds go to LCA, of course) to me: Peggy Cropsey 3263 Allens Bridge Rd Albion, NY Winners will be announced at the National in November: If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at: pcropsey@gmail.com All photos will be returned at the National. NOVEMBER 1 ST DEADLINE SO ENTER TODAY! 8

9 Our 40 th Anniversary Celebrations will be held in conjunction with the Leatherstocking Circuit November 19, 20 and 21 st Syracuse, New York, Regional Friday, November 19 th : Sweeps - Mrs. Nadine Pelleschi Judge: Mr. Randy Garren National Saturday, November 20 th : Sweeps - Mr. Rick Day Judge: Mrs. Charlotte Patterson Supported Entry Sunday, November 21st: Judge: Mr. Norman Patton National Merchandise Info Merchandise available and order form are in this issue pages 14 to 20. Please note that all orders must be in to me by October 18 th in order to have them made up and available at the National for pickup. Otherwise they will need to be shipped and applicable shipping costs will apply. Vicki All allpwd@comcast.net Dee Gardinier Debbie King 7663 Roberts St S.W. 65 th St. Canastota, NY, Mustang, OK, Phipps@vplp.net debbieking123@aol.com 9

10 National Banquet Information Where: Best Western Pioneer Rooms 1 & 2 When: Saturday, November 19 th, 2011 Time: Cash Bar in the Atrium scheduled for 6:00 P.M. Dinner to follow No food or beverages may be brought into the banquet room from outside sources. Menu: American Buffet Sliced Roast Beef with Mushrooms & Horseradish Demi-Glaze Pasta Primavera Roast Turkey with Dressing & Pan Gravy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Green Beans Almondine Chef s Desert Toss Salad with Choice of Dressing Rolls and Butter Coffee, Herbal Teas, Decaffeinated Coffee Cost per person is $35.00 Make reservation to LCA, and mail to P.D.Gardinier 7663 Roberts St., Canastota, NY Form at back of this issue No later than November 1,

11 National 2011 Hotel Reservations Reservations can be made at the Best Western (formerly Holiday Inn) Carrier Circle at 6555 Old Collamer Road South, East Syracuse, New York , or Fax When making reservations use code LOW. Rooms have been reserve starting with Thursday November th A special rate of $89.00 per night with a $25.00 dog fee per stay. Reservations Must be made by October 16, The Best Western does have a shuttle available from and to the airport, but must be made in advance calling the number. If you need transportation to and from the shows. Please let me know and I ll do my best to arrange this. You can me at: phipps@vplp.net, or call me at Dee Gardinier Show chairperson 11

12 Löwchen National Specialty November 2011 Hospitality invites you to attend the following events. Thursday, November 17 th 6:30 9:00 pm Pizza Party & Raffle $5.00 donation for pizza & one raffle ticket A special Löwchen item donated by Carol Strong s family to be raffled off. RSVP by to Karen Giles egiles@stnyrr.com Pizza Friday, November 18 th 7:00 9:00 pm Löwchen Game Time Bring your Löwchen to play some fun party games. Prizes for the winners. Surprise Specialty Dessert following the games You don t want to miss this dessert. 12

13 Products LCA National 2011 Merchandise Available All orders MUST be in by October 18 th to be available for pick up at the National. Items can be personalized i.e. with your kennel name up to 12 letters - for an additional $8. Order form is at the end of this catalogue. Instructions as to how to make payment etc. are on the form. Any questions please contact Vicki All allpwd@comcast.net Colors: White, Sport Grey, Black, Navy, Red Adult Sizes: S- 2XL $34. Gildan - Ultra Cotton Long Sleeve Ringspun Pique Sport Shirt View Size Specification A comfortable, good looking long-sleeved choice for warmth and comfort throughout the year. 6.5 oz., pre-shrunk 100% combed ringspun cotton pique Contoured welt collar and Spandex reinforced cuffs Three woodtone buttons on a clean-finished placket with a reinforced box 13

14 Colors: Yellow, Lime, Light Blue, Navy, Maroon, Red, Green Sizes: S- 3XL $29. CHanes - TAGLESS Long Sleeve T-Shirt View Size Specification The comfort choice, with long sleeves for four-season warmth and a tag-free design to end itchy neck. 6.0 oz., pre-shrunk 100% ComfortSoft cotton; Safety Green is 60/40 TAGLESS for ultimate comfort Shoulder-to-shoulder taping with coverstitched collar Double-needle stitched cuffs and sleeves Colors- Raspberry, Pink, Garnet, Teal, White, Eggplant LADIES SIZES ONLY! S-2XL $29..A.T Sportswear - Ladies' V-Neck T-Shirt with ¾ Sleeves View Size Specification The V-neck tee is more flattering than ever in a classic feminine fit. 5.5 oz., 100% combed ringspun cotton jersey, 22 singles White is sewn in 100% cotton threat Topstitched rib V-neck collar and taped neck Double-needle hem sleeves and bottom 14

15 COLORS: Black, Royal, Forest Green, Winter White, Red, Navy $42. Adult Sizes: S-6XL Take on the competition in a Reverse Weave design that resists shrinkage, so length stays true to size. 12 oz., 82/18 cotton/polyester Sewn-down label 1x1 rib at underarm, sides and bottom band 3 ¾" wide 1x1 rib cuffs C logo on left sleeve Champion - Reverse Weave Crewneck Sweatshirt - S149 COLORS: Dark Green, Maroon, Navy, Royal Blue Adult Sizes: S-3XL $48. Sierra Pacific - Full-Zip Fleece Vest View Size Specification When you need warmth without bulk, turn to this convertible collar fleeced vest in lots of sizes. 8.5 oz., 100% polyester Convertible collar with dyed-to-match zipper pull Oversized nylon reinforced front pocket Elastic hem 15

16 Colors: Royal, Red, Black, Roest, Winter White, Navy Adult Sizes; S-6XL $44. Sierra Pacific - ¼ Zip Fleece Pullover View Size Specification A great look for after work in long wearing anti-pill polyester fleece oz., anti-pill 100% polyester fleece Convertible collar with dyed-to-match zipper pull Oversized nylon reinforced front pockets Elastic cuffs and hem Colors: Black/Stone, Forest/Stone, Navy/Stone, Red/Stone, Sage/Stone Stone/Black, Stone/Forest, Stone/Maroon, Stone/Navy $16. Sportsman - Twill Sandwich Cap View Size Specification Six-panel, low- profile chino cap is bio-washed for a faded, brokenin look. 100% bio-washed cotton chino Pre-curved sandwich visor, unstructured Adjustable self-fabric back with a tri-glide buckle 16

17 Colors: Baby Blue, Merlot, Navy $24. FeatherLite - Full Apron View Size Specification This apron withstands almost anything, thanks to DuPont Teflon fabric protector. 4.5 oz., 60/40 cotton/polyester Stain resistant, soil release and liquid repellant Plastic adjustable neck strap Three full-sized pockets Outside pen pocket sewn on large right pocket Double-needle stitching throughout Size: 30" x 24" COLORS:::::Black/Lime, Black/Royal, Black/Bright Pink, Black/Stone Black/Red $26. 17

18 K8000 Luxurious Lambswool microsherpa throw Item#: K8000 Description 100% polyester faux suede, reversible self-hemmed throw, super plush blanket with soft faux lambs wool, invisible zipper for ease of embellishment, with deluxe decorative presentation cord. Color available: Size: Color:Black, Wine, Cobalt Blue, Camel $40. ORDER FORM NEXT PAGE 18

19 Item Number LÖWCHEN 2011 MERCHANDISE ORDER FORM Description Color Size Price Qty. TOTAL PRICE ADD $2 FOR 2 xl $3 FOR 3 xl $4 FOR 4 xl SHIPPING & HANDLING Will you pick up the merchandise at the National? Circle: YES NO If NO please include shipping & handling charges. $10.00 for first item $2.00 for each additional item Merchandise Total Shipping & Handling If applicable GRAND TOTAL Name: Phone: ORDERS NEED TO BE RECEIVED BY OCTOBER 18 TH, 2011 FOR PICKUP AT THE NATIONAL Please make Check/Money Order Payable to LCA Address: Mail to: Vicki All, 5296 E. Chalmers Rd., Monticello, IN (allpwd@comcast.net) Fax: City: State: ZIP 19

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22 Membership News: The club extends its deepest sympathy to Debbie King whose husband, Steve Warren King, died suddenly September 5 th from a massive heart attack. Steve was only 59 years old. A graduate of Cleo Springs High School, Mustang, OK Steve was self-employed with King Aircraft Title Inc. He loved music, played in several bands and was an independent sound technician for local venues. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Debbie and your family. Flowers were sent on behalf of the membership. 22

23 We have all heard the stories of the how awful the east coast was hit by Irene this past month, and although I have thought of the clean up as far as trees, mud and water goes I never gave much thought beyond that until I receive the following from Edith Luke, who lives in Kitty Hawk, NC.. We have survived the storm!!!! The water did not come into my mom s house or my shop it stopped about 5 foot all the way from the house all the way around. The wind beat our trees and they may die from both the wind beating and the time they had to stand in the salt water. The house lost shingles, some trim boards near the roof line and the fake shutters on the front of the house. But our poor yard that was so nice is a total loss. We had to have bulldozers come in and clean the yard of all the swamp reeds, snakes and dead animals and fish. There were dead fish everywhere, in the dog yard they came over our fence which is 4 foot tall, they were hung in the bushes, they were everywhere. The bugs are horrible, the county is spraying from planes and by truck to try to get a handle on it. But the snakes are the worst, they are big,displaced marsh cottonmouths, and they are angry. I use an old mop to walk my dog yard each morning before letting the dogs out. If a snake is there the next thing it feels is the hoe chopping its head off. I am so trying to get all the things here back to normal. Working my grooming clients and cleaning around the yard. There was 38 inches at least running (sound water)down our road and it totalled the phone connection server so they have finally got that all repaired. I kept the guys from Tenn. with bug spray and cold water while they were here working of rebuilding the tower. Well it is time to get breakfast and on to work. Take care all, Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers. Love ya, Ethel Our thoughts and prayers to all our members who have and are dealing with the forces of nature. Stay safe. 23

24 AKC Newest Title Therapy Dog - ThD As of June 2011 the AKC created a new Therapy Dog title referred to as ThD. The criteria for this title is that a dog must be certified/registered by an AKC recognized therapy dog organization and perform 50 therapy dog visits. As Cecile Balizet explained to me Therapy dogs (offer support and comfort) - nursing homes, children, etc. The dog must be certified by Therapy Dog Certification Organization e.g. Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dogs, Therapy Dogs International, etc. Then the dog can achieve the AKC title after performing 50 hours + of comfort and support. Dana Read was kind enough to elaborate further for me with the following explanation of the differences between Therapy, Service and Emotional Support dogs. Therapy dogs visit hospitals, nursing homes, libraries, special needs camps, etc. to share their emotional warmth and stability. They allow themselves to be doted upon by people who are in need of a fuzzy, loving dog smile. They truly are a wonder to the drab, often very sad lives of people who are facing some pretty tough challenges. They also provide love, unconditional love, to kids who are challenged with either mental or developmental problems as they give acceptance so willingly, regardless of how the person looks or acts. That is something we take for granted because we own dogs, but some people just don't have much of this in their lives without the therapy dog visits. Therapy dogs have to be tested to make sure that they are well mannered, stable in temperament and that they pose no danger to people in various situations (think wheel chair, canes, oxygen machine, PA systems, kids being rowdy and loud, etc). They also have to have a good handle on basic OB commands (a bit more is required than for a CGC by most registries, but it is not like getting an OB title). In comparison, a Service dog is trained specifically to do certain tasks for an individual that is lacking in a normal "life function". There are, of course, seeing eye dogs and hearing dogs, but there are also dogs that are trained as mobility assist dogs who are trained to always stay on one side of a person who is unstable in their gait - if the person starts to falter, the large dog leans into the person to offer stability. There are dogs trained to open doors and retrieve dropped objects for those with other mobility problems (wheelchair or bedridden), there are seizure alert dogs (I think they are trained to detect the chemical changes in the body that precede a seizure, but I'm not certain about that). These are just a few of the more common services dogs provide, but they are provided only for one person. It is a one on one relationship and when in public or at home, they are working animals and should not be petted or talked to or otherwise distracted unless the disabled person permits it Then there is the often misused term of "emotional assistance" dog. This is the category where a dog is deemed to be necessary for the emotion health and well being of, again, one person. There really isn't any special training required that I know of (other than basic good manners) and an annual letter from a doctor stating need is required if these dogs accompany their owner in pubic places or on public transportation. While these dogs also perform an important service for the emotionally challenged, unfortunately, way too many people take undue advantage of this designation by getting a physician "friend" to give them a letter so they can take their dogs with them on airplanes at no charge. Understandably, this is causing the airlines to tighten their scrutiny of service dogs which can be very embarrassing to those who truly need them as it 24

25 only causes one's disability (all of which are not obvious) to come to the forefront. It is a shame. Thanks Dana! It is with great pride that we are pleased to announce that two of our Löwchen family have obtained this new title! Terry McKitrick with Zeke has the distinct honor of being the 1 st Löwchen to receive this title but not to be left behind is Natalie and Adam Weissman with Phoenix! It will be no surprise to anyone that the two breeders that that top the list are John Taylor and the late Herb Williams, Taywil and Susan Tapp s Castlehill. Both of these breeders have long been recognized for having top performance dogs in many different venues. If you have a Therapy Dog that is eligible, go to the AKC website, apply and send us a picture! Congratulations Terry, Natalie and Adam on your achievement! Taywil s Snapdragon From Oz (Zeke) Receives the AKC s Newest Title: Therapy Dog (THD) Shortly after bringing Zeke home, we realized he was special and we would have to share him with others, we just weren t sure how to go about it. Zeke enjoyed his obedience and agility classes but mostly he enjoyed being with people and entertaining them with his antics. After obtaining his AKC Canine Good Citizen title I decided he was ready for the leap to therapy dog. Fortunately, Atlanta has a wonderful organization we could volunteer with, Happy Tails. Happy Tails visits include simply sharing our pets with clients in an informal setting, referred to as animal-assisted activity. Happy Tails volunteer teams provide physical, social, emotional, and cognitive therapy to people of all ages. Most people we visit often focus more on the fun they are having instead of the therapeutic benefits they receive! After training (for me) and testing (for both of us) we were admitted into Happy Tails. Over the past five years Zeke has entertained and amused children and adults during nearly one hundred visits! During a recent visit to a camp for disabled children Zeke s dancing on his hind legs brought a smile to an otherwise unresponsive child. At a visit to a mental health ward of a local hospital, a patient declared Zeke better than anti-depressants; the patients also named the ward mascot. This past June the AKC recognized therapy dogs with a new title; Therapy Dog (THD). Zeke easily met the requirements to be among the first within Happy Tails and the first Lowchen to earn the title. Terry McKitrick 25

26 Ch. Castlehill's Crimson Phoenix CGC TDI RN TWT ThD Phoenix finished her Championship in July. She has now received from the AKC their new Therapy Dog Title ThD. It includes a beautiful Patch and a lovely certificate for her 100 hours in Read to the Dog Program at the Norwood Public Library. Natalie and Adam Weissman 26

27 HEALTH SECTION Submitted by: Wendy Russell, Chair More on Vaccine Titer Testing W. Jean Dodds, DVM Hemopet 938 Stanford Street Santa Monica, CA ; Fax Some veterinarians have challenged the validity of using vaccine titer testing to assess the immunologic status of animals against the common, clinically important infectious diseases. With all due respect, this represents a misunderstanding of what has been called the "fallacy of titer testing", because research has shown that once an animal s titer stabilizes it is likely to remain constant for many years. Properly immunized animals have sterilizing immunity that not only prevents clinical disease but also prevents infection, and only the presence of antibody can prevent infection. As stated by eminent expert Dr. Ronald Schultz in discussing the value of vaccine titer testing, these tests "show that an animal with a positive test has sterilizing immunity and should be protected from infection. If that animal were vaccinated it would not respond with a significant increase in antibody titer, but may develop a hypersensitivity to vaccine components (e.g. fetal bovine serum). Furthermore, the animal doesn't need to be revaccinated and should not be revaccinated since the vaccine could cause an adverse reaction (hypersensitivity disorder). You should avoid vaccinating animals that are already protected. It is often said that the antibody level detected is "only a snapshot in time". That's simply not true; it is more a "motion picture that plays for years". Furthermore, protection as indicated by a positive titer result is not likely to suddenly drop-off unless an animal develops a medical problem such as cancer or receives high or prolonged doses of immunosuppressive drugs. Viral vaccines prompt an immune response that lasts much longer than that elicited by classic antigen. Lack of distinction between the two kinds of responses may be why practitioners think titers can suddenly disappear. But, not all vaccines produce sterilizing immunity. Those that do include: distemper virus, adenovirus, and parvovirus in the dog, and panleukopenia virus in the cat. Examples of vaccines that produced non-sterile immunity would be leptospirosis, bordetella, rabies virus, herpesvirus and calicivirus --- the latter two being upper respiratory viruses of cats. While non-sterile immunity may not protect the animal from infection, it should keep the infection from progressing to severe clinical disease. 27

28 Therefore, interpreting titers correctly depends upon the disease in question. Some titers must reach a certain level to indicate immunity, but with other agents like those that produce sterile immunity, the presence of any measurable antibody shows protection. The positive titer test result is fairly straightforward, but a negative titer test result is more difficult to interpret, because a negative titer is not the same thing as a zero titer and it doesn't necessarily mean that animal is unprotected. A negative result usually means the titer has failed to reach the threshold of providing sterile immunity. This is an important distinction, because for the clinically important distemper and parvovirus diseases of dogs, and panleukopenia of cats, a negative or zero antibody titer indicates that the animal is not protected against canine parvovirus and may not be protected against canine distemper virus or feline panleukopenia virus. Finally, what does more than a decade of experience with vaccine titer testing reveal? Published studies in refereed journals show that 90-98% of dogs and cats that have been properly vaccinated develop good measurable antibody titers to the infectious agent measured. So, in contrast to the concerns of some practitioners, using vaccine titer testing as a means to assess vaccine-induced protection will likely result in the animal avoiding needless and unwise booster vaccinations. SIDE BAR Reasons for Vaccine Titer Testing: * To determine that animal is protected (suggested by a positive test result). To identify a susceptible animal (suggested by a negative test result). To determine whether an individual animal has responded to a vaccine. To determine whether an individual vaccine is effectively immunizing animals. * from: Schultz RD, Ford RB, Olsen J, Scott F. Titer testing and vaccination: a new look at traditional practices. Vet Med, 97: 1-13, 2002 (insert). References Dodds WJ. Vaccination protocols for dogs predisposed to vaccine reactions. J Am An Hosp Assoc 38: 1-4, Lappin MR, Andrews J, Simpson D, et al. Use of serologic tests to predict resistance to feline herpesvirus 1, feline calicivirus, and feline parvovirus infection in cats. J Am Vet Med Assoc 220: 38-42, Mouzin DE, Lorenzen M J, Haworth, et al. Duration of serologic response to five viral antigens in dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc 224: 55-60, Mouzin DE, Lorenzen M J, Haworth, et al. Duration of serologic response to three viral antigens in cats. J Am Vet Med Assoc 224: 61-66, Paul MA (chair) et al. Report of the AAHA Canine Vaccine Task Force: 2003 and 2006 canine vaccine guidelines, recommendations, and supporting literature. AAHA, April 2003 and 2006, 28 pp. Tizard I, Ni Y. Use of serologic testing to assess immune status of companion animals. J Am Vet Med Assoc 213: 54-60, Twark L, Dodds WJ. Clinical application of serum parvovirus and distemper virus antibody titers for determining revaccination strategies in healthy dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc 217: ,

29 Insight National Parent Club AKC Canine Health Conference August 12-14, 2011 St. Louis, Missouri Submitted by Lisa Sponsler In honor of the 250 th anniversary of the veterinary profession, the conference began with a keynote address, The History of Veterinary Science and the Role of Canine Research in Society. Many veterinarians, me included, were surprised at how little we knew of the fascinating history of our profession. Mark Neff, PhD then shared his research on dog genetics and behavior. He believes that understanding the genetics of instinctive behavior in dogs may lead to a better understanding of human mental illness and psychiatric disease. The concept of canine research leading to advancements in human health was a common theme among many of the researchers. Our pet dogs can often provide a better model for human illness than lab rodents for several reasons. Pet dogs live in the same environment as humans. The diseases and cancers of pet dogs are natural and spontaneous, and the dogs have a competent immune system. The dog genome is published and is quite similar to the human genome. We share most genes; they are just mixed up a bit on different chromosomes. Faster disease progression in dogs leads to shorter data turn around time. Autopsy exams are performed more often in pet dogs compared to humans. The cost of a dog study is about 1/10 th the cost of a similar study in humans. To summarize this concept, Matthew Breen, PhD said, our dogs need our help, but our dogs can also help us. The benefits to human health should result in more research money available for canine research. Arleigh Reynolds, DVM, PhD is a researcher employed by Nestle Purina. He lives in Alaska and studies his own kennel of racing sled dogs. He stressed the benefits of probiotics and suggested they be used alone to treat diarrhea in dogs. He recommends avoiding the use of antibiotics to treat diarrhea unless the dog is systemically ill. For dogs that do require antibiotic treatment, probiotics can be used during and after antibiotic treatment to help maintain and restore the normal gut flora. He also showed data on the benefits to the immune system from EBC (egg biologic compound) and dried bovine colostrum supplements that can benefit any breed of dog during times of stress (travel, showing, breeding, kenneling, etc.). Because cancer is the leading cause of death in pet dogs (and cats), it was prevalent topic on Saturday. We heard from Jaime Modiano VMD, PhD about molecular genetics of cancer. He discussed benefits of determining the subtypes of certain cancers, like lymphoma and osteosarcoma, in order to get a more accurate prognosis and determine the best treatment. Nicola Mason, BVetmed, PhD described in great detail the use of monoclonal antibodies and canine derived antibody fragments for targeted cancer therapy. Douglas Thamm, VMD explained the ins and outs of canine cancer clinical trials. Information on veterinary clinical trials can be found on this site:. Rondo Middleton, PhD explained that low Vitamin D levels are a risk factor for cancer. Dogs are unable to produce significant Vitamin D from sunlight so it is important they get adequate levels in their diet. Though it is clear that low Vitamin D levels can be harmful, the optimal level of 29

30 Vitamin D in the diet is currently under investigation. Pfizer s Karen Greenwood outlined the process for the development and approval of new veterinary cancer drugs. We then got a break from the intensely scientific meeting as Susan LaCroix Hamil, CHF Director and AKC Delegates Health Committee member described the desire to add a health requirement to the AKC Breeder of Merit program. She would like each breed club to determine their own health requirements. She suggested the breed club s code of ethics might not be the best source of health requirements since it is difficult to change. She feels these health requirements need to be more flexible. The CHIC requirements could be used, though currently the Lowchen breed is not enrolled in the CHIC program. Cynthia Otto, DVM, PhD wrapped up Saturdays program with a discussion of the study following the health of the 9/11 search and rescue dogs. Remarkably, the dogs had minimal injuries during their work and have remained healthy since. Despite the search dogs lack of protective gear, they have not had the respiratory problems the human responders experienced. She speculated the long dog nose may be protective. Further study to understand this resilience in dogs may lead to advancements in protective gear for humans. We were taken by bus from the host hotel in downtown St. Louis to the new Event Center at Purina Farms. This gorgeous facility would be a wonderful site for a breed specialty. If I understood correctly, a breed club wishing to have a specialty can rent the facility for free on the Friday before a weekend all breed show. The facility s lack of adequate flooring for a large agility trial was a bit disappointing. Apparently they mistakenly assumed the rubber flooring (which is great for conformation, rally and obedience) would also work well for agility. When the agility competitors complained their dogs were sliding and started cancelling their trials, Purina Farms bought artificial turf to roll out over the rubber flooring. This seems to be a good solution, but they currently have turf for only one agility ring. We were treated to drinks, dinner, a disc dog demo, and live music. The outdoor facility provides the ability to host about any dog sport you can imagine, including dock diving, earth dog, terrier races, tracking, lure coursing, sheep herding (sheep are provided). I am truly thankful to the LCA for giving me this opportunity. Each researcher ended their presentation by sharing the sources of their research funding. It was great to see true health advances were made for some breeds, and these breakthroughs were possible in part due to funding provided by their breed club. A dedicated club can do a lot to improve the health of their beloved breed. 30

31 RESCUE: Suzanne Solin is happy to report that we have not had any Löwchen rescue situations the last few months. Great news! Thanks Suzanne!. 31

32 Mark your calendars! LCA National 2012 November 15 th 18 th, 2012 Concord, North Carolina In conjunction with an All Breed Conformation Show Agility indoors on artificial turf Obedience and Rally in a separate nearby building Large vendor show Tons of RV parking with hook-ups at the show site Host hotel will be the Hampton Inn and Suites No increase from this year - rate of $89 per night More details to follow! 32

33 BOOM goes the Dynamite! Congratulations to Don & Dino on obtaining your CHAMPIONSHIP title! This photo says it all! Yahoo now let s go play! Can t wait to see him make his mark in the obedience and agility rings. Best wishes from The Bihar Family Ch. Windsor Bihar s Boom Goes the Dynamite Proud handler/owner: Don Roback Breeders & co-owners: Margaret Cropsey & Carol A. Strong 33

34 TITLES SECTION: Submitted by: Gillian Robertson Championship Titles: Ch. Laser s Mirror Image Sire: Ch. Natchez Starbucks At Laser Dam: Laser s White Diamonds Owners: Marcia Williamson & Ronnie Crowder & Wade Koistinen Breeders: Betty Meidinger & Ronnie Crowder & Wade Koistinen Ch. Laser s My Bff Sire: GCh. Ch. Laser Kiji No Way No How Dam: GCh. Ch. Laser s Little Miss Sunshine Owners: Ronnie Crowder & Wade Koistinen Breeders: Ronnie Crowder & Wade Koistinen Ch. Bnvs Under My Spell Sire: Ch. Bnvs Put A Spell On You Dam: Ch. Khara s Too Much Heaven Owners: Wendy Russell Breeder: Wendy Russell Ch. Laser s Parting Ways Sire: Marric s Incognito At Laser Dam: Ch. Laser s It s A Wonderful Life Owners: Betty Meidinger & Kailey Smith & Wade Koistinen Breeder: Niki Fuhr & Ronnie Crowder & Wade Koistinen Ch. Windsor Bihar Hat Check Girl Sire: GCh. Ch. Windsor Bihar Chasing Rainbows Dam: Ch. Chic Choix Bihar Atlantica Owners: Rachel Kulp, Margaret Cropsey & Lynda Martin Breeders: Margaret Cropsey & Carol A. Strong Ch. Castlehill s Crimson Phoenix RN Sire: GCh. Ch. Sweetmeadows Jb of Kismet Dam: Ch. Desusa s Simply Irrisistable Owners: Natalie Galdi-Weissman & Susan Tapp & Adam Weissman Breeder: Sue Tapp Ch. Tapestry Bihar Sweet Victory Sire: Ch. Bihar Ivytree N Marshvu Louie Dam: Bihar s Fudge Stripes Owner: Kellye St. John & Carol A. Strong Breeders; Gillian Robertson & Carol A. Strong Ch. Musicbox Gotcha From Fox Lane Sire: Ch. Fox Lane s Phoenix Rising Dam: Ch. Fox Lane s Just Peachy Owners: Donna Jones & Mary Billman Breeder: Mary Billman 34

35 Ch. Musicbox Tail of Two Cities Sire: Ch. Boondock s Magic N Motion Dam: Ch. Desusa s Gala Affair Owner: Mary Billman & Vicki All Breeders: Donna Jones & Susa Williams Ch. Musicbox The Coctail Hour At Four Oaks Sire: Ch. Bihar Ivytree N Marshvu Louie Dam: Ch. Musicbox Bottom Of My Heart Owner: Donna Jones & Kayley Kovar Breeder: Donna Jones & Lexi Neel Ch. Windsor Bihar Boom Goes The Dynamite Sire: GCh. Ch. Windsor Bihar Chasing Rainbows Dam: Ch. Chic Choix Bihar Atlantica Owner: Don Roback & Margaret Cropsey & Carol A. Strong Breeders: Margaret Cropsey & Carol A. Strong Grand Champion Ch. Laser Kiji No Way No How Sire: Kiji Here Comes Trouble Dam: Ch. Laser s Love s A Brewin Marric Owners: Wade Koistinen & Ronnie Crowder Breeder: Kim Schmidt & Wade Koistinen & Alicia Schmidt & Ronnie Crowder Grand Champion Ch. Tapestry Bihar s Stike A Pose Sire: Ch. Bihar Ivytree N Marshvu Louie Dam: Bihar s Fudge Stripes Owners: Gillian Robertson & Carol A. Strong Breeders: Gillian Robertson & Carol A. Strong Grand Champion Ch. Chic Choix Fille Chic Sire: Chic Choix Ours En Peluche Dam: Chic Choix Saphir De Nuit Owners: Donna Jones & Lexi Neel Breeder: Juha Kares Grand Champion Ch. Musicbox Classical Masterpiece Sire: Ch. Chic Choix Touche Dam: Ch. Fox Lane s My Girl Owners: Vicki Hamilton & Chase Koetter & Donna Jones Breeders: Donna Jones & Mary Billman 35

36 Agility Master FAST Excellent PERFORMANCE TITLES: Castlehill s Born to Run MX MXJ MXF Sire: Lionheart Loyal V. Ivytree CD Dam: Ch. Desusa s Simply Irrisistable Owners: Christine Bartos& Susan Tapp Breeder: Susan Tapp Master Agility Excellent Ch. Taywil s Kickin Aster VCD3 RA MX MXJ OF Sire: Ch. Bihar s N Annex Tucker Dam: Ch. Taywil s Sunny Twinkle Owners: Laura Boyce & Emmett Wiggins Breeders: Herbert H. Williams & John C. Taylor Novice Agility Jumper Ruff N Ready Vaquero of Tumbleweed NAJ NF Sire: Ch. Ikon I Ll Give Ya Goosebumps Dam: Ch. Desusa s Tsunami Vd Dandylion RN MX MXJ OF Owners: Joni Weed & Roger Weed Breeders: Joni Weed & Roger Weed Excellent Agility Jumper & Open Agility Ikon Here Comes Alvin!! OA AXJ Sire: Ch. MACH9 Geolen s Here Comes Tucker CD RE XF Dam: Ch. Ikon I Believe in Magic Owners: Gary L. Nordahl & Ruthie Nordahl Breeders: Lyle Harding & Richard Harding & Bevalyn Iverson & Eric Iverson Excellent Agility Ch. Ikon Hey Look Me Over Desusa OA AXJ Sire: Ch. Desusa s Magic In Motion Dam: Ch. Ikon Trailer Trash Owner: Lynda Bowman Breeders: Richard & Lyle Harding & Shirley f. Sanders Open Agility & Open Agility Jumper Ch. Castlehill`s Charming Man of Steel RE OA OAJ Sire: GCh. Ch. Sweetmeadow Jb of Kismet Dam: Ch. Desusa`s Simply Irrisistable Owners: Barbara E. Carlson & Susan Tapp Breeder: Susan Tapp 36

37 Master Agility Champion MACH Castlehill s Born To Run MXF Sire: Ch. Lionheart Loyal V. Ivytree CD Dam: Ch. Desusa s Simply Irrisistable Owners: Christine Bartos & Susan Tapp Breeder: Susan Tapp MACH Dususa s Butterfly Sire: Ch. Desusa s Magic Motion Dam: Ch. Desusa s Smitten Kitten Owners: Denise Schiele & Susa Williams Breeder: Susa Williams Master Agility Champion 9 Ch. MACH9 Geolen s Here Comes Tucker CD RE XF Sire: Geolen s Jolly Jamboree Dam: Geolen s Sweet Anticipation Owners: Gary L. Nordahl & Ruthie Nordahl Breeder: Lenore M. Gish AKC TopDogs BREED Totals Conformation January 1 Septenber 2, 2011 Points 1 GCh. Ch. Touche s Undercover Agent Rainbow GCh. Ch. Windsor Bihar Chasing Rainbows GCh. Ch. Laser Kiji No Way No How 70 4 GCh. Ch. Musicbox Sock Monkey At Four Oaks 50 5 GCh. Ch. Seafever s Killian Red 47 6 GCh. Ch. Desusa s Who s Your Daddy 31 7 GCh. Ch. Volare Jazzy Jigsaw 22 8 GCh. Ch. Musicbox Classical Masterpiece 20 9 Ch. Windsor Bihar Hat Check Girl 18 9 Suite Sykiatrist Sybling Taywil s Gyges The Protector 17 AKC TopDogs ALL-BREED Totals - Conformation January 1 September 2, GCh. Ch. Windsor Bihar Chasing Rainbows 3,134 2 GCh. Ch. Touche s Undercover Agent Rainbow GCh. Ch. Musicbox Sock Monkey at Four Oaks Ch. Laser Kiji No Way No How GCh. Ch. Desusa s Who s Your Daddy GCh. Ch. Seafever s Killian Rd GCh. Ch. Volare Jazzy Jiggsaw Ch. Bare Tracks Nothing Like Lion King s Mighty Quinn 88 9 Ch. Ikon Ropin The Wind of Tumbleweed GCh. Ch. Musicbox Classical Masterpiece 68 37

38 MEMBERSHIP: Submitted by: Don Roback, Membership Chair First of all, congratulations to new members: Nicole Carfora-Ruiz, Ethel and Mike Pugh, Angie Robinson, Eric Iverson and Lisa Brown Next is the new member applicant: 1) For Full Membership Vicki Hamilton Address: 3615 Paoli Pike/ POBox 54, Floyds Knobs, IN Phone: Current breeds: lowchen, mini bull terrier and chihuahua mix Breeds owned in the past: great dane, golden retrievers, labs and tibetan terriers Membership in Clubs: Flying Feet Agility Ever had a litter? No Professionally connected to Dogs? I own a boarding, grooming and daycare facility License to deal in dogs? No Ever trained in companion or performance events? Yes Companion/Performance titles: Ch, RN, OA, AX Ever shown a dog to an AKC breed championship? Yes Interests in dog fancy: Agility and Conformation Areas of interest to work within the LCA: Open LCA Code of Ethics signed? Yes Fees enclosed? Yes Letters of support? From Donna Jones and Cheryl Hatchell 38

39 Tails End. By Gillian Robertson Sitting here trying to put together some thoughts for this issue my mood is somber. I have just learned of the sudden death of Debbie King s husband, Steve and can`t help but reflect on how sad a year it has been for many of us. It seems even Mother Nature is inflicting her wrath on us all. I don t ever recall dog shows being cancelled in the numbers that we have seen this year due to the weather and to darken my mood even further September will forever be marked by 9/11 and ten years later our hearts still feel the pain of those shocking and world changing times. Thankfully it isn t all doom and gloom and there is a future which we naturally face with hope and optimism. Right now we are weeks away from our National in Syracuse this November. A coming together as a group with a common interest and love for our Lowchen, that adorable beguiling little breed that has charmed us. I have attended many Nationals over the years and I always look forward to them to meet old friends, make new ones and to see how each of us has interpreted the standard. Going to a National is like a pilgrimage. You work towards having something to show and you plan your vacation around it. Nationals are exciting and often there is a changing of the guard as the next generation of both people and dogs make their debut with the hi-lite being the Best of Breed judging with its electric anticipation. The banquet is always wonderful. A time to recognize achievements and remember those no longer with us. It is a coming together with tears, laughs and camaraderie. If I can just get on my soap box for a minute I want to encourage you all to enjoy to the fullest this upcoming National. Enjoy the people, enjoy the dogs, and enjoy the experience of sharing a common interest and love. Don t allow our differences of opinion or interpretation of a standard to take away from the chance to get to know and appreciate each other. As too many of us have been reminded this year, life is short, enjoy the experience and friends while you can. With this issue I have completed two years as Editor of Headlions. I hope you have enjoyed the issues and I thank you for your pictures, articles and interest. When I took on this job I said that I felt two years was a good run. No I m not quitting and if no one comes forward, yes there will be a December issue. However, I KNOW there are more talented people out there than I. So if you feel you d like to give it a go please contact me or Barbara Cecil and let us know. Change is always good and two years isn t a long time just long enough Hope you enjoy this issue and I look forward to seeing you in Syracuse! Until next time, Gillian at Tapestry A moment from the summer! Stella with my Dad eating the tomato she picked herself! 39

40 BANQUET TICKET FORM Please complete and return no later than November 1, 2011 Mail form and accompanying check to Dee Gardinier, Show Chairperson Reservations for Banquet: Cost: $35.00 each. X # = Total $ Name Address: City State Zip Phone 40

41 BREED MENTORS AND SEMINAR PRESENTERS APPLICATION PROCEDURE Qualifications In order to qualify as a Lowchen Club of America (LCA)-approved Breed Mentor and/or Seminar Presenter, the prospective applicant shall meet or exceed the minimum criteria as approved by the Board of the Lowchen Club of America and set forth below. Each Breed Mentor and/or Seminar Presenter shall: 1) Be an LCA member in good standing for a minimum of 5 years. 2) Be experienced breeding and showing Lowchen for a minimum of 5 years. 3) Have bred 2 litters and produced a minimum of 2 homebred champions. 4) Attended 2 LCA Nationals within the past 5 years. 5) Attended 2 LCA Breed seminars within the past 5 years. Application Process Members interested in becoming an LCA-approved Breed Mentor must apply to the Judges Education Chair via the attached application requesting consideration. Such application shall include the following: All records or other data which prove the fulfillment of the requirements delineated in the Qualifications Section above, all other accomplishments in the breed which the applicant wishes to note (handling, judging, etc.); Identifying information for National Specialty Judges Education Seminars the applicant attended if he or she has already attended seminars; and, Contact information for the lead presenter at any seminars at which the applicant acted as an Assistant Presenter, if the applicant is applying to be approved as a Seminar Presenter. After receipt of an applicant's letter and certification of all qualifying data, the Chair shall contact the applicant and arrange for him/her to act as an Assistant Presenter at an upcoming Judges' Education Seminar if necessary for the applicant to meet the qualifications for Seminar Presenter. The Chair shall submit the applicant's name to the LCA Board with recommendation for approval or disapproval as follows: APPROVE - Breed Mentor; APPROVE - Breed Mentor, PENDING - Seminar Presenter APPROVE - Breed Mentor and Seminar Presenter APPROVE - Breed Mentor, DISAPPROVE - Seminar Presenter or DISAPROVE - All. The Board shall then make the final decision for or against approval of the applicant by majority vote; however, the Board shall make a written explanation to the Chair for any decision contrary to the Chair s recommendation. The Chair shall promptly notify any applicant in writing as follows: a statement indicating whether the application was denied in whole or in part; and, a statement indicating that a Breed Mentor applicant or Seminar Presenter who was denied may re-apply after one year has passed since their receipt of said notification of denial from the Chair. Mail application & supporting documentation to Susa Williams, Lacy Road, Smithton, MO