Entries for both tests close at the address of the Test Secretary at 6:00 PM, EDT, Wednesday, October 7, 2015, after which time entries cannot be accepted, canceled or altered, except as specifically allowed in the current BMDCA Draft Test Regulations. Please note there are two secretaries for this test. PREMIUM LIST Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America Draft Test 35th & 36th Draft Tests Hosted by the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Nashoba Valley Saturday, October 17, 2015 Sunday, October 18, 2015 Middlesex County 4-H Fairgrounds 55 South Chelmsford Road Westford, Massachusetts Judges (both days): Kathy Berge Indianola, Iowa Steve Dudley Williams, Arizona July 2011 BMDCA Draft Regulations Will Be in Effect. Tests Open to All Eligible Dogs in accordance with current BMDCA Draft Regulations, Chapter 3, Section 1, Paragraph B. All Judging Will Be Outdoors
Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Nashoba Valley Officers Marge Bumen, President Patricia Buickerood, Vice-President Bruce Hallden, Treasurer Carol Jensen, Secretary, 20 Court St, Cromwell, CT 06416 Directors Anya Wittenborg, Karlo Laforteza, Alise Burbridge, Jean Michael, Susan Mahan Draft Test Committees Saturday, October 17, 2015 Test Chair Barbara Beck-Wilczek 1786 Broomstick Hill Rd Littleton, NH 03561 (603) 444-0824 barbie@wilczekwoodworks.com Committee Members Jon Cons, Lynn Jones, Jean Michael Test Secretary Jo Coniglio 143 Cole Drive North Kingstown, RI 02852 (401) 626-6789 jorabit@aol.com Sunday, October 18, 2015 Test Chair Barbara Beck-Wilczek 1786 Broomstick Hill Rd Littleton, NH 03561 (603) 444-0824 barbie@wilczekwoodworks.com Committee Members Jo Coniglio, Lynn Jones, Jean Michael Test Secretary Jon Cons PO Box 422 Georgetown, ME 04548 (207) 371-9539 southwindbmd@gmail.com
Regulations Entrants are responsible for obtaining the BMDCA Draft Test Regulations, July 2011 Edition, and being familar with them. Draft Test Regulations are available online: http://bmdca.org/draft Awards All participating teams will receive a suitable keepsake. Qualifying teams will receive a rosette, and Nashoba Valley s classic, unique wooden contoured silhouette of a Bernese Mountain Dog pulling a cart. There will be a special award given to the oldest qualifying dog and the youngest qualifying dog on each day. Veterinarian Westford Veterinary Emergency Referral Center, LLC 11 Cornerstone Square, Westford, MA 01886 (978) 577-6525 24 Hour Emergency and Critical Care Approximately 1.75 miles (5 minutes) from Fairgrounds Located just off 495 in the Cornerstone Square Shopping Plaza, at the corner of Route 110 and Boston Road. Weather Check the forecast frequently and come prepared for yourself and your dog(s). October temperatures in Westford average a high of 62 degrees, and a low of 38 degrees. Average monthly rainfall total for October is 4.46 inches. Sunrise and sunset: approximately 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM each day. Hospitality and Refreshments Coffee and snacks will be available on site Saturday and Sunday morning. A post-trial dinner will be held on Saturday night. All judges, entrants, stewards, club members and their guests are welcome to attend. Details will be available closer to that date. Fall Fun Day On Sunday, October 18, Nashoba Valley will also be hosting its annual Fall Fun Day at the fairgrounds, where all families and friends of Berners are welcome to join the fun and socialize throughout the day. Details for the event will be available through the BMDCNV website at http://bmdcnv.org/events.html Exhibitors can expect lots of spectators!
Attention Exhibitors Bitches in season are not allowed to participate in the Draft Test. Entry fees shall be refunded upon receipt of a veterinary certificate stating an entered bitch is in season at the time of the Draft Test. Entered dogs must be 24 months or older on the day of the test Each Open or Open Brace entry, or possible move-up to Open or Open Brace, must include a veterinarian s certificate(s) stating the dog s name and weight. This certificate must be dated within 60 days prior to the Draft Test date. The two dogs of a brace team need not be owned by the same person or by the handler. Handlers provide their own draft rigs, harnesses, and tie-downs or other means of securing a load in the particular draft rig. Freight haul weight loads: In Novice Draft, the weight required is 20 lbs. In Open Draft, the weight required is the weight of the dog rounded down to the nearest 10 lbs; 60 lbs minimum. In Novice Brace Draft, the weight required is 40 lbs. per team. In Open Brace Draft, the weight required is the sum of the Open weight of each dog. Handlers must provide their own weights for the freight haul. Please study the draft test regulations carefully! You are responsible for being completely familiar with them. Tentative Schedule Check-in opens at 7:30 AM. The test begins at 8:00 AM with the Equipment Check. Course Review and Judging will follow in sequence. Lunch time (judging will halt) will be at the Judges discretion. On Saturday, Soup/ Salad/Grilled Cheese available for a suggested $4 donation. On Sunday, Pizza and salad will be available in conjunction with the Fun Day lunch around 1:00 pm. Exact schedule to be determined after close of entries. Trophy Sponsorship Anyone can take part in the test by sponsoring a trophy! If you would like to support our working dogs, or honor a special dog or working team; trophy sponsorships are available. Please contact Donna Bennett, BMDCNV Trophy Chair for more information, trophy@bmdcnv.org. All donors will be recognized in the two-day catalog.
Test Site The Middlesex County 4-H Fairgrounds is maintained and operated by the 4-H Clubs of Westford, and is the site of the Middlesex County 4-H Fair, held annually in August. There are stands of pine trees, open grounds, covered open-air pavilions, a sandy paddock, and various gravel roads that wind the property over level and hilly areas. The first-ever BMDCA Draft Test, hosted by the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Nashoba Valley, was held here in September 1991. Nearby Accommodations Please call to check for specific rates and pet policies: Holiday Inn Boxborough (I-495, Exit 28) 242 Adams Place Boxborough, MA 01719 978 263-8701 http://www.holidayinn.com 10 miles (15 minutes) from test site Early Reservations (before Sept 17) may take advantage of special pricing for this event. Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham (rte 3, at rte 4N /Technology Dr; Exit 32) 25 Research Place North Chelmsford, MA 01863 978 256-5151 http://www.hawthorn.com 7 miles from test site Recreational Vehicles Residence Inn Westford MA (off rte 110) 7 Lan Drive Westford, MA 01886 978 392-1407 http://www.marriott.com 2 miles from test site Motel 6 Nashua South (# 2019) (rte 3 at Spit Brook Road; NH Exit 1) 77 Spit Brook Road Nashua, NH 03062 603 888-1893 http://www.motel6.com 14 miles from test site There will be free RV parking available near the main gate entrance on site Friday (after noon) and Saturday night. Please note there are no hookups for electricity or water. For more information, please contact Marge Bumen at (207) 351-5988, or president@bmdcnv.org. Upcoming Events September 13: AKC Tracking Test, Gardner, MA (2015278503 & 2015278504) October 18: Fall Fun Day, Westford, MA November 6-9: Retreat Weekend, Ocean Park, ME January 23, 2016: Supported Entry, Wilmington, MA (2016104101) In conjunction with the Greater Lowell Kennel Club Judge: Dawn Cox (#97685)
Entry Information The entry fee is $35.00 per team. The brace entry fee is $35.00 per two-dog team. For Brace entries, please fill out an entry form for each dog and staple together. Entry is limited to 24 teams per day. The following classes are offered: Novice Draft, Open Draft, Novice Brace, Open Brace. If more than 24 entries are received, a random drawing will be held within 48 hours of the closing date with priority given to entrants in accordance with the July 2011 BMDCA Draft Regulations. Teams entered in a class in which they have already earned the advanced level title will be drawn after teams without the advanced level title in that class. All entrants will be notified of their entry status within 72 hours of the closing date. Alternates will also be drawn and may compete if a regular entry is marked absent. Both tests are open to all dogs, purebred or mixed heritage, registered or listed (such as Purebred Alternative Listing [PAL], Indefinite Listing Privilege [ILP], Canine Partners (or any future equivalents) with the American Kennel Club or the Canadian Kennel Club. Entries close at the appropriate Test Secretary s address on Wednesday, October 7, 2015 at 6:00 PM. Please type or print legibly when filling out the entry form, and remember to include your telephone number and if available, your email address. Please make checks payable to BMDCNV and write a separate check for each entry. If entering both days you MUST complete two registration forms and mail two checks. If you have any questions, please contact Jo Coniglio at (401) 626-6789 or jorabit@aol.com or Jon Cons at (207) 371-9539 or southwindbmd@gmail.com. Telephone or incomplete entries cannot be accepted. Entries received without fees will not be accepted. Post-dated checks and returned checks do not constitute a valid entry fee. No entry shall be made and no entry shall be accepted which specifies any conditions as to its acceptance. Mail fee with the entry form and signed agreement to the appropriate secretary for each day: Jo Coniglio for Saturday, Jon Cons for Sunday. Entry fees shall not be refunded in the event that a dog is absent, disqualified, excused by Veterinarian or Judge, or barred from competition by action of Show Committee. If because of riots, civil disturbances, or other acts beyond the control of the Show Committee it is impossible to open or to complete the trial, no refund of entry fee will be made. Extreme weather conditions, such as, but not limited to, snow storms, lightning, extreme heat, extreme cold, must be considered for the health and safety of the dogs, exhibitors, and spectators. The well-being of dogs, exhibitors, and spectators is of paramount importance and, in the event it is necessary to cancel or stop the trial before completion, no refund of entry fee will be made. A handler may withdraw a dog from a draft test for medical reasons. Entry fees shall be refunded upon receipt of a signed veterinarian s certificate stating the reason for the withdrawal (postmarked mail prior to test date is acceptable; it is requested that the Test Secretary also be notified by telephone or email).
Directions to the Middlesex County 4-H Fairgrounds 55 South Chelmsford Road Westford, Massachusetts 01886 Route 495 is a major beltway skirting Metrowest Boston. It is easily accessible from the Mass Turnpike or Route 290 from the west; Route I-93 from the north; and I-95 from the north and south. From Route 495 Northbound: EXIT 32, Boston Road Westford. At the end of the ramp take a RIGHT onto Boston Road. At the light take a LEFT onto Route 110 (Littleton Road). After approximately one-half mile, take a RIGHT onto South Chelmsford Road. The fairgrounds will be approximately one mile on your RIGHT. Parking on the grounds is free. From Route 495 Southbound: EXIT 32, Boston Road Westford. At the end of the ramp take a LEFT onto Boston Road. At the light take a LEFT onto Route 110 (Littleton Road). After approximately one-half mile, take a RIGHT onto South Chelmsford Road. The fairgrounds will be approximately one mile on your RIGHT. Parking on the grounds is free. Spectators Spectators are welcome at these draft tests and are encouraged to applaud and cheer for the working dog. Dogs who are not entered may be present but must be leashed or crated at all times, and must not interfere with the test in any way. As always, please remember to pick up after your dog! Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America Draft Test Bernese Mountain Dogs have been working dogs for generations in the Bernese Oberland of Switzerland. Traditionally, the Bernese Mountain Dog hauled dairy products, such as milk and cream, from the farms to the dairy, often accompanied by children. As a working dog, the Berner literally pulled his or her own weight in contributing to the prosperity of the family. The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America Draft Tests are a series of exercises designed to develop and demonstrate the natural abilities of purebred Bernese Mountain Dogs in a working capacity involving hauling. The Bernese Mountain Dog has historically functioned as a draft dog in various capacities, and performance of these exercises is intended to demonstrate skills resulting from both inherent ability and training which are applicable to realistic work situations. Efficiency in accomplishment of tasks is essential. It is also desirable that the dog evidence willingness and enjoyment of his work in a combinationof controlled teamwork with his handler and natural independence.
Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Nashoba Valley Middlesex 4-H Grounds, 55 South Chelmsford Road Westford, Massachusetts Saturday October 17, 2015 Entry fee: $35 per entry. Entries close at Test Secretary s address at 6:00 PM on October 7, 2015, after which time entries can not be accepted, canceled, or altered, except as specifically allowed in the current BMDCA Draft Test Regulations. Mail Entries & Fees to: Jo Coniglio 143 Cole Drive North Kingstown, RI 02852 Make checks payable to BMDCNV. Please type or print clearly. Use one form per dog per class entered. Breed Sex Male Female Class Novice Brace Novice Open Brace Open Dog is titled in entered class Open Weight Certificate Enclosed Registered Name (please include titles) Call Name Berner-Garde # (BMDs only) Date of Birth DNA Profile # (Nationals only) Registration # American Kennel Club Canadian Kennel Club Breeder Sire Dam Actual Owner(s) Owners Address City State Zip Telephone E-mail Handler/Agent Submitting this form constitutes your agreement to the terms of the Entry Agreement
ENTRY AGREEMENT I understand that the club holding this event has the right to refuse this entry. I agree that I am solely responsible for the actions of myself and the dog ( the dog ) that accompanies me in relationship to this entry. In consideration of the acceptance of my entry and the opportunity to participate in this event, I agree to HOLD HARMLESS and INDEMNIFY the following listed parties from any claim for loss, damage or injury alleged to have been caused directly or indirectly by my actions or by the actions of the dog in relationship to this event : the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America (BMDCA) and the event-giving club, their members, officers, and agents; the owner and/or leaser of the premises; any provider of services at this event; any employees or volunteers of the parties listed here, and any BMDCA Draft Judge judging at this event. I personally assume all responsibility and liability for any such claim. I agree to be responsible for any loss and expense (including legal fees) incurred by any of the listed parties based on claims related in any way to my participation or the actions of the dog in relationship to this event, whether the claims are made by third parties or by myself. Additionally, I agree to assume the sole responsibility for any loss, damage, or injury (including death) to myself or to the dog in relationship to this event. I agree to RELEASE, INDEMNIFY and promise not to sue the parties listed above for any such loss, damage or injury to myself or the dog, regardless of the cause, and whether or not the loss, damage or injury may have been caused by the negligence of the listed parties. I AGREE THAT ANY CAUSE OF ACTION, CONTROVERSY OR CLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THE ENTRY, EXHIBITION OR ATTENDANCE AT THE EVENT SHALL BE SETTLED BY ARBITRATION PURSUANT TO THE APPLICABLE RULES OF THE AMERICAN ARBITRATON ASSOCIATION. HOWEVER, PRIOR TO ARBITRATION ALL APPLICABLE BMDCA BYLAWS, RULES, REGULATIONS AND PROCEDURES MUST FIRST BE FOLLOWED AS SET FORTH IN THE BMDCA CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS, RULES, REGULATIONS, PUBLISHED POLICIES AND GUIDELINES. In consideration of the acceptance of this entry, I agree to abide by rules and regulations of the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America (BMDCA) in effect at the time of this BMDCA Draft Test and by any additional rules appearing in the premium list for this event. I certify and represent that the dog entered is not a hazard to persons or other dogs. I also certify that all the information I provide with this entry is true and correct. This entry is submitted for acceptance on the foregoing representation and Agreement. I agree to conduct myself in accordance with all such Rules and Regulations (including all provisions applying to discipline) and to abide by any decisions made in accord with them. Name of Participant (please print) Signature Date: Revised January 21, 2013 Submitting this form constitutes your agreement to the terms of the Entry Agreement
Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Nashoba Valley Middlesex 4-H Grounds, 55 South Chelmsford Road Westford, Massachusetts Sunday October 18, 2015 Entry fee: $35 per entry. Entries close at Test Secretary s address at 6:00 PM on October 7, 2015, after which time entries can not be accepted, canceled, or altered, except as specifically allowed in the current BMDCA Draft Test Regulations. Mail Entries & Fees to: Jon Cons PO Box 422 Georgetown, ME 04548 Make checks payable to BMDCNV. Please type or print clearly. Use one form per dog per class entered. Breed Sex Male Female Class Novice Brace Novice Open Brace Open Dog is titled in entered class Open Weight Certificate Enclosed Registered Name (please include titles) Call Name Berner-Garde # (BMDs only) Date of Birth DNA Profile # (Nationals only) Registration # American Kennel Club Canadian Kennel Club Breeder Sire Dam Actual Owner(s) Owners Address City State Zip Telephone E-mail Handler/Agent Submitting this form constitutes your agreement to the terms of the Entry Agreement
ENTRY AGREEMENT I understand that the club holding this event has the right to refuse this entry. I agree that I am solely responsible for the actions of myself and the dog ( the dog ) that accompanies me in relationship to this entry. In consideration of the acceptance of my entry and the opportunity to participate in this event, I agree to HOLD HARMLESS and INDEMNIFY the following listed parties from any claim for loss, damage or injury alleged to have been caused directly or indirectly by my actions or by the actions of the dog in relationship to this event : the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America (BMDCA) and the event-giving club, their members, officers, and agents; the owner and/or leaser of the premises; any provider of services at this event; any employees or volunteers of the parties listed here, and any BMDCA Draft Judge judging at this event. I personally assume all responsibility and liability for any such claim. I agree to be responsible for any loss and expense (including legal fees) incurred by any of the listed parties based on claims related in any way to my participation or the actions of the dog in relationship to this event, whether the claims are made by third parties or by myself. Additionally, I agree to assume the sole responsibility for any loss, damage, or injury (including death) to myself or to the dog in relationship to this event. I agree to RELEASE, INDEMNIFY and promise not to sue the parties listed above for any such loss, damage or injury to myself or the dog, regardless of the cause, and whether or not the loss, damage or injury may have been caused by the negligence of the listed parties. I AGREE THAT ANY CAUSE OF ACTION, CONTROVERSY OR CLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THE ENTRY, EXHIBITION OR ATTENDANCE AT THE EVENT SHALL BE SETTLED BY ARBITRATION PURSUANT TO THE APPLICABLE RULES OF THE AMERICAN ARBITRATON ASSOCIATION. HOWEVER, PRIOR TO ARBITRATION ALL APPLICABLE BMDCA BYLAWS, RULES, REGULATIONS AND PROCEDURES MUST FIRST BE FOLLOWED AS SET FORTH IN THE BMDCA CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS, RULES, REGULATIONS, PUBLISHED POLICIES AND GUIDELINES. In consideration of the acceptance of this entry, I agree to abide by rules and regulations of the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America (BMDCA) in effect at the time of this BMDCA Draft Test and by any additional rules appearing in the premium list for this event. I certify and represent that the dog entered is not a hazard to persons or other dogs. I also certify that all the information I provide with this entry is true and correct. This entry is submitted for acceptance on the foregoing representation and Agreement. I agree to conduct myself in accordance with all such Rules and Regulations (including all provisions applying to discipline) and to abide by any decisions made in accord with them. Name of Participant (please print) Signature Date: Revised January 21, 2013 Submitting this form constitutes your agreement to the terms of the Entry Agreement