Official Newsletter of the German Wirehaired Pointer Club of Northern California September 2009 Issue What's Inside Officers & Board Members 1 Informational Web Sites 1 Membership 2-4 GWP Rescue 5-7 The Haven Kennel 8 Events 9-11 Specialty Show 12-14 Something to Brag About 15-19 Allergy Detection Dogs 20-22 Mosquito Spray 23 Calif. Federation Dog Clubs 24-25 Avoid the Heat 26-28 Obesity in Dogs 29-30 Emergency Planning 31 The Great Shot Gun Caper 32-33 The Market Place 34
German Wirehaired Pointer Club of Northern California 2009 Club Officers President Dr. Cindy Heiller (707) 528-2725/2627 gwpdoc@sbcglobal.net Vice President Randy Berry (707) 344-1230 gwppro1@aol.com Secretary Debbie Lewis (707) 447-1172 gsp_sbmom@comcast.net Treasurer Diane Marsh (916) 774-0770 fdmarsh@comcast.net Club Website: www.gwpcnc.9f.com Kathy Kimberlin Web Master user6021@aol.com Club Newsletter: Wire Tails Diane Marsh Editor fdmarsh@comcast.net They are our friends, our partners, our defenders, our dogs. We are their lives, their loves, their leaders. They will be ours, faithful and true, to the last beat of their hearts. We owe it to them to be worthy of such devotion. ~ Unknown ~ 2009 Board Members Silke Alberts (707) 644-8068 dcwire@webtv.net Gary Bonini (650) 207-8365 Theresa.Bonini@kp.org Theresa Bonini (650) 207-8365 Theresa.Bonini@kp.org Mark Boyd (707) 374-5529 rioboyds@gmail.com Ken Howard (916) 372-2138 gr8wire@wavecable.com Informational Web Sites AKC American Kennel Club www.akc.org GWPA German Wirehaired Pointer Club of America www.gwpca.com GWPCNC German Wirehaired Pointer Club of N. California www.gwpcnc.9f.com NAVHDA N. American Versatile Hunting Dog Association www.navhda.org VHDF Versatile Hunting Dog Federation www.vhdf.org 1
Membership We currently have 62 active members in our club and we are continuing with our efforts to expand that number. Here are two of our newest members: Another hunter was born on 07/07/2009 @ 11:49 am. His name is Dean Giusto Skrifvars, he was 21" tall and 9 lbs 12 oz. Rylee Suzanne Wales was born on March 12th weighing 1 pound 12 ounces and is the precious "very tuff" granddaughter of Debbie and Rob Lewis and official "Club Mascot". Her parents, Amiee and Preston, Some are going of to our have members a hard time at keeping work up and with play. this little hunter! 2
Members at Work & Play We are happy & tired! Why are they looking at us? Don't cry Linda, Becca will pass next time. To young, but ready! Aunti Linda, give me back my lollypop. 3
All chained up and no place to go! Hope jumping in first! What's wrong with the filter? Rumor can't wait! Can we go swimming now? 4
GWP Rescue SEPTEMBER, 20O9: HAAS, a 10 year old GWP who will be neutered prior to adoption, is seeking a bit of comfort and companionship 5
GWP Rescue Please check back frequently for GWP's in need of rehoming. You may also wish to check www.petfinder.com and the National site, www.gwpca.com for available (and appreciative) GWP's GWPCNC Rescue places Wirehairs who find themselves in need of a new forever home. Prior to being released for adoption, these GWP's will have been examined by a vet, have had any necessary medical treatment, will have been spayed or neutered, and, if over 6 months old, tested for Heartworm. All vaccinations will have been updated. All Rescues, puppies included, are micro-chipped prior to adoption. Each will be assessed to determine the best possible opportunities for a successful placement. Many of our dogs have had basic obedience training and have been family members. Their age ranges from puppy to senior. They come with all manner of life experiences and levels of training, from lonely isolated back yard dogs to finished show champions and personal hunting companions, and everything in between. Dr. Cindy Heiller, DVM, is the GWPCNC Rescue Chairman. She may be reached via email: gwpdoc@sbcglobal.net or by phone at The Haven Kennel: (707) 528-2627. Julie Duarte is the Rescue Coordinator. GWP's in need of rehoming may also be viewed at: www.gwpcnc.9f.com (German Wirehaired Pointer Club of Northern CA Club) www.thehavenkennel.8m.com (Dr. Heiller's Kennel in Santa Rosa, CA) www.gwpca.com (National GWP Organization; the GWP Parent Club) www.petfinder.com (A national animal rescue group) 6
Aopted in 2009 MARCH, 2009: LIBERTY, a six year old female posted from Dec., 2008--Mar., 2009 as a Courtesy Listing for the S CA Rancho Coastal Humane Society has been adopted! Perseverance succeeds! APRIL 2009: HANK and ALICE, both posted in March, each have been adopted. Hank has found his hunting home, and Alice is with a family and another canine for companionship! MAY 2009: KING, an affable young male, found a home in San Francisco willing to share good times with him. MAY 2009: SHELBY, a 2-year-old spayed female, found an active, made-to-order home. She went back to her run, packed up her blanket, and cheerfully greeted her future! Shelby's listing appeared in May. MAY 2009: RIO, a 1 1/2 year old nice male found running loose in the Concord area, met his future owner at the GWP of S CA Specialty! They are bonding nicely! JUNE 2009: BRISTLE, who had quite a tale to tell, has been adopted by a couple in Idaho! We've been promised a write-up and photos of his journey to his new home. What a wonderful chance at a new and loving life for him! JUNE 2009- LAW a 2-year-old male has found a wonderful new home. JULY 2009 WIGGLES, male, 4 1/2 years old. happy, good with people and other dogs, has found a wonderful family in Idaho on a lovely ranch. AUGUST, 2009: LUCY a happy spayed 9 year old GWP, has been adopted by a family specifically searching for an older GWP! August, 2009 : Monty a very sweet Griffon has found a wonderful family that really loves him. Hi Cindy, Just a quick update: Wiggles is doing very well. He traveled well in the car, has made good friends with my mom s Golden Retriever and has done well meeting new dogs in the neighborhood (two Border Terriers and a Sheltie). He is getting lots of walks, playtime and is of course, very interested in the wild turkeys, squirrels, and birds. July 29, 2009 The people who have Bristles are very nice. They love dogs and have always adopted from rescue or shelters. Bristles relaxed with them within half an hour and was going up leaning in for petting. The property has a solidly fenced large yard and a glassed in sun room with dog door (that Bristles started to used by Saturday afternoon).the man takes Bristles to work with him, so Bristles will be a "job-dog." Sounds like he's getting along with the other men on the job site, too. Bristles continues to get happier (and sillier) every day! 7
The Haven Kennel Premier Dog & Cat Boarding Facility 3953 Guerneville Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95401. Phone: (707) 528-2627 Owner & Proprietor Dr. Cynthia Heiller, DVM The Haven provides quality care and comfortable living quarters for all residents. Please feel free to call and setup an appointment to inspect our facilities, before deciding to board with us. The Haven is also the headquarters for the Northern California German Wirehaired Pointer Rescue Program. 8
GWPC of NC General Meeting Calendar Day Date Time Place TBD November 21st TBA Kistler Ranch TBD December (TBD) TBD TBD German Wirehaired Pointer Nationals GWPCA 50th Year Nationals October 23rd-29th Illinois Show Calendar Donner Trail K.C. Oct 3-4 Placer County Fairgrds Roseville, CA 9/16 Two Cities K.C. Oct 10-11 Yuba-Sutter Fairgrounds Yuba City, CA 9/23 Del Valle Club of Livermore Oct 18-19 Alameda County Fairgrds Pleasanton, CA 9/30 Sacto Valley Dog Fanciers Oct 24-25 Dixon-May Fairgrounds Dixon, CA 10/7 For additional information on Conformation, Agility, Obedience or Rally events, go to the American Kennel Club website, www.akc.org and search the Events Section. 9
Upcoming Field Events CLUB EVENT DATES AREA LOCATION CLO SE GWPCA Hunt Test Oct. 26 Pickneyville State Park GWPCA Field Trials Oct. 26-29 Pickneyville State Park Pickneyville, IL 10/5 Pickneyville, IL 10/5 GWPCNC Field Trial Nov -21-24 Kistler Ranch Jamestown,CA 11/16 High Sierra Field Trial Nov -26-29 Kistler Ranch Jamestown For additional information on Field Events, go to the American Kennel Club Website, www.akc.org. and search the Events section. 10
2009 GWPCA National Events October 22- November 1, 2009 In October 2009, the German Wirehaired Pointer Club of America will celebrate their 50th anniversary! In 1962, the GWPCA held their very first National Specialty show with the Chicago Kennel Club, and we felt it fitting to return to Illinois to celebrate the clubs Golden Anniversary. For information on all events to be held this October please check out our National Events web site. www.gwpca2009national.com On this site, not only will you find schedules for the various events, but just about everything you will need to know to make your trip to Illinois. Don't forget to look for the photos of all the GWP's from the past 50 yrs who have won the National Specialty, High In Trial, and our National Field Championships. 11
Mensona Kennel Club - Sunday, August 23, 2009 and German Wirehaired Pointer Club of Northern California Specialty Show & Sweepstakes 1/BSW 29 WEIDENHUGEL HOUSTON V JOEY. SR 50836808. 06-07-08 Owner: Cynthia L Heiller & Kathleen Boyd., Santa Rosa, CA 95401. Breeder: Cynthia L Heiller & Kathleen Boyd. 1/BOSSW 32 SOURAEVENS FIE. SR 53451601. 05-07-08 Owner: Silke Alberts., Valleyo, CA 94590. Breeder: Gitte Albrechsen & Lars Helbo. (Sharon Jahn, Agent) 1/BVSW 24 CH WEIDENHUGEL XRATED V BAMA. SN 67183102. 08-06-99 By Ch Weidenhugel - Ch Weidenbach Ulla V Rap CD JH. Owner: Cynthia L Heiller DVM., Santa Rosa, CA 95401. Breeder: Cynthia Heiller DVM. (Diane Marsh, Agent) Puppies, Dogs 9-12 months 1/W/BW 21 CADENBERG ENZO V SEP. SR 53320202. 10-07-08 (5 points) By DC Nyramskov's H. Hector - Ch Weidenhugel Ypsilon V Einer JH. Owner: Gary & Theresa Bonini., Redwood City, CA 94063. Breeder: Silke Alberts. (Bill McFadden, Agent) Open Bitches 1/W 20 JONNEE BLUE. SR 46095611. 11-21-07 (4 Points) By NFC NAFC DC AFC Rudolph's Blirzen Von Duffin - Slick Shooten Maggie JH. Owner: Robert Lewis & Randy Berry., Vacaville, CA 956876404. Breeder: Brady Shannon 12
Lake County Kennel club - Thursday, August 20, 2009 Open Dogs 1/W 9 CYNISTEN N IDAWIRES FINAL FANTASY. SR 50801909. 02-14-08 (4 Points) Owner: Cathie Magoon & Jodi Quesnell., Norco, CA 92860. Breeder: Cathie Magoon & Jodi Quesnell. (Janel Larson, Agent) Lake County Kennel Club - Friday, August 21, 2009 Open Dogs 1/W/BW 9 CYNISTEN N IDAWIRES FINAL FANTASY. SR 50801909. 02 14-08 (4 Points) Owner: Cathie Magoon & Jodi Quesnell., Norco, CA 92860. Breeder: Cathie Magoon & Jodi Quesnell Puppy Bitches 9-12 months 1/BP/PG2 18 RLB'S FLIRTING WITH FAME. SR 53204514. 10-18-08 Owner: Diane Marsh & Francis Marsh & Cynthia Heiller DVM., Roseville, CA 957476480. Breeder: Roger Bultman Open Bitches 1/W 12 CYNISTERS MOON SHADOW MIST. SR 45062402. 03-17-07 (3 Points) Owner: Cathy & Courtney Magoon., Norco, CA 92860. Breeder: Cathie & Courtney Magoon. (Janel Larson, Agent) BREED 34 CH WEIDENHUGEL ABBY V JESSIE. SR 33205502. 03-18-06 By Ch RLB's Jessie The Body MH - Ch Weidenhugel Xtra Spcl V Bama MH. Bitch. Owner: Cynthia Heiller DVM & Kathy Boyd., Santa Rosa, CA 95401. Breeder: Cynthia Heiller DVM & Kathy Boyd. 1/W/BW/BBE 29 WEIDENHUGEL HOUSTON V JOEY. SR 50836808. 06-07-08 (4 Points) By NAFC DC Tumalo Joe - Ch Weidenhugel Becca V Blitz JH. Owner: Cynthia L Heiller & Kathleen Boyd., Santa Rosa, CA 95401. Breeder: Cynthia L Heiller & Kathleen Boyd. Mensona Kennel Club - Saturday, August 22, 2009 1/W 28 VON DUFFIN'S CAT BALLOU JAY-MAR. SR 53880201. 11-05-08 (4 Points) Owner: Ann Duffin & Terry Duffin., Bend, OR 977019189. Breeder: N Litwin & P & C Hi BREED 9 CYNISTEN N IDAWIRES FINAL FANTASY. SR 50801909. 02-14-08 Owner: Cathie Magoon & Jodi Quesnell., Norco, CA 92860. Breeder: Cathie Magoon & Jodi Quesnell. (Janel Larson, Agent) 13
Unfortunately, there were not many pictures taken at this year's spcialty. We really missed Bob Rittenhouse and his fabulous photography. Maybe next year. However, a few shots were taken during the four day event in Santa Rosa. Please enjoy: 14
New Junior Hunt Titles: RLB's Something to Talk About (Rumor) Cindy Heiller/Kathi Boyd RLB's Flirting with Fame (Flirt) Diane & Francis Marsh New Rally Novice A Title: CH. Weidenhugel Encore V Einer (Cora Lee) Cindy Heiller, DVM 15
Richmond Dog Fanciers Dixon, Califonira August 2, 2009 1st Point CADENBERG ENZO V SEP (Eli) Owner: Gary & Theresa Bonini., (Agent, Sharon Jahn) BOW/BOS RLB's Flirting with Fame (Flirt) Owners: Diane & Francis Marsh & Cindy Heiller, DVM 16
CH NMK Chukar Ridge Morning Mr. MH (Cooper) Cooper takes the Whup command very seriously! Chuck and Becki Ramage are the proud parents of this very sweet, handsome, and talented boy. It takes a lot of hard work, persistence, patience, and love to achieve the title of Master Hunter, but as you can see, Cooper and Chuck were up for the task. Congratulations 17
Information Submitted by: Rob Lewis JUNIOR DOGS (PUPPY/DERBY COMBINED) 1 Snowy River's Tnt Timber Tick B Silcott/M Verdoom 33 6 2 Von Gezers Hivoltage At Wildwire R Allison/E Fowls 26 2 3 Wilsons Skye Von Einsestrauss K Morrison 16 2 4 Okk's Burlap 15 1 5 Sure Shot's Pretty Please S & J Sorenson, WA 13 2 6 Jonnee Blue JH R Lewis/R Berry 11 2 7 Whitetail's Fancy White Lightning D Darby, SC 10 1 8 Sneak Attack W Swartz 6 1 9 Overbaron's Deja Voodoo A McGrane, IA 5 2 10 Scotian Smoke Signal C Rasdale 3 1 10 Weidenhugel Gem V Yankee F & D Marsh, CA 3 1 In Junior Dogs, a total of 11 GWPs placed 21 times, defeating 141 dogs. OPEN SENIOR DOGS (GUN DOGS) Field Top Ten January Through June 2009 1 CH Casade Tumalo Tess J & S Williams, OR 77 4 2 NAFC CH Ariels Justa Gotta Go Now M Ezzo/B Brawn, PA 59 4 3 DC Schnellberg's Double Down SH R & P Doyle, MI 52 4 4 FC AFC Okk Left To Do It J & R Schoonover, IN 42 5 5 FC Brillows Wild West Show R Haukoos, IA 36 2 6 FC Final Approach H Shelley/G Dixon 33 2 6 CH Sure Shot's Pretty Penny S & J Sorenson, WA 33 2 8 Wildwire's Holy Terror E Fowls & L C Shealy, GA 31 3 9 CH Schnelberg's Freedom Reigns S Degraw, MI 27 2 10 NFC FC Backwoods Longshot E Kalmes 26 2 In Open Senior Gun Dogs, a total of 24 GWPs placed 50 times, defeating 621 dogs. AMATEUR SENIOR DOGS (GUN DOGS) 1 FC AFC Okk Left To Do It J & R Schoonover, IN 83 8 2 DC Nyramskov's H. Hector G Bonini, CA 50 4 3 FC Overbaron's Chix Dig Me SH A McGrane, IA 35 3 4 FC AFC Cascade Maria R & L Calkins, OR 23 1 18
5 DC Rlb's Tigger De Ville SH R & L Bultman/J Wikinson/T 17 2 6 NFC NAFC DC AFC Rudolph's Blitzen J & S Williams, OR 15 2 6 DC AFC Griffiths Willy Be Mine? C & D Griffith, OR 15 1 6 DC Schnellberg's Double Down SH R & P Doyle, MI 15 2 9 Wilson's Dp Trish JH J Houghton, GA 14 1 10 Jed's Millenium Class MH R Doyle, MI 12 1 In Amateur Senior Gun Dogs, a total of 14 GWPs placed 30 times, defeating 317 dogs. JUNIOR DOGS (PUPPY/DERBY COMBINED) 1 Von Gezers Hivoltage At Wildwire R Allison/E Fowls, GA 52 5 2 Wilsons Skye Von Einsestrauss K Morrison 43 3 3 Jed's Sf Blue Belle M & K Braddock 42 10 4 Jonnee Blue JH R Lewis/R Berry 41 5 5 Snowy River's Tnt Timber Tick B Silcott/M Verdoom 37 7 6 Demarcations Ursa Major J & B Moos, OR 27 5 7 Wireswest First Dibs M Eden, OR 25 3 8 Whitetail's Fancy White Lightning JH D Darby, SC 20 2 9 Sneak Attack W Swartz, SC 15 2 9 Okk's Burlap 15 1 In Junior Dogs, a total of 32 GWPs placed 77 times, defeating 456 dogs. 19
A New Kind of Canine Hero: Allergy Detection Dogs There's a new hero in the canine world -- the allergy detection dog -- a new arrival to the 'working dog' scene. Today, dogs no longer just sniff out drugs, explosives, or fugitives on the run. Our canine companions can now be trained to serve as detection dogs for people (usually children) who have deadly allergies to things such as peanuts, tree nuts, milk and eggs. Millions of people suffer from serious reactions to certain foods or other allergens, and each year many of them end up in emergency rooms. Unfortunately, some are not treated in time and do not survive. Because those who suffer are so sensitive to a specific allergen, they are often confined to their homes. Some afflicted people can't even be present in a restaurant, school, church, sports events or other group activity for fear that they will be exposed and become violently ill. Many children are forced to be home-schooled. In these cases, a detection dog can literally be a lifesaver for individuals affected with a life threatening allergy and allow them to live a more normal life. The Perfect Canine Job A dog's sense of smell greatly exceeds a human's sense of smell, making the detection of certain odors the perfect canine job. Dogs are now being trained by several organizations to detect microscopic particles of allergens in many forms (e.g. raw, cooked, oil, butter, dust, etc.). When a specially trained dog is with his owner in a specific environment and sniffs an offending allergen, he simply sits and will not move. Then the owner uses a specific command, such as "show me," and the dog will point to the contaminated item. It could be a crumb of food on the floor, a peanut candy bar in a jacket pocket, or a plate of food. Allergy detection dogs are so highly trained that they can even sense an allergen that someone else touched and left as an invisible residue on a chair or table. Allergy detection dogs go through a special screening process before being placed with a family. Trainee puppies are carefully selected for temperament and certain characteristics that will allow them to be both a working dog and a suitable family companion. They must also pass a series of behavioral and other tests before achieving certification. Once trained, they can be known by any variety of titles: allergy detection dog, food allergy dog, allergy alert dog, peanut detection dog, sniffer dog - the list goes on, but the services they perform share the same goal. Portugese Water Dogs were one of the first breeds to be trained as allergy detection dogs. This breed is frequently chosen by people with severe allergies since they rarely shed and are 20
relatively dander free. Other breeds that have also recently been trained to detect allergies include Springer Spaniels, Poodles, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers and several dogs of mixed breeds. Riley's Story Eight-year-old Riley Mers of Colorado is highly sensitive to peanuts and was one of the first children in the U.S. to have an allergy detection dog. In addition to her peanut allergy, Riley has also been diagnosed with acute asthma, eczema and life-threatening egg and sesame allergies. Her allergy detection dog is a Portugese Water Dog named Rock'O. Riley's peanut allergy causes an anaphylactic reaction from allergen contact or airborne exposure. She is so sensitive that once -- after her dad had shaken hands with someone who had eaten a peanut butter sandwich -- he left a palm print of hives on Riley's skin where he had hugged her. Another time, a peanut shell slipped into Riley's sandal at the park and severely burned her foot. While at school, allergic reactions caused Riley's knuckles to bleed when she tried to complete simple tasks, such as bending her fingers to write her name. When her school could not be made completely peanut-free, Riley was moved to a contained classroom where she wore gloves. But even in ther contained classroom, Riley experienced three severe allergic emergencies requiring immediate medical attention. She was eventually forced to study from home. Riley's parents, Brett and Sherry Mers, were frustrated by Riley's lack of freedom and independence and their family's constant need to be vigilant about all of their plans and activities. In 2007, Sherry Mers saw a television program about dogs helping customs agents by sniffing out contraband fruit and it sparked the idea of an allergy detection dog. Sherry knew that there had to be an answer for Riley and others with similar allergies. The Mers researched scent dog trainers, service dog trainers, hypo-allergenic dogs and breeders and their search ultimately lead them to Rock'O. Then, the Mers found and worked with trainers at the Florida Canine Academy, where Rock'O was trained as an allergy detection dog in about six months. Riley's family was fortunate that one of the academy's trainers, Bill Whitstine, donated his services to Riley. Whitstine had trained dogs to detect bombs, narcotics and other items, but Rock'O was the first dog he trained to detect peanut allergies. This specialized allergy detection training typically comes with a high price tag -- as much as $20,000 or more for each dog trained -- and often takes a year-and-a-half to fully train. Since acquiring Rock'O, life for the Mers family has changed dramatically. Brett Mers says that Rock'O has become his daughter's "long range radar." Not only have Riley and her family been able to resume some of their out-of-home activities, but Riley will have the option of 21
returning back to her regular school in the fall, with Rock'O by her side. If Riley returns to school, she'll no longer have to wear gloves at school or ask her classmates if they brought a peanut butter sandwich in their lunch. Finding Funding for Training Costs Today, training programs for allergy detection dogs (similar to the one at the Florida Canine Academy) are being established all over the country. However, the training expense is too steep for many families who need them. More funding resources are badly needed to help average families subsidize the costs needed to acquire an allergy detection dog. To help address this need, Riley's parents have established Angel Service Dogs, a non-profit ministry, to help cover the costs for children with anaphylactic allergies (or hidden disabilities). Angel Service Dogs coordinates donations to help families, one dog at a time. To date, over 500 families have applied to Angel Service Dogs, several dogs have been placed and 18 are currently in training. The Mers family also distributes literature to assist organizations such as churches and civic groups help others suffering with life threatening allergies. "The whole area of allergy detection dogs is new and is still evolving" emphasizes Sherry Mers. "These dogs must combine the obedience and gentleness of a service dog with the intensity of a scent dog. They must also be able to respond to the commands of the child or adult they are protecting. There is no room for error -- they must detect certain allergens each and every time." Because there is no cure for severe food and other allergies, allergy detection dogs are truly a lifeline for those they serve. They can also help redirect the lives of the family members of those they protect and allow them all to once again enjoy the freedom and activities they had once given up. For more information on Angel Service Dogs, visit: www.angelservicedogs.com 22
Mosquito Spray...Worth a try I was at a deck party awhile back, and the bugs were having a ball biting everyone. A man at the party sprayed the lawn and deck floor with Listerine, and the little demons disappeared. The next year I filled a 4-ounce spray bottle and used it around my seat whenever I saw mosquitoes. And voila! That worked as well l. It worked at a picnic where we sprayed the area around the food table, the children's swing area, and the standing water nearby. During the summer, I don't leave home without it Comments from one who has tried this: I tried this on my deck and around all of my doors. It works - in fact, it killed them instantly. I bought my bottle from Target and it cost me $1.89. It really doesn't take much, and it is a big bottle,too; so it is not as expensive to use as the can of Bug-spray you buy that doesn't last 30 minutes. So, try this, please. It will last a couple of days. Don't spray directly on a wood door (like your front door), but spray around the frame. Spray around the window frames, and even inside the doghouse. 23
THE BILL BRUCE TOUR by Janice Anderson During the month of June, 2009, California Federation of Dogs Clubs (CFoDC), in conjunction with the National Animal Interest Alliance (NAIA), Orange Empire Kennel Club and Silver Bay Kennel Club sponsored Bill Bruce, Director of Calgary Animal Services & By-Laws (ordinances), to present his model for the most successful animal services department in North America. This, in an effort to bring viable solutions to communities within California that may be dealing with unwarranted and excessive legislation or high rates of impounds and euthanasia of dogs and cats, We don t have a pet problem. We have a people problem, states Bill Bruce as he begins. Owner responsibility is the mantra in Calgary. A three prong approach to responsible pet ownership incorporates licensing, public education and enforcement. Educational programs developed for school age children through adults, address responsible citizenship and responsible animal ownership. Educational programs include PAWS: Dog Bite Prevention, Dogs in Our Society, Urban Coyotes and the Junior By-Law Project, just to name a few. There is strong public support for the efforts of Bill Bruce by the citizens of Calgary, as they enjoy their pets in a community full of dog-friendly parks, paths and off-leash areas. They gain comfort knowing that their kinderfriendlier Animals Services Department is there to help, not harm. Bill Bruce, as the Director of Animal Services and Bylaws in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, took over a struggling program. He has had remarkable success, developing a program which now (2008) boasts a licensing compliance rate for dogs of 91%, a return to owner rate of 85% and a euthanasia rate of only 6%. A newly implemented licensing program (2007) for cats already has a licensing compliance rate of 54%, a return to owner rate of 56% and only an 18% euthanasia rate. A majority of those animals being humanely destroyed are for behavioral issues and poor health or injuries. Aggressive animal incidents are almost non-existent. With a population base of over 1 million people, those are staggering statistics. In addition, Calgary has no limit laws, no breed specific laws, no mandatory spay/neuter ordinances and no interference from animals rights groups. At Animal & Bylaw Services, the mission statement is to "Encourage a safe, healthy, vibrant community for people and their pets, through the development, education and compliance of bylaws that reflect community values." They have a right to have pets and we want to ensure they're properly cared for, so we don't end up with more unwanted pets." Through the use of modern technology, a licensed animal found wandering the streets is returned directly to its home (for a small fee) whenever possible. This saves time and money for everyone. However, an unlicensed animal will be taken immediately to the shelter. Before the pet can be released to its owner, licensing requirements must be met and the owner is fined $250. Repeat offenders face penalties that increase in $250 increments per violation. While educating the public is essential, sometimes money is the strongest motivator. Bruce targets owners, rather than pets, saying "any animal that ends up in a shelter is there because the human end of the relationship failed." It's all part of his philosophy about animals and their owners. This approach helps to facilitate a $5 million annual operating budget, which is generated through license and penalty revenues, with no cost to the taxpayer. Fees generated from cat licenses have provided the community of Calgary with a state of the art facility providing no-charge spay/neuter services for pets from low-income homes. The clinic, staffed by a full-time vet, may be the final feather in Bruce's cap. "Within three to five 24
years, we'll be a no-kill city," said chief Animal Control officer Bill Bruce. "No animal will be killed unless it's in the best interest of the animal." With a model that is tried and true, Bill Bruce has been met everywhere he goes by enthusiastic crowds. The SoCal Tour was a whirlwind for Bill, visiting 4 counties in 5 days; San Diego, San Bernadino, Kern County and Sacramento. Bill expertly navigated through his Power Point presentation, explaining how Calgary has become known as the most successful Animal Services Department in North America. Each presentation was followed by lengthily Q&A sessions from his audiences, which included city and county officials; animals control officers, supervisors, police officers, breeders, rescue groups and the general public. Several officials had the opportunity to meet with Bill Bruce privately and discuss his successful program in detail, while he toured SoCal shelters. Citizens and officials of Kern County had a chance to meet Bill at a social prior to his presentation. The media attention was great, with television stations, print media and Inga Barks of KERN radio taking advantage of By-law Bill s visit to California. The presentation in Kern County was held in conjunction with the Kern County Animal Control Commission (KCACC) meeting. The commissioners voted to move the meeting and location of their June meeting to facilitate Bruce s appearance, which was held at the County Supervisors Chambers. This meeting location offered a unique opportunity to have the presentation filmed by KGOV. KGOV will be airing the Bill Bruce presentation in July and August and has DVD s available to the public for a $25.00 fee. KGOV may be reached at (661)868-3000 or accessed at www.co.kern.ca.us/gsd/kgov. Our cities, our counties and our state are being overrun with animal related legislation, much of it under the guise of pet overpopulation. Bruce states, We can reduce the number of animals in the shelter by reducing the number of unwanted animals being produced." It is being realized through his campaign for owner responsibility, including a bylaw with strict rules and stiff fines. Our elected officials have been approached to endorse severe and expensive ordinances to limit pets and the rights of their owners. Much of the legislation being foisted upon us is by special interest groups from beyond the borders of California. Groups that have no stake in the effect of their actions, other than satisfying an agenda that attacks the property rights of animal owners and agriculture, forcing unwarranted expenses on our citizens, our businesses, our communities and our state. Gracious and generous with his time, we are fortunate that Calgary is so willing to allow their very popular and successful Director to travel far and wide, sharing their program with other communities, not only in the United States, but around the world. The Calgary Model is one possible solution available to communities that can enable them to successfully run an animal control program with no cost to the taxpayer. Early reports from Kern County verify a keen interest in the Calgary model. A KCACC sub-committee has been formed to bring back recommendations to the Commission. It is our hope that other communities will follow. We do not want to waste this opportunity. 25
Avoiding The Heat The first thing that needs to be understood is that dogs and people are different enough that most of the information cannot cross lines. Dogs do not lose enough electrolytes thru exercise to make a difference, but if the dog gets truly into heat stroke, the physiology changes will make them necessary. BUT oral replacement at that point is futile, they need intravenous fluids and electrolytes and lots of it. Cooling: Evaporative cooling is the most efficient mean of cooling. However, in a muggy environment, the moisture will not evaporate so cooling does not happen well. I cool with the coldest water I can find and will use ice depending on the situation. The best way is to run water over the dog, so there is always fresh water in contact with the skin. When you immerse a dog in a tub, the water trapped in the hair coat will get warm next to the dog, and act as an insulator against the cool water and cooling stops. If you can run water over the dog and place it in front of a fan that is the best. Misting the dog with water will only help if you are in a dry environment or in front of a fan. Just getting the dog wet is not the point, you want the water to be cool itself,or to evaporate. For MOST situations all you will need to do is get the dog in a cooler environment, in shade, or in the cab of the truck with the air conditioning on (driving around so the truck does not overheat and the AC is more efficient). Up to a couple of years ago, I was very concerned about my dogs getting too hot in the back of my black pickup with a black cap. New white truck fixed a lot of that problem. When I had one dog I just pulled the wire crate out of the car and put it in some shade and hopefully a breeze. But having 2 dogs and running from one stake to another, that was not feasible. So I built a platform to put the wire crates on, this raises the dog up in the truck box where the airflow is better. Then I placed a 3-speed box fan in front blowing on the dogs with a foot of space to allow better airflow. I purchased a power inverter that connects to the battery and allows the 3-speed fan to run from the truck power. It has an automatic feature that prevents it from draining the battery. When I turned that fan on medium I would find that the dogs where asleep, breathing slowly and appeared very relaxed and comfortable in a matter of 20 minutes or less, even on very hot muggy days. Alcohol: I do carry it for emergencies. It is very effective at cooling due to the rapid evaporation. It should be used when other methods are not working. You should be on your way to the veterinarian before you get to this point. We recommend using rubbing alcohol, which is propylene alcohol, not ethyl, for those of you not aware. So do not try to drink it. Alcohol should be used on the pads and lower feet area where there is little more than skin and blood vessels 26
over the bones. Use a little bit and let it evaporate, you can use too much as some is absorbed through the skin. There are concerns about toxicity, but you have to get the temperature down. I purchased those cooling pads that you soak in cold water, but found that the dogs would not lay on them. I would hold them on the back of a dog that just worked to get a quick cool, but have not use them for years. I also bought a pair of battery-operated fans but found them pretty useless. Spend your money on the power inverter and get a real fan. Watching temperature: If you feel your dog is in danger of heat injury, check its temp and write it down. Keep checking the temp every 3 minutes. I recommend getting a "rectal glass thermometer. The digital ones from the drug store I have found to be very unreliable. Don't forget to shake it down completely each time, sounds silly, but when you are worried about your companion, things tend to get mixed up. This is VERY IMPORTANT**once the temperature STARTS to drop, STOP ALL COOL- ING EFFORTS. The cooling process will continue even though you have stopped. If the temp starts at 106.5, and then next time it drops to 105.5, stop cooling the dog, dry it off, and continue monitoring. You will be amazed how it continues to go down. If you do not stop until the temp is 102, the temp will drop way too low. I cannot emphasis this point enough. When the dog is so heated that it is panting severely, only let it have a few laps of water. Water in the stomach does not cool the dog, you just need to keep the mouth wet so the panting is more effective. Do not worry about hydration until the temp has started down. A dog panting heavily taking in large amounts of water is a risk of bloat. Due to the heavy panting they will swallow air, mixed with a large amount of water they can bloat. Once the temp is going down and panting has slowed to more normal panting then allow water. The dog will rehydrate itself after temp is normal. If the dog has a serious problem and even though you have gotten the temp normal, get the dog to a vet, as it can still need IV fluids and some medication. Also, a case of heat stroke can induce a case of hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (not parvo), with a ton of very bloody diarrhea and a lot of fluid and electrolyte loss. These cases need aggressive treatment. The best method of treatment is prevention. Learn to watch your dog, and see the changes in the size of the tongue, and how quickly it goes down. Learn your dog s response to the different environments, and be careful when you head south for an early season hunt test or trial. I have been to Nashville at the end of May, only 5 hours away, but the difference in temp and humidity did affect the dogs as they were used to more spring weather in Ohio. Try different things in training to help the dog cool and learn what works better. 27
Another very important point; do not swim your hot dog to cool it then put in put in a box/tight crate. Remember, evaporation cannot take place in a tight space, and the box will turn into a sauna and you will cook your dog. Carry a stake out chain, and let the dog cool and dry before putting it up. I demonstrated this lesson this spring with my 10-month-old pup. After doing a 15-minute session in yard drill on a warm 70+ degree day, she was panting pretty hard and was pretty hot. She was OK but it was time to stop. Just for the heck of it I took her temp. She was 103.6, above normal but too bad for a dog that had just finished working. In my back yard I have a 300-gallon Rubbermaid tub filled with water. I took her to it and she jumped in and out 3-4 times. She appeared totally improved, tongue was much smaller, and eyes brighter and her full spring was back into her step. So I re-took her temp and it was 104.2, so even though she looked better she was hotter. This is a perfect lesson to show not get a hot dog wet and then put them in a box. The water on her skin caused the blood vessels to constrict, decreasing blood flow to the skin. Therefore the hot blood was shunted back to the dog's core and retained the heat. You may have felt the same thing, after exercising but still being very warm, take a shower and get cooled off but as soon as you turn the shower off you start sweating again. I know this is a bit long, but hopefully this is easy to understand and helps provide some useful information. Remember: Prevention, learn your dog. It is worth the time and effort. Nate Baxter, DVM Lebanon, OH 28
Canine Obesity - is Your Dog Overweight? Obesity in the United States has been identified as a major health problem for both adults and children reaching epidemic levels in recent years. However, this problem is not unique to humans - it affects our pets' health and well-being too. Many organizations, such as Canineobesity.info and the National Academy of Science, have suggested that anywhere from 25% to 40% of all dogs are obese. An overweight dog is not a healthy dog. There are several steps you can take to prevent your dog from becoming obese. Dogs are overweight for the same reason that people are: too many calories and not enough exercise. Canine obesity can cause many of the same problems it does in humans, such as diabetes, heart problems and arthritis. An overweight dog does not age well and is more prone to back and joint pain, breathing problems, endocrine diseases and other illnesses. In addition, extra weight also makes it more difficult for veterinarians to manage health conditions, both medically and surgically. A healthy dog's weight is the result of the balance between diet and exercise. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), as a dog ages, its metabolism slows. At the same time, if food portions are fed in the same amounts while metabolism is slowing, weight gain is common. If your dog is getting enough nutritious food and exercise but still seems overweight or underweight, he may have a health problem. Ask Your Veterinarian for Help Regular visits to your veterinarian are helpful to identify potential canine weight problems. The best way to tell if your dog is overweight is to feel the rib-cage area. You should be able to feel the ribs below the surface of the skin without much padding. If you are concerned that your dog is overweight, make an appointment with your veterinarian to determine if your pet is overweight due to over feeding or a medical problem. A measurement system called 'body condition scores' are commonly used by veterinarians on a multi-point scale, with the middle of the scale designated 'ideal.' Pets are scored by looking at their build, the amount of fat overlying their ribs and waist and their breed, age, sex and lifestyle. After a complete physical exam and necessary blood work, your dog's dietary and exercise needs can be established. Your veterinarian might recommend switching to a geriatric or senior diet, which often provides fewer calories per serving to accommodate a slower metabolism. The AKC points out that a responsible approach to geriatric nutrition is to realize that degenerative changes are a normal 29
part of aging. The goal is to minimize the potential damages from aging by taking appropriate measures while your dog is still healthy. If you wait until your elderly dog is ill before you change his diet, the job will be much harder. If the calorie content of the diet is not restricted, but a dog exercises less, they will become obese. Of course, this is not true for all senior dogs. Like people, most dogs will eat more than they need, so be certain to measure food in amounts suggested by your veterinarian and feed your dog on a regular schedule. Regular veterinary visits will not only help keep your dog healthy but can also help you avoid unnecessary medical expenses of avoidable illnesses. Our AKC Pet Healthcare Wellness Plans help fund the costs of annual check-ups and other preventive care treatments your dog needs, as well as unexpected accidents and illnesses. Beware of Table Scraps or Too Many Treats Don't let your dog get fat by giving table scraps or too many 'between-meal' treats. And remember, treats reduce the amount of food required and need to be factored in when determining meal portions. The food we eat can be toxic for dogs. Rewarding begging with our food can lead to obesity, digestive problems, and choking or other health problems. To reduce begging, keep your dog out of the room when your family is eating. A long walk before dinner might also help to calm your dog and decrease begging behavior. Another option is to crate your dog out of site during mealtimes, or you might feed your dog at the same time you eat so he is distracted by his own food. Create a Daily Routine for Your Dog One of the best things you can do for your dog is to ensure daily exercise by creating a routine. Running, walking and playing with your dog is good for both of you, in fact some owners say they lose weight while regularly exercising along with their dog. Exercising and playing can also help build a bond with your dog. Don't use treats as a substitute for attention or playtime, most pets prefer your time and affection instead. When it comes to obesity, prevention is the key. Lean pets with an ideal weight tend to have fewer health problems and can enjoy an increased life span. Keeping animals at a steady weight is much easier than dealing with an obesity issue later on. Only you can increase your dog's chances for a long and happy life by providing a proper diet, exercise and regular veterinary care. 30
Emergency Planning Checklists Proper emergency planning can help save the life of your pet. The American Kennel Club has prepared the following checklists to help pet owners pack a portable pet first-aid kit and prepare for an emergency evacuation. Preparedness is important in any disaster situation and these checklists can be applied to any emergency that calls for evacuation from your home. Evacuation Checklist for Pets Dog medicine(s), i.e. heart worm, flea, ear mite medicine, etc. Dog Bowls Dog Food (1-week minimum, 2-week suggested), dog treats, etc. Can opener Leashes: walking leash, short leash Harness (to attach to seat belt) Extra dog tag, (masking tape, laundry pen) Cell #, Hotel # and Room # Pet records stored in waterproof container or plastic sealable bag Crate Dog bed/blanket/toys Supplies/paper towels, rug cleaner, toilettes, towels, flash light Current dog photograph(s) with your notification information: useful for fliers should your dog go missing or must be left at shelter Dog friendly hotel listings/ telephone lists Shampoo Litter/portable litter pan Duct tape Bottled water Pet First Aid Kit Portable First Aid Kit for Pets Water-proof storage container for kit Antiseptic/anti-bacterial cleansing wipes/alcohol prep pads Eye wash Eye and skin wash in one A sock (foot wrapper) Latex surgical gloves Electrolyte powder (add to water on hot days) Emergency space blanket Small flashlight Bottled water Medicated balm Leash and collar Soft muzzle Speak to your vet about what to pack in case your dog has a sudden allergic reaction Flexible bandage Gauze roll Bandage scissors- to cut gauze and to clip hair around wounds Wood splint Paper towels Plastic baggies Small cold pack and hot pack (self activating) Cotton swabs Antibiotic ointment/packets Tweezers Space for copy of dog s papers & vet records (sealed in plastic bag) 31
The Great Shot Gun Caper By: Anonymous It has been said, "You can dress a "Field Trialer" up, but you cannot take him anywhere." Well, Don Magoon proved this saying to be oh so true while at the Pasadena Kennel Club dog show on May 30, 2009. Don, single handedly, managed to have a number of club members encircled by Pasadena Police Officers, questioned, detained, and nearly arrested, while he meander around the parking lot. Oh, did I forget to mention that he was carrying a shotgun (open and unloaded) and a large black bag while on his little walk-about. This must have caused wild panic, as someone called 911. Officers responding to the 911 call questioned witnesses and uncovered that a man had come out of a Dutch Star motor home carrying a gun and a large black trash bag and was walking around the parking lot with the gun and bag looking very suspicious. A K-9 unit started the search for the man and the motor home. Upon locating said motor home, six officers cautiously surrounded the area. Seeing the officers approaching, someone jokingly said, "we didn't do it" to which the officers replied, "I am afraid that you did!" An outburst of questions and answers ensued, causing one rookie officer to feel the need to take someone into custody. Fortunately, a veteran sergeant took control of the situation. Given that the Dutch Star belonged to Kathi Boyd, he asked her to explain the events leading up to the 911 call. Kathi begins by telling him that shotgun is an antique, thus the possible reason for no registration, and was a present from Frank Fernandez to Don Magoon. Again, the rookie thinks someone should go to jail for this. Kathi then told him that she had given the gun to Don earlier that morning. Don left with the gun and a large bag of trash. She thought he was going to put the unloaded gun in his motor home. However, a short time later Don returned with the gun and told her that he would get it from her later that evening. She put the shotgun safely back into her motor home and thought no more about it, until the "cavalry" arrived. 32
The rookie insists he wants to see the gun and as Kathi opens the door of the motor to get the gun, he yelled, "Don't touch that gun." To which Kathi replied, "How can I show you the gun, if I can't touch it." This rookie is really getting on everyone's nerves. Finally, not quite sure how, the rookie has possession of the shotgun. Now he has something to keep him busy. Moving right along, the sergeant asked if anyone knew the current whereabouts of Don Magoon. Just as everyone began shaking their heads, Don comes walking up with a diaper bag and two women's purses. Great, now the cops think that he had been brandishing the gun in order to steal purses! Don, with his normal befuddled easygoing manner asked, "Hey guys what's going on." Now you know what happens next, you guessed it; our rookie prepares to draw his gun at the site of the alleged perpetrator! Will he never learn? All six officers begin to approach Don, who is seriously thinking that he might need to call Randy Berry for bail money, asking him to put down the purses and put his hands in the air. They still were not certain of Don's guilt or innocence. Unmanageably the ending to this story is somewhat anticlimactic. Don was searched and exhaustively questioned by the police and, of course, our resident pain in-the-!#* had him run through the system for any prior wants or warrants. He was given a stern lecture regarding the tribulations he had caused and, after promising more than once that he would never wander in or about the City of Pasadena, again with any type of weapon, released to his wife and friends. Who, by the way will never let him forget this little episode! Back at the squad car, you can just imagine the irritation of our "gung-ho" rookie, who was going to have to write one "extremely" long report in triplicate and no "body" to go along with it. That's My Story and I'm Sticking To It! 33
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