Inside This Issue - Canadian Coton De Tulear Club

Volume 12 Issue 3
Septemer 2014
Greetings Members of the Canadian Coton de Tulear Club
and a special welcome to our newest members, Kim
Presisniuk and Sylvie St. Amand. I hope everyone is enjoying a lovely autumn with your Cotons.
I believe this is the longest newsletter we’ve ever had in
the history of the CCTC. There is great variety in this
issue—stories to make you cry (get the tissues handy) like
the heroic story of Patapouf, reports of dogs shows, both
the 2014 Canadian Coton Specialty held earlier this month
to the World Dog Show in Helsinki. There are photographs to make you smile, like those of the adorable puppy
Maybe Trouble of Chapala Bay seen here at the right.
Thank you to all you submitted such great stories and
photos, both big and small. I hope everyone will enjoy
this issue of Coton Malgache.
Chris Wasylishyn, Newsletter Editor
Inside This Issue
President’s Message—Linda Brookes
Page 2
CCTC Coton Specialty 2014
Page 3
Histoire de Courage
by Andree Louise Beaulieu
Story of Courage (Histoire de Courage)
Page 6
Translation by Lary Brown
It Shouldn’t Happen to a Dog
By Robbie Pattison
(Reprinted from Dogs in Canada)
World Dog Show, Helsinki, Finland
By Marie-France Prayal
Page 12
The Glamorous Life of a Dog Breeder
By Linda Brookes
Page 16
Page 17
Page 8
Coton Photo Gallery
-Maybe Trouble of Chapala Bay
-Tango’s 11th Birthday Party
-Maggie, Peanut & Beau at the Beach
-Good-bye to Misty
Page 10
About Us… CCTC
Page 20
President’s Report
Linda Brookes
Hello to the CCTC Membership!
Having recently reviewed the past year in club activities for the Annual General Meeting, I want to share with you the successes the
Board of Directors and Club Membership have achieved and give you some insight into our direction for 2015.
Over the past year we have implemented many things:
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The CCTC is sponsoring "Cotons Against Puppy Mills" a group dedicated to public education and prevention of puppy
mills.
We have added many new Health Information pages to our website. This information is written to help puppy buyers understand each health issue and also provide breeders with facts and contacts of the health test process.
Coton Cafe has been introduced and is a popular Facebook page run by the CCTC providing an online international forum to
discuss issues about Cotons. There have been photo contests through this page as well that were enjoyed by many.
Yahoo Groups are being set up for Members and Breeders to provide an easy to use discussion forum restricted to our own
members where we can delve more deeply into issues relating to Cotons with focus on what is affecting us in Canada as well
as linking us as resources to each other.
For the first time in several years we have a full Board of Directors in place.
We are marketting Coton Greeting Cards as a club fundraiser. Funds raised through the sale of the cards has not yet been earmarked for specific use however we intend to focus on health testing and these funds may be a resource for the betterment of
our breed as a whole.
Membership Fees for 2015 have been changed to meet the dynamics of our current membership. There will be two fee levels;
$25 per year for pet owners and $50 per year for breeders. All members will have voting priveleges (once they have completed their first year of membership). Breeders receive inclusion on the Breeder Directory as well as unlimited Litter Announcements on our site.
Where we are headed:
The Code of Ethics is still not completed. This will be the first priority of the Board of Directors.
 Once the Code of Ethics is finalized we will begin review of the Constitution and Bylaws.
 We have approved in principle the production of a pedigree book. This will be a long term goal and will be a gradual process
but we hope to begin the first stages of this in 2015.
 We will be researching and discussing if we wish to proceed with breed recognition via the Canadian Kennel Club or maintain
non-recognition.
I am pleased that we have adopted a Mission Statement for the
CCTC which is "Celebrating the Coton. Preserving the
Breed." Thank you to Margaret Stagg for succinctly summing up our
direction as Coton lovers and breeders with this slogan.
As this is my first message as President of the Club, I want to take
the opportunity to express that my goal in this position is to work
closely with a hard working Board of Directors with the focus on the
health and well-being of our breed. If any of you have a suggestion
or an issue that you would like to bring to my attention, please do not
hesitate to do so.
To each of you, I wish you health and happiness.
Sincerely,
Linda Brookes
Coton de Tulear, National Speciality St-Louis – Quebec
Association canine du coeur du Québec September 6, 2014
During the show organized by the Association canine du coeur du Québec, September 6 – 7, 2014, the CCTC held its annual
specialty. The show was held under the auspices of the Canine Federation of Canada (CFC).
The weather was not on our side. It was very humid and poured rain on and off all morning. As show time was nearing, the rain
continued and we were afraid we would be showing “drowned rats” instead of fluffy Cotons. The Club was very understanding and
accommodating to our worries. They reconfigured the show ring for us so that we could stack and gait our dogs under the big tent
avoiding the puddles and rainfall.
8 Cotons were registered and Saturday afternoon they were all ready to go in the ring with their owners/handlers. There was 1
male and 7 females:
- 3 in the puppy class
- 4 in the junior class
- 1 in the open class
It was Mrs. Joyce Lea-Hanson who had the pleasure of judging our Cotons.
Here are the results:
- Best Puppy : Cotonfield Jouvence– Breeder: Diane Benaroch - Owner and handler: Marie-France Prayal
- Best Junior Male: Alika Tia Three Stooges Curly – Breeder, owner and handler: Linda Brookes
- Best Junior Female: Suave Asha du Domaine de Polana – Breeder: Marie-France Prayal, Owner and handler: Linda Stevens
- Winner Female: Riverport’s Good Vibrations – Breeder, owner, and handler: Corinna Yannoulopoulos
- Best Puppy in Specialty: Cotonfield Jouvence
- Best Junior in Specialty: Alika Tia Three Stooges Curly
- Best of Breed and Speciality: Alika Tia Three Stooges Curly
For the specialty, we received very nice donations.
We would like to thank for their donations:
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Linda Brookes
Maggie Stagg
Paula Campbell
Diane Benaroch
Sonja Femia
Corinna Yannoulopoulos
Marie-France Prayal
Andree Louise Beaulieu
After the completion of the show, we gathered for
some camaraderie, food, and drink. This led up to our
CCTC Annual General Meeting which had several
members attending in person as well as some joining
in from across the country by teleconference.
All the participants enjoyed being together. It was a
great Specialty and also a great weekend!
Submitted by Marie-France Prayal
Photos from
Coton Specialty
2014
Above:
Demetrius & Corinna Yannoulopolous
At Left: Linda Stevens
Below: Andrèe Louise Beaulieu
More Photos from the
Specialty 2014
AT LEFT:
Marie-France Prayal and
Linda Brookes hold
certificates at the Specialty.
BELOW from left to right:
Demetrius & Corinna
Yannoulopolous, Judge Joyce
Lea-Hanson, Marie-France
Prayal, Linda Stevens, Andrèe
Louise Beaulieu, and Linda
Brookes… and many beautiful
Cotons!
Histoire de Courage—Story of Courage
On the following pages is the story of a canine hero, Patapouf.
The original story in French written by Andree Louise Beaulieu is followed by
The English translation by Lary Brown.
Here is a photograph of our hero, Patapouf, upon graduation as a
multifunctional utility dog.
Histoire de Courage
Andree Louise Beaulieu
Coton Mignon
C'était ma première expérience en tant qu'éleveur de Coton de Tuléar. Ma chienne Neige a donné naissance
à ses premiers chiots à la fin du printemps quatre mignons petits mâles. L'un d'entre eux était beaucoup plus
gros, plus maladroit que les autres et en plus d'être craintif. J'ai rapidement trouvé preneur pour trois des
chiots. Ces derniers dès l'âge de 12 semaines sont partis dans leur famille respective. Le quatrième, plus
costaud, se retrouvait seul. Personne ne semblait s'intéresser à lui.
Pour me faire un peu de publicité et peut-être trouver une personne qui pourrait être conquise par mon petit
mâle, je me suis inscrite à un salon des éleveurs. J'ai également amené avec moi les parents du chiot âgé
maintenant de quatre mois. En admiration devant les Cotons de Tuléar, les visiteurs du salon affluaient et
s'attardaient longuement devant notre table. Notre boule de poils blanche arrachait des oh! Quel Beau toutou! Et des ah! Comme il est mignon!
Tout le monde voulait le cajoler un moment et sentir la douceur de sa fourrure. Notre petit ne disait mot. Il
restait très calme, impressionné par tant d'amour. Ses grands yeux noirs brillaient sous la touffe de poils qui
tombait juste au-dessus de son museau humide, lui brouillant ainsi la vision. Son attitude paisible nous confirmait qu'il se sentait confortable et qu'il appréciait toute cette affection.
Une dame au regard triste se tenait à l'écart attendant patiemment la chance de prendre ce petit costaud tout
rond. Dès que la dame eu mis contre son cœur notre boule d'amour, elle s'évada dans un état serein où nul
ne pouvait l'atteindre. Elle profitait de ce précieux moment rempli de douceur et de réconfort. Elle ne pouvait
plus s'en détacher. Malgré elle, après bien des efforts, elle confia le petit trésor à d'autres mains. Elle s'éloigna mais pas trop, pour continuer à distance de profiter de cet instant d'apaisement.
Elle resta derrière jusqu'à ce que tout le monde soit parti. Elle aurait tant aimé partir avec le petit chiot emmitouflé sous son manteau, bien caché, au chaud, protégé de ses bras frissonnants. Elle savait qu'elle ne pouvait se permettre financièrement un tel achat. Sa raison l'emporta. Son cœur me donna son numéro de téléphone au cas où le petit ne trouverait de maison pour l'accueillir.
Les semaines après notre passage au Salon des Éleveurs, je n'ai pas eu d'appels. J'ai donc décider d'appeler la dame. Je lui ai proposé de prendre le chiot et de s'engager à me rembourser par des versements à la
mesure de son portefeuille.
J'ai discuté longuement avec cette dame. Elle était si contente de mon offre, elle ne pouvait y croire. Elle
m'avoua que deux semaines avant le Salon des Éleveurs, elle avait été victime d'une agression. Elle m'expliqua qu'elle avait une maladie ressemblant au parkinson, d'où ses tremblements et sa vision très basse.
Elle recevrait bientôt de l'indemnité pour ses incapacités physiques, ce qui lui permettrait de prendre en
charge le chiot et voir au bien-être de ce dernier. Chaque semaine je recevais du courrier postal de cette
dame qui parlait au nom du chiot qu'elle avait appelé Patapouf. Chaque semaine Patapouf parlait de ses progrès à sa maman Neige (chienne Coton de Tuléar). A la Fête des mères, Patapouf a envoyé une carte de
vœux à sa maman Neige lui exprimant toute sa reconnaissance.
La dame avait eu l'autorisation d'avoir un chien de compagnie dans son appartement vu ses handicaps. Elle
avait appliqué pour suivre une formation dans un programme de zoothérapie qui permettrait à Patapouf de
devenir " Compagnon aide utilité". Il obtint une bourse de " Lions Foundations of Canada Doig ". pour sa formation comme futur chien guide. La dame s'impliquait passionnément dans l'éducation de Patapouf. Ce dernier a participé à des marches de sensibilisations comme chiens guides et de nombreuses activités bénévoles. En septembre 2013, il recevait un diplôme avec mention " Honneur et Excellence " comme compagnon
aide Utilité. En décembre 2013, Patapouf graduait comme chien multifonctions, toujours avec Honneur et Excellence. il venait tout juste d'avoir un an.
Au début de l'hiver, Patapouf tomba malade. Il a dû être hospitalisé souffrant d'une pneumonie sévère. Les
frais médicaux et de vétérinaires ont dépassés la capacité de payer de la dame. De retour à la maison, la
dame s'occupa de soigner son compagnon. Elle avait failli le perdre et il était encore vivant. Tous deux, la
dame et Patapouf se réconfortaient l'un l'autre. Elle remerciait l'univers pour cette deuxième chance." La vie
est parfois injuste et difficile " mais avec Patapouf auprès d'elle, tout lui paressait moins lourd, plus facile. En
rendant visite à une religieuse en compagnie de Patapouf, elle eut la surprise de recevoir un cadeau inattendu. Les sœurs de cette congrégation qui appréciaient les visites de la dame et de Patapouf, lui offrirent de défrayer tous les frais encourus lors de la maladie de Patapouf. En plus, la Congrégation s'engageait à payer
tous les frais à venir pour Patapouf et ceux de la futur petite chienne Coton de Tuléar. Imaginez la joie et la
légèreté que ressentait la dame. La dame réserva donc une petite chienne sur la prochaine portée de Neige.
Au printemps 2014, je recevais par le courrier postal, une des dernières lettres de la dame. La lettre m'annonçait une terrible nouvelle. La dame venait de perdre accidentellement son précieux et tant aimé Patapouf. Elle
raconte, que ce dernier marchait avec elle sur le trottoir, lorsqu'une auto est arrivée à vive allure se dirigeant
droit sur un enfant qui tentait de traverser la route. Le chien, devant ce danger imminent, se précipita d'un
seul bond sur le garçonnet, le poussant hors d'atteinte. Le jeune garçon a eu la vie sauve tandis que Patapouf tomba sans vie sous les roues de la voiture. La perte de Patapouf était insurmontable pour la dame.
Elle renonça par la suite à son projet d'une petite chienne Coton de Tuléar, elle ne voulait plus souffrir.
En juillet 2014, je recevais par la poste un paquet contenant tous les objets ayant appartenu à Patapouf. La
dame les donnait aux futurs chiots de Neige. Dans ce paquet, il y avait les trophées, la médaille d'héroïsme,
de courage et de bravoure qui avaient été décerné à Patapouf.
" La population de la ville de Québec honore Patapouf Coton Mignon, de l'élevage Coton Mignon
d'Andrée Louise Beaulieu, pour son geste héroïque d'avoir sauvé une vie, celle d'un enfant de 3 aans
tout en y perdant la vie. "
" PATAPOUF, TU ES UN HÉROS "
13 juin 2014
Depuis je n'ai plus reçu de lettre de la dame, le silence.
Story of Courage (Histoire de Courage)
Translation by Lary Brown
It was my first experience as a Coton de Tulear breeder. My female Neige gave birth to her first litter in late Spring; four cute little
males. One of them was much bigger, more awkward and a bit more fearful than the others. I quickly found good homes for three of
the puppies. They were 12 weeks old when they went to their respective families but the fourth, the « heavyweight », stayed with me.
Nobody seemed to be interested in him.
As an opportunity to introduce the breed and maybe find someone who would fall in love and be conquered by my little male, I decided to go to a breeders’ show. I brought my 12 week old puppy and his parents. Visitors gathered and lingered for a long time in
front of our table, in awe of the Cotons. Our white ball of fur solicited ohs, « What a beautiful doggie! », lots of ahs! and «Oh, he’s
so cute!»
Everyone wanted to touch, cuddle and feel the softness of his coat. Our little one said nothing. He remained very calm, seemingly
impressed by so much love and attention. His large dark eyes shone, blurred by a tuft of hair that fell just above his wet nose. His
peaceful demeanour confirmed that he felt comfortable and that he appreciated all this affection.
A sad looking lady stood patiently waiting for the chance to hold the little ball of fur. As she held him close to her heart, she seemed
to transcend to a serene place, oblivious to her surroundings. She took advantage of that precious moment full of tenderness and bliss
and could not let go. After many tries and in spite of all her efforts; she finally handed the little treasure to other waiting arms. She
walked away, but not too far, relishing that special moment of peace.
She stayed behind until everyone had left. She would have loved to have taken the little puppy, wrapped him in her coat, well hidden, warm, protected by her trembling arms. She knew she could not afford him. Reason finally prevailed but her heart gave me her
phone number; just in case the little one didn’t find a home to greet him.
Weeks after the Breeders Show, I still had not received any calls. So I decided to contact the lady and offer her the puppy and she
could to pay for him in installments.
We spoke a long time. She was so happy with my offer and she could not believe it. She told me that two weeks before the Breeders’
Show, she had been assaulted. She explained that she had a disease resembling Parkinson's, which explained why she was trembling
and that she was partially blind. She would soon be receiving an indemnity for her disabilities which would allow her to take good care of
the puppy. Each week I received a letter on behalf of the puppy she
called Patapouf. Each week, he was telling his mom Neige about what
he was doing. On Mother's Day, Patapouf sent a card to his Mom expressing his love and gratitude.
Because of her disabilities, the Lady had been allowed to have a pet
dog in her apartment. She had applied for training in a pet therapy program that would allow Patapouf to become "utility assistance companion ". He won a scholarship from the "Lions Foundations of Canada
Dog Guides" to cover expenses for training as a future guide dog. The
Lady became passionately involved in the education of Patapouf. Patapouf participated in guide dogs’ training sessions and numerous volunteer activities. In September 2013, he received an honors degree
"Honor and Excellence" as a journeyman utility dog. In December
2013, Patapouf graduated as multifunctional dog, always with Honor
and Excellence. He was just turning a year old.
In early Winter, Patapouf fell ill. Hospitalized with severe pneumonia, the medical and veterinarian expenses were to much for the
Lady to pay. Returning him home, she took care good care of her companion that she had almost lost but he was still hanging on.
Both she and Patapouf were comforting each other. She thanked the stars for this second chance. "Sometimes life is unfair and difficult" but with Patapouf everything seemed lighter, easier. One day, accompanied by Patapouf, she was visiting a nun who surprised
her with a totally unexpected gift. The Sisters of the congregation who enjoyed seeing the Lady and Patapouf, offered to pay her all
costs incurred by Patapouf’s illness. In addition, the congregation agreed to pay all future costs for Patapouf and those of a future
female Coton de Tulear puppy. Imagine the her joy and happiness. The Lady reserved a little female from Neige’s next litter.
In Spring 2014, I received her last letter. In it was written some terrible news. The Lady had accidentally lost her precious and beloved Patapouf. She said that he was walking with her on the sidewalk. They saw a car heading very fast straight towards a child who
was trying to cross the street. The dog, feeling the imminent danger, rushed and in a single bound jumped on the boy pushing him
out of the danger’s way. Patapouf had sacrificed his life to save the little boy. Patapouf’s loss was too much for the Lady. She abandonned her quest for another Coton. She didn’t want to suffer anymore.
In July 2014, I received a package containing all Patapouf’ belongings. The Lady wanted to give them to Neige’s future puppies. In
the package were trophies and a medal of heroism, courage and bravery that had been awarded to Patapouf.
"The population of Quebec City honors Patapouf Coton Mignon, from Andrée Louise Beaulieu‘s kennel Coton Mignon, for his heroic act of sacrifying his life for the life of a 3 year old child. "
"Patapouf, YOU ARE A HERO"
Since then, I have not received a letter
or heard from the Lady; only silence!
Andree Louise Beaulieu
Coton Mignon
J une 13, 2014
"It Shouldn't Happen to a Dog"
Written by Robbie Pattison
This article first appeared in Dogs in Canada and is reprinted with permission of the author.
It’s an intriguing dichotomy. On one hand we have the faithful dog, man’s loyal servant and companion for countless centuries. On the other we have “dog,” scurrilous epithet, featured player in no end of disparaging proverbs—“He who lies down with
dogs will rise with fleas”—and key ingredient in a host of uncomplimentary words and phrases—“dog-eared,” “hangdog,” “dog in
the manger.”
So what did the poor beast do to provoke the architects of language into treating him this way? It may be significant to note
that he is not alone, and that his bad rap may have less to do with his real or imagined failings than with an entrenched, if not particularly generous, attitude humankind has traditionally held toward the rest of the earth’s inhabitants. As Darwin wrote, “Animals,
whom we have made our slaves, we do not like to consider our equals.” Anyone wishing to document pejorative animal references
should consider that dogs come out at least as well as pigs, cows or chickens in the lexicon. Still, it can be argued that cats and horses, while not escaping entirely unscathed, occupy slightly higher rungs on the language reference ladder. Some wild animals do fare
better than their domestic counterparts, though the dog’s wild relations—wolves, jackals, coyotes and the rest—are almost always
cast as villains, Fox Mulder notwithstanding. Wolves and lions both have reputations as feared predators, but “leonine” conveys a
very different impression than “wolfish,” and to describe someone as “lion-hearted” is high praise indeed.
Dogs were the first animals to be domesticated. Presumably they started as scavengers, attracted to human encampments by
the chance of picking up scraps of food, and prehistoric man came to welcome their presence, as they tended to sound the alarm
when unwanted visitors arrived. Perhaps this rather inauspicious start to the human/dog relationship had something to do with our
subsequent development of contradictory attitudes toward the species: for the most part we enjoy the company of dogs and value
their contribution to our lives—some of us even dote on them—but at the same time they make many of us wary. The idea of the
dog as man’s best friend seems to be a relatively new one. The phrase itself dates back to 1870, to a court case in Warrensburg, Missouri, in which a man called Charles Burden sued a neighbour who had shot his favourite hunting dog, Old Drum. In his final appeal
to the jury, Burden’s lawyer, Senator George Graham Vest, offered a moving speech which included these words: “The one absolutely unselfish friend that a man can have in this selfish world, the one that never deserts him, the one that never proves ungrateful
or treacherous, is his dog.” The case eventually went to the supreme court of Missouri, where Mr. Burden was awarded $50 in damages, and the dog has been known as “man’s best friend” ever since. In 1958, a statue of Old Drum was erected on the Johnson
County Courthouse lawn in Warrensburg.
Old Drum was not the first dog to be eulogized so grandly. Few can remain dry-eyed after reading the famous epitaph for
Lord Byron’s Newfoundland, “Near this spot are deposited the remains of one who possessed Beauty without Vanity, Strength without Insolence, Courage without Ferocity, and all the Virtues of Man without his Vices. This praise, which would be unmeaning Flattery, if inscribed over human ashes, is but a just Tribute to the Memory of BOATSWAIN, a Dog.” But these words were written in
1808, which is not all that long ago in the general scheme of things, and by the 19 th century the position of the dog in society had
evolved considerably from its rough beginnings. If he started out as a scavenger, and soon expanded his résumé to include guard,
hunter and shepherd, it has only been in relatively modern times that the dog has become less a servant and more a friend. True, lap
dogs have been around for quite a while, but they have occupied a rather narrow niche in society, as pampered companions to the
rich and royal. (It is conjectured that the phrase “putting on the dog” stems from this source.)
When you look at dogs objectively, you realize that some of them do possess character flaws which beg to be expressed
metaphorically. Dogs eat (or roll in) all sorts of disgusting things. They lift their legs when and where they shouldn’t, and often
behave inappropriately in front of guests. They have been known to kill chickens, chase cars, worry livestock, and occasionally bite
the hand that feeds them. Aesop demonstrated that he knew something about canine behaviour when he selected the dog as the animal to sit in the manger, keeping the hay which he himself could not eat from the hungry oxen who could. When you come right
down to it, even the dog’s apparent virtues can be viewed with a different eye—what is loyally affectionate to one person might
seem cloyingly obsequious to someone else. Just ask any cat lover.
As a result, language is littered with words and sayings which often cast dogs in a less than favourable light. When you get
to the dog-end of a cigarette, there’s not much left and what’s there is pretty disgusting, and to dog-ear a page is no way to treat a
good book. If you are at the edge of exhaustion, you’re dog-tired. A plant which has “dog” as part of its name is likely to be a weed,
or poisonous, or bear inedible fruit. A “dog’s breakfast” started out as a description of food so bad only a dog would eat it, and has
come to mean anything that is a complete mess. Doggerel is bad poetry. Sundogs herald seriously cold weather, at least in the part
of Canada where I live.
The origin of the word “dog” itself is mysterious. Its first appearance in Old English, in the form “dogca,” is late, around
about 1050; after that “dogge” shows up sparingly, in apparent reference to large, mastiff type animals, and does not replace “hund”
as the generic term for the species until a few centuries later. In modern English, of course, “hound” is the specialist term, indicating
dogs which hunt their prey by sight or scent. “Dog” seems to be English in origin, with no root in any other language, while
“hound” goes back through Teutonic, and beyond that Indo-European, sources to the Greek “kúôn.” Dog words in the Romance
languages, such as the French “chien” and Italian “cane” (not to mention the Welsh “ci,” from which stems “corgi”), derive from the
Latin “canis,” but relatively few English dog-related words have emerged from that source—“canine,” of course, and “kennel,” and
more obscurely, “chenille” and “canary.” “Kúôn” is thought by many to be the ultimate root of “cynic,” but I’ll leave that one, along
with “chenille” and “canary,” for an etymologist to explain.
The use of the word dog to mean “despicable person” goes back at least as far as the 14th century, in other words, to about
the same time “dog” replaced “hund” as the generic term for Canis familiaris. Since the word carries that kind of historical baggage,
it’s no wonder that “dog” has had an uphill battle, fighting its way out of the doghouse, so to speak. By the 17 th century things had
improved slightly, as by then one had the option of referring to a person in just a mildly reproving way as a “sly dog,” but in 19th
century America and Australia the situation had regressed, and “dog” was now also a term for an informer. The 20 th century has
added some new dog definitions: a complete failure (“That show sure was a dog”), a slow or difficult horse (probably the one you’ve
bet on), and the most politically incorrect one of all, an ugly woman. “Hound” and “bitch” (in either noun or verb form) are seldom
used in complimentary ways, except of course by dog breeders, and “puppy love” is hardly the real thing. On the other hand, the
adjective “dogged” has come up a bit in the world. Today it means stubborn or—in its best sense—tenacious; in days gone by it
meant malicious or cruel.
The “dog days” of summer refer to the unpleasantly hot parts of July and August when Sirius, the Dog Star, rises and sets
with the sun. The Romans thought the extra heat of this bright star added to that of the sun and caused the uncomfortable conditions.
“The hair of the dog that bit you” started out, not as a hangover cure, but quite literally as a treatment for a dog bite, and was doubtless even less effective in that role. “Going to the dogs,” or coming to a bad end, has been around at least since the 16 th century, and
owes its origin to the practice of sending old or lame horses to the knackers, to be turned into dog food. “Till the last dog is hung”
likely refers to human dogs rather than canines, though that knowledge probably won’t help dog lovers feel much better about the
expression. Oh, it’s a dog’s life, all right.
Still, the news is not all bad. There are many positive, or at least neutral, dog phrases around. We enjoy hearing that
“there’s life in the old dog yet” (I know I do), and what draws a better picture than to say someone is as excited as a dog with two
tails? We’ve long been entertained by shaggy dog stories, and from the beginning English literature has been enriched by references
to man’s long and for the most part salutary association with the dog, whether the author be Kipling, Byron, Pope or Shakespeare.
“To be or not to be” might rank as the number one quotation on most people’s top ten lists, but “Cry havoc and let slip the dogs of
war” is probably not far behind.
The story of the dog in language is a long and continually evolving one, much like the story of language itself. I’ve barely
scratched the surface here and I could go on, but I’m afraid I have to see a man about a dog.
The World Dog Show – 2014 – Helinski, Finland
By Marie-France Prayal
Last year, during a show, after discussing with some exhibitors, I decided to go to the World Dog Show in Helinski. I had been to
the one in Paris and also the one held in Austria two years ago. The plane ticket was booked, the hotel reserved. I was with a
group of dog people from Nova Scotia. It was in September 2013. We are now in August 2014. Until the last minute, I was not
sure if I really wanted to go. Too many things on the go. But, I realized that I really needed a break and this trip in Finland whihch
was already organized was just what I needed.
Here I am, August 5th at the airport meeting these other crazy
dog people. The flight was long
but without any incident. We
quickly found the hotel in
downtown Helinski.
The show. 3 days. More than
20, 000 dogs. Extremely well organized. Always on time. Lot of
space, very clean, the dogs very
quiet and well behaved. The judging of the Cotons was Sunday
morning. 88 Cotons were entered, 44 males and 44 females. The
males were first judged by Damir
Skok of Croatia and afterwards,
the females by Christine Rossier of
Switzerland.
I was there very early to be sure to
get a good seat. My friends, two
breeders of English Springer
Spaniels were with me. One of
them had never seen a Coton and
wanted to learn about this breed. The other had seen my Cotons in the ring and was interested to see all these Cotons together. I
was also very curious to see the reactions of these two very experienced breeders.
Here are my observations: still a big lack of homogeneity for the breed. For each class, it was very interesting to see the variety of
size, weight, texture of the coat, the set of the tail. For me, the best class was the veteran females! Beautiful Cotons!
It was very interesting to listen to the comments of my 2 friends. They were very surprised by this lack of homogeneity. We still
have to work to get more consistency in the Coton breed. They enjoyed the happy, smiling faces of the Cotons, their "joie de
vivre" so evident.
I really enjoyed the breeder teams. It is very nice to watch these Cotons and their handlers working together. It gives a good idea
of what each breeder is producing. I was surprised to see so few American exhibitors. The internationally wel-known breeders
were not there. The majority of the Cotons were from Finland.
At the end of each day, we stayed for the group judgments and of course, on the last day, for the best in show. We saw many
different breeds we didn't know. I also really enjoyed watching the breeder class judgments. It was incredible. Imagine this scenario: the second day, more than 1500 dogs (for 4 groups) were there together. It was incredible! It gave to me some enthusiasm to continue what I am doing. It reinforced my conviction that we are doing something right with our dogs. That the dogs
have a very important role to play with the people.
We stayed at the show site every day. But, we had enough time to walk in the city, to have very nice meals together, to have
interesting discussions about dogs, to have good laughs together.
One more observation. Here in Finland, the dogs are welcome everywhere, on public transportation, in the street, in the hotels
and restaurants. They are calm, friendly, excessively well behaved. Humans and dogs live well together. There is something we
can learn about that.
I am now on the plane, coming home. This trip was very nice. I met interesting people, beautiful dogs, I am ready to continue to
work hard with my Cotons and to enjoy their company. I hope it will not be my last trip to a World Dog Show! I really hope to
go to the next one which will be held in Milano in 2015 and to have with me one of my Cotons.
More
Beautiful Cotons
from the
World Dog Show
In
Helsinki, Finland
The Glamorous Life of a Dog Breeder by Linda Brookes
I remember the days when I had babies at home. Working in an office, I always had to dress up to some degree for work. There were
many days after getting ready for work, the baby would spit up on my outfit and I would go to work with spit-up on my clothes. That
was OK. It was almost endearing. Even explaining it to coworkers, those with kids would smile and remember the days when they
too went to work with baby spit on them. How sweet.
Being a dog breeder isn't quite so widely accepted in the general public. I don't find smiling faces and fond memories among the majority of the people as they really have no clear conception about what we do or how our home life is. I'm sure many people think
breeders live in filth. One person at work even asked me how I can tolerate dogs barking constantly at home. Huh? My home is not
filled with barking dogs!
I still work in an office environment. I still "dress up" for work.
A few months ago one of my girls was in heat. My two males were very excited by this change in events and aromas in our
home. They are always very loving and enjoy a good snuggle with me before I leave for work in the morning. The morning of my
event was no exception.
The eventful day began regularly. I donned a black and white dress, cuddled my Griffin and headed off to work. Part way through the
morning I went to the ladies room and, in the mirror, notice there is a mark on the black part of my outfit. It doesn't wipe off. My
fingernail scratching the surface just makes the mark whiter and more prominent. I grab the mark on my outfit and pull it close to my
face to give it a sniff to determine its origin. Yes, just as I feared, it's penis goo! Oh lordy! I have dog semen on my outfit.
Yes indeed. Being a dog breeder is very classy work.
Coton Photo Gallery
Guaranteed to make you smile!
Paula Campbell’s new little keeper.
Photos of the puppy on the previous page and the top of
this page are of Paula Campbell’s “new little keeper,”
Maybe Trouble of Chapala Bay. Her call name is
Mable, J.
Isn’t she absolutely adorable!
BELOW: Tango's 11th Birthday Party. We invited most of our "dog" relatives. In the front row (left to right)
is Toby, Tango & Rosie. They are the related Cotons. The 2 dogs in the back are mixed breads Bella &
Max. The dogs had a blast! Toby was very protective of his relatives and growled at the other 2 if they got
too close to Rosie or Tango...interesting. Tango is well-loved by Rina Paniccia
Maggie, Peanut and Beau need a drink after a good
run at Portmaitland Beach (Louise Smith)
This month I lost my most precious Misty, an truly exceptional
companion. She was beautiful, smart, confident and athletic, but it is
her loving and affectionate nature that I will remember and miss most.
Misty introduced me to the world of dog shows and dog breeding.
Despite my limitations as a groomer and handler and her short-comings
in terms of coat, we managed to achieve multi-championship status
earning both Canadian and international titles.
Besides the show ring, Misty participated in agility and obedience. I
regret we didn’t pursue competitive obedience as she was so smart, I’m
sure she would have done well. As a puppy, she would watch my first
Coton, Jasper, and follow his lead. I can’t imagine any dog being any
easier to train than Misty.
There was nothing Misty loved better than attention (well, maybe
food.) She would go up to strangers on the street and look at them if to
say, “Please admire and pet me” and most often people would.
Misty had two litters of puppies and was a wonderful mother. I am so
thankful I kept one of her sons, Cottonmyst Sweet Woodruff, aka Ruffy
… although they are very different is so many ways, it is like having a
little bit of Misty still with me.
Although we shared over 12 years together, the time still seems far too
short. She will live on in my heart forever.
About Us….
Denis Carriere founded the Coton Malgache Publication in 1994 so that breed fanciers might share their mutual interest. The club’s aim is to support, educate and
advise owners, members and prospective owners about the Coton de Tulear.
All members of the CCTC will abide by a code of ethics that will govern the breeding
and prosperity of these lovely animals, protecting and preserving the qualities of the
Coton de Tulear, and striving for its betterment.
CCTC publishes the Coton Malgache quarterly in March, June,
September and December. We encourage your submissions! Please do not hesitate
to send photos of, and articles about your Cotons. Photos will be returned upon request if you include a S.A.S.E.
Deadline for the
DECEMBER 2014 Coton Malgache is
Saturday,November 29, 2014.
Please send all submissions for the Coton Malgache to:
Email: [email protected]
Subscriptions to the Coton Malgache are included with a CCTC membership.
Make your cheque or money order payable to CCTC. Fees for US and overseas subscribers are payable in US funds.
The CCTC is a Canadian non-profit organization .
All renewing memberships are due January 31 each year.
CCTC Executive
President: Linda Br ookes
Email: [email protected]
President: Diane Benar och
Email: benar [email protected]
Secretary: Mar gar et Stagg
Email: [email protected]
The opinions expressed in the Coton Malgache are those of the
authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.
The articles in the Coton Malgache belong to their authors and
cannot be reproduced either in whole or in part in any form
without written permission of the author.
Treasurer: Mar ie-France Prayal
Email: [email protected]
Western Director: Paula Campbell
Email: [email protected]
Ontario Director: Cor inna Yannoulopoulos
Email: demcor @sympatico.ca
Ontario Director: Sonia Femia
Email: [email protected]
Eastern Director: Ed Cooper
Email: ejcooper @bellaliant.net
Newsletter Editor: Chr is Wasylishyn
Email: chr [email protected]
www.coton.ca
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Contact Marie-France Prayal
[email protected] Tel. 902-757-0826