June 2015

CROYDON CAPERS
JUNE 2015 EDITION
Jill Spencer receives Life Membership
from President Christian Krueger at the
AGM. See more photos page 11-12
NEWSLETTER OF CROYDON AND DISTRICT OBEDIENCE DOG CLUB
Committee of Management 2014/2015
Croydon & District Obedience Dog Club Inc.
Registration Number A008190W ABN: 82 580 068 107
Clubhouse Telephone 9723 7194 Postal Address: PO Box 465 Croydon 3136
President
Vice President
Vice President
Secretary
Assistant Secretary
Treasurer
Assistant Treasurer
Chief Instructor
Instructors’ Representative
Committee
Web Administrator
Obedience Trial Secretary
Rally Trial Secretary
Agility Trial Secretary
Arnold Adams
Helen Adams (Decd)
Eric Archer (Decd)
Michelle Balzereit
Helen Bell
Manfred Bentrup
Marilyn Bentrup
Bill Bradford
Lesley Bradford
Karen Bransgrove
Marilyn Chaffey
Anne Coleman
Geoff Coleman
Brian Constable
Joan Crewther (Decd)
Christian Krueger
Wayne Tracey
Geoff Coleman
Gary McArthur
Pam Scott
Ann Statham
Jolien Van De Knoop
Barbara Schubert
Vicky Desouza
Ingrid Krueger
Jan Seach
Frances Campbell
Michelle Grummisch
Anne Mann
Susan Mahoney
Marilyn Chaffey
Lorraine Holland
Gary McArthur
Trial Grounds Managers
Liz Sharp and
Anne Woods
Jan Seach and
Demonstration Team
Marjy Grosvenor
Managers
Equipment Shop Supervisor Anne Coleman
Margaret Hopson
Tuck Shop Supervisor
Ann Statham
Editor of “Capers”
TRAINING PANEL
Chief Instructor
Panel
COORDINATORS
Puppy
Basic 1
Basic 2
Advanced Obedience
Barbara Schubert
Brian Constable
Marilyn Chaffey
Jan Seach
Brian Constable
Ken Leeming
Marjy Grosvenor
OTHER TRAINING PERSONNEL
Susan Mahoney
Agility Coordinator
Florence Chiu
Flyball Coordinator
Gary McArthur
Rally O Coordinator
LIFE MEMBERS
Penny Lloyd
Pam Cripps
Clive Makepeace
Robert Dark
Pam Makepeace
Melissa Foote
Rebecca McGroarty
Anne Gilbert (Decd)
Ruth Nicholls
Heather Gilbert
Eddie Nissner
Carmel Green
Mal Paton
Kerry Grills
Nan Hawkins (Dore-Smith) Neil Peterson
Margaret Pilling
Margaret Hopson
Lyn Riley
Norma Jones-Roberts
Elizabeth Saltzer
Sue Keable
Sandra Schafer
Geraldine Kisielnicki
Margaret Schaffert
Chris Krueger
Sheila Schaub
Ingrid Krueger
Jill Spencer
Keith Layton
Ann Statham
Rita Thomas
Roger Thomas
Frank Tipping
Wendy Tosh (Tipping)
Wayne Tracey
Cathy Trudinger
Betty Tulloch
Greg Tulloch
Eric van Zuyden
Isobel van Zuyden
Martin Vengust (Decd)
John Williams
Anne Woods
Articles appearing in this newsletter are considered to be of interest to the members, but do not necessarily
express the opinions of the Committee of Management or of the Editor.
LEGAL NOTE: The Editor and the Committee of Management of the CDODC accept no responsibility
for the accuracy of claims made by advertisers in this newsletter.
June 2015 ©Croydon & District Obedience Dog Club Inc.
2 CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015
President’s Report
W
elcome All. Another month has already
passed since our Annual General Meeting.
Several Committee members, Brian Constable,
Greg Tulloch and Marilyn Chaffey, retired during
the year and I would like to extend my gratitude
for their work and commitment to the Club and
its members, to all of them.
Several vacant committee positions have been
filled by members committed to the club,
Barbara Schubert as Chief Instructor, Vicky
Desouza as Instructors’ Representative and
Jolien Van der Knoop as Assistant Treasurer.
Geoff Coleman was formerly declared elected to
be our second Vice President and Ingrid Krueger
re-joined the general Committee again after a
short absence.
(Dog, Cricket, Soccer) have come to a workable
concept plan that would ensure our future on
the ground for many years to come and with
better designed facilities that would allow us to
serve all of our members and volunteers more
efficiently. It will be quite a few years before
the first sod is turned, but as we all know, it
takes a lot of time to get everyone agreeing on
such matters.
It was decided last year to implement an
online membership renewal system. Quite a
few people have worked on this, namely Robert
Dark (long time member) and his programmer,
Gary McArthur, Ann Statham and Anne Mann.
But the biggest contributor has been Marilyn
Chaffey, being our web co-ordinator, Marilyn
has worked tirelessly to implement this service
for our members. It has taken a lot longer than
anticipated but we have it working now for
renewals. A lot of work had to be done over the
last 8 months, liaising closely with our bank,
web-designer and the committee to achieve a
user friendly online system that would eliminate
a great deal of waiting for a renewal at the
office. Our Club constitution/rules will only
allow Membership renewals until the end of
April, after that you will have to come to the
office and apply for a new membership.
I would like to personally thank all the
volunteers and instructors that also give a
considerable amount of time for the benefit of
the general membership. Come rain or shine,
they are out there doing a fabulous job for the
club community.
I have been involved with the council about the
modernisation/redevelopment of our building
and the adjoining clubhouse for many years
now. The building we have today was basically
paid for by our volunteers with fundraising
etc. The council and the other user groups
In closing I would like to thank you all for
placing your trust in my position as President
during the past and coming year.
Regards
Chris Krueger
CDODC President
Outside of a dog, a book is a
man’s best friend. Inside of a dog
it’s too dark to read.
Groucho Marx
CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015 3
Chiefly Chatter
Hi everyone,
Brian Constable has been our Chief Instructor
for the past four years. This year he decided
to lessen his workload at the CDODC and did
not nominate for the position. I want to
thank Brian for the dedication he has had to
the club and the instructors during this time.
Brian oversaw the updating of some training
techniques, organised workshops for instructors
and was always willing to step in and help when
an instructor needed it.
I was fortunate to be able to work closely with
Brian during the past 18 months, seeing the
‘other side’ of our training. This has hopefully
made accepting the position of Chief Instructor
a little less daunting for me, and I hope I
can continue to follow in the footsteps Brian
created. Rest assured Brian will still be at
club each week ready and willing to help out,
and has kindly taken on the position of B1
Coordinator. I can’t omit to mention Marilyn
Chaffey who has supported Brian and myself
during this journey. Thank you both for your
support.
We still have a steady influx of new members
and this is stretching our classes to the limit.
Our instructors are wonderful giving people but
our resources only stretch so far and we often
are desperately seeking a fill in for instructors
when they are ill or otherwise unable to take
their class. Our next Instructor training block
will start 26th July. This is held here in the
clubrooms on Sundays after training, and
runs for 9 weeks. There is also on the ground
mentoring with an experienced instructor in
classes at each level. Instructing is a rewarding
and fulfilling thing to do, and you will also
refine your own dog handling skills. Remember
if you want to learn something inside and out:
teach it. We will be holding an information
session 19th July so if you would like to give
4 CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015
back to the club and become an instructor
please feel free to attend and see if instructing
is something you would like to do.
Many of our dogs now wear yellow bandanas.
The yellow bandana is not an indication that the
dog is necessarily aggressive or a problem but
rather this dog needs or does better with more
personal space. This can be for many different
reasons such as shyness or anxiety or just an
over exuberant dog that jumps and lunges
because he wants to play, or maybe even a dog
who may be recovering from illness or injury.
Please respect those dogs and ask the handler
prior to approaching that dog. Similarly if you
have a yellow bandana dog be mindful and
ensure your dog does have the space it requires.
If you think your dog would benefit from having
personal space at club please see the ladies in
the equipment shop to purchase a bandana.
Winter makes it difficult to be outside with
our dogs. Did you know that a short training
session of perhaps 15 to 20 minutes gives your
dog the mental stimulation that tires him out
to the equivalent to a 1 hour walk, and it can
be done inside! Grab some treats; be creative,
make a mini rally course with what you’ve got
at home, teach a new trick, or a favourite with
many dogs: a game of ‘go find’ which will
incorporate your obedience with a fun game of
seek using their superb sense of scent.
Enjoy your dogs,
Barbara Schubert
Chief Instructor
Basic Obedience Passes
CONGRATULATIONS to the following club members who have recently
passed the Basic Obedience Test.
If you have ordered your certificate and not received it please call into the office on any Sunday
between 10.30 – 11.00 am to collect it.
Robyn Anderson & Toby
Tracey Beresford & Daisy
Liam Deans-Pope & Liam
Brooke Driessen & Stuart
Sue Ebert & Murray
Werner Ebert & Dom
Janet Eyles & Max
Charlie Fry & Archie
Kirriley Hall & Crum
Emily Harper & Daisy
Graham Herbert & Bailey
Noel Hogan & Maizy
Lorraine Holland & Drift
Craig Holmberg & Bella
Paula Holmberg & Brutus
Narelle Klaassen & Ruby
Andrew MacDonald & Archie
Gary McArthur & Brynna
Lynda Redfern & Oscar
Priscilla Rees & Libby
Caitlin Roberts & Billie
Matthew Scudds & Frankie
Kathryn Seirlis & Cora
Amanda Teoh & Charlie
YELLOW BANDANNA?
A number of our dogs at CDODC wear yellow
bandannas….. this is because they might be hyper,
nervous, protective, or excitable.
Please give these dogs SPACE and ask the handler for
permission BEFORE you or your dog approach.
Excessive Barking
Please note:
It is not acceptable for members to allow their dogs to
continually bark whilst at Club. Complaints from neighbours
to Council can make it very difficult for the Club to be seen as
a group of responsible dog owners.
If your dog barks while tethered at Club, it may be advisable
to put the dog in a covered, well ventilated crate thus
removing visual stimulation, often the cause of barking.
CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015 5
Advanced Class Passes
T
aking on the role of Advanced Obedience
instructor this year has been a wonderful
experience. Working with so many enthusiastic
handlers and their dogs always makes my
Sunday mornings exciting. So I am very proud
to have the following teams of handlers and
their dogs pass their Trial Ring Assessment this
past month: Sue and Elsa, Pauline and Chester,
Sue Timperley and Elsa
Michael Beaumont and Darcy
6 CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015
Scott and Matilda, Jake and Toby and Michael
and Darcy. Congratulations to you all and all
the best for your trial ring training.
If you are interested in training for Obedience
Trialling and have completed Basic 2, fill in the
Advanced Obedience form in the clubhouse.
Karen Soo
Advanced Obedience Instructor
Scott Farquhar and Matilda
Jake Wilson and Toby
Pauline Williams and Chester
Progress for Pets
Reprinted from Pets Mag May 2015
N
ew laws will soon be introduced in Victoria
that could benefit the state’s dogs and cats.
Tim Falk investigates what the laws mean and
how they can help our furry friends.
When the Victorian state election took place
in November 2014, animal welfare supporters
around the country watched the results with
interest. As part of its election platform, the
opposition Labor government had announced
plans to introduce a number of new laws
designed to improve the welfare of dogs and
cats in Victoria, covering everything from pet
shops and animal shelters to breeders.
When the votes were counted, the Victorian
Labor Party was announced as the winner,
prompting many to declare the party’s win a
victory for animals. “RSPCA Victoria welcomes
the promises made by government to better
regulate and enforce welfare standards for
domestic animals, particularly those housed in
intensive breeding establishments and being
sold in pet shops or through online channels,”
says Helen Cocks, RSPCA Victoria’s executive
manager of animal welfare.
“This includes the promise to pass a law that
pet shops and online sales channels will only
be able to advertise and sell animals that have
come from shelters. We look forward to working
closely with the government to develop this
legislation.”
But what exactly are these planned new laws
and how can they help our four-legged friends?
The low down
The new Labor government has pledged to make
the following changes:
• Improve current breeding legislation.
• Provide RSPCA inspectors with additional
powers to tackle puppy and kitten factories.
• Amend the code of practice for dog and cat
breeding businesses.
• By 2020, a breeder will only be allowed to
have a maximum of 10 breeding dogs in any
business.
• Pet shops will only be allowed to sell dogs
linked to registered animal shelters.
In addition, the Code of Practice for the
Operation of Breeding and Rearing Businesses
2014 incorporates two new requirements:
1. All female breeding bitches must have a
general health check by a veterinarian within
eight weeks post-partum (after whelping).
2. A female dog must have no more than five
litters in her lifetime, after which she must
be retired from breeding.
“There is also increased scrutiny on the
selling of pets with the recent introduction of
mandatory record keeping,” Helen explains.
“This will help the RSPCA to identify and shut
down illegal businesses when they are selling
cats and dogs. We hope the Victorian Labor
Party takes an unconditional approach to
protecting animals, particularly those most
vulnerable due to current legislations. The
promised changes in Victoria will allow the
RSPCA to support the important work of
councils, which currently have staff dedicated to
enforcing the legislation across Victoria.”
Regulating animal businesses that operate
throughout Victoria and enforcing the relevant
laws is a constant challenge for the RSPCA,
but a critical one. With RSPCA Victoria’s
inspectorate team called on to manage more
than 10,000 complaints each year, it’s incredibly
time and labour-intensive work,
“If pet shops and the internet are only allowed
to source their cats, dogs, rabbits and other
pets from shelters and rescue organisations,
it will be of enormous assistance to rehoming
CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015 7
Progress for Pets cont.
efforts,” Helen says. “It will also help
customers as they will know that they are
getting a pet that has already been desexed,
microchipped and vaccinated, checked by a
veterinarian and behavourist and will come with
a bit of history and expert guidelines.”
All businesses need to be fully compliant with
the 2014 code – except where a business has
agreed conditions on their registration with
council. All businesses are encouraged to talk
with their local council on achieving compliance
with the code.
Will it work?
The welfare of our animals is always of the
utmost importance, and it’s undoubtedly
refreshing to see politicians beginning to
realize just how crucial an issue animal welfare
is to Australians. These laws are designed to
continue the crackdown on puppy and kitten
factories and encourage Victorians to get their
pets from animal shelters or from registered,
responsible breeders. They’re also designed to
improve the lives of animals used for breeding
purposes, plus reduce the number of abandoned
pets in crowded animal shelters.
For RSPCA Victoria, the laws are seen as
a wonderful step forward and Helen says
she would be happy to see these changes
implemented Australia wide.
“RSPCA Victoria is very pleased that the
government has recognised that puppy factories
are a complex and prolific animal welfare issue
in Victoria,” she says. “We would welcome the
changes made by the Victorian government to
better regulate and enforce welfare standards for
domestic animals – particularly those housed in
breeding establishments and pet shops – on a
national level.”
There are others, however, who question
whether the changes will have the desired
8 CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015
effect. Dr Karen Davies is a veterinarian and
a registered breeder with Dogs Victoria. In
addition, she spent the first 6 1/2 years of her
career working at Lort Smith Animal Hospital,
one of Melbourne’s biggest animal shelters.
“Shelter animals are often surrendered for
behavioural or medical reasons and infrequently
come with a clean bill of health mentally and/
or physically,” Dr Karen says. “Pet shop staff
are not behaviourists, vets or vet nurses and I
do not believe they are the right fit for these
sometimes severely traumatised and damaged
animals.”
In addition, Dr Karen says that being contained
in a pet store often may not be a suitable
environment for many of these animals. “If
the animal is a Kelpie, is it going to have an
outdoor exercise area for it to run off some
energy? If the animal suffers from anxiety
issues, is it not going to become overwhelmed
in this sort of an environment?“ she asks.
“Limiting the amount of animals a breeder can
house is not the answer either; monitoring to
ensure a suitable environment and level of care
is. Individuals can have one dog and treat it
badly or a hundred and with appropriate housing
and staffing, have a great facility and quality
of life provided to the animals concerned.
Monitoring and mentoring breeders on a
registered database would be a far more sensible
approach,” Dr Karen says.
What can you do?
The effectiveness of these new laws and
regulations in improving the welfare of Victoria’s
pets will be measured over time. Meanwhile,
RSPCA Victoria encourages any animal lovers
wanting to put an end to puppy and kitten
factories to write to their local MP (there are
guidelines of how to do on the RSPCA Victoria
website).
Progress for Pets cont.
“Potential pet owners should think carefully
when considering buying a new pet, “ Helen
says. “Never buy a pet from the internet or a
pet shop, as you will have no guarantee where
it came from. The rise of the internet puppy
trade increases the likelihood of dogs being
abandoned, as it enables people to make quick
and impulsive decisions to buy puppies without
considering the longer term commitment and
time needed to look after the animals properly.
Cute puppies and kittens grow up to become
mature dogs and cats and can be with you for
15 – 16 years.
“The RSPCA recommends that people looking
for a new pet should check their RSPCA shelter
or another reputable animal rescue group first,”
she says.
Five reasons to rescue
Reprinted from Pets Mag May 2015
W
hen you could have a perfect purebred,
why should you adopt instead? Lauren Mc
Kellar reports.
1. There’s plenty to go around
It’s sad but true – there are a lot of animals
in need of rescue in Australia. In 2012-2013
alone, the RSPCA received a whopping 126,673
pets for surrender – that’ s a lot of animals, and
they’re not the only group accepting animals in
need of love. There is certainly no shortage of
rescue animals in Australia and by considering
one for your next pet, you’re doing your bit to
help make just one of the 126,673 lives better.
2. Rescue doesn’t mean rabid
Most rescue organisations will tell you about the
health of the pet you adopt, and the majority
won’t surrender it for adoption until the animal
has been microchipped, vaccinated and is
generally in good health. Just because you’re
taking home a rescue pet doesn’t mean it’s
going to be a problem for months to come.
3. Behaviour isn’t the bad guy
Not all rescues have behaviour problems. In
fact, one of the most common reasons for
surrendering a pet isn’t behaviour at all, but
rather lifestyle issues. Sadly, in most states
of Australia, owning a pet and renting a home
can be very difficult. Whether it’s the personal
choice of the owner or a decision made by
strata, when renters have to move house due
to a job or relationship change, they can find
locating a pet friendly place to live a real
challenge. And that can mean they have to say
goodbye to their precious pet.
4. You get what you want
One of the reasons people buy a breed specific
dog is because they like certain personality
traits. Well, with a rescue pet, there’s no
reason you can’t get that too. Not only are
some rescue pets purebred, most have some
easily identifiable features that link them to a
certain breed or two. And, more importantly,
they’ve been in the care of rescue workers
who will be able to tell you things, such as if
they’re a cuddler or a crier, a hyper hound or a
sleeping dog. Now that’s a first hand account of
information you need.
5. You’re saving a life
Nothing will make you feel as good as the
knowledge that you’re saving an animal’s life by
taking it home and giving it the opportunity to
live as it perhaps never thought it would.
CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015 9
Rural Rescue
Reprinted from Dogs Life Mag May/June 2015
K
ylie Baracz speaks to Jan Allen about her
involvement with AMRRIC and how she has
helped increase the wellbeing of rural dogs in
indigenous communities.
How long have you been working with
dogs and how did you get started?
I started working with dogs about 46 years ago.
My first job involved Saturday mornings as a
rouseabout at a vet clinic on Sydney’s Northern
Beaches when I was in high school. From there,
no one was more surprised than me when I
gained a commonwealth Government scholarship
and was accepted into a vet science degree. My
veterinary life has involved working in small and
mixed practice in Hobart, various Sydney clinics,
Coffs Harbour and Grafton and my own clinic
in Nana Glen. A long term aspiration came to
fruition when I became an Australian volunteer
with AVI (Australian Volunteers International)
and took up a position in Western Samoa,
working the only small animal practice and
traveling clinics for the APS (Animal Protection
Society Samoa, facebook.com/aps.samoa) The
APS provides the only small animal veterinary
service for the whole Samoan population of
75,000 on the two large islands. During my time
there, I developed an awareness of the bigger
picture and the different aspects involved in dog
population management – strategies, policies,
education, animal welfare promotion, research
etc. Two years later, on return to Australia, I
attended an AMRRIC (Animal Management in
Rural and Remote Indigenous Communities)
conference and was introduced to dog health
programs in remote communities at home in
Australia.
What does your work involve?
I became a program manager with AMMRIC
in 2008. This position involves developing
networks and relationships across Australia with
key people in communities, regional councils,
health and environmental health, federal and
10 CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015
state government departments, Aboriginal
corporations and veterinarians, veterinary
students and vet nurses. The goal is to improve
services to remote communities and enable
local people to be able to manage their dog
populations and health. The domestic dog
quickly replaced the dingo as a companion,
protector and hunter for Australia’s indigenous
people. The side effects are that domestic
dogs are better breeders but less equipped to
survive, hence the dog population problems in
remote indigenous communities today. Dog
health programs generally involve desexing
and antiparasitic treatments. My work involves
facilitating these in communities that AMRRIC
has been invited into. I also organise the 100
or more AMRRIC member veterinary volunteers
who assist and enhance the outcomes of each
program annually.
What inspires you to do your job?
The almost immediate positive outcomes inspire
me to do my job. These include keeping dogs
in good condition with improved skin, less
aggression and fighting, less scrounging for
food and fever starved pups, and owners gaining
respect and pride for their animals.
What is the most difficult part of your
role?
Staying in a remote community can be difficult
and, at night, hearing dog fights – which usually
involve male dogs fighting over a bitch in
season or an adolescent dog trying to establish
its territory.
What is the best thing about your role?
People that have never met before gathering
together and working as a team, often in
extreme physical circumstances, within a
different culture and in a remote location, to
create simpler, healthier, calmer lives for dogs.
It is a privilege to work with AMRRIC and an
even greater one to work “and give back” to
remote indigenous communities in Australia.
Rural Rescue cont.
More about AMRRIC
AMRRIC is a unique organisation that uses an
integrated approach to animal management,
combining veterinary and community education
programs. Desexing programs are the most
humane and successful means of controlling
dog populations. AMRRIC educators work with
communities to share knowledge and skills
about animal health and management, and
this integrated approach produces healthier
companion animals and communities.
How can you help?
You can help AMRRIC keep remote indigenous
communities healthy for dogs and humans too.
Support the organisation’s working by donation
at app.etapestry.com/onlineforms/AMRRIC/
donation.html. AMMRIC is a DGR (deductible gift
recipient) charity.
CDODC Tracking passes
Kennel & ‘call’ name
Owner
Date
Venue
Grade
Bonnie Lee (Bonnie) RA ET
Leonie Keilour
11.04.2015
Pyalong T1
V Good ‘Track of
the Day’ !
Dual Ch (T) Rosarott Basko’s
Pride (Basko) CDX RA HSA(s)
Bobbee Terrill
25.04.2015
TCV-Ballarat TSD 2
V Good
T.Ch.Kardibroke Lilac Belle
(Bella) CDX RAE
Jacinta Bourke
02.05.2015
Bendigo ODC
TSD 1
V Good
Dual Ch (T) Rosarott Basko’s
Pride (Basko) CDX RA HSA(s)
Bobbee Terrill
03.05.2015
Bendigo ODC
TSD 3
V Good &
TSD Title
Wasserbailee (Bailee) CD RE
Wendy Potter
09.05,2015
KODCHaddon T1
Good
Gunzal RN
Deborah Smith
09.05.2015
KODCHaddon T1
V Good
Waiwilta Mickey (Mickey)
Dianne Bell
20.07.2014
Gippsland ODC T1
Excellent
Waiwilta Mickey (Mickey)
Dainne Bell
16.08.2014
TCV T2
Good
Waiwilta Mickey (Mickey)
Dianne Bell
23.08.2014
Inverleigh T3
Excellent ‘Track
of the Day’ & TD
Title!
Waiwilta Mickey (Mickey)
Dianne Bell
09.05.2015
Knox, Haddon T4
Excellent
Waiwilta Mickey (Mickey) TD
Dianne Bell
09.05.2015
Haddon T5
Excellent
Wasserbailee (Bailee) CD RE
Wendy Potter
06.06.2015
GSDC Haddon T2
V Good
Wasserbailee (Bailee) CD RE
Wendy Potter
20.06.2015
Woodstock on
Loddon T3
V Good
TD Title
Welcome to 4 new tracking teams:
Leonie Keilor and Bonnie Lee (Bonnie)
Wendy Potter and Bailee
Dianne Bell and Mickey
Deborah Smith and Gunzal
CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015 11
Trophies and Awards presented by Pre
Marjy Grosvenor ~ K. Smith Trophy
(highest scoring UD)
Rebecca McGroarty ~ Cunningham
Trophy (highest score in Croydon
trials)
Rebecca McGroarty ~ R.M. Legge
Trophy (highest scoring CD)
Charmaine Lee ~ 25th Anniversary
Trophy (highest scoring CDX)
Gaye Penny ~ 50th Anniversary
Trophy (highest scoring CCD)
Bobbee Terrill ~ Tracking Grand
Champion and Track and Search
Grand Champion
Bobbee Terrill ~ Track and Search
Champion and Triple Champion
(N.T.O)
Jacinta Burke ~ Tracking Champion
Dodo Kelly ~ Tracking Champion
12 CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015
esident Christian Krueger at the AGM
Anne Dengate ~ Novice Agility
Trophy and Novice Jumping Dog
Trophy
Carmel Green ~ Agility Dog of the
Year Trophy and Open Jumping Dog
of the Year Trophy
Carmel Green ~ Jumping Dog of the
Year Trophy and Excellent Jumping
Dog of the Year Trophy
Gary McArthur ~ Rally O Perpetual
Trophy
Frances Campbell ~ Novice Flyball
Trophy
Lynne Brown ~ Tyson Award
Anne Woods ~ 15 year Service
Award
Anne Mann ~ 10 year Service Award Brian Constable ~ Retiring Chief
Instructor
CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015 13
AGM Perpetual Trophy and Title Awards
Obedience Champion (UD)
None
Tracking Grand Champion (Gr TSD.Ch)
Bobbee Terrill
Bobbee Terrill
Sanmar Denver Diva
Cabulla River Aorborn
Track & Search Champion (TSD.CH)
Bobbee Terrill
Bobbee Terrill
Sanmar Denver Diva
Cabulla River Aorborn
Tracking Champion (T.Ch)
Jacinta Burke
Dodo Kelly
Kardibroke Lilac Belle
Killara First Seeker
Neutered Champion (Conformation)
Bobbee Terrill
Cabulla River Aorborn
Agility Champion
Sally Haynes
Yarrowfell High Society
Obedience Perpetual Trophies
CUNNINGHAM TROPHY (highest score in
Croydon trials)
Rebecca
Adderslot Midnight Charmer
McGroarty
50th ANNIVERSARY TROPHY (highest scoring CCD)
Gaye Penny
Abtei Great Expectations
R.M.LEGGE TROPHY (highest scoring CD)
Rebecca
Adderslot Midnight Charmer
McGroarty
25th ANNIVERSARY TROPHY (highest scoring CDX)
Charmaine Lee
Rondaglen My Fair Lady
K. SMITH TROPHY (highest scoring UD)
Marjy Grosvenor Stobar Quinella
GEORGE TODD TROPHY (highest scoring UDX)
None this year
Agility Perpetual Trophies
AGILITY DOG OF THE YEAR TROPHY
Carmel Green
Adensley Angel Heart
JUMPING DOG OF THE YEAR TROPHY
Carmel Green
Adensley Angel Heart
GAMES DOG OF THE YEAR
Belinda Tebbet
Dargo Tebbet
OPEN JUMPING DOG OF THE YEAR
Carmel Green
Adensley Angel Heart
14 CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015
NOVICE AGILITY DOG OF THE YEAR
Anne Dengate
Arajoel Rainbo Spryte
NOVICE JUMPING DOG OF THE YEAR
Anne Dengate
Arajoel Rainbo Spryte
EXCELLENT JUMPING DOG OF THE YEAR
Carmel Green
Adensley Hot Choclat
TRILLIAN DEBUT TROPHY
None this year
Rally O Perpetual Trophy
Gary McArthur
Cryshaven Melody Belle
Rally Advanced Excellent Perpetual
Trophy
Anne Mann
Georgina Ricardo
Lorraine Holland
Bobbee Terrill
Marjy Grosvenor
Russ Grosvenor
Jacinta Burke
Zoe
2012-13
Bordarita Gunna Have Fun 2013-14
Tullacrest Modern Milly 2013-14
Sanmar Denver Diva
2013-14
Stobar Quinella
2013-14
Stobar Patric
2013-14
Kardibroke Lilac Belle 2014-15
Flyball Perpetual Trophy
NOVICE FLYBALL TROPHY
Debra Moody
Sasha
Frances Campbell Tigger
TYSON AWARD
Lynne Brown
Samson
Obedience Titles
COMMUNITY COMPANION DOG (CCD)
Natalie Cook
Abtei Great Western
Gaye Penny
Abtei Great Expectations
Merrae Balaam
Luscimamina Stella
COMMUNITY COMPANION DOG (CCD)/
COMPANION DOG (CD)
Karen Soo
AusFX Hunting High N Low
COMPANION DOG (CD)
Rebecca
Adderslot Midnight Charmer
McGroarty
Ron Scibberas
Spritzee Stealing Moments
COMPANION DOG EXCELLENT (CDX)
Bobbee Terrill
Rosarott Basko’s Pride
UTILITY DOG (UD)
None this year
UTILITY DOG EXCELLENT (UDX)
None this year
AGM Perpetual Trophy and Title Awards
Tracking Titles
TRACKING DOG (TD)
Marjy Grosvenor Stobar Quinella
Russ Grosvenor
Stobar Patric
TRACKING DOG & TRACKING DOG EXCELLENT
Jacinta Burke
Kardibroke Lilac Belle
TRACK & SEARCH DOG
Dodo Kelly
Fernfall Gallant Trooper
TRACK & SEARCH DOG/TRACK & SEARCH DOG
EXCELLENT
Bobbee Terrill
Sanmar Denver Diva
Dancing With Dogs Titles
DANCING WITH DOGS FSI
Gaye Penny
Abtei Great Expectations
DANCING WITH DOGS FSN & FSI
Deb Harvey
Dymatan Denim N Diamonds
DANCING WITH DOGS HTMN & HTMI
Gaye Penny
Abtei Great Expectations
Endurance (ET)
Anne Dengate
Adensley Heartbreaker
Retrieving
Dodo Kelly
First Seeker
HERDING
Bobbee Terrill
Rosarott Basko’s Pride
Agility Titles
AGILITY DOG (AD)
Anne Dengate
Arajoel Rainbo Spryte
Anne Dengate
Adensley Choclat Fudge
Deb Harvey
Dymatan Denim N Diamonds
OPEN AGILITY DOG (ADO)
Sally Haynes
Yarrowfell High Society
AGILITY DOG MASTERS
Tina Chesworth
Kayladene Take It Easy
Carmel Green
Adensley Angel Heart
JUMPING (JD)
Georgina Ricardo Bordarita It Can Only Be Me
Deb Harvey
Dymatan Denim N Diamonds
Belinda Tebbet
Ekleba Schackleton
Anne Dengate
Arajoel Rainbo Spryte
Carmel Green
Adensley Hot Choclat
JUMPING (JDO)
Tina Chesworth
Kauladene Take It Easy
Sally Haynes
Wrangham Cathy Earnshaw
JUMPING (JDX)
Carmel Green
GAMBLERS SPD
Nicole Schwab
GAMBLERS SDX
Belinda Tebbet
Adensley Hot Choclat
Tornado Tori
Dargo Tebbet
Rally Obedience Titles
RALLY NOVICE (RN)
Merrae Balaam
Luscimamina Stella
Susan Mahoney
Rozate Ruby Jewel
Gary McArthur
Cryshaven Melody Belle
RALLY ADVANCED EXCELLENT (RE1)
Jacinta Burke
Kardibroke Lilac Belle
RALLY ADVANCED EXCELLENT (RE2)
Bobbee Terrill
Sanmar Denver Diva
Flyball Titles
FLYBALL DOG FD
Jolien van der
Tess
Knoop
Melanie Morris
Lucy
Melissa Ryan
Selkie
FLYBALL DOG FD – FDX
Stephen Bullas
Buddy
FLYBALL DOG FD – FDX – FDCH
Debra Moody
Sasha
Frances Campbell Tigger
Lynne Brown
Samson
AUSTRALIAN FLYBALL CHAMPION AFCH
Fiona & Andy
Davy
Butterworth
Lynne Brown
Samson
Croydon Demo Team
Have your gained your Basic (B2)?
Would you like join our demo team?
If you are interested come into the
office on a Sunday morning and fill
in an application form.
CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015 15
Rally Obedience Report
Congratulations to the following Croydon
members on their recent success.
26th April - CDODC RALLY TRIAL
NOVICE
Emily Skoda and Coalskoda, perfect score of
100! 1st in ring
Anne Woods and Bordarita Dare to Dream, 99,
2nd in ring
Sharen McLeod and Montage the Patriot, 98,
3rd in ring
Julia Bennett and Elspan Nightfyre, 95, 4th
in ring
Anne Woods and Bordarita Dreamtimechasr,
87, TITLE
Susan Mahoney and Nala Mahoney, 87.
ADVANCED A
4th in ring, Susan Mahoney and Rozate Ruby
Jewel RN, 96.
Dodo Kelly and Fernfall Gallant Trooper RN,
93 and TITLE
Ron Sciberras and Elmo RN, 87 and TITLE
Dodo Kelly and Killara First Seeker RN, 85 and
TITLE
HIGHEST SCORE IN RALLY O TRIAL
Emily Skoda and Coalskoda with their perfect
score of 100! – see photo.
17th May - LABRADOR RETRIEVER RALLY
TRIAL
NOVICE
Jenn Taylor and River gained a qualifying score
in their first Rally Trial.
17th May – BERWICK ODC RALLY TRIAL
NOVICE
Anne Woods and Bordarita Dare to Dream, 98,
2nd in ring, TITLE
ADVANCED A
Gary McArthur and Cryshaven Melody Belle
RN, 80, 3rd in ring.
16 CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015
Emily Skoda and Coalskoda with their perfect score
of 100!
31st May – WORKING DOG CLUB VIC
RALLY TRIAL
ADVANCED A AM TRIAL
Sharen McLeod and Montage the Patriot RN,
94, 3rd in ring.
Gary McArthur and Cryshaven Melody Belle
RN, 82, 4th in ring.
ADVANCED A PM TRIAL
Sharen McLeod and Montage the Patriot RN,
98, 1st in ring.
20th June – HASTINGS DODC RALLY
TRIAL
ADVANCED A
Susan Mahoney and Rozate Ruby Jewel RN, 95
If you would like to take part in this sport
or have any questions, please contact the
Coordinator Gary McArthur: croydonrallyo@
gmail.com.
Obedience Triallers’ Report
CONGRATULATIONS to the following Croydon members who received qualifying
scores at recent Obedience Trials:
CROYDON & DISTRICT OBEDIENCE DOG
CLUB 26/4/15
NOVICE RING (CD)
Gaye Penny and Abtei Great Expectations CCD
FS.I. HTM.I 1st Place, Score 200!!
Nicole Savanah and Boon 4th Place, Score 186
OPEN RING (CDX)
Rebecca McGroarty and Adderslot Midnight
Charmer CD, 1st Place, Score 194
Bobbee Terrill and TS.Grand.Ch Triple.Ch
Cabulla River Aorborn UD RE GD JD SPD SD
HSAS ET 2nd place, Score 186.
UTILITY RING (UD)
George Todd and Hemp (Ben) CDX, 1st Place
score 171.
HUNGARIAN VIZSLA CV 2/5/2015
NOVICE RING (CD)
Gaye Penny and Abtei Great Expectations CCD
FS.I. HTM.I 1st Place, Score 199
BERWICK ODC 17/5/15
COMMUNITY COMPANION DOG RING (CCD)
Anne Mann and Ellagant Great Rhythm, 1st
Place, Score 97.
Rebecca McGroarty and her
Australian Shepherd, Hevnsent
Sweet Babyblue UD (Jet)
NOVICE RING (CD)
Nicole Savanah and Boon CD 2nd Place, Score
181, Title
MORNINGTON ODC 24/5/15
OPEN RING (CDX)
Charmaine Lee and Rondaglen My Fair Lady
CDX 2nd Place Score 175, Title.
UTILITY RING (UD)
Rebecca McGroarty and Hevnsent Sweet
Babyblue UD, 2nd Place score 181, Title.
WORKING DOG CLUB OF VIC 31/5/15
COMMUNITY COMPANION DOG RING (CCD)
am trial: Anne Mann and Ellagant Great
Rhythm, 1st Place, Score 99
pm trial: Anne Mann and Ellagant Great
Rhythm CCD, 2nd Place, Score 96, Title
EAST GIPPSLAND DOC 7/6/15
NOVICE RING (CD)
Anne Mann and Ellagant Great Rhythm CCD,
1st Place, Score 192.
Anne Mann’s Australian Shepherd,
Ellagant Great Rhythm CCD (Rhythm)
Charmaine Lee and her Lowchen,
Rondaglen My Fair Lady CDX
(Suri)
CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015 17
Vale
Stobar Quinella CDX RAE TD ET
16/10/2004 - 22/01/2015
It is five months since I had to say goodbye
to Quinny, but after receiving the K. Smith
Perpetual Trophy for the highest scoring UD dog,
at the Croydon AGM, I feel I want to talk a little
about her.
I know we all say it, but playing and working
with Quin taught me just about all I know about
dogs. Just over ten years ago Russ and I bought
two German Shepherd puppies and joined the
Croydon Dog Club. All we wanted were a couple
of well behaved pets, but we had two very
clever teachers who eventually took us through
the challenges of the Obedience ring and the
Tracking circuit.
Quinny and I had a rocky journey as I had so
much to learn. She was patient and put up with
so many mistakes. There was a lot of love, but I
was a slow learner.
When we discovered trialling she sailed through
CCD and CD and then hit a brick wall with Open.
We gave up Obedience for a couple of years and
then, somehow, came back to it with renewed
interest and she gained her Open title.
UD held many challenges for us. Competing in
UD trials wasn’t so much about getting a pass
as having fun. It was about going into the
ring and discovering how many different ways
there were to NQ. It was about driving home
with no magic piece of cardboard but so proud
of my clever girl. As anyone who has done UD
knows, it is not easy, it is a case of getting
every exercise ‘just right’ on the day and that
happened twice for us, once in April last year
and again in November when she won the ring
and scored 187. This was the score that gave
her the K. Smith trophy for the highest UD score
for 2014/2015.
We had so much help and support from the
Croydon trialling community and would never
have had so much enjoyment or success without
them.
Quinny also held the Endurance title and was,
I think the first German Shepherd to earn the
Rally Advanced Excellent title… a dog of many
talents.
Last year we started tracking. We enjoyed this
so much because, in tracking, the dog is the
expert, the handler just follows, trusting their
dog to know where a stranger walked, an hour
previously, across paddocks and through scrub
and eventually to find that stranger, lying on
the ground, rolled in a ground sheet… and she
did it …every time!!! Quinny did four tracks and
achieved four passes, she was awarded her TD
and was on her way to TDX, but she just ran out
of time.
Phryne joined us last late year and Quinny
adopted her as her baby, she was gentle and
kind, playful and loving, she was teaching her
all she knew about the big wide world, but she
just ran out of time.
18 CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015
Vale cont.
?
?
Did you know that this shop is
run for you the handlers and
your dogs? Prices are usually
lower than pet shops, vets and
supermarkets.
I was so proud that she was awarded the trophy
at the CDODC AGM and so sad because, to get
her UD title she needed three passes and, as
you know, we found a massive cancer in her
chest in January and she won’t ever have a
chance to get that third pass. The award was
special because it was recognition that she was
smart enough to do it....she just ran out of
time.
I miss my little girl enormously and I know
many of you do too. She was primarily my pet,
she slept beside my bed, she went where I
went and if she couldn’t, she was always full of
excitement when I came back to her. She gave
me so much and demanded so little. She learned
many skills and she taught me patience and
tolerance, we had so much more to do, she just
ran out of time.
Marjy Grosvenor
Members are
responsible for the
behaviour of their
children at all times.
Children must NOT approach a dog
without the owner’s permission.
Some examples...
Sentinel Spectrum – large dogs $95.00
Heartgard – medium dogs $35.00
Frontline – large dogs $58.00
Pigs Ears (each) $1.40
Biscuits $2.00
Prices subject to change
Ask us about buying in bulk.
We sell many other items including
treats, toys, dog coats. Anything you
might need for your dog.
Come and have a look.
Coffee and
Snacks
Coffee and Snacks are available for sale
in the Clubhouse every Sunday during
training hours. Coffee/Tea/Ovaltine/
Soft Drinks, Chips, Chocolate Bars/
Sausages etc. ALL AVAILABLE
CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015 19
Cleaning up after dogs
Reprinted from Vic Dogs Mag
The excitement of purchasing a dog can
shadow the realities of cleaning up after it
when it becomes a member of the household,
or taken for walks.
It is important for dog owners to be prepared
for the task of cleaning up after their pet as
dog waste contaminates ground surfaces and
can pass intestinal parasites and infections to
not only other dogs but also people.
Your own dog can be repeatedly reinfested
with parasites if faeces are not picked
up. Dog faeces contain E-coli bacteria,
which can cause ongoing illness in people
including vomiting, diarrohea, nose and throat
infections.
Getting rid of faeces prevents a great deal of
contamination, especially if diarrhoea is not
involved. Rain dissolves dog faeces, which
is then washed into waterways. Marine plant
and animal life are affected by this pollution
and many beaches have been closed after rain
because of this type of dangerous pollution.
Not surprisingly, contamination, smell and
mess, make dog waste highly offensive
to many people in the community. Local
government councils have been involved in
many strategies to change the behaviour and
attitude of dog owners, and drive home the
importance of cleaning up after pets.
20 CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015
The majority of councils across Australia have
made picking up after dog faeces in public
places mandatory, with fines involved if the
waste is left behind. Many public places,
including beaches, have banned dogs altogether
because of the offensive mess they can leave,
which pet owners have failed to clean up.
Exercising your dog on the beach or in dog
friendly parks is a great way to enjoy the local
environment and to keep both you and your
pet fit and healthy. However, it is important
to know of any restrictions that many apply at
various times of the year to local beaches, and
to know of the parks which allow dogs to be
exercised. Remember to carry a bag and scoop
any dropping to keep bays, beaches and parks
clean. For more information about dog friendly
beaches and parks, visit your local council web
site.
Keeping the elimination to certain areas can
also help dogs to be more social on outings
outside of home. Some dogs will defend
territory they have marked by urinating and
defecating. Getting your dog to defecate at
home instead of during walks can have a more
positive effect on your dog’s social behaviour
toward other dogs and people on walks.
There are a number of products on the market
that make the task of cleaning dog waste
including faeces, urine, vomit and hair easier.
Training Tips
Making Use of your long lead:
How many handlers at Club use their long lead
regularly? Not very many I would guess. Yet
this training aid can be extremely useful in
many ways.
Those of you who began in Puppy Classes
learned to use the long lead to allow the
puppy more freedom to explore, yet still have
him under control when needed. You were
also shown how to use it to begin training
in the recall. Remember! You were told to
enthusiastically call your pup to you four or five
times whilst it was exploring and to use the
lead to ensure that it started to come and that
it came directly to you. Then it was praised and
allowed to go for a run again. This training can
still be continued as the dog gets older for it
effectively teaches the dog that IT MUST COME
WHENEVER IT IS CALLED, NO MATTER WHAT IT
IS DOING. This is one of the hardest things for
handlers to achieve with their dogs and would
probably be one of the main reasons why people
bring their dogs to Obedience Clubs. So keep
doing this exercise with your dog whenever you
go to a suitable area.
The long leash is also handy for walking your
dog in an area where the Council Laws state
that a dog must be leashed, yet it is a suitable
area for the dog to have some freedom. The
dog can be allowed to wander where it wishes
– exploring and smelling – with the handler
only directing the dog when it is necessary. The
walk around Lilydale Lake is a good example. For
most of the walk the dog can be free to wander
at the end of the long leash, yet when other
people are approaching, the lead can be quickly
shortened to the normal length and the dog
brought back to your side.
More and more Councils are bringing in laws
about dogs being on a leash in parks and on
beaches, so that they are under control. Your
long leash will allow you to obey the law yet
still let the dog have some freedom.
So use your long lead during the week as well as
for formal training.
Although expensive a retract-a-lead is a
worthwhile investment as a long lead. It never
tangles and if used correctly is marvellous for
practising recalls with a dog that is inclined
to run in the wrong direction. Make sure, if
you purchase one, that you have the correct
model for the weight of your dog as they come
in various strengths and also various lengths.
Anne – in the equipment shop – would be able
to order the correct type for your dog if you let
her know.
DO YOU WANT A TROPHY?
All handlers whose dogs have gained a title since 1st April 2015 are
entitled to a trophy which will be presented at our AGM. Simply give
Ingrid Krueger a copy of your Title Certificate.
If you wish to be considered for one of our Perpetual Trophies, please
make sure that you give a list of all the passes you have received since
last April and any qualifying scores you have earned to Ingrid Krueger
and complete the details in the Trial Results book. Please remember the
Committee does not have E.S.P.
CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015 21
The wisdom of dogs
Reprinted from Dogs Life mag
O
ur canine companions can teach us some of
life’s most valuable lessons – if we’re willing
to learn. Dogs life editor Laura Greaves explains
how she learned everything she needs to know
about life from dogs.
Live for yourself
Human beings spend a lot of time worrying
about how we’ll be perceived by other human
beings. We adapt our behaviour so that others
will like us, and often don’t say things we’d like
to say for fear of offending people. Dogs don’t
have that problem – they are 100% true to
themselves at all time.
My dog, Tex, will bark at you if you approach
his house and he doesn’t care if you think he’s
bad mannered. He’ll give you a sniff and, if he
doesn’t like the cut of your jib, he’ll turn tail
and walk away without worrying you’ll be upset.
Wouldn’t it be lovely, if people were so direct?
Lesson learned: Be yourself and don’t worry
about what other people think of you.
Never accept a first offer
When we brought Tex home as a 10 week old
bundle of fluff, he refused to eat. The first
day we put it down to being overwhelmed by
his new surroundings, but when he was still
ignoring his food bowl after 48 hours, we rang
the breeder in a panic. “He’s probably waiting
to see if you’ll offer him something other than
dry food,” she suggested. “Try a chicken neck.”
A chicken neck was duly procured and, of
course, Tex virtually inhaled it.
Pinscher puppy Cleo, who had a penchant for
befriending outsiders. At doggy daycare, she
parked herself next to a lonely, frightened
Sheltie and simply waited there until the timid
dog was brave enough to join in the fun.
Similarly, she introduced herself to a disabled
child at an airport and brightened the little
girl’s day.
Lesson learned: Offering a smile, a kind
word or a hand (or paw) to hold can make an
enormous difference.
Listen to your body
Weight loss experts say one of the main reasons
people struggle to shed unwanted kilos is
mindless eating – that is, snacking when you’re
not really hungry. Tex doesn’t have this problem.
Along with his nightly raw chicken leg, he also
gets a small bowl of premium quality dry food.
He usually ignores it at dinnertime, but will
polish it off later when he’s peckish. He only
eats when he’s hungry – the greatest weight
loss lesson of all.
Lesson learned: Pay attention to your appetite.
Why drive when you can walk?
American art critic John Zeaman devoted an
entire book, Dog Walks Man, to the simple
pleasure of walking his dog, Pete, a Standard
Poodle named after a Ghostbusters character.
Initially accepting the role of “Chief Family
Dogwalker” begrudgingly, Zeaman soon
discovered that these six legged rambles were
an opportunity to explore his neighbourhood,
meet new people and enjoy being in the great
outdoors.
Lesson learned: If you don’t like the first
option, wait for a better offer.
Lesson learned: Walking is arguably the best
way to get to know the world.
Reach out
It’s the little things
In his heart warming book, Love is the best
Medicine: What Two Dogs Taught One Vet About
Hope, Humility and Everday Miracles, US vet
Dr Nick Trout recounts the story of Miniature
22 CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015
Tex has an embarrassing number of fancy toys
but, like a small child who has more fun playing
with the box his pricey plaything came in than
the toy itself, it’s the inexpensive amusements
The wisdom of dogs cont.
he likes best. Among his favourites are an old
Ugg boot, a torn bit of curtain, the lid of an
aerosol can and whichever items of underwear
he can steal from the laundry basket when
nobody’s looking.
with their adoptive family. Haunted by their
sad past, the trio had been all but disowned by
the family’s existing children until their mutual
affection for Shaneen helped the siblings find
common ground.
Lesson learned: Why buy designer when cheap
‘n’ cheerful is just as entertaining?
Dogs don’t care who you are, what you look
like or where you come from; as long as you
dispense plenty of love and belly rubs, you’re
welcome in their pack.
Silence is golden
Being a dog, Tex can’t speak – but he can
communicate more effectively than many of
the most talkative human beings. It’s partly
his expressive eyebrows and partly his habit of
staring fixedly at what he wants – one way or
another, he’s always able to make it abundantly
clear what he’s after. And yes, he usually gets it.
Lesson learned: Sometimes words simply aren’t
necessary.
Make the most of every moment
Isn’t it amazing that the words “walkies” and
“car” can send dogs into raptures of pure joy?
Many people consider exercising and running
errands in the car to be chores, but our four
legged friends view both as just about the most
fun a pooch can have.
Similarly, the first time Tex saw a cow, he was
utterly mesmerized; it was without question the
most fascinating thing he had ever seen. Two
minutes later he saw a sparrow, and then that
was the most fascinating thing he’d ever seen.
Imagine if more people saw “mundane” things
as opportunities to explore and experience.
Consider the possibilities if we took the time
too look at familiar sights through fresh eyes.
Lesson learned: Look for the wonder in every
moment of every day.
Don’t judge a book by its cover
In her book, The Dog Who Healed a Family,
author Jo Coudert shares the story of rescue
puppy Shaneen, whose boundless love for three
damaged, unruly children helps them to bond
Lesson learned: Put your preconceived ideas
aside and you can find friends and allies where
you least expect it.
Be proud of your achievements
Tex likes to steal things. Specifically, he likes
to steal freshly washed underpants and socks
from the laundry hamper. He could do these
things surreptitiously; he could quietly take his
ill gotten gains to a private spot and chew to
his heart’s content – but he doesn’t do that.
Instead, he barrels down our long hallway into
the living room beaming in front of us with his
drool splashed loot in his mouth. He’s proud of
having liberated the knickers from their laundry
basket prison and he thinks we should be, too.
Lesson learned: don’t hide your lights under a
bushel.
Admit your mistakes
Most dogs have the good grace to be contrite
when they misbehave. After having the stolen
undergarments confiscated and being roundly
chastised, Tex will always sit under the coffee
table for a few minutes, looking very sorry
indeed. When he feels he’s been suitably
punished he will emerge, all waggy tail and
broad doggy grin. There’s never any hard
feelings on his part.
Lesson learned: Own up when you’ve done
wrong, pay your penance with good humour and
don’t hold grudges.
What life lessons has your dog taught you?
CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015 23
CDODC OFFICE HOURS
PLEASE NOTE:
The office hours are from 9.15am – 10.30am
Certificates ONLY will be available from
10.30am – 11.00am
The office will CLOSE at 10.30am sharp, so that the
volunteers who work on the desk can collect their dogs
and go to their training classes.
Annual Repo
rt
2015
Annual General Mee
Friday 29th May 2015
ting
CROYDON & DISTRICT OBEDIENCE DOG CLUB
ANNUAL REPORT 2014/15
AVAILABLE FROM OFFICE
July
August
Oct
Nov
Dec
Tues 21
Tues 18
Tues 20
Sun 2
Tues 17
Sun 29
Sun 6
7.30 pm Committee Meeting
7.30 pm Committee Meeting
7.30 pm Committee Meeting
NO TRAINING – Cup Weekend
7.30 pm Committee Meeting
Fun Day – Last training day
Obedience Trial
Unless otherwise stated the following activities are
conducted each week:
Wednesday 6:30pm & 7:30pm Puppy Pre-School
Wednesday 6:00pm – 9.00pm Trial Training
Sunday 9.00am – 12:00pm
Obedience Training – Puppies, Basic, Advanced
Trial Classes• Flyball Training• Agility Training
visit www.cdodc.com.au
24 CDODC CAPERS ~ June 2015