GPCA Q1 2012 Bulletin - Great Pyrenees Club of America
Transcription
GPCA Q1 2012 Bulletin - Great Pyrenees Club of America
Bulletin The Great Pyrenees Club of America First Quarter 2012 Courtesy of Vern Great Pyrenees Courtesy of Smudge the Wonder Dog Acosta The Garden State Great Pyrenees Club is excited to be hosting the 2012 GPCA National Specialty Our esteemed panel of Judges include: Futurity ▫ Maryann Gentzel Puppy Sweepstakes ▫ Barb Dillon Veteran Sweepstakes ▫ Peggy Watson Conformation ▫ Ellen VandenAvond Special Events include: Top Twenty and Puppy Invitational Rescue and Pet Parade Sunday Regional Judged by Mrs. Kimberly Meredith-Cavanna Back to Back Obedience Trials, Draft Dog, and much, much more. For all the latest information, please check out our web site: www.2012gpcanational.com or contact Show Chair Karen Justin at [email protected] English Slip Lead: 6’ leash in a variety of colors (additional colors include black, camouflage, teal, silver, burgundy) with Running Pyr. Free-hanging stained glass Running Pyr approx. 8”x 6” each is an individually crafted one-of-a-kind work of art and may vary slightly. Quantities limited. Contact Victoria or Karen at [email protected] with item quantities for shipping costs. Prices as follows: Stained Glass $30 Leashes $15 Logo T-Shirt $15 Logo Sweatshirt $30 Tapestry Totes $30 Pillows $35 50 x 68 Blanket $65 Please make all checks payable to “2012 GPCA National” and send orders to: Victoria Coffman 1893 County Route 1 Westtown, NY 10998 Renowned artist and long-time Pyr fancier Arlene Oraby’s gorgeous artwork is immortalized on blankets, totes, and pillows. Sizes S - 3X. 50/50 Blend Blanket: full-size 50” x 68” made with three layers 100% cotton Pillow: design on front, black on back, made of a cottonpoly blend 18” x 18” Sizes S - 4X. 100% Cotton 2 Tote Bag: artwork appears on both sides of this 16” x 16” cottonpoly blend tote. The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 2012 National Specialty ITEMS AVAILABLE FOR SALE AND OUR "WISH LIST" It’s hard to believe we only have four months left until we host the National Specialty! We still have items for sale to help pay for the event. Quantities are limited so please order soon if you plan to make a purchase. These are all available on the web site. We may not re-order items once they are sold out, depending on item and that company’s minimum quantity reorder requirements. We are still trying to acquire the following: Carpet Cleaner, Paper Towels, Pooper Scoopers, Dog Biscuits, Garbage Bags, Duct Tape, and Shavings for Ex-Pens. If you would like to donate any of these items please contact Karen at [email protected]. Thanks! Karen Electronic Distribution of Premium list for the 2012 GPCA National Specialty At the conference call on December 8, 2011 the GPCA Board of Directors approved the request that the 2012 National Specialty Premium list be distributed electronically. All GPCA members with an email address listed in the directory will receive an email with the premium list which will include the all-in-one signup sheet and the rescue/pet parade signup sheet. All GPCA members without an email address listed in the directory will automatically be mailed a hard copy of the premium list. Any person who is emailed and we receive an undeliverable notice will be mailed a hard copy of the premium list. Any GPCA member or person may request a hard copy of the premium list and it will be mailed. To request a hardcopy of the premium list contact the Superintendent at Barb Budny; [email protected] or by phone 414-327-5619. The premium list will be available for download from the following web sites: Show Superintendent www.caper-dogs.com; 2012 National Specialty www.2012gpcanational.com; GPCA http://clubs.akc.org/gpca/index.html. Please note the closing date of the show and the all-in-one sheet is April 6, 2012. If you have any questions regarding the 2012 National Specialty please don't hesitate to contact Karen Justin at [email protected]. If you need assistance with obtaining a premium you may also contact Bret Zacher at [email protected]. The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 REGIONAL SPECIALTY CHANGES 2012 GPCA NATIONAL SPECIALTY & GSGPC ANNUAL REGIONAL SPECIALTY Our Regional Specialty to be held on Sunday, April 29, the day following the National Specialty, has a judge change. Paula Nykiel is no longer able to judge for us on that date. We now have Kimberly Meredith-Cavanna, from California, coming in to judge our Regional Specialty. Our regular specialty held in May of each year will no longer be held at the Freehold, NJ site. Our Annual Regional Specialty will now be held in Augusta, NJ at the Sussex County Fairgrounds in October of each year in conjunction with the Palisades Kennel Club Dog show. We will have a Fall Regional at the new site for our Annual Regional Specialties and the judge selected was Kimberly Meredith-Cavanna. Because neither judge was available on the dates we requested, we have switched judges and Paula Nykiel will be judging our October 13, 2012 Regional Specialty. We hope to see you at both! Rescue and Pet Parade 2012 GPCA National Specialty Karen Justin While a National Specialty is, by definition, a dog show, there have, in the past, been host clubs that have held a Rescue Parade during the National. We wondered why the vast majority of Pyrs, your typical companion Pyr home on the couch, are the only Pyrs excluded from participating in a National Specialty. Therefore, we have decided to have the first ever Rescue and Pet Parade at the upcoming National Specialty in April. Please consider entering and participating in this historic and special event. All Pyrs are welcome and encouraged to attend whether they are rescue dogs, show dogs, obedience stars, agility enthusiasts, draft competitors, or have never left the couch. All participants will receive an award and half of the $20 entry fee will be split between the GPCA National Rescue fund and the GPCA Health Committee. The entry form, which is pictured on the right, will be included in the electronic premium list which you should be receiving via e-mail in February. The Parade will be on Friday, April 27, 2012 at 6 p.m. 3 Name: Address: City, State, Zip: 2012 GPCA National Specialty Reservation/Order Form — Deadline is April 6, 2012 All prices are in U.S. Dollars E-mail: Phone: Price Each Quantity Total Grooming Space (8’ x 8’): All spaces have access to power and are available from Tuesday $65.00 PM through Sunday. $65 per space regardless of the number of days. All spaces are on a “1st reserved/paid basis.” Groups wishing to be together must reserve/pay at the same time. Equipment Rental: If you are flying in or unable to bring your own equipment, we will make every effort to have available to you, for rent, equipment you may need such as a Crates, Grooming Table, Blow Dryer, etc. Please contact us for pre-paid prices. 250 RV Parking: Limited RV Parking available on a “1st reserved/paid basis.” No hookups. 30 Banquet (4-course meal): Please specify: Chicken (Chicken Cordon Bleu) Fish (Stuffed Filet of Flounder) 30 Beef (Roast Prime Rib) 32 12 Box Lunch (specify # needed at $12 per lunch per day): ___Wed ___Thu ___Fri ___Sat Puppy Invitational/Top 20 Admission/Cocktail Party Wed 4/25 20 Special Events: includes Hors D’oeuvers, Catalog, and Peoples’ Choice Ballot All-You-Can-Eat Lobster Buffet Dinner (tax/tip incl.) Fri 4/27 80 See Separate Entry Form Rescue and Pet Parade Fri 4/27. See PREMIUM LIST to Enter. 20 10 Catalog (National/Regional Combined): Pre-paid pick-up at the show. (Day of show price will be $15.) 20 Marked Catalog: Available by pre-order only (will be mailed after the show). Trophy Donation: (Donor name as you’d like it to appear: _____________________________________________) Auction Donation: Please consider donating a special treasure for the Auction. Send donations and descriptions of the items to Karen Justin, 1893 County Route 1, Westtown, NY 10998 ([email protected] — 845-726-3437) Catalog Ad: See PREMIUM LIST. All catalog ads must be placed directly with the Show Secretary (Deadline: 4/6). Health Committee Clinic: SNAP 4Dx Blood Test (Lyme disease, Erlichiosis canis, Heartworm, & Anaplasmosis) No Pre-pay. Name of Owner: ___________________________________________________ Number of Dogs: ___________ Pay at Cost: $40 per dog (includes results certificate. Payment to be made at the Clinic payable to: GPCA Health Committee Clinic. Logo T-Shirt Indicate # of each size: ____ SM ____ M ____ L 15 ____ XL ____ 2X ____ 3X ____ 4X Logo Sweatshirt Indicate # of each size: ____ SM ____ M ____ L 30 ____ XL ____ 2X ____ 3X Arlene Oraby Artwork: Blanket: full-size, 3-layer, 100% cotton blanket, 50” x 68” 65 Pillow: design on front, black on back, cottonpoly blend 18” sq. 35 Tote: artwork on both sides, cottonpoly blend, 16” sq. 30 Leash 6’ English Slip Lead with embossed Running Pyr: colors vary 15 Stained Glass Pyr Free-hanging, hand-made Running Pyr: approx. 8” x 6” 30 The above prices on our Ways N’ Means items are for pick-up at the show. For shipping costs, please contact us. TOTAL: Names of others in your party (for hospitality packets and name tags): Name: ___________________________________________________________ $ State: _____________________________ Name: ___________________________________________________________ State: _____________________________ Please make all checks payable to 2012 GPCA National Specialty. Check # ______________________ OR Master Card ____ / VISA ____ # _____________________________________ Expiration Date (MM/YY): _______ CSC/Security Code (on back of card): ______ Name as it appears on the card: _______________________________________ Karen Justin Questions? Contact Show co-Chairs: or or check out the web site [email protected] 845-726-3437 www.2012gpcanational.com Mail this form along with payment to: Name: ___________________________________________________________ State: _____________________________ 2012 GPCA National Specialty 1893 County Route 1 Westtown, NY 10998 Victoria Coffman [email protected] 845-726-3437 The Garden State Great Pyrenees Club hopes to see you soon! 4 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 RESCUE and PET PARADE NATIONAL RESCUE DISPLAY 2012 GPCA NATIONAL SPECIALTY Friday, April 27, 2012 – Best Western Inn at Hunts Landing, Matamoras, PA The GSGPC in conjunction with the GPCA’s 2012 National Specialty would like to invite you to participate in the 2012 Rescue and Pet Parade to take place on Friday, April 27. All rescue and/or pet owners are invited to show off their dog(s) in this non-competitive event. All who participate will receive an award and have an opportunity to get a show photo. While you present your dog in the ring a brief biography of you and/or your dog will be read. Your dog should be clean and reasonably groomed (a bath is not necessary). This is a great opportunity to meet other people in our breed and see a lot of Great Pyrenees in one place. Events begin on Tuesday, April 24th and there will be plenty to do and see through Sunday. The parade will start at 6pm on Friday evening. Please arrive early. Everyone is invited and encouraged to attend. To enter (pre-entries only, no entries will be taken the day of the parade) fill out the form below and mail with the $20.00 entry fee. One half of each entry will be divided between GPCA Rescue and the GPCA Health Committee with the remainder covering expenses. Please return your entry with the fee (payable to 2012 GPCA National Specialty) by April 6th to: Beth Britton, 21 Britton Drive, Flemington, NJ 08822 The National Rescue Board will be on display at the National for the entire week. If you have a photo or story to add to the board please send to Beth at the above address. If you have any questions about either event please contact Beth at (908) 782-5609 or email [email protected]. Owners __________________________________Phone __________________Email __________________ Address __________________________________________________________________________________ Dog’s Name ______________________________Sex ____________________Age ____________________ Acquired from ____________________________________________________________________________ Please tell us about you and/or your dog ______________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________ The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 5 Great Pyrenees Club Of America 2011 -2012 GPCA BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS OFFICERS President Carrie Stuart Parks (2012) Email: [email protected] P. O. Box 73 Catalda, ID 83810-0073 Phone: 208-682-2831 Vice President Flo Laicher (2012) Email: [email protected] RD 12 286 Dixon Road Carmel, NY 10512-9812 Phone: 845-225-2754 Secretary Kathy Lee (2013) Email: [email protected] 285 Meadow Ridge Lane Boones Mill, VA 24065 Phone: 540-334-5213 Treasurer Judy Brown (2013) Email: [email protected] 436 Center Pointe Drive Cary, NC 27513-5728 Phone: 919-468-8160 DIRECTORS Laurie Gottschalk (2014) Email: [email protected] 6774 N Alpine Drive Byron, IL 61010-9320 Phone: 815-234-8042 Janet Ingram (2012) Email: [email protected] 8257 Little River Dam Road Radford, VA 24141-8047 Phone: 540-731-8692 Jo Stubbs (2013) Email: [email protected] 3385 Taylor Ave Bridgeton, MO 63044 314-209-1431 Brenda Weiss (2014) Email: [email protected] 7985 Saddle Ridge Trace Nashville, TN 37221-1025 Phone: 615-662-7947 Bret Zacher (2014) Email: [email protected] 6714 Indian Lane---Long Grove, IL 60047-2001 Phone: 847-949-7997 6 2011-2012 STANDING COMMITTEES AND COORDINATORS If any member has an interest in serving on a committee, please contact the committee chair. STANDING COMMITTEES AKC DELEGATE – Bob Brown 509-554-1668 [email protected] AKC S SPORTSMANSHIP AWARDS – Bret Zacher, Chair 847-949-7997 [email protected] AWARDS AND TROPHIES – Christine Hodel, Chair 319-446-7580 [email protected] Brenda Weiss, Liaison 615-662-7947 [email protected] BREED MENTOR – Tami Green 517-851-4044 [email protected] BULLETIN – Bret Zacher, Contributing Editor 847-949-7997 [email protected] Flo Laicher, Layout and Design 845-225-2754 [email protected] Jo Stubbs, Layout and Design 314-209-1431 [email protected] CONTINUOUS MEMBERSHIP – Jack Perry 540-788-3647 [email protected] Kerry Kern Woods 509-925-3339 [email protected] DISASTER PREPAREDNESS– Kathy Lee, Chair 540-334-5213 [email protected] FUTURITY – Terry Denney Combs 760-949-0318 [email protected] GAZETTE COLUMNIST – Gail Knapp 810-736-3288 [email protected] GREAT PYR SERVICE AWARDS – Mary Lou Mayer, Chair 817-441-6376 [email protected] HALL OF FAME – Judy Cooper 847-381-4175 [email protected] HEALTH – Flo Laicher, Chair 845-225-2754 [email protected] Joan Stuart Ruiz, Vice Chair 509-588-3369 [email protected] VACANT HISTORIC PRESERVATION – Joan Ziehl 540-731-8692 [email protected] JUDGE’S EDUCATION – Jean Pero, Co Chair 303-347-0106 [email protected] Judy Cooper, Co Chair 847-381-4175 [email protected] JUDGE MENTOR – Ruth Marcy 907-346-1772 [email protected] JUDGE SELECTION – Valerie Seeley 732-530-9288 [email protected] JUNIOR RECOGNITION – Ruth Marcy 907-346-1772 [email protected] LEGISLATIVE – Bret Zacher 847-949-7997 [email protected] LIVESTOCK GUARDIAN DOG Catherine de la Cruz 707-583-7864 [email protected] MEMBERSHIP – Ilene Agosto 360-576-6857 [email protected] NOMINATING – Flo Laicher, Chair 845-225-2754 [email protected] Nancy Coombs 717-359-9459 [email protected] Barb Berkesch 330-483-4030 [email protected] Barbara Koldon 847-438-4430 [email protected] Mary Lou Mayer 817-441-6376 [email protected] Kerry Kern Woods 509-925-3339 [email protected] PERFORMANCE/COMPANION EVENTS – Erina Fitzgerald 414-425-8458 [email protected] PUBLIC INFORMATION – Mary McGuire 740-743-2002 [email protected] Tami Green 517-851-4044 [email protected] PUBLIC RELATIONS – Carrie Stuart Parks 208-682-4564 [email protected] RESCUE LIAISON – Carolyn Yeager 440-463-5583 [email protected] STUDBOOK DATA – Mary Ann Feller 503-365-9703 [email protected] TITLEHOLDERS – Jo Stubbs 314-209-1431 [email protected] Judy Brown 919-468-8160 [email protected] Jean Pero 303-347-0106 [email protected] VERSATILITY, THERAPY and DRAFT – Christine Palmer-Persen, Co Chair 707-838-8587 [email protected] Judy Skorup, Co Chair 215-721-8521 [email protected] WAYS and MEANS – Karen Justin 845-726-3437 [email protected] Marcy Bankus 847-658-2295 [email protected] COORDINATORS AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES AFFILIATED CCLUBS and SPECIALTIES – Flo Laicher 845-225-2754 [email protected] BULLETIN ADVISORY –Janet Weymouth 207-622-1074 [email protected] Darrell Goolsbee 817-446-0193 [email protected] CODE of ETHICS REVIEW – Janet Ingram, Co Chair 540-731-8692 [email protected] Kathy Lee, Co chair 540-334-5213 [email protected] CONSTITUTION and BYLAWS REVIEW – Valerie Seeley 732-530-9288 [email protected] DATABASE MANAGER – Stephanie Whitney 423-393-1049 [email protected] LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT – Carrie Stuart Parks 208-682-4564 [email protected] Brenda Weiss 615-662-7947 [email protected] Laurie Gottschalk 815-234-8042 [email protected] RESCUE REGIONAL COORDINATORS – EASTERN UNITED STATES – Terry Sandlak 727-686-4186 [email protected] CENTRAL UNITED STATES – Dave and Sharon Hayes 402-488-8983 [email protected] WESTERN UNITED STATES – Pat Wolter 602-295-1049 [email protected] WEBMASTER – Karen Reiter 804-795-5318 [email protected] WEBSITE DESIGN – Karen Reiter 804-795-5318 [email protected] The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 The Great Pyrenees Club Of America Bulletin Submissions The GPCA Bulletin is published five times a year for members of the Great Pyrenees Club of America to share knowledge toward the betterment of the breed. All letters to the editor must be clearly identified as such. Letters must be signed and must include the author’s address. Anonymous letters will not be published. Letters of questionable content will be reviewed by the GPCA Board for suitability of publication. EDITORS Jo Stubbs E-mail: [email protected] FEATURES Flo Laicher E-mail: [email protected] The submission of original articles of interest to GPCA members is strongly encouraged. Please try to include relevant photos whenever possible. Bret Zacher (contributing) E-mail: [email protected] CLIPPINGS The submission of newspaper and magazine articles of interest to GPCA members is strongly encouraged. Please include the name and date of the publication. PUBLISHER The Leader-Herald 8 East Fulton St., Gloversville, NY 12078 ADVERTISEMENTS ADVERTISING MANAGER Camera-ready layouts: Because of the switch to electronic publication, camera-ready layouts are no longer preferred, though they can still be accepted. Layout must fit within 7 1/2 x 10 inch area and is expected to adhere to professional standards of craftsmanship. Contact the editor or advertising manager for information. Joanne Bergen 15752 Zeigler Court, Ramona, CA 92065 (760) 788-4337 • E-mail: [email protected] PUBLICATION DEADLINES PUBLICATION Jan. / Feb. / March April / May / June National Specialty July / Aug. / Sept. Oct. / Nov. / Dec. SUBMISSIONS TO EDITOR Jan. 1 April 1 Aug. 1 July 1 Oct. 1 TARGET MAIL DATE Feb. 15 May 15 Sept. 15 Aug. 15 Nov. 15 ADVERTISING RATES Mail or e-mail copy directly to the advertising manager. AD LOCATION LETTERS TO THE EDITOR MEMBERS NON MEMBERS Inside front cover Not Available Not Available Inside rear cover $75.00 $140.00 Full page (1 photo) $60.00 $110.00 *Color Up charge $375.00 $450.00 Full page (no photo) $50.00 $ 90.00 Half page (1 photo) $45.00 $ 80.00 Half page (no photo) $40.00 $ 70.00 Quarter page (no photo) $25.00 —– Eighth page (no photo) $10.00 —– New title holder $55.00 —– *Color Advertising Guideline Color advertising request must be made to the Advertising Manager and Editor a minimum of one month prior to the deadline for Bulletin submission. Color advertising materials must be submitted to the Advertising Manager and/or Editor, as directed, by the deadline for Bulletin submission. No late submissions will be accepted. The color up charge is per photo page ad submitted and covers the cost of the color printing and required paper stock. Advertising location requests can be made, but are subject to change based on the Publishers discretion to produce the Bulletin. The inside covers are not available by GPCA guidelines. All rates include page layout and typesetting as described by the advertiser. These rates also apply to camera-ready copy. Only GPCA members may advertise dogs, wins, puppies and studs in the Bulletin. Make checks payable to GPCA. Payment must accompany advertisement in U.S. funds. Mail all advertising directly to the advertising manager. Acknowledgement will be made upon receipt of all ads. ADDITIONAL COPIES OF THE BULLETIN MEMBERS $8.00 • NON MEMBERS $10.00 • SUBSCRIPTION ONLY $35.00 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 Non-camera-ready copy: Submit sketch of layout on 8 1/2 by 11 inch paper. Clearly print or type all copy. Typeface choice will be at the discretion of the advertising manager. Copy may be submitted via e-mail. Photographs: Black and white photos are preferred. The quality of the reproduction of color photographs cannot be guaranteed. Do not cut, trim or otherwise alter photographs submitted. Photos may also be submitted via email, using a standard jpg format. Please provide at a minimum 300dpi for all photos. If the advertising manager has any questions about your ad or its layout you will be contacted for clarification. Final layout and placement of the advertisement is at the discretion of the Bulletin staff. IN MEMORIAM “In Memoriam’’ is a free service of the GPCA Bulletin. Submissions are limited to GPCA members. Include: 1) registered name of the dog; 2) call name of the dog; 3) dates of birth and death; 4) name(s) of owner(s). Photographs are not included. Please submit directly to the editor. REGIONAL CLUB BULLETIN POLICY The Bulletin will print TWO free pages per year for each regional club affiliated with the GPCA. This page may be a flyer announcing a Regional Specialty, specialty results or the announcement of a major club activity. Any additional pages will be considered advertising and will be charged for accordingly. Camera-ready material can be sent to the editor; non-camera-ready material should be sent to the advertising manager. Articles about club activities should be sent to the editor and will be published at no charge to the club. Submission of club news is encouraged, and it will be published in the Club Roundup section of the Bulletin. The Specialty Calendar is a free calendar of GPCA-supported events. All submissions should be sent to the GPCA specialty coordinator. The Great Pyrenees Club of America is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily agree with, the opinions expressed in the Bulletin, either in articles or in advertisements. Permission to reprint is granted provided no change is made in copy and credit is given to author and source. A complimentary copy of the publication containing reprinted material shall be sent to the author c/o the GPCA Bulletin editor. 7 Editors Note Hard to believe that we are once again starting a new year, honestly where does the time go? As we leave 2011 behind and move forward into 2012 we would like to remind everyone to keep sending your articles and photos for the bulletin, we love getting the photos of the pyrs that are submitted and your articles go towards making the GPCA Bulletin the best it can be. If you are not sure if a photo or article is suitable, send it on to us and we will let you know. We would also like to remind everyone again (and we will keep doing this until we find that special person) that the BOD is still looking for permanent editor for the bulletin. We know there is someone out that would make an excellent editor! In this issue there is a tribute to the memory of John Hannum, whom we lost back in September, from his wife Barbara, with some really nice photos of John. We want to thank Barbara for sharing these memories and photos with us. There is also a look at the Meet the Breed program that was held in New York in November. A big thank you goes out to our members and their canine helpers who educated over 40,000 people about our wonderful breed. We want to wish everyone a very Happy New Year and wish you and your Pyr friends the best of luck in the coming year in all that you do! Team FloJo Flo Laicher [email protected] Jo Stubbs [email protected] PRESIDENT’S REPORT In college, I gave a presentation in speech class using a famous summation to the jury by George Graham Vest (1830-1904.) Vest was an attorney at the time, and representing a man whose dog was killed by another man. I don’t think I’ve ever read this tribute to the dog without getting teary. As this bulletin will arrive in your mailbox somewhere around mid-February, and that means Valentine’s day, I’d like to include the loving tribute to the dog. After all, that’s why we all are bound together, isn’t it? “The one absolutely unselfish friend that man can have in this selfish world, the one that never deserts him, the one that never proves ungrateful or treacherous is his dog. A man's dog stands by him in prosperity and in poverty, in health and in sickness. He will sleep on the cold ground, where the wintry winds blow and the snow drives fiercely, if only he may be near his master's side. He will kiss the hand that has no food to offer. He will lick the wounds and sores that come in encounters with the roughness of the world. He guards the sleep of his pauper master as if he were a prince. When all other friends desert, he remains. When riches take wings, and reputation falls to pieces, he is as constant in his love as the sun in its journey through the heavens. If fortune drives the master forth, an outcast in the world, friendless and homeless, the faithful dog asks no higher privilege than that of accompanying him, to guard him against danger, to fight against his enemies. And when the last scene of all comes, and death takes his master in its embrace and his body is laid away in the cold ground, no matter if all other friends pursue their way, there by the graveside will the noble dog be found, his head between his paws, his eyes sad, but open in alert watchfulness, faithful and true even in death.” Now that you’re all mushy and in a pensive mood, don’t forget to make the reservations to join fellow Pyr lovers at the upcoming National in Metamoras, Pennsylvania, hosted by the Garden State Great Pyrenees club. Mark your calendars April 24-28, 2012. We invite your comments and input to our club. Feel free to contact any board member. Our various actions are posted in the secretary’s report. -Carrie 8 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 GPCA BOARD OF DIRECTORS 4th QUARTER CONFERENCE CALL MINUTES Thursday, December 8, 2011 President, Carrie Stuart Parks called the meeting to order at 8:15 p.m. Bret Zacher, Kathy Lee, Flo Laicher, Janet Ingram, Judy Brown, Jo Stubbs, Laurie Gottschalk were present. Brenda Weiss joined the call at 8:32. Comparative Oncology #01660 - Alternative Genetic Approaches for Identifying Canine Osteosarcoma Genes The funding of the three studies totals $7500. 1/2 of the Ratification of Previously Approved cost, $3750, will be funded by the GPCA HC dedicated funds; the remainder will be funded by the CHF Donor AdMotions through Email vised Fund. Secretary, Kathy Lee, moved to ratify 4 motions previously Janet Ingram moved to approve the funding of the studies. approved through email. The motion passed unanimously. -Approval of the 2nd quarter conference call minutes of 6/9/11 Junior Recognition Chair Replacement – -Approval of the 3rd quarter conference call minutes of Carrie Stuart Parks will write an article for the Bulletin of 9/8/11 her past experience as a Junior Handler, requesting that -Approval that GPCA become a member of Take the members interested in the position contact her or any Lead as a specialty club member Board member. Carrie asked that the Board table both the -Approval of the revised guidelines for the GPCA Rescue replacement of the committee chair and the approval of the revised committee guidelines until her article is pubLiaison lished and feedback of interested members has been reThe motion to ratify passed unanimously. ceived. Carrie will include in the Q1 2012 President’s report that upon the resignation of Ruth Marcy, a commitMid Michigan Great Pyrenees Club tee chair is needed. Vice President, Flo Laicher, reported that she has made numerous attempts over the past 2 years to contact several GPCA Cares Committee Guidelines – members of the Mid Michigan Great Pyrenees Club, both The purpose of this new committee is to send cards of conthrough email and snail mail, inquiring as to the current dolence to members or member’s families for the loss of a status of the affiliated club. Flo received no response from member or family member. The committee chair is Laurie any member she contacted. Gottschalk. Laurie moved to approve the committee guidelines. The motion passed unanimously. Judy Brown moved to suspend the club from GPCA membership. The motion passed unanimously. Flo will send a Great Pyr Service Awards – letter to the President, Tami Green, and the GPCA Regional Flo Laicher moved that approval of committee guidelines be Rep, Lynn Thigpen, notifying them of the Board’s decision. tabled until Mary Lou Mayer, the new committee chair, has had the opportunity to complete the process of selection for Health Committee/CHF Studies the first time. The motion passed unanimously. GPCA Health Committee Chair, Flo Laicher stated that of the six studies presented by the Canine Health Foundation, AKC Sportsmanship Awards – over 1/2 of the Health Committee votes selected the fol- Committee Chair, Bret Zacher, announced that the newly lowing three studies for funding. appointed committee consists of six members throughout #01620 – Clinical and Laboratory Efficacy and Safety the country. Bret moved to approve the committee guideStudies of T-Cell Receptor (TCR) lines. The motion passed unanimously. Peptides in Canine Atopic Dermatitis 2016 Nominating Judge’s Ballot – #01657 – Defining New Therapeutic Approaches for Carrie Stuart Parks will let Committee Chair, Valerie Seeley, Osteosarcoma through Genome Wide Screening and CONFERENCE CALL cont. on page 10 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 9 CONFERENCE CALL cont. know that the Board is in agreement that the nominating ballot will not be mailed first class. The form will be printed in the Q1 2012 Bulletin, followed up with an email reminder to members. The forms could also be made available at national specialties. Annual Awards Information from AKC – AKC will no longer be publishing the AKC Annual Awards. They will notify parent clubs of new titles, however this will not supply needed information for BIS wins, group placements and high scores for our annual GPCA awards. At a cost of $120 each, the cost of all needed reports would be $480 annually. Flo Laicher will research with AKC for the cost of November and December reports to complete needed information for 2011, since discontinuation of the AKC Awards in October. Flo suggested that the Board direct a letter to AKC, going on record as opposing the decision to discontinue the AKC Awards publication. The letter will specify the Board’s protest of the decision and cost to parent clubs. Carrie will contact Bob Brown, GPCA’s delegate to AKC, asking him to speak on behalf of the parent club to protest the paying these fees; that parent clubs should not be charged for this information. Erina Fitzgerald, Chair of the Performance and Companion Events Committee, will be notified of this decision and asked of participation needed from her committee. Electronic Mailing of Premium List – Following the Q3 Bulletin article by Bret Zacher, regarding emailing national specialty premium lists, the Board received 25 emails representing 32 people. Additionally, Bret received 87 phone calls from members, not associated with a request issued by GSGPC for members to let Board members know of their opinion. Of the phone calls Bret received, the majority were in favor of electronic premiums being sent, though represented a small number of the total GPCA membership. Flo Laicher moved that the Board allow GSGPC, host club of the 2012 National Specialty, to distribute an electronic version with the following provisions: that a hard copy be sent to all GPCA members who have no listed email address, to those who request a hard copy and to those whose emails are returned as undeliverable. The motion passed unanimously. It was further suggested, by Janet Ingram, that the 2012 National Specialty All-in-One sign-up sheet be published in the Q1 2012 Bulletin. Flo Laicher stated that GSGPC can include notification in their ad of the Q1 issue, that electronic mailing of the premium list will be available. 10 2014 National Specialty Venue – National Specialty Coordinator, Bret Zacher, announced that the location for the 2014 National Specialty will be Vancouver, WA, at the Red Lion on the Quay. 2015 National Specialty Venue – Bret also discussed that the Purina facility in St. Louis, MO is being researched and considered as a site for the 2015 National Specialty. Other possibilities in the same area are the Holiday Inn near the Purina site, Embassy Suites in St. Louis and the Holiday Inn located in Chesterfield, near St. Louis. Bret is also pursuing leads in the Kansas City area. Other Topics – Bret Zacher stated that the building of the previously approved trophy cases has been delayed until mid January. The cases will be built, packed and shipped by the company. Janet Ingram, per a recent conversation with Jack Perry, asked who made the Ways and Means GPCA pins. This will be researched to determine who to use to make future pins for Continuous Membership. Laurie Gottschalk stated that the Lifetime Achievement committee guidelines are nearly ready for submission to the Board for approval. Nancy Wood Taber has designed a pin. Following a request by Laurie Gottschalk, Carrie Stuart Parks will contact Valerie Seeley, asking that she explore shortening the procedure in determining judging assignments for National Specialties to be less than 3 years ahead. Flo Laicher announced that the new Health Committee website will soon be ready for viewing. Adjournment – Kathy Lee moved to adjourn at 11:35 p.m. The motion passed and the call adjourned. The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 SECRETARY’S REPORT - 1st QUARTER 2012 Submitted by Kathy Lee BOARD ACTIONS A motion was made by Laurie Gottschalk that GPCA become a member of Take The Lead under the classification of a specialty club member. The motion passed. A motion was made by Kathy Lee to approve the revised guidelines for the GPCA Rescue Liaison. The motion passed. GENERAL CORRESPONDENCE Email advertising from the following vendors: Hill Agility, new product line Chroma, key fobs Canine College Cruise, March 2012 cruise Dogs in Review, new dogsinreview.com website Dogs USA, press release of safe travel tips for dogs Personalized Pop Up Canopy Dog World Magazine , canine dental products A motion was made by Kathy Lee to approve the minutes of the 4th Quarter Conference Call, held on All correspondence will be kept on file for 30 days December 8, 2011. The motion passed. following distribution of this Bulletin issue. AKC CORRESPONDENCE PUBLIC INFORMATION/BREEDER REFERRAL Public information Chair, Mary McGuire, responded Email letter titled “Your Dog, Your Rights, Protect to a total of 57 inquiries In the months of October, NoThem Both”. vember and December, 2010. Email notice announcing the December 2011 EuAL. 1, AZ.2, CA.9, CO.1, FL.3, GA.4, IL.8, IN.1, kanuba entries of 4000 dogs and the TV broadcast KY.1, LA.1, ME.1, MD.1, MA.3, MI. 2, MN. 2, MO. date of Saturday, February 4, 2012. 2, NE. 1, NV.1, NH. 1, NJ. 1, NY.10, NC.1, OH.8, OR. 2, PA. 2. SC. 2, TN.3, TX.3, VA.2, VT.2, WA.3, WI. 3, WV.1, Percentage of LGD calls for the three months - 36% Courtesy of Sigrid Undheim The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 11 Applications For GPCA Membership Applicants for full GPCA membership must secure the sponsorship of two full members, or have completed two years as an associate member and secure the sponsorship of two full members. Applicants’ names are being printed for the approval of all members, along with the names of the two sponsors. Applicants for junior membership must also secure two sponsors. In accordance with GPCA policy, the names of the following applicants for associate membership are also being printed for the approval of all members. If any member should have an objection to any of the applicants, set forth the reason in writing and mail to: GPCA Secretary Kathy Lee, 285 Meadow Ridge Lane, Boones Mill, VA 24065 Protests must be received within 30 days of receipt of your Bulletin and must be accompanied by a $100 filing fee, which is refundable if charges are upheld. If no objections are received, then these applicants will be accepted as full GPCA members. APPLICANT LIST – FIRST QUARTER REGULAR MEMBERSHIP Kimberly Kentopp 14520 Peacock Hill Avenue NW Gig Harbor, WA 98335 (571) 216-2236 or (703) 787-7811 [email protected] Sponsors: Ellen Vanden Avond Peggy Watson Application received October 26, 2011 ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP Mark Kraus 1522 Oyster Lane Holly, MT 48442-8363 (248) 762-0744 [email protected] Application received November 6, 2011 Wendy Kraus 1522 Oyster Lane Holly, MT 48442-8363 (248) 343-8509 [email protected] Application received November 6, 2011 A HEALTHY PYR IS A HAPPY PYR Please visit our website at w w w. g p c a h e a l t h . o r g 12 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 DECEMBER 2011 AKC DELEGATE MEETING TO: GPCA Board SUBJECT: Report of AKC Quarterly meeting and Delegate committee meetings I attended the winter quarter AKC delegates meeting held in conjunction with the AKC Eukanuba National Dog Show on December 15 and 16, 2011 in Orlando, Florida. Delegate committee meetings were held on December 15th. I attended the Delegate Advocacy and Advancement Committee meeting in the morning. Not a lot of business was transacted. There was continued discussion about cutting the meetings to three yearly, but no real movement toward that end. Should the three meetings concept be adopted the rotation of the June meeting would disappear and that meeting would be held in Raleigh, North Carolina full time. We are again starting to hear whispers of consolidating the AKC headquarters in Raleigh and eliminating the New York offices. Those in New York are not in favor of such an action and present any cost savings as minimal. The 20 year lease has seven more years so without subletting the New York space there is time to work on details if it were to go forward. have thousands of members and deep pockets. The two AKC Board liaisons for the Parent Clubs Committee, Steve Gladstone and Dr. Charles Garvin, defended the fee addition. AKC contends that an initial fee to set up the data base for monthly retrieval, a “reasonable” fee for establishing the software, and continue with a “nominal fee” to send the report is what they contend is happening. As you may know, there are 3 data bases: 1) conformation and obedience; 2) performance; 3) companion. Purchased annually each section of the data base is $120 or $360 for all. Purchased quarterly each report is $280 or $840 for all. If the reports are purchased monthly, the reports are $105/month or $1260 for the year. The AKC Board folks indicated that the new report is breed specific and arranged by dogs within the breed. They recommended that some GPCA club member who is IT savvy write a program that will categorize each dog that appears in the annual report and have that program customized to meet the clubs needs. It is safe to say that none of the parent clubs at the Parent Club Delegates Committee meeting approved of the “money maker” for AKC. Another note that affects our National Specialty is that the specialty catalog will be available on the day In the interest of saving money the AKC cancelled of the first e vent. the participation of staff liaisons with each delegate There was also talk of CGC becoming a recognized committee. Staff presence is beneficial at a number of committee meetings. To help the AKC Board make award and there is a possibility of a second level staff presence financially more palatable, the group award that might be a suffix award. Nothing is setof committees offered to cut the committee participa- tled at this time. tion stipend by $50. AKC Board vetoed this and at The Delegate Forum was a Q and A with potential this time we have unhappy committees and an unBoard Candidates for the March Director election. A happy board. formal Q & A with the 7 board “wanabees” occurred Thursday afternoon I attended the Parent Club Del- Friday morning before the delegate meeting. In my egate Committee meeting and there was discussion of opinion, this is a very thin crop to select from. At this the data charge imposed on Parent Clubs by AKC. moment, I have no idea who I will vote for unless you None of the clubs represented were in favor of the (the board) direct me specifically. The AKC quarterly new fees. Initially, it was to go into effect for data dis- meeting was called to order at 1020 AM on Decemtributed in November and December, but that has ber 16th at Orlando, Florida. Following the Chairbeen postponed until January 2012. This idea em- man’s report, Presidents report, and Financial Officers anated from the AKC Board of Directors and is a “one report, we took up previous business. Jim Stevens, fisize fits all” which was pointed out that not all clubs nancial officer, said that we were still hemorrhaging The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 13 money, but that the level of registration losses was less. A reading of a proposed amendment to the Rules ‘This was the last chairman’s report from Ron Menaker Applying to Dog Shows would allow the awarding of who has lead AKC for the past 8 years. He is term a three point major at a National Specialty designated by the Parent Club for reserve winners dog and relimited out next March. serve winners bitch providing there were at least twice We voted on a proposed amendment that would the number required for a 5 point major in the region eliminate the prohibition of a person employed by in which the event is held. I am inclined to vote in dog food, dog remedy, or kennel supply companies to favor of this change unless you instruct me otherwise. become delegates. I voted “no”; the amendment There was also a reading for a Beagle Field Trial failed. change and I usually vote for these if the Beaglers The AKC is again attempting to modify the number want them. of groups and the location of breeds within those groups. Five amendments to the Rules Applying to In new business, I read a statement prepared by the Dog Shows were read to be voted on in March. This GPCA Board about your staunch opposition to the change will increase the number of groups to eleven. new data charges so that it is part of the meeting There will be three working groups: Working Utility, record. I received applause in the meeting and affirMolosser, and Working Spitz. The Great Pyrenees has mation from others after the meeting. I don’t know if been placed in the Working Utility Group. This group there is a ground swell of resentment to the new also includes Berners, Kuvasz, Newfs, St Bernards, charges, but I expect to ask each candidate to the and Anatolian Shepherds and maybe later Slovensky board if they favor the new data charges and use that as criteria for or against my vote in March. Cuvac. The meeting was adjourned at 1225 PM. The Working Molosser group includes Leonberger, Tibetan Mastiff, and the following that may be recognized at a later date: Caucasian Ovcharka, Central The dog show was held in a new convention center Asian Shepherd Dog, Estrela Mountain Dog and in Orlando. The center is so large that the 4000 dog Spanish Mastiff. A number of these are “the big white show only occupied a small corner of the facility. The show is contracted to this convention center for the dogs of various mountain ranges”. next 5 years. Meet the breeds becomes more imIf you don’t feel as a board that the Working Utility pressive each year. I must congratulate the Pyr folks Group is best for Great Pyrenees categorization, that put together our club display. It was very profesplease in a timely manner send your arguments for sional and very classy. We can all be proud of our reclassification to : Dr Tom Davies, Group reclassifi- entry in the meet the breed’s project. As before, the cation committee; Dr. Robert Smith, group reclassifi- dog show has an international flavor to it with a comcation committee; Dennis Sprung, AKC President; and petition between the top dogs in over 40 countries and Ron Menaker, Chairman of the Board. You would the presence of a large number of foreign judges adneed to act now before the vote in March, but realize judicating at the show. that the AKC Board of Directors can control the reformation of the groups. I am inclined to vote against Respectfully submitted, this expansion of groups and the location of Great Pyrenees unless you instruct me otherwise. Bob Brown GPCA Delegate GPCA Website GPCA Webmaster Karen Reiter has created a website for the GPCA. It can be accessed from the AKC Website. The address is: clubs.akc.org/gpca E-mail Karen at: [email protected] 14 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 National Specialty GPCA Regions and Rotation At the September conference call the BOD accepted Specialties will rotate in the following sequence: Rethe recommendations of the National Specialty Fu- gion 1 to Region 2 to Region 3 to Region 2 to Region tures Committee for the regions and specialty rotation. 1 etc. The regions are: Region 1 includes the following states: ME, NH, VE, MA, CT, RI, NY, NJ, PA, DE, MD, VA WV, NC, SC, GA & FL. Clubs in this region include PFNE, Garden State, Penn Dutch, Western PA, National Capital, Metro Atlanta and Florida. Since 2011 was held in the new region 2, 2012 will be in new region 1, and 2013 will be in region 2 again, it was determined that the rotation for the upcoming specialties would be as follows: 2014 – region 3; 2015 – region 2; 2016 – region 1; 2017 – Region 2 includes the following states: ND, SD, NE, region 2; etc. In terms of the selection of potential KS, OK, TX, MN, WI, IA, IL, IN, MI, OH, MO, ARK, judges for the 2016 specialty, this event will be held TN, KY, AL, LA & MS. Clubs included in this region in the new region 1. are Heart of Ohio, Chicago, Metro Milwaukee, North Star & Dallas Fort Worth. Region 3 includes the states of WA, OR, ID, MT, CA, NV, CO, WY, AZ, NM , UT, AK & HI. Clubs located in this area include Mile High, AZ Pyrs, Enchantment, Alaska, Columbia Cascade, Puget Sound, GPAW, GPC of So. CA, GPC of CA, & Sierra Pacific. D O Y O U H AV E A R E S C U E S T O R Y ? We would like to feature stories about rescue Pyrs in each issue of the BULLETIN. We can only do so with your help. Photos with the story would be wonderful. Please submit them to: Jo Stubbs at [email protected] or to Flo Laicher at [email protected] THE DEADLINE FOR THE Q1 ISSUE OF THE BULLETIN IS JANUARY 1, 2012. ANY QUESTIONS??? In Memory Abby Yabba Dabba Doo “Abby” 4/1/00 – 12/8/2011 Owner: Roberta & Jeff Faulk CONTACT JO OR FLO The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 15 Nominations sought for 2016 National Specialty Judge Dear GPCA member: In accordance with current GPCA National Judge Selection Procedures, it is time for GPCA members to submit nominations for the judge for the 2016 National Specialty which will be held in the new Region 1. Region 1 includes the following states: ME, NH, VE, MA, CT, RI, NY, NJ, PA, DE, MD, VA WV, NC, SC, GA & FL. Clubs in this region include PFNE, Garden State, Penn Dutch, Western PA, National Capital, Metro Atlanta and Florida. THE PROCESS Prior to the Final Ballot, a Nominating Ballot listing the eligible judges is included in the Bulletin. Members then indicate which judges they prefer. This Nominating Ballot will then be compiled by the Judge selection Chairperson into a Preliminary Ballot to be sent to the Database Coordinator. Only one nominating vote is necessary to include an individual on the preliminary ballot. The Preliminary Ballot will be sent out by the Database Coordinator, voted on by GPCA memGPCA members may submit up to three (3) bers, and returned to a non-Pyrenees person for nominees, and each affiliated Regional Club may tabulation. submit up to five (5) nominees. The tabulator will determine from the PrelimiPlease PHOTOCOPY the enclosed page and nary Ballot the top seven judges, and a Final Ballot will be sent to each member by first-class mail. VOTE. This ballot must be returned to the chosen tabulaA NOMINATION FORM FOR GPCA MEMBERS tor by the specified date, and the winner will be AND A SEPARATE NOMINATION FORM FOR announced at the 2013 National Specialty. affiliated Clubs are included. Please send your nominations, which will make For your information, those judges ineligible to up the Preliminary Ballot, no later than May 1, judge the 2016 show because they have been se2012. Nominations not postmarked by this date lected as judges in the years prior to 2016 are: will not be counted. Mrs. Jean Fournier (2011), Ms.Ellen VandenAvond,(2012), Ms. Karen Justin (2013), and Thank you for participating in the judge selecMr. Vince Chianese (2014). Foreign judges are tion process. eligible for nomination but are subject to AKC approval. A list of judges licensed to judge Great Valerie Seeley Pyrenees as of December 2011, and who have Judge Selection Chairperson judged Great Pyrenees at least 10 times in the 15 year period preceding the Specialty, is included in this issue of the Bulletin for your convenience. This list also includes breeder judges, but does not include foreign judges who are eligible for nomination. Please feel free to check the AKC website for eligible Judges that are not listed. 16 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 JUDGES FOR THE 2016 NOMINATION PROCESS Barbara Dempsey Alderman Carolyn Alexander MaryAnn Alston Ralph (Sonny) J. Ambrosio Carl Anderson Christine Anderson Joan Anselm Dr. Klaus Anselm Sheila R. Balch Constance Barton Gary Bassett Dr. Carmen Battaglia, Peter A. Baynes Maxine V. Beam Peggy Beisel-McIlwaine Catherine Bell Eva Berg William Bergum Dr. Robert J. Berndt Alberto Berrios Terry Berrios Rita Biddle, Esq. Michelle Billings Edd Biven David Bolus Dr. Louis Grant Bond Donald M. Booxbaum Loraine Boutwell Patricia Leakey Brenner Jim C. Briley Mary Ann Brocious Barbara A. Brooks Frandel Brown Judith A. Brown Dr. Robert Brown Valerie Johnson Brown Mildred Bryant Donna J. Buxton Kenneth A. Buxton Harriet Campbell Lee Canalizo Dany Canino Beverly Capstick Donald F. Carmody Robert Caswell Bonnie Linnell Clarke Houston Clark Mrs. Houston (Toddie) Clark Victor Clemente Dana Cline Clay Coady Jon R. Cole Dorothy N. Collier John T Connolly Nancy Coombs Whitney Coombs Annella Cooper Doris Cozart Jeraldeen Crandall Anitra Cuneo William Cunningham Judith Daniels Roberta Davies Lowell K. Davis Mrs. Lowell (Arlene) K. Davis Pete Dawkins Denise Dean W. Everett Dean Jr. Lisa DeRoulet Dr. Anthony D. DiNardo Sheila DiNardo Nancy Dinkfelt Dr. Kennety A. Doeg Charles (Chuck) E. Doran Jr. Lynn Marie Doran JoAnn K. Dutton Don Dvorak Beverly Eichel James Ellis Dr. Peter P. Emily Sondra Joy Esporite Marcia Feld Fred Ferris Robert Fetter Madeleine B. Fish Dr. Daniel W. Fleitas Anne Fleming Linda Foiles Mrs. Robert S. Forsyth Pamela Foulk Dr. Linda Fowler Donna Francis M. Joan Frailey James E. Frederiksen Peter Gaeta Edna (Katie) Gammill Roger D. Gifford Dr. Donald A. Gill Steven Gladstone Theresa(Terry) Goldman Tomas Gomez Mrs. Tomas (Alane L.) Gomez Judith Goodin Dr. Ralph Graaf Dr. Richard F. Greathouse Tamra Green Sulie Greendale-Paveza Vincent T. Grosso Henry L. Gregory Joseph E. Gregory Rick Gschwender Mabel (Jinx) M. Gunville Barbara Ankers Hannum Dawn Vick Hansen Judy A. Harrington Clinton M. Harris Paula Hartinger Roger R. Hartinger Patricia Hastings Eugene W. Haupt Fay Dorval Haupt Carolyn Herbel Dr. Ruby Hertz Patricia A. Hess Albert Holabach Douglas R. Holloway Jr William Hossler Christina Hubell Stephen J. Hubbell Nelson R. Huber Warren D. Hudson Theresa Hundt Arley D. Hussin Dr. Robert A. Indeglia Helen Lee James Meredith Johnson-Snyder J. Donald Jones Victoria Jordan JUDGES cont. on page 18 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 17 JUDGES cont. Keke Kahn Dr. Sophia Kaluzniacki Jane G. Kay Dr. Steve Keating Norman B. Kenney Dr. Gail Knapp Dr. Alvin W. Krause Sharon Krogh Linda Krukar Gay Kuehnel-Hisatake Patricia W. Laurans Ronald Lambert Richard Lashbrook Edeltraud Laurin Betty Regina Leininger Ralph Lemcke Dr. Eric Liebes Nancy Liebes Carl Liepmann Joan Luna Audrey Lycan Edward F. Lyons, Jr. Larry Mackai Susan A. Preston Malinowski Ruth Marcy George E. Marquis P. Levi Marsman Marjorie Martorella Frank L. McCartha Karen S. McFarlane Charlotte Clem McGowan Edward P. McNamee Ronald H. Menaker Kimberly Meredith-Cavanna Brian Meyer Cindy Meyer Dennis Morgan Patricia Mowbray-Morgan Linton Moustakis Michele Mulligan Vincent Mulligan George Murray Patti Widick Neale Dr. William Newman Garry Newton Helene Nietsch James Noe Beverly M. Nosiglia Paula Nykiel 18 Charles L. Olvis Betty Lou Parris Betty Jo Patrick Wallace H. Pede Roland Pelland Dr. Gerard Penta Jean Pero Michele L. Polimeni Sheila Polk Angela Porpora Dr. Roger Pritchard Col. Joe B. Purkhiser Kay Radcliffe John C. Ramirez Anne Major Rapport Dr. Lee Anthony Reasin Maredith Reggie Jay Richardson Karen Riddle Lenora M. Riddle Linda M. Riedel Nikki Riggsbee Eric J. Ringle John Ronald Jane Roppolo Nancy Russell Rita Rynder William Sahloff Lois Sanford Mrs. Andre B. Schoen Francine W. Schwartz M. Ann Schwartz Joan Scott Robert Sharp William Shelton Robert Shreve Jan E. Sigler Nancy D. Simmons Lawrence J. Sinclair Mrs. Lawrence (Janet) Sinclair Robert Slay Christie Smith Dr. Harry Smith Judith A. Smith Patti A. Long Smith Polly (Robert) D. Smith Dr. Robert D. Smith Sharon Smith Dr. Arthur Sorkin Dr. Gary Sparschu Wanda V. Spediacci Beth G. Speich Dr. Ronald Spritzer Thomas R. Squicciarini William C. Stebbins Kathleen Steen Robert Stein Wilner (Doug) Stitt Faye Strauss John A. Studebaker Evie Sullivan Joe Tacker Richard T’ang James E. Taylor Terry W. Temple Ruth Tessendorf Donovan Thompson Debra Thornton Thomas Tracy Dr. Elizabeth Trainor Jane E. Treiber Charles E. Trotter Patricia Trotter Lee Trowbridge-Goertz Marcia P. Tucker Roger Tuepker Mrs. Lesli R. Valiunas MaryLu VandenAvond Joyce A. Vanek Robert L. Vandiver Beverly Vics Chris Walkowicz Marion D. Ward-Fanning Jerry M. Watson Sharol Candace Way Col. Jerry H. Weiss Doris Elaine Werdermann Sharon Weston James R White Paul F. Willhauck Wendy G. Willhauck Henry (Hank) J. Williams Adrian Woodfork Burton J. Yamada Joan Zielinski Stan Zielinski Ruth H. Zimmerman Jeanne D. Zuver The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 NOMINATION FORM For 2016 National Specialty Judge REGIONAL CLUB ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ RETURN TO: Valerie Seeley JUDGE SELECTION CHAIRMAN 242 Woodland Drive Lincroft, NJ 07738 MUST BE POSTMARKED NO LATER THAN May 1, 2012 __________________________________________________________________________________________ NOMINATION FORM For 2016 National Specialty Judge GPCA MEMBER ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ RETURN TO: Valerie Seeley JUDGE SELECTION CHAIRMAN 242 Woodland Drive Lincroft, NJ 07738 ______________________________ MUST BE POSTMARKED NO LATER THAN May 1, 2012 __________________________________________________________________________________________ NOMINATION FORM For 2016 National Specialty Judge GPCA MEMBER ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ RETURN TO: Valerie Seeley JUDGE SELECTION CHAIRMAN 242 Woodland Drive Lincroft, NJ 07738 ______________________________ MUST BE POSTMARKED NO LATER THAN May 1, 2012 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 19 MEMORIES OF JOHN HANNUM Barbara Hannum John Hannum was raised in Michigan and at the age of 14, his family bought their first Great Pyrenees. She was a 4 year old bitch, bred by Paul Strang. Her name was Castellan Corette. She was sired by Cote de Neige Pataud out of Basquerie Belle Jeanne. John and his father showed at whatever local shows they could find. I have a letter from Mary Crane, addressed to John, dated April 1952, discussing how the east coast shows would provide better competiton in the breed. She also talks at length how difficult it is for a bitch to win Best of Breed over a mature male. There is a lament of the cost of entries having gone from $4.25 to $7.00 at some shows. John loved dog shows, and was a founding member of the Mid Atlantic Stewards Association, and the Virginia Federation of Dog Clubs and Breeders. For almost 20 years he was the show chairman for Chesapeake Kennel Club of MD. He was a long time member of The National Capital Great Pyreness Club, and a member of GPCA for over 45 years. He was approved to judge by AKC in 1984. He was eventually approved to judge most working breeds, Vizslas and Junior Showmanship. He especially loved to judge the juniors. He judged the GPCA Naional Specialty in 1994 with an entry of 167 dogs. John loved to cook and created dishes for friends and family. He had 3 original recipes published in Gourmet Magazine, one of which was created for the regional Vizsla club’s annual specialty show. John had an intense sense of humor and a big loud laugh. Always full of fun, he was generous with his hugs. Many years later, after graduating from the Naval Academy and getting a Masters degree in Chemistry, John was able to start living with Pyrs again. He was mentored by Frankie Glover of Barqueill Kennel. She helped him aquire a show quality bitch puppy from Quibbletown Kennel. John felt that this was the foundation of his breeding program, and always appreciated what he learned from Edith Smith. 20 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 Oconomowoc/ The 2011 National & Regional Specialty Commemorative Photo CD is still available and I’ll see YOU at the 2012 National Specialty! ! “These photos capture incredible moments of joy, happiness and good times.” “A loving tribute to our breed and our club.” “Thankyouthankyouthankyou!” Order info + see more photos + testimonials at www.GreatPyrPhotos.com Contact GPCA member Debra [email protected]!!!Satisfaction So Guaranteed! The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 21 22 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 30 years ago JAN./FEB. 1982 GPCA BULLETIN President: Whitney Coombs Vice president: Sonya Larsen Treasurer: Janet Roberts Secretary: Betty Wade Directors: Judith Bankus, Robert Brown DVM, Mary Crane, Michael Floyd, Carolyn Hardy An article on Pyrs as flock guardians appeared in the October 1981 issue of Progressive Farmer. The story told of ranchers in Texas and New Mexico whose flocks experienced dramatic drops in livestock losses after they used Pyrs as guardians. Mary Lu VandenAvond wrote a tribute to her first Pyr, Molly Chien Of Basquaerie: “Late on the afterBulletin editors: Steve Berman, John Cobb noon of Dec. 5, 1981, while all the younger VandenAvond children were hanging up their stockings for HIGHLIGHTS St. Nick to fill, Don and I and Don Jr. went to feed the The popular Mark Trail comic strip, which educated dogs and found Molly, our very first Great Pyrenees, readers about the wonders of the animal/bird/fish age 13 1/2 , dead in her run. Thanks to John Cobb, world around us, had a recent Sunday segment de- who sold her to us, starting us on the road to owning voted to Great Pyrenees. this wonderful breed. Molly was loved by all.” INTRODUCING A NEW PUPPY: a View from France By John Cobb (Note: Many Pyr breeders have kennel brochures available for customers. First-time Pyr puppy buyers receive information from breeders to help raise their pups. Such brochures usually give breed information, an explanation of the kennel’s breeding program and tips on how to raise the Pyr to be a credit to you — and the breeder. Steve Berman started an article on kennel brochures, but response to his request for such literature was disappointing, and the story is in limbo. This past summer we imported another pup, this one from the kennel of Dr. and Mme. Jacques Millemann in France. The brochure which accompanied the pup is interesting, and the basis for this article.) “You have just bought a Great Pyrenees as a companion. If you deserve him, he will be happy and will make you happy in return. I will then consider you my friend.” So wrote the doctor in the brochure (translated into English for the non-French-speaking new owners) which accompanied the pup on his long (and expensive) flight from Strasbourg to Chicago. The French look on their dogs first as companions, secondly (maybe thirdly) as show and/or breeding animals. They feel you must love, enjoy and really appreciate your Pyr before you would consider doing anything more than keeping him as a pet and companion. (After all, the French “He is a quiet dog, lovely and clever fellow who really say, if the dog isn’t near perfect in your eyes as the owner, promises to become a very great dog.” why would you ever consider breeding or showing such a That was the description Dr. Millemann gave on the pup specimen?) Additional comments include: he was sending. He earlier said that the dog had symmetric badger markings. There was no claim that he would be “A dog and his master form a team. For that twoa show ring candidate, although the pedigree included an headed team to go happily in the same direction, I impressive lineage of Foix, Pontoise, Poeymayou and think I should make some introductory comments. Even Brand Baou — among the prominent Pyr kennels in France with a Great Pyrenees the man must be, and stay, the over the years. boss. Man, or woman, you must have the time and PUPPY cont. on page 24 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 23 PUPPY cont. space to let your four-legged friend run free and show him your affection. You will need personal authority — an acute sense of humor, great tenacity, in a word, you will need a hand of iron in a velvet glove. A strong trustworthy fence will prove equally useful. You can adorn it with a sign to please your insurance man. I prefer, personally, a sign saying ‘Efficient guard dogs on duty’ to the traditional and unimaginative ‘Beware of dog.’ to question your authority over him. His taste for independence, his sense of humor and his stubbornness will make it hard work for you. BE FIRM. Impose yourself! Don’t let him disarm you by making you laugh. Never let him openly rebel against you, otherwise one day he’ll want to become boss of the whole family, and he might well bite to achieve this ambition. REMEMBER, YOU HAVE TO BE THE LEADER OF THE PACK! Never think twice about using abrupt commands. If need be, seize him by the muzzle and shake him severely; what you can easily do with the pup is three months old may prove more difficult with a 50kg (110 pound) wild beast. If you bear in mind that a good education is better than bad training, you’ll be proud of your dog’s intelligence and looks and you’ll be able to trust his good temper, his affection and his devotedness. Remember, a hand of iron in a velvet glove.” “Your new friend needs as much affection as he needs food and space. A born autonomist, he’ll like the taste of freedom, running away from home if need be. Try to spare him temptations and dangers by taking him for frequent short walks off the lead as often as possible; then he won’t feel so much like going off on his own. For a dog, ‘coming back’ must mean coming back as soon as he hears his name, and every time. You must start teaching him that at an early age. Using his curiosity, his greed, his affection even, you’ll soon succeed, and then you’ll reach total obedience. patches appear on the nose, lips or eye rims. It is often found in white dogs with no markings or other colors. It is a sign of degeneration and can be found along with other such signs, deafness for example.” “The Great Pyrenees Mountain Dog, also called ‘Patou’ in its native mountains, always has been, and remains, a mountain lord, not only in gait and appearance, but also in temperament. He is a dog with a long history and has hardly changed in appearance from the early days. He has been the defender of medieval castles, the faithful guardian of the domains of Lourdes and Foix, the inseparable companion of Gaston Phoebus, Comte de Foix and Prince de Bearn (a renowned expert in dog matters), the savior of Charles VI, king of France when his life was threatDr. Millemann then comments on “hereditary taints,” his ened by a bull, and later the playmate to the heir ap- list established after long discussions with experienced parent, son of Louis XIV; and yet, he never disdained breeders and from his own experience as a vet. He cites being the protector of the shepherd and his flock lack of pigment where the nose, the lips and the eye rims against bears, wolves or tramps. are gray or even pink, and not black as stated in the Stan“Your puppy has only just been weaned, and he has dard. only just left his brothers, sisters, mother and breeder. “This fault can be temporary, for lack of iodine, Now, in strange and new surroundings he might well iron, cobalt or copper or melithion, not enough suncry a littler. LET HIM CRY! For a day or two or worst of all a whole night. Don’t waiver! Any visit to soothe shine or bad hormonal condition of the dog. It may him will be understood as a nice break, and such a happen, too, where the liver function is disturbed. On pleasant event may well induce him to carry on using the other hand, you have dogs who never dis-pigment. As the lack of pigment is considered a very serious what he’ll soon learn is a trick.” fault by the Standard and as it is hereditary, it is adON EXERCISE visable not to breed from deficient dogs.” “The golden rule to remember is that your dog is He also talks about bare patches. building up his skeleton during the first year of his life and his muscles after. “This is another even more serious fault. Pink In conclusion the doctor states: “If you have fed him sensibly, if you have taught him to behave himself and he has had the exercise he needs (not too much of it too early though) then you’ll be proud of your companion and can’t think of yourself without a Great Pyrenees. I expect I can now con“Who’s boss? You can only educate a Great Pyre- sider you the happy owner of a Great Pyrenees nees. His natural intelligence will very soon lead him Mountain Dog and my friend.” 24 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 GCH CH Framboise Alpine’s Wind Rain And Fire “Mariah” Owners: Peggy and Stephen Hughes Multiple group placer Bronze Grand Champion Top 20 Pyrs Breed and All Breed for 2011 (through Oct. 31) CH BigRig’s Wilder Than Her “Rosie” Owners: Debbie and Bill Wilkerson and Darrell Goolsbee Made cut for bitch specials at 2011 GPCA National Specialty Also showing: BigRig Spookin’ The Horses, “Fred,” owned by Darrell Goolsbee and Larry Cupp BigRig Fergie, “Fergie,” owned by Christian Coleman Paid advertisement The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 25 Making Mom & Dad Proud! CH Pyrless Keep On Truckin’ HOF x CH Framboise Stormy Weather Born April 6, 2009 Breeders: Darrell Goolsbee, Larry Cupp & Peggy Watson GCH CH BigRig’s Cadet Polar Bear “Polar Bear” Owners: Dianne and John Fidler Group Winner Multiple group placer Best in Specialty Show Top 20 Pyrs Breed and All Breed for 2011 (through Oct. 31) GCH CH Framboise BigRig Four On The Floor “Stella” Owners: Valerie and John Austin and Peggy Watson Award Of Excellence 2010 AKC/Eukanuba National Championship 26 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 Karen Conley As some of you may be aware, Karen has decided it is time to pursue new activities. She has been an extremely valuable member of the health committee for the past 6 years. During her tenure as vice chairman she has built on previous health committee programs and introduced new ones. She expanded the health survey outreach to send surveys to new GPCA members and to owners of dogs with new titles. She has improved the items available through the health committee store and initiated mailing thank you notes to the donors to the health funds. She also took an active role in the health clinics and seminars that are held in conjunction with the national specialty. Always a strong proponent of the OFA’s CHIC program she was one of the health committee members who actively supported and developed the CH for Health Award and served on the screening committee. Communication and education were extremely important to her. She organized a mail group of members of the GPCA affiliated clubs and sent health information to this group six times a year. She also was instrumental in developing a Meet the Breed program in conjunction with the GPCA Public Information Committee. Health committee brochures have been made available to the GPCA Public Information Chairman, GPCA Rescue coordinators and the Meet the Breed program. The health committee would like to recognize all the hours that she has devoted to our work. I’m sure that you all join us in thanking her. While no one has come forward to take over all of the tasks that she undertook as vice chair, a number of health committee members have volunteered to take over parts of her work. Jean Pero will take over the health committee store and fund raising activities. Jan Waitz has come forward and will be providing the health information to the affiliated club reps. Joan Stewart-Ruiz has expanded her role and will write the notes to our donors. She will coordinate the brochure and flyers, and serve as the contact person for the Longevity, Health Awards and Meet the Breed Programs. I’ll be taking over the responsibility for the clinics and seminars held in conjunction with the national. The health committee website has been rebuilt. I’d like to thank Joe Bruns for donating his time and talent in accomplishing our new look. Please visit www.gpcahealth.com . Flo The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 27 ADDRESS CHANGES 12/1/2011 – 1/18/2012 Ingrid Wegele 6255 N Camino Pimeria Alta #93 Tuscon, AZ 85718-3640 Phone# 520-822-4649 Check Us Out On The Web! clubs.akc.org/gpca 2011 Health Awards Yelah What Goes Around Comes Around (D) Owners: Terri Newbauer and Nicole Bertrand. Breeder: Terri Newbauer. SILVER (cardiac, patellas, hips, elbows) Ch. Yelah's Leap Of Faith (B) Owner/breeder: Terri Newbauer. SILVER (cardiac, patellas, hips, elbows) Yelah's Let Your Glory Reign (B) Owner/breeder: Terri Newbauer. SILVER (hips, elbows, patellas) Ch. Yelah's Seas The Moment (D) Owners: Terri Newbauer and Nicole Bertrand. Breeder: Terri Newbauer. SILVER (cardiac, hips, patellas, elbows) Yelah's Takin It To The Limit (B) Owner: Terri Newbauer. Breeder: Nanette Holmes. SILVER (cardiac, hips, patellas) Pyr Shire's Idril Legacy O'Bard & Monsoon (B) Owner/breeder: Florence Laicher. SILVER (hips, patellas, elbows, shoulder) Ch. Pyrpressure Un Jeune De Fierte Valle D'Aspe (D) Owners: Lorraine Stevens and Glenn and Merry Johnson Breeder: Chea Michaels GOLD (shoulders, hips, cardiac, thyroid, elbows, Glanzmanns thrombasthenia, CMR) Ch. Yelah's In A Blaze Of Glory (D) Owners: Terri Newbauer and Nicole Bertrand Breeder: Terri Newbauer SILVER (hips, cardiac, patellas) Courtesy of Joan Ziehl 28 Star Award Breeder: Terri Newbauer (note: Terri previously was awarded solo owner award) Owners: Terri Newbauer and Nicole Bertrand The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 Longevity Awards 2011 The following Pyrs are still with us: Name Age Owner Breeder 14y2m Heather Rossback Jean Boyd & Carol Doyle 11y Linda Carr Jeri Shelton Summerhill Once & Future King 10y4m Elizabeth Pettit Lynn Gomm Mistry Odina Fairest Fiona 10y5m Mary Fodness & Joan Laguna Kim Lasley Age Owner Breeder Lady 11y2m Jack & Judy MacDonald unknown Pyr Shire’s Hunan of Valinor,RN 11y3m Flo Laicher owner Frosty 12y Gene Milgram& Vicky Owens Linda McComas Collette Marie O’Neill 13y Deborah O’Neill unknown 12y5m Deborah & Casey O’Neill Terri Newbauer Rivergroves Beignet Chatfield JJ Bubba Dawg The following Pyrs are no longer with us: Name Yelah Coco Chanel Pleasure Ages for all of the above dogs were calculated at the time that the application was received. The applications were received during 2011. I My The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 29 GPCA Health Committee OUR DONORS – 2011 Many thanks to the following persons who have supported the Health Committee’s endeavors over the past year: Adams, Sandra Lee Allard, Raymond & Madeleine Atwood, Lee & Sue Blevins, Susan Bowden, Don Brady, Joyce Burstow, William Caluducan, Saturnino Colberg, Elaine Comer, Robin Coombs, Nancy & Whitney Dalton, Rhonda Denney-Combs, Terry DePhillips, Carmela Dickey, Tommy Fennemore, Lorraine K. Ferguson, Jerry & Carolyn Gartland, Betsy Galbraith, Susan Gleason, Brenda Goldstein, Debra & Harvey Goolsbee, Darrell Grau, Sharon Grimshaw, Cheryl & Frances Hohmann, Betty J., M.D. Horton, Sandra Houseknecht, Denise & Douglas, Robyn Hughes, Stephen & Peggy Johnston-Lorino, Laura Justin, Karen & Coffman, VIctoria Kintsfather, David & Nancy Kippax, JoAnn & Arielle Kirby, Kathy Kornberg, Susan Klein Knutson, Patricia L. Laicher, Florence Laperriere, Guy & Lavergne, Nicole Lee, Steve & Kathy Lewellen, Linda Liles, Kathy MacDonald, Jack & Judy Macrokanis, George & Augusta Magnani, Al Marsh, Debbie Marsh, Pricilla Meredith, Eunice GPCA Health Committee 2012 30 Miller, George & Howard, Gayleen Miller, James & Monica Miccio, Cynthia Milgram, Gene Moore, Carolyn & Paul Moench, Margaret Moriarty, Dr. Sue Olsen, Randi Oraby, Arlene & Philip Parks, Carrie Stuart Pevik, Mette Preston- Malinowski, Susan Ruiz, Victor & Joan Stuart Salerno, Kim Salls, Jay Sanford, John & Donna Satterfield, Brenda Schultz, Dr. Jeffrey & Elli Schrieber, Linda Seeley Valerie & Robert Sharpe, Nicole Solstad, Karen Sorensen, Nancy Spears, Allison & Michael Stephens, Terry & Chris Stewart, Marcia Parks, Carrie Stuart Taylor, Lisa Thigpen, Lynn; Knapp, Dr. Gail & Cunningham, Karen Thell, Marilyn Tregear, Toni Tyler, Kay Vidmar, Diana Watt, Mary McEwen Waitz- Brody, Jan Warmack, Larry & Betty Wade Webber, Patricia Weir, Kathi Wells, Thomas & Ann Whitney, Stephanie Wood, Thomas Woods, John & Kerry Kern Wooster, Eric & Elise Wong, Sylvia Wagner, Mary MEMORIAL DONATIONS FOR 2011: GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN Donations “In Memory Of Linda Weisser” In addition to the many donations received with GPCA dues, there was a special fund raising effort in memory of Linda Weisser. This list of donors reflects those who have made donations through November 10, 2011. A total of $1414.00 was raised in her memory. Thank you all. Jan Waitz- Brody Karen & Doug Conley Karen Houle Flo Laicher Kathy Liles Arlene Marquardt Lawrence Weisser Carolyn Yeager Great Pyrenees Club of Puget Sound Arlene Oraby For Barbara & Michael Rosenback “In Memory of Hawk” Toni Tregear “In memory of Tug & Queenie Bear” Jan Waitz-Brody For Karen & Doug Conley “In Memory Of Andy” For Flo Laicher “ In Memory of Thomas” Flo Laicher “In Memory of Thomas” For Jan Waitz “In Memory of Emmy” For Wendy Blumberg "In Memory of Simone” For Karen Justin & Victoria Coffman “In Memory of Cupid” The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 OFA CHAMPION FOR HEALTH PROGRAM: Purpose: Recognize Great Pyrenees with outstanding accomplishments that are also healthy representatives of their breed and are shown to produce likewise. Eligibility: Nominated dog must have a CHIC number; person submitting application must be a GPCA member & be a breeder or owner of the nominee; completed application documenting significant achievements of the dog in conformation, performance, production, HOF award for show or obedience, draft dog, LGD, Therapy dog, Versatility or other significant achievements. Final selection by Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. A $100.00donation to the CHF; Engraved medallion, & Plaque provided by the OFA will be awarded at the National Specialty Award Banquet each year. FMI: Joan Stuart- Ruiz, Program Administrator @ [email protected] HEALTH RECOGNITION AWARD PROGRAM: Purpose: Encourage breeders & companion owners to perform health screenings; recognizes those owners who submit passing results; Awards are: Gold (5 exams), Silver (3 exams): Star award for owners/breeders with multiple dogs achieving a gold or solver award. Eligibility: Owner is a GPCA or GPCA Affiliated Club member; submit completed application & health certification results; recognizes the breeder & owner of the dog. Dogs with a CHIC number may be eligible, but must submit an application. FMI: Darrell Goolsbee, Program Administrator @ [email protected] LONGEVITY AWARD PROGRAM: Purpose: Honor those Great Pyrenees who have reached the age of 10 years or over; currently living or no longer with us. Eligibility: ANY Great Pyrenees whose age can be verified is eligible; verification of age can include, but not limited to AKC registration papers; Adoption contracts; and Veterinarian or third party confirmation. A completed Health Survey, in addition to the application is required. FMI: Flo Laicher, Program Administrator @ [email protected] REGIONAL CHIC/DNA COLLECTION PROGRAM: Purpose: Increase Great Pyrenees DNA readily available for research; promote the inclusion of the Breed in large studies by having significant numbers of dogs collected and ready for use; storage of specimens is free because of GPCA participation in the CHIC program Eligibility: Regional Clubs hosting a Regional Specialty; the Health Committee will provide all supplies & forms. All incurred costs paid. Nominal $5.00 fee per dog collected for OFA submission. FMI: Flo Laicher, Program Administrator @ [email protected] MEET THE BREED PROGRAM: (joint venture Public Information & Health Committee) Purpose: Provide Breed Specific literature to Regional Clubs & Rescue organizations participating in Meet the Breed (Public Education) events at no cost. Eligibility: Participation in Meet the Breed events; completed order form 3 weeks prior to event to insure receipt of materials is requested. FMI: Sandra McCrady, Program Administrator @ [email protected] Go to www.gpcahealth.org for all applications and complete program descriptions GPCA Health Committee 2012 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 31 3 W43,ĞĂůƚŚ3ŽŵŵŝƚƚĞĞ3^ƚŽƌĞ3Ͳ3ϮϬϭϭ ' W 4 3, , Ğ Ă ů ƚ Ś 3 Ž ŵ ŵ ŝ ƚ ƚ Ğ Ğ 3^^ ƚ Ž ƌ Ğ 3ͲͲ 3Ϯ ϮϬϭϭ Sweat Shirt Grooming Smock Crew neck 50/50 blend; 1î ribbed cuffs & waist band; art work on left pocket area Lt. Yellow or Wine Round neck, snap front, 2 front pockets, long sleeve /cuffs, artwork w on left, Cotton/poly poplin Lt Blue or Wine HC-SJ02 Med, L, XL, 2X $34.00 XXL $36.00 HC-SW01 $27.00 SALE Med, L, XL,2X $$ 27.00 CLOSE OUT! Easy, Breezy PyrJamas !!! *3PC Special * Buy your PyrJamas with a matching Grooming Smock and SAVE! HC-SJ0 Durable, light weight cotton/poly poplin easy care fabric in a roomy design perfect for dog grooming, training or just relaxing! The pullover top has one patch pocket and side vents. 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Order on-line or mail order. Visit the GPCA Health Committee Store at: www.gpcahealth.org The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 Preparing for the inevitable: When it's time to say goodbye For those of us who think of our dogs as friends and fam- important part of your family. ily members, facing the fact that they won't live as long as we do can be almost unbearable. It's easy enough to put COPING WITH THE LOSS OF YOUR DOG out of your mind when your dog is young, healthy and full of vigor - but when you have a senior dog that has a poor Every dog owner recognizes that their loyal companion quality of life due to terminal illness or is in constant pain, will die someday. That day always feels like it's far off, but you're going to have to address the situation. it can happen suddenly and unexpectedly or it may be anIf cost isn't an issue, you might want to consider home- ticipated as a result of old age or an illness. Either way, it based hospice care, which is offered through some veteri- can be very difficult to face. nary hospitals and volunteer organizations. The way pet Feel the loss. It's okay… hospice works is that care for a terminally-ill dog is proIt's perfectly normal to feel a profound sense of loss when vided at home rather than in a clinic. While it might not your dog dies. Feeling and expressing yourself at this time necessarily extend the life of your dog, it can be helpful in is a mark of respect to your dog. It's not trivial. You've spent preparing you and other family members for your dog's some wonderful years together. Try writing your feelings imminent death. down "stream-of-consciousness" style in your journal or Difficult decisions write a letter to your dog. Get the emotions out of you. You Without a doubt, the hardest decision you will have to may feel anger, guilt or the sense of being extremely alone. make as a dog owner is whether or not you will have to put Acknowledge this. If you bury your pain and just get busy, your old friend to sleep. In many cases, euthanasia (carried you won't have a chance to work through the loss and it out by means of painless injection) is the fairest way to offer will inevitably surface later, quite unexpectedly. your dog a quick and painless end. Reminisce about the best days you spent with your dog, If putting your dog to sleep is something you're consid- like when you first brought him home or took your walk in ering, it's a good idea to discuss the process with your vet the park. Make a photo collage of his life and think about well in advance. Decide where and when the procedure his character and the moments when he was at his happiwill take place, which family members will be present, and est. It will help you to fully appreciate everything he conhow the remains will be handled. You'll also want to dis- tributed to your life. cuss with your family how they'd like to say their goodTake the time to grieve your constant byes. In some cases, veterinarians will actually come to companion your home and perform the procedure, which can take Grieving the loss of your dog takes time. You'll most likely much of the edge off saying good-bye. Your dog can stay experience a range of emotions as time goes on: first dein the comfort of his own bed, in his own home. What's nial and shock, then anger, guilt, depression and lonelimore, you don't have to deal with the clinical environment ness. Then finally, the clouds will part slightly and you'll of the vet's office or pass through a crowded waiting room. begin to feel a sense of acceptance and hope. These are Grief and bereavement counseling the normal stages of grieving. You may also find that down If a family member is having trouble adjusting to the loss the road, if something else in your life upsets you, emoof a dog, you may want to ask your vet for a referral to tions surrounding the loss of your dog, will bubble up to the local grief counseling services or pet loss support groups. surface and you may feel like crying. You might not unYou can also find information and help on the Internet, such derstand where the intensity of this emotion came from. as The Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement (APLB) at Just know that this is perfectly normal after a loss like this. http://www.aplb.org. Tell your friends and family the story of The nicest thing you can do for your dog—and for your- your dog self—is to never forget that he was a dear friend and an Every time you tell those you love the story of your dogGRIEVING cont. on page 34 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 33 GRIEVING cont. who he was, what his best tricks were, how fun-loving he was, or a funny moment-the more solid and grounded you will feel. Repeating this "story" is therapeutic and it helps to immortalize him. Be sure that you share this with someone who won't belittle your grief over the loss of your pet. Don't downplay how much your dog meant to you or how much you miss him, in order to put on a brave face. Talk it out with someone - cry even, as long as you feel comfortable. The release will be helpful. If you don't have family or friends who understand your loss, or if you need more support, speak with your vet in order to find a pet loss counselor or support group. You may just need to be with others who are more empathetic. Is it time for a new puppy? The truth is you may need some time to grieve the dog you've just lost, so getting a new dog right may not be the best idea for some individuals. Filling "the void" with a new dog when you're still grieving can cause resentment. The new dog won't "take the place" of the dog you just lost. You need some time to create the space for a new dog in your life. • Join a pet loss support group, especially if you feel extremely sad or angry. Expressing your sadness may be easier with others who have experienced pet loss. • Accept that you may never totally get over the loss. You'll always remember your dog and the wonderful times you shared. Explaining your dog's death to a child You may be hesitant to tell your child about your dog's death, because you want to shield him or her from emotional pain. While that's understandable, keep in mind that children can deal with death surprisingly well if it's discussed in an honest, straightforward manner. Simply explain that all living things must come to an end, and unfortunately, pets don't live as long as we do. One term you should avoid using is "put to sleep." A child might misinterpret the meaning of this, and be afraid of going to bed. It may also help the grieving process to encourage your child to share their favorite memories. Your child may even want to have a funeral for the dog. Memorializing your pet can make it easier to say goodbye. Remember, the sorrow is real and everyone deals with it differently. There is no right way to grieve. Be patient. And We all bring dogs into our lives knowing that they will know that there is no timetable for healing-the grief process probably not outlive us. Yet when a beloved dog dies, takes as long as necessary. we're often unprepared for the overwhelming sadness it brings. GRIEVING THE DEATH OF A DOG Losing a dog is especially painful because the bond you share with him is unique. A dog loves you unconditionallyhe doesn't care if you got that promotion or how you looked at your high school reunion. For some people, a dog's death can hurt more than losing a relative or friend. That's why it's important to go through the process of mourning, just as you would for a human relationship. • Acknowledge that your dog's death is a huge, sad event. Don't downplay it, or feel that it's not important because "he's just a pet." • Experience and express feelings of sadness, anger, or guilt about the loss. Know that tears, anger, and sometimes fear can be part of the process. FINDING SUPPORT WHEN YOU'RE GRIEVING Words alone can never truly express the grief you feel when a cherished companion passes away. This is a time of emptiness, sorrow, and questions. It's also a time when you need to reach out and find someone to listen, to give sage advice, to offer support and compassion. That's why reading articles about grief and loss are seldom enough to help some people find their way through this period. It takes human interaction and a level of understanding that you can't get from an article—no matter how insightful and well written. Fortunately, help is probably closer than you think, so don't be afraid to reach out and find it. Where to find help • Talk to friends who can empathize-surround yourself with There are two nearby sources of help and compassion people who understand your grief and avoid people to turn to when you're grieving the loss of a beloved dog: who don't. your vet and your friends. Your vet is a trained professional 34 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 When a dog experiences the loss of a dog companion, and he or she may have a list of local support groups or grief hotlines. And your friends can be a fountain of com- he is also mourning the loss a fellow pack member and passion—after all, they knew your wonderful canine com- that dog's previous pack position. Your dog might now be panion and they considered your pet a part of their a leader without a follower, or a follower without a leader. extended family. That's why it's important for you to help your dog find a In addition to those two immediate sources, you can eashealthy, new position in your home.These simple guidelines ily find a wide variety of support organizations on the Internet. A good number of these groups were formed by can ease the pain after a loss dog lovers who, like you, lost a beloved pet. Some are proDistract him. Take him for walks, bring him on car trips fessional organizations run by veterinarians and trained or invite friends—canine and human—over to visit. Also, grief counselors. Others are services that provide ideas and consider buying dog puzzle toys specially designed for inspiration. You'll also find groups that have a spiritual mental stimulation. Spend 15 minutes brushing him or givcomponent or a religious outlook. ing him a massage. He'll start looking forward to the new Here are a few of the many resources you'll find on the routine. Internet: Teach him new tricks. Even though your dog is older, he The Maryland-based Animal Love and Loss Network (www.alln.org) "seeks to bring together those who are can keep learning for his entire life. Set aside a few minmourning the injury, illness or loss of an animal compan- utes each day to teach him a new trick - such as fetching ion. We also represent and support those who are work- certain objects. Or introduce him to a new activity like ing to end the exploitation and suffering of all animals." catching a flying disc or agility, if he’s still physically active. Animals in Our Hearts (www.animalsinourhearts.com) The sense of accomplishment that training brings can give states their point of view this way: "Animals and their love your pooch a new lease on life. stay in our souls, once we've let them in. And we are better for it, more complete, more whole, more compassionReward good behavior - ignore bad behavior. During ate, and often transformed." your dog's grieving process, don't give him any attention The Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement when he's excessively barking, whining, or howling—it will (aplb.org) is staffed with professionally trained volunteers only reinforce this negative behavior. Praise him when he in pet bereavement counseling. is sitting or resting quietly. If you need someone to speak to about your loss, the Pet Don’t rush into getting a new dog. Older dogs often Loss Web site provides a long list of hotlines at www.petloss.com/phones.htm. They also feature a comprehensive don't like changes in their environment, and adjusting to a list of organizations and bereavement professionals at new pet can add stress at an already stressful time. It's imwww.pet-loss.net/links.shtml. And this is just the tip of the portant to allow your dog the time to adjust to life without iceberg. So, as you can see, there is no need to go it alone. his companion—you may find he actually thrives on his Help and compassion is as close as a friend, your vet, own. and—if you need additional support—the organizations Be patient. The old saying "time heals all wounds" aplisted on the Internet plies to your dog, too. Don't worry if your dog doesn't im- HELP FOR YOUR GRIEVING DOG When your dog loses the companionship of another dog, it can be heartbreaking. Although no one truly knows how much dogs understand about death, it's clear that they can experience loss very deeply and often become depressed. Just like humans who have lost a loved one, many dogs stop eating, lose interest in their favorite activities, and become lethargic or sleep excessively. The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 mediately respond to new activities or extra attention. Just be patient and he'll come around eventually. And try to be upbeat and positive—because if you are, he’s more likely to feel that way, too.If you are worried about your dog's behavior, speak to your veterinarian. He or she may suggest medication to help ease your dog's anxiety. In the meantime, attention, affection, and activity are the best medicine you can provide. 35 Meet the Breeds Three Years Young By Priscilla Marsh On November 19th and 20th the Garden State Great Pyrenees Club represented our wonderful breed at the Javits Center in New York. This event draws enormous crowds of young and old alike. The AKC takes great effort to educate the public on the multiple breeds of cats and dogs. These animals bring wonderful joy to our lives. were all weary from the excitement. As tired as I was, I drove home knowing the public experienced the best of what our breed has to offer. It was a memorable weekend for every age that walked through those doors during this two day event in November Our booth entertained a packed house and rarely did anyone have a chance to take a breather. I am grateful to all the help I received from Flo Laicher, Karen Justin, Jan Waitz, Diane Travis, and Arlene Oraby. Without them and the tireless efforts of Estee, Devon and Fleur – our canine volunteers, we would not have had such a shining event. I say thank you to all who participated. The patience of the dogs with the forty thousand spectators who came through the door was amazing. The dogs tolerated many pats on the head and hugs from total strangers. It takes a very special dog to endure the rigors of the two day event. On Saturday we had the added attraction of two – three month old puppies, Cupcake and Cookie. These adorable Pyr puppies entertained the crowd all afternoon and always with a wagged tail to boot. Thank you goes to Karen for bringing these cute pups. It is so important for the public to realize that these beautiful pups grow into the adult size of Estee, Devon and Fleur. The booth looked great and touched on our breed’s history and purpose. I enlarged two photos taken by Janet Ingram. These photographs were taken in the Pyrenees Mountains in September. Many people were amazed and appreciated learning about our breed which still performs its “age-old task” in the region it came from. Passion and energy run wild as you walk through all the many breeds’ displays. The participants’ dedication to preserving and protecting their breed is felt wherever you turn. At the end of the second day we 36 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 $SLFWXUHVD\VDWKRXVDQGZRUGV« Our newest Champion , Ch :\GWUDN¶V Cloud Nine Bred by: Wydtrak Great Pyrenees, est. 1967 Maria J. Church Davis Littleton, MA The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 Owned and shown by: Harmony Goodrum Hoopeston, IL 37 HER GUARDIAN ANGEL By Debbie Wilkerson On April 6, 2009, a little white puppy was born that would become a guardian angel. This little angel was a Great Pyrenees who would be named BigRig’s Cadet Polar Bear. He came to live with John and Dianne, and their bonding began. Over the next year, Dianne and Polar Bear spent hours together at the dog park, water splash days and started his dog show career together. During this period, Polar Bear was never far from her side as they began building their life and memories together. Dec. 28, 2010, was a cold and wet night in Waco, Texas. On the way home from celebrating Christmas at their farm, John and Dianne along with their Pyrenees Polar Bear were involved in a terrible car accident. John was banged up, and Polar Bear was bruised but fared well. However, Dianne was not that lucky. Her injuries were numerous and life-threatening. Suffering from a broken neck, lacerated intestines and numerous other injuries, things look grim for her. After surgery and some recovery time in Waco, Dianne was brought back to the Dallas-Fort Worth area for many more months of hospitalization and rehabilitation. During this period her will to fight off infection and healing issues waned, and sometimes she was overwhelmed. begin to try and converse with them as they would ask questions about him. We talked to her daily about her Polar Bear, how he missed her and needed her to come home. We reminded her about his show accomplishments and how she needed to work at getting herself ready for his upcoming shows. We continued to bring more pictures, show ribbons and videos, and started telling her that if she worked hard at getting well enough to go to the rehabilitation center, we would make sure that she and Polar Bear would reunite in person there at the center. Finally, after much pain and hard work, Dianne went to the first rehabilitation center. Unfortunately, the facility did not allow Polar Bear to come see her there. Again, the motivations began to keep her uplifted using her Pyrenees as one of the main topics of conversation. However, her guardian angel was not far away … While watching Dianne in the hospital it became apparent to me that I had to find some real motivation for her so she would work at healing to survive these injuries and setbacks she was experiencing. There was one thing in her life that we knew made her smile and laugh on a regular basis. His name was Polar Bear, that one-time little white Pyrenees puppy she grew to love. A member of the Dallas-Fort Worth Great Pyrenees Club, Emily Chou, made a poster-size picture of Polar Bear, which I took to her room and put up on the wall at the end of her bed. Although her eyes were swollen, black and blue and stitched in places, she was able to see his beautiful face smiling at her from the moment she opened her eyes every day. The picture drew the attention of the nurses, doctors and visitors who came into her room, which forced her to 38 Polar Bear and Dianne are reunited during a visit outside her rehab center. Photos by Debbie Wilkerson The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 As Dianne improved at this facility, it was decided she would be moved once again to another one to advance her even more toward regaining movement and use of her total body. At this point we began talking to her about actually going in person to Polar Bear’s dog show upcoming in a couple of months in Forth Worth, Texas, as another new motivation. Once she was moved to this new rehabilitation center the plans and phone calls began, making arrangements to bring them together finally, face to face, after months of separation. Polar Bear had been living with his handler, Jeanie Ayala, during this period of healing for Dianne. Jeanie was most agreeable and supportive of reuniting the two of them, and upon the arranged day and time, the doors of the center opened, Dianne was brought out in her wheelchair, and Jeanie brought Polar Bear to her. Her guardian angel approached the wheelchair. There could be no doubt in a person’s heart of the love between Polar Bear and his human when he saw her sitting there. Finally he knew Mom was OK. He so very gently approached her wheelchair, climbed up to her lap, put his paws on the edge of the chair and stuck his big beautiful nose in her face, and the smooches began! He seemed to understand to be gentle and careful with her, knowing she needed him to be cautious. Now, her guardian angel who saw her through the struggles of each painful day, having to learn to eat once again, working to become mobile, was finally there at her side. As the visit continued, he slept at her feet and never left her side. smile on her face and her goals to move forward fresh in her mind. As Jeanie brought Polar Bear for their visits during this time, it became apparent to us how much harder Dianne was working in therapy and how much happier she was becoming. Our next mission was to get Dianne out of the center and back home so she could indeed be at Polar Bear’s next dog show. Again, after weeks and weeks of very hard work and dedication with physical therapy, the day arrived. Time to go home. Her homecoming came one day before Polar Bear’s show in Fort Worth. On show day, along with the assistance of her husband, John, Dianne sat ringside in her wheelchair and watched her guardian angel win in the ring that day. As I write this story in December 2011, one year past the accident, I am proud to report that Dianne not only attends each and every dog show of her Pyrenees but does so with only the assistance of a walking cane. To date, Dianne still says Polar Bear is her continued inspiration and motivation to keep pushing forward as she continues her therapy and recovery on a daily basis. A guardian angel at her side? Most definitely. No doubt about it. After their visit, a corkboard hung at the end of her bed full of pictures of their reunion to help keep that Photos by Debbie Wilkerson The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 39 Nail Grooming 101 Nail clipping is a regular part of grooming. Your Pyr’s nails should just touch the ground when it walks. Trim nails once or twice a month or the quick, which refers to the tender blood vessels and nerve endings which extend into the nail, will lengthen. Shorter “quicks” make for easier clipping. Use a sturdy, large clipper. If your pet store doesn’t carry a tool that you think will do the trick, keep shopping. A sharp, strong clipper makes all the difference. Start at the tip of the nail and snip a little at a time to avoid cutting the quick. When you start to see pale pink tissue near the top—stop. Use a coarse nail file to smooth edges. Trim the dewclaws more; they wear down less rapidly. On white nails, the quick is the pink section. If you can’t see it easily, grab a mini-flashlight to shine through your Pyr’s nail. It is the dense core that light doesn’t shine through. If you do nip the quick and the nail bleeds, apply pressure using styptic powder, cornstarch, or baby powder. If you are uncomfortable with this task, ask your veterinarian or groomer to demonstrate proper nail trimming. When you are comfortable, your Pyr will be, too. If your Pyr does not want to hold still, ask someone to pet him or her while you trim. Never try to trim the nails if the dog is not in a stay position. Praise is important. Treats don’t hurt either! Courtesy of Jo Stubbs Courtesy of Melissa Metzler 40 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 Curbing Night Barking By Rose Stremlau & Stephen Herbster Carolina Pyrnews Editors’ note: Every now and again, an see?" and look at the window with him for a moment. Usually, exhausted Pyrent contacts us asking how to curb night bark- we see nothing. ing. This is our response based on our experience with A few times, we've seen something we didn't want to...like Leonidas. a drunk driver who hit our neighbor's mailbox! We want Leo Leonidas was a night barker, and he still is to a much to guard us, so it is important to validate him with praise and smaller degree. When we first adopted him, he barked sev- treats when he does a good job. After a moment of looking eral times each night for ten or more minutes at a time. In with him, we say in that same calm, reassuring voice, "Thank part, he was responding to the noises in our neighborhood. you, Leo Pyr. Good work. That's enough. Okay, back to Lots of owls and nocturnal critters make their home in our sleep." We walk him back to his sleeping place, wait for him yard, and Leonidas liked to "talk" to them. At that time, we to lay down, pat him on the head, and go back to bed. also had two separate neighbors who were either coming In other words, instead of trying to stop the behavior totally home from or leaving for work in the middle of the night. Leo because it is annoying to those of us who work and have to would bark at them as well. get up, we appreciate that he's working. Signaling that he's Stephen, my husband, is a very light sleeper. All of this done his job and can go back to sleep has worked over time. made for frustration, and shooshing and yelling didn't quiet We noticed improvement within weeks, and now, he might Leo down. We found that white noise doesn't work either. Pyrs bark for a few minutes once or twice each week. I think he have such good hearing, and it didn't fool Leonidas like we began to understand that many of things he was barking at wanted it to. After talking with Martha and our trainer, both (like the evil, hated owls and the normal car noises), were not of whom encouraged us to work with our dog’s temperament, concerns to us, and this method communicated that we apwe began to appreciate that Leonidas thinks he is doing his preciated his alert but that it wasn't needed for that thing. Or job by barking at night. So us yelling at him for “working" this thing. So he slowly but surely stopped barking at those just confused him. It might have made him think he wasn't things. working hard enough, or he might have thought that our His "vocabulary" increased, and he understood what not yelling was joining in with him. to bark at. As a result, he barks a lot less. He'll bark at new Pyrs are hardwired to protect their flock regardless of what or strange things. We're ok with that. We also do something time it is. To some extent, they still will want to do that even like this during the day. He barks like a mad dog at a few when they are couch guardians. When we go to sleep, Leo things, and we want to discourage that overreaction. When thinks he clocks in. We can’t change hundreds of years of ca- the mailman drives by and he flips out, we go to the window, nine evolutionary adaptation. Instead, we changed our re- look out with him, calmly say, "Oh, okay, its the mailman. I sponse, and it worked over time to reduce this unwanted see. Thank you, Leo, but he's okay," and gently lead him behavior. We created a night time routine for Leonidas. He away from the window to a rug where we have him lay down. gets last outs, a biscuit, we set the house alarm, and then we He gets petted when he is calm. At first, he didn't calm down walk with him to his favorite sleeping place, which is as far right away. Now, when we go "rug," he usually will settle away from stimulating noise as possible. After he lays down, down after he's thanked and removed from the stimulation. By we sing him a good night song. Yes, we sing him a short lull- doing that during the day, we're reinforcing that when we acaby, the same one each night. Our trainer didn't suggest that knowledge his alert but say it is okay, we mean "thank you for specifically, but she did say that clearly indicating to him that being a Pyr and take a break." He's now ok with the mailit is time to sleep is important. It is communicating "you don't man, but he still wants to fight the UPS guy. Why he's learned need to work now." the one is okay but not the other, I have no idea?! It is a work We've done this for two years, and if Leonidas doesn't get in progress, and each overreaction is a chance to work with his "sleepy Pyr" song as we prepare for bed, he sulks and him to create a new outcome. whimpers. Every now and again, when we’re tired and don’t Once we learned what to do and calmed down because follow our routine, it is inevitable that I’ll just crawl into bed we realized we could teach him, our attitude changed, and and start to relax before Leonidas will start throwing a tantrum then his behavior changed. We are now able to communiand crying in his bed. If I get up, go to him, sing him his song, cate our preferences to him. There are a few things we want and give him a good night hug, he settles right in and quiets him to bark at--like people we don't know walking on our right down. He’s almost always asleep before the song is over. property, so when he barks at them, we praise him and give If he barks during the night, we let it go for a minute or two. Now, he usually quiets himself, but when we started this, he didn't. If it seems like he won't stop, one of us gets up and goes to where he is barking, which is usually one of our front windows. Then, we calmly say "What's up, Leo? What do you The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 him a treat at the window so he knows he's being a great boy. None of this is quick fix. Pyrs are smart and stubborn, but they respond well to affirmation and clear signaling of right and wrong in a way that works with their hardwiring and not against it. 41 IF DISASTER STRIKES WILL YOU EVCACUATE? WHERE WILL YOU GO? WHAT ABOUT YOUR PYR? Hurricanes, severe storms, tornadoes, floods, as well as heavy snows, major fires, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions can all create severe situations. We could be driven from our homes, or left stranded in our homes without electricity, food or water for days or weeks. Non weather-related emergencies, such as environmental hazards and possible acts of terrorism should also be taken into consideration. If your area is affected, are you ready? What is your plan? FIRST THINGS FIRST Purchase a weather alert radio and be aware of area warnings. Keep cell phones fully charged. Before loading up the car and heading to your local emergency shelter, find out what the rules are. Many shelters will now take dogs during evacuations, but is there a limit in size or number of dogs allowed? Those shelters may require that dogs be kept in crates, often in other areas of the facility, and in some shelters, pets will be in separate buildings all together. Is your Pyr ready? Do you have a crate? Is your dog crate trained? How will your dog react to these stressful circumstances? Is your pet microchipped? Many animals lost during disasters have been reunited with their families due to being chipped. Do not rely on dog tags! They can come off of the animal’s collar and get lost. WHO TO CALL Make a phone list of friends, relatives and neighbors to notify each other of circumstances and verify plans. In making your plans, consider that family members may be in different locations at the time of emergency. WHAT TO TAKE Make a list of items for each family member to be kept in a backpack near the appropriate door. Keep each pack supplied with dry food and bottled water to last several days, dry clothing, necessary medications and any other supplies necessary for that family member. Include instructions in each pack. Designate a pack that will have important papers, radio, batteries, basic tools, first aid kit, fully charged cell phone and a copy of your evacuation plans. WHAT TO TAKE FOR YOUR PET Fit an appropriately-sized waist pack comfortably around the pet’s neck as a “collar pack” that contains collar and leash, medications, veterinary information and written identification including where you will be, phone and contact information in case you are separated from your pet. You might include a small amount of food and water. Remove excess belt material that may be hanging freely. Wearing the collar pack may take some getting used to. Beginning in short time increments, let your dog wear the pack, gradually increasing the time so your dog will be used to wearing the pack should the need arise. If yourdog will be crated once at your destination, you might want to take along a clip or two so the pack can be clipped to the dog’s crate once settled and comfortable. WHERE TO GO Map a plan from each direction of your home, neighborhood and city in the event your most frequently traveled route is not accessible. List where you will go, the route you will take and share this plan with your phone list members. Consider the location of hospitals, emergency clinics, veterinary hospitals and emergency clinics, gas stations, restaurants and friends’ homes. Locate hotels that take dogs, and check with those that normally don’t. Some will change their policy during emergencies. Consider listing points of assistance at specific intervals from your home, such as every 5 or 10 miles. PUBLISHED AND DISTRIBUTED: GREAT PYRENEES CLUB OF AMERICA, DISASTER PREPAREDNESS COMMITTEE, 2007 42 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 IF DISASTER STRIKES IN THE CAR Keep a backpack or container with nutrition bars, water, first aid kit, medications, radio, flashlight and batteries, basic tools, blanket, dry change of clothes and shoes, in case you are stranded. In case your pet is with you, include dry pet food, extra water, daily medications, written identification and contact information as well as veterinary information. HAVE MULTIPLE PLANS Create several plans in the event your primary plan is not possible. Instruct family members what to do if the family is not together during an emergency. List several alternatives as to how your pets will be taken care of if family members are not able to get home for several hours or days. If you are not able to take your pet when evacuating, what plans will you make for their care? WHAT IF YOU AREN’T EVACUATED You might not be evacuated, but you may still be without electricity, water and phone service. Roads to your area may not be accessible. Check your pantry. Stock dry foods and canned goods that can be eaten without heat or refrigeration, shelf-life milk, etc. Keep some items stored in a high area to remain dry should flooding occur. 3 gallons of bottled water per day per family member is the recommended amount of water to have on hand. Don’t forget food and water for the pets! Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. In the south, it is suggested that these items can last up to 3 days if kept cold, possibly longer in colder climates. Store home emergency items together: include medications, radio, flashlight and batteries, possibly a small, battery operated TV, battery operated fan(s), important papers, basic tools and any other essential items. Have tarps and roof fasteners, duct tape, hammer, nails and plywood sheets ready for temporary repairs. Keep cell phones charged, just in case. In your pet’s “collar pack” include identification, medications and veterinary information in case your pet gets lost. For multiple animals, consider locating a used horse trailer and generator where they can be kept cool or warm, depending on the season. A note regarding generators: NEVER operate a generator in any enclosed area! Placing a generator in the garage with overhead door raised does not provide enough ventilation. Generators must remain outside, fully ventilated while operating. MOST IMPORTANT – MAKE A PLAN Until a basic plan is made, there is no plan. Not having a plan leads to panic, confusion and frustration. WHO TO CALL List phone chain members including friends, relatives and neighbors to notify of circumstances and verify plans. 1. _______________________________ 5. _______________________________ 2. _______________________________ 6. _______________________________ 3. _______________________________ 7. _______________________________ 4. _______________________________ 8. _______________________________ PUBLISHED AND DISTRIBUTED: GREAT PYRENEES CLUB OF AMERICA, DISASTER PREPAREDNESS COMMITTEE, 2007 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 43 IF DISASTER STRIKES WHAT TO TAKE List supplies for each family member’s backpack. Include instructions, dry foods, water, medications, important papers, radio, batteries, basic tools, first aid kit, cell phone and a copy of your evacuation plans. PACK #1: PACK #2: PACK #3: PACK #4: For your pet’s “collar pack”, include collar and leash, medications, veterinary information, written identification including where you will be, phone and contact information in case you are separated from your pet. You might want to include a small amount of food and water in the pack, or take separately. PET PACK #1: PET PACK #2: WHERE TO GO List area hospitals and emergency vet clinics, gas stations, hotels, restaurants, friends’ homes, etc. Consider listing points of assistance at specific intervals, such as every 5 or 10 miles from your home. NORTH: EAST: SOUTH: WEST: PUBLISHED AND DISTRIBUTED: GREAT PYRENEES CLUB OF AMERICA, DISASTER PREPAREDNESS COMMITTEE, 2007 44 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 IF DISASTER STRIKES NOTES: WHAT CLUBS CAN DO Gather and distribute informational brochures and local information to the public at club events, such as dog shows, fun matches, pet fairs, pet walks and rescue events Hold educational clinics at meetings and events, instructing how and what to prepare for family and pet safety and evacuation Name an Area Coordinator who can monitor a weather alert radio for warnings and be contacted for information and needed assistance. Establish a Disaster Preparedness committee, and determine specific responsibilities through your region/state Create a phone chain among your members, notifying area dog owners of an alert, to follow up after the alert has expired to determine assistance needed, if any Assist by providing information specific to your area, such as location of shelters taking dogs, hotels and boarding kennels accepting dogs, materials and supplies to have on hand Have members store basic supplies for distribution prior to and following a weather system, such as: bottled water, nutrition bars, dry/canned goods, dry dog food, feed and water bowls, collars and leashes, cleaning and paper products, Ziploc bags, flashlights, radios, batteries, battery- operated fans, tarps and roof fasteners, hammers and nails, duct tape, plywood sheets, crates, ex-pens, etc. Assist in rescue and temporary relocation of dogs should evacuations require such measures Establish a follow-up plan at specific time increments, .e: 8-12 Hours Following 24-36 Hours Following 48-72 Hours Following 1 Week Following, etc. AREA/REGIONAL CONTACTS: PUBLISHED AND DISTRIBUTED: GREAT PYRENEES CLUB OF AMERICA, DISASTER PREPAREDNESS COMMITTEE, 2007 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 45 EVERYTHING I NEED TO KNOW IN LIFE I LEARNED FROM MY RESCUE PYR If you truly don’t want to do something, don’t. Sometimes the treat just isn’t worth it, no matter who is giving the command. Find unexpected moments to play during each day. A little dirt is the sign of a life well-lived. Even if you can’t fix something that is bothering you, you can take a nap. When something is really, really important, make lots of noise until it is fixed. Rest and affection are as essential to life as food, water, and shelter. Everyone, no matter how big and snarly, likes hugs. Dance with glee when life gives you treats. Being gentle doesn’t mean you aren’t tough. There’s no reason to be scared of what you can see, sniff, and pee on. Maya the rescue Pyr has learned the joys of play. Photos by Courtenay Stark Courtesy of Carolina Pyrenews Rescue Tails CAROLINA PYRS GIVE RAVE REVIEWS TO THE RUMPUS AT THE RIVER On October 1, over sixty Pyrents and Pyr lovers gathered for CGPR’s second annual fall social. We were honored to have over thirty Pyrs in attendance, and they truly were the guests of honor. Although the weather was a little chilly (by human standards) the Pyrs were totally content. No, that’s not a postcard but some of the Pyrs and their people posing on the hill at the US National Whitewater Center. Photo by Lisa Chess 46 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 A WRINKLE IN TIME...read on. The Indian Solid Gold (Curcumin) and the Solid Gold SunDancer Dog Food The best dog food that you can buy for your dog is the Solid Gold SunDancer. It has no grains and no gluten. To control gas production, and maybe bloat in dogs, SunDancer uses tapioca and quinoa, called the Food of the Future. The meat is chicken and fish, all the Oriental dogs, the Arctic dogs, and dogs from England, Scotland, Ireland and water dogs, such as labs and poodles, were fed a fishbased diet and sea vegetation, such as in our Sea Meal, which is always fed with our dog food. Retrievers, terriers and spaniels, were originally from England are included. Sea Meal is effective against allergies and scratching. Curcumin is the root of the turmeric plant, and is in our SunDancer dog food, Curcumin has a 4,000 year old history in India for helping a wide variety of health problems. Dr. Oz on TV frequently talks about curcumin. Edgar Cayce, the sleeping prophet, said the two greatest gifts from God to Man are curcumin and olive oil. The Jan. 2003 issue of Cancer Research declared that curcumin has the ability to “suppress proliferation of cancer cells.” The October 2010 issue of “Nutrition and Cancer” indicated that curcumin makes chemo more effective. Recently, a breeder of Dalmatians talked with our sales person about using our SunDancer dog food. He had been feeding a cheap, crappy dog food. He decided to continue to feed the inferior food and buy curcumin/turmeric in a health food store and add it to the dog’s food. BIG MISTAKE! About a month later he called our store. He asked, “Have you ever seen a yellow Dalmatian?” He had one. He had overdosed on the curcumin. First of all, curcumin has to be cooked at a low temperature and must be mixed with oils to release the active properties. He rushed the dog to the vets. He never told the vet what he had done. So after extensive and expensive test, on the liver and kidneys, costing over $350, he called us. We put the dog on our non-curcumin Holistique Blendz dry dog food. Holistic does not mean natural or organic. It means that the whole body works together-mind, body and spirit. See the previous information on problems with white, near white or light colored dogs. White dogs absorb more ultra violet light (photo-aging) which may depress the immune system. Holistique Blendz is only 18% protein from fish, to spare stress on the organs. It is particularly effective on dogs with tear stains. Most of the tear stains are on white or light color dogs. So dropping the protein to 18% helps. Sissy has an 18 year old Dane mix. She was all gray on the muzzle. After six months on the SunDancer, the black came back. Now for our cute story – “A Wrinkle in Time” It was during WWII, Sissy, the owner of Solid Gold, lived in N.J. Her father worked for the army getting hard to find products. One summer, he was transferred to New Mexico. Sissy and her mother went there for the summer to be with him. In the cool of the evenings, the kids would go to a local stable to play with the horses. The kids loved to groom the horses. Sissy’s favorite was Fury, owned by Mr. O. Mr. O. told Sissy that if she would give Fury a daily brushing, he would teach her how to ride. So the entire summer was a delightful experience. Eventually, the summer came to an end, and Sissy returned back home. It was several years later, after the war was over, that Sissy was reading the paper. She saw a familiar photograph. She asked her mother why Mr. O’s picture was in the paper. Her mother smiled, it was a picture of Dr. Robert Oppenheimer, the Father of the Atomic Bomb in Los Alamos, New Mexico. Just a Wrinkle in Time Solid Gold Holistic Animal Nutrition Center 1331 N. Cuyamaca, El Cajon, CA 92020 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 Ask your local pet store for a free catalogue. If they don’t have a SunDancer catalogue, call us at (619)258-7356, M-F, 10am to 5pm Pacific time. Or e-mail us at sarah@ solidgoldholisitc.com. You can also visit our website at www.solidgoldholistic.com. 47 Samson’s Sooper Dooper Pyr Treats Mary and Gary Gambrell brought these delicious homemade snacks to the fall Carolina social. The Pyrs loved them and asked us to run the recipe in the newsletter so their humans could make them. Ingredients 1 pound pork or beef liver 1 cup self-rising corn meal 1 cup self-rising flour Samson knows how to be the life of the party: wear something fun and bring something tasty to share. 2 heaping tablespoons garlic Water Pam spray Kitchen items Measuring cup and spoons Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes. Bake until mixture thoroughly browns and has risen nicely and separated from side of cookie sheet. It’s really hard to overcook. Let cool. Hold dog back. Cut like pieces of fudge into 1” cubes. If pieces are still pink in the middle, put them back in the oven. Storage Keep treats in the refrigerator. If your puppy can get in the fridge, hide them well. We find that these treats Mixer and large mixing bowl last 10 days or so. Each batch makes far more than a 8” x 12” cookie sheet with 1”sides 10-day supply. Freeze pieces that are not for immeClothes pins (you will need them) diate use. We bust up each batch into baggies. When the baggy in the fridge is about to go empty, pull one Knife, mixing spatula out of the freezer. Let frozen treats thaw in the fridge for around 24 hours. Trust us; make a double batch at Finding liver: If they have fresh liver at your meat a time. We usually use a large cookie sheet that is 12” counter, great! Otherwise, we usually find it pre-pack- x 17” x 1”. aged in the frozen case where fish and Bubba Burgers are. Garlic: We use chopped garlic that is in the jar. Most all dogs just love garlic, and it’s good for Reprint permission from Carolina Pyrenews Volume 3, Issue 3, Fall 2011 them. Don’t be afraid of adding too much. Blender or food processor Puree liver in blender or food processor with 2/3 cup water. Mix all ingredients with 1/4 cup water in a large mixing bowl. Mix to consistency of cake or brownie mix. Spray cookie sheet with Pam. Make sure you spray the sides as well. Spread mixture on cookie sheet. Put clothes pins on nose(s). That aroma wafting through your kitchen is not bacon or cookies. 48 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 Tales from the Rainbow Bridge Chapter 3 by LJ Mercer Pete and Sugar settled down, side by side, in the doublewide crater she had dug for them. Sugar prided herself on her ability to dig a crater suitable for any occasion - there was the special small crater she had dug for Charlie to sleep in; one deep in the roots of the old oak that she had dug for Toby so that he could be comforted by the protection of the roots when he had his terrible nightmares about that awful day; her own personal favorite - a deep crater right under the shade of the lowest branches of the old oak - and her latest, and possibly her best, creation, a doublewide with an impression on either side of a shallow root, so that Pete and she each had their own space, but could commune across the root as the mood took them. She had very quickly got over her grumpiness about the lack of information about the trip to the Snowy Mountains after Pete had talked to her about the difficulties of shift work, and never knowing more than a day in advance just how much of an influx of new dogs he could expect. Plus, as he said, he could turn up for his shift with a plan in mind only to discover that everything had changed. Dogs in the other life had recovered, or had worsened in their condition, and he just had to go with the flow and deal with what being the Gatekeeper threw at him. "Make a plan", he said, "and then throw it in the trash can just before you clock in!" don't believe you've yet seen a 'happening', have you?" "A 'happening'? What's that?" "Sugar, its the most wonderful thing you'll ever see. All of us here at the Rainbow Bridge, we're just waiting, passing time, waiting for our humans to collect us and cross the Bridge with us. “You see, Sugar, we dogs can't cross the Bridge without our humans, and in the other life they last much longer than we do so sometimes we hang around here for a very long time. But eventually the day comes when our human leaves that other life and passes through these fields on their way to the Bridge. As they walk through the fields their dogs gather round them, greet them, kiss them, jump into their arms, greet them in whatever way they think best - and then they all cross the Bridge together into whatever happens next." Just this evening, Pete had told her that he thought they might have to put off the trip until closer to Christmas. "Because at Christmas," he said, "all plans go on hold. No human wants to lose their beloved partner at Christmas, so the vast majority of them do whatever they can to keep their dogs with them at least until the New Year. Unless, of course, there's a tragic accident - in which case the emergency crew jumps into action. You might get the impression that Gabe's permanent entourage of beautiful boys is a waste of space, butyou should see them when there's an emergency. They are a sight to behold - direct"Wow!" said Sugar, "that sounds absolutely awesome. ing traffic, comforting the wounded, escorting the deWhat does happen next?” parted. And all that vanity serves a purpose - imagine that “No dog knows that, Sugar, because no dog has ever you're wounded, hurting, not sure what's going on, and suddenly a beautiful creature with a halo created by the returned to tell the tale.” setting sun reflecting on his long hair turns up and suggests Sugar thought about that for a moment. you follow him - why wouldn't you!" “But Pete, it doesn't tell me about you, and why you and Sugar nodded - why indeed. "But Pete," she said, "tell Gabe have been here 'since Forever'!" me more about you. Gabe said you and he had been here "Here's the flip side Sugar," Pete replied with a deep 'since Forever', but what did he mean by that?" sigh, "if your human passes before you do, you're "Well, Sugar, you've only been here a short time and I screwed. You wait and wait and wait, but your human has The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 49 already crossed the bridge so there is no-one to escort would have dragged him all the way home if he could only you. So you find a job, and punch the clock and wait and have managed to climb that last fifty feet that I couldn't get hope." down." "Hope?" said Sugar, "hope for what?" "Hope that a loving human will adopt you between the other life and the Bridge. Doesn't happen too often, Sugar, so we just deal with it." "Pete," said Sugar, "are you telling me that your human passed before you did?" Pete sighed again, a very deep sigh, and pushed his nose into the soft earth of the crater. "Sugar, there's a lot you don't know about me. I think Gabe told you I worked in Search and Rescue?" She nodded, slowly, and Pete sighed again and paused for a few moments before continuing. "Then let me tell you the rest of my story. It was a very long time ago, in Switzerland. My partner, Hans, picked me out from a prime litter of purebred St Bernards. I remember hoping and hoping that he would pick me, and I kept pushing myself forward and licking at his hands. I wasn't the biggest and strongest of the litter, but I was smart, and I knew from his scent that he was a good man, and that he was the one for me. I don't know why he chose me in the end, my brothers were bigger and stronger, but I guess I was persistent enough that he finally noticed me. He took me home with him, and I just loved him from that moment on. Of course the training for Search and Rescue was tough, very, very tough. You have to be able to survive below-freezing temperatures for long periods at a time, and at the same time be able to scent life under the snow. But, oh boy, the satisfaction of finding life under the snow, and digging down to release it. You can't even begin to imagine the joy it gives you. "Hans and I worked together for years, we were an amazing team. Of course, it wasn't just the two of us, we used to live for months on end in a cabin in the mountains with a group of other humans and dogs, always on the alert for Search and Rescue calls, it was wonderful. But then the day came when Hans and I went out on the last rescue mission of our tour of duty. The entire team was with us, of course, but we were in the lead. "I didn't leave him though. I stayed there, barking and barking encouragement at him long after everyone else gave up. And when the moment came, I howled at the sky in outrage. I think I went a little mad for a while, certainly I didn't go back to the cabin in the mountains for a couple of weeks and when I did, everyone was very wary about approaching me. But finally, I calmed down and tried to accept what had happened. I kept working with Search and Rescue for the rest of my other life, but it wasnever the same. I mean, I don't know if you can understand this Sugar, but I was brilliant at the job but it didn't have the same meaning for me. “So when my time came, I wasn't sorry. What I hadn't realized at that time was that Hans had long since crossed the Bridge so I would have to wait here for an eternity." "But you know Sug, eternity isn't so bad here! Every so often I get to take my trips to the Snowy Mountains so I can remind myself of where I came from and how much meaning it had. Hey, did I remember to tell you that I even used to do the "cask of brandy around the neck" thing? Man, that used to make me laugh - I mean I know it was a lifesaver for the humans but do you think I ever got a taste???" Pete laughed, then sighed again and pushed his nose into the soft earth of the crater. "You sure do dig a nice crater, Sugar," he said. Sugar placed her paw over Pete's. She didn't need to say anything. Her admiration for him was boundless and left her speechless. But a thought was playing in her mind. She would chew on that thought for a while, but in the meantime the sun had set and it was time for the Northern “Hans took a misstep and fell into a crevasse in the Lights nightly show so she needed to call her pack to order mountain. We tried. We all tried. I managed to get and marshall them to the shores of the Great Lake ... halfway down but then it became impossible. The humans in the group climbed down as far as they could, but they © LJ Mercer. couldn't make it either. Hans had broken his leg and www.pyrhome.blogspot.com couldn't climb up, I kept barking and barking at him to encourage him to at least get part way up so that I could get a hold of him and drag him the rest of the way - Sugar, I 50 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS TO MAKE FOR YOUR DOG DO DOGS DREAM? You've probably seen it happen—your sleeping dog suddenly lets out a woof as his legs begin to twitch. Is he dreaming? By now you may have made your New Year's resolutions. But Many scientists say there is evidence to support the idea that have you made resolutions that will help make your dog happier and healthier in the year to come? Here are a few easy-to- dogs do, in fact, experience dreams. Researchers using an eleckeep resolutions that will get the New Year off to a great start. troencephalogram (EEG) have tested canine brain wave activity during sleep. They've found that dogs are similar to humans Healthier diet: You know how you feel after eating the wrong when it comes to sleep patterns and brain wave activity. Like hufoods: the feelings can range from guilty (at the least), to bloated, mans, dogs enter a deep sleep stage during which their breathuncomfortable, and worse. If you feed your dog "junk food" or ing becomes more irregular and they have rapid eye movements a low-quality diet he may not feel guilty, but it could upset his di- (REM). It is during REM sleep that actual dreaming and, often, ingestive tract and impact his overall long-term health. So play it voluntary movements take place. Dogs may move their legs as if safe and make sure you keep him on a healthy diet consisting of they are running, whine or whimper as if excited, and breathe food that provides all necessary nutrients for his stage of life. rapidly or hold their breath for short periods. And if your dog has special health concerns, ask your vet about Not all dogs dream equally. Research suggests that small dogs food that is specially formulated to address his needs. In addidream more than larger dogs. A Toy Poodle may dream once tion to making wise choices about the food you offer your dog, every ten minutes while a Golden Retriever may only dream once you should also make sure that he doesn't have access to peo- every 90 minutes. Dreaming also seems to occur more frequently ple food (or toxic substances) that are around your house. And, in puppies. This may be because they are processing huge quanneedless to say, tell your children and guests not to feed your tities of newly acquired experiences. dog table scraps or anything else that isn't part of his healthy What do dogs dream about? Since no dog has ever told anydiet. one about a dream he's had, we can only guess. It's likely that More exercise: Has your dog's lifestyle been on the lazy side? dogs dream in a similar fashion to humans, replaying the everyDoes he spend more time lying around than running about? It's day activities that make up their existence, like chasing, playing, up to you to get him out and about and active again. The dog and eating. park is calling—and it's saying, "Pay me a visit and run, jump, If you've ever been tempted to wake your dog during a dream, catch, fetch, frolic, and play." And if the weather is cold or rainy, try and resist. It's best to "let sleeping dogs lie." Dogs, like hufind your dog's favorite toys and engage him in a nice indoor mans, need uninterrupted sleep for healthy mental activity. play session. Not sure how active your dog should be at his lifestage? Ask your vet for some advice and guidelines. CANINE BODY LANGUAGE: Wellness checkups: When was the last time your dog visited the vet's office for a regular health examination? These exams WHAT DOES IT MEAN? are essential. Even if your dog seems well, your vet can identify Dogs can communicate with other dogs through a series of sigconditions in their early stages and suggest appropriate treatment. So if your dog hasn't been to the vet lately for a wellness nals, including a variety of facial expressions, body postures, checkup, make an appointment now. Regular checkups are es- noises, and scents. Your dog will use his mouth, eyes, ears, and even his tail to express his emotions. By reading the combination sential. of body signals, you should be able to work out who is top dog Better oral care: Did you know that four out of five dogs over in any confrontation or situation. the age of three may develop gum disease?* Most people don't realize the connection between gum disease and general over- Big=Aggressive A dog that feels brave or aggressive will try to give the imall health. Studies indicate that the bacteria associated with gum disease may also impact heart, kidney, and liver health. So check pression of being a larger, more powerful animal. He will stand your dog's mouth for these telltale signs of gum disease: constant tall with his ears and tail erect and thrust his chest forward. He bad breath, red, swollen gums, and difficulty chewing hard food. may also raise the hairs around his neck and along his back (his If you notice these symptoms, tell your vet immediately. Your vet hackles). Aggressive dogs may also wave their tail slowly and will help you develop a daily oral care routine for your dog. To growl. get your dog started on the road to better oral care, you can Small=Submissive feed him DENTAL style treats every day. These treats have been A submissive dog, on the other hand, will try to appear small proven to reduce tartar buildup-a contributor to gum disease- and puppy-like. Adult dogs will chastise puppies, but they don't when used as part of a daily oral care routine. attack them. A submissive dog's approach to a more dominant canine or human is likely to be from the side, crouching near to If you haven't already noticed, these New Year's resolutions the ground with his tail held low and wagging enthusiastically. for your dog are also ones you could make for yourself: eat betHe may also try to lick the hands or paws and face of the domter, get more exercise, and see your doctor and dentist regularly. inant dog or person. If this isn't appeasing enough, he might After all, wellness is for everyone in your family, whether they then roll onto his back to expose his stomach, or even involunhave two legs or four. tarily pass a small amount of urine. The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 51 The many meanings of tail wagging Communication—canine style One pattern of behavior that's characteristic of dogs and familiar to almost everyone is tail wagging. Most people recognize that loose, free tail wagging indicates pleasure or friendliness. Exaggerated tail wagging, which extends to the entire rump, is sometimes seen in subordinate dogs, as well as dogs with very short tails. Dogs can communicate with other dogs through a series of signals, including a variety of facial expressions, body postures, noises, and scents. Your dog will use his mouth, eyes, ears, and even his tail to express his emotions. By reading the combination of body signals, you should be able to work out who is top dog in any confrontation or situation. The tail, however, is also an indicator of other emotions. A tail A dog that's feeling brave or aggressive will try to give the imwaved slowly and stiffly, in line with the back, expresses anger. pression of being a larger, more powerful animal. He will stand Clamped low over the dog's hindquarters, it's a sign that the dog tall with his ears and tail erect, thrust his chest forward, and may is afraid. Anxious or nervous dogs may stiffly wag their droopraise the hairs around his neck and along his back (his hackles). ing tails as a sign of appeasement. He may also wave his tail slowly and growl. Facial expressions—and more A submissive dog, on the other hand, will try to appear small and puppy-like. Adult dogs will chastise puppies, but they don't attack them. A submissive dog's approach to a more dominant individual is likely to be from the side, crouching near to the ground with its tail held low and wagging enthusiastically. He may also try to lick the hands or paws and face of the dominant dog (or person). If this isn't appeasing enough, he might then To successfully read his mood correctly, you must watch for roll onto his back to expose his stomach. In this position, some other body signals at the same time. The narrowing or half-clo- dogs will involuntarily pass a small amount of urine. sure of the dog's eyes indicates either pleasure or submission, Tales the tail tells but when his eyes are wide open, he's signaling aggression. One pattern of behavior that's characteristic of dogs, and faEye contact: Who blinks first miliar to almost everyone, is tail wagging. Most people would In the wild, the pack leader can maintain control simply by recognize that loose, free tail wagging indicates pleasure and a staring at a subordinate dog. The two animals will continue to general friendliness. Exaggerated tail wagging, which extends to stare at each other until one challenges the other, or until one the entire rump, is seen in subordinate dogs, as well as dogs with lowers his head and turns away. If the staring continues after the submissive dog has looked away, he will feel confused and may very short tails. The facial expressions of your dog will tell you a lot about his mood—whether he's anxious or excited, frightened or playful, or any one of a vast range of emotions he may express. His ears prick up when he's alert or listening intently, but are held back or flattened onto the head when expressing pleasure, submission, or fear. bite out of fear. If eye contact is not broken, the dominant dog will The tail, however, is also an indicator of other emotions. A tail reinforce his threat by snarling, growling, or even attacking. waved slowly and stiffly, in line with the back, expresses anger. You should not try to outstare your dog if he has aggressive or Clamped low over the dog's hindquarters, is a sign that the dog nervous tendencies because this could provoke an attack. Nev- is afraid. Anxious or nervous dogs may stiffly wag their droopertheless, regular, gentle eye contact reassures the dog and re- ing tails as a sign of appeasement. inforces your relationship. Ears, eyes, and lips Smile, we're communicating The facial expressions of your dog will tell you a lot about his mood, whether he's anxious or excited, frightened or playful, or any one of a vast range of emotions he may express. His ears prick up when he's alert or listening intently, but are held back or flattened onto the head when expressing pleasure, submission, or fear. To read his mood correctly, you must watch for other A dog will indicate his desire to play by raising a front paw, body signals at the same time. or by performing the play bow, which is often accompanied by The narrowing or half-closure of the dog's eyes indicates either barking to attract attention. Other gestures include offering a pleasure or submission, but when his eyes are wide open, he inplay object or bounding up to another dog to invite a fun and tends to be aggressive. In the wild, the pack leader can maintain friendly chase. control simply by staring at a subordinate dog. The two animals will continue to stare at each other until one challenges the other, or until one lowers his head and turns away. Submissive dogs may appear to be "smiling" when they open their mouth to show their teeth in a lop-sided grin of friendliness. In the snarl of aggression, however, both lips are drawn right back to expose most of the teeth, and may be accompanied by a growl. UNDERSTANDING YOUR DOG’S BODY LANGUAGE One of the reasons dogs make such good pets is the remarkable way they can communicate with humans. Pet dogs see us as an extension of their own canine family, and are very quick to interpret our moods and intentions. An understanding of how dogs communicate with other dogs will help the observant owner correctly figure out the message their pet is trying to convey. 52 You should not try to outstare your dog if he has aggressive or nervous tendencies—this could provoke an attack. Nevertheless, regular, gentle eye contact reassures the dog and reinforces your relationship. Submissive dogs and those of certain breeds, notably Labradors, may appear to be smiling when they open their mouth to show the teeth in a lop-sided grin of friendliness. In the snarl of aggression, however, both lips are drawn right back to expose most of the teeth, and may be accompanied by a growl. The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 Playtime 5. Carry his comforts: If possible, bring your dog's bedding, A dog will indicate his desire to play by raising a front paw or bowl, regular food, and favorite toys with you. by performing the play bow, which is often accompanied by 6. Take a break: On a long car ride, stop every two or three barking to attract attention. Other gestures include offering a hours during the day for your dog to take a bathroom break, play object or bounding up to another dog to invite chase. have a drink of water, exercise, and experience the new enviNow that you know more about your dog's rich and varied ronment. Frequent stops are also recommended at night. body language, you may understand him better than ever. And Finally, before planning your trip, check out that can lead to an even closer relationship. www.dogfriendly.com for a comprehensive listing of hotels, WHAT YOUR DOG'S YAWN REALLY MEANS In the language of dogs, the yawn is often used as a calming signal. It's a way of saying, I've had enough and my patience is running out. For example, in a training session, your dog may yawn to deal with frustration and to give himself a mental break. The next time your dog yawns while you're training him, try showing him you got the message by reducing your intensity or changing your approach. A yawn may indicate anticipation or stress, too. Your dog may yawn repeatedly when he's waiting in the vet's office as a way of dealing with nervousness. Sometimes dogs yawn in anticipation of something enjoyable, such as a walk—this is a way of controlling his enthusiasm. campgrounds, restaurants, and theme parks across the country that will treat your dog like a top dog. HAPPY TRAVELS WITH AN OLDER DOG There's no need to leave your senior dog at home. If your dog has been accustomed to traveling all his life, he can be a rewarding travel companion well into his Golden Years. In fact, older dogs are mellower and tend to be better hotel guests than younger dogs. The only type of travel that may be too hard on an older dog is air travel in the cargo compartment of an airplane. Unless your older dog is small enough to ride with you in the passenger section, he will likely be more comfortable staying at home. Travel Checklist Before you go, be sure to read up on dog-friendly hotels, resorts and events. If there is a place you'd like to stay at, don't hesitate to call them and ask if they accept dogs. Also, many websites and travel guides are frequently updated with information on pet-friendly travel. Of course, there are times when a yawn is, well, just a yawn. The best way to understand the real meaning of the gesture is to look at the situation. If he yawns while stretched out comfortably Before you go, make sure you pack your dog's "suitcase" with on his bed, he’s probably just tired. If you're training or playing with your dog and he yawns, he may be asking for a little break. the things he'll need to stay healthy and comfortable on the road. Food and water bowl Regular food, water and treats Collar and leashes - including identification tags with your permanent and temporary addresses and phone number A supply of your dog's TRAVELING WITH BIG DOGS medication - be sure to write down the name and dosage so it In a recent survey by the pet travel website BringYourPet.com, can be replaced if necessary Plastic bags or newspaper Dog 47% of owners said they travel on vacation with dogs over 40 brushes/combs Pet crate if he uses one Favorite toys Flea and pounds, and 78% have booked rooms in pet-friendly hotels. tick repellent, tweezers for removing ticks. Trends like these have made the hospitality industry take notice, and more travel destinations today welcome dogs. Before you Dos and Don'ts Now that you're ready to hit the road, here's some travel adhead out with dog in tow, take a look at these smart ways to vice to help make travels with your pet hassle-free. Do avoid exkeep your pooch safe and happy-no matter how you travel. otic food. Cajun-style beef chunks might seem delicious, but they 6 tips for an easier trip: could upset your dog's stomach, giving him gas, or worse, diar1. Tag him: If your dog gets lost in an unfamiliar place it can rhea. Stick with your dog's regular food. Don't give your dog be disastrous. Be sure his collar is secure, and that your address food for about four hours before a trip if he has a tendency to get and phone number appear clearly on his tags. Also affix your queasy. Also, your dog shouldn't have anything to drink for two cell phone number to the tags with strong tape. Carrying a cur- hours before you set off. Instead, give your dog frequent sips of rent photo of him is a good idea, too. It is also strongly recom- water or ice cubes during the trip. If necessary, ask your vet mended that you have your vet insert an identification microchip about products that treat carsickness in dogs. Do keep your dog under your dog's skin. on a leash whenever you are in unfamiliar territory. Don't ever leave your dog in a car alone. He can suffer from heatstroke 2. Pack his papers: Ask your vet for a health certificate that which can be fatal. Do make a pooch-only area in the back of provides proof of updated shots. Some lodging destinations and your car. A pet crate is the best and safest way for your dog to all boarding locations require it. Vets can also prescribe mild travel. You can also try a car seat harness designed for dogs. Eisedatives if your dog gets car sick, or if he feels nervous on an ther way, it's a good idea to put down a plastic tablecloth - the airplane or boat. cloth side will stick to the seat and the plastic side is easy to wipe 3. Take a long walk before you go: A recently exercised dog down if messes occur. Do give your dog a break about every will be in a more relaxed state for the trip, and is more likely to three hours to let him stretch his legs and have a toilet break. sleep. Make breaks more often if necessary. Do leave your dog with a 4. Limit food before takeoff: Don't feed your dog for at least competent person if you can't take him with you. Be sure to leave six hours before plane travel. Some people recommend eight or the dog-sitter with your vet's contact info, your dog's feeding even a full 24 hours. Do, however, make sure your dog has ac- schedule, medicines and activity schedule cess to water. The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 53 Dogs: Wolf, Myth, Hero & Friend by Susanna B. Hecht, PhD; Blaire Van Valkenburgh, PhD; and Robert K. Wayne, PhD Sniffing out the facts and exploring the relationship between the National Science Foundation. The exhibition premieres at the our two species Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County on October 13, No observer can help but remark upon the incredible variety 2002, and over the next five years is scheduled to travel to San of sizes, shapes, temperaments and behaviors of the dog—from Diego and San Bernardino, California; Seattle; Mesa, Arizona; the one-pound Chihuahua to the 200-pound Mastiff; the stubby- Omaha; Washington, D.C; Milwaukee; Philadelphia; Cleveland; legged, placid Basset Hound to the long-legged, fleet Grey- and Chicago, with more cities to be announced. hound. Nowhere else in the animal kingdom does so much The evolutionary history of dogs begins some 40 million years morphological diversity exist within a single species. ago in North America, when Hesperocyonines, looking like a In large measure, the 400 or so breeds of dog extant today are cross between a fox and a weasel, emerged from the soup of products of human breeders, who, as Charles Darwin pointed carnivores. Hyena-like canids, the Borophagines, or “boneout nearly 150 years ago, have selected consciously and un- eaters,” with bone-crushing jaws, followed and persisted until consciously for specific physical and behavioral traits. But dogs around 2.5 million years ago, when the last one vanished. are also the products of 40 million years of canid evolution through natural selection. The forces of evolution created the unique physiological and behavioral characteristics— the senses, physical abilities, social and individual behaviors and brains— that made the wolf the ideal progenitor of the dog. Those attributes resonate in human myths from around the world that ascribe to canids wild and domestic central roles in the creation of humans, guarding the dead or guiding them to the afterlife and serving as intermediaries between humans and nature. Various legends of the dog as a fell beast and spreader of violence and disease are also widespread, reflecting a less exalted place in human affairs. But it is the diversity and malleability of canid characteristics that have made dogs indispensable allies of humans for more than 100,000 years—longer than any other domestic animal. From an evolutionary perspective, the diversity found in the domestic dog echoes trends in wild canid evolution, albeit on a much different time scale. Rising from a common ancestor, new species of wild canids spread over millions of years into nearly every type of habitat on Earth. Today, 35 species of canids are found on every continent but Antarctica. However, centuries of persecution to protect domestic livestock and harvest furs and trophies, along with habitat destruction, have brought several of those species, including the African wild dog and the little Ethiopian wolf, close to extinction. Other species, like the gray wolf, have been extirpated from much of their historic range. Yet the dog, the coyote and some foxes continue to flourish. The signal difference is that dogs have evolved almost exclusively through artificial selection by humans while wild canids have evolved through natural selection. The ancestor of today’s canids arose in North America 8 to 12 million years ago and looked like a fox. Within a million years, that animal crossed the Bering land bridge into Europe and diverged into a number of new species, including the gray wolf, which later migrated back into North America. Some 3 million years ago the first ancestral dogs and cats reached South America by way of the Isthmus of Panama. Finding a paradise full of prey and free of competing predators, the canid invaders soon radiated into several new species, each adapted to South America’s unique habitats. Alone, the voracious, diminutive bushdog of today’s Amazon rainforest brings down pacas larger than itself. The maned wolf is often called the “fox-on-stilts” because of the disproportionately long legs that allow it to peer over the tall grass of the pampas. The hoary fox and the crab-eating fox also emerged at this time. The 35 species of living canid include the gray wolf (the largest), the coyote, the jackal, the African wild dog, the Ethiopian wolf, the fox, the dhole and the raccoon dog. Although so closely related to the gray wolf as to be the same species, we continue to call the domestic dog, Canis familiaris, a separate species because it is nearly always reproductively isolated, is subject to artificial selection and only exists in the wild as a feral animal, like the dingoes of Australia. Dog breeds, however, are not considered separate subspecies because without human interference they freely interbreed, within size constraints. Most breeds were created during the past 200 years, not nearly enough time to cause a significant genetic divergence. Artificial selection by humans only involves concentrating traits already present in the wolf/dog genome—morphological characteristics like size and coat color, and behavioral features like herding, hunting, retrieving or guarding. In addition, certain types of genetic exoticism— dwarfism, giantism, and neoteny, or the retention of juvenile features into adulthood—have been fixed through selective breeding. The full details of canid evolution, including development of the dog, remain unclear because of the incomplete nature of the fossil record, but what we do know reveals how a remarkable group of predators evolved and what they have meant to the natural and built worlds. In an effort to capture this rich story, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County has created an What Makes Diversity Possible interactive multimedia exhibition exploring canid evolution and The genetic, dietary, physiological, behavioral and social flexthe role of dogs in human societies. As scientific advisors of ibility of canids, combined with a relatively unspecialized dental “DOGS: Wolf, Myth, Hero & Friend,” we will be working on a structure that allows them to be generalist eaters, has made them book to accompany the exhibition. adaptable to different habitats and to human societies. The exhibition and national tour is made possible by PediCanids cover much of the dietary field, from the highly cargree® Food for Dogs and is supported by a generous grant from nivorous wolf, dhole and African wild dog to the insectivorous 54 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 bat-eared fox and the largely frugivorous raccoon dog of Japan. There are also generalist munchers, like foxes, coyotes and, of course, dogs. Yet even the wolf will eat grass and fruit, though perhaps not as much as dogs, and feed on prey ranging from moose to mice. Africa, Eurasia, North America and Australia. This art shows them used for hunting and ceremonial purposes. Compared with wolves, these dogs possessed a foreshortened face, crowded teeth, a smaller brain, reduced bulla—the bony case surrounding the ear —and a prominent “stop,” or break between foreCanids can do that because, on the whole, their teeth have not head and face. evolved to perform specialized tasks, like crushing heavy bones But there is new evidence that the archaeological record does (in the hyena) or grinding grasses and grains (in herbivores). not tell the full story of the dog’s origin. Research by one of us Canids have in addition to the distinctive canines, carnassial (Robert Wayne and colleagues) on mitochondrial DNA, inherited teeth for shearing and molars for crushing—a sort of broad- through the mother and involved in the cell’s energy system, inbased dentition that allows them to consume a wide variety of dicates that genetically the dog split from the wolf perhaps over foods. In domestic dogs, tooth size is reduced, as are jaw 100,000 years ago and today differs in genetic (DNA) compostrength and overall relative size, probably as a result of relaxed sition from the wolf by no more than 1 percent. This finding sugselection for these attributes relative to wild canids. Still the dog’s gests that behavioral features may have been key in the varied and sometimes eccentric culinary choices reflect the abil- domestication process and indicates that for much of the history ity of canids to adapt to the available food. of anatomically modern humans, there have been dogs. Social Animals Nearly all canids form pair bonds. Larger species, like wolves, African wild dogs and dholes, hunt cooperatively, while many of the smaller fox-size canids do not. However, packs may form even in relatively antisocial species when there is a resource like a garbage dump or when prey is too large for a single individual; thus, coyotes tend to form packs and hunt cooperatively when deer are abundant. In other cases, coyotes may be nearly solitary and not form pair bonds, for example in tight quarters of cities, where prey is small and extended families are not practical. Pack size also varies among wolves, depending on the food base. When deer-size prey or larger is scarce, wolves tend not to form packs. This kind of social flexibility is key to surviving in diverse and changing environments. The Domestication Question Evidence suggests that ancient human hunters and gatherers had great respect for the abilities of top animal predators, like wolves and big cats, not least because they sought the same prey and probably scavenged each other’s kills. Proximity combined with the similar social structure of human clans and wolf packs doubtless created opportunities for humans to tame wolf puppies and for wolves to grow more accustomed to human encampments and activities. Wolves scavenging around the camps could also have warned of other predators and even driven them away. Mutual tolerance and respect, combined with the proto-dogs’ willingness to submit to human direction, could well have set up the dynamic relationship that has changed and flourished through many human cultures and adaptations. Certainly the The social nature of wolves provides the evolutionary template similarities between the wolf’s pack structure and the extended for dogs. Wolves are highly social and live in a complex society families of early humans made it easy for proto-dogs to fit into maintained by systems of communication, cooperation, and ag- human societies. gressive and submissive behaviors. They exist in small family Proto-dogs may have remained unchanged in appearance for units consisting of a single reproductive (dominant or alpha) tens of thousands of years, perhaps until what we know as the mated pair and their adult offspring from consecutive years. domestic dog began to appear in the fossil record. We know that Some packs may also contain non-relatives or “strangers.” many European travelers described the dogs of the Inuit and Generally only the alpha pair reproduce, while adult offspring assist in all aspects of pack life including hunting, provisioning and guarding of offspring, defending pack territories, and attending to the den. Such packs maintain territories and aggressively repel interlopers—so aggressively, in fact, that interpack aggression may be the largest cause of non-human-induced mortality among wolves. many North American Indian tribes as indistinguishable from wolves. That might reflect not only a lack of selection for traits we identify with dogs but also the intermingling of dogs and wolves. In this view, the look of proto-dogs began to change in places where people started to establish more permanent settlements and change their ways of living at the end of the last Ice Age. These wolfish behaviors are a kind of pre-adaptation for human/dog relations. Dogs can be readily submissive to their owners, but show various degrees of aggression toward strangers or territorial interlopers. They form long-term bonds with humans, as they would often do in a pack or with mates, and show cooperative and altruistic behavior, sacrificing for humans just as they would for kin. Dogs Extend Our Abilities The key to the dog/human relationship doubtless lies in the way dogs extend human abilities while providing companionship. At an apparently early date, humans learned to breed dogs for certain characteristics—trainability, sociability, size and coat color among them. They also began to create dogs who concentrated certain inherent wolfish talents and were thus even more valuable as hunters, guardians, warriors or herders. By How Old Is Our Oldest Friend? 7000 B.C., Egyptian tombs show hunting, herding, war and Exactly when the dog split off from the wolf and hitched its fuguard dogs, as well as esteemed pets. ture to that of humans is subject to debate, as are the reasons humans and wolves joined forces. The earliest archaeological Dogs extend virtually all human senses. They detect odors at evidence of dogs dates from 12,000 to 14,000 years ago. By concentrations that are 1,000 to 100 million times lower than 8,000 to 10,000 years ago dogs were found throughout the what humans can perceive, and they perform better than any world, their presence increasingly recorded in early rock art from machine. Today, dogs are used to detect explosives, guns, W O L F, M Y T H , H E R O & F R I E N D c o n t . o n p a g e 5 6 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 55 W O L F, M Y T H , H E R O & F R I E N D c o n t . money, drugs, underground oil and water leaks, contraband agricultural products, termites, and almost as many objects as one can imagine. Dogs continue to find game and humans, including people trapped in rubble, and even to track endangered species. Dogs see better at night, dusk and dawn than humans, and they can recognize moving objects at up to 540 meters (900 yards). Humans created gaze, or sight, hounds thousands of years ago to take advantage of the dog’s ability to see and run down large, fast prey, like gazelles and deer. Dogs hear over a much broader range of frequencies than humans, which enhances their value as watchdogs and as helpers for the hearingimpaired. All canids exhibit both skeletal and physiological adaptations for running, and some species/breeds are better built for running than others. In the wild, canids run to catch prey and to avoid predators. For millennia, humans have taken advantage of the dog’s ability to run for hunting, hauling and sport racing. Canids are also highly vocal, communicating through barks, bays, yodels, yelps, whines, growls and howls, with domestic dogs being the champion barkers. When it comes to howling, though, many of them come up short, and some dogs lack even a full range of barks. Humans do not always understand or appreciate these vocalizations in their house dogs, but these sounds are important in hunting and guard dogs, and dogs understand their meaning. Looking at the work dogs perform and the companionship they provide, it is easy to romanticize their place in human society. Numerous myths and legends from many cultures attest to the importance of dogs and various wild canids—they are presented as creators of the world or of men, bringers of fire, healers, guardians or guides to the underworld, the inseparable companions of gods as well as men. The Deadly Relationship But there is a dark side to human interactions with canids. Despite enjoying a popular fascination among many groups, wild canids have long been subject to persecution on the grounds that they kill livestock and threaten people. The slaughter has decimated wolf populations around the world, even while it has failed to suppress coyotes, who are expanding their range through much of North America. Other wild canids continue to suffer from hunting and habitat loss. Negative images, like that of the big bad wolf in the fairy tale “Little Red Riding Hood,” are nearly as common as positive portrayals. Dogs, too, have suffered persecution as spreaders of rabies and killers of livestock—in some areas dogs have long killed more livestock than wild predators, who are more frequently blamed. Millions of dogs are abandoned and abused each year or sacrificed in research. In some parts of the world, health officials continue to slaughter tens of thousands of stray dogs during rabies epidemics, despite the presence of a vaccine. Even without the fear of rabies, dog bites remain a major public health problem in the United States and other countries, serving as a constant reminder that for all of his virtues, the dog, like every canid, often acts with his teeth. a problem for that imperiled wolf as well. At the behest of their human companions dogs have served heroically in war; in fact, prior to the invention of firearms, they were a lethal part of any arsenal. But war dogs have also been turned to torture and brutality—against Native Americans during the Spanish conquest, for example, or runaway slaves or innocent civilians and protestors in many nations. Once popular sports, bull and bear baiting and dog fighting are now generally considered cruel spectacles, although they persist as illegal blood sports. Final Thoughts The dog’s attributes, including its sagacity, so highly praised in the 19th century, have helped it remain the chief, enduring animal companion and helper for humans. Whether pulling sleds; tracking endangered Florida panthers; assisting disabled people as their eyes, ears, stabilizers and guardians; protecting flocks and property; locating disaster victims or explosives; playing Frisbee; appearing in a show; or bringing joy to someone’s life, dogs continue to figure prominently in human society. They also continue to serve as a vital physical and spiritual link between the tame and the wild, human society and nature. As scientific advisors of the exhibit by the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, we have attempted to present a full portrait of the rich history of human’s best friend and the rich, natural family of canids from which it came. We recognize that it is a story without end as scientists, veterinarians, historians, archaeologists and anthropologists continue to fill in the often significant missing details and as humans continue to shape dogs to new purposes through breeding and training. We have a responsibility to dogs and their wild cousins that we cannot ignore, for in ways nearly too numerous to count, they have helped us get where we are. They bring balance to our lives and to the natural world, and they provide an insight into the mechanisms of evolution itself. Susanna Hecht, PhD, is a geographer who began her studies of canines with feral dogs; she is a professor at UCLA and author of several books and dozens of articles. Blaire Van Valkenburgh, PhD, is professor and chair of the Department of Organismic Biology, Ecology and Evolution at UCLA; she is an expert on the evolutionary history of the dog family. Robert K. Wayne, PhD, a worldrenowned researcher, includes among his accomplishments genetic studies that suggest a very early origin of dogs; he is a professor at UCLA in the Department of Organismic Biology, Ecology and Evolution. Originally appearing in Issue #20, Fall 2002 Source URL http://www.thebark.com/content/ Dogs: Wolf, Myth, Hero & Friend Published on The Bark (http://www.thebark.com) Reprinted with the permission of the Author and the Bark Dogs can also spread diseases like parvovirus and distemper to their wild cousins, a particular problem for endangered canids such as the Ethiopian wolf. Hybridization with domestic dogs is 56 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 Specialty Calendar DATE SHOW LOCATION SUPERINTENDENT / SHOW SEC. *1/27/12 GPCASC San Bernadino, CA Eileen Parr Bernie Ducker (530) 401-1025 3/3/12 PFNE W. Springfield, MA MBF Cheryl Young (518) 756-9321 3/24/12 DFWGPC Fort Worth, TX Onofrio Darrell Goolsbee (817)446-0193 4/24 to 4/28/12 GPCA National Specialty Matamoras, PA CAPER Karen Justin (845) 726-3437 *5/18/12 SPGPC (2 shows) Vallejo, CA MBF Jackie Schumacker (916) 395-4215 *6/22/12 C-CGPC & GPC of PS Canby, OR Onofrio Lee Goertz & Jon Lea (360) 263-4740 CAPER Mary Lou Mayer (817) 441-6376 Kathy Lee (540)334-5213 *4/10 to 4/13/13 GPCA National Specialty Pottsboro, TX INFORMATION * Pending AKC Approval Regional Specialty Results Quarter 1 2012 Corrections from the Q4 2011 issue: AOM: CH Alderbrook Cuvee Pinot Gris; Owners: Moya Courtney & Jeffrey Lateer Garden State Great Pyrenees Club 5/28/11 conformation judge: Mrs. Shirley Limoges AOM: CH Pyrsrus Dream Out of the Blue; Owners: Kristina & Roland Trinka Heart of Ohio Great Pyrenees Club 8/6/11 BOS: CH. Cabochard Salty Dog of Andorre, Owner: Bonnie Stout Bestos Best Bred By Exhibitor: Sunburst Klondike White Gold; Owner: Mary Ann Kenniger Sweepstakes AM only GREAT PYRENEES CLUB OF CALIFORNIA SEPTEMBER 9, 2011 AM Judge: Mr. Burton Yamada Judge: Mrs. Dianne Smalley Best in Puppy Sweeps: Karolaska Long Time No See; Owner: see above BOS Puppy Sweeps: Karolaska Positively Timeless; Owner: BOB: GrCH Honor’s Promise of the Future; Owners: Bernadette Kimberly Kentopp Ducker & Karen Bruneau Best in Veteran Sweeps: CH. Rivergroves No Doubt; Owners; BOS:CH Karolaska Tor Ruby of Shadowrun; Owner: John Marcella & Frank Vincentz, Alexis Harman & John Payne Parke Second Finalist Veteran Sweeps: CH Euzkazle Nostalgic BOW & WD: Karolaska Tor Hermes of Shadowrun; Owner: Moonlight; Owners: Terrie & Chris Strom John Parke PM Judge: Mr. Robert Slay WB: Karolaska Long Time No See; Owner: Kimberly Kentopp BOB: see AM show SD: GrCH R Pyr Euzkalzale Apache Sage!; Owners: Terrie BOS: see AM show Strom, Terry Denney-Combs & Leo Nunez BOW & WD: Karolaska Positively Timeless; SB:GrCH Cuvee’s Estate Grown Claret; Owners; Moya CourtOwner: see above ney & Jeffrey Lateer The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 57 GREAT PYRENEES CLUB OF METRO MILWAUKEE OCTOBER 15, 2011 WB: Cuvee Fruit of the Vine; Owners: Moya Courtney & Jeffrey Lateer SD: see AM show SB: CH. see above Alderbrook AM Judge: Mrs. Mary Ellen Mayer Cuvee Pinot Gris; Owners: AOM: see select dog am show AOM: see select bitch PM show Best Bred By Exhibitor: same as the am show MILE HIGH GREAT PYRENEES CLUB, INC SEPTEMBER 9, 2011 AM Judge: Mrs. Barbara Dillon BOB: Gr.CH Calurian Ailo Mountain Sage, RA; Owner: Nancy Wood Taber BOS: CH Tip’N Chip’s Let Freedom Ring; Owners: Laurie & Stephanie Gottschalk & Marcy Bankus BOW & WB: Suepyr’s April Love’s Spoofer; Owner: Judi Woolever BOB: Gr.CH Rivergroves Star Sapphire; Owners: John Hanover, DVM, Joan Hanover & Jean Boyd BOS: CH. Valle D’Aspe Deluge De’Couleur; Owners: Chea Michaels & Jo Stubbs BOW & WB: Oneida’s Medicine Maiden; Owners: Brigitte Doxtator & Angela Aleska WD: Tip’N Chip’s Pride and Prejudice: Owners: Judith Cooper & Michael Costa SB: GrCH Tip’N Chip Let Freedom Ring; Owners: Laurie & Stephanie Gottschalk & Marcy Bankus Best Bred By: Oneida’s Medicine Maiden; see above Best Junior: Colt Haas AM & PM Obedience Judge: Mrs. Catherine Peters High Score In Obedience: Bonnie Blue Sunshine Davis; Owners: James & Desiree Davis AM Sweepstakes Judge: Ms. Laura Johnston-Lorino Best In Puppy Sweeps: Rivergroves Diamond Fire and Ice; WD: Cherlyn’s Playboy; Owners Leigh Flores & Cheryl Owners: Rick & Erina Fitzgerald Grimshaw BOS Puppy Sweeps: Oneida’s Meadow Song; Owners: Brigitte SD: GrCH Pyrpressures Rouge Blanc Et Bleu; Owners: Glen, Doxtator & Angela Aleska Merry & Jonathan Johnson Best Veteran Sweepstakes: CH Whitehope Wizard’s First Rule, SB: Gr.CH Framboise Alpine’s Wind Rain and Fire; Owners: RA; Owners: Richard & Erina Fitzgerald Peggy & Stephen Hughes PM Judge: Mrs. Penny Urban AOM: see select dog BOB: GrCH Tip’N Chip Let Freedom Ring; Owners: see above Best Veteran: GrCH Aquilon Double Jump For Joy; Owners: SB Sandy McCrady & Barb Hayes BOS: Tip’N Chip’s Pride and Prejudice; Owners: see above Sweepstakes AM only WD Judge: Mrs Judy Mears Best in Puppy Sweeps: Supyr’s April Love’s Spoofer; Owner: see above BOW & WB: see BOW & WB above SB: GrCH Rivergroves Star Saphire; Owners see above BOB Junior Show – offered am only BOS Puppy Sweeps: Pyrpressure American Classic Moby Dick; Owners: Glen Johnson & Eileen & Richard Oertll PM Obedience – no qualifers Best in Veteran Sweeps: CH Starmount Spark of the Rockies; Owner; Sue Cole Best in Puppy Sweepstakes: see above same placement PM Judge: Mrs. Jane Treiber BOB: CH Pyrpressure L’Orgueil; Owners: Glen & Merry Johnson BOS: see AM show BOW & WB: see AM show WD: see AM show SD: see BOB AM show SB: see AM show AOM: see WD Best Veteran: see AM show PM Sweepstakes Judge: Mrs. Susan Reuter BOS Puppy Sweepstakes: see above same placement Veteran Sweepstakes – no entry I hope that you have enjoyed reading the results of the local specialty shows. I began reporting on these results in the hopes of inspiring those of you who chair these events and your exhibitors to report the results to the Bulletin. This issue will be the last one in which I will report the results. I am hoping that going forward you will submit the results with photos. There is no limit on the number of pages that local clubs can use to report their activities. The deadline for the next issue is April 1, 2012. Flo Best Junior Handler: Abbygail Chrysler 58 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 Bulletin Index 2011 issues Article, author, issue Misc. (Numbers, symbols, etc.) 2010 AKC titles, GPCA Obedience/Performance Titles, Show Statistics; Third quarter 2010 OFA Champion for Health; National Specialty 2010 OFA Health Clearances and CHIC numbers; Third quarter 2011 Health Committee Meeting Summary; Flo Laicher; National Specialty 2011 GPCA National Specialty Parade of Rescue; National Specialty 2011 GPCA National Specialty Results; National Specialty 2011 GPCA National Specialty Thoughts from the Co-chairs; Rick Fitzgerald and Bret Zacher; National Specialty 2012 GPCA National Specialty Hosted by the Garden State Great Pyrenees Club; Karen Justin; Fourth quarter A Agility “Time 2 Beat” Titling Class Launches; AKC; First quarter AKC Delegate’s Report, December 2010; Dr. Robert Brown; First quarter AKC Delegate’s Report, March 2011; Dr. Robert Brown; Second quarter AKC Delegate’s Report, September 2011; Dr. Robert Brown; Fourth quarter AKC Gazette column, The Really Awesome Power of the Breeder; Gail Knapp; Second quarter AKC Gazette column, White Coats and High Heat; Gail Knapp; Third quarter AKC Grand Champion Program Adds Achievement Levels; AKC; Third quarter AKC Humane Fund Seeks Canine Heroes for 12th Annual Awards for Canine Excellence; AKC; Second quarter AKC Introduces New Therapy Dog Title; AKC; Third quarter AKC Introduces Preferred Agility Championship Title; AKC; Second quarter AKC Launches New Breeder of Merit Program; AKC; First quarter AKC Launches Grand Champion Ranking System; AKC; First quarter All Over Tails, Stories and Rescue Tails from Around GPCA; Third quarter Along for the Ride; Rick Wells; Fourth quarter Animal Assisted Therapy and Activity (AAT&A): 2011; National Specialty Annual French Trip to the RACP and Tarbes Expositions, Our; Carol Savage; Fourth quarter Austin to Boston, From (2 dogs, 2,000 miles); Augusta Macrokonis; First quarter Second quarter Board of Directors Conference Call Minutes, June 9, 2011; Third quarter Board of Directors Conference Call Minutes, Sept. 8, 2011; Fourth quarter Breeder, The (poem); author unknown; Second quarter Bulletin Index 2010 Articles; First quarter C “C” is for Cirra, a Great Pyrenees Story; First quarter Can DNA Deciper the Mix; Jane Brackman; Third quarter Clinical Trials: the Risks and Benefits; Joan Stewart and Jan Waitz-Brody; Third quarter Continuous Membership for 2011; National Specialty Crufts Dog Show March 2011; Carol Savage; Second quarter D Deadline for Applying for Versatility and AAT&A Titling Awards is April 1, 2012; Christine Palmer-Persen; Fourth quarter Decoding the Dog Genome; Mark Derr; Third quarter Deconstructing the Gene Pool; Jane Brackman; Third quarter Diflucan (fluconazole) and Liver Toxicity; Valerie Seeley; Fourth quarter Dog’s Fairy Tale, A; Linda Mills; Second quarter Dog Show Slobs (reprint); Theodore E. Paul Jr.; Second quarter Dues Must Be Paid by October 1st – No Exceptions; GPCA; Third quarter, National Specialty F Foster Tails, Sugar … A Magnificent Old Girl; Linda Mercer; Second quarter French National 2010; Ans van den Berg; Second quarter French Trip to the RACP and Tarbes Expositions 2010, Our; Carol Savage; Second quarter G GPCA Annual Awards; National Specialty GPCA Bulletin – Electronic Format; Bret Zacher; Third quarter GPCA Hall of Fame Class of 2010; National Specialty GPCA Health Committee donors, Health Awards, Longevity Awards; first quarter GPCA Health Committee Health Survey summary; Catherine de la Cruz; Second quarter GPCA Health Committee National Seminar and Clinic Report – 2011; National Specialty GPCA Health Survey Summary 2010; National Specialty GPCA National Specialty Futures Report; GPCA committee; National Specialty B GPCA Rescue statistics 2010; Third quarter Bequest to the GPCA; Bret Zacher; Third quarter GPCA Service Dog Awards; Mary Lou Mayer; Fourth quarter Board of Directors Conference Call Minutes, Dec. 9, 2010; First GPCA Treasurer’s Report; National Specialty quarter Board of Directors Conference Call Minutes, March 10, 2011; Great Escapes; compiled by Linda Mercer; Second quarter Great Pyrenees 2010 Performance Results; Erina Fitzgerald; Na- The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 59 tional Specialty Pyrenees Gemstones; Carrie Stuart Parks; First quarter Guidelines for the Vaccination of Dogs – 2011; National Spe- Pyr’N Around the Great Pyrenees National; Karen Justin; Nacialty tional Specialty H Harry, Bella and a Wet Raccoon; Cynthia Nesser; First quarter Harry’s Fault, It’s, a rescue story; Judy MacDonald; Second quarter Historical Preservation of Your Pyrenees Artwork, Records and Memorabilia; Whitney Coombs; Third quarter Home Cookin’ for Pyrs; Sherry Bennett-Nichols; Third quarter R Remembering Crufts 2005; Ans van den Berg; Second quarter Rescue Tale, A; Carol Preiss; Fourth quarter Responsible Dog Ownership Days; AKC; Second quarter Road to Rally, The; Lori Fricker; Fourth quarter Romantic History of the “Dog of the Shepherd of the Pyrenees,” A (reprint); Natalie Winslow; First quarter I Importance of Being Well Bred, The; Linda Mercer; Third quarter Introducing the AKC Outstanding Sportsmanship Award; Bret Zacher; Fourth quarter S Search and Rescue: New Versatility Title Opportunity; Third quarter Service Awards; National Specialty Sheep and LGDs: Evidence of an Ancient Relationship of Trust?; Keith T. Weber with J. Bret Taylor; Fourth quarter J Sit! Stay! Come And Perform! (obedience report); Erina FitzgerJudge Selection Committee, The; Valerie Seeley; National Spe- ald; First quarter cialty Story of Star, Bailey, & Big John, The; Valerie Seeley; Third quarJuvenile Renal Dysplasia; Catherine de la Cruz; Second quarter ter Story of Wolf, a Pyr I Once Knew, The; Jackie Wood; First quarter L Lend Me a Pup (poem); author unknown; Second quarter Linda Weisser and the GPCA Health Committee; GPCA Health T Committee; Second quarter Tales from the Rainbow Bridge; Third quarter Tales from the Rainbow Bridge Part 2; Li Mercer; Fourth quarter M Things You May Not Know; Fourth quarter Maintaining a Healthy Weight; Purina; Third quarter TUGA, The Unofficial Guide to Acronyms; Second quarter Marwell’s Mickey Sean, The Flying Pyr (reprint); Ruth A. Marcy; Third quarter V Memorial to Bubba; Dina Porro; Second quarter Versatility Titles: 2011; National Specialty Minutes: GPCA Annual Meeting; National Specialty Veterans in the Show Ring; Terry Russo; Second quarter Minutes: GPCA Board of Directors Meetings; National Specialty Veterinary Corner, Demystifying Cancer; Dr. Vanessa Pisano, Murder at the National Part II, an Interactive Murder Mystery; DVM; Second quarter Carrie Stuart Parks; First quarter Veterinary Corner, Senior Dogs; Dr. Vanessa Pisano, DVM; Third Murder at the National Part III, an Interactive Murder Mystery; quarter Carrie Stuart Parks, Second quarter Vice President/Affliated Club Report Summary for 2010; Flo Laicher; National Specialty N National Specialty Show – Electronic Premiums and Judging Pro- W grams; Bret Zacher; Third quarter What’s New with the Historical Preservation Committee; Joan Nominating Committee Selects Atwood, Ingram and Stuart Ziehl; Second quarter Parks; Fourth quarter What Turns a Pup into a Livestock Guardian Dog? Catherine de Notes from the Treasurer; Judy Brown; Third quarter la Cruz; Third quarter Notes on People in the Pyrenees (reprint); Paul D. Strang; Fourth What You Always Wanted to Know about Ticks and Tick-borne quarter Disease and Never Thought to Ask; Janet Jarnefield; Fourth quarter Z O Zoo Pyrs; Gheni Platenburg; Second quarter Obituary: Charlotte Perry; Fourth quarter Obituary: Jack Magoffin, Second quarter Obituary: Linda Weisser; Second quarter P Pet Therapy: a Great Activity for Your Great Pyrenees; Pam Croy; Fourth quarter Prairiesong Anais d’Hiver; Stephanie Whitney; Fourth quarter 60 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 GPCA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE Ilene Agosto, Membership Committee Chairman 11604 NW 27th Avenue, Vancouver, WA 98685-4418 Phone: (360) 576-6857 Email: [email protected] (Please use a separate form for each person) ❍ Associate Membership APPLICATION FOR: ❍ Regular Membership (open membership, no voting rights) (full membership, 2 sponsors required) ❍ Junior Membership (for ages 10-17, no voting rights) Date: Name: Occupation: Street Address: City, State & Zip Code + four: Phone: ( ) If you own Great Pyrenees, how many? E-mail: Where did you acquire your Great Pyrenees? (ie, if from breeder, please state so + name, rescue organization, etc): Please indicate the names of any dog clubs/organizations of which you are or have been a member: What are your interests and activities in Great Pyrenees? If you breed, how many litters per year? If you show, how many shows per year? What talents or skills would you like to share with the club? By paying your dues, you agree to abide by the GPCA Constitution & Bylaws and understand and accept that ALL members of the Great Pyrenees Club of America abide by the Code of Ethics. (online at http://clubs.akc.org/gpca) I am not under suspension by the American Kennel Club, and if I become so, I will notify the GPCA Secretary: Signature & Date GPCA member sponsors (required for Full & Junior Membership; not required for Associate Membership). Sponsors must be full members for three years, have known the applicant for one year and must reside in different households. 1. Name, printed: Signature: 2. Name, printed: Signature: Send this form and the appropriate dues amount to the Membership Chairman listed above. Make checks payable to the GPCA. All applications will be acted upon 30 days after the applicant's name is published in the GPCA Bulletin. Dues: $40 for 1st applicant ($30 annual dues + $10 initiation fee), $25 for 2nd family member in a household ($15 annual dues + $10 initiation fee). Applicants that wish to receive their GPCA Bulletin 1st class, (recommended), include a surcharge of $10 for US Families, $12 required for Canadian addresses, $25 required for overseas addresses. The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 61 GPCA: 20 Futurity Nomination Form Date of Nomination: Nominator’s Name: PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY ❍ LITTER NOMINATION ❍ Breeder is a Member of GPCA Breeding Date: ❍ Affiliated Club: Sire: AKC Reg. No.: Dam: AKC Reg. No.: Owner of Sire: $5 Fee For Litter Nomination ❍ PUPPY NOMINATION FEE: $5 For pups nominated by four months old. $10 For pups four months and under five months. $15 For pups five months and under six months — maximum age for puppy to be eligible. Whelping Date: Sex: ❍ Male ❍ Female AKC Reg. No.: AKC Registered Name: Sire: Dam: Name of Breeder: Name of Owner at the time of judging: NOTE: Any changes in information which will be included in the Futurity Stake Catalog from that previously provided the Futurity Director must be received by same prior to close of entries. PLEASE COMPLETE THIS SECTION ON ALL SUBMITTALS AND KEEP A COPY FOR YOUR OWN RECORDS. Signature of Breeder, Owner or Agent: Address: Phone: E-mail: Send fee of $5.00 (see fees for pups over four months old) and complete eligibility of litter or puppy nomination for the Futurity. Make checks payable to: GPCA Futurity Fund Mail form with fee to the Futurity Director: Terr y Denney-Combs 14755 Yucca Street Hesperia, CA 92345-3319 Questions? Call the Futurity Director at (760) 949-0318 or E-mail: [email protected] PM: 62 Check Number AMOUNT: $ The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 Items From GPCA GPCA membership pins $20 GPCA pamphlets $2 donation New combined pamphlet includes sections on: • History of the Great Pyrenees • Is This the Breed for You? • Buying a Puppy • Care, Feeding and Early Training • Official Standard of the Breed • GPCA Code of Ethics Single copies only: • Futurity Stakes Policies • GPCA Constitution and Bylaws GPCA decals $3.50 TO ORDER, MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO GPCA: Pamphlets: Tami Green 3811 Milner Road; Stockbridge, MI 49285 Pins and Decals: Karen Justin 1893 Country Route 1; Westtown, NY 10998-3904 Constitution and Bylaws: Valerie Seeley 247 Woodland Drive; Lincroft, NJ 07738 Futurity Stake Forms: Terry Denney-Combs 14755 Yucca St.; Hesperia, CA 92345 MEMBERSHIP APPLICATIONS Available from the membership chairman: Ilene Agosto 11604 NW 27th Avenue, Vancouver, WA 98685 TITLE HOLDER BOOKS (Pictures and three generations of all Pyrs receiving titles for that particular year) Years 2003-10 $20 each Years 2001-02 $18 each Years 1994-2000 $17 each Years 1988-93 $15 each Years 1983-87 $10 each Years 1970-82 $8 each Years 1967-69, 1960-66, 1950-59 $12 per set TO ORDER, MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO GPCA: Judy Brown 436 Center Pointe Drive; Cary, NC 27513 VERSATILITY BOOKLETS Available free from GPCA Versatility Committee Send self-addressed 6’’ by 9’’ envelope with $0.83 postage to: Christine Palmer-Persen 2847 Mark West Station Road; Windsor, CA 95492 GREAT PYRENEES STANDARD VISUALIZATION AND COMMENTARY The Judges Education Committee is pleased to announce that the GPCA's Illustrated Standard (called the Standard Visualization and Commentary) is now available to all owners, fanciers and breeders. This 49-page booklet provides a visual portrait of our Standard plus a written explanation of what the Standard means. It is a vital learning tool for all of us who want to understand more about our breed and exactly what the Standard requires of the correct Great Pyrenees. A copy of the Great Pyrenees Visualization and Commentary has been mailed to all persons approved by the AKC to judge our Breed, Group and Best In Show. Now you can purchase your own copy for only $5.00. Just send your request and check to: GPCA Judges Education Committee Jean Pero 2385 South Miller Court Lakewood, CO 80227 The Great Pyrenees Club of America Bulletin • First Quarter 2012 63 GPCA Bulletin Stephanie Whitney 762 Highway 113 Rogersville, TN 37857 DATED MATERIAL — PLEASE RUSH Courtesy of Beth Smith