The Labrador Retriever Club Quarterly

The Labrador
Retriever Club
Quarterly
Officers and Directors
President
Vice President
Treasurer
Secretary
AKC Delegate
Fred Kampo
Frances O. Smith DVM
Lyn Yelton
Mary Feazell
Fred Kampo
Directors:
Nancy Brandow, Glenda Brown, Juxi Burr, Don
Driggers, Anthony Emilio, Paul Foster, Yvonne
Hays, Grayson Kelley, Marcia Lucas, Nina
Mann, Debra Miller, Barbara Nowak, Kate Simonds, Craig Stonesifer DVM, William Speck,
J. Kent Sweezey, Carolyn Tremer
Newsletter Staff
Editor:
Lorraine Yu
Obedience/Rally Editor: Barb Burri
Regular Contributors: Glenda Brown, Margaret
Wilson, Dr. Michael Woods, Marcia Lucas,
Gina Gross, Barb Burri, Linda Roberts
Webmasters: Marcia Lucas, Ann Vaughn, Marianne Foote
Oversight Committee
Marianne Foote, Fran Smith, Fred Kampo
Time Zone Points of Contact:
Pacific
Nina Mann
Stanwood, WA 98292
360-629-7619
Mountain
Debra Miller
Aurora, CO 80013
720-810-0135
Central
Frances O. Smith DVM
Lonsdale, MN 55046
507-744-2284
Eastern
Nancy Brandow
Bradford, ME 04410
207-356-1353
[email protected]
Regional Rescue Coordinators:
[email protected]
Eastern: Jennifer Combs
Central: Deb Hamele & Sandy McMillan
Mountain: Marcia Lucas & Terri McFadden
Pacific: Brandy Burton-Tarantino
Inside This Issue: Summer 2013
From the Editor
Retriever Field Trial Changes
Bragging Rights
Conformation Certificate Evaluation
AKC Good Dog
Cancer Studies Funded
Spay or Neuter Consideration
National Amateur Retriever
Championship
2013 National Specialty
Schedule
Structure in Action Seminar
Photo Contest
Business Opportunities
Book Reviews
Boston Marathon Therapy
Locked Down in Watertown
Puppy Sales Legislation
Hidden Dangers in Dog’s Water
Labs of the Potomac
Ad Rates
Club Contacts
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Photos contributed by:
Lou Leitao, Lorraine Yu, Barb Burri,
Penny Shultz, David Opseth
2013 National Specialty
information is available online at:
www.thelabradorclub.com.
Check back often!
Submissions Deadline:
15th of March, June, September and
December.
Email your submissions to:
[email protected]
WANTED:
Juniors who Show Labs!
Send photos, wins, words of wisdom for other Juniors!
If your club is having a Retriever
Hunting Test or WC, please email
it to the newsletter staff for
publication.
[email protected]
Contributors in this issue:
The LRC, Inc, BOD, Terri McFadden,
AKC.org, Robin Anderson, Marcia
Lucas, Lorraine Yu, Barb Burri, Penny
Shultz, Chuck Winslow, Linda Roberts, Nancy Brandow, and the Canine
Health Foundation
WELCOME 2013
NEW MEMBERS!
Tammy Aghjayan
Eric Alton
Marie Anderson
Krista Brasel
R.J. Carlisle
Sarah Cunningham
Fred Drennan
Jason Fleming
Wendy Gai
Sherry Geurts
Mark Ingram
PK Lichtenberger
Walt Maki, Jr.
Anne Maynard
Mark Medford
Wendy McCance
Lorraine Yu
Dear Readers:
This picture always makes me smile … and sometimes even laugh. This is Cayenne
(Gingerbred SmokeNHot at Misty Mountain). When she was a puppy, her default position when she felt overwhelmed by any situation was to flip over on her back and those
arms and ears would fly up. Keep in mind she would get to this position if she was
sitting calmly next to you or on a dead run through the yard—it was quite amazing to
watch. I’m sharing this as I take on my new role as the LRC Newsletter Editor —I definitely feel like I should assume this position as it’s been quite overwhelming. You would
all be amazed at the amount of people, work, and time that goes into putting this
newsletter together and getting it distributed to the membership. I am in awe and very
grateful for the others before me who have done such a great job. I’d like to thank, in
particular, Marcia Lucas and Robin Anderson who have so many irons in the fire yet
graciously offer their help and support. Without them, you would not be seeing the newsletter you are reading today.
Becoming a part of the Labrador community has been and continues to be truly inspiring. I remember searching for our first show
dog and interviewing breeders who talked so passionately about their dogs and breeding lines (...“so-and-so” is out of “so-and-so”
who was bred to a multiple best in specialty show stud dog who is the foundation of …). And I didn’t have a clue as to what they
were saying but it all sounded impressive! And years later, I sound just like them! For example, introducing some of our pack …
Diamond is out of Zeus and Prada and Scarlett is a Zeus granddaughter but also a Prada niece so that makes Scarlett a cousin to
Diamond but also a niece … all, of course, makes total sense to me but flies over the head of our friends, family, and unsuspecting
potential pet owners. We have learned so much from so many people in the Labrador community, from breeding to training to
home remedies. I’m so thankful for those before me have been willing to share. As a community, together, we have so many
years of experience and wisdom; I hope to continue to tap into your collective knowledge as newsletter editor and share your
stories and experience with our membership. Please send me your ideas, lessons learned, questions, etc. We are better together!
Gratefully yours,
Lorraine Yu
Do you think we
got any new mail
today?
Is it dinner time
yet? I’m hungry!
!READERS!
To review books fro the LRC NEWS
If you like to read and want to share a good book, send
your book review to: [email protected].
Include title, author, and publisher with your email
address for responses
We’re patiently waiting for the mailman.
WHY?
For your Letters to the Editor!
[email protected]
Don’t miss a single issue of the LRC NEWS!
Please forward any change of address information to
Joan Kerr
[email protected]
Be sure to include your summer/winter addresses and
dates.
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LRC Mission Statement
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To maintain a Standard that will preserve the character and breed type of the Labrador Retriever.
To preserve the Labrador Retriever as a working retriever and promote its multipurpose function.
To conduct national specialty shows, field trials, hunting tests, and companion dog events under the rules
and regulations of the American Kennel Club.
To provide educational programs that promote the
health and training of the Labrador Retriever, and
responsible ownership and breeding practices.
To identify the diseases and hereditary defects of
concern to the breed, and to contribute to research
and health programs that will benefit Labrador Retrievers.
To support the American Kennel Club as the primary
purebred registry of the Labrador Retriever by encouraging breeders and owners to complete AKC
registrations and to participate in AKC approved
events.
To support legislative efforts that will ensure the continuation of a purebred dog registry.
To collect and preserve the history of the Labrador
Retriever in the United States.
To support AKC licensed regional Labrador Retriever
clubs by encouraging membership in these clubs,
and to endorse their sponsorship of AKC specialties,
hunt tests and companion dog events.
To support Labrador Retriever rescue organizations
in a declared disaster with relief funds.
To maintain programs that educate and encourage
Junior Handler participation in AKC events.
To encourage all Labrador Retriever breeders and
owners to conduct themselves in an ethical and
sportsmanlike manner, keeping in mind that their be-
About the
Labrador Retriever Club, Inc.
The Labrador Retriever Club, Inc. (LRC) is a nationally
based club dedicated to preserving the integrity of the
breed. It is the single organization officially recognized by
the American Kennel Club as the national parent club of
the Labrador Retriever. Incorporated in October 1931, in
the state of New York, the LRC, Inc. is not affiliated with
any other association titled or claiming to be the National
Labrador Retriever Club.
The Labrador Retriever Club has a rich history with past
and present members and Labradors. Our Constitution
and Bylaws are published here and include information on
becoming a member of the Club.
Events
The Club sponsors a National Specialty Event week in
October of each year that includes a specialty show, obedience and agility competitions, retrieving tests and edu-
cational seminars. In addition, the LRC, Inc. hosts
two hunting retriever tests and two field trials annually.
The Club has an introductory test for novices interested in
training their dog for field work called a Working Certificate test. A Working Certificate will be issued to any that
passes the basic test requirements. The Club also sponsors a Conformation Certificate program whereby a dog is
evaluated against the written Standard for the breed (dog
must be at least one year old).
Both these programs are open to intact Labradors, as well
as spayed or neutered animals. It is also recommended
that you have your dog pass a Canine Good Citizen test
sponsored by the American Kennel Club.
Publications and Contributions
We publish a quarterly newsletter and an annual Yearbook. The LRC also provides educational material for new
owners, breeders, and potential judges of the breed.
The Labrador Retriever Club's Breeders Directory is available online. It has been made available for prospective
Labrador owners who are looking for reputable breeders
of puppies and older dogs. The Breeders Directory is indexed by name, location, and "kennel" name.
In addition, we donate funds toward breed specific health
issues and are always working towards educating the
public about our breed.
Brief History
Today, the Labrador Retriever is America's most popular
breed. But it was not until 1917 that the first Labrador was
registered by the American Kennel Club. According to records the first retriever field trial licensed by the AKC was
held December 21, 1931. That same year, on October 24,
the Labrador Retriever Club was incorporated under the
laws of the State of New York by a group of sportsmen led
by Franklin B. Lord.
The Club's first annual specialty show was held on May
18, 1933 in New York City. Mrs. Marshall Field, Judge,
awarded Best in Show to Mr. Lord's Boli of Blake, who, on
November 1, 1933, became the first Labrador to earn his
American championship.
Thank you for visiting our web site. Visit often as we add
to our web site periodically.
Retriever News has launched an online marketplace for
club merchandise. The National Amateur Retriever Club
is selling shirts, hats, and other merchandise via the site:
retrieveroutfitters.com The LRC, Inc will do so as
well. AKC clubs can send their logo in if they would like
merchandise for their own club. Any person can order
any item with the logo of their choice. This means clubs
will no longer have to purchase shirts, hats, etc to sell at
events and worry about storing overstocks.
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A newly licensed Lab club is the Central California Labrador Retriever Club. President: Chris Bunch, 28606
Pittman Hill Rd., Clovis, CA 93619. They are now licensed but need four minor changes to their constitution
and a site plan sent to AKC before applying.. Their territory covers greater Kingsburg including Fresno, Madera,
Tulare and Kings counties.
Two Changes to the Retriever Field Trial
Standard Procedures
AKC Performance Events Department
This is to inform you of two recent changes to the Retriever Field Trial Standard Procedures.
The new wording is underlined. These changes become
effective August 1, 2013.
The Canine Health Information Center assigns a CHIC
number, automatically, to any Labrador that is tested for
hips, elbows, and eyes and whose test results are public. Other testing can also be done but these three are
mandatory to receive the CHIC designation. As of June
17, 2013, they also require Exercise Induced Collapse
before the CHIC is assigned to a Labrador retriever.
LRC, Inc. Membership Applications
Membership applications to join the LRC may be downloaded from the LRC website: www.thelabradorclub.com
or requested from the Membership Coordinator or any
Club Director.
Applications should be sent with two letters of sponsorship to the Membership Coordinator:
Nancy Stewart
10608 County Rd. #525
Mansfield, TX 76063
[email protected]
Applicants are encouraged to review their experience
in the breed as well as consider volunteering their time
and talents in an area appropriate to
their experience or profession.
Membership applications may take up to
THE LRC NEWS GOES
GREEN!
We’re going electronic!
SAVE PAPER and CONSERVE
TREES!
Definition of an Amateur. This change appears in the
Standing Recommendations of the Retriever Advisory
Committee, paragraph #3. (Page 36)
Amateur Definition: the following definitions and standards should be followed in determining the status of any
person to be an Amateur:
(a) For purposes of eligibility to judge under Chapter 14,
Section 3 of the rules for retriever trials, a person shall be
considered an Amateur who during the period of two
years preceding the trial in question has not received
compensation from the direct training of a dog for hunting,
hunting tests or field trials and/or the handling of a dog in
the same, and/or the regular and systematic personal instruction of other individuals regarding the above pursuits
at any level. Compensation as provided above is defined
as money, goods or services to a person or any member
of their household. Any person participating in an occasional organized seminar or workshop to improve the
training and handling of field trial, hunting test or hunting
dogs will be exempt from the above provision as will a
person who receives payment for providing educational
material (such as books, videos, etc.) to the public on the
training and handling of field trial, hunting test or hunting
dogs.
Use of Layout Blinds. This change appears in Standard
Procedure #8, third paragraph. (Page 28)
Retired Guns and throwers should be concealed by a
blind that provides complete coverage, adequate space,
and natural camouflage to conceal the distinctive shape
of the blind and in no event shall gunners or throwers be
instructed to lay down on the ground in layout blinds or
like configurations for hiding purposes.
The new wording will appear in the next reprint of the
Rules. Please e-mail questions or comments to [email protected].
So far, 47% of our renewing
members have GONE GREEN!
You can download your electronic newsletter off our website (www.thelabradorclub.com). Click the link for NEWSLETTER in the drop down menu then insert your member
ID and password.
Help us go green—get your member ID and password
from Joan Kerr [email protected]
Effective immediately, Marcia Lucas will be the program
administrator for the Versatile Producer of Merit
award. The Board feels a Director should oversee the
program during its pilot phase (January 2013 - December
2017). Marcia's contact information is on the website,
under the Programs (VPM) tab and under the About LRC
(Contact) tab.
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BRAGGING RIGHTS
FC AFC CT Broad Reach Devil Made Me Doit “Sinner”.
On April 28, 2013 at the
Greater Louisville Training
Club Test, Sinner successfully completed a Variable
Surface Track and passed
the test, thus earning the
Variable Surface Tracking
(VST) title. She already had
a TD and a TDX, so earning the VST title made her
a Tracking Champion
(CT). Sinner also already
carried the titles of Field
Champion and Amateur Field Champion. She is the first
dog, of any breed, to be awarded these three champion titles by the AKC. Sinner was born 10/03/2002 and
is owned by Jeff Telander and Allen Voshell.
A few words from Jeff on Sinner’s background… When
Sinner injured her shoulder running field trials, we did everything possible to repair the injury and help her heal. Still,
after multiple surgeries, stem cell injections and other procedures, she continued to have some soreness. I ultimately decided it was not in her
best interest to continue to
train for field work. She still
wanted to work and I enjoy
training her so I decided to
step away from field work
and began training Sinner for
AKC tracking tests. She
loves to track, so we embraced this new game and
trained just as hard for tracking as we ever did for field
work. The rest is history.
For me, all dog games are all about the dog and our relationship. Being able to work with the dog is more important
to me than the game we play. I am grateful to have found
another game to play with Sinner that doesn't jeopardize
her health while at the same time accomplishing something that hasn't been done before (FC AFC CT) and developing a skill (finding lost people) that may help someone someday.
Bronze Grand CH/UKC Ch Viking Hil’Die Tanzbarin,
RA, MH, WCX “Hildi”
took High in Trial at the
Labrador Retriever Club
of Greater Boston Specialty in June 2013 and
earned her second leg
for her CD! Handled by
Gerrie Owren, Hildi also
took Second Place in the
Hunting Retriever Bitch
Class at the same
show. Sired by MultiBISS Am/Can CH Aquarius Centercourt Delight, JH, WC x
Viking Zinka Dew, CD, JH, RA, WCI, CGC CC, Hildi is
owned, loved and trained by Gerrie Owren, Robin Anderson and Zach Orcutt at Grampian Labradors, Reg.
Gr CH/UKC CH Grampian Lola Tortola Viking, JH, RA,
WC, CGC “Lola” took Best Hunting Retriever in a Specialty under Judge
Marion Lyons and
retired the
Nor’Land Challenge Trophy for
Grampian Labradors at the Labrador Retriever Club
of Greater Boston
June Specialty
Show, June 13,
2013. Lola went on to win a JAM under Carole Coode
and topped off the show by earning her first Obedience
CD leg! Lola is a Multi-BOB winner, Group placer and
Grampian’s best puppy nanny on the planet. Bred, loved
and trained by Robin Anderson and Gerrie Owren, she’s
sired by CH Hollyhills Delby’s Samuel Adams, WC, CGC
x CH Snowden Hill Mango Crazy, JH, RA, WC, CGC.
GCH CH Ms T's Char-Don Always Gonna Be Another
Mtn WC “Montana” (BISS GCH Am/Can CH Gingerbred
Celestial Thunder JH
DPP x Rochars CharDon I Believe at Ms T's
WC) is owned and bred
by Terry McFadden and
Janet Schoonover. Montana finished his CH
from Bred-By at 11
months old, also taking
WD at the Papago LRC
specialty in Feb 2013.
He finished his GCH,
when he just turned 15
months old, with Selects
at LRCSC and LRCA, handled by Janet throughout. He
earned his WC, handled by Terry, in Jan 2013.
CH Ms T's Char-Don How Loves Moves RN WC
“River” (BISS
CH Ghoststone's
Louie Downtown
CD WC x CH SR
Ms T's Dusti
Winds Over Char
-Don CD RAE
WC) earned her
WC in Jan 2013.
She had earned
her CH in Nov
2009.
All members in good standing with the LRC
can post their brags for free.
New conformation champions must have completed
the requirements for a Working Certificate
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Conformation Certificate Evaluation
Nancy R. Brandow, LRC, Inc. Conformation Certificate
Coordinator
The LRC, Inc. hosted a Conformation Certificate Evaluation on Saturday, June 15, 2013 in Eau Claire, Wisconsin
prior to the 2013 National Amateur Championship Stake.
Conformation evaluators were Nancy Brandow, Deb Miller, Nina Mann, Deb Miller, and Barbara Nowak. Marcia
Lucas managed the registration process.
The Conformation Certificate offered by the Labrador
Retriever Club,
Inc. is a noncompetitive conformation evaluation program
open to all Labrador Retrievers, including
spayed and
neutered dogs.
A Conformation
Certificate is
awarded to Labrador Retrievers
over (1) one year of age that pass a conformation examination sanctioned by the LRC, Inc. and officiated by an
approved American Kennel Club conformation judge or
provisional judge for the breed. Labrador Retriever specialty sweepstakes judges, Sporting Group judges for
American Kennel Club events and LRC, Inc. Board members are also eligible to officiate. Judging is in accordance with the AKC Standard for the Labrador Retriever.
A dog that possesses the basic attributes of a Labrador
Retriever and attains a total score of eighteen accumulated from nine conformation and temperament categories
may be awarded an official LRC, Inc. Conformation Certificate.
Labradors qualifying for the official LRC, Inc. Conformation Certificate:
1. FC Castlebay Abe’s Cranberry Rum, SR 443918/03;
Sire: FC/AFC Haweye’s Candlewood Shadow; Dam: FC
Castlebay’s Heir Borne; Breeder: Henry McNeil and
Lynora Budd; Owner: Lynora Budd
2. AFC Mitimat Rock Paper Scissors, SR 546617/06;
Sire: 2X NAFC Ebonstar Lean Mac; Dam: FC Mitimat
You Go Girl; Breeder: Tim and Tami Thompson; Owner:
Lydia Fekula
3. AFC Dominators Dealer He’s Worth It, SR
252412/02; Sire: FC AFC RSK’s Smooth Sailing; Dam:
Lady Walking Bayou; Breeder Chris Cocallas; Owner:
Vern and Kathy Hasenbank
4. FC AFC Hardscrabble Roxie McBunn, SR
353880/05; Sire: FC AFC Creek Robber; Dam: FC AFC
M & M’s Buns of Steel; Breeder: Mitchel and Margaret
Brown; Owner: William Benson
5. FC AFC Bumble, SR 586169/02; Sire: FC AFC CH’s
Mister T; Dam: White Oak Rainy River; Breeder: Strack
Bein; Owner: Fred Kampo
6. FC AFC Star Spangled Girl II, MH, SR 307179/02;
Sire: FC Fargo II; Dam: Quail Oaks Bonelli Action;
Breeder: Karen Young and Gil Malmgren; Owner: Alice
Woodyard
7. NAFC FC Cody Cut A Lean Grade, SR 160826/01;
Sire: FC AFC Code Blue; Dam: Ms Lean Mac’ce; Breeder: David Clark; Owner: Chad Baker
8. NAFC FC Paddle Creek’s Pack Your Grip, SR
458831/03; Sire: NAFC FC Cody Cut A Lean Grade;
Dam: Candlewoods High Dollar Diva; Breeder: TR Rossiter; Owner: Chad Baker
9. Candlewood’s Bucky’s Lucky, SR 157772/03; Sire:
FC Fox-C’s Take It to the Bank; Dam: Kerrybrook Candlewood Bailey; Breeder: Mary Howley; Owner Lydia
Fekula
10. FC AFC Lanes Get Ready to Rumble,
SR387508/08; Sire: FC AFC Dare to Dream; Dam: RC
Gemstone’s ‘The Raven’; Breeder: Gwen Gordon Jones;
Owner: Bobby Lane
Conformation Certificate Evaluation Toolkit
A Conformation Certificate Evaluation Toolkit is now
available for Clubs wishing to apply for and hold a Conformation Certificate Evaluation.
The Conformation Certificate offered by the Labrador
Retriever Club, Inc. is a non-competitive conformation
evaluation program open to all Labrador Retrievers, including spayed and neutered dogs.
A Conformation Certificate will be awarded to any Labrador Retriever over (1) one year of age that passes a conformation examination sanctioned by the LRC, Inc. and
officiated by an approved American Kennel Club conformation judge or provisional for the the breed.
Labrador Retriever specialty sweepstakes judges, Sporting Group judges for American Kennel Club events and
LRC, Inc. Board Members are eligible to officiate. Labradors will be judged in accordance with the Standard. The
evaluation should demonstrate that a dog possesses the
basic attributes of a Labrador Retriever. The Evaluation Sheet contains nine (9) conformation and temperament categories for a judge to consider on a numerical
basis. Each dog will be scored in each category using
the one (1) through three (3) point system described.
To receive a Conformation Certificate a dog is required
to have a total score of eighteen (18) or better and
demonstrate in the mind of the judge a sixty-five (65) percent likelihood of conforming to the characteristic as described in the Standard.
Clubs interested in receiving the Conformation Certificate
Toolkit should request the toolkit from Nancy Brandow
Conformation Certificate Coordinator via email at
[email protected] A PDF of the toolkit will be forwarded along with a word document that can be completed by the Club to request approval to hold an LRC, Inc.
Conformation Certificate Evaluation. The Conformation
Certificate Evaluation is typically held during Working
Certificate Tests, Hunting Retriever Tests, Obedience
and Rally Trials, Field Trials, Agility, Tracking Tests and
other events where Labrador Retrievers and their owners
may gather.
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Major Canine Cancer Studies Funded
Today is a big day in the fight against canine cancer! The
AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) and the Golden
Retriever Foundation (GRF) embark on a new journey of
finding answers to canine cancer by announcing the joint
funding of nearly $1.5 million in canine cancer research.
Please join us in supporting this research!
AKC® GoodDog!SM Helpline
The American Kennel Club is launching a new initiative
designed to promote dog training and encourage more
dog owners to pursue dog sports with their canine companions.
The AKC® GoodDog!SM Helpline will offer telephone support to new dog owners. Trainers will staff the phone line
and offer advice on teaching good manners and basic
obedience. They also will relay the importance of taking
their dog to a training club for a group class so their new
puppy or dog gets the benefit of socialization and working
with a dog training professional.
Callers will be directed to the AKC Training Club directory on the AKC website so please make sure all
contact information for your club is up to date!
The GoodDog! Helpline launched in April and will operate
from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET Monday through Friday and
noon to 6 p.m. ET Saturday. Owners subscribe to the service, which is good for the life of the dog, at a cost of
$79.99. There will be special promotional pricing for owners at the time of on-line AKC registration.
The AKC GoodDog! Helpline is another way that the
American Kennel Club promotes responsible dog ownership and contributes to helping dogs be good citizens in
their homes and communities.
For more information about the new service, visit the AKC
GoodDog! Helpline web page at: https://
www.apps.akc.org/ofp/helpline/landing?mc=HLPAKC.
Please direct any questions to: [email protected].
Be sure to check your club’s information on the AKC
website and send updates, changes, or corrections to
[email protected].
The Foundations have worked together to select two outstanding canine cancer research projects. The research
results are expected to significantly improve the understanding and diagnosis of canine cancer so that dogs live
longer, healthier lives.
These grants are an exciting step forward in the field of
cancer research for dogs. While the research grants will
primarily focus on Golden Retrievers, both projects emphasize a better understanding of the mechanism of how
cancer begins and spreads, resulting in research that will
be applicable across all breeds of dogs. These results will
have a One Health application, impacting human medicine
as well.
The two funded teams of researchers will commence their
work later in 2013 with anticipated completion dates in
2016.
Dr. Jaime Modiano of the University of Minnesota, Dr.
Matthew Breen of North Carolina State University and Dr.
Kerstin Lindblad-Toh of The Broad Institute of MIT and
Harvard will focus their efforts on the establishment of genetic risk alleles, defining the gene expression profile and
the role of cellular activation in lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma.
Dr. Jeffrey Bryan of the University of Missouri, Dr. Anne
Avery of Colorado State University and Dr. Heather Wilson-Robles of Texas A&M University will focus on discovery of novel protein, blood and epigenetic biomarkers to
enhance diagnosis and treatment of cancer in dogs.
Read more about the grants: http://www.akcchf.org/
research/funded-research/collaborative-cancerawards.html
Please make a contribution to our canine cancer efforts
today. You will be supporting these studies as well as
building our capacity to fund more research in the future.
And as always, thank you for your commitment to helping
dogs live longer, healthier lives! Donate here: http://
The Bird Dog Foundation is a monument to all sporting
dogs. It includes a national retriever museum and a
sporting dog museum, in addition to the original pointing
dog museum. The LRC hosted a field trial on the
grounds in April of 2013. The Bird Dog Foundation, and
associated Ames Plantation, would like to host other
events as well. Please visit their website and consider
making a donation so we will have these lovely grounds
and the Foundation for many generations to come. http://
www.birddogfoundation.com/
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Early Spay-Neuter Considerations for the
Canine Athlete: One Veterinarian’s Opinion
© 2005 Chris Zink DVM, PhD, DACVP, DACVSMR
Extensively revised and updated - 2013, reprinted from
Canine Sports Productions - www.caninesports.com
Those of us with responsibility for the health of canine
athletes need to continually read and evaluate new
scientific studies to ensure that we are taking the most
appropriate care of our performance dogs. This article
reviews scientific evidence that, taken together, suggests
that veterinarians and owners working with canine athletes should revisit the current standard protocol in which
all dogs that are not intended for breeding are spayed
and neutered at or before 6
months of age. The results of a
number of publications are briefly
summarized in the areas of orthopedics, cancer, behavior, and
other health considerations.
Orthopedic Considerations
• Bitches spayed at 7 weeks had significantly delayed
closure of growth plates as compared to those spayed at
7 months, and those spayed at 7 months had significantly
delayed closure of growth plates as compared to those
left intact.(1) In a study of 1444 Golden Retrievers, bitches and dogs spayed or neutered at less than a year of
age were significantly taller than those spayed or neutered after a year of age.(2)
• In a study of 203 agility dogs, the author demonstrated
that the tibia and radius and ulna were significantly
longer than the femur and humerus, respectively, in dogs
that were spayed or neutered at or prior to 8 months of
age as compared to intact dogs. (M.C. Zink, unpublished
data)
• Several studies have shown that spayed and neutered
dogs have a significantly higher prevalence of CCL
rupture (3–6), even when controlling for body size.(3)
• Dogs that were neutered at least 6 months prior to a
diagnosis of hip dysplasia were 1.5 times more likely to
develop hip dysplasia than sexually intact dogs.(7)
• Spayed/neutered dogs had 3.1 times higher incidence
of patellar luxation.(8)
Discussion: Dogs that have been spayed or neutered
at or before puberty can often be identified by their longer
limbs, lighter bone structure, narrower chests and narrower skulls than intact dogs of the same breed. This
differential growth frequently results in significant alterations in body proportions and particularly the lengths (and
therefore weights) of certain bones relative to others. For
example, if the femur has achieved its genetically
determined normal length at 8 months, prior to a dog being spayed or neutered, but the tibia (which normally
stops growing at 12 to 14 months of age) continues to
elongate for several months after that point because of
the removal of the sex hormones, then the relationship
between the femur and tibia will be different than what
was genetically determined. This may result in an abnormal angle at the stifle and a longer (and therefore heavier) tibia placing increased stress on the cranial cruciate
ligament (of the knee or stifle joint). It is well known that
spayed and neutered dogs are more likely to be overweight or obese than sexually intact dogs (9), and this
can be a contributing factor to orthopedic diseases. Thus,
keeping the spayed/neutered canine athlete lean can help
mitigate the increased risk of orthopedic conditions.
Cancer Considerations
• Spayed females had more than 5 times greater risk than
intact bitches of developing cardiac hemangiosarcoma
and neutered males had 1.6 times higher risk than intact
males had of developing cardiac hemangiosarcoma.(10)
• Spayed females had 2.2 times increased risk for developing splenic hemangiosarcoma.(11)
• Male and female Rottweilers that were neutered or
spayed before a year of age had 3.8 and 3.1 times greater risk, respectively, of developing bone cancer than intact dogs.(12) In a second study, spayed/neutered dogs
had a 2.2 times higher risk of developing bone cancer
than intact dogs.(13)
• Neutered dogs had a 2.8 times greater risk for developing any prostate tumor than intact dogs.(14) Neutered
dogs had a 4.3 times higher risk of developing prostate
carcinoma.(15, 16)
• Neutered dogs had a 3.6 higher risk for developing transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder than intact dogs,
and a 3 times greater risk of developing any bladder tumor.(14) Spayed/neutered dogs had more than 4 times
greater risk for developing transitional cell carcinoma of
the bladder than intact dogs.(17)
• In a survey of 2505 Vizslas, spayed or neutered dogs
were found to have a significantly higher risk of mast
cell cancer, hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma and all cancers together than intact dogs.(18)
Discussion: One study indicated a slightly increased
risk of mammary cancer in female dogs after one heat
cycle (8% increase), greater risk with two heats (26% increase) and increased risk with each subsequent heat.
(19) However, a recent systematic review of the publications that advocate neutering to reduce the risk of mammary tumors in dogs indicated that 9 of 13 reports had a
high risk of bias and the remaining 4 had a moderate risk
of bias. This study concluded that the evidence that neutering reduces the risk of mammary cancer is weak and
do not constitute a sound basis for firm recommendations.
(20) Additionally, at the time when several of these studies were conducted (late 1960s), it was found that incidence rates for all malignant neoplasms were
453.4/100,000 female dogs. Mammary tumors accounted
for half of these tumors, or 198.8/100,000. Thus, the actual overall risk at that time of any bitch getting a mammary
tumor was only 0.2%.(21) In any case, the figures for increased risk of mammary cancer must be compared with
the 200 to 400% increased risk of other cancers in
spayed females. While about 30% of mammary cancers
are malignant (22), as in humans, when caught and surgically removed early, the prognosis is very good.(23) This
is in comparison to the other cancers listed, such as hemangiosarcoma and bladder cancer, which are often fatal. Given the balance of cancer risks listed above, owners of canine athletes should strongly consider leaving the
ovaries intact for at least two heat cycles. In addition, the
veterinary field should be developing programs for regular
examinations including imaging to facilitate early diagnosis of mammary cancer in all intact female dogs, as has
been performed in women for decades.
Behavior Considerations
• Early age gonadectomy was associated with an increased incidence of noise phobias and undesirable sexual behaviors, such as mounting.(24)
8
• Significantly more behavioral problems in spayed and
neutered bitches and dogs, with fearful behavior being
most common in spayed bitches and aggression in neutered dogs.(25, 26)
• In a prospective study, German Shepherd Dogs spayed
between 5-10 months of age had significantly
increased reactivity.(27)
Discussion: A number of the early studies claiming to
show positive behavioral effects of spay/neuter were
significantly flawed. For example, one of the most often
quoted publications to support improvements in behavior,
particularly aggression, after gonadectomy does not actually provide any statistical analysis. Additionally, 88% of
owners of dogs in this study stated that their reason for
castrating the dog was to attempt to resolve an existing
behavior problem. Owners were also surveyed regarding
the dog’s behavior a mean of 27 months post-castration.
These factors likely introduced a significant amount of
bias.(28) Another performed statistical analysis but
showed that the age when the dog was neutered was not
correlated with the degree of improvement.(29) Most critically, neither of these two studies included a control group
of intact dogs. One of the more important undesirable
behavioral effects of spay/neuter for canine athletes was
a finding of a significantly lowered energy level. This was
shown in a study that was well controlled and examined
over 3500 dogs.(26)
Other Health Considerations
• Female, and sometimes male, dogs that are spayed/
neutered before puberty have an increased risk of
urinary incontinence and it is more severe in bitches
spayed earlier.(30-33)
• Spayed female dogs displayed a significantly higher risk
or hypothyroidism when compared to intact females.(34)
A health survey of several thousand Golden Retrievers
showed that spayed or neutered dogs were more likely to
develop hypothyroidism.(2) Neutered male and spayed
female dogs had higher relative risks of developing hypothyroidism than intact females.(35)
• Neutered females had a 22 times increased risk of developing fatal acute pancreatitis (multivariate analysis) as
compared to intact females.(36)
• Risk of adverse reactions to vaccines is 27 to 38%
greater in neutered dogs as compared to intact.(37)
• In a study of female Rottweilers there was a strong positive association between retention of the ovaries and
longevity.(38)
Summary
I have gathered
these studies to
show that the practice of routinely
spaying or neutering every dog at or
before the age of 6
months is not a black-and-white issue. Clearly more studies need to be undertaken to evaluate the effects of prepubertal spaying and neutering, particularly in canine athletes. After examining the risks and benefits, I have significant concerns with removal of the gonads in both males
and females. It is clear that the gonads are not just important for reproduction, but play a critical role in growth,
development and long-term health.
Preventing Procreation
If we leave the gonads intact, how can we prevent the production of unwanted dogs? For males, the obvious
solution is to keep them away from bitches in heat. But if
an owner needs more certainty that a dog will not be
bred, the answer is to perform a vasectomy. One possible
disadvantage is that vasectomy does not prevent some
unwanted behaviors associated with males such as marking and humping. On the other hand, females and
neutered males frequently participate in these behaviors
too. Training is the most effective solution to these
behaviors. Another potential issue is finding a veterinarian
who can perform the procedure. Veterinary schools do
not currently teach students how to perform vasectomies.
However, the methodology has been described and any
board-certified surgeon can learn the technique. For a list
of veterinarians who will perform the technique, contact
the author at [email protected].
In females, the issues are more complex, because having
a bitch in heat is inconvenient and leaving the uterus
intact substantially increases the risk of pyometra (a serious, potentially fatal uterine infection). One solution might
be to perform a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), leaving the ovaries intact. Unfortunately, the effects of this
technique on female dogs have never been studied. It is
not known whether these dogs would continue to ovulate
and perhaps show behavioral changes, although it is likely
that there would be no discharge. Further, dogs that have
this surgery will have intact ovaries, so veterinarians would
need to establish an effective monitoring system for early
detection of mammary cancer in intact bitches, as is available for women. In addition, there is the possibility of the
dog developing stump pyometra if small amounts of uterine
tissue are left behind during the hysterectomy. My current
recommendation for performance dogs is to have them go
through at least two heat cycles before spaying. Perhaps in
the future hormone replacement therapy will be available
for spayed females, but little is known about that at this
time.
For males with retained testicles, there is a logical solution,
based on fact. A large prospective study showed that the
incidence of testicular cancer in cryptorchid dogs was
12.7/1000 dog-years at risk.(39) In other words, if 100
dogs with retained testicles live to be 10 years old, approximately 13 of them will develop cancer in the retained
testicle. The average age at which tumors develop in undescended testes is 8.7 years.(40) These tumors are
commonly benign, though they can grow quite large.
Based on this study, I recommend that dogs with retained
testicles have surgery to remove the retained testicle some
time during the first three years of life and at that time
they have a vasectomy on the remaining spermatic cord.
This solution allows the dog to have the benefit of its sex
hormones, but prevents passing this likely genetic condition on to offspring.
Most of all, it is important that we assess each dog and its
living situation individually, weighing the risks and
benefits of removal of the gonads. There is no single solution that fits every dog.
Acknowledgment: The author is grateful for excellent
in-depth discussions with Samra Zelman on the literature
regarding spaying and neutering and for her careful review
of this article.
References available at: http://www.caninesports.com/
uploads/1/5/3/1/15319800/
spay_neuter_considerations_2013.pdf
9
effect. It’s given us a means of teaching at long distances. It’s allowed us to step the dog up and become more
sophisticated ” explains Lyn Yelton from Elkton, MD who
was the Eastern Time Zone Judge for the 2013 NARC.
“We’ve improved our breeding. We can see tapes of what
dogs are doing, what their style is like. If one is weak on
water work we can find one to breed to that has style in
water. We’re taking their natural ability to a new level,”
she added.
By Linda Roberts
In June of 1957 in the large open fields at Park Rapids,
MN 36 retrievers met for the first National Amateur Championship Trial. The tenth series was a triple, the first bird
40 yards to the left, the second 15 yards falling in front of
the dogs and the third bird 25 yards to the right. The first
trial was won by nine year old Major VI.
The three judges for the 2013 NARC, Lyn Yelton (Eastern
zone), Ted Shih (Mountain zone), and Al Wilson (Pacific
zone) worked very well together. “From day one the three
of us clicked,” said Lyn, “we had so much fun.” “The call
backs were easy because we had decided that every
handler would have two major dings,” she explained.
Fast forward to June 2013 to the rolling hills of Mondovi,
WI, where 121 dogs entered with 9 finalists to continue on
to the 10th series which was a water quad. The Retriever
News Team Blog described this last series as a “monster
test” that was held on the “most technical pond we’ve ever
seen.” The 2013 NARC was won by five year old NAFCFC Dottie Ray’s Ivy League (Ivy).
The judges used Mondovi’s
wide open hilly terrain, valleys, ponds with peninsulas, tree lined edges and
huge hay bales to create
long and challenging
marks. The 9th series was
a water/land quad. For the
first mark the dogs had to
run down the valley into a
pond, enter another pond
and cross two more peninsulas for 440 yards. The
second bird was 320 yards,
the third 230 yards and the
fourth 80 yards taking the
dogs 14 minutes 16 seconds to run this test.
The judges spent the week before the trial visiting the
grounds with committee members trying to plan for every
phase of the event: parking, gallery, where to hold the
final ceremony, what weather conditions might need to be
worked around. “Set up week is fun,” Lyn said, “we
worked together. We’d say let’s try it this way and see
how it works. In all we made about 42 tests to get the 10
we used. We tried about 10 blinds to see which ones we
would use. We didn’t have what I would call concept
marks; we used the terrain and had wide apart
marks. We weren’t technical. We tried to take the technical aspect out of it and make it more natural.”
In 56 years the sport has gone from testing a dog’s natural ability to hunt to very technical precision lines and angular markings all at great distances. What’s enable
these changes to occur? “The electric collar has had a big
10
To Lyn, “the dog’s marking ability was the most important
aspect. I like to see willingness for the dog to work with
the handler too,” she added. She was somewhat surprised to see that a number of the dogs had serious line
manner problems; including voice and creeping. Some
dogs would not pull off the birds to go to the blind in one
of the series indicating a trainability issue. She hadn’t
expected to see these problems at this level of competition.
Results:
2013 NARC CHAMPION:
1. FC-AFC Dottie Ray’s Ivy League (Ivy) –Handler-Andy
Kahn
So how does one become involved in this sport and end
up judging a national event? “My ex-husband and I decided to buy his and her hunting dogs. We knew nothing
abut the sport,” explains Lyn. “Clayton Crawford invited
us to a hunt test and some very knowledgeable people
took us under their wing.” In 1987 she ran her first test, “I
made all kinds of mistakes but my dog was very forgiving,” Lyn admits.
2. FC By Golden Pond’s Legacy (Pride)-Roy Morejon
23. AFC Credit Rivers Uncle Plug (Plugs)-Rick Van Bergen
29. FC-AFC Coolwater’s Knockout (Punch)-Alexandra
Washburn
40. FC-AFC Lanes Lets Get Ready To Rumble CC (Ali)Bobby Lane
57. FC-AFC Fresh Squeezed Juice (Juice)-Mark Medford
68. AFC Meadowwoods Lawman (Dillon)-Tony Despenas
85 .FC-AFC KPR’s Wet Willie (Willie) Jim Pickering
87. FC Hunting Creek Classy Girl JH (Classy)-John Armstrong
From there she became involved with Del Bay and other
local retriever clubs, helping to marshal events and serving on the boards. Lyn is currently treasurer for the Labrador Retriever Club, Inc. “I became involved with judging
because I thought it was important to give back to the
sport”, she says.
It’s hard to imagine all the volunteers that went into making the 2013 National Amateur Retriever Championship
Trial a success; judges, committee members to organize
non field events, bird throwers and on and on. Hopefully
the NARC will continue for another 56 years because
individuals feel that it’s “important to give back to the
sport.”
LRC Rescue T-Shirts Available
Note: Amongst the competitors were Chairman of the
NARC, John Stracka, and Fred Kampo, LRC President.
Terri McFadden, LRC Rescue Coordinator
Show your support for the LRC Rescue Fund by purchasing t-shirts. You will find them
here: http://www.tshirtstotherescue.com/products-t-shirts/lrc.html (lower right corner of
the array of available shirts) or from LRC Rescue Task Force Members, Deb Hamele,
Anne Swindemann, and Terri McFadden. The T-shirts are $20 with all proceeds going
to the LRC Rescue Fund. They will also be available at the National Specialty. I would
also like to thank Deb Hamele, Anne Swindemann, Marcia Lucas, and Lyn Yelton, for
their assistance with the authorization and sale of the t-shirts.
The LRC Rescue Fund provided financial assistance to three organizations last fall and is currently working on another
one. The financial assistance usually ranges from $1000- $3000, depending on the depth of the rescue organizations'
needs. In the event of a natural disaster or a large rescue, the LRC Rescue Fund provides financial assistance to local
rescue organizations who are strained when rescue of multiple Labradors (10 to 55) is required.
I would like to thank all the members who have donated to the rescue fund, either through the annual dues, the rescue
raffle at the National Specialty or through a separate donation, along with a big thanks to the LRC Board, Lyn Yelton,
our treasurer, and Marcia Lucas, the liasion between the LRC Rescue Task Force and the LRC Board. Without their
assistance, these assistance efforts would probably not have happened.
11
Join your friends this coming October at the
LRC, Inc. National Specialty Event Week
October 6 – 13, 2013
In “The Shadow of the Cascades”
… the beautify Pacific Northwest!
Schedule of National Specialty Events
All events are open to Labrador Retrievers ONLY.
All Companion Dog and Conformation Events will be held outdoors.
Tracking Tests at Lintott/Alexander Park, Chehalis, WA
Agility, Obedience & Rally Trials, CC Evaluations, Conformation at Lacey, WA
Superintendent: BaRay Events (www.barayevents.com)
Hunt Tests at Pepper’s Farm, Carnation, WA (www.entryexpress.com)
Closing date: September 11, 2103
Catalog Ad deadline: September 4, 2013
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6
• Tracking Tests (TD, TDX)
MONDAY, OCTOBER 7
• Agility Trial #1 • Obedience Trial #1 • Rally Trial #1
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8
• LRC Inc. Board of Director’s Meeting
• Agility Trial #2 • Rally Trial #2
• PM Agility TOP 25 Tribute • Director sponsored ’”Worker’s Party” • LRC Inc. Annual Meeting
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9
• Obedience Trial #2 • “GO GREEN” Specialty Show (Sweepstakes & All Classes)
• 9-NOON Judges’ Workshop, Classroom • P.M. Judge’s Ringside Mentoring
• NOON Obedience TOP 25 Tribute
• PM Health Clinic • 1:00-3:30 PM CC Evaluations • EVENING Off Site Barbeque
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10
• Conformation Classes—Bitches • LUNCH BREAK • Conformation TOP 25 Tribute
• THE CHALLENGE Special Attraction Classes • Educational Seminar (A Glimpse at Structure in Action)
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11
• A.M. Jr. Showmanship • Conformation Classes—Dogs
• LUNCH BREAK • Rescue Dog Parade • Best of Breed
• Best Puppy • Best Bred-By • Best in Sweepstakes • Best Veteran
• “Dog For All Reasons” Presentations
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12
• Junior Test, Master Test • WC Test • CC Evaluations
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13
• Senior Test, Master Test (con’t) • THE CHALLENGE Medal Presentations
Check the LRC website (www.thelabradorclub.com) for the latest information.
LRC National Specialty Event Week Chairperson: Jill Mahoney
[email protected]
12
Join us for an evening of eating and education!!!
“A Glimpse at Structure in Action”
Thursday, October 10, 2013 — 5:00 - 8:00 PM
Red Lion Hotel, Olympia, Washington
STRUCTURE IN ACTION is a new educational workshop. It combines Pat Hastings’ Puppy Puzzle Presentation, and her discussion on the value of structurally
evaluating adult dogs that are being considered for a
breeding program, working trials or performance competition. Dogs will do most anything we ask of them. The
question is: “Do we want to ask them to do things that
they are structurally incapable of doing without causing physical harm?” Is that what we really want to do to
our most committed companions? The more we learn
about canine structure, the more we understand what is
reasonable to ask of our dogs, given their physical
strengths and weaknesses.’
AGENDA:
• A three hour workshop for National Specialties attendees and exhibitors.
• The basics of canine structure using graphics and live
models.
• The weakest structural links.
• How to evaluate the structural quality of puppies.
• How to evaluate the structural quality of your adult dog.
• What your dog can do and should not be doing.
SPEAKER:
Pat Hastings is respected in the dog-world as an educator, author and AKC judge. Well-known for her Puppy
Puzzle video, she evaluates the structural quality of over
300 litters per year.
FEE: $40.00. Includes a “finger food” buffet.
Participation will be limited.
To make a reservation for the Workshop please use the
Specialty Order Form in the 2013 LRC, Inc. National
Specialty Events Week Premium List or send your
check to the Event Treasurer:
Joan Kerr • 480 Kelly Ridge Road • Oroville, CA
95966
Official Invitation
Travel to the Keystone State and Celebrate!!!
The 2014 National Specialty Events Week
October 4-11th
Enjoy a week of events showcasing
“Our Labrador Retrievers”
In historic Gettysburg, PA, at the
2013 National Specialty Photo Contest
It’s time to enter your best photos of your favorite Labrador Retrievers and share your love of the breed with the
LRC Inc 2013 National Specialty. We are pleased to announce that www.RetrieverLife.com is the proud sponsor
of the contest (Toni Leitao and Lorraine Yu, both members of the LRC and PSLRA, the host club for the National).
Groups (categories):
 “Working” Group – Labradors doing what they’ve
been bred to do (accompany their people in the field
and retrieve game); doing their “job” whether it’s getting the newspaper, baby sitting, or being a service
dog; and don’t forget performance sports (agility, etc.)
 “Toy” Group – Labradors love to play and usually
some sort of (favorite) toy is involved
 “Non-Sporting” Group – Labradors love to relax and
seem comfortable doing this anywhere and in any
position
 Puppy Group – Labradors pups love just about anything – eating, sleeping, learning, playing, etc.
Prizes:
 Best in Show – $50 gift card
 Reserve Best in Show – $25 gift card
 Group Winners (1st place) – $10 gift card
Group Placements (2nd, 3rd, and 4th) will also be recognized. If the winner is not present, your prize will be
emailed or mailed to you. Winning photos will be displayed at the LRC National Specialty.
How to Enter: The contest is open to any photographer, amateur, or professional, adult or minor. Each photographer may enter up to five (5) photos not to exceed
any two (2) per category. There is no entry charge by the
LRC, Inc. for this contest. All digital images must be in
jpeg or png format and not be larger than 5 Mb. They
must be at least 300 dpi. Color and Black & White images
are acceptable, but images that are grainy, blurry, or
show pixilation may not be suitable for judging. Manipulation of exposure, cropping, sharpening, and color adjustment or the digital equivalents are acceptable for all categories. Removing leashes is permissible, but extreme
digital manipulation of the dog/subject is not and that entry will be disqualified by the judges. Do no sign photos or
include names on the front of any photo.
How to Submit your Entry: Digital images should be
emailed to [email protected]. Entry information for each image should include name, phone number, and email address and the category you are entering
for each photo. If the group or category is not specified, it
will be assigned by the contest administrator.
Judging: Photos will be judged by a panel of professional photographers. All decisions of the judges are final.
Deadline for Entries: September 11, 2013 (same as
closing date for show entries)
Questions: Please email [email protected]
Additional Contest Rules on last page of newsletter…
and surrounding locations
13
Business Opportunities at the LRC National Specialty Show
It’s time once again for the annual Labrador Retriever Club, Inc.’s National Specialty Show. This year’s Specialty will be held
at the Regional Athletic Complex, 8345 Steilacoom Rd. SE, in Lacey, Washington. We are excited to announce the following
sales and marketing opportunities are available to pet and non-pet related businesses.
We encourage all members of the Labrador Retriever Club, Inc., Puget Sound Labrador Retriever Association and the Rose
City Labrador Retriever Club to refer any and all businesses who may be interested in participating in the sales & marketing
opportunities offered at the Labrador Retriever Club, Inc.’s National Specialty Show.
Attendee Welcome/Gift Bags
Vendor Booths
Business & Individual Marketing Opportunity
Pet and Non-Pet Products & Services Sales
As a way to welcome show entrants from near and far, we
will be providing Welcome/Gift bags for all participants.
Shopping and pet services rate very high on the list of preferred
activities for National Specialty attendees. To add that special
touch to the show, Vendors are always welcome and encouraged.
To make this year's bags special, we are encouraging anyone who would like to make a contribution to the Welcome/Gift bags to do so.
We also invite local businesses to take part in this unique
marketing opportunity. Examples of items show participants may find useful in our Welcome/Gift Bags include,
but are not limited to:
Pens • Pet Waste Disposal Bags • Dog Toys
People Snacks & Beverages • Coupons for Local Restaurants • Coupons for Pet & Non-Pet Services Local Attraction Information & Brochures
Local Business Brochures & Business Cards
If you or your business are interested in contributing an
item to our Welcome/Gift bags please contact: Leslie
Douglas, Chair National Gift Bag Committee, 11025 6th
Ave. W., Everett, WA 98204, Phone: 425.513.1005 or
Email: [email protected]
Please Note: Since Purina is donating the gift bags plus dog
food & treat samples, we cannot accept these types of contributions from other donors.
Booths will be for five days of show related events, and begin on
October 7th and run through October 11th.
We are seeking the following types of businesses to participate in
this year’s vendor opportunities. Including, but not limited to:
General Pet Supplies • Pet & Non-Pet Themed Apparel
Breed / Non-Breed Specific Gifts & Specialty Items
Veterinary Clinics • Holistic Pet Healthcare Providers
Pet Intuitives • Performance & Companion Dog Trainers
Groomers & Pet Spas • Doggie Day Care Centers
Boarding Kennels • Pet Sitters & Dog Walkers
Hunting & Outdoor Supply Retailers
Other Non-Pet Related Goods & Services
Vendor space is offered at $100.00 for an initial 10'x10' block,
additional 10'x10' blocks are $50.00 each, plus a product or services donation from the Vendor for the “Everyone Wins Raffle”
and/or an item to be included in the event attendees Welcome/
Gift Bags. Please Note: Vendors must provide all their own booth
equipment.
For more information please contact: Cheri Wildes, Vendor Coordinator, 15909 10th St. SE, Snohomish, WA. 98290, Phone:
425.260.2338 (Cell) or Email: [email protected] to receive a
Vendor Packet including a copy of our Vendor Agreement to secure booth space at this year's event.
14
Book Reviews
Secrets at Spawning Run, Sally Roseveare, Infinity
Publishing (2004), ISBN-13: 978-0741423085
Review written by Marcia Lucas (Los Alamos, NM)
If you love Labradors, you will love Secrets at Spawning
Run. It is a mystery novel, set in the very real world of
Smith Mountain Lake near Roanoake, Virginia. It is a fun,
easy read, full of suspense. The ending will surprise you.
The heroine is Aurora Harris, a wife
and freelance videographer, with a
handsome (black) Labrador retriever
named King. Married to Sam, and
living in Augusta, Georgia, Aurora returns to Smith Mountain Lake after the
death of her mother, to plan and prepare for the funeral. Her father died
just a few months earlier and when
Aurora returns for her other parent’s
service, she finds strange circumstances in the house. Her mother’s
death was not unexpected, and some
described it as a blessing. Her father’s suicide was totally
unexpected and dealing with both was taking its toll.
A series of coincidental encounters with other characters provides Aurora with bits and pieces that lead her to
suspect something truly evil and malicious is happening in
her beloved hometown. With the help of her husband
Sam, Robert Reeves, a neighbor at the lake, Carole, her
childhood friend, and Luke Stancill, a local guide, Aurora
makes discoveries about her childhood home that will chill
your spine. It begins to look like evil and foul play lurk
everywhere. Who is killing people at Smith Mountain
Lake? Who can be trusted and who is a threat? It is not
as clear as the reader may think!
Sally Roseveare loves Labrador retrievers and loves to
include them in her novels. Secrets at Spawning Run is
the first of a series. She is working on novel number three
now. She is a wife, mother and grandmother who lives in
Virginia near Smith Mountain Lake. Her books are available at online bookstores, in both print and e-reader versions. I plan to read all three books and can’t wait to get
started on novel #2, Secrets at Sweetwater Cove.
Your Labrador Retriever Puppy – Month by Month.
Terry Albert. Alpha Publishing (2012), ISBN-13: 9781615642212.
Review written by Lorraine Yu and reprinted with permission from www.RetrieverLife.com.
I was fortunate to hear about this book from one of its
contributors (Nina Mann) and discovered that I actually
know a couple of the authors so was thrilled to get my
hands on it and soak up the knowledge and experience of
respected Labrador Retriever breeders.
This book is exactly what the title suggests, a month-bymonth view of where your puppy is likely at in terms of
development and what types of activities you should be
doing with your puppy. It shows a full timeline (month 1 –
month 12) in the front cover regarding socialization, training, growth, etc. and then at the beginning of each chapter
you get specific reminders of what’s going on in that particular month. I believe this format is very helpful for new
puppy owners (also a good refresher for those that have-
n’t had a puppy in a while) as they get
timely information and validation of
their puppy’s development. As I read
the book, I was trying to stay in the
mind frame of a reviewer but kept slipping into the breeder perspective
where I wanted all the information on
training, grooming, etc. in one chapter.
Then I reminded myself that it wasn’t
intended for breeders and that I had a
handy index and table of contents if I
needed it for reference.
Also good references were the Appendices, especially
Appendix B (Growth and Body Condition Assessment –
aka, is my puppy overweight?) as we frequently get feedback from puppy owners that they vet says their puppy
should lose 5 pounds. Shouldn’t we all? Other helpful tips
could be found in the Dog Talk, Tips and Tails, and Happy
Puppy sections. While I appreciated their content, they all
appeared the same to me and I would have liked to have
them called out a bit more – a different color, an icon, or
something to distinguish them apart.
It’s amazing how much information this book contains – it’s
very comprehensive from teething to nutrition to health
and first aid to training tips to … you name it! When I was
almost done with the book, I realized that there hadn’t
been any pictures or drawings and I reflected on how
amazed I was because the descriptions were so clear and
vivid that I didn’t need them; however, first time puppy
owners may prefer them.
Overall, it’s a great book that I would recommend to all
Labrador puppy owners. Well done.
Vacation at Glen Highland Farm/Support Rescue
Dogs and their owners have come from all over the country and Canada to vacation at Glen Highland Farm (501c3
non-profit organization) dedicated to the rescue of abandoned & unwanted border collies & border collie mixes &
to fostering the human/animal bond through new levels of
awareness and connections to the heart, in particular promoting the principles of non-violence between children
and their environment through work with the rescue dogs
at the Farm in Camp Border Collie for Kids.
The farm has created
Canine Country Getaway - a unique vacation paradise for dogs
and their owners. 175
acres of off-leash freedom!
Here is the farm's website: http://glenhighlandfarm.com/
Canine Country Getaway: http://www.highlandvue.com/
Activities at the Getaway: Hike in the woods, wander the
meadows, swim in the creek, practice agility, play fetch, or
simply relax with your pooch and take in the gorgeous
views. There are also biking trails, fishing - catch and release and the Car Museum as a day trip. Stay in one of
their full-amenity RVs, get downright comfy in one of their
well-appointed cottages, or camp creekside in one of their
spacious luxury tents. Season opens June 13, 2013 and
closes on October 8, 2013. 2-night minimum stay required.
15
Boston Marathon TDI
By Barb Burri
Also posted at www.RetrieverLife.com
Not many will forget the horrible events that took place at
2:50PM Monday April 15, 2013. Words fail to describe the
horror of bombing the finish line of the Boston Marathon.
In past years, I have been in that exact spot, cheering on
runners, some years even selling Girl Scout cookies to
waiting families and fans. I was born in New York but Boston is my chosen city. I moved to New England in 1979,
and never looked back. For me, this was personal, and I
wanted to help. Two days later, I saw on Facebook that
TDI, Therapy Dogs International was looking for dog and
handler teams to help bring comfort and compassion to
the people of Boston. I shot off an email, knowing Kestrel
and I would be up to the task. I have three TDI certified
therapy dogs, all Labrador Retrievers. Hawke age 13
mostly does library reading dog work, Kestrel, 10, who
visits an assisted living and an Alzheimer unit, and Merlin,
7, who does some library work and some college comfort
at exam times.
Kestrel and I were to be deployed on Friday April 19th, to
go to Boston Athletic Association headquarters to meet
and greet folks picking up runner’s gear and bags, and to
be a comfort to Boston Marathon staff. Well, the visit of
the 19th did not happen as Boston and surrounds were put
on shelter in place directions as the enormous manhunt
for the suspects was taking place.
We got the call again, could we come in on Monday April
22nd, to work a shift at the memorial at the corner of
Berkeley and Boylston streets. A memorial had been
forming at the barriers there, as the area of the finish line
was blocked off as a crime scene. Kestrel and I headed
into town.
Kestrel is not a city dog, she
has lived her whole life in
suburban New Hampshire,
and aside from trips to
school, nursing homes and
dog shows, she’s never been
in the big city. She enjoyed
everything from the crowds to
the interesting sidewalks,
even the parking garage.
Nothing fazes Kestrel.
We got to the memorial; there
were hundreds of people on
the corner of Boylston and
Berkeley Streets. Boylston was closed off with barriers,
and there were news trucks lining Berkeley Street. Two
other teams were there, the Golden Retrievers Liberty and
Independence. People would come up and pat the dogs,
some got on the ground to hug them up close. Some people smiled at the happy wagging enthusiasm Kestrel
brought to the task. Some people just misted up and patted
the dogs.
In the two-hour shift, we
must have interacted with
200-300 people. Kestrel now
graces the photo icon of
dozens of iPhones, and Androids. Many, many pictures
were taken, of the dogs, with
the dogs. The crowd was
incredibly diverse, working
folks out on lunch break,
people who had come in especially to pay their respects,
school groups who were in Boston for other reasons who
came by to honor the victims.
Complete strangers would touch us on the shoulder and
say “Thank you for just being her”, or “Thank you for caring”. One fellow got out of one of the news trucks and
came over, sat down on the sidewalk and hugged Kestrel
tight for a few minutes. He stood up, dusted off his pants
and said, “Thanks, I needed that!” and went back in his
truck. One young man said “Thank you m’am, your dog is
doing yeoman’s service”.
Many reporters interviewed us, and videographers took
many, many minutes of footage of the dogs. Kestrel did
end up on WMUR TV on the 5pm news. All three dogs did
a great job representing the best that therapy dogs have to
offer, unconditional love and compassion.
Our post bombing work continued with two visits to Middlesex Community College. The school had reached out to
TDI for dogs for their Bedford and Lowell Campuses. In
reading the college’s blog, I learned they had students,
alumni, and family of students physically affected by the
bombings, as well as both student and staff runners who
were turned back at Mile 25. Kestrel again was the happy
waggy little lab she always is and brought many smiles to
students and staff on both visits.
Therapy dog work is not for every dog. It is tiring, emotionally demanding, and exhausting for the dog. Kestrel
snored the whole way home after every visit. I was so
proud of her, to work so well in a huge crowd in a big city
without any issues at all. Sirens, helicopters, news trucks,
videographers, and 100’s of strangers and she approached it all with a wag and a grin. At the college, I was
so pleased with how well she worked with a diverse mix of
students and faculty, for long shifts, never tiring or stopping
wagging. I am honored that we were able to play a small
role in helping folks heal from this terrible event.
16
Locked Down in Watertown
by Penny Shultz
Also posted at www.RetrieverLife.com
When the alarm went off, I thought it was going to be a
Friday morning just like any other, but as I lay there listening to the radio, I soon realized I was wrong. During the
night there had been a car chase and shoot out right up
the street from where I live in Watertown, MA. And although Thorn, our oldest Labrador Retriever, has been
know to get me up in the middle of the night at the slightest bit of thunder, it seems that we had all slept peacefully
through the gunfire and bombs that were going off at the
end of our street. It was the beginning of what would end
up being a nerve-wracking day for both humans and dogs.
A manhunt had begun, and, as a result,
Watertown was in
lockdown. We were
told to stay in our
homes and to not
answer our doors
unless the person
knocking was a uniformed officer. Of
course, this presented a bit of a problem
for those of us who
have dogs. I was
lucky. I have a big
fenced in yard. So, I would cautiously let my 3 dogs out to
potty while anxiously standing on my front porch staring
up at the military helicopters that were circling overhead.
But for my neighbors without yards (and there are quite a
few of those in crowded little Watertown) things were a bit
trickier. One friend tried to take her two poodles on a
short walk so that they could do their business only to be
quickly told by police that she needed to get back inside
her house. Another neighbor with a cute, little, older dog
who lives across the street from me made her poor dog
wait until after 4:00PM before finally sneaking him outside
for a quick potty break. In general, my usually busy neighborhood was like a ghost town. Except for the occasional
police presence, we didn’t see a soul out on the street.
And so we waited, glued to our radio while streaming live
coverage of the events unfolding just a few blocks away
from us at the Watertown Mall. The dogs were subdued.
Even Aspen, our effervescent puppy, seemed to realize
that something strange was going on and was on her best
behavior. However, by mid afternoon, we were all beginning to get a bit restless. Our dogs really wanted to know
why, on such a nice day, we weren’t all outside playing.
Although the media’s coverage of what was going on was
relentless, it seemed that we had reached the point
where no new information was being added to the mix. It
was frustrating for all of us. Finally, around 4:30PM, my
neighbors started to venture outside, at least as far as
their front porches. I let the dogs out into our yard and,
happy to finally be freed from confinement in the house,
Cory and Aspen immediately started chasing each other
all over the yard. Not seeing any police, I wandered
across the street to a neighbor’s house to compare notes
on the day’s events. We all marveled at how a 19-yearold kid who was probably injured could have eluded the
police and military for so many hours. Where could he
be?
Finally, following a 6PM news conference, the lockdown
was suspended. Now everyone in my neighborhood was
outside. I could see cars, other than police cars, traveling
on Mt. Auburn Street. Some neighbors got in their cars
and headed out of the neighborhood in search of takeout.
I had just started to play some fetch with our dogs out in
the yard when I thought I heard gunfire and sirens. I hurry everyone back inside, and ran to the radio to hear if
something new had happened. It had. The suspect had
been located hiding in a boat in someone’s back yard
several blocks away. For the next few hours we were
riveted by
the images
being
broadcasted
live by the
local television station.
By 9:00PM
the suspect
had been
captured
and I felt
comfortable
enough to
let the dogs outside once more. As I turned the television
off, images showed jubilant Watertown citizens, celebrating that the manhunt was over and that this very stressful
day was finally drawing to a close.
Photos provided by Penny Shultz.
Aspen (with fish toy): Grampian Viking's Aspen X-Treme!
RN, CGC
Thorn (yellow): Mythago's Green Hawthorn, UD, RAE,
VER, JH, THDX, WCI, CC, CGC
Cory (black): Grampian Hickory's Crimson H2O Dragon,
CDX, RE, JH, THD, CC, CGC
17
Unintended Consequences: Pair of Measures
Designed to Regulate Internet & Commercial
Puppy Sales Could Devastate America’s Responsible Small/Hobby Breeders
Reprinted from In Session, AKC’s Congressional Newsletter, Spring
2013
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is the only not-for-profit
purebred dog registry devoted to the health and wellbeing
of all dogs. As the leading expert on purebred dogs and
responsible dog breeding in the United States, the AKC
expects breeders to give careful consideration to health
issues, temperament, and genetic screening as well as to
careful placement of puppies in appropriate homes. As a
not-for-profit organization, we demonstrate our dedication
to dogs and responsible dog ownership through a variety
of educational programs, the AKC Humane Fund, more
than $24 million dollars in donations given to canine
health research through the AKC Canine Health Foundation, and by conducting thousands of kennel inspections
each year of breeders who register their dogs with the
AKC.
The AKC supports strong enforcement of the Animal
Welfare Act (AWA) and cruelty
and negligence laws that exist
in all 50 states. We share regulators’ concerns about substandard Internet puppy sellers.
We do not oppose the concept
of regulating high-volume
breeder-retailers. However, two
current controversial
measures designed to
improve the wellbeing of dogs by amending definitions in the AWA are not only unlikely to address the
substandard conditions of facilities currently operating illegally, they also would devastate some of America’s most responsible small/hobby breeders. If these
measures advance as currently proposed, it would do
irreparable damage to the future of responsibly-bred
purebred dogs as family pets.
PUPS bill (S. 395/H.R. 847): Reasonable Fixes Could
Avoid Devastating Unintended Consequences
Although designed to regulate Internet sales of puppies,
this bill was written so broadly that it would require anyone
who shares an ownership interest in a few female dogs
that produce 50 or more puppies offered for sale in a year
to be subject to USDA dog dealer regulations regardless
of whether they personally maintain or breed those dogs.
These requirements were designed for high-volume commercial kennels that maintain dogs and produce puppies for wholesale, and require a USDA commercial
license, maintenance of specified commercial kennel
engineering standards and regular inspections. They
are not appropriate for pet owners or small breeders
who keep only a few dogs in their homes and individually breed significantly fewer than 50 puppies a year.
AKC is concerned that the measure’s overly broad definition does not take into account coand joint ownership rela-
tionships common among dog owners dog show participants, hunting club members, sporting dog trainers and
other hobbyists. It would hurt many responsible small
hobby breeders who maintain only a few dogs in their
homes by subjecting them to commercial standards of
regulation as a result of joint or co-ownership agreements.
Moreover, it would force many responsible hobby/small
breeders to move their pets from a home setting into an
industrial or commercial environment. Many responsible
breeders would give up breeding before placing dogs
into an environment that they do not believe is in the best
interest of their dogs. AKC believes a better option is to
strike ownership language; and simply define high volume
retail dog breeder as an individual that breeds and sells
more than 50 puppies a year.
Another concern is the definition of a “breeding female” as
an intact female dog aged 4 months or older. This is misleading and implies that a female dog may be bred at 4
months. Female dogs are not sufficiently mature at 4
months of age to be bred. AKC believes this should be
struck from the bill. It is misleading and not relevant to the
rest of the measure.
Current requirements for daily exercise would prohibit exercise that is “solitary”, “repetitive” and “goal oriented”.
This would include reasonable, standard and common
forms of exercise such as field training, retrieving/games
of fetch, or monitored exercise on a lead or treadmill. AKC
suggests removing these types of activity from prohibitions on acceptable exercise.
APHIS Proposed Rule: Unreasonable Changes Could
be Detrimental to Dogs and Responsible Breeders
A proposed rule issued by USDA/APHIS in 2012 (Docket
No. APHIS-2011-003; RIN 0579-AD57) was also intended
to address reasonable concerns about substandard Internet puppy sales. Unfortunately, like the PUPS bill, the proposed rule vastly expands regulation beyond that objective and instead would subject individuals who keep as
few as five dogs and transfer a single puppy sight unseen,
to federal regulation and inspection as high-volume dog
dealers.
Rather than focusing on the condition in which animals
are maintained or actually
regulating Internet sales,
the proposal redefines
“retail pet store” using a
flawed transactional model
that requires anyone who
maintains more than four
“breeding females” (a term
the rule does not define)
and transfers just one dog
in any manner without a
face-to-face interaction to
be regulated as a highvolume commercial dealer.
The proposal is nearly impossible to enforce, punishes
small hobby breeders, and does not consider that many
responsible, selective hobby breeders—especially those
with rare breeds—often sell or transfer dogs to repeat cus18
tomers, family or trusted colleagues around the country
without a face-to-face handoff of the dog. Moreover, the
concept of a simple face-to-face handoff provides no intrinsic assurance of the care and conditions of the animals, the facility in which they are raised, or quality of
breeding stock. For example, a roadside hand-off or a
sale that takes place in a shopping center parking lot should
not be considered to reasonably afford any significant
public “oversight”.
The Regulatory Impact Analysis & Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis (RIA) performed by APHIS estimates that
only 1,500 people would be impacted by this change. The
AKC believes that the number of hobbyists or small
breeders who would be impacted by the new rule is approximately 10 times greater. For example, the number of
breeders who registered more than four litters in 2011
with the AKC is greater than 10,700. Assuming that most
of these individuals maintain at least four intact females,
and considering that this number does not account for
dogs not registered with the AKC and other species, it can
easily be extrapolated that the APHIS analysis is flawed.
Likewise, APHIS estimated their cost estimates for breeders based on typical improvements needed to an existing
outdoor commercial kennel following pre-licensing inspections. Even if such upgrades are possible to residences
and hobby kennels, those costs may be extremely prohibitive. (Details and a copy of AKC’s official comments and
recommendations for alternatives are available online at
www.regulations.gov or from the American Kennel Club.)
Both PUPS and the proposed APHIS rule would exponentially expand the pool of breeders regulated and inspected
by USDA/APHIS. At a time when USDA/ APHIS inspection and enforcement resources are already stretched ,
Keep Safe in the Sun
Reprinted with permission from Your AKC, July 2013
When the sun comes out, we all want to make the most of
it and our pets are always eager to join in the fun. Yet just
like us, dogs can suffer in the heat. When going for a long
walk in the sunshine, it is important to remember that no
matter how much they may run around, dogs are not inexhaustible. Be sure to stop regularly to let your dog have a
drink, and walking near streams that they can paddle in
will make sure that they can keep cool. The best time to
walk your dog is in the early morning or late evening before the weather gets too hot. If your dog slows down and
seems to want a rest, then let them lie in a shaded area for
a while and cool them by pouring water on their neck, the
pads of their feet, and their belly before continuing.
Summer is the perfect time to get the BBQ going, but this
can hold all sorts of dangers for our pets. Dogs just love
the smell of cooking meat but make sure that they can
never snatch anything as sizzling sausages can burn their
stomach when swallowed. Also dangerous are kebab
skewers and cooked bones, which can splinter when
chewed. Keep everything out of reach of your pet and
make sure rubbish goes straight into the bin.
While everyone is having fun, it is easy to forget that your
dog could be overheating in the sun. Signs of heat stroke
include (but are not limited to): excessive panting, dark or
bright red tongue and gums, sticky or dry tongue and
gums, staggering, seizures, bloody diarrhea or vomiting,
and rapid heartbeat.
Ensuring that they
always have
somewhere cool
to sit and cool
water (not ice water) to drink greatly reduces the risk
of heat related
illnesses such as
sunstroke. You can help your pet by placing cool wet
cloths on his paws and around his head. Also, offering ice
cubes for your pet to lick is also a great cool-down treat!
Of course, no matter how careful you are, accidents can
still happen to our beloved pets. PetPartners, the exclusive pet insurance provider of the AKC®, offers a range of
insurance plans which can be quoted online within seconds by visiting www.akcpethealthcare.com or by calling
1-866-725-2747.
American Kennel Club
Canine Health Foundation
The Health-E Barks Podcast Series
The following two podcasts might be of interest:
Keeping Your Dog Healthy For the Sport of Agility
In this podcast we bring you an interview with Dr. Chris
Zink, a consultant on canine sports medicine who designs
individualized rehabilitation and conditioning programs for
canine athletes. Dr. Zink is a charter member of the
American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation and has authored several books about agility,
canine sports medicine, and rehabilitation. In this podcast
she discusses the wonderful sport of agility and important
safeguards to keep your dog healthy before, during, and
after their run. See more at: http://www.akcchf.org/newsevents/multimedia/podcasts/keeping-your-dog-healthyfor.html#sthash.dpmRhnNB.dpuf
Hunting Dog Health Concerns and Staying Safe in the
Great Outdoors
In this podcast we hear from Dr. Joe Spoo, a recognized
expert in canine athlete conditioning, a practicing veterinarian of small animal medicine, and consultant for sporting dog owners and the sporting dog industry. In this podcast, Dr. Spoo discusses health concerns specific to gun
dogs, dangers to be aware of when in the woods or field
with your dog, and ways that dog owners can be prepared to prevent and treat injury.
Both podcasts were made possible thanks to the generous support of the Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust, a
KeyBank Trust - See more at: http://www.akcchf.org/news
-events/multimedia/podcasts/index.jsp?
page=2#sthash.PC6WmjMX.dpuf
19
Labs of the Potomac
By Chuck Winslow [email protected]
Reprinted with permission from DOG NEWS, June 7, 2013
The Honorable Mayor Randy McClement of Frederick,
MD proclaimed the week beginning April 8th National
Labrador Retriever Week to acknowledge the beginning of the 38th annual Labrador Retriever Club of the
Potomac and what a week it was. As in the past the
Specialty and the festivities were held at the Francis
Scott Key Holiday Inn and the Rally and the Obedience
judging were held at Breakaway Action Fogs, both in
Frederick. There were 961 Labs entered with a total
entry of 1351 from all over the world. The week began
with the 100 entry Fun Match and a sold out day of
Judges Education.
The dynamic duo of Vicky Creamer and Krista Beale
have been putting on this colossal Specialty down to a
science. Don’t think that these women have a magic wand
in their possession and don’t be fooled by their cool and
calm attitude. This Event simply wouldn’t happen without
their in the trenches efforts and years of experience of
these two forces of nature and their “Dream Team”. The
day the tents are folded and the trucks and trailers are
packed this team goes back to work on next year’s extravaganza and that’s how this has become the biggest single
breed entry dog show in the world.
Tuesday begins Sweepstakes and Conformation judging
with Rusty Howard judging Dogs and BOS and Dr. Karen
Helmers judging bitches and intersex in Sweepstakes.
Howard took complete control of his ring and was full of
his usual charm, very helpful and informative with the folks
signed up for ring side mentoring. Dr. Helmers’ ultimate
Sweepstakes winner from the 15 and under 18 month
black bitch class was Dolce Vita Spice ‘N Up Riverlane
bred by Sonya Dudder and owned by Susan Huntzinger
and Ellen Sparks. Rusty’s BOS was the very handsome
Anguk Black KI-BO bred by Jorge Anquiano and owned by
Juan Carbonell from the 9 and under 12 month black dog
class.
Ms. Hannelle Jokisitta from Espoo, Finland judged an entry of 330 males. Mr. Per Iverson of Oslo, Norway judged
his entry of 421 bitches. These two judges while both hailing from the other side of the Atlantic had very different
styles of judging but both ended up with winners that
looked every bit deserving of their major wins.
Jokisitta’s winners dog, Ancroft’s Gentleman Player, bred
and owned by Ann DeGraw, came from the American
Bred black dog class and was expertly handled by Fabian
Negron. Negron showed a lovely string of dogs, wonderfully trained and in great condition. Player was the ultimate
Best of Winners. The reserve dog was Tabatha’s Sunfest
Donnybrook bred and owned by Carol Heidl and Noel Nivera. Wouldn’t you love to know where Ms. Heidl keeps
that cookie cutter for those beautiful black Labs?
Mr. Iverson’s presence and total control of his ring
was at once humble and calm and brought out the very
best in his exhibits. After his pattern was set each and
every bitch was given equal time and attention. He never
removed his Labradorish Tweed jackets each stamped
with his personal flair and try as I might, I never saw even
the slightest hint of any discomfort from the heat. His winner’s bitch from the 15 and under black bitch class was
the lovely and stylish Lobuff’s National Velvet bred by Lisa
Weiss and Julie Quigley-Smith owned by Kaki (Mrs. Robert) Fisher and Lisa Weiss and shown as only Lisa can
with Ms. Weiss looking uncannily like a young Elizabeth
Taylor cheered on by the commanding Col. Weiss and her
handsome son Alex Agresta. Velvet was also given an
Award of Merit. The Reserve Winner’s Bitch was
Beechcroft Midnight Rose’s Bacara bred by Mary and Michael Weist and Mr. Negron, owned by the Weists and
shown by Fabion from the black American-bred class.
The go-to guys Mike Creamer and David Heavock were
very much on hand to keep everything on track, whether it
be dealing with the grounds, the groans, fixing what was
broke, keeping the cast of thousands hydrated, replenishing the tons of ice for keeping us cool, cooling down
guests whom had left their manners at home, or handling
whatever needed to be handled. The good Dr. Phyllis
Giroux, Field Chairman and the esteemed Dr. Fran Smith,
President of OFA and the Vice President of the LRC,
joined forces too in the Health Clinic. I always enjoy visiting with Membership Chairman Bucky Simpson and his
wife Susan who showed
many very handsome labs
when Bucky wasn’t doing his
due diligence as a real working Board Member. Speaking
of working Board Members,
George McGrath, ponytail and
all, can sure pitch in when it
comes to clean up time.
Founding member MC extraordinaire, and Chief Ring
Steward Buddy Voshell has
the amazing ability to keep
everyone informed, in line and on time, what a gift! The
Queen of gifts and our resident Glamour girl Donna Forney supplies the well thought out Judges gifts, and manage with her committee to turn the “Ballroom” into a very
sexy nightclub for our Annual Gala, which in turn turns
everyone in the mood to spend, spend, spend. Carol
Quaif and her hardworking group of ladies ran the Auction
and were very busy indeed. The Auction made well over
$21,000. Worley Ganoe and Co. ran the Raffle Table and
20
Ruth Ellen Coffey and her crew kept the Club table looking tempting. Travis Scarlett and the pool playing wizard
Jon Zimmers could be seen at ringside taking notes for
the newest Newsletter. Betty Dust was on the move seeing that everyone that helped put on this Specialty was
properly and personally thanked. Penny Kretchmer was
sensational with parking both RVs and in general and I
finally understand why she wears a hard hat while doing
her job. Kristen Creamer-Allison was Junior Coordinator
and her no nonsense approach made the new Juniors
program a success. Susan Glunt, Maureen Chamberlain
and Lisa Saylor, the ladies of the FSK Holiday, were on
top of their game.
up the Best of Breed Rosette which needed its own attendant.
The ultimate winner was the yellow GCH Gateway’s
Nothin But Trouble. I had just commented to a friend, “look
at that yellow dog, he looks like he has a spotlight on him”.
Trouble never put a foot down wrong and with his handler
and obvious friend, Julie Romeo, they are a perfect team.
This dog never took his eyes off of Julie and not once did
he let you forget he was there. He begged for this very
popular win. The young, hardworking, soft spoken Ms. Romeo accepted this award with humility and tears streaming
down her cheeks. When I called Julie to ask her what this
award meant to her she replied, “excitement, amazement,
fabulous, you know all those words.” Trouble was bred by
Patty Steufert and is owned by Vicky and Mike Creamer.
Best of Opposite was the beautiful, typey black bitch, Ch
Dandridge Ring in the New, bred and owned by Marilyn
and Kenneth Meewes and expertly presented by Karen
Day. Select dog was GCH Epoch’s Moccasin Joe bred
and owned by Cindy Skibba and the select bitch was Ch
Nipntuck Outlaw bred and owned by Rebecca Gordon and
Katherine Black. There were nine awards of merit presented.
The 38th Labradors of the Potomac is in the books. It was
a very successful and exciting event. Congratulations to all
the winners and thanks to everyone who made it happen.
It wouldn’t be Potomac without seeing Joy Quallenberg
and those sensational “Tina Turner” legs, her faithful assistant Jamie Outer with her crazy Miki dog that she insists is pure bred and Bubba Ferrin. Linda with those dazzling blue eyes is a bright spot in any day. Jean Louis
Blais, the gentleman’s gentleman, is a great addition with
his lovely dogs. The rock solid Norman Grenier and his
aura of calm is an enormous plus. Kaki and Bobby Fisher
have certainly made their presence known in Labs in
such a positive way. Joe Cirincione of JC Photography,
the official photographer of Potomac Labs, is the King of
the wagging tail Lab posse.
Friday at 9 AM sharp the Best of Breed competition began with Mrs. Jackie Mischou looking absolutely perfect
in her Chanel inspired brown tweed suit, trimmed with
perfectly shaped Chocolate Labs as her silver hair glistened in the morning sunshine. Standing in the middle of
the monumental ring that was trimmed like a putting
green, Mrs. Mishou set the stage for the commencement
of the judging for the most prestigious award in Labradors. There were 71 dogs and 31 bitches and when they
were lined up around this ring it took my breath away.
Mrs. Mishou made her numerous cuts and everyone at
inside, 5 deep, sat on the edge of their seats and cheered
on their personal favorites. You could have heard a pin
drop when Mrs. Mishou walked to her judges table to pick
DOG NEEDED: Labrador
Retriever or other fairly
stout or sturdy dog about
Labrador size to train as a
mobility assistance dog for
a client with a physical disability. Prefer a retriever
due to natural retrieving
ability, but will consider other breeds. Looking for an
adult dog about 1 yr. - 14
mos. old with good health
(has had required health
checks) and a stable, calm temperament that has been
well socialized as a puppy to people, other animals, etc.
Prefer a dog that has only had training using positive reinforcement, no aversives. The dog will be trained using
clicker training for a very nice young man who works with
children who will treat the dog like gold. The dog will get
out daily and will be well cared for. My client is willing to
pay for the dog and has already raised funds. If you know
of, or have such a dog, please contact Cindy Ludwig at
Canine Connection LLC using the contact information on
the Canine Connection website
(www.dubuquedogtraining.com). PLEASE SHARE with
breeders and others who might have such a dog - thank
you!
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ADVERTISING
INFORMATION
Ads do not need to be camera ready,
but it is helpful if they are. Please
submit ad well in advance of publications deadlines, especially if they are
not camera ready. Please enclose a
check with your submission made to
LRC, Inc.
Emailed ads are preferred. CD’s and
memory sticks are accepted.
Email questions or ads to Lorraine at:
[email protected]
Half Page Ad: $40 per issue
Quarter Page: $25 per issue
Classified: $0.50 per word, 20 word
minimum per issue. Ads should be
for Labrador related products.
In Memoriam: FREE to LRC members in good standing. Dog’s registered name, call name, owner, DOB/
DOD with photo. Emailed photos
should be high resolution TIFF, PNG,
or JPG formats.
Contents & Graphics Copyright ©
The LRC, Inc. and the LRC Quarterly NEWS 2011/2012/2013.
No material from The LRC Quarterly
may be republished in any form without written permission.
The Labrador Retriever Club and
The LRC Quarterly seek to provide
insight into various subjects regarding Labrador Retrievers.
We approach a subject based upon
the powers and interests involved,
leaving the moral and other judgments to the reader. The opinions of
the various contributors to this web
site are their own opinions and are
not necessarily the opinions of the
Editors.
Additional Rules: Entries containing children and adults will require a
model release if not related to the
photographer. Please contact or
download from LRC website. By entering this contest, entrants grant the
LRC, Inc. and Retriever Life a royaltyfree, perpetual non-exclusive license
to display, distribute, reproduce
(whole or in part), in any media now
existing or subsequently developed,
for educational, promotional, publicity,
exhibition, and all other standard purposes. Any photograph reproduced
will include a photographer credit as
feasible.
The Labrador Retriever Club, Inc.
newsletter welcomes unsolicited articles about Labrador Retrievers for
possible publication in the newsletter.
Subjects may include health care,
service dog stories, retriever training
articles, unusual training incidents or
special dog profiles. Articles will be
screened for accuracy and appropriate content and will not be returned
unless accompanied with a selfaddressed stamped envelope. Photos may be included and can accompany an article. Authors will be notified of publication date of any articles
used. Email submissions are preferable. Email Lorraine Yu for more submission information:
[email protected]
We reserve the right to accept and
edit submissions to this newsletter to
maintain the integrity of The Labrador Retriever Club and The LRC
Quarterly.
The American Kennel Club is once
again enforcing the parent club letter
of consent as part of each area specialty clubs’ application to hold its
specialty. To receive your club’s letter from LRC, Inc. please contact in
writing the correct Time Zone Chair
giving the name of the club, location,
date(s), event(s) and all judges.
Thank you, we apologize for this
inconvenience.
BRAGS: FREE. Criteria for printing
brags include: Person with brag must
be a member in good standing of The
LRC, Inc. New conformation Champions must have completed the requirements for a Working Certificate
in accordance with the LRC, Inc.
Constitution and Bylaws, ARTICLE
VI, SECTION 1. Standards for Use of
the Title “CH”. All other LRC, Inc.
titles, certificates, AKC titles and certificates, and NAHRA titles will be
accepted for submission.
LRC National Specialty Photo Contest Rules continued ...
AUTHOR AUTHOR
The LRC Yearbook
is printed
once a year by
The Labrador Retriever Club, Inc.
If you want an additional copy
you may contact
Robin Anderson
[email protected]
Members $10.00
Non-Members $15.00
LRC, Inc. Time Zone Points of
Contact:
Pacific
Nina Mann
5706 312th NW
Stanwood, WA 98292
Mountain
Debra Miller
15408 E. Oberlin Pl
Aurora, CO 80013
Central
Frances O. Smith DVM
Lonsdale, MN 55046
[email protected]
Eastern
Nancy Brandow
Bradford, ME 04410
207-356-1353
[email protected]
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Contact the LRC
General Questions & Information
[email protected]
Versatile Producer of Merit Coordinator
Marcia Lucas
45 Glenview Ct
Los Alamos, NM 87544
[email protected]
Membership Chair:
Nancy Stewart
10608 County Rd. #525, Mansfield, TX 76063
[email protected]
Rescue Coordinator:
Terri McFadden
[email protected]
Newsletter Editor:
Lorraine Yu
[email protected]
Webmasters:
Marcia Lucas, Ann Vaughn, Marianne Foote
[email protected]
Yearbook Editor:
Robin Anderson
[email protected]
Mailing List Changes:
Joan Kerr
[email protected]
Working Certificate Coordinator:
Julie Kirk
PO BOx 1020
Benton City, WA, 99320
[email protected]
Please do not send your question to multiple people.
Conformation Certificate Coordinator:
Nancy Brandow
1117 Main Rd
Bradford, ME 04410
[email protected]
If you’ve moved or are moving, please let the LRC
NEWS find you by filling out this change of address
form and sending it as soon as you can. You don’t
want to miss a single issue! You can also email your
change to: [email protected]
Name_______________________________________
Old Address__________________________________
____________________________________________
New Address_________________________________
____________________________________________
The Labrador Retriever Club, Inc.
Change of Address
c/o JL Kerr Enterprises
480 Kelly Ridge Road
Oroville, CA 95966
23
The Labrador Retriever Club, Inc.
c/o JL Kerr Enterprises
480 Kelly Ridge Road
Oroville, CA 95966
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PAID
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We’re on the web:
www.thelabradorclub.com
WANTED:
Juniors who Show Labs!
Send your photos, wins, & words of wisdom for
other Juniors!
Juniors can now download their awards report from the
website for free. With our new Junior Services feature, you
can access your customized report with a few simple clicks
of the mouse. Get your free access code here:
http://www.akc.org/kids_juniors/jrauth_request.cfm
If your club is having a Hunt Test or WC,
please email it to the newsletter staff for publication at
[email protected]
The Labrador Retriever Club, Inc., Breeders Directory Program
The Labrador Retriever Club, Inc., offers its members the opportunity
to be listed in a Labrador Retriever Breeders Directory. This directory
is posted on the website for use by prospective puppy buyers and others interested in acquiring or breeding a Labrador Retriever.
Enrollment information and application form are available for viewing
or downloading off our website at www.thelabradorclub.com. Please
select Apply for a Listing located under the Breeders menu option to
access these documents.
Regional Labrador Retriever Blubs and Contests
A listing of Regional Clubs with their contact information is available for
viewing or downloading off our website at www.thelabradorclub.com.
There are numerous search options offered to assist in locating a regional club in your area. Please select Regional Clubs located under
the About LRC menu option to access this list.
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