2010 Edition 1 - Weimaraner Association of Canada

Weimaraner Association of Canada January | February | March 2010 GreyGhost
#1 CKC Obedience 2008 MOTCH Echobar's Double Impact “Asia”
#1 CKC Conformation 2008 MBIS MBPIS BISS Can/Am Ch. Davora's Bremar Notoriety “Spanky”
National Specialty Winner 2008 BISS Can/Am CH WeatherRun Graushattn Encore “Elsie” What’s Inside…. WAC Versatility Rating Standards ‐ Revised 2009 Regional Specialty Results
GG Regular Features… WAC Rescue, “In the Dog House”, Recipe Corner, Field Facts, Wags & Brags, “A weim’s worth a thousand words” Anne O’donnell & O’liva SKIJORING See Inside “Pulling Sports for K9’s” WAC 2010
team President Vice President Treasurer Secretary Past President Shelly Shorrock Liette Fadden Wendy McKay Laura Ritchie Barbara Williams [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 613.832.9181 519.652.0445 613.832.3223 613.387.4029 204.222.3929 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 250.642.5005 403.678.5005 902.463.5812 519.977.0231 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 705.812.3467 450.564.1017 705.812.3467 519.652.0445 613.832.9181 613.832.9181 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Regional Directors B.C. Alberta (Prairies) Atlantic Ontario Nat. Rescue Ontario East Ontario GTA Ontario North Ontario South Atlantic Quebec Praries Bristish Columbia Margaret Lehmann Norma Jean Pohl Deb Harnish Holly Colucci Rescue Liette Fadden Shelley Sherrock Julie Singer Shelly Shorrock Holly Colucci Deb Harnish Pierre Roger Barb Williams Shirley Nilsson Activity Coordinators Danielle LeVangie VACANT Stephan Brochu Danielle LeVangie Dave Fadden Shelly Shorrock Shelly Shorrock Publications WAC Webmaster Shelly Shorrock Grey Ghost Editor Jennifer Durocher Content Coord. Liette Fadden Athletics Event Conformation Obedience Field Ratings Membership from the editor…
Grey Ghost is the official publication of the Weimaraner Association of Canada. The Grey Ghost is published 4 times a year (January, April, July, October) and available to all members. Submissions and content ideas from all WAC members from across Canada are welcomed and encouraged. Ideas expressed should reflect the vision of the WAC and will be published at the discretion of the editor and board. All submissions are subject to editing. All submissions shall be forwarded to the Content coordinator and/or the Editor. All photo submissions to be in highest possible resolution (preferred .RAW or .jpeg). Submission deadline date will be 4 weeks prior to publication dates above. Weimaraner Association of Canada Retriever Ratings Test June 2010 Stonepoint Acres will hold a RR Test in June. Details to follow in the upcoming newsletter. 2010 Regional Specialty Show will be held in conjunction with the Evelyn Kenny Kennel Club in Calgary, Alberta, July 2010. Conformation and performance events will be available. More details to follow soon. 2010 National Specialty Show will be held in conjunction with The Stormont Dundas and Glengarry Kennel club in Long Sault, Ontario, August 2010. Conformation and performance events will be available. More details to follow soon. See the website and in the next newsletter for updates. CKC WAC Agility Trials have been approved and are being held indoors on May 1/2 2010 in Newmarket, Ontario at the Royal Canadian Riding Academy. Details can be found at www.performancedogs.org For the Next Issue of the Grey Ghost [RECIPE CORNER]
Submit your favorite healthy treats “Cookie” recipes “A Weim is worth a thousand
words”
Note from the Editor: Thanks to all who took the time to send in pictures and articles for the GG – they are ALL greatly appreciated. Due to the high submission of photos, not all could be included (we must stay within a total file size requirement for online viewing speed). We enjoy staying connected through pictures and a weim does speak a thousand words! We hope that you will continue to submit for future editions and please be assured, pictures are chosen at random unless they fall within requested “theme criteria”. I would also like to ask everyone to help me stay organized. Please be specific on the subject line of your email, label (rename) your pictures to include the call name of dog and include some basic information in the body of the email to include who you are, where you are from and the full name of your dog and call name. It helps me get to know you too! [EVENTS & INFORMATION] Message from the President…
Happy New Year to all of our Members! The holiday’s are now behind us and spring is fast approaching, and for some of us, this is a time to catch our breath. Please don’t forget to renew your membership. If your renewal is not received shortly, then this will be your last newsletter. Don’t miss out on any of the news. The WAC plans to keep our members busy with activities for 2010. • We have plans for 4 Agility trials, 3 in the East and 1 in the West. • The National Specialty weekend will be held in Eastern Ontario with agility, obedience, rally and even a field test available that weekend! • The regional Specialty will be held in Alberta with agility, obedience and rally. • A retrieving ratings test is in the planning stage in Southern Ontario. • The WAC has been invited to present at a Judges Education in Winnipeg. • We will continue to work on being Sanctioned for our own Obedience, and this will eventually lead to being sanctioned for Rally! We also are starting 2010 off with an updated Versatility program. Check out the details in this edition or on‐line. Updates to the website are underway with a new domain name. www.weims.ca will be our new name. Our old name will continue to work for sometime as well, to ensure that people can still find us. Finally, you will find information in this edition on “anti‐docking” legislation/plans. It is very important that our membership read and understand the impact this could have on the health HUMOR and well‐being of our breed. Best Regards, Shelly Shorrock, If you have a Weim, WAC President I know you have a “In the Dog
House” Submission deadline for the next Issue March 1, 2010 story! [MEET THE WAC BOARD MEMBERS] Over the upcoming issues of the Grey Ghost we would like to take the time to get to know the WAC Board Members. Each issue, we will feature a different member of the team and get to know them a bit better. We thank all of our board members for the time and effort they volunteer to the Weimaraner Association of Canada and their commitment to this versatile breed. Name: Deb Harnish WAC Position: Maritimes Director & Rescue Coordinator Occupation: Commercial Portfolio Analyst for Scotiabank Kennel Name: Greydove Reg’d I lived in New Brunswick at the time and had a lot of birds around, but the Doves always caught my eye and ear with the cooing. I came up with the name 'Greydove' and registered it with the CKC in November of 1994. As I don't actually have a “kennel”, my dogs live in the house with me. Members of: CKC, CAAN (Canine Agility Association of Nova Scotia),WAC, Weimaraner Interests: Tracking, Obedience, Rally, Agility, Conformation I had just come back from Germany in 1983 and was looking for a dog. My father bred and worked hunting Beagles. The youngest of 10 children, and Rabbit was often on the table. I knew I didn't want a Beagle, although they are sweet creatures, my husband wanted a Lab and I didn't. I had previously owned a German Shepherd and didn't want another one due to the shedding. We went to the Library (before the days of internet) and took out all the dog books they had and went through them independently, not telling each other which breed we liked until we had looked at every single book. For some strange reason we both loved the needs and physical characteristics of the Weimaraner. We visited our Veterinarian (we had a cat we brought all over Canada and Europe) and asked if there were any breeders in The Greydove Girls Nova Scotia. The hunt was on! We found breeders (and future mentors), Pat and Feather (Greydove's First Feather) ‐ 21mth Joost Postma in Nova Scotia and visited their kennel. I will never forget the first Asha (Greydove's Asha) ‐ 4 mth and glimpse of Weims, I do believe my heart stopped‐ that was it for us, we were Charlotte‐ 12 1/2 years definitely in love. The Postma's were involved in Superdogs and gave us a demo with two of their Weims, Swayzee, a Longhair, and Trillie, a shorthair. I had never seen anything like that in my life and that sealed my fate! Our Weims Our first Weimaraner was “Steele”, named after the TV show Remington Steele, we purchased from a vet in the Nova Scotia area. Sadly, Steele had many physical ailments and was put down because of serious issues with fear biting. A sad ending to what we hoped would be a long life. In 1989 we moved back to Germany without a dog, but we still had our sweet kitty, Rascal. We returned to New Brunswick, Canada in 1991. We saw an ad in the Halifax paper for Weimaraner puppies, made an appointment and ended up taking two eleven week old puppies: Mistylake Playboy Bunny (Silver) and Mistylake Double Exposure (Chaos). You couldn't ask for better dogs, they were awesome and we decided to get into obedience classes with them. Oh what fun we had. We visited the local Veterans Wing on a weekly basis and they were always a hit with their gentle ways, er, well, except when Silver put her head up everyone's dress or skirt!! I have no idea why she did that, but it always resulted in many laughs. We went on to compete with them and managed do quite well. Both received CDX's and CGC as well as #1 Weimaraners in Canada. Their life was not long, they both passed away before their 8th Birthday, Silver after many years of Cushings Disease and Hypothyroidism and Chaos of Cancer. In 1993 after keeping in touch with the Postma's for many years, I brought "Tori" home, MBPIG.Ch.Kennebank Victoria Von Extra, CD,CGN,VADC. Tori was a firecracker, but middle of the pack as far as the litter was concerned, just what I [MEET DEB HARNISH] was looking for. She was one of 11 in the litter of short and longhaired puppies. I had been checking out a few American breeders, but decided to have a look at Pat's puppies because now I thought I may be ready to actually have a litter myself. Tori was a sweet girl, 23" but with bone. Quite a character as it turned out as she could problem solve like nothing I had seen before. If she couldn't jump it, she would climb it...oh my...she gave me a few frights. In 1996 I was at the Bonaventure show in Montreal and saw a wonderful young dog BISS.AM.CAN.Ch. Nani's Choir Boy (Sulley). Arrangements were made and Tori went to visit Sulley in 1997. This was the first breeding for both of them and they produced five great puppies, Myra (Greydove's Admyra Reflection); Steel (Greydove's Steel Your Heart); Rainer (Greydove's Determined to Rain, CDX,ADC,AADC,MSDC,AgN,CGN) Scout‐Ch.Greydove's Yankee Scout, BOS at the Canadian Weimaraner National in 1999; Charlotte, BIS.MBPIS.MPBIG.Ch.Greydove's Simply Charlotte, AOM,CD,CGN,RE,AgN,AgNJ,VADC,VAADC,VASDC,VAJDC,VATRDC, St.John Ambulance Therapy Dog and sweetest dog on earth! Scout passed away last year at 11, Myra and Steel this year at 12 and Rainer and Charlotte are still enjoying life. Tori's second litter, also with Sulley, produced more wonderful puppies in 1998, Shine, MBPIG.Ch. Greydove's Let The Sun Shine, CD,CGN,AgN, plus Agility Titles Galore, Ace, Ch.Greydove's Ace Your Heart, BOS winner at the Canadian Weimaraner National in 2000, plus five other great puppies. In 1999 I decided to take a trip to the American Nationals in Rhode Island. It sure was worth it as Charlotte and Shine each won their class, Ace was third in his class. Charlotte was awarded Best of Winners and the First AOM plus Sulley and Alanna won the Stud Dog Class. What a weekend that was! In 2000 I decided to make a big change in my life and move back home to Halifax. Charlotte was bred to Am.Ch.Greywind's Robert Frost, BROM and had two puppies, Flint, Ch.Greydove Where Theres Smoke,FDJ,NRD,AgN,CD,TDX,VX and River, a companion to Mac from Tori's second litter. The litter was repeated and I had five girls! I decided to co‐own one for possible breeding, her name is Nika, Greydove's Always Anika who was bred to the handsome Grayson, Ch.Winoka 'N Damask Only YouFDJ. Nika's first litter was 4 girls, all to pet homes and the repeat breeding produced Dieter, Ch.Greydove Swims with Dolphins, Willie, Ch.Greydove's Etched in Stone and Tosca, Ch.Greydove's Sea Smoke. Tosca was bred to Flint and produced two puppies on March 10/09, a longhair, Feather, and a shorthair, Trace. Tosca was bred a second time, to a LH ‐ Smokeycity Hair Apparent (Harrison). Things I consider when choosing a stud are #1 Temperament #2 Health #3 Topline & Balance. These are the three things I am always looking for. Tori passed away last year at 14, which left me with Charlotte who is 12 and my new addition, Feather, Greydove's First Feather who is 18 months now. Tosca has a new litter, they were born on Aug 19/09, the sire is Harrison. There are 7 puppies in the litter, 3 LH and 4 SH. I fell in love with the only longhaired girl, had to break a potential owners heart and decided to keep "Asha" . One of the longhaired boys has gone to my Mentor and longtime friend, Pat Postma of Kennebank Weimaraners and Saint Bernards. "Crosby" will be trained in house manners, by the boss, a Cairn Terrier named "Dandy". Interests I found several fields of interest with the Weims, Tracking being my favourite. One of my girls, Gina, Ch.Greydove's Radiant Regina, TD,UTD did very well but unfortunately didn't live the long life I had hoped for, I lost her last year, two months before Tori passed away. The other activity I have a lot of fun with is Rally. In 2009 Charlotte achieved her Rally Excellent Title in 9 trials with great scores to boot. I still take part in Conformation, Obedience, Rally, Agility and Tracking and hope to have Feather out next year in competitions and of course the puppy, "Asha", who has already started her socialization and puppy classes. It's safe to say that 2010 will be a busy year indeed as I am hoping to add Drafting to our activities! Special Dogs As we all know, there is no perfect dog, but every once in a while there is a special one, in my case it is Charlotte, still such a lady. I retired her from Agility in the fall of 2008 and from competitions in February 09. She runs to the door with her 'baby'', a stuffed animal, when someone comes in Char loves to show it off. Feather is a goof, such a silly girl! It looks as though Asha may be a bit of a lady, time will tell! One of the advantages of being a WAC member is the Versatility Ratings program that has been established for some time. The main purpose of this program is to encourage new owners to our breed to explore various avenues available to achieve titles in those various disciplines. It is also a way for breeders to showcase dogs from their breeding program who have proven themselves to be Versatile. Recently, the WAC Board has reviewed, revised and approved the Versatility Ratings Standard. With the addition of new CKC titles such as Rally and Pre‐Novice CD for example, the point system had to be changed to include these and possibly other titles in the future. By awarding higher numerical values to the titles achieved, there is still room for the addition of other titles should they become available. We hope that more owners and breeders will take advantage of this program and work towards a "Versatile" Rating which shows how truly talented and well‐rounded a breed we have. Weimaraner Association of Canada Versatility Rating Standards These ratings are provided to promote the individual Weimaraners proficiency in multiple disciplines. The WAC wishes to encourage the versatility of the Weimaraner. A. Requirements for Award of VERSATILE (V) 1. Twelve (12) points minimum total. 2. Above twelve points must be obtained from at least three (3) of the seven groups. 3. Points are not accumulative in any one group (i.e. a UD entitles a dog to six points. His CDX and CD cannot be added). B. Requirements for the Award of VERSATILE EXCELLENT (VX) 1. Twenty (20) points minimum total. 2. Above twenty points must be obtained from, at least four (4) of the seven groups. If the Obedience category is included, a title of CD/RN or higher must be achieved. 3. Points are not cumulative in any one group. C. Requirements for the Award of VERSATILE CHAMPION (VCh.) 1.
Twenty‐eight (28) points minimum total. 2.
Above Twenty‐eight points must be obtained from at least 4 of the seven groups. If the Obedience category is included, a title of CD/RN or higher must be achieved. 3.
A minimum of eight (8) points (the Title of Champion) must be obtained from the Conformation category and a minimum (8) points (the Title of UT) from the NAVHDA categories OR A minimum of eight (8) points (the Title of Champion) must be obtained from the Conformation category and a minimum of eight (8) points (the Title of FDX) from the Field category OR A minimum of eight (8) points (the Title of Champion) must be obtained from the Conformation category and a minimum of eight (8) points (the Title of FTCH/AFTCH) from the Field category AND a minimum of 3 points obtained from the Retrieving category. 4.
Points are not cumulative in any one group. D. Schedule of Versatile Points Acronyms SCHEDULE OF VERSATILE POINTS AREA HIGHEST ACHIEVEMENT POINTS EARNED Conformation CK Champion Five Bench Points Two Point Major Bench Pointe 8 5 3 2 Obedience CKC OTChX/RAX UD/OTCh/RX CDX/RA CD/RN PCD 8 6 4 3 2 Field CKC NAVHDA Retrieving WAC/WCA FTCh 10 FDX/Amateur 8 FTCh 6 FD or Three 4 Point Major 3 Four Field Points 2 FDJ One Field Point 10 VC 8 UT 6 UPT 3 NA 8 RDX 6 RD 3 NRD Tracking CKC TCh TDX/UTDX TD/UTD 8 6 3 Agility CKC Ag.X/ Ag.X.s/Ag.X.J Ag.I/ Ag.I .s/Ag.I.J Ag.N/ Ag.N .s/Ag.N.J 8 6 3 Conformation (CKC) Ch. Champion Obedience (CKC) OTCHX Obedience Trial Champion Excellent UD/OTCH Utility Dog/Obedience Trial Champion CDX Companion Dog Excellent CD Companion Dog RAX Rally Advanced Excellent RX Rally Excellent RA Rally Advanced RN Rally Novice PCD Pre‐Companion Dog Field Trial/Test (CKC) FTCH Field Trial Champion FDX Field Dog Excellent FD Field Dog FDJ Field Dog Junior Field Trial/Test (NAVHDA) VC Versatile Champion UT Utility Test UPT Utility Preparatory Test NA Natural Ability Test Retrieving (WAC) RDX Retrieving Dog Excellent RD Retrieving Dog ( NRD Novice Retrieving Dog Agility (CKC) AgX (s) (J) AgI AgN Agility Excellent /Select/Jumpers Agility Intermediate/Select/Jumpers Agility Novice /Select/Jumpers Tracking (CKC) TCh TDX/UTDX TD/UTD Tracking Champion Tracking Dog Excellent/ Urban Tracking Dog Excellent Tracking Dog Excellent/ Urban Tracking Dog Weimaraner Association of Canada Versatility Title Application DIRECTIONS: Complete all of the information required and return application with the necessary documentation to the address below. A copy of the certificate of completion must verify all titles. Versatility titles are available to Weimaraner Association of Canada Members only, whose dog has met the criteria listed above. Applicants must be in good standing with the CKC/WAC. I am a member in good standing of the Weimaraner Association of Canada: Yes ____ Registered name of dog: _________________________________________________ CKC number: ______________________ Date of birth: _________________ Owner(s) of dog: _______________________________________________________ Mailing Address: _______________________________________________________ Phone / Email: _______________________________________________________ Certificate applied for (Check One): _____Versatility Certificate (V) _____Versatility Excellent Certificate (VX) _____Versatility Champion Certificate (VCh) Category Highest Title Date Title Obtained Points Conformation Obedience Field NAVHDA Retrieving Tracking Agility Return application, documentation to: Shelly Shorrock 3456 Grant’s Side Road Kinburn Ontario K0A 2H0 613‐832‐9181 [email protected]
Ontario Central WAC
Rescue 2009
Another year as a volunteer with WAC Rescue has flown by and I thought that you would like to hear about the dogs that we have been able to help during the past year in the Ontario Central Region. At the beginning of March we got a call asking if we could take a litter of three, six week old puppies, the result of an ‘accidental’ mating between the owners own two dogs, a PJ’s Pet Store male and a female that they had brought back as a puppy from a holiday in Ecuador. The call came on a Friday – the family were going on holiday on the following Monday and needed the puppies to be gone! We agreed to take them and I set off to collect the puppies. When I got to the home and went in I saw what I thought were puppies of about three weeks old, but in fact it was the litter I had come for. They turned out to be almost five weeks old but they were very small and underweight. They had been weaned at two weeks old onto a diet of Presidents Choice tinned dog meat, watered down and shared out of one bowl with three very large, fat cats! It wasn’t the females first litter – there had been a previous ‘accidental mating’ before this one. I ended up keeping the puppies for several weeks to make sure they were fully healthy before they went to their new homes. The smallest female had some growth issues initially, but a good diet and lots of love and care helped her and her brother and sister turn into three energetic and enthusiastic weim puppies. They were all adopted by wonderful families, Blue Puppy (now called Oliver) lives in London, Ontario, Violet (now called Violet!) lives in Montreal, Quebec with her GSP/Lab brother, Hubble and Pink (now called Rizzo) lives in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with her weim sister, Georgia (who is one of my own puppies from Bella’s last litter). They are all doing very well, as you can see from the photos. The same weekend that the puppies came into the program a six year old female was also surrendered to us. She was a previous rescue from Quebec whose owner of one year could no longer keep her due to work and accommodation issues. As she couldn’t stay in her home I arranged for her to be fostered by Lisa and Mark Hill. Lisa is one of my puppy owners and she became a volunteer with rescue this year. Satine was the first dog that Lisa and Mark fostered for us and she stayed with them for seven months whilst we found the right home for her. Satine had some issues which needed to be worked on before she could be placed and I’d like to take the opportunity to thank Lisa and Mark for the tremendous amount of work they did with her and their commitment to keeping her in their home for that length of time – she wasn’t an easy dog to take on. Satine (shown top right) is now living with a family on a farm in the countryside and is doing well. Next, during the summer, we found a new home for Chaos (shown bottom right), a three year old male who was originally adopted through WAC Rescue at one year old. Unfortunately he hadn’t taken well to the addition of a baby in the home and as the baby turned into a toddler his owners became afraid that Chaos would hurt him, so they asked that we find a new home for him. Chaos had some issues too, but we were fortunate to find him a home very quickly so he didn’t need to go into foster care. Chaos is also doing well with his new family. As we headed into the fall it had been a quiet couple of months but then we were asked to find a home for Jasper, an eight year old male. Jasper was originally adopted in Scotland, in the UK, as a one year old. He came to Canada two years ago with his family but due to a change in their circumstances they needed to find a new home for him. He is a fantastic dog, very well trained, great temperament and much loved – not the type of dog we get into Rescue too often. He was able to stay with his family whilst we found him a new home, which took just a few weeks. He has gone to a lovely family who were looking for a companion for their six year old Vizsla. After a home visit and a meet and greet to ensure that the two boys would get along, Jasper headed off to his new home at the beginning of December and is already a much loved member of the family. Last, but definitely not least, we have Melba, a one year old female. Melba’s owner called us to help re‐home her but took her to a shelter before we could find out more and arrange to collect her. After speaking with the owner I found out that she was in a shelter quite close to where I live, so I called them and, after a bit of investigation, with help from Liette who knows one of the Animal Services Officers that works from that shelter, I went and picked her up. I thought I would have to find a foster home for her but my girls took to her well so she is staying with us. I then called her previous owner who turned out to have all her papers and equipment, so I went to get them and learned a lot about her history. I am Melba’s third home, she started off in the US as a pet store puppy, was bought by an elderly couple and kept in a home with seven other dogs, running wild as a pack. After complaints from the neighbours, the authorities were called in and the dogs were removed, at which point one of the neighbours, who is Canadian and has two weims himself, called his mother in Mississauga and asked her to take the seven month old weim puppy. She agreed so he brought the puppy to her. Unfortunately she found this wild weim puppy to be too much for her to handle – she had Golden Retrievers previously – and despite trying her best, including paying a lot of money for a dog training company to come to her home for private sessions, she couldn’t get Melba under control and she had to give her up. I’ve had quite a few applications to adopt Melba (shown left) and have spent a lot of time doing phone interviews and home visits, but the right home hasn’t come up yet. Of course everyone wants a young dog but Melba has a couple of issues that mean she needs a very experienced home with someone who has a lot of patience and who will be a good, firm leader for her. Separation Anxiety is one of her issues and the other is a tendency to use her mouth inappropriately when she’s trying to play or is excited, not surprising for a dog that was running wild with a pack of bigger, older dogs for the first few months of her life – she has a few scars and the tip of one ear missing as a result of those early experiences. Melba is very smart and a quick learner (hey, she’s a weim!) and after only a few weeks she is maturing into a nice girl and I’m hopeful that the right ‘forever’ home will come along for her soon. If anyone is interested in adopting Melba or knows of someone else who is looking to adopt a weim, please contact me for more information. Julie Singer Ontario Central Co‐Ordinator WAC Rescue Tel: 416 223 5134 Email: [email protected] Rescue Success Story I signed up to rescue a weim in February of 2006 and in March, Coco became available at a Kennel near Barrie, ON. Coco was in about 4 homes by the age of two when I first met with her. She was under tremendous stress and only weighed in at about 49 lbs, with severe aggression towards other dogs and major gastritis problems. The first 6‐months was and adventure to say the least, but the two of us made it through and now Coco is 5 ½ yrs old, 65lbs and strong and gentle as ever! Thanks again. Regards, Mark A smiling Coco – happy with her new family JAV
VA Subm
mitted by Liette Fadden It is with great sadness thaat I share with w
you thee unfortunate newss of Java’s passing. Java ccame into thee C Rescue proggram back in December 20
007. She wass WAC
given
n up becausee her elderlyy owners cou
uld no longerr care for her or themselves properly and were in a a
nursiing home. Their daugghter contaccted me ass Ontaario’s Rescue coordinator at the time, to help placee the 1
12 year old do
og. I have to
o admit, I thou
ught it would
d be neext to imposssible to place a dog that agge. Everyonee seem
ms to want a d
dog under the age of 6 – tthat seems to
o be th
he magic num
mber – any dogs over thatt age are nott as eaasy to place because pote
ential adopteers are afraid
d of po
ossible health
h issues or lossing the dog w
within a shortt time. In Javva’s case, thee daughter asssured me that she was in
n greatt shape and quite used to t staying att a variety off homees as she had h
been bo
ounced arou
und between
n familly members ffor several ye
ears and seem
med to adjustt very well each tim
me. She woulld likely not b
be as stressed
d with the changes as much as perhaps ano
other dog herr age. Luckiily, we were able to find aa foster familly for her butt we figured f
it was going to end up being a long term
m thingg as we tried
d to find the
e perfect hom
me willing to
o take in a Senior W
Weim. As Desstiny would h
have it, Lauriee contaacted us ab
bout the tim
me that Javaa was beingg fosteered and shee and I had a a wonderful conversation
n abou
ut Weimaraneers and theirr idiosyncrasiies, the need
d for discipline and exercise and how most do
ogs end up in
n d then we got g around to t discussingg
the program and
Java’s story. Lau
urie was veryy willing to consider c
Javaa and spoke to thee foster hom
me to arrangee a meeting. The rrest as they saay, is history. o Rescue encompassees a largee Because Ontario
geoggraphical areaa, coordinators do not alw
ways have thee luxurry to meet all the doggs and adop
pters in thee program. Howevver in May 2008, I was luckyy to be able to meet Laurie, her husband and Javaa in person aat THE Weim Picnic in Toronto.. What a happy surprise to see a well‐aadapted Weiimaraner in excelllent condition. You’d never n
know that Java was 12
2 years old – – she was in obviously veryy happy with greatt shape and o
her n
new family! L
and heer family and
d Java lead a greaat life with Laurie d a lot longerr with her diaagnosis of lym
mphoma than
n lived
I’m ssure most dogs would havve because off the love and
d supp
port from herr new family. WAC
C Rescue will always be
e grateful to
o Laurie and
d her family for providing this t
special girl a veryy good life and loving l
home
e for the re
emainder of her days. Laurie continuess to be an aadvocate for adopting Senio
or dogs and
d giving the
em another chan
nce and enccourages others to con
nsider it too
o. She is an inspiration to tho
ose of us wh
ho may havee give
en up on an o
older or harrder to place
e dog. Laurrie shared this with us on
n December 10th through
h the W
WAC Rescue Facebook gro
oup : “Ton
night I lost myy beloved Javva... she was only with mee for two short yeears, but wee managed to t squeeze a
a 'lifettime' of love iin to our timee together. Att fourteen, heer lymp
phoma finallyy took it's toll.... but she rem
mained strong
g and brave right up to the very v
last moment... much
h stron
nger than I was! My heead knows she s
will sleep
p peaccefully tonigh
ht, but my heeart will miss her beautifu
ul greeen eyes lookiing up at mee from her basket. b
Sweeet drea
ams Mickey Mouse! M
Alwa
ays know ho
ow much you
u weree loved, and tthank you forr bringing so m
much joy in to
o our llives! xoxoxoxxoxox” Java Weiimaraner Association A
of Canada
a Resscue is now
w on Faceb
book! Comee check us out an
nd join our group todayy! You
u can learn about a
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a. Great Dog Story
Although this story features a Lab named Reggie, if you substitute Lab with Weimaraner, you’ll have even more appreciation for this story that has been circulating the internet – author unknown. They told me the big black Lab's name was Reggie as I looked at him lying in his pen. The shelter was clean, no‐kill, and the people really friendly. I'd only been in the area for six months, but everywhere I went in the small college town, people were welcoming and open. Everyone waves when you pass them on the street. But something was still missing as I attempted to settle in to my new life here, and I thought a dog couldn't hurt. Give me someone to talk to and I had just seen Reggie's advertisement on the local news. The shelter said they had received numerous calls right after, but they said the people who had come down to see him just didn't look like "Lab people," whatever that meant. They must've thought I did. But at first, I thought the shelter had misjudged me in giving me Reggie and his things, which consisted of a dog pad, bag of toys almost all of which were brand new tennis balls, his dishes, and a sealed letter from his previous owner. See, Reggie and I didn't really hit it off when we got home. We struggled for two weeks (which is how long the shelter told me to give him to adjust to his new home). Maybe it was the fact that I was trying to adjust, too. Maybe we were too much alike. For some reason, his stuff (except for the tennis balls ‐ he wouldn't go anywhere without two stuffed in his mouth) got tossed in with all of my other unpacked boxes. I guess I didn't really think he'd need all his old stuff, that I'd get him new things once he settled in but it became pretty clear pretty soon that he wasn't going to. I tried the normal commands the shelter told me he knew, ones like "sit" and "stay" and "come" and "heel," and he'd follow them ‐ when he felt like it. He never really seemed to listen when I called his name ‐ sure, he'd look in my direction after the fourth of fifth time I said it, but then he'd just go back to doing whatever. When I'd ask again, you could almost see him sigh and then grudgingly obey. This just wasn't going to work. He chewed a couple shoes and some unpacked boxes. I was a little too stern with him and he resented it, I could tell. The friction got so bad that I couldn't wait for the two weeks to be up, and when it was, I was in full‐on search mode for my cellphone amid all of my unpacked stuff. I remembered leaving it on the stack of boxes for the guest room, but I also mumbled, rather cynically, that the "damn dog probably hid it on me." Finally I found it, but before I could punch up the shelter's number, I also found his pad and other toys from the shelter. I tossed the pad in Reggie's direction and he snuffed it and wagged, some of the most enthusiasm I'd seen since bringing him home. But then I called, "Hey, Reggie, you like that? Come here and I'll give you a treat." Instead, he sort of glanced in my direction ‐ maybe "glared" is more accurate ‐ and then gave a discontented sigh and flopped down with his back to me. Well, that's not going to do it either, I thought. And I punched the shelter phone number but I hung up when I saw the sealed envelope. I had completely forgotten about that, too. “Okay, Reggie," I said out loud, "let's see if your previous owner has any advice".... To Whoever Gets My Dog: Well, I can't say that I'm happy you're reading this, a letter I told the shelter could only be opened by Reggie's new owner. I'm not even happy writing it. If you're reading this, it means I just got back from my last car ride with my Lab after dropping him off at the shelter. He knew something was different... I have packed up his pad and toys before and set them by the back door before a trip, but this time... it's like he knew something was wrong. And something is wrong... which is why I have to go to try to make it right. So let me tell you about my Lab in the hopes that it will help you bond with him and he with you. First, he loves tennis balls. The more the merrier. Sometimes I think he's part squirrel, the way he hordes them. He usually always has two in his mouth, and he tries to get a third in there. Hasn't done it yet. Doesn't matter where you throw them, he'll bound after it, so be careful ‐ really don't do it by any roads. I made that mistake once, and it almost cost him dearly. Next: commands. Maybe the shelter staff already told you, but I'll go over them again: Reggie knows the obvious ones ‐ "sit," "stay," "come," "heel." He knows hand signals: "back" to turn around and go back when you put your hand straight up; and "over" if you put your hand out right or left. "Shake" for shaking water off, and "paw" for a high‐five. He does "down" when he feels like lying down ‐ I bet you could work on that with him some more. He knows "ball" and "food" and "bone" and "treat" like nobody's business. I trained Reggie with small food treats. Nothing opens his ears like little pieces of hot dog. Feeding schedule: twice a day, once about seven in the morning, and again at six in the evening. Regular store‐bought stuff; the shelter has the brand. He's up on his shots. Call the clinic on 9th Street and update his info with yours; they'll make sure to send you reminders for when he's due. Be forewarned: Reggie hates the vet. Good luck getting him in the car ‐ I don't know how he knows when it's time to go to the vet, but he knows. Finally, give him some time. I've never been married, so it's only been Reggie and me for his whole life. He's gone everywhere with me, so please include him on your daily car rides if you can. He sits well in the backseat, and he doesn't bark or complain. He just loves to be around people, and me most especially. Which means that this transition is going to be hard, with him going to live with someone new. And that's why I need to share one more bit of info with you....His name's not Reggie. I don't know what made me do it, but when I dropped him off at the shelter, I told them his name was Reggie. He's a smart dog, he'll get used to it and will respond to it, of that I have no doubt but I just couldn't bear to give them his real name. For me to do that, it seemed so final, that handing him over to the shelter was as good as me admitting that I'd never see him again. And if I end up coming back, getting him, and tearing up this letter, it means everything's fine. But if someone else is reading it, well... well it means that his new owner should know his real name. It'll help you bond with him. Who knows, maybe you'll even notice a change in his demeanor if he's been giving you problems. His real name is Tank. Because, that is what I drive. Again, if you're reading this and you're from the area, maybe my name has been on the news. I told the shelter that they couldn't make "Reggie" available for adoption until they received word from my company commander. See, my parents are gone, I have no siblings, no one I could've left Tank with... and it was my only real request of the Army upon my deployment to Iraq, that they make one phone call the shelter... in the "event"... to tell them that Tank could be put up for adoption. Luckily, my colonel is a dog guy, too, and he knew where my platoon was headed. He said he'd do it personally. And if you're reading this, then he made good on his word. Well, this letter is getting to downright depressing, even though, frankly, I'm just writing it for my dog. I couldn't imagine if I was writing it for a wife and kids and family. But still, Tank has been my family for the last six years, almost as long as the Army has been my family. And now I hope and pray that you make him part of your family and that he will adjust and come to love you the same way he loved me. That unconditional love from a dog is what I took with me to Iraq as an inspiration to do something selfless, to protect innocent people from those who would do terrible things... and to keep those terrible people from coming over here. If I had to give up Tank in order to do it, I am glad to have done so. He was my example of service and of love. I hope I honored him by my service to my country and comrades. All right, that's enough. I deploy this evening and have to drop this letter off at the shelter. I don't think I'll say another good‐bye to Tank, though. I cried too much the first time. Maybe I'll peek in on him and see if he finally got that third tennis ball in his mouth. Good luck with Tank... Give him a good home, and give him an extra kiss goodnight – every night ‐ from me. Thank you, Paul Mallory I folded the letter and slipped it back in the envelope. Sure I had heard of Paul Mallory, everyone in town knew him, even new people like me. Local kid, killed in Iraq a few months ago and posthumously earning the Silver Star when he gave his life to save three buddies. Flags had been at half‐mast all summer. I leaned forward in my chair and rested my elbows on my knees, staring at the dog. "Hey, Tank," I said quietly. The dog's head whipped up, his ears cocked and his eyes bright. "C'mere boy." He was instantly on his feet, his nails clicking on the hardwood floor. He sat in front of me, his head tilted, searching for the name he hadn't heard in months. "Tank," I whispered. His tail swished. I kept whispering his name, over and over, and each time, his ears lowered, his eyes softened, and his posture relaxed as a wave of contentment just seemed to flood him. I stroked his ears, rubbed his shoulders, buried my face into his scruff and hugged him. "It's me now, Tank, just you and me. Your old pal gave you to me." Tank reached up and licked my cheek. "So whatdaya say we play some ball? His ears perked again. "Yeah? Ball? You like that? Ball?" Tank tore from my hands and disappeared in the next room. And when he came back, he had three tennis balls in his mouth. This story has since been proven fiction but it still reminds us of the sacrifices our troops make to protect others. There are many pets that have needed to be rehomed and Weim Rescue in the U.S. was recently handling a case such as this. Let’s hope that Weimaraner got a home as good as or better than Tank’s. Every dog deserves this. If you want to make a difference, contact your local Rescue and volunteer to foster a dog. There are several organizations in the U.S. that specialize in finding homes for pets that cannot follow their owners during their service. Submitted by Liette Fadden – V.P. WAC WAC REGIONAL SPECIALTY – AUGUST 29th , 2009
Long Sault, Ontario
SWEEPSTAKES
Best Puppy in Sweeps – Junior Puppy Bitch
STEALYKA'S FATAL ATTRACTION
Best of Opposite Sex Puppy in Sweeps – Senior Puppy Dog
WINOKA'S FOLLY HILL APPLEDAIN
Best Veteran in Sweeps
CH WEATHERRUN'S LE JAZZ HOT CD RE
REGIONAL WEIMARANER SPECIALTY WINNERS
Best of Breed
CH STARGAZER'S MUST BE AN ANGEL
Best Puppy in Specialty Show
FOLLYHILL OFF T’SEE THE WIZARD
Winners Dog/Best of Opposite Sex
STARGAZER FRIESLAND I'LL DRINK TO THAT
Winners Bitch/Best of Winners
GREYWIND'S STAR OVER FOLLYHILL
Best Altered Male
STEALYKA'S ALLES STERN FARAUD
WAC 2009 Regional Specialty The WAC 2009 Regional Specialty was held on August 29 in conjunction with the SD&G shows in Long Sault Ontario. The entire weekend was rainy, rainy and rainy. However, I believe the worst of the weather occurred during the Specialty show. Everyone huddled under the tent to try to stay dry and watch the activities. There were pastries and hot beverages supplied by the Club available under the tent. The conditions were not beneficial for photography, so we are sorry to report we did not come away with any action shots this year. The weekend included the WAC Specialty, a Booster, a Pointing Dog Specialty and 4 All‐Breed shows, Obedience, Rally, Agility and on Monday, a Field Test nearby. Unfortunately, there were no Weims entered in Rally or Agility. There was an entry in Obedience, MOTCH Echobar’s Double Impact RA, Owned by Rose Apollonio. A qualifying score proved elusive on the day of the Specialty. Things worked out better at the Field Test where a Weimaraner received a qualifying leg towards a Field Dog Junior. The Weimaraner was Gramayre Kat’cha Later, owned by Greg and Nikki Newton and handled by Greg. We had 2 Junior Handling entries with Judge Jean Delisle: Susan Emerson and Catherine Piche with Susan winning Best Junior. We hope to see everyone next year at this show for the WAC National Specialty! Congratulations to all. WEIMARANER ASSOCIATION OF CANADA, 2009 REGIONAL SPECIALTY RESULTS
Sweepstakes SENIOR PUPPY DOG 1st
BOSPIS
2nd 717 WINOKA'S FOLLY HILL APPLEDAIN, US258547, 15/09/2008 905 GRAMAYRE WINWEIM KATCHN SUM Z'S, UW262323, 19/11/2008 JUNIOR PUPPY BITCH 1st
BPIS
187 STEALYKA'S FATAL ATTRACTION, WA276846, 05/01/2009 SENIOR PUPPY BITCH 2ND 836 FOLLYHILL OFF T'SEE THE WIZARD, US258548, 15/09/2008 1ST 462 GRAMAYRE KAT'CHA LATER, UW262320, 19/11/2008 12‐18 MONTH BITCH 1st 837 GREYWIND'S STAR OVER FOLLYHILL, LISTED, 16/05/2008 VETERAN SWEEPS 1ST
BVIS 188 CH WEATHERRUN'S LE JAZZ HOT CD RN RA RE, LU782351, 06/10/2001B 2nd 987 CH PEWTEREDGE STARGAZER'S CHARA, JY623191, 12/12/1999 SENIOR PUPPY DOG 2ND 1st
RWD 717 WINOKA'S FOLLY HILL APPLEDAIN, US258547, 15/09/2008 B: LAURA & DAN RITCHIE, GREYWIND FROZEN IN TIME / CH WINOKA WATERMARK AT FOLLYHILL, CANADA. O: A. CAVANAGH; LAURA & DAN RITCHIE; T.J. PALMER, 337 LAKE ST, ROUSES POINT, NY, 12979. A: CAROL DUBUQUE 905 GRAMAYRE WINWEIM KATCHN SUM Z'S, UW262323, 19/11/2008 B: DANA MASSEY; SHELLY SHORROCK; BARBARA WILLIAMS, BROMHUND HIGH FIDELITY / CH GRAMAYRE WINWEIM LIFES A CABARET, CANADA. O: SHELLY SHORROCK, 3456 GRANT'S SIDE ROAD RR 2, KINBURN, ON, BRED BY EXHIBITOR DOG 2nd 1st WD BOS 605 FAERIE'S EVERYBODY DANCE NOW, SW134887, 11/11/2006 B: CHRISTINE LECHASSEUR, by CH NANI'S N JAGMAR'S TALISMAN ex CH SILBERSCHOEN'S SHALL WE DANCE, CANADA. O: CHRISTINE LECHASSEUR, 848 PIERRE MAUFAY #1, STE‐FOY, QC, G1V 2M8, . 712 STARGAZER FRIESLAND I'LL DRINK TO THAT, ERN28000786, 04/11/2007 B: CAROL DUBUQUE, CH BIVINS FRIESLANDS RED ROVER / CH STARGAZER'S I'M NO ANGEL, Else. O: CAROL DUBUQUE & DORINE DEVRIES, 145 W TINMOUTH RD, WELLS, VT, 05774. SENIOR DOG 717 WINOKA'S FOLLY HILL APPLEDAIN, US258547, 15/09/2008 B: LAURA & DAN RITCHIE, GREYWIND FROZEN IN TIME / CH WINOKA WATERMARK AT FOLLYHILL, CANADA. O: A. CAVANAGH; LAURA & DAN RITCHIE; T.J. PALMER, 337 LAKE ST, ROUSES POINT, NY, 12979. A: CAROL DUBUQUE JUNIOR PUPPY BITCH 1st 187 STEALYKA'S FATAL ATTRACTION, WA276846, 05/01/2009 B: S. BROCHU; N. GRIMRD; T. LYON, by AM CH SMOKYCITY NANIS DBL SILHOUETTE ex AM/CDN CH WEATHERRUN GRAUSHATTN ENCORE, CANADA. O: S. BROCHU; N. GRIMARD, 79 RUE LORRAINE, LA VISITATION DE YAMASKA, PQ, J0G 1C0, . SENIOR PUPPY BITCH ABS 73 WINOKA'S FOLLYHILL COSMOS DOT, US258542, 15/09/2008 B: WENDY MCKAY; LAURA RITCHIE; DANNY RITCHIE, by AM CH GREYWIND FROZEN IN TIME, MH ex CH WINOKA WATERMARK AT FOLLYHILL, CANADA. O: ANNE O'DONNELL, 3465 RIDGEWOOD DR, MONTREAL, QC, H3V 1B4, . Agent: DANNY RITCHIE 1ST 836 FOLLYHILL OFF T'SEE THE WIZARD, US258548, 15/09/2008 B: WENDY M. MCKAY; LAURA RITCHIE & DANNY RITCHIE, by GREYWIND FROZEN IN TIME ex CH WINOKA WATERMARK AT FOLLYHILL, CANADA. O: WENDY MCKAY & LAURA RITCHIE, 4883 TORBOLTON RIDGE ROAD, RR2, WOODLAWN, ON,K0A 3M0, . 3RD 454 UPLAND'S SUGAR AND SPICE, LISTED, 04/10/2008 B: BRIAN J. MEANY, CH WEATHERRUN'S SIX PACK HEMI / AXEL'S PEERLESS GINNY V. UPLAND, Else. O: BRIAN J. MEANY, 114 ROBERTA DR,LIVERPOOL, NY, 13090 nd
2 462 GRAMAYRE KAT'CHA LATER, UW262320, 19/11/2008 B: DANA MASSEY; SHELLY SHORROCK; BARBARA WILLIAMS, BROMHUND HIGH FIDELITY / CH GRAMAYRE WINWEIM LIFES A CABARET, CANADA. O: GREG & NIKKI NEWTON, 13222 COUNTY RD. 29, R.R.#2, WARKWORTH, ON, K0K 1K0 12‐18 MONTH BITCH 2ND 1024ELMHILL'S PURPLE HEATHER, UE227268, 21/03/2008 B: HAYLEY SOAR, by SMOKYCITY LIKE A ROLLIN STONE ex NALA'S SONG AT WINOKA, CANADA. O: HAYLEY SOAR, 4086 BOYCE, R.R. #1, HARROWSMITH, ON, K 1st WB BOW 837 GREYWIND'S STAR OVER FOLLYHILL, LISTED, 16/05/2008 *‐*‐ B: ELLEN J GREVATT, ULTIMA N LIBERTY'S PERFECT STORM / GREYWIND'S CROWN JEWEL, Else. O: WENDY MCKAY & ELLEN J GREVATT, 4883 TORBOLTON RIDGE ROAD, RR2, WOODLAWN, ON, K0A 3M0, . CANADIAN BRED BITCH ST
1 610 FAERIE'S STRIP TEASE, LISTED, 11/02/2008 B: CHRISTINE LECHASSEUR, by NANI'S INDECENT EXPOSURE ex CH SILBERSCHOEN'S SHALL WE DANCE, CANADA. O: MARIE EVE COLOMBE, 8195 VALENTIN, LAVAL, QC, H7A 1E6, BRED BY EXHIBITOR BITCH ND
2 1st 730 STARGAZER'S ANGEL IN DISGUISE, ERN28001200, 04/11/2007 B: CAROL DUBUQUE, CH BIVINS FRIESLANDS RED ROVER / CH STARGAZER'S I'M NO ANGEL, Else. O: D; GILBERT; W. & E. GILBERT; C. DUBUQUE, 560 WEST SHORE RD., NORTH HERO, VT, 05474 606 FAERIE'S TAKE IT ALL OFF, LISTED, 11/02/2008 B: CHRISTINE LECHASSEUR, by NANI'S INDECENT EXPOSUR ex CH SILBERSCHOEN'S SHALL WE DANCE, CANADA. O: CHRISTINE LECHASSEUR, 848 PIERRE MAUFAY #1, STE‐
FOY, QC, G1V 2M8, OPEN BITCH 1ST RWB 599 FAERIE'S TOUCH MY BODY, LISTED, 10/02/2008 B: CHRISTINE LECHASSEUR, by NANI'S INDECENT EXPOSURE ex CH SILBERSCHOEN'S SHALL WE DANCE, CANADA. O: JENNY BRILLON, 176 GRAND FONTAINE, ST‐
JEANSUR‐ RICHELIEU, QC, J2X 0A9, . VETERAN BITCH 2ND 608 CH SILBERSCHOEN'S SHALL WE DANCE, ML813749, 04/06/2002 B: GLADYS & MAURICE COTE, by NANI'S CHOIR BOY ex CH SILBERSCHOEN'S IMA DANCER TOO, CANADA. O: CHRISTINE LECHASSEUR, 848 PIERRE MAUFAY #1, STE‐FOY, QC, G1V 2M8 1ST 188 CH WEATHERRUN'S LE JAZZ HOT CD RN RA RE, LU782351, 06/10/2001B: THOMAS W. LYON, by AM CHNANI'S SMART ALECK ex CH WEATHERRUN CLASSICAL JAZ KELCO, CANADA. O: S. BROCHU; N. GRIMARD, 79 RUE LORRAINE, LA VISITATION DE YAMASKA, PQ, J0G 1C0, . 3RD 987 CH PEWTEREDGE STARGAZER'S CHARA, JY623191, 12/12/1999 B: DARLENE REILLY, by CH PEWTEREDGE CORRADO ex CH VALMAR'S VALLEY ECHO V AQUILA, CANADA. O: KERRY MCGONEGAL, 926 POONAMALIE RD, SMITHS FALLS, ON, K7A 4S4 SPECIALS 902 CH GRAMAYRE'S JUST INTO HARDROCK, TY209683, 3/12/2007, BITCH B: SHELLY SHORROCK; DANA MASSEY; CHRIS GRISELL, AM/CDN CH GRAMAYRE'S MONEY DOWN THE DRAIN / AM/CDN CHGRAMAYRE WINWEIM NANI JUST ME, CANADA. O: SHELLY SHORROCK & DANIELLE LEVANGIE, 3456 GRANT'S SIDE ROAD RR 2, KINBURN, ON, K0A 2H0 1026 ELMHILL'S RAINE DANCER, UE227275, 21/03/2008 B: HAYLEY SOAR, SMOKYCITY LIKE A ROLLIN STONE / NALA'S SONG AT WINOKA, CANADA. O: HAYLEY SOAR, 4086 BOYCE, R.R.#1, HARROWSMITH, ON, K0H 1V0 BB 727 CH STARGAZER'S MUST BE AN ANGEL, ERN27001019, 23/11/2006, BITCH B: CAROL DUBUQUE, by FRIESLANDS EDSGER FROST ex CH STARGAZER'S I'M NO ANGEL, E. O: CAROL DUBUQUE, 560 WEST SHORE RD., NORTH HERO, VT, 05474. 189 CH WEATHERRUN GRAUSHATTN ENCORE, SL083664, 10/02/2006, BITCH B: THOMAS W. LYON; ROGER VANBELLEGHEM, by AM CH CAMEO'S CAPT'N JACK SILVERSMITH ex AM/CDN CH WEATHERRUN'S MAGGIE TEE, CANADA. O: S. BROCHU; N. GRIMARD; T. LYON, 79 RUE LORRAINE, LA VISITATION DE YAMASKA, PQ, 986 CH WEATHERRUN GHOSTPOINT ADARA, SJ104372, 18/05/2006, BITCH B: THOMAS W. LYON, by CH INSTAR'S VENTURE CAPITAL ex CH WEATHERRUN AXEL'S CLEO, CANADA. O: KERRY MCGONEGAL, 926 POONAMALIE RD, SMITHS FALLS, ON, K7A 4S4 SEXUALLY ALTERED MALE 1st 190 STEALYKA'S ALLES STERN FARAUD, TC151643, 01/02/2001 B: S. BROCHU; N. GRIMARD; C. DUBUQUE, by AM/CDN WEATHERRUN JUST DO IT V STEALYKA, FDJ ex CH STEALYKA EIN BLICK STARGAZER, CANADA. O: M. SIGOUIN; N. GRIMARD; S. BROCHU, 79 RUE LORRAINE, LA VISITATION DE YAMASKA, PQ, J0G 1C0, .
OTTAWA VALLEY POINTING DOG SPECIALTY, WEIMARANER RESULTS SENIOR PUPPY DOG 1st 905 GRAMAYRE WINWEIM KATCHN SUM Z'S, UW262323, 19/11/2008 ***‐ B: DANA MASSEY; SHELLY SHORROCK; BARBARA WILLIAMS, BROMHUND HIGH FIDELITY / CH GRAMAYRE WINWEIM LIFES A CABARET, CANADA. O: SHELLY SHORROCK, 3456 GRANT'S SIDE ROAD RR 2, KINBURN, ON, BRED BY EXHIBITOR DOG 605 FAERIE'S EVERYBODY DANCE NOW, SW134887, 11/11/2006 B: CHRISTINE LECHASSEUR, by CH NANI'S N 2nd JAGMAR'S TALISMAN ex CH SILBERSCHOEN'S SHALL WE DANCE, CANADA. O: CHRISTINE LECHASSEUR, 848 RWD PIERRE MAUFAY #1, STE‐FOY, QC, G1V 2M8, . 1st WD BOS 712 STARGAZER FRIESLAND I'LL DRINK TO THAT, ERN28000786, **** 04/11/2007 B: CAROL DUBUQUE, CH BIVINS FRIESLANDS RED ROVER / CH STARGAZER'S I'M NO ANGEL, Else. O: CAROL DUBUQUE & DORINE DEVRIES, 145 W TINMOUTH RD, WELLS, VT, 05774. SENIOR PUPPY BITCH 1st BP nd
2 454 UPLAND'S SUGAR AND SPICE, LISTED, 04/10/2008 ‐**‐ B: BRIAN J. MEANY, CH WEATHERRUN'S SIX PACK HEMI / AXEL'S PEERLESS GINNY V. UPLAND, Else. O: BRIAN J. MEANY, 114 ROBERTA DR., LIVERPOOL, NY, 13090. 462 GRAMAYRE KAT'CHA LATER, UW262320, 19/11/2008 ‐**‐ B: DANA MASSEY; SHELLY SHORROCK; BARBARA WILLIAMS, BROMHUND HIGH FIDELITY / CH GRAMAYRE WINWEIM LIFES A CABARET, CANADA. O: GREG & NIKKI NEWTON, 13222 COUNTY RD. 29, R.R.#2, WARKWORTH, ON, K0K 1K0 12‐18 MONTH BITCH 837 GREYWIND'S STAR OVER FOLLYHILL, LISTED, 16/05/2008 *‐*‐ B: ELLEN J GREVATT, ULTIMA N LIBERTY'S 1st PERFECT STORM / GREYWIND'S CROWN JEWEL, Else. O: WENDY MCKAY & ELLEN J GREVATT, 4883 TORBOLTON RWB RIDGE ROAD, RR2, WOODLAWN, ON, K0A 3M0, . BRED BY EXHIBITOR BITCH 1st 606 FAERIE'S TAKE IT ALL OFF, LISTED, 11/02/2008 B: CHRISTINE LECHASSEUR, by NANI'S INDECENT EXPOSUR ex CH SILBERSCHOEN'S SHALL WE DANCE, CANADA. O: CHRISTINE LECHASSEUR, 848 PIERRE MAUFAY #1, STE‐
FOY, QC, G1V 2M8, OPEN BITCH 2nd 599 FAERIE'S TOUCH MY BODY, LISTED, 10/02/2008 B: CHRISTINE LECHASSEUR, by NANI'S INDECENT EXPOSURE ex CH SILBERSCHOEN'S SHALL WE DANCE, CANADA. O: JENNY BRILLON, 176 GRAND FONTAINE, ST‐
JEANSUR‐ RICHELIEU, QC, J2X 0A9, . 1st 730 STARGAZER'S ANGEL IN DISGUISE, ERN28001200, 04/11/2007 ***‐ WB B: CAROL DUBUQUE, CH BIVINS FRIESLANDS RED ROVER / CH STARGAZER'S I'M NO ANGEL, Else. O: D; GILBERT; BOW W. & E. GILBERT; C. DUBUQUE, 560 WEST SHORE RD., NORTH HERO, VT, 05474 VETERAN BITCH 1st VB 608 CH SILBERSCHOEN'S SHALL WE DANCE, ML813749, 04/06/2002 B: GLADYS & MAURICE COTE, by NANI'S CHOIR BOY ex CH SILBERSCHOEN'S IMA DANCER TOO, CANADA. O: CHRISTINE LECHASSEUR, 848 PIERRE MAUFAY #1, STE‐FOY, QC, G1V 2M8 987 CH PEWTEREDGE STARGAZER'S CHARA, JY623191, 12/12/1999 B: DARLENE REILLY, by CH PEWTEREDGE CORRADO ex CH VALMAR'S VALLEY ECHO V AQUILA, CANADA. O: KERRY MCGONEGAL, 926 POONAMALIE RD, SMITHS FALLS, ON, K7A 4S4 SPECIALS BB 902 CH GRAMAYRE'S JUST INTO HARDROCK, TY209683, 3/12/2007, ***‐ BITCH B: SHELLY SHORROCK; DANA MASSEY; CHRIS GRISELL, AM/CDN CH GRAMAYRE'S MONEY DOWN THE DRAIN / AM/CDN CHGRAMAYRE WINWEIM NANI JUST ME, CANADA. O: SHELLY SHORROCK & DANIELLE LEVANGIE, 3456 GRANT'S SIDE ROAD RR 2, KINBURN, ON, K0A 2H0 1026 ELMHILL'S RAINE DANCER, UE227275, 21/03/2008 ***‐ B: HAYLEY SOAR, SMOKYCITY LIKE A ROLLIN STONE / NALA'S SONG AT WINOKA, CANADA. O: HAYLEY SOAR, 4086 BOYCE, R.R. #1, HARROWSMITH, ON, K0H 1V0 727 CH STARGAZER'S MUST BE AN ANGEL, ERN27001019, 23/11/2006, BITCH B: CAROL DUBUQUE, by FRIESLANDS EDSGER FROST ex CH STARGAZER'S I'M NO ANGEL, E. O: CAROL DUBUQUE, 560 WEST SHORE RD., NORTH HERO, VT, 05474. 986 CH WEATHERRUN GHOSTPOINT ADARA, SJ104372, 18/05/2006, BITCH B: THOMAS W. LYON, by CH INSTAR'S VENTURE CAPITAL ex CH WEATHERRUN AXEL'S CLEO, CANADA. O: KERRY MCGONEGAL, 926 POONAMALIE RD, SMITHS FALLS, ON, K7A 4S4 FIELD BITCH 1st 987 CH PEWTEREDGE STARGAZER'S CHARA, JY623191, 12/12/1999 B: DARLENE REILLY, by CH PEWTEREDGE CORRADO ex CH VALMAR'S VALLEY ECHO V AQUILA, CANADA. O: KERRY MCGONEGAL, 926 POONAMALIE RD, SMITHS FALLS, ON, K7A 4S4 ASSOCIATED ALL BREED SHOW RESULTS SENIOR PUPPY DOG 2nd 1st WD BOS BP BPIG 1st RWD st
1 RWD 2nd x 905 GRAMAYRE WINWEIM KATCHN SUM Z'S, UW262323, 19/11/2008 ***‐ B: DANA MASSEY; SHELLY SHORROCK; BARBARA WILLIAMS, BROMHUND HIGH FIDELITY / CH GRAMAYRE WINWEIM LIFES A CABARET, CANADA. O: SHELLY SHORROCK, 3456 GRANT'S SIDE ROAD RR 2, KINBURN, ON, K0A 2H0 BRED BY EXHIBITOR DOG 1st 1 WD RWD BOS st
1st WD BW BOS 1st WD BB 712 STARGAZER FRIESLAND I'LL DRINK TO THAT, ERN28000786, **** 04/11/2007 B: CAROL DUBUQUE, CH BIVINS FRIESLANDS RED ROVER / CH STARGAZER'S I'M NO ANGEL, Else. O: CAROL DUBUQUE & DORINE DEVRIES, 145 W TINMOUTH RD, WELLS, VT, 05774.
ABS 187 STEALYKA'S FATAL ATTRACTION, WA276846, 05/01/2009 ‐‐** B: S. BROCHU; N. GRIMRD; T. LYON, AM CH SMOKYCITY NANIS DBL SILHOUETTE / AM/CDN CH WEATHERRUN GRAUSHATTN ENCORE, CANADA. O: S. BROCHU; N. GRIMARD, 79 RUE LORRAINE, LA VISITATION DE YAMASKA, PQ, J0G 1C0, .
454 UPLAND'S SUGAR AND SPICE, LISTED, 04/10/2008 ‐**‐ B: BRIAN J. MEANY, CH WEATHERRUN'S SIX PACK HEMI / AXEL'S PEERLESS GINNY V. UPLAND, Else. O: BRIAN J. MEANY, 114 ROBERTA DR., LIVERPOOL, NY, 13090. 462 GRAMAYRE KAT'CHA LATER, UW262320, 19/11/2008 ‐**‐ B: DANA MASSEY; SHELLY SHORROCK; BARBARA WILLIAMS, BROMHUND HIGH FIDELITY / CH GRAMAYRE WINWEIM LIFES A CABARET, CANADA. O: GREG & NIKKI NEWTON, 13222 COUNTY RD. 29, R.R.#2, WARKWORTH, ON, K0K 1K0 JUNIOR PUPPY BITCH ABS SENIOR PUPPY BITCH 1st WB BW BP 2nd 2nd 1st RWB BP BPIG 12‐18 MONTH BITCH 2nd RWB 2nd 1st WB BW 1st WB 837 GREYWIND'S STAR OVER FOLLYHILL, LISTED, 16/05/2008 *‐*‐ B: ELLEN J GREVATT, ULTIMA N LIBERTY'S PERFECT STORM /GREYWIND'S CROWN JEWEL, Else. O: WENDY MCKAY & ELLEN JGREVATT, 4883 TORBOLTON RIDGE ROAD, RR2, WOODLAWN, ON,K0A 3M0, .
1024 ELMHILL'S PURPLE HEATHER, UE227268, 21/03/2008 ***‐ B: HAYLEY SOAR, SMOKYCITY LIKE A ROLLIN STONE / NALA'S SONG AT WINOKA, CANADA. O: HAYLEY SOAR, 4086 BOYCE, R.R. #1, HARROWSMITH, ON, K0H 1V0 OPEN BITCH st
1 1st RWB 1st 730 STARGAZER'S ANGEL IN DISGUISE, ERN28001200, 04/11/2007 ***‐ B: CAROL DUBUQUE, CH BIVINS FRIESLANDS RED ROVER / CH STARGAZER'S I'M NO ANGEL, Else. O: D; GILBERT; W. & E. GILBERT; C. DUBUQUE, 560 WEST SHORE RD., NORTH HERO, VT, 05474
SPECIALS BB BB BB 902 CH GRAMAYRE'S JUST INTO HARDROCK, TY209683, 3/12/2007, ***‐ BITCH B: SHELLY SHORROCK; DANA MASSEY; CHRIS GRISELL, AM/CDN CH GRAMAYRE'S MONEY DOWN THE DRAIN / AM/CDN CHGRAMAYRE WINWEIM NANI JUST ME, CANADA. O: SHELLY SHORROCK & DANIELLE LEVANGIE, 3456 GRANT'S SIDE ROAD RR 2, KINBURN, ON, K0A 2H0 1026 ELMHILL'S RAINE DANCER, UE227275, 21/03/2008 ***‐ B: HAYLEY SOAR, SMOKYCITY LIKE A ROLLIN STONE / NALA'S SONG AT WINOKA, CANADA. O: HAYLEY SOAR, 4086 BOYCE, R.R. #1, HARROWSMITH, ON, K0H 1V0 [IN THE FIELD]
“HOLD IT”
“HOLD IT” …“DROP IT”
By Dave Fadden, WAC Field Co‐Coordinator Anyone who has ever done any type of retriever training with their dog has likely uttered these words. What you’re teaching your dog to do is to hold onto whatever it is that they have retrieved and not to drop it until you’ve told them to do so. Many people from both obedience and field backgrounds, may have heard of the “force fetching” regime. There are many different methods and beliefs. Each needs to be tailor‐made to the specific dog and owner’s comfort level. The same methods are definitely not right for everyone. No one can say that their method is best but I will share what we’ve found has worked well for us. Prior to the WAC retriever ratings test that was held on November 1, 2009 we had to do some work with our “Shooter” to get him ready for his NRD test. Shooter would go out with great enthusiasm and pick up his bird but would stop short of the circle and drop it. Shooter was at the stage in his retriever training the he would readily open his mouth for whatever item was placed in front of him and take or “Fetch” it when commanded to do so. That was done without physical force but lots of repetition. His issue was that he would then want to spit it out as quickly as he put it in. Rather than resorting to intensive table sessions we took it slow and easy with Shooter and most of the work was done at home in the house. We would take a wooden dowel, bumper, dumbbell, paper towel roll, rolled up sock, slipper, you name it and command him to “FETCH” and then “HOLD it, HOLD it, HOLD it” …”DROP”. We started with 3 seconds and went up from there making sure that we gave the DROP command before he had a chance to drop the article. We would do it 2‐3 times in a row with lots and lots of praise and fuss and then stop especially if he’d been successful. We would always leave him wanting more. We would do this several times per day/night – in the kitchen while making dinner, at night while watching TV, before bed while we were getting ready. We had different articles around the house that we could practice with. Each session was a repeat of the FETCH, HOLD it, DROP commands but we started to stretch out the amount of time he had to hold it. We also practiced with the other dogs too – even our 12 year old Lacey ‐ because everyone seemed to want in on the fun and would wait their turn to play the game that seemed like so much fun! Before long (within a week) we were able to move to the next step which involved him having to HOLD while walking. That took a bit more time – at first, he didn’t seem to know that he could walk with that article in his mouth. We had to guide him by the collar while using the “HOLD it” command. Doing two things at once seemed to baffle him at first and that’s quite common because from a dog’s point of view, the introduction of moving forward seems like a brand new exercise. As with all things we try to teach dogs, it needs to be broken into steps and built on a solid foundation to the next step. Some dogs take longer than others for the light bulb to switch on so patience on the part of the owner is key. Never move on to the next phase until the last one is conducted properly. We all know that Weimaraners are brilliant so it often doesn’t take very many repetitions for them to be successful and ready to move to the next step. The next step is to repeat the process outdoors – first in the yard – always starting with the basics “FETCH, HOLD it, DROP”. The idea is that these commands become second nature so that when in a new location, the commands still mean the same thing. Remember, from a dog’s point of view, a new location is like learning a whole new exercise at first. But with the foundations in place, it doesn’t take long for them to carry their knowledge to any place, at any time. The transition from one location to another is usually very quick as long as they can learn to work through distractions which again, is like a whole new exercise. [IN THE FIELD]
For field work, the introduction of birds is a brand new exercise again and depending on the dog’s level of desire and natural field instincts, can progress very quickly. It’s always best at first to have the dog on a long line though in case he decides to run off with his new prize (the bird). Some dogs are so excited about having a real bird in their mouths, they sometimes forget their foundation but it does come back quickly with repetition. At our house we play a game where we have the dogs fetch and hold an objects (slippers, socks, remote controls, cordless phones, you name it) and then send them to bring it to someone in another part of the house. The other person makes them drop it, giving them praise and then repeats the exercise. The dogs go back and forth with great enthusiasm – thinking their retrieving back and forth is THE most important thing to do. It’s also a great way for the dog to learn that even when something gets taken away, something else is given back. It helps them believe that a retrieve does not always amount to something being taken away and lays a foundation so that outdoors, they don’t always feel the need to covet and run away with the retrieved object. The end result was Shooterpassed his NRD test with flying colours! Now is the perfect time of year to work on these exercises. There is no pressure or time line to have the dog trained for Dave Fadden and Mickey an upcoming test. With the colder weather it’s sometimes difficult to get the dog out for exercise. While this does not replace exercise it helps to keep them stimulated and teaches them a new skill that can be very useful in the real world. Remember to give lots or praise, keeping it short and sweet and stop the exercise with the dog always wanting more. And most of all – remember to HAVE FUN! Retriever Ratings Test
at Stonepoint Acres
Submitted by April Mallon The Weimaraner Association of Canada held a Retriever Ratings test hosted at Stonepoint Acres (Melbourne, Ontario) on November 1st, 2009. There were entries in two levels: Novice Retrieving Dog (NRD) and Retrieving Dog (RD). A third level (Retrieving Dog Excellent ‐ RDX) exists, however no dogs were entered this year. Eight dogs were tested (1 withdrawn due to injury) and 5 obtained new titles! Congratulations to all dogs and handlers on a successful test! Here are the results: "Mickey" (RD) Dave Fadden handler "Shooter" (NRD) Liette Fadden handler "Faye" (NRD) Dave Wolff handler "Faye" (NRD) Holly Colucci handler "Marvin" (NRD) Cara Wehkamp handler Special thanks to Dave & Liette Fadden for opening up their property for the test, and many thanks to our judges, Cec Beaven and Murray Wolff as well as the many volunteers who made the test so successful. *Interested in entering your dog in a future Retriever Ratings test but don't know where to start? Contact Dave Fadden, WAC Field Coordinator for more information.* How to turn your dog into a “CHIC”
By Liette Fadden CHIC is an acronym that stands for Canine Health Information Center. This designation is given to dogs that have been screened for specific health clearances as decided on a breed‐by‐breed basis by a parent breed club. (For Weimaraners it is the Weimaraner Club of America (WCA).) The WCA in conjunction with the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation (AKC/CHF) and the Orthopaedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) have agreed on certain health clearance testing that are important for breeding Weimaraners. The main goal is to be able to have a centralized collection of health data for various breeds and to share the results publicly. Breeders can use this as a tool to help screen potential breeding dogs for known health issues within the breed. Puppy owners can find the info in one centralized location to verify what tests the parents have been screened for. Parent breed clubs are consulted and help shape the definition of what tests are required for a CHIC designation. Researchers can use the results accumulated through the program to help further the progress of genetic testing and prediction. Based on an extensive health survey conducted through the WCA to identify diseases/problems that can be tested for, the following tests are part of the CHIC designation for Weimaraners: 9 Hip Evaluation ‐ OFA or Penn HIP 9 Autoimmune Thyroiditis screening ‐ OFA 9 Eye clearances ‐ CERF Although there are other diseases that are predominant in the Weimaraner breed such as HOD, Wobblers and Shaky Puppy Syndrome, Bloat, there are no genetic tests available yet to test for these anomalies so they are not part of the CHIC designation – Yet. Once genetic tests are reliable and widely available, they may be included in the CHIC program but until then, these are the 3 issues identified for Weimaraners. To date, there are 61 Weimaraners with the CHIC designation. A dog may obtain a CHIC number if: 1) It is permanently identified with either tattoo or microchip 2) Has been tested for the appropriate diseases/ problems for that breed 3) Owner has consented to releasing results to the public domain A CHIC number does not mean that a dog has passed all the appropriate tests – it simply means that the dog has met the criteria as listed above. The main reason for the CHIC database and CHIC # assigned is so that breeders can share information publicly about their breeding dogs – even if the results are not always positive. Not all breed clubs have identified what health issues should be tested for in their particular breed. Therefore, not all breeds are not part of the CHIC program. There is no application required to obtain a CHIC designation if the original tests were sent to OFA or CERF. If other test results were used such as Penn HIP, GDC or OVC or a parent club database, then a copy of the results should be sent to OFA to be included and a $25 fee is charged. A note is also required stating that the owner wishes to have the results added to the CHIC database and consent to all results being available to anyone and then the CHIC registration # will automatically be assigned. Below is a sample of a CHIC certificate. More information can be obtained for other breeds or general info at www.caninehealthinfo.org. O’livia Preparing for Take‐off [SKIJORING] leash and allowed to walk ahead of us – In order to balance out their fun time imagine harnessing that power into with their serious work time as certified something constructive and very fun for Mold Detection Dogs, Weimaraners both dog and owner! O’livia and Dot have proven that they can excel at a sport even during their off‐duty The sport has become quite popular all times. year round. It requires some specialized Recently, owner Anne O’Donnell and her equipment such as the dog’s harness and Weim team placed very impressively in bungee lines and special belt for the the sport of dry sledding. They came in owner to wear around the waist with nd
which holds the bungee line and has a 2 out of 14 2‐dog teams in a 6 K race quick‐release system for safety. When (Editor’s note: At a time of 15:41, just first starting, it is wise to get the dog used seconds behind the first place team!) and later that day Dot placed 3rd out of 9 to the harness and perhaps feel what it Anne and O’Livia
teams in the individual 2.8 K race (Editor’s likes to pull something around such as a note: At a time of 6:23!). The race log. Owners may elect to run behind their dog at first in order to start the training process to occurred in November at the Mush Larose race outside teach the dog that it is OKAY to pull when wearing the of Ottawa. The ladies beat many different breeds – even against typical sledding breeds like Huskies and special harness. Commands are also introduced and are Malamutes! usually patterned after typical sledding teams. The dog needs to learn to start and pull on command (Hike or Dry sledding is a race where a team consisting of owner Pull), turn to right or left (gee or haw), to keep going by and dog (or dogs) who pull their handler on a distractions (On By) or to stop (Whoa). Weims being as specialized two or three‐wheeled scooter (bigger tires, smart as they are learn quite quickly and enjoy the chance to run hard and pull. Harnesses have to be larger kick board and some have handbrakes) in a race specific for pulling and properly fitted. There are several through trails. The team with the fastest finish time is places to purchase them along with the bungee belt and the winner. Teams do not generally race against each lines. This equipment is not really expensive – the other at the same time but individually and are clocked. There are variations of this where dogs run in teams or whole harness/belt/bungee line kit can be purchased individually or other equipment is used such as a bike or for under $200. Of course, skis/sleds/scooters/carts are wheeled cart rig. In the sport of Canicross, the owner all extra but high‐end equipment is not necessary at the runs with the assistance of the dog’s pull. It is very beginning unless you are planning to race. Suppliers much like Skijoring – a winter sport where the can be contacted at www.canadog.ca or dog/owner team consists of www.mushitech.com or www.akkosports.com just to the dog(s) pulling the owner name a few. on cross‐country skis through trails or across frozen lakes The sport can be practiced anywhere there is an open or rivers. It is quite common area or trails. There are clubs that help get people to find sporting breeds and started and have access to groomed trails in some of Pointer/Greyhound/Malamut
the most beautiful areas in Canada. I found the Skidogs e mixes (known as Greysters) website (www.skidogs.ca) to be a good resource and at the top of the rankings – have listings for clubs across Canada. Although learning their high energy, muscular with experts is a great way to begin, it is still possible to bodies and athleticism, get involved entirely on your own, with your dog – at willingness to please their your own pace and in your own area. What a great way Dog Scooter: the Sport for handlers and pulling abilities to get some aerobic exercise for both you and your dog, Dogs Who Love to Run" is a make them a great choice enjoy the outdoors and scenery, make new friends and how‐to book and an share this with your best K9 friend . for this sport. I think we’ve introduction to the sport of all experienced the power Editor’s Note: And some wonder what to do with all that winter dog scootering weim energy! These websites included are worth checking out! that a Weim has when on A Weim in the Stable
By Catherine Sampson When Zoey Pearl, aka Sunshine’s Silver Lining, came to live with me on my horse farm, a new era of conscientious awareness was heightened. The soft silent treading paws and ghostly appearance can be a potential hazard around horses. Although all of my 30 plus horses are comfortable around dogs in general, the Weimaraner poses a challenge to assimilate with the horse population, not because of any ill temper, but simply because of their distinct appearance and quiet movement. The horse, being a large herbivore, can revert with lightening speed to their instincts of flight or fight if suddenly startled, especially by a carnivore. Sort of react first and ask questions later. Poor Zoey Pearl can’t understand why the horse is spooked when she gaily immerges around a corner without the presence of sound to announce her coming. Her grey coat silhouettes against the underbrush of dull winter colours acting as a perfect camouflage. Movement amongst the twigs of summer past may alarm the horse. Hearing is the keenest sense of the horse so any unfamiliar sound can cause a reaction. The horse’s eyes have a near perfect panoramic view of movement as a result of how they are positioned on the side of their head. Unfortunately, focus at close range directly ahead is extremely difficult for the horse unlike us. The horse will often raise and lower its head trying to focus on the object. It may even blow wildly from its nostrils trying to catch more scent. Movement of unknown origin can easily trigger the flight instinct in the horse. Where this can be a danger is when the horse reacts and the handler or rider is not prepared for the sudden burst of a thousand pounds of unbridled power. Keeping Zoey Pearl in full view of the horse in the open is important. Training the dog to stay close has been very helpful. Still the occasional lapse in focus happens from time to time as a horse bolts off briefly before discovering it is only Zoey Pearl coming to greet us from around a corner or from the concealment of high weathered grasses. My other dog, the Chesapeake Retriever with is dark chocolate colour seems to be less intimidating to the horse and is more easily recognized if he suddenly appears. Actually, the Weim has been the only dog that the horses seem to take notice of. White or near white including that steely grey colour is also seen as a caution to the horse. I believe this is due to the lack of contrast which gives definition to the object. The unusual colouring of the Weimaraner makes identification difficult for the horse. One solution Zoey & Jazzy 1
to the silent moving Weimaraner is to attach a small bell to the collar that can act as a locator. Horses can be accustomed to the sound and recognize it as being the dog approaching. Wearing a bright coloured dog coat in winter also helps, allowing the horse sufficient time to determine that it is a friend and not foe. When Zoey Pearl bounds around a corner and startles a horse, she usually freezes and has a look of bewilderment laced with a slight touch of guilt. This is followed by a quick heel to my side and all is forgiven. She is becoming more and more aware of her large companion the horse and its need to be approached with care. She moves out of its way and has learned not to trail behind in the horse’s blind spot, but walk beside. Her intelligence and observation skills have saved her from possible harm’s way. The hoof of a horse can be fatal and it is almost as if Zoey Pearl knows to heed a safe distance just in case the unthinkable should happen. Horses are not known to deliberately kick unless they have no escape route either it be tied or lead by a person tethered by a line. Only if they feel in perilous danger will they defend themselves as a last resort. Most often they will run away if able to. Zoey Pearl’s zeal for the hunt has now switched to hunting mice in the stable this winter as the pigeons are no where to be found in this cold climate. She has been excellent around the barn cats and often pays no attention to the horrible rooster that attacks everyone but her. She can be found occupying the large dog crate that is the rooster’s night time accommodation. (continued on next page) A Weim in the Stable (cont.) At this scale you can you read the window sign? Sometimes the rooster is sharing his crate with her as she lays in wait for a potential rodent to scurry by. For some reason, the nasty rooster tolerates her. It’s been quite the learning experience for me and the older Weim who has found life in the stable quite agreeable and interesting, even it she slips up from time to time and gives a horse a fright. They truly are a breed apart from other dogs and we wouldn’t have it any other way. “CAUTION‐Area Patrolled by Weimaraners” “Faraud” Stealyka's Alles Stern Faraud & mom “Leyla” CH Stealyka Ein Blick Stargazer. “What did you
do?”
Got Milk?
Please?
“Ollie” Owned by Brent and Deb West That’s
my
spot
"Lexi" StonePoint's Lexi Gray Owned by Jeff and Angi “Millie” Gramayre’s Flying Solo at Hardrock Owners “The Houcks” Tail Docking
Submitted by Shelly Shorrock As most of you are aware, there is a movement in Canada to prevent the docking of tails in Weimaraners among other breeds. There is a misconception that the docking of tails is done as a “cosmetic surgery”, purely aesthetic reasons. We know of course that this is not the case. The first Weimaraners incurred tail injuries that would not heal. The conformation of the Weimaraner tail (length, thickness, hair/fat cover), along with their exuberant personalities (especially when hunting) and the terrain that they traditionally hunted in ie: close cover, were subjecting the dogs to a high number of tail injuries. These injuries were difficult to heal due to the above attributes combined with the fact that the end of the tail has a greatly reduced blood flow that impedes healing. The early Weims would suffer from infections and necrosis of the tail, which was very painful. The Germans were put in a position where amputation of the injured tail was required. To reduce the pain and risk of infection in the adult Weims, tail docking in the newborn Weimaraner puppy started as a preventative or prophylactic procedure. Docking the tail in a newborn puppy rather than an adult dog is preferable for many reasons. They are young enough that their neurological pathways are not fully formed, therefore feeling less pain and not remembering it. They heal very quickly with no risk that they will chew through bandages/reopen stitches☺ They do not have to suffer the pain of ongoing injuries until the Veterinarian decides that the infection and pain is enough to justify an adult surgery. They do have multiple surgeries as the bone infection spreads down the tail. Surgery does not require general Anesthesia and days of crate rest and an E collar. Legislation has come into effect in many countries to prohibit tail‐docking. Some of these countries have a ban on ALL docking, while other countries allow it to continue on specific “working” dogs/breeds that have a historical need to prevent injury, such as the Weimaraner. Advocates of the docking ban cite that there is no evidence that these breeds have a reduction in tail injuries because they are docked, and therefore we are needlessly amputating healthy tails and causing needless pain to puppies. I am not sure where they would obtain these statistics when: 1) these breeds did not traditionally have tails to injure so of course there is limited information on injuries. 2) There is no organization that statistically tracks tail injuries in a scientific and unbiased manner. I wanted to get a feel for how a tail docking ban would affect our breed. I googled Great Danes and Tail Injuries. The Dane has a similarly conformed tail to the Weim. The Weim’s does curl up a bit more and of course the Weim is a hunting dog and they would often be in areas of risk that the Dane would not be in. Even though I am admittedly biased towards the docking of the Weim tail, the number of sites and forum’s that were addressing Dane tail injury and adult tail amputation was astounding. This is not a matter of very isolated tail injuries! In order to maintain the rights to prevent undo pain and trauma to our adult Weims, we need to get vocal about this. The right to have a Veterinarian dock tails and remove dew claws on your puppies has already been taken away from people in New Brunswick. The rest of Canada’s Veterinary Association are discussing this now for the rest of the country. Go to your Veterinarian’s and tell them of your concerns. • Ask them if they keep statistics for their practice on tail injury/amputation. If they do, do they separate these statistics out in any way (breed/tail type/cause of injury). Putting “All Breeds” in the database without distinction skews the statistics. Breeds/Varieties with enough cover on their tails (like the LH Weim), breeds of laid back and calm temperaments and the function of the breed (not requiring exposure to risk) should not be included in these statistics. • Ask them how many Weimaraner’s, Viszla’s, GSP’s and other traditionally docked hunting breeds they have in their practice with full tails? How many of those have had injuries to the tail? • Ask them how many Weimaraner’s, Viszla’s, GSP’s and other traditionally docked hunting breeds they have in their practice with tails docked as newborns? How many of those have had injuries to the tail? • Is your Vet for or against docking? Do not support your Vet if they are against safe and proper docking of Weimaraner puppies. We need to raise awareness that this is NOT cosmetic surgery on our breed. It is NOT because our CKC standard has a full tail as a fault. It is NOT because the Weimaraner is a show dog. It is NOT because long tails knock things off coffee tables. It is NOT because long tails hurt when they hit someone in the leg. It is because it is in the best interest of our breed to prevent trauma/infection/pain in our dogs as adults. [CLASSIFIEDS WAGS & BRAGS] From Regional Specialty in Long Sault August 2009 “Faraud” ‐ Stealyka's Alles Stern Faraud achieved " Best Altered In Breed " Owned by Marie Sigouin; S.Brochu; N.Grimard Despite the rain, the long drive, the sleepless night to get to Long Sault ‐ on time to set up camp ‐ and show Faraud on Saturday. We enjoyed spending the rest of the day meeting with Weim "Worshippers" we already knew and were very pleased to be introduced to new ones. I encourage more breeders and owners to join in next year to celebrate this wonderful breed and exchange their knowledge and admiration for our grey velvet friends. Marie Sigouin Congratulations to Ch. StonePoint’s Mickey Moose NAVHDA NA RD V on November 1, 2009, “Mickey” passed his Retrieving Dog test with flying colours Not to be outdone by his “little” brother, Ch. StonePoint’s Trouble Shooter NRD “Shooter” also passes the first level of Retriever Ratings Both bred/owned/handled by Dave and Liette Fadden Merlin and Cagney welcome a new addition to their pack – “Emma” the Boxer has joined the Puchtinger family. She started out as a foster dog for Boxer Rescue of Ontario but her sweet nature, endearing personality and just a touch of devilishness to make life more interesting, has earned her a permanent place with Anne and her gang. Congratulations’ to Ch. Stonepoint's Picture Perfect NRD NSD RN V on November 1, 2009 “Faye” passed her NRD. This title qualifies her for the WAC Versatility Rating! I could not be happier that we finally did it. This means a lot so see the "V" now at the end of her name. Holly and Frank Colucci We at Shadowpoint have yet another brag to finish out a terrific 2009 year! On Saturday December 5, 2009 CH Shadowpoint’s Summer Daisy FDJ, NRD, NA 1, V “Faye” finished her Canadian Championship. Not only is Faye an accomplished versatile field dog with loads of desire, she is beautiful as well. Faye adds the first Canadian Champion title to our program to go along with our many field titles! We are very proud of her and thank her owners Dave and Sheri Wolff for their dedication to help Faye accomplish so much in just 18 months. Faye now qualifies for her Versatile (V) rating and truly exemplifies this award. Bert and Marilyn McLeod Membership Applications
¾ Anita Hancen RR 4, Seaforth ON N0K 1W0 Ph: (519) 522‐2764 Email: [email protected] Sponsor: Cecil Beaven ¾ Mark DiVincenzo 3154 Deerfield Ct, Morrisville, PA 15668 Ph: (724) 327‐4012 Email: [email protected] Sponsor: Deb Harnish ¾ David Wolff 91 Cardinal Cres South, Waterloo, ON H2J 2E6 Ph: (519) 885‐5943 Email: [email protected] Sponsor: Bert and Marilyn McLeod Please keep Shelly Shorrock informed of changes to email ,home address and/or telephone numbers Change of Address [RECIPE CORNER]
Baked Pheasant with Caramelized Apple and Cranberries Served with Rosemary Baked Potatoes and Ginger Glazed Carrots Submitted by: Jennifer Durocher and the boys, Symon and Reign With the holiday and hunting seasons now behind us, I share my first hunting seasons’ bounty and recipe with you. Keep in mind, this has been more of an adventure for me. For those of you that know me, they will most certainly be laughing along at “how far I’ve come”. I have been called a “tree hugging vegetarian” from time to time. Whatever. This past Christmas, instead of the traditional turkey dinner, I made a wonderful feast of pheasant hunted by my very own (ok and with much help from his dad, brother and uncle – Symon is still a little young and couldn’t count on him to feed a table of 6. Ok my husband had some experienced gunners with him as well BUT all of the leadership, advice and direction I did all on my own – I hope they let me come again!) As my father sat down for my beautiful dinner presentation, my two (Weimaraner) boys proudly lay down in their places. Dad shakes his head and comments on his disbelief of my complete adoration of my “hounds” as he calls them. “They are bird dogs dad”, I remind him and I tell him of my first hunting expedition as we eat. He is happy that although I did obtain my PAL this year, I still do not own a gun. “Soon daddy, soon”. “Let me know when”, he says and smiles. Baked Pheasant with Caramelized Apple and Cranberries 4‐6 Pheasants (breasts) **reserve organs for dog treats 4‐6 Apples (strong flavor apples) Olive Oil 1 c. fresh cranberries Course black Pepper 3 tbsp brown sugar Fresh Sage 3 tbsp butter Fresh Parsley Fresh Rosemary ground cinnamon 1c. Apple cider (or juice) ground nutmeg cinnamon sticks (reserve for garnish) Set the pheasant breasts in a salt (course salt) water bath for an hour or so. Chop fresh herbs and add to olive oil. Peel, core and slice apples. Remove the breasts from bath and pat dry. Rub with course pepper and salt. Place in a baking pan, pour OO/ herbs over breasts and add apple cider to the pan. Add a few whole herb springs and cover with foil. Bake at 350 for about an hour. DO NOT OVERCOOK. Let stand a few minutes before serving. In a skillet, add butter, brown sugar, apples, cranberries, cinnamon and nutmeg. Simmer over med heat until caramelized. Place baked pheasant breasts on a serving platter and pour over caramelized apples. Add fresh herb sprigs and cinnamon sticks for garnish. Advertisement spot
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Submit your pictures! Include WHO you are, WHERE you are from, your WEIM’s full name and call name. Please remember there is limited space. “Above: Berlin” Ch.Greydove's Flight to Berlin and “Caspar” (Greydove's Ghostly Flight) Submitted by Deb Harnish Left: “Asha” Greydove’s Asha Deb Harnish, Nova Scotia Below: “Boomer” Stonepoint Chasin Stormy Skies “Wiley” Stonepoint Wile E Super Genius Rhonda Stickle, Oro‐Medonte, ON Above: “Melba” Submitted by Julie Singer Below: O’liva and Anne O’Donnell Submitted by Laura Ritchie Winter Weims
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