CROYDON CAPERS - CDODC · CDODC CAPERS ~ April 2015 3 Welcome all, We are always looking at new ways to improve our Club and the service to our members, may it be the training methods

Life Member Beryl McCarthywith her beautiful Border CollieObedience Grand Champion Kyntaf Tullys Venture, UDX (Kali)

Beryl celebrates a very special birthday this month.

CROYDON CAPERS

NEWSLETTER OF CROYDON AND DISTRICT OBEDIENCE DOG CLUB

APRIL 2015 EDITION

2 CDODC CAPERS ~ April 2015

Croydon & District Obedience Dog Club Inc.Registration Number A008190W ABN: 82 580 068 107

Clubhouse Telephone 9723 7194 Postal Address: PO Box 465 Croydon 3136

Committee of Management 2014/2015

LIFE MEMBERSArnold AdamsHelen Adams (Decd)Eric Archer (Decd)Michelle BalzereitHelen BellManfred BentrupMarilyn BentrupBill BradfordLesley BradfordKaren BransgroveMarilyn ChaffeyAnne ColemanGeoff ColemanBrian ConstableJoan Crewther

Pam Cripps Robert Dark Melissa FooteAnne Gilbert (Decd)Heather GilbertCarmel GreenKerry Grills Nan Hawkins (Dore-Smith)Margaret HopsonNorma Jones-Roberts Sue KeableGeraldine KisielnickiChris KruegerIngrid KruegerKeith Layton

Penny Lloyd Clive Makepeace Pam MakepeaceRebecca McGroartyRuth NichollsEddie NissnerMal PatonNeil PetersonMargaret PillingLyn RileyElizabeth SaltzerSandra SchaferMargaret SchaffertSheila SchaubAnn Statham

Rita Thomas Roger Thomas Frank TippingWendy Tosh (Tipping)Wayne TraceyCathy TrudingerBetty TullochGreg TullochEric van ZuydenIsobel van ZuydenMartin VengustJohn WilliamsAnne Woods

Articles appearing in this newsletter are considered to be of interest to the members, but do not necessarilyexpress the opinions of the Committee of Management or of the Editor.

LEGAL NOTE: The Editor and the Committee of Management of the CDODC accept no responsibilityfor the accuracy of claims made by advertisers in this newsletter.

April 2015 ©Croydon & District Obedience Dog Club Inc.

President Christian KruegerVice President Wayne TraceyVice President Geoff ColemanSecretary Gary McArthurAssistant Secretary Pam ScottTreasurer Ann StathamAssistant Treasurer Chief Instructor Brian ConstableInstructors’ Representative Barbara SchubertCommittee Jan Seach

Greg TullochFrances CampbellMichelle GrummischAnne MannSusan Mahoney

Web Administrator Marilyn Chaffey

Obedience Trial Secretary Lorraine Holland

Agility Trial SecretaryTrial Grounds Managers Liz Sharp and

Anne Woods

Demonstration Team Managers

Jan Seach and Marjy Grosvenor

Equipment Shop Supervisor Anne ColemanTuck Shop Supervisor Margaret HopsonEditor of “Capers” Ann Statham

TRAINING PANELChief Instructor Brian ConstablePanel Barbara Schubert

Marilyn ChaffeyCOORDINATORSPuppy Jan SeachBasic 1 Xanthe WhitneyBasic 2 Ken LeemingAdvanced Obedience Marjy Grosvenor

OTHER TRAINING PERSONNELAgility Coordinator Susan MahoneyFlyball Coordinator Florence ChiuRally O Coordinator Gary McArthur

CDODC CAPERS ~ April 2015 3

Welcome all,

We are always looking at new ways to improve our Club and the service to our members, may it be the training methods or the online renewal system that was launched just a few weeks ago.

The online renewal system took a little longer to implement than expected but we were finally able to test the system in Feb/March. If you missed out on the launch this year then you get another chance next year, we anticipate that most people will make use of it to save the time lining up. If you have had difficulty using our online renewal, please let us know, only this way will we be able to correct any problem.

President’s Report

Our thanks should go to the two people that made all this happen, Robert Dark (our Web-designer) and Marilyn Chaffey our very own Web-administrator. Marilyn has been the driving force behind organising and coordinating our Web-site for many years now and is very well versed in all aspects of our site.

Our Club constitution/rules will only allow Membership renewals until the end of April, after that you will have to come to the office and apply for a new membership.

Please remember our AGM on the 29th of May. On that night we all have to make a decision on who is going to fill any possible vacancy on the committee for the coming year. On the same night all trophies will be presented to our Trial fraternity, so please be there if you are in the running for an award.

See you soon.

Happy trainingChris KruegerCDODC President

2015 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND ELECTIONS

The following are the relevant dates for this year’s AGM and elections:

AGM: 29th May 2015Nominations close: Friday 8th May 2015

Blessed is the person who has earned the love of an old dog.

– Sidney Jeanne Seward


Hello everyone,

Easter has come and gone and I trust you and yours are all safe and well and had the opportunity to enjoy time with friends and family and your four legged companions.

We commenced a new Instructor Training Program on 12th April and have eight potential obedience instructors under training. The course consists of eight sessions of both theory and practical lessons and then an assessment. The trainees attend on a Sunday afternoon after our normal Sunday activities, they also spend twelve sessions out in the field being mentored by experienced instructors, the mentoring section of the course is due to start in early May, so shortly these trainees could be taking part in your class, please show them every consideration. They have taken on a huge task and are a great bunch of people for who I have the utmost respect.

Apart from the odd occasion when I’m allowed to stand in for an absent instructor or take a social class I seldom get to meet any of you handlers and your dogs, however when I do I’m always impressed with the concern you have for the animals under your care. If you spot me around the grounds looking harassed pleased say hi – it could make my day.

Take care out there.Brian Constable,Chief Instructor.

Chiefly Chatter The Secret Route to Inner Peace

If you can always be cheerful, ignoring aches and pains,

If you can resist complaining and boring people with your troubles,

If you can eat the same food every day and be grateful for it,

If you can understand when your loved ones are too busy to give you any time,

If you can take criticism and blame without resentment,

If you can conquer tension without medical help,

If you can relax without alcohol,

If you can sleep without the aid of drugs,

Then you are probably the family dog!

And you thought I was going to get all spiritual. Handle every stressful situation like a dog...

If you can’t eat it or play with it, piddle on it and walk way.


B2 PASSES SINCE 22/2/15

Linda Chang and Molly Lee

Florence Chiu and Snowy

Barbara Coddington and Lachie

Claire Duncan and Scotty

Chris Furphy and Marty

CONGRATULATIONS to the following club members who have recently passed the Basic Obedience Test.

If you have ordered your certificate and not received it please call into the office on any Sundaybetween 10.30 – 11.00 am to collect it.

Basic Obedience Passes

Hayley George and Torah

Gary Love and Arnold

Narrelle Marriott and Sooty

Helen Pascoe and Miss Bella

Catharine Rushton and Bailey

Nicola Sweet and Indi

Please note: It is not acceptable for members to allow their dogs to continually bark whilst at Club. Complaints from neighbours to Council can make it very difficult for the Club to be seen as a group of responsible dog owners.

If your dog barks while tethered at Club, it may be advisable to put the dog in a covered, well ventilated crate thus removing visual stimulation, often the cause of barking.

Excessive Barking

YELLOW BANDANNA?A number of our dogs at CDODC wear yellow bandannas….. this is because they might be hyper, nervous, protective, or excitable.

Please give these dogs SPACE and ask the handler for permission BEFORE you or your dog approach.


AGM Notice

NOTICE TO MEMBERS OF THE CROYDON & DISTRICT OBEDIENCE DOG CLUB INC.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGNotice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of members of the Croydon & District Obedience Dog Club Inc. will be held in the Clubrooms, Richard Silcock Reserve, William Rd, Croydon on Friday 29th May, 2015 at 7.30pm.

BUSINESS1. Apologies2. Minutes of the previous Annual General Meeting3. Presentation of the Annual Reports4. Appointment or reappointment of Auditor5. Appointment of Returning Officer6. Election of the Committee of Management7. Presentation of Awards8. General Business pertaining to the Annual General Meeting

CROYDON & DISTRICT OBEDIENCE DOG CLUB ANNUAL ELECTION 2015 – NOMINATION FORM

We wish to nominate ..............................................................................for the position(s) of:

q President q Secretary q Treasurer

q Vice President q Assistant Secretary q Assistant Treasurer

q General Committee (6)

PRINTED NAME SIGNATURE

NOMINATOR

SECONDER

I accept the above nomination(s)

Nominations close with Secretary on Friday 8th May 2015.

The Elections for the Committee of Management of CDODC will be conducted at the Annual General Meeting to be held on Friday 29th May, 2015.

Executive members of Committee need to be members of the VCA.


Love hormone makes dogs even better friends

Anna Salleh ABC Monday, 16 March 2015With thanks to member Emily Skoda for proving link.

Does your dog obey your every command? It might be thanks to the bonding hormone oxytocin.A new Australian study has found that dogs were better at following cues to find a hidden treat after they were given oxytocin.

The findings provide the best clues yet on how dogs might have evolved to be humans’ best friend, and could help pave the way for breeding dogs that respond even better to human cues, says researcher Jessica Oliva, who carried out the research as part of her PhD in biological sciences at Monash University.

In humans, oxytocin is well known as a hormone that helps mother and baby bond, and as a chemical in the brain that increases the ability of people to understand emotions and solve social problems.

However, there is also mounting evidence that oxytocin is involved in bonding between humans and dogs.

For example, says Oliva, patting and talking to a dog for just three minutes has been found to increase oxytocin levels in the blood stream of both human and dog.

And studies have also shown that the closer a human feels to a dog, the more oxytocin appears in the human’s urine.

“So that really seemed to suggest that oxytocin is involved in feelings of closeness to your dog,” says Oliva.

But measuring levels of oxytocin in the blood is not necessarily indicative of what’s happening in the brain, she says.

Nasal sprayIn their study, Oliva and colleagues looked at the impact of oxytocin on dogs’ ability to use human cues to pick which of two bowls contained a hidden treat.

31 male and 31 female pet dogs were tested twice after being given oxytocin or a saline placebo, and given scores out of ten for their performance.

Importantly, in this study, oxytocin was administered to dogs via a nasal spray that ensured it would easily get into the brain.

The results, published in the journal Animal Cognition, show that animals given oxytocin outperformed those not given the chemical.

Moreover, this improvement in performance was still evident 15 days after the oxytocin was given.

“This told us that oxytocin is definitely involved in a dog’s ability to use human cues.”

Dog evolutionOliva says previous research has shown that dogs are better than their wolf ancestors at using non-verbal human cues like pointing to pick up treats. This is the case even with wolves that are highly socialised and hand-reared by humans.

“So my hypothesis is that over the course of domestication, something happened within the dog’s brain that allowed them to understand human social cues.”

Her suggestion is that oxytocin enables the bond between dog and human.

Oliva says the next step would be to do exactly the same experiment in wolves.

“That would really tell us more about evolution,” she says.

Oliva says some dogs in the experiment were better than others at the task.

“Some were at chance level, some were really good.”

She is currently looking at whether there is a genetic difference in the oxytocin receptor gene in the better-performing dogs.

That could lead to selective breeding of dogs especially guide dogs, military dogs, or customs dogs, says Oliva.


Puppy proofing your home

Reprinted from Dogs Vic Mag

Adding a new puppy to the family is an exciting time but not something that should

be undertaken without some advance planning. Along with the decision of choosing a suitable type of dog that will be compatible with the owner’s lifestyle, some arrangements need to be made before bringing a puppy home. A puppy is like a human toddler – it will explore its surroundings and sometimes this can lead to injury or death.

• A puppy needs a secure fenced area as it will be able to squeeze through quite small spaces and escape. It is also important to make sure there are no gaps where the puppy can get its head stuck.

• Swimming pools and fish ponds need to be securely fenced off to prevent access as puppies will drown unless rescued promptly.

• Electrical cords should be placed out of reach or power turned off at the switch to prevent electrocution if the puppy chews the cord.

• Steep steps should be closed off with a baby barrier to prevent injuries if the puppy tumbles down.

• Eating cigarette butts may cause nicotine poisoning so care must be taken to ensure the puppy cannot reach an ashtray.

• Toilet bowl cleaners are toxic so the lid should be down to prevent dogs drinking from the bowl.

• All medications, pesticides and cleaning products should be kept in a securely locked cupboard.

• Keep aerosol cans out of reach of the puppy as they may explode if chewed and punctured.

• Many plants are toxic so try to keep indoor plants out of reach and securely fence off any toxic garden plants.

• Do not use snail or rodent killers where the puppy can access them.

• Pins and needles are a deadly hazard if swallowed.

• Make sure that eyes are removed from soft toys given to the puppy as a toy. Squeaky rubber toys must have a secure squeaker that cannot come loose and be swallowed.

Who me? I didn’t do it.... honestly!


FOR DOGS’ SAKE, PICK UP

Please clean up after your dog to ensure that dogs retain their rights

to parks, beaches, dog-friendly accommodation facilities, walking

trails and other public places.

Killers in your garden

There are many plants commonly found in home gardens that could prove lethal to dogs

and especially puppies (who chew everything) – not to mention yourself and your children. Below is a list of these plants which are lethal and the effects they can have if eaten – even in minute quantities.

AZALEA: The entire plant – paralysis of the muscles, including the heart, depression of the central nervous system, sometimes fatal.

BIRD OF PARADISE: Seed Pods – nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.

CANNA LILY: Entire plant – intense burning sensation and irritation of the mouth and stomach.

CASTOR BEAN: Entire plant but especially the seeds – burning sensation in the mouth. Swallowing two or more seeds may cause serious illness or death.

DAFFODIL: Bulb – severe vomiting and diarrhoea, trembling convulsions and sometimes death.

DAPHNE: Entire plant – burning and ulceration of stomach and intestines, bloody vomiting and diarrhoea.

ENGLISH IVY: Leaves and berries – general excitement, difficulties in breathing, coma.

HOLLY: Berries – vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness and collapse.

IRIS: Leaves, roots and flesh portions – severe but temporary digestive upset.

JERUSALEM CHERRY: Berries – vomiting, diarrhoea and collapse.

YELLOW JASMINE: Entire plant – thirst, dilation of pupils, reddened skin, headache, high blood pressure and rapid pulse, convulsions, delirium and coma.

LANTANA: Berries – gastro intestinal irritation, muscular weakness and circulatory difficulties, sometimes fatal.

OLEANDER: Entire plant – nausea, depression, bloody diarrhoea, weakened and irregular pulse and paralysis.

POINSETTIA: Leaves and stem – diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and delirium. Sap can cause irritation and if rubbed in eyes – blindness.

POISON OAK: Leaves – skin irritation.

PRIVET: Entire plant – stomach irritation, diarrhoea. In large quantities – convulsions.

RANNUNCULAS (Buttercup): Entire plant – stomach irritation, diarrhoea. In large quantities – convulsions.

RHUBARB: Leaves – vomiting, severe abdominal pain, muscle cramps. In large quantities, coma and death.

WISTERIA: Entire plant – severe vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea.

It is not safe to assume that just because you can eat one part of the plant, the rest is not poisonous. For instance, although we eat peaches, both the stone and leaves contain cyanide. Apricots also contain cyanide and children have actually died from eating too many kernels. Although Rhubarb stalks are good to eat, the leaf has been known to cause fatalities in humans.


The Club’s financial year finishes on 31st March, 2015, and all memberships are due

for renewal on that date. If you are not wearing an ORANGE membership card, please ensure that you renew your membership by the end of April. If your membership renewal has not been received by 1st May you will be ineligible to vote at the Club’s 2015 Annual General Meeting, and you will be ineligible to run for a place on the Committee.

If you expect to be away from Club during April, please remember to pay your membership renewal BEFORE you go. We will not accept renewals past the 1st May; after that date we are bound by the Club’s constitution to charge a new joining fee (that’s an extra $30.00 in addition to the renewal fees).

You will find a renewal form on our website (cdodc.com.au) and spare copies can be collected from the Office. Please note that we will not be sending renewal forms through the post. Although we will accept renewals via post, send your completed form and a photocopy of your dogs current vaccination certificate, evidence of address along with a cheque or money order made payable to CDODC Inc to P O Box 465, Croydon 3136 please include a stamped self addressed envelope. You may also renew your membership at Club any Sunday, between 9.15 am and 10.30am. You will need to bring with you:

• Your dog’s current vaccination certificate, ie. With a next vacc’s due date of ?/5/15 to the end of 2015 or early 2016.

• Your evidence of current address (ie a bill no more than 6 months old)

• Your Green membership card (we’ll swap it for a nice ORANGE one).

• Your renewal fee (we accept cash, cheque or card)

• If you’re a member of the VCA, your current VCA membership ticket.

The renewal fees are $20.00 per person (membership fee), $30.00 per dog (training fee) and Insurance levy $7.50 per person for all NON VCA members.

Volunteers WantedIf you would like to join our band of happy helpers, please tick the appropriate box under the section headed “Volunteers Wanted” on your renewal form. We will use this information to compile a list of names of people we can call upon to help in particular, in the following areas.

• We need people to help in the Equipment Shop.

• We need people to help in the Kiosk.

• We need people to help set up the Agility Equipment.

• We always need help on Fun Days and Trial Days (in May, June, Sept & Dec)

• From time to time we need the help of various tradespeople, and we would like to know if there are any plumbers, electricians, carpenters, etc, among our members who would be willing to help out.

Children at ClubIt is lovely to see families come down to Club with children and dogs in tow, but parents please remember that we have many dogs at Club at various stages of training and socialisation. We would hate to see a child knocked over or (heaven forbid) bitten by a dog,

Membership Renewals – when must they be paid?


? The Committee of Management hereby announce the

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGof the

CROYDON & DISTRICT OBEDIENCE DOG CLUB INC

7.30PM FRIDAY 29th May 2015

SILCOCK RESERVE CLUB HOUSEAGENDA

PRESIDENT’S ANNUAL REPORTSECRETARY’S ANNUAL REPORTANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORTAPPOINTMENT OF AUDITOR

GENERAL BUSINESSELECTION OF ALL OFFICE BEARERS

PRESENTATION OF TROPHIES

TO AVOID DELAYS PLEASE BRING YOUR MEMBERSHIP CARD WITH YOU TO THE AGM

ALL MEMBERS AND OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS WELCOME

Each Family: Please bring a plate

Would you like to become involved in the management of your Club? The Club is run by a Committee, and all positions will be declared vacant at the AGM (Friday 29th May, 2015). Don’t wait to be asked – if you feel that you would like to know more about the Committee, please call into the office on a Sunday morning, or alternatively call any committee member. Any person who is a financial member of CDODC at the AGM, and who have been a member since at least 31st December 2014, is eligible to be nominated for the 2015 – 2016 Committee.

NOMINATIONS must be lodged with the Club Secretary by 8th May, 2015.

LIFE MEMBERSHIP nominations need to be lodged with the Club Secretary for consideration by the review committee by Sunday 12th April 2015.

Members are responsible for the behaviour of their children at all times.

Children must NOT approach a dog without the owner’s permission.

To be followed home by a stray dog is a sign of

impending wealth.

– Chinese proverb

so please ensure you keep a close eye on your little ones. Sunday mornings at Club provides you with a good opportunity to remind your children NEVER to pat a dog which is unknown to them, without checking with the dog’s owner first. On the other side of the coin, all members must make sure that their dogs are not tied up near doorways so that other handlers can go past without having to squeeze past a dog. Ask someone to mind your dog if you have to pop into the Clubhouse for a minute. If you are going to take longer, tether your dog under some shade with its fixed collar.

Membership Renewals – when must they be paid?


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Protecting your Pooch

Reprinted from Dogs Life Mag Jan/Feb 2015

Why it is so important to vaccinate your dog? Staying on top of your pet’s vaccination needs can greatly reduce the risk of him ever suffering one of many potential diseases.

If you’re thinking of adding a new puppy to your family, chances are you’re probably aware that there are vaccinations available to protect your dog against a range of diseases. But have you ever stopped to think about what those diseases are, when your puppy needs to be vaccinated, and why these vaccinations are so important? To find out, Dogs Life spoke to Dr Caroline Butler from the Lost Dogs’ Home Frank Samways Veterinary Clinic and Bayer’s Technical Services veterinarian Dr Lisa Ahlstrom.

Deadly Diseases“All dogs should be vaccinated against parvovirus, distemper virus and canine hepatitis, even if they never mix with other dogs, as they are all serious, highly contagious and often deadly diseases,” Dr Ahlstrom says.

Although rarely fatal, most dogs are also vaccinated against canine cough (kennel cough) as it’s highly contagious and reduces the quality of life in affected dogs for weeks or months. Dogs can also be vaccinated against leptospirosis and coronavirus, depending upon where they live, their lifestyle and their health.

But what sort of effect can the most commonly vaccinated against diseases have on your pooch?

Canine distemper is a viral disease to which puppies between the ages of three to six months old are particularly susceptible. “Signs of distemper include profuse discharge from the ears and eyes, coughing, vomiting, diarrhoea,

fits, disorientation and paralysis,” says Dr Butler.

Canine parvovirus is a highly infectious viral disease that can be especially severe in puppies, with symptoms including acute onset lethargy, anorexia, fever, vomiting and diarrhoea.

“Infectious canine hepatitis is an acute liver infection in dogs which can also affect their kidneys” Dr Butler explained. “Signs vary from slight fever to fatal. The main signs are apathy, anorexia, thirst, conjunctivitis, discharge from the nose and eyes, prolonged clotting times and sometimes abdominal pain and vomiting”.

Kennel cough is also highly contagious and leads to inflammation of the upper respiratory system. Signs of kennel cough are harsh, dry coughing which can lead to retching and gagging. If left unchecked, kennel cough can potentially develop into pneumonia, however, the majority of cases are not serious and resolve without complications.

Why vaccinate?Some dog owners hold the misguided belief that they don’t need to vaccinate their pets, with two of the most common excuses being ‘but he never goes to boarding kennels’ and ‘he rarely mixes with other dogs’.

But vaccination is important for every puppy and every dog. “Firstly, parvovirus, distemper and canine hepatitis are such deadly diseases that it’s not worth taking the risk of having your dog unvaccinated. If you’ve seen a puppy suffer with parvovirus, you’d never consider not vaccinating against this dreadful disease,” Dr Ahlstrom says.

“Secondly, you may think that your dog is at low risk of contracting one of these diseases because they never go to a boarding kennel or mix with other dogs. But unfortunately, while


it minimises their risk of being exposed to these disease, they can still contract them.”

Dogs don’t have to come into contact with other dogs to be infected with parvovirus or canine hepatitis. For example, their being shed in the faeces of an infected dog, parvovirus can survive in the environment for over 12 months and be transmitted to dogs by contaminated object, for example your shoes after you’ve walked outside.

“The C3 vaccine for canine parvovirus, canine distemper and infectious canine hepatitis is as close to 100% (effective) as it can be; however some breeds, such as Rottweilers, don’t produce as strong an immune response to vaccines as other breeds and the effectiveness may be slightly less,” Dr Butler says.

Meanwhile, the vaccine for kennel cough can be likened to a flu shot for humans. Your dog may still get kennel cough but it reduces the risk and severity of the disease.

Some owners also raise concerns that their pooch may have an adverse reaction to a vaccine. The chances of this occurring, however, are highly unlikely. “The rates of adverse reactions are very low and usually not serious, such as transient fever and lethargy,” Dr Ahlstrom says.

“More serious adverse reactions, such as an allergic reaction to the vaccine, are extremely rare. Overall, for the serious, deadly diseases (parvovirus, distemper and canine hepatitis) the benefits of vaccination to the individual dog and to the dog population as a whole greatly outweigh the risk of adverse effects.”

When to vaccinateEvery puppy should be assessed by a veterinarian to select the most appropriate vaccines and schedule for vaccination

considering their health, lifestyle and where they live.

“Your puppy’s first vaccination should be when they are around six to eight weeks of age,” Dr Butler says. “They should have two vaccinations about a month apart, with their final booster at 12 weeks of age.”

Your pup will then need regular boosters over the course of their lifetime to protect them from kennel cough, canine distemper, canine parvovirus and infectious canine hepatitis. It is also important to have yearly vet check ups to maintain the health and wellbeing of your puppy.

Staying on top of your pet’s vaccination needs can greatly reduce the risk of him ever suffering one of many potentially deadly diseases. It’s the least you can do for your four-legged friend.

What diseases should I vaccinate my dog against?1. Canine distemper2. Canine parvovirus3. Infectious canine hepatitis4. Canine parainfluenza virus and Bordetella

bronchiseptica (kennel cough)

Depending on where they live, their lifestyle and their health status, dogs can also be vaccinated against leptospirosis and coronavirus.

Protecting your Pooch cont.

Doggy TriviaFrench poodles did not originate in France but in Germany (“poodle” comes from the German pudel or pudelhund, meaning “splashing dog”). Some scholars speculate the poodle’s puffs of hair evolved when hunters shaved the poodle for more efficient swimming, while leaving the pom-poms around the major joints to keep them warm.


Rally Obedience Report

A number of our handlers have taken the plunge and entered trials this year. Trialling

is not a compulsory part of Rally O participation at Croydon but can be a very satisfying activity with your dog even though at times it can be frustrating for the handler who makes the mistakes!

Two handlers achieved success at the Southern Obedience Dog Club Rally O trial – 14/03/15Susan Mahoney with Matilda, Rally Novice: 84 AM trial, and 86 PM trial.

Cecily Thorp with Teddy, Rally Novice: 82 AM trial, and 85 PM trial.

There was great news from the Border Collie Club Double Rally O Trial held 28/03/15 for the working dogs group. Two Croydon participants had success:

Susan Mahoney and Rozate Ruby Jewel scored 80 and 96 (second in ring) gaining the Rally Novice Title along the way;

Gary McArthur and Cryshaven Melody Belle scored 94 (first in ring) and 99 (first in ring) also gaining the Rally Novice Title along the way.

This was an interesting experience taking part in a twilight trial and both Susan and Gary were pleased with their dogs’ performances.

Easter Dogs Victoria Rally O Trial – 05/04/15Sharen McLeod and Jamie – Rally Novice 85. Sharen was happy with her result and looks forward to Croydon’s Trial where she hopes to gain another qualifying score to achieve her Title.

Anne Woods pulled off an incredible triple with her three dogs in Rally Novice. She had little time to take a breath between each of her dogs:

Chelsea scored 100 and first place in ring! Dash 93 and Chilli 92 and Rally Novice Title. Trialling one dog can be demanding but three dogs in the space of about 20 minutes is a really great effort.

Ron Sciberras reported that: Elmo gained his first pass towards his Advanced title on Sunday with a score of 94 points and 3rd place, and Pheonix gained his eighth pass towards his RAE Title with a pass in Advanced B of 83 points and Excellent B of 74 points.

Congratulations to all the above handlers and dogs on their performances so far this year.

DO YOU WISH TO TRY

RALLY O?Once you have your Basic 2 Certificate you are able to take part in this sport from 11am until 12 on Sundays – it is a lot of fun for you and your dog. You do not have to enter competition like the people whose successes have been reported on this page. You can just enjoy yourself practising the skills you already have in a fun layout of interesting signs. Check out the information on the CDODC website under the Rally O tab or pick up an Expression of Interest form from the table near the office. If you decide you’d like to take part fill in the form and drop it in the Rally O Box.

Any questions just contact the Coordinator Gary McArthur: [email protected]


CONGRATULATIONS to the following Croydon members who received qualifying scores at recent Obedience Trials:

GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG CLUB OF VIC 7/3/15NOVICE RING (CD)Ian Woollard and Killara Aella, TDX, ‘A’’Z’ BSC1 (Nyssah) 2nd Place, Score 193

WARRNAMBOOL ODC 7 & 8/3/15COMMUNITY COMPANION DOG RING (CCD)7/3: Anne Woods and Elzscot Reach For The Stars, (Chilli), 1st Place, Score 88.

8/3: Anne Woods and Elzscot Reach For The Stars, (Chilli), 3rd Place, Score 92.

NOVICE RING (CD) 7/3: Ron Sciberras and Spritzee Stealingmoments CCD, RN (Elmo) 1st Place, Score 182 points.8/3: Ron Sciberras and Spritzee Stealingmoments CCD, RN (Elmo) 1st Place, Score 184 points Title.

OPEN RING (CDX) (8/3)Bobbee Terrill and Dual Ch (T) Rosarott Basko’s Pride CDX, RA, HSA(s) (Basko) 2nd place, Score 173.

Obedience Triallers’ Report

Ron Sciberras’ Miniature Schnauzer, Spritzee Stealingmoments CD, RN (Elmo)

UTILITY RINGS (UD)Bobbee Terrill and Triple Ch (N,O,T), TSD Gr Ch Cabulla River Aorborn RE, JD, GD, SPD, SD, HSA(s),ET (Morgan) 1st place, Score 182.

Bobbee Terrill and Triple Ch (N,O,T), TSD Gr Ch Cabulla River Aorborn RE, JD, GD, SPD, SD, HSA(s),ET (Morgan) 1st place, UD score 175.

BORDER COLLIE CLUB 28/3/15NOVICE RING (CD)Ian Woollard and Killara Aella, TDX, ‘A’’Z’ BSC1 (Nyssah) 2nd Place, Score 193.

DOGS VICTORIA – EASTER TRIALS 4 & 5/4/15NOVICE RING (CD) 5/4:Ian Woollard and Killara Aella CD, TDX, ‘A’’Z’ BSC1 (Nyssah) 1st Place, Score 192, Title.

OPEN RING (CDX) 5/4:Ron Sciberras and Spritzee Stealingmoments CD, RN (Elmo) 2nd Place, Score 195 points.

Roger Cameron and Guirmere Lucky Jet, JDO, JDM, CDX, (Jet) 3rd Place, Score 190, Title.

Ian Woollard’s German Shepherd Dog, Killara Aella CD, TDX, ‘A’’Z’ BSC1 (Nyssah)


Learning from mistakes before they’re made

Reprinted from Dogs Life Mag Jan/Feb 2015

Kate Potter discovers what you should and shouldn’t be doing when it comes to training your pooch.

There’s an old saying that can explain many behavioural problems dog owners find themselves dealing with:”the road to hell is paved with good intentions”.

It sounds harsh, but there’s no denying that being a new dog owner can be a stressful experience. There’s a lot of information to take in and it can be hard to know what’s best for you and your dog.

You’re not alone, and good intentions can definitely wind up as good outcomes if you’re patient, consistent and aware of some basic concepts. Knowing how to manage the early stages of life with your dog can save long term anguish.

Mel Chapman recently welcomed a Beagle puppy, Harvey, into their family. With three young children in the home, the addition of a puppy has provided the family with a lot of new challenges, some frustrations and many laughs. “He’s a lovely dog. He’s pretty cute and has a wonderful, inquisitive character – but he does some crazy things,” says Ms Chapman.

Understanding some of the common mistakes that owners make can help ensure you and your dog get off on the right foot.

“He’s too young (or old), to learn”All dogs can learn, no matter their age. While promoting correct behaviour with a pup can be easier than fixing bad habits of an older dog, nothing is impossible.

Young or old – be realistic about your dog’s potential for achievement, and tailor your

training methods to suit the age and ability of your dog.

Sam Lewis says, “Teach young puppies how to relax, the simple boundaries expected of them, and how to behave around humans. Old dogs can learn or unlearn good and bad behaviour if they’re given enough focus.”

Puppies have short attention spans, so will benefit from lots of quick training sessions rather than big blocks of time. Five minutes learning “sit” 10 times a day will be far more interesting and engaging for your pup than 50 minutes of training drudgery.

Ms Chapman’s experience at puppy school with Harvey has proven challenging. “When e do the training drills, he’s always nose to the ground and in his own world. I’m getting good at the drills but Harvey’s still getting there!”

For older dogs, establish what motivates them and use that as a reward for good behaviour. It may be a tug of war with a toy, a belly scratch or a tasty treat, though the latter should be used in moderation.

“Responding to crying will make him worse”When you bring a dog into your home, he’ll be confused and stressed by the new environment, and it’s unlikely he’ll settle immediately. Giving your dog his own space to chill out, such as the laundry or a kennel, is a great idea. Don’t be afraid of helping your dog deal with his anxiety if he’s finding the experience overwhelming – with the right approach you won’t have to worry about reinforcing unwanted behaviour.

Sam Lewis from Sherlock Bones says, “Helping a new puppy or dog settle for the first night or two will not create any bad habits if it’s done correctly. It can greatly reduce the dog’s stress – and everyone else’s.


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When you bring a new dog home, make yourself available over the first few days to help him settle in. Be prepared for his arrival with appropriate food and bedding to make him feel comfortable. Good quality toys and an exercise plan will also give him some much appreciated mental stimulation.

“Dogs need to feel safe and secure – it’s very important,” Sam says. Keeping calm and confident around your new dog will help him feel secure and let him see that it’s ok for him to relax, too. Dogs are very good at reading body language: encouraging the behaviour you want from day one is important and beneficial in the longer term.

“Puppy School teaches dogs how to get along”Socialising puppies is important for their development, but how and where play dates are done is just as significant. Sam Lewis says, “I see lots of problems come from big group classes where puppies are let loose in something that looks like a mosh pit. While this looks amusing to us, this ‘organised chaos’ often teaches young dogs to bully or be bullied.”

Dogs who grow up thinking it is ok to run and jump all over every other dog they meet have bad manners and start many dog fights. Dogs need to be taught how to do polite introductions and keep situations calm,” says Sam Lewis.

“The best way to training dogs is with treats”With puppies in particular, food based training can help establish a trusting relationship. However, once the initial bond has been formed, the relationship will be made more meaningful with positive, physical rewards and voice tones rather than snacks.

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Did you know that this shop is run for you the handlers and

your dogs? Prices are usually lower than pet shops, vets and

supermarkets.

Some examples...Sentinel Spectrum – large dogs $95.00

Heartgard – medium dogs $35.00Frontline – large dogs $58.00

Pigs Ears (each) $1.40Biscuits $2.00

Prices subject to change

Ask us about buying in bulk.We sell many other items including

treats, toys, dog coats. Anything you might need for your dog.

Come and have a look.

Coffee andSnacks

Coffee and Snacks are available for sale in the Clubhouse every Sunday during

training hours. Coffee/Tea/Ovaltine/Soft Drinks, Chips, Chocolate Bars/

Sausages etc. ALL AVAILABLE

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Continued over >


Croydon Demo TeamHave your gained your Basic (B2)?

Would you like join our demo team?If you are interested come into the office on a Sunday morning and fill

in an application form.

Harvey not only has a keen nose, but a strong interest in food. Mel Chapman says, “We’ve been doing treat training and he responds well to that – if I say ‘sit’, he sits straight down and then looks up at me as if to say ‘do I get it now?”

Sam Lewis says, “Food rewards are fine for teaching some basic obedience, but teaching behaviour is a different matter.”

Relying on food when training your dog can lead to a situation where your dog won’t listen if he knows his tastebuds won’t benefit. “You don’t want a dog that doesn’t respond when there’s no food or decides it would rather do something like chase a cat more than it wants the food.”

Knowing how to get your dog’s attention without food may mean the difference between life and death. Imagine what could happen if your dog ran towards traffic – being able to stop him just with your voice can be one of the most valuable training tools you can have.

“He’ll grow out of it”“Things that are all fun and games can seem harmless with puppies, but think about if you want your fully grown dog behaving in the way you are promoting with your pup,” says Sam Lewis.

When Harvey first moved into the Chapman’s home, he would often nip their young children while they played together. Mel Chapman knew she didn’t want that to continue, so she worked with her kids to help them understand how to deal with it.

“When he tries to jump on the girls or nip their clothes, we’ve taught them to stop running, say “no” firmly, turn their backs on him and walk calmly away. He has responded really well to them doing that.”

“Teach your pup the difference between right and wrong and that things like jumping up… are done on your terms, not his.”

Whether it’s rewarding your puppy with a pat when he jumps up on you or picking him up and putting him on your lap when he requests it, take a moment to consider if it’s behaviour you’ll enjoy as much when he’s doubled in size. Teach your pup the difference between right and wrong and that things like jumping up or sitting on the couch are done on your terms, not his.

Wikipedia says there’s an alternative to that old saying about hell and good intentions: hell is full of good meanings, but heaven is full of good works – which just goes to show, working hard with your dog can lead to a great relationship and many good times.

Learning from mistakes before they’re made cont.

Microchip MiracleReprinted from Dogs Life Mag

A Maltese Shih Tzu, Misty, has been reunited with her family after four years thanks to microchipping. Ballarat RSPCA inspectors discovered Misty almost 400 kilometres from her home after investigating a cruelty report. She was taken to the Ballarat RSPCA shelter and a quick check of her microchip revealed her original owner. The overjoyed pair were soon reunited.


Action and Training

All you need for dogs on the goReprinted from Dogs Life Mag

Next time you’re walking your dog try this little trick. Say ‘Walkies!’ – or whatever term you use for your four-legged friend’s daily stroll – and watch his excitement levels rocket – even though he’s already out walking!

Yes, our dogs so adore any opportunity to run, jump, sniff and play that the mere suggestion of such an adventure is enough to send them into raptures, even while they’re in the midst of one.

Today, we call our canine companions ‘domestic dogs’, but while they may live in urban dwellings and enjoy snoozing on the sofa with us, many of their primitive instincts endure. Their love of physical activity is one of these. Put simply, dogs were built to MOVE! They are dynamic creatures whose physical and emotional wellbeing depends on diet, exercise and mental stimulation.

We’re all busy, but we sacrifice our dogs’ daily activity at our peril; dogs that don’t get the chance to burn off some of their ample energy will grow bored and may become noisy or destructive.

The good news is there are myriad ways to keep energetic pooches physically and mentally stimulated. From dog sports to training, there’s an activity to suit every breed – and their owners.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your dog and GO!

Did you know?...• Dalmatians are born pure white, without

spots.• The Greyhound is the fastest of all dog

breeds.• Chihuahuas get their name from the

state of Chihuahua in Mexico.• Dogs can hear far better than we

can! They can register sounds up to 45,000Hz, compared to our top range of 23,000Hz. A mouse can hear up to 91,000!

• Smaller dogs usually have a longer lifespan than bigger dogs.

• Cats have better memories than dogs.• The oldest dog was an Australian Cattle

dog called Bluey, he died when he was 29.• Dogs sweat through the pads of their

paws.• Dogs have far fewer taste buds than

we do… it explains why they will eat anything.

• Several different male dogs played the part of Lassie in the popular TV show.

Canine Snippets


This booklet is available from the Club

shop for only $2.50. It is ideal for primary-aged

children and a great book to read to the younger

ones. Many children are unaware of how a dog

interprets their actions. This booklet, by internationally

respected veterinarian-behaviourist Dr Sophia Yin, takes each situation in which a child and dog might find themselves and challenges the child as to how he or she would feel if a stranger did the same thing to him or her. For example, rushing up to the dog, staring at the dog, invading the dog’s personal space and so on. It is illustrated with colourful cartoon type characters and shows incorrect and correct behaviour. Have a look at the booklet on display at the shop – it might be a good gift for your child or grandchild.

Training Notes: Do What? When?

Do you really mean what you say to your dog? Think about it. It can make a difference in performance.Too many of us fail to think what it is we actually want our dogs to do, when telling them to do it. How many times have you seen someone getting ready to leave, tell their dog, “Butch, come” as they walk off, and the dog moseys along behind them. Two weeks later they’re in the obedience ring and the same command “Butch, come” is given, only this time if Butch doesn’t snap to and sit directly in front, Butch is in trouble.

The same person may tell his dog, as he leaves him in the car or home, to ‘stay’, but doesn’t REALLY mean for Butch to remain almost in whatever position he’s in when the command is given. Another example is ‘down’ when all the person wants is for his dog to go lay comfortably on his rug, not ‘hit the floor and wait for further instructions’.

Most dogs learn, after a while, to distinguish between what we say and what we mean. Perhaps they pick up on our body language (if master stands stiff and straight, with a nervous look on his face, ‘come’ means straight in and sit in front. If he’s walking along casually he just desires my company). But think how confusing this could be to a dog just starting to learn obedience commands, (sometimes ‘stay’ means don’t budge, and other times it means remain in the house until my owner returns).

It’s to our OWN advantage to give our dogs every advantage possible when teaching them. The clearer we make our commands and signals, the less time it takes to train. I’ve found that by using ‘ you wait here’ instead of ‘stay’ my dogs pick up very quickly that they’re to remain in that area, house, car, yard, with a friend, etc, but can move around. Whereas ‘stay’ means to remain in the position they’re in. It’s a little

like boundary training as they know they’re not to go out an open yard gate, or car door, even though they can go anywhere inside that area they wish. For just going for a walk, I use something like ‘come on’ or ‘lets go’ but NEVER the formal recall command unless that’s what I really want from my dog. My dogs know that ‘go lay down’ means to go to your place and sleep, while ‘down’ means drop instantly and keep alert, we might do something else.

These seem like very basic things but it’s surprising how many of us forget the basics. So remember, say what you really mean, and make it easier on your dog and therefore easier on yourself. WATCH YOUR TONGUE!!

By Sandra Rickey.


Canine Teeth: Their Care, Problems & Treatment

Dogs have two sets of teeth, similar to humans. The first (temporary or deciduous) appear in the first month and continue to erupt until 2 months of age. There are 26 temporary teeth. The second (permanent) erupt from approximately 3 ½ months to 8 months of age. These teeth are less sharp than the temporary which is usually a relief to all concerned. Permanent teeth once fully erupted do not keep growing (as do horses). Thus signs of wear of teeth can be used to age a dog. Dogs teeth have a similar composition to humans and a complete, balanced diet is important in allowing them to develop. This is important in the pregnant bitch and the young pup (first year of life). Generally all the problems encountered in human dentistry can occur in dogs, although only a few are commonly seen by owners and veterinarians.

1. Retained Recuous Teeth:More common in the small (toy breeds), where the baby teeth do not fall out as they should. Regular hard chewing tends to prevent this in most dogs. Retained baby teeth may lead to excessive food accumulation later in life, or to subsequent poor positioning of permanent teeth. It is usually a problem of the front teeth and canines rather than the molars. Any retained teeth after 6 months of age should be checked as to the need for their extraction.

2. Missing or Broken Teeth:Some dogs may just not get some teeth. This may be they do not erupt, or sometimes are not there in the gums. This is rarely of any significance except cosmetic. Teeth commonly get accidentally broken, and unless the root remaining is split, usually do not need attention. Unless the dog is distressed whilst eating, or the appearance worries the owner they are generally not treated.

3. Cavities:In the wild state, very rarely a problem. With modern foods and feeding regimes highly fermentable sugars and carbohydrates (in the absence of regular chewing) can occur but they are not common and rarely a clinical problem.

4. Periodontal Disease:By far the most common, and most serious tooth-gum disease of dogs and responsible for more serious disorder than all other conditions together. The problem occurs in stages:

PLAQUE (film on teeth) – TARTAR (mineralized plaque) – GINGIVITIS (inflamed gums) – PYORRHEA (infected gums and tooth roots) – TOOTH LOSS. Although a very complex and unpredictable process overall, the basic rule is that: DOGS WHO DO NOT CHEW HARD THINGS REGULARLY GET PLAQUE. It is usually a more common problem in small breeds.

The easiest way to prevent periodontal disease is to feed large, long raw bones on a regular basis. There has been argument as to the safety of or need for bones being fed to dogs. It is very rare for anything else; but bones do effectively clean the teeth, and it is very uncommon for problems to be caused by them. Avoid small, sharp cooked bones such as chops, fish or chicken.

Treatment for Periodontal disease:(i) Have teeth scaled of plaque and tartar by

your veterinarian (nearly always done under a general anesthetic).

(ii) Extract all rotten teeth.

(iii) Antibiotics for 1-2 weeks.

(iv) Feed bones to prevent recurrence. If this is not possible for any reason have the teeth scaled as often as is necessary before gingivitis occurs. continued over >


CDODC OFFICE HOURSPLEASE NOTE:

The office hours are from 9.15am – 10.30amCertificates ONLY will be available from

10.30am – 11.00amThe office will CLOSE at 10.30am sharp, so that the

volunteers who work on the desk can collect their dogs and go to their training classes.

visit www.cdodc.com.au

April Tues 21 7.30 pm Committee MeetingSun 26 NO TRAINING – Obedience Trial

May Fri 8 Nominations for Committee CloseTues 12 7.30 pm Committee MeetingFri 29 7.30 pm ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

June Tues 16 7.30 pm Committee Meeting

Sun 17 NO TRAINING – Queen’s Birthday Weekend

Unless otherwise stated the following activities are conducted each week:

Wednesday 6:30pm & 7:30pm Puppy Pre-SchoolWednesday 6:00pm – 9.00pm Trial Training

Sunday 9.00am – 12:00pm Obedience Training – Puppies, Basic, AdvancedTrial Classes• Flyball Training• Agility Training

Continued from page 23

5. Exotic Dental Procedures:Fillings, crowns, caps, braces can be used in dogs, and occasionally are – more common in USA than elsewhere. Generally done by interested dentists, working in association with a veterinarian who can provide anesthesia, drugs and hospitalization.

6. Bad Breath:It is usually caused in dogs by infected gums and/or teeth, which are usually infected because of periodontal disease.

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CROYDON CAPERS - CDODC · CDODC CAPERS ~ April 2015 3 Welcome all, We are always looking at new ways to improve our Club and the service to our members, may it be the training methods