In this issueimages.akc.org/pdf/delegate/September_2017_Perspectives... · 2017. 9. 5. · and Steve had recently judged Akitas in my area. I mentioned that to him and added that

The Delegates’ Newsletter

Volume 30, No. 3 September 2017

The Way I See It by Sylvia Thomas, Assistant Editor/Secretary

Speaking For Myself: The Positive Side of theNew Judging Application Process by Daniel J Smyth, Esq.

Pro: DQ Reinstatement: Minimizing the Risksby Sue GoldbergOverview of the proposed rule change to requalifying disqualifieddogs.

Con: Disqualification and ReinstatementAnother Point of Viewby Cindy Stansell Another view on the proposed rule change to requalifyingdisqualified dogs.

Deserving Heroes: Honoring War Dogsby Sylvia Thomas Honoring the faithful War Dogs who served our country.

Reflections on a Life Well Lived:Steven D. Gladstone, Esq.by Gretchen Bernardi

A Tribute: Remembering Steven D. Gladstone, Esq.by Sylvia Arrowwood

US Dog Detection Conferenceby Don James Information reported on the detection dog shortage and AKC’srole in the solution.

Why Scent Work?by Kathy Gregory New sanctioned sport where the dog takes the lead!

Breed Sustainabilityby Cathy Gallagher and Elise WrightCommittee studies issues and strategies to protect and preservetheir breed.

Celebrating Pee Weesby Mary Lou OlszewskiPee Wee Event fosters and promotes fun for all involved.

Connecting the Dotsby Carl Ashby, III Overview of the AKC strategy used to increase the demand forpurebred dogs.

Getting to Know You: Donna Gilbertby Sylvia Thomas Introducing a new delegate with great ideas, enthusiasm, and en-ergy to make a difference.

AKC Sponsors the 2017 National Detector Dog Trialsby Stephanie KennerleyRecap of the national detector dog trials celebrating training andteamwork.

Mentoring Parent Clubs to Become Member Clubsby Mari-Beth O’NeillSummary of the work to assist Parent Clubs on the road to be-coming Member Clubs.

If You Ask Meby Don JamesDelegates report on ways to welcome newcomers to NationalSpecialties.

25% Out the Window: Building The Case for a Formal Club Archiveby Don JamesA Parent Club’s approach to establishing an archive of breed history.

Altered Veterans Classby Glenda StephensonProposal to create an altered veterans class.

That First Impressionby Monica Henderson StonerWhat impression do newcomers take away?

Judging in Sweden: Just Imagine!by Marge CalltharpOverview of one delegate’s experience judging in another country.

Elmer: A Reminiscence by Bruce VoranReflections on a life in dogs.

Why You Should Attend A Legislative Conferenceby Beverly and Tom Delancey and Wanda AllenThoughts provided on the lessons learned at a legislative conference.

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In this issue…

Perspectives WRITERS’ GUIDELINES

Thank you for your interest in contributing to Perspectives.Following are guidelines we ask our contributors to follow.They simplify our jobs as editors and yours as writers andhelp us produce a quality publication while enabling us to getPerspectives out on time.• Write for your audience. Perspectives is prepared by

and for AKC Delegates who represent a wide variety ofmember clubs through the country. Our readers are veryknowledgeable dog people.

• Be certain that any facts in your article are accurate.Double-check them. Clearly state when a statement is yourown opinion.

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Again — thank you for your interest. Without you, therewould not be a Perspectives.

EDITORIAL BOARD

Perspectives is a publication for, and written by, the Delegates,with an occasional article solicited by Editorial Board membersONLY from acknowledged experts in their field. It is a forum for

the exchange of ideas, for argument, for news. Through this medium, we hope to become better informed and, thereby,better equipped to fulfill our responsibilities as Delegates. Your contributions are welcome, and necessary, in makingthis publication a useful enterprise. Please assist the Editorial Board by submitting material via e-mail. We reservethe right to reasonably edit all copy submitted. Opinions expressed in Perspectives are not necessarily representativeof the views of the Editor, the Perspectives Editorial Board, or of the American Kennel Club.

Sylvia Arrowwood, Charleston Kennel Club

Marge Calltharp, Chinese Shar-Pei Club of America, Inc.

Gini Denninger, Genessee Valley Kennel Club, Inc.

Steven Hamblin, Pekingese Club of America

Don James, Leonberger Club of America

Dr. Geno Sisneros, American Pomeranian Club, Inc.

Daniel J. Smyth, Esq. (Chair), Burlington County Kennel Club, Inc.

Monica Henderson Stoner, Saluki Club of America

Sylvia Thomas (Secretary/Asst. Editor), Kennel Club of Riverside

Sherry E. Wallis, (Editor), Akita Club of America

Lynn Worth-Smith, Vizsla Club of America, Inc.

PerspectivesThe Delegates’ Newsletter

The coordinator for the December issue will be Gini Denninger, [email protected].

The deadline for submission is October 15, 2017 with a copy to [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


Most of us learned ofSteve Gladstone’s

sudden passing at the JuneDelegate’s meeting. Manyhave stories about their in-teractions and friendshipwith Steve. I recall sittingacross from Steve at mynew delegate orientation.Naturally we talked dogs

and Steve had recently judged Akitas in my area. Imentioned that to him and added that I was theChair of the Akita Club of America’s JEC. Stevesmiled and said, “Sylvia, is that your way of tellingme I need to learn more about Akitas?” That wasSteve…honest, candid, and open. In this issue,Gretchen Bernardi, Sylvia Arrowwood, and severalothers provide their reflections about Steve. Wecherish the memories and miss the man!

Do you remember the first dog show or specialtyyou attended? Did anyone speak to or welcome you?Monica Stoner prompts us to think about the impor-tance of that initial impression at a dog show whileDon James and others provide tips on welcomingnewbies. Marge Calltharp writes about her experi-ence judging in Sweden and entices us to “justimagine” what shows might be like if we borroweda few ideas. Bruce Voran reminds us that everystory has a beginning that may lead to unexpectedjourneys.

In this issue, you will meet Donna Gilbert, newdelegate for the Greenwich Kennel Club. She’s aball of enthusiasm and energy and a welcomed addi-tion to the Delegate Body. We continue to thinkabout ways to engage people in the sport we loveand the many avenues of participation. Mary LouOlszewski tells us about her club’s Pee Wee experi-ence and Kathy Gregory will heighten your interestin Scent Work. It’s a new sport that allows dogs todo what comes naturally, use their noses!

Don James reports on the March 2017 US Detec-tion Dog Conference and highlights efforts to avertthe impending shortage of detection dogs.Stephanie Kennerley tells us about the National De-tector Dog Trials and AKC’s involvement.

Sue Goldberg and Cindy Stansell provide differingpoints of view on the issue of disqualification and re-

instatement of dogs. It’s always possible that “things just happen,” but

results are far more likely due to a plan coming to-gether. Carl Ashby helps us connect the dots to theincreased demand for purebred dogs. Speaking ofplans, Mari-Beth O’Neill shares the ongoing effortsto mentor Parent Clubs to become Member Clubs.

I happen to live in a city that is working on a newdog ordinance. Many of the breeders in the areahave chosen to stay “under the radar” and not getinvolved. Wanda Allen, Beverly and Tom Delanceyexplain involvement is key and urge all of us to con-sider attending a Legislative Conference.

Glenda Stephenson writes about another way tokeep owners and dogs involved. It’s a proposal tocreate an altered veterans class.

You won’t want to miss Cathy Gallagher and EliseWright’s article on breed sustainability. It’s a terrificoverview of the Vizsla Club of America’s efforts topreserve and safeguard their breed, and an articleworth sharing with our Parent Clubs. Speaking ofParent Clubs, Don James begins a series of articleson his Club’s plan to establish an archive of breedhistory. Does your club have an archive?

Dan Smyth has found the positive side of the newjudging application process and gives a“two thumbsup” for his recent experience with judges’ educa-tion. War Dog Memorials went from 0 to 32 in 17years thanks to the efforts of many. Consider a visitto one or more of the Memorials that honor faithfuldogs who served our country.

THE WAY I SEE ITSYLVIA THOMAS, Assistant Editor/Secretary

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I will start this article bysaying I have been an AKC-approved judge for about23 years. I remember writ-ing an article about JudyDaniel’s retirement fromthe Delegate Body inwhich she pointed out thatshe had made seven appli-cations for new breeds as a

judge and all seven were under a different process.Well, this article, Judy, is about number eight.

I have read the critiques of the process, the prosand the cons. There are opinions from newbiejudges, and opinions from our esteemed seniorjudges. As with many things in our organization,most everyone has an opinion. Whereas allprocesses need to be examined and tweaked, I wantto tell you a story of positivity that has resulted fromthe new program, and a Club that is doing its part tomake sure that it has a role in educating new judges.It came about casually and unexpectedly at the Long-shore-Southport KC Show on June 11, 2017.

Being on the show grounds early in the day, I no-ticed the Spinone Club of America, Inc. was having asupported entry at the show, with an entry of 18, im-pressive for a low-entry breed. I thought I wouldwalk over and watch respected Judge Paula Nykieladjudicate these dogs and learn a few things aboutthe breed. I got more than I had imagined.

On approaching the ring I asked if I could havesomebody mentor me ringside on the breed. ThePublic Education Chairwas present as was abreeder (of 23 years);both were very welcom-ing. As the judging wenton, I was given very spe-cific information aboutthe dogs being exhibited,some history of big win-ners, and a discussion ofpositive attributes. Theeducation was a positivejudging evaluation,rather than a fault-based

dismissal. That made me like the breed even more.After the judging ended and the awards placed, to

my surprise, the Education Coordinator announcedthat all of the dogs would be available for a hands onoutside the ring. Certainly, this was more than wasto be expected in the early morning of a busy showday.

Each of the dogs waited in line and I got to person-ally meet each and their owners. More importantly,they all pointed out the good attributes of their dogs,and showed me areas where they thought their dogmight use improvement. Even though it took a littletime, they seemed eager to help educate a judge inthe right way, I truly felt as if they were willing par-ticipants in the process. I met some really nice dogs,but more importantly, I met people who really caredabout their breed, and were each working to makesure anyone who might judge their breed in the fu-ture gets it right.

There is a positive quality to the new judgingprocess. It encourages breeders, handlers, and ex-perts in the breed to actively participate in the edu-cation of new judges. This is a community effort toparticipate in judges’ education. With the ringsidetutoring program, kennel visits, mentoring, and CEUprogram, our entire community is given the opportu-nity to get involved to make sure judges have the in-formation to put them on the path to makinginformed decisions and “getting it right.” Breeders,those who are there when the pups enter the world,train them, see them through their show careers,and help them in their old age, are able to share all

those years of experiencewith the judge who is try-ing to comprehend aStandard. These are thepeople that tell you whythe Standard says what itsays, and can tell youwhat impact the lack ofStandard qualities haveon the breed. Who betterto educate the judges butthe people who are in theknow, from years of see-ing it all?

THE POSITIVE SIDE OF THE NEW JUDGING APPLICATIONPROCESSDANIEL J. SMYTH, Esquire, Delegate, Burlington County Kennel Club

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I understand I am not the only future judge whogot this treatment, as others had the same experi-ence the day before. Good for you Spinone Club ofAmerica, Inc. Bravo and thank you so much. Youcare, you have taken the challenge to make surejudges understand and know your breed. You mademe want to know more about your beautiful, intelli-gent and affectionate dogs. Your owners and han-dlers impressed me with their care and knowledge.

Community involvement in the education ofjudges is one of the best parts of the new process. Ibelieve this is bringing us together, encouragingdetailed learning, and allowing us all to take part inassuring the integrity of the quality of judges evalu-

ating one’s breed. From the exhibitor’s side, gettingto meet judges in an educational environment isonly a win-win situation as it allows exhibitors toknow that judges are open to learning about abreed, and applying the Standard correctly.

I understand many clubs have actively been par-ticipating in the education process via similar activi-ties. Hopefully yours is one of them. If not, here isan opportunity for the breed clubs to have a posi-tive impact. Why not become actively involved inthe education process? It’s your breed, so step up!This is your chance to make sure only the best ofyour breed get chosen. Sometimes it does take avillage.

Approximately four years ago, a judge friend ofmine was badly bitten while participating in a

reinstatement of a dog that had been disqualified forattacking. She called me afterward and said, “You'rea member of the Dog Show Rules Committee. Dosomething!” And so, reexamination of the reinstate-ment policies and procedures began.

Our committee's intent was not to eliminate thepossibility of reinstatement, as we recognized theremay be extenuating circumstances which wouldallow for a reinstatement to go forward, assumingthe judge would allow such application. Rather, itwas to review the many failings of the currentprocess and clearly define what must occur at thetime of the infraction to correct them. Our primaryfocus has always been to protect our judges, our ex-hibitors, the dogs, the spectators, our clubs, their of-ficers, and their venues from injury as well as fromlitigation. For example, at the Bucks County showin May, 2016, a dog that had been disqualified for at-tacking was brought in for reinstatement. Permis-sion was denied by the Show Chair, who reportedthis incident to me. Its handler had other dogs toshow and while the dog was being held at ringside,it jumped up and bit a spectator on the head. He hadhis young child on the other side of him. Further-more, it turns out the state of Pennsylvania pro-

hibits dogs that have bitten from being off their ownpremises, a potential violation not just for the owner,but for the show giving club. We promote dogshows as a family sport. It makes no sense to invitetrouble by continuing to allow reinstatements at adog show.

Many serious and thoughtful discussions havebeen held within our subcommittee and the DogShow Rules Committee as a whole. Suggestionsfrom our fellow Delegates, Show Chairs, judges, su-perintendents, AKC staff, and the fancy at largewere solicited and considered in order to exploreevery possibility and avoid unintended conse-quences.

In reviewing the current Rules and Regulations, inChapter 11, Section 8-A and Section 11, we found, toour surprise, that rules are already in place prohibit-ing a dog that has been disqualified for attackingfrom being on the event grounds. Section 8-A states,“The disqualified dog may not again compete at anyAKC event nor be on the grounds of an AKC event(italics mine) unless and until, following applicationfor reinstatement by the owner to the AmericanKennel Club, the owner receives official notificationin writing from the AKC that the dog's eligibility hasbeen reinstated.”

Chapter 11, Section 11 reads, “Only dogs that are

PRO & CON:PRO: DQ REINSTATEMENT — MINIMIZING THE RISKSSUE GOLDBERG, Delegate, Lewiston-Auburn Kennel Club

Chair, Dog Show Rules Reinstatement Committee

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eligible to be shown under the American KennelClub rules shall be allowed within the showprecincts....”

Therefore, every reinstatement that takes place atan event is in violation of rules that already exist.Our proposal to remove reinstatements from eventgrounds and venues changes nothing. Instead, itmerely reiterates, supports and enforces currentrules. In doing so, it not only protects judges, spec-tators, exhibitors, dogs, clubs, officers, and venues,it also protects the AKC itself from being held liablefor violating its own rules. It is our position thatsuch reinstatements take place at some neutral site– a park, AKC offices, anywhere not connected to adog show or event – and that they be conducted byAKC staff, not judges as this is not part of their jobdescription. There is absolutely no benefit, advan-tage, or reason for any club to agree to a reinstate-ment; only the risk of injury or litigation.

A judge, spectator, or exhibitor bitten by a dogthat has previously been disqualified for attackingmay elect to sue not only the owner, but also theAKC, the club, its officers, and the venue itself (thatin almost all cases is unaware that such a reinstate-ment is taking place, much less given its permis-sion). Even if ultimately held harmless, defending alawsuit is an expense that most clubs – struggling inthese difficult economic times – can ill afford. Andhow many venues would continue to welcome dogclubs if they run the risk of being sued?

Our subcommittee also examined identificationmethods to ensure that the dog committing the in-fraction is positively identified so that if a reinstate-ment goes forward, we know for certain that thedog presented is the same dog that attacked.

As it stands now there is no procedure in place forsuch identification. Many of us are aware of substi-tutions of dogs to achieve reinstatement. Our pro-posal allows for various methods of identification,including a microchip or tattoo, or some unalterablebody feature such as a torn ear or broken tooth, etc.that can be recorded. Nowhere does it state that amicrochip is mandatory, but this makes the casethat microchipping might be a good idea just incase. It also requires that a photo of the dog betaken in the ring at the time of the DQ. I have spo-ken with six show photographers, all of whom read-

ily agreed that they would photograph such dog –not necessarily stacked in show pose – for any clubthat requested it, thereby making the photo part ofthe official show record. If the dog cannot be identi-fied, for want of any of the above, it simply wouldnot be eligible for reinstatement, period.

Our proposal also considers that some dogs maybe so out of control that they cannot be pho-tographed, scanned, nor examined for a tattoo. Inthe normal course of judging, when a dog cannot beexamined, the judge writes, “could not examine.” Inthe same way, the judge or Event Committee wouldnote, “could not be identified.” If the dog is per-ceived to be a threat to the other dogs in the ring,those dogs could be excused until the paperwork iscomplete and after the judge, assuming s/he cancontinue, has had a few minutes to regain his/hercomposure, as we all know that being attacked isunnerving at best and the judge would not want torelay that nervousness to the next dog in line.

It has been argued that this identification processwould delay judging at a show like Westminster.The current procedure requires that a Disqualifiedfor Attacking Form be completed in triplicate in thering at the time of the attack. Regardless of whetherthe show is televised or not, the judge, the ex-hibitor, and the event superintendent or show secre-tary must complete and sign their appropriatesection in the ring, describing in some detail the in-cident. It is also important to note that once a dogleaves the ring, jurisdiction over that dog is lost.

Although these attacks happen infrequently, oneperson bitten that could have been prevented, is onetoo many. Per the AKC, a dog disqualified for attack-ing has no business being on the event groundsuntil AFTER it has been reinstated. Per the AKC, allthe paperwork following a disqualification for at-tacking must be completed in the ring. Our pro-posal changes nothing. It merely clarifies, upholds,enforces and expands upon what already exists. Itwould add the following to Chapter 11, Section 8-A:

A dog that is disqualified for attacking must have,at the time of the infraction, a permanent identifica-tion if the dog is ever to be eligible for reinstate-ment. Permanent identification includes, but is notlimited to, microchip; tattoo; or some unalterableunique body feature. A photo of the dog must be


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taken in the ring. If the dog cannot be permanentlyidentified for any reason, including but not limitedto the fact that the dog is not microchipped nor tat-tooed; has no distinguishing unalterable uniquebody feature; an appropriate scanner is unavailable;the dog is unapproachable; etc., the judge shallmark his/her book“Disqualified for attacking; can-not be identified.”

Reinstatement will be conducted by AKC staff atan appropriate date and location. Judges will notparticipate in the process. No reinstatement proce-dure will take place on the grounds of, or in anybuilding, hotel, or venue connected to a show or

event. Proper identification and proof of current ra-bies vaccination of the dog at the time of reinstate-ment are required.

The name, AKC number and owner's contact in-formation of the disqualified dog shall be communi-cated to the Show Superintendents, who shall alsobe notified of same if and when such dog is rein-stated.

We, as Delegates, have an obligation to protectour clubs, officers, venues, judges, exhibitors, spec-tators, and dogs. Approving this proposal at the up-coming September meeting will do just that. We askfor your support.

In September, you will be voting on an amend-ment to Chapter 11, Section 8 – A dealing with

disqualifications and reinstatements. I would liketo share with you some of the reasons I opposethis amendment.

This proposal has a wide impact as it would af-fect more than conformation events; it affects obe-dience, agility, and performance events.

Why is an amendment to the rule proposed? Asis sometimes true, a single incident can give riseto an unnecessary proposal. If the reinstatementincident had followed the procedure that was inplace at that time, we probably would not be visit-ing this issue in the Delegate Body.

The incident brought to light that the reinstate-ment procedure could be improved. Staff has al-ready made some improvements to thereinstatement procedure. Examples include a non-refundable $50 reinstatement application fee,proof of the dog owner’s personal liability insur-ance and an accident insurance policy for judges.While further improvements to the reinstatementprocedure can and should be made, the RulesCommittee is proposing fundamental change, achange that the AKC Board of Directors and staffhave unanimously opposed more than once.

This proposal seeks to:1. Minimize injury to judges during reinstate-

ments. This proposal completely takes thejudges out of any reinstatement evaluations.This complete removal is a bit of overkillsince in the history of the reinstatementprocess, there has only been one judge in-jured. Although one is too many, many of theinherent problems in that case have alreadybeen addressed in changes to the procedure.

2. Eliminate any possibility of a substituted dogat the reinstatement evaluation. Althoughsome old-timers remember substituted dogsbeing exhibited in the past, this is a verysmall risk with today’s cell phones. AKC hasfound “self-policing” exhibitors has been aneffective deterrents in both bred-by exhibitorclasses and the NOHS. In addition, Dealingwith Misconduct covers a substituted dogwith strong penalties and fines. Who wouldface those possible consequences?

3. Give judges authority over “dog on dog” at-tacks. The proprosed rule allows a judge todisqualify a “dog on dog” attack. A carefullyconsidered rule already exists to deal withthis scenario. Since the judge may not see

PRO & CON:CON: DISQUALIFICATION AND REINSTATEMENT —DIFFERENT POINT OF VIEWCINDY STANSELL, Delegate, Finish Spitz Club Of America

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the attack or confrontation, or the event lead-ing up to the attack or confrontation, orwhether there was an injury, the authority forthese disqualifications was assigned to theEvent Committee so all witnesses could pres-ent their observations and a fair hearingcould be conducted. I recently had a con-frontation between two dogs in my ring. Iproperly called the AKC Field Representativeand filed a Dog on Dog Attack complaint.This quickly gets the dogs out of the ring andallows an Event Committee investigation tobe conducted thoroughly. Under the pro-posed rule, a dog could be permanentlybarred because of lack of identification andthe dog might have been an innocent party!That could be one way a competitor can getthe competition out of the way!

As with any rule change, consideration shouldbe given to potential unintended consequencesshould this proposal pass. The proposal is:

UnnecessaryLess than 100 dogs are disqualified per year:

2016 – 75; 2015 – 91; 2014 – 90 from all activities.Twenty or less dogs per year apply for reinstate-ment which is generally less than 20% of the dogsdisqualified: 2016 – 10; 2015 – 14; 2014 – 20. Com-pare this to the total number of just conformationentries in 2016: 1,456.296 and 2015: 1,465,948 and2014: 1,500,664. However, since this rule appliesto all aspects of the sport, it is even less signifi-cant. In 2016 there were 3,152,777 entries acrossall sports. That comes up to .00002379 of the totalentries. Although avoiding injury to dogs and hu-mans is a paramount concern, a rule change thatwould impose unnecessary expense and adminis-tration for such a statistically insufficient occur-rence is not good business.

The last paragraph of the proposed rule man-dates that a disqualified dog’s information must“be communicated to the Show Superintendents.”This is unnecessary since this is already done andthe Superintendents have real time access to allcurrent disqualified dogs.

LimitingThis proposed rule prohibits judges from partic-

ipating in the Reinstatement process. One sugges-tion for the Reinstatement policy was to formregional Reinstatement Boards composed ofjudges with backgrounds in different groups. Thisrule change prohibits this solution “Judges willnot participate in this process.” I have participatedin several reinstatements. I have also declined aterrier reinstatement evaluation as I am not well-versed in terriers. Contrary to what has been al-leged, this declination has had no effect on myapplication for new breeds.

This rule would prohibit a reinstatement fromoccurring at any “building, hotel, or venue con-nected to a show or event.” This is overreaching.This would prevent the AKC from contractingwith a host hotel or facility to hold a reinstatementin an area not part of the show – but “connected.”

ExpensiveIn a climate where clubs are financially strug-

gling or failing, this proposed rule adds more ex-pense. Superintendents and show and trialsecretaries will be required to maintain and carryuniversal scanners. Expect the superintendentfees to go up! Since a “photo” sic must be taken,the club is now responsible for paying for photo-graphs or even hiring a photographer. This re-quirement and expense will be especially difficultfor the independent specialties, obedience andagility trials, and performance events. Profes-sional photographers do not want to come to asmall event with little profit. Chances are that ifthis proposed rule passes, the photographers willcharge a hefty fee for attendance because the clubmust have a photographer. These struggling clubswould now have to buy and maintain a scannerand hire a professional photographer.

Time-consumingCurrently the procedure to disqualify a dog is

very simple and quick. Under the current system,I have disqualified a dog for attacking in less timethan I have measured a dog. Under the currentsystem, the judge marks his book and fills out the

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top part of a carbon-copy form the name of theshow, the date, the class, the armband, and thereason for disqualifying the dog. The judge andthe handler sign the form and the handler and dogexit the ring with the superintendent or secretaryto complete the rest of the form. Under the pro-posed Rule change the photographer would haveto be located (if any) to take a “photo,” the scan-ner would have to be located, the judge wouldhave to be instructed on its use, the microchipwould have to be found (not an easy task some-times), or an examination of the dog must be per-formed to find an “unalterable unique bodyfeature.” It takes considerably more time to com-plete this procedure.

Rife with potential human or technical failuresThis procedure would now require the judge to

look for permanent identification – microchip, tat-too, or unique body feature. Many breeds are uni-formly colored and marked and would not yield an“unique body feature.” This would require thesebreeds to have a microchip or tattoo.

Even a tattoo is not realistic! Often the tattoo ison the belly. If the owner of the Black Russian Ter-rier says that the dog is tattooed on the belly, musta judge roll the dog over on its back, call for theclippers, and shave the dog to read the tattoo? Lu-dicrous and dangerous! But not to do so would de-prive a responsible person from applying forreinstatement.

Would judges now be required to undergo mi-crochip scanning tests as well as wicket and scalestests? It takes a certain skill to find microchips!Recently I took several dogs to have their eyescertified. It took an experienced technician time tofind the wandering chips on each dog. The chipswandered in different directions! One dog’s mi-crochip was not located until the hip x-rays weredone – it had wandered down his back.

Current policies give the benefit of the doubt tothe dog when there is an equipment failure or lackof equipment. For example, if the wicket cannotbe found, or the scales do not work, there is nopenalty to the dog and the judging goes on. Not sowith this proposed rule. If there is no camera, mi-crochip scanner or the scanner fails to work prop-erly (can determine there is a chip but not its

number), or the judge cannot find the chip, thedog is banned from reinstatement possibilities!

The proposed rule says, “A photo of the dogmust be taken in the ring.” If there is no profes-sional photographer, I sure do not want my com-petitor taking the photograph. With today’s apps,a photograph can easily be photoshopped.

Deleterious to dogIf something goes wrong in the ring, I want to

defuse it as soon and as much as possible. Thisproposed rule escalates a potential problem. Thedog, already under duress, is subjected to moreanxiety by posing for a picture in the environmentthat made him uneasy, and by being probed for an“unalterable unique body feature.” This extrastress could have a lasting impact on the dog.

DangerousThis proposed rule is dangerous to the judge

and to other exhibitors. I would rather adjudicate at 100 reinstatements

than try to comply with this proposed rule. Thereis less risk of injury at the reinstatements sincethe dog is required to complete extensive retrain-ing/conditioning before applying for reinstate-ment. This rule would require the judge to lookfor unique body features and or tattoos and mi-crochips. I do not want to get close to any dog thatjust tried to attack me. Especially in the same areathat caused this dog such distress (flapping tents,a dog in the ring he did not like, etc). But I wouldhave to attempt to do so under this rule, thus sub-jecting me to further injury. Imagine our elderjudges who are less spry completing this task!

It is also dangerous to continue judging. Unlikethe current method, this procedure will be fraughtwith increased heightened emotions by all – thejudge and the handler – which will be picked upby the other dogs and handlers in the ring. Sonow the judge that was attacked may be threat-ened by the other dogs in the ring who are alertedto “protection” mode.

There are additional solutions that could be for-mulated to the reinstatement process without arule change. This proposal adds more problems.

Please vote “NO!”


War

Dogs The documentary, War Dogs

– America’s ForgottenHeroes, co-produced by JefferyBennett was aired by the Dis-covery Channel in 1999. I recallbeing in New York in Februaryfor the Westminster KennelClub show, attending a gala din-ner hosted by Jeffrey Bennett,founder of Nature’s Recipe,when the documentary wasshown. It was a difficult film towatch and as I looked aroundthe room, I knew I wasn’t alonein that feeling. By the film’send, there wasn’t a dry eye inthe crowd. One of the MarineCorps handlers who was in at-tendance spoke about his scoutdog who was with him in 1969.Thirty years after the fact, wecould all feel and hear the emo-tion in his voice as he spokeabout the experience and the countless times andlives his dog and others like him saved. During theVietnam War, dogs were used in different capaci-ties, including “walking point,” leading the way andbeing the first target for a possible ambush or ahidden explosive. Others were sentries, guardingbases; some were trackers who followed theenemy; and others sniffed out hidden dangers. It isestimated that approximately 4,000 dogs servedduring the war, but only about 200 came home.Those that survived the war were either eutha-nized or turned over to the South Vietnamese as“war surplus equipment.”

Soon after the airingof that film, Bennett,in collaboration withthe Vietnam Dog Han-dlers Association,spearheaded a cam-paign that raised amillion dollars infunds to create twoWar Dog memorials.Three statues of aGerman Shepherd

and handler were commis-sioned. About a year later, I wasfortunate to be at the dedicationof the first statue, placed at theWest Coast War Dog Memorial,March Air Force Base Field AirMuseum, Riverside, CA. Themonument had been created bysculptor Tom Schomberg. Mr.Schomberg had also created amemorial for the Riverside Na-tional Cemetery, located just ashort distance from the MarchField Air Museum. Mr.Schomberg explained, “The WarDog Memorial, as I created it, ismeant to illustrate the bond be-tween humans and their caninefriends. Second, and most im-portant, it is to illustrate the sac-rifice that these two figures have

made under combat circum-stances.” During the dedication

ceremony, Justice Ming Chin, CA Supreme Court,said, “…these K9 heroes were left behind in thered dust of Viet Nam. We now know what many inthe audience knew then, these heroes were aban-doned by the country they served. In the words ofSgt. Spencer Dixon, ‘The valiant dogs had feelings:they hurt, cried, got sad and got happy and mostimportantly saved lives.’ It is time to welcomehome our K9 friends who served us so well.”

Each year in February, a War Dog MemorialCeremony is held at the March Field location tohonor military canine heroes and their handlers.In 2010, the War Dog Memorial in Riverside, CA

was rededicated. Sur-rounding the Memo-rial sculpture are tilesinscribed with a sym-bolic black paw, spon-sored by donors whodedicate the tiles toWar Dogs, heroes, andother honorees. Shortinscriptions are onmany of the tiles. Oneis a heartfelt apology,

First War Dog Memorial located at MarchAir Force Base Field

Museum in Riverside, CA

Inscribed tiles surrounding War Dog Memorial in Riverside, CA


DESERVING HEROES: HONORING WAR DOGSSYLVIA THOMAS, Delegate, Kennel Club Of Riverside

THOMAS, cont’d

“King, Leaving you was sad and wrong. Peace.” The East Coast National War Dog Memorial, and

the site of the second statue, is at Fort Benning,Georgia. On October 8, 2000, through the effortsof the Vietnam Dog Handler Association and theWar Dog Memorial Fund, the Memorial was dedi-cated on Sacrifice Field, “Named in honor of thosewho gave their lives in peace and war.” Many ofthe dog teams that served in both Korea and Viet-nam trained at Fort Benning making it an appropri-ate location to honor the teams that served ourcountry. The inscription on both the West and EastCoast Memorials reads, “They protected us on thefield of battle and watched over our eternal rest.We are grateful.”

On May 11, 2002, the first five of permanent WarDog Pedestals were dedicated at the site of theWar Dog Memorial in Fort Benning. The plan is tocontinue to dedicate Pedestals until they com-pletely surround the War Dog Memorial.

Since that rainy day in February 2000, at the ded-ication of the first War Dog Memorial in the UnitedStates, other Memorials dedicated to War Dogshave sprung up around the country. Small townMemorials to War Dogs are also increasing innumber. Additionally, an important policy changeoccurred in 2000, when the government estab-lished a military working dog adoption program.

Jeff Reagan, Editor, Patriot Health Alliance, pro-

vided information on a cemetery, Resthaven Me-morial Gardens, located in Frederick, Maryland.According to Jon Cody, the cemetery’s Vice Presi-dent of Operations, “Resthaven has been doing petburials since 1970,” but it has now established anHonor Garden for military and service dogs. Thecemetery already extends “courtesy space” to vet-erans and is expanding the offer to military andservice dogs including those who have beenadopted by nonmilitary members. A special com-memorative artwork, to distinguish the Honor Gar-den, is in progress.

The Vietnam Dog Handler Association (VDHA)maintains a website http://www.vdha.us/ that in-cludes a listing and some information about eachMemorial. A goal of the Association is getting theUS Postal service to commission a stamp dedi-cated to these K9 heroes. To date, thirty-two Me-morials have been dedicated in seventeen states

They protected us on thefield of battle and watched

over our eternal rest.

War Dog Memorial in Ft. Benning, GA the second of theTom Schonberg sculptures

Memorial dedicated in 2006 located at Bristol TownshipMunicipal Building, Bristol, PA

War

Dogs


http://www.vdha.us/


War

Dogs

Planned dedication plaque to be placed at theResthaven Cemetery Honor Garden in Frederick, MD.

“Always Faithful,” Doberman Pinscher, Kurt, on Guam’sWar Heroes Memorial Sculpture

THOMAS, cont’d

and Guam. Guam’s War Dog Memorial is nearSumay at the Naval Base and features a large gran-ite monument of Kurt, the Doberman Pinscher.Kurt was responsible for saving the lives of 250Marines and was the first dog killed in action onGuam. The Memorial bears the names of twenty-five dogs also killed in action who were part of thesecond and third War Dog Platoons. A replica ofthe statue was donated to the University of Ten-nessee College of Veterinary Medicine. The

newest, dedicated on June 14, 2017, is the LittleCanada War Dog Memorial in Little Canada, MN.“Dedicated to all War Dogs and their handlers.Your deeds and sacrifices will always be remem-bered.” The well-deserved War Dog Memorialsthroughout the country serve as poignant re-minders of the bravery and sacrifice made in serv-ice to our country. They ensure that the War Dogsare no longer unsung heroes.

Needs YOU!Consider writing or co-authoring an article.

Contact Sylvia Thomas, [email protected],for information or assistance.



What sort of drug do they pump into theboard room that makes all new officers

change once elected?” That question has been a re-curring lament over the years. Why do the peoplewe knew, or thought we knew and trusted, peoplewe generally agreed with and promoted, even cam-paigned for, seem to change, almost overnight, afterthey assumed office? It is undoubtedly true thatone’s opinion will be altered when confronted withadded and more complete information than is avail-able to a non-officer, but just how much should aperson’s fundamental ideology really change?

I knew Steve long before he became a Delegateand before he became a Board member. He wasone of the few people who did not change, whosefundamental principles remained steady. Wantingto “go along to get along” ishuman nature, but it wasn’tSteve Gladstone’s nature.Holding on to what you be-lieve in, adhering to your ownsense of right and wrong isnot the easiest path to take inlife, but it was the path Stevechose. Doing so made him acomplex and interesting per-son, but must have alsocaused him pain. But criti-cism seemed to roll rightover him and if he were hurtor discouraged by it, hedidn’t alter his position to ac-commodate opinions withwhich he did not agree. Someof those were mine. We would argue on thephone. He even hung up on me a few times, but itnever affected our friendship, primarily becausehe never lied to me, not once, and he understoodthat we were both trying to get to the same place,albeit via differing routes.

What Steve understood perfectly and what somany people refuse to accept is that criticizing theAKC, even publicly and relentlessly, does not nec-essarily denote ill intent. Steve loved the AKC, itstradition and its history, and most importantly, its

dogs. And because the AKC and the sport of pure-bred dogs had been an integral part of his adultlife, playing a role in so many of his life decisions,he wanted it to be the best organization of its kindin the world, one that all of its participants couldbe proud of. Being the best was the key to its sur-vival, he thought.

Steve’s absolute refusal to submit to a majorityopinion with which he strongly disagreed causedcritics to call him an obstructionist. He simplytried, not always successfully, to be on the side ofwhat was right. And he did compromise when nec-essary, because he could always see the biggerpicture.

Steve was a small “d” democrat. When he wasrunning for his second term on the Board, he was

quoted in an article writtenby Tony Rosato, “Traditionand history are important tome…but that doesn’t meanthat tyranny is important….I think that as the sport ex-panded out of being basi-cally an upper class‘exclusivity’ type of sport, toa sport that really openedits arms to the full spectrumof the American public, ourvalues changed. I think theAKC of the past was slow onthe uptake. Some of us hadto be aggressive to forcesome of the change. I like tothink that I helped the

progress there.”He had a hand in many of the improvements we

now take for granted; better standards of care inAKC kennels (a pursuit that introduced me toSteve), more attention to due process in the areaof discipline, concern for the accuracy of our studbook. And he was worrying about some issueslong before most of us took notice the number ofdog shows, what he called “the dilution of compe-tition,” the lack of emphasis on the breed ring,and the importance of marketing the AKC brand.

In M

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REFLECTIONS ON A LIFE WELL LIVED:STEVEN D. GLADSTONE, ESQ.GRETCHEN BERNARDI, Delegate, Mississippi Valley Kennel Club

“


BERNARDI, cont’dIn

Mem

oria

m In the unwritten history of the AKC there arerules and bylaws named for specific people, usu-ally those whose action precipitated the change.Steve leaves behind the “Gladstone Amendment,”Article VI, Section 7 of the Bylaws “Candidatesdisapproved or Delegates removed by the Boardof Directors shall be notified in writing of said dis-approval or removal. The candidate’s sponsoringClub or Delegate’s Club may, within thirty days ofnotice of disapproval or removal appeal the disap-proval or Delegate’s removal in writing to the Ex-ecutive Secretary of the AKC, stating the reasonswhy the candidate is eligible under Section 5 ofthis Article. Such appeal shall be presented to theDelegates at their next regular meeting by a Dele-gate of the club’s choosing. An affirmative vote oftwo-thirds of the Delegates present and votingthat the candidate is eligible (under Section 5 of

this Article) shall be required to seat or to retainthe seat of a disapproved candidate or removedDelegate.” Prior to that amendment, the Boardhad the sole power to seat any candidate or notand their decision was the end of the matter.

In Steve’s speech to the Delegates as a Boardcandidate in 2009, a speech that defines the manhe was more than any other, he said to us, “Thiselection is kind of like judging a lineup of sevenmagnificent dogs in Best in Show. You have fiveoutstandingly qualified candidates, each deserv-ing of your support. So why vote for Steve Glad-stone? You already have a dozen nice guys on theBoard. That's enough!”

I will miss Steve as so many of his friends willmiss him. But the AKC and sport of purebreddogs will miss him more and will miss him in wayswe don’t yet fully understand.

Sad news indeed from Australiawas announced to the Dele-

gates at the June 2017 meeting inNewark on the passing of fellowDelegate, Steve Gladstone. Stevewas elected to the AKC’s Board ofDirectors some fifteen years ago,before my time as a Delegate, somy direct knowledge of Steve re-lates only that far back, but thereare more than a few great memo-ries involving my interactions withSteve.

The first which comes to mindoccurred while a Board electionwas pending in which Steve was acandidate. Steve had asked formy consideration of a vote forhim and I retorted, “You reallytick me off sometimes, Mr. Gladstone, but I’mgoing to vote for you anyway because you are agood man.” Steve responded, “That’s my job,Sylvia, to tick you off and keep you ticked off. As amatter of fact that is part of my platform.” Fromthen on, we were on a first-name basis and would

chat a bit at each Delegates’ meet-ing even though we were often onopposite sides of the coin onsome issues.

Steve evidenced a quick wit andnever uttered an unkind wordabout anyone even if one were todisagree with him and engage indebate on the opposing side. Wehave lost a truly good and honor-able man.

Comments from other Dele-gates expressing their fond mem-ories of Steve follow.

Dan Smyth, Burlington CountyKennel Club, Inc.

I believe that Steve’s entranceto the Delegate Body with all of

its challenges was a foundation of the modern Del-egate Body becoming organizationally outspokenand active. The clubs stood up for his admissionagainst a Board in litigation with him, standing forthe principal that a club could select any individualas their Delegate provided the individual was in

In M

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A TRIBUTE REMEMBERING STEVEN D. GLADSTONE, ESQ.SYLVIA ARROWWOOD, Delegate, Charleston Kennel Club


ARROWWOOD, cont’dIn

Mem

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m good standing. Despite his legal issues against theBoard at that time, Steve was in good standing,and the Delegates defended the autonomy ofclubs to select their Delegate.

When Steve was admitted, the Delegate Bodyrealized it could speak and challenge the Board,and the rest thereafter is history. Steve, of coursebecame a beacon of free speech within the Dele-gate Body leading to the involved and proactivenature of today’s Delegate Body.

Don James, Leonberger Club of AmericaIn 2004, the Leonberger Club of America (LCA)

became aware that a group of members had splin-tered off and formed a new Leonberger Clubwhose sole purpose was to become recognized bythe AKC. The LCA decided it would be in the bestinterests of the breed if we also moved our Clubtoward AKC recognition. Fast forward to 2006 andthe planning for the LCA’s Annual National Spe-cialty in Idaho. That show would be our first crackat running an AKC style Specialty Show in addi-tion to our regular European style show. One ofour Board members had previous contact withSteve and managed to get him to agree to becomeour first ever AKC Specialty Judge.

Many LCA members will tell you the 2006 showwas the best Specialty the LCA ever staged. Partof that was no doubt due to Steve Gladstone. First,he absolutely fell in love with our dogs (he actu-ally owned a Leonberger at the time of his death).But more than that, he became a primary advo-cate for the LCA becoming the Parent Club whenthe LCA attained full AKC recognition. At our clos-ing banquet, Steve told us our show was one of thebest Specialties he had ever been a part of andthat he would do whatever it took to make surethe LCA became the AKC Parent Club.

Steve was larger than life in so many ways andcertainly played a larger than life role in the futureof the LCA as the AKC Parent Club for Leonberg-ers.

Chris Sweetwood, Trap Falls Kennel Club, Inc.Steve and I had many interesting conversations.

We didn’t always agree, but the conversationswere interesting. Steve was a straight shooter andnever told an untruth. He respected people as well

as their opinions. God speed, Steve.

Maureen Setter, Cleveland All-Breed TrainingClub, Inc.

I knew Steve for almost 30 years. Over thoseyears I found Steve was very supportive of allCompanion & Performance events. While chattinghe talked about his dogs and dogs he bred andwas so very proud of all of their accomplishments.Steve will definitely be missed!

Pat Laurans, German Wirehaired Pointer Club ofAmerica, Inc.

At the beginning of the Parent Club Meeting,Pat asked for a moment of silence to reflect upon,Steve, a man who had a passion for dogs, hisfriends, and for the American Kennel Club.

Pamela Stacey Rosman, Canaan Dog Club ofAmerica

It is almost 30 years since I first met Steve Glad-stone. Steve was a visionary with a keen intellect,always persevering to act in what he considered tobe the best interests of purebred dogs. While wedisagreed vehemently on many issues, I always re-spected Steve and knew that underneath thatsometimes gruff exterior was a compassionateand fair player.

In the 1990’s Steve was an ardent supporter of amandatory and meaningful DNA compliance pro-gram which would become an additional bench-mark substantiating AKC’s superiority over allother competing registries. To that effect, Stevelearned everything he could about the DNA tech-nology available at that time. What impressed memost was that Steve was not satisfied with just aworking knowledge of DNA testing, he wanted acomplete understanding of the technology, in theevent he had to argue the matter in court. Steveand I spent countless hours interpreting data, de-liberating the validity of DNA testing and often-times, the scientist and the lawyer were in directconflict.

In 2004 Steve judged the Canaan Dog Club ofAmerica (CDCA) National Specialty in Virginia.An accomplished judge, Steve told me that it washis job to find the best dog in the ring, lookingpast good or inexperienced handling. That week-


ARROWWOOD, cont’dIn

Mem

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m end, a young black and white puppy caughtSteve’s eye. He had discovered “Magnum,” whowent on to become the top winning Canaan Dog inbreed history! Steve was the influential factor ad-vocating for the CDCA to apply for AKC memberclub status and a voice in the Delegate Body. Atthe annual banquet that year, he gave an impas-sioned speech that was well received and in 2006the CDCA was admitted as a member club and Iwas seated as its first Delegate.

For almost three decades Steve was a soundingboard for every conceivable dog related issue.Steve’s passing leaves an irreplaceable void. Stevewas a maverick and will forever be rememberedfor his intelligence, creativity, passion for livingand dedication to the world of dogs. Heartfelt con-dolences to Steve’s wife, Jan Ritchie Gladstone,Steve’s mother, sisters and extended family, to-gether with Steve’s innumerable friends and col-leagues worldwide. Rest in peace, gentle giant.

Over the next several years, barring some formof intervention, the United States will experi-

ence a serious shortage of detection dogs neededto do airport security, bomb and drug detectionwork.Why would that be? In the years following9/11, U.S. Government agencies responsible forthe procurement of these dogs have had few issuesfilling required quotas.The majority of these dogswere purchased from large kennels in Eastern Eu-rope who specialized in breeding dogs predisposedto do this type of work. Unfortunately, this is nolonger the case. With the rise of terrorism all overthe world, other major world players like China andcenters of terrorist activity in the Middle East haveupped the ante for obtaining the best of these dogs.And, since they are authorized to spend a far largeramount (as much as $50,000 per dog) to obtain thebest available dogs, U.S. efforts to replenish thesupply is falling disturbingly short, AND the prob-lem is not going to abate.

Something needs to be done. This article detailsthe efforts that center on duplicating and exceed-ing the successes of those European breeders bystarting our own domestic procurement and train-ing program. The goal would be to tap into thevast knowledge of U.S. based canine behavioristsand geneticists to provide an ample supply of anew line of Detection Super Dogs bred specifi-cally for the traits necessary to do this importantwork. Sounds sort of like something the AKC

might be able to provide some help with, wouldn'tyou think?

Toward that end, I was invited to attend the firstAKC sponsored Detection Dog Conference inRaleigh, North Carolina on March 1, 2017.

In all honestly, I was excited to attend but un-sure what to expect, but with AKC Board memberDr. Carmen Battaglia as the conference organizerand AKC Board members Carl Ashby, Jim Doc,and Alan Kalter in attendance, you knew this wasgoing to be important and worthwhile. Still, I fig-ured we'd have maybe 15-20 folks in attendanceand was surprised at the opening social hour anddinner to see about 60 people in the room includ-ing Mari-Beth O'Neill, Mark Dunn, Joe Baffuto,

Dete

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s

THE COMING DETECTION DOG SHORTAGE:HOW AKC CAN HELPDON JAMES, Delegate, Leonberger Club Of America

Conference Welcome Sign

JAMES, cont’dDe

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ogs Sheila Goff, and Doug Ljungren from AKC staff,

and Dr. Diane Brown and Samantha Wright fromCHF. Fellow Delegates Chris Sweetwood of TrapFalls KC and Jim Corbett from the Tualatin ValleyKC were also in attendance.

We met several members from both Transporta-tion Services Administration (TSA) and Home-land Security, representatives from several lawenforcement agencies including our dinnerkeynote speaker Sgt. Wendell Nope, the K9 train-ing supervisor at the Utah Department of Safety.Also in attendance were prominent canine genet-ics researchers like Dr. Matthew Breen, Profes-sor of Genomics at North Carolina State. Therewas a bevy of folks from academia as well repre-sentatives from K2 Solutions, a detection dogtraining program. Paul Bunker, Director, K2 Solu-tions Training Center and his team providedsome interesting demonstrations of detectiondogs at work during the conference.

Presenters and Topics at the conference in-cluded:Lt. Colonel Matthew Enroth, U.S. Army, a Vet-

erinarian with The Working Dog ProcurementProject at TSACurrent State of Affairs in Government Procure-

ment of Detection DogsMr. Don Roberts from the U.S. Department ofHomeland SecurityOverview of Homeland Security’s Detection Dog

Research and Development ProgramScott Thomas from TSA's Canine Training CenterPredicting Future Canine Performance

Dr. Cindy Otto from the University of Pennsylva-nia Penn Vet Working Dog CenterA Vision for a National Breeding Program

Dr. Eldon Leighton of Canine Genetics Servicesand Dr. Liz Hare of the Penn Vet Working DogCenter, an expert in Canine Quantitative GeneticsA Plan for Producing a Large Number of Health,

High Quality Puppies Bred for Scent Detection WorkPaul Mundell of Canine Companions for Inde-

pendence.A Model for a Breeding Co-op – The Assistance

Dog International North American Breeding Cooper-ative

Rather than highlight the presentations of eachperson it this group, the next few paragraphs

should give all of you an overview of what welearned and finish up with some exciting an-nouncements that have been made public by AKCsince the Raleigh conference ended.

The overarching message made by all of ourpresenters was that the U.S. must develop and ex-ecute a plan which provides governmental agen-cies involved in canine detection a continuoussupply of dogs that are not only qualified to dothis work but are genetically pre-disposed to do it.We can no longer procure dogs that we “think”would be good at this work, we need to createdogs that we “know” will be good at it.

A glance at the current procurement methodol-


Lt. Col. Matthew Enroth presentation centering on the current stateof affairs in Government Procurement of Detection Dogs

Bomb Detection Dog on Target


JAMES, cont’dDe

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ogs ogy reveals a plan that’s not only expensive but

wasteful. Eighty-one percent of all dogs doing de-tection work in the U.S. are sourced in Europe.However, when our agencies embark on a typicalbuying trip, they will examine about 300 dogs andpurchase about half of those knowing full wellfrom past experience that no more than 30% ofthose will wind up actually doing detection work.As mentioned previously, a recent increase in de-mand caused by other countries bidding for thesame dogs has made it even less likely that thesetrips are going to suddenly become more success-ful. One of the major issues causing these resultsis that breeders from whom these dogs are pur-chased many times don’t maintain pedigreerecords, so buyers literally must make educatedguesses as to which of the dogs they examineduring a trip might eventually wind up success-fully doing this work. Science is simply not in-volved.

It might surprise you to learn that a tremendousamount of work is already being done in theUnited States to develop dogs for detection work.Fact is, we already have a pretty good under-standing of the traits necessary for a dog to be asuccessful doing this job. Tests have been devel-oped and are administered to these newly im-ported dogs at 3,6,9, and 12 months. But, becausewe are no longer privy to the very best of thesedogs, it’s only then that we have an idea of which

dogs have the necessary traits to do this work.That’s where the 30% figure comes into play. So,even though we’ve developed a fair amount of

knowledge, if we are unable to find a sufficientsupply of dogs who meet these criteria, all of thisresearch becomes a moot point. The bottom lineis we need to not only refine our selection tech-niques, we need to work on developing programswhich will result in the creation of purpose breddetection dogs here in the United States.

Some of our presenters laid out plans whichbegin by quantifying the phenotype we’re lookingfor in a detection dog. We must develop a Na-tional Semen Bank with straws from sires whopossess this phenotype. We must create and use adatabase to use this to drive the selection processof dogs used for this function. Because many dif-ferent entities are working on these issues, themost important thing that must happen is that allof these independent efforts need to be broughttogether under a single umbrella to allow all towork collaboratively toward the same goals.

But, without an adequate supply of qualifieddogs, none of this planning will amount to a hill ofbeans. As Dr. Eldon Leighton pointed out in hispresentation, if the goal is to produce a largenumber of working dogs, regardless of purpose,you cannot do so without a plan. Breeding pro-grams must be scattered about the country. Itmust be determined who will raise the puppiesonce they are whelped. Contracts must be negoti-ated and signed and a price agreed upon beforeany breeding takes place. All offspring would be-come part of a national working database whichwould keep track of the success of each dog bredspecifically for detection work.

As you no doubt have surmised, a tremendousamount of work remains to be done. AKC believeswe can be of great help in solving the problemsinherent to setting up a domestic program likethis. And, government officials firmly believe thatAKC could serve as the facilitator between the na-tion’s needs and AKC breeders. This conferencewas a major step toward bringing all of thesegroups together working toward this single goal.

Since the conclusion of the conference, more in-formation has become available.• We know now that we can call the March 1st

conference the First ANNUAL Detection DogConference. The planning for a second confer-ence has already begun.


JAMES, cont’d

• The AKC Board will provide support to allowus to move forward in finding better ways tosupport the programs detailed above.

• Our government relations people are going in-clude the detection dog shortage as an issuefor discussion at a planned conference inWashington DC as part of National PurebredDog Day.

• AKC will also establish a secure site where all

conference presentations will be shared.And, most importantly, steps are being taken to

begin meeting with breeders, vendors and distribu-tors to introduce them to the prospect of getting in-volved to mitigate the coming detection dogshortage.

Stay tuned to future Perspectives issues for con-tinuing updates on the detection dog initiative.De

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ogs

The most exciting news in the world of dogsports recently is the creation of the new

AKC-sanctioned sport of Scent Work! Becauseyou are seasoned veterans of dog competition,you may be wondering “What’s the fuss allabout?” As a wildly enthusiastic participant in theworld of scent sports, I would like to share someof my answers to the “why” with you!

First, scent work is the only dog sport where a doguses innate decision making to navigate a scentpuzzle! There should be as little interference aspossible from the handler. What a relief! Nocourses to memorize! No barked commands(from YOU, the human)!No hovering over yourdog as he tries his best tofollow you around a pre-scribed course that onlyyou know! This sportshowcases your dog’s nat-ural hunting instinct anddrive, builds confidence, and independence! Shyand environmentally-challenged dogs will blos-som and shine with the reawakening of their nat-ural instincts.

Any dog with a nose can do it! That’s right, oldand young, purebred and All American, blind andsighted, dogs with mobility aids, and dogs re-tired from all other sports can participate inScent Work, as long as their noses still work. For

all our dogs that are accustomed to being off thecouch and on the road with mom and dad everyweekend, this is an excellent way to keep themphysically engaged and mentally sharp well intotheir retirement years.

It’s tremendous fun for the dog! How nice it mustbe to have a few moments to simply enjoy life asyou were meant to experience it! After enduringall those things that dogs need to do for us - theprimping, the combing, the wearing of rhine-stone collars (on the BOYS, no less!), the heal-ing and no-pooping-on-the-carpet rules that ourcanine partners must observe, here is one sport

where the dogs are free to bedogs, with all the joy, intelli-gence, vivaciousness and drivethat attracted the first humanto the first canine companionthousands of years ago. By thesecond lesson, most dogs can’twait to get to class! Here is a

venue where dogs self- reward with food or toys,and then, when they locate the target odor, aregiven MORE food or toys! How great is that??? Ifyou have ever played Hide N Seek with yourdog, you know a little about how much fun ScentWork can be!

It’s cheap! There is no expensive equipment re-quired in Scent Work. If you can find some card-board boxes and have a collar, leash, dog treats,

Dog S

ports

WHY SCENT WORK?KATHY GREGORY, Delegate, Port Chester Obedience Training Club

...scent work is the only dogsport where a dog uses in-nate decision making...


GREGORY, cont’dDo

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rts

and a dog, you have all you need to succeed!

It’s only positive! We use only positive trainingmethods in Scent Work. There will be no yelling,harsh commands or temper tantrums when wetrain. As a matter of fact, doing Scent Work inutter silence would be the ultimate goal. In thissport, the dog is always correct and any errorsare the fault of the handlers, not the dogs. Thejob of the handler is to stand back and laserfocus on the dog and appreciate the unique lan-guage with which our own dog communicateswith us.

You don’t have to trial! But if you do, every singleteam can win!

Perhaps, most importantly, Scent Work hum-bles us. It reminds us of how truly miraculous

our dogs are and what remarkable gifts they pos-sess to share with us. There is nothing like expe-riencing the look of wonder when a studentrealizes that his little stay-at-home, couch potatodog has just located the scent on the end of onesingle Q-Tip thrown at random in the middle of afootball field. This sport reminds us that dogscan truly make decisions on their own, can stepout in front of us, and confidently tap into theirgenetic core despite generations of human med-dling and still, at the end of the search, return tous for a cuddle, ready to do it again tomorrow.

I hope this little article encourages all of you togive Scent Work a try and look forward to hear-ing all about your successes!

Six-year old Nyx doing scent work with Kathy


In today’s world and its growingpopulation, “sustainability” is a

word that gets thrown around a lot.What does sustainability actuallymean? Why should we as leadersand members of AKC Parent Clubsconcern ourselves with the sustain-ability of our purebred dogs?

Many parent club leaders andmembers face challenges to pure-bred dog ownership every day:1. Millions of companion animals enter shelters

each year. It is estimated 20-30% of those dogsare purebred.

2. Breeding of “designer dogs” such as the‘Labradoodles’, ‘Silver Labs’, and, the latestrage for Vizslas, the ‘Weizsla’, is becoming in-creasingly popular.

3. Thousands of puppy mills sell to pet stores oruse online sites to sell and ship puppies acrossthe world.

4. Dogs being bred too young without appropri-ate health screenings identified for the breed.

Ultimately, the question becomes can better pub-lic education and breeder mentoring, with a focuson health and temperament, counter the competi-tion and improve our breedingstock as a whole?

Sustainability, first and fore-most, concerns longevity. TheVizsla Club of America Inc.(VCA) believes that our breed-ing decisions today can enableimprovement of the breed in the future. Throughthoughtful health screening and by integrating testresults into breeding decisions we can reduce heri-table traits like hip dysplasia. For example, as of De-cember 2016, of 1557 Vizslas born between 2011and 2015, 21.8% had excellent hip scores while 5.7%were reported dysplastic whereas the overall aver-age (1974 - 2016) shows 17.2% were excellent and

6.9% were dysplastic. Of 1511 Vizslasscreened for Hypothyroidism, be-tween 1974 and 2016, 88% receivednormal evaluations while 2.3% had Au-toimmune Thyroiditis. As a ParentClub, we closely watch this healthdata, two components of our CHIC re-quirements, in order to assess ourbreeding programs and offer guid-ance to our breeder cohort. Under-

standing our genetic strengths and faults isessential to “sustaining” the Vizsla by definition andhelps to insure our dogs are long-lived.

Sustainability also implies what can be sustainedbeyond health. By adhering to the AKC Vizsla Stan-dard and using our new Illustrated Breed Standardas its complement, sustainability becomes a com-pass that keeps us on course. As breeders, we mustconsider structure, movement, temperament, andhunting ability as described by our AKC Standardto preserve the “versatility” of the breed. In otherwords, we want our Vizslas to look and act like acompanion gun dog.

For Vizslas, sound conformation (can a dog’sstructure support running all day long?) is essentialif they are to do their jobs in the field or on theagility course. Health screening, good rearing prac-

tices, and temperament testing oflitters can help us decide what dogsremain in the gene pool and whatpuppies should go to pet homes.Every time we breed a litter, wemust keep an eye on where wemight go next in order to build on

what we hope is a strong foundation aligned withthe AKC Standard.

Sustainability also means collaboration aroundshared goals centered on breeding and raising ourbeloved Vizslas. By following a “Code of Ethics”(which outlines standards of health and welfare), wecan provide guidance for sustainable practices to berepeated over and over. In so doing, we encourage

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WHAT IS BREED SUSTAINABILITY?BREED SUSTAINABILITY IS A GLOBAL IDEACATHY GALLAGHER AND ELISE WRIGHT

CO-CHAIRS, Vizsla Club Of America Inc., Breed Sustainability Committee

INVITED BY LYNN WORTH SMITH, Delegate, Vizsla Club Of America, Inc.

Sustainability, firstand foremost, concerns

longevity.


GALLAGHER/WRIGHT, cont’dBr

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n our fellow breeders to standby the dogs we breed andplace them in homes for theirlifetime with the explicit un-derstanding that our puppiesmay be returned at any age.

How does the Vizsla Clubof America, Inc. support sustainability?

In October 2016, the VCA Board of Directorslaunched an Ad-hoc Committee called the BreedSustainability Committee (BSC). The BSC is a jointventure between the VCA and the VCA WelfareFoundation. Members include key volunteer lead-ers from Breed Rescue, Breed Information and Im-provement Committees, and our Judges’ Education,and Illustrated Standard Committees.

The goals of the BSC are as follows:1. Ensure the VCA is strategic in its approach to

support members, breeders, owners, andprospective owners as popularity and interestin the Vizsla increases

2. Capture the synergies of our existing StandingCommittees aligning them around a commonvision, mission and strategy

3. Develop and execute comprehensive plans ofaction in key areas such as Health and Well-ness, Organizational Leadership Development,

Breeder Network and Men-toring, and Breed Education.

Several action items includerevising our Code of Ethics tosync with the AKC CHIC pro-gram, launching a new VCABreeder Network to expandeducation and mentoring for

our fellow breeders and prospective owners alike,collaborating with the AKC Marketplace to encour-age more participation by “responsible” breeders,developing a Public Health protocol for all our na-tional events (Conformation, Companion Events) topromote safe participation, and distributing a newVizsla Health Survey to better understand thehealth concerns of our breed.

During our National Specialty events in May2017, we shared our progress and future plans ofthe Breed Sustainability Committee with our VCAmembership and enlisted many to join our fourworking groups to help us achieve those goals.Our priority as an AKC Parent Club is to foster acommitment to responsible breeding and owner-ship as well as to preserve the heritage of ourVizslas through informed practice. Our new VCABreeder Network will enable us to share thosepractices and valuable lessons learned so that sus-tainability can become the responsibility of *all*Vizsla owners.

…sustainability becomesa compass that keeps

us on course…

ThankYouto the September 2017 Perspectives Coordinator, Don James,

Monica Henderson Stoner and Steven Hamblin, our proof-

ing team, and the contributing writers and Committee co-

authors. Their hard work made this issue possible.

Please let them know you appreciate their efforts!


There is nothing more priceless than the smileof a child doing something that he or she is

proud of doing and loves. The AKC Pee Wee Program is

really inspiring our youngsters.This program promotes goodsportsmanship while encouragingand teaching our future dog en-thusiasts. At the Staten IslandKennel Club in Freehold, NJ onMay 26, 2017, Marjorie Tuff, AKCJudge and Delegate took the timeand effort to both teach and en-courage our future dog handlers.Marjorie was wonderful with thisyounger generation. She spenttime explaining to the three chil-dren who were entered that thesport of showing dogs was notjust about winning. It was aboutcomradery, manners, good sportsmanship, andhaving fun with your dog.

This event warmed the hearts of everyone ob-serving, not just because a friend’s granddaughterproudly showed her Bloodhound, but because thischild was given the tools to become a confidenthandler benefitting from Marjorie’s watchful eyeand wisdom. Marjorie made sure that every childwalked out of that ring awinner proudly showing offhis/her ribbons. As a showenthusiast, it’s my opinionthat this is a program weshould see more of. After all,where is our sport withoutthe next generation to carryit forward? Thank you, Mar-jorie Tuff, for a truly memo-rable day for all who were atringside as well.

What is Pee Wee?Pee Wee is a special attrac-

tion AKC class for children 5-9 years of age.This isnot a competitive class, but rather a fun, learningexperience for the child and the adult. Each PeeWee unit consists of the child, a responsible adult,

and a dog. Only one Pee Wee unit is in the ring at atime as safety is a primary concern at these events.

Gaining in popularity, you canfind the Pee Wee class offered atmany All-Breed and Specialtyshows. Only those who like chil-dren, can be patient, kind, andhave a sense of humor, shouldjudge Pee Wee! Although theword “judge” will be used, thePee Wee Class is designed to be afun learning and mentoring expe-rience.

The dog must be at least fourmonths of age to be entered withtheir Pee Wee and bitches in sea-son are not be allowed to partici-pate. Entries are available prior toand on the day of the show. Alldogs entered must have a proper

lead and collar. To maintain a safe and fun event, aresponsible adult must be present with the childboth inside and outside the ring and be able tomaintain control of the dog. It is essential that theclub hosting a Pee Wee Class provide the supportand time to greet the participants, make them feelwelcome and be on hand to answer any questionsthat may arise. Clubs are asked to consider hold-

ing Pee Wee at lunchtime toallow the child and adultstime to get to the show aswell as maximize atten-dance. This event is a crowdpleaser so attendance is en-couraged and cheering forall the children involved is adefinite must.

So, the next time you areat a show, check to see if aPee Wee Class is offered. Goand cheer the Pee WeeClass. You’ll be amazed atwhat these little pre-junior

handlers can do, even with a large dog like aBloodhound. For additional information on the PeeWee Class, check out the AKC website,www.akc.org

Pee W

ees

CELEBRATING PEE WEES!MARY LOU OLSZEWSKI, Delegate, American Bloodhound Club

http://www.akc.org


In talking with fellow Delegates regarding the re-markable progress the American Kennel Club has

made in creating demand for purebred dogs (asmeasured by the core metrics of registrations, lit-ters, and number of breeders), I thought the ques-tion, “How did this happen?” should be answered.Was it luck, one simple action, or a carefully con-structed and executed strategy? As an immediatepast Director, I have some insight as to what hashelped drive this turnaround. The information Ishare was gleaned during my time on the Board. Itdemonstrates how the “dots” were connected todrive demand for purebred dogs. Quantitative num-bers are not shown to protect potentially propri-etary information.

The increased demand for purebred dogs andthe positive impact it has on AKC is no accident.It is the result of a well thought out and exe-cuted strategy developed by the AKC Board andstaf f. As immediate past Vice Chair of the Board,I was in the unique position to see not only “howthe dots are connected,” but the action plan usedto “connect the dots” that purebred dogs are thepet of choice in American households.

First, some facts that helped develop the strat-egy: 1) The “fancy” represents about 18% of our regis-

trations which includes the impact of Breedersof Merit, who commit to registering 100% oftheir puppies.

2) As a percent of total breeders, the fancy hasbeen shrinking.

3) Litters have declined significantly.4) People weren’t acquiring purebred dogs as

family pets, rather they were opting for shelterdogs or crossbreeds (designer dogs).

5) The demand for dogs has been increasing. Ap-proximately 60 million households currentlyhave a dog as a companion. The average num-ber of dogs is 1.5 dogs per household. This isan 11% increase since 2014.

6) The number of adoptable dogs has droppedsignificantly in the United States.

7) The AKC brand is well known to us, but it wasnot garnering either the recognition or respect

of the pet-owning public.8) The value of an AKC registration is not under-

stood or fully appreciated.

Significant TakeawaysParticipation in events is driven by increased

demand for AKC registered dogs. Unless wegrow the base of potential dogs to participate inevents we will not reverse the decline in entries,especially conformation entries.

Connecting Breeders with Buyers is essential.There must be a way for potential pet owners toconnect with responsible AKC Breeders. Regis-tering a dog with AKC opens significant opportu-nities to engage the owner at many levelsincluding AKC Clubs, event participation, andadvocacy.

Although AKC had a very competent and dedi-cated staf f with deep roots in dogs, events, andclubs, we did not have the needed expertise todevelop AKC’s brand, build awareness throughsocial media and our web presence, as well asmonetize those assets to better support AKC’score mission.

The AKC BrandOf all the facts already presented, the most sig-

nificant is the need to rebuild demand for pure-bred dogs. Efforts are being made to improvecanine health, to support legislation to improvethe life of dogs, to inspect kennels, etc. We inthe fancy knew of these ef forts but rememberthe fancy only comprises a minute segment ofthe dog-loving community. We needed to spreadthe word.

It was clear what we had been doing wasn’tworking to change the hearts and minds of thebroader dog-owning public. A new approach wasneeded.That meant engaging people in newways (including social media), and then rein-forcing that engagement with a “content rich”Internet presence, building on our good workfor all dogs. That need, coupled with intensemarketing research specifically focused on theregistration value proposition, spawned the

AKC S

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gyCONNECTING THE DOTS: THE STRATEGY BEHIND THE IN-CREASED DEMAND FOR PUREBRED DOGSCARL C. ASHBY, Delegate, United States Kerry Blue Terrier Club


birth of a strategy.

The StrategyThe first step was to re-energize our

Facebook/Instagram/Twitter presence.Our so-cial media strategy was simple: provide interac-tive, interesting content that would engage allanimal lovers. We relaunched our Facebook/In-stagram social media sites, and the strategyworked. We now have over 4.1 million followers,and it grows daily. These followers often “click”through to akc.org, giving us the opportunity toshare AKC content and our brand.

The second step was to upgrade and improve thewebsite with complete information.The initiallaunch was in February of 2015.That site did notincorporate best practicesin terms of website design,but it was a starting point tobuild a powerful engine toattract the prospective andcurrent dog-owning public,while providing informationand tools for the fancy.

In 2016, the Board authorized the formation ofthe Growth Group and consolidated revenue re-sponsibility for all but events into this new or-ganization. Their mission is to grow operatingprofit to be used in increased support for AKC’smission. Alexandra Aleskovsky leads the GrowthGroup and her team has found ways to engagethe general dog-owning public while enhancingsupport for breeders and fanciers. Theylaunched the new Marketplace to connect breed-ers and potential puppy owners. The introduc-tion of the AKC Store of curated, qualityproducts for the pet owner, the upgrade in over-all content, as well as enhanced support of thetools useful to the fancy have resulted inwww.akc.org becoming the third most visited ca-nine-related website behind PetMED/Pet360and ihartdogs.com.

There are now nearly seven million unique vis-itors having a relationship with the AKC brandeach month. Breed specific content, as well asexpanded dog information in areas such ashealth and training, help drive potential dogowners and lovers to the site.

This is being done by incorporating tools(video, quizzes, search engine marketing, etc.).The target audience has gotten younger, has ahigher income and is more educated. This is acritical audience for selecting purebred dogs asfamily pets.

Businesses have noticed the impact of akc.org,and the site is generating significant revenue tosupport AKC’s core mission. Advertising saleshave grown substantially and are now fourteentimes what they were in January 2016.

The plan to grow the demand for purebreddogs is in place. This Fall a new www.akc.org willlaunch. It will incorporate new features makingit more engaging to users while enhancing itsability to generate revenue to be used for mis-

sion support of AKC.The third step was to put

in place programs to workwith breeders. In additionto AKC Marketplace, theBred with H.E.A.R.T. pro-gram with its free breeder

education utilizing the AKC Canine College, en-hancements to the AKC Breeder of Merit pro-gram, and an improved customer serviceexperience were all part of the plan. All were de-signed to enhance both the AKC brand whilepromoting the purebred dog as the best choicefor a companion animal.

The fourth step incorporated the marketing re-search and enhanced the importance of an AKCregistration to the family dog owner. Throughmodifications to the “package” of registration of-ferings, new relationships have been estab-lished.

The final step was to take a more aggressivegovernment relations posture through enhanc-ing the size of our government relations teamand also by working with other, like minded or-ganizations to make our point of view known andto protect our rights to breed and own purebreddogs.

Did it Work? This has been about the dots andthe connections, but what about results? Thereare three key measures of success: registrations,litters, and number of breeders. All have in-

ASHBY, cont’dAK

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The increased demand for pure-bred dogs and the positive impactit has on AKC is no accident.

http://www.akc.org

http://www.akc.org

http://www.akc.org

http://www.akc.org


creased and continue to grow. Let’s look at thecharts below to see the trends (Please note theactual numbers are left of f for competitive rea-sons but the scale of the charts is correct).

It starts with building our Facebook Followers…

The steady upward trend shows how effective theGrowth Group has been in bringing new customers toAKC.This is helping drive people to www.akc.org...

Coupled with an enhanced AKC Marketplace, thechart shows the increase in new unique visitors to ourwebsite to find AKC Puppies…

ebsite to find AKC Puppies…

This results first in growth of dog registrations….

Then an increase in AKC litters registered…

The increased demand for puppies then rekindlesthe unique breeder community….

Embracing a Bright FutureFor too long the American Kennel Club was silent

on the role of purpose-bred dogs both in pop cultureand as the best choice for a family companion. Wecontinued to cherish our history without makingthe necessary changes to both our internal cultureand our approach to the dog-loving public.

That has changed significantly over the past sev-eral years. Under the leadership of Dennis Sprung,Alexandra Aleskovsky, and her Growth Group, wehave successfully increased our income, litters and

ASHBY, cont’dAK

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registrations. While there will always be growingpains as an organization’s culture evolves, especiallygiven AKC’s long and storied history, the right deci-sions are being made to assure our future. Thestrategy AKC is pursuing is working, and there isno reason to believe that we won’t accelerate ourgrowth.

While this article has focused solely on demandfor purebred dogs there has been a large amount ofresearch on the event side of AKC. It shows thatgrowing the unique participants in events is goingto be just as challenging, if not more so, as increas-ing demand for purebred dogs has been. It will re-quire both growing the demand for dogs as well asfinding new ways to attract people to our events.

I urge everyone to strive to understand AKC’s di-rection and the complex challenges being ad-

dressed. Without growing the financial resources ofAKC (as we are doing today), we will not sustainour mission. Placing the burden on our Clubs is notacceptable nor will it further our commitment topurebred dogs. However, by expanding our reachbeyond our traditional fancy, we have an opportu-nity to both lessen the burden on our Clubs and par-ticipants while we support our mission as we havenever done in the past. As Delegates, we must takethat message to the Clubs we represent as well as toeveryone who loves purebred dogs.

While none of us will agree with every decisionmade, I can attest that the decisions I am familiarwith were part of a much larger plan to raise theprofile of AKC to the dog-loving public. Throughthese efforts we will be able to assure a sound fu-ture for our Clubs and the dogs we cherish.

ASHBY, cont’dAK

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It’s always a treat for me to meet a newDelegate. Generally, they share some

commonalities. Most are busy folks whoare filled with enthusiasm for a varietyof things. They all share a passion fordogs and a sincere desire to be involvedcoupled with an energy to learn andmake a difference. Donna Gilbert is allof that and more, and who knew thatone of her first dogs was an Akita? Al-ready that makes her special! Donnarepresents Greenwich Kennel Club. Ihave no doubt that you’ll find her a wel-comed addition to the Delegate Bodyand will welcome her when you meether in person at a future meeting! I’d like to thankDonna for her willingness to be interviewed and heropenness in sharing her background, experienceand interests with us.

How did you become involved with dogs? Growing up in New York City, my family and I

lived in an apartment building which didn't allowdogs, and I desperately wanted a dog. I re-searched everything I could find that related todogs.. Since this was well before the Internet, I re-

lied on books, magazines, and TVto learn all that I could. My bestfriend’s mom would occasionallybreed a litter of Labrador Retriev-ers during the summer at theircountry home in Cornwall, CT. Asfate would have it, I spent twoweeks with them one summerwhen a litter was about four weeksold. To say it was heaven was anunderstatement! I was hooked, andknew then that, in some way,breeding dogs would be part of mylife. I was 11 years old. It was an-other 15 years before I actually had

a dog of my own; an Akita, which I trained in obe-dience. Finally, in 1989, my first show dog arrived.

What breeds do you have and how did youchoose your first breed?

My chosen breed is Pembroke Welsh Corgis. Iwanted a breed that was a moderate size, easy tocare for, intelligent, and up for any activity. By thistime I had started my family, so “good with kids”was also a requirement. Pembrokes fit the bill per-fectly! Not to mention how well my temperament

Dele

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GETTING TO KNOW YOU…DONNA GILBERTSYLVIA THOMAS, Delegate, Kennel Club Of Riverside

Donna and her Pembroke WelshCorgi, Feather

matched theirs; we are both willing to takecharge, as well as follow a great leader. That is, ifone is present. Recently, I have added Flat CoatedRetrievers to my household as the result of a newand loving relationship with a fellow dog breeder.However, the Flat Coats are really “his dogs,” par-ticularly when it comes to picking up in the yard.

Where does your dog interest lie and why? My primary interest is in the Conformation

Ring. Understanding the breed standard, attempt-ing to breed an outstanding specimen of the breedor standing in the center of the ring and attempt-ing to evaluate the exhibits brought before you --knowing that your decisions may influence futuregenerations -- is an awesome responsibility. Onewhich I take very seriously. I love visiting with fel-low breeders to discuss pedigrees and decisionsabout breeding. Spending the afternoon evaluat-ing a litter is one of my favorite things to do! Ihave exhibited or trained in Obedience, Herding,and Agility. You can also find me at Field and Huntevents, just helping in the background for now.

Do you actively exhibit and or breed your dogs?Yes, I have been actively exhibiting since 1990. I

bred my first litter in 1996, and became approvedto judge my first breed in 2006.

What club do you represent?I am the Delegate for the Greenwich Kennel

Club (GKC) which is one of the oldest all-breeddog clubs in the tri-state area of Connecticut, NewYork and New Jersey. Our membership is com-prised of area enthusiasts with interest in all dogsports. GKC held its first annual all-breed dogshow in 1930. I became the Delegate for theGreenwich Kennel Club in 2016 after the passingof our longtime Delegate and friend, MargaretCurtis. Margaret represented the GKC in expertfashion, and we miss her everyday. It is my honorto follow in her footsteps. Having served on theboard of the GKC, and having held various leader-ship positions for several other dog clubs and phil-anthropic organizations (including the position ofpresident for the Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club ofAmerica), stepping up to serve my all-breed club

seemed like the perfect fit for my skill set. Let'sface it, working with “dog people” isn't for every-one. It seems that I work well with strongly opin-ionated folks. It's what makes me a great realtor.

How has the sport changed since you got yourfirst show dog?

In 1989, when I got my first show dog and beganexhibiting, Conformation was an actively growingsegment of our sport. There were far fewer areasto participate in to achieve AKC titles, and theanti-breeder/animal radical wave had barelybegun. Since then, however, the sport of purebreddogs has broadened its focus.

Now, there are multiple avenues for the long-time enthusiast, as well as options in which new-comers can find activities to spark their interest. Ithink that we all -- breed club members, parentclub members, specific activity club members, andthe AKC in general -- have turned a very impor-tant corner in the fancy’s history. I feel as thoughthe general population has an appreciation fortheir purebred dog of choice. I like the strategythe AKC is putting forth; reaching out to potentialnewcomers by offering new and various levels ofcompetition to get people interested and on ourside. As reflected in the number of litter registra-tions, people are choosing to engage in these ac-tivities with their AKC registered dogs. Weneeded to change the conversation, to take backour sport, to get out in front of the issues, and tocreate the future that will allow our sport to grow.That future may look a bit different then some“old timers” may have imagined, yet I believe weare now on a positive path. All Breed Clubs havean active role in showcasing the world of purebreddogs to the public. The Greenwich Kennel Club isfocused on providing new and innovative activitieswhich welcome new exhibitors into our sport.

Given the many issues the AKC is facing, I amglad that fighting anti-dog legislation, at the stateand national level by reaching out to Capitol Hill ispart of the AKC’s agenda. I support bringing ourmessage directly to the elected officials who cre-ate and vote on this legislation, allowing them tounderstand how important dog ownership is totheir constituency and the local economy.


THOMAS, cont’dDe

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When it comes to dogs, what one thing is still onyour bucket list?

Geez, that's a tough one…I suppose judgingBest of Breed at the Pembroke Welsh Corgi Clubof America (PWCCA) National Specialty. I havehad the great honor of judging the Bitch classes.The PWCCA membership selects two judges, onefor Bitches classes, the other for Dog classes andBest of Breed. This September I have the greatprivilege of stewarding for my dear friend andmentor, Anne H. Bowes, while she judges dogsand Best of Breed. Perhaps one day it will be me!

What can you tell us about yourself that wewouldn't already know?

Two things. First, my other obsession whilegrowing up in NYC was horses. I learned to ride

at Claremont Stables on 89th Street, spendingmany happy afternoons hacking in Central Park.Once I married and moved to New Jersey, I ownedthree horses (one at a time), and showed regu-larly in Hunt Seat Equitation. It was around thebarn that I fell in love with Corgis. Second, livingin NYC, my local dog show was the WestminsterKennel Club at Madison Square Garden in the oldGarden which actually was square! I rememberwalking in for the first time and thinking, “WOW!”Here was an arena filled with people crazy aboutpurebred dogs. I thought, “This is for me!”

Anything else you want to share?I am grateful for the confidence and support

from the Greenwich Kennel Club Membership. Itruly am looking forward to the opportunity toserve as their Delegate.

THOMAS, cont’dDe

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tes

ABelgian Malinois named“Cajun”—excited, but fo-

cused—dashes into the roomwhen released by his handler.His nose goes up in the air ashe moves from one end of theroom to the other. Catching ascent, he stops short andchanges direction. Working ina zig-zag, Cajun zeroes in onthe smell, jumping on anempty table and pressing hisnose to a closed cabinet hutchto pinpoint the exact location.He turns back and looks forhis partner, who is approach-ing calmly. “Whatcha got?” theman asks. The Mal looks backand forth from his partner to the source of thesmell. “It’s right here. I found it,” Cajun seems tosay. “Is it over here?” the man asks, knocking on thetop of a desk six feet away. He bangs on the wall.“What about here?” Cajun refuses to move a mus-cle. The handler continues to taunt the dog, daringhim to abandon the smell before the required com-

mand. “Good boy!” the man calls,tossing a tennis ball tug toy to thedog finally.

This was the scene during thenarcotics room search at theUnited States Police Canine Asso-ciation’s National Detector DogTrials in Raleigh, North Carolinathis past April. The team was sentin to a group of three rooms to findtwo hides of illegal drugs. K9Cajun quickly found and “alerted”to the smell of cocaine, from whichthe handler tried to distract him,testing his “obedience to odor,” be-fore rewarding the dog for thefind.

Dogs are used by law enforce-ment for many different tasks, which break downroughly to two categories. Patrol, in which the dogis used to subdue and apprehend suspects, andDetection, in which the dog uses its powerfulsense of smell to sniff out hidden drugs, explo-sives, human remains, or other substances. Everyyear, the United States Police Canine Association

Dog T

rials

AKC SPONSORS THE 2017 NATIONAL DETECTOR DOG TRIALSSTEPHANIE KENNERLEY, Sports & Events Project Coordinator


tests Detector Dogs in a seriesof National Trials, certifyingthem for professional work andcelebrating training and team-work with an elite competition.This year, the American KennelClub was honored to be a spon-sor of these National Trials,hosted by the North CarolinaState Bureau of Investigation inRaleigh, North Carolina.

Over the course of three days,dozens of professional law en-forcement canine-handler teamswere tested via room searches,vehicle searches, and packagesearches, to detect narcotics,explosives, or human remains.The teams were scored based on the willingness,enjoyment, and precision on the part of the dog,and the naturalness, gentle-ness, and smoothness of thehandler. Teams were ranked,and honored in an awardsluncheon at the end of the tri-als.

To be a successful detectordog, more than just a goodnose is required. The dog must be enthusiasticand thorough in its searches, able to ignore dis-

tractions and competing smells, co-operative with the handler, andsteadfast and unshakeable in un-usual or startling conditions. It ispossible for any breed of dog topossess this unique mixture ofcharacteristics, but training forthese canine careers is expensiveand must begin when the dogs areonly a few months old. The bestway to ensure that the dog is wor-thy of the investment is to startwith purpose-bred dogs that havegenerations of testing for thesecharacteristics. Thankfully, hun-dreds of years of working alongsidehumans in various roles hasyielded many breeds that are ideal

for detection work. The traditional skills of herd-ing breeds, sporting breeds, and working breeds

are easily redeployed for theseroles. Additionally, AKC sportstest dogs for the working char-acteristics and physical abilitynecessary to succeed at mod-ern-day functions like detectionwork. The mission of the AKCmakes us uniquely positioned to

maintain quality canines for the prevention and de-tection of crime.

KENNERLEY, cont’dDo

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To be a successful detectordog, more than just agood nose is required.

K9 “Cajun” shows his partner Justin Hewettwhere the hidden drugs are located.


In 2015 a question was posed on the Delegate-L re-garding why a Parent Club should become a

Member Club. The question led to the formation ofa sub-committee of the Parent Club Committeewhose initial purpose was to reach out to ParentClubs that are not currently member clubs. Initialcommittee members were Don James, KarenBurgess, Helen Prince, Anne Bowes, Chair, andstaff liaison, Mari-Beth O’Neill. At the time the com-mittee was formed, there were thirty-six ParentClubs that were not yet Member Clubs.

The Committee set to work, dividing up theclubs, contacting officers to offer guidance andassistance along with providing rationale for be-coming a Member Club. The initial responseswere varied, from clubs in the process of seekingmember status to those who did not feel they hadthe resources to support being a Member Club.

In 2016, the AKC Board requested revisions tothe procedures for a new breed to gain AKCrecognition. At that time, it was suggested by the

Board that these new breed clubs be assigned amentor from the sub-committee to offer guidanceand assistance as the club sought AKC Recogni-tion. The Parent Club Sub-Committee was en-hanced with the addition of Connie Butherus,Larry Sorenson, Peter Piusz and WhitneyCoombs to take on these additional responsibili-ties.

Since the inception of the sub-committee the fol-lowing have become Member Clubs:

Irish Red and White Setter Association of America

Berger Picard Club of America

Lagotto Romagnolo Club of America

Hungarian Pumi Club of America

American Polish Lowland Sheepdog Club of America

Several other clubs are currently in the processof completing the requirements for Member Clubstatus.

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gMENTORING PARENT CLUBS TO BECOME MEMBER CLUBSMARI-BETH O’NEILL, AKC Vice President, Sports Services

Perspectives asked Delegates the question: Whatdoes your club do to make its new members feel

welcome at club activities and National Specialties?

Jan Dykema, Delegate, Bull Terrier Club of Amer-ica (BTCA)

We have a new member liaison that sends eachnew member a packet of information. It includes awelcoming letter from the president, a copy of theBTCA constitution and other pertinent informa-tion.

This year for the first-time new members re-ceived a lapel pin and a decal with the BTCA logo.

All applicants start receiving BARKS and theRecord, our publications. BARKS is a three timesper year magazine. The Record comes out once ayear and is compilation of statistics from the pre-vious year plus articles and memorials. Both pub-lications include ads from exhibitors.

Our website is a good source of information re-garding club activities so we direct as much traf-

fic to the site as possible and we have a closedFacebook (FB) page for “members only” wheremany questions are posed and many answers aregiven from the perspective of older members.This makes for many “lively” conversations and,hopefully, educates some of the newer people orat least gives advice and voice to questions orconcerns.

We have had a few different programs to makepeople feel “at home” at our National weekend(called Silverwood). We had a “newcomer’s semi-nar” for a few years and we also had “Ask Me”buttons that the Board of Directors and the hostclub members wore so new people would feelmore at home and know that no question was toosmall or unimportant. Both of these have fallen bythe wayside and I thank you for asking as we willreinstitute at least one of these for our upcomingNational in October because of this poll.

I would like to mention that attracting new peo-ple is always a critical concern but so is maintain-

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PERSPECTIVES WANTS TO KNOWDON JAMES, DELEGATE, Leonberger Club Of America


ing that membership. I will look forward to thenext question. What does your club do to keepthe members it already has?

As Delegate, I keep the new members up todate through emails and the FB page. When I re-ceive reports or pertinent emails I pass themalong to the membership so that they can keepabreast of what the AKC is doing on their behalf.An example might be the new Pee Wee program.(Thank you Johnny Shoemaker). I am also theLegislative Liaison for the BTCA and find this is aperfect marriage between Delegate and Liaisonas we face the many challenges of the legislativeissues ahead. New people are very often notaware of negative laws being passed regardingpet ownership and what the AKC is doing on ourbehalf to combat these laws, rules and regula-tions that threaten the purebred dog.

Don James, Delegate, Leonberger Club ofAmerica

In 2003, the Leonberger Club of America tookits first stab at welcoming first-time attendees(what we refer to as newbies) to our National Spe-cialty. At that time, it was an informal gathering ofnew folks who were invited to ask questions ofseveral seasoned members. It went very well.

In succeeding years, we’ve added to this eventand have been fortunate to have the same mem-ber serve as our Newbie Coordinator for the past10 years. Our newbie orientation consists of thefollowing activities:1) We still do the newbie Q&A session during the

first day of the show.That event is attended byat least three veteran members of the LCA.Wetry to get a current Board member to be oneof those seasoned attendees.

2) Following the Q&A session, we have our an-nual newbie social event where all of the newfolks are invited to get together over drinksand snacks along with those members who at-tended the Q&A session.

3) We have a handling clinic geared to memberswho have never shown their dogs before.

4) Every member who attends the National Spe-cialty receives an over the neck name badgeholder which has their name and home townon the insert. However, each different “type ofmember” has a name badge that’s a differentcolor. For example, an LCA Board member’sname tag will be orange with an LCA BoardMember notation on the name tag. The New-bies receive a name tag that is yellow in colorwhich will identify them to anyone to whomthey are talking as a new member attendingtheir first show.

Sylvia Thomas, Akita Club of America, Inc. For some time, the events surrounding the

Akita Club of America National Specialty have ex-tended over an entire week beginning with back-to-back Regional Specialties, hosted by local AkitaClubs, followed by a Pre-National and then themain event with obedience, rally, sweeps, futu-rity/maturity, junior showmanship and conforma-tion judging of dogs, bitches and best of breed.One of the highlights of the week is the annualWelcome Party which is wisely scheduled on theopening evening of the National events at thehost hotel. Like so many nationals, the Akita Na-tional Specialty always has a theme and the socialevents carry that theme. Everyone is invited tothe Welcome Party! A special effort is made toreach out to first time attendees and internationalfriends, whose attendance at the National has in-creased over the years. Signs are posted aboutthe Welcome Party in the lobby and elsewhere asreminders of the time and location of the event.It’s a special time to enjoy the camaraderie of at-tendees, tasty appetizers, social interactions, anddownright silliness that usually ensues. It’s agreat time to “catch up” on what has happenedsince the last National, share pictures of promis-ing youngsters (and yes, of our two-footed kidsand grandkids), with old friends and new acquain-tances. It’s an opportunity to just relax and havefun before the inevitable intensity and tension ofthe competition begins. As an example, a recentWelcome Party in Texas resulted in most puttingon their western apparel and the highlight of theevening was the mechanical bull riding contest.

JAMES, cont’dDe

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We all felt fortunate to walk away without any bro-ken bones…never mind the “damaged egos,” thelaughter and stories have become legendary!There is always a Welcome Party Bag that isgiven to attendees. The bag has everything frommunchies to information on local restaurants andsites (in the event anyone has time to do anysight-seeing) and, of course poop bags as re-minders to keep the venue clean.

The cost of the Welcome Party and WelcomeBags is primarily covered through donations ofmembers, local vendors and a few major sponsorslike Purina, Coca-Cola, Royal Canin, and others.Over the years, the Welcome Party has become a

staple that is much-anticipated by those who havetraveled some distance to attend the National andparticularly, by those of us who are anything butnew, but look forward to reconnecting withfriends we may only see annually at the National.It has also been a wonderful opportunity to“meet” people we may have communicated withthrough social media, but have not had the oppor-tunity to meet in person. Such welcome eventsare important to encourage and foster engage-ment in our sport. After all, we want the newcom-ers to feel welcome and most importantly to keepcoming back. I highly recommend them!

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In March of 2016, the LCA Board of Directorsvoted to begin the development of a formal

archive initiative. I was given the leadership role forthe project. The Leonberger Club of America wasformed in 1985, so it certainly is a new club by al-most any measurement. In mounting this venture,we were dealing withover 30 years of materialthat could be included inthe archive, including ourentire registry main-tained by the LCA prior tobeing named the AKCParent Club in 2010. Thedetails of this project willbe shared over the nextfew issues of Perspectives.

Part One – Beginning the ProcessAt the June meeting, I spoke with Marile Water-

straat, the Delegate from the Nova Scotia DuckTolling Retriever Club USA about a situation thatarose when they took a stab at mounting a formalarchive program for their club. The Club decidedto separate its collection into four relatively equalgroups and provided scanners for each group to

begin digitizing these documents on the way tocreating a fully functional, searchable database ofthe Club’s historical documents. After this divi-sion was completed, one of the members who waspart of this team disappeared. No one has heardfrom this person in several years despite any-and-

all efforts to initiate contact. Forall intents and purposes, thisperson no longer exists and,with them, went 25% of theClub’s important and irreplace-able documents. Take note!

As you probably gatheredfrom the story above, a concen-trated effort by clubs to ensurethat their history is safe and

available for future generations should be at thetop of the priority list. Make no mistake, this is abig, sometimes overwhelming task. If your clubhas yet to address this issue, how do you goabout turning this goal into a reality?

The Leonberger Club of America (LCA) is em-barking on a full-fledged archive project; one thatwill result in the safe storage of every historicallysignificant document and artifact currently resid-ing in the homes of several of our original mem-

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25% OUT THE WINDOW—BUILDING THE CASE FOR AFORMAL CLUB ARCHIVEDON JAMES, Delegate, Leonberger Club Of America

…a concentrated effort byclubs to ensure that their his-tory is safe and available forfuture generations should beat the top of the priority list.


bers. Those documents will also be digitallyscanned and put in a searchable relational data-base to allow public (or private) access to the col-lection online. As a representative on the LCA'sNational Board of Directors, I am in charge of asub-committee whose objective is the develop-ment and execution of an archive plan.

I plan to write a series of articles for upcomingPerspectives issues that will not only deliver a de-tailed template of our activities, but also provideyour members with a resource guide to launchyour club’s archive project.

Included in these articles will be selectionsmade by the LCA as to which companies and or-ganizations we have chosen to address six majorquestions which confront any formal archive ini-tiative and the reasons behind those decisions.These are the six issues we’ve identified whichmust be addressed in order to move forward withan archive project:1) Where will the collection be permanently

stored?2) What are the requirements for delivery of the

collection to that repository?3) What types of documents are considered

archivable?4) What is involved in digitizing the collection

prior to permanent storage?5) What is involved in webifying the collection fol-

lowing digitization?6) How much is all this going to cost?

A couple of items right off the top.

First, the LCA started our project about a yearago. At this point, we’re still in the process ofmaking the decision of which entity we'll be usingas our primary permanent repository. The pointwe’re making is simple. Don’t expect to get thisdone overnight.

Second, when I was assigned to this project, ona good day I could spell the word archive. Expectto learn as you go. I doubt that many of you haveany experience or expertise at all with thisprocess. I didn't either, but I do now and, hope-fully, these articles will help to get you and yourclub where it needs to be.

Here's what we’ve learned:

There are two distinct parts to any archive col-lection. The majority of any club’s archive willconsist of paper documents; books, magazinesand photographs etc., all of which can be easilydigitized. The other part of an archive plan must

deal with physical artifacts such as perpetualplaques, trophies, ribbons, etc. We’ve learned it’sdifficult to find a single organization that willagree to add both paper based and hardwarebased archives as a single collection. As a result,we’ve chosen to break the project up into two sep-arate areas (in fact, it’s actually three areas, butmore on that below).

In most clubs we’ve talked with, the majority ofthe archivable material is in the hands of a verysmall group of members. While this small groupcurrently retains upwards of 90% of our Club’sarchivable documents, we have not overlookeditems which may have historical significance, butcurrently reside with other members. That willbecome the third part of this project. The LCAhas chosen a three-pronged plan to complete thisproject. We’ll start with the collections currentlyheld by five of our members (this includes ourregistry documents collected prior to our accept-ance into AKC in 2010). The second piece will in-volve finding a location for our collection oftangible artifacts while the third initiative will becollecting archivable material from other clubmembers.

Let’s now address the first three items from thelist above:

1) Where can a collection be permanentlystored?

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A look inside a portion of the Schnauzer Club archive


Once a club decides to create a formalarchive, the first question to arise is whereare we going to put all this stuff? You can’tcreate an archive collection without a reposi-tory. Turns out, there are many private, pub-lic and commercial entities who will store aclub’s archives. Many universities house col-lections of different types from all over thecountry.

The LCA began the process by approachingseveral universities with whom we had priorcontact to see if they would be interested inour collection. We sort of struck out there.Theplaces we hoped might be interested had nei-ther the room nor the desire to accept the col-lection. It was around this time I had aconversation with Steven Hamblin, the Dele-gate of the Pekingese Club of America. Stevenhad been spending a lot of time at AKC head-quarters researching breed history, and wasvery impressed with Brynn White, the re-cently-hired Chief Archivist for AKC. Stevensaid Brynn was actively seeking new collec-tions from AKC Parent Clubs. I arranged tomeet with Brynn following last September’smeeting. It would be a gross understatementto say I was extremely impressed with what Isaw during that visit.

After discussing available alternatives for arepository, my committee chose to use AKC asthe designated repository for the archive. Thisis the first of several major decisions requiredby any club when it decides to create a formalarchive.

2) What types of documents are consideredarchivable?

• AKC considers any of the following to bevaluable to a collection:

• Meeting minutes • Club constitution By Laws and amendments • Correspondence (especially as it relates to a

breed standard) • Original Research

• Photographs • Catalogs • Premium Lists • Stud books, pedigrees and lists of prominent

sires and dams • Audio and Video material (DVDs of club spe-

cialties etc.) • Personal collections of prominent figures

within the club

AKC does not want items which might, in anyway, endanger personal privacy such as theminutes to disciplinary hearings.

3) What are the requirements for delivery of thecollection to that repository?

Before going any further, I think it’s importantto let all of you know that when you decide toplace your collection with any entity on a per-manent basis, you’ll be asked to sign what isknown as a ‘Deed of Gift.’ Technically, a deedof gift is a signed document that voluntarilyand without recompense transfers ownershipof real, personal, or intellectual property –

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A portion of the Poodle Club’s completed repository


such as a gift of materials – from one person orinstitution to another. While there are severalcaveats that go with this document (we’ll getthere in later installments), essentially, when aClub endorses this document, it is ceding own-ership of its archives to the entity who has ac-cepted the collection. We agree to tradeownership of our archive with the knowledgethat our Club’s most important documents willbe preserved in perpetuity accessible to bothclub members and to the public. A pretty fairdeal in my opinion. It is expected that a collec-tion of Club archives will arrive at AKC in abanker’s boxes that have been roughly inven-

toried by their owners prior to shipping. Noteson the contents of these boxes should be in-cluded in the shipment. It is extremely helpfulif documents (especially photographs) aredated. AKC is willing to accept these boxesand will then conduct a formal inventory of thecontents in preparation for sending that for-mally inventoried collection to the companychosen by the Club to begin the digitizationprocess.

Next Installment: Part Two – Working TowardsDigitizing a Collection

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As an exhibitor who always ends up working at ashow, it has been one of my utmost honors to

have been the announcer at Veterans’ Parades orParades of Title Holders. To read their biographiesreally pulls on the heartstrings. My fee to the club:a box of tissues.

Anyone who has attended a National or Re-gional Specialty has had the opportunity to sit bythe Veterans’ or Parade of Titleholders’ ring andwatch the oldies-but-goodies strut their stuffaround the ring. How they shine! It’s a place forthe new folks to sit and study the structure of thedogs from the past. This is an opportunity tolearn. But too many times, due to the eventschedule, these wonderful classes are not highlyattended by the gallery.

How many of us have these old-timers at home?Can you imagine what they think when you startpacking up for the show and they know the rou-tine; our buddies are ever so watchful.You do itthe same way every time. So, you are packing upto go and you put on board that young chick, orswagger dagger, but walk over and pat your old-timer on the head, tell him to behave, (knowinghe will be on the couch as soon as the door shuts)and leave.

As our champions get older, we look out fortheir health. We watch what they eat and balance

the formula for their age. Give them exercise,keep them active. Their diet may include nutri-ents for their aging bones. We also might neuterthem to keep them healthy. But that, to a showdog, can be what keeps him or her at home.

With foresight, one of our Parent Clubs is put-ting on the table the ability to allow these olderchampions that have been altered to compete atthe level they deserve.

Here is the proposal: “Altered Champions ofRecord” could be shown in Best of Breed compe-tition at specialties. This would only be at special-ties, and it would also be an “opt-in.” A club thatwants to provide the opportunity for these dogs toshow could opt to participate; there would be anadditional venue.

What a concept! Now, the most prestigious class that everyone

stays to watch will be also a place to spotlight thedogs that are more-than-likely foundation sires ordams from the past. Many of our champions, oncethey are finished, end up staying home. Therewill be a place for new people to the breed (andshowing) to see what breeders are striving for,and where they came from. Education, you say?Yes!

Now there are a few down sides to this concept:* Some breeds, not all, have coat changes after

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THOUGHTS ON ALTERED CHAMPION VETERANSGLENDA STEPHENSON, Delegate, Space Coast Kennel Club Of Palm Bay


they are altered.This could be a fault.* Judges could have difficulty with determining

the status of an altered or non-altered entry.* These dogs would not be eligible for Grand

Champion points.

I am sure there is more to be discovered. How-ever, I believe that in the world of dog shows, weare all receptive to the idea of doing what we canto bring more education to our sport. I also be-lieve that once a few specialties opt in to allow al-tered Champion Veterans to show in Best ofBreed competition, more clubs may want to givethis venue a chance. We could possibly raise en-tries at specialties. We definitely will educate.

To smooth over the speed bumps, we have a tal-

ented Judges’ Education and Operations staff.They would have the ability to develop a judgingprocedure. If the concept works, then there willbe efforts made to fix other issues. If it doesn’twork, then it will go to the wayside. But how willwe know if we don’t give it a chance?

Remember, these are veterans, over the age ofseven in most cases, and they are also championsof record. These aren’t dogs that are altered rightafter they are finished their championships, or atyoung ages. And many will have their get beingshown.

Our organization is striving to find ways to en-dear people to our sport, to raise entries at ourshows, to educate, and doing all this we createways to strive for longevity.

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How many of us remember our first dog show?Our first big specialty? Our first National? Areyour memories positive, or do you remember feel-ing out of place in this new atmosphere? I hopeyou had someone guide you through your firstmajor event. With any luck, there was someone tohelp with filling out your entry, maybe choosingthe right show lead, and perhaps even selectingthe best show outfit.

I also hope you did not encounter those whoconsider themselves the entitled ones in thebreed for so long they feel as if it’s their duty andtheir right to pass judgement. These people havebeen around since the inception of competition,and continue to this day. You know the ones. Theypass judgement on everyone involved with theshow, and not in a kindly fashion. If they’re judg-ing, they expect your entry to be perfectly trained(never mind if it’s the first show for both of you).If they’re in charge of the show, you’d better besure you don’t get in their way.

Since you’re here, now, reading this newsletter,you didn’t let any negative experiences get inyour way. I know I didn’t. But not everyone hasour fortitude. Some people — too many people —decide the drama isn’t worth the marginal fun,

cost or trouble, and they opt out of further partici-pation. As one person put it succinctly,“It’s likegoing to Disneyland, then realizing there’s anopen sewer behind the facade.” Strong words, butthe imagery is clear. We “long-timers” might seeour National as an opportunity to get together, so-cialize with old friends, see new vendors, and takebets on who will win. How often do we thinkabout what this same whirlwind of a week willseem to someone totally new? Someone whomight have come on their own and who doesn’tknow anyone? Yes, they’re grown ups, and itshould be their responsibility to make newfriends, to find their way. Or maybe they shouldhave a breeder/mentor who can guide them.Should have and hopefully do have. But what ifthey don’t? Whose responsibility is it to ensurethey want to come back, preferably want to helpwith putting on the show next time? No, don’tlook at the person next to you, or at the ShowCommittee, or at a Board member. It’s your re-sponsibility. It’s my responsibility. It is the respon-sibility of every person in our sporto welcome thenewcomers.

No, you don’t have to strike up the band, butoffer a cordial greeting, a helping hand, or maybe

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THAT FIRST IMPRESSIONMONICA HENDERSON STONER, Delegate, Saluki Club Of America


a quick query as to how you can help them. Ifthey’ve set up in the wrong area, a quiet word ofadvice on where they can put their crate and theirdog. Maybe a reminder about unusual weatherconditions in the area of the show grounds couldhelp. For instance, not everyone realizes the hugetemperature disparity in the desert; we can gofrom ninety degrees to sixty degrees in a verybrief period of time, which, with some breeds, willcall for closed windows and snuggly coats.

For my first National, I remember I was fortu-nate to have a friend advise on the best airport,the best way to get to the show grounds, the

quickest route between my motel, the show, andrestaurants. This was in the days before our tele-phones told us where to go and how to get there.I could have stumbled around and eventuallymanaged without assistance, but that advice madea huge difference.

At your next show, your next National, why notlook around for new faces? Welcome them to yourbreed. Some of these people might just be hang-ing around the ring until their chosen breedshows up, but most, will appreciate your effortand feel as if this was a game they’d like to con-tinue.

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Just imagine, arriving at an all-breed dog showsite in Halland, Sweden that is the size of three

football fields, in a passenger bus with 49 otherjudges from around the world. The first thing yousee is a rainbow of colored tents for exhibitor usearound each ring (49 of them) that are marked offwith tape that is tacked onto a perfectly manicuredgrass (not too high and not too short). Just imag-ine, there are no ring gates. Outside the markedoff large ring is another area about three feet widefor the next entrants to wait, or for people wantingto walk around to another ring, and three feet fromthat is where the tentsare set up. Each tent is agrooming area that eachindividual sets up withcrates, grooming table,chairs, etc., and is posi-tioned around the ringthey will exhibit in. Inthe corner of the ring is aseparate tent for thejudge and two secre-taries. One secretarywrites the judge's cri-tique for each dog, andthe other holds up thequalifying and placementcards. Both are im-

mensely helpful at keeping the judge informed ofthe next class, as well as answering any questionsabout the procedure.

Under FCI rules, a judge must give an oral cri-tique of every dog, and is allowed to judge only80 dogs per day. The judging starts at 9 A.M.and goes straight through to completion of thebreeds and Best In Show, ending around 6 –7:00P.M.

Just imagine your job as Show Chair, responsi-ble for 49 judges from all over the globe tojudge dogs from the ten FCI recognized groups.

Where to begin? Group1 is comprised of 50breeds which we con-sider to be herdingdogs, such as Aus-tralian Cattledog,Beauceron, Briard, Ku-vasz, and Schipperke.Group 2 is for theSchnauzers, Pincher,and Molosser breeds,including familiarbreeds such as the Af-fenpinschers, Dober-man, English Bulldog,Leonberger and Shar-Pei; 60 breeds in all.

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JUDGING IN SWEDEN: JUST IMAGINE!MARGE CALLTHARP, Delegate, Chinese Shar-Pei Club Of America, Inc.


Group 3 includes all of the 39 Terriers. Group 4is for Dachshunds only, but is split into small,medium, and large and includes each type ofcoat. Group 5 is the 59Spitz or Ancient breeds;Akita, Basenji, CanaanDog, and Pomeranian.Group 6 includes theScent Hounds; Basset,Beagle, Foxhound, Har-rier, Plott; all 82 of them.Group 7 includes the Setter Sporting breeds andthere are 42 breeds including the English Set-ter, Pointer, Spinone, and Weimaraner. Group 8includes 22 Spaniel breeds such as Clumber,Cockers, Golden Retriever, and Sussex. Group 9is for the 33 Toy breeds including the Bichon,Boston Terrier, Coton, Pug, and Tibetan Terri-ers. Group 10 includes 13 of the Sight Houndbreeds, such as, Afghan, Borzoi, Greyhound andWhippet.

The first class is called into the ring by classand number, not unlike what we are used to inthe US. Each entrant's number is checked of fand absentees are noted. The dog is examinedby the judge. There are no ramp breeds, so all

are examined either on the ground or on a table.The judge must look for certain health issueswhich, no matter what breed, are automatic dis-

qualifications - canines thatpenetrate the mouth, pinchednostrils, skin issues, etc. Thedog is then gaited. The han-dler and dog remain in thering while the judge dictatesan oral critique to the secre-tary. When the critique is

completed, the ring steward states if the judgefound the dog to be Excellent, Very Good, etc.The dog and handler is then free to leave thering while the next dog is examined. After alldogs are examined, the “Excellent” dogs return.There may be more than one dog awarded anExcellent, so everyone comes back. The judgeis to make a 1- 4 placement, plus decide if theyare to be awarded championship points.

Just imagine, exhibitors come and go freely inand out of the ring with their dogs. The dresscode is very relaxed — everything is acceptablefrom dress clothes to shorts and bare feet! Thesame relaxed dress code applies to the judges.They can wear jeans, suit and tie, their coun-

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Just imagine, exhibitors comeand go freely in and out of the

ring with their dogs.


try’s native dress,skirts, etc.

After completionof all of the dogclasses, the firstplacing dogs comeback, as well as adog from the cham-pion and veteranclasses, and the se-lection for bestclass dog is made.The same is donefor the bitches. Fi-nally, the best dogand bitch comeback into the ring, including the puppies andveterans to compete for the equivalent of ourBest of Breed. Just imagine, a ring steward andsecretary that assists the judge in not only keep-ing the classes straight, but also tracking theplacements, and, additionally, translating the cri-tique! All are excellent at their job.

The group competition is the finale, just likeshows in the US. However, they have a ProgenyClass, Breeder's Class, Puppies, and Veterans inaddition to the ten groups! The Progeny andBreeders' Classes are fun.Most exhibitors are dressedalike and match their dogs.For example, a group ofPharaoh Hound ownersdress in same-colored out-fits that contrast with theirdogs; owners of black andwhite Tibetan Terriersdress in white pants andblack jackets; or theBearded Collie exhibitorsdress in white slacks andgray jackets to match theirgray and white dogs. Mostof the time there are fourhandlers, but occasionallyyou will see two handlersleading four dogs! Therewere two ladies that werehandling four black

Pomeranians.These two classesare not ones youenter, but you arechosen and aremade up after en-tries have closed. Ifenough progeny ofa stud dog or dogsfrom one kennelhave entered, theyare automaticallyentered in thesetwo classes.

The judging of allthe groups is done

prior to entering the ring. All exhibits still enterthe ring for the judge to make cuts. Then from thesix or so selected dogs, the four group placementsare chosen. This is the only time a professionalphotographer is present, and photos are taken inthe ring at the placement podium. Individuals canalso enter the ring to take photos. (I believe thephotographer is taking photos for the club and notfor sale.) Once all ten group winners are chosen,the Best In Show judging begins. Each dog is ex-amined and judged individually. Unlike in the US,

there are four placements. Thejudge makes his decision in re-verse order, from fourth placeto Best in Show.

Just imagine if some of theseideas were incorporated intoour shows. Do you think themore relaxed atmospherewould attract more exhibitors?The majority of exhibitors wereyounger, and there were manyfamilies participating. Justimagine if our shows had aBreeders' Class, would thatspark some enthusiasm? Howwould exhibitors feel about re-ceiving a written critique? Doesthe critique encourage or dis-courage participants stay in thedog fancy? It’s all food forthought!

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All histories with dogs start somewhere. Fate setmy feet on a journey and each step moved me

far away from a prairie town in Western Kansas.Somewhere in our histories, dogs have played apart that led us to where we are today. The sad daysare mostly forgotten, having been overridden by thejoys, loves and delights of litters born, friends wehave met, and travels to many far-away places, in-cluding county fairgrounds venues and more mani-cured dog show grounds, some even near beaches!Foreign countries may have been visited, with ex-otic sights seen by a lucky few of us devoted doglovers. As for me, it all began under a chicken coop.

In 1874 when my grand-father was eight, my fa-ther’s family came to America. Isaac Singer wrote ofthe Jewish communities during this era, but hisstory of ethnic persecution could have been said ofmany ethnic groups. Mygrandfather’s father fol-lowed the AT&SF railwayinto Kansas and some otherrelatives followed theBurlington Northern rail-way into South Dakota. Theland grant railroads, re-ceived and sold millions ofacres of public land, built their railroads, and con-tributed to a more rapid settlement of the West.Grain elevators rose every 10 miles along the rail-way. Five miles was about the limit a farmer couldhaul wheat from the farm to the Gano Grain Eleva-tor in a wagon pulled by a team of horses.

The town in which I grew up was not differentfrom hundreds of other towns. It was not too largeand had its share of churches, grade schools and ahigh school, grocery store, one bank, Rexall DrugStore and coffee shop, a man and woman’s clothingstores, a golf course with sand greens and a mainstreet. It was a town with one doctor and a dentist,but no hospital. Athletic teams called the Coyoteswent basically unnoticed. It was located on theArkansas River, which actually had running water atthe time, and along the Atchison, Topeka and SantaFe Railway in one of Kansas’ 105 counties.

My home town was a farming community wherefolks raised chickens, had a few dogs and cats, basi-cally minded their own business except when it

came to the town children. Everyone was a motheron the look-out for every child and woe be the mis-behaving child who was observed playing under theCoon Creek Bridge! The telephones were all partylines! Everyone knew everyone.

My home town still exists where many prairietowns have folded up and quit. The main street is nolonger paved and most everything is gone exceptfor the Court House. No clothing stores or full-linegrocery store and butcher shop. The house inwhich I grew up is still there, but not in very goodshape. It had a basement where my mother insistedthat our dog had to live. No dog in the house wasthe rule. She was a meticulous house keeper bornin the Oklahoma Territory in the vast domain of ter-ritory, some 828,000 square miles of land, called theLouisiana Purchase obtained by the US in Decem-

ber 1803. Her father home-steaded 160 acres and movedhis wife and five daughterswestward and built a dug-outfor a home. Dirt floors, dustand not much else created ameticulous house keeper.

Shortly before the Nation ofJapan attacked Pearl Harbor,

my parents had a vegetable garden. It became, afterDecember 6, 1941, a “Victory Garden” jointlyshared by and worked with our neighbors. A manwith a mule-drawn wagon came by to collect left-over foodstuffs to feed his hogs. The ice truck fromthe ice house carried ice for the “ice boxes” and be-came our Pied Piper, followed by all of us kids hop-ing for a sliver of ice.

A chicken coop and the space under it became awhelping box for three puppies. The mother had arather long, black coat and was mostly CockerSpaniel. One little male that I had to have, had ashort, rather tawny coat. Elmer Fudd, Porky Pigwere my cartoon friends and I named two afterthese friends. Porky, Elmer and one became Blacky.Elmer was mine. He ran free like all the other dogsin town except when not chained to the garage or inthe basement when it was cold. Dad said I could sellthe two black puppies for $5. I suppose those thattook the two and paid the $5 did so because I was akid and it was, after all, a small town.

Opin

ion

ELMER: A REMINISCENCEBRUCE VORAN, Delegate, Myrtle Beach Kennel Club

I saw love and devotionin that “walk-in,

cash-only clinic” world.


Elmer had his adventures.He ran with me as I rode mybike out into the countrysideor went fishing. He had hisshare of scratches and oncegot a nasty sticker in his eye.There was no vet, only the doc-tor who lived across the street.He came to the basement andalong with my dad removedthe sand burr. I loved Elmerthen and there still is a place inthe heart of my memory forthat “beaglie” dog who was fedKal Kan.

But Elmer had a father whosurely was more Beagle thanCocker Spaniel. His geneticsmattered little then, but it was his Beagle-type thattook me to a Beagle farm in Indiana some 30 yearslater to get my two year-old son a dog. It became myfirst adventure into AKC and the realm of the pure-bred dog. What great delight to hold that Blue Slip!Elmer had just one name, so it was natural to signthat Blue Slip and insert the name “Jessica.” It cameback from AKC with a Registration Paper with thename “Jessica XII.” I guess there must have beenquite a few other Beagles named Jessica, too. Jes-sica was loved and was soon to have a companion.On a trip to the beaches of Mexico, we needed a Ra-bies shot and knew nothing more than to go to Ani-mal Control. Someone was surrendering a Beagle.We would not leave without Betsy. Now we had twoBeagles to love and delight in hearing them hunt forhours outside our mountain cottage on weekends.

Years passed, but the love and need for a dogcompanion remained. Boxers followed Beagles. Lit-ter followed litter, ear crops followed, championshipcompetitions followed, judging to give back to thedog world followed, and the love, need, and concernfor the welfare of every loved dog followed. Whatdidn’t follow—what didn’t continue were doctorswho would make a house call to remove a sandburr, clubs that hold matches, local breed clubswith large, swelling memberships and wise mem-bers who willingly shared their knowledge and ex-pertise. They all seem to have gone away. What didfollow were veterinarians who believed they know

more than I about Boxers; of-fice calls that take hours andlots of money; clinics that areclosed when a bitch in whelp isin trouble; and dog food manu-factures who claim wondrousthings for their products. Now,it seems there is a prevalent at-titude in the dog show worldthat “it’s me against you andyou have nothing but petdogs.” Unfortunately, it’s thisattitude which leads to a seri-ous lack of civility.

There are pet resorts nowand sometimes, a pet hospitalis actually readily available.

The American Veterinary Med-ical Association (AVMA) has made some inroads inthe field of marketing and attitude. Yet, too often,one is greeted by a veterinarian who strongly andangrily voices that all ear crops are banned. Goodear croppers are becoming rare and long drives nowbecome commonplace. Some clinics now take noappointments and are “walk-in” only. Some serve aclientele that only have cash and no credit cards. Awell respected ear cropper now operates out of oneof these “walk-in, cash only clinics.” Clients standsometimes six or seven deep at the check-incounter. All have well-loved and well behaved dogsin a crowded waiting room where the wait could lasttwo or three hours.

Many of those waiting in this office dug deep intotheir pockets for the office visit to obtain care fortheir dog. Perhaps they had much less left over fortheir own health care or food purchases. Did it mat-ter to them? Not a bit! The homeless, too, have dogson leashes standing with hand outstretched onstreet corners asking for donations. They love theirdogs. Their dogs love and are devoted to them.

Did some of the dogs at the ear cropper’s officecome from rescue? Many had to come from breed-ers because they were recognized for what theywere. Perhaps they came like Elmer into theirowner’s lives as did Elmer into mine. They werebred somewhere. No matter. They were all loved. Itwas a diverse client scene, some Oriental, some His-panic, sign-language for another couple, Cau-

VORAN, cont’dOp

inio

n

Mr. Kettles with Westminster BIS Boxer, Warlord.


casians, and AfricanAmericans. None wereof the wealthy sort.Not a credit cardcrowd. Not a recogniz-able Millennial there.They all had to findcash for the belovedpet's care. Probablyonly mine was AKCRegistered. He hadfree pet insurance be-cause he was just reg-istered. But insurancewas not accepted here.Only cash! My dog came with a paper stating thatAKC was the only Registry of Purebred dogs andadvocate for all dogs. All dogs, even those at a“walk-in, cash only clinic?” Oh, how they loved theirdogs!

I saw love and devotion in that “walk-in, cash onlyclinic” world. I see love and devotion in the world ofa purebred registry and advocacy of all dogs. It’sthe same, but it is not the same! What was set asidealong the way? Somewhere along the journey

something changed. Ibecame forgetful ofthat prairie town.Per-haps, I dreamed I waslike Richard C. Ket-tles, Jr. of Dorick Ken-nels who owned Ch.Warlord of Mazelaine(first Boxer to win BISat Westminster in 1947and group winner in’44, ’46 and ‘47) sur-rounded by trophies,dressed to the ‘nines’and holding the great

Warlord at his side.The “walk-in, cash only clinic” and the humans

who had far less resources than I was an experi-ence—a world most don't talk about. It was an expe-rience I didn’t expect to have. Elmer was with me inthat “walk-in, cash only clinic.” He didn’t lecture orscold. He was there by my side looking up at mewith those eyes that said, “Remember that no mat-ter how long the journey; everything has a begin-ning and for me it began under a chicken coop.”

VORAN, cont’dOp

inio

n

BIS “Dusty” with Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Voran

It’s no secret that the right to own, breed, and carefor the dog of your choice is being challenged on

a daily basis at the local, state, and federal levelthroughout the United States. In the first sixmonths of 2017, in our home state of New York,over 140 bills have been introduced that would im-pact dogs and dog owners. Many of these same billshave also appeared in other cities and states. Somebills propose to restriction of sales and activities ofdog breeders, and mandate the source of pets of-fered for sale in pet shops. Others propose the cre-ation of a mandatory animal abuse registries andincreasing the penalty for animal cruelty to a felony.Still other bills wish to restrict dog training and doggrooming. Occasionally, proposed legislation ap-pears satisfactory on the surface, but when carefully

reviewed by knowledgeable dog experts, the pro-posals end up having many unintended conse-quences impacting both pet owners and businesses.By identifying questionable legislation quickly, thenengaging with public officials, legislation can bestopped or, at a minimum, be amended to make itmore acceptable. In New York, none of the most re-strictive bills have both houses, primarily due to theactive lobbying of the state’s Dog Club Federation,as well as scores of concerned citizens personallyinteracting with their legislators.

So, you ask, “How can I learn what my local is-sues are, why the proposed laws are problematic,and what can I do about it?” One of the best ways tolearn the answers to these questions is to attend aLegislative Conference. At a Legislative Conference,

Legi

slatio

n

WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND A LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE?BEVERLY AND TOM DELANCEY

INVITED BY WANDA ALLEN, Delegate Saratoga NY Kennel Club


you will:

• Make contact with peoplethat can help you if a badlaw comes your way.

• Hear from speakers abouttrends in canine legisla-tion.

• Share information and theexperience of dog owners, club liaisons, andfederation experts.

• Gather the latest data and tools to help informand empower advocates in your state and inyour community.

• Discover how to effectively protect the rightsof dog owners, exhibitors, and breeders, andhow to promote a positive image of dogs inyour communities.

• Receive training on how to successfully opposeproblematic canine legislation.

• Learn how to counter false information andsupport positive measures to improve the well-being of dogs.

• Understand the bigger picture, how a smallseemingly innocent law has larger ramifications.

The animal rights movement is extremely well or-ganized, using strong campaigns with fancy com-mercials to raise millions of dollars per year by

claiming to be able to solve the plight of all poorly-cared-for dogs for just $19 per month. They use

those millions to organize andfund their activities, to pay forlawyers and lobbyists, and to craftlegislation with the intent of elimi-nating all pet ownership andbreeding. They use clever phraseslike “Adopt don’t shop,” “Don’t

breed or buy and let homeless pets die,” and “Adop-tion is the best option.” They try to shame the gen-eral public into buying a dog from a shelterregardless of the best pet option for them or theirfamily.

While our numbers are many, the dog fancy issplintered. Hunters, dog groomers, dog trainers,conformation and performance event exhibitors,farmers with working dogs, and pet store owners,are all fighting the same battle, but without a singleorganization to bring us all together. Quite simply, ifindividuals from each activity involving animals donot voluntarily talk to and support each other, no-body else will. Legislative Conferences bring us alltogether with a common cause. Just by showing upand participating in a conference, you can make adifference. In order to protect your right to own andchoose the pet that is right for you and your family,you need to be educated, active, and involved.

DELANCEY, cont’dLe

gisla

tion

…the proposals end uphaving many unintended

consequences.

Delegate Orientation presented by The Delegate Advocacy and Advancement CommitteeScheduled for Monday September 11, 2017 following the Delegate Caucus

The Delegate Advocacy and Advancement Committee (DAAC) is pleased to announce that it will conduct a DelegateOrientation for new and seasoned Delegates on Monday night, September 11, 2017, following the Delegate Caucus. This orientation is not the same as the morning orientation presented to new Delegates and their mentors. Rather,

this orientation will consist of representatives of the Delegates Committees, Perspectives, and Dominic Carota, MemberAKC Board of Directors. In addition, Gina DiNardo, our new Executive Secretary, will be making a presentation on behalf of the staff. Gina

will have essential information relative to key contacts in both the New York and Raleigh offices. This is an important meeting for our newer Delegates and a great refresher session for those who have been Dele-

gates for some time. All are welcomed and encouraged to attend. Light refreshments will be served and you are wel-come to bring the beverage of your choice which can be purchased at the hotel bar. Any plans for dinner should bescheduled later in the evening. The orientation lasts approximately an hour and is worth every minute! The tentativestarting time is 6:00pm. The exact time and room location will be announced later.

Daniel J. SmythChair, DAAC

January9 Board Meeting10 Board Meeting

February9 Board Meeting10 Board Meeting

March13 Delegate Committee Meeting14 Delegate Meeting

April10 Board Meeting11 Board Meeting

May8 Board Meeting9 Board Meeting

June 12 Delegate Committee Meeting13 Delegate Meeting

July10 Board Meeting11 Board Meeting

August7 Board Meeting8 Board Meeting

September11 Delegate Committee Meeting12 Delegate Meeting

October9 Board Meeting10 Board Meeting

November13 Board Meeting14 Board Meeting

December14 Delegate Committee Meeting15 Delegate Meeting

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AUGUST 2017 S M T W T F S

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OCTOBER 2017 S M T W T F S

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DECEMBER 2017 S M T W T F S

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NOVEMBER 2017 S M T W T F S

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BOARD & DELEGATE MEETINGS2017

All meetings, except December, are in the NYC/NJ area. The December meeting is in Orlando, FL.


http://www.akc.org

January8 Board Meeting9 Board Meeting

February8 Board Meeting9 Board Meeting

March12 Delegate Committee Meeting13 Delegate Meeting

April9 Board Meeting10 Board Meeting

May14 Board Meeting15 Board Meeting

June 11 Delegate Committee Meeting12 Delegate Meeting

July9 Board Meeting10 Board Meeting

August13 Board Meeting14 Board Meeting

September24 Delegate Committee Meeting25 Delegate Meeting

October8 Board Meeting9 Board Meeting

November12 Board Meeting13 Board Meeting

December13 Delegate Committee Meeting14 Delegate Meeting

FEBRUARY 2018 S M T W T F S

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JANUARY 2018 S M T W T F S

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MARCH 2018 S M T W T F S

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APRIL 2018 S M T W T F S

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MAY 2018 S M T W T F S

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JUNE 2018 S M T W T F S

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JULY 2018 S M T W T F S

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AUGUST 2018 S M T W T F S

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OCTOBER 2018 S M T W T F S

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DECEMBER 2018 S M T W T F S

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NOVEMBER 2018 S M T W T F S

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BOARD & DELEGATE MEETINGS2018

All meetings, except December, are in the NYC/NJ area. The December meeting is in Orlando, FL.


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Documents

In this issueimages.akc.org/pdf/delegate/September_2017_Perspectives... · 2017. 9. 5. · and Steve had recently judged Akitas in my area. I mentioned that to him and added that