Pooch Scoop January 2011

Where Were you in 1993?What do you remember? Paul Keating was the Prime Minister. John Fahey was the NSW State Premier.

Late in the year in summer (actually January 1994), Springwood and Winmalee were just two of the towns that were savaged by bush fires. But that is a story for later on!

Sydney won the right to host the 2000 Summer Olympic Games. On TV, ‘A Country Practice’ has its final season, and a NEW program called ‘Blue Heelers’ debuts (it is not expected to succeed!). The Brisbane Broncos won the Footy Grand Final.

A Club is born!BUT, at a more local level, Springwood was without its own Dog Training Club, and as you can see from the photo above – there were ‘unruly’ dogs and exasperated owners everywhere!

So, Pamella, Deborah Greenhill and I decided to find someone local to help us train our dogs. We just thought that if we got a few interested people together – we would be able to learn how to train our dogs – heavens knows we had 3 boisterous dogs between us!

After a LOT of letter box drops, notices in the shops at Winmalee, and word of mouth, we managed to have our first meeting in the back room of Deborah’s house in Hawkesbury Road. We were VERY lucky to have Dot, Ann and Gwen (three ladies we did not know), and Malcolm all turn up to see what was going on.

Well after a very shaky start, we managed to find someone who knew more about dogs than us (not hard mind you) and agree on how to organise

ourselves into a ‘workable’ group. Our first trainers were Gwen, Ann, Dot and Malcolm. Without those volunteers – community and dog spirited, we would never have got our endeavour off the ground.

Our biggest problem in those early days was WHERE to train – and at night! We needed lights, and fences so the dogs didn’t run off when we lost control! Not, an easy task.

We tried using the local school at Winmalee - too dark! We tried using the oval at Summerhayes Park, but the Soccer club forbade it. So we ended up using a bitumen basketball court – we paced the white lines and learned how to do figure of eights and sit, stay, drops all on the bitumen – and in VERY cramped conditions. We had 12 dogs all on the white lines together! But we DID have lights!

FinAnCesTea and Coffee – oh yes, we had a GAS primus stove, and charged 20c a cup The Primus was donated to the Club by a nice man. Pam

made cakes and biscuits and we sold those too at the break. We needed the funds! We dreamed about having electricity and maybe even building a clubhouse just like the clubhouse at Summerhayes – one day!

MeMbershipWe had so many people who wanted to train their dogs just to live with them happily. Our numbers kept growing and we had to put trainers through so that we could have more than one or two classes. As our

The Early Days of SDDTC - August 1993By Lesley Piggott and Pamella Waters

ooch Sc pMONTHLY

Springwood diStrict dog training club inc.

Issue No. 4 January 2011

DisClAiMer pleAse note:News, views and opinions in this newsletter are those of the correspondent’s and not necessarily

those of the club, editor, committee and publicity officer.

The Springwood District Dog Training club INC reserves the right of rejection of material.

Would you like to advertise your company in our beautiful new colour magazine?

We have: • ¼ of a page at $5.00 • ½ of a page at $10.00 • full page (½ an A4) for $20.00

We will also put a copy of your business card on our back page for $15.00 each month

(please note as we have an agreement with our sponsors, so printing companies, pet shops & Vet’s

cannot be included in this offer)

WANTED SMART BUSINESS

COMPANIES

New Web SiteThe Club now has a brand new Web Site. It is still at www.sddtc.org. This has been a long time coming but it has been worth the wait! Ally who did it has done a great job as It is much easier to use and faster too with more photo’s. I am delighted with it and would welcome members views about it? We have some photo’s from our recent Agility Trial and some not so good ones I took at our Halloween night on my phone mmm…. More photos will go up after our dinner and presentation night on December 2. If you have any photo’s of your dog send them to me. Plus if you forget to pick up your new colour club magazine it will also be on the web site each month I hope you enjoy it.

Ella Sweeney (Newsletter Co-Ordinator)

the committee wish all our club members and their pooch’s a happy and safe new year!

Pam, Lessley & the dogs

Continued Page 3

Pooch Scoop MonthlyPooch Scoop Monthly

sprinGWooD DistriCt DoG trAininG Club inC

UPDATE JANUARY 2011ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: The AGM for the Springwood District Dog Training Club INC was held on the 28th August 2010. We had several new members attend our meeting it was great to see them and thank you for coming along.

Committee for 2010 is: President Ann Lenehan Vice President Dot Luker Secretary Leanne Brown 47542910 Treasurer Ella Sweeney Committee Robin Assar, Vickie Finn, Julia Lawrie, Elaine Browning Publicity Officer Lynn Olson Trophy Officer Dot Luker Table Manager Obedience Wally Campbell Table Manager Agility Sarah Visser Shop Manager Ella Sweeney Chief Instructors Ron Amann & Nicola Read Obedience Trial Manager Bill Sweeney Obedience Trial Secretary Celeste Paxon & Jenny Prestidge Fly Ball Manager Dot Luker Agility Trial Manager 2011 Trevor Mawer Agility Trial Secretary 2011 Charnel Cameron Website & Newsletter Co-Ordinator Ella Sweeney [email protected] Sports Council David Brown Hon Patron David Brown Hon Vet Antony Karolis BVSC

They will all be working hard for our club and representing you. Remember you are always welcome to attend our clubs general meetings at the Red Cross Hall Springwood on the 3rd Tuesday of the month except January.

Life Members: Dot Luker, Ann Moy, Ron Amann, Wally Campbell.

Honary Members: Pam Waters, Lesley Piggott.

Annual General Meeting held at the clubhouse at Lomatia Park last Thursday night in August 7:30pm. There is no dog training held on this night.

Web Site: www.sddtc.org Email: [email protected]

Training Nights at Lomatia Park Agility: Monday 7:30pm Obedience: Thursday7:30pm Fly Ball: Friday at 7:30pm

Wet weather ring 4780 5617 to see if oval is open.

S P R I

N G W O O D P R I N T I N G C O . P T Y .

L T D .

465 Great Western Highway Faulconbridge

Fax 4751 [email protected]

4751 6119

15th2nd

Prou

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Spo

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SDDT

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500BUSINESS CARDS $125

FULLCOLOUR

INCL. GST

A Dog’s DishChArnie’s reCipeThis is my recipe for a cook dog food, which is completely free from artificial preservatives, flavourings or additives.

It is healthy and low fat for your dog.

ingredients:Turkey or chicken mince Egg Grated carrot Bread crumbs

Directions:Mix altogether and bake for around 20-30 minutes or until cooked and brown, but not too dry. It is just like baking a meatloaf. You can make this with 500g or 1kg mince; whatever is best for the cook at the time.

You can also add grated zucchini or peas, any vegetables you want really.

It can also be frozen; so it is ideal for making up ahead of time.

ChArnie’s DoG bisCuitsingredients:¼ beef stock cube 1 tablespoon boiling water 1-tablespoon vegetable oil ½ small egg, beaten 25gms ¼ cup plain flour 25gms ¼ cup wholemeal flour 25gms 1/3 cup porridge (rolled) oats 25gms 1/8 cup cornmeal 6 crushed brewers’ yeast tablets or 1-teaspoon garlic powder extra flour for rolling out

Directions:• Grease baking tray• Dissolve stock in the boiling water & cool. Mix oil, egg and stock together• Place all the dry ingredients into a bowl and mix together. Gradually add the stock mixture and

work into a dough.• Roll out dough on a floured surface to ¼ inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and

place them on baking tray.• Bake 40 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a rack.

these recipes were sent to me by a lovely member Charnie! Do you have one you would like to share with us? send it to me please.


Thank You Very Much!

3rd14th

Cover Story Continuednumbers grew, so did our confidence. We talked about having a dog trial – but we didn’t know what that meant.

We started thinking about having our first trial – in 1995. The number of people who turned up for our first trial was amazing – and it was worth all the effort! We were still VERY poor – we cooked soup and made cakes to raise more funds!

neWsletters AnD A loGoWe started our first newsletter, and I used my company photocopier to make all the copies. But, before we could publish the first edition, we decided we needed a logo. So the problem was ... what type of dog would be appropriate for an “All Breeds’ club? Our logo has changed very little since that day!

VolunteersOur club was only a success because we were fortunate to find so many people who were willing to do anything and everything to ensure we kept going. It is the volunteers we see today that have kept the club going strong! Pam and I look on with pride at the Club that has become THE Club of Springwood and District – an absolute credit to all who attend, train, and volunteer every week for the enjoyment of dog and handler alike. I believe we have captured that ‘Mountains Community ‘ feel in our Club, and only us mountains residents can understand what I mean.

Pam and I had to leave the Blue Mountains in 1995 as I was transferred to Qld for my work. As a parting gift to the Club, we donated a perpetual trophy known as the “Club Person of the Year’ award. This trophy is to recognise the extraordinary effort put into the club by a single volunteer each year. As we can still see today – as recently as at the Awards night in Dec this year, our Club is still full or exceptional people

and a strong contingent of volunteers. We were proud to see the Club Person of the Year for 2010 was someone we didn’t even know, but we know that they were VERY deserving and an important life line for the club! Congratulations to Leanne Brown who is also the clubs secretary and works hard for our members!

so, WhAt DiD our DoGs GAin FroM their trAininG?Well, to finish off, I mentioned that there were devastating bush fires in late summer of 1993, and into Jan 1994. I am happy to report, that one of our unruly dogs – who had some training by this stage, was our ‘fire alarm’ during the 5 days of fire that our home was subjected to. We had the dogs sleeping inside due to the smoke and danger, but in the depths of the night, our Dingo Dog – TASHA – started barking and would not stop. We awoke to find out that there was a flare up in our back yard and the fire was once again heading towards our home. We rang 000 but were told that ALL the crew were out and no –one was left to help us – we were told to do the best we could to wet down the yard and that was it! Well, it was almost a bad story, but we ran our hoses down the yard and turned the taps full on to water the ground in front of the fire front – only to find that our dogs had bit holes on the hoses and were useless. Our neighbours came to help and all end up OK. To this day – we do not leave our hoses unravelled as we still have dogs and bushfires!!

Our dogs have since changed, Bess and Tasha in the photo have moved on to rainbow bridge, but we have a new set – Holly and Tia – both needing training, so we are once again members of our Club (YOUR Club) and enjoying the delights of training our dogs, and also Free teA AnD CoFFee!!

Something To RememberA man and his dog were walking along a

road. The man was enjoying the scenery, when it suddenly occurred to him that he was dead. He remembered dying, and that the dog walking beside him had been dead for years. He wondered where the road was leading them.

After a while, they came to a high, white stone wall along one side of the road. It looked like fine marble.

At the top of a long hill, it was broken by a tall arch that glowed in the sunlight. When he was standing before it, he saw a magnificent gate in the arch that looked like mother-of-pearl, and the street that led to the gate looked like pure gold. He and the dog walked toward the gate, and as he got closer, he saw a man at a desk to one side. When he was close enough, he called out, ‘Excuse me, where are we?’

‘This is Heaven, sir,’ the man answered.

‘Wow! Would you happen to have some water?’ the man asked.

‘Of course, sir. Come right in, and I’ll have some ice water brought right up.’ The man gestured, and the gate began to open.

‘Can my friend,’ gesturing toward his dog, ‘come in, too?’ the traveller asked.

‘I’m sorry, sir, but we don’t accept pets.’

The man thought a moment and then turned back toward the road and continued the way he had been going with his dog. After another long walk, and at the top of another long hill, he came to a dirt road leading through a farm gate that looked as if it had never been closed. There was no fence.

As he approached the gate, he saw a man inside, leaning against a tree and reading a book.... ‘Excuse me!’ he called to the man. ‘Do you have any water?’

‘Yeah, sure, there’s a pump over there, come on in.’

‘How about my friend here?’ the traveller gestured to the dog.

‘There should be a bowl by the pump,’ said the man. They went through the gate, and sure enough, there was an old-fashioned hand pump with a bowl beside it the traveller filled the water bowl and took a long drink himself, then he gave

some to the dog.

When they were full, he and the dog walked back toward the man who was standing by the tree.

‘What do you call this place?’ the traveller asked.

‘This is Heaven,’ he answered.

‘Well, that’s confusing,’ the traveller said. ‘The man down the road said that was Heaven, too.’

‘Oh, you mean the place with the gold street and pearly gates? Nope, that’s hell.’

‘Doesn’t it make you mad for them to use your name like that?’

‘No, we’re just happy that they screen out the folks who would leave their best friends behind.’

Soooo, now you see, sometimes, we wonder why friends keep forwarding stuff to us on the internet without writing a word. Maybe this will explain it. When you are very busy, but still want to keep in touch, guess what you do? You forward emails. When you have nothing to say, but still want to keep contact, you forward jokes. When you have something to say, but don’t know what, and don’t know how... you forward stuff.

A ‘forward’ lets you know thatyou are still remembered,

you are still loved, you are still cared for.

So, next time if you get a ‘forward’, don’t think that you’ve been sent just another forwarded joke, but that you’ve been thought of today and your friend on the other end of your computer wanted to let you know that.

You are welcome at my water bowl anytime!!

Sent by Lynn Olson

I would like to thank the members who have offered to sponsor a page in our magazine each month. This will start in the next issue and I would appreciate it very much. If you can get the cost and your full name (for the bottom of the page you will sponsoring each month) to me. I have always known that people who love their dogs are usually nice people and what a great bunch of people we have in our club at the moment so willing to help keep our magazine out there? I have had nothing but great feedback from many people and love doing what I do to make it happen with help from lots of people and not all of them are even in our club! Anyone else interested in being a part of this it costs $10 a month with your name at the bottom of the page you are sponsoring, most people have paid for the full year but I am willing to work around anyone who want to pay in a way that suits them thanks again Ella Sweeney OAM.


Chocolate contains thebromine (a compound

similar to caffeine) which is poisonous to dogs.

A dose of 50mg/500gm can be fatal to a dog.

Thebromine when ingested by dogs causes release of

epinephrine (adrenaline) which causes the heart to

race and serious cardiac arrhythmias to develop.

Signs of chocolate poisoning in dogs include vomiting,

diarrhoea, excessive urination, hyperactivity followed

by depression and coma, seizures and death.

Dogs definitely have a sweet tooth. Dog proof

the home to keep your dog safe. Try storing

chocolate in tins or jars and placing them in

a cupboard. The fridge is also a great place,

instruct your children and visitors to NOT feed

your dog chocolate as a treat!

If you suspect your dog has been into the chocolate-seek emergency care immediately

time is of the essence in those cases.

Nepean&MountainsAnimalHospitals

There is a difference

50 Mulgoa RoadRegentville NSW 2745

74 Murphy StreetBlaxland NSW 2774

13th4th

Ella & Elsa’s StoryAs many of our club members just before

Christmas 2006

I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer and was devastated but like many before me got ready to do what I needed to do to get better and hopefully beat this as many other woman had done before me had. I went to have Christmas lunch with friends I had worked with and one of them showed me a photo on her mobile phone of a littler of puppies 11 in all born two days before I was diagnosed they were beautiful Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies and surprisingly I had never actually seen one? She said have one of my pups she will get you through the next months and give you something else other than the big C to worry about, my answer was number one I can’t afford one of your puppies and secondly my hubby would not let me as we already had Marla our RSPCA shelter dog and Sally our cocker Spaniel at home, when I went home that day I told Bill my Husband what she had said and he replied, you are right there we have two dogs that’s enough, I was not upset or surprised either as that was what I knew he would say, but a few weeks later after an operation to remove the cancer a few days after the Doctor rang and said they had not removed enough and I would need to go in to have more of my breast removed

The day before that surgery they rang to say I would need another operation under my arm to remove all my Lymph Nodes as they had found cancer in them as well and they would operate in both area’s on the same day, but I would need six months Chemotherapy with 6 and

a half weeks Radiation after that, well I hung up and burst into tears and Bill said you can have your puppy!! We called her Elsa

and she was eight weeks old when we brought her home where she spent most of the time beside me on my day bed when I had my treatment and we timed her then family members or friends would take her out plonk her on the grass and say wee wee and she would, We have a special bond Elsa and I and she is a very clever girl she is the highest ranking Ridgeback in Australia due to Bill’s Training and needs two more passes for her O-Ch Title

I am very proud of her and my husband as Ridgeback’s are considered couch potatoes and although she can be very slow is also very consistent in the ring and I love her to bit’s and she might be my first Ridgeback but she won’t be my last she is just a joy to have, great with people loves kids and gets on with other dogs, they are also very loyal and protective too, she opens every door in the house and just loves to be with people preferably curled up beside you on the lounge I would recommend this breed of dog to anyone as they are very clever too sometimes too clever….as they have no trouble reaching to get something they want like the 6 packets of bacon strips the other day mmm…

Ella & Elsa

Elsa

Ella Sweeney oam (treasurer & Editor)

Is this decaf

Chocolate Poisoning

(courtesy of the Nepean & Mountains Animal Hospitals)

Pooch Scoop MonthlyPooch Scoop Monthly 5th12th

A Poem For The New Puppy Owner

Don’t smell crotches, don’t eat plants’

Don’t steal my food or underpants’

Don’t eat my socks, don’t grab my hair’

DON’T RIP THE STUFFING FROM THAT CHAIR

Don’t eat those peas! Don’t touch that bush

Don’t chew my shoes.. what lS that mush?

Eat Your biscuit, drink Your drink’

Outta the toilet! Outta the sink!

AWAY FROM THE CAT BOX, IT’S FOR THE CAT !!

(And MUST You kiss me? After that ???)

Yes, raising a puppy is not for the lazy!

Though puppies are funny, they’re also quite crazy’

but don’t despair, though it’s toil and strife’

After 3 years, you’ll get back your life

So, lets go for “walkies” you can “do your thing”’

And perhaps I’ll get back my DIAMOND Ring?- Author Unknown

Your Dogs!!They offer comfort in time of woe, love you unconditionally and never say your outfit makes you look fat. Here are six other facts about owning a dog that prove its smart to own four-legged friends:

• Six out of Ten Australian dog owners say their pet is their best friend.

• More than 55% say they have met and made friends through their dogs.

• There are links between dog ownership, a reduced use of health services and faster recovery from operations and illness.

• Dog owners have closer human relationships and get less stressed out by life in general.

• A US study found dog owners were more likely to still be alive a year after a heart attack.

• Children with dogs grow up more intelligent and well-balanced, reveals Dutch research.

So give your best friend a big cuddle or a nice treat! This was in the club newsletter many years ago still applies today YES!

Guess What I got for XmasSally the small dog got a new soft pillow for her bed. She spent ages just loving it AND it showed. She got out for dinner and Marla jumped in quick smart. WELL Sally, not amused. After a while she got out and the big girl, the Ridgeback got in… well tried to, it was hilarious to watch and as you can see Sally is not amused.

D g’s Birthday BookThe Club will be conducting a Birthday Book. When it is your dog’s birthday it will appear in the Newsletter to wish your furry friend a HAPPY BIRTHDAY. If your do not know your dog’s birthday (rescue dog, etc.,) you can roughly guess his age. If you would like to participate kindly complete the following information and forward to:

Email: [email protected]

Member’s name................................................................................

Dog’s name .......................................................................................

Dog’s date of birth ............................................................................

Please remember it is your dog’s birthday we want - not yours.

Ella Sweeney OAM


The Mystery MuttAward For 2010Each year at our presentation dinner as well as it being a night to just enjoy some lovely food

maybe a glass or two and meet up with people we see each and every week but don’t get to chat to… we also give out trophies to members who trial their dogs in Obedience or Agility who have obtained a Title in that year which runs from the NSW State Titles in October to the following October, also we try to thank the quiet achievers in our club who do so much each week for no other reason than to help their fellow man… or woman to train and enjoy time with their beautiful dogs, this year it was great to see more than a few new faces and I know we had a great time at our table. The person the club members voted for as club person of the year could not have gone to a more deserving member who is our Secretary and she is the original quiet achiever always flat out and will always be there whenever or wherever we need her what a worthy winner!

• Club person of the year—Leanne Brown

• Encouragement Award in Obedience Shane Grundy

• Jumping Title in Agility Charnel Cameron and Ollie

• O-CH Title with Lily Jenny Prestidge

• CCD Title with Rosy Jenny Prestidge

• UD Title with Elsa Bill Sweeney

• UDX Title with Marla Bill Sweeney

• Presidents Award Charnel Cameron

• Novice Title with Eisha Leanne Brown

• CCD & CD Title with Roxy Trudy Dive

• Gun dog Carol Griffiths

• Trialler of the year Bill Sweeney

• Tom & Zac both got a medallion as our Junior Handlers.

Quote of the monthThe one absolutely unselfish friend that man can have in this selfish world, the one that

never deserts him, the one that never proves ungrateful or treacherous, is his dog…

He will kiss the hand that has no food to offer’ he will lick the wounds and sores that come in encounter with the roughness of the world… when all other friends desert,

he remains!

By George g Vest

MeMbers’ GuessinG CoMpetition

History has it that packs of hounds hunted with the Greeks at least as long ago as 400 B.C. It wasn’t until 1550 that

hounds began to be classified according to their purpose, i.e. sight hounds, scent hounds, etc., It was about this time that a small hound bred to kill rabbit was assigned the French name meaning ‘gape throat’ this referred to the animals’ tendency to ‘TONGUE’ that is ‘bay as a pack’. This breed owes it heritage to the Foxhound and the Harrier.

They are good natured dogs and will get along with most other dogs. They are bred to be pack animals so will take their membership in your family pack seriously. This breed loves children but need to be exposed to cats at an early age in order to develop good relationships with felines. You will find the pet cruising around the house nose down. He is making an olfactory map of his territory. He will check the area periodically and if something is amiss, he will give voice. In this way he is a good watchdog, although, once the burglar is indoors, the breed may prefer a game with him.

This breed does need a great deal of exercise. Because of their strong hunting instinct, they cannot be let off lead till extremely well trained to return when called. This will take a long time for the breed to learn as they are so strongly inclined to follow a scent. Garden walls must be high at least 6 feet and secure for the same reason - once on a scent, this breed does not return voluntarily. They are excellent escapologists and will attempt to dig their way out of any confinement. One way of keeping your dog well exercised would be to let it utilize its natural hunting talents. Field dog trials are popular with owners. In terms of actual hunting they can be worked as a pack or a brace (two dogs.) Regardless, the breed must be exercised extensively and is probably not a wise choice for the city dweller.

They are sturdy and bold little dogs who are the very essence of quality. They have kindly expressions and are compact and athletic. They stride out freely, covering the ground well. They have short coats which are dense and weather-resistant

This breed is commonly seen as a tricolor – that is black, tan and white.

Both dogs and bitches measure between 33 to 40cms at the withers and weigh between 8 to 14kgs

Entries may be placed in the box on the sign on table. The winner will be announced in the following newsletter.

Who am I

Welcome Shane The Bush DoctorWe would like to welcome another sponsor to help us to get extra copies of our beautiful new newsletter. Shane Grundy is already a member of our club with a gorgeous German Shepherd .

We really do appreciate His kindness. He is also a Bush Doctor and I am sure many people in the mountains know him, so if you don’t and need help in that area please gives him a call.

Again Shane Thanks from us all woof woof!


Obedience & Agility Trial ResultsAustralia Day we do an obedience and agility demonstration each year and spend the day at Glenbrook Park it can be a lot of fun and all levels of expertise in our dogs will be there but PLEASE if you wish to come and join us or participate speak to your Instructor as to whether your dog is bomb proof enough to take the amount of attention and handling it may get from children and adults on the day as some dogs may not like too much attention and it can get hectic.

March we usually have a stall at Springwood Foundation day and anyone who can help with our stall my shop and just be there for the general community to come and say hello and pat the dogs, the same applies you must speak with Ron or your instructor as it is a full on day for your dog.

April 25 IS Anzac day and we proudly march with our dogs each year where we usually donate books to the library on the subject of how our canine friends helped and still are helping during a war.

Reminder• Please remember members and anyone with them must sign the sign in book at all our club training nights as well as any other function we may be at for insurance purposes, the sign in book is at the table where you pay your $3,00 ground fee and take a raffle ticket as we draw one at the tea break and you can pick a small prize out of the raffle box.

Members ShoptrAininG iteMs We hAVe At the Club shop AsK At the tAbleDumbells Various Sizes $10.00Dumbell Holders $6.00Scent Discrimination Articles $20.00 (plain)Scent Discrimination Articles $25.00 (merle)Set White Leathers $10.00 (set of 3)Dogs Nsw Agility Rule Book $5.00 (set of 2)Cold Drinks In Fridge $1.00 eachLong 20 Metre Dog Leads $20.00 eachClickers $3.00 eachWe must apologise for the wait for the new tops and jackets it has been very busy with the agility trial on top of the usual things happening and we will be sorting that out very soon… sorry for any inconvenience in this

Upcoming Events 2011

shop priCesWe sell nice warm jackets $60.00Vests $40.00Caps & beanies $10.00T-shirts $32.00Dog treats (liver) $2.50 Bag

Pigs ears $1.20 EachHalti’s $22.00Leads $14.00Collars $14.00Treat bags $22.00

obedience trial resultsBlue Mountains Trial 27/11/2010 Leanne & Eisha got her Novice Title YES!Blue Mountains Trial 27/11/2010 Marla & Bill was 1st in the UD RingBlue Mountains Trial 27/11/2010 Elsa & Bill was 4th in the UD RingWollondilly Trial 4/12/2010 Marla & Bill was 1st in the UD RingWollondilly Trial 4/12/2010 Marla & Bill was 1st in the UDX Ring This ring is the highest ring in Obedience Trialing.I know we have other dogs obedience trialing from our club. Please send me your results for the magazine and a photo if you want. Thanks Ella.AGility triAl resultsSpringwood Dog Club Trial 17/10/2010 Charnel & Ollie 2nd in AgilitySpringwood dog Club Trial 17/10/2010 Charnel & Ollie got his Jumping Novice Title.Great end to 200….

Calling all membersCalling all members do you have any input

for your newsletter.

Have you read any good articles lately about dogs or any other interesting tit bits we can use in the newsletter, maybe a good website to buy doggie stuff, or a holiday place that takes dogs, new treats you have bought or made (share the recipe) how about a good off leash area, anything that would interest your fellow dog lovers, I would really appreciate it very much or you would even send us your story why you

ended up with a certain dog? Maybe why you come to S.D.D.T.C. in the first place or you could send a cute or funny photo of your pooch or you and your pooch! we are all members of this club for the same reason we love our dogs and we love to talk about them and hear about each others dogs and I guess learn from those experiences too so… talk to us all in YOUR newsletter! Thank You… please send them to: [email protected]

Ella Sweeney OAM

Are we good girls?

Pooch Scoop MonthlyPooch Scoop Monthly8th 9th

Australia Day 2011

Pooch Scoop MonthlyPooch Scoop Monthly8th 9th

Australia Day 2011


Obedience & Agility Trial ResultsAustralia Day we do an obedience and agility demonstration each year and spend the day at Glenbrook Park it can be a lot of fun and all levels of expertise in our dogs will be there but PLEASE if you wish to come and join us or participate speak to your Instructor as to whether your dog is bomb proof enough to take the amount of attention and handling it may get from children and adults on the day as some dogs may not like too much attention and it can get hectic.

March we usually have a stall at Springwood Foundation day and anyone who can help with our stall my shop and just be there for the general community to come and say hello and pat the dogs, the same applies you must speak with Ron or your instructor as it is a full on day for your dog.

April 25 IS Anzac day and we proudly march with our dogs each year where we usually donate books to the library on the subject of how our canine friends helped and still are helping during a war.

Reminder• Please remember members and anyone with them must sign the sign in book at all our club training nights as well as any other function we may be at for insurance purposes, the sign in book is at the table where you pay your $3,00 ground fee and take a raffle ticket as we draw one at the tea break and you can pick a small prize out of the raffle box.

Members ShoptrAininG iteMs We hAVe At the Club shop AsK At the tAbleDumbells Various Sizes $10.00Dumbell Holders $6.00Scent Discrimination Articles $20.00 (plain)Scent Discrimination Articles $25.00 (merle)Set White Leathers $10.00 (set of 3)Dogs Nsw Agility Rule Book $5.00 (set of 2)Cold Drinks In Fridge $1.00 eachLong 20 Metre Dog Leads $20.00 eachClickers $3.00 eachWe must apologise for the wait for the new tops and jackets it has been very busy with the agility trial on top of the usual things happening and we will be sorting that out very soon… sorry for any inconvenience in this

Upcoming Events 2011

shop priCesWe sell nice warm jackets $60.00Vests $40.00Caps & beanies $10.00T-shirts $32.00Dog treats (liver) $2.50 Bag

Pigs ears $1.20 EachHalti’s $22.00Leads $14.00Collars $14.00Treat bags $22.00

obedience trial resultsBlue Mountains Trial 27/11/2010 Leanne & Eisha got her Novice Title YES!Blue Mountains Trial 27/11/2010 Marla & Bill was 1st in the UD RingBlue Mountains Trial 27/11/2010 Elsa & Bill was 4th in the UD RingWollondilly Trial 4/12/2010 Marla & Bill was 1st in the UD RingWollondilly Trial 4/12/2010 Marla & Bill was 1st in the UDX Ring This ring is the highest ring in Obedience Trialing.I know we have other dogs obedience trialing from our club. Please send me your results for the magazine and a photo if you want. Thanks Ella.AGility triAl resultsSpringwood Dog Club Trial 17/10/2010 Charnel & Ollie 2nd in AgilitySpringwood dog Club Trial 17/10/2010 Charnel & Ollie got his Jumping Novice Title.Great end to 200….

Calling all membersCalling all members do you have any input

for your newsletter.

Have you read any good articles lately about dogs or any other interesting tit bits we can use in the newsletter, maybe a good website to buy doggie stuff, or a holiday place that takes dogs, new treats you have bought or made (share the recipe) how about a good off leash area, anything that would interest your fellow dog lovers, I would really appreciate it very much or you would even send us your story why you

ended up with a certain dog? Maybe why you come to S.D.D.T.C. in the first place or you could send a cute or funny photo of your pooch or you and your pooch! we are all members of this club for the same reason we love our dogs and we love to talk about them and hear about each others dogs and I guess learn from those experiences too so… talk to us all in YOUR newsletter! Thank You… please send them to: [email protected]

Ella Sweeney OAM

Are we good girls?


The Mystery MuttAward For 2010Each year at our presentation dinner as well as it being a night to just enjoy some lovely food

maybe a glass or two and meet up with people we see each and every week but don’t get to chat to… we also give out trophies to members who trial their dogs in Obedience or Agility who have obtained a Title in that year which runs from the NSW State Titles in October to the following October, also we try to thank the quiet achievers in our club who do so much each week for no other reason than to help their fellow man… or woman to train and enjoy time with their beautiful dogs, this year it was great to see more than a few new faces and I know we had a great time at our table. The person the club members voted for as club person of the year could not have gone to a more deserving member who is our Secretary and she is the original quiet achiever always flat out and will always be there whenever or wherever we need her what a worthy winner!

• Club person of the year—Leanne Brown

• Encouragement Award in Obedience Shane Grundy

• Jumping Title in Agility Charnel Cameron and Ollie

• O-CH Title with Lily Jenny Prestidge

• CCD Title with Rosy Jenny Prestidge

• UD Title with Elsa Bill Sweeney

• UDX Title with Marla Bill Sweeney

• Presidents Award Charnel Cameron

• Novice Title with Eisha Leanne Brown

• CCD & CD Title with Roxy Trudy Dive

• Gun dog Carol Griffiths

• Trialler of the year Bill Sweeney

• Tom & Zac both got a medallion as our Junior Handlers.

Quote of the monthThe one absolutely unselfish friend that man can have in this selfish world, the one that

never deserts him, the one that never proves ungrateful or treacherous, is his dog…

He will kiss the hand that has no food to offer’ he will lick the wounds and sores that come in encounter with the roughness of the world… when all other friends desert,

he remains!

By George g Vest

MeMbers’ GuessinG CoMpetition

History has it that packs of hounds hunted with the Greeks at least as long ago as 400 B.C. It wasn’t until 1550 that

hounds began to be classified according to their purpose, i.e. sight hounds, scent hounds, etc., It was about this time that a small hound bred to kill rabbit was assigned the French name meaning ‘gape throat’ this referred to the animals’ tendency to ‘TONGUE’ that is ‘bay as a pack’. This breed owes it heritage to the Foxhound and the Harrier.

They are good natured dogs and will get along with most other dogs. They are bred to be pack animals so will take their membership in your family pack seriously. This breed loves children but need to be exposed to cats at an early age in order to develop good relationships with felines. You will find the pet cruising around the house nose down. He is making an olfactory map of his territory. He will check the area periodically and if something is amiss, he will give voice. In this way he is a good watchdog, although, once the burglar is indoors, the breed may prefer a game with him.

This breed does need a great deal of exercise. Because of their strong hunting instinct, they cannot be let off lead till extremely well trained to return when called. This will take a long time for the breed to learn as they are so strongly inclined to follow a scent. Garden walls must be high at least 6 feet and secure for the same reason - once on a scent, this breed does not return voluntarily. They are excellent escapologists and will attempt to dig their way out of any confinement. One way of keeping your dog well exercised would be to let it utilize its natural hunting talents. Field dog trials are popular with owners. In terms of actual hunting they can be worked as a pack or a brace (two dogs.) Regardless, the breed must be exercised extensively and is probably not a wise choice for the city dweller.

They are sturdy and bold little dogs who are the very essence of quality. They have kindly expressions and are compact and athletic. They stride out freely, covering the ground well. They have short coats which are dense and weather-resistant

This breed is commonly seen as a tricolor – that is black, tan and white.

Both dogs and bitches measure between 33 to 40cms at the withers and weigh between 8 to 14kgs

Entries may be placed in the box on the sign on table. The winner will be announced in the following newsletter.

Who am I

Welcome Shane The Bush DoctorWe would like to welcome another sponsor to help us to get extra copies of our beautiful new newsletter. Shane Grundy is already a member of our club with a gorgeous German Shepherd .

We really do appreciate His kindness. He is also a Bush Doctor and I am sure many people in the mountains know him, so if you don’t and need help in that area please gives him a call.

Again Shane Thanks from us all woof woof!


A Poem For The New Puppy Owner

Don’t smell crotches, don’t eat plants’

Don’t steal my food or underpants’

Don’t eat my socks, don’t grab my hair’

DON’T RIP THE STUFFING FROM THAT CHAIR

Don’t eat those peas! Don’t touch that bush

Don’t chew my shoes.. what lS that mush?

Eat Your biscuit, drink Your drink’

Outta the toilet! Outta the sink!

AWAY FROM THE CAT BOX, IT’S FOR THE CAT !!

(And MUST You kiss me? After that ???)

Yes, raising a puppy is not for the lazy!

Though puppies are funny, they’re also quite crazy’

but don’t despair, though it’s toil and strife’

After 3 years, you’ll get back your life

So, lets go for “walkies” you can “do your thing”’

And perhaps I’ll get back my DIAMOND Ring?- Author Unknown

Your Dogs!!They offer comfort in time of woe, love you unconditionally and never say your outfit makes you look fat. Here are six other facts about owning a dog that prove its smart to own four-legged friends:

• Six out of Ten Australian dog owners say their pet is their best friend.

• More than 55% say they have met and made friends through their dogs.

• There are links between dog ownership, a reduced use of health services and faster recovery from operations and illness.

• Dog owners have closer human relationships and get less stressed out by life in general.

• A US study found dog owners were more likely to still be alive a year after a heart attack.

• Children with dogs grow up more intelligent and well-balanced, reveals Dutch research.

So give your best friend a big cuddle or a nice treat! This was in the club newsletter many years ago still applies today YES!

Guess What I got for XmasSally the small dog got a new soft pillow for her bed. She spent ages just loving it AND it showed. She got out for dinner and Marla jumped in quick smart. WELL Sally, not amused. After a while she got out and the big girl, the Ridgeback got in… well tried to, it was hilarious to watch and as you can see Sally is not amused.

D g’s Birthday BookThe Club will be conducting a Birthday Book. When it is your dog’s birthday it will appear in the Newsletter to wish your furry friend a HAPPY BIRTHDAY. If your do not know your dog’s birthday (rescue dog, etc.,) you can roughly guess his age. If you would like to participate kindly complete the following information and forward to:

Email: [email protected]

Member’s name................................................................................

Dog’s name .......................................................................................

Dog’s date of birth ............................................................................

Please remember it is your dog’s birthday we want - not yours.

Ella Sweeney OAM


Chocolate contains thebromine (a compound

similar to caffeine) which is poisonous to dogs.

A dose of 50mg/500gm can be fatal to a dog.

Thebromine when ingested by dogs causes release of

epinephrine (adrenaline) which causes the heart to

race and serious cardiac arrhythmias to develop.

Signs of chocolate poisoning in dogs include vomiting,

diarrhoea, excessive urination, hyperactivity followed

by depression and coma, seizures and death.

Dogs definitely have a sweet tooth. Dog proof

the home to keep your dog safe. Try storing

chocolate in tins or jars and placing them in

a cupboard. The fridge is also a great place,

instruct your children and visitors to NOT feed

your dog chocolate as a treat!

If you suspect your dog has been into the chocolate-seek emergency care immediately

time is of the essence in those cases.

Nepean&MountainsAnimalHospitals

There is a difference

50 Mulgoa RoadRegentville NSW 2745

74 Murphy StreetBlaxland NSW 2774

13th4th

Ella & Elsa’s StoryAs many of our club members just before

Christmas 2006

I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer and was devastated but like many before me got ready to do what I needed to do to get better and hopefully beat this as many other woman had done before me had. I went to have Christmas lunch with friends I had worked with and one of them showed me a photo on her mobile phone of a littler of puppies 11 in all born two days before I was diagnosed they were beautiful Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies and surprisingly I had never actually seen one? She said have one of my pups she will get you through the next months and give you something else other than the big C to worry about, my answer was number one I can’t afford one of your puppies and secondly my hubby would not let me as we already had Marla our RSPCA shelter dog and Sally our cocker Spaniel at home, when I went home that day I told Bill my Husband what she had said and he replied, you are right there we have two dogs that’s enough, I was not upset or surprised either as that was what I knew he would say, but a few weeks later after an operation to remove the cancer a few days after the Doctor rang and said they had not removed enough and I would need to go in to have more of my breast removed

The day before that surgery they rang to say I would need another operation under my arm to remove all my Lymph Nodes as they had found cancer in them as well and they would operate in both area’s on the same day, but I would need six months Chemotherapy with 6 and

a half weeks Radiation after that, well I hung up and burst into tears and Bill said you can have your puppy!! We called her Elsa

and she was eight weeks old when we brought her home where she spent most of the time beside me on my day bed when I had my treatment and we timed her then family members or friends would take her out plonk her on the grass and say wee wee and she would, We have a special bond Elsa and I and she is a very clever girl she is the highest ranking Ridgeback in Australia due to Bill’s Training and needs two more passes for her O-Ch Title

I am very proud of her and my husband as Ridgeback’s are considered couch potatoes and although she can be very slow is also very consistent in the ring and I love her to bit’s and she might be my first Ridgeback but she won’t be my last she is just a joy to have, great with people loves kids and gets on with other dogs, they are also very loyal and protective too, she opens every door in the house and just loves to be with people preferably curled up beside you on the lounge I would recommend this breed of dog to anyone as they are very clever too sometimes too clever….as they have no trouble reaching to get something they want like the 6 packets of bacon strips the other day mmm…

Ella & Elsa

Elsa

Ella Sweeney oam (treasurer & Editor)

Is this decaf

Chocolate Poisoning

(courtesy of the Nepean & Mountains Animal Hospitals)


Thank You Very Much!

3rd14th

Cover Story Continuednumbers grew, so did our confidence. We talked about having a dog trial – but we didn’t know what that meant.

We started thinking about having our first trial – in 1995. The number of people who turned up for our first trial was amazing – and it was worth all the effort! We were still VERY poor – we cooked soup and made cakes to raise more funds!

neWsletters AnD A loGoWe started our first newsletter, and I used my company photocopier to make all the copies. But, before we could publish the first edition, we decided we needed a logo. So the problem was ... what type of dog would be appropriate for an “All Breeds’ club? Our logo has changed very little since that day!

VolunteersOur club was only a success because we were fortunate to find so many people who were willing to do anything and everything to ensure we kept going. It is the volunteers we see today that have kept the club going strong! Pam and I look on with pride at the Club that has become THE Club of Springwood and District – an absolute credit to all who attend, train, and volunteer every week for the enjoyment of dog and handler alike. I believe we have captured that ‘Mountains Community ‘ feel in our Club, and only us mountains residents can understand what I mean.

Pam and I had to leave the Blue Mountains in 1995 as I was transferred to Qld for my work. As a parting gift to the Club, we donated a perpetual trophy known as the “Club Person of the Year’ award. This trophy is to recognise the extraordinary effort put into the club by a single volunteer each year. As we can still see today – as recently as at the Awards night in Dec this year, our Club is still full or exceptional people

and a strong contingent of volunteers. We were proud to see the Club Person of the Year for 2010 was someone we didn’t even know, but we know that they were VERY deserving and an important life line for the club! Congratulations to Leanne Brown who is also the clubs secretary and works hard for our members!

so, WhAt DiD our DoGs GAin FroM their trAininG?Well, to finish off, I mentioned that there were devastating bush fires in late summer of 1993, and into Jan 1994. I am happy to report, that one of our unruly dogs – who had some training by this stage, was our ‘fire alarm’ during the 5 days of fire that our home was subjected to. We had the dogs sleeping inside due to the smoke and danger, but in the depths of the night, our Dingo Dog – TASHA – started barking and would not stop. We awoke to find out that there was a flare up in our back yard and the fire was once again heading towards our home. We rang 000 but were told that ALL the crew were out and no –one was left to help us – we were told to do the best we could to wet down the yard and that was it! Well, it was almost a bad story, but we ran our hoses down the yard and turned the taps full on to water the ground in front of the fire front – only to find that our dogs had bit holes on the hoses and were useless. Our neighbours came to help and all end up OK. To this day – we do not leave our hoses unravelled as we still have dogs and bushfires!!

Our dogs have since changed, Bess and Tasha in the photo have moved on to rainbow bridge, but we have a new set – Holly and Tia – both needing training, so we are once again members of our Club (YOUR Club) and enjoying the delights of training our dogs, and also Free teA AnD CoFFee!!

Something To RememberA man and his dog were walking along a

road. The man was enjoying the scenery, when it suddenly occurred to him that he was dead. He remembered dying, and that the dog walking beside him had been dead for years. He wondered where the road was leading them.

After a while, they came to a high, white stone wall along one side of the road. It looked like fine marble.

At the top of a long hill, it was broken by a tall arch that glowed in the sunlight. When he was standing before it, he saw a magnificent gate in the arch that looked like mother-of-pearl, and the street that led to the gate looked like pure gold. He and the dog walked toward the gate, and as he got closer, he saw a man at a desk to one side. When he was close enough, he called out, ‘Excuse me, where are we?’

‘This is Heaven, sir,’ the man answered.

‘Wow! Would you happen to have some water?’ the man asked.

‘Of course, sir. Come right in, and I’ll have some ice water brought right up.’ The man gestured, and the gate began to open.

‘Can my friend,’ gesturing toward his dog, ‘come in, too?’ the traveller asked.

‘I’m sorry, sir, but we don’t accept pets.’

The man thought a moment and then turned back toward the road and continued the way he had been going with his dog. After another long walk, and at the top of another long hill, he came to a dirt road leading through a farm gate that looked as if it had never been closed. There was no fence.

As he approached the gate, he saw a man inside, leaning against a tree and reading a book.... ‘Excuse me!’ he called to the man. ‘Do you have any water?’

‘Yeah, sure, there’s a pump over there, come on in.’

‘How about my friend here?’ the traveller gestured to the dog.

‘There should be a bowl by the pump,’ said the man. They went through the gate, and sure enough, there was an old-fashioned hand pump with a bowl beside it the traveller filled the water bowl and took a long drink himself, then he gave

some to the dog.

When they were full, he and the dog walked back toward the man who was standing by the tree.

‘What do you call this place?’ the traveller asked.

‘This is Heaven,’ he answered.

‘Well, that’s confusing,’ the traveller said. ‘The man down the road said that was Heaven, too.’

‘Oh, you mean the place with the gold street and pearly gates? Nope, that’s hell.’

‘Doesn’t it make you mad for them to use your name like that?’

‘No, we’re just happy that they screen out the folks who would leave their best friends behind.’

Soooo, now you see, sometimes, we wonder why friends keep forwarding stuff to us on the internet without writing a word. Maybe this will explain it. When you are very busy, but still want to keep in touch, guess what you do? You forward emails. When you have nothing to say, but still want to keep contact, you forward jokes. When you have something to say, but don’t know what, and don’t know how... you forward stuff.

A ‘forward’ lets you know thatyou are still remembered,

you are still loved, you are still cared for.

So, next time if you get a ‘forward’, don’t think that you’ve been sent just another forwarded joke, but that you’ve been thought of today and your friend on the other end of your computer wanted to let you know that.

You are welcome at my water bowl anytime!!

Sent by Lynn Olson

I would like to thank the members who have offered to sponsor a page in our magazine each month. This will start in the next issue and I would appreciate it very much. If you can get the cost and your full name (for the bottom of the page you will sponsoring each month) to me. I have always known that people who love their dogs are usually nice people and what a great bunch of people we have in our club at the moment so willing to help keep our magazine out there? I have had nothing but great feedback from many people and love doing what I do to make it happen with help from lots of people and not all of them are even in our club! Anyone else interested in being a part of this it costs $10 a month with your name at the bottom of the page you are sponsoring, most people have paid for the full year but I am willing to work around anyone who want to pay in a way that suits them thanks again Ella Sweeney OAM.


sprinGWooD DistriCt DoG trAininG Club inC

UPDATE JANUARY 2011ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: The AGM for the Springwood District Dog Training Club INC was held on the 28th August 2010. We had several new members attend our meeting it was great to see them and thank you for coming along.

Committee for 2010 is: President Ann Lenehan Vice President Dot Luker Secretary Leanne Brown 47542910 Treasurer Ella Sweeney Committee Robin Assar, Vickie Finn, Julia Lawrie, Elaine Browning Publicity Officer Lynn Olson Trophy Officer Dot Luker Table Manager Obedience Wally Campbell Table Manager Agility Sarah Visser Shop Manager Ella Sweeney Chief Instructors Ron Amann & Nicola Read Obedience Trial Manager Bill Sweeney Obedience Trial Secretary Celeste Paxon & Jenny Prestidge Fly Ball Manager Dot Luker Agility Trial Manager 2011 Trevor Mawer Agility Trial Secretary 2011 Charnel Cameron Website & Newsletter Co-Ordinator Ella Sweeney [email protected] Sports Council David Brown Hon Patron David Brown Hon Vet Antony Karolis BVSC

They will all be working hard for our club and representing you. Remember you are always welcome to attend our clubs general meetings at the Red Cross Hall Springwood on the 3rd Tuesday of the month except January.

Life Members: Dot Luker, Ann Moy, Ron Amann, Wally Campbell.

Honary Members: Pam Waters, Lesley Piggott.

Annual General Meeting held at the clubhouse at Lomatia Park last Thursday night in August 7:30pm. There is no dog training held on this night.

Web Site: www.sddtc.org Email: [email protected]

Training Nights at Lomatia Park Agility: Monday 7:30pm Obedience: Thursday7:30pm Fly Ball: Friday at 7:30pm

Wet weather ring 4780 5617 to see if oval is open.

S P R I

N G W O O D P R I N T I N G C O . P T Y .

L T D .

465 Great Western Highway Faulconbridge

Fax 4751 [email protected]

4751 6119

15th2nd

Prou

d to

Spo

nsor

SDDT

C

500BUSINESS CARDS $125

FULLCOLOUR

INCL. GST

A Dog’s DishChArnie’s reCipeThis is my recipe for a cook dog food, which is completely free from artificial preservatives, flavourings or additives.

It is healthy and low fat for your dog.

ingredients:Turkey or chicken mince Egg Grated carrot Bread crumbs

Directions:Mix altogether and bake for around 20-30 minutes or until cooked and brown, but not too dry. It is just like baking a meatloaf. You can make this with 500g or 1kg mince; whatever is best for the cook at the time.

You can also add grated zucchini or peas, any vegetables you want really.

It can also be frozen; so it is ideal for making up ahead of time.

ChArnie’s DoG bisCuitsingredients:¼ beef stock cube 1 tablespoon boiling water 1-tablespoon vegetable oil ½ small egg, beaten 25gms ¼ cup plain flour 25gms ¼ cup wholemeal flour 25gms 1/3 cup porridge (rolled) oats 25gms 1/8 cup cornmeal 6 crushed brewers’ yeast tablets or 1-teaspoon garlic powder extra flour for rolling out

Directions:• Grease baking tray• Dissolve stock in the boiling water & cool. Mix oil, egg and stock together• Place all the dry ingredients into a bowl and mix together. Gradually add the stock mixture and

work into a dough.• Roll out dough on a floured surface to ¼ inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and

place them on baking tray.• Bake 40 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a rack.

these recipes were sent to me by a lovely member Charnie! Do you have one you would like to share with us? send it to me please.

Where Were you in 1993?What do you remember? Paul Keating was the Prime Minister. John Fahey was the NSW State Premier.

Late in the year in summer (actually January 1994), Springwood and Winmalee were just two of the towns that were savaged by bush fires. But that is a story for later on!

Sydney won the right to host the 2000 Summer Olympic Games. On TV, ‘A Country Practice’ has its final season, and a NEW program called ‘Blue Heelers’ debuts (it is not expected to succeed!). The Brisbane Broncos won the Footy Grand Final.

A Club is born!BUT, at a more local level, Springwood was without its own Dog Training Club, and as you can see from the photo above – there were ‘unruly’ dogs and exasperated owners everywhere!

So, Pamella, Deborah Greenhill and I decided to find someone local to help us train our dogs. We just thought that if we got a few interested people together – we would be able to learn how to train our dogs – heavens knows we had 3 boisterous dogs between us!

After a LOT of letter box drops, notices in the shops at Winmalee, and word of mouth, we managed to have our first meeting in the back room of Deborah’s house in Hawkesbury Road. We were VERY lucky to have Dot, Ann and Gwen (three ladies we did not know), and Malcolm all turn up to see what was going on.

Well after a very shaky start, we managed to find someone who knew more about dogs than us (not hard mind you) and agree on how to organise

ourselves into a ‘workable’ group. Our first trainers were Gwen, Ann, Dot and Malcolm. Without those volunteers – community and dog spirited, we would never have got our endeavour off the ground.

Our biggest problem in those early days was WHERE to train – and at night! We needed lights, and fences so the dogs didn’t run off when we lost control! Not, an easy task.

We tried using the local school at Winmalee - too dark! We tried using the oval at Summerhayes Park, but the Soccer club forbade it. So we ended up using a bitumen basketball court – we paced the white lines and learned how to do figure of eights and sit, stay, drops all on the bitumen – and in VERY cramped conditions. We had 12 dogs all on the white lines together! But we DID have lights!

FinAnCesTea and Coffee – oh yes, we had a GAS primus stove, and charged 20c a cup The Primus was donated to the Club by a nice man. Pam

made cakes and biscuits and we sold those too at the break. We needed the funds! We dreamed about having electricity and maybe even building a clubhouse just like the clubhouse at Summerhayes – one day!

MeMbershipWe had so many people who wanted to train their dogs just to live with them happily. Our numbers kept growing and we had to put trainers through so that we could have more than one or two classes. As our

The Early Days of SDDTC - August 1993By Lesley Piggott and Pamella Waters

ooch Sc pMONTHLY

Springwood diStrict dog training club inc.

Issue No. 4 January 2011

DisClAiMer pleAse note:News, views and opinions in this newsletter are those of the correspondent’s and not necessarily

those of the club, editor, committee and publicity officer.

The Springwood District Dog Training club INC reserves the right of rejection of material.

Would you like to advertise your company in our beautiful new colour magazine?

We have: • ¼ of a page at $5.00 • ½ of a page at $10.00 • full page (½ an A4) for $20.00

We will also put a copy of your business card on our back page for $15.00 each month

(please note as we have an agreement with our sponsors, so printing companies, pet shops & Vet’s

cannot be included in this offer)

WANTED SMART BUSINESS

COMPANIES

New Web SiteThe Club now has a brand new Web Site. It is still at www.sddtc.org. This has been a long time coming but it has been worth the wait! Ally who did it has done a great job as It is much easier to use and faster too with more photo’s. I am delighted with it and would welcome members views about it? We have some photo’s from our recent Agility Trial and some not so good ones I took at our Halloween night on my phone mmm…. More photos will go up after our dinner and presentation night on December 2. If you have any photo’s of your dog send them to me. Plus if you forget to pick up your new colour club magazine it will also be on the web site each month I hope you enjoy it.

Ella Sweeney (Newsletter Co-Ordinator)

the committee wish all our club members and their pooch’s a happy and safe new year!

Pam, Lessley & the dogs

Continued Page 3

Documents

Pooch Scoop January 2011