Judging Operations Department Fall 2013 8051 Arco Corporate Drive, Suite 100 Volume 14 Raleigh, NC 27617-3390 Number 58 (919) 816-3639 [email protected]
UPDATE Judging Approval Process
JUDGES t the April 2013 Board meeting it was determined that the identity is to be masked N A on all applications presented to the Judges Review Committee (JRC) for consideration. At the June 2013 Board meeting the composition of the JRC was modified to address vacancies which had resulted in the postponement of the May JRC meeting. The implementation of the “masking process” coincided with the first meeting of the new JRC. RM ATIO It is important that the judging community be aware of how the JRC has functioned since this time, and the application results that have come from them. This information should
ON FO quell most of the misconceptions and misunderstandings that have circulated the last several months.
OR C One of the greatest concerns that has been expressed with the decision to mask the identity of applicants is that the individual’s history associated with their name will be lost. While name recognition by the committee has obviously been eliminated, staff makes a concerted effort to ensure the individual’s judging history is conveyed to committee. For each Additional Breed Applicant, staff provides the following to the JRC: • History of Executive Field Representative (EFR) reports • Application history – Year first approved – Breed(s) first approved – Years applied – Number of breed requested/granted • Notes regarding correspondence in file from the fancy THE AKC NEWSLETTER F • Interview results • Individual letters of synopsis for each breed requested What is removed from all documents is the name of the applicant, their judge’s number, contact information and any other “obvious” indicators of identity (i.e. identifying spouse/ significant other, parents, kennel name, etc.). What remains is virtually everything else that the applicant chooses to provide for the committee to consider, including personal experience and background.
(Continued on page 2) Update: Judging Approval Process (Continued from page 1)
At its June through November meetings, 95 Additional What should I include in my letters of synopsis? Breed applicants have been reviewed by the JRC. As per the policy, the onus is upon the applicant to • Total breeds applied = 808 display their preparedness to judge the breed requested in • Number of breeds granted = 608 a letter of synopsis. Each individual letter should include • Number of applications fully approved = 53 everything that you feel justifies your request to be • Number of applications limited = 39 approved for that breed. It is not the responsibility of AKC • Number of applications denied = 3 staff to furnish an applicant’s educational experiences. The statistics display an approval rate of 75% of breeds It is the staff’s responsibility to verify those experiences requested. In addition, 55% of applications were fully included within an applicant’s letters. approved, 42% were limited and 3% denied. The reports To clarify, the applicant should include in the letter for of gloom and doom concerning the approval of breeds each breed any seminars, observations, mentors, tutoring needless to say have been exaggerated. It is unfair to sessions, judging experiences, etc., WITH the “what, where compare application approval rates under the current and and when.” As the board policy states that experiences previous application process as there are vast differences should be verifiable, you should furnish copies of between the two. This includes but is not limited to the certificates from seminars, tear sheets or judging schedules elimination of the one-for-one policy on an individual’s from sweepstakes/futurity/special attraction assignments, first five applications and the absence of defined minimum match flyers, ringside observations, mentor/tutor forms, criteria one must complete to apply for a breed. etc. to verify the experiences you have included. It The current policy allows all Additional Breed applicants is important to understand that the supplementary to apply for up to ½ the number of breeds in the largest documents are used to verify experiences and are not group. Currently, that number is 15. Just because one forwarded to the JRC to review. can apply for 15 does not mean they should. In preparing The letters are not evaluated by the number of pages or an application, determining the appropriate number of words. The most effective letters are those that concisely breeds to apply is extremely important in addition to display the applicant’s verified experiences in that breed. understanding what is to be included in your letter of Where did you go, what did you do, who have you spoken synopsis pertaining to your preparation. with, where have you judged, etc. are all answers you Judging history (length, breeds approved and previous should provide. You may expound on specific experiences application results) is a contributing factor in the or on the breed itself if it is your determination that determination of the number of breeds granted by the JRC. information will assist in displaying your preparedness for that breed. As previously notified, an “essence statement” is Items that will affect the committee’s confidence or neither requested nor required. Approval is based upon the hesitation in awarding a considerable number of breeds: committee’s review of your history of judging, interview • Number of breeds currently approved results and individual letters of synopsis. • Years judging In summary, you have the greatest influence over the • Lack of EFR reports (number) success of your application for additional breeds. Your • Lack of recent EFR reports means of control are (1) electing to apply for a number • Recent negative EFR reports of breeds that is reasonable and realistic based upon your • Numerous negative EFR reports over time history and (2) applying for specific breeds which you can With the elimination of the one-for-one policy from the effectively display you have sufficiently prepared. previous approval process, it is a reasonable assumption All applicants are encouraged to review all information that many applicants are applying for more breeds then pertaining to applying for additional breeds found on the they should. The committee by nature will be hesitant AKC website in the Judges Resource Center. in awarding a significant number of breeds to one with limited history and limited EFR reports to provide any As always, please contact Judging Operations at indication of their judging proficiency. Close examination (919) 816-3593 or via email [email protected] and scrutiny of one’s own history (including EFR reports) or speak with an Executive Field Representative at an mixed in with a dash of humility should guide one in the AKC Conformation event with any questions concerning right direction. the Judging Approval Process.
2 THE STANDARD Contents NEWS FLASH! ~IN THIS ISSUE~ The following items resulted from the October 2013 meeting of the Board of Directors.
Update: Judging Approval Process...... 1 Group Approval for AKC Judges News Flash!...... 3 The Board adopted the following policy regarding the approval to judge groups. The effective date will No Rest for the Wicket...... 4 be determined at the December 2013 meeting. Attitude Matters...... 5 • An AKC judge approved to judge breeds comprising 80% of the entries in a group the Type, Soundness, Style and Quality...... 6 previous year could be approved for the group after passing the breed standard tests and Wirehaired Vizsla / Coton de Tulear...... 8 submission of a $25 non-refundable processing fee per breed for the remaining breeds in that group. Apply Under the Adjunct System...... 8 • The group approval would be for no more Introducing the Coton de Tulear...... 9 than three years, dating from the first group assignment. Make Sure You Have a Good Eye • May not be assigned breeds not currently For a Good Dog...... 10 approved on either regular or permit basis Setting a Precedence...... 11 constituting the balance of the group. • Group status removed after three years if judge Perceptions, Reality, has failed to gain approval for the balance of the Visibility & Responsibility...... 12 breeds within the group. Icelandic Sheepdog Additional information regarding the above policy will be posted on the AKC website and included in Association of America...... 13 the next issue of the Standard once the effective date Gaiting...... 13 has been established. Ramp Breeds To All Junior Showmanship Judges...... 14 The Board approved a request submitted by the The Judge’s Store...... 15 Basset Hound Club of America and the Bulldog Club of America regarding the Board policy on the Upcoming Seminars...... 16 use of a ramp. As a result, effective January 1, 2014, Bassets and Bulldogs are expected to be judged on the ramp at the Group and Best in Show levels. The table-ramp list posted on the AKC website has been updated to include this information.
Revised Standards and New Breed Standards The standards for the new breeds entering the Miscellaneous Class effective January 1, 2014 will be emailed as a PDF to all judges eligible to judge the class. The PDF pages are set up to print and to be folded to fit into the judge’s standard binder. All future breed standard revisions will be sent in this format.
THE STANDARD 3 No Rest for the Wicket
By Sue Vroom, AKC Field Representative
No single piece of dog show equipment or weight at all. The dog is simply ignored and placed at the end evokes more trauma and drama than the wicket and the of the line rather than weighing/measuring and considering it for scale. Some judges and most exhibitors view these terrifying an award if it has breed type virtue. apparatuses with the eye of a cat headed for the bath tub. A frequently asked question from judges is how to correctly It is standard AKC policy that all judges are required to handle the following situation that is occurring with increasing re-certify their competency with the wicket and the scale regularity. Once it becomes known that the wicket has been whenever applicable breeds are interviewed for or following an called to the ring, an exhibitor or exhibitors ask to be excused unfavorable field report regarding incorrect procedure of its use. from the class or that the judge has actually singled out the Failure to pass the wicket/scale test carries with it a delay in the armband number and informed him that a measurement will progression of an application or possibly, the removal of already be done to ensure that the dog is within the allowable height approved breeds with measurable disqualifications. limits, he then requests to be excused. In either case, the proper response from the judge is the following: “The request to be excused will not be granted until the measurement has been “The request to be excused will not completed.” If the dog does measure out, the obvious notation in the judge’s book is “DQ – Measured out,” the exhibitor be granted until the measurement informed of the disqualification and excused from the class. In has been completed.” the case of the dog measuring in, the correct notation in the book is “Measured In,” and at the judge’s discretion he may then ask if the exhibitor still wishes to be excused or can elect to The test consists of a judge’s duplication of the exact procedure simply request that the dog be put back in line. employing proficient technique as it would be done in the ring. Sometimes in the administration of this test by a Field Staff In all cases of a handler leaving the ring without permission in member, actually giving the wicket to the judge is similar to order to avoid a weight or height measurement, he is subject to handing over a poisonous snake. It becomes quickly apparent disciplinary action. The appropriate course of action by the judge during this equipment exchange one’s comfort level with the is to levy charges against the offender in the form of a written wicket. Some accept it hesitantly with obvious fear and trepidation statement detailing what occurred and immediately given while others with the confident dexterity of a real snake wrangler. to the Show Chairman. The process for an Event Committee Unfortunately, many of our judges do not pass the wicket/scale action is then carried out by the Show Committee. In the dog test when re-tested. What is even more concerning are those world, word travels faster than the flu bug at the Garden. Any times when the measurement is executed incorrectly in the ring such case of a Bench Show Hearing for this reason resulting in during the course of judging. Exhibitors deserve better. Worse a fine and/or suspension would definitely serve notice to those yet, are those judges who elect not to address questionable size who feel the rules do not apply to them. ¢
Editorial Note Judging Operations has received reports alleging a trend of exhibitors requesting to be excused to avoid situations such as being measured/weighed, defeated in a class, etc. If an exhibitor requests to be excused from a class, the judge must inquire as to the reason for their request. It is then at the discretion of the judge whether to accommodate that request, it is not required. All consideration should be given to requests based upon health and/or safety of the exhibitor and/or dog, especially when that condition is evident. One should consider the timing of the request especially when the reason is not apparent. For example, asking to be excused just as the judge is arranging the class for placement or a wicket has been called is much different than the exhibitor requesting to be excused if the dog is unruly and/or not cooperating for examination.
4 THE STANDARD Attitude Matters: By Mary Dukes, AKC Field Representative Judges should recognize the effect of their attitude and demeanor on today’s exhibitors
As a judge, you need to be cognizant of your attitude in the ring and in your interactions with exhibitors. Exhibitors look up to judges and new exhibitors are nervous. Encountering a judge who is curt, rude or condescending can turn a newbie off of dog shows completely, send them scurrying to UKC or at the very least, make them decide they will NEVER show to YOU again. Here are some simple tips that can help everyone’s day go smoother and actually get folks to look forward to showing under you: Be nice (it doesn’t cost a thing…) – Be gentle with puppies. – Be patient with new exhibitors. – Try to remember to smile. (I admit that I have to remind myself of this constantly – I’m just not a big grinner.) Don’t be overly friendly to one exhibitor over another (appearance of impropriety) – We all have friends at the shows and know some people better than others, but chatting with them before judging or when you are going over their dog quickly convinces the other exhibitors that their competition has an ‘in’ with you. We know that in most cases you aren’t even talking about dogs, but then you put this person up (because they do have the best dog…) and now the other exhibitors are SURE there is something fishy going on. Remember that it is the appearance of impropriety that needs to be avoided. Keep idle conversation to a minimum and be consistent with all exhibitors. Help the new exhibitor along – Acknowledge their nervousness, remind them that you were also once a new exhibitor and know exactly how they feel. – A kind word and a handling tip or two can go a long way. Trust me, they’ll appreciate it. – Be patient. If they misunderstand your instructions, just gently correct them and move on.
Don’t underestimate the importance of the Owner Handled series and special attraction groups (puppy, veteran, BBE) to the participating exhibitors. – While you may think these are superfluous, they are important to the folks who are exhibiting. The opportunity to participate in these events may, in fact, be the reason that they entered the show. Please don’t treat them like they are a waste of your time or insignificant. Also, become versed in the judging procedure for the OH series. YOUR attitude affects your entry – Exhibitors aren’t eager to show to judges who are gruff and/or condescending and are willing to demonstrate this with the entry fee money (or lack thereof). All you have to do is take a passing look at the comments on social forums for proof of this: “Didn’t win, but very nice to show to…”, “Rude, I couldn’t understand instructions, will not show to again.” Try to act interested and give each exhibit equal time.
Remember that exhibitors are being choosy with their entry dollars and that we need to encourage those new in the sport. A pleasant experience in the ring, thanks in part to their judge, can go a long way in both maintaining entries from seasoned exhibitors and keeping those new to the sport coming back.
THE STANDARD 5 Following is an excerpt from the article Four Definitions by Hayes Blake Hoyt “Type, Soundness, Style and Quality” “The Four Definitions” was written in 1960 by Hayes Blake Hoyt, breeder / judge extraordinaire. Hayes Hoyt bred her Poodles under the prefix of Blakeen. Blakeen was an exceptional Poodle kennel recognized for many outstanding dogs, including EIGHT BIS winners at Westminster. This article was originally published in Popular Dogs magazine in 1966 and has been used as a point of reference through the years for many established breeders and judges. Ms. Hoyt uses the Poodle as the breed of discussion in this article, however, the subject of the “Four Definitions” spans all breeds. The article has been slightly edited and divided into four parts. The balance of the article will be published in the upcoming judge’s newsletters. Enjoy… Submitted by Gina Wieser, AKC Field Representative
Type
In dog parlance, one of the most misused words is “Type;” perhaps this is because many fanciers and even breeders interpret this word rather than define it. For instance, one breeder recently referred to type as “moving correctly;” another wrote “Type is elegance;” and a Poodle breeder and judge remarked, “The blacks are always superior in type to whites,” an odd statement when one peruses Poodle show records for the last 20 years! One can understand the bewilderment of the novice fancier of any breed, and particularly of our Poodle breed, over the simple statement, “That dog has type.” In order to define this word, one should go back to the origin of the Standard for any breed of purebred dog. The forerunner of a written Standard for each breed was undoubtedly a contest between similar kinds of dogs: Those which could run were raced against each other; those which could herd were given tasks in individual herding, etc. Naturally, the sort of dog which won most consistently was considered the best kind of animal to own for that particular purpose. He was the right “type” of dog. Division by Breed Just as we do today, dog owners gathered with their dogs to discuss type; and quite often someone particularly familiar with the dogs’ duties as well as the dogs themselves would be called upon to decide which dog present appeared best suited to perform its appointed work. Indeed, this was the start of present day dog shows because the dog, even then, was judged on its appearance rather than its actions; in other words – which dog looked most suitable to race, to hunt, to fight, to herd? Continued on page 7
6 THE STANDARD Continued from page 6 “Type, Soundness, Style and Quality”
Of course there were written descriptions of different massive head and jaw, completely capable of pinning kinds of dogs, first to help owners and breeders, and, a Bull, are too often set upon so light a body and such later, to assist the judges, for in time owners allowed infirm legs that the animal could not survive one instant their dogs to be judged by men not necessarily owners, in its terrific task. breeders, or even participants in dog duties, but simply It calls to mind the famous Cheshire Cat in Alice in familiar with the requirements of a breed. This judge Wonderland which vanished leaving only its grin behind. had to decide which dog most conformed to its breed “I've seen cats without a grin,” said Alice, “but never description or Standard, which was the correct type. a grin without a cat – it's puzzling.” Well, one sees Today, the dog which most closely resembles its dogs without type but type without a dog is more than standard both in disposition and appearance is the puzzling: it is grotesque and is, in fact, a caricature. most typical of a certain kind of dog developed for a particular purpose; it has type. From this point of This quality the public abhors. The ignorant breeder view, the Bulldog’s roll is as sound as the Shepherd’s may rejoice but once his breed’s ability to be useful has driving walk; the bent forelegs of the Pekingese been sacrificed to mere appearance, that breed is on the are also as sound as the straight forelegs of the Fox decline for the public will not buy. “What good is that Terrier. For without these various physical and mental dog, except to show?” is the reaction of the average conformations, each breed would not fulfill its varied would-be owner, and he shows more intelligence than services for mankind. he or we may realize. Caricature is a form of mockery, and when a breed’s Unsoundness and Extremes history has been tossed aside as unimportant, there is On the other hand, a lame dog is unsound as is a blind no longer that impersonal criterion toward which to dog. In fact, any dog which is crippled, ill or lacking in breed, namely, that a dog must look and act as if it could the mental or physical attributes of its special natural do whatever it was developed by man to accomplish. powers is “unsound.” Therefore, through adverse Perhaps, unconsciously, the public feels this and loses circumstances, a typey dog could be unsound as well as faith in the breed. Too, such dogs will no longer act typical. a certain way because they are no longer bred for a certain purpose – even their appearance is a travesty on But sound dogs do not necessarily possess type. One dogdom! This is the reason for preserving a Standard, can love and admire a short-backed, glossy, thin-coated, built upon the PURPOSE of the breed. muscled-up mongrel with a good disposition and a fine, true way of moving on long, straight legs; nevertheless, Therefore, a dog most typical of its breed is not such a dog could not herd sheep through long months exaggerated; he is so much in perfect balance that at of bitter weather, or go to ground after a badger, or first glance he appears far from extraordinary. The win a race chasing a real or mechanical bunny. This others around him in the show ring are more noticeable. beautifully sound dog is unsuited for any particular job Their faults and virtues hit one like a blow; yet the eye and so it lacks type, as we define it here. keeps returning to that smooth, functional creature The opposite of no type is often called “excessive whose every part seems proper to him. Even the novice type” or “overdone,” and means that some or several observer is drawn to him and exclaims, “I cannot help attributed of the breed Standard have been first liking that dog; he just seems satisfactory.” He is indeed overemphasized, then later overdeveloped by breeders. a satisfaction. He is an ideal come true and, therefore, he This usually occurs when the breed is no longer used for is perfectly balanced. True type, because it is functional, its particular purpose – like the Bulldog today, whose is always completely balanced.
THE STANDARD 7 Wirehaired Vizsla and Coton de Tulear
The following breeds will be eligible for competition in regular breeds classed on July 2, 2014. The Wirehaired Vizsla will be accepted into the Sporting Group and the Coton de Tulear will be accepted into the Non-Sporting Group. Upon completion of the exam with a passing grade and payment of the $25 fee, all Sporting and Non-Sporting Group judges will receive automatic approval to judge this breed at shows held after July 2, 2014. Two or more missed questions or one DQ question is considered failing and you will be advised to retake the breed exam. If the exam is not passed on the second attempt it will result in the removal of the Group. (See Judging Approval Process effective, March 1, 2012) Additional breed applications submitted for the balance of the Sporting or Non- Sporting Groups received prior to June 23, 2014 will be required to be interviewed and a payment of $25 on this breed at the time of the scheduled interview by the office. Applicants who fail the interview by the Executive Field Representative will not be approved to judge the Wirehaired Vizsla or the Coton du Tulear and as a result, regardless of the Judges Review Committee’s decision on the balance of the group applied, will not be approved to judge the Sporting or Non-Sporting Groups. Individuals wishing to apply using the Adjunct Method must submit an application and a processing fee. Judging Operations will start accepting applications between January 1, 2014 and June 23, 2014. Those who miss the deadline must apply under the current system. Applications are available on the website or by contacting Judging Operations.
Apply Under the Adjunct System
AKC approved judges who can demonstrate significant background in the breed may apply to judge under the Adjunct System. Examples of “significant background” would be: ■ Experience in owning, breeding, exhibiting and/or handling the breed. ■ Background in judging multiple events with a significant number of entries. First time applicants must have 10-12 years breeding experience, take and pass the Procedural and Anatomy Exams, have judged at AKC or Non-AKC events at least six times and stewarded at least 6 times at AKC member or licensed events. Applicants who meet these requirements may apply by downloading the application from http://images.akc.org/pdf/judges/Adjunct_Application_06.pdf or contacting Judging Operations, 919-816-3862. First time applicants will also need to download the Procedural and Anatomy Exams located at www.akc.org/judges/ conformation/newjudgapp.cfm.
8 THE STANDARD The United States of America Coton de Tulear Club is proud to announce that the Coton de Tulear will be advancing into the AKC Non Sporting Group on July 2, 2014. We are grateful to have this opportunity to introduce our magnificent breed to the highly respected American Kennel Club family of judges. The origins of the Coton are steeped in legends and lore. Much of the ancestry of the breed that occurred via natural selection on the exotic Island of Madagascar remains a mystery to this day! It is, indeed, this ancestry and the remarkable ability of the Coton to adapt to the formidable environs of USACTC, Inc. Madagascar that has produced the intelligent, robust breed we know today.
Introducing the Coton de Tulear, “The Royal Dog of Madagascar”
The Coton de Tulear, “Pronounced: KO-Tone Dih TOO-Lay- The Coton de Tulear will advance to the AKC Non Sporting ARE,” is a descendant of the Ancient European Breed, the Barbet. Group on July 2, 2014. The Coton belongs to the Bichon/Maltese Family of dogs which Highlights of the Coton de Tulear breed type: includes the Bichon Tenerife. Known as the “Anti Stress” dog, – White “Cottony like” coat shown naturally. and is considered “hypoallergenic.” The Coton has remarkable intelligence, stamina and clown like traits that have made this – Definitive allowances for color in adult and puppies. breed a popular companion throughout the world. – Wide variations of acceptable heights and weights Bichon Tenerife were Introduced to the Indian Ocean Island – Distinctive silhouette defined by the following: of Reunion by 16th and 17th Century sailors. Eventually, the 2 to 3 ratio = rectangular outline. original Bichon Tenerife became extinct there. The surviving – Slightly convex topline with low tail set. breed developed a long, cotton-like coat, and was called,” The – Tail carriage in motion and at rest. Cotton De Reunion.” Cotton de Reunion was imported to Tulear, a seaport frequented by pirates and slave traders, in southern Madagascar. Tales of tragic shipwrecks, also account for their arrival on the island shores. These dogs had a different fate from their Reunion Island ancestors. Forced to live on this exotic Island, their hunting and survival skills were enhanced by natural selection and planned breeding. The Coton de Tulear became a more robust dog. He was protected by tribal monarchy, the Merina, becoming known as “the Royal Dog of Madagascar.” Ownership by any non- noblemen was forbidden. Life on the rugged Island of Madagascar required strong hunting and survival skills. The Coton became a dog of courageous temperament, cleverness and extraordinary agility. Today these The Royal Dog of Madagascar traits make him an excellent companion and candidate for a multitude of activities. The USACTC, Inc. Breed Education Committee would like Due to Madagascar’s extreme climates, the Coton coat has an to offer the following links of valuable educational material insulation quality that enables them to thrive in all temperatures. regarding the Coton de Tulear. Since the Coton has minimal shedding and no dander, they’re AKC Breed Standard link: http://usactc.org/judges-education/ a good choice for people with allergies. However, it is not a breed-standard/ panacea for all! Under the soft, “cottony” texture coat, the Coton de Tulear is a dog of balance and symmetry. USACTC Elaboration of the Breed Standard: http://usactc.org/judges-education/breed-standard-commentary/ In the 1800s, France colonized Madagascar. The Coton de Tulear was proclaimed the “Official Dog of Madagascar” USACTC Guidelines for Judging the Coton de Tulear: and was honored in 1974 on Madagascar’s postage stamp. http://usactc.org/judging-the-coton-de-tulear/ Early exportation to France and Belgium was followed by the We would like to invite you to attend our highly informative appearance of the Coton in the United States in the mid-1970s. Parent Breed Club approved Judges Seminars. These seminars European imports form the vast majority of bloodlines present in will be listed at this link: http://www.akc.org/clubs/seminars/ the foundations of today’s AKC pedigrees. seminars.cfm?page=2 Cotons de Tulear received full FCI recognition in 1971, AKC/FSS status in 1999 and AKC Miscellaneous status on June 27, 2012. Submitted by the USACTC, Inc. Breed Education Committee.
THE STANDARD 9 eye typically require a highly specialized ophthalmologist Make Sure You Have that is fellowship trained in oculofacial plastic and orbital surgery. Trauma or damage to the ocular area should always be assessed by an oculoplastic surgeon to avoid any harm to A the judge’s vision or subsequent disfiguration of the face. As the Executive Director of one of the largest university G d ophthalmology departments in the country, I have FOR A immediate access to the latest technology and treatment modalities for all subspecialty disciplines of ophthalmic Good Dog disease. And, as the CEO of the largest private eye group in the region, I have immediate access to world renowned By: Harry H. “Butch” Schulman, Lt. Col. USAF Retired eye surgeons. But, even my fortunate set of circumstances does not prevent the onset of an ophthalmic episode or egular eye examinations are extremely important as condition because disease has no boundaries. My corrected you continue down the path of life, especially for vision is 20/20 in both eyes. I only wear glasses for reading Rjudges who depend on their eyes in order to see or detail work on the computer. I practically live in Excel proper structure and movement. Comprehensive eye exams spreadsheets on the job, so my eyes are important to my (dilated eye exam) should be performed on an annual basis primary occupation. I suddenly noticed that my central by a licensed eye care professional. Annual comprehensive vision was blurred when I could not see the smaller numbers eye exams are essential because they allow the eye specialist in a financial report. No problem. I just had one of my to monitor ocular health over time, as well as better diagnose senior ophthalmic technicians check my vision and pressure, and assess ophthalmic diseases that slowly progress such as and update my refraction. Much to my surprise, with only glaucoma, macular degeneration, dry eyes syndromes, and a marginal change in my prescribed lenses and 20/20 cataract. Systemic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, corrected vision, my central vision was still blurred. I had and cancer may also affect the eye and cause loss of vision. the technician dilate my eyes and run a quick OCT (optical The eye provides a window into the body through which the eye doctor can noninvasively detect and assess a variety of illnesses that may have gone undiagnosed by the primary care physician. Judges with healthy eyes who wear optical correction (glasses or contacts) should have their lenses updated annually to make sure they have optimal visual acuity. An updated refraction will prevent or decrease the risk of vision related accidents, falls, headaches, and progressive loss of vision. Regular examinations also screen for hereditary eye diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa, myopia, mild strabismus, and retinoblastoma. Certain regions of the country are more allergen prone than others, so judges are susceptible to a sudden onset of allergy related conditions of the eye (which may also result from judging in dirt arenas). Individuals with eye allergies should use artificial tears and a topical coherence tomography test). As she concluded the test and antihistamine like Naphcon-A or Zaditor. put the image on the screen, I could tell by the look on her face that something was definitely wrong. When she asked Methods of disease prevention are just as important as me what retina surgeon I wanted her to call, my heart sunk medical treatment. Judges should wear sunglasses to protect into my stomach. Scary thoughts raced through my mind the eyes outdoors when not in the ring. Smart nutrition is faster than cars around the Indianapolis Speedway. I still also a preventative measure to combat eye disease. Carrots, had to see three of my four children graduate from college. I kale and green leafy vegetables, foods high in antioxidants still had to see two of my daughters in a wedding dress. I still or rich in Omega III fatty acids, dark chocolate, and even had to see the smile on my wife’s face as she held our future red wine are excellent in support of good eye health. Daily grandchildren in her arms. And, although I could sadly give vitamins or ocular supplements like Ocuvite that include up hunting, fishing, and golf, I still wanted to judge Groups lutein and zeaxanthin are also beneficial. and Best in Show. Within seconds, I summoned my boss, Dogs may occasionally catch a judge off guard and scratch the best vitreous retinal surgeon in the country, to my exam the cornea or raise their head and bump the judge’s face. room. He immediately ordered a fluorescein angiography Thus, injuries to the eye like corneal abrasions should be (a test that uses special dye and a camera to look at the treated by either a comprehensive ophthalmologist or blood flow in the retina). After a comprehensive exam, his optometrist. However, recurring corneal erosion may diagnosis was astonishing – Central Serous Retinopahy (an necessitate a visit to a cornea specialist. Lid lacerations or eye condition where fluid accumulates underneath the retina trauma to the orbit of the eye or bone structure around the Continued on page 11 10 THE STANDARD Make Sure You Have a Setting a Precedence Good Eye for a Good Dog By Gina Wieser, AKC Field Representative Continued from page 10 Breed standards were created by passionate individuals in order to portray the perfect blueprint of a specific causing distortion and visual loss. Patients are typically 20- breed. The blueprint is a final design that has been 55 years old and often complain of a sudden, painless loss engineered and tweaked in order to translate a dream of vision. This condition occurs 8-10 times more commonly into a viable structure. If the persons in charge of in men than in women and is more common in Caucasians. It is felt that this may be a stress-related condition as it is following the blueprint fail to do so, the structure is more common in patients with “Type A” personalities. often seriously compromised. The same holds true in Patients may be asymptomatic unless the central part of the breeding, exhibiting, and judging dogs. retina (macula) is affected). I suddenly became apoplectic. That is me; age 52, high energy, “Type A” personality, A) The Architects design the Blueprint over-achiever, takes life too seriously etc. Time for major = The Breed Standard lifestyle changes, i.e. diet modification, exercise program, B) The Engineers & Builders create the structure smoking cessation, relaxation therapy, and enrollment in that Italian language course I’ve always wanted to take. = The Breeders Fortunately, spontaneous visual recovery is very common. C) The Final Inspectors evaluate the structure Approximately 40-50% will recover in less than 6 weeks and for accuracy correlating to the blueprint I have recovered beautifully. But, the point here is that it = The Judge can happen to anyone, so regular eye exams are extremely necessary to safeguard your vision. Judges need to take care of their eyes. Our eyes are the tools of our trade. Without them, we simply cannot judge. Inaccurate vision can result in incorrect placements. Blurred vision caused by ischemic optic neuropathy (damage to the optic nerve) can distort a gorgeous silhouette. Near- sightedness can interfere with a judge’s assessment of the down and back or side movement on the go around, while far-sightedness can cause a judge to miss detail of head or an exquisite expression up close. Judges who are diabetic or on blood pressure medication may have a sudden onset of diplopia where they see two dogs rather than one dog moving down the mat side by side. A retinal detachment can occur without warning where a judge’s vision becomes dark in the middle of an assignment. Do not make the same The importance of this process is monumental to the mistake I did and take your eyes for granted. Even healthy longevity of the structure. If one step of the process eyes require maintenance and care, so please schedule a fails to be completed, the demise of the structure is at vision exam to make sure you still have a good eye for a risk. During your evaluation process, remember that good dog. YOU make the final decision, the person appointed to uphold the breed standard; the person to guide the Harry H. “Butch” Schulman is an approved AKC Judge and works as the Executive Director for the Department breeders towards improving the stock, the person held of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences at the University of in the highest regard, you are the Final Inspection. The Louisville School of Medicine and the Chief Executive consistency of your performance will set the bar for Officer of University of Louisville Physicians-Eye Specialists. generations to come. Set your precedence; do not let He holds a MBA from George Washington University, is a blatant disqualifications and inferior quality pass by Board certified ophthalmic administrator and member of due to silly insecurities about wickets, scales, not being the Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology. liked or not getting an entry. Be true to yourself; be true to our sport… “We are the curators of the living dog museum…” ~ James Keogh, Irish Terrier Breeder 1974
THE STANDARD 11 Perceptions, Reality, Visibility & Responsibility
By Lee Herr, AKC Field Representative
ising cost of gasoline, motels, entry fees… whatever the reason, there is presently an unusual and extraordinarily Rhigh level of scrutiny towards Dog Show Judges. All levels of competition and behavior are being scrutinized by amateur and professional exhibitors alike. Novice and Advanced Amateur exhibitors perceive that the Professional Handlers sometimes use unfair tactics to win constantly, and “Judges only put up handlers anyway.” Ironically, many handlers scrutinize fellow handlers for these same perceptions of unfairness. Whether deserved or not, these perceptions are just as damaging to the sport as reality. Below are a few reminders and suggestions to avoid the perceptions of unfairness and inappropriateness.
1. Use common sense. (i.e.: How would you feel if you saw 8. No comments or remarks are to be made to, or relayed or heard something and it involved you?) to you regarding specific wins, rankings, future show entries. This includes any other remarks or promoting 2. Do not travel with Exhibitors to, from or at shows. This which could be interpreted as attempting to influence includes sharing meals. yours, or any other Judge’s opinions, past or present. 3. If you use the services of an agent, familiarize yourself (a). According to the Encarta Dictionary: with the four months policy... (The Perceptions will In-flu-ence [in floo enss] (verb). To have an effect linger for a longer period however.) on somebody that helps to determine that person’s, 4. Avoid making inappropriate comments which could or other people’s, actions, behavior, or way of lead any exhibitor or spectator to question the honesty thinking. To affect the course of events, somebody’s and integrity of any level of the competition. thinking or action by means of example, argument or force of personality. 5. Avoid extended conversations with Exhibitors. The dog show community is comprised of many longtime (b). According to “Dealing with Misconduct”: friends however ringside or in the ring (before, during Offense I, Section F page 25 or after judging) is not the appropriate time to have that Attempting to influence a Judge is punishable with long extended conversation to renew acquaintances. penalties ranging from 6 mo./ $200 to 5 yr. / $1000. This includes in and around the Group and BIS Rings.
6. Be conscious of the exhibitors who are regularly the The majority of complaints and criticism of judges is “Welcome Wagon” at the Judge’s Hospitality area (this unwarranted and undeserved, however, since Judges is self-explanatory!) have the highest visibility at events, they also have the responsibility to enforce the highest degree of fairness and 7. Control exhibitors and/or spectators from entering a honesty – whether it be perception or reality. ring for the purpose of conversing, whether it’s during judging, between classes or breaks (anytime). No one except a Steward, Superintendent, Judge, Show Official, If you have any questions… Authorized Personnel or AKC Representative is permit- ted to be in the ring when not actively exhibiting. refer back to Reminder #1.
12 THE STANDARD From the Icelandic Sheepdog Association of America, Inc.
Incorrect Examinations of Icelandic Sheepdogs It has come to our attention that on several recent occasions, AKC judges have requested that Icelandic Sheepdogs be examined on tables during conformation events. The most recent occurrences were in June and July at shows in the midwest. We would appreciate the AKC reminding all qualified judges that the AKC table-ramp examination list does not include the Icelandic Sheepdog.
We are taking the appropriate steps to remind and re-educate our members that our approved standard established our breed for floor examinations only, and that neither judges nor exhibitors have the option to select a table or ramp as an alternative.
Upon request, one of our members was given instructions from the AKC on how to resolve the situation at a show where a judge incorrectly requests a table or ramp for examination of our breed. We will be sharing this information widely within our membership, and we ask that you reiterate with your judges that the Icelandic Sheepdog is to be examined on the floor.
B. M. "Spike" Williamson, Jr. Thordur Runolfsson ISM President ISM Judges Education Chair
GAITING By Sydney Good, AKC Field Representative
In the Rules, Policies and Guidelines for group IS NOT PERMISSABLE. In a single Conformation Dog Show Judges, on page dog class, you may have the dog go around 14, it states, “In the first class in which a when it comes into the ring, examine it, and dog is judged, you must INDIVIDUALLY send it down and back. That will suffice. gait and observe the dog GOING AWAY, Your obligation to the Exhibitor is to RETURNING and from the SIDE.” The key examine the dog individually, watch it come wording is MUST and INDIVIDUALLY. and go individually, and watch the side This does not mean watch them coming and going, and then have them stand to movement individually. This must be done the right on the side and then watch them in the first class in which a dog is judged. go around in a group. After coming and Thereafter, either in evaluating that class going and then standing to the side, THEN, or in Winners re-gaiting is optional. You send them around ONE at a time – that MUST observe the side gaiting of an entry, is permissible. Sending them around as a INDIVIDUALLY. That is not an option.
THE STANDARD 13 To All Junior Showmanship Judges By Katie Rudolph
ecently Judging Operations was contacted by the To assist Junior Showmanship judges Judging Rparent of a Junior Showmanship exhibitor asking, Operations created the Junior Showmanship Judging “How do people become a Junior Showmanship Judge Guide which is posted on the AKC website in the and do they know all of the breed standards?” Judges Resource Center. This pictorial guide lists all AKC breeds by Group including the current The answer to the first part of the question is easy and Miscellaneous breeds with a picture, examine on, oral individuals are guided to the Junior Showmanship exam, gaiting speed and presentation guide. Upon Application page on the AKC website. request, the Superintendent or Show Secretary will The second part of the question is a little more difficult. provide the Juniors Judges a list of breeds entered so Junior Showmanship Judges are not expected to they may familiarize themselves with breed specific be experts of every breed that may be presented to presentation techniques prior to their judging. It is them while judging the JS classes; however, they are imperative that you, as the judge, are knowledgeable expected to be familiar with breed specific presentation on the nuances of the presentation for each breed. techniques such as where the breed is to be examined, You cannot effectively evaluate the handling skills proper oral exam, speed of gait, free-stack vs. hand- of the Junior if you do not know the proper gaiting stack, etc. speed, oral exam, place for examination, etc. yourself. Remember, you are judging the ability of the Junior to Concerns have been expressed to Judging Operations properly present their dog, not the quality of the entry that allegedly many Junior Showmanship judges are in relation to the breed standard. not familiar with the nuances associated with the presentation of specific breeds. For example, allegedly Juniors are the future of the sport and judges presiding a Junior exhibiting a Staffordshire Bull Terrier has over these classes must be professional, courteous, and repeatedly been instructed to place the dog on the ensure their directions are clear and auditable for every table for examination. The polite Junior appropriately exhibitor. In doing so, as a JS judge, you will have a mentions to the judge that this breed is not judged positive influence on them and be remembered as a on the table, but the judge still insists. According judge that they respected and enjoyed showing to. to the table-ramp list available on the AKC website, For more information on Junior the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is to be judged on the Junior Showmanship and the responsibilities Showmanship Conformation ground and may also be judged on the ramp at the Junior Showmanship and routine for judging Junior Regulations, Guidelines for Judging Juniors in judge’s discretion. Conformation, Juniors Showmanship please refer to the in Performance Event Regulations Junior Showmanship booklet. Amended to November 8, 2011 You can order this booklet from Published by The American Kennel Club the AKC online store under Rules, Regulations and Resources.
Judging Juniors
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EDITOR Ring Procedure • Evaluating Dogs • The Approval Process Ines Maldonado Las Vegas, NV • March 29, 2014 In conjunction with the Silver State Kennel Club show CONTRIBUTORS Mary Dukes Harrisburg, PA • April 12, 2014 Sydney Good In conjunction with the Harrisburg Kennel Club show Lee Herr Katie Rudolph Harry H. “Butch” Schulman Gina Wieser AKC Advanced Judges Institutes
PRODUCTION EDITOR Orlando, FL • Thursday – Sunday, December 12 -15, 2013 Susan Judge AKC/DJAA Advanced Working and Non-Sporting Institute In conjunction with the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship and the Orlando Cluster of Dog Shows DESIGNER Monica Tate
PUBLISHED BY The American Kennel Club for Judging Junior Showmanship Seminars Approved Conformation and Yuma, AZ • Sunday, Dec 1, 2013 Junior Showmanship Judges In conjunction with the WDJAA and Imperial Valley Kennel Club show West Springfield, MA • Saturday, Dec 7, 2013 In conjunction with the Eastern Dog Club show
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© 2013 The American Kennel Club To view the complete listing of seminars and to download registration forms, click here.