yearRETRIEVER 2 - number 2 - RCI newsletter magazine

England tackles canine Snowy championship Debby Kay and the A dog’s diet: health and welfare in Scotland functional Labrador starch l’editorialel’editoriale

1979-2009: Thirty years old and the Club is off to a new start

Every birthday is an occasion for taking stock of one’s life. Thirty years for our Club is a milestone that has brought with it great novelties. Last year the restyling of the Club saw the creation of individual breed sections together with a section dedicated to work. From January of this year, these sections have become autonomous, also in an economic sense, and this should act as a catalyst for them to launch their own initiatives in this issue:  Skimming through old year books of the Club, I noticed that at the first Club Show in October 1981 there were 20 entries, and the event was described as a nice day spent among friends. It was the beginning of an adventure bringing us to where we are today, with more than 400 entries at Club Shows. With regards to the atmosphere – well, that is not always so friendly. Editorial from the President - by Elena Casolari Videsott • •England tackles canine health and welfare - by Patty Fellows Competition and the wish to be first at all costs is pervasive, shadowing what could be the •Let’s enter the ring - by Cinzia Sgorbati opportunity for appraisers of our breeds to confront subjects in a serene setting. At times •An English-style field trial with quails - by Martino Salvo discussions around the ring are similar to comments overheard at the pub, about ‘bought’ and ‘sold’ referees and so forth. •Snowy championship in Scotland - by Phil Wagland •Tellington Touch - by Fabio Nicodemi  It may seem unpleasant that I use the context of our 30 year- anniversary to talk about •Debby Kay and the functional Labrador - by Patty Fellows this unpleasant topic. Nevertheless, improving the atmosphere at our competitions – •A dog’s diet: starch - by Lucia Casini whether shows or working trials - by isolating those who do not behave properly and, at the same time, helping new people feel at ease in our world, is one of the toughest challenges Let’s help this puppy grow - by Cinzia Stefanini • that our Club faces in the immediate future.And here I arrive at our second painful topic: •Fuga d’inverno in Liguria - by Patty Fellows today we have 500 to 600 members, and this number is not sufficient to represent the •Winter escape in Liguria - by Gianni Dainotti thousands of retrievers in Italy. Attracting more people to our Club has to be one of our •Notonlyretrievers – books, tv, gifts, news priorities, and we can accomplish this, as we have started to do with Family Days, by edited by Patty Fellows and Alessandra Franchi offering events and courses to help people deal with owning pets, or simply by offering occasions for lovers of our breeds to get together.

Martino Salvo The future of the RCI rests with its future members.We hope that by creating individual editor sections to decentralize a series of activities, the Central Council will be able to focus its energies on important institutional themes linked to breeding, illegal importations and the Patty Fellows welfare of our dogs – making you hear loud and clearly the voice of the Club. writers Dr. Elena Casolari Videsott – RCI President Alessandra Franchi writers

Leonardo Langiu layout/graphics

The RCI does not necessarily agree with or support the ideas published in every article, which freely express the opinions of individual authors. show world show world

to suspend its involvement with all KC dog shows and events, including Crufts.

The RSPCA explained that one of the reasons behind its decision to pull support for Crufts was the “worryingly low genetic diversity in pedigree dogs” today. In the field of population genetics, the level of inbreeding Crufts 2009 moves ahead (the “COI” or coefficient of inbreeding) in a particular despite row over population, such as a dog breed, is influenced by several BBC documentary factors: population size, the number of founders, use of popular sires, genetic isolation due to a closed registry as well as the practice of cosanguineous matings. This use of the term ‘inbreeding’ can create confusion, as evidenced by the BBC program’s accusation that the “deliberate mating of dogs that are close relatives is common practice.” As the KC responded, mating close relatives was a practice used in early years to BRITAIN TACKLES establish breed attributes, but is a rare practice among responsible breeders today. The KC recently decided canine health and welfare to preclude the possibility of close matings by imposing a ban on the registration of puppies from any mother/ by Patty Fellows son, father/daughter or brother/sister mating, taking place on or after 1st March 2009. For many, it signaled the ‘before’ and ‘after’ of dog showing in Britain. BBC documentary Pedigree Dogs Exposed sent shock waves throughout the UK dog world, generating negative publicity for the Since the controversy erupted, the KC has attempted Golden Retriever being assessed in Crufts show ring UK Kennel Club (“KC”) and purebred dog breeders. As a consequence, this year’s Crufts, Britain’s to allay dog owners’ concerns and present fairly their premier showcase for dogs, will no longer be covered by the BBC and has lost the support of its position and the work the club has undertaken to major corporate sponsor and a few animal charities. On a more positive note, exhibitors and show The first setback for the KC following the BBC address canine health issues. Their 2004 Breed Health organizers are working together in an unprecedented fashion to ensure that Crufts 2009 is an even documentary occurred on September 15, when the Survey, carried out on 52,000 dogs in the UK with the bigger success, and the KC has stepped up its campaigns to deal with canine health and welfare RSPCA, an animal welfare charity, cancelled its stand help of the Animal Trust, found that 90% of surveyed issues. at Crufts and the KC’s Discover Dogs show, citing dogs do not suffer from health problems negatively the need to develop more health-focused breeding affecting their quality of life. Furthermore, the survey Aired last August, Pedigree Dogs Exposed portrays in some breeds are paying a terrible price for the strategies and steps to increase genetic diversity. shows that only 2% of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels a crisis within the world of purebred dogs, suggesting inbreeding being carried out: “If dog breeders insist on This decision was closely followed by Dogs Trust, suffer from syringomyelia, a long mark from the 1/3 that serious genetic diseases and conditions are the going further down that road I can say with confidence another dog welfare charity. Dogs Trust explained that reported in Pedigree Dogs Exposed. result of decades of inbreeding and the emphasis that there is a universe of suffering for many of these its decision to withdraw support was intended as a to win at all costs in the show ring, placing “looks breeds and many, if not most, will not survive.” message to the KC and breeders to take immediate The KC has outlined three ongoing strategies to deal over and above function and health”. action to ensure that the health and wellbeing of with canine health and welfare. Regarding science Sensational footage shows a Cavalier King pedigree dogs is ranked over appearance and breed and research, the KC actually enabled the study of dog Charles Spaniel in agony with the brain standards. Unlike the RSPCA, Dogs Trust disease syringomyelia, estimated by the stated that it was engaged in talks with the program to affect up to 1/3 of the breed, and KC to help bring about changes, and that a boxer suffering from epilepsy. Scientists it hoped to reassume its relationship once at Imperial College are cited for finding that animal welfare points were put into place. pugs in the UK are so inbred that “although there are 10,000 of them, it is the equivalent The following month pet food brand of just 50 distinct individuals - making them Pedigree ended its 40-year sponsorship more genetically compromised than the giant of Crufts, estimated at £500,000 per year. panda.” The documentary also mentions Spokesmen for the manufacturer Mars breeds like the bulldog, whose physical refused to comment on whether the decision exaggerations have led to “such an unnatural had been influenced by the documentary, shape that they can no longer mate or give stating only that the Pedigree brand had birth unassisted.” decided to prioritize initiatives supporting a broad community of dog owners. Another Steve Jones, Professor of Genetics at blow for Crufts occurred on November 5, University College London, comments in when the PDSA, the UK’s leading veterinary an interview during the broadcast that dogs Health screening stand at Crufts charity, announced that it had also decided Crufts agility competition

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group competitions at the show. Twelve of these breeds are under review by the KC, to which the BBC added the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Rhodesian Ridgeback, citing viewers’ reaction to Pedigree Dogs Exposed. The BBC has televised Crufts for the past 42 years, and last year was estimated to reach over 14 An introduction to million viewers in the UK and thousands showing dogs more overseas.

KC Chairman Ronnie Irving regrets the impasse, commenting that Crufts this year will focus on dog health and welfare, care and training and charitable work. The event will highlight “the remarkable diversity of Chairman of KC Charitable Trust with dogs and activities on show at Crufts”, with a rescue dog special tribute to “the unsung heroes who LET’S ENTER THE RING take part in breed rescue.” Mr. Irving has genetics at Imperial College cited in the documentary, called on breeders and exhibitors to “join forces, stick by Cinzia Sgorbati and is planning to use its findings in future work. As well together and defeat those who would like to see an as funding other research projects, the club actively end to dog shows.” promotes health testing schemes and DNA tests, and Article 2 of the SPECIAL RULES FOR CANINE EXPOSITIONS recently approved by ENCI (the Italian publishes the results of these tests. It also works with Author Jessica Holm - a BBC journalist, breeder and Kennel Club) and in effect from 1 January 2009 states: Canine expositions are trials in which dogs are individual breed clubs, like the Cavalier King Charles exhibitor – called the row over Pedigree Dogs Exposed examined and judged for their beauty and exterior conformation, with respect to the official standard for Spaniel Club, to find ways to improve breed health and a nightmare that has nontheless functioned as a “wake each breed. From this examination exhibited subjects receive a qualification based on a comparison of help eliminate disease. up call”. She believes that what is needed now is more their qualities to the ideal traits of the breed to which they belong. A classification is also obtained by exposure, not less, with attention directed towards the comparing the relative qualities of these subjects…. Another strategy is the Accredited Breeder Scheme, many positive achievements of the purebred dog world. which offers guidelines of responsible breeding Her recent article in Dog World newspaper elicited 150 The above article explains the aims of the dog and at times their opinion can lack complete technical practices to safeguard the future health of purebred comments from readers, many supporting the KC and exposition, which should function as a comparison of understanding. dogs. Over 2,500 breeders have already signed dog shows. If this is any indication, hopefully British subjects belonging to different owners and breeders. up, and the KC actively monitors their activities and people and their dogs will indeed move ahead together. An open and correct competition is, in fact, a useful We should also remember that the critique, even when encourages people to buy puppies only from these way to gain an understanding of the relative quality of formulated by a judge who is a breed expert, is breeders. dogs presented at a show. nevertheless subjective. This can lead to confusion in the minds of people who attend shows for the first time Thirdly, the KC’s ‘Fit for Function – Fit for Life’ educational Shows are an opportunity to continually learn more and find it difficult to understand how, for example, in campaign – aimed at breeders and judges – seeks to about your breed, so that you can gain personal, one weekend the same dog can receive the qualification curtail “the process of exaggeration of some features first-hand knowledge, which will also help you to of “Very Good” on Saturday from judge A and the next to the detriment of dogs’ health” and to train judges to develop a critical sense. A judge’s critique should not day win under judge B. “ensure prizes are given only to healthy dogs.” In early be regarded as foolproof: it is important to be able to December, the KC issued health plans to all breed distinguish correct evaluations from those that are In any case bad behavior on the part of exhibitors clubs, made up of revised interim breed standards and less appropriate. Judges are not always breed experts towards a judge is inexcusable. If you believe that a information about diseases and conditions within each judge’s critique is incorrect, the best action is to refrain breed. Revised breed standards include amendments from bringing your dogs to be judged by him in the to preclude excessive weight in Labradors, and a future. move to stop breeders from exaggerating substance in Clumber Spaniels, to ensure that they are fit for their It is important to remember that the exposition plays a original purpose of working in the field. Once feedback Yorick and Yasmin, two rescue mongrels who are double role, as both a competition and a form of has been received on these plans, the KC will go to the now Hearing Dogs for the Deaf aggregation. In fact, it provides us with the possibility next step, examining genetic diversity in each breed’s of sharing many experiences with our dogs, at times exciting, and to pass a pleasurable day in the company gene pool. The RCI would like to thank the Kennel Club for having reviewed the content of this article for its of friends and other competitors. The KC met its latest setback when protacted talks fairness and accuracy and for providing photos from with the BBC about televising Crufts 2009 reached an the Kennel Club Picture Library Shows can take place, in some seasons, outside on impasse: the KC refused to comply with the BBC’s www.dogimages.org.uk/. grass lawns or in a large open space. Otherwise, they demand to exclude 14 breeds considered ‘at risk’ from Flat Coated presented “free stand”. can take place inside an exposition hall or pavilion. In

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drink, pick up your numbers, and so on. and it is very nice to see him positioned Remember that your mood is transmitted to in front of his handler, wagging his tail your dogs, and if for some reason you are while he observes him with an attentive irritated or agitated they will sense this. expression.

It is very important to present your dog well. It is very important to study the terrain. Your aim should be to show the judge your dog in the best condition, so that he can evaluate In mild weather, when the ring is outside, his type, qualities and even temperament in it is a good habit to inspect beforehand relation to the canons of the breed standard. the terrain to avoid holes and depressions, so that you can position him on a flat surface and avoid placing his forelegs on lower ground.

In covered shows, usually held in exposition areas, it is useful to check if Create your own space with respect to other exhibitors. there are strips of carpet, manholes or changes in surface (for example, from a both cases we should always keep in mind that it a carpet strip to cement) that can disturb In outdoor shows exhibitors and their dogs can spend a nice day stressful situation for our dogs, most of all for those your dog. together. that experience it for the first time. Bringing a cage will give your dog the possibility to relax during the time As the judge will ask all dogs and their presenters to good distance from the judge, at the same time you have to wait before and after presenting him in the repeat the same presentation sequence, it is a good considering the terrain as mentioned earlier. ring. You often see people at shows who chat for long idea to understand what he wants so that you can be periods of time while keeping their dogs on a lead, prepared ahead of time. If necessary, help you dog stay relaxed and docile without realizing how difficult it is for them to support while his teeth and trunk are examined. When you the stress created by the general confusion. Be especially careful with male dogs: growling and are asked to move, your dog should move as Golden presented in “stacking” position. barking are unacceptable behaviors in the ring, where elegantly as possible, without force and a good It is difficult to present an overexcited dog when dogs’ temperaments are also being assessed. A distance from you so that he can be observed entering the ring, as he will not concentrate on his It is also indispensable to recognize your dog’s assets retriever should always be docile and without signs of perfectly and so that he can be free to place all of handler. On the other hand, a tired dog, who has had and defects, so that you can try to valorize the first aggression. Finding himself in a stressful situation in his force in the action. Preparatory training is useful to endure the show atmosphere, will probably enter and minimize the second. For a good judge the first which many other males are present can certainly because each dog presents himself best in the ring exhausted and cannot be presented in the impression is important, so try to enter the ring and influence your dog’s behavior, however, and it is up to movement at a different speed, which can be best condition. immediately position your dog to his best advantage. you to reassure him and calm him down. completely different from one subject to the next. Assuring that the judge immediately makes a favorable first impression is important and can With respect to fellow competitors, try to create your When you choose a puppy you hope to show in be very helpful to what follows. own space. You should neither be “timid” by allowing future remember that his disposition is also others to position in front of you to capture the judge’s important. Some are naturally more “exhibitionist” Showing dogs is not as easy as it seems when attention, or too invasive so that you penalize other and love to be shown. It is much easier to tone down observing from ringside. A good presentation exhibitors. When running all together be careful to the excitement level of a happy and exuberant dog should never be too evident or invasive. Your keep a distance from those ahead of you and behind than to heighten or give determination to a “limp” dog should be presented in a natural way, with you. dog, and for this reason training for the ring and to his attention focused on you, and you should be presented to a judge should always have positive avoid being the protagonist and stealing the When it is your turn to be judged place your dog a connotations. scene in such a way that the judge is focused only on you. An enthusiastic subject is much more eye catching than a dog who performs In most countries the Labrador is presented perfectly but only out of duty. “free stand”, that is, in front of his handler with Cinzia Sgorbati a loose lead around his neck (never leave the The foundation of a good presentation lead on the ground: in England it is prohibited With her husband Sergio, should be, as in work, a good rapport Moving your dog to his best advantage requires good and considered too theatrical). In “stacking” Cinzia breeds Labradors between you and your dog. If he loves training beforehand. the dog is held in position generally with one hand under the name of and respects you, with trust and under his chin and the other under his tail (see Golden). Dolphingham. She is also a dedication, he will always look at you It’s a good rule to arrive well ahead of the starting time. field trial judge for retrievers. as if you are the most important thing in You will then have time to calmly find the best place to With the Labrador free stand is generally preferred the world, and he will willingly do place your cages, settle your dogs and allow them to because he is considered a very active and joyful dog, whatever you ask of him.

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Morocco and is difficult to rear in captivity. With a cost up to 35 euros, it is almost impossible to be able to buy enough game for a trial with 30 dogs.

With this in mind, the organizing committee proposed to the Club to hold the first field trial in English style on quails only, offering only the CAC (national title), and excluding the CACIT (international title). Given their greater numbers, quails cost about 2 euros each, and “there’s always this would certainly mean many more retrieves for a first time” each dog.

When news spread about this novelty competitors were at first puzzled and doubtful, concerned that: •a trial not offering CACIT would probably attract fewer participants; Judges Franco Abati and Moira Frank •the use of small birds in such difficult and harsh grounds would make retrieves more difficult and Frank, to tell us what they thought about this trial: AN ENGLISH-STYLE increase the likelihood of hard mouth. What was your general impression of this trial? In fact, both in training and hunting, pheasants are normally used. They are much bigger and heavier than Moira Frank: “I think it has been a fascinating and Field Trial with Quails quails, and gundogs are used to finding and retrieving difficult trial, both in consideration of the small size of by Martino Salvo them properly. the quails and the very difficult grounds. This trial brought to light the dogs with the most experience and most control, very Three days of trials in the “French” and “English” style were held in Sardinia, near beautiful Aggius, a often being asked to hunt a narrow favourite resort of the 20th century Italian poet Gabriele D’Annunzio. For the second year RCI members area, whilst temptation to hunt at large Nando Langiu and Massimo Balata organized the event for approx. 30 handler-dog teams, on the estate was very high. I remember in particular “Il Muto di Gallura”, well known for its wild and fascinating grounds. the last day in which the two best dogs were unable to find the last quail, Due to regional regulations in Sardinia only which was then found by the judges, autochthonous species can be hunted. In consequence giving them an eyewipe (the penalty In this issue we’d like to continue talking trials can be organized only on ducks, quails and for not having found a bird that could about retriever field trials in Italy by turning Sardinian partridges (Alectoris Barbara). As pheasants have been found). This proves the to what is currently a hot topic: the high cost were not available, the choice fell upon the first two: in difficulty of the ground. Overall, this of game and how this reflects on the the three French- style trials partridges were hunted, has been a very positive experience, organization of “English-style” field trials. and in the English-style trial quails. more adapted to dogs that also go hunting and therefore have more A good walk up trial requires plenty of game In the past few years trial participants have felt the experience.” on the ground so that a sufficient quantity increasing weight of entry fees, which must take into can be found by the flushing or pointing account organizational costs (judges’ expenses and Franco Abati: ”It has been a useful dogs (usually Springer Spaniels) while the game), as well as their own costs of travel and lodging. experience from all points of view, that line of guns and competitors advance. As the cost of partridge or pheasant can range A group of contestants with the spaniel used for the walk up should be repeated and improved between 20 and 27 euros per head, in order to keep upon. This has been the first trial with Unfound game will fly away, never to be entry fees as low as possible, competitors are normally a lot of game.” found. Consequently, the organizing allowed just a couple of retrieves in each trial (with the Nevertheless, a good 11 dogs met at the trial, and the committee has to find the right balance exception of the few dogs that finish the trial). experience was a very good one. What about our retrievers on this new kind of between keeping costs reasonable and the game? need for multiple retrieves to assess dogs. As it is impossible to significantly reduce entry fees One thing that could be appreciated was that, with the (normally about 75 euros for each dog on each day of absence of the CACIT, participation was limited to Moira Frank: “I would say they all behaved really well. In this article we’ll talk about a new the trial), alternative solutions are being explored in dogs that probably still needed experience in this type Considering the distances and obstacles (ie, stone of highly selective competition. They also had the walls and thick Mediterranean vegetation), the retrieves experience we recently had in Sardinia at order to make more game available to dogs during trials. opportunity to make many retrieves, as many as 7 or would have been difficult even with pheasants. the beginning of December, in a trial that all 8, which is very uncommon in our CACIT trials. Certainly in this trial dogs needed impeccable marking, agree produced some good results. In this instance, the local partridge is found naturally excellent game finding ability, as well as experience only in limited numbers in Sardinia, Corsica and We asked the two judges, Franco Abati and Moira and training. Handlers needed to be very concentrated

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to mark the small birds, which fell into thick cover, so they could help their dogs if needed. No dog proved to be hard mouthed.”

Franco Abati: “ All dogs did well. Fear that dogs could crush many quails proved itself ungrounded. I’m pretty certain that hard mouth has no connection with the dimension and weight of game. If a dog is hard mouthed, he will be so with any kind of game. Report of the In this trial no dog was eliminated for being so. 2008 Retriever Moreover, to be able to find quails dogs must have a Championship really good nose. I would like to compliment Carlo Guggia for his spaniels, which did a really good job, and presented us with three super walk up trials” Even with small quails retrievers had a soft mouth, indispensable for gundogs “SNOWY CHAMPIONSHIP can be a first step to preparing teams for CACIT trials. In other countries such as France, where there are two titles for IN SCOTLAND” field champions – “French” and “English” – this solution has already by Phil Wagland been used and has allowed many dogs and their handlers to “get their feet wet” Wintry weather in early December made it a memorable Retriever Championship as the Lammermuir before going on to compete against Hills were clothed in snow. The IGL was provided with three superb days of trialling through the teams at an international standard: the kind invitation of the Duke of Northumberland and Messrs Landon, Young and Wallace, and with same rules and difficulty, but with more the co-operation of Eskdale Shooting Services. 48 dogs had qualified, but last year’s champion of a chance for less expert and three others were unable to run, including one of the two Golden Retrievers. Black Labradors teams to succeed. naturally predominated, but 8 Yellow Labradors were on the card. The results of this trial can be viewed on the RCI The first ever Chocolate Labrador to qualify, Pintail The first foreign competitor to qualify contributed Contestants wait their turn during a website: Hector of Styleside was handled by Ged Leeson. to the uniqueness of the event. Kurt Becksteiner walk up www.retrieversclub.it. from Austria was running his Golden Retriever, Int.F.T.Ch. Bell Oktave Apollo. Did you experience any A Labrador returning to his One Welshman, one Irishman, and 8 handler after retrieving a difficulties working with quails? quail. Scots were also competing. We met on 1st December on Burncastle Moira Frank: “I didn’t encounter any Spaniel searching quails Estate, keepered by Colin Adamson, who particular problems. Nevertheless I during the walk up. had worked hard to prepare the ground. think that in a future trial it would be In cold, fine weather there was a light better to use quails along with other cover of snow on the flanks of the valley game to be able to test the dogs in of Earnscleugh Water. The line stretched different situations.” up the steep slopes of the west flank, with the gallery watching from the east Franco Abati: “Thick cover doesn’t suit quails. And as side of the valley. Bill Ferguson from quails do not easily fly in bad weather, trials on quails Scotland and Welshman Mark Bettinson can be risky with bad weather forecasts. We were judged on the lower slopes to the right, lucky and the weather was very good during the three whilst Englishman Nigel Rowson and days, so all went well.” Dermot Donnelly from Ireland were the left hand judges on the upper slope. As we can appreciate, even the judges gave positive Early retrieves were on the hillside, with feedback on the use of quails in an English-style trial. Billy Steel Sr, soon in action with F.T.Ch. But aside from game considerations, this experience Competitors make their way to the ground at Leadburn Viceroy. Phil Highfield then shows that a competition without an international title Burncastle on the first day. made his mark with Levenghyl Bee of Featherfly

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completing an eyewipe on a runner going a short there were some retrieves uphill on moorland into of the kale. Walking up the tall snow-covered kale way into bracken. As the walk-up progressed there the wind. Here there were eyewipes for Sandra was difficult and dogs needed to mark accurately were a number of retrieves downhill over a fence Halstead with F.T.Ch. Levenghyl Silvercloud as scent was poor. Richard Hinks’ F.T.Ch. Claravale onto a steep bluff facing the river. There was a of Drakeshead and for the Austrian Tide of Garronpoint completed an eyewipe, and Eddy steady supply of pheasants, plus occasional rabbits, Golden Retriever “Apollo” handled by Kurt Finn put out two dogs with the 8 year old Lochmuir woodcock and partridge. Becksteiner. From the left the dogs were Shannon of Tirgarve. Next a woodcock in the deep sent behind or across the valley for birds kale defeated 3 dogs and was picked by the judges. lying on short snow-covered grass. As we A hen flew on and dropped a long way forward, and closed for the day the first round had been the retrieve by F.T.Ch. Hillus Clyde drew applause for completed and the second just commenced. Billy Steel Jr. Sandra Halstead’s “Cloud” took time to The 44 runners had been reduced to 28, pick in the kale, then Kurt Becksteiner went out when 2 out for unsteadiness, 9 eyewiped, and 5 “Apollo” picked the wrong bird of two shot at a narrow discarded for less good work. angle. Philippa Williams’ Levenghyl Isle of Aaran quickly picked the other. This was the last retrieve M Bettinson (judge) watches John Halsted junior Tuesday was cloudy and more snow had of the round. Of the 28 second round contenders 4 complete an eyewipe with F.T.CH.Dargdaffin fliss fallen overnight. The Tollishead beat of had been eyewiped by other dogs, 3 eyewiped by of Snowdell over Keith Bedford’ dog standing nearby. the Faccombe Estate, keepered by Gary the judges, 1 picked the wrong bird, and 5 were Wright, was the venue. With the crowd discarded for poorer work. the next block of kale. The next dog to try was the watching from near the Kelphope Burn, older Billy Steel’s “Viceroy” and after a hunt through the walk up started in rough grass on the the next block of cover the runner was collected to west side of the valley. Dick Sorley’s F.T.Ch. earn significant credit in the judges’ books. Four Anson Anne of Denbank impressed with an more soon fell by the wayside. Richard Hinks’ “Tide” eyewipe on a runner. Another yellow dog, picked after it was called up. Then Judith White’s Keith Broomfield’s Noiroche Aperitif did “Scout” failed first dog down on a runner, and Lynn excellent work on a wounded woodcock Mitchell’s yellow dog “Just William” lacked control near some pines. As we came close to a when second dog down. Next John Douglas’ fast fenced area of kale Tess Lawrence came yellow dog was eyewiped by Keith Broomfield’s into line. She was immediately asked to “Aperitif”, which also picked a woodcock quickly. send for a rabbit already down. F.T.Ch. Others managed to stay the course. Several rabbits Levenghyl Cranefly picked it from the edge were shot, lying on snowy rides, These provided retrieves for Mrs Reid’s “Clyde” handled by young Billy Steel, for Noel Bayley’s Craighorn Abby, and for Sandra Halstead’s “Silvercloud”.

The round was completed on pheasants, including two for Tess Lawrence with “Cranefly”. The action The valley of the Kelphope Burn was the setting for the was not over, as two pheasants were shot beyond walk-up on the second day. the boundary wall and fence. The first was a runner, which put paid to Alan Schofield’s chances with F.T.Ch. Eastdale Guss. After a delay the other was Rape had been sown on a gentler sloping field picked by Sandra Halstead’s “Silvercloud”, at 2 years bordered by fences with parallel wire. This proved old the youngest on the card. One more bird was good holding cover for game. As there was no shot behind the line, but Philippa Williams’ black The judges go through their books. barbed wire and good visibility the judges were able dog “Aaran” struggled to find in high kale. Thus the to send dogs for cross retrieves. Some dogs tackled third round had accounted for 9 dogs, 3 eyewiped, 3 the fence more confidently than others. There were This left 15 dogs for a third round, of two retrieves first dog down, two taking too long to pick, and one eyewipes for the Labradors handled by Richard each. Snow was falling and this stage of the trial lacking control. This left only 6 for the final day. King, Polly Dunckley, Vicky Bruton and John Halsted was to prove quite eventful. Dick Sorley’s “Anne” More snow fell overnight and care was needed on Jr. The yellow Labradors of Scotsmen Dick Sorley immediately mismarked down the line and was snow-packed lanes approaching the meet back at and John Douglas caught the eye for their pace and eyewiped by Mike Jennings’ F.T.Ch. Tripalong Toby Burncastle. Three of the six handlers had previously style. Lunch was taken at the end of the rape field. of Fordleymoor. Soon after “Toby” went out first won the Championship : Sandra Halstead, Billy Steel dog down on a runner. Jayne Coley’s bitch F.T.Ch. Jr, and Tess Lawrence defending last year’s title. Of The afternoon commenced with a drive, birds being Waterford Easter built on earlier nice work, with the others Billy Steel Sr. has been runner up. Noel flushed from woods on Lylestone Hill, presenting a classic blind retrieve on a wounded woodcock Bayley from Cheshire and Keith Broomfield from challenging targets as they flew to the valley. The tucked into bracken on the hillside. Unfortunately her Hampshire were the other contenders. We started high numbered dogs were in line for the drive on Kurt Becksteiner with Bell Oktave Apollo next bird was a strong cock runner, and as “Easter” with a walk up in the rape cover crop, more snowy two sides of a broad tributary valley. On the right (1st foreign competitor at the Championship) hunted the kale the bird escaped across a path into and frosty than on the first day. A hen shot in the

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over the brow onto a steep bluff facing the river. There retrieves and the 2008 Championship the dog found out of sight, to complete an excellent was concluded. As always the retrieve. After seven retrieves for all four dogs the judges had been looking for the best judges went through their books and then called game-finding dogs, showing accurate for a drive. This is standard practice as Field Trial marking, handling when necessary, Champions need to be steady and quiet at drives as but also showing good noses and well as in the traditional walked up trials. hunting ability. Some had shone on longer, harder retrieves, collected The 8 guns lined up high on the slopes, a good runners, or completed eyewipes, distance from the watching crowd, as the beaters where other dogs had failed. The brought in the ground of Trow Hill. More than enough dog which had been most consistent birds were quickly dropped. Following this three of and taken its chance was a 3 year the dogs retrieved woodcock, and the fourth collected old Black Labrador bitch “Craighorn a pheasant. Four dogs had managed to complete 8 Abby”, bred in Scotland and sired by last year’s Retriever Champion Willowyck Ruff. Abby was owned and handled by Noel Bayley from Cheshire.

The IGL President Richard Parker The winner Noel Bayley with Craighorn Abby, which gave profuse thanks to the sponsors Skinners, the became a Field Trial Champion by winning the 2008 landowners and keepers, the guns, and to Secretary IGL Retriever Championship. Philip Wainwright and his helpers. All who were there will agree it was a Championship memorable for the stunning snow-clad scenery, exemplary organization, RESULTS: and some firsts among the competitors. The prizes 1) Noel Bayley’s Labrador dog Craighorn Abby were kindly presented by Earl Percy, on behalf of the (born 25-5-05). Walking up the snow covered kale. landowners. 2) Billy Steel Senior’s Labrador dog F.T.Ch. With judge Nigel Rowson are Sandra Halstead and Kurt Becksteiner. Leadburn Viceroy As the winner was announced supporters sweetly 3) Sandra Halstead’s Labrador bitch F.T.Ch. sang “No-el, No-el, No-el, No-el, he is the king of the Levenghyl Silvercloud of Drakeshead middle of the line was smartly marked I G L” to the tune of the well known carol. 4) Mrs A Reid’s Labrador dog F.T.Ch. Hillus by “Viceroy”, a comfortable start for Clyde (Handler Billy Steel Junior) Billy Steel Sr. The next bird was a wounded cock. As the only yellow The four judges. From L-R Nigel Rowson (England), dog left in, “Aperitif” had impressed for two days, but Bill Ferguson (Scotland), Dermot Donnelly (Ireland), QUOTES: this time overshot the mark, was slow to respond to Mark Bettinson (Wales). Mark Bettinson (Judge) “It was very exciting and the whistle, and Keith Broomfield’s challenge came interesting to judge the Championship on such to an end. As second dog down, Tess Lawrence kept Phil super ground.” “Cranefly” close to the fall in the kale, but scent was poor and when she lifted her head for help a couple Chris Brain (First time competitor) “A fantastic of times she was called up. This was Noel Bayley’s Wagland experience, I look forward to doing better next chance, with “Abby” hunting resolutely to pick the time”. runner a short distance away in the heavy cover. An eyewipe at this stage is always a bonus, and Kurt Becksteiner (from Austria) “It was a privilege this meant there were only four left. Next two hen I am a retired teacher aged 70, who has to be the first foreign competitor to qualify. birds were killed simultaneously. “Clyde” needed no had working Golden Retrievers for 35 Amazingly I was not nervous, though trials are help from Billy Steel Jr, but Sandra Halsted handled years. I am an A panel judge, and the more stressful than flying an aeroplane. ” “Silvercloud” briefly for the second. A cock bird secretary of two Retriever Clubs. was shot on the far right. The 3 year old “Viceroy” Kevin Jackson (Spectator) “The setting was was handled the distance by Billy Steel Sr. to pick spectacular and the best dogs showed through successfully. The Retrievers Club Italiano deeply in the end.” thanks the author Mr Phil Wagland and “Abby” and “Silvercloud” each completed the round Shooting Times for letting us have this Noel Bayley (Winning Handler) “ The dog has with marked pheasants in the kale. Meanwhile a report gone well this year, but now I am on top of the woodcock had been shot on the far right. Billy Steel The four award winners in line for the run-offs world”. Jr. handled “Clyde” over the fence on the right, and on the 3rd day.

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the resulting effect is generally more lasting. Other combinations to manipulate the skin rather than the movements, such as gently lifting and dropping various deeper muscular system. parts of the body are used in combination with the circular movements. Then, there is the use - somewhat TTOUCH differs from massage, which works on the different from normal - of bandages, T-shirts and other muscular system, in that it activates the cells and “tools” (leads, collars, harnesses, sticks etc.) used in stimulates the nerve endings just under the surface a coordinated way during the exercises for increasing of the skin to awaken the central nervous system - a self-confidence and body awareness. little like “turning on the electric lights of the body”. improve the mental, Awakening this connection means having the possibility emotional and physical To the casual observer all this could appear to be an to reorganize the models of behaviour previously learnt well-being of animals educational method or traditional training as leads, and being able to improve the general well-being of collars and harnesses are often employed. the animal along with the more specific e.g. assisting pain. New and more appropriate behaviours can be The difference, however, lies in the way the possibility learnt more easily and the rapport between animal and to learn is provided. These techniques encourage and animal, and animal and human improved. ® lead the animal to concentrate and think for himself in ways often not seen in traditional training. This From scientific knowledge we know that we humans method has nothing to do with methods based on deal with emotional problems in the cellular receptors TELLINGTON TTOUCH operant conditioning or with other traditional systems. over all the body. And, also from scientific knowledge, we know that for animals it is the same! by Fabio Nicodemi TTOUCH recognizes the locations influenced by the Some time ago, after I stopped actively competing in the show and working world, I turned my attention emotions and by behaviour and hence, modifying the to searching for answers to a couple of increasingly pressing questions: why was the relationship locations to release the schemes of tension with the between my dogs and myself becoming so important and indispensable to me? What could I do to body our animals can become more open to change. insure that the second phase of our life together should be of the best possible quality? This is the motive why an undesirable behaviour can diminish or often disappear altogether. While I was searching for possible answers, among Some years have passed since then and I am more the various seminars I attended at the time, there was than happy to assure you that what I had to guess There are many uses of TTOUCH. It can be employed one that particularly impressed me. It was one which at then has become, with some experience after to resolve behavioural problems such as aggression, involved using a combination of specific touches with studying the method in depth, really something quite excessive barking, chewing, the fingers and hands all over the bodies of the dogs extraordinary and useful for the physical and mental vomiting, reluctance to travel present (one of which was mine). It also involved a well-being of our animal companions. in the car,, fear of loud noises, new way of walking with the dogs using more than So, Mind and Body! Here then, finally, is what I unsociable behaviour towards one lead at a time. There were small obstacles which have been able to learn and to share with my dogs. I believe that this method should people , other dogs or other seemed banal to me and also surfaces that differed Today I am completely convinced that this method not be underestimated either animals, excessive timidity, slightly from the more normal. I realised that many has played no small part in increasing the reciprocal when used on its own or in excitability, lack of equilibrium, of the dogs, some of which came to the seminar with understanding and communication between my dogs combination with other methods jumping up, pulling on the lead, various behavioral or physical problems, seemed to be and myself and has given me a complete answer to of educating and training dogs. hyperactivity, nervous behaviour, greatly changed over the two days we were together. the questions I was posing. Neither should it be overlooked rigid articulation, awkward in assisting with recovery from movement, slow learning, lack Tellington TTouch (abbreviated as TTOUCH) is a illness or injury alongside more of concentration, lack of trust, method of training animals involving “work on the traditional veterinary therapies. I jealousy, separation anxiety, body” and “exercises on the ground” which contribute see it also being used, in general, reluctance to be touches to an improvement in coordination, equilibrium, in combination for the various (veterinarian, groomers, when mental capacity, attention span, communication, functional uses of our retriever injured etc). understanding and respect between the animals and breeds. their owners. TTOUCH is not to be considered The techniques, that have much as a replacement for the TTouch, then, is a mix of very gentle techniques in common with the Feldenkrais veterinarian but they themselves suitable for all animals, old and young. Method® for people, were first can use these techniques to calm developed by Linda Tellington-Jones to use with the animal and to help deal with pain and shock. It is The foundation of the TTouch method is based on a horses and, after having had great success, were also used to assist with recovery from injury, surgery series of circular movements (touches) of the fingers adapted for other animals. and illness. and hands all over the body. These touches are often mistaken for caresses or massage but, unlike TTOUCH involves very light movements of the Some kennel workers and volunteers use the TTOUCH massage, we work on manipulating the skin and fingers and hands in various positions and in various method in rescue centres to help the animals stay

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healthy and to lower the levels of stress during their Whatever the motive or situation for applying the stay awaiting future adoption. method, these techniques are really simple to learn. They can be used by anyone as it is not necessary to Breeders, trainers and instructors can use the have any prior knowledge of anatomy. method from puppyhood to help with increasing body awareness, to develop trust and self-confidence, and In short, by using TTOUCH in any situation our dogs to provide them with a state of mind to learn more can learn to “act” rather than “re-act” instinctively. Or, efficiently. It can be a help both in containing an over- more simply, they...”learn to learn”! exuberant character and with drawing out a timid or diffident character. If you are interested in learning further about TTOUCH you can consult the official Italian website HYPERLINK Handlers in both the show and work environments “http://www.tteam.it for information about courses or could profitably employ the techniques as an addition other initiatives, to find the nearest qualified instructor, to the tiring preparatory training or as a valid system for or just to have further information. increasing precision, attention, movement, steadiness and will to please that are required in competition. It is also beneficial for controlling pre- and post- competition stress. I am convinced that our retrievers can benefit DEBBY KAY enormously from the use of TTOUCH in all situations where a change in behaviour is desired for whatever motive, and perhaps merely to increase the general and the functional Lab level of well-being of our dogs. by Patty Fellows

In the spring of 2007 a few RCI members were invited to the Spring Specialty - the largest Labrador event held in the world today - by members of the Labrador Retriever Club of the Potomac (“LRCP”), a regional breed club covering Mid-Atlantic States on the East Coast of the United States. The Italian guests returned very enthusiastic about the visit, and told their friends about the friendly atmosphere, excellent organization, many innovations and, last but not least, wonderful dogs.

When I decided to visit Maryland the following summer, River, with lots of land and surrounded by dense woods. I got some contact numbers for LRCP, hoping to learn Their farmhouse has been renovated to house their more about the Spring Specialty and the people dogs on the ground floor, with a large adjoining kennel behind it. Since the early 1970’s the event has grown to outside. On the first floor Debby shows me her extensive attract over 1000 exhibitors from the US, Europe and library, replete with rare historic volumes, textbooks Asia. It takes place over three days and its activities on animal learning and behavior, a collection of breed include conformation, obedience, tracking, educational manuals from around the world and some very special forums, a Lab rescue parade and more. I made contact signed books from women she remembers as her early Fabio with Debby Kay, a LRCP founding officer, who lives in mentors, such as the British breeders Mary Roslin-Wil- the historic town of Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia. She liams and Susan Scales, and the American breeder Nicodemi agreed to host me on a Sunday morning, to share Helen Warwick. She also points out her collection of photos and memories and to tell me about her views Italian Labrador books, bought when she visited Italy on trends in show world in the US today. many years ago to train dogs for airport detection work. lives in Rome with his three labradors and The historic town of Harper’s Ferry is at the foot The ground floor also houses Debby’s office, where there one cat. As a member of the RCI he has of the Appalachian Mountains where the Potomac are many photos and a nice display case of awards and frequented the world of show and work. He is increasingly interested in the problems of and Shenandoah Rivers meet, at the corner of West other retriever memorabilia. Downstairs Samuel gives man - animal relationships and assimilating Virginia, Virginia and Maryland. The town played an us a tour of his winemaking laboratory and cantina. He the dog into the social world. important role in the American Civil War and today has planted vineyards along with other crops on their He began practising Tellington TTouch in you can visit old Harper’s Ferry and its museums, take farm and also imports grape juice from around the world 2004 and now, in the sphere of the triennial scenic nature hikes or go white water rafting down the to create many different kinds of wine, for which he has training programme, he is an authorized Potomac River. won several awards. We open a bottle of 2004 Barolo Practitioner in Training and a delicious black currant Merlot. His cantina is Debby and her husband Samuel Cochran live in an old well-stocked and cheerfully decorated (including a Lab farmhouse on the outskirts of town, near the Potomac portrait of “Barkus – the Dog of Wine”), but the wines

20 21 people and retrievers people and retrievers

are not for sale, only for tasting. To compliment Sam’s and keenness to work under pressure and under any required to work in water or upland in all wine Debby offers some of her gourmet goat cheeses. conditions. These could be icy or rough water, hot temperatures and conditions. An easy In addition to dogs, she breeds American Alpine dairy weather or heavy cover. Secondly, with respect to way to identify a correct coat is by the goats and some very pretty rare heirloom chickens. conformation, a correct head, coat and tail.” tail, which should have an outer coat With their delicious cheese and wine in hand, we return wrapping neatly around the undercoat to Debby’s office and she began to tell me her story “While most Labs today still possess innate working to the tip without any loose feathering about the challenges facing breeders today in the US. traits such as the desire to retrieve, the ability to mark underneath.” and a good nose, many break down when things get tough. The drive to work at any time and under all conditions can be considered one of the hallmarks of the breed, and one of the reasons the British brought St. John’s dogs over from Newfoundland.”

“Likewise, today’s winning Labs should also exhibit the essential conformation traits that typify the breed: a correct head, coat and tail, as described in the standard written by the breed’s founders a hundred years ago. A Lab should look like a Lab. Why should I improve upon Mom Chilbrook Morgan with pups (Ross Stanfield) or a change a standard that was written to reflect the functions that the breed was created to perform?” she asks. the show ring today. She explains that the original St. John’s water dog was recorded as having three types of coat: 1) a longish, wavy coat, found in today’s Newfoundland Retriever, 2) a broken coat – featuring a longish outer coat that bends inwards - preserved by the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and 3) a short, Chilbrook Lone Ranger receives his dense and harsh outer coat with a thick undercoat, Companion Dog Obedience title the correct type for the Labrador. She explains: “In show rings. today, winning dogs increasingly “The first two coat types can be carried through display an incorrect, open coat, seen as a longish top successive generations as a recessive trait and crop coat that does not adhere to the body. Because this up from time to time in any bloodline. Early breeders I type of coat is often coupled with an abundant, fluffy mentored under warned this can be a real problem if undercoat and appears thick, it can easily be misinter- you do not stay on top of it in your breeding program. preted for the correct type. The Lab is not intended to Multichampion Chilbrook Aurora receives The third type, the correct one, can be easily identified be flashy in the ring, like some more attractive breeds. “Dogs for all Reasons” award by sight and touch because it wraps closely around Unfortunately, in the desire to win group placements, the contours of the body, fitting like a jacket. A breeders can sometimes make the wrong decisions “When I started breeding in 1969, just about all Labs correct coat repels water, burrs and dirt, an extremely with regard to coat type. This has already happened in the United States could pass the Labrador Retriever important function for sporting dogs that may be with other sporting breeds, like the Cocker Spaniel, Club, Inc.’s Working Certificate. This test is a non- whose long flowing coat makes a pretty picture as he competitive assessment, in the sense that participating runs around the ring, but no longer serves its original dogs compete against a standard and not each other. purpose for hunting in the field.” It qualifies show Labs for the title of Champion and involves a few simple retrieves on land and in water, In light of these trends today, and the fact that few and proof that your dog is not gun shy. Sadly, many judges possess in-depth knowledge of the functional show Labs today would not pass. Since I first started aspects of sporting breeds, breed clubs can help by about 40 years or 10 to 15 generations ago, show dogs providing strong guidance to their members. One have continued to lose their basic working abilities, and fun way to promote a common understanding of with this, the unique traits that distinguish the breed. If conformation among judges, breeders and owners nothing is done to stop this trend, the Lab will end up is to hold what is referred to in the U.S. as ‘parts’ like the American Cocker Spaniel. This dog can be an Chilbrook Lone Ranger on the move in the ring matches, educational seminars in which judges teach excellent family pet and is pretty to look out, but should particular aspects of conformation such as movement, be classed today as a ‘non-sporting’ breed.” Debby has conducted seminars for judges and head or tails. During these matches judges conduct an breeders across the U.S. to explain from an in-depth oral critique of exhibited dogs, with the aim of helping She continues, “I’m particularly concerned about two and historical perspective what conformation means for people to understand conformation in a non-competiti- aspects of show breeding today. First of all, in terms a functional Lab. She has particularly focused on the ve context. They are allowed to see and touch as well of temperament, Labs are losing a kind of “boldness” importance of a correct coat, a trait that is at risk in Multichampion Chilbrook Aurora sits with a retrieved duck as ask questions.

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Another suggestion Debby makes is to create a respect for animals and a desire to teach infuses all that conformation certificate for field Labs, and to promote she does, and can be observed in her website: as a national parent club dual prizes and titles. Recently, www.chilbrook.com. one of Debby’s favorite bitches, Chilbrook Aurora RN SH, earned the coveted “Dog for All Reasons” award at In all her work to date, Debby has also fulfilled a a LRC National Specialty in Oregon: over the course special request made to her by a person we all regard of several days she qualified in the hunt test, placed in as one of the functional Lab’s greatest benefactors - two rally obedience trials and won the Hunting Retriever Mary Roslin-Williams of Mansergh kennels. When Conformation Class. Debby visited Mrs. Roslin-Williams for the last time, Mary asked her to carry on her efforts to preserve the dual-purpose Lab, so that her legacy might not be forgotten. Two weeks later she passed away. I think that Mrs. Roslin-Williams would be happy to see that Debby has not forgotten that promise.

Chilbrook Lone Ranger dives into the water

is to test him at what makes him unique. Any qualifying assessment should include a retrieving test in water, along with any other tasks.”

At present there are no dual-champion Labs in the U.S., largely because American field trials require highly specialized training and very talented dogs, capable of Am Can Ch Chilbrook Solitaire jumping for retrieve on the Potomac River, famous for its waterfowl hunting. precision handling up to about 400 meters. However, hunt tests have bridged the gap by qualifying dogs at Debby has engaged in many kinds of training over the three levels (Junior Hunter, Senior Hunter and Master years: detection, search and rescue, Hunter) in tests that recreate more above - Debby gives a demonstration of Rally Obedience service work for the blind and disabled, accurately ordinary hunting situations right - Debby con Chilbrook Edora at 13 months.. as well as performance-related training in North America. Master Hunter is a below - Chilbrook Galliard (“Gillie”). for conformation, field, obedience, rally coveted title, and requires participating obedience, tracking and agility. When dogs to complete difficult tasks on land asked whether we can preserve the or water, such as triple marks and blinds, Lab’s true nature by training for any of within distances that never exceed what these disciplines, Debby replies: could realistically be encountered in an ordinary shoot. As a non-elimination The 34th annual Potomac Spring Specialty “The Labrador is versatile, and can trial, participants compete against a will be held this year on April 8, 9 and 10 excel at many jobs. But his original standard and not against each other, on the grounds of the Holiday Inn in purpose was as a water retriever, and allowing more than one dog to qualify in Frederick, Maryland. the only way to preserve his true nature any trial. Today in the U.S. there are 50 Champions with the MH title, a positive In the show ring bitches will be judged by sign that the good looking, functional Lynn Minchella (Abbeystead) and dogs by Lab survives. David Craig (Davricard). Other activities will include Obedience and Rally Debby is also the author of the book The Obedience trials, a special program for Labrador Breeders Handbook, a reference book offering junior handlers, an education seminar on useful advice gained from many years experience as a puppy structure, the Parade of Rescue breeding consultant. One interesting chapter explains Dogs, an optigen clinic and Canine Good how to maximum the pedigree using the line breeding Citizen tests. technique of “convergent improvement”. With the aid of useful charts and tables, the text treats complex The renowned Potomac Gala will celebrate scientific concepts in a straightforward and practical manner. Debby started her career as a chemist and veterans and junior handlers, and “yellow, later moved on to geochemical exploration with the chocolate or black tie” is optional. Find out US Geological Survey. She grew up on a dairy farm more about this 3-day event on the LRCP and has spent her whole life working with animals in website at www.lrcp.com/. FCI MC Chilbrook Fedora (Dory) many capacities. A clear scientific approach, love and

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adapt itself to producing more amylase but needs time. The substitution of old food with new should always occur over at least four days, but it would be better to complete the changeover in one week or even 10 days. The health of our dogs depends also on the correct management of their diet; it is therefore not only important which food you use but also how you administer it, the reciprocal rapport of its components and the production processes it has gone through.

Dry commercial pet foods such as kibble are subjected to a special and highly efficient thermal treatment called Example 1 ‘extrusion’. Moisture 9% A DOG’S DIET: Crude Protein 23% This treatment is carried out at a Crude Fat 14% high temperature (170-200° C), under Crude Fiber 3% starch pressure and for a few seconds so as Ash 8% to totally gelatinize the starch. Some Total 57% by Lucia Casini dog foods contain instead cereal Starch 100-57=43% flakes. Flaking is another thermal and In the last article we talked about nutrition for working dogs. At this point, however, it would be useful to mechanical treatment that renders Esempio 2 take a step backwards to understand more about dogs and how to manage their diet in a correct manner. starch more digestible, but it is less Moisture 9% efficient than extrusion and causes Crude Protein 30% Crude Fat 17% Dogs are not defined as strictly carnivorous, and they the act of chewing start to digest starch, which is then starch to be only partially gelatinized. Crude Fiber 3% do not need to eat food only derived from animals. Their completed in the stomach and the intestines with the The second thing we should be careful Ash 7% digestive system is in fact able to digest and utilize some help of ‘amylase’, an enzyme produced by the pancreas. about, above all with commercial diets, foods of vegetable origin as well; in particular, they can is administering the daily dose. It is Total 66% utilize for energy starches contained in cereals and As we well know, also by observation, dogs do not chew noted that the German Shepherd and Starch 100-66=34% potatoes. Their ability to digest starch has, however, food. Their teeth are not made to grind up food but only northern breeds produce on average limits that we should understand. have the function to tear and reduce it to pieces of a less amylase and are therefore more size that can be swallowed. Furthermore, the saliva of sensitive to variations in the quantity of Starch is a complex carbohydrate constituted of a long dogs does not contain enzymes to break down starch. starch in their diet. There is however a noted chain of smaller molecules: glucose. Due to its large With this there is the fact that their pancreas does not variability among individual subjects that size starch cannot pass through the intestinal lining, produce large quantities of amylase; so, even in the should be taken into consideration. How to compute the quantity of starch present in a pet food. but must undergo a digestive process that breaks intestines, starch is not digested as efficiently as in man. up chemical bonds to liberate the glucose. In man Bearing this in mind, let’s have a look at how to On every package a standard chemical analysis must be digestion of starch starts in the mouth. Saliva and There are some suitable techniques to help dogs digest reduce the incidence of intestinal disturbances reported. starch. The first and most important tied to the excessive presence of foods rich in is to cook food correctly. In the case starch. What is the percentage of starch in the 1- Look for the percentage of moisture, protein, fat, cellulose of home-made diets, all of the foods food that we are giving our dogs? Even if we (or fiber) and ash. containing starch – like bread, pasta, are unable to find the indication of the amount 2- Don’t factor in other percentages reported, such as minerals rice and potatoes – should be well of starch we can nevertheless calculate it and vitamins, which are integrated into the food. cooked. Heating food modifies the from other information given on the chemical structure of starch and renders it more analysis that must always be reported on the 3- Sum up the percentages. You’ll see that they do not add digestible, a process called ‘gelatini- package (see box). up to 100. zation’. Once cooked, food should not At this point subtract this value from 100, which is the final be administered when cold or after We should also avoid changing pet foods result representing sugar, constituted almost entirely of starch. conserving for a long time. This is frequently, especially when there is no because in food that is cooled and real necessity to do so. If we really have Clearly, with higher percentages of protein and fat, there is a dried out, starch will partially return to to substitute kibble we should do it in a lower percentage of starch. its original state and lose the positive systematic manner, always changing over effect of cooking. foods very gradually. A dog’s pancreas can

26 27 health and wellness health and wellness

Too often I have found myself having to follow puppies Phases of development with major problems inserting themselves into new contexts because they were raised in a kind of sound 1) PRENATAL PERIOD: In this period the isolation: think of how terrifying cities like Milan or subject acquires information through the Rome must seem to a puppy that has lived his first two environment; the mother’s body mediates this months, or more, in a place without sound, cared for information. perhaps by only one very nice and competent person, without ever having seen, smelled or interacted with 2) NEONATAL PERIOD: After birth, the puppy other people. has not yet fully formed his image of the world and must complete neuron development.

3) TRANSITIONAL PERIOD: This period is the true birth of the puppy: he slowly completes his image of the world. The sense and coordination of movement is stabilized.

4) PERIOD OF SOCIALIZATION

5) SEPARATION PHASE: In this phase the subject begins to explore the surrounding world LET’S HELP THIS and separate himself from his mother.

6) SEXUAL MATURITY: This is an important and difficult period in which impulses of PUPPY GROW competition and self esteem become prevalent; in species with social systems subjects must by Cinzia Stefanini find a role within the group and try to reach a higher rung – a guarantee for reproduction. Puppies are born with a great deal of potential, as well as the capacity to develop every cognitive ability In these cases it is fundamental that puppies are within genetic limits. With the passing of days and weeks, however, these numerous possibilities manipulated by many different people, possibly of both 7) SOCIAL MATURITY: This phase is gradually reduce as experience molds personalities and “shapes” neurons. genders and of different ages. We know that puppies characterized by a strong tendency to develop are not “politically correct” and that, in their eyes, a child social intelligence, the capacity to individuate It is our responsibility to guide this shaping in the desired quantity and sequence of stimuli so that they become is “different” from an adult, as a man with black skin is ways to obtain an advantage from/across social direction and limit it, to obtain the most elastic cognitive part of their knowledge rather than phobic impulses that “different” from one with white skin. The puppy needs relations. abilities. Puppies are born deaf and blind but this does may create insurmountable fear. With this in mind, it is to learn, during the socialization phase, to overcome not signify that they are unable to communicate with the important to identify more sensitive pups that may be similar generalizations. external world. During the neonatal phase, the strongest more easily frightened; you can “expose” them more to understand that new owners are rarely as prepared sensory channel is thermal-tactile, along with that of often, but with lower-intensity stimuli. I personally believe We can also expose puppies to sounds, perhaps with as they should be to socialize a puppy and they rarely hearing. Puppies live through seven phases (see box), that breeders that live in very quiet areas and in isolated the help of acoustic devices, make them play with have the necessary time; this is why breeders should each equally important for their correct development, dwellings should be especially concerned about this objects of different materials, make them walk on carry out a correct socialization themselves and explain but the most relevant is the phase of socialization. It work, particularly if they raise guarding breeds or dogs of different types of surfaces (wood, carpet, tiles, grass…). correctly to owners what they need to do with a new is important to consider that this phase concludes at medium-large size that may later live in cities. When they are a bit older they can take a trip in the puppy. the 12th week of life. Given that breeders car, perhaps in a city, to expose them to sounds and generally give pups to their newly adopted smells they’ll need to get used to. We can make them It is really sad to be called by dog owners to help a families around eight weeks, one realizes interact with puppies of “different” breeds, naturally “timid” or “aggressive” puppy and find yourself in front that most of socialization is the responsi- only if they are healthy and “safe” from a social point of a subject terrified of people (maybe only of men or bility of the breeder, who must expose the of view. These simple strategies can “equip” the puppy of children, because he has never seen them) or the puppy to various stimuli – olfactory, visual, with a baggage of experience that prepares him better sound of cars, or that manifests exaggerated reactions tactile – so that he will not only form the for his new life with his adopted family. It is important when a bicycle passes by or a door bangs. It is truly highest number of neural maps possible, difficult to communicate to the owner that it is an uphill but also so that he will be “more able” to battle, that his puppy is suffering and will probably not form them in the future. TWO DIFFERENT BOOKS, CORNERSTONES OF recover completely. We know that breeders do an THE NEW APPROACH TO EDUCATING PUPPIES: excellent job at selecting for puppies that are exempt of Naturally, a fundamental part of this work hereditary illness or respect breed standards, but it is Ian Dunbar - Before you get your puppy - After consists in finding out how to expose you get your puppy. also important to urge them to work at raising puppies puppies to increasingly more intense stimuli Jean Donaldson - The culture clash. that are healthy from a behavioral point of view and in such a way that they can be tolerated. It predisposed to accept life’s challenges in the most is therefore important to calibrate the type, effective way.

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Agriturismo ‘U Baregu’ Rules about dogs’ access to beaches www.ubaregu.it/ in Liguria is the responsibility of local Diano San Pietro (IM) municipalities and port authorities, as in Italy there is no national A newly restructured rustic house legislation. Generally dogs are immersed in olive groves in the hills accepted on beaches outside the behind Diano Marina, 6 km from the bathing season (usually from October beach. The structure sleeps up to to the end of March) but it’s best to four and features a lovely view and get information from the local an outdoor terrace and barbecue authority before risking a fine. In Walking down to area. Visiting dogs are allowed to run Liguria there are also many parks the sea with our freely in the large private grounds. and hiking trails for taking walks with four-legged friends… The Sagueto family rents the house your retriever, extending from sea on a weekly basis and also sells cliffs over hills and olive groves to the typical Ligurian products like olive oil, Apennine mountains. The Parchi di olives, pesto and fruits and Nervi in Genova is made up of vegetables. several botanical gardens that used Agriturismo U Baregu to belong to private villas and includes a 2 km path that was used WINTER ESCAPE by fisherman and farmers in the early Agriturismo ‘Bedogni-von Berger’ 1800’s to reach the sea. As with beaches, visit local www.agriturismogolfdeipoeti.com/ tourist offices in each locality to find out whether dogs in Liguria Golfo dei Poeti (La Spezia) are allowed in individual parks and whether any specific rules apply. by Patty Fellows This quiet romantic hotel is in the middle of a farm of over 20 hectares in the hills of La Spezia next to the While alpine resorts are a often a popular choice for winter vacations with our four-legged friends, trips National Park of the Cinque Terre, an uncontaminated to Liguria off season can offer a welcome respite from the cold fog and drizzle of inland towns and cities. area of olive groves, terraced vineyards and forests with During winter months you can find mild, sunny weather, a relaxed unhurried atmosphere and beaches rare wild animals. There are guest rooms and that often allow dogs. apartments for 2 to 6 persons in two restructured stone Ligurian houses from the 16th century with a panoramic Retriever owners can take walks along the beach, been inserted by dog owners visiting the site, who also view over the Golf. Each apartment has a separate scenic hikes and excursions in the ‘entroterra’, practice leave their comments. entrance, chimney, kitchen and an external garden or water retrieves and even sit outside at bars and patio. restaurants on a sunny day. We’ve Here are a few suggestions: listed below a few suggestions of Guests can take walks in the property, visit nearby where to go with your retriever. To Agriturismo ‘La Casa sul Poggio’ towns like Porto Venere or take hikes in the National set the atmosphere, we’ve also www.lacasasulpoggio.it/ Park. asked RCI member Gianni Dainotti Santo Stefano d’Aveto to tell us about his life with his nine-year old Lab in the city of Located at 1000 meters in a quiet Savona… valley in the Apennine mountains, the hotel is surrounded by pastures, There are lots of interesting places pine forests, beech groves, lakes to stay with dogs listed on the and streams. Nearby there are website www.dogwelcome.it , run many hiking trails and cross by a nonprofit association and country skiing in the winter. Pets dedicated to dog owners traveling are allowed in rooms, the breakfast in Italy and abroad. In Liguria we room and a large fenced-in garden. found 22 pages of hotels, farm Co-owner and RCI member hotels, b&b’s and apartments that Maddalena Massone also welcome pets in the provinces of organizes basic education and Genova, Imperia, La Spezia and agility courses, as well as activities Savona. All structures listed have for children. The structure offers been thoroughly checked out to six mini-apartments, each offering make sure there are no unnecessary a unique solution. Dog beds and restrictions on pets, and many have Agriturismo La casa sul poggio cages are available on request. Agriturismo Bedogni von Berger

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decorated ceilings of the portico in Via Paleocapa. The on watching me and waiting for the next command, “caruggi” (alleys) evoke an antique atmosphere, made she would be even more surprised when Brett came tangible by the presence of historic buildings with fine to my side at the command “heel”, ready to leave the portals from the Renaissance era. In the middle of bank. the historic center we reach Via Pia and Piazzetta With advancing age, joint problems gradually led to the della Maddalena. It is in this pulsing crossroad, a cessation of physical exercise. Against his will, Brett well-known promenade and meeting place, that Brett had to end his “field” work. When preparing to leave and I stop to meet friends. The meeting point is home, he would fix with his eyes the bag of dummies. Teddy’s bookshop, located at the edge of the piazza. During brief walks along the beach or in the woods, Always welcomed by Teddy, from a tender age Brett he would arrive with his tail wagging and a stick in has become accustomed to stopping in the shop on his mouth. At all costs Brett wanted to reassume his natural activity of retrieving. We came to a sort of tacit agreement: A LABRADOR “retrieving without getting tired”. In the city, the fortress Priamar is a few steps from our house. Renovated meets the city with large green areas, the citadel is well adapted to practicing simple by Gianni Dainotti retrieves. In accord with our implicit pact, we would down from the fortress Distant sounds from the fields and the peaceful atmosphere of the courtyard were fading in a matter in Spring and Summer and head of minutes. With paws glued to the car window and a melancholic whimper, the little Labrador I had towards the bar in the usual piazza adopted left the farmhouse where he had spent the first three months of life. in the historic center. Sitting in the shade with friends in the tranquil For Brett, his arrival in the city was a shock. We to take him with her on her daily shopping errands. He atmosphere of late afternoon, our found ourselves in tumultuous pre-Christmas traffic, was impeccable while walking at heel, following her talk and laughter would attract other immersed in the rumble of vehicles and people that every step without getting in the way of her shopping friends. While Teddy, between one invade city streets. bags. All went smoothly until my mother decided to client and another, reviewed a new To calm him down I carried him in my arms across shop at the municipal covered market. book at the table, petting Brett, our the center of the city to reach home. Along the way Even if she was busy working behind the large fruit friend from the sports clothing shop festive crowds of people continued to stop to pet the and vegetable stand, Mrs. Letizia recognized the dog would tell me about the activities of “little bear” that had just arrived in the city. that had arrived a few months earlier in the city, to the way home from our walk together. the charity L.A.V. and of the city animal shelter. With his loveable and extroverted character, Brett is whom she had given the name “piccolo orsetto” or During our chats with friends, silent and composed at known today throughout the city center. He considers “little bear.” Hearing his nickname, and instinctively our side, Brett is pet by clients who recognize him as From then not much has changed. Walking along the every single person his friend rather than a fearful recognizing her voice, Brett let himself be overtaken by the bookshop mascot. avenues in the center of Savona I often turn around to stranger, and becomes familiar with whomever he uncontrollable joy, forgetting his model behavior. We For a certain period, these visits to the bookshop when the exclamations: “look, the dog from the bookshop”, meets. were dismayed. From that day until now, whenever he returning from dog shows or training sessions had a or “look, the dog from the bench”. Whether seated During the nine years of our singular and happy life is called by that voice in a perfect Savonese dialect, positive effect on Brett’s behavior. Being in fact rather obediently at the entrance of the bookshop, or lying together, making use of his “educative arts”, Brett Brett is overtaken by an exuberant display of feelings. emotional, the lively atmosphere of the bookshop along a bench in the port to relive his ancestral has even conquered the affection A few steps away from the municipal helped Brett to free himself of the stress accumulated memories, with his happy and sociable attitude, the of some shopkeepers in the city covered market, along the port, during dog competitions. Labrador communicates with man in an expressive center. lapping waves resound in the old Initially with the help of old English texts, and then language, dense with instinctive feelings. I remember well one of his first dockyard. On the original “Quai with the help of expert instructors, Brett became The affection for animals, as opposed to that for man encounters with Mrs. Letizia. In du bois” (wharf for timber landing), a well-balanced Labrador through the practice of (beset by delusion), can become the most durable and that period, as my student Brett fishing nets lay along the ground to retrieval training. The dog enjoyed this commitment deepest love. In the emotional ties between man and had reached an excellent level of receive necessary repairs before was as much as it was necessary to maintain and dog, the feelings of man, no matter how noble, are education. With much patience, embracing again the sea. The transmit his innate working abilities to offspring. always come “second” with respect to the love of the I had dedicated myself some intense sea smell recalls Brett to his Participating in field activities also helped develop animal. time before to teaching him ancestral memories. While I watch our understanding and rapport in everyday situations. correct behavior. This kind of him sniff the salty air with eyes half Excellent in obedience, he followed me everywhere. He I watch Brett display in a typically doggish way his training was aimed at controlling closed, my thoughts drift to the arrival was adaptable to people and different environments, irrepressible love for man. Despite his advancing age, his exuberance and making him of Labradors aboard schooners that and even became used to coming with me to the bank. like a funny and touching puppy, he says goodbye to more well-balanced, suited at docked in antique English ports. Even today, when it’s my turn at the bank counter, Brett the friends from the bar who leave for home. With living within a family and an ideal Adjoining the antique port, the city waits in a corner without disturbing the other clients, eyes that talk and express feelings, he communicates companion for walks. center appears on the waterfront, perfectly “steady”. his friendship to man, a sort of salutation until the next Once he reached full control over in a rare urban contrast. In a few “How do you manage to hypnotize your dog?”; an meeting: “see you tomorrow…we’ll see each other his behavior, my mother decided moments we are walking under the amazed client would ask me. Observing my dog, intent again at Teddy’s”.

32 33 Notonlyretrievers: books, tv, gifts, news, etc Notonlyretrievers: books, tv, gifts, news, etc edited by Patty Fellows and Alessandra Franchi edited by Patty Fellows and Alessandra Franchi

to read to see it’s said that Author John Grogan collaborated on the film and ended up adopting Woodson, one of the puppies Retriever Training – A Back to basics approach The film version of journalist John Grogan’s bestselling who played Marley, a calm and mellow Lab with The colloquial English expression “the hair of the by Robert Milner (ed. Ducks Unlimited). novel Marley and Me will be released in Italian “giant, floppy ears and heart-stealing eyes.” dog that bit you” refers to the custom of drinking cinemas on the 3rd of Apr. The comedy stars Owen Grogan advises people who adopt Labs to do their alcohol to cure a hangover on the morning after a homework so they know what they’re getting into A simple and comprehensive training manual for Wilson and Jennifer Aniston as a young couple who drinking binge. The origin is literal and dates back retrievers based on common decide to learn about becoming parents by adopting - a big commitment requiring time, patience and a sense and an understanding a rambunctious but loveable Labrador puppy, who fair bit of money. If he had to do it all over again, to medieval times, when the hair of a rabid dog was of dogs, written by Robert manages to turn their world upside down and steal this time he would crate Marley from day one, work placed in a bite wound to promote healing. It began Milner, a professional trainer their hearts. The film was at the top of the box office more at being the boss and be consistent about the to be used as a metaphor in William Shakespeare’s for nearly 30 years. During when released in the States at Christmas, hitting a rules. time, even though the practice tends to make a his career he has trained at new record by grossing over $100 million in just two (source: “Marley goes to Hollywood” by Rebecca hangover worse, not better! least 1500 retrievers. He weeks. Wallwork, AKC Gazette, December 2008) Do you know of any other popular sayings involving also taught obedience at the dogs? Send them to us at University of Minnesota for It took 22 Labs of 10 years, and has judged different ages to play [email protected] retriever field trials in both the the role of Marley, “The new Seasons” on SKY United States and in England. and three trainers This popular TV program from Umbria about working on the set hunting, agriculture, fishing and the environment were faced with a is now aired on Sky channel 943 on Saturdays new challenge - at 21 and Sundays at 11.30. Presented by Diego Gundog Sense and Sensibility by Wilson training dogs to be Baccarelli, the transmission is divided into 40 Stephens (ed. Swan Hill Press). “bad”, what trainer episodes. Each week invited guests and experts Mark Forbes calls present a different aspect of hunting or fishing. Gundog training books often forget to explain “anti-training.” the foundations of training, taken for granted by Forbes comments: experts. This book helps “We just encouraged to buy you to understand the everything. inner nature of dogs, Especially if it was their behavior patterns in the vein of a bad behavior – jumping on the couch, The British dog supplies vendor Canine Concepts and reflexes, so that you chewing something up, jumping up on you. All those at www.canineconcepts.co.uk/ sells a puppy know not only “what” to things that we would normally train out of a dog, we essentials kit for small, medium and large breeds. teach the dog, but also encouraged.” The kit contains everything they think you’ll “how” to teach it. Wilson Stephens tells us what he The dog that distinguished himself the most was need when getting a new puppy at an overall has learned through trial Clyde, a working-bred Lab with the energy and discounted price. Items include their most popular and error in over 20 years intelligence that made him ideal for playing the role dog crate, a of practice and study. An of Marley. “He was our classic example of the dog fleece padded English classic. who had all this personality”, says Forbes, “and we bed, a grooming encouraged him from day one to go wild with it.” The kit, stainless director loved him so much that the trainers were steel bowls with The Dog Listener by Jan forbidden to rehearse scenes, and many of the best Fennel (HarpersCollins moments in the film were spontaneous, like the scene a stand, training Publishers). in which Marley knocks over a bookcase to get into treats, a Puppy his food container, which he manages to open, spilling Kong (toy that A highly readable book, best food everywhere. helps teething seller in England and Europe, and promotes written by a popular British Forbes says that once shooting was over, Clyde had play), a stain and trainer who has also made to fall into line and became a good dog again. He odor remover for TV programs. Fennel has emphasizes that high-energy Labs like Clyde need created her own personal plenty exercise before you can train them, as well as accidents and a method to relate to dogs and clear rules if you want to avoid the kind of destructive puppy comforter. The kit for large breeds costs train them. behavior shown in the film. £103.58 (about 111 euro).

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