Excuses, Excuses

Writer's block and a lack of time . . .

Excuses, excuses.  The posting that I started several days ago remains unfinished.  I need to buckle down and write, but there are always other things to be done, and I try to keep writing from becoming a chore.  Good thing I've never attempted to write as a career - life on the streets would be tough!

I'll be so glad when Fern is out of season.  Argus has been "good", no howling or frantic behavior, no digging at doors or destructive behavior of any kind, but he's not my dog right now and I want my dog back.  He walks around with a mournful expression, sometimes shaking, often talking to himself.  He KNOWS it is time to breed Fern, and he can't understand why I am being so stubborn.  Explaining that she is his granddaughter, and too young to breed anyway, is meaningless to him.  He only knows what his instincts tell him - that it's time to make puppies.  Sorry buddy.  Yesterday he went on a hunger strike, something he rarely does.  He nibbled a bit of chicken, and took a few treats, but would not eat his meals.  This morning I lost my patience and force fed him ground beef, rice & cooked kale.  It's a little messy, but only took a couple of minutes, and Watson was more than willing to clean up the crumbs.

Sunday is Coursing, and Argus, Josie and Meribel need to qualify just once more to get their coursing titles.  It will be cold and muddy, but I'm sure the girls won't mind and will run well despite the conditions.  Not so sure about Argus.  Will he run, or will he stop and sniff, looking for girls?  He ran well last time out, but was not distracted by "more important matters".  Wish I'd had a place to board Fern for the past week, but it was not to be.  So we'll hope once he gets away from home, he will forget about Fern for awhile.  In a few more days she will be going out of season, but of course it will take a few extra days to convince Argus of that.

Snowing, yet again.  Will it never end?

It's THAT Time Again

I'll have to be more organized in the mornings if I want to Blog before going to work.  Fern Louise is finally in season (almost 11 months old) and moved to the basement on Sunday when Argus informed me that she needed to be bred, and SOON.  (No, I don't plan to breed her, despite Argus's suggestion!)  Good dog Argus, very sensible until day 11 - then he lost it and walks around moaning softly (no howling yet, thank goodness).  I really should have moved her down the previous day.   It's easier here if girls in season move to the basement and get hand walked, as it's the smell when they pee that really triggers the strong responses from the boys.  So now she gets 3 or 4 walks and 1 bike trip a day, for the next week or so.  Takes a big chunk out of my mornings, but I love the early morning walks.  I've been biking Fern for a mile every evening and it's already helping a lot with her gaiting as she much more likely to trot than to pace when we do our walks.  Goal is to start showing her in June.

Busy weekend with Horse Expo on Saturday - I have no particular interest in horses, except that I like to watch them, and study the differences between the breeds.  I also enjoy evaluating their structure, and trying to decide why they move the way they do.  Couldn't believe the crowds, all the concession stands and all the food stands.  Did people go to look at horses, shop, or eat?  From the look of them, many must have come strictly to eat.

Later in the day Argus and Max went to Hidden Falls Park, where I discovered that Max loved the water, and particularly enjoyed retrieving sticks.  He was fanatic about doing that, even though is tennis ball retrieving is rather hit and miss.  Water and sticks seems to be the thing for him.  Poor Argus got his leash attached to a tree so he couldn't sneak off to say Hi to other dogs and passersby.

I made it up to Argus on Sunday, when I took him went to the Dog Park where he ran hard and sniffed even more.  I had worried that his obsessed frame of mind would lead to mounting behavior with other dogs, but he was his perfect gentlemanly self there, and minded his manners.  He really seemed to enjoy having some special time without being harassed by his granddaughter and son who try to make his life miserable.

A picnic on the deck with Ron and my mom was a great way to finish up a lovely weekend.  Weather could hardly have been better, and hamburgers, potato salad and 3-bean salad (actually 5-bean with my recipe) were even better eaten in the sunshine, on the deck, with family.
 

Up And Running

I'm back!  New modem installed and computer working just fine.  Although I have the Blogger App on my phone, it's way too much work to do Blog postings on an iPhone.  I need a real keyboard for writing.  My call to CenturyLink went to an overseas call center (of course), but the gentleman I dealt with spoke good (enough) English, and although the conversation was a bit rough as he read from his script, it was not as aggravating as such calls sometimes are.  The new modem was mailed promptly, and I was able to install it myself. 

As I installed this DSL modem, I thought back to the first modem I installed, oh so many years ago.  My first computer was used as a word processor, and the Internet was something only businesses and techie geeks used.   Not something regular people needed, just a fancy typewriter really. We didn't even have computers at work then.  Chat lists were in their early days, and a couple of computer savvy friends would mail me printed copies of the discussions from the first Dal list on Prodigy - yes, they were printed out on the continuous feed printer paper with the little holes along the side.  Dot matrix printers? How long ago was that?

One day as I walked through a computer store, there was a display of modems on the counter, internal modems.  On a whim I bought one, took it home and installed it - yes, I bravely took the case off the little computer, followed the directions and screwed the little gizmo into a slot.  I'd seen an advertising for The Concentric Network, so I ordered their product, installed that as well, not having a clue what I was doing, and somehow it worked.  Not instantly, of course.  I remember the frustration as it took me a long time to get things figured out, but I also remember how excited I was when it worked.  I also remember how slow the downloads were, but at the time it was magic!  Still is! 

Am on my 7th computer now.  Hard to believe there was actually a pre-computer time in my life!

Had planned to address this question, but it will have to wait.  It's a very interesting question, with no one right answer.  Stay tuned.

Would like your opinion on a rather heated and well debated topic. Is it okay to breed a dog or bitch who is not a champion, so long as they have the proper health testing and a nice temperament? I have a three year old male who is out of champion parents. He's never been shown through AKC but he has completed all of his health testing except cerf which he gets done in two weeks. He has an outstanding personality- very friendly and affectionate. Loves other dogs and new people. I would like a puppy out of him and some breeders have encouraged this, given his pedigree/health testing/temperament. But others have advised against it since he is not a champion. Your thoughts on the subject in general?

It Doesn't Get Much Better Than This

We went to the Awards Dinner joking that the one thing left on my To Do List was to win the Top Twenty.

The winner of the Thursday evening competition was announced at the dinner and it was (drum rolls) - Pauli! Our Bad Pauli!

All I can say is, "Wow, what a week"!

Such Fun!

A very good DCA. Again. For the 2nd year in a row one of our girls went Best Of Winners. This year it was Gemma, who finished her Championship with three 5-point Specialty majors.

Argus kids Krash and Pauli also did well, Krash (last years Best of Breed) was Select Dog and Pauli (last years Best of Opposite) won an Award of Merit. Good dogs!

The St.Louis Specialty winners were also "family" with Winners Dog being an Argus grandson, Winners Bitch being Gemma and the Best Of Breed Winner Ghost was a Watson grandson.

A very good specialty week! Now for the Awards dinner, more partying, and a return to SNOW.

We're Out Of Here

Max hasn't a clue why everyone else is so excited, unless it's just because Jess is here.  She stayed overnight so we could get an early start - which will be soon.  Jess is the master packer here, so I do the basics and she squeezes in and straps down everything else.  Everything fits, just barely.  Good job Jess.

It's snowing lightly, so this will be the first year we've left for the National in snow.  Forecast for St. Louis changes from day to day, but at least part of the week should be warm.  Just so we get some sun.

Off to have fun.  This is probably Argus's last DCA and perhaps his last long trip, as hopefully we will have youngsters to show in the future, and extra dogs take up space.  This is going to be a special week for him, as he loves to travel and schmooze at the shows.  He is SO excited right now, clings to me like velcro to be sure he gets to go too.

We're outta here!

Blogging On The Go

Just testing my new App. If you're reading this, it worked. Good Bye office!

Countdown!

Last day of work before vacation.  Last half day actually, as the afternoon will be spent running last minute errands, finishing up fish chores, grooming Argus and packing.  I am NOT looking forward to coming back to the office after a week away, as there will be no one doing any of my work in my absence.  The only person who can fill in has taken a job with a different agency.  Not very good timing as this is our busiest time of the year, and everyone else has cover the empty position until a new person is hired and trained.  My Boss is already doing her own job and her Supervisor's job (out on medical leave) so there is no one to cover anything while I'm away.  Oh well.  I'll deal with it when I get back and not let it interfere with a much needed vacation.

One last blog post and then it may be awhile unless I figure out how to do posts on my iPhone.

That's Piper in the picture, Sanka was her litter name.  Max's sister.  It will be such fun to see Piper and Melitta again!

Decision Time

Please?

Time for some hard decision making.  Who stays, and who goes?  Just to the National, I mean!

Had planned to take and show Fern if she was working OK, and if she was moving correctly.  The puppy classes are large which will be fun, but they will be very competitive and I don't show "just to show".  Many 9-12 month bitches are ready to win.  Fern is not one of them.   Last year our Meribel was Best of Winners from that class, and Adele won the Sweeps and Futurity from that class.  If my dog won't be competitive, it will be far easier to leave her home.  Decided I would take her to handling class last night to help me make the decision.

It's not that she's not beautiful.  When I stacked Fern in front of the mirrors last night I was amazed at how good she looked.  Absolutely gorgeous outline.  Lots of angles, perfect topline, lovely neck.  Her head has matured too, and her face is quite pleasing.  She went through a flaky stage, but we got past that, and she was very happy, wagged on the exams, and tried to introduce herself to everyone.  Just as friendly and outgoing as I could ask.

And then we had to move.  Fern started pacing sometime last winter.  Dogs are supposed to trot in the show ring, not pace - pacing means both legs on the same side are moving at the same time.  It's an easy gait, does not require good foot timing, and is more common in pups and old dogs.  Fern should not have to pace as her structure is very good, but there's something that is "off" when she moves.  Maybe foot timing, maybe some kind of an injury that only shows up this way.  Because she had a very short back, hard topline, and lots of angle, Fern's timing has to be perfect to move properly.  It's not.  She can trot, but not reliably, and especially not when she's excited or distracted - and Fern at 10 months is always excited or distracted!  Last night she developed a new quirk, one we saw in her mother Pauli.  As Fern is trotting along, she gives a little hop, sort of a jumping for joy.  When Pauli did that, she would then resume trotting.  When Fern does that she slips back into a pace.  ARGH!  When she concentrates she does fine, but she's still too silly to concentrate for any length of time.

Sooooo, it looks as if Fernly might be missing DCA this year.  Still thinking, but leaning that way.  I hate to waste the entries, but it would be a lot easier to leave her behind.  There will be lots of other shows for Fern, and I'd rather work this out before we do any serious showing.  If winter ever gives up we will start biking, since I can't walk fast enough to keep her trotting correctly.  That should help a lot.  I'm delighted she has come so far, and very pleased with how she's looking.  But we still need that third piece.  Type and attitude are there, but gaiting - not so much. At least not yet.

If Fern stays behind, I only have to deal with Argus and Max.  Argus is entered just for fun as he has nothing to prove.  He'll really enjoy the trip, and I almost feel as if I "owe" him that for all that he has done in the show ring, and especially at the National.  Retirement was not his choice.  Max can come along for fun, and learn all about dog shows and motels.  He'll make new friends, get to play with his sisters, and his co-breeder Jana will get to see him.  I'll have lots more time to do things, like work in the health clinic, and stand at ringside watching dogs and getting caught up with old friends.  I really need a vacation, and the trip will be a lot easier if Fern stays behind.

I am still arguing with myself about this.  Jess says I probably won't make up my mind until we are ready to leave!

It's STILL Only Money

Josie, Max & Fern sharing the sofa

Did the deed, signed the contract to have the house rewired.  Also committed to the home refinancing at a significant drop in interest.  Scary!  I know I won't have the house paid off by the time I am ready to sell, so I might as well get the wiring taken care of now.  There's a significant risk of fire in these old homes with overloaded circuits, brittle old knob & tube wiring, outlets that are not grounded, fixtures that are not in boxes, cracked outlets that are not properly seated, and way too many extension cords.  A new circuit box scheduled for later this month, with the balance of the rewiring to be done probably in May.  It's only money, but it's also peace of mind.  Much of the other work that needs to be done around here can be done by me, or as individual small projects.  Gotta be able to sell this house someday!

Still not sure who is going along with me to DCA, but it's looking more and more as if I am taking three dogs, with Max going along for the ride.  It will be fun to see him with his sisters Piper and Melitta, and I'm still considering a repeat breeding next fall or winter, depending on how these pups look at the time.  Sure can't ask for better dispositions!

  

Wanted - Spring Weather

The brave little tulips are sure Spring will eventually be here, but Mother Nature is sure stubborn this year.  Yesterday was relatively warm and we had a nice Spring rain last night.  Chance of snow the next couple of days, perhaps three inches.  Or more.

We're heading off for St. Louis (actually Gray Summit, MO.) very early Saturday AM.  It's supposed to be warm down there this week, but cooling off on Friday.  What happens on Saturday?  Snow?  We'll be accused of bringing along the bad weather!  Lots of outdoor activities planned for Specialty week, including the Road Trial, the yearly Whine & Cheese Party (not an official event, but organized by someone every year), and a Pot Luck.  The latter two will be held in the motor home parking area, so good weather will make them a lot more fun - but we'll have them no matter what the weather.  A lot of the socializing at the National is done while walking dogs, and good weather will also make that a lot more fun.

Still debating on whether to take Max along.  He'll be incredibly bored if he stays with Ron, Watson & Josie for the week.  Not sure I can manage three dogs - but I've done it before, and Max is a great traveler.  I could leave Argus behind as he's not likely to come out a winner this year - I wish he was 3 years old instead of 7 1/2.  A couple of Max's sisters will be there, and it would be fun to have Melitta, Piper (was Sanka) and Max together for a little family reunion.  Just wish we had a 4-6 month class so I could show him.

Not sure I will ever be ready to leave - the To  Do List is still far too long!

Why Buy From A Breeder?

Elissa Kaminer O'Sullivan said it perfectly in a recent Facebook posting . . .

• 
  

  So, I slept on it... and I still feel the same way... so here it goes...
  
  I have been helping a friend find a puppy. She wants a specific breed, for a specific purpose, with a specific temperament. I have found her several responsible breeders who I think would have puppies that would fit all of her criteria. Then she says to me, "I just want you to know that I am not spending $1,000 on a dog. Not when so many need homes." And you know, if that was the end of what she said, and she wanted help finding a rescue dog, I would have been all about helping her. But she is still not opposed to buying a puppy... just not one for $1000. So, at first, it didn't really register what she said, but as I thought about it, I became more and more offended. Because basically what she said to me was that as a responsible breeder, my dogs are not worth any more than Joe-shmoe's down the block... that all the time, effort, and money that I have put into health testing, temperament testing, training, proving, and selecting my dogs for breeding has no value. I have to say, this really got under my skin. Maybe it's because I have driven my girls as far as CA to breed to the most perfect stud dog that I could find... or that I just spent over $2000 on progesterone tests, and I still don't have a litter to show for it... or maybe it's because I have proven my dog's over and over again, and it just plain pissed me off that someone doesn't see the value in that.
  
  So, what do you get for a $1000 puppy? Proven temperament and trainability... mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, and great grand parents for many generations are trained and temperament tested- and they have been to a million dog shows, earning titles to prove it all. Proven health... mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, and great grand parents for many generations have had their hips, elbows, knees, eyes, heart, & thyroid tested, they are clear of all genetic disease that I can possibly know of. They are to breed standard... which may not mean a lot to you, but it should. It's what keeps a Rottweiler from looking like a Black and Tan Coonhound, or a Bernese Mountain dog. It's what maintains structure and soundness, and what makes a breed a breed. You also get me. You get a knowledgeable breeder and expert in your breed. You can call me day or night, and even on holidays. I am there for you through all your joys and frustrations, sickness and health. I will do anything I need to do to make sure that owning one of my puppies is the most wonderful experience of your life. You have the peace of mind knowing that no matter what ever happens to you, your dog, your best friend, has a safe place to live out the rest of his life.
  
  So what about that $400 puppy out of the paper? You get a puppy with unknown temperament, health, and type. You get nothing else. You can potentially get a dog genetically predisposed to fears and aggression, a dog with debilitating health issues, a dog who will never be able to fulfill the goals that you have set out for him. And if you ever needed to return that dog (life can sometimes throw you a curve ball), that person will not take your 5 or 8 or 10 year old dog back... you will be stuck putting your dog up for adoption, or euthanizing him.
  
  So, who's making money? I have never actually figured it out, but I would guess that I lose about $1,000/puppy. I don't breed dogs to make money. I breed dogs because I love my breed and I believe that there are wonderful people out there who should have the opportunity to own wonderful dogs. The person selling the $400 puppy is making a profit of about $350/puppy. That person breeds purely for profit. Oh, I am sure they love their dogs, and their breed, but not enough to be any benefit to anyone other than themselves.
  
  I guess people don't really understand value. It is not about the price you pay, but what you are getting for that price. And in the end, if what you are getting for $1000 is not worth anything to you, then by all means, the $400 puppy is a much better value.
  
  I have not told anyone who I am talking about. She is my friend, and I would like to keep it that way, so please do not guess or spread rumors. And please feel free to share if you agree.

Wishing Away Puppyhood

Last night was Max's "graduation" from Puppy Kindergarten.  He did well, and I was pleased with how much he had learned.  Because our tester is a certified AKC Star Puppy instructor, Max now qualifies for his Star Puppy certificate and medal - once I fill out the signed application we received, and send it to AKC along with $10.00.  It's a good program, and a lot of fun to do.  I enjoyed watching Max's classmates too, a diverse group that included a Golden, a Lab, an Akita, a Frenchie, a Beagle mix, a Schnauzer, and a variety of others.  It was a good class, with happy well-adjusted puppies and committed owners.

It's such fun watching a puppy learn about the world.  Everything is interesting to pups, and they respond with such enthusiasm to life.  I've always enjoyed raising pups and attending puppy classes, and always assume that everyone else does too.  That's not true, of course, as I was reminded last night.  Puppies ARE a lot of work!  While chatting with the nice couple who own the enthusiastic Lab puppy, I mentioned how much fun class had been and how much I enjoyed watching the puppies learn.  Their response was that although they loved their puppy, they could not wait for him to be about three years old, finished with his puppy antics, and all settled down.  Their pup is very like Max, happy, friendly, enthusiastic about everything, and an eager learner who did very well in class.  Seems a shame to wish that away, rather than enjoying it!

Step One Completed

Step One completed, the whole house electrical check up.   The CurrentSAFE electrician worked from 7:00 AM until 4:00 PM, going over every bit of wiring in my house.  Lots of issues uncovered, but the good thing was that nothing was unusual or unexpected, and the current itself was fine, with no hotspots.  Biggest issue will be to replace the main panel and add a few more circuits, putting things like the microwave, window air conditioners, and fish room heater on circuits of their own.   Numerous outlets to be added, as the original part of the house had only one or two outlets per room, rather than at least one per wall.  Some old outlets need to be replaced with grounded outlets, and some existing outlets need to be GFCI outlets (primarily the ones in the kitchen).  This will be expensive, but it needs to be done.  One good bit of news was that the blown in insulation in the attic over the old portion of the house is in good condition - I did that myself, a huge project, and I was afraid the insulation might have settled.  No way would I attempt that job again!

Dogs had a rather boring day as they spent most of it in their crates as they would have had a wonderful time "helping" the electrician.  We made it up to them with long walks in the evening.  Sue took Josie running and I walked Watson for the first time in several years - Ron normally walks Watty.  I was delighted to see how sound and spry Watson was after the tough winter he had.  Really moves well for a dog who will be thirteen years old in 6 weeks.

Next step will be a visit from the original electrician who will go over all the findings with us (again), and price the various items out for us.  THEN we will decide which ones I can afford.  I can't actually afford any of them, but because I am going to refinance my house, I'll roll these costs in.  I know we will do the new panel, and dedicated circuits, and probably all the new outlets.  Might as well get all the damaged outlets replaced too.  Oh heck, might as well do the whole thing.  It's only money.

It's Only Money

Electrician working away, checking out the electrical circuits in this old house.  Dogs are crated to keep them for "helping".  It's gonna be a long day for the spoiled doggies.  All the lights are on, the dishwasher and washing machine are running, the microwave will be too when he gets to that circuit.  There will be some kind of spike in my electrical usage for today!  I have trouble walking through the house without turning off lights - have been trying to reduce my electric bill, and have actually brought it down every month this year (compared to the previous month and year).  The gas, not so much with the nasty weather and Endless Winter.

This is part of my "retirement planning", to get some major projects taken care of now, so I can concentrate on the smaller projects once I retire.  Need to be able to sell this house someday so I'd better get moving.  Lots of "deferred maintenance" to deal with.  What I really need is MONEY.  Oh well, I've survived this many years without much of it.

Step One

Big expenses in my future as I took the first step towards getting my old house rewired.  A visit from the Electrician who did a quick walk-through of my house, and explained the CurrentSAFE program to me.  I signed up for the evaluation, and am scheduled for Wednesday - all day Wednesday.  They will be checking all wiring, outlets, junctions, fixtures, circuit breakers, and things I've never heard of, using a variety of equipment that does not require them to open up or cut into anything (increasing the danger of fire).  All risk spots will be identified and prioritized, we will meet again with the electrician to discuss the findings, and I can  then decide how much I want to replace, change or fix.  No matter what, this is going to be expensive!

It's actually a step toward retirement though, as SOMEDAY I will want to sell this house. but before I do that I need to put some money into it so it will be marketable.  And safe.  Because I am refinancing this spring, it's a good time to take on this project too and roll it into my new mortgage.  I'll never get the house paid off, so I might as well accept that and do some major work on it now.  Besides, I have to live SOMEWHERE.

Gotta start buying lottery tickets or something.

Monday Musing

Wish we had a Holiday called Easter Monday as I am so not ready to go back to work today.  A extra day off would be really nice about now, but no three-day weekends until Memorial Day.

Things will be getting tense at work as our busiest time is approaching and we are losing one of our best workers who just took a job with another State Agency.  Really bad timing for us as it takes forever to hire, and we're not likely to get a new person with skills that will help us anytime soon.  How I wish we had "loyal" employees, but we don't have "loyal" employers, and it works both ways.  Have to decide if I want to work overtime - not the ideal time of year to do it though.  Just glad I don't have puppies planned and am not campaigning a dog.  The person who is leaving is my backup, so when I'm off to the National for a week there will be NO ONE with either the time or the training to do my job.  Should be interesting.

A very nice Easter celebrated with family, following a spectacular Saturday that finally felt like Spring.  Back to cold and windy for a few more days, then some more Spring.  The overnight freeze meant that the pups could do no digging this morning, so the cold was not all bad!

Max will be missing his last night of the PetCo Puppy Class, no big loss.  The class was useful for a bit of extra practice and I don't regret spending the money.  I wish a couple of my classmates would sign up for a "regular" obedience class through a training school, but I suppose if they do any additional training it will be another foo foo class at PetCo.  None of my business, and at least they will get "some" training.  The test on Thursday night will be more fun, and hopefully will qualify Max as an AKC Star Puppy.

Instead of puppy class this evening we will have a visit from an electrician.  We're doing the CurrentSafe program that will detect any hotspots in my wiring - things that could cause fires.  Am SURE I have those as my house is 100 years old and has lots of original knob & tube wiring.  I'll get an estimate to on having my wiring brought up to code, something I will have to do before I sell the house anyway.  Have a feeling that it will be quite expensive, but it's gotta be done.  The joys of owning an old house . . .

Please Wait!

Dear Fern,

Please wait!

Just a little bit longer, say about three weeks.  Is that too much to ask?  It would have been nice if you had already been in season, preferably at about 7 months, but since that didn't happen can you please wait until after the National?  I don't want to travel with you and your grandfather if you're in season - it's just too hard.  You may not show well during that time, and your grandfather most certainly will not!  He's OK about girls going through "difficult times" but keeping him quiet while sharing a motel room with you might be asking a bit much of him.

If you come in season within the next two weeks, someone will be staying home, probably you.

Thanks for your cooperation in this matter.

Sue

Won't Be Long Now!

How can the National be so close?  I am so not ready for this!  Entries in (two days ago), motel reservations made (long ago), vacation requested (even longer ago), car tuned up, new crates purchased, dogs in condition.  That's about it.  What the heck am I going to wear?  Who knows what the weather will be in St. Louis in 2 1/2 weeks.  Might be hot and sunny - or it might be snowing! What to pack?  Warm weather clothes, cold weather clothes, and definitely rain gear!

The National will be at the Purina Event Center in Grey Summit, MO., a wonderful facility.  No motels/hotels within walking distance, so everyone will be driving back and forth unless they are staying in motor homes, as many will be.  The headquarters hotel filled up early and was way too expensive for my taste, so we are staying nearby, at the same motel as some good friends of ours.  Can't wait to meet their gorgeous liver puppy girls, sired by Ch. "Taylor" a long-dead Paisley dog (frozen semen breeding).

Jess and I are taking three dogs this year.  Argus who is entered as a Veteran at the St. Louis Specialty and as a Special at DCA, Fern who will show in Puppy, Sweeps & Futurity, and Gemma who will show in Bred By.  We've had many good DCAs in the past few years, but I don't expect this one to be quite as successful.  Argus won the National a few years back, took Awards Of Merit the next three years, and won the Stud Dog Class four years in a row.  His daughter Penny was Best In Futurity two years ago, and her daughter Meribel was Best Of Winners last year, with an Argus son and daughter also going Best of Breed and Best Of Opposite.

Argus is showing his age a bit now, at least in markings as he has added some ticking.  Still moves very soundly and look great body-wise, and I'm sure he will show well, but he's 7 1/2 years old.  Fern is a nice finishable Dal, but probably not star quality, and doesn't always have her gait "together" yet. Gemma looks great, but what are the odds of her matching her sister's record of last year?  Well, fingers crossed.  If nothing else, I expect to have a good time!

I'll also be looking for a stud dog for Amery (sister to Meribel and Gemma).  She's almost old enough for the rest of her health testing, and then we'll think about breeding her.  Everyone goes to DCA looking for stud dogs!

Why Health Testing?

Why are some breeders still not health testing?   I just don't understand it.  If you truly love a breed, why would you not do everything possible to breed the very best pups?  There are so many great testing options available these days, tests to help us to breed the healthiest puppies in our selected breeds, and avoid passing on inherited health issues.

Testing is not inexpensive, but nothing about raising quality dogs is inexpensive, and health testing is a great investment.  Many breed clubs have set the standards for the most basic tests for their breed, and the dogs who pass those tests are given a CHIC number.  All dogs used for breeding should have a CHIC number, but sadly that is not the case.  For Dalmatians, the CHIC requirements are a BAER hearing test, hip xrays, and EITHER a thyroid panel (not just the simple T3/T4 test) OR eye certification.  These results are registered with OFA (Orthopedic Foundation For Animals) and the results are available on line for other breeders or puppy buyers to view.  Dogs who have completed the testing receive their CHIC numbers.

Additional testing and information include elbow xrays, cardiac exams, patella exams, Degenerative Myelopathy testing (a DNA test), and a complete dentition database, as well as a number of other tests specific to certain breeds, such as tests for Dilated Cardiomyopathy, PRA, and Copper Storage Disease.  New tests are being developed all the time.  Hopefully in the future we will also see valid tests for Epilepsy and Renal Dysplasia, health issues that can affect all breeds.

Although these tests all cost money, they are an investment in the future of our beloved breeds, and money well spent.   If you are looking for a purebred puppy, work with a breeder who health tests all breeding stock.  And remember that mixed breed dogs can have the same genetic health issues as purebreds.

Fun At The Dog Show

Although only AKC shows seem like "real dog shows" to me, there are several other organizations that put on shows.  One of them is the United Kennel Club, a large and active organization that has been in existence for many years.  Their shows are smaller, less formal, include breeds not recognized by AKC, and it's much easier to finish a championship  There are generally two shows held each day, four per weekend.  We didn't have many UKC shows in this area until the past few years, but now there are a number of show weekends throughout the year.

The overall quality is not as high, but the best dogs are often very good indeed. Some of the dogs are already AKC champions, mature, well-trained, experienced showdogs whose owners are just looking to add new titles.  The shows are also a great way for young dogs to get extra ring experience without a lot of expense, AND they give awesome ribbons.  Argus, Pauli & Penny are already UKC Champions, and have also earned UKC Best In Show wins.

Because Fern and I needed more opportunity for practice, I had decided to enter her for one day of the recent show weekend.  Because there are also non-regular class for puppies (wins don't count toward their championships), Max came along too.  He'd never gaited on a showlead before, and was used to stacking only on a table, but he's a quick study and will do almost anything for food.

Fern visited the chiropractor on Thursday because I was concerned with her pacing, and the doctor felt Fern had sustained a minor back injury that was causing a problem with tight muscles.  She gave me some stretching exercises to do.  The exercises seemed to help because Fern moved a lot better.  More importantly, she was brave and friendly, stood well for the exam, wagged her tail at both of the judges, and didn't jump on either of them.  Good dog Fern!  She was the only Dal, so automatically went Best Of Breed.  Dals show in the Companion Group, where she went Group 2nd at the first show (behind a lovely Bulldog), and Group 1st at the second.  Even better dog, Fern.  No idea how many points she won, but we only showed the first day and will wait awhile before doing any more UKC shows.

Little Max showed like a star.  I was amazed at how well he moved on a showlead, and of course he was very friendly on the exam.  Both judges were extremely complimentary about Max, and I was very proud when he went Best Puppy in Show.  Good boy, Max.  Great start and he had a wonderful time.

Time Out

Endless Winter is getting me down.  Too many cloudy days, too much cold, and far too much ice.  So tired of icy roads, icy sidewalks, icy deck, icy dog yard.  I haven't slipped and gone down yet (knock on wood) but this isn't over yet.   Yesterday I absolutely could not stay at work.  I felt like crap, gloomy, aching, hot & cold.  Ugh.  Coming down with something, or just "down"?

Later in the afternoon I just had to get out and walk in the sunshine.  For the first time I appreciated Daylight Savings Time.  Packed up Argus and Fernly, and headed off to Hidden Falls Park.  Only one other car in the parking lot, so I let both dogs off lead, and we headed down the path, Argus carefully sniffing each tree and snow mound to "see" who had been there before us, and Fern running in joyous circles.  I forgot my boots, but "someone" had come through with equipment of some sort and flattened out a walking path that was not yet slippery.  Hooray!

Off through the woods we went, dogs leading the way.  New dogs up ahead and I called Fern back, but Argus could not be called off as he considers it his job to meet and introduce himself to all new dogs.  Some things never change.  Two friendly Labradoodles and their friendly owner, so we let the dogs play together.  One was a 9-month old pup, so he and Fern had a fantastic time playing dog games in the snow.  The owner and I discussed how lucky we were to have the park to ourselves this time of the year, and how much safer it was than dog parks.   Her older dog had had some bad experiences at dog parks, so I told her about the one we enjoy and feel safest in.

I came home with two tired but happy dogs, and feeling much better.  Thanks guys!

Spring. Yeah Right

First day of Spring and the thermometer says 5 degrees, and the weatherman says the windchill is much lower than that.  He also notes that this is the coldest first day of Spring since 1965.  I could say,  "Global Warming, where are you when we need you?", but I know this summer will be incredibly hot, and probably also very dry.  Climate Change is upon us, and the weather is messed up everywhere.  A foot of snow due on the East Coast, and we could have another snow storm this weekend.  Other parts of the country are already baking.  We've really messed up this planet, and things will only get worse.

Puppy Classes

Max and I are attending two different puppy classes, not because he needs them, but because I was interested in comparing the two classes, and because it's a way to get him out in the winter.  (That's Max on the way home from class last night, when he pushed open his unlatched crate door and had his way with a roll of paper towels.)

One is a pet store class, taught by a trainer educated in the pet store training methods, just a dog owner who owns pets and works in a pet store, although her sister shows dogs.  She's definitely better than your average pet store dog trainer.

The other class is taught by a dog person, someone who shows in breed, obedience, and agility, and is a member of a national dog trainers group.

The classes both use modern methods, and reward-based training, no corrections, no chain collars, lots of treats, and they have similar goals - a happy pup who can do a Sit, Down, Stand, Recall, Stay for a short period of time, and walk reasonably well on lead.  Both classes include a Puppy Playtime.  Both classes last for 6 weeks, consist of weekly one-hour sessions, and cost approximately $100.00.   That's where the similarity ends.

The pet store class consists of 5 pups, one trainer, and the ring is a portable thing about 10 by 15 feet.  The flooring is the store's regular tile, slippery when pups are playing.  The other class is held in a dog training facility, the class is limited to 15 pups with two trainers (the second trainer is also an experienced dog trainer), and the non-skid flooring is safer for pups.  In the pet store class recalls are limited by the size of the 15 foot ring, and walking on leash is through the store with the distraction of customers, dog treats, birds, ferrets, and food.  The dog school class has the large enclosed ring ring for longer recalls, and lead walking.  The pups are also exposed to tunnels and low jumps, just for fun, to keep the class interesting.

The pet store class is fine for socializing pups as long as there are no aggressive dogs in the class, but is far too small for the Shepherd/Lab mix.  The dogs are learning to sit, down, and stand, but the lack of space makes recalls rather useless.  We sit on chairs for much of the class, and listen to pet care tips, some of which I want to question or challenge, but I don't.  One trainer for 5 dogs works well, and everyone gets plenty of time, but it's tough to work your pup when the dogs on both sides want to sniff him, or engage in a barking match, and there's no way you can get away.

The training school class is more interesting for the dogs, and I find Max pays attention better because we stay busy, and have more space.  Recalls are much easier to work on when you can call your pup from further away, and it's easier to find a place to work your pup without being nudged by another dog.

Four weeks completed in the pet store class, fourth lesson coming up at the training school class.  Stay tuned.

Not A Cheeseburger Weekend

For the past few years, most of our dog show weekends have required a stop for cheeseburgers on the way home.  Cheeseburgers for all (dogs especially!) to celebrate successful show weekends.  This tradition started when Argus was being campaigned and his "other mother" Ginger suggested the cheeseburgers.  It became a tradition for us, and is now used for show weekends, or when one of Argus's kids or grandkids has a nice win somewhere.  Many dog show friends have picked up the habit, and often post to Facebook about Cheeseburger Weekends.

Because we don't show very often, and generally pick our judges pretty carefully - it's a lot cheaper that way - most of our show weekends have been pretty successful.  This one was not, at least not in terms of wins.  Gemma was Reserve one day, and Fern did nothing.  We tried two elderly judges who we have liked in the past, but one of them had gotten pretty "iffy", so we knew it was risky. BUT the girls needed an outing before the national, and we needed a dog show weekend.  Gemma does not live with us (she's co-owned) so Jess does not have the opportunity to work with her the way she would her own dog.  It also gave us a chance to visit with friends, and be sure that Fern would be a good traveler for DCA.  There's nothing worse than sharing a motel room for a week with a dog that drives you crazy!

Both girls passed with flying colors.  Gemma showed well both days, actually better than she did winning the 5-point major her last outing, and is a perfect traveling companion.   Fern was great in the car, at the place we stayed, and at the dog show.  Not barky, perfect in her crate, and she tried to be as good as a wild 9- month old can be.  Fern and I worked out some gaiting issues, I HOPE, and I know what I have to work on with her before the National.  Because I have not raised and shown a class dog since Argus was a pup, my handling skills have suffered a great deal - showing wild pups is NOT like riding a bicycle.  Handling a dog is all about timing, and anticipating the dog's actions.  I didn't read Fern very well, and screwed her up both days.  I'd say she showed better than I did!

We were also disadvantaged by having dogs that looked "different", which is often the problem at small or moderate sized shows.  Most of the competition was lower on leg, heavier in bone & body, and had handpainted spotting.  Fern & Gemma are high stationed, narrower, shorter backed dogs, and neither is particularly well marked.  At Indy where both girls did well, the entry was much larger, and included other dogs similar in type to Gemma and Fern.  We just looked out of place.  Fern would not have won had she shown perfectly, and Gemma did everything right but was just "wrong" for the competition.  So be it.

We had a wonderful time with our hosts Zack and Maryla, their dogs (two liver Paisley Dals), a Peke, a Himalayan cat, and an incredibly entertaining parrot.  We went to a Barbecue place on Saturday night and had a blast, as well as the best barbecue sauce I have ever eaten.  Fun at the shows with Fernly's "grandmothers", and friends from Oklahoma and Kansas.  Jess and I watched the Groups and Best in Show on Saturday and got our "dog show fix".

Despite the iffy weather reports, traveling was fine, and we got home in record time.  Jess dropped off Gemma, I picked up Max (who was staying with Gemma's family) and there was till time to celebrate St. Paddy's Day with Corned Beef and Cabbage!

Maybe it WAS a Cheeseburger Weekend - it was successful in many ways!