Small Bugs. Huge Problems.

There are many bacterial infections that can cause a bitch to lose her litter and the one that most owners know of is Brucellosis.

There are many bacterial infections that can cause a bitch to lose her litter and the one that most owners know of is Brucellosis.

In the firmament of purebred dog breeding and conformation competition, the matter of degrees of sophistication dictates how, to what extent, and at which level, each person participates.

One of the most significant pearls of wisdom I was fortunate to receive over the years was in these words: A sound dog will age more gracefully, be less likely to break down from stress or injury, experience less fatigue and greater efficiency in work, and stay healthier and more attractive throughout its life.

I stood open and welcoming. She continued, “That’s what I’ve heard.”

by Amy Fernandez The dog world lost another true individualist on March 30. Outspoken and gritty, Shirley Thomas was best known for her contribution to Toy breeds. But her daughter Gail Thomas emphasizes her mother’s extensive experience in many breeds. “Mom really knew dogs. My grandfather and uncle were involved in so many breeds. Mom […]

By Amy Fernandez During its thirteen year history, the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship (AENC) has become the unofficial grand finale of the show year. That significance will be magnified this year with the debut of a new format making it the centerpiece of a week-long canine extravaganza. Dubbed the Final Five at Eukanuba, it’s happening at […]

I moped around for days when I learned that Victor Joris passed away March 12.

On February 10, 2013, the American Kennel Club disseminated the “Get the Facts” email alert in response to a story by the New York Times titled, “Safety Concerns Stoke Criticism of Kennel Club” published February 9, 2013. This story was run just before the televising of the 137th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and many will agree with my supposition that this story did not happen by chance but rather by design. Perhaps it is another example of opportunistic journalism leading up to the most publicized presentation of our passionate pursuit, the hobby or, in some cases, business of purebred dogs in our country.

It’s a rather interesting subject, infallibility…or the lack of it. Unfortunately antonyms for infallibility include some rather contemptuous words…

What has 60+ rings covering 3 pavillions and has a distinct Russian flair? The 2013 Eurasian International Dog Show, of course! This show, held March 23 & 24, 2013, attracted some of Europe’s top dogs and was the place to be last weekend. As you can see below, they have […]