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WANTED
SMART BUSINESS COMPANIES Would you like to advertise your company in our beautiful new colour magazine?
We have: • ¼ of a page at $5.00
• ½ of a page at $10.00
• full page (½ an A4) for $20.00
We will also put a copy of your business card on our back page for $15.00 each month (please note as we have an agreement with our sponsors, so printing companies, pet shops & Vet’s cannot be included in this offer)
Issue No. 2 December 2010
p
M O NTHLY
Springwood District Dog Training Club Inc.
Know your President and another Committee Member By Ann Lenehan (president) & Julia Lawrie
H
i, Julia and I have been members of SDDTC for ten and a half years. How we came to be members of our club goes back twelve and a half years. Julia and I had found a new member to introduce to our family at Katoomba’s RSPCA, a little black puppy we named Jeremiah. He was a little black ball of fluff with a white blaze down his chest, which resembled an upside down crucifix and one white paw. We had Max, a Pomeranian x Red Cattle Dog who could climb anything (ladders, fences, gates) and did! Banjo, Rottweiler x Mastiff who loved tennis balls and usually had three in his mouth at a time which he had caught one by one only putting down one to catch another! That’s right he would catch the third with two already there. He would race down the 17 back steps, jump over the dry rock wall and hope one of us would throw the balls to him from the back verandah – which of course we did. Jeremiah fitted in immediately. He was the most amazing dog who left everyone he met with a story about him, full of mischief, love, innocence, determination and always humour. There was only one person in the universe who didn’t love him and she is why we began obedience training at Lomatia Park. Banjo was Julia’ handler and Jeremiah was mine. The first night we started we walked a lap of the park before class but by the time we got back to the car park Jeremiah thought he needed a higher vantage point so he jumped up on to the little white fence and tottered along there until he saw the bonnet of
Disclaimer please note: News, views and opinions in this newsletter are those of the correspondent’s and not necessarily those of the club, editor, committee and publicity officer. The Springwood District Dog Training club INC reserves the right of rejection of material. Lunar
Jemmie
cars which were much more fun to leap from, one to the other. Ooops. Apparently no-one saw him and he didn’t leave any claw marks behind either. Not even on the windscreen he slid down after checking out the roof racks on one car. Now you know why the club insists all dogs are on lead………..and we tell you it’s for safety……… mmmmmm. You decide…………….. Anyway both Jeremiah and Banjo did really well at obedience. Until one terrible day in March when Jeremiah was destined to be on the Rainbow Bridge before lunch…That day a part of both Julia and I died with him. We were truly devastated ……. the accident still to this day brings heartache. Duly on Thursday night we brought Banjo to training. His world was in upheaval as well. His best mate was gone too. I sat in one of the pagodas while Julia and Banjo worked in their class. After a short time Dot came in and asked why I wasn’t in class with Jeremiah………..I burst into tears and went through the disaster. ‘What are you going to do?’ Dot asked. I shrugged. ‘Will you get another dog?’ ‘Dunno, I suppose something will drop from the sky.’ I didn’t know Dot all that well and when she asked me to go to the back of her car and have a look I thought ‘Why not……maybe she’ll stop asking about Jeremiah’. I walked to her car with her and she said, ‘Will you take him for a walk for me, he’s been there all night….’ I unlocked the door slowly put my hand in and patted this gorgeous black and white skeleton, called Echo. You poor thing, you look a sad as I feel. I picked him up and gently placed him on the ground. Dot was back. ‘Want him? He’s yours.’ ‘What? I dunno. Banjo and Julia will have to meet him. If he gets on with Banjo…..I suppose….. but how?’ ‘He’s a rescue dog, he needs a home tonight.’ So onto the oval we walked. 10kg of Border Collie and me. We Abbie
SPRINGWOOD DISTRICT DOG TRAINING CLUB INC
à la dog dish
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: The AGM for the Springwood District Dog Training Club INC was held on the 28th August 2010. We had several new members attend our meeting it was great to see them and thank you for coming along.
Apple Cinnamon Drops
Bacon Bits for Dogs
Ingredients:
Ingredients:
• 1 large apple
• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup honey
• 4 eggs, well beaten
• 1/2 cup of water
• 1/8 cup bacon fat
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1 cup oatmeal
• 1 cup water
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup non-fat dry milk powder
• 1/8 cup whole wheat flour
• 2 cup plain flour
UPDATE NOVEMBER 2010
Honary Members: Pam Waters, Lesley Piggott. Annual General Meeting held at the clubhouse at Lomatia Park last Thursday night in August 7:30pm. There is no dog training held on this night. Web Site: Email:
www.sddtc.org info@sddtc.org
Training Nights at Lomatia Park Agility: Monday 7:30pm Obedience: Thursday7:30pm Fly Ball: Friday at 7:30pm Wet weather ring 4780 5617 to see if oval is open.
2nd
Proud to Sponsor
Dot Luker, Ann Moy, Ron Amann, Wally Campbell.
Pooch Scoop Monthly
Core, slice and mince the apple (use a food processor if you have one). In a large bowl, combine the minced apple bits, honey, water, cinnamon, and oatmeal. Gradually blend in the wheat flour, adding enough to form a stiff dough.
. PTY . LTD
Life Members:
500
FULL COLOUR
BUSINESS CARDS
$125
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
Preheat oven to 350 ° F (180 ° C).
ING
O GW
• 2 cup wheat germ
Directions:
. CO
They will all be working hard for our club and representing you. Remember you are always welcome to attend our clubs general meetings at the Red Cross Hall Springwood on the 3rd Tuesday of the month except January.
SPR IN
Ann Lenehan Dot Luker Leanne Brown 47542910 Ella Sweeney Robin Assar, Vickie Finn, Julia Lawrie, Elaine Browning Lynn Olson Dot Luker Wally Campbell Sarah Visser Ella Sweeney Ron Amann & Nicola Read Bill Sweeney Celeste Paxon & Jenny Prestidge Dot Luker Trevor Mawer Charnel Cameron Ella Sweeney ella.sweeney@bigpond.com David Brown David Brown Antony Karolis BVSC OD PRINT
SDDTC
Committee for 2010 is: President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Committee Publicity Officer Trophy Officer Table Manager Obedience Table Manager Agility Shop Manager Chief Instructors Obedience Trial Manager Obedience Trial Secretary Fly Ball Manager Agility Trial Manager 2011 Agility Trial Secretary 2011 Website & Newsletter Co-Ordinator Sports Council Hon Patron Hon Vet
In a small bowl, add 1/8 cup wheat flour. Spoon the dough by rounded teaspoon onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches (5cm) apart. Using the bottom of a glass dipped in the wheat flour (to prevent sticking), flatten each spoonful of dough into a circle. Adjust the size of the drops based on how big a treat you like to feed your dog.
Directions: Mix ingredients with a strong spoon; drop heaping tablespoonfuls onto a greased baking sheet. Bake in a 350 oven for 15 minutes. Turn off oven and leave cookies on baking sheet in the oven overnight to dry out. Yield: about 4 dozen dog cookies.
Healthy Dog Snacks Ingredients: • 1 3/4 cups plain flour • 2 tsp toasted wheat germ • 1/2 cup brown sugar
Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and flip each cookie to brown evenly on both sides. Reduce oven temperature to 325 ° F (180 °C). Return to oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes. Let cool overnight.
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
Makes about 3 dozen crunchy cookies, depending on how big you make them.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Rind of 1 lemon • 12 tsp butter or margarine • 1/2 cup ground walnuts Directions: Combine all the ingredients. Knead until thoroughly blended. Divide into 6 parts. Roll each into a log. Wrap loosely in wax paper. Freeze. When needed, thaw and slice into 1/2 thick slices (across roll). Preheat oven to 375F. Place cookies on an ungreased cookie pan. Bake about 12 minutes.
INCL. GST
465 Great Western Highway Faulconbridge
4751 6119
Fax 4751 1745 spc@springwoodprinting.com.au
Please note all recipes for dog treats are from a free web site. My name’s Jemmie, and I’m a snackaholic
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Dog Training Tips
Cover Story Continued
When to start training your dog
met Julia and Banjo. He was a hit. Banjo loved him, kisses all around, tails wagging. Julia and I had a new family member. But the name would have to be changed – Jemmie - yeah, Jemmie Sir Echo. Paperwork and phone screening we were the proud companions of a very thin, very closed down, very sad dog who was to become the most social, loved and prettiest boy that every dog loves. Still Jemmie is learning to do what all puppies should have learned in their first 6 months with their families. He can even initiate play, do all the things any top obedience dog can do, he’s king of the A-frame in agility and is the best flyball cheerleader in the Mountains and has featured in the “Gazette” as a pin-up boy numerous times. And we are totally objective. By the way he weighs a healthy 20 -22 kg these days. Time passes as did Banjo when his back legs gave out and we were told he can’t Ann run, use stairs, chase a ball, will have to be kept ‘quiet’ and rested. Banjo decided he didn’t want to live like that and one Sunday morning he left to join Jeremiah on the Rainbow Bridge. Again our hearts were ripped open but we had to respect Banjo. He, as all our dogs do, had given us love, companionship, loyalty, friendship, laughs, joy and many more positive adventures and what did he ask for …… absolutely nothing. Dogs just give and give and give. Julia was at work and a colleague asked her if she could help her find a dog rescue sight. As always Julia helped out and by doing so she came across a litter that reminded her of Banjo when he was a little bloke. The litter all had Stargate names. We just happen to be fans of this series. We went and had a look at the litter after work one day and took a friend, Michelle with us. Coincidently the carer and Michelle knew each other jeremiah
W
hether you have just brought home a new puppy or a rescue dog, training should begin straight away. Remember, your dog can pick up bad habits if allowed to get away with certain behaviour when settling in. For example, you allow your puppy to sleep in your room for the first few nights because he is crying, but a few months down the line you cannot shut your dog in the kitchen at night because he barks the house down! So you should decide on the ground rules before your dog arrives and stick to them.
Training tips Mostly, you will need a bit of patience and a willing pet. You will also need a small, tasty treat to reward your dog and a quiet room with no distractions to enable you and your dog to concentrate. It can be very helpful to join a training class for guidance, support and socialisation or work from a reputable dog-training club that uses a positive reinforcement method. You need to teach your dog things that provide your dog with the behaviour necessary for him to fit into society and keep him safe, such as well as happy and contented like: • Housetraining; • Socialisation with other dogs and people; • Come when called Sit, stay, drop or down; or you may want to train with a clicker many people do! Clicker training is fun and effective, and fast becoming the preferred method of training dogs.
Clickety-clack, don’t look back Clicker training is a simple and effective method of training based on a positive reinforcement reward system. The clicker itself is a simple plastic box with a metal tongue. When compressed, it emits a double ‘click’ sound. The clicker is used to reward a specific behaviour and works on your dog’s willingness to want to please you and earn his prize. The beauty of the clicker is that it is specific to the behaviour your dog is exhibiting at the precise time you want to reward it. Praise like, “Who’s been a good boy, then!” is not going to be as effective in teaching your dog what will earn him a reward, so it will take him longer to learn the good behaviour you’re wanting. Because the click is sounded while the good
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behaviour is occurring, there can be no doubt in your dog’s mind about what he’s being rewarded for. Clicker training uses your dogs own natural desire to learn and obtain a reward without having to use any force or punishment. If your dog does not do what you are trying to teach, he will not get a click reward and so will try harder to do what you want to gain recognition.
Why use a clicker instead of food lure training? Using food as reward is still an essential part of training, at least initially. However, using food rewards alone has some drawbacks: • Over-treating can lead to obesity. • Some dogs will grow bored and stop learning if the treats are not used correctly. • The treat may distract the dog from understanding exactly what he did to earn the reward. • Treating can lead to the dog refusing to perform a task unless the treat is produced, meaning the dogs will end up only doing as he is asked when the treat is on show.
Getting started in clicker training • Like with any training, start in an environment that your dog is comfortable and relaxed in. • Begin to associate the click with a reward by following a click-treat-click-treat-click pattern, holding the clicker out of sight. • Your dog will eventually begin to associate the clicker with a reward until the click becomes the reward in itself. • In obedience training, you give your dog an idea of what is expected, rewarding him when he does it properly. For example, ‘lure’ your dog into the sit position by holding a treat in front of your dog’s nose and move your hand back over his head. As he tries to keep the treat under his nose, his bottom will automatically hit the floor. At this stage you can click and treat. As you repeat this, only give treats intermittently and introduce a command. Allow your dog time to work out what you want him to do – and be patient. Speak to your instructor about this way of teaching your dog it is not for all dogs or all dog owners!
Pooch Scoop Monthly
so we were able to take a pup straight away. The mother was stressed and unable to feed. Abydos Clicker Queen was so tiny, as big as your hand. Four feeds a day and she grew while she slept. Jemmie just hid on the lounge or any place higher than the floor. Gradually he realized she was a dog and Abydos has taught Jemmie how to play, chase balls, find hidden food, travel in a car etc etc. They have both now got another playmate, Lunar Rose Eclipse, an absolutely beautiful Red and White Border Collie who would win the Sydney Royal Easter Show’s ‘Best Tail’ in breed, if they dared to have such a class. That is our family and how we got involved with the club. Julia has held the position of Agility Trial Manager for about 6 years – which she computerized for the last few trials and has been an Obedience Instructor, Chief Agility Instructor and still is an Julia Agility Instructor. I have been President before, Agility Trial Secretary, Obedience Instructor and still am an Agility Instructor. I hope you too will become involved with the running of your club or with the public education days, Australia Day, ANZAC Day, and / or Foundation Day activities. Have a go at trialing in agility or obedience or helping out at our own Agility and / or Obedience trials. I am sure you will find something that you could become involved in, in the dog world. The benefits for you and your best friend/s may be few or many but whichever it is like the rest of life, the more you put in the more you get out. Where you direct your energy and interest is your choice but make sure it is positive energy for dogs. Cross breeds or pure breeds it doesn’t matter as long as you and your dogs are enjoying it.
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Banjo
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Fly Ball
by Vicki Finn
What is Flyball
F
lyball is a relay race between two teams of four dogs. Racing side by side, one dog from each team must go over four hurdles, trigger a flyball box pedal, catch (retrieve) a ball and then return over all four hurdles to the start/finish gate where the next dog eagerly awaits. Flyball is a team sport. Each team consists of four dogs racing in each heat, plus up to two reserves. Reserves can be interchanged after each heat. There are between three and five heats to a race, and a team has to win a majority to win the race. Flyball encompasses all things that dogs love to do – jumping, catching, retrieving, competing and striving to please their owners.
Flyball is a sport in which any dog can participate regardless of breed, shape or size. Flyball does not interfere with obedience training. In fact, the sport reinforces the disciplines taught in obedience class. Besides being great for dogs, Flyball is a lot of fun for people too! It is a great way to meet people locally and all around Australia. The team-work aspects bring people together as they strive to improve their team’s performance. Flyball can be as competitive as you want to make it. The best part of all is just having fun with your dog, and seeing the look of excitement on your dog’s face at the start of a day racing, and the look of content at the end of the day. The Flyball training on Friday Night 7:30 pm
I have posted the following message on the front door: TO ALL NON-PET OWNERS WH AND LIKE TO COMPLAIN ABO O VISIT UT MY PETS: (1) They live here. You don ’t. (2) If you don’t want their hair on your clothes, stay off the furniture. That’s why they call it ‘fur’-nit ure. (3) I like my pets a lot better than I like many people. (4) To you, they are animals. To me, they are adopted son s/daughters who are short, hairy, walk on all fours and don’t speak clea rly. Remember, dogs are act ually better than kids Because they:
Snake Bites On the Rise I
n the last few weeks we have seen a flurry of snake bite victims being brought into the Mountains Animal Hospital. In some cases the snake was seen with the victim, in other cases we have to work out that a snake bite is the cause of the patients illness. It can be very difficult to avoid snakes biting our pets as usually it is the dog or cat who approaches the snake. Minimising the number of rats and mice you have near your house will reduce the number of snakes around. If you think that there is the slightest possibility that your pet has been bitten by a snake then you should take them to your vet immediately. The only effective treatment for snake envenomation is the prompt administration of the appropriate antivenom. If someone can call ahead this will allow the hospital to prepare for your arrival. Please do not bring the snake to the hospital, you may be bitten if the snake is still alive, and vets are generally not trained to handle venomous snakes. We can usually identify the snake type from the symptoms your pet is showing. If you can safely photograph the snake with your phone then this is more than adequate for identification. The majority of snake bites in the Mountains area are caused by either Brown snakes or
from VET Tony Karolis BVSC
Red-Bellied Black snakes. At Mountains Animal Hospital we always carry the antivenom to brown snakes, red bellied black snakes and tiger snakes. If you go to another vet it is worth ringing them to see if they have the antivenom in stock. The affects of the two snakes a quite different. Brown snakes tend to mainly cause a paralysis while Black snakes mainly cause damage to your pets blood cells and muscle cells. If you suspect that your pet has been bitten by a snake we generally will recommend that the pet receives a dose of antivenom. We do not need to know what type of snake caused the bite in most cases as we carry multivalent antivenom which will treat Brown, Black and Tiger snake bites. Prior to administration of the antivenom we will place your pet on an intravenous drip and give them a variety of medications to help the antivenom work more effectively. Once they have received the antivenom we will provide supportive care until they have recovered. Sometimes we need to help the patient to breath for a few hours, on other occasions we need to provide medications to stop further damage to blood cells. Generally, if your pet receives the antivenom in a timely fashion, they will recover quite well from snake envenomation.
(1) eat less, (2) don’t ask for money all
the time, (3) are easier to train, (4) normally come when call ed, (5) never ask to drive the car,
Nepean&MountainsAnimalHospitals
(6) don’t smoke or drink, (7) don’t want to wear you r clothes, (8) don’t have to buy the latest fashions, (9) don’t need a gazillion doll ars for college Plus (10) if they get pregnant, you can sell their childre
74 Murphy Street Blaxland NSW 2774
50 Mulgoa Road Regentville NSW 2745
There is a difference n! Vicki Finn
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New Members for September
Meet Mr & Mrs Brown & the Boxers by Leanne Brown (Secretary)
N
ew Members & their dogs for October 2010
• • • • • •
Brooke Elliott & Ralph Linda Daft & Mia Rosemary Badman & Cinders Jeff Kirschner & Rosie Marian & Rob Davey & Shadow Stephanie Renton & Duke
• Caitlin McDougall • Robin Lockie & Milly • Pauline Waters and Zaye • Alison Mair and Lily • Amie Ray and Oscar • Inga Schers and Elke • Georgina McBeath and Max • Una Hughes and Flash • Deborah and Georgia Wheatly and Molly David and Eisha
S.D.D.T.C JUNIOR HANDLERS A
t Springwood District Dog Training club we are extremely proud of our Junior Club Members we have several of them although some of them come and go depending on training nights for sports or with Ballet lessons. Tom Assar and Zac Devenport are there most of the time with Dominic Bleijie when he can and we love to see them all they are so willing to learn and as young people do seem to suck up information like a sponge they are also very willing to help at the club and young Tom and Dominic have both been a Steward at our last two Obedience Trials at Erskin Park they even had their parents working with us too… what more can you ask, I think every Judge mentioned how nice it was to see young people in a club and that we should be proud of them… WE ARE! and intend to keep them so you may see them instructing one day they certainly put all they have into making their pal behave and are a pleasure to have around. You will see photos from time to time… (when I can catch them) in your magazine actually Tom was in out first issue dressed up for Halloween last year standing with his mum Robin SO CUTE!
W
e’ve been with Springwood Club for 9 years. I came along with my wayward Boxer (after being told by another dog club that he was emotionally unstable and not ready to be trained) was not quite sure what to expect. I was warmly greeted and shown the ropes of how to get my boy under control. Lynn was my first instructor and we stayed in her class for the first 5 months of training. What a great start. We gave everything a go and Benson was soon doing flyball, agility, obedience and we were in the Springwood Dog Club Demonstration team. We even did our endurance title (Benson and me with a bike, riding for 20kms).I came just wanting to train my dog and discovered a world of DOG fun. I wanted to learn it all and do it all; having a Boxer made it a little bit more of a challenge. Today I have 3 Boxers and still want to do it all. Benson (9) has retired, Eisha (4) is competing in obedience and agility and learning flyball, Lena (10mths) is in training for everything and competing in the show ring. I have been the Secretary for the club for the last 3 years and an instructor for the last 8 years. David, my husband, is the club patron and left alone on Monday and Thursday nights while I’m out at Springwood Dog Club. Having a well trained dog means you can do things with your dog. We picnic, go camping, go to the beach, kayak - all with our dogs. Its really great fun.
Benson
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Leanne and her babies
Eisha
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Lena
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Ticks are coming our way T
icks are bad news from the canine point of view. Not only are they an irritation, but they carry disease and at worst can cause paralysis. While no one wants a dog to suffer from ticks and pet owners are encouraged to take all the precautions they can to prevent them, these parasitic creatures are determined to find a host and may not be deterred by simple precautionary measures. Ticks want a meal, and your dog may just prove to be that temptation to the hungry tick. The process that your dog goes through as a result is irritating and causes discomfort, lasting from several hours to several days. To help avoid ticks in the first place, try to make sure that areas where the dog plays are sprayed with an environmentally friendly spray made for this purpose. To avoid the attack from brown dog ticks, make sure that the bedding area of the dog is kept clean, since an unclean environment will encourage their activity. Regular grooming allows a pet owner to get up close and personal to examine areas of the skin that are susceptible to tick attack. These areas will include inside the ears and mouth. Regular grooming allows a pet owner to get up close and personal to examine areas of the skin that are susceptible to tick attack. These areas will be ones with less hair, since these are easier for the tick to penetrate. Under the armpits, in the area of the ear, around the neck and even on the feet of dogs, ticks will produce a hard area which is fairly easy for the dog owner to detect. If you notice your dog in discomfort and constantly trying to remove something, itch it or lick it, this may be an indication of problems. There are several methods of removal, though the easiest method and the least distressing for the dog is to a simple dab of alcohol targeted to the area where the tick is nestling. Once the alcohol has been applied with a cotton bud or Q-tip, immediately wash the area with a mild soapy water. This dislodges the tick and ends the problem. However, be aware that if ticks were picked up during walking, perhaps changing the route would be a good idea. Ticks are prevalent in woodland areas and by noting the path you took with your dog, you can also determine the kind of environment that caused the problem in the first place.
Among other methods are using a collar especially made for tick control. These should never be fastened too tightly and you should read the manufacturer’s guidelines to be sure that the dog is unable to chew on the collar. These are more preventative than efficient as a treatment, although a collar may be a good idea if your dog has attracted ticks as it will protect him from further attack. Shampooing may also help to get rid of ticks, though is not a hundred percent effective, as ticks may remain after shampooing. To ensure the best results, use a shampoo recommended by a vet and ensure that all susceptible areas are paid attention to, not only in the shampooing stage. The rinsing is what helps to remove the ticks, and this should be thorough. The main ingredient of products designed to get rid of ticks is pyrethrin. One should be aware that this can cause damage to ears. Cotton buds should be placed into the dog’s ears before any treatment with a product of this nature to avoid the possibility of unnecessary damage or distress. Your dog is part of your family. A dog owner has a responsibility to their pets, and should try her best to provide a safe environment for the dog. Ticks are not always the fault of an owner, but can be caused by the environment into which a dog is introduced. Since walks are a commonplace part of a dog’s life, be aware that the environment you choose for these walks could be that one place in which ticks thrive. Prevention is better than cure, though if you keep products at home for the treatment of ticks, the cure will always be available as circumstances impose. With your help, your dog can remain healthy and free from these invasive parasites. With regular grooming and attention to detail, you can prevent harm and look forward to healthy times with a dog who knows that its owner will not allow him to stay distressed for long. That’s the difference between being a dog lover and a dog owner, and with tick attacks, time is indeed ticking away that may lead to unnecessary suffering
Lynn’s Mystery Mutt Who am I
Members’ Guessing Competition
T
his breed is one of the oldest terrier breeds, originating in the Scottish Highlands and recognized as one of Scotland’s earliest working dogs. It is used for hunting and burrowing prey among the large rock piles... This breed are usually left-pawed. They are ratters. In Scotland they would search the (large rock piles) for rats and other rodents. Thus if one is kept as a house hold pet it will do the job of a cat, specifically catching and killing mice, rabbits, and squirrels. The current standard was approved on May 10, 1938 and was adopted from the Kennel Club (UK). According to the American standard, dogs should weigh 14 pounds and stand 10” at the withers. Females should weigh 13 pounds and stand 9.5” at the withers. This breed’s appearance may vary from this standard. It is common for this breed to stand between 9 and 13 inches (23–33 cm) at the withers and weigh 13 to 17 pounds (6 to 8 kg). European breeds tend to be larger than American. Due to irresponsible breeding most of this breed available today are much smaller or much larger than the breed standard. They have had puppy mill backgrounds can weigh as little as 7 pounds or as much as 27 pounds. This dog has a harsh, weather-resistant outer coat that can be cream, wheaten, red, sandy, gray, or brindled in any of these colors. Pure black, black and tan, and white are not permitted by many kennel clubs. A notable characteristic of this breed is that brindled frequently change color throughout their lifetime. It is not uncommon for a brindled dog to become progressively more black or silver as it ages. The breed is double-coated, with a soft, dense undercoat and a harsh outer coat. A well-groomed dog has a rough-and-ready appearance, free of artifice or exaggeration. This breed is adventurous, intelligent, strong, and loyal. Like most terriers, they love to dig after real or imagined prey. They have a strong prey instinct and will need comprehensive training. However, they are intelligent and, although willful, can be trained. Although it is often said that they are disobedient, this is not the case provided correct training is applied. This breed are working dogs and are still used as such in parts of Scotland. They generally adapt well to children and are suitable family dogs. Entries may be placed in the box on the sign on table. The winner will be announced in the following newsletter winners will receive a pigs ear for their Best friend.
Quote of the month “Every child should have two things? A dog and a mother willing to let them have one!”
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Anonymous
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Obedience & Agility Trial Results
Upcoming Events
Obedience Results:
• 28th October is Halloween Night. Come along dress up your dog and yourself if you want (Tom & his Mum Robin had their photo from last years Halloween night in our first issue) it’s a fun night and you might win a prize for your pooch? • 2nd December is our yearly Dinner & Presentation Night if you are interested please see Wally, Ella or Leanne at the table for details it is not a big expensive night at $25.00 a head and we would love to have you as it is nights like these that bring club members together one last time for this year as we all have one thing in common our POOCH!
At Sydney All Breeds at Concord 12/9/2010 Bill Sweeney & O-CH Marla UDX, AD came 1st In the UD Ring Bill Sweeney & O-CH Marla UDX, AD came 2nd in the UDX Ring Bill Sweeney & Elsa UD came 2nd in the UD Ring At the Metro Mid Week Trial 22/9/2010 Bill Sweeney & O-CH Marla UDX, AD came first in the UD ring
Reminder
Newcastle all breeds 24 & 25 of September Bill Sweeney & Elsa UD won the UD ring on the 24th Bill & O-CH Marla UDX, AD came 1st in the UD ring on 25th.
Are we good girls?
NSW State Titles Week-End 2 & 3rd of October 2010 Saturday it rained & rained and rained….nuff said? Sunday Bill & Elsa came 2nd in the UD Ring her 3rd pas towards her O-CH. She also got a beautiful Trophy from the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club as Obedience Dog for 2010. Bill got his Silver Pin for Marla in the UD Ring at the State Titles too so good day all round.
Agility Results 17 October 2010:
Congratulations to - Penny and Callum
3rd place 300 Masters Jumping 2nd place 300 Masters Agility
Charnel and Ollie
2nd place 300 Novice
Catherine and Sasha 1st place
300 Novice
Agility Agility
Another successful agility trial. The cold weather parted and we had a beautiful sunshiny day. Thank you, to all who helped in the success of our trial. A Big thank you to our stewards who worked tirelessly all day. Without you we can’t hold trials. Thanks.
• Please Let Dot Luker know if you should get a trophy this year as soon as possible or you could miss out and that would be a shame, but she needs time to organise and order them before our presentation night. • This newsletter is for all members and we would love to get information, articles or photo’s from YOU? Please help to make this newsletter something to look forward to at the end of each month making it your newsletter and not the Sweeney newsletter so please send your info to ella. sweeney@bigpond.com • To satisfy the conditions of our public liability insurance every member and instructor is required to sign the attendance book each time they attend training or club function (including obedience, agility, flyball or community outings such as demonstrations. • Don’t forget to take a raffle ticket when you sign in and pay your ground fees. We draw it when we stop for a cup of tea or coffee at the break. The winner gets to pick a prize from our raffle box see Wally or Ella if you have the winning ticket.
Members Shop NEW POLO CLUB TOPS AND LIGHT JACKETS We are ordering new polo club tops and lightweight jackets for the cooler nights at training and have been taking orders for them still, we should have them hopefully in the next month or so they look great and it will be nice to see members in them if you are Interested, please see Ella or Leanne to order although I will also keep a small stock in my shop I can only carry so many sizes. We still as usual have some halti’s, collars and leads and liver treats. Ella Sweeney (shop Manager)
Shop prices We sell nice warm jackets Vests Caps & beanies T-shirts Dog treats (liver)
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Pooch Scoop Monthly
$60.00 $40.00 $10.00 $32.00 $2.50 Bag
Pigs ears Halti’s Leads Collars Treat bags
Pooch Scoop Monthly
$1.20 Each $22.00 $14.00 $14.00 $22.00
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Agility Trial
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October 17th 2010
Pooch Scoop Monthly
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Agility Trial
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October 17th 2010
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Obedience & Agility Trial Results
Upcoming Events
Obedience Results:
• 28th October is Halloween Night. Come along dress up your dog and yourself if you want (Tom & his Mum Robin had their photo from last years Halloween night in our first issue) it’s a fun night and you might win a prize for your pooch? • 2nd December is our yearly Dinner & Presentation Night if you are interested please see Wally, Ella or Leanne at the table for details it is not a big expensive night at $25.00 a head and we would love to have you as it is nights like these that bring club members together one last time for this year as we all have one thing in common our POOCH!
At Sydney All Breeds at Concord 12/9/2010 Bill Sweeney & O-CH Marla UDX, AD came 1st In the UD Ring Bill Sweeney & O-CH Marla UDX, AD came 2nd in the UDX Ring Bill Sweeney & Elsa UD came 2nd in the UD Ring At the Metro Mid Week Trial 22/9/2010 Bill Sweeney & O-CH Marla UDX, AD came first in the UD ring
Reminder
Newcastle all breeds 24 & 25 of September Bill Sweeney & Elsa UD won the UD ring on the 24th Bill & O-CH Marla UDX, AD came 1st in the UD ring on 25th.
Are we good girls?
NSW State Titles Week-End 2 & 3rd of October 2010 Saturday it rained & rained and rained….nuff said? Sunday Bill & Elsa came 2nd in the UD Ring her 3rd pas towards her O-CH. She also got a beautiful Trophy from the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club as Obedience Dog for 2010. Bill got his Silver Pin for Marla in the UD Ring at the State Titles too so good day all round.
Agility Results 17 October 2010:
Congratulations to - Penny and Callum
3rd place 300 Masters Jumping 2nd place 300 Masters Agility
Charnel and Ollie
2nd place 300 Novice
Catherine and Sasha 1st place
300 Novice
Agility Agility
Another successful agility trial. The cold weather parted and we had a beautiful sunshiny day. Thank you, to all who helped in the success of our trial. A Big thank you to our stewards who worked tirelessly all day. Without you we can’t hold trials. Thanks.
• Please Let Dot Luker know if you should get a trophy this year as soon as possible or you could miss out and that would be a shame, but she needs time to organise and order them before our presentation night. • This newsletter is for all members and we would love to get information, articles or photo’s from YOU? Please help to make this newsletter something to look forward to at the end of each month making it your newsletter and not the Sweeney newsletter so please send your info to ella. sweeney@bigpond.com • To satisfy the conditions of our public liability insurance every member and instructor is required to sign the attendance book each time they attend training or club function (including obedience, agility, flyball or community outings such as demonstrations. • Don’t forget to take a raffle ticket when you sign in and pay your ground fees. We draw it when we stop for a cup of tea or coffee at the break. The winner gets to pick a prize from our raffle box see Wally or Ella if you have the winning ticket.
Members Shop NEW POLO CLUB TOPS AND LIGHT JACKETS We are ordering new polo club tops and lightweight jackets for the cooler nights at training and have been taking orders for them still, we should have them hopefully in the next month or so they look great and it will be nice to see members in them if you are Interested, please see Ella or Leanne to order although I will also keep a small stock in my shop I can only carry so many sizes. We still as usual have some halti’s, collars and leads and liver treats. Ella Sweeney (shop Manager)
Shop prices We sell nice warm jackets Vests Caps & beanies T-shirts Dog treats (liver)
10 th
Pooch Scoop Monthly
$60.00 $40.00 $10.00 $32.00 $2.50 Bag
Pigs ears Halti’s Leads Collars Treat bags
Pooch Scoop Monthly
$1.20 Each $22.00 $14.00 $14.00 $22.00
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Ticks are coming our way T
icks are bad news from the canine point of view. Not only are they an irritation, but they carry disease and at worst can cause paralysis. While no one wants a dog to suffer from ticks and pet owners are encouraged to take all the precautions they can to prevent them, these parasitic creatures are determined to find a host and may not be deterred by simple precautionary measures. Ticks want a meal, and your dog may just prove to be that temptation to the hungry tick. The process that your dog goes through as a result is irritating and causes discomfort, lasting from several hours to several days. To help avoid ticks in the first place, try to make sure that areas where the dog plays are sprayed with an environmentally friendly spray made for this purpose. To avoid the attack from brown dog ticks, make sure that the bedding area of the dog is kept clean, since an unclean environment will encourage their activity. Regular grooming allows a pet owner to get up close and personal to examine areas of the skin that are susceptible to tick attack. These areas will include inside the ears and mouth. Regular grooming allows a pet owner to get up close and personal to examine areas of the skin that are susceptible to tick attack. These areas will be ones with less hair, since these are easier for the tick to penetrate. Under the armpits, in the area of the ear, around the neck and even on the feet of dogs, ticks will produce a hard area which is fairly easy for the dog owner to detect. If you notice your dog in discomfort and constantly trying to remove something, itch it or lick it, this may be an indication of problems. There are several methods of removal, though the easiest method and the least distressing for the dog is to a simple dab of alcohol targeted to the area where the tick is nestling. Once the alcohol has been applied with a cotton bud or Q-tip, immediately wash the area with a mild soapy water. This dislodges the tick and ends the problem. However, be aware that if ticks were picked up during walking, perhaps changing the route would be a good idea. Ticks are prevalent in woodland areas and by noting the path you took with your dog, you can also determine the kind of environment that caused the problem in the first place.
Among other methods are using a collar especially made for tick control. These should never be fastened too tightly and you should read the manufacturer’s guidelines to be sure that the dog is unable to chew on the collar. These are more preventative than efficient as a treatment, although a collar may be a good idea if your dog has attracted ticks as it will protect him from further attack. Shampooing may also help to get rid of ticks, though is not a hundred percent effective, as ticks may remain after shampooing. To ensure the best results, use a shampoo recommended by a vet and ensure that all susceptible areas are paid attention to, not only in the shampooing stage. The rinsing is what helps to remove the ticks, and this should be thorough. The main ingredient of products designed to get rid of ticks is pyrethrin. One should be aware that this can cause damage to ears. Cotton buds should be placed into the dog’s ears before any treatment with a product of this nature to avoid the possibility of unnecessary damage or distress. Your dog is part of your family. A dog owner has a responsibility to their pets, and should try her best to provide a safe environment for the dog. Ticks are not always the fault of an owner, but can be caused by the environment into which a dog is introduced. Since walks are a commonplace part of a dog’s life, be aware that the environment you choose for these walks could be that one place in which ticks thrive. Prevention is better than cure, though if you keep products at home for the treatment of ticks, the cure will always be available as circumstances impose. With your help, your dog can remain healthy and free from these invasive parasites. With regular grooming and attention to detail, you can prevent harm and look forward to healthy times with a dog who knows that its owner will not allow him to stay distressed for long. That’s the difference between being a dog lover and a dog owner, and with tick attacks, time is indeed ticking away that may lead to unnecessary suffering
Lynn’s Mystery Mutt Who am I
Members’ Guessing Competition
T
his breed is one of the oldest terrier breeds, originating in the Scottish Highlands and recognized as one of Scotland’s earliest working dogs. It is used for hunting and burrowing prey among the large rock piles... This breed are usually left-pawed. They are ratters. In Scotland they would search the (large rock piles) for rats and other rodents. Thus if one is kept as a house hold pet it will do the job of a cat, specifically catching and killing mice, rabbits, and squirrels. The current standard was approved on May 10, 1938 and was adopted from the Kennel Club (UK). According to the American standard, dogs should weigh 14 pounds and stand 10” at the withers. Females should weigh 13 pounds and stand 9.5” at the withers. This breed’s appearance may vary from this standard. It is common for this breed to stand between 9 and 13 inches (23–33 cm) at the withers and weigh 13 to 17 pounds (6 to 8 kg). European breeds tend to be larger than American. Due to irresponsible breeding most of this breed available today are much smaller or much larger than the breed standard. They have had puppy mill backgrounds can weigh as little as 7 pounds or as much as 27 pounds. This dog has a harsh, weather-resistant outer coat that can be cream, wheaten, red, sandy, gray, or brindled in any of these colors. Pure black, black and tan, and white are not permitted by many kennel clubs. A notable characteristic of this breed is that brindled frequently change color throughout their lifetime. It is not uncommon for a brindled dog to become progressively more black or silver as it ages. The breed is double-coated, with a soft, dense undercoat and a harsh outer coat. A well-groomed dog has a rough-and-ready appearance, free of artifice or exaggeration. This breed is adventurous, intelligent, strong, and loyal. Like most terriers, they love to dig after real or imagined prey. They have a strong prey instinct and will need comprehensive training. However, they are intelligent and, although willful, can be trained. Although it is often said that they are disobedient, this is not the case provided correct training is applied. This breed are working dogs and are still used as such in parts of Scotland. They generally adapt well to children and are suitable family dogs. Entries may be placed in the box on the sign on table. The winner will be announced in the following newsletter winners will receive a pigs ear for their Best friend.
Quote of the month “Every child should have two things? A dog and a mother willing to let them have one!”
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New Members for September
Meet Mr & Mrs Brown & the Boxers by Leanne Brown (Secretary)
N
ew Members & their dogs for October 2010
• • • • • •
Brooke Elliott & Ralph Linda Daft & Mia Rosemary Badman & Cinders Jeff Kirschner & Rosie Marian & Rob Davey & Shadow Stephanie Renton & Duke
• Caitlin McDougall • Robin Lockie & Milly • Pauline Waters and Zaye • Alison Mair and Lily • Amie Ray and Oscar • Inga Schers and Elke • Georgina McBeath and Max • Una Hughes and Flash • Deborah and Georgia Wheatly and Molly David and Eisha
S.D.D.T.C JUNIOR HANDLERS A
t Springwood District Dog Training club we are extremely proud of our Junior Club Members we have several of them although some of them come and go depending on training nights for sports or with Ballet lessons. Tom Assar and Zac Devenport are there most of the time with Dominic Bleijie when he can and we love to see them all they are so willing to learn and as young people do seem to suck up information like a sponge they are also very willing to help at the club and young Tom and Dominic have both been a Steward at our last two Obedience Trials at Erskin Park they even had their parents working with us too… what more can you ask, I think every Judge mentioned how nice it was to see young people in a club and that we should be proud of them… WE ARE! and intend to keep them so you may see them instructing one day they certainly put all they have into making their pal behave and are a pleasure to have around. You will see photos from time to time… (when I can catch them) in your magazine actually Tom was in out first issue dressed up for Halloween last year standing with his mum Robin SO CUTE!
W
e’ve been with Springwood Club for 9 years. I came along with my wayward Boxer (after being told by another dog club that he was emotionally unstable and not ready to be trained) was not quite sure what to expect. I was warmly greeted and shown the ropes of how to get my boy under control. Lynn was my first instructor and we stayed in her class for the first 5 months of training. What a great start. We gave everything a go and Benson was soon doing flyball, agility, obedience and we were in the Springwood Dog Club Demonstration team. We even did our endurance title (Benson and me with a bike, riding for 20kms).I came just wanting to train my dog and discovered a world of DOG fun. I wanted to learn it all and do it all; having a Boxer made it a little bit more of a challenge. Today I have 3 Boxers and still want to do it all. Benson (9) has retired, Eisha (4) is competing in obedience and agility and learning flyball, Lena (10mths) is in training for everything and competing in the show ring. I have been the Secretary for the club for the last 3 years and an instructor for the last 8 years. David, my husband, is the club patron and left alone on Monday and Thursday nights while I’m out at Springwood Dog Club. Having a well trained dog means you can do things with your dog. We picnic, go camping, go to the beach, kayak - all with our dogs. Its really great fun.
Benson
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Leanne and her babies
Eisha
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Lena
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Fly Ball
by Vicki Finn
What is Flyball
F
lyball is a relay race between two teams of four dogs. Racing side by side, one dog from each team must go over four hurdles, trigger a flyball box pedal, catch (retrieve) a ball and then return over all four hurdles to the start/finish gate where the next dog eagerly awaits. Flyball is a team sport. Each team consists of four dogs racing in each heat, plus up to two reserves. Reserves can be interchanged after each heat. There are between three and five heats to a race, and a team has to win a majority to win the race. Flyball encompasses all things that dogs love to do – jumping, catching, retrieving, competing and striving to please their owners.
Flyball is a sport in which any dog can participate regardless of breed, shape or size. Flyball does not interfere with obedience training. In fact, the sport reinforces the disciplines taught in obedience class. Besides being great for dogs, Flyball is a lot of fun for people too! It is a great way to meet people locally and all around Australia. The team-work aspects bring people together as they strive to improve their team’s performance. Flyball can be as competitive as you want to make it. The best part of all is just having fun with your dog, and seeing the look of excitement on your dog’s face at the start of a day racing, and the look of content at the end of the day. The Flyball training on Friday Night 7:30 pm
I have posted the following message on the front door: TO ALL NON-PET OWNERS WH AND LIKE TO COMPLAIN ABO O VISIT UT MY PETS: (1) They live here. You don ’t. (2) If you don’t want their hair on your clothes, stay off the furniture. That’s why they call it ‘fur’-nit ure. (3) I like my pets a lot better than I like many people. (4) To you, they are animals. To me, they are adopted son s/daughters who are short, hairy, walk on all fours and don’t speak clea rly. Remember, dogs are act ually better than kids Because they:
Snake Bites On the Rise I
n the last few weeks we have seen a flurry of snake bite victims being brought into the Mountains Animal Hospital. In some cases the snake was seen with the victim, in other cases we have to work out that a snake bite is the cause of the patients illness. It can be very difficult to avoid snakes biting our pets as usually it is the dog or cat who approaches the snake. Minimising the number of rats and mice you have near your house will reduce the number of snakes around. If you think that there is the slightest possibility that your pet has been bitten by a snake then you should take them to your vet immediately. The only effective treatment for snake envenomation is the prompt administration of the appropriate antivenom. If someone can call ahead this will allow the hospital to prepare for your arrival. Please do not bring the snake to the hospital, you may be bitten if the snake is still alive, and vets are generally not trained to handle venomous snakes. We can usually identify the snake type from the symptoms your pet is showing. If you can safely photograph the snake with your phone then this is more than adequate for identification. The majority of snake bites in the Mountains area are caused by either Brown snakes or
from VET Tony Karolis BVSC
Red-Bellied Black snakes. At Mountains Animal Hospital we always carry the antivenom to brown snakes, red bellied black snakes and tiger snakes. If you go to another vet it is worth ringing them to see if they have the antivenom in stock. The affects of the two snakes a quite different. Brown snakes tend to mainly cause a paralysis while Black snakes mainly cause damage to your pets blood cells and muscle cells. If you suspect that your pet has been bitten by a snake we generally will recommend that the pet receives a dose of antivenom. We do not need to know what type of snake caused the bite in most cases as we carry multivalent antivenom which will treat Brown, Black and Tiger snake bites. Prior to administration of the antivenom we will place your pet on an intravenous drip and give them a variety of medications to help the antivenom work more effectively. Once they have received the antivenom we will provide supportive care until they have recovered. Sometimes we need to help the patient to breath for a few hours, on other occasions we need to provide medications to stop further damage to blood cells. Generally, if your pet receives the antivenom in a timely fashion, they will recover quite well from snake envenomation.
(1) eat less, (2) don’t ask for money all
the time, (3) are easier to train, (4) normally come when call ed, (5) never ask to drive the car,
Nepean&MountainsAnimalHospitals
(6) don’t smoke or drink, (7) don’t want to wear you r clothes, (8) don’t have to buy the latest fashions, (9) don’t need a gazillion doll ars for college Plus (10) if they get pregnant, you can sell their childre
74 Murphy Street Blaxland NSW 2774
50 Mulgoa Road Regentville NSW 2745
There is a difference n! Vicki Finn
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Dog Training Tips
Cover Story Continued
When to start training your dog
met Julia and Banjo. He was a hit. Banjo loved him, kisses all around, tails wagging. Julia and I had a new family member. But the name would have to be changed – Jemmie - yeah, Jemmie Sir Echo. Paperwork and phone screening we were the proud companions of a very thin, very closed down, very sad dog who was to become the most social, loved and prettiest boy that every dog loves. Still Jemmie is learning to do what all puppies should have learned in their first 6 months with their families. He can even initiate play, do all the things any top obedience dog can do, he’s king of the A-frame in agility and is the best flyball cheerleader in the Mountains and has featured in the “Gazette” as a pin-up boy numerous times. And we are totally objective. By the way he weighs a healthy 20 -22 kg these days. Time passes as did Banjo when his back legs gave out and we were told he can’t Ann run, use stairs, chase a ball, will have to be kept ‘quiet’ and rested. Banjo decided he didn’t want to live like that and one Sunday morning he left to join Jeremiah on the Rainbow Bridge. Again our hearts were ripped open but we had to respect Banjo. He, as all our dogs do, had given us love, companionship, loyalty, friendship, laughs, joy and many more positive adventures and what did he ask for …… absolutely nothing. Dogs just give and give and give. Julia was at work and a colleague asked her if she could help her find a dog rescue sight. As always Julia helped out and by doing so she came across a litter that reminded her of Banjo when he was a little bloke. The litter all had Stargate names. We just happen to be fans of this series. We went and had a look at the litter after work one day and took a friend, Michelle with us. Coincidently the carer and Michelle knew each other jeremiah
W
hether you have just brought home a new puppy or a rescue dog, training should begin straight away. Remember, your dog can pick up bad habits if allowed to get away with certain behaviour when settling in. For example, you allow your puppy to sleep in your room for the first few nights because he is crying, but a few months down the line you cannot shut your dog in the kitchen at night because he barks the house down! So you should decide on the ground rules before your dog arrives and stick to them.
Training tips Mostly, you will need a bit of patience and a willing pet. You will also need a small, tasty treat to reward your dog and a quiet room with no distractions to enable you and your dog to concentrate. It can be very helpful to join a training class for guidance, support and socialisation or work from a reputable dog-training club that uses a positive reinforcement method. You need to teach your dog things that provide your dog with the behaviour necessary for him to fit into society and keep him safe, such as well as happy and contented like: • Housetraining; • Socialisation with other dogs and people; • Come when called Sit, stay, drop or down; or you may want to train with a clicker many people do! Clicker training is fun and effective, and fast becoming the preferred method of training dogs.
Clickety-clack, don’t look back Clicker training is a simple and effective method of training based on a positive reinforcement reward system. The clicker itself is a simple plastic box with a metal tongue. When compressed, it emits a double ‘click’ sound. The clicker is used to reward a specific behaviour and works on your dog’s willingness to want to please you and earn his prize. The beauty of the clicker is that it is specific to the behaviour your dog is exhibiting at the precise time you want to reward it. Praise like, “Who’s been a good boy, then!” is not going to be as effective in teaching your dog what will earn him a reward, so it will take him longer to learn the good behaviour you’re wanting. Because the click is sounded while the good
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behaviour is occurring, there can be no doubt in your dog’s mind about what he’s being rewarded for. Clicker training uses your dogs own natural desire to learn and obtain a reward without having to use any force or punishment. If your dog does not do what you are trying to teach, he will not get a click reward and so will try harder to do what you want to gain recognition.
Why use a clicker instead of food lure training? Using food as reward is still an essential part of training, at least initially. However, using food rewards alone has some drawbacks: • Over-treating can lead to obesity. • Some dogs will grow bored and stop learning if the treats are not used correctly. • The treat may distract the dog from understanding exactly what he did to earn the reward. • Treating can lead to the dog refusing to perform a task unless the treat is produced, meaning the dogs will end up only doing as he is asked when the treat is on show.
Getting started in clicker training • Like with any training, start in an environment that your dog is comfortable and relaxed in. • Begin to associate the click with a reward by following a click-treat-click-treat-click pattern, holding the clicker out of sight. • Your dog will eventually begin to associate the clicker with a reward until the click becomes the reward in itself. • In obedience training, you give your dog an idea of what is expected, rewarding him when he does it properly. For example, ‘lure’ your dog into the sit position by holding a treat in front of your dog’s nose and move your hand back over his head. As he tries to keep the treat under his nose, his bottom will automatically hit the floor. At this stage you can click and treat. As you repeat this, only give treats intermittently and introduce a command. Allow your dog time to work out what you want him to do – and be patient. Speak to your instructor about this way of teaching your dog it is not for all dogs or all dog owners!
Pooch Scoop Monthly
so we were able to take a pup straight away. The mother was stressed and unable to feed. Abydos Clicker Queen was so tiny, as big as your hand. Four feeds a day and she grew while she slept. Jemmie just hid on the lounge or any place higher than the floor. Gradually he realized she was a dog and Abydos has taught Jemmie how to play, chase balls, find hidden food, travel in a car etc etc. They have both now got another playmate, Lunar Rose Eclipse, an absolutely beautiful Red and White Border Collie who would win the Sydney Royal Easter Show’s ‘Best Tail’ in breed, if they dared to have such a class. That is our family and how we got involved with the club. Julia has held the position of Agility Trial Manager for about 6 years – which she computerized for the last few trials and has been an Obedience Instructor, Chief Agility Instructor and still is an Julia Agility Instructor. I have been President before, Agility Trial Secretary, Obedience Instructor and still am an Agility Instructor. I hope you too will become involved with the running of your club or with the public education days, Australia Day, ANZAC Day, and / or Foundation Day activities. Have a go at trialing in agility or obedience or helping out at our own Agility and / or Obedience trials. I am sure you will find something that you could become involved in, in the dog world. The benefits for you and your best friend/s may be few or many but whichever it is like the rest of life, the more you put in the more you get out. Where you direct your energy and interest is your choice but make sure it is positive energy for dogs. Cross breeds or pure breeds it doesn’t matter as long as you and your dogs are enjoying it.
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Banjo
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SPRINGWOOD DISTRICT DOG TRAINING CLUB INC
à la dog dish
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: The AGM for the Springwood District Dog Training Club INC was held on the 28th August 2010. We had several new members attend our meeting it was great to see them and thank you for coming along.
Apple Cinnamon Drops
Bacon Bits for Dogs
Ingredients:
Ingredients:
• 1 large apple
• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup honey
• 4 eggs, well beaten
• 1/2 cup of water
• 1/8 cup bacon fat
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1 cup oatmeal
• 1 cup water
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup non-fat dry milk powder
• 1/8 cup whole wheat flour
• 2 cup plain flour
UPDATE NOVEMBER 2010
Honary Members: Pam Waters, Lesley Piggott. Annual General Meeting held at the clubhouse at Lomatia Park last Thursday night in August 7:30pm. There is no dog training held on this night. Web Site: Email:
www.sddtc.org info@sddtc.org
Training Nights at Lomatia Park Agility: Monday 7:30pm Obedience: Thursday7:30pm Fly Ball: Friday at 7:30pm Wet weather ring 4780 5617 to see if oval is open.
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Proud to Sponsor
Dot Luker, Ann Moy, Ron Amann, Wally Campbell.
Pooch Scoop Monthly
Core, slice and mince the apple (use a food processor if you have one). In a large bowl, combine the minced apple bits, honey, water, cinnamon, and oatmeal. Gradually blend in the wheat flour, adding enough to form a stiff dough.
. PTY . LTD
Life Members:
500
FULL COLOUR
BUSINESS CARDS
$125
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
Preheat oven to 350 ° F (180 ° C).
ING
O GW
• 2 cup wheat germ
Directions:
. CO
They will all be working hard for our club and representing you. Remember you are always welcome to attend our clubs general meetings at the Red Cross Hall Springwood on the 3rd Tuesday of the month except January.
SPR IN
Ann Lenehan Dot Luker Leanne Brown 47542910 Ella Sweeney Robin Assar, Vickie Finn, Julia Lawrie, Elaine Browning Lynn Olson Dot Luker Wally Campbell Sarah Visser Ella Sweeney Ron Amann & Nicola Read Bill Sweeney Celeste Paxon & Jenny Prestidge Dot Luker Trevor Mawer Charnel Cameron Ella Sweeney ella.sweeney@bigpond.com David Brown David Brown Antony Karolis BVSC OD PRINT
SDDTC
Committee for 2010 is: President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Committee Publicity Officer Trophy Officer Table Manager Obedience Table Manager Agility Shop Manager Chief Instructors Obedience Trial Manager Obedience Trial Secretary Fly Ball Manager Agility Trial Manager 2011 Agility Trial Secretary 2011 Website & Newsletter Co-Ordinator Sports Council Hon Patron Hon Vet
In a small bowl, add 1/8 cup wheat flour. Spoon the dough by rounded teaspoon onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches (5cm) apart. Using the bottom of a glass dipped in the wheat flour (to prevent sticking), flatten each spoonful of dough into a circle. Adjust the size of the drops based on how big a treat you like to feed your dog.
Directions: Mix ingredients with a strong spoon; drop heaping tablespoonfuls onto a greased baking sheet. Bake in a 350 oven for 15 minutes. Turn off oven and leave cookies on baking sheet in the oven overnight to dry out. Yield: about 4 dozen dog cookies.
Healthy Dog Snacks Ingredients: • 1 3/4 cups plain flour • 2 tsp toasted wheat germ • 1/2 cup brown sugar
Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and flip each cookie to brown evenly on both sides. Reduce oven temperature to 325 ° F (180 °C). Return to oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes. Let cool overnight.
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
Makes about 3 dozen crunchy cookies, depending on how big you make them.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Rind of 1 lemon • 12 tsp butter or margarine • 1/2 cup ground walnuts Directions: Combine all the ingredients. Knead until thoroughly blended. Divide into 6 parts. Roll each into a log. Wrap loosely in wax paper. Freeze. When needed, thaw and slice into 1/2 thick slices (across roll). Preheat oven to 375F. Place cookies on an ungreased cookie pan. Bake about 12 minutes.
INCL. GST
465 Great Western Highway Faulconbridge
4751 6119
Fax 4751 1745 spc@springwoodprinting.com.au
Please note all recipes for dog treats are from a free web site. My name’s Jemmie, and I’m a snackaholic
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WANTED
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Issue No. 2 December 2010
p
M O NTHLY
Springwood District Dog Training Club Inc.
Know your President and another Committee Member By Ann Lenehan (president) & Julia Lawrie
H
i, Julia and I have been members of SDDTC for ten and a half years. How we came to be members of our club goes back twelve and a half years. Julia and I had found a new member to introduce to our family at Katoomba’s RSPCA, a little black puppy we named Jeremiah. He was a little black ball of fluff with a white blaze down his chest, which resembled an upside down crucifix and one white paw. We had Max, a Pomeranian x Red Cattle Dog who could climb anything (ladders, fences, gates) and did! Banjo, Rottweiler x Mastiff who loved tennis balls and usually had three in his mouth at a time which he had caught one by one only putting down one to catch another! That’s right he would catch the third with two already there. He would race down the 17 back steps, jump over the dry rock wall and hope one of us would throw the balls to him from the back verandah – which of course we did. Jeremiah fitted in immediately. He was the most amazing dog who left everyone he met with a story about him, full of mischief, love, innocence, determination and always humour. There was only one person in the universe who didn’t love him and she is why we began obedience training at Lomatia Park. Banjo was Julia’ handler and Jeremiah was mine. The first night we started we walked a lap of the park before class but by the time we got back to the car park Jeremiah thought he needed a higher vantage point so he jumped up on to the little white fence and tottered along there until he saw the bonnet of
Disclaimer please note: News, views and opinions in this newsletter are those of the correspondent’s and not necessarily those of the club, editor, committee and publicity officer. The Springwood District Dog Training club INC reserves the right of rejection of material. Lunar
Jemmie
cars which were much more fun to leap from, one to the other. Ooops. Apparently no-one saw him and he didn’t leave any claw marks behind either. Not even on the windscreen he slid down after checking out the roof racks on one car. Now you know why the club insists all dogs are on lead………..and we tell you it’s for safety……… mmmmmm. You decide…………….. Anyway both Jeremiah and Banjo did really well at obedience. Until one terrible day in March when Jeremiah was destined to be on the Rainbow Bridge before lunch…That day a part of both Julia and I died with him. We were truly devastated ……. the accident still to this day brings heartache. Duly on Thursday night we brought Banjo to training. His world was in upheaval as well. His best mate was gone too. I sat in one of the pagodas while Julia and Banjo worked in their class. After a short time Dot came in and asked why I wasn’t in class with Jeremiah………..I burst into tears and went through the disaster. ‘What are you going to do?’ Dot asked. I shrugged. ‘Will you get another dog?’ ‘Dunno, I suppose something will drop from the sky.’ I didn’t know Dot all that well and when she asked me to go to the back of her car and have a look I thought ‘Why not……maybe she’ll stop asking about Jeremiah’. I walked to her car with her and she said, ‘Will you take him for a walk for me, he’s been there all night….’ I unlocked the door slowly put my hand in and patted this gorgeous black and white skeleton, called Echo. You poor thing, you look a sad as I feel. I picked him up and gently placed him on the ground. Dot was back. ‘Want him? He’s yours.’ ‘What? I dunno. Banjo and Julia will have to meet him. If he gets on with Banjo…..I suppose….. but how?’ ‘He’s a rescue dog, he needs a home tonight.’ So onto the oval we walked. 10kg of Border Collie and me. We Abbie