tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52064774107621298372024-03-14T02:50:43.718-07:00From the Desk of a DinosaurGeorge Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.comBlogger59125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-34327441703049434582017-03-19T07:20:00.002-07:002017-03-19T07:20:39.115-07:00Farewell...
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Farewell…<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Do not stand at my grave and weep.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am not here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I do not sleep.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am a thousand winds that blow.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am the diamond glints of snow.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am the gentle autumn’s rain.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Do not stand at my grave and cry.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am not there.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I did not die.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>…Unknown
Native American…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our dinosaur is<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>now with our Lord and all his loved ones that have left this earth
before him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This includes all the
beautiful creatures that were such a large part of his life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some champions, some not, but loved and
cared for as if they were.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Although his writings will cease, the memory and the wisdom they
contained will last forever. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Honor
him by rereading some of his articles.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I do not have the writing talent or credentials that he had
but needed to put this on paper for one final entry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I think when looking back over his life, our dinosaur
would smile and quote his favorite line from his favorite story… </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">“It’s been quite a party”<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sleep well my love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Save me a place by your side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were all truly blessed… by
this, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the last dinosaur.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!!! </div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-15172859458343122612017-02-02T10:02:00.002-08:002017-02-02T10:02:56.344-08:00Things You Can't See<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Things You Can’t See<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve spent years writing about Collies on many
subjects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My writings were from
the point of view of a conformation breeder, exhibitor, and judge so it
followed that I described mostly what you <u>can</u> see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When describing what’s important it’s
always been my aim to stress health and temperament as most important building
blocks for any breeder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Without
both of those basics you can’t have a really good dog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is more to be enjoyed about <u>any</u>
dog than physical attributes.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Albert Payson Terhune who did so much to make the Collie
popular stressed what’s <u>inside</u> a dog as very important.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Terhune knew what a good Collie
conformation wise <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>looked like, but
valued what was inside above all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He wrote of loyalty, bravery, brains, and other things that don’t show
as being hallmarks of the best Collies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>These descriptions helped many, myself included, to want a Collie above
all breeds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now we know that some
attributes that Terhune wrote about may stretch the imagination somewhat, but
they sure sold Collies to the public.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you know your breed’s history beyond dog shows you must
know what the Collie was bred to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Way back in the Collies’ history was a dog who herded
sheep, guarded the shepherd’s home, and acted as playmate for is children, This
was a trainable dog who took being associated with people naturally and loved
children above all else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They had
brains and loyalty which only showed in their actions not in appearance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Would that we humans valued such things
more in our own species.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In my years of showing and breeding I had two dogs who were
campaigned, both of whom went BB at the CC of A.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ch Jadene’s Breezalong has always stayed in my memory as the
most correct Collie I ever showed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Ch. Gingeor’s Indelibly Blue was a very correct Collie as well but
Breezy was better in my opinion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When it comes to hidden traits that make a dog good to live with, there
was no comparison.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hair was hands
down a fun dog to be around and Breezy was a somewhat aloof professional.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They had been raised somewhat differently and that may have
affected the finished product.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Breezy was whelped at my kennel, but left at six weeks to live with his
breeder, Barbara Woodmancy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At
about five months I got him back as Barbara was moving to Florida and didn’t want
him to face the heat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He came back
to me will trained, but had spent life as a kennel dog with minimal human
contact since Barbara had a job as a nurse.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hair on the other hand was whelped and raised at my
kennel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had three young boys to
enjoy and was a real extrovert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When he went to a show he often watched TV with one of the boys while I
visited friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Breezy on the
other hand would eat, go for a walk and take a nap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Neither dog had any trace of shyness and showed like pros
when the time came.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Which one do
you think you’d rather live with as a dog to enjoy?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I hear a great deal about how the Collie has slipped down in
registration rankings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are
many factors involved in this phenomenon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What’s on the inside of our dogs may be something to consider as much as
beauty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The whole dog matters to
the public when they shell out their money.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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The dinosaur and wife, Phyllis, are facing a new challenge
as I write this blog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apparently
cancer treatments can have some side effects that take time to show up in an
aging body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ll give it our best
shot and thank all our friends for their prayers and well wishes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Getting older isn’t much fun!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-25823523956030348962017-01-23T16:06:00.001-08:002017-01-23T16:07:05.794-08:00What's Really Important?<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">What’s Really
Important?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This dinosaur has written about lots of things over the
years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve given opinions on
breeding, grooming, and many other topics, but this short blog is much more
important.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Shirley Schaffer, a long time Collie fancier, CC of A member
and former District Director for Michigan has suffered a real tragedy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Upon arriving home from a local dog
show, Shirley found her home on fire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In addition to the damage to the home, she lost four house dogs and
possibly her cat which can’t be found.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This lady recently drove thru the Michigan winter to help
rescue dogs from a Michigan breeder who had passed away and whose family could
not care for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was no
reward, but it was the right thing to do.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now Shirley is not wealthy and her older home was not
covered by insurance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This lady
who gladly helped out dogs in need, needs our help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We dog people may spar and argue, but in a time of need, we
come together.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Please give all you can to help Shirley rebuild her damaged
home and her life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Things like
this can happen to any one of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>At such a time we’d all hope for help from our like minded friends.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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Think about it!!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-51532650590842766882016-10-27T12:08:00.001-07:002016-10-27T12:08:39.160-07:00News Update<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">News Update<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The dinosaur has good news and bad news.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The good news is that after nine months
of both chemo and radiation my bladder cancer is in remission.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The treatments had some bad side
effects, but most of them are gone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>One that remains is a tingling and numbness in my fingers which makes
writing very difficult.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m on
medication to help the condition, but so far it still exists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Without<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a drastic reversal the cancer may have accomplished the
unthinkable.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Most of you know that I’ve been writing the info “from the
desk of the dinosaur” and Phyllis puts it on the computer as a blog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Time will tell whether the dinosaur
returns from extinction or not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Meanwhile it has been great fun to continue the writing, which I first
started in the 1950’s for Ken Martin’s Collie Cues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since then it’s been Collie Review, AKC Gazette, the CC of A
Yearbook, Collie Expressions and CC of A Bulletin that have helped me spout off
to the fancy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s been fun for me
and I hope for others as well.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many of you know of the sad story of our daughter, Alexandra
and her Bernese Mt. Dog, Liir.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After much expense and hopes and prayers he’s gone to doggy heaven.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A friend of hers in New York started a
Go Fund Me page for her to help defray the considerable cost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Along with many of her friends some of
our Collie friends have chipped in as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Phyllis and I thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Liir, who was not a show quality dog by Berner standards was
a dog to be loved and treasured.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We called him our big, sweet Grandson.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For over eight years he was our daughter’s very special
companion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The things that made
him special were not conformation points, but unseen things that we sometimes
don’t give enough credit to in our dogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If my fingers recover there will be an epistle from the Desk of the
Dinosaur about special things we can’t see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They’re not things that judges give Grand Champion points
for, but maybe we dog people are missing something very special.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As Terhune might have written “peace to
Liir’s bright memory.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-50026390530456998202016-07-24T12:05:00.001-07:002016-07-24T12:05:56.103-07:00The Importance of Mentors<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Importance of
Mentors<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Before I hold forth on mentors and their importance to
serious breeders, here’s a personal update.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since December 2, 2015 our lives have been consumed by
treatment for my bladder cancer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Starting with surgery, then chemo and radiation therapy, it’s been a
difficult grind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In late Sept.
2016 we’ll do a PET scan to find out our success or lack thereof.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Meanwhile I’m feeling much better
as the side effects subside and Phyllis and I are trying to live a relatively
normal life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our friends locally
and dog friends around the country continue to inspire us with prayers and best
wishes.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A mentor is a teacher, a cheerleader, and hopefully a
friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As people start into any
new endeavor, dog breeding included, they must gather knowledge if they expect
to achieve success.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The amount of
information they can accumulate and their ability to understand and store it
for future processing reminds us of the importance of the pupil’s ability as well
as that of the mentor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some people
can be in dogs for years and be exposed to paragons of knowledge without
showing any significant improvement.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So how does the budding fancier select someone that they
would like to call a mentor?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There
are many criteria to examine before you make this decision.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What qualifies someone to serve as a
mentor?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You might consider success
as a breeder, as an exhibitor, as a judge, as a speaker, and as a writer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of these areas can affect the
success or lack thereof of your selection of a mentor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A person can be imminently successful
in the first three areas, but if they cannot pass the secrets of their success
along, then they fall short as a mentor.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I consider myself fortunate to have had several mentors<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>though they played different roles they all played important
parts in my life as a Collie fancier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Albert Payson Terhune and his writings created in me, as a child, the
thirst to understand the Collie and the terms to describe a good one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also in my early days as a youngster I
was blessed with a mother who encouraged her only child to excel at every
interest he had, including Collies.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Because my mother was willing to drive me to Honeybrook
Kennels of W.R. Van Dyck I was exposed at an early age to someone who had the
knowledge for which I thirsted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She also paid most of the bills to buy puppies or dogs who did not cover
themselves with glory, but added to my understanding of how puppies develop and
what a good dog looked like. As her knowledge increased she also bought the
blue puppy who would become our first champion.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Terhune and my mother played important parts in my
beginnings as a Collie fancier, but the big three were W.R. Van Dyck of
Honeybrook, Gus Sigritz of Cherrivale and Steve Field of Parader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each one played important parts in my
life in Collies and each one was very much entwined with each other’s success.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All three had qualities which would
make them imminently qualified to be mentors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each bred dogs which won the CC of A Specialty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each judged that same show and many
others of some note.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They each
were excellent writers and speakers and proof of their abilities as mentors
were reflected in the success of others who they advised and inspired.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If we start with the senior member of the trio, W.R. Van
Dyck who owned Ch. Honeybrook Big Parade who not only won the CC of A three
times but also was tied for top sire in the breed for some years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A prolific writer, his column in Dog
News was full of thought provoking information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Steve Field whose Parader Collies were established on the
feats of Ch. Silver Ho Parader as a sire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This dog just happened to be sired by one of Honeybrook Big Parade’s
best sons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I recall this dog
was recommended to Steve by one of his mentors, Ed Pickardt of Sterling fame.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Gus Sigritz of Cherrivale got a start with a grand bitch
from Parader named Ch. Cherrivale Parader’s Portrait.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When bred to Steve’s Ch. Silver Ho Parader she produced the
CC of A futurity winner, Ch. Cherrivale Checkmate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Further down the road Gus on Van Dyck’s advice bred to Ch.
Gaylord’s Mr. Scalawag and got the multiple CC of A winner Ch. Cherrivale Darn
Minute.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Interesting side note is
that Steve Field put Mr. Scalawag BB at the CC of A and Van Dyck put Darn
Minute up for his first CC of A Best of Breed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Each of these three men were my mentors and friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My progress as a fancier was aided
immeasurably by their ability to pass along what they had learned from
others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Van Dyck learned from
Charles Wernsman of Arken among others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Steve Field learned from Van Dyck and Pickhardt among others. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gus Sigritz learned from Steve field and
Van Dyck among others.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My first champion, who I co-owned with my mother, was sired
by Ch. Cherrivale Darn Minute and bought on Van Dyck’s recommendation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The stud dog who became a huge part of
my success, Ch. Gingeor Bellbrooke’s Choice was discovered when looking for a
bitch to breed to that first champion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He just happened to be strongly line bred to Steve’s Ch. Silver Ho
Parader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank goodness for
mentors and how they affect your progress.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I learned from all three and many others, but they were my
big three.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can only hope that
all who read this share my good fortune in knowing such mentors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you do find yourself so blessed, be
sure to give credit to the mentors who paved the way for your success.</div>
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<br /></div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-18628954873086427952016-04-10T10:15:00.002-07:002016-04-10T10:15:58.287-07:00Would you take a risk to breed a great dog?<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Would you take a risk
to breed a great dog?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Life is full of decisions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As children most of them are made for us by others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even as we grow older some of our
decisions are influenced by others and the myriad of laws that affect our
lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At times it may seem like
someone is always telling us what we may or may not do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many people thirst for the chance to be
involved in something that they can control.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The outcome of finding such an endeavor will be influenced
by their skill in learning and profiting from the knowledge of those who came
before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Breeding dogs provides
such an outlet for people’s creativity and their desire to be able to do
something largely on their own.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The sport of breeding and exhibiting purebred dogs is not
without guidelines, but it does offer the opportunity to do a lot based on your
own knowledge, observations, and creativity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The breed standards and AKC rules are out there to point us
in the right direction but there is still a lot of latitude for doing “your own
thing.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some folks have even been
known to stretch the rules just a bit.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our sport has undergone many changes over the years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Depending on your point of view some
may be good and some not so good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The sport for many reasons is shrinking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The AKC registers fewer dogs each year and many shows have
smaller entries with a few notable exceptions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Specialty shows have been hit particularly hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of the yardsticks to measure success
have been altered to reflect what’s happening and some have not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In this area it now takes five Rough
Collies to constitute a major win.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some people still brag about dogs who finish with “all majors.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The ability to qualify for ROM status
ridiculously has not changed in years, despite the ease with which a dog can
finish.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Back in dinosaur years it took around twenty Collies for a
three point major, a stud dog was successful who had four offspring finish in a
year, and that same number could also qualify you as “breeder of the
year.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Times certainly have
changed!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Improvements in feed and
fixing some problems like ears have created a tendency toward uniformity we
didn’t see in the old days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
big kennels offered some line bred characteristics which astute breeders could
tap into and certain crosses performed very well, likewise some lines did not
cross well and were largely abandoned in time. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To persevere over time a line of dogs must be successful in
producing other families to carry the flag.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Most breeders have a tendency to breed safely rather than
take chances.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They may start out
with dogs from a successful line or create their own, but if they have success
in the show ring, they tend to stick with the pattern that has worked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sooner or later everyone must go out of
the line they’ve been working with which has brought them good fortune but
needs help in some area(s).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Outcrossing is the biggest challenge to most breeders, but inevitably it
is needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ben and Joyce Hauser of
Twin Creeks fame had the knack to incorporate other lines and not miss a
beat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Such success is the exception
rather than the rule.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Even when making that needed outcross people tend to think
careful and not want to rock the boat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They tend to use a winning line or a top dog rather than take a
chance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Obviously taking a chance
requires some knowledge and careful study of what you’re hoping to
accomplish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can take a chance
with a good young dog if you really believe he’s right for your bitch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Barbara Woodmancy did and got Ch.
Jadene’s Breezalong (CCA BB 1967)) for her gamble.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I took a chance taking Ch. Carla’s Blue Ruin (a complete
outcross) to Ch. Gingeor’s Indelible Choice and got Ch. Gingeor’s Indelibly
Blue (BB CCA 1976) for my risk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>No, neither dog was without faults but they sure were good.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Breeding to a dog with just the head and expression you love
even though his hind end is not his fortune can work out well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sure it’s taking a chance, but if you
get that one great one to carry on your line it’s a risk well taken.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every risk must be weighed and the goal
of the risk compared to the downside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>To sell a litter of pretty pets to get one CCA BB might be worth
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beware the risks that involve
health issues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You might attain
your goal, but the breed can suffer from your choice.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This old dinosaur hasn’t bred dogs for years, but still
deals with risks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apparently my
chemo has been working out well in shrinking my bladder tumor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That will still leave us with some
decisions to make down the road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>All those out there wishing us well with cards and calls as well as
prayers have been a great source of strength for Phyllis and I.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are so many people out there who
are helping us thru this crisis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>At times like this you truly appreciate the blessing of having
friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are very blessed and
hope all of you are blessed with true friendship as well when you come to a
difficult time in your life, it helps beyond measure.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-29107551754014306952016-03-18T11:53:00.002-07:002016-03-18T11:53:53.230-07:00Seize the Opportunity!<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Seize the
Opportunity!<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Blogs have been pretty scarce lately since our schedule has
gotten more and more hectic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Doctor appts. and chemo treatments seem to take over your life at
times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are things to write
about, but not enough time or energy to do it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The response to our problem has been tremendous!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have a wicker basket full of cards
and the calls and prayers continue to buoy our spirits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many thanks to everyone.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now we’ll talk about a favorite topic of mine:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Seizing opportunity when it’s presented.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To have it work of course, you must be
knowledgeable enough to weigh the opportunity and its advantages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you don’t know a good dog you won’t
know if what you have before you is a golden opportunity or a temptation to
lead you to disaster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You must
have done some homework and should keep learning always.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>John Buddie’s recent article in Collie
Expressions is a good roadmap for any breeder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Read it!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Opportunity was presented to me as a breeder perhaps more
often than most.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve often said that
I was blessed with many friends who believed in what I was trying to
accomplish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fact that I worked
hard and treated people decently may have helped me a great deal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As ye sow, so shall you reap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Learning to do things the best way
possible was my passion and many Collies not of good quality were my
foundation, but I kept watching, listening, and learning what caused success or
failure.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first really good dog to come my way became Ch. Windsong
Dealer’s Choice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This blue double
grandson of Ch. Gaylord’s Mr. Scalawag (CCA BB) was sired by Ch Cherrivale Darn
Minute (CCA BB) and he finished with three majors and a working group first in
spite of my handling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My mother
purchased him and our mentor W.R. Van Dyck approved the purchase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Comanche opened the door to any success
I ever enjoyed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When Comanche finished there were no tri bitches in my
kennel and I let it be known I was in the market for one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Enter John and Ada Giuliano of
Bellbrooke who had a well bred tri bitch who just happened to be in heat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>OPPORTUNITY WAS KNOCKING!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A quick trip to Bellbrooke and she was
mine and her litter produced the outstanding tri male, Ch. Gingeor’s Patent
Pending.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The trip to Bellbrook took on even greater meaning when I
saw the nine month old sable male in their basement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was gorgeous and available.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>OPPORTUNITY WAS KNOCKING !<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two other breeders had first refusal, but didn’t hear the
knocking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He came home with me and
became Ch. Gingeor Bellbrooke’s Choice R.O.M. the backbone of my kennel.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now Patrick wasn’t lead broken when I got him so we went to
a local match for training.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While
there he was seen by Barbara Woodmancy who owned a great bitch, Ch. Gregshire’s
Little Honeycomb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She obviously
thought Patrick was nice and bred the bitch to my unproven young male.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The resultant litter, which I whelped
contained Ch.Jadene’s Breezalong<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(CCA BB) who I showed for Barbara and bought when he became available.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Honeycomb produced in her second litter (Barbara gave me
this lovely bitch - opportunity!) a grand sable bitch with ears a bit low. Van
Dyck had a dog on lease with small tight ears and when bred to Gingeor’s Honey
of a Choice gave us Ch. Gingeor’s Indelable Ink.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When Inky went res. at CC of A 1967 Breezalong was edged out
for BB but Marcia Keller loved Breezy and got the lovely bitch she was showing
for a friend bred to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
purchased Ch. Sontaw’s Trudy Fair when she became available. (opportunity)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The opportunities were now starting to run wild!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ch. Sontaw Trudy Fair’s first litter
contained the great bitch Ch. Marnus Evening Breeze and the good sire, Ch.
Gingeor’s Jack of Tamarack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ch.
Gingeor’s Indelable Ink bred back to her grandsire, Ch. Gingeor’s Bellbrooke’s
Choice produced the notable sire Ch. Gingeor’s Indelable Choice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He in turn produced the top blue dog
Ch. Gingeor’s Indelable Blue who was CCA BB in 1976 my last competitive show.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Opportunity was also seized when Ch. Carla’s Blue Ruin (the
dam of Ch. Indelably Blue) was offered as a gift from a dear friend, Carl
Andrews.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can see that
opportunity is often out there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
must be weighed and decisions made, sometimes very quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do these opportunities always provide
the desired results?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course
not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they’re not seized they
provide nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If it doesn’t
work out, then swallow your pride, say I made a mistake and go back to the
drawing board.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In 1976 my time as
a breeder was over because of a job change.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My short time breeding and showing Collies was sprinkled
with many opportunities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some the
result of friendships and others of luck or coincidence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I thought it made sense the
opportunity was seized.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was my
nature to look ahead, plan long range, and seize opportunity that fit the
plan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ll have to decide if it
works for you.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-42093303013599544692016-01-28T12:13:00.001-08:002016-01-28T12:13:13.642-08:00One Day At A Time<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">One Day At A Time<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Just want everyone to know how its going with us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The outpouring of cards, prayers, and
well-wishes is overwhelming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
you’re going thru some difficulties it means so much to both Phyllis and
I.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She is, by the way, the best
care-giver who God ever blessed someone with in this crazy world.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We’ve gone thru the first sequence of chemo treatments with
very little difficulty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Except for
the mental stress I’ve got no discomfort at this point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have an appointment at another
cancer center for a second opinion Feb. 4, 2016.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Goal is to stop disease and try to prevent its spread.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We’re setting short-term goals and longer ones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Short-term to celebrate my 79<sup>th</sup>
birthday March 29<sup>th</sup> 2016, long-term the 80<sup>th</sup> just one
year later.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re not dealing with
garden variety bladder cancer, but we’re being cautiously optimistic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Times like this help you decide what’s
important in this life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Have a
meeting scheduled with the boys on Saturday Jan. 30, 2016 to discuss the whole
picture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately since
Alexandra is in Des Moines, Iowa she can’t be there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Know she would be if she could.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Midwest winter does complicate things.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Meanwhile love your creatures and love each other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Love is something this world can use
more of every day.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!!!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-66909874331520979232016-01-13T11:23:00.003-08:002016-01-13T11:23:41.602-08:00The Latest Bump in Life's Road<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Latest Bump in
Life’s Road<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many of you may know already, but if not, this will make it
official.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This dinosaur has been
diagnosed in December with bladder cancer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While any kind of cancer is a serious situation, it’s by no
means a death sentence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Numerous
tests have confirmed the diagnosis and that it has not spread at this
point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The good news is that in
spite of one surgery and lots of concern for Phyllis and I and our friends and
family, I feel fine.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After a mild early winter the Michigan weather is taking
part in making things more difficult.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Cold and snow make trying to get 2<sup>nd</sup> or 3<sup>rd</sup>
opinions difficult.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For the past
two days we’ve blown show and shoveled to not get marooned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ve got a lot of friends at church
and around the country keeping us in their prayers and their hearts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Doing blogs will be difficult for a
while, but I wanted my friends to know the score.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This dinosaur is not ready for extinction, so if anyone out
there will add their prayers to those we’re already blessed with, Phyllis and I
will appreciate your help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Meanwhile love your Collies and love each other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our world can use more of that</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-34169569445196643602015-12-04T13:28:00.003-08:002015-12-04T13:28:23.614-08:00Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary???<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mary, Mary, Quite
Contrary??<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The old nursery rhyme went “Mary, Mary, quite contrary, how
does your garden grow?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With silver
bells and cockle shells and great big awful eggplants!” (The eggplants were my
idea)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Just as the modern rendition of the nursery rhyme has been
tweaked by this dinosaur, so has breeding and exhibiting dogs changed over the
years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We used to breed our
bitches to the <u>one</u> stud we considered most suitable based on a careful
study of what we expected both sire and dam to bring to the party.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What they each showed in outward
physical type was weighed, as was their ancestry, and any record of past
producing tendencies.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If we shipped a bitch to a stud somewhere far from home and
could not witness the breeding, we had the breeder’s integrity to trust as to
the breeding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some breeders
furnished a photograph of the tie, but there was no DNA testing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some studs were dominant to the point
you could pick out their offspring, but basically trust was what you bought
when you shipped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shipping a bitch
today has also gotten very expensive compared to years ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Airlines would really rather not handle
live animals.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today we have people breeding bitches to more than one stud
and they use DNA testing to straighten out the parentage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have no idea what all this costs, but
obviously all the animals involved must have their DNA recorded somewhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you really can’t decide who the best
match would be for your bitch I suppose this type of Russian Roulette has some
merit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can test your bitch with
multiple studs and decide which to go back to in the future.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course, if none of the pups turn out
to be exceptional, it’s back to the drawing board or the sperm bank.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This method reminds me a bit of handlers who show many
specials at the National. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the
old days good handlers used to pick out the dog or bitch that they thought had
the best chance under that judge and let the chips fall where they may.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t know if what we see today is
just a result of not being able to decide which one is best, a desire to pick
up more money, or having no idea what a judge may like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In any event it lets people cover more
bases just like breeding to multiple studs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I suppose if you do that you may seem smarter, at least in
your own estimation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have lots
of changes in dog shows just as we do in breeding dogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Back in the old days you could find two
shows a week (Saturday and Sunday) and often with a drive between shows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The only circuit I can recall was in
Florida in January each year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
fact in the East the show season pretty much shut down after Philadelphia and
Camden in early December and didn’t start back up until The Garden.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dogs and people got a break unless they
went to Florida.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today we have dog shows which have sprouted up like
mushrooms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The old rules which
governed the spacing between shows seems to have gone by the boards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As these many, many shows compete for
entries, some will inevitably fall by the wayside. The cost of judges, venues,
and superintendants will weed out the excess.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the shows go belly up that can’t compete so will the
legion of judges who cannot do multiple breeds, groups, and Best In Show.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Registrations of purebred dogs have
been falling at an alarming rate as the public has become less concerned with
owning a registered dog and more enamored with rescues.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the attempt to survive shows are banding together to hold
multiple shows in one place and also morning and afternoon shows each day with
specialties or match shows squeezed in between.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t know what this does to humans, but the dogs must get
tired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No wonder some dogs can
pile up records with such vast numbers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The numbers seem to be rather hollow when your BIS had less than 400
dogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some years ago I said that
dog shows would not look the same in fifty years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s not taking that long.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The dogs are changing as much as breeding and dog
shows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The ones who win big are
more on edge (alert) and must be to hold up under the pressure this often give
us temperaments who show endlessly, but aren’t fun to live with at home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ve learned to fix so many things
with judicious fakery that we expect almost every puppy to finish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course, finishing isn’t a big deal
when it takes less than 10 dogs for a major.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Long range breeding programs are often replaced by plans to
win the next points.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead of
taking a chance to breed a once in a lifetime dog people seem content with
breeding nice mediocre dogs whose faults are easy to doctor.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Can these things be reversed or does the dog fancy even have
the will to do so?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The final
outcome will not be decided by this old dinosaur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The only way I see things getting better is by<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>putting the dogs first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not the records, not the glamour, not
the parties with fancy clothes, not the human egos, but the dogs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-73790601371450264002015-10-15T13:02:00.003-07:002015-10-15T13:02:19.711-07:00Inspiration Is Where You Find It!<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Inspiration Is Where
You Find It!<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Being an avid fan of westerns, I sometimes hit on something
that gets my attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like
these shows because they portray life outdoors, feature animals, and generally
have good guys winning over bad guys and leave you with a happy feeling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kind of like the old Walt Disney movies
made when Disney was still alive.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A quote in an old episode of “Gunsmoke” got my attention
recently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wrote it down, but
lost the note, so this is the best guess from my not infallible memory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“The further you slip down the
mountain, the more clearly you remember the view from the top!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was spoken by a retired gunfighter
who knew his day was over and wanted to start new life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It reminded me of my career in dogs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The years of preparation which included match shows, buying
dogs that didn’t work out , rejoicing over a class ribbon, the first reserve
winners and all the things that led to later success.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All my dogs were owner handled so it may have taken longer,
but the successes were oh so sweet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The first champion (Ch. Wind Song Dealer’s Choice) finished with three
majors and a group win.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From there
it was onward and upward.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Starting in the 1960’s and culminating with the second CC of
A Best of Breed in 1976 my dogs were competitive all over the country with me
showing or those I sold with others handling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The quest was to be the best and with two CC of A Best of
Breeds, a Breeder of the Year award, and many other goodies the goal seemed
attained.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I gave up breeding
and showing in 1976 there were no more worlds to conquer and my time was spent
judging, writing, and speaking.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For a time the demand for my time in those new arenas stayed
very high, but little by little it faded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The people who had seen me at my peak left the game, found new heroes,
or didn’t have good memories of the young guy so driven to succeed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Joyce Hauser of Twin Creek’s fame paid
me a compliment when she said “he’s more fun to show under than to show
against!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps my wish to win
was too strong, but it drove me in dogs and my career with Owens-Illinois and
it worked for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can live with
being a “has been” easier than a “never was.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The March 2014 CC of A Bulletin surely brought back lots of
memories as I review the pictures of CC of A winners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The differences in grooming and photography are very evident
and unfortunately some photos do no justice to the dogs shown.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In spite of that my hat’s off to Laura
DeLaurentis for reminding me of some old friends and a few new ones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course, some are even before this
dinosaur hatched.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first one to catch my attention was Ch. Honeybrook Big
Parade who is behind virtually every Collie winning today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ch. Braegate model of Bellhaven was Van
Dyck’s favorite of the Bellhaven dogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Ch. Gaylord’s Mr. Scalawag was the double grandsire of my first
champion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never saw Ch.
Parader’s Bold Venture or Ch. Cherrivale Darn Minute, but both were behind some
of my dogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did see Ch. Jorie’s
Mr. G win at Morris and Essex under Mrs. Rudolph Engle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a glorious showman he was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was the great Morris and Essex
show with Mrs. Dodge still in charge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Winners Dog that day to Windswept Domino Jac who later did much winning
for the Honigs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ch. Stoneykirk Reflection I first saw in the classes when
still owned by his breeder, Priscilla Alden.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bill Trainor’s grooming job took my breath away!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ch. Windcall’s Night Hunter stood next to
me when Alex Gibbs gave me BB.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
1967 with Ch. Jadene’s Breezalong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Ch. The Clown Prince of Florivale beat Breezy out in Columbus under Dale
McMacken.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had a brother who
didn’t show as well but may have been better, Ch. Floravale Perfect Gentleman.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Breezalong and Daily Double bumped heads a lot in the east
and each had a CC of A win.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
Gladiator put John Buddie on the map and started Tartanside.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ch. Gingeor’s Indelibly Blue was the
last dog I showed competitively.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Ch. Tamarack Asterisk came down from some of my dogs, and I never put
him down when judging.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s also
one of my wife, Phyllis’ favorite dogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Ch. Rio Brand Achilles is the dog who won after I told Debbie Falk, his
handler, to change her shoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ch.
Azalea Hills Top Man I put up in Memphis at a good specialty.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ch. Tel Star’s Cosmic Capers was Reserve from the puppy
class to Steve Field’s Parader’s Regal Lancer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That finished Steve’s dog and he was Steve’s last champion
and the only dog of his I ever put over the years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ch. Tartanside apparently won a major under me and was one
of my favorite Tartanside dogs along with the sable bitch who won BIS for John.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ch. Marnus Gold Medalist was one I put
up until he encountered Marion Liebsch’s lovely Ch. Pebblebrook Intrigue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This bitch was the dam of the tri Ch.
Pebblebrook Show Biz who I put up at Presque Isle and he got Winners Dog at the
National under Les Canavan.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ch. Highcroft Lode-Ark’s Legend I gave first points to at
Nebraska CC.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The lovely tri Ch.
Fantasy’s Rising Dragon sired by the sable dog from Japan who I put winners at
Presque Isle CC.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are many
recent ones I don’t know, but I hope you’ll pardon my trip down memory
lane.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was fun to remember some
old friends and how they fit into my life and the world of Collies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t ever lose track of your roots
your teacher’s, and your competitors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They show you how to reach for the stars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are “the wind beneath your wings!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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Think about it!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-20252518561231387202015-09-08T08:09:00.002-07:002015-09-08T08:09:19.334-07:00What's Important?<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">What’s Important?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Gayle Kaye, that resourceful and talented gal from
California, has unearthed some Steve Field articles that have long laid
dormant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When Gayle and I did the
book “Parader” we bemoaned the fact that Steve hadn’t written more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He once told me that he stopped writing
when he realized how much he had to learn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We felt this was a great loss since Steve wrote so well and
understood the Collie and the standard as few others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The one about eyes and expression is superb and should come
as no surprise since the Parader dogs were noted for expression.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gayle’s work in the archives for the CC
of A has provided some great sources of ammunition for her writing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I believe her book “The Collie in
America” is a real classic and a must for any Collie fancier’s library.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In addition to all the info provided, it
has the distinction of not promoting Gayle’s dogs as so many authors in the
past have chosen to do in their books.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyone who has read my writing over the years know of my
opinion that the whole dog is more important than any one of the parts that
together make up the Collie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
you understand the Collie then the first paragraph of the Standard speaks to
you loud and clear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That opinion
differs from that of the old timers who used to profess<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>”give me a good head and I can get the
rest from mutts!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There can be no
argument with the fact that the Collie head is very important, but it is only
part of the dog, not the whole enchilada.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We who are involved in dog shows and the breeding and
showing of dogs sometimes are stricken blind by our supposed knowledge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We become so enamored with specific
show points in our Collies that we forget what is really important to a
prospective Collie buyer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We spend
so much time fussing over little things that we give little attention to the
big two:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>health and temperament.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When breeders become so infatuated with
breeding just for show wins that they forget what’s most important, the breed
is doomed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In spite of maintaining the importance of the whole dog
there can be no doubt that the Collie head and its various properties are the
index of the breed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many other
breeds have parts that are similar to the Collie, but none have the Collie head
and its by-product the Collie expression.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You can have a Collie without a first-class head, but it will not be a
superior specimen.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Just as surely as the head may be recognized as being the
index of the breed, then the eyes and expression reflect its soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We can see various end products that
are part of the expression depending on the Collies point of reference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A Collie can be responsive and show
sweet soft expression for bait, but the “look of eagles” that Terhune was so
fond of quoting will only be realized when a dog focuses on an object farther
away than a piece of liver.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Years
ago Brian Carabine of Erin’s Own Collies bred a wonderful bitch who became Ch.
Erin’s Own Gold Rush.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He sold the
bitch to a young lady who was just starting out, but Brian handled her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At an outdoor show on Long Island I saw
this bitch spot Brian coming across the field toward the ring where she was
being held.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was like watching a
miracle take place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What had been
a lovely, well groomed Collie turned into a complete picture of a very superior
specimen complete with the “look of eagles!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She danced and wagged a greeting with her tail and was the
epitomy of what can transform a dog when it sees a special person come into
view.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The term “look of eagles” was one that caused a spirited
discussion between some fanciers years ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some maintained that to look like an eagle, a dog would have
to have a large light eye as did those majestic birds with extraordinary
vision.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In my opinion they were
just missing the point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The term
was not used to describe the eyes of an eagle, but the riveting intensity that
is shown by a dog that is gazing at an object of great interest often at some
distance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It helped the African
Queen win the Kem Sweepstakes for me many years ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While on the subject of expression and its reflection into
the soul of the Collie, I’d like to point out an opinion that will no doubt
make some fanciers cringe and be sure the dinosaur has lost all his
marbles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all know that the
various dogs that played “Lassie” in movies and on TV were not considered
worthy show specimens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In spite of
that, some of the shots taken of Lassie at various times show a Collie (blaze
face and all) that shows a depth of sweetness, intelligence, and responsiveness
that we seldom see in the show ring.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We have two Collies at present.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The male is a mahogany sable with a wealth of correct coat,
beautiful sound body, and a most delightful expression.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In many ways he reminds me of Ch.
Gingeor Bellbrooke’s Choice, ROM.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He’s a seven year old virgin who has never been bred and never will be,
so this is not an advertisement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>His expression is superb because of a very correct muzzle, skull, ear
placement, and eyes, that while not super small, reflect his outlook on
life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When describing the eyes as
the soul of the breed it is wise to understand that more than mere physical
measurements are important.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you
have a Collie with all the right parts, but the wrong attitude, the expression
will not be what you might wish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Just as some Thoroughbreds run very well in spite of conformation
faults, so the expression is a reflection of temperament as well as type.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As breeders, exhibitors and handlers go merrily on their way
trying for the perfect show dog by fixing ears, putting drops in eyes, fluffing
up the backskulls, building up the muzzles, and making soft coats correct, we
might lose sight of what’s really important.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How hard are we working to make a dog that’s not only
beautiful, but one that’s fun to live with and a joy to have as one of the
family?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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Think about it!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-72008542228755833662015-08-02T13:12:00.000-07:002015-08-02T13:12:15.222-07:00Doing It Naturally - What a novel idea!<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Doing It Naturally –
What a novel idea!<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Collie, like all dogs, descends from the wolf.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Albert Payson Terhune often credited
the Collie with wolf like characteristics and said they were more wolf like
than other breeds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I suppose we
could prove or disprove that with DNA testing, but that’s not my point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have modified the wolf to create the
Collie and many other breeds of various shapes and sizes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The further we get from nature’s ideal
canine, the wolf, the more we have an animal that is completely dependant on
man for it’s existence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If that’s
what you want I suppose it’s ok, but I, for one, don’t lean toward dogs that
can’t breathe, walk, or have puppies without caesarians.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m not advocating raising wolves or wolf-hybrids, neither
of which makes a really safe and loyal pet in spite of Jack London’s “White
Fang.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know there are folks who
love and/or raise the dependent type dogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My concern is that our Collies not become another of these
dependent creatures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The more we
keep sliding toward artificiality, the more difficult and expensive it gets to
raise Collies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also diminishes
their appeal to the public.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The veterinarians that we use form an important link in our
ability to have healthy dogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
we have a health problem and don’t know how to deal with it, they form the
first line of defense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some vets
love the little dependent dogs who need constant care.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That doesn’t mean they all fall into that
category just cause it makes them more income.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Years ago I heard a vet at a seminar give a talk on the
topic of reproduction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was
supposedly a dog breeder as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He had shots to get bitches ready to breed and stud dogs just as ready
to do their part.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally I
couldn’t stand it and asked him how he considered himself a breeder if he
forgave animals with so many issues as fit to breed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was never a good answer forthcoming.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the other hand I heard a vet at Acconeus Collie College
talk about ways to avoid problems when breeding coated dogs like Collies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He mentioned trimming britches and tail
to avoid seasonal secretions from picking up dirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bitch will shed them anyhow, whether bred or not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He stressed exercise for bitches in
heat since under natural conditions the bitch is pursued until she’s ready to
stand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Likewise the constant
running would help make her lean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Fat bitches have trouble getting in whelp and trouble whelping as
well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We need to think in terms of
natural not artificial.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kenneling is an area where what we can do can affect our
dogs quite a bit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My preference
was always for large runs where dogs could play and exercise their bodies
normally.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My vet favored cement
runs as more sanitary, but cement is hot is summer, cold in winter, and tough
on the bones of growing puppies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Ideally I ran two bitches and one male in each group and it worked
well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The dogs were housed in an
unheated building with cedar bedding which helped deep them clean and repelled
fleas.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Feeding is another topic that can lead in many
directions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Self feeders never
appealed to me. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your dogs may be kennel
dogs, but individual feeding allows human to dog contact as does regular
grooming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We cannot realistically
feed our Collies what wolves eat, but I always tried to pick a good brand made
by a reputable company with facilities to test the results of their diets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Meat is fine, but if you use a well
balanced ration its only use is to increase palatability.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beware of dogs that need special diets
in your breeding program.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When breeding and exhibiting with a kennel of ten to twelve
grown dogs I mixed dog food in a big tub.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Dry dog feed, a can of meat or cooked scraps, perhaps some lard melted
in hot water, and they all got the same thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The dogs put their noses in and kept them there until they
were done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finicky eaters are not
a good idea in a breeding population.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Since dogs were thoroughly groomed every week, including teeth, nails
and trimming I knew if anyone needed to have their food increased or decreased.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Breeding dogs can be a real chore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By choosing to fight what’s natural we can make it
harder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We know Collies don’t look
like wolves any more and our standard tells us what our goals in conformation
should be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In addition to the goals
outlined in our standard we can make it harder or more pleasurable depending on
how much we fight the dog’s natural instincts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The more we know about the wolf, the better we can
understand about dogs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s been interesting over the years I’ve been in dogs to
watch new folks come on the scene.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some have the gift and it shows rather quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Others with all good intentions never
seem to grasp the basics no matter how many years they’re involved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all have different gifts and should
come to grips with that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After all
if you raise guppies and they don’t turn out, you can flush them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you raise beef cattle likewise you
can enjoy steak.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Neither method
works for Collies, so we need to do our best to find what works and if we can’t
do that find another hobby.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-53874859300429501672015-08-02T13:10:00.002-07:002015-08-02T13:10:44.409-07:00Doing It Naturally - What a novel idea!<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Doing It Naturally –
What a novel idea!<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Collie, like all dogs, descends from the wolf.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Albert Payson Terhune often credited
the Collie with wolf like characteristics and said they were more wolf like
than other breeds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I suppose we
could prove or disprove that with DNA testing, but that’s not my point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have modified the wolf to create the
Collie and many other breeds of various shapes and sizes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The further we get from nature’s ideal
canine, the wolf, the more we have an animal that is completely dependant on
man for it’s existence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If that’s
what you want I suppose it’s ok, but I, for one, don’t lean toward dogs that
can’t breathe, walk, or have puppies without caesarians.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m not advocating raising wolves or wolf-hybrids, neither
of which makes a really safe and loyal pet in spite of Jack London’s “White
Fang.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know there are folks who
love and/or raise the dependent type dogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My concern is that our Collies not become another of these
dependent creatures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The more we
keep sliding toward artificiality, the more difficult and expensive it gets to
raise Collies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also diminishes
their appeal to the public.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The veterinarians that we use form an important link in our
ability to have healthy dogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
we have a health problem and don’t know how to deal with it, they form the
first line of defense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some vets
love the little dependent dogs who need constant care.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That doesn’t mean they all fall into that
category just cause it makes them more income.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Years ago I heard a vet at a seminar give a talk on the
topic of reproduction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was
supposedly a dog breeder as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He had shots to get bitches ready to breed and stud dogs just as ready
to do their part.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finally I
couldn’t stand it and asked him how he considered himself a breeder if he
forgave animals with so many issues as fit to breed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was never a good answer forthcoming.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the other hand I heard a vet at Acconeus Collie College
talk about ways to avoid problems when breeding coated dogs like Collies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He mentioned trimming britches and tail
to avoid seasonal secretions from picking up dirt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bitch will shed them anyhow, whether bred or not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He stressed exercise for bitches in
heat since under natural conditions the bitch is pursued until she’s ready to
stand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Likewise the constant
running would help make her lean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Fat bitches have trouble getting in whelp and trouble whelping as
well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We need to think in terms of
natural not artificial.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kenneling is an area where what we can do can affect our
dogs quite a bit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My preference
was always for large runs where dogs could play and exercise their bodies
normally.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My vet favored cement
runs as more sanitary, but cement is hot is summer, cold in winter, and tough
on the bones of growing puppies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Ideally I ran two bitches and one male in each group and it worked
well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The dogs were housed in an
unheated building with cedar bedding which helped deep them clean and repelled
fleas.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Feeding is another topic that can lead in many
directions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Self feeders never
appealed to me. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your dogs may be kennel
dogs, but individual feeding allows human to dog contact as does regular
grooming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We cannot realistically
feed our Collies what wolves eat, but I always tried to pick a good brand made
by a reputable company with facilities to test the results of their diets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Meat is fine, but if you use a well
balanced ration its only use is to increase palatability.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beware of dogs that need special diets
in your breeding program.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When breeding and exhibiting with a kennel of ten to twelve
grown dogs I mixed dog food in a big tub.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Dry dog feed, a can of meat or cooked scraps, perhaps some lard melted
in hot water, and they all got the same thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The dogs put their noses in and kept them there until they
were done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finicky eaters are not
a good idea in a breeding population.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Since dogs were thoroughly groomed every week, including teeth, nails
and trimming I knew if anyone needed to have their food increased or decreased.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Breeding dogs can be a real chore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By choosing to fight what’s natural we can make it
harder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We know Collies don’t look
like wolves any more and our standard tells us what our goals in conformation
should be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In addition to the goals
outlined in our standard we can make it harder or more pleasurable depending on
how much we fight the dog’s natural instincts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The more we know about the wolf, the better we can
understand about dogs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s been interesting over the years I’ve been in dogs to
watch new folks come on the scene.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some have the gift and it shows rather quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Others with all good intentions never
seem to grasp the basics no matter how many years they’re involved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all have different gifts and should
come to grips with that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After all
if you raise guppies and they don’t turn out, you can flush them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you raise beef cattle likewise you
can enjoy steak.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Neither method
works for Collies, so we need to do our best to find what works and if we can’t
do that find another hobby.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-68879059892682523712015-07-18T09:20:00.003-07:002015-07-18T09:20:50.035-07:00The Kem and Stuff<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Kem and Stuff<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There’s only one trophy in our house today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All the others have been given away
over the years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The one that’s
here is the punch bowl from The Kem Memorial Sweepstakes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now it’s no secret that I had the good
fortune to go BB twice at the National and lots of other wins that would seem
noteworthy, but those trophies are all gone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Kem holds a special place for me and so the trophy
stays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s been my pleasure to
win The Kem once and judge it once.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In May of 2016, if all goes well, I’ll judge it again in Indiana.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Kem was the idea of Gus Sigritz of Cherivale Collies and
supported by several mid-western Collie clubs which have now dwindled to
two.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a tribute to the
Lodestone Collies founded by Fred Kem, his wife, Madge, and continued by their
son, Oren.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This Kennel was rare in
that while they did not exhibit their dogs were behind many top winners and
producers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Kems were farm people
and many of their dogs could work stock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They did not suffer either poor doers or bad temperaments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The list of top kennels that used
Lodestone included Noranda, Cainbrooke, Cherrivale, Parader, Honeybrook and
many others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fred Kem and later
son Oren contributed great columns filled with wisdom from true breeders.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The year I won the Kem it was held in Cleveland and the
judge was Ed Myers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bitch was
Highground The African Queen sired by Ch. Gingeor’s Indelibly Blue and bred by
my friend Pat Welle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had judged
“Keno” at a match and after giving her Best in Match tried to buy her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was a jet black tricolor with the
best of eyes, ears, and muzzle and a natural shower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pat wouldn’t sell, but agreed to a co-ownership since she
was unable to get the bitch out to the shows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We agreed that anything she won would go to Pat except the
Kem bowl if we won it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That very
special trophy was important to me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Keno was in the last class, which was 9-12 puppy bitches and
we were at the end of the ring away from the judge’s table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When Ed Myers turned from the table and
started around the ring she locked onto him and followed him all the way to
us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ed was grinning when he got to
us and looked down at the bitch, then up at me and said, with a chuckle, “That’s
a fair farm Collie you’ve got there!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Have you even felt you had a show won?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After seeing his face, the comment and
the way Keno was showing I started to think where to put the trophy when I got
home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Over the years of showing
dogs you can often be surprised by either a loss or a win, but that one I
knew.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s too bad the Kem doesn’t
enjoy its former support, because it’s a special event that pays tribute to a
special family and their dogs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I understand the CC of A is in the process of making some
change to conform to requirements for a non-profit group licensed in New
York.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While I don’t understand all
the implications its long been my thought that our organization is very
unwieldy and could use some streamlining.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If we had a vice-president in each of our zones they could get input
from their respective areas and take some work off the president.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The office of CC of A president can be
a nightmare and we’ve all seen good folks attacked for their efforts in that
position.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Years ago I was asked to
accept the nomination to run for president.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It gave me a laugh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m not politically correct enough to be in politics.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We are in one area of the country getting ample
rainfall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s green here in
Michigan and my grass grows like crazy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Mowing over three acres is a chore so the dinosaur is fairly quiet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sure some folks are thankful for that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With some areas in drought and others
with floods, I suppose we have little to complain of by comparison.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was thinking the other day bout how much I think our
tricolors are not appreciated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Probably the first color found in breed it was rumored that sables came
about through a cross with an Irish Setter type dog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Likewise was a rumor about a cross to the Borzoi or Russian
Wolfhound to refine and lengthen the short broad heads that Collies had
originally.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A dinosaur can remember
faults that would make these rumors seem plausible though today they are no
longer evident.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Though color is not of any consequence in the standard
between sable, tri, blue and white, the tricolor is extremely useful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Though most choose not to breed two
tris together, it creates no issues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Tricolors do a fine job of putting masks on sables without needing
makeup.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bred to blues you get a
nice mixture of blues and tris.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Bred to whites you can enjoy white factored in whatever color is
indicated by the white parent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now
this is a genetic simplification, but dinosaurs know that genetics aren’t
always simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Steve Field used to
talk about limited dominance and things that make you scratch your head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t forget that whatever the color
you need a good dog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s
obviously the most important.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-55750995668861415352015-06-12T12:13:00.003-07:002015-06-12T12:13:36.957-07:00Integrity and Stuff<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Integrity and Stuff<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The most important commodity that a judge brings to a dog
show is integrity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That doesn’t
mean that knowledge is unimportant but the Standard like the Bible is open to
interpretation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may disagree
with the way I place a class based on how we see the standard or a difference
in what we consider ideal, but if you think my opinion is not what I truly
believe, then we have a really serious issue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve always felt it’s just as wrong to put a friend down
because of our friendship as it would be to put them up because of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Years ago in an article by Major
Godsol, a well respected west coast all breed judge, I read that you should
never worry about anything north of the lead in a dog show.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was so right!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now if judges are to be held to this high standard of
integrity where does that leave breeder-exhibitors and handlers?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where do we draw the line between good
grooming techniques and cheating?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When I was showing dogs in the 1960’s and 1970’s some thought my
grooming and presentation of Collies was first rate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I worked hard and learned from others who were good and
learned what worked, but only <u>within the rules</u>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I used Foo-Foo Powder on white areas
and plain water to promote the coat’s voluminous appearance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The white powder was brushed out
thoroughly and I did not color dogs, weight ears, drop eyes or any of the
garbage which seems to be common today.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If we need to resort to breaking the rules to make dogs up
to be competitive, then we have failed as breeders and we have miserably failed
the breed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Good Collies, properly
trimmed, groomed, and cleaned should have no trouble being competitive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It makes me cringe when I hear someone
use the excuse “everyone does it” or “you can’t win if you don’t do so and
so!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What an absolutely weak
argument in favor of cheating rather than breeding correct dogs!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I had the pleasure of judging a nice group of Collies on May
23, 2015 as part of the Midwest Collie Club show.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As this dinosaur has gotten old and lazy my timeframe for
judging has gotten smaller due to our Michigan weather.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>November thru March can provide lots of
travel problems so I’ve become a fair weather dinosaur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Midwest CC has been around a long
time and I’m proud to have judged for them several times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Rough entry was particularly nice,
but the Smooth specials class made up for the small number of class
entries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My thanks to the Midwest
CC for allowing me to be part of this show and to the exhibitors for giving
this old Dinosaur so much fun.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Recently someone asked me which paragraph in the standard I
considered the most important.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Without much hesitation my reply was the first, of course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My feeling is that this paragraph,
which pictures the whole dog and how its put together could just as easily come
at the end as a summary of what we want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This answer, by the way doesn’t have to work for everyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My opinion is that you must understand
all the parts, why they are called for and what the Collie is meant to do
before this answer works for you.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I talk about things like proper trimming of legs and
feet to follow what the Standard calls for it’s not being unreasonable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Likewise when we talk about letting a
Collie be shown standing naturally on four good legs rather than placing its
feet, we are paying attention to the Collie Standard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t do these things to humor this old dinosaur, but do
them because it shows you care enough to do it right.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dog show photographers have it in their heads that Collies
need to be stacked and looking at a thrown toy to have a picture taken.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m waiting for some exhibitor to
remind them how a good Collie looks its best.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The best dog I ever showed was Ch. Jadene’s Breezalong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was CC of A BB, a multiple group
winner, and BIS under Alva Rosenberg the greatest all-breed judge who ever
lived in my opinion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You could
have thrown toys all day and Breezy’s eyes never left my hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If he stepped wrong he immediately
leveled up to stand square.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was
a show dog!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-2080163825370962532015-04-19T10:34:00.001-07:002015-04-19T10:34:11.551-07:00The Yearbook 2014<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Yearbook 2014<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We have a new yearbook and once again my congratulations to
Michelle Esch Brooks for getting the book out on time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had gotten used to yearbooks being
late for so long, that it came as a real shock when Michelle took over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It seems to be a case of the apple not
falling far from the tree.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This old dinosaur must admit to being confused by some of he
contents of the yearbook.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Obviously some guidelines have changed over the years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The number of different titles and
awards for which dogs are eligible are staggering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the Parade of Stars apparently the same dog can be shown
on numerous occasions for various wins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It used to be one picture and you picked the win that you valued most.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The titles for things not related to conformation are
seemingly endless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not everyone
dotes on conformation or even understands our standard and obviously we have
folks with other interests.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Proving that Collies have a brain is not a bad thing, but how many
degrees do you need to make that point?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Apparently some titles can be awarded posthumously since one therapy dog
shows being whelped in 1990.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(This
may be a typo)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The dogs themselves, as usual, are a mixed bag of good and
not so good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since pictures can be
misleading we know this doesn’t come as a big surprise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Too many dogs show the neck and front
that Steve Field called “a cobra waiting to strike!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some photos show dogs with legs that look like Clydesdales.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hardly what you would call lithe and
active with no useless timber.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some heads with under jaws that look grotesquely strong.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lest you think all I do is criticize, I call your attention
to Kathy Moll’s committee on Breeder of the Year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many have long felt that awarding things like Breeder of the
Year, Top Stud, and Top Bitch need to be done on a percentage not just by raw
numbers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Raw numbers encourage
breeding lots of Collies and don’t hit the target we wish to recognize.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please give this your support so even
small breeders can get recognition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One thing that really tickled the old dinosaur’s fancy was
to find an award for Collies that hunt rats.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now sheep, ducks, agility, therapy, good citizens and all
the others were no big surprise just a bit overwhelming, but rats are another
matter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I was a very young
dinosaur my first registered Collie was a granddaughter of Ch. The Duke of
Silver Ho.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apparently the Duke was
a Collie rescue by Ameera Croakman,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>a noted breeder and handler.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>His granddaughter who I owned was a terrible speciman from a show point
of view, but was my<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>pal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My constant companion, she went on
horseback rides and roamed the woods with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She learned to hate rats when she sniffed one I had caught
in a trap and was bitten on the nose!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>No rat that she encountered after that lived more than a few
seconds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If the AKC in their
infinite wisdom had only started rat hunting back then, I would have finished
another champion.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m looking forward to my judging assignment for the Midwest
Collie Club in May.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Though many of
our current titles and degrees may be a bit overwhelming, the Collie standard
and Conformation judging are old friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Since it’s getting on toward mowing season and we have about three and a
half acres my blogs may be a bit scarce.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>My new baby chicks arrive in early May and the old dinosaur takes longer
to do chores than he used to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Steve Field stopped writing when he realized how much he didn’t
know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know there’s a lot I don’t
know, but still love sharing ideas with you.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you dig around long enough you’ll know what I believe in
is what I write about and what I always hope is that my ideas may somehow
benefit this breed of ours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
comments from a vet on line about our breed tells you how some people might
feel about where we’re taking our dogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He also mentions Cocker Spaniels as another breed that’s lost it’s
way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A good article in “Dogs In
Review” show the dog that made Cockers popular, Ch. My Own Brucie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He doesn’t look much like Cockers
today!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Think about where we’re
going in terms of the breed not titles or awards.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-59446971409787935852015-03-16T18:30:00.002-07:002015-03-16T18:30:54.671-07:00Winter Is A Female Dog!<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Winter Is A Female
Dog!<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Recently I did a blog which said we should understand our
limitations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Michigan winter
has brought that idea home to us in spades.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now I know much of the country has felt winter’s bite this
winter and many live where people are ill-prepared to deal with it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In Michigan winter doesn’t just come
for a visit, but actually sets up housekeeping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Between blowing snow, shoveling snow, putting out birdseed
(the deer and turkeys love it!) and changing layers of clothes one gets a bit weary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Van Dyck used to tell the story of a
man with a litter of unwanted puppies who put a sign on the lawn for “bitches
and sons of bitches.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Michigan
winters can fit either category.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The TV viewing of the Westminster show provided a bit of
interest to break the ugly grip of winter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We applauded the choice of the beagle for several
reasons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She looked like a really
good Beagle, she was a niece of “Uno” who won a few years back, and she was a
breed without a lot of mess to groom up for the show ring. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Long ago I decided that men have made a
mess of many dog breeds by turning them into dependent freaks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You lucky folks will now hear how I got
this way.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I was ten two books arrived for Christmas, which molded
a lot of my thinking about canines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They are still part of my library and still good reading.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One was “Lochinvar Luck” by Albert
Payson Terhune, which kindled a lifelong interest in Collies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The other was “White Fang” by Jack
London which not only started me thinking about what dogs got from wolves, but
also started me on a quest to better understand wolves and why men have so
persecuted these creatures.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The story of Lochinvar Luck follows a Collie puppy
accidently lost in the woods and how he not only survives, but thrives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is based on a true story about a dog
from Mrs. Lunt’s Alstead Kennels who was lost in the Canadian wilderness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While not every Collie might thrive under
these conditions just as some might not duplicate Lassie’s historic journey
some certainly can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Years back a
very lovely puppy on his way home from the CC of A was lost in the New England
winter for several months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tim had
a tough time and lost some weight but he did survive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When Les Canavan and Verna Allen got him back he became Ch.
Royal Rock Gamblin’ Man who was an excellent dog and the top sire at Royal
Rock.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My own experience with a bitch puppy who was out for a
stroll with the other dogs and frightened by a truck which backfired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the time I got the others kenneled
she had disappeared across the street into the woods.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For two weeks I hunted and called alone and with other
dogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were ads put in the
paper and on radio to ask for info about her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tracks in the snow seemed aimless and gave no clue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After two weeks when sitting down to
Thanksgiving dinner after a prayer for our lost puppy, there was a knock at the
door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a dear lady with
the little lost puppy who had come into her yard to play with the
children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She became Ch. Gingeor’s
Love Pat at Wayside.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
White Fang is a story of a creature more wolf than dog who
after a rough start in life finds a master who shows him the love needed to
make him a dog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of you may be
more familiar with the work of Albert Payson Terhune than Jack London.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let me assure you that in White Fang
Jack London shows a knowledge of not just wolves, but of their place in the
scheme of life in the far north.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The book is beautifully written and much more realistic than the movie
of the same name.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Over the years we humans have molded wolves into dogs of
many shapes and sizes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A number of
these were modified to do particular tasks which we found beneficial.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That type of man sponsored evolution
has some merit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Terriers that hunt
vermin, dogs that hunt birds or other game, herders that help man control his
livestock, and dogs which guard and protect men and their possessions all came
about with a purpose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It makes
sense that to fill our needs the wolf had to undergo some modification.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What breaks my heart is to see breeds
that are so modified that they become completely dependent on very special
care.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The wolf is a magnificent creature in his place in
nature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He kills to live because
he doesn’t go to the supermarket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He lives in extended families called packs and they all care for the
young and defend their home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you
teach him to go to the supermarket he sounds a lot like us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He doesn’t take to training and
housebreaking so we do need dogs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As you know by now I like dogs that are not only fun to live
with, but that can function.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Males
who know when to breed and bitches who are capable of breeding normally and
raising healthy puppies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we
continue to raise Collies for show, let’s make sure we never lose sight of what
makes a good dog.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!</div>
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<br /></div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-57802975595702765042015-01-29T12:24:00.003-08:002015-01-29T12:24:25.545-08:00Know Your Limitations<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Know Your Limitations<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of Life’s lessons that isn’t always enjoyable is to not
have expectations beyond your abilities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The very act of admitting you can’t accomplish something can be very
irritating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I often tell my three
sons that wisdom comes with age because it’s built on life’s experiences.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They always look at me and just smile.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I was a teenager I had a horse and loved to ride
whenever possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Riding in all
kinds of weather either alone or with friends was great stuff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since the horse was pretty much
bomb-proof we went everywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
was cool to do an over the rump flying mount and the thought of injury never
occurred to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With experience
comes wisdom and limitations that go with aging.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today my present horse and I have a much more limited
agenda.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As a judge it’s been my pleasure to officiate at shows all
over our country as well as Brazil and Canada.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There have been some scary plane rides and interesting trips
to the airport to judge or speak at symposiums.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here in Michigan, which can feel like the North Pole, winter
travel can be a challenge for anyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As much as I enjoy judging Collies and knowing that most specialties
take place in the winter, it’s still something I will no longer attempt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some younger braver judges will have to
pick up the slack.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Back in the 60’s and 70’s when I was involved in breeding
and showing the kennel housed 10-12 dogs plus puppies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The grown dogs were thoroughly groomed
each week generally all in one day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There’s no way yours truly could accomplish that today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My limitations have diminished and I
hope I’m wise enough to know it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
During that part of my career in Collies I had a reputation
as a superior groomer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An old
friend in Cincinnati, Lyman Wine, once wrote he wished he could “groom a Collie
like George Horn, show a Collie like John Buddie, and judge a Collie like Gus
Sigritz.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told Lyman that I
though I showed a Collie as well as John, but wouldn’t challenge Gus as a
judge!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once at the Central Jersey Specialty held with Trenton K.C.
I ended up with seven Collies to groom and show.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some were dogs which were owned by others, but which I
unwisely agreed to help out because they were my breeding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even back in those days of my youth it
was a nightmare!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Specialty shows
were my preferred arena for showing because of two reasons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The judges were generally more
knowledgeable<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and the competition
was top drawer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t learn to
breed, train, or groom better by competing against wimps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After that my preferred limit at shows
was three dogs – a class dog, class bitch, and a special was ideal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By carefully selecting the classes you
had time in between to work on the others. Of course, if you took winners there
was need for a friend to help with the overflow.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Having a litter (I seldom had more than one at a time) was a
time consuming task.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once the
whelping room was ready the bitch required observing and temperature taking to
guess when she would whelp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
bitch needed to be introduced to the whelping area at least a week before due
date, earlier if at all possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Though my preference was not to interfere unless needed it was still
necessary to observe the whelping just in case.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At times it was whelp the litter, shower, shave and go to
work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Guess who couldn’t do that
anymore??</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are folks who breed good Collies, but don’t have the
time and/or skills to groom and train them well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is not, by the way, a grievous sin, but a fact of
life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even though my preference
was to show my own dogs it does not mean those who don’t are considered sub
standard by this dinosaur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Asking
for assistance is much preferable to doing a lousy job just because you’re too
stubborn to admit your limitations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is why we have handlers, isn’t it?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Life is full of decisions and many involve an honest
appraisal of your own abilities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Though we discuss things relevant to the dog game it certainly goes far
beyond that sport.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps while
we are appraising our ability to accomplish goals in dogs it would be apropos
to remember it is just a sport.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s very easy to get so caught up in something (dogs are just one
example) that we make it a matter of life and death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keeping things in perspective are one more of life’s lessons
we all need to remember.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Setting goals is always a good idea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Knowing what it takes to accomplish
those goals is likewise very important.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You need to accept help if you need it or perhaps it’s necessary to
modify your goals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just don’t
forget to honestly appraise your abilities and be honest in knowing your
limitations.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-76655527074058080382015-01-16T11:37:00.000-08:002015-01-16T11:37:03.918-08:00ADA GIULIANO<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">ADA GIULIANO<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Collie world has lost the gentle lady of Bellbrooke
Collies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her light, like her
voice, was soft, not bright and overpowering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was the quiet one of the Bellbrooke duo, allowing
husband, John, to do the talking, to show the dogs, and later to be the
judge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ada was eminently qualified
to judge Collies, but could never bring herself to do it because she couldn’t
bear to hurt people’s feelings.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ada’s world revolved around family, friends, and Collies and
she was careful to keep them in that order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bellbrooke did not finish the most champions or win the most
shows, but their efforts spawned the likes of Marnus, Wayside, Gingeor,
Tartanside, and all the lines that descend from them.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
During the past holiday season we received our annual
Christmas card from Ada.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sure
that next Christmas will seem poorer from not having that reminder of a
friendship that spanned so many years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Like her idol and mine, Steve Field, Ada Giuliano will have a place in
my mind and my heart forever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
and Johnny helped a young friend from South Jersey acquire a nine month old
puppy who would become the stuff dreams are made of and the rest would be
history.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Like one of her favorite Collies Ada will always be our “Bellbrooke’s
Lil Darlin.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those of you who have
been in the dog game a while know it speaks volumes when I tell you that I
never heard any person speak ill of Ada Giuliano.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rest in peace, dear friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You leave this world a poorer place for your passing, but a
richer place for your having been here.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-91049814871946820902015-01-10T11:15:00.003-08:002015-01-10T11:15:25.274-08:00Things Do Change - Are Things Better?<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Things Do Change –
Are Things Better?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Back in the dark ages when I was breeding and exhibiting
with some success it was my pleasure to be invited to speak at a number of
symposiums.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Among them was
Acconeus Collie College and parent club symposiums.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For some reason the interest in learning from successful
people was stronger then and it gave people a chance to compare notes and ideas
without being hampered by taking care of dogs as they did at shows.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was normal for me to be asked to do grooming demonstrations
or to speak about stud dogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No
big surprise here since my dogs were always well groomed and my stud force
headed by Ch. Gingeor Bellbrooke’s Choice ROM and his sons were among the best
in the country.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As time went on
and I was no longer breeding my topics slowly changed to things like “yesterday
and today” as something more fitting toward a dinosaur.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My experiences at these events was a much a student as an
instructor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The people who I was
privileged to hear included Steve Field, Gus Sigritz, Bobbee Roos, and Dorothy
Long as well as many others with impeccable credentials.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Glen Twiford gave a great presentation
at one national symposium showing the Wind-Call Collies herding sheep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I heard an animal behavior Prof. from
Purdue University named Eric Klinghammer, do a great presentation on wolves and
how their behavior shows up in our dogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Long before being well known enough to be asked to participate as a
speaker, I attended many seeking wisdom.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The folks you saw at these events were often people who you
knew and had shared the stage with before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ted Paul was often the one chosen to be master of
ceremonies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ted had a fine command
of the Queen’s English and was always dressed in dapper fashion and did his
homework.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He always had some
stories about speakers he was introducing and in my case it was always
something that pulled my chain.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now Ted and I had known each other for some time and shown
against each other as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When I was invited to speak at a national symposium in Jacksonville, Fla.
and saw Ted was to be the moderator it was time for revenge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I carefully prepared my remarks to fit
my planned “Ted Paul Roast.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Unfortunately my work went down the drain when Ted’s introduction made
me sound like a cross between Sister Teresa and George Washington.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh well, win some and lose some.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A number of things that were part of my stud dog views may
not be relevant today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Things do
change and you can judge whether it’s better or not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some things, however don’t change much in spite of the march
of time and methods.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
selecting a stud prospect it still would seem appropriate to look in a family
of quality.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Van Dyck used to say
show me the stud and if I like him, I’ll look at his pedigree.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do value a good background, but it’s
hard to get a “silk purse from a sow’s ear!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To be worthwhile as a stud you’ll want something good enough
to appeal to other breeders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To be
used as a fairly young dog he has to be good enough to win or people won’t use
him until his puppies are out winning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The final judgment on a stud dog does revolve around his get, but if his
quality is high, his chance of getting off to a good start increases by leaps
and bounds.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It helps to have a stud with outgoing personality and good
health history to go with the other prerequisites.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Years ago I read that one should never let a young stud
prospect exercise with any dog that can dominate him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Back then it was standard practice to do natural breedings
and if a stud wasn’t well trained and eager you could spend a lot of time waiting
for the mood to strike him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
took some time, but I learned how to bring young studs along and my boys loved
their work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ideally you would hope
to start a young dog at about 9-10 months of age when he started to feel like a
man and might hope to have an experienced bitch as a partner.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today many breedings are done with A.I. using chilled semen
or even frozen sperm of dogs long gone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It may be a great way of preventing the spread of disease, but I don’t
know how you judge a dog’s libido in such a case.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All my mentors fancied dogs with bold fearless demeanors who
bred bitches with no hesitation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They also fancied bitches who bred normally and willingly and carried
litters of healthy puppies and nursed them after normal delivery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s always been my opinion that we can
change things about an animal’s appearance to suit a written standard, but when
we fool with the basic functions needed to exist and reproduce we’re fooling
with something best left alone.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Van Dyck used to laugh about people’s over-rating stud dogs
by saying “who’s he by.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today
with the use of multiple breedings sorted out by DNA it may be even more
appropriate.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!</div>
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<br /></div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-10232745089294316352014-12-12T12:42:00.000-08:002014-12-12T12:42:15.689-08:00I'm Back!<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">I’m Back!<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s been a long time since my last blog, so I thought I’d
better surface or be considered extinct.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We got an early dose of the Michigan winter, but the snow melted and
it’s been balmily above freezing lately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We know there’s plenty of winter left, but any respite is welcome.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As mentioned earlier the judging assignment in Omaha,
Nebraska was great.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was my
first assignment in several years due to some health and accident issues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve had to cancel some assignments and
refused some others because of the fear I might have to cancel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Getting older is not so great,
but judging is a joy even to this old dinosaur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since I’m feeling great there are a couple of additional
assignments I’ve accepted and we hope the weather and my old body allow them to
happen.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Collie Standard has come up often in these blogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
is a really good reason for that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The standard is the blueprint for all we do in breeding or
judging the Collie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Though some
folks think just being able to read it or recite it from memory is all that’s
important,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>that’s not the
case.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you really understand
what it says and can you form the actual picture that The Standard’s words
direct.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When Doris Werdermann was president of the CC of A I chaired
the education committee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Doris
asked us to create something to benefit those wishing to judge Collies and that
could also help clarify the standard to all Collie fanciers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Judge’s Guide to the Collie
Standard was born from that request.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The guide had a cover beautifully illustrated by Mary Kummer and went
thru each section of The Standard with thoughts on what it really
suggests.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The summation at the end
of this guide points out the importance of things above and beyond being able
to read the standard.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This old dinosaur had been involved with Collies as an avid
reader, breeder, exhibitor and judge for many years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It might be easy to say I know the Collie standard – case
closed!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In truth I do think I know
the standard and even more important understand it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In spite of that it’s an old habit to review it periodically
and always before each judging assignment review the standard, the Judge’s
Guide, and Lorraine Still’s Illustrated Standard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The perfect Collie has never been whelped and the perfect
description of the perfect collie may never have been written, but dedication
to acquiring better understanding is seldom a waste of time.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Years ago when I belonged to the South Jersey CC we set
aside at least one meeting each year for discussing the Collie standard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a great time to go thru one
paragraph at a time and state opinions or ask questions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can gain some important food for
thought by listening to others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Understanding
the meaning of the written word can be clarified when you see how others differ
in their interpretation and sometimes you realize some tweaking of the language
is in order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t ever consider
yourself above such review and if you can use some live dogs as in a judges
education program, please do so.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let’s change direction for a moment and talk about dog show
attire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To be honest I find some
of the clothing in show pictures a bit bizarre.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whether it’s the judges or the exhibitors we seem to have
lost track of what the focus should be on – the dogs!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have judges wearing tuxedos or evening gowns depending on
the gender as though it’s a people show not a dog show.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are photos of Jr. handlers
dressed as though for a high school prom not a handling competition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pardon me, but I was always taught that
the really <u>talented</u> handler blends into the background letting the dog
take center stage.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many years ago at a National where I judged bitches, there
was a talented young lady getting ready to show an exquisite male special.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was well groomed as was the dog and
he obviously liked his handler and showed well for her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The problem with the picture was her
shoes, which while stylish, were not made to show a free moving sound young
special. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remarked on the
potential problem and she changed shoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The dog went BOB and might have anyhow, but why make things harder than
they should be?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is a talented couple in Collies who I’ve known for
years and I’ve judged their dogs often.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sometimes they go up and sometimes they lose, but they never beat
themselves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The dogs are always
groomed and trained to perfection and the people likewise dressed appropriately
and handle in a professional manner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If they lose it’s because they encountered a Collie I believe better
fits our standard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Groom well,
train well and dress appropriately so the dog is the focus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh yes, one more important factor – <u>have
a good Collie</u>!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-79269019600095346532014-11-09T11:00:00.002-08:002014-11-09T11:00:24.759-08:00So Many Ideas - So Little Time<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">So Many Ideas –
So<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Little Time<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As we grow older some of us get concerned about having the
time to accomplish all our goals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some, of course, just look for a rocking chair and let the world go by,
but not this dinosaur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Setting
goals has always been part of my make up whether at work, breeding and showing
dogs, or way back to school days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I won’t lie and say all my goals were attained, but having them shaped
my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many of my goals have
been things that involved sharing with others, hence the blogs. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since I’m not the only one with good
ideas, I enjoy giving credit where credit is due.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The current issue of Dogs In Review has an article on page
forty two entitled “Camelot is Crumbling.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It deals with the current status of dog shows with declining
entries and the desperate attempt to entice people to show by having something
for everyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It makes one think
of sports like children’s T-Ball where you supposedly don’t keep score so
everyone wins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What incentive that
gives you to improve is beyond me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was competing with people like Trudy Mangels, Pat Starkweather, and
Bobbee Roos that drove me to breed better dogs and show, groom, and be a
realistic judge of quality without kennel blindness.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You must start off the learning experience at a reasonable
level which used to be match shows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The same is true of developing as a judge, but match shows seem to be
going the way of the Dodo Bird.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As
you hone your skills whether as a breeder or judge you can move up the food
chain, but if we reward even insignificant efforts what’s the point?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Van Dyck used to say Reserve was the
best of the losers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps
reserve Best in Show, Award of Merit, and Selects are too.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the Oct. 25, 2014 issue of blood horse on page nine is an
article called “What’s Going on Here?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s a weekly article which in this issue discussed rules of life as
outlined by champion golfer and horse breeder, Gary Player, of South
Africa.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He gave his ten rules and
while all are relevant, a couple really speak to me loudly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Number six is “work.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Explanation is “the fox fears not the
man who boasts at night in the bar, but the man who rises early in the
morning.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Number nine is similar
and quotes Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden
flight, but they, while their companions slept, were toiling upward in the
night.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I got good grades at school, but probably didn’t work as
hard as I should have.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Junior and
Senior Class President were honors probably due to personality more than hard
work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I started into the
world of dog breeding and exhibiting and later in my career with
Owens-Illinois, Inc. a light bulb went off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wanted badly to succeed in both areas and drove myself
relentlessly to be the best I could be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As goals were attained the bar was constantly raised and it worked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve always felt that we all have
different talents that are born in us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Just having the talents, however, is not enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you really wish to excel at something,
you must work hard to polish and refine that God given talent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some have an eye for a dog and can
visualize what the Standard means quite clearly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Others can be involved in dogs for twenty five years and not
have a clue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We must be honest in
evaluating our talents and use what we’ve been given wisely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I always wanted to play the piano, but
can’t play a note.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps a knack
with animals (not just dogs) was my special talent and the world had enough
piano players.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finally my thanks to Larry Willeford for his kind words and
giving me credit as a mentor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
continues to breed good dogs, but more important has been a friend for years
and is a great ring steward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
picture he used on line of me and Ch. Jadene’s Breezalong has fooled some
people into thinking I’m still a slender, dark haired heartthrob.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Boy are they in for a shock!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finally, just a word of praise for the folks at Houston
Collie Rescue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The job they did
with over one hundred rescued Collies many of whom had terrible skin issues was
outstanding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The before and after
pictures bring tears of happiness to the eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please don’t think they don’t need any more financial
help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The work they did and
continue to do, costs lots of money and is helping the breed we love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep up the support so they can
continue their good work.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-76016461881690091842014-10-08T12:42:00.004-07:002014-10-08T12:42:42.369-07:00WOW!!!<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">WOW!!!<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Just returned home from a trip to Lincoln, Nebraska to judge
the Collie Club of Nebraska’s 100<sup>th</sup> Specialty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a delightful weekend!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Due to a couple of injuries and health
issues I haven’t judged recently and had seriously considered calling it a
career.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This weekend reminded me
how much I’ve missed judging and that even though flying can be a pain, it’s
not impossible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Though I have no
interest in judging a lot at this stage of the game, if I stay healthy we’ll
play it by ear.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The show was held in the Lancaster Event Center on Saturday
Oct. 4, 2014 and the ring was spacious with good footing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The entry was great with 4 points in
dogs and five points in bitches.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Since there was a move up in each sex the final points may have been
affected, but the quality certainly wasn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The entries came from a wide cross-section of the country
and after the judging I enjoyed checking out the breeding and locations
represented.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The exhibitors showed
good sportsmanship and were a real pleasure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a day!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are some special thank you’s to people who helped make
this show so special.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First to
Greg McCary and his wife, Ruth Ann who took us to dinner and got us to the
show.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Greg is the club’s designated
“gopher” and I’ve known he and Ruth Ann for years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Carolyn Foreman, club president, and another old friend who
seemed to be everywhere and worked tirelessly to make things happen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To Janet Hitt who judged the Friday
show, thanks for getting me such a good entry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Last, but certainly not least my friend, Larry Willeford,
who was my steward and kept the old dinosaur moving along.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since it’s not possible to mention all the good Collies
present, I’ll just dwell on the top two.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As I mentioned during the finals, it was a shame either one had to
lose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>BV Smooth was the striking
blue bitch Ch. C and J Silver Charm of Chrysalis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She came from a small, but quality specials class and was
owner handled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>BV Rough was the Glorious
tricolor Ch. Colebrae After Midnight who was also owner handled by her breeder,
Jennifer Laik.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both these bitches
made the whole picture with soundness, showmanship, and lovely head and
expression.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Rough tri went on
to BB and either one can come live with me if their owners think they’re too
expensive to feed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dinosaurs
aren’t noted for their memories, but I doubt I’ve had two better bitches
competing in a long, long time.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The after show dinner was held at our hotel, Country Inns
and Suites, where we also enjoyed a delightful complimentary breakfast and had
a first rate room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since the specialty
didn’t start until Saturday afternoon, Phyllis and I were relaxing after
breakfast when a knock came at the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The dinosaur almost had a heart attack to find our daughter, Alexandra,
standing there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My dear wife,
Phyllis, who is full of surprises had her drive out from Des Moines, Iowa to
watch Dad judge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just one more
special moment in a memorable weekend.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The auction to benefit Houston Collie Rescue did very well
and I heard they were up to $1400 and still counting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Larry Willeford took home the book I donated, Dr. O.P.
Bennett’s The Collie, which originally had come from Steve Field.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At the after show dinner, which was very well attended,
Carolyn Foreman asked all present to speak of a memorable moment in their
Collie careers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Steve Field of
Parader fame affected so many people in so many ways and was noted as a student
of the breed as well as a teacher for many who were present.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Phyllis had apparently bribed a few
people to say nice things about me and our daughter was suitable impressed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a memorable weekend in so many
ways and some of the experiences brought tears to the eyes.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This dinosaur thanks the members of the Nebraska Collie
Club, the exhibitors, and all involved with this glorious weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You reminded me of all I’ve been
missing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve often wondered why
God has kept me around for so long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This show made me think about a possible answer to that question.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Over the years the many times I judged
in this area and enjoyed visits with Steve and Lena Field made me feel as
though this was a “homecoming.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Perhaps if I had driven out to the old home of Parader Collies I could
have heard the barks of Parader, Image, and Bold venture and other caning
ghosts who will never die or be erased from pedigrees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ll see where the road leads.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it and thanks for the memories!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5206477410762129837.post-48701486274836806382014-09-14T11:57:00.000-07:002014-09-14T11:57:01.272-07:00Things Are Looking Up<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Things Are Looking Up<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The horrible mess being efficiently handled by Houston
Collie Rescue didn’t happen over night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I came across a two page ad in the August 1988 CC of A Bulletin showing
this lady’s bitch winning two all breed Best In Shows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How it deteriorated into what was found
recently we may never completely understand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since similar things have happened before in other places,
it’s obvious it can happen and will again if steps aren’t taken to prevent it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When we breed a litter, it carries with it some
responsibilities for this breed of ours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Carefully selecting the sire and dam and being sure they deserve the
right to reproduce is only the start.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Proper care of the bitch and providing the right environment for her and
her offspring as well as their diet follows suit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All the needs of the puppies such as shots, worming (if
needed), and socialization including leash training should be followed as the
age of the puppies dictate.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The other part of breeding dogs and selling them is the
thing that can cause big problems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That is deciding who should be approved as a buyer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you screen prospective buyers, ask
for their vet’s name, or some other references, or is just having the money to
buy good enough?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know in our
busy lives it may seem preposterous to suggest such steps, but there should be
more to being a breeder than counting ribbons, points, and taking the money!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since people can do things like have others buy dogs for
them, it can be difficult to identify potential problems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The AKC used to have people that
inspected kennels particularly ones who housed and sold large numbers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If that only happens after a legal
action, then it’s probably too late.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>With all our computer programs there certainly should be one to
highlight potential hoarding cases.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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All this concern and gloom does have some silver linings,
however.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The people at Houston
Collie Rescue are doing a tremendous job.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They have removed these Collies from an unspeakable hell and have them
headed to a decent existence through fostering and, as their condition allows,
new forever homes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With the help
of a group of volunteers, including vets, Houston Collie Rescue is showing us
an example of what can be done to bring a terrible situation to a decent
ending.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of the most severe health
and socialization cases will be difficult, but hopefully not insurmountable.</div>
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The other silver lining is the response of the dog community
to this problem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Collie people and
Collie clubs are donating to the effort, but it doesn’t stop there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A German Shepherd club has pitched in,
too, and there may be others I’m not aware of as well.</div>
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Recently I found out two bits of news that made this old
dinosaur brighten up considerably.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>First I heard that my ring steward for the Nebraska CC will be my old
friend, Larry Willeford.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s good
to know you have someone first rate sharing your ring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many thanks, Larry.</div>
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The second is that the Nebraska CC is holding an auction in
conjunction with the show with the proceeds going toward Houston Collie
Rescue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After that sank in it
seemed appropriate for the old dinosaur to hop on the bandwagon of such a good
cause.</div>
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Over the years I’ve accumulated a substantial library of
Collie publications.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Considering
where the show is, I knew rather quickly which one would be most appropriate to
donate for this auction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Years ago
when visiting Steve Field in Omaha I mentioned that I’d always wanted a copy of
Dr. O.P. Bennett’s classic old book “The Collie.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I was preparing to leave he went to the bookshelf and
took down his copy and gave it to me as a gift.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not sure where Steve got it, but I know he enjoyed it,
as have I, and now it’s time for someone else to do so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whoever gets this book should treat it
carefully and with respect just as we might hope for the Collies we’re trying
to help.</div>
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There can be silver linings in the darkest clouds.</div>
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Think about it!</div>
George Hornhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14026091152590903429noreply@blogger.com1