After a break of over 10 years, I’m back to write the breed notes again! I can’t believe that the last breed notes I wrote were in September 2005, where on earth has the time gone!
For those that don’t know me (or have forgotten me (GASP!)), my name is Jill Terry and, together with my husband, Ian, we used to breed and exhibit Canaan Dogs under our affix of Babrees. I say used to as we sadly retired from exhibiting and then breeding some years ago now. In fact the last litter of Canaan Dogs that we bred was unbelievably 9 years ago!
Unfortunately, these days I am no longer able to get to any of the shows, and therefore must rely on others to let me know what’s going on. So please help keep this column going by sending me ALL your news and views. I’d love to hear from you; if you don’t know me do please send me an email and introduce yourself, tell me about your Canaan Dog(s), what do you love about the breed, what do you hate! Do you do any activities with your Canaan? Even if your dog is just a beloved pet, write to me with their antics, about their training, behaviour or indeed anything at all. You don’t have to reside in the UK either! I’m happy to report on dogs and events world-wide.
The next show with classes for Canaan Dogs is, of course, Crufts. Canaans are being shown on the first day, which is Thursday 10th March 2016. Our judge this year is Mr Rob McLeod of the Dunline affix. Rob is a Breed Specialist judge for Canaan Dogs, and has owned and exhibited Canaans for some years now. His first Canaan Dog was Anacan The Israelite At Dunline, known to his friends as Abraham, bred by Ellen Minto and born in 1999. Abraham was the first Canaan Dog to win a Best in Show at a general open show in the UK. If you have a Canaan Dog that has qualified but haven’t already entered there’s still time. Postal entries close on 4th January 2016 and online entries close on 18th January 2016.
Our hearts go out to all those who are affected by the recent floods. Over the years I have lost touch with knowing where all the Canaan Dogs live in the UK, so am not sure if there are any in or around those areas, but hope that all dogs (and humans!) are kept safe. Some important information from the BVA: President of the British Veterinary Association Sean Wensley said: “Every year we see awful stories in the news of pet owners who have gone into fast flowing rivers or flood water to rescue their dog, only to find themselves in a very dangerous and sometimes fatal situation. BVA recommends that owners avoid walking their dog near river banks during periods of flooding.” Ross Allan, spokesperson for BSAVA urges owners to plan ahead: “If you are concerned that your usual walking routes may be flooded you can check by calling the 24 hour flood helpline – 0345 988 1188; and in the event of flooding, avoid taking your animals through flood water – no matter how shallow. Flood water can be contaminated and could harm your pet if they swallow it. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health after a walk then talk to your vet as soon as possible.”
I trust that you are all ready for Christmas. Whilst it’s an exciting time for us, please remember that it may not be for your dogs. Not all dogs enjoy the hustle, bustle and noise that comes with Christmas, so make sure that they have a nice quiet place they can retreat to where they won’t be disturbed if they want to. There are many things to watch out for in order to keep your dog safe. Christmas decorations are one of them, make sure that glass ornaments, tinsel and other decorations are out of your dogs’ reach. If you have a real tree remember that pine needles are sharp and could get stuck in your dog’s pads. Make sure you unplug the lights if you go out and over night, and secure your tree so that your dog can’t knock it over, or break the ornaments. It’s not a good idea to put anything edible on the tree, as your dog has a keen sense of smell and may be enticed to jump up to try and eat them. It may be a good idea to keep dogs, especially young dogs, out of the room when presents are being opened as they may become too excited. Also, make sure that you clear up all the wrapping paper, ribbons and other things that your dog may try to eat, which could cause them harm. Then of course there is all the food! It’s always nice to give your dogs treats, but be careful what you give them. Food that is too rich or fatty is not good for them. Keep chocolate out of their reach, and also things like Christmas cake and mince pies, which are very rich and contain raisins and sultanas that can be toxic to them.
Finally… having said all that, remember; watching your dog open presents on Christmas morning is a gift that cannot be measured! I wish you all a merry and safe Christmas!
Jill Terry