UKC Dog Show, Brampton, ON

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French Bull Dog Nationals 2009 - Butters and Kay showing in open Cream/Fawn bitches.

French Bull Dog Nationals 2009 - Butters and Kay showing in open Cream/Fawn bitches.

I’m thinking of entering Butters in a UKC dog show this weekend.

The UKC is the United Kennel Club, a breed registry and event holding club that was formed in 1898. The United Kennel Club was formed as an ‘alternative’ to the American Kennel Club, by Pit Bull fancier Chauncey Z. Bennett. Specifically, Mr. Bennett wanted to found an organization that focused on the ‘total dog’, as opposed to the AKC, which he saw as focusing only on conformation.

The UKC has held a strong line on the concept of dog shows as purely a means of examining a dogs conformational adherence to the written standard, rather than a canine ‘beauty show’.

I like this part, in particular —

I. Prohibition against professional handlers in conformation shows.

United Kennel Club events are intended to be family-oriented recreation for owners of UKC Registered dogs. Accordingly, UKC encourages the promotion of the owner/breeder handler and prohibits the use of professional handlers in conformation.

1. Construction of this rule. The prohibition against professional handlers is one of the cornerstones of UKC philosophy. Therefore, this rule is to be construed as broadly as necessary to achieve that goal. Each UKC Official Entry Form includes the following statement that must be signed by the owner/handler of each dog entered at a UKC event: “I swear that this dog is not being handled by a professional handler in conformation.” Dog owners and professional handlers who look for technical ways to circumvent this rule run a grave risk of losing their UKC privileges if caught.

The part I’m NOT so sure about is this one —

E. Baiting in the ring.

The United Kennel Club believes that dogs should be exhibited in a natural state. We believe that a dog’s temperament, tractability and conformation are best evaluated when a dog is exhibited without any aids used to change the dog’s natural behavior.

Butters’ natural behavior is to EAT. Everything Butters does is designed to give her access to food. She shows well, because showing well gets her bait.

Showing her with NO bait will be sort of like trying to convince me to go to work without getting a paycheck – nice idea, but not gonna happen.

Another interesting side note – the UKC French Bulldog standard’s section on weight differs from that of the AKC and CKC standards, in having a minimum weight limit, and a maximum slightly higher than we’re used to –

WEIGHT

    A French Bulldog in good condition must weigh between 18 and 30 pounds.

    Serious Fault: Over or under the prescribed weight.

At any rate, there’s more info on the show here — http://www.mapleleafkennelclub.org/november2009showinfo.htm

And more info about UKC shows in general can be found here — http://www.ukcdogs.com/WebSite.nsf/WebPages/DogConformation

You can register same day, which is also an added bonus, although there is a discount if you enter in advance. If you’re thinking of attending, please let me know.

Score One for the Good Guys

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Leeon and Lorriane Stecher can now walk their pit bull-chocolate lab mix, Angel, in Oak Harbor city limits without a muzzle

Leeon and Lorriane Stecher can now walk their pit bull-chocolate lab mix, Angel, in Oak Harbor city limits without a muzzle

The citizens of Oak Harbor, Washington, should be very proud of their city council today. Thanks to their willingness to question facts, rather than just blindly accepting stories about killer Pit Bulls who eat babies, they’ve repealed breed specific legislation within Oak Harbor city limits.

From the Whidbey News Times –

Oak Harbor’s breed-specific ordinance went into effect in 2006 and required pit bull owners who live within city limits to house the controversial canines in a secure pen and muzzle the animals while on leash, among other restrictions. Pit bull owners who didn’t follow the ordinance ran the risk of having their dog impounded or earning a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, jail time up to 90 days, or both.

Now the animal control officer will rely on the “Dangerous Dog and Potentially Dangerous Dog” chapter of the animal control ordinance that deals with animals based on behavior, not breed.

Before the council made their final decision, Councilman Jim Campbell questioned whether the “Dangerous Dog and Potentially Dangerous Dog” chapter was enough to protect the citizens of Oak Harbor.

“We don’t need this because we have sufficient coverage in the one that we already have? Does it also have the hard rules for the owner that has a dog with biting habits?” he asked Police Chief Rick Wallace.

Wallace said yes, and proceeded to read from the “Dangerous Dog and Potentially Dangerous Dog” ordinance that requires the owner of these dogs to keep the animals in a proper enclosure, post a visible warning sign that a dangerous dog is in the area, purchase a surety bond of at least $250,000 or a liability insurance policy, have the animal microchipped and register the dog with the city.

Councilwoman Beth Munns made the motion to repeal the breed specific ordinance, and Campbell seconded her motion. The council unanimously voted to support Munns’ motion, 6-0. Councilman Danny Paggao was not at the meeting.

Like many of us, I’ve heard the stories, but I’ve almost always dismissed them as fairy tales, on par with stories about Bigfoot, Chupucabras, and the Loch Ness monster. Little did I think that within my lifetime I’d get to hear about an actual, verified instance of a politician with working brain cells, one who asks questions, rather just blindly accepting all those stories about killer Pit Bulls.

And, Holy Hell! Their Chief of Police testified against breed specific laws! He didn’t rave about how it’s necessary to shoot all Pit Bulls on sight, or tell stories about babies being stolen from their cribs and eaten. Instead, he pointed out how the town’s existing, non breed specific laws already make more than adequate provisions for the control of dangerous dogs within city limits. Politicians AND cops with brains, in one single city? I know where I want to move to.

In a statement so shocking that I almost felt light headed on reading it, Oak Harbor city council said that they hope the repeal of the law will “decrease the number of pit bulls surrendered to island animal shelters, and possibly increase their rate of adoption”.

When pigs flyGood lord. If this sort of logical thinking catches on outside of Washington state, there’s a chance that even Ontario’s fiberal goverment might re think their idiotic DOLA laws.

Oh, and look, a pig just flew overhead.

French Bulldog Gift Items, Luxe Edition

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With the holiday season approaching, we find ourselves thinking “What the hell, is it that time again already?”. We then contemplate drinking, heavily.

Wait, maybe that’s just me.

Perhaps you’re more the type who gleefully begins to search out just the perfect petit trésor for those extra special people on your list. If money is no object, and the person you’re shopping for is a French Bulldog enthusiast, we have a few shopping ideas for you.

If travel is no impediment to finding the perfect gift, book your plane tickets now for part Deux of the Auction of the Century – the final phase of the Yves Saint Laurent-Pierre Bergé Auction, to be held in Paris Nov. 17-20. As any French Bulldog fancier worth their salt well knows, St. Laurent was a die hard French Bulldog aficionado.

Yves St. Laurent's French Bulldog Moujik

The current incarnation of Moujik, shown above after a memorial service for St. Laurent held in Marrakesh, is actually one in a long line of Frenchies named Moujik owned by St. Laurent. At the upcoming St. Laurent auction, attendees will have the chance to bid on a –

“sculpture set of Mr. Saint Laurent’s favorite pets, French bulldogs, estimated at €400-€600.”

– Wall Street Journal On Line

Pricey, but for anyone who loves both the iconoclastic designer and French Bulldogs, a worth while buy. If you can’t quite commit to jetting to Paris to pick up a holiday present, perhaps some on line shopping is more your cup of tea.

Antique paper mache French Bulldog growler for sale

Antiques Atlas has this lovely antique papier mache French Bulldog growler available for sale, for the bargain price of $1484.09 – and before you deny that $1500 is a ‘bargain price’, let’s think about this for a moment. This thing is almost a hundred years old, it was created for children, and it’s made of freakin’ paper. It’s a wonder any of them survived this long. Plus, you can enjoy the freaked out cries of ‘what the hell is that thing?’ your non Frenchie friends will emit on seeing it. A definite buy for the more eclectic French Bulldog owner on your gift list.

If you’re shopping for someone who loves traditional jewelry, take a look at the Hunting Horn. Long known for having some of the best, breed specific jewelry in the world, Hunting Horn offers a plethora of French Bulldog specific pieces.

French Bulldog Jewelry

I think this brindle pied French Bulldog piece is particularly adorable, but I’m really more of a fan of sterling silver jewelry. Traditionally, the Frenchie pieces I’ve found in Sterling have been sort of… tacky. At the worst, they looked like badly formed kittens, rather than Frenchies. These new pieces from the Thomas Sabo sterling silver collection change all of that –

Thomas Sabo Sterling Silver French Bulldog

Sabo’s unfortunately named ‘Disco Dog’ collection offers two separate pieces featuring French Bulldogs – the enameled French Bulldog miniature shown above, and a small, sterling medallion with a French Bulldog head study, shown below.

Thomas Sabo French Bulldog medallion

Unfortunately, your medallion also bears the rather embarrassing inscription “Groovy DJ Dog”. Oh well, nothing’s perfect. And a note to Sean, in case he’s reading this – the FIGURINE, and NOT the medallion. Just, y’know, in case he’s doing any shopping.

2010 “Old French Bulldogs” Wall Calendar is Here

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Cover of the 2010 Old French Bulldogs Wall Calendar

Cover of the 2010 Old French Bulldogs Wall Calendar

Fresh off the presses, the 2010 version of The FBVillage “Les Vieux” (old dogs) wall calendar is now available for purchase. 100% of ALL proceeds benefit the French Bulldog Village, and the fantastic work they do in placing French Bulldogs into their new homes.

Les Vieux celebrates our senior French Bulldogs – those dogs aged ten years or older. With dogs ranging in age from 10 to sixteen years, every single page has something to celebrate.

Of course, there are also some familiar faces on this calendar – check out January’s pin up gal, the ever lovely Dread Pirate Lola, looking smashing as usual.

Lola, Bullmarket Chiquita Lolita, is January's cover girl.

September’s cover girl also looks slightly familiar – could that possibly be Tessa, set against a back drop of colorful fall leaves?

Tessa is September's cover French Bulldog

This year’s calendar was designed by Milan Miklos, of Lionheart French Bulldogs. The calendar specs are:

Product Information

Keeping track of important dates on your calendar is easy when you can view 12 months of inspiring images that reflect your personal interests. Our high-quality calendar is printed on thick 100lb cover weight paper and adds impact to any room.

  • Each page measures 11″ x 8.5″
  • Measures 11″ x 17″ when hung on wall
  • Full bleed dynamic color
  • 100 lb cover weight high gloss paper, wire-o bound
  • January 2010 – December 2010, 2011 preview, US holidays marked

Remember, the French Bulldog Village works tirelessly to help special needs French Bulldogs and French Bulldog mixes, as well as assisting to get breeder retiree French Bulldogs into loving, adoptive homes. They could use your financial support, and your wall could use one of these lovely calendars!

Order one from the FBV Cafe Press store – http://www.cafepress.com/fbvillage.415199429

Top Ten Poisons for Pets

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In 2008, the Animal Poison Control Center (ASPCA) handled over 140,000 cases pertaining to pets that were exposed to toxic substances, and many included everyday household products in and around their own homes.

In response ASPCA put together the top 10 list of pet poisons in 2008, and it’s important that you become familiar with this list to help prevent any mishaps at home.

The Top 10 Poisons of 2008

1. Human Medications: 50,000 cases

It’s easy for pets to snatch pills from counters and bed-side tables, or quickly eat them if you’ve dropped a couple on the floor. Both over-the-counter and prescription medications including painkillers, antidepressants and even dietary supplements can be problematic.

2. Insecticides: 31,000 cases

One of the most common exposures involved using chemical flea and tick products incorrectly, such as applying a topical product for dogs on a cat.

3. People Food: 15,000 cases

Grapes, raisins, avocado and certain citrus fruits can all be dangerous for pets, but one of the worst offenders was chocolate, which contains large amounts of methylxanthines. If ingested it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst, urination and hyperactivity, and in severe cases abnormal heart rhythm, tremors and seizures.

4. Rodenticides: 8,000 cases

Rat and mouse poison can contain inactive ingredients that are attractive to pets. Aside from eating the poison itself, pets can also become sick from eating a rodent that’s ingested poison. Exposure to rat and mouse poison can cause bleeding, seizures and kidney damage.

5. Veterinary Medications: 8,000 cases

Drugs meant for animals can still cause side effects, especially when they are misapplied or improperly dispensed. Some of the most common toxic exposures involved non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, heartworm preventatives, de-wormers, antibiotics, vaccines and nutritional supplements.

6. Plants: 8,000 cases

Azaleas, rododendrons, sago palms, lilies, kalanchoe, and schefflera are common houseplants that can be toxic to pets. Lilies are especially toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure even in small amounts.

7. Chemical Hazards: 5,500 cases

Many chemicals around your home can symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal upset and respiratory difficulties to depression and chemical burns in your pets. Examples include antifreeze, paint thinner, drain cleaners and pool/spa chemicals.

8. Household Cleaners: 3,200 cases

Bleaches, detergents and disinfectants contain chemicals that can cause serious gastrointestinal distress and irritation to the respiratory tract in your pets.

9. Heavy Metals: 3,000 cases

Metals such as lead, zinc and mercury can all poison your pets. Lead is especially widespread and pets can be exposed via paint chips, linoleum and lead dust that’s produced when surfaces in old homes are scraped and sanded.

10. Fertilizer: 2,000 cases

If your lawn has been sprayed with a chemical fertilizer it’s essential to keep your pet off of it. Prevention is the best tip for avoiding accidental exposure to these potentially toxic chemicals.

What to Do if Your Pet is Poisoned

If your pet becomes poisoned, don’t panic. If your pet is showing symptoms, go to an emergency vet in your area immediately. Otherwise, if you think your pet may have gotten into a toxin but you’re not sure, collect any remaining toxic product and call Poison Control (888-426-4435), which comes with a $60 consultation charge. Have your pet’s age, breed, sex, and weight information, along with any remnants of the toxin, on hand to provide to the toxicologist.

You may also be asked to specify what the potential toxic substance was, about how long ago your pet was exposed and about how much your pet consumed.

But, again, if your pet is already showing symptoms of poisoning, such as respiratory distress, seizures, or loss of consciousness, go to your emergency vet immediately so your pet can get the urgent help he needs.

Which “Human” Foods are Toxic for Pets?

People food was the third top poison to pets in 2008, and while certain human foods can be very healthy for dogs and cats — and it’s certainly preferable to feed your pets fresh, species-appropriate human-grade food as much as possible — there are some foods that are toxic to pets.

Here are some human foods you absolutely should not feed your pets:

  • Grapes and raisins, which can sometimes cause kidney failure in very low amounts
  • Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are both classified as methylxanthines; these can cause hyperactivity, increased heart rate, tremors, and potentially death (the more bitter the chocolate, the more toxic it is for your pets)
  • Onions and members of the onion family, such as leeks and chives; these can cause damage to red blood cells that could result in anemia in both dogs and cats. The exception is garlic, which is metabolized into a different metabolite than onions that is not toxic to pets. A small amount of fresh garlic fed to pets daily actually has some great health benefits.
  • Macadamia nuts may cause problems including weakness, depression, vomiting, ataxia, tremors, and hyperthermia.
  • Rising bread dough can be life-threatening – The bread dough itself is not toxic but the animal’s body heat can cause the dough to rise in the stomach, doubling or tripling in size and leading to impaction. The dough can also produce ethanol, which causes animals to stumble and become disoriented, lethargic and depressed.
  • Xylitol, a sugar substitute common in sugar-free chewing gum, can cause life-threatening hypoglycemia and liver damage in dogs; if your dog has ingested gum, bring your dog to the emergency vet immediately!

Again, if you know your pet has ingested a toxin and is showing signs of distress, take him to your emergency vet immediately. If your pet is not showing any symptoms yet, but you suspect he may have ingested a toxin, call Poison Control at 888-426-4435 to find out the next best steps to take.

After the cut, you’ll find ASPCA’s video guide to identifying poisonous plants in your home and garden.

Read more →