November 2019

Getting the word out about a fantastic, but vulnerable breed requires effort from all who love them.
 
How do you get people interested in a rare breed? Those of us who are campaigning to get our vulnerable breeds more exposure have asked ourselves this question time and time again. I believe that there isn’t one clear way to get people interested in your breed. The saying “throw enough mud at the wall and something will stick” comes to mind when I brainstorm ways of increasing the visibility of a rare breed. 

A black Labrador Retriever named Sadie is responsible for a province wide relaxation of the rules that apply to patios and micro-breweries.

The Second Wedge Brewing Company opened in Uxbridge, Ontario in December 2015.  It was actually a “tasting room”, rather than a pub, as they didn’t serve food, only a few packaged snacks. The owners, Rob Garrard and Joanne Richter, brought their black Lab Sadie to work (and to charm the clientele) and encouraged dog owners to bring their dogs, as they do in British pubs.

The annual gathering of Canada’s most talented young dog handlers was witness to an unprecedented display of friendly competition, camaraderie and sportsmanship when the 17 competitors from across our vast country convened for the Canadian Kennel Club Junior Handling National Championships for Conformation and Obedience in Belleville, Ontario on October 26, 2019. 

 

Remembering the brave military working canines that served our country. 

Remembrance Day is observed on November 11 every year here in Canada. 11/11 is the day when the First World War ended in 1918.  On this day, Canadians come together to honour the courageous women and men who served our country.  At this time, we stop and observe a moment of silence for those who lost their lives in war and think or pray for those still protecting our beautiful country for it is through their enormous sacrifices that we have a peaceful country to call home.

Owning a dog in a city apartment takes dedication, routine and a good pair of shoes.

I live downtown Toronto with my Standard Poodle and my Dandie Dinmont Terrier. Throughout the years of condo living in the big city with dogs, I’ve learned how to live in a tight space while still taking care of all my dogs’ needs.  Here are some tips and tricks I have learned while owning dogs in a big city apartment. If you are a dedicated owner, you too can give your dog a great life in the big city.

First off, some of you may recall my blog piece titled ‘The New Handler – the Journey to the Show Ring’.  It tells the tale of how I started off and how the journey of my beloved four-legged companion becoming a Canadian Champion was full of ups and downs.  However, if I have learned anything in the last three years, it is that hard work, determination and perseverance prevails in the end.