Web Site Excerpts from the Quarterly Newsletter

November 2001 - Issue 24

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Iron Regimen  by John Wellens
The CWVC Fun Day  by Ginger Tierney
Breed Rescue Diary  by Becky Smith
Breed Rescue Update by Becky Smith
The Prez Sez by Penny Honetor
Member Interviews:  Mark and Becky Smith by Penny Honetor
Agility Hunting? by Becky Smith
CWVC Hosts Fall Field Trial by Mark Smith
2001 VCA Nationals Report
"Safe" Agility by Ginger Tierney
Vizslas in the Media
Vizscellaneous
Like It or Lump It?
Legislative Updates (Puppy Protection Act, USFWS)
Health Updates:
      Broken Hearts (Neospora)  by Lu Hart
      Seizures in the Dog  by Marion Coffman
CWVC Official Notices
K-9 Agility Trial - CWVC Supported Entry  by Susan Prim
Indecent Exposure I  by Kathy Engelsman
Indecent Exposure II  by Penny Honetor

Iron Regimen  

The CWVC Fun Day

by Ginger Tierney The day was beautiful. Sunny and 82 degrees with a light breeze. The 2 large Maple trees shaded at least 30 people and associated Vizslas. The smaller Ash shaded 6-10 more people. While 10 more people and pets mingled or took walks around the property. In total, fifty (50) people and the dogs that own them partook of the Fun Day. The day was picnic style with a speaker, lunch and "Vizsla" games.  First, and foremost, I heartily thank the committee who helped John and I put this on. Amy and John Lehman, along with their kids, Kasey and Steven came from Ohio to help. They were the main laborers and general support. Kathy Mauch, bought the hamburger buns, the pop, and the table sundries. She proofed and improved the announcement. Mike Erhardt ran the wing and string contest. Mike's daughters Charlotte and Gwen, helped with the initial set up of things. And all the worker bees helped with clean up. Without your support and help John and I could not have pulled this off. Thank you! Mary Domes was our guest speaker. She gave us a 45 minute talk on Therapy Dogs and Service Dogs. The main difference is that a Therapy dog is a dog that you own and you work with and you take to the nursing homes and hospitals. A service dog is bred specifically for the task at hand. People foster the animals from 8 weeks to 14 months, teaching them life's basics. Then the people turn them over to an agency. This agency then prepares them for the dog's life work. The CWVC contributed $50 to Canine Companions for Independence, on behalf of Mary Domes. If anyone would like more information on how you and your pet can get into the Therapy dog program, you can: 1. Call me and I will put you in touch with Mary Domes or 2. Visit the Delta Society web site: www.deltasociety.org Mary's talk peaked the interest of several people and she stayed for about an hour answering questions. Thank you Mary for sharing your passion with the CWVC. Game Results Fastest Vizsla in Wisconsin Lets start with the last game we played because it is a Fun Day TRADITION. The Fastest Vizsla in Wisconsin is {drum roll please} Sky (Tierneys). Runners up {pun intended} were: Norma, Parker, Lucy. Hot Dog Tracking The game that was probably the most fun was "Hot Dog Tracking". A course was set with 15 flags. Hot dogs were placed at the base of each flag. The field was an overgrown pasture, with a walking path forming an outer loop. The handler was not allowed off the course but could use whatever commands and gestures they wanted, short of picking up the hot dog, to show the dog where the hot dog was. There was a time limit of 2 minutes to get around the pasture. Winners were: 1. Lucy with Rick finding 12 hot dogs 2. Blue with Gwen finding 11 hot dogs 3. Smitty with Bill finding 10 hot dogs 22 teams participated in this event. The average number of hot dog finds were 8. Wing and String Another tradition is "Wing and String" (for puppies 6 months and younger. Well, we didn't have any puppies six months and younger, so we tried it with puppies 1 year and under. This didn't work very well on adolescence and pups with live bird experience. Still, we did have a winner: Nutmeg handled by Scott. Musical Chairs Musical chairs is played the traditional way with music on, then music off. But the twist is that the dog must sit before the human can sit. If a dog breaks a sit before all participants are seated the "out pair" may steal the chair. I noticed quite a bit of strategy and trickery going on. Number 1 Team = Blue and Gwen Number 2 Team = Thunder and Kathy The heat of the afternoon caused us to cancel the relay races.  Oh, yes, I better not forget the food. BBQ Beef and BBQ Pork plus Soda Pop was supplied by CWVC. The rest was pot luck. It was wonderful. No one went away hungry. All in all the Fun Day was great. People could talk, relax, and enjoy the company of each other and our wonderful breed. Thank you all for coming and making this event a real success. Editor's Note:  The 2002 Vizsla Calendar Photo Contest was held at the 2001 Fun Day.  50 photos were entered!

Breed Rescue Diary

by Becky Smith Sometimes rescue is very quiet--no calls other than sending out a few applications for weeks. However, when Penny asked me to keep a diary of breed rescue activities for a month and I decided that it would be a good idea, the word must have gotten out. "Becky is recording her rescue work this month. Call her so people think she does something!" The phone calls, e-mails, and unfortunately dogs, started coming in. I'll be the first to say September was an unusually busy month. The good news is it gives everyone a good idea of the majority of breed rescue activities. Now, let's see, what happened in CWVC rescue for the month of September... Sept 3 - Sent out information to four people looking to adopt a Vizsla through rescue Sept 4 - Sent out another packet Sept 6 - Received a call about a 2-year-old male, Miles, near Tomah. Trying to make connections with owner. Sept 7 - Received a call about a 7-year-old Vizsla near Chicago needing a new home. Referred to Val Smith, coordinator for Illinois. - Received a call from a lady in Chicago with a 6 year old Vizsla needing placement. Dog has a biting history. Referred to Val Smith. - Called John in Tomah with 2-year-old. He is divorced and in the Air Force. He is being sent out for 3 or 4 months at a time. When he was married, his wife could care for the dog, but she doesn't want him and John cannot take the dog along. Got particulars on Miles. Will arrange to visit. Sept 8 - Contacted breeder of Miles. Breeder is from Hull, IA. Not interested in taking dog back or in helping to find a home for him. Breeder said he didn't have puppies that often so he is not a "real" breeder. Sometimes you just have to recognize when having a conversation is fruitless and accept the inevitable. Talked to Bonnie in Las Vegas who has been on our waiting list for a long time. She is going to call owner of Miles to see if she is interested. Breed rescue will help with transportation if needed. E-mail to Sharon to check on how Dudley is doing. Sept 9 - E-mail from Sharon regarding Dudley. A lady came to look at him. She is trying to decide between Dudley and a Weim rescue. Sharon will let me know. - Talked with Bonnie in Las Vegas. She called Miles' owner and is very interested in possibly adopting him. I will tried to call John to arrange to visit Miles next weekend for evaluation. May see if I can find someone closer to Tomah to do the visit. - Bonnie is also going to call Sharon about Dudley in case the person who visited decides to take the Weim Sept 10 - Corresponded with Sharon regarding Dudley and replied to a person in Chicago looking to place a 7 year old dog. Referred to Val Smith. Sept 11 - Talked with Sharon regarding home for Dudley. Sept 12 - Contacted John about visiting so I could do an evaluation of Miles. I am going on Saturday. Sept 15 - Went to Tomah to meet Miles. Very nice dog. He will need someone who has had dog experience and will not let him push them around. However, he was great with John's kids, was very friendly to me, no fear, generally fairly well behaved. He is in good health, is happy, and you can tell he has been well cared for. He will make someone a nice companion. I called Bonnie in Las Vegas after I got home as she is interested in adopting him. I told her I thought he would be a good dog for her as long as she was willing to be firm with him. Bonnie is interested in doing agility and I think Miles would be really good at it. Sent e-mail to Sharon saying Bonnie was probably going to take Miles, which means we still need a home for Dudley. Sept 17 - Received note from a lady in Michigan who had  fostered dogs when I was regional coordinator for that area. She is interested in adopting a rescue. I told her about Dudley and gave her Sharon's e-mail address. Also sent a note to Carolyn DeFiore, coordinator for Michigan, so she was aware of this potential home. Sept 18 - Received an e-mail from a lady from Illinois that I had referred to the regional coordinator for that area previously. She has been unable to contact Val via e-mail. Provided her with the phone number of Val and another person. If she does not make contact with them over the weekend, she will call me back. Sept 20 - Sharon sent pictures of Dudley. Responded back.  Sent note to Bonnie to find out what is going on with Miles. Sept 21 - Sent update to Steve Shylen, VCA National Rescue Chairperson, of the dogs we are working on in our area Sept 22 - Responded to note from lady in Michigan. Looks like she is going to take Dudley. Also received e-mail and phone call from Bonnie in Las Vegas regarding Miles. She has a plane ticket to Chicago and was going to pick him on Oct. 2. Miles' owner called her this morning and said he had found someone to care for Miles while he was on maneuvers so he was going to keep him. Bonnie was very disappointed and wondered if Miles was still available. I told her to call Sharon, but I thought he was very likely placed. Told her about a 9-year-old female and a 7-year-old male looking for homes in other areas of the country. She was going to check those out also. Sept 25 - Corresponded with Sharon regarding Dudley's placement. Sept 26 - Received phone call from Janet Silverman about a male in the humane society in Manitowoc. Janet will pick up on Saturday. I have to find someone to foster him. Also corre- sponded with Sharon and the person adopting Dudley via e-mail and phone calls. Sept 27 - Janet will pick up the dog in Manitowoc and her sister will foster for a little while if necessary. I put a call in and sent an e-mail to club members in Milwaukee who said they wanted to foster dogs. I have not heard back yet.  - Also sent an e-mail to the Michigan coordinator to let her know Dudley was for sure coming to her area, gave her the adoptor's name and e-mail address so she could get in touch with her to check on how things are going, etc.  Sept 28 - Got note from Kevin and Julie that they will foster dog in Manitowoc. Sent note asking for Janet to work directly with them to make arrangements for pick-up/delivery of dog to them. Also explained what they needed to do when they first get the dog, record keeping, etc. I will call them over the weekend to review and answer any questions.  Sent e-mail to Steve Shylen, national chairperson to let him know we were getting another dog. Sept 30 - Received an e-mail from someone interested in the dog from Manitowoc. She had seen him on the Internet. I sent a note back and said I would let her know when we have the dog in our hands if he would be appropriate for her. Called Kevin and Julie. They will call back when they get the dog. Janet is picking him up.

Breed Rescue Update

by Becky Smith CWVC Breed Rescue Web Page Make sure you also read "Breed Rescue Diary" for September 2001. Oct 11 Update: Cheryl Brimmer went to the Wausau Humane Society to identify a dog that we had been contacted on. It turned out the dog was a GSP/Weim mix. Just as an FYI, it was adopted. I received a call this morning from some people in Milwaukee this morning who have a 3-year-old neutered male, Zeke, they want to place. She is trying to find the papers for the breeder's name. They will keep the dog until we find a home for it. I explained that we are getting ready for Nationals so there may be a delay in getting the dog placed. I also contacted someone to see about visiting Zeke for an evaulation before placement. When it rains, it pours! We haven't had this much activity in breed rescue for months! If you are interested in volunteering for Breed Rescue in any capacity including CWVC Breed Rescue Chair, fostering, transport, Breed ID, etc., contact Becky Smith at 920-484-6443 or remark@centurytel.net.

The Prez Sez

by Penny Honetor Awesome. Memorable. Fun. Exhausting! That was 2001 VCA Nationals in a nutshell. Held in Mt. Vernon, IL, the event attracted many CWVC volunteers and participants - read all about them on page 7. Now that it's over, don't get too comfortable - 2002 holds many opportunities to support local CWVC events. Check out the statistics at the end of the new Membership Directory booklet - the CWVC has experienced significant growth in membership the past few years, and more importantly, more volunteers have stepped forward for CWVC events and committees (as well as contributing to the newsletter which I very much appreciate!) The Board is examining our membership costs and ways for our events to grow. Possibly an independent Specialty where we receive the entry fees but incur more expenses and require more volunteers. Maybe an additional Fall Hunt Test - our Spring Hunt Test receives great volunteer support and has been very profitable. Perhaps sponsoring event seminars like for Obedience or Agility Fun Matches or VCA Versatility Tests. What are you interested in helping organize and participating in? We welcome ideas from the membership - and remind you to use the "Events Guidelines" available on the web site which were put in place to ensure new, additional and significant changes to current events and activities are in the best interest of the CWVC membership, are either profitable or a good use of money and are planned and executed well. Don't wait for someone else to do it! If you prefer, one of the Board Members can work with you in doing initial investigation and in creating a proposal.

CWVC Member Interview:
     Mark & Becky Smith

by Penny Honetor CWVC members since 1992, Mark and Becky Smith have been very active members and train and compete in a wide variety of activities and events with their Vizslas like Field Trials, Hunt Tests, Agility, Obedience and Show. They have collectively spent countless hours in service to the CWVC and have and continue to generously give of their time, talents and resources. Mark is a past President, founder of the CWVC Field Trial event and currently serves as the Field Events Standing Chair, Ottawa Delegate and has served in practically every capacity at CWVC hunting events. A past newsletter editor, Meetings Chair, Board member and recipient of the "Friend of the CWVC" award, Becky currently chairs Breed Rescue, Breeder Referral, and Annual Awards and like Mark is also a regular volunteer/coordinator for many other activities and events like Fun Days, Field Trials, Hunt Tests, Fun Hunts and is organizing the Judges Seminar to be held in 2002. They took some time out of their busy schedules to answer some questions. How did you hear about the CWVC and why did you join? Was looking for awhile when a friend sold some dog food to a guy that knew of the club. We made a call, joined, and have been active ever since.  How does the CWVC differ today from when you originally joined?  Many more members and MUCH more money. The first hunting test that I ran lost $3 and that was the most successful to date. The club was so poor that we fronted all the funds to get the test going. By the way, I don't think I ever got paid for the $3! To what other clubs and organizations do you belong? Becky: Beaver Dam Dog Training Club (Secretary, Board Member, President, Obedience Instructor), Twin Cities Vizsla Club, Magyar Vizsla Society, National Vizsla Association, VCA (Board Member, Regional Rescue Coordinator). Mark: Beaver Dam Dog Training Club (Board member, Treasurer) Horicon Marsh Bowmen (Pres, Vice Pres, Newsletter, Events chair), Twin Cities Vizsla Club, VCA. Who are your Vizslas and their accomplishments?  Rosie (CH Mark's Rooster Roustin' Rosie CD NA MH VC CGC) Our first Vizsla. Her biggest accomplishment is getting us hooked!  Seger (AFC CH Bouman's Against the Wind MH CD NA VC CGC) The first champion/master hunter Vizsla in Wisconsin, and I believe he is the only one with a field championship (in his case AFC, but very close to his FC) with a Master Hunter. (From Becky: Seger has really been Mark's learning dog when it comes to field trials. I am really proud of both of them. It would have been much easier to send Seger off to a trainer to get his FC, but Mark has stuck it out through the ups and downs.)  Jennie (CH Remark's Oakleaf Genesis JH NACGC) An agility wizard-if she had a better handler, she would have more titles! Pearl (Am/Can CH Bajnok's Piece of My Heart JH TT) She is training toward her SH and her NA. (Silly me--her first agility run will be at Nationals!) Pearl finished her AKC championship by going Winners Bitch at the VCOI specialty, the same as her daddy--Seger. Thomas (Oakleaf's Runnin' Down a Dream JH) 15 months old and just getting started. He is pointed toward his field championships and I am training him in agility. Let me tell you, training a 15-month-old, hormone-enraged, bird-crazy Vizsla in agility is a challenge! In what non-CWVC, non-competitive Vizsla activities do you participate?  Becky: Cuddling, demos, hunting even though I'm a lousy shot, we use Seger at stud occasionally, and we are eagerly anticipating our first litter of Vizslas from Pearl next year.  Mark: Training for and Hunting  What is your favorite Vizsla-related activity? Becky: Competitively, I enjoy conformation and agility. Conformation because for me, I don't feel much pressure in the ring and agility because it gives the dogs so much self confidence. Though I've only run the dogs in hunt tests or field trials a couple of times, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I also really like helping Mark train for hunting and the events, probably because it is something we do together and the dogs love it. Another of my favorite activities is having the "granddogs" visit. We have been very fortunate in that respect, and I have to thank the puppy owners for that. Mark: Hunting, this is why I got my first Vizsla. I had a few other dogs before, but once you've hunted with a Vizsla, you never look back!  What motivates you to perform all the activities you do for the Vizsla and CWVC? Becky: Complete lack of any common sense? Mark: I really LOVE to see dogs point, and their owners glow when they do!  What Vizsla-related activity gives you the most rewards? Least? Becky: The answer is the same for both those questions. Breed rescue and breeder referral give me the most rewards. When you place a dog or help a person find a puppy and you get the call or note afterward about how great the dog is, it is wonderful. When I saw Brandy, the very first rescue we placed, in the rescue parade at the Madison Dog Fair, it brought tears to my eyes. You could see how happy and healthy and loved she was. Actually, it brings tears to my eyes as I think about it now. Unfortunately, breed rescue and breeder referral can also be the most frustrating or least rewarding. However, the rewards far outweigh the negatives. Mark: Most: hunting, Hunting Tests, Field Trials, good Rescue placements. Least: scooping the poop!  What is your most memorable Vizsla moment? Most embarrassing? Becky: It probably sounds ridiculous, but honestly, the most memorable moment for me happened at the Nationals in Florida. Mark ran Seger and he found a covey, broke and got picked up. However, afterward, Lynn Worth rode up and said, "I haven't seen Chauncy's eyes light up like that over a dog in years!" Chauncy is Chauncy Smith (no relation), and is one of the original Vizsla owners in the U.S. He had one of the first field champions in the country (I believe the first bitch FC) and many, many successful dogs since then. When someone who you really respect says something great about your dog, it beats all the ribbons you could ever win. Most embarrassing also gets credited to Seger. I was running him in an agility trial and he went on point on a toy poodle in the adjoining ring. He kept looking at me like, "Aren't you going to flush that thing?" I had to collar him because he absolutely was not moving. (Click here for more details!) Mark: Most Memorable: Finishing Rosie's MH and Seger's AFC. Most Embarrassing: Showing a dog for the first time at Nationals. I was a bit under the influence when I said I'd do it! Right, Inge? If you could change one thing in the Vizsla world, what would it be? Becky: I see them becoming more and more popular. I would say breeder referral and breed rescue calls have tripled or quadrupled since I started doing it years ago. I'd prefer Vizslas be the best kept secret in the dog world.  The other thing I would change is that people decide to breed their dogs too quickly. When you choose to breed your dog, you should have a very clear goal in mind. Certainly any breeding should consider temperament and health issues, but hopefully, somewhere in there is field ability and meeting the AKC breed standard. It is tough to take an unbiased look at your own dog and say, "No, I don't think so." But those people who do are contributing more to the breed than the folks who don't and produce puppies. Mark: Too many folks not hunting or breeding dogs without consideration for hunting abilities.  What do you feel is the CWVC's biggest strength? Weakness? Mark: Strength: GREAT members. Weakness: Losing sight on the whole state and events for folks that don't compete with their dogs.  Becky: I agree with Mark--we have great members. I would like to see more of them hunting with their dogs or proving their dogs have hunting instinct by participating in hunt tests and field trials.  Any advice for people looking for a Vizsla puppy? Don't be in a hurry to get a puppy. If you wait for the right breeder and litter, you will get the right puppy. You need to find a breeder you can form a lifelong relationship with. Even though we have 5 Vizslas, I still call on their breeders, who I consider to be our mentors, for advice. Any advice for people with a new Vizsla puppy? Get them introduced to birds at an early age. Any other thoughts you'd like to share? Becky: Vizslas are great dogs, but they are not for everyone. When you are talking to people about the breed, PLEASE tell them the minuses as well as the pluses. It is important prospective owners have an idea what to expect. I'd also encourage you to have new people come and visit your dogs in your home, if you don't mind company. That gives them a real idea of what the breed is like. We do it often, and we have had people say, "Yes, they are just what I want" or more importantly, "We don't think Vizslas are for us." One other thing I'd like to share is something I am the most proud of: getting the CWVC committed to breed rescue. When we started, there were only about 30 members and no treasury, so it was a huge (and scary) undertaking. Every member should be proud of the club's support of breed rescue. It speaks volumes for the commitment to Vizslas that our club has. Mark: Get out there and let your dog hunt! Life Before and Outside of Vizslas Where were you born?  Becky: Waverly, IA Mark: Denver, CO What was your first job? Becky: Babysitting in high school, but after that as a secretary at a facility for handicapped people. Mark: Bag boy at a grocery store  What are your occupations at John Deere? Becky: Buyer Mark: Facilities Engineer  How did you meet? We met at work. However, we knew each other a couple of years before we started dating.  Any other hobbies? Becky: I guess I am pretty one dimensional because one of my favorite past-times when I'm not doing something with the dogs has become studying pedigrees. I also enjoy reading really like to cook. Mark: Making and shooting wooden arrows, hunting waterfowl, upland and big game and woodworking. Other than a V, what breed would you get next? Becky: My first obedience dog was an American Cocker. If it weren't for the hair, I'd have another of those. I also like the German Wirehair. Actually, after a couple of Lynchburg Lemonades at last year's Nationals, I almost bought one! Mark: GWP, because they seemed to have a stronger work ethic and mature sooner. Also I thought about a Flat Coat.  Favorites (Becky ● Mark) Music Artist: Eric Clapton ● Bob Seger (Go figure) Dessert: Peach Pie ● Pear Cake Restaurant: The Studio (in Ft. Lauderdale) ● Kelly's  Web Site: Toldi's Den (of course!) ● Stickbow.com Vehicle: BMW 325is ● One that hauls horses & dogs Magazine: AKC Gazette ● Pointing Dog,Trad'l Bowhunter Food: Chicken ● Something I shot  Becky: Good thing all the stuff Mark shoots tastes like chicken, or at least that is what people tell me!

Agility Hunting?

by Becky Smith Seger has always been a busy guy, so no wonder I have not been surprised when he decides to combine two AKC activities into one. It does not make for very high scores, or sometimes even passing ones, but I must say, there are very few dull moments, he always entertains the spectators, and his tail is always wagging as he makes a fool out of me. What he seems to like to combine the most is tracking and agility. "Ready when you are" says the judge. "Seger, jump!" The first obstacle is completed, the head goes down, and he tracks his way around the course.   However, I can remember at least one time he combined hunting and agility. No, it wasn't a pigeon on at an outdoor trial. It was a silver miniature poodle in the next ring at an indoor trial. After the first three obstacles, he spotted it and went staunchly on point. "Seger, come here! Seger jump! Seee-ger, JUMP! Seger! Seee-ger! SEGER! And Seger just remained staunch and rolled his eyes at me as if to say, "Well, aren't you going to flush it?"

CWVC Hosts Fall Field Trial

by Mark Smith, Field Trial Chair CWVC Field Trial Results     -    CWVC Field Trial Web Page The Central Wisconsin Vizsla Club couldn't have asked for better weather for the field trial they held on September 1 and 2, 2001 Crisp, clear mornings led to highs in the low 70's with nice breezes in the afternoons. It was beautiful! Participants came from Wisconsin, Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, and Canada! The trial filled two weeks before closing and had a waiting list. All stakes except Open Puppy had majors. Following the running on Saturday, a judge's dinner was held. Thirty-one people participated. Thanks to everyone who worked and participated in this event to make it a rousing success.

2001 VCA Nationals Report

CWVC Participants and Awards - WOW! Rodney & Ann Albin - Field Trial Sherrie Anderson - Conformation; Catalog & Hospitality Volunteer; Agility Committee & Secretary's Assistant Kim Barker - Show: Gusto 4th Place, Open Dog; Obedience Volunteer; Field Trial Michel Berner - Show; Field Trial Volunteer (dog wagon) Wanda Berner - Show; Field Trial Committee, Volunteer (lunches, marshal) Cheryl Brimmer - Show; Agility Linda & Jim Busch - Field Trial Scott Cherney & Mary Minch - Agility Jeff & Kathy & Christine Engelsman - Show; Ralph "Show Dog of the Year" & Award of Merit. Christine, "Best Junior Handler". Kathy, Field Trial Committee & Volunteer (Field & Line Marshal, Lunches, Dog Wagon). Pat & Jim Erickson - Show: Dexter Award of Merit; Agility; Agility Course Building & Committee; Mats & Gates; Photographer's Assistant Tom Falk - Show: Colorado 3rd place 9-12 puppy dog sweeps Jim & Val Fiedler - Show? Cathy (Cook) Gallagher - Agility (see funny story); Show: Kave - 2nd place 9-12 puppy dog Teresa & Steve Gimbut & Erin - Events Chair; Finance Chair; Grounds Crew Mary Hanneman - Show; Agility Volunteer Kathy Harmer & Sue Barnes - Show: Cheers 3rd place 9-12 puppy bitch; Obedience; Merchandise Chair Penny Honetor & Rob Glazier - Merchandise Sales; Agility; Agility Volunteer & Committee; Show Steward; Mats; Photographer's Assistant Linda Kelly - Show; Field Trial; Awards Chair Frank & Martha Lacko - Show John & Mary McGrath - Show Sharon & Carl Misiak - Show: Dawn 1st cut BOB, 1st place brace (with Storm), Pal, 2nd place open dog; Catalog Volunteers; Hospitality Chair Vicki, Morton, Joyce Phillips - Show Polly Poulos - Show: Rainey 1st cut BOB; Catalog, Ads & Hospitality Volunteer Susan Prim - Show; Agility; Agility Volunteer & Committee Christine Quaid - Show Nancy Schmitt - Agility Course Setter; Show: Denver made BOB cut; Agility: Eden 1st Place, Open Standard (brother Ivan, 1st Place, Obedience Open A, Score 198). Brian Schumacher & Janet Veit DVM - Show: Anna handled by Janet won Veterans Bitch (class of 12), made two of the three BOB cuts!; Agility Volunteer; Show Stewards Sharon Shea - Show Janet Silverman - Show (funny story), Agility Volunteer Mark & Becky Smith - Field Trial; Show; Agility; Agility Volunteer & Committee; Field Trial Volunteer (dinners, marshall); Catalog Volunteer; VCA Board Member Joy Sonsalla & Bill Quandt - Show; Agility (I think Reesa qualified and Rhode did the table!!!); Show Chair; Photographer's Assistant Debbie & John Taylor - Agility; Obedience; Mats & Gates; Show Stewards & Judge's Hospitality Mark Tendam & Neal Moglin - Show Ginger Tierney - Show; Agility; Agility Chair; Show Steward Gwen & Larry Tomlinson - Show; Hospitality Volunteer Mike Walsh DVM - Show: Buddy 4th place 9-12 puppy dog Greg & Sharon Wegler - Field Trial Reports and Impressions from YOU! Jim & Pat Erickson - Dexter received an Award of Merit right on the heels of the BOB dog who just happened to own Dexter's daddy, and also bred Hank the winner of the 1997 specialty and who is Dexter's grandfather! This was our first specialty and enjoyed it so much. We were very impressed with the way the show was run. Everything was so professional and every detail seemed to be taken care of. The people were all so friendly and helpful and it was so neat to see all the red dogs in one place. So many beautiful dogs and the puppies were so much fun. Almost makes you want another one. We were so proud of our Dexter and how well he did. He is sure these shows are put on only for him to show off. We are looking forward to the next National in Arizona.  Sue Prim - All in all, I felt that this year's National event was a huge success. There were a lot of hard working people who did outstanding jobs to pull everything together. From my perspective (Agility/Show committee member, worker and participant) I thought everything ran very smoothly. The agility trial was a lot of work but went off without a hitch and the show portion ran smoothly in spite of the problem with the mats. Even though we didn't get Best of Breed or Winners Bitch or even any qualifying runs in agility (I have to take the blame for Faye's NQ's but Grace will have to bear full responsibility for hers) we still had a great time. Penny Honetor - We had a great time! OK, so Zoe ran from the agility ring to look for Rob. Who can blame her - she loves her daddy! Though I didn't get to see the show, I did enjoy selling merchandise - I just love our McCartney logo and was so proud to see everyone sporting it in all forms (printed, embroidered, pins, etc.) I got to meet new people and talk with old acquaintances. Thanks to everyone for your support. Extras (if any) will be posted on the web site as soon as I know. The Wednesday evening seminar on Canine Reproduction by Dr. Van Hutchinson was as entertaining as it was informative. I am so glad I decided to attend even though I was exhausted! Deb Taylor - John and I helped with mats, gates, show results scribe (Friday), and judge's hospitality. Alex was entered in agility & obedience, we did not have a successful day. The saddle club where we had the agility trial was a very pretty location. It was nice to have bleachers, plenty of parking space, and a great place to take the dogs for a much needed walk in the wooded areas. Michel Berner - I "cleaned up" in the VCA Welfare Fund Raffles. I won one Eukanuba tin with a Vizsla on it filled with dog goodies, two baskets filled with dog goodies (all three with bones, collars, plush squeak toys, t-shirts, pins, Frisbees, treats, bowls, and clickers), a glow in the dark Kong on a rope, and a $25 gift certificate to www.gundogsunlimited.com . I bought $20 in tickets at the show dinner, and won the baskets and Kong, I figure about $200 in stuff, then at the field dinner I bought $25 in tickets and won the gift certificate. Not a bad return rate!! Becky Smith - This was our ninth National Events, and while we have worked at all of them in some capacity, it is the first time we have been on more than one committee. Between helping assemble welcome bags and catalogs, attending the BOD meeting, working at the agility event, and working our rears off at the field events, we were worn out by the time we returned home on October 26. It is one of those vacations you need to come home from in order to rest! We participated in agility, where Jennie had a nice run in open, but didn't qualify, and earned her first Novice Jumpers leg and third place. Seger and Pearl were also in the Parade of Titleholders. Seger was in the field dog class, where he placed 2nd of 9, and stud dog, where he placed 3rd out of 16. I was particularly thrilled with the stud dog placement as there were many dogs in the ring who have sired many more litters than Seger, and are what I consider to be "big name" stud dogs. Toldi, from Francois Bernier's litter, and Joey, from Pam Williams' litter, were the get that went in with us. Francois and Sharon Shea did a fine job showing them to earn Seger the placement. I also have to brag a bit that Joey won the 15-18 month class in Puppy Sweeps and the Bred by Exhibitor class in the regular competition. He was definitely the crowd favorite for Winners. Unfortunately, the judge didn't see it that way. Ava, who we co-own with Sharon and Mike Shea, made the first cut for BOB. Thomas and Seger also ran in the field trial. Though they didn't place, they did nice jobs. The big excitement at the field trial was the tornado that passed about 6 miles away from the grounds on Wednesday. The storm came up so quickly, no one was really prepared. With dogs, handlers, judges, marshals, and gallery out on the course at the time, it was scary until all were in safely. Fortunately, no one got hurt, though a tree fell on Kathy Engelsman's Suburban (Nov 5 update from Kathy: the tree did $8000 in damage , and I won't have it back for 3-4 weeks!) . The DNR was quick to get the road cleared. We were most impressed with their responsiveness. I'm already looking forward to next year when we're not doing one darn thing but watching! Polly Poulos - The 2001 Nationals was the fourth Nationals that I have attended. This year was a little different than past years, because this year I got to help out! Not only was I the Advertising & Publicity Chairperson, but I also lent a hand in the Hospitality Room, sold catalogs and even worked with Penny on creating the CWVC's ad for the catalog! It was a lot of hard work but in the end it paid off to see everything come together. Buckley, Rainey and I drove down with Sherrie Anderson and Allie (poor Jason had to stay home and work). Allie and Rainey especially liked bunking together - those two were playing nonstop! I think hopping from bed to bed was their favorite game! Each dog had their day of activity: Buckley was entered in Obedience (Open A and Veteran's) and Rainey was entered in the Show (Best of Breed). Both dogs also got to do the strut their stuff in the Parade of Titleholders. While we didn't come home with any ribbons (besides the Parade rosettes) we did have a great time. Even though we NQ'd in Open A, I was especially proud of Buckley's performance. Because I was so busy with the catalog, I hadn't had a chance to practice with him that much. He passed the exercises I was most worried about and missed on the ones I thought we had in the bag. Oh well! After we exited the ring I was approached by several people who said that they enjoyed watching us and it looked like we were having fun. We were. Buckley did get a qualifying score in Veteran's Obedience but just didn't get a high enough score to get a placement. Wouldn't you know it, there were several dogs entered in Veteran's Obedience this year! Ms. Rainey also made me proud. She made the first cut for BOB. While in the end it doesn't really mean all that much, it was more than I was expecting. There were many wonderful dogs competing and it meant a lot to be a part of it. Rainey too had her fans, I was approached at the awards dinner by a couple who said that they thought we made a great team and really enjoyed watching us in the ring. My dogs seemed to have started their own fans clubs! I'm glad everyone likes them as much as we do! All in all it was another great time at a VCA Nationals! Agility Report from Ginger Tierney - It was a simply a gorgeous day, about 70 degrees, blustery wind, all in all, a perfect day for an agility trial. The trial was held at the King City Saddle Club. We used their covered horse arena for the agility courses. We were truly blessed to have such a wonderful site, run by truly nice people.  The competitors had a great time. Nearly 30% of the teams competing in Standard received qualifying scores. Thirty six (36) percent of the teams competing in Jumpers received qualifying scores. A least one of the teams qualifying earned several points towards MACH - Master Agility Champion. Even those of us who didn't qualify had a really great time. I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the many hands that helped put on this extremely successful event: Bonnie Drabek, Judge; Pam Williams, Trial Secretary; Committee: Rhoda Ezell, Master Course Builder, Sue Prim, Penny Honetor, Becky Smith, Kathy Rust, Sherry Anderson, and Pat & Jim Erickson. To have a good agility trial, you need; a good site, good equipment, and plenty of able willing workers. We had 25 workers scheduled to work this event. Five people and two agility clubs loaned obstacles and jumps. Several more people came with other equipment, such as stop watches, measuring devices, even laptops. Twenty five people are too numerous to mention in this article, but, to those of you who worked so hard, I say BRAVO. We did GREAT. I'd also like to thank each and every one of you who came out to the Agility Trial. You proved that the VCA has wonderful, respectful members. The grounds were kept clean. Poop was properly disposed. Several of you, not scheduled to work, pitched in to help. Even the vendor, who set up at the site, participated as scribe. We had a good trial with GREAT people. Thanks for helping make the 2001 VCA Nationals Agility Trial a tremendous success.

"Safe" Agility

by Ginger Tierney Cathy Gallagher and Kola were entered in the Agility trial (2001 VCA Nationals).  Due to problems at work, Cathy was unable to attend. Tim Dyer ran Kola for her. Tim bred Kola; but that doesn't mean he can control him. As they started their run, Kola decided that this was a tremendously fun game and started racing all around the horse arena. Thankfully the horse arena has a fence around the perimeter. Kola was racing and racing. Tim decided a desperate action was necessary and took a diving leap onto Kola, wrestling Kola to the ground. Not missing a beat, our agility judge, Bonnie Drabek, went into the classic baseball umpire stand and waved Tim "SAFE".

Vizslas in the Media

Do you occasionally see Vizslas used in advertising or catalogs?   When you do, please forward to the co-editors the name of the publication and ad description for publishing in this column. Nature's Recipe - Just happen to find this, since you like to know when your wonderful breed is <on a web site so> thought I would send this to you. http://www.naturesrecipe.heinzpetproducts.com/sdoy/main.asp  It is a pretty cute dog on the left of the page. Boy those people who advertise seem to have pretty good taste in the breeds of the dogs they choose. (Deb Hansen, Sue, Joy & Penny's Agility Instructor)  Dog & Kennel - The October 2001 issue features the Vizsla. (Deb Hansen) Browntrout Calendar - In Browntrout's 2002 Vizsla Calendar, a photo of my Vizslas True and Alex (with green & yellow scarves) appears for January, Penny Honetor's Vizslas Zoe & Neela, Alex and True are in April's photo, and Alex is Mr. September with pink flowers in the background. Check it out at www.browntrout.com (keyword search on Vizsla, click on "Back Cover" to see all Vizsla photos). (Deb Taylor) Greeting Cards - Vizslas appear in 20 different Paws a Moment Greeting Cards ($1.95 each plus Shipping), www.pawsamomentcards.com  (Michel Berner, Janet Silverman) Reebok Ad - The "Love Walking" Reebok ad was spotted in "Modern Maturity" (Sep-Oct 2001) by Dennis & Judy Zimmerman and in "Walking" by Brian Schumacher. Vizsla Pins - Cecile Baird, the canine sculptor who makes the cute fimo clay 3-D dog figurines has a new 2-D Vizsla pin (head only). I bought a couple pins but since I don't usually wear pins, I removed the pin hardware from the back and super-glued on a magnet so now I have two very cute Vizsla refrigerator magnets! (Penny Honetor) Cabela's Women's Hunting Catalog - A woman hunting with Vizslas is on pages 6 & 7. (Larry Marshall)  Surefit Slipcovers - There's 3 V puppies photographed on a chair with the "paws & bones" slipcover (one is pulling at the bow). www.surefit.net . (Michel Berner) Waukesha Kennel Club - www.waukeshakennelclub.com  Click "Classes" to see Wanda Berner with Mace and Michel with Travis. "Mace is the one standing still, and I recall this moment. I was digging a treat out of my sweatshirt pouch and Travis pounced on me. Apparently, I wasn't holding up my end of the deal fast enough. The photo is just pre-pounce. Click "Shows" and scroll down to "Sporting Group" to see a photo of Christine Engelsman with Vizsla Ralph. [Editor's Note: The "Hound Group" photo shows Nancy Schmitt's niece, Amy Marshall showing the #1 Ibezin Hound, Bunny.] (Michel Berner) AKC Gazette - The October 2001 issue's "Show Shots" featuring Pontiac Michigan has a photo of Christine Engelsman and Ralph. They also appear in the photo of Vizsla Best in Specialty Show judging on the following page. Here's Christine's story behind the photos: On the 19th of August, the Vizsla Club of Michigan put on their Specialty in Pontiac Michigan. They had a wonderful turn out of great dogs. In the breed ring the competition was rough. As the pressure kept coming Ralph and I kept our cool. After the judge Mr. Larry Berg pointed to Ralph and I, we jumped for joy. I let Ralph carry the ribbon in his mouth, like he always does to show off his terrific win to everyone. After Best In Show, Ralph and I went to take our breed picture. Jill Day came up to my mom and I mentioning that the AKC camera people wanted to get a picture of the Specialty breed winner. I was like "Ya sure go ahead!" Then we started talking with them and Jill said they were from the AKC Gazette and they wanted some Show Shots. Not to mention I was thrilled, and so were the people taking the pictures of my "Superstar" Ralph, who loved all the attention and impressed the camera man. About two to three months later my good friend Amy Batzner said "I love the picture in the Gazette!" I had no clue they had printed the picture in the AKC Gazette. To say the least I was ecstatic to see the picture in the magazine. Thank you very much Jill Day for introducing me to the people from the AKC. And thank you everyone for your support of Ralph and I. And most of all thank you to my Mom, for always being there for me and giving me tips and moral support. I love you!

Vizscellaneous

This column features "misc"ellaneous information about CWVC members and friends. Things to share include special trips, human or canine new family additions and losses, litter announcements (after whelped if no member ad was placed) or anything you would like to share with the club.  Family Addition - Rick & Lynn Jasperson Marta Christine Jasperson Born Thursday September 13, 8:47 pm Weight 8 lbs 2 oz - Length 20 inches  Appreciation - Gail, Chuck & Chuckie Haskins To Sue Prim: The entire Haskins family wishes to thank you for answering our prayers and providing us with a wonderful new Vizsla girl to replace our beloved "Gypsy" who died last spring at a ripe old age. We adore "Zola" (Shamman's Blue Sunday at Daybreak) and she seems to be very happy (make that effusive) here with us. "Zola" is a daily delight and the friendliest dog we have ever encountered. She is loving and entertaining as well. Our only regret is that she will never be shown and bred, as she is certainly of the quality for it. However, we will make up with love what she has forgone in prizes and puppies. Our friend Lee Cerelli who trains hunting dogs always looks at Zola and exclaims, "that is the most beautiful Vizsla I have ever seen !" We agree and will be forever grateful.  On The Move Debbie and John Taylor have recently moved to Lombard, IL from Ft. Wayne, IN. Their new contact info is listed in the new directories. Barb and George Sheppard plan to visit the US from England in April-May 2002 and plan on attending the CWVC Specialty Show in Madison, WI on May 5. My new neighbors in Mukwonago are Tony Giaimo and Colleen McCarthy.

Like It or Lump It?

Have you read a book, watched a video or tried any food, treat, toy, training device, anything canine that you particularly liked or disliked? Please share it in future issues! JBluegrass Bath Glove You know how hard it is with the Vizsla's short coat to get up a good lather when bathing? The Bluegrass Glove (which feels like outdoor carpet) solves this problem - I just get the dog and glove wet, pour a small amount of shampoo on the palm of the glove, then work the shampoo into a lather. I find it reduces the amount of shampoo used in addition to working into a lather more easily. $4.99, Dr. Fosters & Smith, www.drsfostersmith.com (Penny Honetor) JSuzie's Tartar Liquid This is great. It makes the "kids" teeth whiter. I'm bad about brushing their teeth. This helps keeps the tarter down just by adding a teaspoon full to their water. LEEZUR Products, 714 Sunnyslope Dr., Hartland, WI 53029, Phone: 262-367-3776. (Ginger Tierney) LVehicle Pet Barriers My thus far unsuccessful search for a means to confine my Vizsla to the rear seat of my pickup truck has produced an unfavorable review of two products. First, I ordered the "Orvis Pet Net" from the Orvis catalogue. The price, including shipping, was over $92.00. When the product arrived, it was in a small mailer envelope !!! All it consisted of was a square of black net mesh (like fishing net material) and a couple of plastic hooks that you had to GLUE to the interior of your vehicle for attachment of the net. In fact, with a pickup truck, it would have been impossible to leave the net up all the time because the hooks would be affixed to the back door itself. To use it would require unhooking and re-hooking the net every time you opened the vehicle's door. Since there was no means of support in the center of the net, it would sag and possibly allow the dog to jump over into the front seat, completely defeating its purpose. Due to the flimsy construction and its absurdly high price, I cannot recommend the "Pet Net". The next product I tried was the vertical metal bar system offered in hunting catalogues such as "Herters". This was also a disaster in a pickup truck. First of all, the contraption is not assembled and takes the equivalent of an engineering degree and an hour's time to fit it together properly. When assembled, the vertical bars are not long enough to give sufficient support to the device from floor to ceiling even when the bars are fully extended. Thus, as soon as you hit rough road, the whole thing comes loose. In my case, it collapsed on my unsuspecting Vizsla while I was on the tollway going 65 m.p.h. She was a prisoner under the thing until I could safely pull over and free her. We even tried putting blocks on the floor under the vertical bars and it still collapsed with motion.  These devices may work in smaller SUV type vehicles such as Explorers but don't bother using them in a pickup truck or a larger utility vehicle. If anyone out there knows of a workable alternative, please let me know. (Gail Haskins)

Legislative Updates

Puppy Protection Act Condensed from an Internet Crosspost Submitted by Wanda Berner For those who do not understand why anyone who breeds even one litter of puppies should be very much opposed to the seemingly innocuous "Puppy Protection Act" sponsored by the HSUS, please go to the website below. This act is designed to make the breeding of even a single litter equate to being a puppy mill. Good breeders are very much opposed to puppy mills, but there is a world of difference between a puppy mill and a responsible hobby breeder who breeds a few litters that are raised in their home with their family. This act would give the government the right to impose standards that are yet to be determined (!!!!) and parts of Calif. have seen what that means including mandatory spay neuter of dogs or a huge (up to $600) license fee for uneutered pets. Please go to the link below and read the material and write your senators and representatives to oppose this bill. Please cross post to any list you are on. http://www.naiatrust.org/puppy_alert.htm USFWS Withdraws Unnecessary Field Trial Guidelines (08/23) Submitted by Michel Berner The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has issued a directive rescinding the Interim Guidelines that restrict field trials on lands purchased with Pittman-Robertson (P-R) funds. The directive, which was sent to USFWS regional offices across the country, indicates that the Service will also be reexamining the need for a national policy on field trials. The instruction to rescind the guidelines comes as a result of an intense grassroots lobbying campaign organized by the Wildlife Legislative Fund of America (WLFA) and field trial organizations including the American Brittany Club; Amateur Field Trial Clubs of America, Inc.; Amateur Field Trial Clubs of America, Region 6; Associated Bird Dog Clubs of Ohio; German Shorthaired Pointer Club of America; Hoosier Field Trial Club; Indiana Field Trial Association and National German Shorthair Pointer Association. Rob Sexton, WLFA state services director, is pleased with this announcement, but cautions field trialers that there is still work to be done. The Service is expected to publish a notice in The Federal Register asking for public comments on the need for a field trialing policy applicable to state lands purchased or maintained with P-R dollars. "The flood of calls from field trialers to their congressmen <and congresswomen> and the U.S. Department of the Interior have made the difference on this issue so far," said Sexton. "While calls from field trialers led to the rescinding of the Interim Guidelines, only continued calls from sportsmen and sportswomen can keep us from having an unnecessary national policy for field trials."

Broken Hearts

by Lu Hart In a 1988 issue of the American Kennel Club Gazette, the veterinary news column mentioned a newly identified parasitic protozoan, Neospora caninum. At the time, I scanned the news item, idly thought "That's interesting", then promptly forgot all about it. Twelve years later, it was suddenly the most important thing in my life. For a breeder, there are few things as agonizing as a phone call informing you that a puppy you bred is critically ill. It gets worse when the follow-up call reports the puppy's death. One searches litter notes, pedigrees, vaccination records - anything that might offer a clue. Finally, after two dead puppies and countless sleepless nights, Purdue called with lab results. The puppies' myocarditis had resulted from infection by Neospora caninum. If we had known right away what caused Sophi's death, we could possibly have saved Lidi. It is in that hope of saving other puppies that we are trying to increase awareness of this parasite. The following brief summary may be reproduced and distributed freely. Any errors are mine alone. When in doubt, always consult with your veterinarian. Lu Hart, Prairie Vizslas, Escher321@aol.com  21 Conniewood Dr, Little Rock, AR 72206 Neospora caninum WHAT IS IT? Neospora caninum is a newly recognized protozoan genus. It is a parasite living in warm-blooded animals and is very similar to Toxoplasma gondii. The dog has been identified as the definitive host - meaning that this parasite can complete an entire life cycle inside the host dog. HOW DO DOGS BECOME INFECTED? Little is known as yet about reservoirs of infection in the wild. Deer, birds and other warm-blooded animals have all been mentioned as possibilities. To become infected, a dog must consume raw infected meat (as from a deer carcass, for example) or ingest eggs from infected feces (which can contaminate soil., water, and/or feed). Neospora can also cross the placenta and infect fetuses, causing abortion, stillbirths, and/or pups that are born infected. WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF AN ACTIVE INFECTION? The most common sign is an ascending paralysis: the dog becomes weak in the hind limbs, then the problem grows worse until the whole body is involved and the dog has difficulty swallowing. Polymyositis (inflamed muscles) and muscle atrophy are also common. Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscles) can occur, especially in young pups. Disturbances in heart rhythm can result, including potentially fatal ventricular tachycardia. Some dogs exhibit an ulcerative dermatitis. Any ill dog with unexplained neurological symptoms, esp. if those signs include hind limb paresis or ataxia with loss of proprio-ception,(that is, the dog cannot step properly and its feet knuckle under) should be checked for possible Neospora infection. WHAT TREATMENT IS AVAILABLE? Clindamycin, an antibiotic often marketed under the trade name Antirobe, is used to treat active infections. To be most effective, treatment should be initiated early in the course of the infection, before muscle wasting or seizures occur. Do NOT wait for serum test results before beginning treatment; the antibiotic is a reasonably safe one, and delay can be fatal. WHAT CAN I DO TO PREVENT INFECTION? We wish we knew. More needs to be learned about Neospora in dogs. Your vet can test your bitch before breeding to ensure that she is not harboring the infection. WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE? Internet search engines are likely to turn up predominantly sites having to do with cattle, because Neospora causes abortions in dairy cows. Your best source of information will be your nearest school of veterinary medicine. Your local veterinarian can assist you in contacting the experts in this field.

Seizures in the Dog

Reprinted with Permission by Marion Coffman Seizures are one of the most common neurologic abnormalities afflicting dogs. Seizures are recurrent, abnormal electrical activities in the brain and are called epilepsy. The cause of many kinds of seizures is hard to understand and diagnose and in some cases may never be understood. In treating seizures the veterinarian must be able to distinguish between the two basic types most commonly seen. Epilepsy is classified as either primary, or idiopathic, and secondary. Idiopathic, without determinable cause, can include cases that are inherited. Secondary epilepsy is an acquired condition caused by structural or metabolic abnormalities. By having an accurate medical history of the involved dog, the veterinarian can rule out causes of acquired epilepsy. The dog may have had a difficult birth resulting in a deficiency of oxygen; or in his developmental stage the dog may have been exposed to such toxins as lead, or organophosphates. The dog's vaccination record may be another clue; also a history of respiratory or cardiovascular problems. Often the dog may have suffered an injury, infection or toxicity that had left few neurological signs, except for the epilepsy. The first signs might happen soon after the initial injury, but in some cases it may be as long as three years. In most cases this history of early events supply the vital clue to identifying the type of epilepsy. When a careful history and an examination have excluded any acquired cause for the seizures, a diagnosis of idiopathic epilepsy is usually made. The first seizures due to idiopathic epilepsy usually occur between the ages of 1-3 years. Seizures that begin before 6 months and after 5 years of age probably are acquired epilepsy. Clinical signs are often similar in each type. Generalized seizures can be subdivided into four phases. The first phase is the aura, which precedes the actual seizure, or ictus. During the aura the dog may appear anxious, restless, or unusually affectionate and clingy. He may act subdued or have a staring expression which may last for minutes, or hours. The second phase is the prodome, during which time the dog loses consciousness and becomes immobilized. This phase may only last seconds and be followed immediately by the third phase. This is the phase of unconscious and involuntary muscle contractions, and spasms. The dog salivates profusely, his mouth opens and closes, and he may urinate or defecate spontaneously. Fortunately, in many cases this phase lasts less than a minute and is followed by the fourth phase of activity, the postictal, during which he regains consciousness, but not complete central nervous system function. He may remain tired, listless, uncomfortable, have altered behavior, appetite and visual changes, that may persist for minutes or hours. It is important for the owner to keep a record of the frequency and length of occurrences. The seizures themselves are almost never fatal, but are alarming to watch. It is important for the owner to remain calm, wrap the dog loosely in a blanket to protect it, and minimize any abrupt handling or noise activity which may prolong or increase the severity of the attack. The dog will not swallow his tongue during a seizure and his jaws should never be held open, or objects forced into his mouth. This can result in broken teeth, a lacerated tongue, and bitten fingers. The dog should not be transported to the veterinarian during a seizure since the seizure would probably resolve itself prior to arrival. A single isolate seizure in an otherwise healthy dog will not require emergency care but it is important to schedule an appointment for both a work-up and a history background. However, if there are multiple seizures, or clusters, which can lead to exhaustion, hypothermia, brain damage, or oxygen depletion, consider it an emergency and immediate care is required. A single seizure may be an isolated event not justifying intervention and your vet may decide not to begin a treatment program until a second or even a third seizure has taken place. After a physical and neurologic examination and in the absence of abnormal finding, treatment may be indicated only after one seizure or more per month and if the seizures become severe. Severity is determined by the length of time the dog spends recovering from a seizure and the aftermath, and if the seizures occur in clusters. Before beginning any anticonvulsant therapy the owner should be advised about the epilepsy and be willing to accept reasonable goals. Most epileptics will continue to have seizures while on a successful treatment. The goal is to reduce the frequency and severity of them to a level the dog and owner can live comfortably with. Once the decision to begin therapy is made, consistent compliance with the dosage regime is essential since skipping doses may actually bring on a severe seizure. The most reliable drug for the treatment is Phenobarbital. It is safe, effective, and inexpensive without any sedating effects. While side effects include an excessive appetite, increased weight gain, excessive thirst and frequency of urination, any abrupt withdrawal of the drug can cause seizures. It will take several weeks before the level of seizures may be down to an acceptable level and the medication must be tailored to each individual dog, which means careful monitoring. Often just the use of Phenobarbital may not be enough in some dogs and potassium bromide is added to the treatment. Even with the use of both drugs, a small number of dogs may have frequent cluster seizures leading to permanent brain damage unless immediate emergency veterinarian help is received. A decision for treatment brings rigid demands of compliance for the owner but the majority of dogs with seizures do respond to long-term therapy and live long, active, and healthy lives.

CWVC Official Notices

Membership Update Included in this mailing is the 2001-2 Membership Booklets containing CWVC Officers, Chairs, Member Listing (alphabetical and geographical) and CWVC Statistics in the back (the pages are out of order). The one-page listing for November contains some recent updates: Giaimo/McCarthy-new phone number; Jasperson-new Email; Tomlinson-new Email; Josie Engle-new member. According to our records, the following memberships have lapsed: M Anderson, Benson, Bernier, Bildsoe, Czarniecki, Felder, Fortney, Geske/Koch, Hansen, Hesgard, Hollar, House, Hudgins, Laurenzi/Jensen, Jozsi, Kabelowsky, Kolo, Lee-Beyl, Marquardt, Melicharek/May, Mayer, Peter, Stefanov. 2002 Nominating Committee 1 more volunteer needed. Committee tasks include determining incumbents and members to nominate for the 2002-3 Board of Directors, soliciting their acceptance of the nomination, presenting the slate of officers at the February 2002 meeting. Contact the Chair, Kim Barker, at 847-359-4191, valpo1281@mediaone.net  by November 30 to volunteer. 2001 Health Donation Committee 1-2 volunteers are needed to select the canine health-related organization(s) to donate 10% of the CWVC Treasury as of 12/31/2001. Past recipients include Therion Corp (Lymphosarcoma Study), UW-Madison Vet School (Cancer Research). To volunteer for this committee or for suggestions for candidate organizations, contact the Chair, Kathy Ruhland, at 262-646-8316 by November 30. New Fun Day Location FOUND for 2002 John and Ann Wellens have graciously volunteered to host the 2002 Fun Day on their property near Wisconsin Rapids, WI. You can look forward to lots of running room, a pond for swimming and the usual food, fun and games! Date and details are still in the works and will be published in upcoming issues. Vizslas & Vittles Cookbooks For Sale Vizsla and Vittles second edition cookbooks are for sale at $20 - all proceeds go to CWVC Breed Rescue. There are wonder- fully delicious recipes from Vizsla owners from around the world. Some of the best human and doggie recipes around! Also included in the cookbook are cute cartoons and heart warming rescue stories. Think of getting one for yourself and one for friends and family. Contact Joy Sonsalla, 262-857-6546, reddogs3@acronet.net  2001 Annual Awards Reminder If in 2001 you and your Vizsla earned an eligible title, you volunteered at CWVC events, attended a meeting and you meet all the other program requirements, you are eligible to apply for a CWVC Annual Award plaque/engraved plate. 2001 Forms were sent in the May 2001 packet and are available to cwvc YahooGroups list members in the files area at www.YahooGroups.com. Contact Penny Honetor if you need another paper copy. Start compiling your information now - forms for 2001 titles are due to Becky Smith by January 15, 2002 for presentation at the February 2002 Awards Banquet. Last Chance to Purchase 2002 Calendars We have a few 2002 CWVC Calendars left, so if you would like to purchase any ($12 each, 3 or more $11 each plus postage), contact Penny Honetor, 262-363-9664, phonetor@wi.rr.com. CWVC Patches For Sale I have a couple CWVC Patches left at $10 each. Contact Penny Honetor, 262-363-9664, phonetor@wi.rr.com. New CWVC Web Site Penny and Rob have a new ISP (Internet Service Provider), so we had to move the CWVC Web Site. Because I like to make life difficult for myself, I decided to completely revise the graphics - but hopefully I maintained the ease of use and friendly look. The old web site will be deactivated in the next month or two. In the meantime, I cannot update it because somehow the connection is not working. I am still converting some pages from the old to new, and I will be contacting other web sites that link to us as well as search engines (Yahoo, Excite, etc.) and the Vizsla Web Ring to update our URL which is shorter than the old one and still free: http://home.wi.rr.com/cwvc  CWVC Minutes and Treasurer's Reports Minutes for the August Board and October Membership meetings and a Treasurer's Report will be published in the Feb 2002 issue.

K-9 Agility Trial - CWVC Supported Entry

by Susan Prim Date:           September 29th and 30th, 2001 Location:    Menomonee Falls, WI Host Club:   K-9 Obedience Training Club Weather:     Perfect! # of Vizslas entered:    8, total of 16 runs # of qualifying scores:  5 Teams that Qualified: Ginger Tierney and Dawn - Excellent A Standard leg Nancy Schmitt and Eden - Open Standard leg and Open Jumpers leg Sue Prim and Faye - Excellent B Jumpers leg Sue Prim and Grace - Open Jumpers leg Prizes offered:  Choice of Lupine collar or leather lead plus a stuffed toy and rawhide bone Thank you to all who participated, may we have more entries and more Q's next year.

Indecent Exposure I

by Kathy Engelsman So you want to learn how to run your dogs? Wear comfortable clothes and at all times have your knee high rubber boots on. Turn your dogs loose with a toot-toot and when everyone stops at the local watering hole - proceed with care! Gee it didn't look that deep so the dogs just ran through it. So I followed instead of walking around. Suddenly the water is to the top of my boots. I utter a little word and decide I'd better turn back. As I tried to get out of the pond, I hear a loud sucking noise on one of my boots. I'm somewhat spread eagle and off-balance with no place to go but in. The famous "Nestea plunge" By this time my dogs are long gone. I smell like a dead carp, and I can't seem to get the all the water out of my boots! I'm trying to catch up to the dogs going squish-squish-squish. What a sight I was. But I'm laughing cause even though I stink, I am a lot cooler! Enough is enough. I whistle to the dogs…they return. Now I'm faced with driving back 40 miles in my Suburban with cloth seats. NO WAY!! I scan the perimeter - nobody is looking. Yep, you got it - thank goodness I had one of my coats in the back of the truck! I put that on and drove home. Now that is how you run dogs. PS. Yes, I had to throw those socks out.

Indecent Exposure II

by Penny Honetor My favorite thing about the show ring was selecting what I would wear (not a surprise to anyone who knows me well!) I had packed a lovely new floral skirt and blouse ensemble to wear at the well-attended TCVC Specialty weekend in 1998. It was a beautiful sunny Saturday afternoon with some nice wind to keep us cool at this outdoor show. Unfortunately, it was keeping me a little too cool because when I ran around the ring, the wrap-around skirt unwrapped a bit too much for decency. And as a frugal person, I was wearing pantyhose whose elastic was on its last leg so I sported a saggy pantyhose crotch which caused me to be even more preoccupied with my clothing predicament than showing Neela well. I tried to run sideways in the hope that my forward thrust would blow the skirt closed - but I'm no Flo Jo. I kept hoping we would not win our class so I wouldn't have to go back in the ring - we did. Then I was praying we wouldn't take Winners Bitch - we did. At some point Joy Sonsalla had fished out a safety pin which though was not the most attractive accessory, did allow me to concentrate on showing my dog and nothing else in the final Best of Breed round where we won Best of Winners. PS. It was fair and square under a female judge.

End November 2001 "The Paw's Print" excerpts

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