Web Site Excerpts from the Quarterly Newsletter

February 2002 - Issue 25

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A Tale of Two Tumors by Penny Honetor & Cheryl Brimmer
The CWVC Hits the Woods! by Becky Smith
what i did for my summer vacation by Hope Hanneman
Ottawa Update by Mark Smith
The Prez Sez by Penny Honetor
Breed Rescue Update by Becky Smith
Vizslas in the Media
CWVC Interview:  Chauncey "Smitty" Smith by Becky Smith
Like It or Lump It?
V-oudini by Sherrie Anderson
Member Spotlights
Vizscellaneous
Most Excellent Vizsla Agility Weekend by Susan Prim

A Tale of Two Tumors

by Penny Honetor & Cheryl Brimmer Discovery & Treatment of Mast Cell Tumors In July 2001, the Brimmers discovered a lump on 10-year-old Kicsi in the depression where the ear meets the head. Also in July, Penny's sister-in-law detected a lump in 6-year-old Zoe's upper ear flap. Following is the "Tale of Two Tumors". What are Mast Cell Tumors? Mast cells normally occur in the layers of the skin and react to allergens and even mosquito bites. When they grow out of control, they form Mast Cell Tumors (MCTs) anywhere externally like on the skin or internally like in organs or bone marrow. Factors increasing the likelihood of MCTs are breeds (some are more prone), age (the older, the more likely), dogs who have had MCTs, previous viral infections or injuries and possibly hereditary factors. MCTs frequently are surrounded by a halo of mast cells and removal should include the surrounding and underlying tissue. The tumor & tissue removed should be biopsied and the tumor graded as 1 (solitary, no sign of spreading), 2 (has invaded regional lymph nodes), 3 (multiple or 1 large invasive tumor) or 4 (has invaded tissue far from the original site). Grading will affect the treatment chosen which will range from surgery only to chemo (usually prednisone) to radiation. Additional diagnostic procedures include complete blood counts, buffy coat (looks for mast cells in the blood), lymph node and bone marrow aspirates, chest x-ray to check for lung tumors and abdominal ultrasound to check for liver and spleen tumors. Owners should monitor their MCT-prone dogs frequently and have any new lumps aspirated as soon as discovered since early detection and removal increases the chances of a full recovery. MCT Statistics (from "Mast Cell Tumors" by Patricia Long) 25% of skin tumors are MCTs; half of these are malignant. Most are raised masses which feel soft or solid. 15% are indistinguishable from fatty cysts. Half are found on the body, 40% on the legs, 10% on head or neck. Most are found on the skin but can also appear internally like the liver, spleen and bone marrow. Mean age is 8.5 years. Occur equally in males and females. Kicsi in bandage after surgery How did you diagnose and treat the MCT? Cheryl: Upon finding a flat, half inch growth, Kicsi was vet-checked but her lump was too thin to biopsy. She had had a fibroma (another cancer) at age 3, however the vet felt confident it wasn't a reoccurrence so offered the options of do nothing, wait 1 month or remove immediately. In consideration of Kicsi's age (10.5), we waited 1 month and the vet removed a sample with a needle. He informed us it was a Mast Cell tumor. Within a week of his diagnosis we consulted with an Appleton pet trama facility, scheduled an aggressive treatment and had the surgery performed. To be certain the tumor removal would be complete, all tissue including skin and muscle to the skull bone was removed from the left top of her head. They also took a bit of the ear cartilage. Skin from her neck was pulled over the opening , cut to fit and stitched in place. Kicsi, now known as "zipper head" had a "Z" shaped incision across the top of her head with additional incisions over and under her ear totaling over 100 stitches. The surgery was performed on Thurs, July 26 and we brought Kicsi home on Friday. She was weak and very ill and I spent the entire weekend sitting next to her during the day, sleeping next to her at night (read guilt, for putting her through the surgery). We removed the thick bandages and gauze padding on Sunday and Monday she was like a brand new dog....happy, energetic and very close to normal. By Monday, July 30 the lab results were reported. Kicsi had a grade 2 MCT and the tumor had been removed in its entirety. Penny: July 19 - local vet removed the lump in her ear and another on her side - both sent to lab for biopsy. July 28 - biopsy revealed Grade 2 MCT. July 31 - surgery to remove more surrounding tissue which was sent away for another biopsy to determine if the margins were "clean". The 6-inch-long incision with 10 stitches healed fast on "Franken-Zoe". August 13 - appointment at UW-Madison Veterinary Clinic's Small Animal Oncology Unit for an exam, blood tests, buffy coat and two lymph node aspirates nearest her ear - did not have the biopsy results from the second surgery - learned the tissue was misplaced. August 22 - tissue from second surgery was found, revealed clean margins by both the original lab and UW-Madison's repeat biopsy. The blood test and one lymph node were clean, but the other node contained mast cells. September 9 - re-aspiration of 4 lymph nodes (clean), chest X-ray (clean), bone marrow aspirate (clean), ultrasound (revealed a healthy spleen but showed small nodules on the liver which we need to have examined again in 3 months). How did you learn of your treatment options? Cheryl: Our vet has been excellent in diagnosing Kicsi's many growths/tumors so a great deal of trust was placed in him. I also searched the internet, reading everything possible on mast cells. As a biologist, it was a crash catchup course. Initially, we had decided not to put the old girl through such extensive surgery. Upon reading survival statistics, learning from the surgeon her jaw muscles would remain intact and that the long term effect if the tumor could be removed would be cosmetic only, we made the decision to go through it all. Penny: Immediately after hearing it was an MCT, I sent Emails to several of my friends including 2 vets asking about what they were and how serious. I also searched the internet and compiled the most helpful and informative descriptions into a document. Janet Silverman lent me her "Merck Veterinary Manual" which contained MCT information. I also did a search of the Vizsla List archives to find out about any other treatment choices and their success or failure on Vizslas. What treatment and facilities did you select? Cheryl: Our vet knew the surgeon in Appleton and highly recommended him. The treatment option both vets recommended was aggressive surgery. This type of treatment had worked previously with Kicsi's fibroma on her leg and we wanted to give her the best chance for success with as few treatments as possible. At her age, multiple anesthesias would be risky and we had already made the decision not to do radiation therapy. Since the rest of her tests came back negative for additional MCT, we feel surgery was the correct decision and will wait to see what she has in mind for us next. Penny: Since the local vet had removed the original tumor, we had him perform the second surgery since he would have the best knowledge of where the original tumor was located. We asked for a referral to UW-Madison for all subsequent tests and treatments since I learned on the internet and from friends that they have a special oncology unit and wanted to ensure we get the best specialists in the area so we do the best thing for Zoe. They re-biopsied the tumor and tissue, and performed blood tests, buffy coat, lymph node and bone marrow aspirates, chest x-ray, and an abdominal ultrasound. Since the results were all negative, they recommended no additional treatment. How do you feel about the entire experience? Cheryl: The experience was stressful. Our dogs are our family and what affects them, affects us. The need to educate ourselves and make decisions quickly was difficult and the commute to Appleton from Wausau for consultation, drop off and pickup was exhausting. Technically the Appleton facility did an excellent job and if not for the differences in length and texture of hair, the scar would be invisible. Better communication from Appleton would have been appreciated and made the experience somewhat less stressful. The question of "did we do the right thing?" and guilt for putting Kicsi through such an invasive procedure was with me in the days following surgery. Her apparent recovery is complete however, and she is back to hunting this fall... something that never would have been expected when the diagnosis and treatment plan came in this summer. Penny: The experience was stressful and made me feel helpless and underinformed. The frequent delays were frustrating and it was hard to know who and when to call for what, especially when the tissue was lost. Not living in Madison, we had to communicate with the UW-Madison vets by phone in the evening which was not as conducive to the exchange of information and if we had follow-up questions later, we had to leave a message with the receptionist and then wait for a call back when the vet was available. We just hope we are doing the best thing for Zoe who hasn't shown any adverse signs. Any advice for Vizsla owners? Cheryl: Save your pennies or buy pet insurance. The entire episode with consultations, surgery and medications cost nearly $2000 (from Penny - we're at about $1200 so far). Check your pet frequently for growths and don't delay in having them looked at by a vet. Speed in treatment is the key to success in both fibromas and mast cell tumors. The advantage Vizslas have over longer haired dogs is that tumors are very easy to detect early if you look for them. Kicsi's fibroma was the size of a mosquito bite and the mast cell so thin as to be nearly invisible. Penny: Biopsy every lump first - if we had done this, it would have eliminated the need to perform two surgeries on Zoe's ear. Go to a specialist to have it removed - don't let it be sent away for biopsy to prevent chance of misplacement and the time lag in getting the results. If the original lab had not found Zoe's surrounding tissue from the second surgery, we would have had to assume the worst case ("dirty" margins and a higher grade) and have administered much more aggressive treatment (chemo and/or radiation). Because of clean margins, neither of these were recommended. Epilogs: Kicsi has been unhappy for 2 years since we brought home Smoke, a male Vizsla puppy. She has been sulky and not interactive with us or Smoke, walking around with her tail straight down, the picture of dejection. With her surgery, an amazing thing happened. After sitting with her for 3 days and sleeping next to her for 3 nights (anytime I got up she would walk to the middle of the floor and shake as though ready to collapse), Kicsi has decided we love her after all. With tail now held high, Kicsi demands a share of attention and doesn't take nearly as much hassling from Smoke. There have even been play episodes. For anyone that knows Kicsi, that truly is amazing. Zoe had another abdominal ultrasound on January 23 which showed her liver and spleen to be normal. However, we had a very subtle bump on her side biopsied and it is another MCT which we will have surgically removed most likely by UW-Madison this time, so our saga continues.

The CWVC Hits the Woods!

by Becky Smith Several CWVC members made the trek to Park Falls, WI, for a weekend of grouse hunting on November 10 and 11. Members in attendance included Andrew Mielke, his brother Aaron and dad, Jack, Adrianne and David Luft, Kerry and Cheryl Brimmer, John and Carmen Wagner, Jim and Sharon Kaszubski, and Mark and Becky Smith. After breakfast, it was time to search for the elusive ruffed grouse. Unlike a couple of previous years, we didn't have to hit the woods with snow boots for this outing. While overcast, the weather wasn't too bad, with temperatures in the low-to-mid 40's by the end of the day. The grouse were a little sparser this year, but most groups had at least a few flushes, and even if the hunting was not quite as good as in the past, there were stories to be shared at dinner on Saturday night. Top shooting honors belonged to Cheryl Brimmer and Mark Smith. Those wily grouse can be frustrating. Andrew Mielke summed up the frustration best when he said, "After a couple years hunting them and not being able to hit one, I'd be willing to have a really stupid one fly into a tree just to get one in my gamebag!" (or something to that effect). Oh well, maybe next year, Drew!

what i did for my summer vacation

by Hope Hanneman Mom took me to a great camp, Dog Days of Wisconsin, this summer. I stayed in a cabin with 3 of my dog friends and their guardians. We did have to drive a while cause mom says it was "up North" near Almond, Wisconsin. But boy was it worth the wait. The first thing we did when we got there was to go down to the beach. Mom let me play off leash (she called it chasing) with the other dogs on the beach and in the lake. Later, all the campers and dogs met in a big lodge and we all heard about the fun things we would get to do for the next 2 ½ days; Costume Parties, Barks and Crafts, and even Doggie Olympics. Whenever Mom and her friends went into the big lodge to eat meals, all of us dogs got to stay outside under the pine trees. We all talked to each other for awhile, then usually I decided to take a little nap. Mom and I went to some seminars. Mom learned about vaccinations and other things to keep me healthy. She even gave me a microchip while at camp because she said she loved me and never wanted to lose me. I only wish Mom would have taken me to the seminar where they made dog treats. At least one of my friends shared some with me. We also got to play on the agility equipment and flyball boxes. I even saw some dogs chasing a plastic bag. Mom said is was called Lure Coursing but I thought I would rather find birds. I was so tired each night when I came back to our cabin, I crashed on Mom's bed. Mom thought I was sick at first because I never am that quiet! Mom says we get to go back next August. She probably wonders what I am dreaming about when she sees my legs flying and my tail wagging. I just am remembering the great times we had at Dog Camp this summer!.

Ottawa Update

by Mark Smith Ottawa Association Meeting, December 5, 2001, DNR Headquarters (Eagle, WI). CWVC Delegate John McGrath also attended. Current Projects. The fencing project is proceeding from the north end of the grounds to the south along high way 67. It was felt that it would get completed at least to the new entrance by spring. A bulletin board will be installed near the <shelter>. And some reflectors will be put on the sign at the entrance to make it more visible in the early morning. New Rules. NO Parking on the grass. This goes for trailers or trucks. After the grassy areas get established, they will most likely back off on the trailers. The parking area will be extended to the east about 20 - 25 feet to help get more units in the upper lot. All dogs MUST be kept quiet until 8:00am. No exceptions. It is recommended to not allow staking out dogs until after 8:00am. We have a letter from the grounds committee stating this policy, and have been ask to include it in entries in the future. I will make sure that the hunt test secretary gets a copy. 2002 Grounds Schedule. The grounds are very booked for next year. Trials start 23 Feb and run to 23 June. Start again 24 August and run until 8 December. There are a few open dates, but FEW is the definitive word here. 10 Trials, 14 Tests, and 7 training days! There will be two Work Days to work on the course and grounds, July 13 and 21. We need to try and have a club presence at these Work Days. WAFTC* Meeting, Sunday, January 20, 2002. The WAFTC donated $1000 to the Wildlife Legislative Fund of America to help combat the restrictions on any field trial grounds that were purchased or funded by Pitman Robertson Act funding. It appears that the effort has paid of as the "interim guidelines" has been rescinded. However it was also noted that the State of Indiana will be enacting some strict regulations. It is very doubtful that any field trials or hunting test will be held in Indiana in 2002! The Wisconsin DNR is asking to write a new rule for dog trainers. If passed, it will require all dog trainers to band birds released and shot. The bands will be provided at no cost with a current "Dog Trainer's Permit". This will be a question on the spring conservation hearings. The WAFTC is asking that you go to the meetings and add support for this proposal. If this passes, all training birds will need to be banded. I was at the meeting were this was originally proposed and believe me this is a long way from what was originally proposed! I think it's a small inconvenience for trainers. By the way, trials and hunting test are exempt from this requirement. * The Ottawa Association is a member of the parent club WAFTC - Wisconsin Association of Field Trial Clubs.

The Prez Sez

by Penny Honetor Why in the world should I attend a CWVC meeting in February in Wisconsin?!?!? Hmmmm. Well, Becky Smith will be presenting the Annual Awards - come help congratulate your fellow members who worked hard for the CWVC and with their Vizslas to attain titles in 2001. Additionally, the Board and a couple ad hoc committees have been busy in between our meetings considering some fairly significant proposals to address some current CWVC gaps. After considering some input we received from our standing chairs and researching other clubs' policies and doing our math, we will be proposing to the CWVC membership some membership and breeder referral changes. If you want a voice, please attend so your opinions can be considered. We also have a special guest speaker - Dr. Chris Bessent DVM who will give an overview of alternative canine therapies (e.g. chiropractic, acupuncture, accupressure). Some of our members have attended Chris' equine seminars on the same topics and, like me, look forward to this unique opportunity for our club members. There are even a couple of non-Vizsla owners who have indicated interest in attending just to hear Chris' presentation! Work efforts for our spring and summer events and activities are starting to heat up and we need your help and support! Enter or come watch our May Specialty Show & Sweepstakes to see lots of beautiful Vizslas hamming it up for the judge - the next CWVC meeting will follow. Our May Hunt Test needs volunteers to help out - the bonus is you get to see lots of beautiful Vizslas demonstrating their hunting instincts and abilities. Plans are under way for a Hunting Training Day, Fun Day, AKC Judges' Seminar and possibly even a VCA Versatility Test. All our events are held FOR you and BY you - see you there!

Breed Rescue Update

by Becky Smith CWVC Breed Rescue Web Page While breed rescue has not had any dogs in foster care since the last newsletter, we have had some activity. Inge Siggelkow contacted me about an advertisement she saw in the Madison paper for a Vizsla that was in a humane society type facility. I logged on to the website given in the paper and the dog was actually a mix. The group was similar to ours as far as caring for the animals in foster homes. Since the dog was a mix, he fell outside our rescue guidelines. I contacted the group and offered to help them find a home. This quarter also brought a phone call that was quite alarming and sad. Just before Christmas I received a call from a lady in Michigan. Her parents were 75 years old and her mother had just fallen and broke a bone. The couple had Vizslas for many years. Four years ago, when they were 71, they went to get a new puppy from a breeder in northern Wisconsin. When they got to the breeder, they could not decide which puppy they wanted, so the breeder sold them all four of the puppies that were left in his litter! Now, four years later, the dogs are out of control, are not housebroken though they live in the couple's house, and have never been away from each other. A daughter called asking that we take the dogs. I explained that unless the parents were willing to sign papers to relinquish the dogs, we could not take them. I have been in contact with the Michigan rescue person, Carolyn DeFiore. If the children can get the parents convinced to give up a least a couple of the dogs, Carolyn will get them out of the house. Since the breeder is from Wisconsin, we will work with Michigan and likely need to foster one or more of them as Carolyn and I both agree it will be important to get the dogs away from their siblings as quickly as possible in order to get them ready to place in new homes. There will definitely be some training that will go with fostering these dogs if we get them.  I've also received a couple of contacts from people in Illinois with dogs bred in Wisconsin that need to be placed. In both cases, the breeders were contacted and have agreed to take the dogs back or help the families place the dogs.

Vizslas in the Media

CWVC Interview: Chauncey "Smitty" Smith

by Becky Smith We knew of Chauncey Smith long before we met him. Mark read an article in Gun Dog magazine where Chauncey was quoted several times. A few years later we were privileged to meet this "legend" in the world of Vizslas. Chauncey is a true gentleman, who offers his guidance and advice from many years of experience field trialing freely. Editor's Note: The May 2002 "The Paw's Print" will feature Becky's interview of Smitty's wife, Lynn Worth,another highly regarded long-time member of the Vizsla world. Lynn Worth & Chauncey "Smitty" Smith Give us a short biography of yourself. Smitty: Got my first vizsla in the 1940's. I registered 9 vizslas in the first 400 required for AKC's recognition of the breed - which happened in 1960. I had the good fortune to meet Count Bela Hadik (who emigrated from Hungary). I trained and ran his dogs. We had a great relationship. I finished the first Dual Champion dog, Futaki Darocz, and the first Dual Champion bitch, Szekeres Kis Szereto. Both are in the VCA Hall of Fame. I was a founding member of the VCA and of the Vizsla Club of Central New England. I was a founding member of the VCA and served on the Board for many years and one term as treasurer. Note From Lynn: Smitty fought in the Battle of D Day and after the war, followed his father into becoming a bricklayer. He was a business agent for the bricklayers union in New Hampshire. How did you decide that a Vizsla was the dog for you?  Smitty: In 1946, when I first started out with bird dogs, I obtained an English pointer. I soon found out it was almost impossible for me to shoot birds over the wide ranging bird dog in the woods and fields of New Hampshire. (At that time, I didn't know anything about training - which would have helped). A gentleman named Colonel Guy Watkins invited me to go hunting with him and his vizsla. (He had gotten one from Joan Hunt). As it turned out, it was great hunting with a dog that actually hunted for you. (This was before AKC recognition). What AKC events do you participate in?  Smitty: I have participated mostly in field events. When I went to shows, I usually got someone else to take my dog into the ring. Everyone has or had a special dog or two in their life. Tell us about yours and some of your Vizsla "firsts". Smitty: I had the good fortune to finish the first Dual Champion dog and bitch in the breed here in the U.S. DC Futaki Darocz and DC Szekeres Kis Szereto. DC/AFC FK's Rivendell Reaghan CDX MH VC was one of my all-time favorites. Not only was he handsome, but the nicest guy around. I was delighted that he was elected to the VCA Hall of Fame. He was a Futaki dog on his sire's side and could trace his lineage back to Lynn's Cariann on his dam's side. He would give you one hundred percent in anything you wanted of him. And a friend to everyone he met.  What are the biggest changes you have seen in the VCA since you joined? Smitty: When the VCA was founded and had it's feet on the ground, almost all of the people were field people. Now we find that we have all aspects involved in the running of the club - which has helped to keep the vizsla what it was always meant to be - a family companion and hunting companion. What positive changes have you seen in the breed since you got your first one? Smitty: The best thing the VCA has done for the breed, as far as I'm concerned, was to establish the Breed Qualification requirement at the national field trial. It was passed by 90 percent of the VCA membership in 1991. Without this you would looking at dogs in the field with all kinds of white on their bodies. (This is my opinion only). What negative changes? Trying to make the vizsla into an all age dog. I still believe the vizsla should be a hunting dog, not just a running dog. What is your most memorable/embarrassing story? Smitty: Finding out I ran the wrong dog in the wrong brace. It was raining and one was a male and the other a female. They were also littermates. I didn't place the dogs, so it didn't hurt anyone. What advice would you give to people just getting started in the Vizsla breed? Smitty: Join a local club. Go to all different events. You may find one you like. Any advice for someone just starting out training a bird dog? Smitty: If you don't know what you're doing - get help from other people. They don't have to be vizsla people, just bird dog people - and go slow. Any advice for someone who is interested in breeding their dog? Smitty: Breed the best to the best and hope for the best. Good Luck!

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! J Pointer Video (Michel Berner) Though not specifically Vizsla-related, the Animal Planet's Breed All About It segment on Pointers is wonderful for those wondering what the field trial world is like. Seventeen of the 25 minute segment is about field trials, and shows the type of style and intensity that judges are looking for, backing, retrieving, whoa training, "stroking up" the style of the point, and things to look for in a field trial puppy. It then has footage of one of the American Field National Championships held at the Ames Plantation, and has explanations of quartering, objective seeking, steady to wing and shot, and how pointing breeds locate game. The remaining 8 minutes are divided between Search and Rescue and conformation. I highly recommend it to anyone new to pointing breeds or field trials and hunt tests in general. http://shopping.discovery.com, then Videos, "Breed All About It", Pointers. $14.95 + s/h J Book Review (Sharon Kaszubski) The book I am currently reading is entitled "Love Is A 4-Legged Word" by Robert X. Leed. The story is about the authors trials on building the first Pet Motel in the nation. It is not so much the story but it is the poems that are in between each chapter. An example is a entitled "Dogs For Disposal" by Margaret Mackprang Mackay. It talks about how tops terry a household can be when there is a new puppy. The poem goes on about unclean floors - scratched paint - chewed slippers. (You know the drill with a puppy). However the last portion of the poem goes: "Er -- pardon -- excuse me, but what did you say? You ask if I'm giving the puppy away? You've the nerve to suggest that you'll take him with pleasure! Well, certainly not! He's an absolute treasure! Some of the poems will cause you to chuckle some you will need a Kleenex. J Chewtastics Dog Chews (Polly Poulos) The kids absolutely LOVE chewing on bones, but I had a hard time finding ones that were safe, lasted longer than 15 seconds, made in the US and not an absolute mess. That is until now. While at a dog show in Michigan, one of the vendors had a package of bones made by Chewtastics. They are the only organic dog chew that has bone, tendon, rawhide and marrow and they are made in the USA! I was apprehensive about giving such a meaty bone to the dogs in the house (normally meaty bones would be considered an "outside" treat due to their messy nature), but these barely left a mess (I say barely because once in a while we would find little bone pieces on the floor, but they rarely stayed there for long!). The dogs go BONKERS when they smell me coming in the door with these. First they jump in excitement (and Buckley is not usually a jumper) and then do what ever they can to get the bones faster (sit pretty, down, etc...). Buckley and Rainey give them two paws up! (Chewtastics 866-489-8196; www.chewtastics.com - note: they do not sell directly to the public but can direct you to where you can purchase. Their website says that they can be found at Petsmart and RC Steele but their websites say that they no longer carry that product. However, I did find them at Chicagoland area Petco as well as at Petco's website. A two pack of knuckle bones was approximately $3.49, the regular size bones $5.49. We were lucky enough to find a "show special" and got a box with 6 knuckles and 3 bones for $15.00. A steal!) J Plush Toys by Material Dog Toys (Polly Poulos) Last Christmas our dog walker gave the kids these great toys. They are stuffed toys, without the cheap stuffing! They have a sturdy velcro pouch with a removeable squeaker. They come in various bird shapes: pheasant, quail and duck (though this Christmas they got an octopus/spider from my mom so they must be making more critters). If the squeaker starts to drive you nuts, you can remove it for quieter play. Currently Rainey's favorite toy is the squeaker from the pheasant! My dogs are known destoyers of all things stuffed and these things have held up. Buckley and Rainey give them two paws up! Material Dog Toys, made by Cats With An Attitude. They currently do not have a website that I can find, but I have seen them at show vendors and specialty shops such as Barker and Meowsky http://shop.urbanstyle.net/ barkerandmeowsky and most recently in the J and J Dog Supplies catalog and website http://www.jandjdog.com Prices have varied between $6.80 and $12.95 depending on size of toy and vendor. Side note: Though their website does not currently reflect it, Barker & Meowsky carries a lot of vizsla related items. I had a fun time shopping for my doggie friends this past Christmas at their store in Chicago. Most breed items are available with a Vizsla. Last year they had a booth at the International Kennel Club shows. I hope they have one again this year! J Light-up Collar (Julie Sjullie) Thumbs-up to an innovative product, a light up collar, R.C. Steele, $14.98. Great for night time romps and walks, it is visible for up to a mile, can be set for steady red or intermittent flash, which is especially useful when you want to distinguish the movements of multiple dogs, and has 200 hours of watch battery life. The drawback is that the quality of the construction is average. While it comes with a metal tab for leashes, it does not withstand the pull of the average Vizsla and therefore works best when used in conjunction with the dog's regular collar. J the BARk (Sandi Moore) Friends gave us a subscription to BARk magazine for Christmas and we have had a chance to review 2 issues, fall and winter 2001. We were not overly impressed with the Fall issue, but after reading the winter issue, decided to give this publication 2 paws up (out of 4). The features range from interesting and heartwarming to self-serving and confusing -- however, there are more good writers than bad. The authors range from "unknowns" to the likes of award-winning author Alistair MacLeod and noted dog behaviorist Dr. Patricia McConnell. The photography and artwork are good and there is an eclectic mix of advertising. BARk is published 4 times annually and costs $15 a year for the first subscription and $10 for the next. See www.thebark.com for more information.

V-oudini

By Sherrie Anderson Allie is apparently following in her mother's pawprints as escape artist extraordinaire. Mark put V puppy Allie in her ex-pen while going downstairs to do some work. He hears a lot of ruckus, assumes Arlo (V) and Penny (Golden Retriever) are wrestling, finishes what he is doing, and comes back upstairs. Looks in the ex-pen...No Allie! Instant panic, where is she and how in the world did she get out!? Looks down the hall, here comes Maddie (our 100-lb Bernese Mt. Dog), and she is licking her chops and grinning. Now pure panic...how in the world is Mark going to call his wife and tell her that Maddie ate Allie as an appetizer? Peeks around and sees Allie going for a ride hanging onto Maddie's tail with her teeth! Whew! Puts Allie back in her ex-pen and watches in disbelief as she climbs right out of the 4½-foot high ex-pen, onto the couch and down to the floor! Something tells me we are in for some interesting times with this girl and that I better get her signed up for agility quick!!!

Member Spotlights

Craig Amundson, Eau Claire, WI New to Vizslas and the CWVC in 2001, Craig owns one Vizsla, "Hunter" with whom he participates in Obedience and Hunting. His two children (ages 3, 5) and a Black Lab and goldfish complete the Amundson household. He heard about the CWVC through Hunter's breeder and joined to meet people who can help train for hunting. Outside of his day job in Sales Management, he enjoys family activities and Hunter's versatility, intelligence and enthusiasm for the outdoors. Marilyn "Lynnie" Brown, Orlando, FL Lynnie shares her tropical home with husband Jim, 2 Vizslas (Favor, Scorch), an English Pointer (Clay), 3 cats and many fish in a 55-gallon fresh water aquarium. She found out about the CWVC while surfin' the net and says she loves the CWVC web site and joined because the CWVC appears "friendly". Both she and her 79-year-old father enjoy the breed's intelligence, beauty and huntability as well as the "velcroness" of the breed. "It's so great to feel so well-loved." Marilyn is a radio dispatcher and reads electric and water meters also. She loves dogs, the great outdoors, photography, picture framing, gardening (weather and water-permitting) and dog obedience training. Her V Scorch's nickname is "Fetch Nazi" because even when they're in the dark around a campfire, he continues to bring them things to throw (sticks, bark, toys, etc.) until he is told to "chill". She suggests "clicker training" as a newsletter topic and thinks the photo contests and calendar were great. Lynnie's tip: Check out www.ebay.com - there's many low-priced items under several breed categories, and check out "pointer" which contains items for more than just the Pointer breed since many folks still don't know that the Vizsla is an AKC breed. Sue & Bob Budjac, Wisconsin Rapids, WI Learning about the CWVC from her sister, Sue joined I 1999 to get more info about the Vizsla. Their two girls, Molly the Vizsla and Jessica the daughter, play soccer with Bob who coaches Jessica's team. Molly plays defense by guarding the goal and stealing the ball before Jessica can score. Molly loves to get under the bed covers and if they fall on the floor during an attempt, she whines until Bob comes to cover her up. When it is time to clean Molly's ears, Bob gets the flashlight, has Molly lay on the floor, cleans and then gives her a treat. Now whenever Bob get the flashlight, Molly goes and lies down on the floor anxious for the treat! Jan Ellwitz, Waukesha, WI When she is not working on her Master's Degree in Educational Computing, Jan spends time with her rescue Vizsla Baily, Great Dane Jasmine and a domestic shorthair cat. She heard about the CWVC from Mike Erhardt and enjoys the fellowship and activities. She loves the people-orientation of Vizslas, a trait Bailey REALLY showed once when she left him in her Ford Explorer and he climbed through the sun roof and was stuck standing there, just to try to be with her. By the way, this happened at Mark & Becky Smith's so there ARE witnesses! Josie Engle, Neenah, WI New to Wisconsin from Virginia, retired bookkeeper Josie and her husband and Vizslas Libby and Ripley are active participants in Obedience, Agility and Hunt Tests and are interested in learning more about conformation. They are members of the VCA and plan on joining the Winnegamie Dog Club in Menasha soon (Josie - contact Pat & Jim Erickson - they're WDC members). They heard about the CWVC via the VizslaTalk Email List and look forward to participating in CWVC events and meeting other V owners. They chose the Vizsla for their versatility, cleanliness, velcro-ness, healthiness, kissable nature and say they are both big and little at the same time. A funny story is when cleaning the gutters at the top of a 12-foot ladder she looked down to see Ripley right below her and she had to grab him by the collar and gently let him down. They enjoy golf, gardening and camping (Josie, do you know that the Wisconsin State Bird is the mosquito?) Though owners of may other breeds in the past (bulldog, bullmastiff, Goldens, Rottweiler, Springer), she says that Vizslas are the most like children. A concern she has is that Vizslas with poor temperaments are being bred just because they have good conformation. She wishes Vs wouldn't get those spots around their eyes. (Editor's Note: If anyone knows what these are and what causes them and would like to write an article, I'd be interested in printing it in a future issue). Tom Falk, Gary, IN Tom chose the Vizsla because his old roommate had one and he fell in love with the breed. Colorado visits brother Buddy (owned by CWVC member Mike Walsh DVM) often and both have earned the nickname "the bash brothers" because they jump around a lot when playing. Colorado is Tom's shadow (sound familiar???) Tom enjoys camping, in-line skating, concerts in Grant Park and the NHL team "The Colorado Avalanche". Val & Jim Fiedler, Appleton, WI Fulfilling their desire for a short-haired hunting dog, Willie and Sydney are the Vs who share the household with Fiedler's 2 children, a mixed breed and 2 goldfish. Having owned Vizslas for 10 years, the enjoy the Vizsla's desire to be an active member of the family. They re-joined the CWVC to have local V contacts. When not working as a machine operator, Val enjoys crossstitch, reading, and anything to do with dogs while Jim, a weaver at Asten Johnson, enjoys hunting and fishing. Bobbie Graser, Brookfield, WI A former owner of a Husky, Bobbie learned about the Vizsla about 10 years ago and was impressed with their intelligence, movement and personality. Her V puppy, Max, was easy to housetrain and is so affectionate to everyone, especially her twin 4-year-old twin granddaughters whom she also loves to spend time with. A mother of 2 grown children and employee of Northwestern Mutual (shhh, the Quiet Company), Bobbie enjoys reading and horseback riding. She is interested in learning more about most of the events open to Vizslas and joined the CWVC to learn more about the breed and to meet fellow V owners. Gail & Chuck Haskins, Glenview, IL After their Vizsla Gypsy passed away in April 2001, Gail contacted the CWVC in search of another redhead. Her search ended happily when they adopted "Zola" from Sue Prim, and they love watching her constant humorous antics (Zola's, not Sue's!) Zola loves to sit in their laps at inconvenient times like when they're in the bathroom. Gypsy was such a food fanatic that once she got her head stuck in the dishwasher trying to lick some plates and they had to move the racks to get her out. For work, both Gail and Chuck are attorneys with Gail specializing in law for the horse industry and Chuck in worker's compensation law. For recreation, they all love spending time at their lake home in Silver Lake, WI and Gail trains horses and competes in dressage shows, Chuck loves golf and hunting and 10-year-old son Chuckie plays baseball, basketball and golf. James & Sharon Kaszubski, Madison, WI One of each. James and Sharon own a Vizsla, a Terv and have a son. Multiples. They participate in a multitude of activities like Obedience, Agility, Hunting, Tracking and Flyball and are interested in everything else. They also belong to the Badger Kennel Club and the Belgian Tervuren Club. They found out about the CWVC via Sharon Shea and joined to understand more about the breed. Having settled on the Vizsla for it's energy and close working traits, the adopted a CWVC Rescue Vizsla, Jake. Jake has had some basic tracking training so their son, Andy, used Jake to find Easter eggs that had been filled with money. Jake found them in record time and is still waiting for his cut of the take. When not working as a security supervisor for UW-Madison Police Department, he enjoys fishing, camping, hiking and working and training their dogs. Sarah Kortenkamp & Kurt Clopton, Wauwatosa, WI Summer is the first Vizsla and Sarah & Kurt love how she really enjoys being part of the family - she is so sweet! They found out about the CWVC via the web site and Vtalk list and joined to be more involved with the breed. Kurt is a computer consultant, artist and writer; Sarah a neuropsychologist, Summer an avid ear cleaner, and they all love exercising! Larry Marshall, Richland Center, WI After researching the breed and liking the personality, appearance and hunting instincts, Larry adopted "Zeke" from Mike Erhardt's "Blue Squared" litter. They discovered Zeke likes water so bought a kiddy pool - Zeke will completely submerge his head to retrieve toys and now they take him to the dog beach at Governor Dodge State Park. A Deputy Sheriff by trade, Larry enjoys hunting, fishing, camping, shooting and all outdoor activities and likes the fact that Zeke doesn't run off when outdoors together. Some final comments: "I have owned several different breeds of dogs in my life but the Vizsla is unlike anything I have ever seen. He is so intelligent and tried so hard to please you, he can be taught almost anything. He rings a bell to go outside and catches balls and frisbees and retrieves them. He is by far the most fun and the best companion I could ever hope for. I am very anxious to take him hunting this fall." Kevin & Julie Mattson, Ogdensburg, WI The Mattson family consists of two children (Kyle & Kristyn), a Vizsla (Barko) and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (Abby). They became interested in Vizslas for hunting, hunting and more hunting and love them because they're so loving, loving and more loving! They nicknamed their Vizsla "Barko Lounger" because they caught him standing on the recliner (which he can recline) on point! John & Mary McGrath, Waukesha, WI The McGraths and son Sean (1 year) have enjoyed many activities with Treeva: Hunt Tests, Field Trials, Hunting and Dog Shows. They found out about the CWVC on the web and love staying active with other "V" owners. They love Treeva's size, intelligence, personality and marvel at her quickness - once when Treeva was in the yard, she caught a blackbird that had been taunting her. Mary thinks the bird was really surprised! When Mary isn't training her Thoroughbred Gabel, she works as an Office Manager. When John isn't on the job as an HVAC Service Mechanic, he enjoys model railroading and photography. Polly Poulos & Jason Waldron, Chicago, IL Having owned a variety of animals and other breeds growing up, now Polly and Jason just love coming home to their two Vizslas, Buckley and Rainey, who always put them in a good mood. They participate in Obedience, Hunt Tests and Dog Shows and would like to learn more about Agility, Tracking and Therapy. Polly shares a fetish of Rainey's*…the odor fetish…if it smells, she has to rub her body against it! Recent rubbings have included dirty laundry, clean laundry, all leather, a dead fish, her own poop(!), a wooden table cleaned with lemon Pledge, and even Buckley after he was sprayed with mink oil!  [*Editor's Note:  I meant "Polly shares WITH US INFORMATION ABOUT a fetish of Rainey's..."  Sorry Polly!  But I was wondering what that smell was...never mind...] Christine Quaid, Glenview, IL A new member in 2001, Christine heard about the CWVC through VCOI members. She chose the Vizsla because of it temperament, intelligence and affection and now enjoys participating with Carrie in Conformation, Agility and Hunting events. A high school English teacher during the week, Christine loves the outdoors and even once had an art & antiques business. An owner as versatile as her Vizsla! John & Mary Seyer, Eau Claire, WI The Seyers keep busy with their daughter Kathleen (2), five Vizslas and two horses. They enjoy the companionship the Vizsla brings to their family as well as appreciate their great hunting ability. They also appreciate the intelligence of the Vizsla as demonstrated by Cain who gets ice from the ice maker by pushing the handle with her nose! After learning about the CWVC through the breeder of their first Vizsla, they joined in order to get more involved in the breed. The enjoy reading hunting stories and articles on the companionship of Vizslas. Michael & Sharon Shea, Dodgeville, WI Having owned Vizslas for 9 years, the Sheas share their lives with Levi, Mavrick, Ava and 1 Jack Russell "Terrorist". They share the same sentiments of other CWVC members - they love the Vizsla's trainability, attitudes, beauty, affection, energy, hunting talents, low maintenance. A funny story they share is that once Mike had some hot dogs cooling on the counter for lunch. Levi met him with "one of those looks." Mike could tell he was carrying something, looked in his mouth and found a hot dog with no tooth marks. Levi had been carrying it lengthwise so it was fully concealed and in tact. After Mike gave him the OK, Levi then got to eat the hot dog! Sharon works long hours as owner/operator of "Best Friends Pet Care" and as their Humane Society President. When not working, they enjoy stock car racing, hunting, agility and of course snuggling! Kyle & Tracey Shimek, West Allis, WI The Shimek household consists of two cats, two Vizslas, one daughter. Participants in Obedience, Hunting and Therapy, they are also interested in Agility. Tracey found out about the CWVC from her mom, Susan Wyrembek, and joined to keep in contact with other "red dog" lovers. A cute story they share is how Virgil will spit out his vitamin if it is given to him first; he wants his Derm Cap (fatty acid supplement) BEFORE his vitamin! Kyle works as a Business Manager for M.W. Marine and Tracey as a Vet Receptionist/Tech for West Allis Veterinary Clinic. Other activities include "Stampin' Up!" demonstrator, part-time caterer for Lee John's, ballroom dancing and tennis. Gwen & Larry Tomlinson, Brandon, FL Loving parents to 4 "grown" children and 5 Vizslas, Gwen and Larry recently moved to Florida from Illinois and are missed by their friends and family. Not many people can top these figures: Vizsla owners for over 30 years, owners of 19 crates (Gwen says they are all different sizes of course!) As CWVC members they strive to support and be supported in the betterment of this wonderful breed. They happened upon Vizslas because Larry wanted a hunting dog while Gwen wanted a nice house dog that was good with kids. Now retired, they spend more time on activities like shooting trap, fishing, gardening, and training and exhibiting their dogs. Gwen says "I think it is great that there is something for everyone in the newsletter and that newcomers and novices are included as they are the future of our breed." Michael L. Walsh, DVM, Highland, IN Of all the breeds of dogs he sees, Michael was so impressed with one of his client's Vizslas (the Misiak's "Dawn") that he took advantage of the opportunity to purchase one of Dawn's puppies! Their intelligence and temperament makes "Buddy" a wonderful companion. Mike recalls an incident when he was 12 weeks old - he saw his reflection in the window and when it moved he was so startled that he flipped over backward off the chair and onto the floor! Outside of being a veterinarian, Mike enjoys gardening, golf, bicycling, walking and reading. Bob & LaRue Wills, Mayville, WI Bob and LaRue own one Vizsla named "Toby" from Mike Erhardt's "Blue". Their 4 children ages 9-20 complete their family. The chose the Vizsla for its intelligence and beauty and happy nature and joined the CWVC to make contacts with other Vizsla owners. Toby keeps them entertained by pointing flys in their window. Bob is a CVT grad from MATC in Madison and currently sells autos. They enjoy the newsletter, saying it makes them feel part of a "family" and attended their first meeting in October and got to show off some of Toby's tricks in the game "Copy Cat".

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. From The Editor Heartfelt sympathy to those members who have recently lost their human or canine loved ones or have found out recently that their beloved dogs have an illness. Appreciation - Bob & LaRue Wills & Toby Just a message about this wonderful family of pet owners we have had the privilege to join in with...Last month we had a scare with Toby and we have been in contact with our vet, other vets, and research on Vizslas....The thing I wanted to mention is the extent to which Mike Erhardt has gone to help in this research and his undying attention to still care for Toby well after the fact...He is so wonderful as well as the whole group to which we now belong....I cannot say enough about Mark and Becky Smith also....To whatever degree it takes they will accommodate....We will be taking Toby out there for some Bird training this month and next...Thanks for the warm welcome we received at our first meeting with you and your group... We (Bob and I) will do our very best to keep the standard going...Thanks again...P.S. Mike even sent a birthday gift to us--a hand painted picture of Toby on a plaque with a First Birthday Card for Toby on his 1st Birthday....That's going the extra mile. New Puppy - Marilyn "Lynnie" Brown We have a new pup Teche (Homeagain Woods AFire Rollin' Red) who, at 6 months old, at her first Amateur Walking Puppy came in 3rd place with the CF GSPC, Masaryktown, Dec 9 and then turned right around Dec 15 to get her puppy points and win 1st place in Mascot, Fl at the TBVC in the Amateur Walking Puppy stake in front of her breeder Bill Linnig, down from Louisville, Ky . Teche is out of BK's Homeagain Scarlet Rebel and the sire is Little Red Wizard. She keeps us on our toes, but then again, if a vizsla doesn't, a vet visit should be in order! She IS something else and she LOVES the field... Allergy Advice? - Sandi Moore & Smitty Smitty, our 2½-year-old red dog, developed a rash on her stomach in August. The problem then spread to her tail, legs and feet. She scratched intermittently, then constantly, until she had bare spots. She went on several courses of steroids and antibiotics. We had her into the vet several times, gave her lots of baths, tried anti-itch remedies, etc. but nothing seemed to help much. She was doing better by the holidays, as the temperatures fell, but we are concerned what lies in store for her this spring. Have you experienced anything like this? Are V's particularly prone to allergies, and anything specific that you have encountered? Any suggestions? Please email us at doglover@athenet.net

Most Excellent Vizsla Agility Weekend

by Susan Prim Sue Prim, Joy Sonsalla, Nancy Schmitt, Penny Honetor The weekend of November 17th and 18th proved to be outstanding for all Vizsla's entered in the Great Lakes Belgian Tervuren Club AKC agility trial held in Franklin, WI. There were ten V's in Saturday's trial and the day ended with an unprecedented 8 qualifying scores. We all thought that was great but Sunday's statistics were even better - nine V's with 12 qualifying scores! Over the two-day trial and 35 runs, we netted a total of 20 Q's, 3 of which were doubles (dog with a qualifying score in Standard and JWW on the same day), 3 dogs attained their OAJ (Open Jumpers with Weaves) titles and one dog made her agility debut. Hopefully the Reddogs have started a trend and will continue to rule at future agility trials. The participants and results are as follows: Handler & Dog Saturday Sunday Penny Honetor & Zoe* - AX, AXJ legs Penny Honetor & Neela* OAJ leg OAJ leg Sue Prim & Faye* MX leg MX leg Sue Prim & Grace* AX leg OAJ leg, title Nancy Schmitt & Eden* AXJ leg AX leg Joy Sonsalla & Rhode* - OAJ leg, title Joy Sonsalla & Reesa* OA leg OA, OAJ legs Ginger Tierney & Dawn* OAJ leg, title - Pam Schiazzano & Gabby MXJ leg MX leg Mike Schiazzano & Mo NAJ leg NA, NAJ legs * CWVC Members

End February 2002 "The Paw's Print" excerpts

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