June2016 Blaze - Golden Gate Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club

Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
THE BLAZE
Having Fun with Our Swiss Mountain Dogs
PRESIDENT’S LETTER
Spring has sprung, May is here, and El Nino has finally brought rain to
California. That rain has interrupted some of our scheduled club
events. However, Facebook posts show the many accomplishments of
our members and their dogs are having. Keep up the good work
everyone!!!
CALENDAR of ACTIVITIES
June
10-12 Woofstock Show at Vallejo-General
Membership Meeting, Saturday.
June
18 Walk’n’Talk at Shadow Cliffs, 10:00,
Pleasanton-General Membership Meeting
July
31 Swiss Dog Day at Fort Mason
Aug.
Mid-Pack Hike in Mammoth (tentative)
Sept.
23-25 End of Summer Party-Sonoma
Oct.
21-23 GSMDCA Western Regional,
GGGSMDC Specialty and Supported
Entry-Harvest Moon Classic-Pleasanton
26-30 GSMDCA National Specialty in
Chicago
Dec.
4 Christmas Luncheon in Pleasanton
For dog shows in Northern and Southern California
and added events, check the Calendar on our web
page: http://www.goldengategsmdc.com/events.html
As the drier months give us longer days, be sure to log onto the club
site and access our NEW Club calendar. We have listed club gatherings,
club sponsored and supported events & dog shows! This calendar is a
big step for 2016! Our goal is to bring our members together. We are
organizing social events, such as Walk ‘n’ Talks and campout parties.
We are offering you opportunities for a variety of titles and a reference
point for what confirmation shows draw our breed.
Your feedback about the calendar and the list of scheduled events is
important to us! Please share your ideas at one of the two
membership meetings scheduled for June: Woofstock Show, Vallejo
Fairgrounds, Sat., June 11th or the Shadow Cliffs Walk‘n’Talk, Sat., June
18th. Check the calendar for details. We want to hear from you.
We look forward to meeting our newest members and welcoming
them into our family. We truly have a unique group of dog lovers who
greet everyone with open arms. The more the merrier with this group!
The 2nd half of 2016 has lots to look forward to. I ask you please to
consider joining one of our many committees that help create and
manage our fabulous events. May I encourage all of you to keep
working your 4 legged children and gear up for pack hike & weight pull
titles. Plan ahead and reach out for guidance and coaching; we’re here
for you. And, most importantly, hug the ones you love!!!
Woof, Erin Stammer, Vice President
CONTENTS
1 Calendar, President’s Letter
2 Officers, Objectives
3 2016 Western Regional
4 Woofstock-Shadow Cliff
5 Herding in April
6 Let’s have a Weight Pull!
7 Foxtails & Rattlesnakes
8 Rainbow Bridge-Fagan
9 Hypoparathyroidism
10-12 Nail Trimming
11-13 Nail Trimming
13-14 Congratulations!
PRESIDENT’S LETTER
15-Luna
16-17 Congratulations
18 Camping with your Swissy
19 Work and Play with Swissys
20 Recipes
21 Swissys and their Peeps
22-23 Lawn Chemicals
24 Swissy Buddies
25 We’re Smilin’ at You
27 Laying Around
29 Resources
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
Officers, Board Members and Committees
President: Toni Killpatrick
Vice President: Erin Stammer
Secretary: Linda Ridenour
Treasurer: Julie Vonada
Board Members:
Leslie Bryson
Carol Bamsch
Susan Robinson
Paula Robles
Donna Zetterquist
Membership: Susan Robinson
Public Relations: Heidi Steenstra Susan Robinson
Ways and Means: Erin Stammer Paula Robles
Awards and Trophies: Erin Stammer
Social Events: Carol Bamsch Donna Zetterquist Linda Ridenour
Calendar: Donna Zetterquist
Show Events: The Board
Working Events: Heidi Steenstra
Newsletter: Susan Robinson
Website: Rob Blits
Raffle: Heidi Steenstra
The objectives of the club shall be:
To encourage and promote quality in the breeding of Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs
and to do all possible to bring their natural qualities to perfection.
To urge members and breeders to accept the standard of the breed
as approved by the American Kennel Club
as the only standard of excellence
by which Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs shall be judged.
To do all in its power to protect and advance the interests of the breed
and to encourage sportsmanlike competition
at dog shows (obedience and agility trials, drafting and tracking tests).
To conduct sanctioned matches and specialty shows
under the rules and regulations of the American Kennel Club.
To have FUN together with our Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs.
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
We’re Back in 2016!
Friday--GGGSMD Club Supported Entry
“Welcome, Pardners!” Luncheon
GGGSMD Club Weight Pull
Saturday--GSMDCA Western Regional
Wear your Western duds in the ring!
The day includes Sweepstakes and Owner-Handler BOB Perpetual Adam Trophy,
educational seminar, Hoe-Down Party, Raffle, Country Store, Photo Booth,
Saloon and Dinner.
Sunday--Designated Specialty
GGGSMD Club Perpetual BOB Trophy
For the weekend, there are High Points in Rally and High Points in Obedience awards.
Sierra West BMDC Draft Trials
Reserve NOW:
Camping spot in Swissy Town under the Amador Pavilion $55/day with power
Hitching Post spots for X Pens, crates, grooming (with power) $10/day/dog
Email Toni Killpatrick skeeter1113@gmail.com asap. Spots are filling fast.
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
COMING UP IN JUNE-Take your pick of two General Meetings
The
was June 4th-7th at the Solano
County Fairgrounds
in Vallejo, CA.
WOOFSTOCK
\
This four day dog show is held every summer in Vallejo and is just as much fun for the spectators as it is for the
dogs and their handlers.
Picture those straight-laced judges in tie-dyed shirts (even some hippie headbands), the tie-dye armbands,
peace beads for the winners and the handlers going to group in some really outrageous costumes!
WE WILL HAVE A GENERAL MEETING THERE ON SATURDAY.
Free drawing for a fun Swissy prize!
SHADOW CLIFFS WALK ‘N’ TALK
Saturday, June 18th at Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area
2500 Stanley Blvd., Pleasanton 94566
Bring your family and dogs and meet at 10:00 am in the first parking lot near the entrance. We will hike the
North Arroyo Trail and loop back along the lake to a picnic area for lunch. It's a fairly easy walk. Bring leashes for
your dog(s) and water for you and dog(s). There is a small lake along the trail where the dogs can usually swim.
Bring a towel just in case. Bring your lunch if you want to stay for the picnic. GENERAL CLUB MEETING.
For more information contact Donna Zetterquist at dzetter@gmail.com or (831) 332-9879.
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
HERDING SWISSYS
Thanks to Carol Bamsch and Debbie Pollard for a great day at Herding 4U!
Patrick, Sheep Captain
Bruno
Mac and Mattie
Lance (Border Collie) the Wonder Dog
Maya
Dixie
Cruiser
Fredrick
Boone
Zeeva
For information on herding experiences, contact Herding 4 Ewe at http://www.herding4u.com/herding.htm
Thanks to Mac Dog Trainer for the photos!
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
MONTH YEAR
VOL. # ONE ISSUE #1
LET’S DO A WEIGHT PULL AT OUR GSMDCA WESTERN REGIONAL SPECIALTY
Calling all fun seekers for our Swissy Weight Pull!
Join the Golden Gate Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club for our
EVENING WEIGHT PULL EXTRAVAGANZA
on Friday night, Oct 21, 2016.
(Weight pull will commence after Best in Show.
Weigh in starts at 4 pm. Weight pull is for Swissys only!!!
Location:
Alameda County Fairgrounds, 4501 Pleasanton Ave, Pleasanton Ca 94566
RSVP BY October 5, 2016
by email to mac@dogtrainhumane.com
Fees: $20.00
Weight Pull #1 $20 member/$30 non-member
Harnesses Available: No charge
Payment by check in advance.
Payment address will be sent once your RSVP has been received.
SEVERAL VOLUNTEERS ARE GREATLY NEEDED FOR THIS EVENTPLEASE LETUS KNOW IF YOU CAN HELP!
Valerie and Hercules
Brig’s First Try
Maria harnessing up
You did it, Mia!
Spring 2016
MONTH YEAR
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
VOL. # ONE ISSUE #1
SPRING-SUMMER PROBLEMS FOR SWISSYS IN THE WEST
Foxtails and plant awns:
The foxtail is a barbed seed that sticks to your pet's fur and migrates inward. The barb can end up in
virtually any location in and on your pet's body. Most problems stem from the pain inflicted when your pet gets one of these
stuck in the ear canal, up his nose, or in his eye. The most serious of these is the eye since it can lead to blindness if not
treated properly. The ones in the nose can eventually go into the lung and cause significant damage, but this is rare. The ones
in the ear are just as painful, but not life threatening. The awns (seed carriers) in the ear and nose will usually require heavy
sedation for us to remove them. We have safe, short acting drugs to give in these cases. Awns that make their way into the
skin cause a slower process of deep abscess formation and an eventual pus pocket becomes noticeable. This needs to be
lanced and properly drained. These patients will always be given a round of antibiotics and sometimes pain medications. One
of the deepest abscesses seen at this facility was in a kidney! Perhaps the awn migrated up the vaginal area when the dog
squatted to urinate and the barbed material made its way up the urinary tract. Almost anything is possible with these
things. They can be deadly. Prevention is key.
Investigate this product, the Outfox Field Guard. While wearing the OutFox Field Guard, your dog can pant, sniff, drink & play
as usual. Field guard can help you protect your dog from painful & expensive injuries caused by embedded foxtails.
Rattlesnake Bite: VERY common here in spring, summer & fall
We have the Western Diamondback snake in our region and they do not hibernate in winter. They are just more sluggish and
harder to find when it is cold. They will be out and about when you and your pet feel like doing the same. Be aware of this
threat when you are outdoors with your pet. If your pet is bitten you will usually notice rapid, intensely painful swelling of the
affected area. Some bites are less problematic and may not cause as much swelling and pain, but they usually need to be
seen. Not all patients need antivenin (at over $700 per dose) and do well with pain medication, anti-inflammatories, antihistamine, and anti-biotics. Some will require hospitalization and fluid support as well. Antivenin in this practice is available,
but rarely used. Pets that get bitten year after year will have less serious reactions each time. Some pets will react violently to
antivenin and can actually die from the drug. Rattlesnake vaccine is promising, but not substantiated yet in this practice's
opinion. There have been adverse and serious reactions to this vaccine that may not be worth the benefit that the dose
provides.
Rattlesnake avoidance training is available for your dog. Check out the link and find training near you.
Thanks to Dr. Eileen Wise at All Creatures Veterinary Hospital, Inc.
Mariposa CA
Spring 2016
MONTH YEAR
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
Rainbow Bridge
VOL. # ONE ISSUE #1
Today, I walked next to my sweet Fagan
as we took our last journeys together for a time.
We took many wonderful journeys in the last 11+ years.
He met and made many wonderful friends.
But today as we walked down the path, I had to stop and let go of the leash.
I will miss you buddy, with all my heart.
But we made a deal and I have to stick to what I promised.
No more pain or tired old body to slow you down.
Until it's my time to take the journey,
You will be in my heart always.
I can't wait for you to put the leash back in my hand.
Fagan: 3/2/2005- 5/21/2016
Loved by Nancy and Randall Glenn
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
Canine Hypoparathyroidism
Hypoparathyroidism is a hormonal imbalance in dogs that results from the cessation of production of parathyroid hormone
(PTH). Hypoparathyroidism is more common in middle-aged female dogs, and it has no breed predilection.
Parathyroid hormone (PTH)
PTH is manufactured within the dog’s four parathyroid glands. These tiny glands are embedded within the two thyroid
glands (two parathyroid glands per thyroid gland). All of these glands are located just beneath the skin surface on the
underside of the neck.
PTH is in charge of regulating blood calcium and phosphorus levels. It does so by modifying the amounts of calcium and
phosphorus absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract, eliminated via the kidneys, and released from bones into the
bloodstream.
Hypoparathyroidism (too little PTH produced by the parathyroid glands) causes decreased calcium and increased
phosphorus levels within the blood stream. The opposite occurs when the parathyroid glands are producing too much
PTH (hyperparathyroidism).
Causes
It is unknown why the parathyroid glands quit producing PTH. Autoimmune destruction of the parathyroid glands (the
immune system attacks the body’s own tissues) is suspected. Surgical removal of the thyroid glands for treatment of
thyroid cancer and trauma to the neck region are other potential causes of hypoparathyroidism.
Symptoms
The symptoms associated with hypoparathyroidism result from the abnormally low blood calcium level. The symptoms
can be intermittent, particularly early on in the course of the disease, and most commonly include:
Muscle tremors or twitching
Stiff gait
Uncoordinated gait
Anxious, restless behavior
Seizures
Lethargy/weakness
Increased panting
Loss of appetite
Diagnosis
The testing typically performed to arrive at a diagnosis of hypoparathyroidism typically includes:
Complete blood cell count
Blood chemistry profile (includes calcium and phosphorus measurements)
Ionized calcium measurement (the active form of calcium within the bloodstream) molecule
Urinalysis
PTH measurement
Treatment
Therapy for hypoparathyroidism consists of administration of vitamin D and calcium. Vitamin D supplementation is
necessary to assist with the absorption of dietary calcium from the gastrointestinal tract.
Treatment with intravenous fluids and calcium is warranted for dogs with severe symptoms. For dogs who are in stable
condition, the calcium and vitamin D can be administered orally at home. Both are given daily (may be multiple times
daily) and the dosages are adjusted based on the dog’s symptoms as well as follow-up blood calcium and phosphorus
levels. Many successfully treated dogs can be weaned off of the calcium supplement as long as vitamin D therapy is
continued. As is the case with most canine hormonal imbalances, lifelong treatment and monitoring are required.
Prognosis
Hypoparathyroidism is considered to be a very treatable disease with an excellent prognosis as long as conscientious
treatment and monitoring are available.
Dr. Kay, DVM
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
NAIL TRIMMING
The most common reasons for avoiding nail trims are that the owner is afraid of “quicking” the dog, or that the dog
fusses and creates bad feelings around the procedure. Nail cutting becomes an event surrounded by angst and
drama. For very active dogs who run all day long on varied surfaces, cutting nails may not be necessary. High
mileage wears them down naturally. But among city or suburban dogs who are lucky to get a mile or two walk
daily, excessively long toenails are more common than not.
Consequences of Long Toenails
So what’s the big deal? The first consequence of long toenails is painful feet. When a dog’s toenails contact hard
ground, like a sidewalk or your kitchen floor, the hard surface pushes the nail back up into the nail bed. This either
puts pressure on all the toe joints or forces the toe to twist to the side. Either way, those toes become very sore,
even arthritic. When the slightest touch is painful to your dog, he will fuss when you pick up his paw to cut nails.
The second consequence of long toenails is more serious. All animals rely on information from nerves in their feet
to move through the world and process gravity accurately. For millions of years, wild dogs have run long distances
while hunting and worn their nails short. The only time their toenails would touch the ground was when climbing a
hill. So a dog’s brain is evolutionarily programmed to associate toenail contact with being on a hill, and he shifts his
body posture accordingly: leaning forward over his forelimbs, up the imaginary hill as reported by his toes. Since
the hill is not real, a secondary compensation with his hind limbs is necessary to avoid a face plant. This abnormal
compensatory posture can be called “goat on a rock,” because it brings his paws closer together under his body.
Normal neutral posture is a nice show dog “stack,” with vertical legs like a table. Recent research shows that
standing with limbs “camped-in” is hard work to maintain. These goat-on-a-rock dogs get over-used muscles and
eventually over-used joints, especially in their hind limbs, making it difficult to jump in cars, climb stairs and even
hard to get up from lying down. Sounds like a lot of older dogs we know! Cutting toenails short can be like a miracle
cure for your dog whose hind end has become painful, weak and over-used.
That’s the “why.” Now for the “what and how.”
How To Trim The Toenail
Toe nail maintenance requires a trim every two weeks, just like maintaining human fingernails. If you can hear nails
clicking on your kitchen floor, they are much too long. But don’t despair, the technique shown here will make short
work of getting your dog’s nails back to their correct shape. The concept is easy: trim around, never across the quick,
which is actually your dog’s finger.
(Continue to next page.)
Roxy Palladino
Charlie Alpert Hernandez
Jake Robles
Zen Cordan
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
Tools Of The Trade - NAIL CLIPPERS
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Use only “scissor” type clippers. Guillotine style clippers crush the toe, which is painful. Never put the
whole nail in a clipper.
Use small size clippers for better control. Only giant breed dogs will need large ones.
Keep your tools sharp: either replace or sharpen your clippers regularly.
“Quick-guards” obscure your view of the nail. If possible, remove them, or at least tape them back so
that they won’t interfere with your work.
“Pedi-paws” type grinder: Smooth out your trim afterwards with a rotating emery board.
File only the insensitive nail around the top and sides of the quick: “Sharpen the pencil” where the nail is
the wood and the quick is the lead.
IF YOU CUT THE QUICK--Use corn starch to staunch the bleeding if you make a nail leak. With shallow
cuts, this will be rare.It’s easiest if you use a small container with tightly packed powder.
TIPS AND TRICKS
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Trim nails outside or in a well lit room.
If you need “cheaters” for reading, use them for toenail clipping too.
It’s actually easier to see the nail structures on pigmented nails than on white ones. The insensitive nail
will show as a chalky ring around the sensitive quick.
Keep clipper blades almost parallel to the nail – never cut across the finger.
Don’t squeeze the toes – that hurts! Use your fingers to separate the toes for clipping and hold the paw
gently. Use a pair of blunt edged children’s scissors to remove excess toe hair: nothing dulls clippers
quicker than cutting hair!
Remember, no dog ever died from a quicked toenail. If you “quick” your dog accidentally, give a
yummy treat right away.
Make nail trimming fun: always associate nail cutting with cookies and praise.
For maintenance, cut every two weeks. To shorten, cut every week.
Once the insensitive nail is thinned out and isn’t supporting the quick, the quick will dry up and recede. This will
allow you to cut your dog’s nails even shorter. Each dog’s nails are different, but very long toenails often
become dry and cracked, with a clear separation of the living tissue and the insensitive nail. This will make it
easier to trim back longer nails.
What’s inside your dog’s toenail? (image below) On the left, the interior structures are shown, along with the
suggested angle to remove the “roof” of the nail, while not harming the sensitive quick. On a black claw, the
interface between sensitive and insensitive nail is usually chalky and white – very easy to discern. On the right is
a close-up view of the inside of the nail. On cross section, the sensitive quick will look translucent and glossy,
like living flesh. In untrimmed claws, there will often be a “notch” below the tip of the quick. It is usually safe to
initiate your angled cut at the notch.
Some dogs act like cutting their nails is their worst nightmare. This may be a learned behavior from their
painful, overstimulated toes, which will slowly dissipate along with the pain once the nails are short. Use all
your best restraint and behavior modification tricks to get through the initial phase, whether your dog is a
squirmer or a drama queen.
(Continue to next page)
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
Start on the hind feet, because the nails tend to be a little shorter and less sensitive than the front. But remember you
can’t make an accurate cut on a moving target so get help from your dog trainer or groomer if needed. Make nail
trimming “quality time” you spend with your dog. Lots of kisses, lots of treats and a positive attitude go a long way.
If you dread it, your dog will too, so learn how to be a good actor until you succeed in believing it can be a loving
experience for you both. If your dog loses patience quickly, try cutting one nail a day. As long as you keep the order
of toes consistent, this will be a good maintenance schedule, giving every toe a trim every 16 days.
Short toenails are critical to your dog’s health and soundness. Failure is not an option!
(Illustrations by Michael A Simmons MFA)
About the Author Dr Karen Gellman
Karen Gellman DVM PhD is known by colleagues worldwide for teaching and researching on posture,
biomechanics and holistic veterinary medicine. She practices at The Wellness Center for Pets in Ithaca, N
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
CONGRATULATIONS!
Paula and Jake-Award of Merit at Nationals 2015
Lily’s first dog show win loot
New International and AKC Chamnpions
Zeeva’s Rally Novice Title
Int/NatCh RamsGate's Sparkler RN RA CGC
Petra 8 yrs (Glenn) and Morgen 6 yrs (Riewe)--You are never too old to learn new tricks! It had to be while we were training.
It was so much fun having the sisters earn the FIRST all Swissy Brace NDD at a Nationals(Utah).
It breaks my heart to know they are both gone now.
Photo: Nikki Kuhlman
Petra and Morgen
Dixie’s Rally Novice
Spring 2016
#2
VOL. FIVE ISSUE
New IntCH/CH - Ramsgate's Just What the Dr. Ordered “Mattie”
(DOB 04/04/14) Quinn x Riley
Mattie landed her IntCH on January 24th and then placed 3rd in Group (Santa Rosa).
Mattie finished her AKC Championship with a 3 point Major going Winners Bitch
on Saturday, February 20th, at Santa Clara.
She followed that up on Sunday by taking Select for her first major toward her Grand Championship.
Mattie spends wonderful days with adoring owners Monika McNamara and Gaby Cohen
and is lovingly co-owned (and bred) by Michele Slate & Toni Killpatrick.
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
IntCH Silver GCH RamsGate's Full Moon Rising JHDg HTADIs HTADIIs HTADIIIs HTDIs
"LUNA”
BD 3/26/13
Sire: GCH Big Hunk Of Whispering Pines - "Riley"
Dam: GCH RamsGate's Diamond In The Rough - "Quinn"
BOB - Chintimini KC - 4/2/16
Judge Dana Cline
BOB/GROUP 2 - Chintimini KC - 4/3/16
Breed & Group Judge Tomas Gomez
Luna continues her winning ways,
following her Best of Breed win at Eukanuba in January
and culminating in back to back Best of Breed wins
and a Group 2 at the above shows in Albany, OR.
To say we're proud of her accomplishments would be an understatement...
She is all we could ask for and more
Owned and loved by
Michele Slate
Expertly handled by
Soni Jager
Sherwood, OR
wolfpack1313@msn.com
503 545-2433
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
MORE SUCCESS STORIES
Int Ch Cedarcoves Princess of England's Isadore-Able
Int Ch GCH CH Alpinez England's Silver Oak NWPD “Brig”
The past few months have been busy. Brig & Issie both got their Int Ch titles in Ontario, CA. Brig is now a
GCH, too. He went back to back BOB wins in Fresno to finish, then back to back BOB in City of Industry.
Alan (hubby) has really stepped up and done an amazing job with both Brig & Issie. Brig & Tuck (our GSD)
recently both got their NWPD titles as well. Issie and Brig now have their CGC titles, as well. Brig took to his
new cart right away, and we will continue to train for that as well.
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
NEW GRAND CHAMPIONS and TITLES...
GCH CH Alpinez Gold Medal Ribbon Sophie CD, CGC, NWPD
Int/Am GCH CH Alpinez Precious Silver CGC, NWPD
(We got our CGCs, too!)
Mia Herding
Mia
Sophie
Wow! What an amazing weekend. It was 2 days of pack hiking with the pups, and they both earned their NWPD
titles, and we had a wonderful Swissy Social at our home yesterday.
It was so awesome to visit with our 2-legged and 4-legged friends.
We are all totally exhausted, but it was so worth it!
See Swissy Stride Photos: http://www.goldengategsmdc.com/galleries/201602SwissyStridePkHike/index.html
JURA earned her Novice CD and Rally Advanced.
Rally Advanced
Novice CD
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
Let’s Go Camping with DogTrekker.com!
DogTrekker.com is your guide to California's favorite dog-friendly hikes, beaches, hotels, restaurants and more.
Whether you are traveling two miles to visit a local dog park or 200 miles to explore the hidden beaches of Lake
Tahoe, plan your trip on DogTrekker.com and take us along with our new mobile app.
See more at: http://dogtrekker.com/#sthash.SnyNUgR7.dpuf
Provisioning your pup on a camping trip isn’t so different from provisioning for any other kind of road trip (see our
road-trip tips on DogTrekker.com). Protection against ticks, fleas, heartworms and parasites is a must, as is a dog
first-aid kit for away-from-home emergencies. Don’t forget pickup bags and/or a lightweight trowel to bury waste
(check rules at your campground).
• At most campsites, rules call for dogs to be leashed at all times and to sleep either in your tent or in your vehicle.
Obviously, you can’t cook or build a campfire with a leash in your hand, so unless your pooch is a couch potato,
you’ll want to think ahead about how to temporarily tether her so she won’t run into the road or take off after a
squirrel while your back is turned. A leash around the leg of a picnic table will work, of course, but it will also keep
your dog under foot. Cable tie-outs, widely available at pet stores, can be secured between two trees and will keep
Daisy safe and happy while you putter around. An option popular with hunters, and especially handy at sites
without trees, is a stake-out post with a 30-inch chain attached to a swivel. Bella can move freely within a five-foot
circle, and you can position the stake almost anywhere (pack a mallet to hammer the post into the ground). Be
forewarned: pet-store stake-outs that screw into the ground might work well in soft, grassy lawns, but can be
difficult or impossible to twist into dirt at a campground.
• Lola will have to sleep in your tent or in your vehicle, where she’ll be safe from wildlife and not tempted to bark
the night away, disturbing other campers. A portable kennel is a lifesaver for dogs prone to nighttime pacing,
wandering or responding vocally to unfamiliar sounds and smells.
• California leash laws, revised in 2006, set out some rules for people leaving home with their pets, and individual
RV parks and campgrounds may impose additional layers of regulations. A page at Camp-California.com spells out
the leash-law basics. - See more at:
http://dogtrekker.com/Story/What-to-Pack-for-Your-Pup#sthash.txwLV4wu.dpuf
Erin and Enzo in Ashland
Bruno Schmoldt
Harley Rose in Washoe Valley
We work for you.
Mia herding
Freddie in his agility “laughing place”
Bentley will carry Veronika’s pack
Allison’s dogs pull sleds (photo by Allison Allen)
We‘ll play with you, too.
Roscoe Bunny
I’ve been kissed by a human!
Kona Ruffing the Big Game
Roscoe and Beau-Pool Nerds
You really want me to wear this?
O’Charlie Alpert Hernandez
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
Turmeric benefits your dog in many different ways:
1 It can decrease inflammation (can help with itchy skin issues)
2 It’s a powerful antioxidant
3 It helps thin the blood (lowering the risk of blood clots)
4 Protects the liver from toxins
5. Promotes heart and digestive health
6. Offers allergy relief
7. Has been used in cancer and epilepsy treatment
https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/turmeric-rodney.jpg
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Pumpkin Homemade Dog Treats
1/2 cup Natural Peanut Butter
1 cup 100% Pure Pumpkin Puree, canned
1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour (I used Whole Grain Brown Rice Flour)
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, stir together peanut butter and pumpkin. Stir in the flour 1/4 cup at a time just until dough is no
longer sticky.
3. Roll the dough out between two sheets of parchment paper to 1/4″ thick. Use a cookie cutter to cut out the
dough, then place on the prepared pan.
4. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes. Let cool completely. Store in an airtight container or freeze for
up to 3 months.
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
Swissys and Their Peeps
Cammy and Lily
Shadetree’s Zen Pixie and her Kids
Alison and her Swissys
11 yr old Sergeant and Jeff
Kona and attendants
Heidi sledding with Merlin and Oz
Charlie Hernandez
Trekker, Rob and Marie in Alberta
Albert and his minis
Jake and Paula
Susan and Zelda Swissie
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
Lawn Chemicals Linked to 2 Types of Cancer in Dogs By Paul Ebeling on May 15, 2016
Spring is here, Summer is just around the corner, and there is nothing as inviting as a lush green open space on a warm, sunny day.
Play it safe so your pet can stay safe.
Often the most lush lawns and gardens in the neighborhood have been liberally treated with pesticides, insecticides,
herbicides, and other chemicals that neither you nor your pet should be exposed to.
According to a study conducted over a 6 year period at the Foster Hospital for Small Animals at Tufts University’s Cummings
School of Veterinary Medicine, exposure to lawn pesticides, specifically those applied by professional lawn care companies,
raised the risk of canine malignant lymphoma (CML) by as much as 70%
Dogs at highest risk for acquiring CML were over 50 pounds and living in homes where pesticides and herbicides were
professionally applied, as well as homes where owners used lawn care products containing insect growth regulators, aka
chemical killing agents.
Another study performed at the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at Purdue University concluded certain garden
and lawn chemicals are linked to canine bladder cancer, including common herbicides containing 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic
acid (2,4-D), 4-chloro-2-methylphenoxypropionic acid (MCPP) and/or dicamba.
The dogs’ exposure to the chemicals occurred through ingestion, inhalation, and transdermally. Breeds with a genetic
predisposition for bladder cancer, including Beagles, Scottish Terriers, Shetland Sheepdogs, West Highland White Terriers,
and Wire Hair Fox Terriers are at particularly high risk.
The study showed that most of the dogs from homes using the chemicals had herbicides in their urine. Since some dogs from
homes that did not use the products also had herbicides in their urine, researchers concluded the wind could carry the
chemicals up to 50 ft from the site where they were applied.
We are just beginning to study the far-reaching harmful effects of the huge numbers of environmental chemicals that
negatively impact all of our health. Play it safe so your pet can stay safe.
The veterinary experts recommend the following:
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Do not apply chemical pesticides or herbicides to your yard, and if you use a lawn care service, do not allow them to
use them. Also be aware that a neighbor’s lawn chemicals can potentially contaminate your property and pose a risk
to your pet.
Avoid lawn care and other gardening products that contain insect growth regulators (IGRs). And be aware that the
chemical pyriproxyfen, an IGR, is used in certain flea/tick spot-on treatments.
Do not allow your pet access to any lawn unless you can confirm no pesticides or herbicides have been used.
Increase the number of baths and foot rinses spring through fall, when chemical application is highest along public
highways, parks, schools, streets and public nature preserves.
If you live in a townhouse or community that applies chemicals to common areas, detoxing a patch of grass in your
backyard by watering the chemicals down into the soil to reduce skin contact after application.
Keep your pet on a leash and on the sidewalk until you have walked to your pesticide-free destination, and consider a
periodic detoxification protocol for your pet.
(Continued on next page)
Spring 2016
Yellow-Arbor x Royce
Puppy Charlie Hernandez
VOL. FIVE ISSE #2
Draven Gradin--Nine Weeks
Aqua-Artbor x Royce
Abe Duncan
Maggie (Michelle Turner)
Lawn Chemicals (Continued) Transitioning your lawn from fast food to an Organic diet.
Espoma Co., a business that has been producing natural and Organic products for the lawn and garden industry for 80 years,
created what they call their Safe Paws campaign to help educate people about natural gardening solutions that keep pets
healthy and safe outside. Espoma encourages homeowners to get their lawn off fast food and on “healthy food.” The
traditional method of lawn care spreads toxic pesticides over the entire lawn that are potentially harmful to pets, children,
and the environment. Synthetic fertilizers containing fast-acting chemicals and made with fossil fuels like Nat Gas and coal are
another problem in conventional lawn care. These chemicals can burn the grass and kill earthworms and beneficial
organisms in the soil. Excess fertilizer can leach into nearby waterways, causing pollution and harmful algae blooms.
Espoma explains that the focus of Organic lawn care is to produce a healthy lawn and soil using natural Organic fertilizers like
bio-charcoal aka Bio-Char. An Organic lawn has grass roots grown deep into the soil, which makes them less vulnerable to
drought, weeds, insects, disease, and other stressors.
Food and garden waste can enhance the quality of garden soil, but remember to keep compost in closed containers, because
decomposing waste can make pets sick if ingested.
There are many excellent online resources about how to naturally control weeds and improve soil health without toxic
chemicals, and in many communities Organic lawn care services are readily available.
Remember, play it safe so your pet can stay safe.
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
Brig hugging Issie
Harley and Brando
Calvin and his chicken
Luna and Dirty Harry
Slugger and Remus
Beau and Roscoe
Mookie and Heidi
Dexter and Cricket
Stella in Utah
OUR
SWISSYS
AND
THEIR
BUDDIES
Lily and King
Sergeant and Oliver
Brig, Mia and Sophie
Geneva and Dirty Harry
Odin and Enzo
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
WE’RE SMILING AT YOU
Sonny Damone
Trekker’s I cover the waterfront smile
Bruno
Rocco
Slugger’s smile
Remy Ching
Zelda’s lovin’ the beach smile
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
Lily on her couch
Beau and Roscoe, couch potatoes
Murray on his back hollering “UNCLE!”
Slugger after the Denver Cluster
Jake by the Fire
Heidi and her stairs
Mia and Emmie-rainy night
Zar feelin’ fine after his bath
Zen Pixie
Bruno—are we there yet, Dad?
Heidi wants a sister/brother…
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
1
SWISSY SMILES
.
Fredrick
Murray
King
Charlie
Arbor
Trinity and Enzo-twin smiles
Ramsey
Bruno
Remy and Bosley
Koda
Reba
Mattie
Spring 2016
VOL. FIVE ISSUE #2
SIGNS OF DOG SICKNESS
Signs start with a change in your pet's routine behavior and attitude.
Watch for:
Decreased energy or activity level
Changes in appetite or water intake
Changes in behavior: hiding, refusing to play, becoming aggressive
Vomiting, diarrhea or straining to urinate or defecate
Poor coat quality, patchy hair loss or excessive scratching
Weight loss
Foul order coming from the mouth, ears or skin
Abnormal whining or crying
Toni Killpatrick
INFORMATIONAL SITES to VISIT
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2210909824/
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club of America
GSMDCA
http://www.gsmdca.org/
Golden Gate GSMD Facebook Page
Click here
Visit our club website:
www.goldengategsmdc.com/