April 2016 of our club newsletter - San Francisco Bay Weimaraner

SILVER EXPRESS
APRIL 2016
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
APRIL AND MAY ARE BUSY MONTHS FOR WEIMARANER
ACTIVITIES…………..
(See our March newsletter for more details)
BARN HUNT CLINICS FOR BEGINNERS AND INTERMEDIATE: At Rockville
Ranch in Fairfield, April 22. See Barn Hunt Calendar for details.
Questions? Contact Debbie Gross at weimmom8@aol.com.
SFBWC/REDWOOD RATTERS BARN HUNT, April 23 & 24 at Rockville
Ranch in Fairfield. Contact Debbie Gross for info weimmom8@aol.com.
RATTLESNAKE AVERSION TRAINING FOR DOGS – APRIL 24. Sponsored by SFBWC. If you have
not already signed up for a time, call GET RATTLED at 775 234-8844. This will be held at
Rockville Ranch, 4167 Stonefield Lane, Fairfield, Ca. 94534 beginning at 8AM. Cost is $85/first
time and $60/for dogs trained previously by GET RATTLED. Mention that you are a member of
SFBWC for a $10 discount. You must fill out an application and pre register with GET RATTLED.
2016 snake avoidance application.pdf 2016RATTLESNAKE AVOIDANCE TRAINING FLYER.pdf
Call Debbie Gross for more info; 707 718-5976.
SHOOTING AND RETRIEVING DOG PRACTICE – MAY 1 at HASTINGS ISLAND, Rio Vista. Contact
Dan McDermott at dmcderm99@gmail.com to reserve a spot for you and your dog.
SFBWC WEIMARANER CLUB OF AMERICA SHOOTING AND RETRIEVING RATING TESTS. May 7
at Hastings Island, Rio Vista. See Field Events Calendar for entry and rules. You must be a
member of WCA to qualify for a rating. (Entry on Field Calendar) Call Dan McDermott at
dmcderm99@gmail.com with questions or if you can volunteer to help.
SFBWC SPECIALTY SHOW/OBEDIENCE/RALLY: Friday,May 20, Vallejo Fairgrounds, Vallejo.
SFBWC is also supporting Weimaraner entrys at the Coyote Hills Kennel Club shows on
Saturday and Sunday May 25 & 26 and will be providing awards for all three days. We would
welcome any trophy donations to cover the cost of the awards. Trophy Donation Form
2016SFBWCSpecialty Show Trophy Donation.docx . Questions? Want to volunteer to help?
Contact Debbie Gross, weimmom8@aol.com 707 718-5976. Or, just come to the show and
watch, do some “doggie” shopping, have lunch, do some socializing!!! For those entering the
show, remember, entrys close May 4. Go to www.infodog.com for an entry and full
information.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS:
The following field events have attached links for entrys. If you are unable to open a link, e-mail Arlene at
windwalker@powernet.net. Will e-mail info to you.
FIELD EVENTS
4/16-17
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA BRITTANY CLUB HUNT TEST; Kick Back Ranch, Penn Valley
NCBC KBR HT 2016 Flyer.doc
NCBRKBR Release of Liability (1).doc
NCBCHT41617 2016premium.pdf
Kyle Tetlow ktetlow@sbcglobal.net
4/23-24
VIZSLA CLUB OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA WALKING FIELD TRIAL: Hastings Island, Rio Vista.
Amateur Puppy and Amateur Derby stakes now open to all breeds. .....
VCNCWalkingFT423242016.pdf Vickie Payne vickiepayne@yahoo.com
4/30 5/1
SUTTER BUTTES POINTING DOG CLUB HUNT TEST, Hastings Island, Rio Vista.
SBPDCHT430512016.pdf
Walter Windus wwindus@msn.com
5/1
SFBWC SHOOTING AND RETRIEVING DOG PRACTICE Hastings Island Hunting Preserve, Rio vista.
Reserve your spot with Dan – dmcderm99@gmail.com Meet at 8:30AM at the Clubhouse
5/7-8
VIZSLA CLUB OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA HUNT TEST, Hastings Island, Rio Vista.
VCNCHT5782016.pdf Walter Windus wwindus@msn.com
5/7
SFBWC WEIMARANER CLUB OF AMERICA SHOOTING AND RETRIEVING RATING TESTS. at
Hastings Island Hunting Preserve, Rio Vista. Contact Dan McDermott if you can help.
dmcderm99@gmail.com You must be a member of Weimaraner Club of America to enter.
Please note – Start time has been changed to 8AM. WCA Ratings test premiumMay78am.pdf
WCA ratings_test_standards-rev 2014.pdf wca_memberapplication.pdf
BARN HUNT EVENTS:
4/22
REDWOOD RATTERS BEGINNERS BARN HUNT CLINIC, 9am – 1pm, Rockville Ranch, Fairfield Ca.
For Beginners who have never run in a Barn Hunt $60
Weimmom8@aol.com
Beginners Barn Hunt Clinic April 2016.pdf
www.redwoodratters.com
REDWOOD RATTERS INTERMEDIATE BARN HUNT CLINIC, 2 pm – 6 pm, Rockville Ranch,
Fairfield, Ca. Clinic to build up your confidence in handling. $75 weimmom8@aol.com
Fairfield Intermediate Barn Hunt Clinic.pdf
4/23 & 24
SFBWC/REDWOOD RATTERS BARN HUNT Rockville Ranch, Fairfield,
AprilBarnHunt 2016 Farifield Premium.pdf
Debbie Gross 707 718 5976 www.redwoodratters.com
5/14 & 15
ABBA DOG RATTERS BARN HUNT, Rockville Ranch, Fairfield. www.abbadogs.com
DOG SHOWS AND OBEDIENCE, RALLY, AGILITY & TRACKING EVENTS – CALIFORNIA
4/15,16,17
4/15-17
4/16,17
4/23,24
5/1
5/7
5/7, 8
5/13,14,15
5/14
5/15
5/15
5/20,21,22
5/20
5/21, 22
5/22
5/27 – 30
5/28, 29
5/30
6/2-3
6/4-5
6/9-10
6/11-12
6/26
6/30
7/1
7/2, 3
7/1,2,3
7/8
7/9, 10
7/15,16,17
7/23
7/23,24,25
MENSONA KENNEL CLUB
Santa Rosa
Agility
Closes 3/30
CANINE AGILITY CLUB OF FRESNO Madera
Agility
Closes 3/31
SACRAMENTO KENNEL CLUB
Sacramento
Show/Obed/Rally
Closes 3/30
CHIEF SOLANO KENNEL CLUB
Vallejo
Show/Obed/Rally
Closes 4/6
MT.DIABLO DOG TRNG. CLUB
Hayward
Obedience/Rally
Closes 4/13
DAVIS DOG TRAINING CLUB
Dixon
Obedience/Rally
Closes 4/22
GALIVAN KENNEL CLUB
Tres Pinos
Show/Obed/Rally
Closes 4/20
SANTA CLARA DOG TRNG. CLUB
San Jose
Agility/Obed/Rally
Closes 4/28
CAMILLIA CAPITAL KENNEL CLUB
Woodland
Show
Closes 4/27
SANTA CRUZ KENNEL CLUB
Woodland
Show
Closes 4/27
SAN MATEO DOG TRAINING CLUB San Jose
Obedience/Rally
Closes 4/27
SONOMA COUNTY AGILITY CLUB
Santa Rosa
Agility
Closes 4/27
SAN FRANCISCO BAY WEIMARANER CLUB Vallejo
2 Shows/Obed/Rally Closes 5/4
COYOTE HILLS KENNEL CLUB
Vallejo
Show/obedience
Closes 5/4
OAKLAND DOG TRAINING CLUB
Hayward
Obedience
Closes 5/4
2 RIVERS AGIL.CLUB OF SACRAMENTODixon
Agility
Closes 5/13
HANGTOWN KENNEL CLUB
Placerville
Show/obed/rally
Closes 5/11
KENNEL CLUB OF CALIF. SIERRA
Placerville
Show/obed/rally
Closes 5/11
BUTTE COUNTY KENNEL CLUB
Gridley
Show/Obedience
Closes 5/18
SHASTA KENNEL CLUB
Gridley
Show/Obedience
Closes 5/18
YOSEMITE KENNEL CLUB
Vallejo
Show/Obedience
Closes 5/25
CONTRA COSTA KENNEL CLUB
Vallejo
Show
Closes 5/25
DEEP PENINSULA DOG TRNG. CLUB Hayward
Obedience/Rally
Closes 6/8
SOUTHLAND WEIMARANER CLUB Ventura
2 Shows/Obed/swps. Closes 6/15
VENTURA DOG FANCIERS ASC.
Ventura WCA Western Futurity/Show/Ob Closes 6/15
BURBANK KENNEL CLUB
Ventura
Show
Closes 6/15
LOST COAST KENNEL CLUB OF CALIF. Ferndale
Show/Obedience/Rally Closes 6/15
CHANNEL CITY KENNEL CLUB
Camarillo
Show/Obedience
Closes 6/22
SANTA MARIA KENNEL CLUB
Camarillo
Show/Obedience
Closes 6/22
DEL MONTE KENNEL CLUB
Carmel
Show/Obedience/Rally Closes 6/29
COUNTY WIDE DOG TRNG.CLB
Rohnert Park
Obedience/Rally
July 5
LOAST COAST KENNEL CLB.OF CAL. Ferndale
Agility
July 7
GENERAL AND ENTRY INFORMATION FOR THE ABOVE EVENTS: – Go to www.infodog.com. Click on Show Information,
Shows by State, California, Name of Show. This will bring up info on the Superintendent and Premium List/Entry (if
available). If you don’t have a dog to enter or just want to go and watch, it is a great opportunity to see some fine
working dogs. If you are unable to obtain current info on an event, contact windwalker@powernet.net . NOTE: The
Closing date is the date the entry must have been received by the Superintendent or Secretary of the event.
REPORT FROM SFBWC FIELD TRAINING DAY APRIL 10: Dan McDermott and Bruce Gross were kept busy
working with the dogs and owners. In attendance for training were Cory O’Brien with Marley, Sandy Mocco
with Daisy Mae, Robbie McAlexander with Willie, Eric Robertson with Mackey, Taria Sarkisian with Fame,
Mary Petkevich with Murphy, Matt Russell with Cinder, Emily Panico with Cody and Debbie Gross with
Madison and Windy. Joe Murphy provided space in the back of his truck for young pups so their owners could
watch the training. Have lots of interest in our WCA Ratings Tests. Dan is taking reservations for the next
training day on May 1.
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS:
We welcome you to San Francisco Bay Weimaraner Club and invite you to join in with our activities. Please feel free to
contact the chairman of any event if you would like more information or if you would like to volunteer. Looking forward
to meeting you folks.
Jason & Gail Chinnock, Emerald Hills, Ca.
Maralee & Noal Childs, Orland, Ca. Weimaraners Tasha & Jackson
Oleg Popov, Concord, Ca.
Weimaraner Lexi
Joe & Sara Murphy, Oakley, Ca. Weimaraner Tank (Correction from March Newsletter.)
BRAGS AND WAGS:
FROM ROCKVILLE WEIMARANERS:
Madison finished her Junior Hunter title (JH) at the Wirehair Pointer Club
Hunt Test at Hastings Island 4/2. She is now INTL/AKC CH ROCKVILLE’S SILVER
DAY ON THE MOUND JH
Willie and Sterling each earned a leg toward their JH title. Bruce Gross was a
busy handler!
Sky (Vizsla)
owned by Cindy
Hunter earned 2
JH legs also.
Chief got to do an ad for a Futon Store and was given his
own personal futon cushion!! He will share it with the
girls. Watch for him on Television.
FROM TARIA SARKISIAN: Fame completed
two Obedience titles in one day at the San
Mateo Kennel Club show March 25,
Beginner Novice B and Rally Novice B. He
is now INTL. CH, NAT. INT. BA. CH, AKC CH
ROCKVILLE’S SF GIANTS HALL OF FAME
RN, BN, CGCA, CGCU, RATI.
Very Proud owner!!!!
GETTING RID OF GOO!
Sooner or later, your dog will get chewing gum, tar, tree sap, burrs or some other sticky or tenacious substance in his
fur. To get rid of sticky stuff without cutting the hair, work some vegetable oil into the goo with your fingers. The oil will
help break up the goo into smaller pieces, which you can gently pull out of the fur. When you’re done, bathe your dog
with a mild dog shampoo to remove the vegetable oil. Never use paint thinner, turpentine, nail polish remover or other
solvents to remove messes from your dog’s fur. They are toxic if licked off or absorbed through the skin.
(Editor’s note: This really works! Gina came in from hunting lizards in the woodpile and had both back footpads solidly
packed with pitch from the wood. We rubbed in vegetable oil and after a few minutes were able to pull out chunks (and
a bit of dog hair) A few more doses of vegetable oil and a good rub with paper towels cleaned out most of the pitch and
Gina was a happy dog to get rid of it!)
DANGERS IN GARDENING AND WEED CONTROL:
Spring is here and it’s time to get out in the yard and garden. The weeds are growing and while they are easy to pull
when small, when they become large and start to take over, thoughts go to how to control them. When thinking of the
product ROUNDUP, here are some things to consider.
1. The weed killer Roundup contains the chemical glyphosate which has been classified as a probable human carcinogen
by the World Health Organization and is banned by the Netherlands, France and Brazil. The EPA is currently reevaluating
Roundup as glyphosate is being found in everything from breast milk to beer and now even organic wine from vineyards
which don’t allow Roundup. It has also been linked to the decline in Monarch butterflys. Glyphosate is also the key
element that allows Monsanto Chemical Company to control a huge amount of our agricultural system. Several
environmental organizations are fighting to ban glyphosate to keep it out of the environment.
2. Our dogs and other pets can be exposed to weed killer just by walking through an area where it has been used. This
could be at parks, along the side of roads, or even our own yard. Could this be one of the reasons we see cancer and
thyroid problems in our pets?
NEWS FROM WEIMARANER CLUB OF AMERICA:
2016 has brought SFBWC a number of new members. We would like to help you folks become familiar with
Weimaraner Club of America (which is our parent club). First of all, they have a very informative website at
www.weimaranerclubofamerica.org. Please take time to go over their website. You will see that there is
much going on in the Weimaraner world! If you are not a member of WCA and wish to join, you may do so on
their website. If you need a sponsor, just contact one of our board members listed on the last page of this
newsletter.
The June edition of the WCA Magazine will be out soon. This is one we all look forward to as this is the Blue
Ribbon pictoral edition with lots of pictures of top winning and competing Weimaraners from across the
country.
The WCA National Specialty will be held in Warwick, Rhode Island May 30 – June 3, hosted by the Yankee
Weimaraner Club. Events will include a Conformation Show, Obedience, Rally, Agility, Tracking, Futurity &
Maturity, Junior Showmanship and Owner-Handler Series, Hunt Test, Retrieving Rating Test. Also, there will
be a Welcome Party, Breeder’s Seminar. Top Twenty Conformation Competition, General Membership
Meeting, WCA Awards Banquet and “Most Versatile Weimaraner”. Weimaraner enthusiasts from across the
country, Australia and Europe are in attendance with a large entry of Weimaraners. There is a news button on
the home page of the WCA website that connects to the National Specialty Website: http://wcanational.com
Check it often for updates!
Tickets Shotgun Raffle 2016.pdf
2016 National Specialty Shotgun
Raffle
The Weimaraner Foundation Fund [WFF] extends a cordial invitation to participate in their Shotgun
Raffle. The Raffle Drawing will be held at the WCA National Specialty Banquet - June 2, 2016. The winner
may choose the raffle proceeds to benefit one or all of the WFF Funds, e.g. Education, Health, Rescue, Bird
Dog Museum or Unspecified Fund. Please click on the attachment to find tickets for purchase. Take the
opportunity to win this beautiful Franchi Alcione Field 20-Gauge Shotgun with Case! Dr. Ted Grisell
donated the shotgun. He describes the piece as used, but in excellent condition. The gun killed maybe fifty
birds during the time he owned it. Further information available through: Deborah Andrews, WFF
Trustee/Secretary Tel: (304) 782-3009 Email: furstpless@hotmail.com
The WCA National Field Trial Championship held at Ardmore, Oklahoma in December was very successful
with 84 entries. Open Puppy Walking Stake was well received with a number of new faces at the trial.
WOULD BE EXCITING TO SEE SOME OF THE SFBWC MEMBERS COMPETING NEXT YEAR WITH
THEIR YOUNG DOGS!!! There will also be a Field Futurity and Winter Specialty Show.
BIRD DOG MUSEUM: A Weimaraner Exhibit at the Bird Dog Museum in Tennessee is finally a reality.
Donations Are Needed to complete the cabinets and install electricity for the television. Please send checks
to: Weimaraner Foundation Fund, Rebecca Weimer, 14 Lashley Estates Dr, Swansea, IL 62226. Note the
donation is for the WFF Weimaraner Exhibit Fund. (Donations to the WFF may be tax deductible.)
Memorabilia For The Exhibit Are Needed. We are looking for items from Ken Jellings, Chet Cummings and
Charlie Williams. Scrapbook Items Are Needed. Pictures, letters, articles, etc. of our field dogs. Scrapbook
Maker Also Needed. A club or individual to assume responsibility for the scrapbooks. To Donate Items & For
More Info Contact: Connie Nowell: rcnowell@hotmail.com (to see pictures of the Weimaraner display,
contact Arlene at windwalker@powernet.net )
SFBWC MEMBERSHIP DUES:
Our new membership year begins May 1. You will soon be receiving an e-mail about renewing your membership. We
would like everyone (except you folks who joined within the past few months) to fill out an application to update our
records (which will be included in the e-mail). You may do this on our website and pay your dues via PayPal or you may
print out our application, fill it out and return it to the address noted with your check via Postal Service.
The heart of any club is its members and volunteers. We know our members have lots of talents. We have a new
Membership Application. On it we have updated ‘SPECIFIC AREAS WHERE YOU MIGHT WANT TO BECOME INVOLVED
WITH THE CLUB: We are looking to form committees for folks of a specific interest so that when we want to put on an
event, we can draw from folks on that committee and not burn out one person doing all the work. This will also
generate a variety of ideas from folks on the committee. When we send out the e-mail about membership renewal, we
will also include an explanation of what each committee covers. The Activities Committee will be geared towards
offering events for companion dog owners who are not interested in competition.
We will also ask you to fill out WHAT ARE YOUR AREA OF INTERESTS WITH YOUR WEIMARANER. This will tell us what
our members are interested in doing and will permit us to offer events, workshops, training sessions, etc. for your
Weimaraners.
We value ideas and suggestions from our members. Please contact Dan at dmcderm99@gmail.com .
Please send brags, articles, pictures, any items for the newsletter to Arlene at windwalker@powernet.net.
San Francisco Bay Weimaraner Club
Specialty Shows, sweepstakes, obedience & Rally trials
Solano County Fairgrounds, Vallejo, CA 94589
Friday, May 20, 2016
Show #1: Show & Trial Hours: 8:00 A.M. to 12:00 Noon
Breed, Sweepstakes (6-24 months), Veteran Sweepstakes (6 years & over), Obedience & Rally Trial,
Show #2 Hours: 12:30 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.
Breed, Junior Showmanship,
All Judging Will Be Outdoors
AKC National Owner-Handled Series ~ Show #1 & #2
San Francisco Bay Weimaraner Club will Support the
Entry at Coyote Hills Kennel Club - Saturday & Sunday (Same Location).
May 21 (Judge: Dr. Herz ) & 22 (Judge: Rick Gschwender)
JUDGES
SHOW #1
Sandra Olsen: Breed Classes, Junior Showmanship, Owner-Handled
SeriesRichard Lewis: Sweepstakes
Alvin Eng: Obedience & Rally
SHOW #2
Rita Bell: Breed Classes & Junior Showmanship
Friday Hospitality
Morning Fare & *Luncheon*
The San Francisco Bay Weimaraner Club wishes to invite you to join us for
* Great Food * Wonderful Events * Camaraderie *
Friday morning we will offer a Continental Breakfast:
Coffee, Juice & Pastries.
Friday afternoon, a fine luncheon
will be available and prepared by Mary Petrovich.
Lunch is Free to Exhibitors
Donation Jar for Lunch for non exhibitors will be on the Table
The SFBWC will once again hold our famous raffle & silent Auction
For entry go to MB-F website – www.infodog.com
Debbie Gross – Show Chairman weimmom8@aol.com
Dan McDermott – Obedience & Rally Chairman dmcderm99@gmail.com
The name of the Best of Breed winners will be engraved on the SFBWC Perpetual Trophy
COME AND JOIN US AT THE DOG SHOW!
PUPPY PATTER:
FROM ROCKVILLE WEIMARANERS: Bruce and Debbie Gross
THE WESTERN LITTER:
From a basketfull of pups (10 of the 12 were born in the car going to and from
the vet’s office)…..to 12 wonderful homes…..we miss the pups but know they all
have special families and that they will give lots of love and adventures.
Newborns…….
Mom loves her baby.
Flowers…..
Let us out!!!
Tank pointing birds
FROM SILVERADO WEIMARANERS; Shiffra Steele & Michael Ayers
Here is the SILVERADO TRIPLE CROWN 9 litter, born February 24th.
They will be going to their new homes starting April 26!
BRONSON
BON JOVI
BRISTOL
BLUSH
BOEIG
BAMBI
BOUNCE
BRODY
BON BON
#############################################
IT’S GREAT TO SEE LOTS OF PUPS! WILL BE EXCITING TO WATCH THEM GROW UP AND
DEVELOP INTO BEAUTIFUL DOGS. HOPE TO ALSO SEE THEM IN THE SHOW AND COMPETITION
RINGS AND OUT IN THE FIELD.
RUNNING WITH YOUR WEIMARANER
By Pam Goodley
Running with a Weimaraner can be great for both you and the dog. However, there are several issues to be aware of to
ensure that it’s a pleasant experience for you, and a healthy and safe event for your dog.
When can your Weimaraner start running with you?
Veterinarians advise waiting until 18 months of age to do distance running with your dog.
Why wait?
Although your Weim may reach close to full size by about 10 months of age, inside, she is still growing, developing and
strengthening her muscles, bones, and joints. Starting before 18 months of age can impair the proper development of
the dog – which may not be apparent until after she is 2 or 3 years old.
Of course you’ll want to take your Weim on walks and even short jog/walks before she’s 18 months, but keep the
distance short (less than 2 miles). Begin with short distances, building up the distance covered. This also gives your
dog’s pads time to toughen while she is improving her conditioning and endurance.
You’ve adopted an adult Weimaraner – so he’s ready to do all of your runs with you, right?
Not necessarily! If the dog has been kept inside or crated night and day, his pads may not be sufficiently toughened to
sustain the miles you plan on running. He also may not be in the cardiovascular and muscular condition necessary to
keep up with you on the miles you normally run. It’s best to start with minimum mileage and build up gradually, just as
you did when you started running. Also, if the dog is overweight, it’s going to be tougher on him, just as it is for humans.
The running will be great exercise for the dog, but initially you’ll need to accommodate the dog’s less than optimal
condition. Be patient, and soon enough you’ll have a happy, healthy running partner capable of staying with you on all
of your runs.
Training your Weim to run with you.
Start with going to obedience classes – hopefully something you had planned anyway!
You don’t want to compete in Obedience trials, so why go through the training?
You’ll want to teach your dog to heel so that he runs at your left side, and doesn’t cut back and
forth in front or behind you. This also helps you to be a courteous runner if you’re on a bike
path, where you run on the left shoulder facing bike traffic. If your dog is on your left, he is
out of the way of oncoming cyclists. A Weimaraner is “a lot of dog” and obedience training is a
must.
In obedience training, you will learn that “heel” is a very specific position for your dog. If you
want to have the heeling a little more relaxed on your run, try using a different word, such as
“left,” so that your dog knows to be on your left side, not too much in front or behind you, but
understanding that a perfect heel position isn’t demanded.
Your Weimaraner may want to pull on the leash – a common trait of many dogs. Practice walks with your dog where
you walk straight ahead, then, when your Weimaraner isn’t paying attention to you, turn around or turn right. Your dog
will get a “pop” at the end of the leash, then IMMEDIATELY upon him catching back up to you, reward with praise and a
treat. This will help the dog learn to pay attention to you. Focus on reinforcing good behavior, not punishing
inappropriate behavior. Remember, too, that this will take a lot of work, so have patience! And if your Weimaraner is a
pup, be gentle with the little one.
Carry small treats with you - small enough to fit in the pocket of running shorts - and use the treats to reinforce proper
position and good behavior.
Equipment & extras:
A leash and collar are a must for your dog, along with a few other items depending on the weather and your location.
Leash:
A four-foot or six-foot leash is important. You want to have control over your dog, at any time, but especially when
you’re at a running pace. (Additionally, many areas have leash laws.) Plus, if you run near other runners, walkers or
cyclists, you want a short enough leash to keep your pooch from tripping up others. There are hands-free leashes
available that you strap around your waist that can work well (available at some running stores and pet stores).
However, these require having done some proper obedience training first, so that your Weimaraner will stay at your left.
Baggies:
If you’re running in your neighborhood or on a path where others will walk or run, be a good dog ambassador and clean
up after your dog relieves himself. As much as we all love our dogs, NONE of us like to step in their poop! Those little
plastic grocery bags can be folded into very tiny squares to fit in your pocket, or tied to a leash.
Water:
In warmer weather (and remember, your dog heats up quickly at a running or trotting pace) you’ll want to make sure
you can have water available for your dog. Some people teach their dogs to drink from a water bottle (which you can
carry for your dog in a runner’s belted bottle carrier). You can also get one of the small collapsible water bowls,
although you have to determine the way to carry it while you run. (Suggestions: put it in the fanny pack where you’d
carry a bottle if you aren’t bringing a bottle for yourself. Or, get running shorts with side pockets. Or, strap it to the
waist of a hands-free leash.)
Collars:
As far as collars go, there are a lot of opinions on the different types of collars available. Many people go with the
“prong” collars, which can be quite effective, and are actually more humane (and more effective) than the standard
“choke” chain. Also popular are the “head collars” such as Halti and Gentle Leader. With a more mature, well-trained
Weimaraner, you can even consider going to the standard “flat” collar. But with only a flat collar, be prepared to not
have the “tools” you’ll need if your Weimaraner is not very well trained. A big strong Weimaraner is a lot to control if
you have only a flat collar on him or her.
Pepper spray:
Lastly, carrying pepper spray is something you might consider, depending on where you run. Not only can you use it
against a human assailant, you can use it on a loose dog that may aggressively approach you and your dog. Although
these occurrences are rare, you don’t want to be in the middle of a dog fight. Sadly, too many people let their dogs that
aren’t under voice control off leash, or you may encounter an aggressive, loose dog in your neighborhood.
How far can your Weimaraner run with you?
Again, start with short distances with your Weimaraner, just as you started your running. Your dog needs a chance to
develop its cardiovascular and muscular fitness just as all runners do when starting out.
The distance your Weimaraner can run with you will depend on the dog’s age, the outside
temperature, and the fitness of the dog. Increase mileage gradually, again, just as human
runners are advised. There are Weims that have worked up to running the marathon
distance with their human training partners. Remember, though, to build up gradually, and
always plan stops for your Weimaraner to get properly hydrated, especially in warm weather.
.
Health considerations and problems you might encounter:
Aside from not starting your Weimaraner at too young of an age, you should be aware of
other issues that can affect your dog when out running.
You owe it to your Weimaraner to consistently monitor her condition during your runs. This is especially important in
warm or hot weather. Remember, your Weimaraner can’t perspire to cool herself, and her body temperature can easily
elevate to dangerous – even fatal – levels.
Heatstroke can be suffered by a rise of just 3 degrees of your dog’s normal temperature. Watch for rapid breathing, dry
mouth and nose, and increased heart rate. If the dog’s temperature continues to rise, the dog may suffer collapse,
vomiting, seizures, or even death. Don’t let your dog reach the early stages, but if it happens, try to cool her in water as
soon as possible. Even if the dogs appears to recover, veterinary examination is a must, as damage to internal organs
can occur which may not be initially detectable.
Other outdoor hazards include foxtails and poisonous snakes, such as the Western rattlesnake. Foxtails look like a very
small version of their name – like a tiny foxtail. It is sharply pointed at one end, with microscopic barbs on it. A foxtail
can be accidentally inhaled by a sniffing Weimaraner, or become lodged in the pad of the foot. Because of its structure,
it will move in only one direction if it enters the dog – the direction of the sharp point. From there it can move into the
brain, or into other organs of the body. It can even lodge inside the dog somewhere, creating an abscess and infection
not necessarily noticeable until the dog becomes ill from the infection. In some cases, foxtails that get lodged internally
can be fatal. You will very likely know if a foxtail has been inhaled by your Weimaraner, as violent sneezing will result.
If the foxtail is picked up in the foot, you may notice your dog limping, or later licking the foot. If you cannot remove the
foxtail (and this is difficult, if not impossible if it’s in the nose), get your dog to a veterinarian. It is important to get the
foxtail removed from the dog, wherever it may have traveled. This situation should be considered as an emergency.
Rattlesnake bites are poisonous to both humans and dogs. Remember that even a large dog like a Weimaraner weighs a
lot less than you weigh. Rattlesnake venom can kill your dog. If the dog is bitten, get the dog to the vet immediately.
This is an emergency, and not getting treatment will very likely result in severe illness, and likely death of the dog. If
you’re in an area with poisonous snakes, keep the dog leashed and always watch your path.
Where to run with your Weim?
You can typically take your Weimaraner to run with you just about any place you run. However, if you race, do respect
race rules that don’t allow dogs. Although most race directors won’t pull someone off the course who has a dog, it’s
part of being a good dog ambassador to respect the rules.
For training, when you run in your neighborhood, be sure to have that baggie to clean up after your dog. You don’t want
to give a bad name to dog owners AND runners by leaving your Weimaraner’s pile on someone’s lawn.
If you live near mountain or forest trails, you and your Weimaraner can enjoy some spectacular runs together. If you’re
in an area with rattlesnakes, do remain aware during “snake season” so that you don’t end up with an emergency trip to
the vet (see previous information on snakes). Also, depending on the region, watch out for ticks and poison oak. Poison
oak oil from your dog’s coat can rub off on you. And keep on eye on your dog to see if he or she starts to limp, as a
sticker may have gotten stuck in his pad. If you’re in an area with ticks, inspect your dog thoroughly after your run and
immediately remove any ticks.
Racing With your Weim:
As mentioned before, if you want to participate in running races with your dog, please be a good “dog ambassador” and
follow race rules where dogs are not allowed. However, luckily many communities offer races where dogs are allowed.
Watch for races, such as the Sacramento SPCA Doggy Dash, which not only allow, but also encourage, our canine
athletes to participate.
The races can be a lot of fun, and it’s pretty amazing seeing dozens and dozens of dogs together, all getting along
relatively well. If you’re a competitive person, remember that your dog may not have done the “speedwork” that you’ve
trained with to compete, so race day with your dog is a day on which you may have to compromise your goals in order
to ensure your dog’s good health.
VIDEOS:
(We are going to attempt to post a video in the newsletter monthly. Please let Arlene know if you cannot open it.)
Mar 18, 2016 From Martha Zimet
We love all of our four legged kids, but there will be one that is our special 'heart' dog. Sophia is my heart dog, which does not detract from how I
feel about Ruger or Serena. Maybe it is because I had her spayed before I knew how great she would be. Maybe it is because I shipped her out for 18
months to be on the road competing in AKC Field Trials without doing my due diligence first. It really doesn't matter why. What does matter is that
we have a special bond and relationship which transcends everything. If you ever see us in the field hunting together, our connection will be
palatable.
Sophia, Higgins Gundog and my special Maserati, this video is dedicated to you. https://youtu.be/68AHhacm7Ts Turn on the volume!
WEIMARANER FUN DAY:
There has been discussion about a WEIMARANER FUN DAY for club members possibly sometime in June. Debbie and
Bruce Gross have graciously offered a location in their front pasture at ROCKVILLE RANCH in Fairfield. This would
include a picnic (pot luck with hot dogs and hamburgers) fun and games for your Weimaraner and a chance to try out
agility and barn hunt, a brief club meeting and other events. A highlight would be meeting club members! WATCH FOR
MORE INFORMATION!
SAN FRANCISCO BAY WEIMARANER OFFICERS AND RESOURCES:
PRESIDENT:
Dan McDermott dmcderm99@gmail.com
VICE PRESIDENT: Bruce Gross
Bgross1070@aol.com
SECRETARY
Dionne Mercer
deniel560@comcast.net
TREASURER
Cathy Gould
Foxridgeranchlosbanos@yahoo.com
BOARD:
Sandra Sue Mocco sandrasue13@me.com
Martha Zimet
zimet@manray.com
NEWSLETTER EDITOR:
A. Marshrey
windwalker@powernet.net
AKC HUNT TEST CHAIRMAN: Dionne Mercer
deniel560@comcast.net
WCA RATING TEST CHAIRMAN:
Dan McDermott dmcderm99@gmailcom
AGILITY/OBEDIENCE CHAIRMAN:
Debbie Gross
weimmom8@aol.com
SHOW CHAIRMAN:
Debbie Gross
weimmom8@aol.com
The opinions expressed in the articles in
this Newsletter are those of the contributors
and do not necessarily reflect the official
policy of the San Francisco Bay Weimaraner
Club.
WEBSITE www.sfbwc.org