appropriate Berner-L topics
Dearest Listers, As an international member of this list, my perspective is sometimes somewhat different - not often but sometimes. Our love of Berners has gathered us here - many of us have our hands full just keeping the Berner(s) in our homes happy and healthy, some of us have progressed beyond our own hearth in our efforts for the welfare of Berners in general. I actually read every post, even the ones about meet us at such and such a park next Saturday for a hotdog/parade/walk/clinic. The combined energy of this list is astounding as well as impressive - and the sharing of our Berner-joys, our Berner-concerns and our Berner-issues gives momentum to new ideas, inspiration and education beyond this forum around the globe. The Lancaster County discussion has been very educational for this Berner lover sitting on the other side of the world - though I was aware of the Amish and their puppy mills, I wasn't as informed of the situation as I am now. Even overseas breeders love and care about the dogs they produce. Some of them read this list or know people that do. That membership in the BMDCA doesn't necessarily guarantee that a uniform code of ethics is adhered to, is also very good information for people not close enough to experience goings-on at a national level. The Lancaster County posts have all made very good points as is often the case when people on this list disagree. Although I knew prong/pinch/shock collars are illegal in this country, I learned today that there are other countries where they are not considered acceptable animal practice. I'm glad Marion had the time to share that with us. Reading about the personal stories of Choupette and her family of heroes in France/Jeddah, Stevie's and Karen's accident and miraculous recovery, all the new Berner owners with their fears and struggles teach me courage, patience and hope. People sharing their sorrow and confusion when losing a cherished Berner touch me deeply. Hopefully, anyone having the interest to make the effort to join a list such as this one, is also willing to listen carefully to all the issues and information discussed - from all points of view and with empathy. I certainly hope to be able to read in future about anything and everything that goes on in the dog world of Berner-listers, however controversial or mundane. Hugs to all, and I really mean it Cecilia Ståhl Griffin Stockholm Sweden
RE: Lancaster county
Well I guess the only way for me to boycott Lancaster County is to be dead, since I live here and have for the past 25 years. Our Berner was given to us and may be a product of what is considered a puppy mill although I don't think puppy mills go to Canada for stud service. If that is the right way to put it? Anyway I hope you all will show up here in 2005. We would love to see all those Berners in action. We are not into it as much as the majority of you are but love the breed even if only at a pet level. I must relate a story .. about a month ago I was walking Cooper through our development at dusk when an approaching horse and buggy stopped and the operator commented about our dog. Seems the young Amishman's uncle raised Berners. Immediately my mind thought puppy mill. I was waiting for the pssst hey buddy,want to breed your dog? Thanks to all of you for the information that you provide to those of us on the fringe of bernerdom. Scott Layman Leola (the heart of the Dutch Country) PA
RE: Lancaster county
Scott, Just to clarify a few things. There are many breeders in Lancaster County. Some of them are wonderful breeders, we have some excellent Berner breeders who are located there. There are also a large number of backyard breeding operations, where profit may or may not be the prime motivation, but the breeder generally knows little or nothing about the health or temperament issues in the breed, dogs are sold to willing buyers with no efforts to track or support those dogs after they are sold. Then there are the many puppymills of Lancaster County, estimated to be about 200 of them. You won't see them from the road, but they deal in multiple breeds generally, and have the dogs maintained in crates or small pens. They sell to pet stores, they sell through the newspapers, and you'll sometimes see signs at the road that list the breeds they have available. Don't assume that just because someone lives in Lancaster and breeds dogs that they are a puppy miller! It's what makes life so very interesting sometimes. Pat Long ( Luther) Berwyn PA Check any e-mail over the Web for free at MailBreeze (http://www.mailbreeze.com)
excuse my ignorance
What is the BARF diet? I'm just not at all familiar with that. Andie Reid Wilmington, NC
2005 Specialty
Hi, Is the 2005 Specialty actually scheduled to be held in Lancaster County or is this hypothetical? Surely revenue from activities at the show would be subject to taxation in the vendors' home state? Rose
Collars and Classes
Hi, I encourage all puppy owners to attend a behaviourist run Puppy Kindergarten and to study basic obedience in a motivational environment. I too dislike training where harsh methods are used, not everyone is born with the skill to communicate with their dog and they must be helped with guidance provided in classes. People need to learn that they must talk with their dog not just clip on a leash to whatever collar and expect the dog to know what is expected. Rose T.
RE: begging: or, just taking!
Hi Andie, Just get over it:-) Put them outside in the yard while you are preparing food. They simply don't need to eat everytime you pick up a cracker for yourself or they will soon be blimps waddling along in life with the prospect of kidney and liver failure ahead of them. Have you got kids? Do you indulge them everytime they ask for candy or a soda? Rose T.
RE: Input needed- Hip Dysplasia
Hi Audrey, It is certainly a situation that many of us have faced at one time or another so you are not alone. You need to consult with a board certified orthopedic specialist about the latest options available to you. The procedure of removing the femoral head is generally not done these days on large breed dogs particularly if it involves both hips. Many people opt for pain management control using anti-inflammatory drugs and supplementing the dogs diet with glucosamine sulphate and chondroitin sulphate, Cartrophen injections may help as well. Specific anti-inflammatories are designed for dogs and these days we are fortunate that we don't have to use aspirin and ibuprofen as these can cause stomach ulceration over long term use. It is very important that your dog not be overweight and lean would be good, swimming is a useful exercise option and allowing the dog free exercise is good, leash walks should be kept short and frequent rather than one long hike. I would suggest you have your dog's elbows and shoulders xrayed as well as in some cases of severe pain the dog moves with compromise and these joints can incur damage and of course the elbows can have their own problems separate from the hips. Total hip replacement is a very expensive procedure and not one I have had to have done at this time, I do know of a Samoyed who had one hip done and the stability in that one hip was to support the lesser affected hip on the otherside. His owner told me that he had to wait until his dog was full grown. It is also important that your dog not lie too long on cold damp surfaces and that he has good traction in the home and not sliding about on slippery floors. It is very important to check out your dog's conformation and stability and health of other joint groups before subjecting to surgery. Rose T. -Original Message- From: Eric Seiler [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: June 9, 2003 12:06 AM To: Bernese Mountain Dog Mailing List Subject: Input needed- Hip Dysplasia Hi all, I have a wonderful berner male named Orion, he's the first berner that I have had the pleasure of owning. From the time of about his first birthday, I had noticed an occasional mild limp when he walked. Of course the first few times I took him to the vet just to be checked out, but they were confident everything seemed to be ok. Then about 2 1/2 months ago, I woke up to find him having trouble walking at all. I was very alarmed and got him in to see the vet as soon as I could. Well we x-rayed, my vet told me that his hips looked bad and left it at that because I wanted/needed to send the x-ray to the OFA. The OFA's finding is that my 18 month old puppy has moderate hip dysplasia with subluxation and remodeling of femoral head/neck present. I was stunned, because he just has not let it slow him down. So except for the occasional few bad days, you would think that he is fine. If anyone has had any experience with this it would be appreciated if they could give me some advice, or just let me know what was done and how that has worked out. My vet thinks that his only options are total hip replacement for both sides or femoral head and neck excision. I just don't know what to have done to him. Thanks, Audrey and Orion
Re: alternative to neuters
In a message dated 06/08/2003 9:51:09 PM Central Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: For those who are leery of early spay/neuters..here is an alternative way to protect your boys. Unfortunately it does not reduce the chance for testicular cancer or eliminate/reduce behaviors that might be exacerbated by testosterone. However, they are sterile! Anne Copeland, Flash,TDI/CGC (Berner, 8 3/4 yrs.) Gypsy TDI/CGC(Rescue Cavalier,2 yrs.) BMDCA Corresponding Secretary NE ILL [EMAIL PROTECTED] Ty's memorial page: http://www.geocities.com/workingyorkie/ty.html Gypsy's page:http://hometown.aol.com/annes4/Gypsy.html
Re: excuse my ignorance
Andie, Here is a link to BARFworld. http://www.barfworld.com/html/barf_diet/barfdiet.shtml Dr. Billinghurst wrote a book in 1993 that brought the raw diet back to light. Before kibble people fed their dogs leftovers, raw bones, and not sure what else. Still remember the arguments we had on the list when Andrea from Australia mentioned feeding raw to her dogs. Over the years more and more people switched over and we now have a NaturalBerners email list on Yahoo. You may want to join the list. They have a lot of great information in their links section. Sylvia Katvala and Neala Tucson, AZ
Hunte goes to Russia???
Hi all! I have read an article in one of Russian newspapers that representatives from Hunting corporation John Perrin (sp?), the director (president?) and Canton Bird (again, spelling?), the vice-president, came to one of leading dog breeding and training centers in Russia. They were reportedly interested in fierce looking guard dogs: Central Asian and Caucasian Shepherds, as well as Russian spaniels. This center trains dogs for the police and military purposes as well as guarding of the Russian President. I became interested in purebred dogs after we came to the USA and so I may not translate the breed names properly, but except for Russian spaniel, I have heard about shepherd breeds - they are like Tatra sheepdog. To the point, though: I suspect it is Hunte Corp. making inroads. And these guys are naively ecstatic about Hunte's interest. If anybody can help me verify that it is indeed Hunte, I would like to write to that paper saying that they are applauding the sale of the best dogs to be exploited in a most atrocious way. The people in Russia need to know this. I was going to translate few articles about puppy-mills. Please help! Gulnara P.S. To make it berner related, I also checked out the Russian BMD club - they go by Berner Sennehunde (with leading s read as z, by the way): these guys sound like they have a good (and strict) program in place. And the prices as high as here, so no profit for Hunte there. Also, the pups are sold through the club - I am not sure if it is bad or good. I better stop with this here - tt's another topic altogether... sigh - floodgates opened -- Gulnara Ajupova, TX _ MSN 8 helps eliminate e-mail viruses. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
BMDCA members - Breed Steward Program Open
This program is again open for new participants. Stewards agree to act as contacts for people who need information about securing, training, or general info Bernese Mountain Dogs. The information you provide will be posted to a page on the BMDCA web site. You need not enter all information requested on the application, but be aware, if you put it on the application, it will go on the web site. Please share this posting with others you know who may not have computer access. Club RCC reps, please share the information and invitation with your club members. A signed copy of the Code of Ethics at the end of this message MUST be included with the application. Deadline for applications is JULY 15, 2003! BMDCA Breed Steward Program March 31 2003- March 31, 2004 Criteria for Participation 1. Participants have been a member in good standing of the BMDCA for 2 years, effective December 31, 2002. 2. Participants provide a signed copy of the BMDCA Code of Ethics and a completed Breed Steward Profile to the Breed Steward Program Chair annually. 3. Participants agree to educate inquirers about the breed whether or not the participants have puppies/or services to sell. 4. To be included in the pilot program, participants will send the signed BMDCA Code of Ethics and the Breed Steward Profile responses to the Breed Steward Program Chair, Anne Copeland, 1034 E. Tulip Way, Palatine, IL 60074-1608, who must receive them no later than July 15, 2003. Profile Questions Please answer the following questions with yes/no, appropriate number(s) or n/a - not applicable. If you do not wish to answer a question, you may leave it blank. Information provided will be published in a list of BSP participants at the BMDCA website. Please also sign the Code of Ethics on the reverse. Name: Address: ___ e-mail: Phone/Fax: _ Services Available (use codes below) __ b - breed information; ob - obedience information; dr - draft information; ag - agility information; p- puppies; d- adult dogs available; s- stud service 1 How many years have you had Bernese Mountain Dogs? 2 How long have you been a member of the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America? ___ 3 Do you participate in AKC, Canadian Kennel Club or BMDCA events (conformation, obedience, agility, draft) ? __ 4 What year was your first Berner litter born? 5 Please indicate below the number of BMD litters you have produced that best describes your breeding history. a. none b. 1-5 litters c. 6-10 litters d. 11-15 litters e. 16 or more litters 6. Do you radiograph all your BMDs' hips and elbows for dysplasia and submit the radiographs to a certifying registry before breeding? 7. Do you have your BMDs' eyes evaluated by a board certified canine ophthalmologist before breeding? _ 8. Have you obtained genetic tests results for von Willebrand Disease on all your BMDs that are used for breeding? 9. Do you obtain a DNA profile on all breeding males and females you own which could be used to verify parentage of their offspring? _ 10. Do you use written sales contracts? 11. Do you give buyers written copies of the parents' health clearances and evaluations?_ 12. Do you give those in whose care you place a pup or older dog, written information about how to care for their new BMD? Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America Code of Ethics The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America, Inc., in keeping with its aims of breeding the best possible dogs while preserving their unique beauty and character and of promoting the best possible care and training of these dogs, adopts the following code: 1.Breeders shall strive for perfection of the Bernese Mountain Dog in accordance with the official standard set forth by the American Kennel Club. In this regard they shall: a.Maintain high standards of health and care for their dogs. b. Use only physically and temperamentally sound stock, and will refuse stud service to any bitch that is unregisterable or shows obvious defects. They shall study and learn the good and bad points within their own stock never doubling up on a known and visible fault. c.Ideally x-ray for evidence of hip dysplasia at age of two years or older,
[no subject]
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Re: appropriate Berner-L topics
Dear Cecilia and Listers, What a wonderful post! I have to wholeheartedly agree with the words that have been expressed here. Of course, when you have people who are as passionate as they are about their dogs and related issues, there is bound to be debate and opinions expressed. I too read each and every post whether it directly concerns me or not. I am relatively new to the list (late last Fall) and relatively new to Bernerdom,(Stevie is now, thankfully 17 months old!). I also concur that this list is a useful tool as well as a positive forum for us as lovers of animals, whether they be our beloved berners or other quadrupeds, we need to remain open-minded and considerate of all who visit this site, old and new. My eyes have been opened to many new things and many varied opinions that have been lovingly and intelligently put forth on this list. I am not sure how well I would have muddled through some of the early issues that I, somewhat apprehensively, put to the list when I first joined. But the true colours of the listers and now my friends soon became apparent and showed themselves in the love and support that we received during those dark, grey days of January and Stevie's bizarre accident and as well now when Stevie is a well and very happy bouncing big Berner boy! I have made many friends here both near and very far away and cherish that friendship as though we had known one another for a very long time and the insane part is that we have never met! I too have found the Lancaster County discussion informative and extremely interesting. Of course, I was well aware of the disgusting practices of puppy mills, but not particularly in that area. Part of our job as conscientious animal advocates is to weigh all of the issues, research all that we can, and then form our own informed opinion. I read with joy and happiness all the birthdays that are shared here and I always look forward to try to join in the celebrations in some small way. I read of the accomplishments that are posted with such enthusiasm and pride my the parents of our gentle giants. I try to reach out and share the deep sorrow and hurting hearts that are experienced here when one of our beloveds goes to the bridge, and I light candles each night for the sick and the dying and for those who may need a little light to show them the way across. So, I too would like to jump on the band wagon and just say to those listers old and new that we want and we need this place to learn, to teach, to inform, to support and most of all to share in the love that is so evident here and remind everyone why and by what motives we are all joined here, whether we agree or not with individual opinions. Berner hugs and sloppy kisses, Karen and Stevie NB, Canada - Original Message - From: Cecilia Ståhl [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Bernese Mountain Dog Mailing List [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, June 09, 2003 4:50 AM Subject: appropriate Berner-L topics Dearest Listers, As an international member of this list, my perspective is sometimes somewhat different - not often but sometimes. Our love of Berners has gathered us here - many of us have our hands full just keeping the Berner(s) in our homes happy and healthy, some of us have progressed beyond our own hearth in our efforts for the welfare of Berners in general. I actually read every post, even the ones about meet us at such and such a park next Saturday for a hotdog/parade/walk/clinic. The combined energy of this list is astounding as well as impressive - and the sharing of our Berner-joys, our Berner-concerns and our Berner-issues gives momentum to new ideas, inspiration and education beyond this forum around the globe. The Lancaster County discussion has been very educational for this Berner lover sitting on the other side of the world - though I was aware of the Amish and their puppy mills, I wasn't as informed of the situation as I am now. Even overseas breeders love and care about the dogs they produce. Some of them read this list or know people that do. That membership in the BMDCA doesn't necessarily guarantee that a uniform code of ethics is adhered to, is also very good information for people not close enough to experience goings-on at a national level. The Lancaster County posts have all made very good points as is often the case when people on this list disagree. Although I knew prong/pinch/shock collars are illegal in this country, I learned today that there are other countries where they are not considered acceptable animal practice. I'm glad Marion had the time to share that with us. Reading about the personal stories of Choupette and her family of heroes in France/Jeddah, Stevie's and Karen's accident and miraculous recovery, all the new Berner owners with their fears and struggles teach me courage, patience and hope. People sharing their sorrow and confusion when losing a cherished Berner touch me deeply. Hopefully, anyone having the interest to make
OT: Cat urine smell
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Re: Backing up in a Cart-long pt2
One more thought about backing up. The position of the shafts relative to the dog are also important. The most common offender of this is using the large competition cart with wooden shafts from Dog Works on a smaller novice dog. The problem lies in the fact that there is no adjustablility in the space between the shafts. I normally recommend approx. 2 (two fingers width)between dog harness and shaft to each side. If you have a cart with metal shafts, in most cases they can be adjusted by rotating them inwards. The first clue that your setup is too wide is that the dog can swing his/her butt into a C-shape within the confines of the shaft area. You really need to think about the concept of clown shoes. The dog needs to feel confident and in control of the cart and its load. Minor tuneups can provide major steps forward in confidence of the dog. I've seen it first hand. Again, in an experienced dog these minor things would be ignored or compensated for by the dog. Thus to a novice, that wouldn't be the first thing you would consider. Jim LaFrom San Jose, Ca now get out there and work dem workn'dogs
Early Nuturing
Okay, I know half of you will think I'm going crazy and the other half are probably wondering if all my post will be related to babies/parenting, but this article, made me think about puppies. Well, the first time I read it, it made me think about my soon to be human baby. Then when I stepped back and looked at it again, it made me think about puppies. I think no matter how you slice it, they are all babies, human or canine. Just as human babies rely on their parents for that nuturing, so do puppies from their human parents after they leave their canine mom. Anyway, I just thought I'd share this article. Sort of makes me think more and more about some of the behavior problems we see in dogs (as well as children) as they get older and how much of their puppihood (childhood) played a role in shaping that behavioral problem. I mean we all know the different potential causes of behavior problems, some genetic, some social, environment, etc. etc. I just thought I'd share this article with the list because I think it reinforces the importance of early nuturing, both for humans and animals. http://www.cnn.com/2003/HEALTH/parenting/06/09/stressed.babies.ap/index.html Enjoy! Karyn Waugh _ Protect your PC - get McAfee.com VirusScan Online http://clinic.mcafee.com/clinic/ibuy/campaign.asp?cid=3963
Fear Factor
Bueford has a behavioral problem that we seem unable to concur. Perhaps someone out there can help us. Buef has accompanied me to my office since birth, he is now two. Since he began toddling around the office on his own he's been exceptionally well mannered (except for food stealing) and has made this his second home. He loves everyone, is the official greeter at the reception desk and simply loves to have his back scratched by all willing. His problem is that he is terrified of an associates brief case. He will not go near the brief case nor will he go into the room where case is. If he sees the case he runs and hides. We all carry brief cases here and all the cases look much the same, leather, soft sided with handles. The case has never done anything bad to him, neither has the owner of the case. We can only figure that it must be the smell of the case. We have tried putting good smelling stuff like beef jerky inside the case - this didn't make any difference to Buef. Thinking it might be the human not the case, I swapped cases with my associate for a couple days. This also did not work. When he reacts, we ignore his behavior and when and if he gets close to the case we treat, treat, treat. Nothing we have tried has worked. He remains terrified of the case. We are trying to understand Buef, but this has become so frustrating. My associate has offered to pitch the case and buy a new one but I won't agree to that. I suppose I could leave Buef home, but I really feel we should concur this fear. Any advise would be greatly appreciated. -Denise (Buefs mom) and the staff at WB.
RE: Berner family farewell party
The family is in good hands -- Three Rivers is already sending them newsletters! Nancy Melone -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, June 08, 2003 4:15 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Berner family farewell party I am sad to announce that one of our Berner friends is moving from West to East: Salt Lake City to Pittsburgh! We are sad to see Watson and his human family Bridget and Chris leave their Berner community here, and hope they will be warmly welcomed by the Pittsburgh area Berner community. This morning--before the day heated up too much--we had a dog party in my yard. I have a larger than typical city yard, all fenced. We had 20+ Berners, from 10 weeks to 9 years, males and females, spayed/neutered/intact, along with their human companions. It's a privilege for me to host these gatherings and see so many Berners playing together without any squabbling unless you count the minor grumbles from some of the adolescents. We even harnessed and hitched Watson for his first attempt at carting, and it went very well. Leaving behind well-loved human and canine friends, as well as a trusted vet, is hard so please warmly welcome the newcomers to your area! Vicky Hall in Utah with Raven and Wylie, who will really miss his littermate Watson
new puppy
Hi I have been vaguely lurking for some months - with a random post here and there, if I knew something of relevance. Anyway, I would like to introduce Murphy to the community - aka Murphy the Moose. He is 14 weeks old and quite convinced that he IS the cutest thing on 4 legs. My 9 year old German Shepherd is being the star I knew he was, and apart from the occasional growl over toy ownership, simply lies around with a I was much better behaved at his age look on his face. We feel very lucky with our breeder, and thank Mylene for deciding to give up this boy and promise to take the utmost care of him. House training is going slowly, mainly due to the humans being slow in spotting his 10 second warning signs, but a more laid back, social puppy, we couldn't wish for. Being presently in Montreal, most people are convinced we have a small bear cub on the leash - he is a healthy 31 pounds and very fluffy. Will no doubt be asking for advice and info as he grows, just wanted to introduce him, and I will enjoy him even while he is being a holy terror. -- K. Wright Dept. of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences McGill University Montreal Quebec [EMAIL PROTECTED]
RE: Berner family farewell party
I knew they would be. And, people should know that Pittsburgh is one of the best cities to live in, in the USA. It has everything that a good city should, museums, theatre, music, education, sports, shopping; and the downtown is accessible, making it easy for those who live in the outskirts to get in and out of town easily and for free. It is not like sitting at the entrance of the Holland Tunnel (NYC) for two hours and paying 6 bucks to get in and then paying a fortune to park somewhere. My husband grew up there, and we now live in New Jersey, which is nice in many parts, too; but New Jersey is close to becoming one big, continuous town. Enjoy Pittsburgh and those great Berner people. sara and ron The family is in good hands -- Three Rivers is already sending them newsletters! Nancy Melone -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, June 08, 2003 4:15 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Berner family farewell party I am sad to announce that one of our Berner friends is moving from West to East: Salt Lake City to Pittsburgh! We are sad to see Watson and his human family Bridget and Chris leave their Berner community here, and hope they will be warmly welcomed by the Pittsburgh area Berner community. This morning--before the day heated up too much--we had a dog party in my yard. I have a larger than typical city yard, all fenced. We had 20+ Berners, from 10 weeks to 9 years, males and females, spayed/neutered/intact, along with their human companions. It's a privilege for me to host these gatherings and see so many Berners playing together without any squabbling unless you count the minor grumbles from some of the adolescents. We even harnessed and hitched Watson for his first attempt at carting, and it went very well. Leaving behind well-loved human and canine friends, as well as a trusted vet, is hard so please warmly welcome the newcomers to your area! Vicky Hall in Utah with Raven and Wylie, who will really miss his littermate Watson
Fwd: what I wrote on the BMDCA list
This is being forwarded to the berner-l for Tari Hafner, 2005 National Specialty Chairperson From: Tari Hafner [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: what I wrote on the BMDCA list Date: Sun, 08 Jun 2003 08:29:17 -0400 _ The new MSN 8: smart spam protection and 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail ---BeginMessage--- * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ---REMAINDER OF MESSAGE TRUNCATED---* * This post contains a forbidden message format * * (such as an attached file, a v-card, HTML formatting) * *Mail Lists at Prairienet only accept PLAIN TEXT* * If your postings display this message your mail program * * is not set to send PLAIN TEXT ONLY and needs adjusting * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ---End Message---
RE: forwarded message
Sorry for the confusion of my last post not going through. I am still trying to figure it out, but I am using a friends PC. I may have better luck from my MAC at home. Tami Winner _ Tired of spam? Get advanced junk mail protection with MSN 8. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Cathee Arthur's puppies
I was contacted earlier today by someone asking if my sister, Cathee Arthur, had a litter of puppies. This person had been told same by someone else, who was absolutely positive Cathee had puppies. For those of you in Southern California who may have heard this, I just want to stop the rumor and say that Cathee has NO puppies. No puppies have been born, no bitch has been bred and no breedings are currently planned. She did, however, recently welcome a lovely new Holsteiner/Hanovarian filly, who was born a couple weeks ago. Perhaps someone got their canine v. equine births confused! :-) Karyn Beyer Mt. Shasta, CA [EMAIL PROTECTED]
lyme vaccination
Hello! I'm going to Wisconsin this summer to stay at a cabin in the woods w/ my family and my 1 year old BMD. My question is . . . she's never had a lyme vaccination b/c I was told it's not healthy for BMD and my breeder along w/ my vet recommends that if you live in an area where there are very few ticks, the vaccination is not necessary . . . but we're going to be tromping through the Wisconsin woods this summer and I'm scared for her to get a tick. Any suggestions? Does Frontline work well? Is the lyme vaccination dangerous to BMD? Thank you! Nicole - Original Message - From: Bernese Mountain Dog Mailing List [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Bernese Mountain Dog Mailing List [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, June 09, 2003 2:50 PM Subject: BERNER-L digest 4454 BERNER-L Digest 4454 Topics covered in this issue include: 1) appropriate Berner-L topics by =?iso-8859-1?Q?Cecilia_St=E5hl?= [EMAIL PROTECTED] 2) RE: Lancaster county by [EMAIL PROTECTED] 3) RE: Lancaster county by [EMAIL PROTECTED] 4) excuse my ignorance by Andie Reid [EMAIL PROTECTED] 5) 2005 Specialty by Rose Tierney [EMAIL PROTECTED] 6) Collars and Classes by Rose Tierney [EMAIL PROTECTED] 7) RE: begging: or, just taking! by Rose Tierney [EMAIL PROTECTED] 8) RE: alternative to neuters by Rose Tierney [EMAIL PROTECTED] 9) RE: Input needed- Hip Dysplasia by Rose Tierney [EMAIL PROTECTED] 10) Re: alternative to neuters by [EMAIL PROTECTED] 11) Re: excuse my ignorance by Sylvia Katvala [EMAIL PROTECTED] 12) Hunte goes to Russia??? by Gulnara A. [EMAIL PROTECTED] 13) BMDCA members - Breed Steward Program Open by [EMAIL PROTECTED] 14) by Hugh Hayes [EMAIL PROTECTED] 15) Re: appropriate Berner-L topics by Karen [EMAIL PROTECTED] 16) OT: Cat urine smell by [EMAIL PROTECTED] 17) OT: Cat urine smell by [EMAIL PROTECTED] 18) Re: Backing up in a Cart-long pt2 by [EMAIL PROTECTED] 19) Early Nuturing by Karyn Waugh [EMAIL PROTECTED] 20) Fear Factor by [EMAIL PROTECTED] 21) RE: Berner family farewell party by Nancy Melone [EMAIL PROTECTED] 22) new puppy by Kate Wright [EMAIL PROTECTED] 23) RE: Berner family farewell party by [EMAIL PROTECTED] 24) Fwd: what I wrote on the BMDCA list by tami winner [EMAIL PROTECTED] 25) RE: forwarded message by tami winner [EMAIL PROTECTED] 26) Cathee Arthur's puppies by Karyn Beyer [EMAIL PROTECTED]
RE: 2005 Specialty
Is the 2005 Specialty actually scheduled to be held in Lancaster County or is this hypothetical? Rose, In answer to your question, the Specialty Committee has changed the site of the Specialty from Lancaster. We'll all be looking forward to learning where it will be held! They have a great deal of hard work ahead, and like all Specialty committees, I know they'll be looking for help and volunteers! Pat Long ( Luther) Berwyn PA
Backing up in a Cart - part 1 (long)
Reposted for Jim, the first time through they got garbled! I have put on many a draft clinic and have seen all kinds of setups where the participant have thought their dog was properly adjusted in their harness but were not. I would suggest that you have your outfit checked out by someone who has been working with carting dogs a little longer than you. I would like to point out that the harness needs to be properly fitted otherwise the dog will be sloshing around in it like you trying to walk around in clown shoes. I would like to point out that the traces are important for transferring any and all FORWARD motion to the cart but are NOT functional in any backing maneuver. The shafts, which are loosely attached by slipping through a Dee ring at the side of the harness or strapped to the shafts by means of a wrapped leather or nylon web buckle (depending on your type of setup) are the main means of transferring backward propulsion. This all can be aided or hindered by how the belly band is positioned on the dog. Proper placement of the belly band is essential in providing a secure feeling for the dog. The proper placement of the belly band is at a position that wraps the dog under the armpits. If you are using a Dog Works harness and are just using the belly band keeper loop at the top of the harness as your guide for where the belly band should go, I'll bet up that it is at least 3-4 away from the armpit area of the dog. If that is the case, then you have at least 3-4 of sloop that the cart can move back and forth without any kind of control from the dog. This just leads to a lot of uncertainty and a loss of confidence in a novice dog. (Experienced dogs will put up with it and could care less.) I would like to point out that the Dog Works harnesses were originally designed for Newfies which have a larger chest/shoulder volume and when a properly sized harness is placed on them, the keeper loop does end up in the proper position. My recommendation to people who take my classes is to either remove the belly band from the keeper loop completely while working and place in proper position, stitch the belly band to the point where the harness crosses over the back at the X point(at the top of the shoulders) or with some harnesses, the keeper loop is of sufficient length to double it back under the x-point of the harness and back over the top which ends up in the proper position. Either way, the armpits are the initial source of energy for moving a cart backwards or controlling a cart on a downslope. If that is the case then the belly band of the harness needs to be close to that origin of control. (N.B. the belly band which is truly a misnomer, more properly known as a girth band.) Another style of harness that is used in draft horses but rarely seen in dog harnesses (but is available) is the use of a 'breeching'. This similar to the chest strap harness style but this portion of the harness goes under the tail and around the butt and hips of the dog. It only comes into play when trying to control massively heavy loads under real work load conditions,(not applicable in draft test conditions.) This additional piece of equipment lends itself to a much more complicated rig that most folks wouldn't want to mess with, under draft test conditions. Here is a site with pictures of it in use with Rotties, http://www.uitlander.com/carting.html It is unfortunate that it isn't more widely adopted because it is certainly more comfortable for the dog. Can you imagine yourselves trying to control a moving load downhill with only a small strap under your own armpits. And consider this, at the same time that same load is trying to force your front legs, which are the stopping force, out from under your body. The alternative is to use the breeching, which uses the most massive muscles of the rear legs and hips to cushion the load while allowing the front legs full control to properly place their footsteps and control the downhill speed of the cart. Unfortunately a lot of old concepts and myths keep getting passed down from one owner to another without due consideration of the efficiency of design. That is what we are facing today. As to teaching a dog to back up in a cart, it does take practice but I have found the easiest way to transfer the concept of backing up to a novice dog is practice on a downhill slope. Any movement backwards brings instant success and lots of praise. I realize now from going to specialties in the midwest, that there are places that don't have hills. (an unbelievable concept to me out here in California.) None the less, you can practice backing with someone that the dog trusts, pulling on the back of the give the cart as you give the command. If your dog backs up out of a harness then it shouldn't to long before it gets the same concept while in harness. Last suggestion is to find someone with a tandem cart setup and a experienced dog that already backs up. Put the two dogs together and the
Backing up in a Cart - part 2
One more thought about backing up. The position of the shafts relative to the dog are also important. The most common offender of this is using the large competition cart with wooden shafts from Dog Works on a smaller novice dog. The problem lies in the fact that there is no adjustablility in the space between the shafts. I normally recommend approx. 2 (two fingers width)between dog harness and shaft to each side. If you have a cart with metal shafts, in most cases they can be adjusted by rotating them inwards. The first clue that your setup is too wide is that the dog can swing his/her butt into a C-shape within the confines of the shaft area. You really need to think about the concept of clown shoes. The dog needs to feel confident and in control of the cart and its load. Minor tuneups can provide major steps forward in confidence of the dog. I've seen it first hand. Again, in an experienced dog these minor things would be ignored or compensated for by the dog. Thus to a novice, that wouldn't be the first thing you would consider. Jim LaFrom San Jose, Ca now get out there and work dem workn'dogs
diahrria
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RE: alternative to neuters
I do not know the particulars of this procedure, but (by now all of you can predict what I am about to say) we need to consider and weight ALL the RISKS and BENEFITS of the two procedures, including the risks of anesthesia and infection, before coming to any conclusions. Not that I am an expert, but I imagine that most men think the old way of castration is a pretty scary thought, too. Nancy -Original Message- From: Rose Tierney [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, June 09, 2003 6:39 AM To: Bernese Mountain Dog Mailing List Subject: RE: alternative to neuters Hi Amy, Good lord this method causes me a lot more concerns that surgical castration, I'll be going the old fashioned way, young dogs bounce back so quickly after castration I would think the likliehood of swelling testicles after the injection would cause more discomfort. I bet the male readers of this list were cringing at the thought of chemicals injected into testicles!! Rose T. -Original Message- From: Amy Kessler [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: June 8, 2003 10:42 PM To: Membership list; Breeder L Cc: Berner l Subject: alternative to neuters FDA Approves Use of Neutersol for Male Puppies. www.hsus.org/19195 For those who are leery of early spay/neuters..here is an alternative way to protect your boys. Amy R. Kessler LionHeart Bernese
RE: Hunte goes to Russia??? -- An article to translate
Gulnara: If you wish to translate into Russian a good, readable article on Puppy Mills, this one, Get the Facts on Puppy Mills, produced by the Humane Society of the U.S. is a good general article. I have sent the article to you via an e-mail link, but if you don't get it, here is the weblink. http://www.hsus.org/ace/11797 You should make it available to HSUS and, with the permission of HSUS, other rescue organizations around the world. Importers, such as Hunte and others, supply purebred breeding dogs to this industry (because the millers have difficulty getting dogs from breeders in this country, although it certainly does happen). BARC has documented this supply chain. The little bitches are bred very young and at every heat cycle until they have nothing left to give except to give up and die. No reputable Eastern European breeder would want their puppies to have this kind of life. Nancy Melone, Ph.D. Mars, PA
Re: Murphy
Hi Kate, and a very big welcome to Murphy from his buddy in Vancouver, Sisco. Now it's time to get some pics up there on Murph's very own website so we can all see the little moose while he is still congenitally utterly cute. In about six or seven months you won't recognize the gangly teenager he's grown into so enjoy the little tank while he's a big fluffball. Cheers! Fran Sisco West Vancouver, BC -- Fran Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] SportSound Music:http://www.geocities.com/franinvancouver Phone: 604-926-0084 Fax: 604-926-9543
Virus Free - Re: appropriate Berner-L topics
Hopefully, anyone having the interest to make the effort to join a list such as this one, is also willing to listen carefully to all the issues and information discussed - from all points of view and with empathy. I certainly hope to be able to read in future about anything and everything that goes on in the dog world of Berner-listers, however controversial or mundane. Cecilia, A brilliant post! I joined this List some years ago now when my Bernese Sam was first diagnosed with T-cell 3 Lymphosarcoma, I hit on Search and found Berner org and then the mailing list! Such immediate support and friendship and such wonderful advice! This list has seen me through the sad time of Sam's eventual death, the happy arrival of new Monster Pup Sim, our quarantine here UK during the FM (or Hoof and Mouth) awful experience, Barney's introduction and adoption and recently My Sweet Sunny Girl's Spondylosis and problems! I know gets a bit controversial at times, new ideas always welcome but never forget when you reply to a post is always your choice whether you send personal or add in to Berner-L! Well, I have to tell you when Sam died, I had over 250 very personal mails in next morning! And I had just mailed one person, to mail on my behalf to the list as I didn't feel up to it! Many more came in next day! The personal mails I get in now. Heck! So many very good friends! Is a great priviledge to me to be a part of this World Wide Berner Community, I have learnt a lot, at times have questioned! But always am proud to be a part of a great bunch of people who love Berners all over the world! And very happy to try and do my little bit to help! Biggest Muddy Hugs from my lot, heavy showers again here tonight UK All Love, Jean, Sunny, Simmy, Barney and the Gang XXX http://bernese.biz Anyone wondering? Change of url for Longlease Site? Recently set up new domain name, had hardly had chance to check it out before my almost system crash at the weekend! Hoping this is working OK! A lot easier than the angel fire website address! I can remember this one, hope it works! Still no new Longlease Updates! Retrieving those pics and have still to re-Install my Hot Metal Web Creation program. Did re-Install my PC Banking online and paid the bills today! Essentials up and running! Getting there! Guess this is part of mundane but I know you will all be pleased to know all well here despite BigBad BugBear! And Sunny did five ten minute walks today and skipped along! Bouncy Miss! Though still trying to stop her Wriggly Miss! Doing good indeed! Thank you all for your help, support and so much love and friendship!
Safe Sane Containment - Input?
If there's one thing I hate, it's being away from my 2 year old berner longer than I have to. Luckily I work a job where I can stop home to care for her twice a day. If the weather is lousy, I opt for putting her in my garage. Rather than limiting her to a crate, she has a 6' X 6' (4 foot high) kennel in the garage. I know most chemicals in the garage can be fatal, so all chemicals are kept locked up in a special cabinet. I built the best outside personal home kennel imaginable. 10' X 20', five foot high chain link fence, with the top covered in fiberglass and the sides surrounded by arborvitaes. The floor is EP Henry pavers so she can't dig her way out. There is a double walled dog house big enough for her to fit. The two gates to the kennel are locked with a combination lock and only my neighbors and my family have the combination. If you choose this route, do not use wood for any of the trim, once they urinate on the wood, you will never get rid of the smell. My berner is only in this kennel if the temperature is between 40 and 80 degrees and no precipitation. She actually likes the kennel and my dog owning friends have duplicated the kennel at their houses. (Pictures are available upon request if you are looking for a safe way to house your dogs).If you spend enough quality time with your dogs, there is no reason to leave free to roam your house. Buncha berner hugs - Christine Kelliher, Kina 2 yo berner and Cozmo 4 yo Lab Philadelphia, Pa.
2005 National Specialty
Posted for my breeder Tari Hafner 2005 Specialty Chair I have been very hesitant to write but figured I had better do so before things got any worse. There is always a desire to keep a specialty location secret from the general membership until the year before a specialty but it is getting us into trouble this year. Let me start out by stating that there are no plans to hold the 2005 national specialty in Lancaster, PA. This rumor was started by someone who is in no way involved with the planning of the specialty and has no first hand knowledge. Rumors are hurtful and damaging at best. Yes, I have been very hurt by these rumors, more than I can even explain here. I will not speak for the others on our committees. We have worked very hard over the last year and believe that we have a really wonderful location for the specialty but that is all I will divulge until after 2004. You will all just have to wait and see. We had problems with another club not giving us releases (you would not believe how difficult that is) but as our good fortune would have it, another breed moved their specialty to the fall of that year freeing up the time and location we really wanted all along. This location is experienced in hosting dog specialties and actually hopes to attract more in the future. I can guarantee that you will all have a truly great time if you come and I expect that many of you will indeed come. As far as the rumors being damaging, we are moving forward with what we believe will be a long remembered specialty - perhaps on many levels. We did visit a location in Lancaster which we all felt was a wonderful location for a specialty. The convention center/resort was a lovely place and they offered us a really good package deal. They came highly recommended by one of the local dog show superintendents. They have hosted numerous specialties for several breeds. One breed has signed up to hold theirs there every year until 2008. They have been hosting 3-4 specialties each year since they started doing them a few years ago. Imagine the positive impact these other breeds can have on this area. They have the ability to show people what well bred dogs are and to promote their breeds in a responsible manner. Education is the key and I am glad that other breed clubs see the golden opportunity to educate in this area. Education works, boycotts do not. I expect that those who have been so vocal about not coming to Lancaster if the specialty were held there will be hard at work trying to change the legislation to protect dogs. I expect that they will be working in many areas where this is a concern, not just Lancaster. I would enjoy having all of you present your efforts and results at the specialty in 2005 so that we can all share in what will hopefully be your successes and not failures. If all that energy is turned into a positive work force, it could be unstoppable. For those of you who have supported us regardless of where we held a specialty, I applaud you. You are the ones who make this job worth doing. It is a very difficult job and I don't think anyone appreciates all the work that goes into making a specialty happen until they have been there. But, it is you, the ones who come to a specialty to enjoy the beautiful dogs and showcase the best the breed has to offer, that I tip my hat. You are the ones who will impact Bernese in the most positive way. You are the ones who who make all the hard work worthwhile. You are the ones who make us forge ahead to produce the best specialty we can. I am indeed thankful that most of you are supportive of all our hard efforts. So, let's stop all the talk about the specialty being in Lancaster and move our energy on to better topics. Tari Hafner 2005 National Specialty Chair
Taking off!
My 13 month old neutered boy Porter is giving me more gray hairs these days. Porter has a very large fenced area behind the house, which he absolutely loves. But, the problem is when he either escapes from the house (6 year old niece left the door open) or escapes from his yard (2 sets of gates - hubby didn't notice one was open) he literally takes off at FULL SPEED and doesn't respond to any command or bribery. Saturday night it took us almost an hour to corral him! His little brother Kief (7.5 month old neutered GSD) is nothing like this. He will lay on the deck (not in the yard) and will only take off when following Porter!! But, the main difference being is Kief listens. Porter knows come and will respond with very little hesitation in his yard or in the house or when we are on our off leash runs together in the fields, but when he escapes! He gets daily off leash runs through the back fields with us and responds well to most commands. It really worries me because when he escapes he likes to go to the front field nearest the busy road! When we do catch him he's immediately put on the leash (for his safety) and either brought into the house or put in his yard. He will not follow us (like he does on his regular field runs) or listen whatsoever, forms of bribery don't work! Help please! We always do our best to make sure he doesn't escape when doors are opened etc., but it has happened and I'm sure it will happen again and I'd like to know if anyone has any suggestions on how to tame this wild behaviour. Thanks, = Jennifer Martyn Conn, Ontario, Canada __ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Calendar - Free online calendar with sync to Outlook(TM). http://calendar.yahoo.com
Virus Free - RIP BugBear??
Me and Friend, Tim, Working very early hours this morning to restore my system, after a few glasses of wine when had successful clean connection back to the World Wide Web again! This BugBear is too BigBear! No way can he propagate! Hits the system too hard, almost crashed mine and I considered myself well protected but I know I got in very new variation! Well, far as I can be sure this one went no further than Longlease! Virus that hits system too hard and causes crucial failures! System not left to spread it on! Hmm! So saying! I am totally clean uploaded early hours this morning! Since then have uploaded twice today new Dat Files! No doubt new variation up and about!!! Very clever one! Be careful my friends! Save down as much of your essential stuff as you can, check those antivirus updates, all paws crossed here that Bugbear dies a natural (hmm! not so nice - hope it's unpleasant!) death Having just bounced some seventy spam porn mails and deleted yet another spam porn mail on the Longlease Guestbook (now moderated!) Just wishing these folk had better things to do, like go cuddle their Berners! Hah, Sunny girl did five ten minute walks today and got very frisky on the path where the ponies had been rolling! Doing so good!! Longlease almost back up and running again normally! Off to cuddle mine! Love Me and the Clean Gang? Been raining heavy here tonight! X http://bernese.biz
RE: 2005 National Specialty
Tari, Would you care to correct this statement, or shall I? Pat Long Berwyn PA -Original Message- From: Jenn Waldron Posted for my breeder Tari Hafner 2005 Specialty Chair Let me start out by stating that there are no plans to hold the 2005 national specialty in Lancaster, PA. This rumor was started by someone who is in no way involved with the planning of the specialty and has no first hand knowledge. Rumors are hurtful and damaging at best. Yes, I have been very hurt by these rumors, more than I can even explain here.
tip for tangled fur behind the ears?
Hi, Kyla's tangles behind her ears are getting thicker weekly and I'm not able to make them disappear...should I cut? What do you do? I'm happy that the weather cooled down, I have a happy girl again! Annelise Kyla in Sammamish, WA _ MSN 8 helps eliminate e-mail viruses. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Picnic with Greta
My Greta did something this past weekend I wanted to share. My dog club had a picnic at the lake near where we live. Our picnic site had a roof over several picnic tables, then there was a wooded hill down to the water. There were a few of us down at the water. Greta, who has become quite the water bug and a yellow Lab were in the water. The yellow Lab hasn't been to the water much and the owners weren't sure what she'd do. Well the Lab loved the water and you could tell she wasn't really use to it. She would swim around and then head out way off the shore. Greta likes to paddle around get on the shore and then run back in the water. After a while the owners of the Lab were worried their dog was getting tired and she wasn't coming out of the water. They kept calling her and she wouldn't come out. The more they called her out the more distressed their voices were and the Lab was just swimming around in a circle. Then all of a sudden Greta got on the shore went down a little ways and headed out in the water like she was flanking the Lab. Greta got behind the Lab and literally pushed the Lab to the shore swimming. I wasn't really sure what I was seeing. The owners of the Lab had no doubt. Relieved their Lab was on the shore they thanked Greta for rescuing her. It was pretty neat. If I didn't see it for myself I don't know if I would have believed it. I wondered (and a couple others) if it was the Newfie that's in Berners that made her do it. Other people thought Greta was herding the Lab. My husband thinks she sensed the distress in the voices that were calling the Lab and reacted. One thing Greta did that I'm glad I didn't see. When Greta decided she wanted to cool off while hanging around the picnic tables she took off down the hill and leaped off a huge rock about 7 feet high and dove into the water. I was running after her and couldn't see through the trees, someone in my club happen to be down there and told me. Greta was swimming around and I was worried she might have hurt herself, but not at all, thank goodness. I would never have thought she'd do that. Greta had such a good time and was exhausted when we got home. She loves those kind of social events. Kathy Schmitz, Woodstock, Georgia Brighteye Meine Liebe Greta OAP, NJP, CGC Mattie Matterhorn Princess CD, NA, CGC Gunner (in loving memory and together again at the bridge)
No Virus! For Sue, Fax , Web, Email and WP.
Biggest Berner Hugs Sue, You left me a post on my Longlease GuestBook, replied, but just bounced back, bit late here UK now to check through the list of Berner-L members that Pat sent me to help restore my Address Book for correct addy, but hoping you get this reply here! Broke my leg on my way to the California Specialty so finally got a computer since I have to stay home. I have been enjoying your website for over four years, clicking in at work on my lunch hour. I feel like I know you and certainly envy your life style and ranch as they say here in California. Hope that leg is much better now! Was wonderful to find your message on the Guestbook tonight! Am virus free (thankfully, did not pass it on though cost me cleaning my computer the hard way!) and up and running again! I love all the updates and pictures. If I ever am computer literate enough I will send a picture of my gorgeous Berner boy and maybe a few of the rest of the pack. Yes, please! Now you have to scan in pics or digital camera for Birthday/Christmas? The dogs are Fax and Web, the cats Email and WP. We have just allotted a place for your Gang on the Friends' Gallery!! Hope you are virus free now so we can all continue to enjoy your web pages. Biggest Hugs here, have a few programmes to re-install but essential stufff up and running smoothly! Thankfully my AVG caught it and contained it, could not clean! Nasty Virus! I was fully updated! Was very unlucky here, DAT files for cleaning on all systems did not come in until a few hours later, I was one of the first got hit this new variation. My infected files were quarantined, hhm! IE main exe file, clever virus, I could not log on to update new DAT file, took out my Internet connection (No, I took out my Connection rather than pass it on!) Cleaned my system the hard way! Good thing has come out of this is essential stuff was saved anyway, what was lost will soon be restored! Nightmare weekend but today just restored my PC banking and paid the bills. Lost pics (had not saved down recent emails with pics for new Longlease Updates) coming in again! Bonus is that with clean disc drive now have all this space! And computer is running faster! Love Jean, Sunny, Sim, Barney and the Gang XX http://bernese.biz
Re: excuse my ignorance what is BARF, etc.
I also know only a little but while all of you with the expertise are answering the question posed by Andie excuse my ignorance -- what is the BARF diet? -- would you please address generally, HOW vegetables, fruits, and other human raw foods are prepared for dogs? Im not planning to go BONES AND RAW FOOD, due to the time and expense and expertise that seem involved, but what if I carefully supplement my large breed kibble with certain kinds of bones and raw food. Do Berners actually scarf up celery and bananas by themselves? (I'm expecting a pup, so excuse MY ignorance!!). I would love to supplement my dog's kibble diet if this can be done causing good, not harm... It seems right to me that raw foods might be a good way to lessen the liklihood of cancer, as it can in humans... Just a general idea of how to do this would be great. (I know my breeder is more than happy to help me, but I'm also just loving the reading and learning on this list, and hearing all the different ideas and approaches, and I don't want to make her totally bonkers before my pup even arrives! Mary in Seattle
backing with a cart
Thanks to Harriet, Tom, Lisa, Kathy Jim others who posted to the list or to me privately with suggestions for backing with a cart. Regarding harnesses, Taz has two. A leather chest strap harness that we bought at a carting workshop we attended in Canada when Taz was 6 months. The person runing the workshop was a breeder of German Shepherds who competes frequently in draft tests in Canada with her dogs. This workshop was an all-breed workshop with a lot of instruction regarding harnesses and the positioning of harnesses; also instruction about carting. In Taz's case she was too young then to hook up to a cart but she was introduced to a harness. We were referred to this workshop by a local agility trainer and competitor who worked with Taz (positive reinforcement only) when Taz was younger. Taz's leather harness is gorgeous (no breeching straps though), and we use it occasionally but we do mostly rely on the Siwash Nordkyn Outfitters harness (that I purchased at the Spokane Specialty) because she seems to prefer it. We tried the cart on a downslope and pulling gently back on the cart since that seemed to be the suggestion made by most everyone. She is now moving her front feet back (each time she moves one, I click it), and because she still was relunctant to move the back feet, I modeled movment of them for her--moved each one at a time, then clicked. Anytime she did move a back foot (rarely), I praised lavishly. So I think we'll get there in a couple of days or so. I have found this babystepping has worked best in the past--taking a task apart and reinforcing each little baby step. Repetition, reinforcement, play time, lots of praise and patience. Perhaps I should have said that carting seems artificial to my girl, not that it doesn't come naturally to her. I introduced the shafts very gradually also (as I think they seemed artificial to her also), and before she pulled a cart, I had her pull various items with wheels that had no shafts and were light weight (like a hose mobile). I didn't want her having the experience of being frightened with or by a cart. Taz is exceedingly trainable, bright, happy-go-lucky--and learns quickly with positive reinforcement. We all know our own dogs and I believe that she doesn't want to back because she perceives the cart as one might perceive a tree--as something anchored--she doesn't yet realize that when she backs it will move with her--so this caution (of hers) seems sensible, even common sensical to me; I like that in her. She has no problem backing unattached (and in harness) because she senses nothing is behind her then. Whereas other activities, such as agility, retrieving and tracking seem more natural in that they use canine instincts involving prey, play, running, leaping, and hunting/chasing--carting doesn't. What could be more unnatural than pulling this noisy thing with wheels behind you? Also moving forward seems the more customary movement in all of us, not just dogs--although I am learning that a back command is incredibly handy--and not just in carting. Training a dog to pull a cart is great in making a dog more tractable--and it's terrific in developing a human/dog relationship. I love also watching my girl apart from me--being her natural, athletic, canine self--running, leaping, cavorting, barking, swimming, showing off! Thanks again! Christy Kabler
NOT Lancaster County
Dear Berner-l, The 2005 BMDCA National Specialty Committee is currently negotiating a contract with a hotel which is NOT in Lancaster County. When that contract is signed I hope they will extend the courtesy of announcing the date and location to the BMDCA membership for long term planning purposes. In the meantime I respectfully ask that this hard working group of volunteers be allowed to focus on the huge job they volunteered to do on behalf of the entire Berner community. Volunteers are the very foundation and support of the BMDCA. Please take a moment and ask how you would wish to be treated if and when you volunteer for any project, Berner or otherwise. Many heated messages have been exchanged in the last few days on all sides of the specialty location issue. Many feelings have been hurt. The reason for these exchanges is now gone. Please, now is the time for healing, pulling together and offering a helping hand so each and every BMDCA National Specialty can be an educational and rewarding celebration of Bernese Mt Dogs for all who have the good fortune to attend. Sincerely, Alison Jaskiewicz Mason NH
Re: NOT Lancaster County
I am very pleased to hear that the BMDCA is looking at another location for the 2005. My thanks to those who have done so much work at finding a site that is acceptable. Being part of the 2004 hotel search committee I can appreciate the work involved Susan Ablon Gweebarra BMD Balch Springs, Tx http://www.pageweb.com/gwebara On Mon, 09 Jun 2003 23:11:08 -0400 Tom Jaskiewicz [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Dear Berner-l, The 2005 BMDCA National Specialty Committee is currently negotiating a contract with a hotel which is NOT in Lancaster County. When that contract is signed I hope they will extend the courtesy of announcing the date and location to the BMDCA membership for long term planning purposes. In the meantime I respectfully ask that this hard working group of volunteers be allowed to focus on the huge job they volunteered to do on behalf of the entire Berner community. Volunteers are the very foundation and support of the BMDCA. Please take a moment and ask how you would wish to be treated if and when you volunteer for any project, Berner or otherwise. Many heated messages have been exchanged in the last few days on all sides of the specialty location issue. Many feelings have been hurt. The reason for these exchanges is now gone. Please, now is the time for healing, pulling together and offering a helping hand so each and every BMDCA National Specialty can be an educational and rewarding celebration of Bernese Mt Dogs for all who have the good fortune to attend. Sincerely, Alison Jaskiewicz Mason NH
need help on a question
this is a little questionnaire for anyone who bought their first bernese puppy in the last 3 years. i'm just trying to get a better answer for folks i talk to on the phone about wait time. 1) what region of the country are you from? 2) have you ever purchased a purebred dog of another breed from a breeder before the berner? 3) approximately how long did you wait between getting on a breeder's waiting list getting a puppy? thanks in advance for all of your help. lisa baldwin (dickens, bark zel) seattle, wa [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: alternative to neuters
Several of the shelters are using this now and having good luck with it I personally like the old fashion way as well. My last litter were all neutered and spayed before they went to their new homes. It was amazing how quickly they recovered and how much more at ease I was sending them out the door! It also chased the people away that were just saying they would spay/neuter the puppies. Amy - Original Message - From: Rose Tierney [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Bernese Mountain Dog Mailing List [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, June 09, 2003 8:39 AM Subject: RE: alternative to neuters Hi Amy, Good lord this method causes me a lot more concerns that surgical castration, I'll be going the old fashioned way, young dogs bounce back so quickly after castration I would think the likliehood of swelling testicles after the injection would cause more discomfort. I bet the male readers of this list were cringing at the thought of chemicals injected into testicles!! Rose T. -Original Message- From: Amy Kessler [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: June 8, 2003 10:42 PM To: Membership list; Breeder L Cc: Berner l Subject: alternative to neuters FDA Approves Use of Neutersol for Male Puppies. www.hsus.org/19195 For those who are leery of early spay/neuters..here is an alternative way to protect your boys. Amy R. Kessler LionHeart Bernese
