Breed Notes

27 February 2010

This page is now archived and details breed notes prior to 2009.

To see current breed notes, please go to the 'Breed Notes 2009' page.

14th December 2008

The following link should take anyone who is interested to a web site with an idea for what is being called a Christmas card challenge http://www.dpca.org/Legisltv/documents/DPCA_ARC_Christmas_card_challenge_4.pdf

I must confess to not having read it word for word, but the gist of the idea seems to be to send a christmas card to your MP saying something along the lines of "from successful Dog Exhibitor / Breeder / Owner of Guide Dog / Assistance Dog" or whatever. The scheme has come from the US where many states are threatening to put anti-dog legislation in place. Given that the number one concern of politicians is how many votes they are going to get, it is hoped that carefully worded christmas cards will draw their attention to the number of dog-owning voters that exist. I know there is a website where one can sign on to numerous lists for and against all sorts of policies, but I think that this is much more personal and would carry more weight.

A reminder about the ACDS Breed Seminar and Assessment planned for next year. It is to be held on Sunday 22nd February 2009 at Stonehouse Community Centre, Laburnum Walk, Stonehouse, Glos. GL10 2NS. This is to be a hands-on seminar with assessment by Breed Specialists. Please contact Pearl for further details. Please don't wait until the last minute to contact Pearl about this seminar. There are limited places available, first come, first served.

I was pleased to hear from Janina that Indie has passed his KCGC Silver Test. Well done to both of them. He's also managed to keep his doggie Christmas presents from last year! There's no way any of my gang could keep squeeky toys for more than five minutes unless I confiscated them!

Well I hope everyone has seen the 2009 DW Annual with the ACD pup on the cover! One of Sue Huntingdon's puppies lying in a lovely hollow log she had in which they thoroughly enjoyed playing.

LKA has come and gone and we are at the end of another year, I just don't know what happened to this one. There were only four cattledogs entered in the AVNSC (unless any were absent, I didn't have a catalogue) The judge was Mr C Saevich. Res in PD went to COLTON, Mrs D & TUNE, Mrs J A & BONSER Mrs E M, Yippie Ki Yay.
3rd in PGD was SMYTH Ms S Blue Jamberoo At Morrow - we only just made this class, thanks to the horrible rain driving up and the West carpark being closed. I knew I should have ignored the instructions and gone directly to the South where I normally park! Open B VHC was DIGBY Mr K & Mrs N Ch Warrigal Munyah Blue Yarraman. I'm not sure why Munyah didn't do better, she moved out very soundly and is looking very well.

I wonder what will happen with TV coverage for Crufts without the BBC. Maybe by the time these notes are printed we will know. I hope one of the Sky channels takes it on, then maybe we'll have continuous coverage as is done with other sporting events. That could be fun! At least if they showed the group judging in full we would be able to see one example of each breed instead of the quick flash that we usually are allowed.

14th November 2008

At the Working and Pastoral Breeds of Scotland Ch Show Yaapeet Blue Dreamer Yarraman was BD, Yarraman the Booroo RBD, Ch.Warrigal Munyah Blue Yarraman was BB and Yarraman Star Sapphire RBB. Munyah was BOB and was pulled out in the last eight in the Group. Breed judge was Julie Swann. Well done to all concerned.
I was sorry to hear that Kimberly Jebson has lost Curdeleon Lady in Red at Austmans, otherwise known as Ellie. She was Kimberly's first cattledog and did well for her in the showring. She was top ACD bitch for a total of five years. She was twelve and a half and I'm sure Kimberly will miss her presence. My sympathy on your loss.
Saturday 8th November saw a hardy band gather in Shropshire for a Herding Clinic organised by Norma Digby. Suzanne Nevada from Silveraurora Kennels in Alaska was in the UK and had agreed to assess dogs for Herding Instinct. We had one GSD, two Swedish Valhunds and nine ACDs - not including puppy Marla! The weather was kind as the rain eased off and we just had a bitterly cold wind blowing all morning. Even that gave up eventually. Doug Rowbotham supplied the sheep and also, I believe, the hurdles to make a pen in which the dogs worked. Our huge thanks to him for his help. Norma's farmer neighbour generously allowed us the use of the field which was also much appreciated.
Suzanne worked hard all day (one way to keep warm!) taking each dog and working it with the stock to assess it's capability. She then either reported to the owner and discussed how the dog behaved or invited the owner to join her in the ring and handle their own dog. It was fascinating to watch the dogs, most of whom had never seen sheep before, let alone herded them. I believe that all passed their Herding Instinct and were awarded a certificate which Suzanne filled in with her comments on the dog's work. Suzanne is experienced with teaching herding both to her own dogs and other people's and gave much insight to the complexities of the training.
There was plenty of discussion going on outside the pen as well. The opportunity to catch up and talk dogs is never to be missed! All enjoyed the day and expressed great interest in having another day next year. The proceeds were split, and I was given a generous donation towards the costs of the rescue work I do, whether with ACDs or other breeds. Many thanks for that. BTW - if anyone wants a decrepid GSD or two I just might have one to place....!
I have a feeling that I had another show result to send you but can't put a hand on it (as usual) so if someone told me a result and its not appeared here, please tell me again.
Pearl Chetwynd is looking for volunteers to man the Crufts Discover Dogs stand - Thursday 5th March to Sun 8th March, 2009. The stand is taken out under the auspices of the ACD Society of Gt Britain and ACD owners are invited to give a little of their time to promote this wonderful breed to the Crufts public. ACDs do not have to be show dogs, but must be of good temperament and a minimum of 6 months of age. Each day will be split into 2hr sessions, as this can be tiring for both owner and dog. Please contact Pearl on pearl jack@curdeleon.freeserve.co.uk to pledge your timeslot, Thanks, Pearl.
Pearl has also sent a reminder about the ACDS Breed Seminar and Assessment planned for next year. It is to be held on Sunday 22nd February 2009 at Stonehouse Community Centre, Laburnum Walk, Stonehouse, Glos. GL10 2NS. This is to be a hands-on seminar with assessment by Breed Specialists. Please contact Pearl for further details.
Hilary Powell and Sue Huntingdon have both told me that they had a good day out at Discover Dogs at Earls Court. It seems there was quite a lot of interest in the dogs and plenty of people asking relatively sensible questions about them. I was not sorry to give it a miss this year, chasing sheep in the cold was such fun!
I was very pleased to have photos of Banjo and a nice email about Milly - two of our rescues who seem to be settling well in their new homes. Their owners are enjoying them and discovering what a sense of humour ACDs have! Roo, one of our girls from earlier in the year, has her new owner so sold on ACDs that she is planning to get a puppy in the future. Sadly, due to owners change of circumstances, there is a two year old blue male looking for a home. He is neutered, well-bred and is a typical bouncy young male - so not for the faint-hearted! Hopefully we will get a picture on the ACDS website soon.

21st October 2008

Sigh, apologies again, it was of course Mudgee Blue Yarraman who was RBB at Driffield - blame it on too many late nights.
Sunday 8th Feb 2009 there will be a seminar run by the Field Spaniel Society at Great Alne & Kinwarton Memorial Hll, Alcester, Warks. The topics are Canine Reproduction and Fertility (Angelika von Heimendahl BVMS Cert V Repro MRCVS DipECAR) and Canine Epilepsy (Geoff Skerritt BVSc MIBiol CBiol DECVN FRCVS RCVS). The price is reasonable at £20 for non FSS members. Contact Shula Shipton on 01283 530408 (mishules@btinternet.com) or Ann Harding 01179 402274 (harding@blueyonder.co.uk) for booking and other details.
I was sorry to hear that Carol Smith's Roo has given up her battle. She died peacefully at home in Carol's arms and didn't even try to bite the vet. Carol still has Didge, who is a bit lost having never been without Roo. I'm sure you all join me in sending our sympathy, we've all been there too often. Remember the good times.
The ACDS of GB second Champ Show has come and gone. I was pleased to see Curdeleon Blue the Boy Wunda 1st in Veteran, Dog CC, BIS and BVIS at 12 years of age. He has had two RCCs and was looking really well on the day. Much deserved as he has been an excellent ambassador for the breed for so long, campaigned by Pearl Chetwynd. RBIS, RDCC, 1st in Open Dog was Jebson & Kaye's Austmans Caledonia Chaos. BCC and BOS was Jebson & Kayes Austmans Sally Carrera, RBCC was Searle's Surlson Sizzling. The full results and write up will probably have appeared by the time I get these notes out but are also on the ACDS website if you've missed them elsewhere.
The venue was not as packed as I had feared it might be, given that there was a Gt Dane show in the other half of the cricket hall and an Irish Wolfhound Show (144 of them - gorgeous!) in the main hall. Somehow it still lacks atmosphere for me, I much preferred halls like Knowle Village Hall where we were able to do the buffet lunch. I know space was becoming an issue and certainly there is room for the show to grow in terms of entry numbers at SkyBlue, but it just doesn't feel the same. Maybe I'm getting old.....!
I gather that the Digby's Champion Warrigal Munyah Blue Yarraman is the top ACD in the UK for 2008 as she was in 2007. Very pleasing for her breeder as well as her owners.
The ACDS of GB website has been updated so do visit and see what's happening. Adam has asked that people supply information to keep it going. Show results, cattledogs in action and a few other bits could do with snippets. Do email him if you have anything that you feel might be appropriate to use or if you have any ideas or suggestions. The Kennel Club, as a result of "that programme", has written to societies requiring that they adopt the KC Code of Ethics or risk being de-registered! This should be no real issue for the ACDS of GB as the KC code has always been used, incorporated with our own ethical guidelines. I have to say that codes of ethics annoy me enormously, as I have always felt that people who are fundamentally going to do things right will do so and no amount of ethical codes will change the ones who won't. I suppose its helpful to newcomers to think about the overall responsibilities of dog ownership and breeding, so in that respect a written document is useful. Over the years since the foundation of the ACDS of GB there have been comparatively few people whom I would like to have been able to expel from society membership. Sadly they were either lapsed members or had never joined in the first place! Even more unfortunate was the fact that the KC continued to register puppies (in one instance six consecutive litters six months between each litter!) without apparently passing any comment. I contacted the KC about another litter which should not have been sired as the dog's papers had been withheld by the breeder. They did take action on that one but it shouldn't have required contact from me at all. It also bothers me when goal posts are moved, or put where there were none before. There are at least a couple of people who are still society members who have been in breach of our ethical guidelines as they now stand but their actions were prior to the guidelines being in place so no action or comment was ever forthcoming. I better get off the soap box before I get too carried away with this!
Pearl would welcome people to assist at Discover Dogs at Earls Court, contact her on 01497 820567. Sadly clashing with DD, the herding day with Suzanne Nevada is on Saturday 8th November. Anyone who has expressed interest, it would be appreciated if you could confirm that you are attending, call Norma Digby on 01948 841302.
I have mentioned before that Hilary Powell and Brenda Tenten have been doing well in agility with their cattledogs. Brenda is a very experienced agility handler / trainer and has agreed to help instruct a potential team of ACDs. If anyone is interested in joining a team then please contact me (or Brenda or Hilary) and put your name down. People would need to be able to practise near their own homes so that they get more confident and we need to be able to meet up at least a couple of times, to practise together. There is a venue near Daventry which is fairly central and has a full set of equipment. There is one date that would suit us in November (the 22nd) otherwise it would have to be a date in early 2009. Anyone is welcome to attend initially, might be the start of something big! So if you are keen and feel you dog is up to it, please get in touch. Obviously any experienced agility competitors would be really useful as you could help us beginners!
Yarraman Rolling Thunda, otherwise known as Bundy, has had two successful outings from his home in France. At the International show in Lausanne on Sat 18th October he was given Best Junior and Junior CAC under M.R.Menaker (USA) and on Sunday 19th judge Dr.G.Vandoni also gave Best Junior and Junior CAC. Bundy needs one more CAC for "Swiss Junior Champion". Needless to say his owners are thrilled with their wins but also with him as a pet.
Another link for those compute buffs out there - www.australiancattledog.com/spotlightfiles/index.html should take you to a new on-line magazine for ACD lovers. Put together by Deb Casey, the first "issue" looks very smart. It appears on screen as a magazine and you have to click to turn the page. I had a look one evening and it downloaded quite quickly, during the day when I went back to read some of the articles it was much slower downloading. Could be my computer dial-up.In a very flashy advert I was surprised to see Ch.Austmans Ground Control, now in the States with Bleumoon Kennels. I don't think I could bear to part with my dog, let alone first champion however I hope he does well in the States.
News and views as always to Stella Smyth 0118 979339 or morrow.acd@btinternet.com

24th September 2008

Apologies again, this time its an email that I managed to lose and have just retrieved from its safe place! Elaine Gray wrote to let me know that "Austmans I'm No Angel at Jahanghir" has received results back from Optigen. She tested as DNA Pattern A, Normal. Excellent news and also pleasing as she is from Obligate parents - Cidabro Lucky Diamontina of Austmans (Imp) ex Valley of the Winds a Fool for You by Austmans (Imp). Nice to know that someone is checking the offspring of Obligate parents.
Another item that I intended including some time ago but never got around to - Women's Land Army Badge. I am pleased to say that we have three people that I know of in the Society who have received these badges. Our President Edith Miller, our Chairman Marion Simpson-Wyeth and Founder Member Monica Gibbons. Warmest congratulations to all of them.
Monica doesn't attend many ACD events these days as she and husband Ken, don't drive too far from home. They still have a cattledog and are interested in the breed and the Society. I am sorry to hear that Edith has had a fall and dislocated her shoulder and cracked a bone in her arm. I hope that's not from climbing on more stools! I'm sure everyone sends their best wishes for a fast recovery.
Yet another update from Hilary Powell and Miah, they attended a UKA show at the weekend and Miah got 2nd in Agility, 3rd in Jumping and 3rd in Steeplechase. These two really are on a good streak at the moment. Although Hilary says that Miah is now getting very excited and seems to think its a race between her and Hilary! As she doesn't want Hilary to have to much of a head start Miah is getting less reliable on the sit stay at the beginning of the round. Hilary says it got a bit hairy on Saturday as Miah took the lead and Hilary had to keep up - luckily Miah must have read the plan and took the correct course! Hilary says she was exhausted but Miah was ready for more. Well done, keep it up.
Following up on my note about Dillon, I received an email from Angela. She says that he went down hill fairly quickly over the last few months and had problems with eyesight and mobility. The cause turned out to be a brain tumour. When they found another tumour in his abdomen she decided to let him go before his quality of life deteriorated any further. A hard decision but certainly the kindest for the dog. Our sympathy on your loss.
Driffield Ch Show saw sixteen dogs entered under breed specialist Lady S.Huntingdon. I had entered with the intention of having a weekend away but unfortunately it didn't work out and I couldn't really justify spending four hours driving each way on one day for the sake of a breed show. I wouldn't even drive that far for a Working trial! There were four absentees on the day. BB and BOB was Lesley Wright's Yarraman Dare to Rock at Coright, RBB was Norma & Jack Digby's Ch.Warrigal Munyah Blue Yarraman. BD was Norma & Jack's Yaapeet Blue Dreamer Yarraman, RBD was Mr Carruther's Yarraman the Booroo Sh.CM. BP was Becky Kaye's Austmans Gee Whizz at Tiborkie. Well done to all.
I am pleased to hear that Alex Nicholls young dog has returned home having escaped from her father's garden last week. So scary when a dog is lost. In this case there was a hole in the fence which he either found or made and he got out through it. He was missing for five days but returned home none the worse for his adventure.
Stella Smyth morrow.acd@btinternet.com 01189793399

16th September 2008

Thank you to those kind people who have let me know that they do read these jottings and even go so far as to say they appreciate them! Many thanks!
Results just in from Darlington with Pauline Suhr (Australia) judging. Twenty entered with five absent. BB & BOB went to Digby's Ch.Warrigal Munya Blue, BD was Digby's Yaapeet Blue Dreamer Yarraman and BP Kaye's Austman Gee Whizz at Tiborkie.
I believe that Morag Slaven took Yarraman Star Sapphire at Dartbrook to Westmoreland Open Show and had a second and a third placing under the same judge, Pauline Suhr. Morag also showed her GSD boy (who is supposed to be looking for a home I hear) and was placed with him too.
A puppy bred by Marcus Weatherall in Cornwall is now safely arrived in New Mexico. Penstruthall Mudgeeraba from Yarraman apparently travelled well and was bright and lively despite the long flight. She was sent out to Susan Shields by Norma Digby and if anyone is interested in seeing pictures of her, they are on the "Cattle Dog Corral board". I haven't had time to look at that site yet, although I do occasionally browse the numerous links available on line.
It seems another UK ACD may be abroad too - there's a photo of an anticipated new arrival on another USA website that looks suspiciously familar but I no details are up about him yet. More anon.
I was pleased to receive a hip-score of 5:6 (total 11) for Link - Blue Jamberoo at Morrow. Also to be told that his elbows are 0:0. I was not so pleased that he's developed a golf-ball sized lump on the side of his neck. Appears to be some infection there and I think its an abscess. He's on meds so hopefully all will be cleared up by the time these notes appear.
A reminder from Pearl Chetwynd that volunteers would be welcome for manning the Breed Booth at Discover Dogs in London on the weekend of 8th / 9th November. Whilst ACDs do not need to be of Show Quality, pets or working dogs are more than welcome, the stand is taken out under the auspice of the ACD Society of GB, therefore they should be of good temperament. No dog under the age of 6 months by 8th November will be allowed by the KC. Anyone interested, please contact Pearl at pearl-jack@curdeleon.freeserve.co.uk or on 01497 820567
Another quick message for anyone attending the ACDS Championship Show on September 28th - please use the rear entrance to the pavilion. The Gt Dane Show will be in the first half of the hall and there will be netting dividing the hall in two. It will be much easier to walk around the outside and then access straight into the Society's bit of the hall. Please remember to clear up any and all of your rubbish - this include poo-bags. It is no good picking up after your dog and bagging it nicely if you then leave the bag sitting on the ground! The object of the exercise is to place the offending item IN an appropriate bin! Makes me so cross when people do this in our local parks too.
An email from Janina with Indi brings the sad story of him being attacked at a dog club. Both Indi and Janina's husband were bitten and I'm unimpressed by the lack of action on the part of the owner and the trainers at the club. The offending dog is supposed to be taking its KCGC Silver Test soon and I shall be very interested to hear how it gets on. Certainly doesn't sound like it should pass! On a better note, Janina tells me that Indi went to Brecon Agility Show and did a nice round getting ten points on his first run. Sadly the second round was not so good - he decided to go and see master as Indi knew he had the tennis ball! Too smart for their own good these cattledogs.
News and views to Stella Smyth morrow.acd@btinternet.com or 0118 9793399

7th September 2008

I'm sorry for the absence of notes for a few weeks - although judging by the lack of comments maybe they're not missed anyway!
ACDS Secretary, Pearl Chetwynd has asked that the following information be included in the Breed Notes:- Discover Dogs, Earls Court. Sat & Sun. 8th & 9th November, 2008. Volunteers ( canine and human) are required to man the Discover Dogs stand at Earls Court in November. Whilst ACDs do not need to be of Show Quality, pets or working dogs are more than welcome, the stand is taken out under the auspice of the ACD Society of GB, therefore they should be of good temperament. No dog under the age of 6 months by 8th November will be allowed by the KC. Anyone interested, please contact myself at pearl-jack@curdeleon.freeserve.co.uk or on 01497 820567 ( my secretary Jack will take messages if necessary!!) Please advise number of humans and canines. KC have restricted the number of Car Park passes to 3 per day and I have estimated 6 dogs and 6 handlers (optimistic!!) for each day There is a daily subsistence allowance of £20.00 cash plus £28.00 Food Vouchers per day, to divide between the relevant number of volunteers. Many thanks, Pearl.
Having done Earls Court for a number of years I can vouch for the fact that this can be an interesting day out but bags of patience are needed to deal with some of the questions and comments!
The ACDS Champ Show is coming around fast and Pearl says that the entries are good. There are 53 first entries (54 last year) 66 total entries (69 last year) and 23 exhibitors versus 27 last year. Can't say that I am looking forward to the show particularly. I felt that we were rather lost in the large space last year but I'm not sure that sharing the area with the dane show is going to be an improvement. Time will tell.
The BBC programme on Pedigree Dogs has provoked lots of response - even reaching out to the ACD-L list on-line. Sadly the Kennel Club did not impress people with its determination to improve the quality of pedigree dogs in the UK. I was disappointed that no real credit was given to those responsible breeders who do avail themselves of the testing schemes. Nor was attention drawn to the fact that the KC's Accredited scheme costs responsible breeders yet more money and the KC don't appear to confirm that people are doing what they say. One of the things that pleases me enormously is that ACD Breeders and Owners in the UK took onboard the need to use BAER Testing for deafness and DNA Testing for prcd without the need for a big stick! It is generally considered "the norm" for ACD litters to be hearing tested and to be from DNA tested parents - give yourselves a pat on the back! I also do not believe that the Society's code of ethics (or the KC's for that matter) had any bearing on the numbers of people testing. I would like to see more people doing Hip and Elbow Scoring, at least on breeding stock, for the very reasons expounded in the TV programme. We have a small gene pool and we need to know what we are working with to produce dogs sound in body and mind. In the old days of stock working dogs, if the dog was not sound it would not be a good worker and either would get itself killed or it would otherwise be removed from the breeding pool. Truly working our dogs is not an option for most of us, therefore the tests that are available are an alternative tool to use.
There are quite a few shows which I am afraid I have not given you the results for, although we the internet most people who want to know seem to have the information almost as the judging finishes. The following results are not necessarily in chronological order. Paignton, with no CCs, had its usual low entry for Roy Tripconey only nine dogs. BD & BOB was Digby's Yaapeet Blue Dreamer Yarraman, BB was Hayle's Austmans Divine Blue at Angelarc and BP was Hayle's Angelarc Gulara. I believe that Digby's Warrigal Munyah Blue Yarraman was third out of about thirty in a Stakes Class. Bournemouth, also no CCs, fared worse than Paignton with seven entries. BB & BOB was Digby's Warrigal Munyah Blue Yarraman, BD was Carruther's Yarraman The Booroo and BP was Hayles Angelarc Gulara. CC's on offer meant that WKC had an entry of twenty-one for Jeff Nannetti.DCC & BOB was Gray & Guy's Austmans Pure Genius at Jahangir. BCC was Jebson and Kaye's Tiborkie Truly Unruly, BP was Jebson's Austmans Cor Blimmey. Interestingly Manchester with no CCs and Ian Blackshaw judging had an entry of twenty-two. BD & BOB was Gray & Guy's Austmans Dances with DIngoes at Jahanghir, BB was Kaye's Austmans Upsa Daisy at Tiborkie and BP was Cartwright & Burdett's Tarilly Access All Areas at Drenoss. Leeds, no CCs, an entry of sixteen for Mrs.Parkes. BB & BOB was Digby's Warrigal Munyah Blue Yarraman, BD was Carruther's Yarraman the Booroo and BP was Adshead's Ramelia Infra Red.
Hilary Powell sent me more Agility results for Miah. At their second KC show at Horsham. They were clear in both jumping and agility and gained a 10th place in agility out of 172 entries and 18th in jumping out of 178. Well done to them, keep the ACD flag flying! Hilary was particularly pleased as people keep telling her she should get a BC if she wants to do well. Hilary has approached Brenda Tenten, who competes very successfully with her ACDs, and Brenda has agreed to run a training day or coach an agility team. We will see where and when would be available, so watch this space or contact us if you would be interested in taking part. We'll have a team for Crufts agility yet!
On a sad note, I was sorry to hear that Carol Smith's Roo is poorly and is suspected to have chest cancer so is probably on borrowed time. I am sure everyone sends their sympathy and thoughts, we've all been there and dread having to make a decision yet again. Carol also told me that Angela Cocker has lost Dillon to cancer. He came back to the UK with Angela having been bred by Jaquie Schmidt. Duview Poirier's Blue Tobias, Dillon sired a couple of litters in the UK so his name will live on in them. Again, sympathy to Angela on her loss, I hope she will write a bit about him for the Newsletter.
Alison Skipper's Ozzie collapsed last weekend for about five minutes and a battery of tests (the joys of having a vet for an owner!) showed a moderate degree of heart trouble. She has started him on medication but is regretting it as he has since stolen two bags of flour and torn them open! I guess he's feeling better!
Pearl Chetwynd has alerted Members to the Wikipaedia entry for ACDs. I haven't had time to look at it but I understand there is some information with is misleading and derogatory about our breed. I have also heard that as this site can be updated by anybody who feels so inclined it is frequently displaying unsubstantiated information. I think the Society may approach the webmasters to try and rectify the situation, as have the Finnish Lapphund Society, but it may be to no avail. Perhaps if readers can keep tabs on these sites and complain to the webmasters then we may get more accuracy in the information given. The only other thing is to try and educate people (I know, I know, flogging a dead horse) to research breeds through reliable sources. But then, if you don't know something, how do you determine if the source is reliable?

11th July 2008

Following on my note regarding Brenda Tenten and Amber's success in agility I had a nice email from Hilary with Miah giving details of their recent outing. Hilary writes:- "Last Saturday Miah and I were in Newbury at an agility competition, she only got one fault in the agility and one in the steeplechase- my errors as the courses were easily manageable if only Miah had a handler whose brain didn't turn to scrambled egg as soon as the time keeper says " in your own time ", I always feel tempted to say " will next week do?" however they never look as if they have a sense of humour. We went clear in the jumping despite having the weaves positioned right after the first jump( weaves are her weak point). She not only went clear but came first in a time just under 24 seconds - not bad considering she isn't a collie!"
Once again it is lovely to hear of ACDs doing something active and also well! Keep it up, hope to see you all competing at Crufts or Olympia soon.!
More information from Pearl Chetwynd. She has confirmed that the Kennel Club will accept the results of PRA DNA Tests taken by Buccal Swab as opposed to blood. In fact the results presently received from Optigen do not indicate by which method the test was taken. This may be a much easier method than trying to get blood from wriggling puppies. Do make sure that specific Optigen guidelines are followed.
I think I must be going deaf in my old age (or stupid - no comments thank you!) as the date for the Herding Seminar is November 8th, not October. Apologies if that has caused any confusion. The contact information is still the same - Norma Digby on 01948 841302.
And if you've got your diary out, don't forget the ACDS of GB Breed Seminar on Sunday 22nd February 2009 at Stonehouse Community Centre, Gloucester. Contact Pearl Chetwynd for further details or watch this space or the ACDS of GB website.
I am so pleased that I didn't travel all the way to Blackpool! I have never been there as the distance is more than I am inclined to travel, although every year I contemplate having a weekend away with my dog. It must have been very scary for all exhibitors and dogs, I hope none are too traumatised by the tents blowing down around them. I understand that only the ACD dogs were judged before the show was abandoned, very disappointing but better than risking serious injury.
Windsor was very peaceful, almost too hot on the Thursday when the Working and Pastoral Groups were scheduled. No ACD classes so Link (Blue Jamberoo at Morrow) was entered in AVNSC PGD. There were lots of Dogue de Bordeaux and a few Cardigan Corgis - interesting how the breeds change each year in these classes. Link won PGD, and went on to RBD with a very smart Pinscher taking BD and going on to Best AVNSC.
I hear that there were thirteen entries for Debbie Adshead at South Wales, no CCs on offer. BB and BOB was Kaye's Austmans Upsa Daisy at Tiborkie. BD was Jebson and Kaye's Austmans Caledonia Chaos and BP was Jebson's Austmans Corblimey.
Stella Smyth 0118 9793399 or morrow.acd@btinternet.com

4th July 2008

Although I never knew or even met her, I was sorry to hear that Betty (Bessie) Southall, from Tolga, Australia, has died. She is mentioned here because she had Australian Cattle Dogs under the kennel name of Geraldmine. She passed away at the age of 93 in Atherton Hospital, North Queensland, Australia on 30th June 2008. Anyone who knew her can contact one of her children, others who wish to pay tribute can do so by contacting any North Queensland Canine Club.

A very pleasing email from Brenda Tenton gives news of her success in agility with her cattledog. Brenda writes:- "On 29 June Amber (Austmans Amber Nectar at Yettontop AW) finally got her KC Agility Warrant. To do this she had to accumulate 200 points from wins or places at KC agility shows - 20 points for an Agility win and 10 points for a Jumping win (no contacts) with decreasing amounts for lower placings. Being only a Medium dog (under 17") in agility terms, places often only go to 2nd or 3rd, so getting the points is a long task. Added to that is the fact that Amber is the first ACD to get to Grade 6, where she usually has to compete against the Grade 7 (top grade) dogs over the most difficult courses for wins and places, and you will understand for difficult it has been to gather those 200 points. But she's done it! And now she is entitled to carry the letters AW after her name to show her achievement. I'm really proud of my little red girl, now eight and a half years old, and still beating dogs much younger than her. She is dynamite to handle, and amazingly fast not only in covering the ground but also in her reactions, so handler timing is critical to say the least." Absolutely fantastic news and well done to dog and handler - I hope Amber had an extra special treat to celebrate.

Sadly I have recently heard of the loss of Sydney (Warrigal Blue Sydney). Bred by Sue Huntingdon he was the sire of the first Curdeleon litter which produced so many lovely dogs. Best known is probably Curdeleon Blue the Boy Wunda who has been top winning dog for many years. I hope that a more detailed tribute to Sydney will appear in the ACDS newsletter. He did well in the show ring and was also a companion to Dianne and Alan Weston and did much good PR work for ACDS when he accompanied Alan on his work round.

Norma Digby has confirmed that Suzanne Nevada will be able to hold a herding day on Sunday 8th October. Details of the requirements to get a Herding Instinct Certificate will be available shortly. Contact Norma on 01948 841302 if you are interested. By the way, I believe it is seven CC's that Munya has to her name, not eight, my mistake - although by the time these notes appear she may have another one!

Rescue is getting just a bit silly lately. Thankfully one of the pair that arrived a week or two back, Misty, has gone to some lovely people from Northumberland. Hopefully she is learning to work stock in proper cattledog fashion. No sooner had she gone than another one arrived, so I was back up to two ACDs and a BC to find homes for (we won't mention the two GSDs...wrong breed notes!). Anyway Ben the BC has gone locally, which I am pleased about as he was a very sweet dog but at six was not the first choice for most people. I have had a couple of enquiries so maybe both ACDs will be placed by the time these notes appear. My relatively short list of unsuitable owners for ACDs, or dogs of any description to be quite honest, has grown a little longer as a result of some of the conversations regarding rescues this year. I can't say I'm sorry that my girls are spayed and I am not likely to have pups for the forseeable future.

A message from Pearl Chetwynd confirms that the next Australian Cattle Dog Breed Seminar will be on Sunday 22nd February 2009 at Stonehouse Community Centre, Gloucester.

Stella Smyth 0118 9793399 or morrow.acd@btinternet.com

22nd June 2008

My apologies to Denise Wainwright and Sue Burdett. I did write notes giving details of their win at the National Dog Show but it apparently did not make it to the paper. This has happened to me before, the wonders of modern technology! Unfortunately I don't always realise that notes have not appeared, so don't re-send them.
Anyway, their young dog Tarilly Access All Areas at Drenoss, was Best Puppy, won the Dog CC at the National and went Best of Breed. They are very pleased with him and even more so now he is showing well. He was bred by Alex Nicholls and I know she is pleased too. Austmans Caledonia Chaos was Res Dog. The Bitch CC went to Warrigal Munyah Blue Yarraman and the Res Bitch to Yarraman Dare to Rock at Coright.
There were only eleven ACDs at Southern Counties Ch Show - no surprise as there were no CCs on offer. BP, BD and BOB went to Ramelia Dont Make Me Blu at Tiborkie (Ms R Kaye). RBD was my Blue Jamberoo at Morrow. BB was Yarraman Dare to Rock at Coright (Mrs.L.Wright), RBB was Austmans Divine Blue at Angelarc (Mrs A & Miss C Hayles)
Three Counties had a better entry although only one CC on offer. This went to Warrigal Munyah Blue Yarraman, her eigth ticket! The BD was Warrigal Blue Swagman. I was disappointed to hear that Munyah was unplaced in a stakes class which eliminated her from competing in the group. How sad that no other exhibitors saw fit to say anything beforehand. Most would be quick enough to complain if the BOB winner had gone home, on the basis that our breed had no representation in the group, yet no-one stopped her unwittingly going into a stakes class with the same result. Particularly a pity as Ferelith Somerfield gave Munyah her third CC and might have viewed her favourably in her group line-up. Such is life.
Good news from Daryl Moffat in Northern Ireland. Rocky (Am.Ch.Silveraurora's PW Tom Thumb) is earning his keep by protecting Daryl from loose livestock. A Blonde D'Aquitane bull met Daryl and Rocky as they were walking down a narrow lane. High banks either side made it almost impossible to get out of the bull's way so Rocky turned the bull and made it go back where it belonged. This is the second time that Rocky has handled an awkward situation with cattledog skill and Daryl is rightly proud of him.
One out, two in - not quite the way I like things to go. Sam rescue ACD has gone to Linda and Paul up near King's Lyn and I hear he is settling in well. Fingers crossed he is now in his forever home. Three days later I have two more to find homes for, a three year old dog and a one year old bitch. Through no fault of their own and much to the owner's distress as changed circumstances mean they are unable to cope with the dogs. Pictures will be up on the ACDS website, may even be there by the time these notes appear. Anyone interested in them can phone me for details or to meet them.
In a moment of weakness I entered Link for Newmarket Open Show and Obedience Show. I nearly opted out as I need to do a lot more training with Link for obedience and I had forgotten until I looked at the map, just how far away Newmarket is from me! However I arranged to take Sam to meet Linda and Paul so had to go anyway. Link had moments of brilliance in his obedience classes (even if I do say so myself!) sadly he also had compete lapses in concentration when spotting other dogs working. He did manage stays which have been a bit of an issue so I was very pleased about that - even when the OES next to him moved and had to be retrieved by its owner, Link stayed put. In the breed classes he was first in PG and Kuta, owned by Brenda and Alan Bowgen and bred by me, won the Open class. Link then went BOB. I was especially pleased with him in the Pastoral Group where he behaved beautifully and was placed second. Needless to say I was chuffed to bits with him. I was sorry to miss Sonia Wright who has done obedience with her ACDs for many years. She was at the show on Saturday but could not go back on Sunday. She still has Melba, her blue girl bred by me and now coming up thirteen.
Pearl Chetwynd has sent some items for inclusion from the recent ACDS Committee Meeting. Ten Year Membership Subscriptions will run out at the end of 2008. Reminders will, I am sure, be sent out nearer the time and a copy of the Direct Debit will probably be included in a future Newsletter.
The Committee have agreed to set up a Rescue Fund for ACDs. A separate bank account will be set up and it would be appreciated if anyone wishing to donate funds made payments separately from membership or other ACDS monies. The Society has booked pages with both Dog World and Our Dogs Annuals for 2009.
£85 gives 1 x 6th page advert in BOTH copies of the 2009 Annuals.Feature is open to members only and photos should be copyright free. Feature has been restricted to 12 ads. per edition (6 per page) for better coverage. First come first served. Contact Pearl asap
Breed Seminar: Original breed seminar planned for October has been postponed and will now take place in an updated format in February, 2009. (Date and venue tbc asap) Revised format to include presentation on Correct Breed Standard Charactaristics and Brief History of the ACD. Hands on assessment of a group of ACDs, Society Exam , followed by an assessment of each candidate by a panel of breed specialists. Costs: £25 non members, £20 members. Spectators/observers £10 non members, £7.50 members - to include Buffet Lunch.
2nd Breed Championship Show: Sunday 28th September, 2008. Cricket Hall, Sports Connexion,Coventry. Judge Mrs. A.Arch. Schedules posted to all members with last newsletter. Alan Walker will again be on hand to take photos for the ACD Society Feature in the Our Dogs Newspaper. Advertise your ACDs success/achievements at the show. £15 per adv. Alan will have posters and flyers available at the show.
Quite a marathon of notes this time, hopefully I haven't forgotten anything and they will not be reduced too much by the Editor!
News and views to Stella Smyth 0118 9793399 or morrow.acd@btinternet.com

29th May 2008

I know there have been some show results which I've put in a safe place and, of course, now can't find. However I'm sure you've all seen them either on-line or in the paper already.
I am very pleased to hear that the stolen cattledog from Bristol has been recovered. He was at an animal sanctuary about forty minutes drive from home, where he is supposed to have been left tied to the gate. Despite having a scanner, the sanctuary did not scan him for his microchip and the collar he was wearing has disappeared. One wonders how he was tied to the gate. This issue of animal sanctuaries / rescues not scanning animals has come up before and is very worrying. This dog has been at the sanctuary for at least three weeks! I believe it was via the DogsLost website that the owners became aware that there was a cattledog at this place. He was supposedly being held for evaluation before rehoming. I wonder if the owner would have grounds for requesting reimbursement of all the advertising and telephone costs incurred in the search for this dog, all of which would have been unnecessary if the sanctuary had scanned him three weeks ago. As a side thought, I wonder if the sanctuary notified the dog warden as I believe that is the correct procedure although I'm not one hundred percent sure now that responsibility for strays is not in the domain of the police. Technically they were in receipt of stolen property so surely should have made someone aware of the fact that he was there?
Still, the bottom line is that he is safe and back with his owner. I am sure his owner and breeders (who were equally concerned) send thanks to all those people who posted flyers, notices on-line, and generally passed the word around that this dog was missing. It is comforting to know there is so much help out there, thank you all.
Stella Smyth 01189793399 morrow.acd@btinternet.com

29th April 2008

An urgent note to start - a three year old blue male ACD has been stolen from Felton, N.Somerset. He is microchipped.He was taken on 24th April and was seen on CCTV being lead away by a slim blonde woman. The police have been given the details as has Doglost, the website for lost dogs. There is a picture of him on http://www.doglost.co.ul/poster.asp?ID=13495 along with contact numbers. I can only imagine the owner's distress, hopefully by the time these notes appear he will have been recovered.
I have only had one response to my last notes regarding a working weekend, I hope Pearl has had more contact or maybe there really is no-one who wants to take part? There is the possibility of a talk / seminar later this year, end of October probably, with Suzanne Nevada from Canada. She is very experienced with ACDs and other breeds working livestock. The current suggestion is that she will talk about the training and may be able to give some demonstrations if dogs and stock are available. Contact 01948 841302 if you want more details.
On a cheerful topic - Hilary Powell and Miah (Morrow Blue Flyer) have been out in agility again. They took part in a two day event last weekend. Apparently Saturday was not the best day ever, something to do with picnickers sitting just behind the rope in line with Miah's descent from a jump. I'm sure you can all imagine what happened next! Not to be beaten, Hilary and Miah returned on Sunday, a nice if slightly wet day - no picnickers! Miah excelled herself by coming 3rd in jumping, with the fastest time but 1 fault; 3rd in agility which was sponsored by Royal Canin and was an "all abilities" course so more difficult; 2nd in another event with 1 fault and (if I'm reading my notes correctly) two tenths of a second behind the winner. Then she rounded the day off by coming 1st, with a nice glass trophy, in the steeplechase also gaining 12 points towards competing at the next level. I am so pleased for them. Hilary said she was walking the course, explaining to Miah, who was tied up outside the ring, where they would have to go. Another competitor was laughing at her and asked if she really thought it would help. The laugh was on him when Miah did the course so well and won!
I had results from the Welsh show where Jill Peake was judging, scribbled hastily on a scrap of paper. It sounds like the entry was not huge. Two in PD, litter brothers owned by Kimberly Jebson (1st) and Becky Kaye (2nd). I'm afraid I've not got their proper names, apologies ladies, but I believe they were bred by Debbie Adshead. No entries in JD or PGD and four in OD. 1st was Austmans Blue Picasso who went onto BOB. No entries in PB, two in JB with 1st to Mudgee Blue Yarraman who went on to BB. Open B had three entries with Warrigal Munyah Blue Yarraman !st. Well done to all.
I have a ten month old unregistered blue ACD dog to find a home for as well as a six year old short-coat prick-eared tricolour Border Collie. Not to go together. If anyone is interested please contact me.
Stella Smyth morrow.acd@btinternet.com or 0118 9793399

13th April 2008

What can I say? Living in the past! Apologies to Edith and David, whom I know perfectly well
are Mr.&Mrs.Miller! Never mind, at least it shows you're paying attention! (& still look in the pink!)
A phone call from Lesley Wright brought the good news that Boulder (Warrigal Blue Boulder at Coright) passed his Gold Kennel Club Good Citizen Test recently. He passed the Bronze in 1990, the Silver last year and finally the Gold. He is nine years old now, so its never too late. Well done to both of you.
Many thanks to Lesley and Robert for the use of their home and facilities for the recent ACDS of GB Open Show with Limited Obedience. "Limited" is right so far as my two darlings were concerned! I really must practise what I preach and do some more training. The whole event was nearly snowed off and the weather accounted for a number of absentees. We were just putting the dogs in the car prior to leaving home when the first few flakes started to fall and within minutes we had a white-out. However we gingerly made our way down to the motorway and it gradually improved until we were driving through picture postcard scenery. The snow meant that the breed classes were held in the barn which was a shame as the carefully prepared menage looked lovely by lunchtime when the snow had melted. BOB was Norma Digby's Warrigal Munyah Blue Yarraman. I don't have the full results to hand, despite steward, Celia Vines, waving them in front of me at regular intervals. Many thanks Celia! I'm sure judge, Vic Salt, will do a full report for the papers and the society newsletter.
The obedience classes were able to get out in the sunshine which was very pleasant and this time the breed classes were finished, which meant exhibitors could relax and socialise while watching the rest of us. Many thanks to judge Brenda Bowgen and steward Debbie for putting everyone at their ease and giving an enjoyable test. I hope that the competitors might have the confidence to enter an Open Obedience show or two - maybe they'll get a couple more points for those working trophies.
I was pleased to hear that on the Saturday before the show Hilary Powell and Miah (Morrow Blue Flyer) entered their first agility competition. They gained a rosette for a clear round and were knocked out of fourth place by milliseconds! Well done - here's hoping you'll get a few more rosettes in the future.
I took Mulga (Morrow Red Chakola CDX.UDX.WDX.TDX.) to Tewkesbury to compete in TD Championship a week or two back. We are very rusty as I just don't have enough hours in the day, so I was thrilled when she completed the track. We found two of the three articles (she got one, I got the other!) and she went on to get all four articles out of the search square. Out of about fifty dogs entered only about four dogs got all four articles so I was very pleased with her. Sadly she failed the scale and long jumps. No surprise as we have been working with them at full height at home but not been out and about enough doing them elsewhere. I missed Gill Armstrong with her cattledog Tyg, hopefully we'll meet up at a trial soon. They are moving steadily up the stakes, nice to know there's another ACD out there.
I was talking to Janina Britton at the society show - she is also interested in working her dog and won the Novice Obedience class. We were discussing having another working weekend of some sort, so if anyone is interested in taking part or has ideas of what they would like to do, please drop me a line or let Pearl Chetwynd know and then we can discuss it in Committee.
Stella Smyth 0118 9793399 or morrow.acd@btinternet.com

25th March 2008

Rather a lot of things to catch up on. NW&BP Open Show was back on Feb 16th with a nice entry for Keith Wild. I wasn't originally going, then was but completely missed the entries. I'm afraid I don't have the results in front of me but I'm sure they've been published already.
At the Switzerland international show at Fribourg one of(around 3000 dogs entered) Monika Hirshi's cattledogs gained a 1st place in the breed-group. The judge was Australian so may have been a little bit of bias! Wild Willow's Hakuna Matata CAC, CACIB; Wild Willow's Inti Igloo youth CAC; BOB; Wild Willow's Ioupi Iuna youth CAC. All out of home-bred Ch.Wild Willow's Blue Dusty Dunya ("Ditsch"). Intis got 2nd in Group 1. I believe this is the first time this has been achieved so Monika is rightly proud.
I was sorry to hear that Keith and Val have recently lost their lovely Garregddhu Blue Chelsea at Kayval. I understand they were still too upset to attend Crufts, we've all been there before and will be again, it never gets easier. My sympathy on your loss.
Crufts is over and done for another year. 41 dogs making 54 entries although a couple of absentees. I'm sure you've all seen the results and congratulations to Lesley Wright and Yarraman Dare to Rock at Coright on her first CC and going BOB. The dog CC went to Kimberly Jebson's Ch.Austmans Ground Control, well done. We had at least one visitor from the USA, always interesting to have someone not familiar with our system asking questions. Really makes you think about what is happening in the ring. Rhonda thanks everyone who made her so welcome and was patient with all the questions.
I didn't see the all the Crufts coverage but I understand there were some errors in the commentary, a shame they don't take the time to check for accuracy. At least ACDs were on screen - I've had quite a few of our customers remark on seeing them.
The Breed Stand did a steady trade although not as much as some previous years. This is always an issue, trying to decide what items to stock. Suggestions are always gratefully received although its not always possible to stock things at a cost effective price. I've seen some lovely mugs in the US but by the time shipping is added on, no-one is going to want to buy them, just too expensive.
I had a lovely phone call, followed by an email, recently. One of the dogs I had here for rehoming went initially to Scotland. His breeder and I were particularly pleased to see him go to a lovely home as we were sure he had early stage PRA. The potential owner was told before looking at the dog and the situation explained. He fell in love with the dog instantly and took him home. A couple of years later the owner rang, very distressed, he was moving to Northern Ireland, possibly into rented accommodation for a while, and didn't know what to do about the dog. We had a long chat and then I heard no more. Until the recent phone call, from NI, to say the dog is wonderful and they both love the country and were just going on holiday to Cork. I do love a happy ending!
The ACDS of GB AGM followed hot on the heels of Crufts. As usual, about twenty people attended. Nice to see Edith Nicholls in the pink and also Merrick Stephens. The agenda items were covered briskly and with some interesting discussion and points of view. There were some items that Pearl has asked be included in the Breed Notes, although Members will get the information in the minutes in due course. From Pearl:-
1/ 10 yr subs. expires 31.12.08 - Direct Debit facility is available and a DD Mandate can be completed this year in readiness, contact Pearl for this.
2/ The official ACD Soc.of G.B. Rescue Point and Contact is Stella Smyth who should be contacted in the first instance for advice and guidance. No other person within the breed is approved for this.
3/ The membership agreed that we would like to take up Early Bird Advertising Rates for a Breed Feature in the 2009 Dog World and Our Dogs Annual. Please contact Pearl asap to let her know if you are interested so a suitable number of pages can be booked early based on the response.
4/ The membership agreed that the Show Points System be updated to reflect C.C.status. Revised points system to begin from the start of 2008 - and will be updated for the next newsletter.
In addition, two further trophies will be on offer for the Winner/Runner Up in breed classes for the combined wins at Non CC Champ Shows and Open Shows.
The deadline for returning Claim Forms will be 31st January each year.
Trophies will only be awarded to members who are fully paid up in the year the awards relate to, but should also be fully paid up members in the year the awards are presented ie. The AGM.
5/ A Breed Seminar is planned for Oct/Nov 2008 - date/venue to be confirmed.
6/ The ACD Website Content and Fees were discussed and the committee agreed :
a/ that the current £30 annual breeder card would be updated. The new fee for 2008 will be £40 which will include a Full Page per breeder plus Litter advertising at no additional cost. Available to Members Only.
Anyone who has already paid their 2008 Web fee at £30 can upgrade to the new rate now by letting Pearl know and paying an additional £10.
b/ that the Litter Adv.Fee for those not having a full page breeder adv. be changed from £10/month to £20 for 3 months. Members only and the contact details must be the member/breeder only - no agents.
Relevant payments must be made via the Secretary in the first instance who will update our Webmaster Adam upon receipt of payment.
And the final item was that the winner of the collage of Crufts BOBs was Robin and Sue Searle.
The ACDS of GB Open Show with Limited Obedience, will be on the 6th April at Redditch. Even if you've missed the entries (as I know one or two have!) do come and support the Breed and the Society. The society's shows have always been such good social occasions and an opportunity to see everyone else's dogs. Let's hope the weather is kind.
Stella Smyth 01189793399 or morrow.acd@btinternet.com

30th January 2008

All Members of the ACDS of GB should have received a schedule for the Open Show with Limited Obedience. This will be on April 6th at Lesley Wright's home where successful Fun Days have been held.
The Obedience is open to all Members who may enter other breeds of dog if they have them, not just their Cattledogs. I am hoping to have one or two training sessions here (I need to brush up my obedience rather badly - not to mention teach the pup a thing or two!) so if anyone is interested in a bit of practice, do give me a call.
Crufts will be upon us in no time - I hope you've all volunteered to help out at the Discover Dogs booth? Help is also appreciated on the Breed Stand on the Saturday, although generally I can co-opt people who are around on the day.
The Annual General Meeting paperwork has also been sent out, along with Membership renewals. Those of us with ten year memberships need to make the most of this year as they expire (the Memberships that is!) in December. The AGM will be held in the midlands, at one of the GDBA Centres. This is quite central so it would be nice to see a good turn out. Hopefully the location will help counterbalance the fact that Crufts is a couple of weeks before and the Show a couple of weeks after. Rather a lot of ACD related travelling in a short space of time. The AGM is the Members opportunity to tell the Committee what they would like to see the Society do in the future - so make the most of it.
Stella Smyth 01189793399 or morrow.acd@btinternet.com

17th January 2008

I found my piece of paper with some notes on it - it was in a safe place - honestly!
Yarraman Star Sapphire has had a good run recently. Morag took her to Livingston Open where she took Best AVNSC and then Group 3 under Sue Pollock-Yule. She also went to Paisley, taking Best AVNSC and Group 2. Well done.
I hear there were only two ACDs at Boston Champ show. Ch.Austmans Ground Control took 3rd in AVNSC Pastoral Open Dog. Austmans Chases Dreams won Limit Bitch and Best AVNSC Bitch. The judge was Peter Radley. Ground Control was also Best NSC Pastoral at an Open show in Dec I believe. Ch.Warrigal Munyah Blue Yarraman was 3rd in the Champion Stakes at Worcester under Stuart Mallard. Well done to all, keeping the ACD flag flying.
I have been told of another Health testing session coming up in February. This one is run by the Field Spaniel Society and is open to all breeds. It will be on 10th Feb at Great Alne and Kinwarton Memorial Hall, Alcester, Warks. Specialists will be available for Eye Testing; Heart Testing; DNA Profiling and DNA Archiving. Semen Testing and Collection as well as Microchipping - quite a full day. Contact Shula M.Shipton for booking forms mishules@btinternet.com or 01283 530408.

14th January 2008

Firstly an apology - the phone number to contact Marion Simpson-Wyeth regarding Discover Dogs at Crufts should be 01775 640429. Anyone who would like to help out, please contact her as soon as possible. These rotas can be a pain to organise and it is nice to have them sorted in plenty of time to send out passes.
I was sorry to hear that Marion had a nasty fall last year, resulting in a trip with flashing blue lights and ten stitches in her head. Thankfully she is recovering although it has been very unpleasant.
A message from Val Tiller gives the information that she is running another Optigen 20-20 Clinic on Tuesday 5th February, in Epsom Surrey. I took Link to their last clinic and it was very well organised and ran smoothly. ACDs can be tested either by attending in person or by owners sending a blood sample by post to Val. Please contact her directly if you are interested in taking part, it certainly saves some cost. Email val.tiller@talk21.com or Tel 01372 273597 for full details and to book a place.
Sadly Alison Skipper had to make the final decison for Copper last weekend. Copper was 18 and 2/3 years old and had been around for almost half of Alison's life. She was her first own dog, and first ACD; she outlived two of the others that Alison had after her. In her youth she did typical ACD things - rolling in horrible stuff, herding the vacuum cleaner and so on. She was mascot on the blood collecting trip with Greg Acland so helping with the developement of what is now the Optigen gene test for prcd. She has been a very old dog for a very long time, giving me continuous worry as Alison left her dogs with me while she was on holiday. Right up until the New Year. Copper was just not herself on her last visit so I was not surprised when I received the message of her passing. RIP Copper, you had a good innings and will be a hard act to follow.

26th December 2007

I was sorry to hear of the death of Pearl Crocker, she went out of her way to try and help the ACD Society when we were trying to find a suitable show venue. I know our President has sent a letter of condolence on behalf of the Society, our sympathy to her family and friends on their loss.
I was also sorry to hear that our Patron, William Lord Huntingdon, has had major heart surgery for the second time. I gather that he is in the States, last time it was Australia - maybe he should think about staying in one place? Joking apart, this was serious surgery, eleven hours worth I'm told, but he is on the mend. I'm sure I speak for all the ACD Society Members when I send best wishes for a speedy and full recovery.
I have just found a note to myself which had been hidden on my desk, okay, there's too much paper on it, such is life. Apologies for the delay.
At W&PB of Scotland Yarraman the Booroo was BOB and Yarraman Star Sapphire was BOS, judge was Mr.Pederson. I understand that the Booroo was then pulled out in the last eight in the group under Mr.Newcombe. Well done.
I was interested to see that there has been a flurry of comments about the Epupz website. I have been asked if I know of it a couple of times recently. I mentioned this some time ago but was told I needed to be careful how I commented as it could be taken as libellous (or is it slanderous? I can't remember) anyway, not everyone approves of this means of advertising pups for sale. I have emailed to the site on more than one occasion to complain about the content of an advert - including a recent one, not cattledogs I hasten to add but another breed I am interested in, where the advertiser describes herself as not a breeder. Well, three litters in two years is a breeder in my book.
The thing I loathe about having pups is the need to part with them, I guess I'm just a bit too soft. I love to see them go to the right homes and to get feedback over the years about how well they've done. Or even how naughty they've been but they're still loved and wanted and that's immensely rewarding - to me anyway. Sometimes though word of mouth and recommendation is just not enough and pups need to be advertised if the breeder is to find them homes before they die of old age. Web sites like this have taken the place of the free papers, all of which have had the same adverse comments about them over the years. The bottom line is that those who care about their puppies will move heaven and earth to try and ensure a good home for each one, regardless of where that home saw the pups advertised and that all the rest of us can do is try and educate puppy purchasers to ask pertinent questions and be aware of where they are buying from.
A brief note from Pearl Chetwynd just reminding me to let everyone know that Marion Simpson'Wyeth will be the co-ordinator for Discover Dogs at Crufts next year. She can be contacted on 07750640429 or via Peal Chetwynd's email pearl-jack@curdeleon.freeserve.co.uk Please don't leave it until the last minute to contact Marion as it takes a bit of organising to make sure that all four days are covered.
Stella Smyth morrow.acd@btinternet.com or 0118 9793399

28th November 2007

Yet another ACD was in need of a new home recently but I'm delighted to say that she is now going to Scotland. At the moment I have a blue bitch who was supposed to be going to a new home but the prospective owner was involved in a car accident and hospitalised for eight weeks. Hopefully he may be out soon and still feel able to take her. There are also two dogs in Cumbria, these have been in kennels for some months and we have not pushed to get them homed as they were not socialised - they had not even been lead-trained as I understand it - so were not good candidates for going into a pet home. They are still not going to be easy but it would be great if we could get them to an experienced home where they may stand a chance of a normal life. They are on the ACDS of GB website. There is also a four year old bitch who could go to another home if the right one comes along, thanks to a change of circumstances of the owner. This is a busy bitch who is used to ratting around the stables so is finding living next to a garden with pet rabbits and guinea-pigs very difficult!

A message from the President of the ACDS of GB:

Its that time of the year again folks. Lets hope that we soon have some brisk wintry days when walking the dogs will be enjoyable affording adequate exercise for K9s & humans alike during the short daylight hours. It won’t be long before the days are lengthening again, the snowdrops & the crocus will be a pleasure to behold followed by the daffodils “dancing in the breeze”. (Lets hope its not gales)!

The show season is practically at a standstill in the run up to Xmas, time to reflect on the achievements of the past year & vowing to do better in the year ahead.

The wheels are already in motion for a busy new year within the society; your continued support in all aspects will be hugely appreciated. Soon we will be needing volunteers to man the D.D. booth at Crufts. Please let your committee know if you are available to help. A few hours of your time with your dog, a.m. or p.m. on any day during the show would be invaluable.

Thanks must go to the committee for all their hard work throughout the year. Any event requires effort if it is to be successful, not only the organisation, the attendance also is so important. Speaking of attendance, it was so good to see my dear friends Ken & Monica & Merrick & Merrily with their dogs at the fun day. It was like old times. I wish that I had had more time to natter to them but I was busy with the KCGCs tests most of the day. These folk have been with the Society from the very beginning. Thinking of past times I find it hard to believe that we no longer have great stalwarts like John & Mary Holmes, Ros Cartwright & Gwen Haughton in our midst. They worked so hard for the society & for ‘Cattle Dogs’. God bless.

I will not be sending out individual seasonal greetings this year. I have decided that it will be better for the Society to benefit by a donation. So, may I through your breed notes, convey my compliments of the season to all members & friends, at home & abroad & indeed to all the folk with whom I was associated for many years at ‘Dog World’. Enjoy the Festive Season & be ever mindful of the needs of your dogs.

Merry Xmas & A Happy New Year . Edith Miller.

Thanks (I think!) to Edith for the reminder that Christmas is nearly upon us, where did the year go? I feel that while it is nice to receive cards it is not necessarily good use of anything - trees, money, time and so on. I prefer to send and receive cards from people that I see infrequently, friends and family abroad for example, then the message is more than just a scribbled greeting, it is an update on how we are all faring, people and dogs alike. So if you don't receive a card from me please don't take it as a personal insult! I will raise a glass for the health and safety of one and all on Christmas Day - after we've finished cleaning kennels!

21st November 2007

I was so sorry to hear that Lyn Chesterfield has lost Flax (Morrow Blue Arana) at sixteen and a half years of age. Flax was the only bitch in my first litter and gave Lyn and her family as well as me, many entertaining moments over the years. She was bossy, demanding, loving and wicked - every inch a cattledog. As Lyn says, she is a hard act to follow, rest in peace old girl.
An irate phone call from another cattledog owner tells me that his insurance company has doubled his premium for his dog. On querying the steep rise, he was told that cattledogs had been reassessed (along with other breeds) and moved to a different band, hence the increased premium. This is news to me and we are interested to know if anyone else has had the same experience. It seems rather a coincidence that the increase in premium is almost identical with the amount currently being claimed for an on-going condition suffered by the dog, but maybe that's my suspicious mind!
Alison Skipper had a couple of interesting visitors recently - a red ACD and an ACD x Rhodesian Ridgeback! Both dogs have arrived from Australia with their owner and are used to working, so the owner was a bit disappointed to find no cattle lined up to work. The owner would like to meet others with ACDs so may be at some future events.
Discover Dogs at Earls Court was pretty much the same as in previous years. We did better for people to man the stand (many thanks to Sue Huntingdon / Hilary Powell / Alison Skipper / Alex Nicholls / Lorraine Gardner ) particularly compared to some other breeds where there were only one or two people to cover all weekend. My Link was fascinated by the strange sights - Afghans with full body suits mystified him! - but he settled down to meeting people quite happily. Amy, Adam and I had the quieter part of the day on Saturday morning but we were still talking to people mid-afternoon. I understand that as a result of a meeting with Sue, a family have taken the Cooley's last puppy. Nice to know that he has a family of his own now.
Did anyone get in touch with the Society regarding forming an agility team? I believe there was a note in one of the newsletters earlier this year as the subject was discussed at the AGM. There are more people doing agility now so surely we must have enough dogs to make a team? That would be fun to see at Crufts.
0118 9793399 / morrow.acd@btinternet.com Stella Smyth.

1st November 2007

A very sad note to start with, a message from Noreen Clark in Australian brought the news that Helen Hewson-Freund died on the 28th October. Anyone who has a copy of Noreen's book will know that Helen gave much support during the book's production. Helen was experienced in teaching, knowledgeable in genetics and excellent at technical writing. She gained a Dog Judging Diploma with the Canine Studies Institute, UK and had her Working Dog Licence in Australia. She gave advice to many breeds on inheritance issues including the Australian Cattle Dog, the Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog, Border Collie, Chinese Crested, Labrador Retriever and Hungarian Puli. I have copied Noreen's Valedictory to the ACDS website manager. Another mine of information lost to us, I am sure she will be sadly missed.

Pearl Chetwynd has asked for a couple of items to be included on behalf of the ACD Society of GB: 1/ Handbook Thank You. The committee of the ACD Society of Great Britain would like to give their thanks and appreciation to Kimberly Jebson for her hard work and diligence in producing the First Edition of the Society Handbook. I am sure members and advertisers will also agree, that the finished result was excellent and shows extreme dedication to the cause by Kimberly, in ensuring that this feature was ready in time for our First Championship Show. I am sure this was no mean feat to produce, whilst juggling a hectic lifestyle with two young children and her dogs and Kimberly’s dedication and commitment are greatly appreciated. In addition, her production cost control has resulted in a healthy profit for the society, after all required expenditure has been recompensed and has ensured that further copies of the handbook can be printed on demand at a minimal additional cost to the society. Thanks must also go to our members/advertisers who supported this project by subscribing their advertisements. It is hoped to produce further editions in the future and suggestions for additional content will be gratefully received by myself for future discussion. A big hand to Kimberly Jebson. 2/ Society Judging List Upgrades. The society would appreciate it if any Breed/Non Breed Specialists, currently on our judging list, who wish to be upgraded from their current list position, would: A/ provide copies of any certificates they have received to confirm their attendance/completion of Kennel Club required seminars/assessments etc. B/ provide details of additional judging appointments in the breed they have completed since their original applications were approved ie. Show, Date, No.Classes, No.Dogs Entered, No. of Dogs present, Absentees.

I am pleased to report that my 'Link' (Blue Jamberoo at Morrow) and Sue Huntingdon's 'Toodyay' (Morrow Blue Flinders at Warrigal) have both tested Clear of prcd-PRA. I expect many of you have already seen the announcement regarding the Kennel Club approving the Optigen Test for prcd-PRA in Australian Cattle Dogs but just in case you missed it, please note the following:

Two new official DNA testing schemes requested for prcd-PRA in the AUSTRALIAN CATTLE DOG and Finnish Lapphund have been approved by the General Committee of the Kennel Club. These tests are offered by Optigen in America and further details can be obtained from www.optigen.com. Copies of all future test certificates issued by Optigen will be sent directly to the Kennel Club, where the test result will be added to the dog’s details on the registration database. This will trigger the publication of the test result in the next available Breed Records Supplement, (as is already in place for Hip and Elbow results PC), and the result will also appear on any new registration certificate issued for the dog and on the registration certificates of any future progeny of the dog. Owners who have already had their dog(s) DNA tested for these conditions can send the test certificate into the Kennel club and the data will be added to the dogs registration details. In addition, if the owner includes the original registration certificate for the dog (not a copy) then a new registration certificate will be issued, with the DNA result on it, free of charge. Please send the DNA test certificates to : The Information Dept, The Kennel Club, 1-5 Clarges Street, Piccadilly, London, W1J 8AB. For further information on this scheme please contact Dr Jeff Sampson, either by phone on 020 7518 1068 or by email jeff.sampson@thekennelclub.org.uk;” Pearl Chetwynd has advised that she would recommend you send all original certificates via Recorded Delivery Mail as a minimum.

27th September 2007

The first ACDS of GB Championship Show has come and gone. There was a good entry although the inevitable absentees on the day. Loads of elbow-room at the Sports Connexion, almost too much for my taste as I felt it lacked atmosphere. It was lovely to catch up with people I haven't seen for sometime. Edith Miller was looking very well and elegant and was able to sit and watch the judging in relative peace for once. The full results will appear elsewhere but the BOB was the bitch Austmans Chases Dreams (Austmans Sydney Spirit x Windwarrior's Indian Silver of Austmans). BD and RBIS was Warrigal Blue Jamberoo (Curdeleon Blue the Boy Wunda x Warrigal Blue Cooma), not bad for his first dog show! Anna was speechless when I saw her. Judge Margaret Davis from Australia said she enjoyed her day, I look forward to seeing what she says in her critique. ACDS Chairperson asked that I express thanks to all those who worked so hard before and on the day to make everything run smoothly. I understand that the KC Field Officer was suitably impressed which is always a relief.
Kimberly Jebson had the handbooks ready for collection and it looks very smart. I haven't had time to read my yet (still haven't unpacked the car either!) but hope to soon. Anyone who wants to buy a copy can contact either Pearl or Kimberly for details.
I received information on AI which may be of interest to some. Keith Shea writes: may I take this opportunity to inform you of a range of services which you may consider of interest in the future development of your breed.

· Collection of semen from stud dog and evaluation of semen.

· Freezing of semen and storage.

· Collection and preparation of fresh/chilled semen.

· Storage of frozen semen.

· Artificial Insemination (Trans Cervical) using the latest camera, endoscope equipment.

· Storage of semen from UK and other countries.

Please do not hesitate to contact me should you require any further information. Fit And Fertile Ltd, Lowes Farm,Willacy Lane, Catforth, Preston, PR4 0JD Day/Night: 01772 690014 Mobile: 07973 415088. www.fitandfertile.com

Andrew Fairchld has also contacted me and asked that I notify you of a seminar which may be of interest. It is described as a Breeder Seminar on Sat 0ct 13th at Rugby Methodist Church Russelheim Way
10.00am start
Speakers;
Paul Boland BVSc MRCVS
Fertility- Recent Developments in Canine Reproduction.
Paul comes highly recommended after delivering an excellent presentation to the Kennel Club breeders Symposium
Jessica Gruninger The joys and heartache of hand rearing a new born puppy
Fiona Hughes Whelping and the problems associated with whelping
Royal Canin - correct canine nutrition
Tickets cost £20 includes all tea/coffee and lunch.
Donations for the raffle would be appreciated.
Please send a stamp addressed envelope and cheque to A. Fairchild 90 Moring Road SW17 8DL London. All cheques to be made out to Maltese Club.
Tel 0208 767 5578

I am pleased to report that at least some of our recent rescues have found new homes and seem to be settling well. Sadly there has been a second ACD needing a new home thanks to his owner dying suddenly. Some members may remember meeting Andre Gyorkey and his wife when they arrived from Australia with a Pavesi bred dog. The dog was never registered here but was Andre's companion. Blue died some time ago but Andre had a red dog from me who is now in need of another home. "Red" was three on 26th Sept and is fit and well. I did have a couple of possible homes but that was a few weeks ago and I gave out details of all the various litters currently available so those homes may be filled. Although I hear there are still rather a lot of pups to be placed. At least five litters seem to have one or more pups to find homes for, quite scary as they are getting older all the time. Normally its red boys that hang on to the last but there are blue boys still around too. Makes me quite glad that my girls are spayed.

September 10th, 2007

ACD owner and Society Member Sarah Sharratt sent a quick memo to tell me that her kids and dogs are featuring in an article in Dogs Today, the October issue, which is now on sale in WHSmith. Look out for some nice photos.

I have been asked to remind you all that the first deadline date for DOG WORLD ANNUAL 2008 is September 23. Those who get their copy and payment to Dog World by that date can take advantage of substantial discounts. Full details can be found most weeks within the paper, on www.dogworld.co.uk, by emailing annual@dogworld.co.uk or by contacting the office on 01233 621877. Dog World very much hope that as wide a selection of breeds as possible will be represented in the Annual; remember it is a publication people keep for years and one which is seen by prominent dog people around the world.

Sadly, despite having every intention of attending and even getting so far as to start the packed lunch, I didn't make it to the Funday again. I was looking forward to a nice day out with my pup but had to make do with an afternoon at home instead, after I had dealt with the work issues. I understand there was a reasonable turnout of people and dogs and the weather was kind. Lesley and Robert worked hard to provide everything necessary for a good day and I am sure this was much appreciated by those present. Although it is fun, it still takes a lot of work to make the day go smoothly both in preparation, on the day and then the clearing up after. There were a number of things on offer, including Kennel Club Good Citizen assessments. I hope all the dogs were able to take and pass these, it does much good for the world of dogs and ACDs especially, if we promote responsible ownership via these certificates.

Kimberly has sent proofs out to all who have advertised in the forthcoming handbook. They look to be of very good quality so should be well worth having. It will be available at the Society's first Championship Show which is on Sunday 23rd September.

Norma Digby rang with news that "Rocky" (Am.Ch.Silveraurora's PW Tom Thumb) is enjoying his new life in Ireland and showing great talent for herding livestock. I had heard that he was showing great potential but she tells me that recently Rocky helped with moving a bull and cows. The bull is apparently known to be quite aggressive so the owner was very concerned when it started heading down the field towards Daryl, Rocky and him. He was suggesting that they should leave the field, promptly!, when Rocky placed himself between the bull and them and then went after it. He turned the bull and sent it back where it belonged, much to the owner's amazement. I am told that Rocky is working around stock in a natural and easy manner and that Daryl is delighted with him.

Stella Smyth morrow.acd@btinternet.com or 0118 9793399

30th August 2007

Where did the summer go? Breed notes sadly slipped off the bottom of my list of things to do each day as we have been so busy with the kennels. Good news so far as my bank manager is concerned but does interfere with the rest of my life! Still, it's only this crazy for a couple of months and then it goes back to the normal level of chaos!
I hope no-one has been too hard hit by the "summer" weather. We had a more than enough water for a while, and people who had to leave their dogs with us while their homes dried out. However the inconvenience that we had was nothing compared to the terrible loss and mess of others, so I'm not complaining.
Sadly the planned ACD Funday was postponed thanks to the rain (and it turned out a reasonable day here too!) which was probably very sensible. Weather permitting it will have been held on Sept 2nd so I hope to report on that in future.
I am pleased to hear the Carol Smith's Didge, mentioned before as needing a lump removed, has recovered well and the lump was benign. Always nice to hear.
I hope everyone got their entries off for the society's first championship show. It is coming up very quickly now and promises to be an interesting event. I know Kimberly was chasing people for photos / information for the handbook too, so if you promised her anything please make sure you've sent it. (Note to self - must check where I got to on that!) Even if you've not got a dog or not entered a dog, it will be an excellent opportunity to see many of the UK's cattledog population at one time.
Pearl also forwarded a note to me regarding two seminars organised by the Kennel Club, details as follows: 1/ Sunday 18th Nov. 2007.
KC /BSAVA/PFMA Breeder Symposium, Royal Veterinary College, Hertfordshire. 0930-1545pm. 32.50 per person.
Topics: Epilepsy and Genetics of Epilepsy in Dogs, Vaccination , Heart Disease in Dogs all with question and answer sessions.
First come first served basis. Contact Candy Elton, 02075186870 or candy.elton@thekennelclub.org.uk .
2/ KC Dog "How to Lobby Seminar"
Fri 7th September,2007 10am - 12,30pm followed by lunch, at the Kennel Club. contact laura.vallance@thekennelclub.org.uk.
KC Dog was est. to act a an intermediary between local authorities and its members, keeps members up to date about consultations being issued and Orders being introduced and advises members about how to lobby to amend proposals to suit them.
Seminar aimed at " providing its participants with he tools and knowledge to lobby politicians effectively." Both look interesting and potentially useful.
Don't forget that if you put your dog's name down with Val Tiller for the Optigen clinic on the 11th Sept, then you need to register on-line with Optigen using the clinic code. I don't know if Val has any places left, her telephone number is 01372 273597 or email val.tiller@talk21.com if you need to contact her.
On a sad note - not a cattledog but close companion to Sue Huntingdon's Togar and Toodyay, Maisie the spaniel was given permanent sleep on Bank Holiday Monday. She was only young but developed Haemolytic Anaemia and despite the best care and attention was unable to pull through it. I know Sue and Graeme are devastated, it was such a shock. Our thoughts and sympathy on your loss.
News and views to morrow.acd@btinternet.com or 0118 9793399.
Stella Smyth

12th July 2007

Congratulations to Kimberly and Mark on the speedy arrival of Benjamin John. Another junior handler in the making!

A couple of items for you from the recent Committee Meeting:
Funday Reminder:
Sunday 29th July, Shurnock Brake Farm,
Milepost Lane, Astwood bank, Reditch, B96 6LP. Tel: 01527 893522. Fun, Games, Raffle, Socialisation for dogs and owners,
Raffle - prizes welcomed. 11am - 4pm. Bring a picnic lunch.
Drinks provided.

Discover Dogs Earls Court:
10 and 11th November,07. Volunteers required.
Contact Pearl.

A.C.D.Society Guidelines for Judges
As the Australian Cattle Dog now has C.C. status, the committee would like to take the opportunity to emphasise the importance we believe should be placed on appropriate temperament in the breed.
The ACD standard states the ACD should be suspicious of strangers; however, this should not manifest itself as overt aggression or any degree of nervousness.
Any dog unable to display steady temperament without physical assistance or restraint from the handler should be consider untypical and detrimental to the breed and not awarded top honours.
It is the committees' belief that the first C.C.judges of the breed set the direction which will influence the breed for many years to come and thus should place as much importance on temperament as the committee does.
The Committee of the Australian Cattle Dog Sociey of Great Britain.

I was sorry to hear that Carol Smith is having a worrying time with Didge. He developed a fatty lump which has hopefully been successfully removed by the time these notes appear. It is always a worry when our dogs need surgery. We've all been there, fingers crossed all goes well for you.

I was fascinated to hear that "Birdie des Poenjaap" was 3rd out of 70 dogs at this year's French Truffle Hunting Championship. She was also 4th out of 250 dogs at the French Agility Championship (category C, 2nd level). As a result the AKBA (French association for Kelpies and ACDs) has made Birdie "Australian Dog of the Year". Truffle Hunting entails the dog finding six truffles within a five metre square area in the shortest possible time. The dog must not indicate the wrong spot or the same spot twice or damage any truffles. The time limit is ten minutes. Apparently really good dogs find them in under a minute. Birdie worked on a day of very bad weather which put a lot of the dogs off but didn't bother her. Fascinating to hear about another different competition with dogs.

This information came from Diana Macle-Gontier who has a promising red dog pup from her red bitch. Melba was taken to Barcelona to a dog called "Dr K's Jacobs Ladder". Jack is from Buzzards (USA) stock so is introducing some new lines to France. Hope all goes well for them.

I had a pleasant day judging at Paignton today. The sun was out, we missed the traffic jam which caused the start of judging to be delayed and were finished in plenty of time for the group! There were twelve dogs entered and nine present on the day. BB and BOB was Lesley Wright's Yarraman Dare to Rock at Coright. BD was Norma Digby's Yaapeet Blue Dreamer Yarraman.

News and views to morrow.acd@btinternet.com or 0118 9793399 Stella Smyth.

5th July 2007

The following information came through from Optigen recently. The total of all ACDs tested between April 1st and June 30th 2007 was 69. Of these 29 were Normal, 34 were carrier and 6 were affected. The countries involved included US, Canada, Czech Republic, Finland, France and Germany. There were no ACDs tested from the UK in this period.
If you want to have an Optigen test done, then don't forget: 11th September. Val Tiller (Foxbarton Border Collies) is organising another Eye Clinic which is open to all breeds. If you want to get a dog, or dogs, DNA tested for PRA then this would be an excellent opportunity. They can accommodate 40 dogs at the clinic which will be held in Epsom, Surrey. However this is also a registered satellite clinic which means that if you want to take part but are unable to get to Surrey then you can have your own vet draw the blood and then have it sent with the blood from the clinic. Please contact Val Tiller before you do any Antigen paperwork on-line. Her telephone number is 01372 273597 or email val.tiller@talk21.com This clinic filled up very quickly last time, so I suggest you book in with Val as soon as possible.

SWW&PB have two Open shows a year at Clevedon, near Bristol, within easy reach of the M5. The Autumn Show will be held on 6th October 2007 and the Spring Show on 3rd May 2008. They give classes for most breeds, including ACDs and I am told that the venue is having a lot of money spent on it. They are looking for support from exhibitors in the hope of getting Premier Show status in the future. Contact Lynda Payne kanixcharlotte@btinternet.com if you'd like schedules.

Windsor is my most local Champ Show and also a favourite as it is such a lovely location. It was crazy weather on the Friday with rain gear on and off or ducking under cover if there wasn't time to get the gear on. An interesting experience for my pup as at one point we were standing looking at one of the trade stands when the heavens opened, so the stand-holder dropped the front flaps and zipped us all in! There were seven or eight people in a very confined space with the rain belting down and the plastic flapping but I'm pleased to say Link thought it all fascinating. Luckily the rain stopped as he was starting to get bored, having already said "Hi" to everyone, and was looking for something to play with - the trailing cords on the tent were being viewed with great interest by him as they moved with the wind. Don't think the standholder would have appreciated his tent being swung on by an energetic, muddy ACD pup! I managed to keep him clean long enough to get first in AVNSC Puppy Dog and Best AVNSC Puppy. He seems to be getting the hang of this showing lark and moved out quite nicely, I hope he can continue to remember ready for NW&PB!

At the recent ACDS of GB Committee Meeting there were various topics discussed, as always, on behalf of the Society. The Committee would like to remind all Members that this is your Society. The Committee needs your views in order to make decisions and would appreciate all comments on shows and events, whether favourable or otherwise. The Committee wants to represent the Members at all times and it is hugely helpful if ideas, comments or complaints can be put in writing - email would be fine too - so that they can have clear evidence of the Members' opinons. It is no good making verbal comment to whoever happens to be around or on the phone afterwards, it is too easy for that conversation to be misinterpreted or reported giving a different bias on the opinion expressed - anyone ever played "chinese whispers"? A letter, or email which can be printed off, can be read by all Committee Members and acted on accordingly. You don't have to write miles of exquisite prose! Just a note - "really liked that because" ; or " could we do.....?" something or other. A few words will do.

Following on nicely from that, the ACDS Funday is coming up at the end of July and the Committee has suggested various activities that we hope will amuse and entertain you. The Funday will be held at Lesley & Robert Wrights' home on 29th July. I believe details will be on the ACDS website. Let's hope we have a real summer by then so we can all enjoy a picnic lunch.

News and views to morrow.acd@btinternet.com or 0118 9793399 Stella Smyth

26th June 2007

Please note the following message from Pearl Chetwynd regarding the ACDS Champ.Show in September:-

Schedules for the 1st Champ.Show 23.9.07 have been mailed to all members, however, due to a printers error the bitch classes are incorrectly numbered.

Correct class numbers are: Post Grad Bitch, Class 10, Limit Bitch Class 11 and Open Bitch Class 12. Bitch Challenge Certificate will be judged after class 12.

Blackpool Champ. Show gave the second Champion in the breed and first Bitch Champion. Warrigal Munyah Blue Yarraman was BB and BOB out of a good entry of thirty-one for Mrs.F.Somerfield. Reserve CC was Warrigal Blue Swagman at Curdeleon, Res BD was Curdeleon Blue the Boy Wunda and Res BB was Yarraman Dare to Rock at Coright. Well done to all. I understand that it was not a satisfactory day with the weather and traffic causing problems and delaying the start of judging. However I also hear that Cattledogs were in the ring after a very large entry of Border Collies and that the BC BOB made it to the Pastoral Group but the Cattledogs were just starting to be judged.
I am well aware that I was not there and important information as to why the Group Judging could not be held until ALL the Breed judging was finished may yet get to me. It is something which has happened in the past to Cattledogs but as they now have CCs, and at this show, I do not think it is reasonable to treat them as second class citizens.
On a happier note, I am told there were eight ACDs entered at Newmarket Open Show with five present on the day. Looks like it was an Austmans Day Out with four of the five bred by them. BOB was Austmans Pure Genius at Jahanghir and Res. was Austmans Sunny Devil.
There are a couple of ACDs in rescue in Cumbria. Hopefully their picture is on the ACDS web page. They appear to need some work so would be best with experienced owners. Do look at the website if you think you may be the person they need. There is also a dog which is believed to be an ACD x Jack Russell from the same place. So someone looking for an ACD in smaller form, this could be for you!
Following my comments on classes at Bath Championship Show, Pearl Chetwynd kindly dug around in some old catalogues. Up until 1998 ACDs were in AVNSC with 2 or 3 dogs entered apart from 1998 when there were 6. That fits with my vague memory. Then in 2005 and 2006 there were Breed Classes with 15 and 24 entries respectively. Sadly Pearl hasn't got the years between 1998 and 2005 so I'm still not sure exactly when the Breed classes started. Thank you for that Pearl, much appreciated.
Link met both extremes of the range of dog sizes this weekend. On Saturday it was a very large Irish Wolfhound and on Sunday a Chihuahua cross - wearing a cute coat too! I pleased to say that he accepted both of them as friends and was particularly taken with the Chi who was a girl!
News and views to morrow.acd@btinternet.com or 0118 9793399 Stella Smyth

14th June 2007

Sadly I didn't manage to catch up with all the cattledogs at Zagreb but I did see a few. The full results may be on-line on the Eurodogshow Website. The best of breed ACD was Kombinalong Super Ace, an Australian import to Italy. Coletta Paolo was understandably pleased with the win but agreed with me that her red dog "Landmaster Promised Land" was really the better of the two. There's a lot to like about Ace, he's a big, strong dog of dark blue colour but the red dog is more compact in body and better (in my opinion) in head. Of course I didn't see them in the ring so perhaps he did not give enough when being shown.
The stumpy-tail was not present so far as I could ascertain and I only had a glimpse of a black kelpie, one of the three entered. I did meet two Lapponian Herders (Lapinporokoira) which are a short haired version of the Finnish Lapphund. They were very kelpie-like, an adult and a puppy bitch, and I am very taken with them.
Back at home, there were twenty-five cattledogs entered for Three Counties Championship Show where a single CC was on offer. The judge was breed specialist Denise Wainwright and BOB was the Chetwynd's Warrigal Blue Swagman at Curdeleon giving him his first CC. Best Bitch was another of Sue Huntingdon's breeding, Warrigal Munyah Blue Yarraman. Link caused some amusement as he couldn't keep his nose off the ground. Far too interesting. He thoroughly enjoyed his first show, particularly when he discovered there was food to be found! He has had some training - honest! He was just hiding it very well on Wednesday!
Lyn Chesterfield was celebrating Flax's sixteenth birthday this week. Flax is the last of my first litter of cattledogs and she has had a full and busy life, making sure to keep Lyn on her toes. Happy Birthday Flax.
News and views to morrow.acd@btinternet.com or 0118 9793399 Stella Smyth.

5th June 2007

There were 14 entries for Southern Counties Champ Show where no CCs were on offer. However on the day there were only 8 dogs for Mrs.Peggy Beisel-McIlwaine from the USA, to go over. I would have loved to have taken my pup but sadly he was a week too young. BD & BOB was Austmans Caledonia Chaos with Reserve Dog going to Warrigal Blue Boulder at Coright. BB was Austmans Divine Blue at Angelarc and Reserve B was Austmans Sally Carrera. Well done to all concerned.
There is one StumpyTailed Australian Cattle Dog, twelve Australian Cattle Dogs and three Kelpies entered at the Eurodog Show in Zagreb. I hope to catch up with them and give you details in my next notes. Watch this space as they say!News and views to morrow.acd@btinternet.com or 0118 9793399 Stella Smyth.

1st June 2007

A diversionary tale.....I was tossing and turning on this Bank Holiday morning. The wind was bouncing the raindrops off the roof with some force and I kept looking at the clock-radio thinking I should get up and face the day. At last I surrendered, 07.20am, and got up. Washed, dressed, brushing hair when my alarm clock goes off. Strange...hit the 'off ' button as I look at the clock radio....definitely says 07.35am.....alarm usually goes off at 06.30am. (you've guessed where this is going haven't you?) Maybe hubbie has interfered with my clock as its a Bank Holiday. Check out radio controlled kitchen clock.....06.37am.....sigh. We had a minor power cut yesterday and hubbie (bless him!) has reset the clock radio out by an hour. Oh, well, I might as well carry on as I'm up. The dogs were delighted as always to be out for their morning walk. Five Cattledogs and one German Shepherd oblivious to the continuing rain, the pup carrying his trophy (an old bone he found) wanting to show it off but afraid one of the others might demand he give it up. I decide I'd better keep an eye on the time, its so easy to lose track playing around in the woods with my dogs. Silly, must have put my watch on upside down as it says 12.25 and it should be about 6.55. Take watch off and turn it around...that isn't right either. Light is dawning about as fast as the sun coming up.....the watch needs a new battery. Maybe I'll resign myself to not knowing what the time is today, the dogs certainly don't care and I'm sure they'll let me know when it's time for breakfast!

A disappointing entry of 6 (2 absent) at Bath Ch. where there were no CCs on offer. I don't know how long Bath has had classes for Cattledogs but I certainly don't remember it ever be very well supported by the breed when we were in AVNSC. Makes me wonder why they decided to put classes on for cattledogs. Perhaps someone who shows more frequently can update me on the background? However, Best Dog and BOB went to Jack & Pearl Chetwynd's Curdeleon Ned Kelly. Res Dog went to Keith & Val Wild's Curdeleon Blue Andante at Kayval (hope I've got the right dog this time Val!). Best Bitch went to Keith & Val's Garregddu Blue Chelsea at Kayval. Congratulations to all of you.

There were 26 Cattledogs at the World Dog Show in Mexico recently. I don't have the full results but was interested to see that all breeds had classes on all four days with a different judge each day. Mexican, American and International titles were on offer. One ACD I heard about had quite different placings under the different judges. The results may be available on-line via the World Show website if anyone wants to know more, I haven't had time to web browse and search them out.
News and views to morrow.acd@btinternet.com or 0118 9793399 Stella Smyth.

24th May 2007

My apologies for the absence of notes some weeks. Between life the universe and everything I sometimes just do not have time to organise and send notes.
So far as I can gather, there were seventeen cattledogs entered at SKC Ch. Show with two absent. I'm sure it will come as no great surprise that Austmans Ground Control received his third CC and is (subject to KC approval) the first Champion made up in Breed. Bitch CC and BOB went to Warrigal Munyah Blue Yarraman. This is her second and on current form, I'm sure the third will come soon. Congratulations to all the winners, very well done.

The British & Irish Dog Breeds Preservation Trust have a forum coming up on June 10th. I am told that it is for all those interested in breeding healthier dogs but I guess even non-breeders would be welcome as it might give them insight on how to select their next healthy pup. Tickets are only £5 and include a buffet lunch and beverages.
The morning session consists of a presentation given by Angelika von Heimendahl MRCVS, DipECAR who will talk about various aspects of “CANINE REPRODUCTION”, which is her specialist field. She is highly regarded as an expert both here in the UK and in Europe. Her talk will be most comprehensive and cover a wide variety of fertility related problems. Each topic discussed will be followed by a slot for Questions and answers, so you will be given the opportunity to bring up any queries you may have. The afternoon speaker is Dr Jeff Sampson, who will give a talk on “Using Genetics To Breed Healthier Dogs”. The history of the dog, breed development, Canine genetics, inherited disease in breeding programmes and DNA testing are some of the areas to be discussed. Book by phoning or emailing Sue or John Breeze details below. Email suebreeze@gmail.com Tel: 01283 761941.

I had a fun Working Trials training session here last weekend. For once the black labradors were out-numbered by the other breeds - three of which were ACDs which did not belong to me! Rosco, Roxie and Myah all had a great time and showed plenty of potential for trials training. Rosco and Roxie were bred by Kimberly and Myah is a daughter of my Ky. I know I am biased, but Working Trials really is a good pastime for cattledogs. It does not have the over-excitement which comes with Agility and Flyball and gives them more scope to use their brains than Obedience alone. I hope to see them all again, along with any other cattledogs, who knows, maybe they'll even get round to competing!
News and views to morrow.acd@btinternet.com or 0118 9793399 Stella Smyth.

3rd May 2007

I was delighted to hear that Lesley Wright's "Boulder" (Warrigal Blue Boulder at Coright) has gained his KCGC Test Silver Award. This takes a bit more effort than the Bronze and will not be passed without some work on the part of the handler. Well done to both of you. I am particularly pleased as "Boulder" is family, being litter brother to my "Ky" and grand-dad to puppy "Link". I know there are other ACD out there with KCGCT Certificates, I must find out if the Society has a record of them. I think it would be nice to have a roll of honour for them kept somewhere.
Norma Digby's puppy "Alice" has had a hard time of it lately. Somehow she managed to pick up campylobacter, possibly as well as ingesting a foreign body although it is not known if the two were related, and had persistent diarrhoea. The end result is that poor "Alice" had an intussusception of the bowel (that's where a part of the bowel turns back on itself, a bit like the finger of a rubber glove can as you remove it) requiring two and a half hours of surgery. It was touch and go for a while afterwards. She spent five days on a drip which would have given her gut time to rest and heal. Thankfully she is recovering well and being a normal five month old puppy again. Just goes to show that persistent diarrhoea should not be ignored or put down to "well, he's a puppy and he eats all sorts of things".
Working and Pastoral Breeds of Wales had ACD classes, judged by Jackie Swann. I believe that Keith and Val Wild had a good day out, taking BB & BOB with Austman's Chantilly Lace at Kayval. They also had RBD with Curdeleon Blue Andante at Kayval. BD & BOS went to Jack & Pearl Chetwynd's Warrigal Blue Swagman at Curdeleon. Jack and Pearl also had Curdeleon Blue the Boy Wunda entered in the AV Pastoral Veteran Stakes, which he won! An excellent result that I'm sure they were thrilled with, a first for the breed possibly too? Back in the breed classes - RBB was Yarraman Dare to Be Blue belonging to Mr & Mrs Bailey. Well done to all of you.
I'm sure I'm not alone in sending sympathy to Marion Simpson-Wyeth who lost her beloved Didi recently. She would have been ten this month, way too young to lose a cattledog. So sorry for your loss Marion.
I was pleased to see Gill Armstrong's Sapphire Tyg getting mentioned in the Working Trials Monthly. Tyg is obviously working well and impressing the judges. So nice to hear of another ACD competing.
One of the things that was mentioned at the AGM was the possibility of having and ACD agility team. Previously this idea never get off the ground (pardon the pun!) as all the ACDs were spread too far around the country to be able to get together and practise as a team. Now there are more around, the idea has been put forward again. If you are interested, contact Pearl Chetwynd and she try and get you all together. I could almost have my own team. Now, if only the oldies were a bit younger and the young one a bit older and I had more hours in the day......Oh, well, dream on!
News and views to morrow.acd@btinternet.com or 0118 9793399 Stella Smyth.

20th April 2007

was sorry to hear that Zena Wallace has died. Although I did not know her well, we met at the ACD Seminars as I think she attended most of them over the years. She was very interested in the breed, along with other breeds, and enjoyed discussions with many of our Society Members. Condolences to family and friends on this loss.
On a happier note - a good day out for Morag Slaven and Yarraman Star Sapphire. Best of Breed Not Separately Classified and then Group One at Selkirk and District Open Show. I am not sure who the judge was, or if any other ACDs were entered, but good placings anyway. Congratulations to them.
I have had email problems (yes, again! don't ask!) so haven't checked on-line for any other results or special placings.
I have just heard about a cattledog, approximately eight years old, who has come from a dog rescue. She is very happy with her owners and I'm told is a lovely girl despite one or two cattledog traits! They have had her about four years and she was down as a collie-X. Sadly the rescue appear to have lost the original details on where she came from. I'm told that she is a nice blue with double black head patches. I know if I bred this girl I would like to know that she is happy now. Good to know that the rescue have placed her well.
News and views to morrow.acd@btinternet.com or 0118 9793399 Stella Smyth.

13th April 2007

Sometimes my Cattledogs just drive me to distraction! I finally find nice solid rubbery toys which do what they say on the label and float (unlike floating kongs which, in my experience, don't!). We no longer have to dredge the bottom of the pond or horse-troughs to retrieve lost toys, so what do the wretched cattledogs do? They drop them down rabbit holes! That's two this month they've lost - and they look so perplexed when I point out that my arms do not reach down long, narrow, twisty tunnels. I'm hoping the rabbits will clear out their bedding and eject the toys too but it hasn't happened yet.
Some of you may have seen items about an ACD in the States, called "Skidboot". Sadly I heard that he died recently. Although apparently not a pure ACD, he looked like one. There are some amazing video clips showing the tricks he could do, if you have access to a computer, do go and look him up. Some of the best handler and dog work I have ever seen. Makes most of my training pale into insignificance!
One of the items discussed at the AGM was encouraging specialist judges for our breed. I'm not sure how many people noticed that Bath Ch Show is supposed to be offering the various KC seminars that are required. I believe they will be available on all four days so watch the press or contact Bath for further details.
A "heads up", just in case any of you are unware or need reminding, how stoical cattledogs can be. My Ky has been spayed recently, following unsuccessful attempts to mate her again. It turns out to have been very much the right decision as she had a disgusting, smelly liquid sloshing around in her and would certainly have ended up with a closed pyometria. It was quite scary. She took a good thirty-six hours to recover and feel like eating again, unlike other bitches I've had spayed who normally will eat the same evening and I've had to stop them eating too much! My vet says that cattledogs can be just too tough for their own good. You have been warned.
News and views to morrow.acd@btinternet.com or 0118 9793399. Stella Smyth.

5th April 2007

The ACDS of GB AGM passed without bloodshed! There were some interesting discussions and views. Pearl will, no doubt, get the minutes out to all Members in due course.
One important date for your diaries: 23rd September will be the first Championship Breed Show for the ACDS. It will be held at the Cricket Pavillion in the Sports Centre at Ryton on Dunsmore. We will have an Australian judge and the committee have plans to try and make this a very special event.
Following my comment on show entries where no CCs are on offer, I hear that W&PB of Wales Ch.Show has only 4 cattledogs entered. I believe that may be half the usual number there.
Another date that may be of interest to some of you: 11th September. Val Tiller (Foxbarton Border Collies) is organising another Eye Clinic which is open to all breeds. If you want to get a dog, or dogs, DNA tested for PRA then this would be an excellent opportunity. They can accomodate 40 dogs at the clinic which will be held in Epsom, Surrey. However this is also a registered satellite clinic which means that if you want to take part but are unable to get to Surrey then you can have your own vet draw the blood and then have it sent with the blood from the clinic. Please contact Val Tiller before you do any Optigen paperwork on-line. Her telephone number is 01372 273597 or email val.tiller@talk21.com This clinic filled up very quickly last time, so I suggest you book in with Val as soon as possible.
I have heard of a couple of older cattledogs who may be looking for retirement homes. Contact me for further details.
News and views to morrow.acd@btinternet.com or 0118 9793399.

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This site was last updated 09 January 2009