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ACTIVITIES
The Greater Monroe Kennel Club members participate in a wide variety of activities
for, with, and about dogs. Read below how you can join in and get
involved.
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Turning
Point
Turning Point is a
local battered women's shelter. Every Christmas the Greater Monroe
Kennel Club
sponsors one or two families to provide gifts for mother and
children. Each family makes out a list of needed and wanted
items and the members of GMKC answer the request.... with lots extras.
Gifts are of clothes, coats, shoes, gift certificates, toys,
toiletries and a host of other very needed items.
Sponsorship of Turning
Point works also with our Pet
Safe Program.
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The New Leash on Life Program
Denise Outen, our very own Greater Monroe Kennel Club member, who
has been involved in dog training, has received the Facilities
Volunteer of the Year Award at the Cabarrus Correctional Center for
her participation in the NC Department Corrections pilot
program. Denise was one of 4 regional volunteers honored.
This program gives inmates a chance to perform community service
work by teaching dogs to be good adoptive pets and companions to
citizens. A local correctional facility partners with the
Humane Society of Concord and Greater Cabarrus County in this
program.
Dogs in The New Leash on Life Program are
selected by the humane society and work with the inmates for at
least eight weeks to learn basic obedience, house training and
socialization through positive reinforcement and repetition.
Inmates teach their canine students commands such as
"sit", "stay", "come",
"heel", and "down" as well as walking the dog on
a leash, off leash and paying attention to their trainers.
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Canine Good Citizenship (CGC) Testing
The American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizenship test demonstrates the dog, as a companion of man, can be a respected member of the community, and can be trained to always behave in the home, in public places and in the presence of other dogs in a manner that will reflect credit on the dog. Testing is offered periodically.
If you have questions or would like more information about canine good citizenship testing, please contact Emily
Foster stormcrestkennels@juno.com
Class
Information and pictures of classes click here.
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Legislative Liaison
The Greater Monroe Kennel Club's legislative liaison committee monitors legislative activities at the national,
North Carolina state and local levels, that affect dogs and dog owners. The committee interacts with state legislators and agency staff, as well as local units of government, as necessary, in an effort to ensure that appropriate legislation, administrative rules and local ordinances are enacted and enforced. An additional duty of the committee is to be aware of the involvement of the American Dog Owners
Association and The American Kennel Club. As well as to check out pending legislation and voice your opinions to your legislator.
Current dog legislation information can be found at::
* American Dog Owners Association, Inc.
* American Kennel Club, Inc. Canine Legislation News
* Breed-Specific Legislation Update
* Dog Federation of North Carolina, Inc.
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Identification Clinics (Tattoo
& Microchip)
Each year, millions of pets are lost or stolen never to be seen from
again. These pets end up sold to research laboratories, puppy
mills or to dog fighters. How can you provide your pet a
permanent and traceable identification so your pet can be returned
to you or prevent it being stolen in the first place? Tattoo
and Microchip.
Tattoo - To visibly, permanently,
identify your dog, consider a tattoo. A tattoo may be applied (to dogs as young as 5 weeks) in only a few minutes, is completely painless and requires no anesthesia.
Tactile sensory nerves within the epidermis allows the dog to feel surface contact, but not
pain... just tickling sensation from the vibration of the
marker. The tattoo needle never reaches the pain sensory nerve endings.
Once your dog is tattooed, you need to register the tattoo. An unregistered tattoo
will not allow most times for the return of your dog. The tattoo needs to be
associated to it's owner. This is where The National Dog Registry (1-800-637-3647) will register your dog's
tattoo number for a small one-time fee. That way, if a tattoo is found on a lost dog, the
Registry can be called and the owner located.
So why microchip too? Because Tattoos can
fade, can be cleverly altered or if not placed correctly can be
removed. Tattoos are a deterrent to thieves stealing your dog
because they are visible. Microchips are not.
Microchip - are
tiny metal transponders about the size of an uncooked grain of
rice. The chips carry a unique identification number.
They are implanted normally between the shoulder blades just
underneath the skin.
Microchips are registered with local or national databases and many
city pounds. Veterinarians and shelters have their own scanners to read the
chips of stray animals. Once the microchip is read, the staff can
call the 24-hour regional or national hotline and get your contact
information.
Having your pet micro-chipped is as quick and uncomfortable as a
vaccination. Microchips are also more convenient then tattoos
because a frightened dog doesn't need to be shaved to locate it.
Microchip systems include the chip and the fee for life time
registration, the insertion and the paperwork. Vets charge about $25
to $60 and shelters for as little as $15 for micro-chipping.
The disadvantage with micro-chipping is that the microchip is
invisible. This is why you should also have your dog wear a
tag on his collar, mentioning that he has been micro-chipped, and
containing backup identification information. Another aspect
is the cost. Micro chipping can be done for as cheaply as $5.00
per dog at a clinic, to $40.00 or more per dog at your veterinarian's office.
The
registration of the chip is included in the fee. If you move,
you must send your change of address information to the registering
company. The final drawback is that, unfortunately, not all
humane societies and shelters have one of the scanners to identify
the chips. And, the fact that most of these chip manufacturers
are not working together on this, and require their own separate
reader, makes it necessary to keep several brands on hand. The
readers are usually donated FREE OF CHARGE to shelters.
Breeders and kennel owners with large numbers of dogs can buy them
at a low cost.
The advantages of the microchip are that it is a permanent
identification system. It can't fade out, like a tattoo, or
fall off, like an I.D. tag. It doesn't have a power source
which will wear out. The chip is detected by passing the
scanner over the dog's body (usually the neck area). If a chip
is identified, the number will show on the scanner. This
registration number is on file with the company, with all of the
important identification information about your dog. The chips
are easy to implant. They are about the size of a grain of
rice, and they go under the skin with a large hypodermic needle.
The needle is made so that it slices the skin and injects the chip,
rather than boring a hole in the skin surface. A slit is made
by the needle, which flaps back down after the procedure, and heals
very quickly. The needle is so sharp, the dogs barely feel it.
Dog ID Tags and Microchips at Top Selling Pet Supplies
The Greater Monroe Kennel Club occasionally offers a low-cost tattoo
or microchip clinic in conjunction with its annual dog show and obedience/agility/rally
trials held in November of each year.
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Health
Clinics
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Agility
From the American
Kennel Club - Agility website.
Agility is the ultimate game for you and your dog.
It also one of the most exciting canine sports for spectators. In
agility, a dog demonstrates is agile nature and versatility by
following cues from the handler through a timed obstacle course. The
course has jumps, tunnels, weave poles, and other obstacles. Agility
strengthens the bond between dogs and handlers, it is extremely fun,
and it provides vigorous exercise for both!
The AKC offers two types of agility classes. The first is the
Standard Class which includes obstacles such as the dog walk, the
A-frame, and seesaw. The second is Jumpers with Weaves. This class
only has jumps, tunnels and weave poles. Both classes offer
increasing levels of difficulty to earn Novice, Open, Excellent and
Master titles.
After completing both an Excellent Standard title and Excellent
Jumpers title, a dog and handler team can compete for the MACH
(Master Agility Champion title) - faster than the speed of sound!
Agility began in England in 1978. The AKC held its first agility
trial in 1994. Agility is now the fastest growing dog sport in the
United States and is the fastest growing event at the AKC!
AKC agility is available to every registerable breed, from Yorkshire
Terriers to Irish Wolfhounds. The dogs run the same course with
adjustments in the expected time and jump height.
Safety of the dogs is a primary concern for AKC agility. The classes
are divided by jump heights in order to make the competition equal
between the different size of dogs.
For
classes, pictures and additional information click here.
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Conformation
From the American Kennel Club - Conformation
website.
Dog shows, or "conformation" events, are
the signature events of the AKC. They concentrate on the distinctive
features of purebred dogs and help to preserve these characteristics
by providing a forum at which to evaluate breeding stock.
Exhibits are judged against individual breed standards, which have
been established for the AKC-recognized breeds by their parent
clubs. These written standards describe the ideal size, color, and
temperament of each breed, as well as correct proportion, structure,
and movement.
For
classes, pictures and additional information click here.
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Herding
From the American
Kennel Club - Herding website.
The purpose of the competitive herding trial program
is to preserve and develop the herding skills inherent in the
herding breeds and to demonstrate that they can perform the useful
functions for which they were originally bred. Although herding
trials are artificial simulations of pastoral or farm situations,
they are standardized tests to measure and develop the
characteristics of the herding breeds.
Dogs must have training and prior exposure to livestock before being
entered in tests or trials. Both parent and local clubs should
provide opportunities for such training and exposure.
A dog is not required to work in any particular style. A dog may
compete on whichever course its handler chooses.
Herding tests and trials are sports and all participants should be
guided by the principles of good sportsmanship both in and outside
of the test and trial arenas.
Notice to the Herding Community: Request for Input to
the 2006 Herding Advisory Committee
The AKC Performance Events Department has just formed a new Herding
Advisory Committee to review the current AKC Herding Regulations
and to propose changes and updates that will enhance the AKC Herding
Program. Informational packets were sent to club presidents and
secretaries on July 14, 2006.
The AKC Performance Events Department is inviting herding clubs and
the herding community in general to provide input to the committee.
While general comments can be sent to the Herding Advisory
Committee, constructive suggestions for amending specific areas of
the Herding Regulations are most welcome.
To guarantee the full review of the suggestions from the herding
community, the Herding Advisory Committee should be contacted
directly at hac2006@akc.org, or
through The American Kennel Club, Performance Events Department, c/o
Lisa Carroll, 5580 Centerview Drive, Raleigh, NC 27606-3390. While
it will be impossible to provide a reply to each individual message,
the committee will carefully review all input, comments, and
suggestions.
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Obedience
From the American Kennel Club - Obedience
website.
Obedience Trials test a dog's ability to perform a
prescribed set of exercises on which it is scored. In each exercise,
you must score more than 50 percent of the possible points and get a
total score of at least 170 out of a possible 200. Each time your
dog gets at least a 170 qualifying score, he's earned a
"leg" toward his title. Earn three legs and your dog has
just earned an obedience title! There are 3 levels at which your dog
can earn a title and each is more difficult than the one before it.
The classes are divided into "A" and "B" at an
obedience trial; "A" classes are for beginners whose dogs
have never received a title and "B" classes are for more
experienced handlers.
The best part of watching a trial is to see the close bond that has
developed between the dog and handler. Their total concentration on
the task at hand gives way to the sheer delight of accomplishment
that can be seen on the faces of both - and in the wag of a tail.
Experience the ultimate in companionship and teamwork. Taste the
thrill of competition. Join a training class and participate in
obedience trials. It is lots of fun, and your dog will love you more
for it!
Purpose
Obedience trials are a sport, and all participants should be guided
by the principles of good sportsmanship both in and out of the ring.
Obedience trials demonstrate the dog's ability to follow specified
routines in the obedience ring and emphasize the usefulness of the
purebred dog as a companion to man. All contestants in a class are
required to perform the same exercises in substantially the same way
so that the relative quality of the various performances may be
compared and scored. The basic objective of obedience trials,
however, is to recognize dogs that have been trained to behave in
the home, in public places and in the presence of other dogs in a
manner that will reflect credit on the sport of obedience at all
times and under all conditions. The performance of dog and handler
in the ring must be accurate and correct according to the Obedience
Regulations. It is also essential that the dog demonstrate
willingness and enjoyment while it is working and that a smooth and
natural handler be given precedence over a handler moving with
military precision and using harsh commands.
For
classes, pictures and additional information click here.
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Rally
From the American Kennel Club - Rally
website.
Rally is a sport in which the dog and handler
complete a course that has been designed by the rally judge. The
judge tells the handler to begin, and the dog and handler proceed at
their own pace through a course of designated stations (10 - 20,
depending on the level). Each of these stations has a sign providing
instructions regarding the next skill that is to be performed.
Scoring is not as rigorous as traditional obedience.
The team of dog and handler moves continuously at a brisk, but
normal, pace with the dog under control at the handler's left side.
There should be a sense of teamwork between the dog and handler both
during the numbered exercises and between the exercise signs;
however, perfect "heel position" is not required. Any
faults in traditional obedience that would be evaluated and scored
as a one-point deduction or more should be scored the same in Rally,
unless otherwise mentioned in the Rally Regulations. After the
judge's "Forward" order, the team is on its own to
complete the entire sequence of numbered signs correctly.
Unlimited communication from the handler to the dog is to be
encouraged and not penalized. Unless otherwise specified in these
Regulations, handlers are permitted to talk, praise, encourage, clap
their hands, pat their legs, or use any verbal means of
encouragement. Multiple commands and/or signals using one or both
arms and hands are allowed; the handler's arms need not be
maintained in any particular position at any time. The handler may
not touch the dog or make physical corrections. At any time during
the performance, loud or harsh commands or intimidating signals will
be penalized.
Rally provides a link from the Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) program
to obedience or agility competition, both for dogs and handlers. In
addition, rally promotes fun and enjoyment for dogs at all levels of
competition.
For
classes, pictures and additional information click here.
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Tracking
From the American Kennel Club - Tracking
website.
The purpose of a tracking test is to demonstrate the dog's
ability to recognize and follow human scent, a skill that is useful
in the service of mankind.
Tracking, by nature, is a vigorous, noncompetitive outdoor sport.
Tracking tests demonstrate the willingness and enjoyment of the dog
in its work, and should always represent the best in sportsmanship
and camaraderie by the people involved.
"We've all seen countless movies of dogs following the trail of an escapee through swamps. The AKC's Tracking Trials allow dogs to demonstrate their natural ability to recognize and follow human scent. This vigorous outdoor activity is great for canine athletes. Unlike Obedience events that require a dog to qualify 3 times, a dog must successfully complete only one track to earn his title.
Tracking Dog: A dog earns a TD by following a track laid by a human from 30 minutes to 2 hours before. The rules describe certain turns in a 440 to 500 yard track.
Tracking Dog Excellent: A TDX is earned by following an "older" (3 to 5 hours), longer (800 to 1,000 yard) track with more turns while overcoming both physical and scenting obstacles.
Variable Surface Tracking: In the real world, dogs track through urban settings, as well as through wilderness. A VST dog has demonstrated this ability by following a 3 to 5 hours-old track that may take him down a street, through a building and other areas devoid of vegetation. "
For more information, visit the AKC Getting Started Series: Getting Started in Obedience and Tracking or read more about training your dog for tracking in the books:
* Fun nosework for dogs by Hunter (©1996)
* Practical scent dog training by Button (©1990)
* Puppy tracking primer by Carolyn Krause (©1992)
* Tracking from the ground up by Sandy Ganz (©1992)
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Updated: Tuesday, September 05, 2006
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