Working for healthy, happy dogs 

The primary objective of the Kennel Club is 'to promote in every way, the general improvement of dogs.' It was founded in 1873 and offers dog owners information, experience and advice on dog welfare, dog health, dog training and dog breeding.

 How to Nominate an Outstanding Agility Junior Handler for a Major Crufts Award

The Young Kennel Club (YKC) is on the look out for young people who have made a special contribution to the dog world this year, and is inviting nominations for the Shaun McAlpine Outstanding Young Person Award. The trophy is awarded annually to encourage young dog lovers to become more involved in dog activities as Shaun himself had achieved considerable success as a dog handler.

If you know a YKC member who tirelessly trains their dog to the highest standard, or who gives up their free time for the benefit of dogs, make sure you put them forward for the award. Finalists will be invited to Crufts 2012 where their dedication and hard work will be celebrated and the overall winner will be chosen.

The award is the highest level of achievement for young dog lovers. For over 20 years, Ed and Cindy McAlpine have presented the Shaun McAlpine Trophy and awards at Crufts in memory of their son Shaun who was tragically killed in a road accident two weeks after his 22nd birthday in November 1984.

Anybody can nominate a YKC member for this fantastic award, including parents, trainers and teachers. Reasons to nominate can include anything and everything that you think warrants a young person to be applauded for their effort in upholding the aims of the YKC and ensuring all dogs live healthy, happy lives. Here are just a few examples:

• Taking part in fundraising or raising awareness for dog charities

• Helping to organise a dog activity

• Helping others (training, stewarding, mentoring)

• Success in competitions and training

• Volunteering (at dog training clubs, stewarding, shows)

Last years winner was 17 year old Alice Moodie from Wem in Shropshire. She started in dog agility in 2000 when she ran a Jack Russell Terrier called Bertie. Alice has since trained and run a number of dogs with differing abilities and has qualified to compete at Crufts each year since. Alice has taken on the role of trainer and has qualified to judge, and she does voluntary work at a local animal refuge. Alice also came 2nd in the Agility Dog of the Year competition with her dog Pip at dfs Crufts 

To nominate your favourite agility junior, fill in the form, which can be found at www.ykc.org.uk, and email it to ykc@thekennelclub.org.uk or post it to Shaun McAlpine Outstanding Young Person Award, Young Kennel Club Team, The Kennel Club, 1-5 Clarges Street, Piccadilly, London W1J 8AB. Nominations close on Tuesday, 31 January 2012.

Kennel Club Agrees Property Move at Historic SGM

The Members of the Kennel Club have agreed to move from their present London headquarters, at a historic Special General Meeting which was held at the Park Lane Hotel, Piccadilly. London. The Club has agreed to move to a neighbouring property in Clarges Street, following a bid to buy its current Mayfair home, from Chelsfield Partners, as part of a wider redevelopment of the area.

At the meeting, Kennel Club Members agreed 'to empower the Trustees of the Kennel Club to negotiate the matter to a satisfactory conclusion on terms no less favourable than those presented to the meeting.'

These terms were:-

• That alternative accommodation provided must be freehold and fit for purpose and retain all functionality as 1-5 Clarges Street.

• That any move must be cost and tax neutral to the Kennel Club.

• That there must be a sufficient incentive figure for the Kennel Club to move.

• That the Kennel Club and its business must be protected during and after the full term of the development and from latent defects.

• That the project is to be delivered as scheduled, on budget, and with no material risk to the Kennel Club.

Steve Dean, Kennel Club Chairman said: 'We are very pleased that the Members have agreed to this historic move, as it will bring with it £12 million of funding which we can put back in to the world of dogs as part of our ongoing work to ensure the health and welfare of all dogs. This money will be invested wisely, and all decisions on how to utilise it will be given careful consideration to ensure that we get the maximum benefit from the great opportunity which is before us.

I would also like to assure Members and anyone else who uses the Kennel Club and its many services, that we will be working hard with our partners throughout this moving process to keep any disruption caused to an absolute minimum.'

The Kennel Club has been at its present address of 1-5 Clarges Street for over 50 years, since purchasing it in 1957, with the freehold acquired in 1964. Their new home will be within Clarges House which will be completely renovated and refurbished before the Kennel Club moves. The proposed date for the move is 2014, with more precise information to be provided nearer to the time.

Steve Dean Elected Chairman of The Kennel Club

Professor Steve Dean has been elected as the new Chairman of the Kennel Club today (June 7th), following a ballot of members of the Kennel Club General Committee. He becomes the 14th Chairman of the Kennel Club, and takes over following the recent resignation of Ronnie Irving, who had served in the post since 2002.

Professor Dean has been a Member of the Kennel Club since 1992 and has been a member of the General Committee since 2005. He has served on the Crufts and Finance & General Purposes Sub-Committees for the past two years and previously spent four years on the Disciplinary Sub Committee.

Upon his appointment, Professor Dean said: 'I am honoured to be elected as Chairman of the Kennel Club and to be given the opportunity to help improve the lives of dogs by ensuring that they live healthily and happily with responsible owners.

'I am aware of the scale of some of the challenges that we face but am excited about the opportunities that exist to help us make a real difference for dogs. I look forward to supporting and working with the millions of responsible dog breeders and owners that there are in this country, and to standing shoulder to shoulder with vets and other individuals and organisations, who are dedicated to improving the health and welfare of dogs.'

Professor Dean, who turns 60 in August, is a veterinary surgeon by profession and is currently the Senior Veterinary Surgeon at Crufts each year. He is a breeder, exhibitor and judge of Border Terriers and has been involved in the breed for 30 years. He is currently Chairman of the Southern Border Terrier Club as well as the overall breed health co-ordinator for all seven breed clubs. He is also President of Windsor Dog Show Society.

Away from the world of dogs, Professor Dean is a keen reader and gardener and is an avid supporter of rowing, treasuring his Henley Regatta medal equally to his achievements in the show ring.

At the same meeting, Mike Townsend was re-elected to the position of Vice Chairman.

Kennel Club Chairman Steps Down

Ronnie Irving has decided to step down from his position as Chairman of the Kennel Club. Officially it will be effective as of June when the General Committee meets to elect a chairman but he is announcing it to the AGM meeting which is today (19 May 2011). He has been chairman for nine years and thinks he needs more time to himself now. He issued this statement.

It has now been my privilege to hold the office of Chairman of the Kennel Club for nine years. For some time I have privately been considering how long to continue in the post, and in March of this year I finally took the decision to relinquish the position. As a consequence of this I now wish to announce that I will not be seeking re-election as Chairman on June 7, which is the date on which the General Committee is due to elect its Chairman and Vice Chairman. I will also, in due course, retire as a Trustee of the Kennel Club and therefore as a Member of the General Committee. I will of course retain my Membership of the Club and will be happy, on an ad hoc basis, to help the Club in any way that it feels that I can be of assistance.

The Kennel Club has been through a difficult period over the last few years but I feel that it is now in a strong position to move forward under different leadership. When I took over as Chairman I said that I would 'not continue in the post forever' and that it would be time for me to go when a fresh eye and new leadership would be beneficial. I believe that time has now arrived and that it is therefore appropriate to move on and for me simply to return to the occasional judging appointment and to enjoying showing our dogs.

The Kennel Club’s position on Health and Welfare has never been stronger with the Kennel Club Dog Health Group up and running, the Kennel Club Genetics Centre at the Animal Health Trust in full swing and the Accredited Breeder Scheme working well; the on-line Registration, Transfer and Petlog systems are operating successfully and the Kennel Club website contains a wealth of helpful information for breeders and for prospective and current dog owners; the Club’s financial position was strong enough last year to have a healthy surplus even after donating a total of nearly £800K to the KC Charitable Trust and to the KC Educational Trust for the benefit of dogs and dog people; this year’s budget also looks sound; we now have the Kennel Club Educational Trust’s Building at Stoneleigh being extensively used by the world of dogs; Crufts and Discover Dogs have been an agreed success and are likely to continue as such; though the economic climate is not good and registrations are slightly down in the first part of this year, the demand for pedigree dogs continues apace; shows are bound to suffer from fuel and travel costs in the medium term, but hopefully the longer term future of most of the societies is still very sound.

Finally, and probably most importantly, I believe that the range of skills and the abilities of both the General Committee and the Staff of the Kennel Club have never been stronger and more diverse and that the Club, under that leadership, will have a very sound future ahead of it. I would particularly like to thank both the Committee and the Staff for the very strong support they have provided to me over the last nine years. Without that support, I would undoubtedly have decided to bring my tenure to an end several years earlier!

I wish the Club every possible success for the future.

Ronnie Irving

Agility Marking Regulations Clarified

The Kennel Club has recently reviewed its marking criteria for agility competitions.

The regulations state that all course faults should be marked in units of five, yet then go on to state that various penalties equate to one fault. Whilst it is accepted that the majority of handlers, judges and officials are aware of how this should be interpreted, it has been agreed that, with effect from 1 January 2011, the following wording will apply to clarify the marking procedure.

Regulation H(1)(B)5.a. - Marking

FROM:

a. Standard marking (which must be used in standard classes).

All course faults in units of 5. For time faults see paragraph b below.

(7)       Weaving poles—The dog to enter the weaving poles with the first pole adjacent to its left side. Each incorrect entry to be classed as a refusal—further error, maximum 1 fault—failure to complete correctly before negotiating any further obstacle, elimination.

(10)     All other obstacles—fault for failure to negotiate correctly.

(11)     Handler deliberately touching any piece of equipment or their dog—1 fault.

(12)     Refusal/Runout—fault for each refusal/runout.

(17)     Contact area—fault for each failure to make contact.

    TO:

    a. Standard marking (which must be used in standard classes).

        All course faults in multiples of 5. For time faults see paragraph b below.

(7)       Weaving poles - The dog to enter the weaving poles with the first pole adjacent to its left side. Each incorrect entry to be classed as a refusal—further error, maximum 5 faults—failure to complete correctly before negotiating any further obstacle, elimination.

(10) All other obstacles - 5 faults for failure to negotiate correctly.

(11) Handler deliberately touching any piece of equipment or their dog - 5 faults.

(12) Refusal/Runout - 5 faults for each refusal/runout.

(17) Contact area - 5 faults for each failure to make contact. (Amendments are highlighted)

            Collars

Whilst reviewing the marking system it was noted that although there was a Regulation specifying the style of collar a dog could wear, there was not a regulation to advise the judge on the course of action to be taken should a dog be wearing an incorrect style of collar. 

The majority of judges eliminate a dog wearing an incorrect collar. With effect from 1 January 2011 this penalty will be specified in the regulations as detailed below. 

Competitors are reminded that the regulation stating only particular types of collar are permitted was introduced for the health and safety of all competing dogs.

Insert new sub-paragraph H(1)(B)5.a(19)

Dog wearing incorrect style of collar – elimination. (Addition highlighted)

Agility Comes to the Festival of British Eventing

On Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 August, people going to the world famous Festival of British Eventing at Gatcombe Park will be treated to the chance to see the Kennel Club agility display as well as the usual horse events. Members of the Watford Agility Club will be giving a dog agility demonstration, providing visitors with the chance to see this fun, fast paced and addictive sport in action.

Members of Watford will be showing how dogs of all breeds and sizes can take part in agility. The display will include a dog relay race, with three teams – Small, Medium and Large dogs – competing against each other. 50p says the Smalls will win!

Dog agility is the fastest growing dog sport in the UK and it’s estimated that over 12,000 people and 24,000 dogs regularly participate every year. Visitors and their dogs will also have the opportunity to try agility for themselves in the specially constructed and supervised ‘Have a Go’ agility ring.

The Kennel Club will be present at the show, sharing a stand with national charity, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. Visitors to the stand will be able to find out all about Kennel Club services, such as puppy packs and information guides on a wide variety of issues surrounding dogs.

Commenting on the Festival, Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Communications Director, said: 'The Festival at Gatcombe Park is one of the highlights of the equestrian eventing calendar. We are delighted to be involved with such an exciting and well established event and hope that visitors enjoy the agility display.'

This renowned event takes place at Gatcombe Park, spectacular home of the Princess Royal and her family and incorporates the British Open, Intermediate and Novice Championships. As well as a weekend of top class eventing there will be a shopping village, arena attractions and entertainment for all the family.

Advance tickets and more information are available from: www.gatcombe-horse.co.uk

More Kennel Club Tours for 2010

Following the continued popularity and success of its free behind the scenes tours, the Kennel Club has announced that further dates are planned for 2010. The dates available are as follows:

30 April 12 May 10 June 21 July 25 August 22 September 10 November

Visitors will have a chance to learn more about the Kennel Club’s efforts to improve the health and welfare of thousands of dogs in the UK, and see how the Kennel Club is an unparalleled source of information on dog welfare, dog  training and dog breeding. They will also get the opportunity to view the Art Gallery and Library and see more of the Kennel Club art collection on a guided tour of the building.

The tours are open to individuals, clubs, societies or indeed anyone who has an interest in the world of dogs and would like to find out more about the Kennel Club’s activities.

Tours take place at the Kennel Club’s offices at 1-5 Clarges Street, Piccadilly, London, W1J 8AB, commencing at 11am. Visitors are invited to arrive from 10.30am onwards when refreshments will be served. There is no charge to attend the tours on these dates but places must be booked in advance. Every visitor will receive a free goody bag to take home and lunch is also available for a small charge.

In addition to the dates above, groups of six or more people may book a private tour for a small charge of just £5 per person.

For further details, or to book one of the tours, please contact the Kennel Club Art Gallery on 020 7518 1064 or at artgallery@thekennelclub.org.uk

City & Guilds NPTC Recognition for KC Accredited Instructor Scheme

The KC Response to the Independent Inquiry into Dog Breeding

The Kennel Club has broadly welcomed Professor Sir Patrick Bateson’s ‘Independent Inquiry into Dog Breeding’, which has recommended that steps be taken to tackle irresponsible breeders and to change the way the public think about buying dogs.

The Kennel Club, which commissioned and funded the report in conjunction with Dogs Trust, welcomes the report’s focus on irresponsible breeders who farm puppies with little concern for their welfare and those who sell poorly socialised puppies on to owners to use as 'status dogs' or as fighting weapons.

The Kennel Club agrees that additional training and support needs to be given to local authorities, which are responsible for issuing breeding licences to those people who breed five or more litters of puppies in a single year, as the current provisions are deemed to be ineffective. It agrees that compulsory microchipping of dogs and increased public education to stop people falling prey to puppy farmers and to help them find responsible breeders are necessary.

It is also glad that the report recognises the need for a 'robustly policed and well respected quality assurance scheme,' consisting of breeders that buyers can trust to look after their puppies’ health and welfare, and that it suggests that the Kennel Club’s Accredited Breeder Scheme, with some modification could be used.

However, the Kennel Club is concerned that the report could have gone further and that its recommendations do not appear directly to cover those breeders who breed less than five litters per year and who are not part of the Kennel Club Accredited Breeder Scheme. The Kennel Club would have liked to have seen a recommendation for regulation to ensure that these breeders follow higher standards, such as compulsory health testing. 

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club spokesperson, said: 'Whilst the report recognises that the majority of breeders are responsible, there are those whose actions are bringing the rest of the dog breeding community into disrepute and this needs to be stopped.

 'We are glad that the report recognises that the Kennel Club has made a good start in its efforts to unite responsible breeders within its Accredited Breeder Scheme, for the benefit of puppies and puppy buyers, and we believe that this should be the basis for moving forward. We are currently working towards UKAS accreditation of the scheme as suggested by Professor Bateson.

'We agree that responsible breeders should be rewarded and believe that the show ring is the best forum for this. The report recognises that ‘dog showing and judging are a powerful lever for change’ and the Kennel Club is dedicated to ensuring that only the healthiest dogs are rewarded at shows.

'Public education is vital and all dog welfare organisations must continue to work together to ensure that people know what to look for when buying a dog.”

The report looks at genetic diversity in breeds and recognises that the Kennel Club has banned close matings. It advises that future decisions about matings that could affect genetic diversity should be ‘breed specific’ and made upon evidence based scientific information and advice. To this end it is recommended that the veterinary profession should gather data to show the prevalence of certain diseases and that an advisory council should develop evidence based breeding strategies.

Mrs Kisko continued, 'The Kennel Club has long recognised that genetic diversity plays a crucial role in safeguarding the health of dogs and the report is absolutely right to suggest that there are no further blanket rules in place but that decisions are based upon scientific knowledge and are made on a breed by breed basis. This is why we are well on the way to creating a new database which will revolutionise the way that we record dog health data. The data will enable us to bring out our Mate Select programme, which will help breeders to find suitable mating pairs which are most likely to produce healthy offspring. The database will go further than the report’s recommendation, as the data will be attributable to specific dogs, rather than being anonymous, and will give us a better picture of the health of pedigrees and crossbreeds. Such knowledge is critical and will enable us to provide information to breeders, vets, geneticists and ultimately the puppy buyer.

'We are keen to harness as much knowledge as possible for the benefit of dogs so we welcome the principle of an advisory council whose members will work with the Kennel Club to advise on decisions about breeding and health. A structure already exists in the form of the Kennel Club’s Dog Health Group with its recently extended remit. Additional independent experts include canine and human geneticists, veterinary surgeons and an epidemiologist. Using this framework for establishing the advisory council under an independent chairman would save significant sums of money, which can instead be devoted entirely to the dog health research that the report identified as being in ‘urgent’ need of more funding.'

The Kennel Club and Dogs Trust will now arrange a meeting between all relevant parties in order to move forward with the recommendations from all three reports.

The full report may be downloaded at www.dogbreedinginquiry.com

  
OFCOM Finds in Favour of the Kennel Club and Its Scientific Advisor

The Kennel Club became involved in the programme Pedigree Dogs Exposed because it wanted to have an open and honest discussion about the health issues of some pedigree dog breeds and what can and is being done to ensure that all dogs have the opportunity to live healthy, happy lives. It was precisely because the programme makers originally said that its message was 'intended to be a hopeful one showing how science and breeders can combine to preserve our purebreds for the future' that the Kennel Club was at the outset keen to take part. 

After the programme was broadcast the Kennel Club was obliged to lodge a complaint to OFCOM because it believed it had been treated unfairly, and because its views, formed on the basis of many years of experience in tackling the issue of improving dog health under the guidance of its scientific advisors, were not adequately conveyed.

OFCOM upheld parts of the Kennel Club's complaint about unfair treatment, by saying that it was not given a timely and appropriate opportunity to respond to certain damaging allegations included in the programme. These included the implication that the Kennel Club covered up the nature of an operation carried out on a Crufts Best in Show winner.

OFCOM also found that contributions to the programme made by Professor Jeff Sampson, the Kennel Club's senior scientific advisor and spokesman, did not fairly represent his views. It admitted that the material and extracts actually used in the programme did not fully or fairly reflect his considered responses in the lengthy interviews he gave to the programme makers.

Chairman of the Kennel Club, Ronnie Irving, said: 'The Kennel Club is pleased that OFCOM has confirmed that Professor Sampson was not fairly represented in the programme. Professor Sampson is our senior representative and spokesman on the health and genetic issues affecting dogs. It is therefore surprising that OFCOM doesn't also conclude, on this occasion, that the Kennel Club itself was therefore unfairly represented. OFCOM has actually changed its mind on this point since its provisional decision.

'The damaging effect of this unfair editing was to distort our views and to fail to show viewers the seriousness with which we take the issue of dog health and the investment we make in this area.

'We are pleased with the finding in respect of the Crufts Best in Show winner. We are committed to ensuring that the show ring is used as a force for good, to encourage and reward the breeding of healthy, happy dogs and we took this allegation – and the fact that we were not given the appropriate opportunity to respond to it – very seriously.

 'We have previously indicated our concerns over the lengthy time it has taken to resolve our complaint and over OFCOM 's last minute acceptance of further submissions by the BBC. We do have serious misgivings about the conduct of our complaint and on the obvious change of mind which took place between OFCOM 's decision in its provisional finding, and the decision that it finally published.

'This process has taken a significant amount of time and the Kennel Club now wants to move forward, continuing to work with breed experts, our scientific advisors and the veterinary profession, to ensure that all dogs are given the opportunity to lead the healthy, happy lives that they deserve.'

Agility Liaison Council Representatives Announced 

At its recent meeting, the Kennel Club General Committee approved the following Agility Liaison Council Representatives for the new term of office, commencing January 2010 until December 2012.

The Agility Liaison Council Representatives were elected by agility clubs and societies and will act as the liaison between agility competitors and the Kennel Club, in order to promote the positive development of their discipline. 

• SCOTLAND
  Morag Kelly, 5 Broompark Crescent, Murthly, Perthshire, PH1 4HH, Tel: 01738 710354   Email: moragkelly_@hotmail.com
   
• NORTHERN IRELAND
  Ronnie McAleese, 27 Dermott Walk, Comber, Newtownards, County Down, BT23 5NU Tel: 02890 527114
   
• WALES
  Mike Shaw, Ewyn-y-Don, Llanon, Wales, SY23 5HZ, Tel: 01974 202347  Email: somethingferal@aol.com
   
• NORTH WEST
  Pauline Baltes, 45 Well Orchard, Bamber Bridge, Preston, Lancs, PR5 8HJ, Tel: 01772 494852 / 07803 261808   Email: pabq@blueyonder.co.uk
  
  Mike Hallam, Hollins View, Leek Road, Bosley, Macclesfield, SK11 0PP, Tel: 01260 223190/0771105891 Email: m.hallam@btconnect.com~
   
• NORTH EAST
   Ian Mallabar, The Granary, Spen Lane, Rowlands Gill, NE39 2BZ, Tel: 01207 544406   Email: ian.mallabar@btinternet.com
  
  Janet Nero, 6 Northgate, Oulton, Leeds, LS26 8NZ, Tel: 0113 2823445   Email: jandcnero@btinternet.com
   
• MIDLANDS
• Richard Jordan, 2 Passmore, Tinkers Bridge, Milton Keynes, MK6 3DZ, Tel: 01908 667798   Email: richard.jordan@talktalk.net
  
  Dave Ray, 13 Helmdon Close, Rugby, Warks, CV21 1RS, Tel: 01788 561253     Email: drayped@aol.com
   
• SOUTH EAST & EAST ANGLIA
  Simon Chandler, 16 Hawth Hill, Seaford, East Sussex, BN25 2RW, Tel: 07772 670086   Email: sjabbaman@aol.com
  
  John Gilbert, Keba Cottage, 100 Bedford Road, Barton-le-Clay, Beds, MK45 4LR, Tel: 01582 882366   Email: faldoagility@aol.com
   
• SOUTH & SOUTH WEST
• Tony Griffin, 20 Monmouth Avenue, Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 5JR, Tel: 01305 777856/07743 655311   Email: tonygriffin20@tiscali.co.uk
  
  Lesley Olden, Birchwood House Cottage, Sherfield English, Nr Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 6FF, Tel: 01794 323037   Email: lesleyolden@aol.com

  ---

Postal Dates - Closing Dates of Entries

Due to the recent postal strikes, the Kennel Club has received a high volume of requests from clubs/societies to extend the closing date of entries for shows. In light of the above, the Kennel Club can confirm that it is acceptable to extend the closing date of entries for shows. The latest acceptable extension is the fourteenth day before the show opens (Regulation F(1)9.b. refers).

The Kennel Club would like to remind both clubs/societies and exhibitors that the above does not negate Regulation F(1)9.e. concerning undelivered entries. Such claims will have to be substantiated to the Kennel Club which will request documentary evidence, subsequent to the show.

Amendments to the Entry Form Declaration

Earlier this year two changes were published to Kennel Club Regulations which affect the declaration all exhibitors and competitors sign when entering for shows or trials. These changes confirmed that all registered owners must sign the entry declaration or there must be satisfactory written evidence of the consent of one owner to sign on behalf of one or more of the other joint owners and stated that a dog's owner(s) will not bring to a Show/Trial any dog which is suffering from a visible condition which adversely affects its health or welfare. 

The revised declaration for Breed Shows is given below with the relevant changes in bold for ease of reference:

‘I/We agree to submit to and be bound by Kennel Club Rules & Regulations in their present form or as they may be amended from time to time in relation to all canine matters with which the Kennel Club is concerned and that this entry is made upon the basis that all current single or joint registered owners of this dog(s) have authorised/consented to this entry. 

I/We also undertake to abide by the Regulations of this Show and not to bring to the Show any dog which has contracted or been knowingly exposed to any infectious or contagious disease during the 21 days prior to the Show, or which is suffering from a visible condition which adversely affects its health or welfare or to bring any dog which has been prepared for exhibition contrary to Kennel Club Regulations for the Preparation of Dogs for Exhibition F(Annex B). I/We agree without reservation that any Veterinary Surgeon operating on any of my/our dogs in such a way that the operation alters the natural conformation of the dog or part thereof may report such operations to the Kennel Club. I/We declare that where any alteration has been made to the natural conformation of the dog(s) the relevant permission to show has been granted by the Kennel Club. 

I/We further declare that I/we believe to the best of my/our knowledge that the dogs are not liable to disqualification under Kennel Club Show Regulations.'

The following declaration is relevant to all other canine activities except Breed Shows:

I/We agree to submit to and be bound by Kennel Club Rules & Regulations in their present form or as they may be amended from time to time in relation to all canine matters with which the Kennel Club is concerned and that this entry is made upon the basis that all current single or joint registered owners of this dog(s) have authorised/consented to this entry. 

I/We also undertake to abide by the Regulations of this Activity* and not to bring to the Activity* any dog which has contracted or been knowingly exposed to any infectious or contagious disease during the 21 days prior to the Activity*, or which is suffering from a visible condition which adversely affects its health or welfare. 

I/We further declare that, I believe to the best of my knowledge that dogs are not liable to disqualification under Kennel Club Activity* Regulations.**

• Note: Activity* being as relevant: Show/Trial/Competition

• Additional ** being as relevant: I also declare that I am full conversant with the Field Trial/Gundog Working Test Regulations and have studied the Guide to the Conduct of Field Trials.

These changes should be actioned as soon as practically possible and in any event within the next six months.

The specimen schedules on the Kennel Club website are in the process of being updated and these changes to the entry form declaration will be posted as soon as possible.

Championship Agility Judge Criteria Expanded 

Championship status for agility dogs has now been in place for more than eight years and, as such, the Kennel Club has reviewed the minimum criteria required to become a Championship agility judge, the highest accolade a judge can attain.

After careful consideration, it has been agreed that the minimum criteria should be made more stringent to expand the experience and knowledge attained before a judge can be approved to award Championship Agility Certificates. It was also noted that currently granting approval for a judge at one height category means the judge is automatically approved to judge all heights. It was agreed that this should be reflected in the minimum criteria.

Therefore, for all Championship Agility Judging Questionnaires that are received after 1 January 2010 the following criteria will apply and Regulation H.18.b has been amended accordingly. Questionnaires received after 1 January 2010 which do not comply with the new Regulation will be returned to the relevant society. This regulation will not be applied retrospectively; all judges who have been approved by the General Committee will not need to re-apply. However, attendance at the new Agility Course Design and Judging Seminar will prove beneficial.

On a person's first appointment to judge the Championship Agility Class the minimum conditions which apply are as follows:

Criteria

On application a person must have:-

1. Minimum of 5 years' experience of competing at Kennel Club licensed Agility Shows and,
2. Minimum of 5 years' experience of judging at Kennel Club licensed Agility Shows and,
3. Judged at a minimum of 10 licensed Agility Shows over the previous 3 years, including standard classes in each height category which must include Grade 7, class size and geographical distribution of judging appointments will be a consideration and,

4. handled a dog competitively at Grade 6 or 7

5. Been assessed before their first Championship appointment attended a Kennel Club Agility Regulations and Judging Procedure Seminar and passed the Regulations and Judging Procedure examination

6. Attended a Kennel Club Agility Course Design and Judging Seminar and  passed the assessment

7. Otherwise been approved by the General Committee. (Amendments highlighted)

The General Committee also agreed that it was now appropriate to introduce a time limit between Championship Agility appointments. This would be beneficial to competitors as it would ensure that the same judges did not judge several classes each year. A new Regulation H.18.c was introduced, with effect from 1 January 2010, to the effect that there must be six calendar months between appointments.

A person approved to judge a Championship Agility Certificate may not judge another Championship Agility Certificate at the same height category within a period of six calendar months. (Insert highlighted)

The Kennel Club will be hosting an Agility Course Design and Judging Seminar on Sunday, 6 December 2009 in Daventry. Further details are available from the Kennel Club website – www.thekennelclub.org.uk

KC Announces Latest Show Management Seminar Programme 

The Kennel Club has announced its latest series of Show Management Seminars, to be held at its centre of excellence in Stoneleigh (Warks). The seminars, held from 25-27 November, aim to promote Kennel Club best practice in organising agility and obedience shows and working trials, covering all aspects of administration, planning, health and safety and venue selection. 

The seminars also provide an excellent opportunity for delegates to learn from each other's experiences. Guest speakers include organisers of Championship and Open shows/trials together with a Field Officer and a health and safety consultant.

The cost of attending a seminar is £25 per person. This fee includes all refreshments and a buffet lunch, a delegate pack and presentation handouts.

Closing date for registration is 10 November 2009.

Dates: 

• Wednesday, 25 November 2009                Working Trials

• Thursday, 26 November 2009                    Agility

• Friday, 27 November 2009                        Obedience

Venue: The Kennel Club Building, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire CV8 2LZ

Dog Photographer of the Year Winner Causes a Splash

A stunning shot of a veteran rescue dog at work at a lake in Suffolk has been announced as the winner of the Kennel Club's glittering annual Dog Photographer of the Year award for 2009.

Tom, a 10 year old Leonberger from Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, was captured pulling a boat to safety as part of a training exercise in a lake in Weybread, Suffolk by professional photographer Terry Pover. The photograph was entered as part of the 'Dogs at Work' category of the award, and was deemed to be the overall best shot from a bumper crop of entries by an esteemed panel of judges at the Kennel Club, which included professional dog photographers.

Terry took the shot as part of an accredited test held by the Leonberger Club of Great Britain every year, designed to challenge a dog's ability to pull boats inland to save people. Tom is the current Leonberger water champion and is believed to be the only dog in the UK to have passed all of the relevant water tests put in front of him.

Terry, a retired police officer, is a graduate from the Norwich School of Photography and is a Licentiate member of the Royal Photographic Society. His photograph, along with the winning images from the other categories 'Dogs at Play' (Sarah Middleton from Derby) 'Dog Portrait' (Liana Philips from Dundee) and 'Man's Best Friend' (Nicola McClure from Edinburgh), will be displayed at Discover Dogs on 14-15 November 2009 at Earl's Court in London. Terry's winning image will also be reproduced on the front cover of the December edition of the Kennel Club's flagship publication, the Kennel Gazette.

Terry said of his triumph: 'I'm delighted to have won this award. The fact that Tom is doing what he loves at such a ripe old age is amazing. To capture the joy of his work and to have the Kennel Club acknowledge this in an award is something very special. And they say you can't teach an old dog new tricks!'

Caroline Kisko, Communications Director at the Kennel Club, said: 'This is a truly remarkable photograph and congratulations to Terry. Leonbergers are a strong, powerful breed and to capture Tom doing what he was meant to do in such an amazing shot makes Terry a very worthy winner.'

There was also a category for children under the age of 16 entitled 'I love dogs because...' which was won by Maisie Furneaux from Dyserth, North Wales. Maisie will now spend a day out with professional dog photographer Marc Henrie as part of her prize.

You can see the winning shots at http://www.flickr.com/photos/thekennelclub/sets/7215762231491532

DEFRA Declares that Docked Dogs in Agility Are Okay

Defra (the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs), has clarified that dogs with docked tails may take part in all agility trials in England and Wales, including those where the public have paid for admission. There is no change to the position in Scotland where legally docked dogs have never been banned from events where the public pay to enter.

The clarification confirms that 'legally docked dogs' taking part in agility qualify for an exemption from a general ban on the showing of docked dogs. It means that working dogs do not have to be excluded from the various agility shows which are held within larger events such as country fairs, where the public pay for admission. They are also able to participate in agility finals at events such as Crufts, Olympia, and Discover Dogs.

The Animal Welfare Act banned the docking of dogs' tails after 6 April 2007 (after 28 March 2007 in Wales, and 30 April 2007 in Scotland). In England and Wales (but not Scotland), docking is still allowed for certain types of working dog – essentially spaniels, terriers and hunt, point and retrieve (HPR) breeds – if carried out by a vet who has been given specific evidence that the dogs will be used for certain types of work, primarily as gundogs.

The Act also banned the showing of dogs with 'legally docked' tails at shows in England and Wales where members of the public pay an admission charge (in Scotland there is a total ban on docking but no prohibition on showing dogs with docked tails). However there is an exemption (in England and Wales) if the dog is shown' only for the purpose of demonstrating their working ability', even where the public pay an entrance charge.

The clarification from Defra reads: 'As you are aware, there is a ban on the showing of docked dogs at events to which members of the public are admitted on payment of a fee, however, there are exemptions from this ban. The ban does not apply to certified docked working dogs being shown only for the purpose of demonstrating their working ability (for example, in agility trials). A certified docked working dog cannot be shown for any other purpose.'

Dogs which were docked earlier than 6 April 2007 (or the equivalent dates in Wales and Scotland) are unaffected by the legislation and can be shown at any type of show. Illegally docked dogs may not be entered in any Kennel Club event.

KC YouTube Agility Videos

The Kennel; Club have put a selection of videos on their Kennel Club YouTube channel for your delight and entertainment. These include:

Announcement: Kennel Club Licensed Events Cancellation Policy
Agility, Obedience, HTM & Working Trials

The British weather has been kinder to dog lovers this year with fewer shows needing to be cancelled or postponed due to inclement weather. Following problems which occurred during 2008, the Kennel Club has reviewed its policy in relation to Obedience, Agility, Working Trials, Heelwork to Music and Bloodhound Trials. With immediate effect, none of these events may be postponed should the original event not be able to be held due to unforeseen circumstances; the event must be cancelled. If the society wishes to reschedule the show/trial this may be done by applying for a new licence, issuing a new schedule etc, and entries from the original date may not be carried forward.

It is hoped that this new policy will safeguard competitors as they will not be in a position of losing entry fees if a show/trial was to be postponed to a date on which they were unable to attend. It has become apparent that with the increasing popularity of all canine activities it was becoming harder and harder to find a suitable date to reschedule an event that did not clash with another and where a suitable venue was available.

The full cancellation policy for Agility, Obedience, Heelwork to Music, Bloodhound Trials and Working Trials is given below:

With the increasing frequency of show/trial cancellations due to inclement weather, it would be advisable for all clubs to state in their schedule their policy in the eventuality of the show/trial having to be cancelled for reasons beyond their control.

1. All societies must include their refund policy within the schedule. 'No refunds will be given' is not acceptable. A suggested wording is:-

2. When booking services or venues, clubs should establish what the cancellation policy is for any orders placed or venue bookings made. As a priority, clubs should endeavour to negotiate at an early stage a favourable deal on all services and venues which could be cancelled for reasons beyond their control. This would enable them to avoid paying the full cost for services/venues contracted but not used. A hire contract should be in writing and include details of actions regarding both sides' costs upon cancellation of the event.

3. Clubs should try to avoid purchasing non reusable products too early e.g. catering items and try to source these items as much as possible from companies that have a full credit returns policy.

4. Clubs should consider the type of insurance they have for their event and what impact this would have on their refund policy.

5. In the event of a show/trial being cancelled it is of paramount importance that competitors/creditors of the event are informed as soon as possible and on an ongoing and regular basis about the financial implications that affect them and how to apply for a refund. Initial information should be available no later than seven days after the decision to cancel the show is made.

6. In the event of a cancellation, a full set of the licensing club's detailed accounts for the show must be submitted to the Kennel Club within 3 months of the decision to cancel the event with a copy of the club's refund policy and the date that action was taken on this refund policy.

7. Events may not be postponed to a later date. If the club still wishes to hold the event, a new licence should be obtained with a new schedule, judges' contracts, entries etc.

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Over 1500 Agility Warrants Claimed Scheme Started

The number of dogs that have earned a Kennel Club Agility Warrant has topped 1,500 as the Warrant scheme, introduced in 2004, reaches its fifth birthday. At the end of May the Kennel Club had awarded the Bronze Agility Warrant to 1,027 dogs; 359 had earned the Silver Agility Warrant and 134 (9%) had achieved the highest accolade, the Gold Agility Warrant.

The Agility Warrant recognises the achievements of those happy, healthy agility dogs which consistently perform with excellence, although they may lack the sheer speed to win their classes outright.

Border Collies formed the largest breed group of Agility Warrant winners (32%), followed by Shetland Sheepdogs totalling 13%, Cocker Spaniels (7%) and Miniature Poodles (6%). Other breeds in the 'top ten' overall are the Border Terrier, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Papillon, Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervueren), English Springer Spaniel and Miniature Schnauzer. Just over half of the dogs that have achieved Agility Warrants are non-pedigree dogs registered on the Kennel Club's Activity Register.

Special Event and Match Number Restrictions Lifted

KC Liaison Council Elections - Have your Say

The Agility Liaison Council is made up of registered societies and branches which have an active interest in agility and have been registered for at least 12 months and hold a licensed agility event each year may nominate representatives. The total number of representatives per region is given below: 

Judge's Training Programme Expanded

As part of the training programme the Kennel Club has appointed a number of Accredited Trainers for each discipline who will be responsible for delivering each seminar. All the Accredited Trainers are established judges of long standing and have attended training and assessment sessions to prove their own knowledge and competence in delivering the seminar syllabus. There is a good geographical spread of trainers for each activity to ensure that each area of the country is covered to minimise distances for those attending seminars. It is hoped that additional Accredited Trainers for the new practical Agility and Obedience seminars will be approved in the next few months.

• D Collis - 1 Whinchat Close, Lordswood, Southampton, Hants SO16 8HU Tel: 02380 732150
   
• Jean Fotheringham - Whitehills, Ardler, Meigle, Perthshire PH12 8SR. Tel: 01828 640429   Email: j.fotheringham@btopenworld.com
   
• Bill Glover - 39 Bruton Way, Forest Park, Bracknell, Berks RG12 0GJ. Tel: 01344 452162  Email: bill_w_glover@yahoo.com
   
• Bob Griffin - Heikym, Toldish, Indian Queens, St. Columb, Cornwall TR9 6HG. Tel: 01726 861560   Email: bobcydheikym@tinyworld.co.uk
   
• Tony Griffin - 20 Monmouth Avenue, Weymouth, Dorset DT3 5JR.  Tel: 01305 777856. Email: tonygriffin20@tiscali.co.uk
   
• Joan Hart - Kirkside, Church Road, California, Falkirk. Tel: 01324 717013
   
• Kate Howard - 90 Portreath Drive, Allestree, Derby DE22 2SD. Tel: 01332 551486   Email: kateh90@aol.com
   
• Chris Huckle - Kingwold, Glenmore, Roborough, Winkleigh, Devon EX19 8TE. Tel: 01769 560190  Email: chris.huckle@kingswold.myzen.co.uk
   
• Dave Jolly - 1 Mare Lane, Beenhams Heath, Shurlock Row, Berks RG10 0QH. Tel: 0118 932 0619 Email: davejolly@btconnect.com
   
• Cathy Keith - 27 Hopetown Terrace, Gullane, East Lothian, EH31 2DD.Tel: 01620 842886   Email: cathy.keith@mackayscom
   
• Lesley Olden - Birchwood House Cottage, Sherfield English, Nr Romsey, Hants SO51 6FF. Tel: 01794 323037  Email: lesleyolden@aol.com
   
• Graham  Partridge - Clan Furze, Conce Moor, Bugle, St Austell, Cornwall PL26 8RT.Tel: 01208 831934  Email: graham@clanfurze.fsnet.co.uk
   
• Dave Perry - North Acre, Pickwell Road, Leesthorpe, Melton Mowbray, Leics LE14 2XE. Tel: 01664 454493 E-mail: daveperry2412@btinternetcom
   
• Margaret Quinn - 3 Laurel Court, Cambuslang, Glasgow G72 7BD. Tel: 0141 642 9404 Email: margaret.quinn12@btinternet.com
   
• Tom Quinn - 3 Laurel Court, Cambuslang, Glasgow G72 7BD. Tel: 0141 642 9404 Email: margaret.quinn12@btinternet.com

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The Kennel Club takes the training of judges very seriously, as knowledgeable judges ensure that the awards made at licensed shows and trials are of value and recognise the dog's abilities. To this end, the Kennel Club has introduced regulations and judging procedure seminars and examinations for all judges at licensed shows and trials and, recently, practical seminars for agility, obedience and working trial judges.

The General Committee has agreed that for judging appointments from 1st January 2010, all new championship class judges for the activity disciplines will need to be assessed by a Kennel Club appointed assessor before their 'ticket' appointment nomination can be considered. The assessment is for new championship class judges, not for those previously approved. First time judges for appointments on or after the 1 January 2010 whose nominations have already received Kennel Club approval will not require assessment.

The assessment will take the form of an assessor observing the judge during the course of the day, particularly at the beginning of the day when they are setting their course, confirming their round etc and periodically throughout the day. An assessment is confidential to the Kennel Club and there should be no necessity for an assessor to make contact with the judge. However an assessor is expected to use their judgement in this respect particularly where there is an obvious concern over health and safety or a clear breach of regulation. In both cases the assessor will refer their concerns to the show/trial organisers in the first instance.

The official judges' questionnaires have been amended to require the nominee to list all their judging appointments prior to the'ticket' appointment. This will allow time for the appointment of an assessor prior to consideration by the Activities Sub-Committee of the nomination and questionnaire.

The success of this new initiative is dependent on show/trial societies and judges using the new judges' questionnaire. These must be forwarded to the Kennel Club by the society at least 12 months in advance of the event, but preferably earlier than this. Judges who already have a questionnaire in their possession should contact the society for a replacement. Please be aware that if the wrong form is submitted, or if the information is incomplete or does not meet the minimum criteria under Kennel Club Regulations, the questionnaire will be returned to the nominating society. This could lead in extreme circumstances to the nomination being rejected as out of time, hence the suggestion that they be submitted as early as possible.

This new requirement has been introduced as part of the Judges' Education Programme, and along with the other mandatory requirements reinforces the Kennel Club's commitment to ensuring that competitors received proper consideration for the time and effort put into training their dogs.

Revised Guide for Judges & Stewards Booklets

In line with recently introduced new approval criteria and the addition of new seminars for Agility, Obedience, Working Trials, Bloodhound Trials and Heelwork to Music judges, the Kennel Club has reviewed the Guides for Judges and Stewards for each of these activities and has introduced a new Guide for Judges for Heelwork to Music.

The new booklets are an invaluable aid to judging and should be read in conjunction with the new Regulation booklets which were issued in January. Each activity also has a handy sized Judges Record Book in which judges are encouraged to keep records of all their appointments and courses/seminars attended.

These new booklets are available from the publications department or from the Kennel Club online shop.

Changes to KC Specimen Schedule

The Kennel Club has recently reviewed all its specimen schedules and has amended the aglity and obedience specimen schedules quite considerably to make them as consistent with each other as possible.

The wording is meant to act a guide for show secretaries and their printers. All Open/Limited and Championship schedules must be compiled in accordance with the layout indicated. The Rules and Regulations must be included as indicated. Anyone involved in show management is advised to check the updated versions on Kennel Club website and make the necessary amendments.

Crufts Statement from The Chairman

Kennel Club Chairman Ronnie Irving has issued a strong statement on behalf of Crufts, the world's most famous and popular dog show. The statement denies categorically that the future of the show is in any doubt following speculation after one of its sponsors withdrew.

'Crufts as a show has taken place successfully for over 100 years,' said Mr Irving ' and retains its popularity with dog breeders, visitors and TV viewers alike. Crufts is the biggest dog show in the world with regularly over 22,000 dogs entered. But it is only one of the hundreds of dog shows that take place every year in the UK. There are around 300,000 pedigree dog entries every year at the many large shows around this country. We at Crufts, like at any other event, are always sorry to lose any support but people should be aware that Pedigree as a brand has been changing its approach and its brand position for a number of years. This is evidenced by its change of style in its home country, the USA. It has also been progressively withdrawing from the very popular dog show scene here in the UK for nearly two years now. This latest news comes as no surprise to us.

That said, the 44 year relationship will continue in 2009 as Pedigree will still be having a presence at Crufts and will be working along side us on other projects in the future.

Crufts has many other supporters, hundreds of trade stands and thousands of people who look forward to this national and international celebration of dogs each year. Not only does Crufts cater for the best of pedigree dogs from all over the world, but in more recent years we have encompassed cross bred dogs and all levels of dog ownership and activities. Crufts 2009 will concentrate even more than ever on healthy, happy and well bred dogs. Make no mistake, this country has a very strong tradition for caring dog ownership and leads the way internationally in this sphere. The vast majority of the dogs at Crufts are, and always have been, happy, healthy and of good sound temperament.

On the subject of breed standards, Mr Irving added, ' There is a great deal of focus regarding the health of pedigree dogs. The vast majority of pedigree dog breeders in this country breed for health and temperament and it is insulting and inaccurate to suggest otherwise. This applies especially to those who support the 5000 dog shows a year that the Kennel Club licenses. The Kennel Club is and has been for years, working with breeders and many organisations to create an ongoing programme of health improvement. To suggest that we are on any sort of collision course with breed clubs and breeders is also very wide of the mark. I am pleased to report that already, all of the Pekingese breed clubs have met and unanimously agreed a way forward in full support of the revised breed standard that we announced a couple of weeks ago. They have also resolved to work in co-operation with the Kennel Club on further health screening programmes. 

As the dedicated dog organisation with the widest remit of health and welfare for dogs in the UK, we will continue to work with others to implement our health and welfare strategy which has been accepted and applauded by veterinarians, breeders, exhibitors, sponsors, welfare groups and other individuals and organisations.

The Kennel Club has the strongest and soundest strategy for the future health and welfare of dogs. Our significant steps forward will be illustrated at Crufts 2009 and beyond.'

Agility Regulation Changes with Effect 1 January 2009

The General Committee has recently reviewed several Agility Regulations and has approved the following amendments:-

Regulation H(1)(B)(1)3.d.

This regulation amendment has been approved to ensure that hoops/tyres are all made in a similar style so that dogs do not suddenly see completely different tyres at different shows. The minimum diameter has been increased and it will be a requirement that the hoop / tyre is made of an impact absorbing material.

FROM:  Hoop-(Tyre) - Aperture diameter 457mm (1ft 6ins) minimum. Aperture centre from the ground: Large Dogs – 800mm (2ft 7.5ins) Medium Dogs – 550mm (1ft 9.6ins). Small Dogs – 490mm (1ft 7.3ins). The height of the hoop should not be lowered. The tyre/hoop must be directly mounted in a substantial frame structure which must be secured in such a way that dogs cannot knock the obstacle over from either direction; the frame shall not have a beam across the top.

TO: Hoop-(Tyre) - Aperture diameter 533mm (1ft 9ins) minimum. Aperture centre from the ground: Large Dogs – 800mm (2ft 7.5ins). Medium Dogs – 550mm (1ft 9.6ins). Small Dogs – 490mm (1ft 7.3ins). The hoop to be of a consistent shape, constructed of an impact-absorbing material. The height of the hoop should not be lowered. The tyre/hoop must be directly mounted in a substantial frame structure which must be secured in such a way that dogs cannot knock the obstacle over from either direction; the frame shall not have a beam across the top. (Amendment underlined)

Regulation H(1)(B).3.h – Wishing Well.

KC to Complain about BBC Programme

The Kennel Club is lodging a complaint to Ofcom in respect of the recently broadcast programme Pedigree Dogs Exposed (BBC1) in view of its unfair treatment and editing and failure to fairly and properly reflect the Kennel Club's deep commitment to the health and welfare of dogs and responsible dog ownership despite being made aware in detail of those efforts in advance of broadcast.

Further, in the light of this programme, the Kennel Club is reviewing its contract with the BBC.

Kennel Club Response to the RSPCA's Position Regarding Crufts

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club spokesperson, said 'Dog shows such as Crufts give the Kennel Club and other organisations a great opportunity to educate the dog loving public about the overriding importance of health and welfare. The RSPCA has attended Crufts for a great many years and will be fully aware of all the work that is being done to improve the health of dogs in and out of the show ring.

'The Kennel Club invests a great deal of time, money and care into the area of pedigree health. This includes grants, via its Charitable Trust, into developing health screening for dogs. A recent donation of £48,000 was recently given to the RSPCA to improve the general welfare of dogs. Furthermore, the Kennel Club has just released its'Future Plans' to keep the public updated about its continued progress in this area.

'The fact that the RSPCA continues to make such unhelpful statements with regard to the health of pedigree dogs is extremely regrettable but we will continue to endeavour to work with them despite their stated position – for the benefit of dogs. The Kennel Club is dedicated to improving the health and welfare of dogs through responsible breeding and will continue to use Crufts as a platform to educate breeders and the public about the importance of joining us on this quest.'

The RSPCA has made several comments that the Kennel Club would take issue with. Specifically:

  Comment - RSPCA – There are unacceptably high levels of disability, deformity and disease that threaten pedigree dogs.

The Kennel Club ran a health survey looking at pedigree health, the largest of its kind in the world.It has been found that 90 percent of pedigree dogs will not suffer from health problems that will have a detrimental effect on their quality of life, based on an analysis of the Breed Health Survey, carried out by in 2004 by the Kennel Club and the Animal Health Trust. This is to date the largest dog health survey of its kind in the world. Of course, there are some dogs which suffer from some diseases but the Kennel Club is working hard to help eliminate these conditions and to ensure that ALL dogs have the opportunity to lead healthy lives. For more information about the work that the Kennel Club has done in the area of pedigree health visit www.doggenetichealth.org

Comment - Dogs shows using current breed standards encourage the intentional breeding of deformed and disabled dogs and the inbreeding of closely related animals.

Dog shows are fundamentally designed to reward those dogs that meet a particular breed standard, which is the blueprint for a healthy dog. The Kennel Club is continually working to ensure that this objective is achieved by regularly reviewing breed standards and ensuring that judges are educated so that dogs displaying visible health problems will not win at dog shows.

Kennel Club Answers Back

Join Caroline Kisko and Dr Jeff Sampson from the Kennel Club as they answer your questions and dispel concerns over pedigree dog breeding. Chat date: 27 August
Chat time: 12.00pm

Following the recent BBC programme Pedigree Dogs Exposed, the Kennel Club would like to clear up negative impressions of pedigree dog breeding and suggestions that the dog community is doing little or nothing to improve the health of pedigree dogs.

The Kennel Club assisted the production company with the programme and hoped that what would be portrayed would be a balanced view of the work the Kennel Club is doing and what needs to be done within the dog world to ensure that pedigree dogs lead long and healthy lives. Unfortunately the Kennel Club and the dog community have been left feeling that the programme was very one sided and so would like to address some of the issues the programme raised and answer some of the questions that viewers are concerned about by taking part in an online webchat. 

If you are a dog lover and have any concerns or questions following the programme, then join our webchat to find out how Kennel Club health initiatives such as the introduction of the Accredited Breeder Scheme and research funding can help promote healthy breeding of pedigree breeds.

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary and Dr. Jeff Sampson, the Kennel Club's genetic advisor join us live online at http://www.webchats.tv/chats/Petcare/wwwthekennelcluborguk/ on 27 August at 12.00 noon to answer your questions and dispel concerns over pedigree dog breeding.

For more information visit www.thekennelclub.org.uk

The Kennel Club Hits Back at BBC Dog Documentary

The Kennel Club feels that the programme, Pedigree Dogs Exposed (BBC1 19 August) missed a real opportunity to progress the cause of dog health. It appeared to have a very specific agenda repeating prejudices, providing no context for the debate, and failing to put forward constructive proposals. It left viewers with the mistaken impression that all pedigree dogs are riddled with a wide range of health problems and that the dog community is doing little or nothing to improve the situation. This is patently not true.

Whilst the Kennel Club was shocked and saddened by the dramatic imagery used in the programme, and accepts some of the important issues raised, what it does not accept is that these problems apply widely across the 200 plus breeds in the UK. Pedigree Dogs Exposed also failed to show the real progress being made by both the Kennel Club and responsible breeders in improving dog health or to recognise that 90 percent of dogs will not suffer from health problems that have a detrimental impact on the quality of life.

More than that, the programme drew upon a new study on dog genetics by Imperial College to underline its criticisms of dog breeding, without acknowledging the fact this study was entirely enabled by the Kennel Club as part of its commitment to health research. This research will now provide the Kennel Club with a valuable scientific platform to enlist the support of breeders in tackling key health problems where they occur.

Commenting, Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club spokesperson, said: 'In reality the gap between some of the views expressed on the programme and those held by both the Kennel Club and most responsible breeders is very small. Over the last 20 years we have been working to develop tests and health screening schemes to identify and eradicate problems, many of which are historic. One example of this is the elimination of canine leucocyte adhesion deficiency (CLAD) in Irish Setters, that caused early death in puppies which was eradicated through the concerted efforts of both the Kennel Club and Irish Setter breeders.

'However, it is important to put this into context. The Kennel Club has no legal standing, unlike some similar bodies in other countries. We have to work on these issues through partnership and persuasion – not coercion. The danger of introducing draconian measures is that some breeders could choose to operate outside the Kennel Club's jurisdiction; with absolutely no controls. That cannot be the best way forward. '

'The programme also made some sweeping, and far from accurate assertions. The Kennel Club refutes that it would put'looks' above the health of pedigree dogs, in fact we actively discourage the exaggeration of features in any breed. The standards have been, and will continue to be amended when necessary to ensure the breeding of healthy, well conformed dogs. Dog show judges are also educated to judge to those standards ensuring that dogs with obvious problems that could affect their quality of life do not win, and that the rewards go to fit, healthy dogs. All of this of course is dependent on the responsibility of breeders and owners – and this is where our efforts must be concentrated.'

'We can state categorically that the majority of pedigree dogs in the UK are healthy. We increasingly have in place checks to monitor health issues going forward. In those few breeds where there are problems, including those highlighted in the programme,  we have been and will continue to work with breeders to improve long term health through the development of tests and screening programmes.'

Kennel Club health initiatives include: funding research to identify problems and develop efficient screening for health, such as eye testing and hip scoring; the introduction of the Accredited Breeder Scheme, to act as a 'kite mark' for responsible breeders; and most recently the launch of a major campaign 'Fit for function – fit for life' which seeks further to promote health improvements across breeds. This, in conjunction with breed clubs, focuses on tackling unnecessary exaggeration in some breeds, whether that is of coat, weight, skin, angulation, eye formation or shortness of muzzle. All dogs should be fit for function, even if that function is to be a pet. All dogs should be able to see, breath and walk freely.

'By their lack of context, programmes such as Pedigree Dogs Exposed, far from helping the situation run the risk of damaging the work already being done. This work will not be carried out by TV production companies – but by the hard work of the Kennel Club and the country's responsible breeders,' said Caroline Kisko.

In summary, health issues are of primary concern to the Kennel Club but changes cannot be made overnight. We are working proactively with breeders to make these changes – but we are dealing with the legacy of 100 years. What we need is the support of experts such as those featured in the programme, not their condemnation – support which we have indeed received from a number of respected bodies such as The Animal Health Trust, The Blue Cross and the British Veterinary Association.'

PM Invited to KC International Festival

The Prime Minister may have shown dogged determination to boycott the opening ceremony of the Beijing Games but with China off the agenda, the PM could take the opportunity to represent the UK's sporting talent at other landmark events taking place in August like the KC International Agility Festival!

With the government adamant that the country's obesity problem needs to be tackled and that Britain should be more active, the Kennel Club is leading the way and extending a warm invitation for Gordon Brown to come to Peterborough from 8 -10 August when the town plays host to the largest agility event in the world for our four legged friends.

The Kennel Club International Agility Festival  which has already seen a record number of entries from around the globe is expected to outstrip last year's record of 2,000 dogs competing. It is now one of the most important events in the canine calendar. The Prime Minister is welcome to come and help celebrate the sport, which is a great way to fight the flab in both humans and dogs, who may be affected as a result of our inactive lifestyles.

The Kennel Club extended the invitation to the Prime Minister on BBC Radio Four's Broadcasting House programme on Sunday morning.

Caroline Kisko, spokesperson for the Kennel Club, has added: 'Obesity is a worrying issue for both humans and dogs but dog agility is becoming increasingly popular and is a real answer to the problem.'

'It's much easier for people to be motivated to get fit when they are being egged on by the imploring eyes and wagging tail of their four-legged friends, and of course we would welcome the Prime Minister to come and give the sport his seal of approval at the festival!'

Kennel Club Recognised for Its Contribution to Agility

Canine Sports Science Seminar Deadline Extended

The closing date for the second Canine Sports Science Seminar -Part 2 has been extended to Monday, 11 February 2008. Entitled Canine Sports Science Seminar, this one will be more specifically about sports injuries and their treatments or prevention. It will be held at Gilbert Murray Hall in Leicester, on Sunday, 24 February 2008.

Peter van Dongen said, 'This time around we intend to have presentations, as well as practical demos, about sports injuries and their prevention and treatment, using a holistic approach. It promises to be a great day out, during which you will no doubt learn important information about how to best look after about your canine friend! This time there will be even better facilities and dogs are even allowed on the premises. We have even managed to keep the cost at a very reasonable £60 per person only, including a presentation hand outs, buffet lunch and all refreshments! No excuses then not to come!'

Canine Sports Science Seminar 1 – Survey Results

Last February saw the first Canine Sports Science Seminar, organised by Pete van Dongen and Steve Croxford, and supported and sponsored by the Kennel Club. It was intended to give people a good idea of what is needed to get and keep a fit dog for various canine sports. There were lectures about Kennel Club Health Schemes, Biomechanics, Canine Massage, Nutraceuticals, Nutrition and much more. The day finished with a Q & A session and a promise that a second seminar would follow. About 70 people made an attempt to be there, although we had counted on many more.

The day was a great success in our opinion and we asked the people who attended what they thought. Their choices on various subjects were: excellent, very good, good, average or poor. Here's what they thought:

• 97% of people thought the venue's location was either excellent (62%) or very good (35%)
• 92% of people thought the quality of the facilities were either excellent (58%) or very good (33%)
• 90% of people thought the quality of the speakers we invited was either excellent (35%) or very good (55%)
• 88% of people thought the subjects covered were either excellent (38%) or very good (50%)
• 83% of people said they would'definitely' be interested in a follow-up seminar, 17%'maybe'.

As you can see, the results indicate that if you weren't there, you missed a great day.

A second seminar has now been organised entitled'Canine Sports Science Seminar', more specifically about sports injuries and their treatments or prevention, to be held at Gilbert Murray Hall in Leicester, on Sunday, 24 February 2008.

Peter van Dongen said, 'This time around we intend to have presentations, as well as practical demos, about sports injuries and their prevention and treatment, using a holistic approach. It promises to be a great day out, during which you will no doubt learn important information about how to best look after about your canine friend! This time there will be even better facilities and dogs are even allowed on the premises. We have even managed to keep the cost at a very reasonable £60 per person only, including hand outs and lunch! No excuses then not to come!'

See the advert in the Kennel Gazette or on the net, for further details.

Graded Agility Classes One Year Later

Another International Agility Event on the Calendar

The Kennel Club has announced that, following a recommendation made by the Agility Liaison Council, it will continue its sponsorship of GB & Northern Ireland agility teams in international competition by sending a team of up to 30 dogs and handlers to the 2008 European Open.

The Open, at which non-pedigree as well as pedigree dogs are able to compete, is scheduled to be held in Germany at the end of July, although the date and venue are subject to final confirmation. Judges will be Elke Kraul, Hans-Jürgen Krüger, Manuel Alff, Ton v.d. Laar and Harald Schjelderup

It is expected that in 2008, unless additional funding can be obtained, it will only be possible to send the team to the European Open due to the high cost that would be involved in sending a team to Finland, which hosts the 2008 FCI World Agility Championships. The Kennel Club emphasises, however, that this decision does not exclude the possibility of sending teams to both the European Open and FCI World Championships in future years. It will be the Kennel Club's intention for Great Britain to be represented whenever and wherever possible at these prestigious events.

The Kennel Club has also confirmed that a joint Great Britain and Northern Ireland team will be selected for the Open from competitors put forward by the four home countries: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Each country will conduct its own selection process prior to sending representative handlers and dogs to the qualifiers in the spring of 2008 where the GB squad will be finalised. As an investment in the future and to encourage younger handlers, two additional places for each country will be reserved for Junior handlers.

The selection process in each home country will be co-ordinated by its Agility Council Representative:-

• England: John Gilbert  (overall GB Team Manager) - tel. 01582 882366 or faldoagility@aol.com
• Scotland: Peter Elms - tel. 01506 870810 or peterelms@tiscali.co.uk
• Wales: Mike Shaw - tel. 028 9187 8298 or d.duncan@nireland.com
• Northern Ireland: David Duncan - tel. 01974 202347 or somethingferal@aol.com

Details of Qualifying / Selection for the 2008 European Open GB Team
The 2008 GB squad qualifying event will be held in the Midlands in March/April 2008. In future years, this event could be offered to all the home countries to host and organise on a rotation basis. The exact date will be announced once the date of the European Open has been confirmed.

Dogs at Grade 6 or Grade 7 will be eligible for selection by their home country (see below). Handlers must live in the home country they represent. Dogs taking part will need to have been prepared for travel under the Defra Pet Passport scheme. This means that they must have been microchipped, then vaccinated against rabies at least seven months before the date of the European Open, with a rabies blood test one month after the vaccination, i.e. at least six months before the competition.

Maximum Number of Dogs Competing for GB Squad Selection

The target number to take to the European Open will be 30 handlers and dogs - the maximum number allowed under current European Open rules - 50% of which may be Large. In the team event, four dogs may run with the best three counting.  The team for Medium and Small may be a mixed team. The Kennel Club is awaiting confirmation of this and the split of Large, Medium and Small dogs has yet to be decided.

Special provision has been made in the selection process for Junior handlers, the future of British agility. In addition to the numbers above, each home country is allowed to send a maximum of two Junior handlers to the qualifying event, provided the dogs they run are Grade 6 or 7.  This will allow the younger handlers to gain experience at the highest level which will stand them and agility in Great Britain in good stead for the future.

The format of the squad selection event will be published in due course. Between the squad selection day and the European Open, there will be get-togethers and training sessions, which all team members will be expected to attend.  A team captain will be appointed for each height category, and they, in conjunction with the Manager, will decide the make up of each team in the Team event.  One of these captains will be appointed overall Team Captain and will be responsible for any training sessions.

Because of the timescale, it would be very difficult to hold qualifying heats for 2008. With this in mind, the squad selection process for 2008 is proposed as follows:

 If numbers fall short from any of the home countries' quota for the squad selection each co-ordinator may choose a maximum of 2 wild-card entries overall (not each height category).

Detailed information on the Pets Travel Scheme (PETS) passport scheme can be obtained on the Defra website: http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/quarantine/index.htm or the PETS helpline 0870 241 1710.

Agility Dogs Go to Work at the Kennel Club for Charity

You wouldn't normally expect to find a Jack Russell at your local council, or a Golden Retriever at your post office, but you wouldn't be surprised to see a dog at the Kennel Club.

On Friday, 14 September more than a thousand dogs took part in The Blue Cross's annual fundraising event  Take Your Dog To Work Day to raise money for the charity's work caring for sick and homeless animals. The Kennel Club saw a number of dogs - including three agility dogs from the WTOA Team - take their seat at its London headquarters, as if it were just another day at the office!

Now in its 12th year, Take Your Dog To Work Day is an annual event, sponsored by Hill's Pet Nutrition, which encourages animal lovers around the country to take their dogs into work for the day.

This year, participants took their dogs to work up and down the country, stretching from Scotland to Dorset, right across to Norfolk and Leeds in a range of work places, including offices, schools, shops, care homes and councils.

Caroline Reay, chief veterinary surgeon at The Blue Cross Animal Hospital in Merton commented: 'Having a dog in the office can often be a great ice breaker, which helps to boost the team spirit at work.  It might not be practical for you to always take your dog to work with you, but this event enables you to give your dog a new experience and different mental stimulus for the day. Having your dog with you at work also encourages you to take a break to walk with your pet, which means that you both get to exercise and relax at the same time.'

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary said: 'It is one of the key aims of the Kennel Club to support dog ownership and all the benefits that owning a dog brings. We hope that this experience will prove very positive for both dogs and owners, and that the Kennel Club will take part in more Take Your Dog to Work days in the future.'

The Blue Cross hopes that by taking their dogs to work for the day, dog owners will consider new ways to bond with their pet and take part in the charity's efforts to raise vital funds for the animals in its care.

Visitors to the website www.takeyourdogtoworkday.co.uk will also find information on health and safety advice on taking dogs into the work place and tips on how to make the day enjoyable for dogs and colleagues alike. (17/09/07)

In recent months there have been a number of changes in the structure and staffing of the Canine Activities Department (formerly Shows, Trials and Awards). The Department's work practices and the needs of our customers have been assessed and similar functions have now been grouped together allowing us to develop and improve our processes, systems and service to their internal and external customers and to add flexibility for general ease of seasonal workloads.

The Department now consists of five teams:

WTOA Team
Dealing with all aspects of Agility, Obedience, Working Trials, Bloodhound Trials, Heelwork to Music and Flyball with administrative responsibility for the Working Trials Council, Obedience Council, Agility Council and related Working Parties and of the Working Trials, Obedience and Agility Sub Committee.  Debbie Deuchar is Team Leader with Zoe Tharmasingam and John Leslie in support.

Services Team
Dealing with all aspects of administration supporting canine activities - licensing, show diary, processing all awards, maintenance of title and annual returns of all registered clubs and societies, field officer visits and general inquiries.  A new manager has been recruited to lead the team - Phil Kelly will join the staff on 17th September.  Phil will be supported by Yvette Prosser & Paul Allen (Awards), Rhea Harries (Show Diary & Licensing), Pam Hill (Registered Societies admin), Janet Daly (Field Officers & general enquiries) and Lauren Lowe (general enquiries).

Field Trials Team
This team will continue to handle all specialist enquiries relating to Working Gundogs and Field Trials and support for the Field Trials Sub-Committee and Liaison Council.  The Team Leader is Hilary Gould.  The team also comprises Caron Moore and Anne Greeves (who organises all the KC's own Field Trials and other working gundog events).

Breed Shows Team
Dealing with all aspects of Breed Show activity - objections, biting incidents, permission to show, rules and regulations enquiries, breed show judging enquiries, nomination and approval of breed show championship judges, breaches of judging contracts, judging critiques and all administration and support for the Show Executive Sub-Committee, Judges Sub-Committee, Shows Council and Breeds Council.

A new manager has been recruited to lead the team - Angela Mitchell who joined the team on the 3rd September.  The rest of the team comprises Pat Knight (Championship Show judging nominations), Semone Cooper (breed shows) and Clare Hitchcox (general judging enquires).

Education & Training Team
Led by Dorothy McIntyre, this team deals with all aspects of the Kennel Club's own seminars and educational schemes such as the Judges Development Programmes, the work of the Accredited Trainers, KC Seminars and the KC Accredited Instructors Scheme (KCAI).  Dorothy is supported by Yohann Dieul (Seminars and Training Board) and Sue Evans (KCAI).

Additionally, the Canine Activities Development Manager Laura Colborn works to improve the level of service across all Canine Activities' areas of responsibility.

All Canine Activities staff are based on the second Floor of Clarges Street in London (W1).  Caroline Hallett now works under Kennel Club Secretary, Caroline Kisko, but retains responsibility for the Breed Standards and Stud Book Sub-Committee, General Committee Minutes and for dispute resolution within clubs and societies.  She now shares an office with Linda Branwhite, Disciplinary Manager, located in the basement.

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