THE BLAZE

Having Fun with Our Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs

Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE #3

CALENDAR of ACTIVITIES

Oct 20-22 GSMDCA Specialty

Friday—Supported Entry, Hot Dog

Lunch, Trick Dog Tests, Potluck Dinner,

Weight Pull

Saturday—GSMDCA Western Regional,

Sweepstakes, Carting Workshop,

Halloween Parade, Dinner Meeting

Sunday—Designated Specialty, High

Points Obedience & High

Points Rally

Nov 4-5 Pack Hike in Ojai

For details of the above events, and for a list of dog shows

in Northern and Southern California, check the Calendar on our web page:

http://www.goldengategsmdc.com/events.html

This is my Swan Song. I have been VP and President since 2011 when the club was revised. It is time for me to step down and let the “young bloods” take over. It has been quite a learning experience for me, and I appreciate everyone’s support and patience along the way. I am extremely proud of how far this club has come in the last 6 years. We have grown from a zero bank balance account to a very flourishing one.

We also have in place Weight-Pulls, Pack Hikes, Draft Dog and Versatility workshops, and Herding experiences. It is hard to comprehend all that the GGGSMDC has accomplished in these few years. This is due to all of the hard-working volunteers who have devoted as much of their time and energy into making this a first class dog club. You all deserve a big pat on the back.

It is easy to stand on the outside, point fingers and say “the GGGSMDC should do this or that,” but YOU are the Club. The volunteers who get down to work are the backbone of this club and ultimately the guardians of the breed. Great things happen when our members get together to host an event. it is very rare for most folks in the dog world to agree with each other on everything. The secret to the success of a dog club is when the membership learns to listen and respect the opinions of others, even when they disagree. We must all remember what has brought us into this club in the first place: our love of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. Always keep that in mind, and it will make it easier to remember that you share a common goal with the other members of this club.

Once again, I thank all of you for your help and support over the past 6 years. I have been extremely fortunate to have been surrounded by talented, hardworking volunteers. You will never know how much I appreciate all that you have done for your club. I wish the incoming officer and board members the best of luck and I hope that they will receive the support from all club members that I have enjoyed. I know I leave the club leadership in very good hands.

Respectfully submitted (for the last time), Swissies forever, Toni Killpatrick, GGGSMDC President.

T

1 Calendar, President’s Letter 7 Body Condition Scoring 13 Swiss National Day 19 Swissies in Their Element

2 Officers, Objectives 8 Ojai Pack Hike 14 End of Summer Party 20 Pupcakes & Carting

3 GSMDCA Western Regional 9 Swissys Like to Celebrate 15 Kudos 21 Tick Talk

4 Trick Dog 10 Dog Trekker 16 Social Swissies 22-24 Unilat. Hip Dysplasia

5 Weight Pull 11 Swiss Dog Day Afternoon 17 Signs of Pain 25 A Few Last Words

6 Increasing Longevity 12 Bone Appetit 18 Flu Vaccine? 26 Resources

Officers, Board Members and Committees President: Toni Killpatrick

Vice President: Erin Stammer

Secretary: Linda Ridenour

Treasurer: Julie Vonada

Board Members:

Leslie Bryson

Carol Bamsch

Lisa England

Paula Robles

Monika McNamara

Membership: Susan Robinson

Ways and Means: Lisa England

Awards and Trophies: Erin Stammer and Toni Killpatrick

Social Events: The Board and per event committee lead

Calendar: Donna Zetterquist

Show Events: The Board

Working Events: Heidi Steenstra and Kelly Stover

Newsletter: Susan Robinson

Website: Rob Blits

Raffle: Julie Vonada and Toni Killpatrick

Hospitality: The Board and per event committee lead

The objectives of the club shall be:

To encourage and promote quality in the breeding of Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs

and to do all possible to bring their natural qualities to perfection.

To urge members and breeders to accept the standard of the breed as approved by

the American Kennel Club as the only standard of excellence

by which Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs shall be judged.

To do all in its power to protect and advance the interests of the breed and to encourage sportsmanlike

competition at dog shows (obedience and agility trials, drafting and tracking tests).

To conduct sanctioned matches and specialty shows

under the rules and regulations of the American Kennel Club.

To have FUN together with our Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs.

Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE #3

October 20-22, 2017 at the Harvest Moon Classic

Strathern Pavilion at the Alameda County Fairgrounds—Pleasanton, CA

Friday, Oct. 20—Supported Entry

12:00 Hot Dog Lunch 1:00 Trick Dog Testing 2:00 Weight Pull Registration

Weight Pull (after BIS) and Potluck Dinner

Saturday—GSMDCA Western Regional, Sweepstakes

Carting Workshop and Halloween Parade—Prizes!

Dinner, Meeting and Raffle

Sunday—Designated Specialty

High Points Rally & High Points Obedience

All 30 Camping/RV spots are full. PARTY!

There is a HITCHING POST for crating dogs during the days.

Because Health Department rules do not allow dogs where we eat, we have a area!

You bring the X Pen, water, and mat for your dog (s) and set them up in our day use area, for $10 a day, per dog.

There is power for grooming.

This event is recognized by

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club of America and

Sanctioned by the American Kennel Club

IF YOU CAN, PLEASE BRING A PRIZE FOR THE RAFFLE!

Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE #3

The

was June 4th-7th at the Solano County Fairgrounds in Vallejo, CA.

Your Swissy Could be a TRICK DOG at the SPECIALTY!

Looking for more to do with your dog(s)? Learn all about AKC Trick Dog. www.akc.org/about-trick-dog/

Practice these Level 1 tricks and come to Pleasanton on Friday, October 20th at 1:00.

Julie Vonada and Kim Roper Gradin will explain about this new AKC title.

Trick Dog Testing is free for members at this workshop $10/non-members!

AKC TRICK DOG

TRICKS CHECKLIST: NOVICE

Instructions: Include this page with the AKC Trick Dog Title Application.

A TOTAL OF 10 TRICKS ARE REQUIRED TO EARN THE AKC NOVICE TRICK DOG TITLE.

CGC SkillsFoundation Behaviors for Trick Training

1. Accepts friendly stranger

2. Sits politely for petting

3. Appearance and Grooming

4. Out for a Walk

5. Walking through a crowd

6. Sit, Down, Stay in place

7. Coming when called

8. Reaction to another dog

9. Reaction to distractions

10. Supervised Separation

If you have a Canine Good Citizen (CGC)

certificate or title on record at AKC, you may

count the CGC as 5 of the required tricks

for the NOVICE TRICK DOG TITLE.

___ Balance beam (walk on low board a few inches off floor)

____ Bark on cue (“Speak”)

____ Crawl (dog on belly, crawls at least 5 feet)

____ Fetch it and give (ball, toy, etc- bring to handler, release)

____ Find it (find treat hidden under cup)

___ Get your ___________. (Leash, brush, name of toy)

____ Get in (gets in box)

____ Get on (gets on low platform or step - 4 paws)

____ Hand signals (down, sit, or come) _______________

____ High five

___ Hold (3 seconds)

___ Jump (thru a low hoop or over a low bar)

___ Kennel up (go in crate, stay in until released)

____ Kiss (point to cheek)

____ Paws up (2 front paws on low stool or step)

____ Push-ups (sit, down, sit, down, sit, down)

____ Shake hands

___ Spin in circle

___ Touch it (hand or target stick)

____ Tunnel (agility tunnel or child’s tunnel)

____ Other: Handler’s choice:_______________________

____ Other: Handler’s choice:_______________________

CGC is on record (counts as 5 tricks). 5 additional tricks

have been observed by evaluator and are checked below.

Check one box:

No CGC, 10 tricks have been observed by Evaluator and

are checked below.

Dog owner name___________________________________ Dog Name

____________________

Evaluator name___________________________Eval Number____________

Date_________

For the Novice title, handlers may use a food/toy lure if needed. May use food/clicker reinforcers.

Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE #3

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was June 4th-7th at the Solano County Fairgrounds in Vallejo, CA.

AT THE SPECIALTY…WEIGHT PULL! Friday 2:00 Registration 3:00 Weigh-In

Event is right after Best in Show

Free for Members and $10 for Non-Members Given the chance, would your Swissy prefer to drrrrraaaaag you all over town versus walk patiently at your

side???? Now is your chance to give your Swiss an excellent outlet for that pulling instinct – one that YOU will also enjoy!!! Join our weight pull - no experience or equipment required! Best of all, you’ll have TWO chances to earn

legs toward your Swissy’s weight pull title at these events:

Your Swissy must be a minimum of 14 months old to participate; dogs 14-18 months will not be allowed to pull more than 10x their weight. Participating Swissies need to be healthy (no lameness, etc.), and cannot be pregnant,

nursing, or in season. Dogs (and bitches) are grouped according to their weight (taken on-site prior to the pull), and ribbons/prizes will be

awarded for each division of: up to 89lbs, 90-109lbs, 110-129lbs, 130+ lbs. Information on Working Weight Dog titles are included in the full copy of the Weight Pull Rules & Regulations that

can be found on the GSMDCA website.

There is also a very useful article by Jennie Chen in the Summer 2016 Blaze, pp. 6-8. Bring your enthusiastic & fun seeking self, a treat and water for pup for after the pull, and appropriate athletic style

footwear for yourself. Oh yeah! Don’t forget the dog! You will get help to fit your pup with a loaned harness (you don’t have to buy one), coaching & a ton of fun.

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Br

Seven Things You Can Do to Enhance Your Dog’s Longevity by Nancy Kay, DVM

I recently addressed common age-related changes in dogs. Thinking about such changes begs the question, what can we do enhance the

longevity of our canine companions. Here is a list of my top seven recommendations, all of which I think are quite reasonable and doable. See

what you think!

1. Keep your dog at a slim trim body weight. Obesity dramatically contributes to ever so many age-related debilitating issues such as

arthritis (a huge problem for way too many dogs), diabetes, and heart disease. Feed your dog as little as it takes to maintain an ideal body

condition score. Remember, in general, older dogs require approximately 30 percent fewer calories to maintain a healthy body weight. If

your dog is overweight, ask your veterinarian to help you devise a plan to tackle this problem.

2. Speaking of feeding your dog, be sure to choose diets that are nutritionally complete, of very high quality, and appropriate for your

dog’s stage of life. Once you have a senior citizen on your hands, a diet that is higher in fiber and less calorically dense is usually the best

choice. Multiple small meals may be better suited to your dog than feeding a larger meal once daily.

3. Get out there and exercise with your dog! Not only will exercise help burn calories, it will strengthen muscles, enhance circulation and

improve your dog’s heart and brain function. The activity you choose should be appropriate for your dog’s level of strength and stamina. No

weekend warriors allowed. Shorter more frequent walks may be better than going for a five mile run. Gradually build up the duration and

exertion of your dog’s activity level.

4. Speaking of exercise, be sure to take the steps necessary to allow your dog to be active. If arthritis pain is getting in the way, work with

your veterinarian to find the right combination of remedies to allow your dog to be comfortable enough to exercise. There are a myriad of

treatment modalities to choose from- acupuncture, massage, underwater treadmill therapy, supplements, anti-inflammatory medications,

and the list goes on and on. Inactivity promotes a downhill cascade of events that is just about guaranteed to negatively impact your dog’s

longevity. Do what it takes to prevent your favorite pooch from becoming a couch potato.

5. Prevent your canine senior citizen from encountering physical harm. As your aged dog experiences loss of hearing and/or vision, leash

walks and closer supervision become a necessity. Teaching hand signals at an early age will pay off as your dog begins to experience age-

related hearing loss. Double check the whereabouts of your older dog before pulling into or backing out of your driveway. Older dogs are

less agile. Add to this deeper sleep and diminished hearing or vision and, without extra caution a driveway tragedy can happen.

(Unfortunately, such tragic accidents occur all too often.) Whereas youngsters can recover from broken body parts lickety split, such is not

the case for older dogs.

6. Act sooner rather than later when your dog isn’t feeling well. Compared to young and middle-aged dogs, seniors have less physical

reserve and are more prone to becoming compromised following a spate of symptoms such as lethargy, not eating, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Whereas a 24-hour “wait and watch” approach might be reasonable for the youngster with such symptoms, waiting this long with an older

dog before contacting your veterinarian may have dire consequences.

7. Schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian even if you think your dog is perfectly healthy. Once a year is ideal for young and

middle aged dogs. Switch to twice yearly exams for seniors. A head to toe physical examination, discussing how your dog is faring, and blood

and urine testing (particularly if your dog is elderly) will allow your veterinarian to detect abnormalities early, prevent minor issues from

becoming major issues, and outline a preventive health care plan for your beloved best friend.

Summer 2017 VOL SIX ISSUE 3

Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE #3

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was June 4th-7th at the Solano County Fairgrounds in Vallejo, CA.

HAPPY TAILS PACK HIKE, OJAI WINE COUNTRY 2017

November 4-5, 2017

Hope you are able to join us on November 4th and 5th, 2017, in beautiful Ojai, California,

for an 8 mile back to back pack hike with the 10 mile option on Saturday.

For more information, please contact the hike coordinator,

Lisa England lisa@silveroakgsmd.com or (805) 791-9277.

You can bring your Swissy for a short stroll on either day, just to see what a pack hike is about,

how to prepare yourself and your dog for the hike, and how to pack.

Come to meet more Swissies and some fun people!

Brig, Issie, Emmie, Mia and Lucy getting ready for the pack hike in Ojai on a beautiful morning.

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SWISSYS LIKE TO CELEBRATE

Roscoe Glory Philo

Rocco Starbucks Time! Fredrick

Fredrick and Dixie Brysons Ella

Rocco and Ella Harley and Fredrick

Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE #3

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was June 4th-7th at the Solano County Fairgrounds in Vallejo, CA.

Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE #3

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was June 4th-7th at the Solano County Fairgrounds in Vallejo, CA.

EXPLORING WITH YOUR SWISSY

In case you are not already familiar with DOG TREKKER, this online magazine is for dogs and their owners who want to explore

different areas and dog friendly events. The magazine puts out Events Calendars for both Northern and Southern California.

Southern California/Central Coast Edition Northern California Edition

The April 2017 Edition is all about CALIFORNIA CAMPING WITH YOUR DOG

Look up “Camp-California!” The Camper’s Guide to California

The October 2017 Edition is all about CALIFORNIA’S WINE COUNTRY

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SWISS DOG DAY AFTERNOON at FORT MASON

A great way for our Swissies to meet their relatives.

Jager Kait

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Peanut Butter & Apple Sauce Cookies Ingredients

3 c whole wheat flour 2 c quick-cook oats 1 c peanut butter (smooth or chunky, your choice!

1 c unsweetened organic applesauce 1 t baking powder 1/4-1/2 cup olive oil or coconut oil, optional

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and cover 2 baking sheets with parchment

paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients well.

3. Knead dough on a lightly floured surface. If the dough is too loose and

crumbly, you can add a 1/4-1/2 cup olive oil or coconut oil at this point.

4. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thick and then cut into

shapes with cookie cutters. If you don't want to use cookie cutters, simply

make small dough balls.

5. Place cookies on baking sheet, approximately 1/2 inch apart.

6. Bake in preheated over for approximately 25 minutes or until lightly

browned.

7. Let cool and then serve.

Notes: Store uneaten cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one

week.

Top: Harley Rose Middle: Koda Allen Bottom: Maudie

Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE #3

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was June 4th-7th at the Solano County Fairgrounds in Vallejo, CA.

Here was another opportunity for Swissies to meet their relatives.

Thanks to Mike and Michelle McNeil who attended with Axel!

SWISS NATIONAL DAY

We made it to the Swiss day yesterday. We had a good time and spoke to a number of people about Swissies. There were

three Berners there and that was all. We were sitting in a Berner booth. I must say, we need to have our own booth about

Swissies. People are confused about Swissies and have not seen enough of them. Axel was great and so many questions on

the short hair. The Berner people were nice. One of the kids tried to climb on Axel’s back. Axel was a champ and just has

that gentle soul.

Now mind you, my grandparents were from Switzerland and I have attended this event with my parents a number of years

ago. Squaw Valley used to have one many, many years ago. So I know these people well and can understand the

Swiss/German dialect ok. I also thought I have heard everything about the confusion of Swissies with Berners until yesterday.

Let me set the stage. An old guy dressed in traditional Swiss costume. His English is ok, but he has a heavy German

accent. The German accent is key with what I am about to say. As I was walking Axel towards the start of the parade, the old

Swiss guy stops me and says “That is one of the biggest Appenzellers I have ever seen in my life.” As I chuckled to myself, I

explained the GSMD breed to him. He shook his head in affirmation and then repeated “A giant Appenzeller. WOW!” Then I

did laugh a bit louder. Very funny.

So, it all went well. I must admit, Axel received a lot more questions about hair, size and longevity than anything else. I

wanted to be cautious about longevity around the Berners because of the cancer issue. So I was careful in my response. We

just need our own booth. If I had some advance notice, I would have printed a few things up about the GSMD and the

club. Thanks for sending the email about the event. We did have a good time.

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END OF SUMMER PARTY

Imagine a weekend on a vineyard, surrounded by happy Swissies and their humans, AND lots of good food and beverages.

There are hikes, puppy trainings, guys on ATVs, even prizes for just being there. FUN!

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KUDOS

Zeeva & Draven with Anthony Groth & Mercedes handling them on Saturday at Mensona Kennel Club Dog Show Summer Classic.

Zeeva BOW & Draven WD & OS.

New Champion: CH Quartz Mountain Easter Beauty In Full Bloom CGC "Hazel"

Shown by Alyssa Shah, Hazel is a beauty like her mama, Sophie.

Norman—Working Group 4

Fredrick—Obedience Novice, September 10

Justin and Enzo-Group 3 at Mensona August 24

We have a new Grand Champion in the house. GCH CH Quartz Mountain Easter Award Winning BN, RN, CGCA, NDD

August 12 in Santa Barbara—Love my little power house, “Emmie.”

Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE #3

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was June 4th-7th at the Solano County Fairgrounds in Vallejo, CA.

Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE #3

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was June 4th-7th at the Solano County Fairgrounds in Vallejo, CA. Swissies Are Such Social Animals

Mia, Jetta, Brig Boss and Slugger Hans and Heidi

Glory and Friends Maudie Relaxing Mogo and Philo in San Francisco

Dexter and Cricket Swissies at Camp Killyon

RIS

Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE #3

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Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE #3

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Is Flu Vaccine a Smart Choice for Your Dog? Dr. Nancy Kay

News articles about the expanding canine flu “epidemic” are popping up everywhere, and they seem intent on creating fear and worry. Rest assured, there is no need for panic. The better response is to learn about this disease and then consider whether or not vaccine protection makes sense for your dog.

What exactly is canine flu A virus known as H3N2 is the cause of the recent spate of canine flu (influenza) cases. The first dogs documented to have this virus were reported in 2015. To date, cases have been documented in most states within the United States. Much like human flu viruses, canine flu is quite contagious, spread primarily via respiratory secretions such as the type aerosolized through coughing and sneezing. The H3N2 virus remains active and infectious within the environment (kennel surfaces, bedding, toys, food and water bowls, etc.) for 12 to 24 hours. The virus is readily killed with soap and water. While the canine influenza virus can infect cats, it is not transmissible to people.

Symptoms Because H3N2 is a brand new virus, dogs don’t carry any inherent immunity. This means that, once exposed, pretty much all dogs will develop the infection. Approximately 80 percent of those infected develop symptoms (approximately 20 percent remain symptom-free), and they occur within two to five days following exposure. Most infected dogs display the milder form of the disease with a cough that persists for two to three weeks. More severe symptoms can develop such as lethargy, decreased appetite, nasal discharge, and fever.

Diagnosis A definitive diagnosis of H3N2 infection is made via laboratory testing performed on swab samples obtained from the nose or throat. Other testing such as chest x-rays and blood tests may be recommended to rule out other causes of coughing.

Treatment Treatment for canine influenza consists of supportive care, antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections, and cough suppressant therapy. While most dogs recover within approximately two weeks, they may remain contagious to other dogs for up to four weeks and isolation from other dogs during this time is recommended.

A small percentage of dogs infected with the H3N2 virus go on to develop pneumonia for which hospitalization may be required. A handful of deaths associated with canine influenza have been reported.

The flu vaccination A vaccine that provides protection against H3N2 infection is available through your veterinarian. It’s not a perfect vaccination in that it doesn’t always prevent infection, but it should lessen the severity and duration of symptoms. The initial vaccination series involves two injections given two weeks apart. The vaccine is then repeated annually.

Is your dog a good candidate for the flu vaccination? To figure this out, begin by asking your veterinarian if cases of

canine influenza have been documented in your locale. If so, and your dog frequents venues where lots of dogs

congregate (dog park, grooming parlor, doggie day care facility, competition event, boarding facility), the vaccine

makes good sense, assuming that your dog has tolerated vaccinations well in the past. If your dog is a homebody

with very limited exposure to other dogs, there is likely no need to consider vaccinating.

The canine flu vaccine should be considered for dogs who are elderly, infirmed or have underlying respiratory tract

disease. These are dogs who might not tolerate a two to three week spate of significant coughing.

It is important to talk with your veterinarian and formulate a plan that makes the most sense for your dog. Keep in

mind that vaccinations are no different than any medical procedure. They should not be administered without

individualized discussion with your veterinarian and consideration of the potential risks and benefits.

OUR SWISSIES IN THEIR ELEMENT

Axel in Lake Tahoe Brig at Home Charlie in the Park

Freddie Packin’ Koda Lehman Glory at Sunset Jager in the Grass

Quinn in her Pack Rolo and His Beast Treklker in Cascades

Axel in Squaw Valley Lydia in Water Charlie with Her People

Send photos anytime you get them! They are saved in your Swissy’s folder for upcoming issues.

Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE 3

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Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE 3

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was June 4th-7th at the Solano County Fairgrounds in Vallejo, CA.

Learn to Pull a Cart at the Specialty—Saturday, Oct. 21st

Saturday

PUPCAKES

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Keep Your Dog Safe from Tick-borne Disease

• Learn about the ticks and diseases in your area.

• Use effective prevention – consult your local veterinarian. Be aware that tick preventatives do not prevent disease

transmission; they reduce risk by reducing the tick burden on the dog. Always use canine-approved preventatives only.

• Most common clinical signs: local inflammation, lethargy, lack of appetite, shifting leg lameness, fever, and spontaneous

bruising.

• If your dog spends time outdoors, check them daily for ticks. Pay close attention to the head, ears, shoulders, and upper leg

areas.

• Never spray human tick repellent on your dog as these chemicals are toxic if ingested.

• Talk to your veterinarian about annual testing for tick-borne disease. Testing is fast and effective.

• If your dog displays signs of tick-borne disease, they may initially test negative. This is because tests that measure for the

presence of antibodies against the pathogen take time to reach measurable levels in the blood. Your veterinarian may test

twice using an initial “acute” sample followed by a “convalescent” sample about two weeks later. Alternately, the

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) diagnostic tests for the actual pathogens.

AS

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UNILATERAL HIP DYSPLASIA

For 22 years, I have been working with large breeds of dogs in my veterinary practice. The numbers of giant and large breeds we see far exceed the numbers of medium and small individuals. One reason for this is my long history with this type of dog; another is that we do OFA hip radiographs without anesthesia, and for whatever reason, the owners and breeders of the large and giant breeds are, as a whole, far more sensitive to anaesthetic issues than those of smaller breeds.

Over the course of these years, the kennels of many clients who raise large numbers of giants have been our laboratory. Following these breeds, these breeding lines, and individuals within these lines over their entire lifetimes, certain facts have become incontrovertible to us.

We have never taken the time to go into our records and pull out the data to quantify these observations for professional journals, so the observations here must come under the heading of clinical findings. However, a few years back we looked into the records on Newfoundland dogs, and found our database held over 400 adult individuals. Several other large and giant breeds are represented in lesser, but still very substantial, numbers.

Internet sources on hip dysplasia include a selection of abstracts from Medline for the years 1966 to 1996.( Medline Literature Search: Canine Hip Dysplasia, 1966 - 1996. http://www.working-retriever.com/library/chd6696.shtml ) At the end of this article are some of these abstracts found on that page which support observations made here. Many other references are present in the literature, but these suffice to illustrate the research available making mention of the items we are interested in:

1 Dietary considerations 2 Influence of injury and pain THE PREMISE One frequently encounters discussions which assert that hip dysplasia is 50% genetics and 50% environment. We prefer to think of it as 100% genetics, then 100% environment. Genetic considerations are the entirety of what we must as breeders consider. Once that puppy is born, environment is 100% of how well that puppy will do within the possibility of his genetics. Dogs with very good hips, congenitally, may have an injury and end up diagnosed as having 'unilateral hip dysplasia'. Individuals with very shallow sockets may be mobile and free of pain to an advanced age, if they have unlimited exercise. This is the entirety of what the owner of that puppy needs to concern himself with to provide the best possible care for his dog.

Over the years, our observations of the kennel populations of giant breeds and their siblings living in private homes have led to the conclusion that there is no such thing as congenital unilateral hip dysplasia, but only acquired unilateral hip dysplasia. The kennel dogs, whose exercise opportunities are maximized, with several dogs of a similar age free to run and play all day and night in large paddocks, show us some interesting things.

1 They grow much more slowly, because much of their food intake goes into play and running 2 They rarely (almost never) suffer an injury. 3 They always have symmetrical hip sockets, even if they are very shallow. 4 Their litter mates in private homes, where exercise is confined to an hour or two of intense play or jogging when their owners return

from work, provide us with a different set of observations. • They grow very large, very fast. • They often suffer injury. • They frequently have hip sockets of different depths. The implications of these observations are enormous, but very simple to understand. These large breeds grow much too quickly for their biology to keep up. They frequently show some degree of clinical rickets with some bowing of the forelegs, and have large soft joints due to the inability of the body to deposit calcium in the bone at a rate equal to the rate of growth. They often show uneven growth, with the rear end growing over a few weeks, then the front end trying to catch up. As the rear leg assembly grows disproportionately, and the puppy is 'high in the rear', the mechanical leverage that the muscles are able to exert across these straighter angles is much reduced. The result of this is a decreased ability of muscle to protect joints from injury.

The owners of giant breed pets tend to overfeed their puppies, having with the best of intention, the inner desire to see a 'big dog' and to

do nothing which might risk the dog not attaining the greatest possible size. Try as they may, some owners are just unable to restrict their

puppy's diet. Owners are cautioned that their puppy needs a good deal of exercise, but their work schedules often conflict with their desire

to do this. The result is a period of intense exercise. A 3 mile run, or a half hour of Frisbee. When a single puppy who lies around all day

welcomes his owners in the evening, he is ill prepared for either intense exercise, or the uncertainty of footing on slippery floors and his

always changing joint angulation. His muscle tone is a small fraction of that of a puppy which plays with other active dogs all day long. The

result is an injury.

When any dog has a hip dislocated, if it is not repaired within 48 hours, the socket begins to lose depth. When an injury occurs to a rear

leg, whether it be a toe injury, a stifle injury, a soft tissue injury, or a hip injury, the result is often a decreased amount of weight bearing on

.

Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE #3

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was June 4th-7th at the Solano County Fairgrounds in Vallejo, CA.

When any dog has a hip dislocated, if it is not repaired within 48 hours, the socket begins to lose depth. When an injury occurs to a rear leg,

whether it be a toe injury, a stifle injury, a soft tissue injury, or a hip injury, the result is often a decreased amount of weight bearing on

that leg over a period of days to weeks or months. When this happens, the mechanical forces applied to the living bone tissue change, and

the hips become asymmetrical, the injured hip becoming shallower in a similar fashion.

Many will find that a very controversial statement. Dr. Corley from the OFA would reply to observations such as this, that he could prove

that unilateral hip dysplasia was genetic, since it was almost always the left hip which was shallower. My response to his statement was

that this proves to me that most dogs are right handed. The left diagonal being the master limb, the one with which the dog pushes off

most strongly, and the one which is most liable to injury, especially stifle injury.

The conclusion from these observations is that the single most important environmental factor in a puppy's life is exercise, continuous and

strenuous. Since this is often impossible for owners to arrange, the next considerations are to drastically restrict the diet of the growing

puppy and to avoid strenuous exercise which will exhaust his muscles and leave him unable to protect his joints from injury. The puppy

should be given frequent moderate exercise instead. This requires a different kind of time commitment from the owner.

NUTRITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

In the past few years, more and more articles on nutrition in large breed puppies have pointed to a very early metabolic problem with over

feeding. It has been shown that overeating even within the first 2 weeks of life can significantly affect the outcome of a puppy's hip

conformation. Many of our giant breed bitches as well as other breeds, give way too much milk. Food is too readily available, and she

doesn't have to go out and exercise in order to find it. We won't ask you to starve your bitches to reduce their milk output, but it might be

wise to follow the rate of gain of your puppies and avoid the overeating problems, diarrhea and colic, as well as the eventual hip problems,

by keeping these bitches out of the box for a period of time daily. These articles imply that it is more than just weight bearing that is

involved in the eventual status of hips in puppies which are over fed.

BREEDING DECISIONS

Another issue these observations force us to confront is what to do about the breeding future of an individual which has one very good hip

and one with damage. We must consider that the 'good' hip is the one which most closely reflects the dog's genetic makeup. Hips don't get

better with age, only worse, if they change at all. This brings us into the twilight zone, the gray area. It is not the job of the OFA to speculate

on what matters might affect a given animal's radiographic hip configuration. However, as breeders, especially in some breeds with many

genetic defects to weigh and consider, one might wish to breed this animal. Since our clubs rely so heavily on radiographic hip

interpretation in their codes of ethics, this is a matter of great soul searching for many breeders. Whether to breed an animal which no

doubt has genetically good hips, but which won't pass OFA, or not. The only advice here is that it is necessary to have a clearing house for

hip x-rays, and OFA does a good job, in general. But in some specific instances, that rating might not reflect a dog's genotype accurately, or

more properly, as well as ratings with both hips symmetrical. Actually, phenotype (the actual hip conformation) is never the same thing as

genotype. This is a situation where it is even more important than usual to gather hip information on parents and the dogs behind them,

the parents' siblings, and any siblings of the affected dog.

PAIN RELIEF AS TREATMENT

There is a persistent conviction among some dog breeders that vitamin C can help prevent hip dysplasia. Why did the dog fancy start giving

vitamin C for 'prevention' of hip dysplasia? Back in the days when Linus Pauling began touting its effects in prevention of colds, it was

discovered that it has a minor role in pain relief. Vitamin C does not prevent colds; it reduces severity of symptoms. Any anti-oxidant and

free radical scavenger will do this. The vitamin C pain relief factor is a pretty small one. However, the same puppies we're worried about

developing bad hips always have some degree of rickets as well. Vitamin C is the treatment for the bad effects of rickets. The combination

of these two beneficial effects no doubt keeps the puppy more mobile, thereby allowing him to use himself better and more evenly, and to

exercise more. So then, the situation above comes into play. The puppy moves more, has fewer joint deformities during growth, and can

keep himself fitter, if the effects of rickets are reduced and a bit of pain relief is realized.

The abstracts below contain several references to the use of 'PSGAG' (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan ), a.k.a. 'Adequan', in puppies. And

now we've hit the real answer to the challenge of keeping injured dogs mobile and reducing time of differential weight bearing. Adequan is

a marvelous drug. It is given by injection in the muscle, and it works just as the body would, if there were no chronic inflammation in the

joint; it begins to fill in and repair the painful cartilage injuries, reducing arthritis and keeping the puppy mobile, and keeping weight

bearing equally distributed! It's pretty clear that some 'unilateral hip dysplasia' can be avoided through the use of anti-inflammatory drugs,

and in more cases, the degree of difference between the hips can be reduced. Another aniti-oxidant/free radical scavenger used by this

practice, which affords really significant pain relief, is Super Oxide Dismutase/Catalase, which is marketed by Biovet. This product and the

Adequan injections fall into the class of treatments which are 'all good'; there are no down sides to their use. Aspirin remains the century's

and in more cases, the degree of difference between the hips can be reduced. Another aniti-oxidant/free radical scavenger used by

this practice, which affords really significant pain relief, is Super Oxide Dismutase/Catalase, which is marketed by Biovet. This product

and the Adequan injections fall into the class of treatments which are 'all good'; there are no down sides to their use. Aspirin remains

the century's super drug, in the mind of many; aspirin too can be used to keep a puppy mobile after an injury, in the appropriate

dose.

A Note About Lyme Disease. The use of Adequan in the treatment of Lyme arthritis is an absolute must. The pain of Lyme arthritis is

excruciating, and aside from treatment, the use of Adequan becomes a simple humane consideration. Its ability to fill in cartilage

erosions and reduce pain is nothing short of miraculous. The only caution here, is that it must be used until the spirochaetes

causing the cartilage damage are gone, not the usual 5 week treatment.

Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE #3

The

was June 4th-7th at the Solano County Fairgrounds in Vallejo, CA.

Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE #3

The

was June 4th-7th at the Solano County Fairgrounds in Vallejo, CA. A FEW LAST WORDS…

Kim and Draven: OH2 and Rally Novice / Draven at Lost Coast in Working Group

Wanda in Working Group, Lost Coast Keep cool!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN – Alta and Lain

Brig Luna Maudie

INFORMATIONAL SITES to VISIT

(Click to get there.)

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club Facebook

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club of America:

Golden Gate GSMD Facebook Page

Visit our club website:

www.goldengategsmdc.com/

On Facebook?--Have some fun with your photos. SWISSY UNO

Want to travel with your Swissy? DOG TREKKER

SIGNS OF DOG SICKNESS

Signs start with a change in your pet's routine behavior and attitude.

Watch for:

Decreased energy or activity level

Changes in appetite or water intake

Changes in behavior: hiding, refusing to play, becoming aggressive

Vomiting, diarrhea or straining to urinate or defecate

Poor coat quality, patchy hair loss or excessive scratching

Weight loss

Foul order coming from the mouth, ears or skin

Abnormal whining or crying

Toni Killpatrick

Summer 2017 VOL. SIX ISSUE #3

The

was June 4th-7th at the Solano County Fairgrounds in Vallejo, CA.