SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING  30^TH JULY 2010.

Jimmi Johnston-White, writer of the Italian Greyhound Breed Notes and co-owner of a Saluki puppy with Andy Chryssolor, has kindly sent me a copy of the Evening Standard from 30^th June 2010. Featured in this edition, along with a story of Wimbledon being gripped by Murraymania, was a special feature on Homes & Property.  On the front page there is the title “Artists in Residence” and featured is a silver grizzle smooth Saluki.  The article is about painter John Monks and his wife, the botanical artist Sue Herbert, who decided to move to a derelict building in Clapham Old Town 14 years ago. They transformed the accommodation in about 18 months and the article says that “two of the most decorative objects spend much of the day draped across their armchairs:  Breughel and his nephew Rousseau, are a pair of Salukis that make the most perfect pets for this elegant home.”  In the world of pedigree dogs these two Salukis were bred by Karen Fisher and the official names are Ruweis Ghazi and Ruweis Husayn, though I doubt we will ever see them in the show ring as their owners are busy exhibiting their art work. John Monks’ show is just finishing but Sue Herberts’s botanical paintings are on show throughout the summer, at Kew Gardens, in an exhibition comparing 18^th Century South American and contemporary botanical art.

Saluki Breed Notes Weekending 23^rd July 2010.

 Congratulations to Rosemary and Elis Redfern on their 50^th wedding anniversary.

On a local internet site which we subscribe to there was a warning on “Dog Re-homing”.  A man is running a website ostensibly for re-homing dogs, called homedogz.  He charges people to re-home their dogs and then just dumps them.  Two of the dogs that he had obtained were left tied to a post outside a rescue centre. The police and other agencies are involved. The man behind this has been prosecuted in Scotland for the same thing. It is believed that he has now moved to near Bridgend, South Wales.

Chris Ormsby has contacted us to let us know that Jean Wisler has passed away. In her later years she was involved with Whippets rather than Salukis so we did not see her around the Saluki ring.  She made up one  Salukis Champion namely, Yazid Faliqa of Khalawi and bred one litter in 1988 from Faliqa to Ch Classicus Belisarius.  She was also a member of the Coursing Section of the SGHC.  Chris Ormsby will be writing more in depth on Jean.

Last Saturday the East of England Championship Show was held in Peterborough.  Another warm day but thanks to the well appointed layout of the show, we managed to stay quite cool and comfortable.  I had a look around the grounds and found lots of interesting activities and demonstrations with dogs going on.  Also there were numerous trade stands to tempt one.  Judging Salukis was Mr Ken Allan BOB, BCC for his second CC was Denise and Ian Rogers & Jean Watts’ Labakan Lamerie.  RDCC went to Michael McCormick Smith’s Mumtaz Zephyr.  BCC for her second CC was Hilary Cornock’s Mumtaz Sea Breeze with RCC to Mary Parker’s Ch Khalils Rama of Classicus (imp) ShCM.  Best Puppy was Charrioak Bright Star at Downchase owned by Sheryl Steer & Lorraine and John Fitzgerald.  Best Breeder’s Group was Sheryl Steer. Nick Bryce-Smith rang to say that Oz (Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk JW) had won the overall Championship States and had qualified for the Eukanuba Finals later in the year.  Well done to all!!

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 17^TH JULY 2010.

Kathy Webb has asked me to remind everyone that the deadline for the next edition of “The Saluki” the official magazine of the Saluki Club is the Hound Show or in this case 7^th August 2010.  If you would like to discuss your ad or any ideas or questions you may have regarding an ad, please contact Kathy on email mkwebb@onetel.net or telephone 01737353279.

Blackpool Championship Show was held in very warm conditions .    Our judge was Mr Graham Hill, awarding CCs in Salukis for the first time as a Hound Specialist.  BOB, BCC and Hound Group 4 was Denise Garratt, Sue Oakey and Karen Smith’s Caryna Meilishia.  This was Meilishia’s second CC.   RBCC went to Steve & Ann Ham’s Baghdad Bamjoeh Diva (imp).  DCC was awarded to Marie Bryce-Smith’ Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk JW with the RDCC to Baghdad Karim (imp) owned by the Hams, Bockman-Dhato  and Elliot-Ross partnership.  Best Puppy was Anisah Amere owned by Mrs G Scarth and Lindy Shaw.  Best Breeder went to Christine Harrison’s Group.

Windsor Championship Show was held last Thursday with a good entry for breed specialist, Elaine Stanmore.  Our heat wave continues but with the excellent tenting facilities supplied by the Society, there was plenty of shade.  Our ring steward did a wonderful job keeping us under cover of the tent when we were exhibiting our dogs.  There was a nice breeze so showing was quite pleasant.   DCC, BOB for his third and qualifying CC was Steve & Jenny Nacro’s Nefisa Jeevun.  He was born on the 28^th October 2005 and his breeders are his exhibitors.  His sire is Ch Nefisa Samr and dam Nefisa Bahira.  RDCC was Marie Bryce-Smith’s Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk JW.  BCC for her third and qualifying CC was Pauline and Don Everton’s Kasra Nadirah.  She was born on  the 26^th January 2002 and her breeders are her exhibitors.  Her sire is Alaziz Benjamin and dam Ishieya  Kalis of Kasra. RBCC and Best Veteran was Denise & Ian Roger’s Labakan Lenci JW.  Best Puppy was our own Kasaque Odetta.

After the judging all the exhibitors, along with members of Daphne Tovey’s family, gathered around  a table full of food and drinks, which had been pre-arranged on a ‘bring and share’ basis.  At the centre of it all was a cake, made and decorated by Kathy Webb, with Daphne’s name and two Salukis prancing upon it.  Michael proposed a toast in memory of Daphne, reminding us all about her love of  horticulture, at this time of year, equalled perhaps by attending the summer shows, such as Windsor, where she was in her element showing  her beloved hounds.   

Nick, Angela, Sidney, Cynthia and Michael would like to thank everyone for attending and for celebrating Daphne life with this toast and show of friendship.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 25^TH JUNE 2010.

It’s a busy time for dog showing.  On Friday, Three Counties Championship Show was held.  It was an early start for our judge Mrs Jill Peak.  DCC, BOB  was Marie Bryce-Smith’s Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk JW with the RDCC to Sue Cronin’s Sufeina Jebel Ali.  BCC for her first CC was our own plus Rosemary Redfern and Daphne Tovey’s Kasaque Neeka. She was born on 8^th January 2008.  Her sire is Ch Kasaque Jimna ShCM with her dam, Ch Caspians L’Aliq avec Kasaque.  We are her breeders.  RBCC went to Denise Garratt & Sue Oakey’s Caryna Calisto.  Best Puppy was Sheryl Steer and Lorraine & John Fitzgerald’s Charrioak Bright Star at Dawnchase.

We had no sooner caught our breath and it was Sunday which was the SGHC Open Show.  Judging there was Martin Green officiating over the Dogs with Frank Kane

doing a similar job with the bitches.  Our referee was Avril Lancashire. Best Dog, Best Veteran and Best in Show by referee decision, straight from winning his 26^th CC was Marie Bryce-Smith’s Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk.  Reserve Best dog was Elaine & Neil Stanmore’s Altaya Surabaya.  Best Bitch and Reserve Best in Show was Kathy Webb and Deborah Copperthwaite’s Ch Al Caliphs Nuray.  Reserve Best Bitch went to Hilary Cornock’s Mumtaz Sea Breeze.  Best Puppy was Jorjenjo Mirzam of Fernlark owned by Sheryl Streer and John & Larraine Fitzgerald. 

Pleased to say that the weather was most favourable all day except for a couple of drops of water mid day.   Brendan Austin had set up a display of photographs for us to evaluate and vote on for the 1011 SGHC Calendar.  During the lunch break there was a parade of rescued dogs and Junior Handling.  Best Junior Handler was Aeliesha Scowen.  Peter Yardley, President of SGHC made a presentation of a lovely silver bracelet of running Salukis, on behalf of the Club, to the retiring Vice-President, Marie Bryce-Smith in thanks for all her hard work over a twenty year period. Daphne Parnham has sent a note thanking everyone for their support at the Open Show.  She made £189.00 on the Welfare stall and Ann Blake made £316.00 selling her bedding, coats and other bits and pieces.

As there were no facilitates for purchasing food or a bring and share lunch little groups banded together to have their own lunches which I felt was disjointed rather than everyone attending interacting together. Maybe the Club will address this when they evaluate the show.   Overall the show was well organized. 

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 18^TH JUNE 2010.

When reading the last Breed Notes submitted you may have been  confused on who was the contributor, you are not on your own.  Somehow the notes of Helen Graham and Helen Williams became one, under no name.  In my notes I made an error on the age of Glenoak Jabare. His owners Jacki and Alan Bloomfield have sent the following note: “Thank you for giving our Glenoak Jabari a mention in this week's breed notes.  Unfortunately you seem to have aged him slightly - he was born in 2008 and not 2004!  He was awarded his (and our) first CC on the day before his 2nd birthday so a double celebration was called for - although all he wanted was a new squeaky toy from one of the trade stands.  We remained in Scotland for a lovely week's holiday after the show. 

We returned home the following Saturday and on the Bank Holiday Monday took our boys to Northumberland County Show.  Our older dog, Safaniyah Kulak (Ch Mabrooka Joshua x Safaniyah Shogaigh, breeder Sylvia Pass) won the Open Class.  However, Jabari had to go one better by winning the PG Class and then going Best of Breed. So a most successful and enjoyable week for all of us.  It's just a shame to come back down to earth now and lose that holiday feeling!” 

A reminder for Windsor  just in case, in the newspaper muddle, this information was overlooked   With kind permission of Windsor Dog Show Society, we are planning on having a get-together after the judging to raise our glasses for Daphne Tovey.  The Society is giving us a table so we can have a bring and share luncheon.  Please let me know what you are planning  to take along so we do not end up with all sausage rolls.  My telephone number is 01635 268269 or email: kasaque @aol.com

 Bank holiday Monday was the day for Bath Championship Show.  Unfortunately we do not have Challenge Certificates at that venue.  Our judge was Clair Boggia.   BB, BOB, pulled out in the Group but not placed, was our own Ch Kasaque Luzhana JW with the RBB to Buzz Faber’s Sufeina Zarita. BD was the Ham, Ham, Bockman-Chato & Ellio-Ross Partnership’s Baghdad Karim (imp)RBD went to Annette  & Brian Buckley’s Mumtaz Sirocco Sh CM.  Best Puppy went to Lorraine & John Fitzgeald’s Tasia  Moonshine Over Dawnchase.

Southern Counties Championship Show was held last Saturday.  The weather was extremely warm which is quite infrequent here so neither dog nor exhibitors know how to cope with it.  SCCS had sent notifications around that they had changed the ring and tenting layout so no one knew what to expect.  The layout was excellent.  We were benched directly opposite our ring which was half covered with an awning.  That meant everyone could be examined in the shade and could stay in the shade until required for line up.  For once there were no complaints.  SCCS seems to be a very pro-active dog show society with the dog owner/exhibitor in mind.  We took advantage of their reduced priced micro-chipping.  I heard announcements over the loud speaker system stating that there would be a talk for anyone wanting to learn what the judging was all about and how the show would proceed culminating with Best in Show.

Our judge was Mrs Karen Fisher.  BCC, BOB for her 1^st CC was Janet and Nigel Locke’s Kasaque Nashua. She was born on 8^th January 2008 and her breeders are  CM & HV Williams.  Her sire is Ch Kasaque Jimna and dam, Ch Caspians L’Aliq Avec Kasaque.  RBCC went to our own Kasaque Miracle.  DCC for his third and qualifying CC went to Marie Bryce-Smith’s Fargaze Persian Punch of Saruk.  He was born on the 3^rd January 2005 and his breeder is Mrs JM Ziman.  His sire is Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk JW and dam Fargaze Lapsana.  RDCC went to Jenny & Steve Macro’s Nefisa Jeevun ShCM.  Best puppy was Jorjenjo Mirzam at Fernlark owned by Sheryl Steer, Lorraine & John Fitzgerald.  Well done all!!!

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 4^TH JUNE 2010

I have just had a look at the Three Counties Championship Dog Show’s site and Salukis are on first at 9am followed by Pondengos and Elkhounds.

Scottish Kennel Club show was held last Sunday.  Judging Salukis for the first time at CC level was Mrs Shirley Rawlings.  DCC, BOB for his first CC was Alan & Jackie Bloomfield’s Glenoak Jabari JW.ShCM.  He was born on 24^th May 2004 and his breeders are John and Lisa Hudson.  His sire is Kasra Najib and dam Ch Glenoak Ishaara.  RDCC went to Marie Bryce-Smith’s Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk.  BCC was Kathy Webb & Deborah Copperthwaite’s Ch Al Caliphs Nuray with the RBCC to Buzz Faber’s Sufeina Zarita.  Best Puppy was Mr JA Peel & Ms KP Andison’s Tasia Midas.  Well done All!!!!

Nick Bryce-Smith has rung to let us know the Kennel Club in conjunction with the British Veterinary Association (BVA) has produced a manual which they will be distributing to all vets.  This manual contains information on all the Kennel Club approved breeds so vets can advise on the pros and cons of each.  Pleased to say that the Saluki has been identified with not having any hereditary health problems.  Nick has been elected Vice Chairman of the Kennel Club Breed Liaison Committee which liaises with the Breed Clubs and the KC.

A reminder that the Open Show is not far off now, so please do not forget to bring along a cake to donate to the Club.  Also raffle prizes for the Club and the Welfare.

Another date for your diary.  With kind permission of Windsor Dog Show Society, we are planning on having a get-together after the judging to raise our glasses for Daphne Tovey.  The Society is giving us a table so we can have a bring and share luncheon.  Please let me know what you are planning  to take along so we do not end up with all sausage rolls.  My telephone number is 01635 268269 or email: Kasaque @aol.com

Helen Williams

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 21^ST MAY 2010

The day before the Northern Saluki Club Championship Show, Sheryl Steer broke her wrist.  While tripping she put her hand out to stop her fall which caused the break and nerve damage to her hand.  I understand she was in great pain and lost the use of her hand for a while.  She is in plaster and will have it for 12 weeks.  With a young litter at home and just one hand she has her work cut out. .   Her circumstances have not improved, as last Friday she attended Birmingham National chauffeur driven, but then suffered additional problems when the car they were driving broke down

Last Friday Birmingham Championship Show was held.  As Salukis were second in the ring after Deerhounds , judging did not commence until around 1pm, though the judging was completed before the Hound Group. It was a long day for all.  The judge was Mr Roy Goodby.  BOB, BCC for her third and qualifying CC was Deborah Copperthwaite’s Al Caliphs Shushma.  She was born on the 24^th December 2004 and bred by her owner.  Her sire is Al Caliphs Sudaavi and dam, Al Caliphs Aliya Sarama.  RBCC went to Buzz Faber’s Sufeina Zarita.  DCC for his first CC went to Ian and Denise Rogers’ Sunswift Azbak Labakan.  He was born on the 30^th  January 2005 and his breeders are Mrs P Buswell and Mrs E Rushton.  His sire is Ch Labakan Ikteer Takha and dam, Dakhilak Shenovah.  RDCC was Clair Chryssolor’s Ch Tadj Mahal Emrani Izan Sh CM.  Best Puppy was Laura Macro’s Kasaque Ola Nefisa. Best Breeder Goup & 4^th in Breeders Hound Group was Christine Harrison. 

Pleased to pass on that another export from here has done well.  Nordic Ch. Hislome’s Hilton is now an International Champion.  He is the result of semen exported by Shimmins  to the Hisilome’s kennels Sweden  He was born on 2^nd June 2006 and his sire is Ch Cranstal Quantum and dam, Int & Norduch Hisilome’s Celine.   Two other salukis from this litter have also won titles.   PLJ Ch. SE UCH  DK UCH,  Hisilome´s Hagil and NUCH SUCH Hisilome´s Halawa.  Their other two littermates went to pet homes, but Hisilome's Hidalgo Malik won a CC + BOB at one of the very few shows that he attended as a puppy.

Brendan Austin has asked us to put the following in as a reminder about the calendar Competiton:”The Saluki 2011 Calendar Competition

The Saluki or Gazelle Hound Club is holding its annual photographic competition for The Saluki 2011 Calendar, on Sunday 13^th June 2010, at The Dobermann Club, Didswell in conjunction with the Open Show.  Judging for the competition will be by public ballot on this day.

Entries are FREE and you may enter as many photographs as you wish.  Photographs should be no larger than A5 size please (approx 6x8”).  They can be in black and white or colour.  They should be of a reproducible quality.  Entries should have a SAE for the safe return of your photographs. 

This year there are no categories, we are just looking your very best photographs with your own caption, for example, Hannah playing with her friend Bobby.  Please attach to each photograph a note, stating any information that is known. i.e. the name of the dog(s), how old the dog(s) are, names of any people who also appear and when and where it was taken. The Calendar will also include studies of the Best Dog and Best Bitch Please send your entries to arrive no later than Mon 7^th June to: Brendan Austin, 103 Vicarage Road,Sunbury on Thames, Middlesex TW16 7QB Entries maybe submitted by email to brendangaustin@aol.com (jpeg image preferred).  Please include

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 14^TH MAY 2010.

Good new for a change.  So pleased to inform you that Lindsey Harkett has been reunited with her stolen Saluki.

Early last Monday (the bank holiday) we received at call from Australia from Christine Stevens letting us know that her smooth fawn bitch, Kasaque Neepawa (Sana) had qualified that day for her Australian title.  Chris has worked very hard with her girl as we know making up a smooth is never easy and congratulations to her.  She said that Sana was also doing very well competing for her field championship title and hopefully will soon have it. 

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 7^TH MAY 2010.

We have had a telephone request from a reader who has received some unwanted telephone calls regarding their litter.  They have asked that they are contacted first before their information is given out or they are given the contact information of the interested party.  We know in the past this is the procedure the Club secretary has always followed.

The Northern Saluki Club held their Championship Show last weekend.  As usual it was a well run show with a welcoming cups of coffee/tea and cakes all day.  Lots of interesting Saluki orientated items were for sale.  My hat goes off to all those who participated with their lovely crafts.  Judging was Mrs Sue Rabey-Wilkinson. DCC,BIS for his 4^th CC was Clair Chryssolor’s Ch Tadj Mahal Emrani Izan (imp) Sh CM with the RBIS, RDCC to Baghdad Karim (imp) owned by Steve & Ann Ham, Paula Brockman-Chato and Mrs Ross-Elliot.  BCC for her 1^st CC was our own Kasaque Miracle.  She was born on the 13^th September 2007 and we were her breeders.  Her sire is Ch Nefisa Samr and dam, Kasaque Jarvah. RBCC went to Annette Benoit & Cybelle Benoit-Schaeverbeke’s smooth, Hadise har Kala Rachi. Best Puppy in Show was Sheryl Steer’s Jorjenjo Mirzam at Fernlark  with Best Veteran to Nicola Qualdling’s Ch Kasra Nasuuh at Malenkhai Sh CM.  Best Smooth went to the winner of RCC.  Well done all!! adise

The Crufts edition of “The Saluki 2010” are now available. Once again I would like to congratulate the team on a wonderful job.  When I received my magazine I personally like to sit with it in a comfortable chair and slowly read through it so this is the reason it takes me about a month before it is reviewed.  As usual the magazine is beautifully presented totally in colour.  Articles are varied from how to photograph your Saluki, The American Saluki with an English slant, an interesting  article regarding what is going on in Israel with Saluki as therapy dogs.  There is also a article of what is happening here with therapy dogs.  We wrote a few weeks ago about a particular Saluki we had visiting with us that monitored his owner’s blood sugar levels.  The magazine has recently included a new section on Champions so please if you have made up a dog, take advantage of the reduced rate and have a little brag.  Articles and adverts for the next magazine are due on Sunday 5^th July 2010.   If you did not receive the last edition or would like to subscribe please contact Val Prior on tel 01304 823546 or email sales@salukimagazine.co.uk.  The magazine’s web site is www.salukimagazine.co.uk

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 30^TH APRIL 2010

John Hudson has contacted us to mention that there was an error Barbara Henry’s report for the Limited Show.  Best Veteran in Show was Lisa and John’s Kasra Ni’mah of Glenoak, not as printed in the report.

All members of SGHC should now have received their Newsletter, voting slips and a copy of the SGHC’s Open Show.  If anyone has not received these, please contact Trevor Prior, the Hon Sec on tel. 01304 823546.  Anyone wanting a copy of the Schedule for the Open Shop please contact Marie Bryce-Smith on tel 01342 327573 or email Annette Buckley on Annette@saluki.plus.com   While speaking of the Club, there is still one space left for a co-opted person for the Committee, so if you have time to make a difference, and you would like to know what it is like to be on the Committee, please let Trevor know and he can give you further information.

The SGHC Open Show will be held on Sunday 13^th June, 2010 at The Dobermann Club Training & Showground in Digswell, Herts.  Judging dogs will be Martin Green with Frank Kane officiating over the bitches.  Referee will be Avril Lancashire.  Show opens at 9.00am with judging of the dogs to commence at 10 a.m. followed by the bitches.  There will be no catering at this show except coffee, teas and cake, so picnics will be the order of the day.  The Show Manager has requested that donations of cakes would be most appreciated.  Caroline Owen, Trophy Secretary will be sending out notices closing to the date.

Trevor Prior, Hon Sec of SGHC has requested that I mention that there is a notice on the Secretary’s page on the SGHC web site, regarding the AGM that was held on the 21^st March 2010.  This has to do with the vote on amendment to Rule 7m.  For anyone without internet access, please contact Trevor and he will send the revised information.

Saluki Breed Notes weekending 9^th April 2010

Brendan Austin has sent the following regarding the Saluki Calendar Competition: “The Saluki 2011 Calendar Competition: The Saluki or Gazelle Hound Club is holding its annual photographic competition for The Saluki 2011 Calendar, on Sunday 13^th June 2010, at The Dobermann Club, Didswell in conjunction with the SGHC Open Show.  Judging for the competition will be by public ballot on this day.Entries are FREE and you may enter as many photographs as you wish.  Photographs should be no larger than A5 size please (approx 6x8”).  They can be in black and white or colour.  They should be of a reproducible quality.  Entries should have a SAE for the safe return of your photographs.This year there are no categories, we are just looking your very best photographs with your own caption, for example, Hannah playing with her friend Bobby.  Please attach to each photograph a note, stating any information that is known. i.e. the name of the dog(s), how old the dog(s) are, names of any people who also appear and when and where it was taken.The Calendar will also include studies of the Best Dog and Best BitchPlease send your entries to arrive no later than Mon 7^th June to: Brendan Austin, 103 Vicarage Road, Sunbury on Thames, Middlesex TW16 7QB

Entries maybe submitted by email to brendangaustin@aol.com (jpeg image preferred).  Please include on a separate page all the information from the entry form below.  I will then print your entries for you. The entrant (i.e. the person who submits the photographs), must have permission if chosen, of the photograph and the dog(s) to have the photo printed in the calendar, (if you are not the owner of the photograph).  If a chosen photograph is not of reproduction quality then the next winning photograph will be used.  The organisers’ decision is final.”

SGHC’s Annual General Meeting was held last Sunday after the Club’s Limited Show. This was the first time the Club tried having both events on the same day. In last week’s notes we reviewed the Limited Show.  The AGM was somewhat contentious as there were some agenda items that have divided opinions and as sometimes happens, certain members factionalised themselves into groups. The main issue that became evident from this meeting was that very few people want to be involved in organising events or working on committees. It is important that some changes need to occur to help the club move forward in a positive light.  Some of the highlights of the meeting were that the AGM approve the proposal of the Committee to amend the breed standard colour and registration of all Salukis.  This was agreed but the members wanted the wording to change a little.  Peter Yardley said he had no problem with this.                                                                                                                       Pauline Kendall  has won the ballot to become the new Honorary Vice President.  There will now be a three year limit for at the Club’s Open and Limited Show.  The names going forward for the Championship Show 2012 ballot are A. Campagne, R Lewis, T King, S Kinney and S. Wales.  Open Show 2011 Judges are A. Jackson Main with 66 points and C Payne 54 Points. Limited Show will be judged by J Reader who had 29 points.

As SGHC is without a show manager at this time I am pleased to say that Marie Bryce-Smith and Annette Buckley  will be running the Open Show and the Championship shows for this year.  We still need a permanent show manager.  If you are interested and would like to know what the job entails,  please contact Trevor Prior.

Congratulations to Trish and Garry Russell’s Saluki, Grand Champion Pazada Astra Vivia on winning the Hound Group at the Royal Canberra Show ( Australia)

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 2^ND APRIL 2010.

Yesterday we attended the funeral for Daphne Tovey.  It was held at the beautiful old church of St Andrews in the village of Sandon, Essex. Daphne would have been so pleased as there was a large contingency of Saluki people there.  As she was so involved in the church, WI, Chelmsford Canine Society to name a few, the entire church was packed to capacity as everyone wanted to say their farewells’ to a very well loved and cherished person.  The hymns were all of Daphne’s choice. The Tribute was given by her son’s father in law. He is a long time friend of the family. True to her beliefs Daphne was buried in wicker casket that is bio-degradable. 

Over the Crufts period we had staying with us the Saluki, Am Ch Denali’s Kenai Fjords from Florida.  He was a companying his owner, Jane Worthington who suffers from severe diabetes.  Kenai is an assistance dog because he can detect when Jane’s blood sugars plummet, which may result in her going into a hypoglycaemic coma or even dying.  Jane’s dog handler is Christina Roberts who is 15 years old. Christina trained Kenai up to the standard of Assistance Dog which in part means he had to learn to be invisible when working.  One of his tests was to lie down with a chip in front of him and he was not to move towards that chip for 30 minutes . Because he is an Assistance Dog he was able to fly with his mistress in the cabin on the plane. All they had to pay was for the Pet Passport clearance.   While he was here as long as he wears his jacket, Kenai is acceptable in pubs, restaurants and grocery stores to name a few.

Last Sunday the SGHC held their Limited Show at Steventon Village Hall, Steventon Oxon.  From all that I have heard, everyone found the show well run.  Our judge was Mrs Barbara Henry.  We started the morning off with a 1 minute silence for Daphne Tovey.  BB,BIS was our own Kasaque Miracle with RBB & RBIS to Don & Pauline Everton’s Kasra Tabina.  BD & BOS went to Maya Monk-Schenk’s Kasaque Niagra with the RBD to Brian & Annette’s Mumtaz Sirocco ShCM. BPIS was Jorjenjo Mirzam at Fernlark owned by Sheryl Steer, John & Lorriane Fitzgerald.  Best Veteran was John & Lisa Hudson’s Kasra Ni’mah of Glenoak.  Many thanks to the Club members that worked so hard to make this show a success.  A special thanks to Buzz Faber who worked all day in the kitchen producing delectable culinary treats and her team of Chris Ormsby, Alecia Prior and Jan Banyard and all those members who contributed cakes and quiches.

At the show I had a short chat with Liz Metcalf who informed me that she will soon be going into hospital for surgery.  We wish her good luck and look forward to seeing her with her new puppies out later in the year.

After the Show, the Club held their AGM.  I shall report on this next week

SALUKI BREED NOTES 27^th MARCH 2010.

With great sadness I report the death of Daphne Tovey who passed away with her family at her side on the 16^th March 2010 after a brave battle with with Pancreatic cancer which was diagnosed during the summer of 2009.  Daphne was one of those special people you meet very occasionally as you go through life.  Friendly to all, warm, and generally a very nice person. Daphne gave of her time freely wither it was for her village church which she loved, the Womans Institute of which she was secretary or the Saluki Club whose activities she willingly supported over a long period of time.  In the Chelmsford and District Canine Society, Daphne held just about every position From Trophy Chairman to Treasurer, ending up as Chairperson  All of this was combined over the years with coping with the needs of a growing family and a demanding occupation - Daphne finishing her professional life as headmistress of Beehive Lane Primary School.

A long serving SGHC committee member she only retired this year when her illness progressed to such an extent that it was impossible for her to continue to attend committee meetings.  Daphne along with her husband Nick also looked after the Club’s trophies and their last duty was to be the upcoming Limited Show - where a minute's silence will be held so that all present can stop for a moment and remember Daphne. For the last 30 plus years Daphne’s life had been about Salukis and as one of our most stalwart competitors she had so wanted to make up a champion.  She accomplished this in 2006 with Ch. Kasaque Jimna ShCM.  She was so proud of him and I know that during her last days the presence of her two salukis - Jimna and Shadeen (Darquell Salah-Addin) was a very great comfort to her. Always elegant, charming and completely committed to whatever she undertook - Daphne was 'old fashioned' in the very best sense of the word.  The world of salukis will be a poorer place for us all without her presence.  Our condolences go to out to Nick who was always to be found at Daphne's side - supporting her in every way possible.  

The funeral service was held on Wednesday 24th March at 3:30pm at St Andrew's Church, Sandon, CM2 7SH. 

Jean Watts would like to thank everyone for their kind notes and cards sent to her on the death of her husband, Ralph.  She hopes to attend the Northern Saluki Club Championship Show.

Another Crufts has come and gone.  The atmosphere at ringside seemed quite affable with usual buzz that is associated with Crufts.  There were a couple of birthday celebrations with Brian Buckley’s 70^th and Jenny Macro’s 50^th.  Happy Birthday to both of them and thanks to the both for sharing their  lovely cakes. For breed dedicated stands we had one with the new edition of “The Saluki”  and The Northern Saluki Club with lots of Saluki dedicated items for sale.  Most enjoyable we had the opportunity to see a few dogs from the continent and one from the States competing in our classes.  I wonder what they made of our “just another dog show”?

BCC,BOB went to L.Gallinano’s  Int/It Ch Khadijakasrista.  She was born on the 26^th April 2006 and her breeders are the Shah Mat Kennel.  Her sire is It Ch Dabka’s Dominiq and dam Emina-s-Suda.  RBCC went to our own Ch Kasaque Luzhana JW.  DCC was Lisa and John Hudson’s ch Glenoak Inqi JW with the RDCC to Sheryl Steer & Lorraine and John Fitzgerald’s Fernlark Shiraz.  Best Puppy was Kim &  Lawrence Scowen’s Fernlark Drambuie. 

SALUKI  BREED NOTES WEEKENDING  5^TH MARCH 2010

I have had a note from Pam Hargreaves letting us know that her mother, Vera has died.  We have not seen Vera or Pam around the ring of late but during the late 80s and 90s Vera was present at most Championship Shows with Pam.  She was a lady of her time and never suffered fools gladly.  I appreciated her for her frankness as she was a lovely lady and we send out regrets to Pam and her brother, Ian at this sad time.

Connie De Souza and Heidi Woodgate’s Jai (Sufeina Al Ain) has been having a tough time. All his life he and his brother have run on the beaches of Kent.  Up and down the sand dunes.  As fate would have it, Jai must have had a bad turn and injured his cruciate ligament.  We have had Rottweilers over the years, actually two, and both of them have needed this surgery which is very painful, difficult and an extremely technical operation.  Poor Jai is not yet two years so has a long life in front of him (all our Rotties were elderly went their cruciate went)  as Connie and Heidi have taken him to the best surgeon we hope his prognosis will be good and either later this year or next we will see him back in the show ring

Caroline Own has sent us the following regarding her lovely Altaya Sandpiper “The rollercoaster with Pip goes on. After the diagnosis of acute myeloid leukaemia on Friday following the bone marrow biopsy, and the prognosis that he would not survive the week, we contacted our vets to arrange for them to come this afternoon to set him free.

Since then he has done everything in his power to confound the vets. He’s eating us out of house and home, he’s insisting on long walks with lots of sniffing. We thought he might improve a little on Saturday once he’d recovered from the anaesthetic and the biopsies, but he’s improved a lot. He isn’t limping as much and broke into several trots on his walks. The only time he has complained was when I stopped him going to play with 2 miniature schnauzers to whom he’d taken a shine on yesterday’s walk.

We think that finally being on regular pain relief has made a tremendous difference for him. He is not uncomfortable or distressed. He’s obviously not better but he isn’t ready to leave us yet. At 4.30pm, an hour after he was supposed to go, he was scratching the kitchen floor demanding to know where his afternoon snack was and moaning that the service had gone downhill.

We are not really expecting miracles, but that sick feeling in our stomachs has receded again. With his coat on hiding his thinness and most of the shaved areas he still looks quite well. Must go, he’s scratching the carpet to remind us it’s now teatime for salukis.” 

And on a happier note, Crufts is now just around the corner.  We are going but every year I ask myself why we put ourselves through the pain.  I can remember one year loosing my directions to find our benches.  We were not situated near the Saluki ring.  I think it was behind the beagle ring and the beagle benches.  Who knows what surprised will be in store for us this year.   We wish everyone good luck on the day or even a safe and sane day.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 19^TH FEBRUARY. 2010

The following has been sent by the PRO of the SGHC: At the recent SGHC Committee Meeting there was a very full agenda and among the items discussed was the Club Shows in 2010 and the need for help with Stewarding and a request for donations for a further silent auction. At the Championship Show in 2009 over £300 was raised from the donation made by Sue and Mike Oakley and this helps greatly in making it possible to run these shows. It was also noted that a fairly large number of members have not renewed their membership at this time so this is a gentle reminder to do so if you want to be able to have the full benefits of membership.

The Saluki Standard and in particular, the colour and marking of our breed, was discussed and along with the participation of Northern Saluki Club  and help from our Breed Representative, Nick Bryce Smith, progress is being made. Both Clubs will be putting forward our single proposal for inclusion in the Standard, at our respective AGM’s  and if approved by the Kennel Club for inclusion in our Breed Standard. Our Code of Conduct was also discussed and that will also be discussed by the membership at our AGM after the Limited Show on Sunday 21^st March 2010. The need for at least one Seminar, this year, was acknowledged and plans are being made for this to happen later in 2010. Tentative  date of that Seminar will be 14^th November. 2010.   Once the presentations are agreed we will be advising through these notes and on the SGHC website. Finally, although it is too late to include any nominations for the AGM we would be pleased to hear from anyone wishing to serve on the SGHC Committee. We have had several Committee members depart in the last few months so anyone that might be interested should let the Secretary, Trevor Prior know on 01304 823546 or by ‘e’ mail at: thaidogmurillo@yahoo.co.uk  We have some challenges to face right now but we are doing so with a very positive outlook and the support and knowledge of other members would be of great help working with us on the Committee.

Congratulations to Sue Cronin’s Sufeina Jebel Ali on winning Best in Show at  Maidstone Canine Society Open Show.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING FEBRUARY 5^TH 2010.

It has been brought to our attention that there is a typing error in the Limited Show Schedule.  In the “Definitions of Classes” under the description for Special Yearling It should state “For dogs of six and not exceeding 24 calendar months of age on the first day of the show”

Manchester Championship Show was held last Thursday with Class for Salukis but no Challenge Certificates  on offer for our breed. Our judge was Mr Mark Cocozza.   BOB was Annette and Brian Buckley’s Mumtaz Sirocco Sh.CM.  RBD went to Sirocco’s brother Mumtaz Khamsin of Timellie JW owned by Judy & Trevor White.  Best Bitch was Buzz Faber’s Sufeina Zarita with the RBB to Mr A Rawson’s Ch Mumtaz Stellanova JW ShCM.  Best puppy went to Gloria Cook and Alan Burtenshaw’s Fernlark Nardini at Daandazi. It was the Buckley’s first time in the “big ring” and they were delighted when Sirocco made it to the final eight. Well done all.   

Michael and I are off to New York around Westminster time.  It seems the city really goes to the dogs during this period with events like American Kennel Club Offices Open for the general public to see the building and the AKC’s art collection.  There are at least 3 days of Championship Shows besides “the Garden”  On Sunday morning there will be a brunch at Bonham and Tuesday they have their big sale of dog art and memorabilia.  Marie Bryce Smith has found a couple of Saluki items for sale.  The first item is (Lot No. 13)   Simpson (British, circa 1930) A bronze figure of the champion Saluki 'Sarona Gulshere'
signed 'P Simpson' and inscribed 'Ch. Sarona Gulshere' on base 8 x 7 1/8 in. (20.3 x 18.3 cm.)
Estimate: $2,000 - 3,000
“Footnote:
Brig. Gen. Frederick Lance (pictured) and his wife Gladys were instrumental in developing the Saluki breed within the UK. Having introduced the breed from the Middle East, in 1923 they set up the SGHC (Saluki of Gazelle Hound Club) and put together an admirably flexible breed standard to take account of the diversity of the hounds' origins that in large measure has withstood the test of time'.¹

The Sarona Kennel set the standard in Saluki breeding in the 1920's and their Championship record was second to none. Champion Sarona Gulshere, as depicted in the present lot, was the son of the venerable Ch Sarona Kelb, a favourite of Lance's and a champion in the show ring, winning twelve Championship Certificates at Crufts by the time he died, aged twelve. Kelb sired litters for many of the foundation kennels in England and there are few Saluki pedigrees today that do not include his name. Gulshere was an influential sire himself and was also used by many of the top kennels in the 1930's.

The Stud Book entry 1932 reads as follows: Gulshere was the dog that Brigadier Lance could not fault. When shown in 1932 and 1933 he won nine certificates in succession all under different judges. Had had a final total of ten certificates.²
Ch. Sarona Gulshere. Stud Book Number: 1672MM, DOB: 16 April 1930,Breeder/Owner: Brig.-Gen. F.F. Lance, Sire: Ch Sarona Kelb 1369DD, Dam: Sarona Nessa 1916LL

Princess Mary, daughter of the then reigning monarch George V was a proud owner of a Sarona and in fact remains the only member of the Royal Family to have ever owner a Saluki. The Kennel however was not without tragedy. In 1928 a devastating fire caused by a safety lamp destroyed the main barn and killed many of the Lance's beloved Salukis. The loss broke Gladys' heart, it was after all her drive and love for the breed that had been strongest and with that, the couple slowly faded from prominence, their club and exhibiting activities slowing to a trickle. Gladys eventually died in 1935 after which Frederick's interest in the breed waned. He could not sustain the same enthusiasm without Gladys and instead channeled his love for dogs into founding the Curly Coated Retreiver Club in 1933 and exhibited them under the Sarona prefix.
1.Brian Duggan, The Desert Hound and the English Travellers who brought it to the West, McFaland & Co, 2009.
2.Stud book entry, 1932, with the kind permission of the Kennel Club, London.

Second item is Lot no 175 It is a “Head of a Saluki” signed in pencil 'G Swertschkoff' (lower right) gouache ,8 11/16 x 10 1/4 in. (22 x 26 cm.) Estimate: $500 - 700  

SALUKI  BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 15 JANUARY 2010

It has been very busy here of late with the Christmas festivities plus having a large litter of puppies.  With early deadlines for Breed Notes and almost no information coming in for these notes, there has been little to read from me of late.  Please keep your information coming as there is nothing like picking up the dog papers and having something to get your teeth into.

We have had a call from Denise Rogers letting us know that Ralph Watts passed away on New Year’s Eve.  Recently he and Jean moved to a remote part of Scotland and were enjoying their new life style very much.  Ralph was having treatment and seemed to be responding well but took a turn for the worse.  We wish to extend our sympathy to Jean and their family. Denise has also asked us to pass on the message that as her friend Avil Lancashire will be judging at the upcoming South Wales Championship Show, she intends to attend the show as Avil’s steward and will not be exhibiting.

Michael Williams acting as temporary PRO for SGHC  has given us the following: At the last SGHC Committee meeting a large proportions of the agenda was addressing the need to retain the purity of our breed. Dialogue continues with the Northern Saluki Club and the Kennel Club in this regard.  Our breed representative , Nick Bryce-Smith attended the Committee Meeting briefly to advise about the latest initiatives being instigated by the KC to  review Breed Standards in terms of protecting the soundness, health and well being of our dogs.  We were also advised by Daphne Tovey as Saluki Health representative about a seminar that is being organised by the KC in February 2010 that will specifically address health issues. 

One area of concern has been the lack of people looking to steward at the Club Shows and we ask anyone that is looking to fulfil their requirements for judging or simply enjoys stewarding to contact Michael Williams.  Also we have had two resignations from the Committee so it would be pleased to hear from anyone who has been a Club member for at least three years, prior to the year of nomination, who might be interested in running to become a Committee member.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 28^TH NOVEMBER 2009

The Clubs Calendar is now on sale, and makes an ideal Christmas gift.  You can order your copies from Brendan either by phoning on 01932 788 040 or send a cheque made payable to SGHC and sent to Brendan G Austin,  103 Vicarage Road,  Sunbury on Thames,  Middlesex,  TW16 7QB. Single copies are £8.25, or £22.50 for three copies (inc UK p+p).  Please ask for overseas rates.  

Annette Buckley has informed me that her Mumtaz Sirocco ShCM, owned by Annette and Brian won Best in Show from Best AV Hound at the Hastings & St Leonards & East Sussex Canine Society Limit Show under Pam Blay on Sunday 9^th November. He carried on by winning RBIS at CrystalPalace Canine Assoc Open Show after making the cut from 34 dogs in  the BIS ring to ten, then to five and finally RBIS under Mrs J Miller on Saturday 14^th November and the next day he won Best AVNSC under Mrs J Reader and Hound Group 2 under Maggie Holder (Mascotts)

Congratulations to Rocco and his proud owners.

Alan Bloomfield has sent a message through that Glenoak Jabari has now qualified for his Junior Warrant and his Show Certificate of Merit.  Well done to him

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 20^TH NOVEMBER 2009.

Diane Allan has sent the following report regarding their day out in Oxford:  “Ken and I went to the The Ashmolean Museum today, it has just undergone a major £61 redevelopment programme, £15 million came from the Heritage Lottery Fund the rest has been accrued from numerous foundations and trusts plus individual donations. The museum was founded in 1683, and is Britains first Public Museum. We spent a lot of time in the first gallery where we found evidence of salukis in Islamic paintings, tapestries, manuscripts and ceramics. Also we found salukis in some of the Early Italian Art section, it was so interesting to read some of the stories which accompanied the drawings in the Illuminated books, where the salukis/hounds were described as being hounds of the Royal Household.  Really worth a visit if you are interested in art and salukis....and it is free Hours are 10am to 6pm Tuesday to Sunday”

With only one Championship Show left this year, thanks to Ann Shimmin, I can include most of the judges for next year.  Crufts, Arthur Spencer Bolland; Hound Assoc OF Scotland, Eleanor Bothwell; Northern Saluki, Sue Rabey Wilkinson; Birmingham National, Roy Goodby; SKC, Shirley Rawlings; Southern Counties, Karen Fisher; Three Counties, Jill Peak; Blackpool, Graham Hill,; Windsor, Elaine Stanmore; East of England, Ken Allan;  Paignton Mary Parker; Hound Show,  Denise Rogers;Bournemouth, Kathy Webb; Welsh KC, Alec Mackenzie; City of Birmingham, Denise Courteney; Richmond, Brian Duggan; SGHC, Ann Birrell/Oonagh Preece; Midland Counties, Jenny Ziman,; LKA Clair Chryssolor.

“The Saluki” Championship Show Edition 2009 is now out.  I spent a pleasurable evening last night going through the magazine.  The magazine is very well rounded with something interesting for everyone.  I found Gail Goodman’s story on the Disappearance of Meshi.  Fortunately for both Gail and Meshi there was a happy ending.  One part of the story which very much evident, was the difference of the terrain and life styles.  Living in the south of England, for most of my life, I know little about coyotes and coyote hunters.  Gail seem to keep running into people in an area one would perceive as barren. 

Among the other articles there are many tributes to the late Hope Waters. 

Karen Fisher has stated in her Editorial that the Crufts edition of “The Saluki” will be fast upon us because the Championship Show was held at a later date.  The Deadline for  the Crufts edition is 31^st December 2009 for articles and adverts.  Correspondes, article and Queries to Karen Fisher (editor) on tel 01279 833855 or email editor@salukimagazine.co.uk.  Advertising, all copies to Kathy Webb, Tel 01737353279 or email advertising@salukimagazine.co.uk.  For copies of the magazine, please contact Val Prior on 01304 823546 or email sales@salukimagazine.co.uk.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 13^TH NOVEMBER 2009.

John and Lisa Hudson have contacted me to let me know that Glenoak Jazmyn has accrued enough points of qualify for her Junior Warrant and their Ch Kasra Tahira Glenoak JW has qualified for her Show Certificate of Merit.  Well done to both of them.

Last Sunday the SGHC held their Championship Show in the new Kennel Club Building at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire.  I have been informed that the venue was not that easy to find, in this case the weather may have been a contributing factor as it was pouring with rain.  Once the venue had actually been located then cars were unloaded and parked in another area.  This in the rain was not pleasant.  As far as the actual facility goes, the lighting and flooring were good and  there was more than adequate room for the rings and  a large contingent of people and their dogs. It was suggested that maybe there could be more decoration by the Club to cheer up the decor.  Along one side there were trade stands, Club stands including the Secretary table, Welfare stand, Magazine stand, Trophies.  I was disappointed that I could not attend as it sounded like a nice.

Judging dog was Mrs Pauline Everton, with Michael Williams judging the Bitches and Owen Davies was the Referee.  Interesting  to note that  next year the third judge will be judging Best in Show.  BOB, DCC by Referee’s decision was Deborah Copperthwaite’s Ch Al Caliphs Zobeyni JW with the RDCC to Marie Bryce-Smith’s Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk, JW.  BCC went to Ian and Denise Roger’s Ch Labakan Chantilly with the RBCC to Mary Parker’s Ch Khalils Rana of Classicus (Inp Swe) ShCM.  Best Puppy in Show was Caryna Mellichia  with Best Veteran to Marie Bryce-Smith’s Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk, JW.  Best Smooth Saluki went to Barakisch Qashang Axtar (imp Swe) owned by Philip Ash. Best Breeders Group was Glenoak.  Even though the colour classes were judged as regular classes, I understand the day was still very long.  Perhaps this still needs some discussing. 

2010 Saluki Calendars are available from Brendan Austin.  Single Copies by post will be £8.25 or £22.50 for three copies.  Europe £9.00 and £24.50, £10.50 and £28.00 World wide.  Contact Brenda on 01932 788040 or email brendanaustin@aol.com or

See him at LKA.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 6^TH NOVEMBER 2009.

Midland Counties Championship Show and Dog World, hold a competition about every couple of years, for the best club magazines or publications.  One of the requirements for entering the competiton is to send in two copies of the magazine, one current and one within the last three years. In this case the “Festival” issue and the Crufts 2009 issues of “the Saluki” were submitted.  I am so proud to let you know that the Magazine won second place in a good sized entry.  As a reward the Magazine was given £100.00 which shall go into research for DNA testing for coat colour in the UK gene pool.

Judging Salukis at Midland Counties was Mrs Margret Fulcher,  BCC, BOB was the newly crowned Al Caliphs Nuray owned by Kathy Webb and Deborah Copperthwaite for her 4^th CC.  RBCC went to her sister, Al Caliphs Nephele owned by Deborah Copperhwaite.  DCC for his second CC was Steve and Jenny Macro’s Nefisa Jeevun.  RDCC went to Labakan Lamerie owned by Ian and Denise Rogers and Jean Watts.  Best Puppy was the Owen’s Caryna Curetes with Best Breeder Group to Buzz Faber’s Sufiena.  Well done all!!!

Yesterday I had the opportunity to attend a demonstration of the Cancer and Bio-detection Dogs.  I went along with Sharon Sakson from the USA who came over here to study what the centre is doing.  Sharon is a journalist and a writer, a well known Whippet breeder and sighthound judge.  She has a new book out, which I am reading entitled “Paws & Effect (The Healing Power of Dogs) (this book is available from Amazon for around £7.00)  The book covers the array of fascinating information on the healing power of dogs and redefines the age-old bond between dogs and humans- a bond that is proving to be without limits.

 The center is in Westcott, Buckinghamshire and works with the Buckingham NHS Trust. They are training dogs to alert diabetics of dangerous sugar levels, to assist handicapped, and most amazing, to sniff out which urine samples show evidence of bladder or prostate cancer. The dogs can pick up cancer when it is so tiny that neither xray nor laboratory test can find it, a talent that can benefit humans immensely because cancer is curable when spotted so early. We watched Jake, a working Springer and Daisy, a working Golden, demonstrate how quickly they can find cancer – then run to their trainer for a treat.

I made a point of asking if they receive any help from the Kennel Club and was gratified to hear they’ve been awarded £20,000 this year. This is certainly a charity worthy of our donations. (www.cancerdogs.co.uk)

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 23^RD OCTOBER 2009.

Sunday 1^st November the SGHC will be holding their Championship Show at The Kennel Club Building, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire CV8 2LZ.  From all accounts I understand that those attending the show will appreciate the new venue.  I have been told it’s warm and very well appointed.  So hopefully everyone will have a most enjoyable day.  Show opens at 9.00am with judging to commence for dogs at 10.00am with bitches 10.30.  Pauline Everton will be judging dogs and Michael Williams will be doing the same with the bitches.  Referee is Owen Davies. Please note that anyone winning a class, check to see if you are entitled to a trophy, if you are, it is your responsibility to obtain it from the trophy secretary.

Serena Brownlie will be conducting heart testing at the show.  A separate room will be provided for this service which, for members of SGHC, will be free.  For all others there will be a charge of £5.00.  You will be able to pre book a slot by contacting Daphne Tovey on 01245 472692 otherwise you can book on the day, first come, first serve.  It is important that we have as many participants as possible to obtain a wide sample and to gain a realistic picture of the health of our breed.  Daphne will also have DNA kits at the show, price £5.00.

At The Championship Show, Marie Bryce-Smith is organizing a silent auction.  Sadly no one has, as of this moment offered at Christmas Cake.  With Christmas just around the corner Christmas cake is usually a highly desirable item in the bidding. If you can help please contact Marie,on 01342 327573. All other donations will be gladly accepted.  Funds from the Silent Auction will help with the cost of the heart testing.

The following has been sent by Brendan Austin “The SGHC Championship Show will take place in the West Hall of The Kennel Club Buildings,  Stoneleigh, Warwickshire CV8 2LZ on Sunday 1^st November.  The show will open at 9.00am. Pauline Everton will commence the dog judging at 10.00am and the bitches will follow with Michael Williams at 10.30.  Our Referee is Owen Davies.  The entries are;  total dogs 129 (the exact split is unavailable at the time of going to print). Dogs entered 77  bitches 100  NFC 31.  We have limited catering facilities at this venue this year.  Teas, coffees, soft drinks, sandwiches and cakes will be available all day.  Any cake donations will be gratefully received.  Please note that we are sharing this venue with the Dalmatian Club. They are in the East Hall, however we are sharing car park and exercise facilities.  Directions to the venue is on the back of the schedule.  As you drive through the main gates at Stoneleigh, the Kennel Club Buildings are a short distance to the left.  There is a 20 mph speed limit within the show ground.  If you have any questions then please telephone Brendan on 01932 788 040.  SHOW DAY EMERGENCY MOBILE NUMBER 07956 63 00 94. “

Last Friday the South Wales Kennel Association held their Championship Show. Judging was Mrs Dagmar Kenis-Pordham.  BCC, BOB was Martine Smithson’s Chisobee Serenarian for her second CC with the RBCC to Kathy Webb and Deborah Copperthwaite’s Al Caliphs Nuray.  DCC went to Clair Chryssolor’sTadj Mahal Emrani Izan (imp) ShCM for his third and qualifying CC.  He was born on 19^th July 2005 and his breeders is S Couneson.His sire is Firuza Heritage for Anasazi (imp) and dam Lux.Bel Ch Tadj MahalYala Firuza.  RDCC went to Mrs LRP Bleakley’s Ulmarra Shakar at Miwell.  Best Puppy was John & Caroline Owen’s Caryna Curetes.  Well done all!!

More praise for Clair Chryssolor’s Poem (Abu Baqr's Gazal Galiya for Anasazi) winning BOB and Group 2 under esteemed Deerhound judge Wendy Cross at the Horsham Open Show.

We have received our copy of The Northern Saluki Club Newsletter and I see that Sue Rabey-Wilkinson will be judging at their next Championship Show.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 17^TH OCTOBER 2009

Brendan Austin has sent the following “It’s calendar time again and with the Championship Show slightly later than usual this year, there will be less time between now and Christmas & the New Year to get your calendars organised. The Calendar will be on sale at the SGHC Championship Show on 1st November priced £7.00, buy three copies for £20.00.  Single copies by post (UK) will be £8.25 or £22.50 for three copies.  Overseas; Europe £9.00 each and £24.50 for three; world-wide, £10.50 each and £28.00 for three, these prices include package and postage. Pre-paid orders will be posted on Monday 2^nd November.  To order your copies now you can either telephone me on 0044 (0)1932 788 040 or email to brendangaustin@aol.com  I will then get back to you to take your credit card details or you can pay via PayPal. 

If you prefer to use Royal Mail please send your details and cheque made payable to: The SGHC and send it to: Brendan Austin, 103 Vicarage Road,Sunbury on Thames, Middlesex  TW16 7QB

From Alan Lucas, the secretary of Welfare I have received the following: “ NEWS FROM WELFARE: The walk organised by David Hartley at Earby on the 12^th September 2009 was well supported and it seems that a most enjoyable time was had by all who attended, with plenty going on, including a Fun Dog Show and of course the Fish and Chip Supper.  In the process, the event also raised a staggering £525 bonus for Welfare. When it comes to walking, we can only stand in awe of Christina Campling, who with her dogs, is going to do the Beachy Head Marathon again on the 24^th October 2009.  While this is over the usual 26.2 miles, all other comparisons with similar events seem to end.  The course is over incredibly difficult terrain of some 5 miles of uphill and then of course down, many stiles and kissing gates to navigate and takes approximately 9 hours to complete.  Christina has, of course, done this for the last few years, so why she has the courage to do it again remains a mystery.  Her overall ambition is to raise money for Welfare and she spends months training and getting donations from her own contacts and of course she would welcome any contributions from the saluki world.  If you would like to support Christina, there was a form to complete in the April copy of ‘Snippets’, or in the last SGHC Newsletter of August 2009, to be sent to Daphne Parnham.

The Westhoughton dog racing club is running meets at Westhoughton Greyhound Stadium i n Westhoughton, Nr Bolton Lacs..  There will be meets on 3rd & every alternate Sat until further notice . Mainly whippets & lurchers, but all breeds are welcome. Racing starts at 5-30 pm. £5 per dog to a max of £15 per owner so fourth dogs & upwards effectively run free.

Last Saturday, Driffield  Championship Show was held at Wetherby Racecourse in Yorkshire.  I understand that the weather was very winding and competitors were told to vacate the showground as soon as they had finished competing.  Awarding Challenge Certificates for his first time in Salukis was Mr Jerry Robertson.  .Judging by the results it was a great day for Denise Garrett’s Caryna Kennels.  DCC. BOB for his third and qualifying CC was Karen Smith’s Caryna  Zenith.  I think this is the third dog from this litter to acquire his title. He was born on the 23^rd October 2002 and his breeder is Mrs DL Garratt.  His sire is Ch Mabrooka Jayid and dam, Ch Caryna Hera JW.  RDCC went to Marie Bryce-Smith’s Fargaze Persian Punch of Saruk.  BCC, BP was Denise Garratt & Sue Oakey’s Caryna Meilichia for her first CC.She was born on 14^th November 2008 and her breeder is Denise Garratt.  Her sire is Ch Glenoak Inqi,JW and dam, Ch Caryna Nashira.  RBCC also went to Denise Garratt, Sue Oakey & Karen Smith’s Caryna Meilichia.  Best Breeders was Denise Garratt. Will done all!

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 9^TH OCTOBER 2009.

For some reason the Breed Notes of 26^th September were on the most part totally illegible.  Therefore I am repeating the Richmond Championship Show report.

Last Friday Richmond Championship Show was held.  After the torrid rain we had last year it was a blessing that we had a perfect day, weather wise, for dog showing.

Our judge was Mrs Karin Hedberg from Sweden.  DCC, BOB was Deborah Copperthwaite’s Ch Al Caliphs Zobeyni JW with the RDCC to Nicola Quadling’s Ch Kasra Nasuuh at Malenkhai Sh CM.  BCC for her third and qualifying CC was Deborah Copperthwaite and Kathy Webb’s Al Caliphs Nuray.  She was born on 26thth April 2006 and her breeder is Deborah Copperthwaite.  Her sire is Ch Al Caliphs Zobeyni JW and her dam is Al Caliphs Zanubiya.  RBCC went to Mary Parker’s Ch Khalils Rana of Classicus (imp) Sh.CM.  Best Puppy went to Sue Oakey and Denise Garratt’s Caryna Meilichia.  Eng, Swe Ch Barakisch Niran Zorshid owned by Cecilia Andersson was Best Veteran and Best Breeder’s Group was Williams.  Well done all!!

I have received a note from Vikki-ann Tompkins regarding her husband John who has been unwell.   She has said that John is doing well now, although he will be off work until mid November. Much of his sight has returned. Unfortunately she feel it is a bit inappropriate for her to leave him for two days to attend the club show (10 hours drive each way - and that would be without stops)she has said that it is  a real shame as she wished to take part in the heart testing scheme (among other things)

Vikki-ann also has informed me that Morag Mackell has lost her Sophie, aka Mabrook Suffyah.  She was out of Ch Mabrooka Khamriy x Ch Mabrooka Miraya. She says “although not really shown on more than an odd occasion she was a beautiful, typically Mabrooka bitch, with true Saluki eyes and expression and a wonderful nature.  She was very laid back and, in fact in all the years I knew her I think I only ever saw her run twice, and that was when she was playing with Joshua! She did love her obedience lessons though, and was proud holder of her Gold Good Citizen award. She was also used often as a 'demo dog' in our club's puppy class as she was so good even with the boisterous puppies. She will be sadly missed by everyone who knew her, but especially by Neil and Morag”.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 2^ND OCT 2009.

When reporting the results of South East Hound Club, I accidentally omitted the name of the Reserve Best of Breed winner.  She is Lisa & John Hudson’s Kasra Ni’mah of Glenoak.  My apologies to all.

On Saturday 14^th November there will be Saluki classes at Huntingdon Canine Society.  Terry Farris will be judging for her first appointment.  She has been in the breed 10 years, before having Salukis, she had Afghans.  The closing date for the show is Monday 19^th October 2009, The Secretary is Mrs H Thompson, 33 Simpson Avenue, Higham Ferrers, Northants. NN10 8JH, telephone number 01933413140. There will be prize money for BIS, BPIS, and all group winners. BIS and BPIS will be eligible to compete at the EAST ANGLIAN SUPER MATCH on Saturday 6^th March 2010.  This show is sponsored by Royal Canin

David Hartly has sent the following through regard in recent Saluki Walk for Welfare: “SALUKI WALK at EARBY 2009: Saturday the twelfth of September was a sunny and very warm day after a long period of wind and rain in the North so the 42 dogs and their human followers who gathered at St.Peter’s Methodist Church were extremely lucky. After a cup of tea and a biscuit served by members of the church we set off, led by 81 year old Doug Hornby a lifelong member of St Peter’s. As Doug gets older he gets fitter and faster so we set off through the village and maintained a cracking pace up hill towards the next town of Barnoldswick, then down to the canal at  Salterforth (unfortunately known to the locals as Sodom ! ) up on to the  redundant railway line at Kelbrook and so back through Sough Park to Earby.

After a break for lunch in the sun, it was time to buy raffle tickets, register for the fun classes and assemble to watch John Owen give a demonstration of Good Citizenship and Agility with his Saluki Pip.

For me, this was amazing as I never thought a Saluki could stand with front feet on a stool and go around it like a circus elephant on a tub. Likewise Pip demonstrated turning around on a narrow plank. John explained that these exercises were pre-agility and taught the hound to know where his feet were. Despite the large number of people and dogs in the hall, Pip (who has her Gold Award) was able to focus on her rewards and show us her undoubted talents in Good Citizenship type work. Actual agility wasn’t possible in the small space but John showed us a video of Pip going around a full outdoor agility course. Again I didn’t think that my Salukis would be able to concentrate and follow me around the obstacles - but I intend to give it a try with my next pup. So Pip well and truly opened all our eyes as to potential new activities with our Salukis, thank you John.

Roy  Goodby organised  Fun classes and Rosie Lewis stewarded, volunteer judges were pressed into service and hopefully everyone joined in and enjoyed themselves. Rosettes and prize cards plus a bag of Cobbydog were awarded for first to fifth place.

Folk were so generous that there were twenty eight raffle prizes and as most people refused a second prize for themselves the raffle took some time but you would have had to be very unlucky to go home empty handed. A second raffle was held for a wonderful prize, donated by Janet Bullock. This was an original painting of the winner’s animal onto a very useful canvas bag. Examples of Lynn Ingram’s artistic talents were offered for sale –we are lucky to have such talented artists in the Saluki fraternity. Ann Wilcock had acted as our photographer throughout the day and was able to sell prints to anyone who wished to take home a souvenir of their day.

As usual the Fish and Chips from the Quality Fish Bar were much appreciated. The church people who kindly gave up their day to welcome and wait on us were acknowledged and finally thanks given to the people who stayed to rearrange the premises for worship next day. The Sponsor was Cobbydog who are always so generous to us. In total the Walk raised £525 for Saluki Welfare funds. Hopefully we can enjoy another Saluki Walk in 2010.

Brenden Austin has send the following regarding the 2010 Saluki Calendar Let me thank you all for sending photographs for the Saluki Calendar 2010.  We had an excellent response again this year, 279 entries and the variety was wonderful.  The judges, who were both members and their friends at the Open Show in June, chose their favourites.  The calendar has been compiled and is back from the printers for its final proof.  

The Calendar will be on sale at the Championship Show on 1st November priced £7.00, buy three copies for £20.00.   Single copies by post (UK) will be £8.25 or £22.50 for three copies.  Overseas; Europe £9.00 and £24.50, £10.50 and £28.00 world-wide, inc.

I hate to say it but in a few short weeks Christmas will be upon us.  The Saluki Calendar makes an ideal gift.  You may pre-order either on the telephone 0044 (0)1932 788 040 or email me.  I can then get back to you to take credit card details.  If you prefer you can order and send a cheque made out to SGHC and sent to:

Last Friday Darlington Championship Show was held in the grounds of Newby Hall.  Judging us was Mr Pers Iverson from Norway. Mr Iverson was very consistent in the type he preferred and I am sure the contingency from Northern Scotland were delighted with their day and the long journey home from the show seemed not so arduous .  BCC,BOB was Mary Parker’s Ch Khalils Rana of Classicism (imp) Sh.CM with the RBCC to Sylvia Pass & Kellie Lauchlan’s Ch Devineerace Anya.  DCC, for his second CC was Karen Smith’s Caryna Zenith.  RDCC went to Sylvia Pass & Kellie Lauchlan’s Chisabee Cyncariad. The Pass and Lauchlan partnership also won Best Puppy wth Chisobee Cyncariad.  Best Vereran was Buzz Faber’s Ch Sufeina Pastel JW .  Mary Parker phoned to report that Rana was short listed in the Hound Group.  Ch Sufeina Pastel competed in the Best Hound Veteran and was placed 2^nd.  Pastel’s son, Sufina Jebel Ali  owned by Sue Cronin won both the Junior and the Yealing Stakes.  Well done to all!!

We are pleased to report that John Tompkins operation appears to be successful and he is now recovering at home.  I understand that he now has regained some of his sight.  We wish him good luck in his convalesce.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 25^TH SEPTEMBER 2009.

Clair Chyssolor has sent us an update on her dogs “At Horley and District Show, 30th August, Poem (Abu Baqr's Gazal Galiya for Anasazi) got BOB under Maltese judge Stephen Mercieca (Chebec) and went into a full complement of hounds in the Group.  It took Sue Dunning (Anjuskar) over an hour to judge the Group and Poem, was pulled out in the final nine for consideration. Also Pico, Tadj Mahal EmraniIzan, ShCM, got his fifth RCC at Birmingham under Denys Simpson. “

Last Friday Richmond Championship Show was held.  After the torrid rain we had last year it was a blessing that we had a perfect day, weather wise, for dog showing. Our judge was Mrs Karin Hedberg from Sweden.  DCC, BOB was Deborah Copperthwaite’s Ch Al Caliphs Zobeyni JW with the RDCC to Nicola Quadling’s Ch Kasra Nasuuh at Malenkhai Sh CM.  BCC for her third and qualifying CC was Deborah Copperthwaite and Kathy Webb’s Al Caliphs Nuray.  She was born on 26th April 2006 and her breeder is Deborah Copperthwaite.  Her sire is Ch Al Caliphs Zobeyni JW and her dam is Al Caliphs Zanubiya.  RBCC went to Mary Parker’s Ch Khalils Rana of Classicus (imp) Sh.CM.  Best Puppy went to Sue Oakey and Denise Garratt’s Caryna Meilichia.  Eng, Swe Ch Barakisch Niran Zorshid owned by Cecilia Andersson was Best Veteran and Best Breeder’s Group was Williams.  Well done all!!

I understand that Nicola Quadling will be going into the hospital this week for a long awaited operation on her knee.  We wish her a speedy recovery and hope this operation is successful.

Entries for the SGHC Championship Show will close on Tuesday 29^th September.  It can be done by first class post or by logging on the www.fossedata.co.uk.  The date of the show is Sunday 1^st November  and it will be held at The Kennel Club Buildings, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire CV8 2LZ.  Judging dogs is Mrs Pauline Everton and Bitches, Mr Michael Williams.  Referee is Mr Owen Davies.  Show opens at 9.00am with the judging to commence at 10.00 am for dogs and 10.30 am for bitches.  There will be heart testing at this show by Dr.Serena Brownlie.  All dogs coming along for the testing must be entered in either regular classes or “not for competition” in order to be tested. This service will be free to SGHC members.

Reading & District Kennel Assoc will be holding their Open Show on Saturday 28^th November at Montem Leisure Centre, Slough.  There are 3 Classes for Saluki with Mary Pascoe juding.  Schedule can be obtained from the secretary. Liz Scoates on o1235 850289

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 18^TH SEPTEMBER 2009.

Last Friday, City of Birmingham Championship Show was held at Stoneleigh, Warwick.  Judging Salukis  was Deny Simpson who has decided to retire from allocating Challenge Certificates in our breed.  DCC,BOB was Deborah Copperthwaite’s Ch Al Caliphs Zobeyni JW with the RDCC to Clair Chryssolor’s Tadj Mahal Emrani Izan (imp) Sh.CM.  BCC went to Mary Parker’s Ch Khalils Phaedra of Classicus (imp) Sh.CM.  RBCC was awarded to Deborah Copperthwaite’s Al Caliphs Aliya Vasanti.  Best Puppy was John & Carol Owen’s Caryna Curetes.  Best Breeders Group was Denise Garratt’s Caryna.  Well done all!!

Sunday after City of Birmingham is always the date of South Eastern Hound Club Show.  This year the event was held at it’s new home which is The All England  Show Jumping Course, at Hickstead.  Personally I think it was a great improvement over the last venue; of course the weather being perfect for a dog show did not hinder.  Judging Salukis was Mrs Annette Benoit from Belguim.  To say she had an unusually judging technique would not be an exaggeration.   The steward tried to assist the judge suggesting as Salukis were a working breed that maybe it would be a good idea to move them.  So the judge did just that, in a minimalist sort of way, firstly stating she was not placing the dogs she moved the 1^st in a class to the 3^rd position and maybe the 4^th to the second.  This procedure was followed in each class.  It was a little like musical chairs with the last one to get in place being chosen. By the time one was squeezed to 4^th you did not know if you should just leave the ring.  Normally the judges just call the dogs out in sequential order.  BOB was Daphne Tovey, Rosemary Redfern, CM & HV Williams, Darquell Salah-Addin, with the RBOB to John & Lisa Hudson’s. Best Puppy went to John & Caroline Owen’s Caryna Curetes. 

The Owens had quite an exciting time after BPIS.  They returned to their car where, John dropped the keys onto the front seat and shut the door and when he went around to the back to put the dogs inside, the central locking had activated and locked them out, with their mobiles inside. They ended up having to borrow a phone and rang their son in Derbyshire  who arranged for a breakdown company to come. I was about 6.30 when they finally left the show and to make matters worse there was a heavy downpour of rain, so they were all soaked. Not such a nice ending to a lovely day.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 11^TH September 2009.

Kathy Webb has informed me that there is now a paperback edition of Hope & David's Book 'The Saluki in History, Art & Sport.  It is published  by Hoflin Publishing Inc,4401 Zephyr St. - Wheat Ridge, Colorado 80033. USA. The price is about $75.00 or can be purchased via Amazon.com. There are 3 ex library hardback copies currently on Amazon.co.uk for around the £50.00.

Congratulations to Karen and Glyn Fisher on the marriage of their daughter Natalie. Trevor Prior, Secretary of SGHC has sent the following information: Date of next Committee meeting is 19 October 2009. The committee positively welcomes your correspondence and feedback etc on the way the club is managed or any other issues that you may wish to be addressed, however to enable the committee to be able to give items full consideration and facilitate addition to the agenda and circulation to the committee, we would request that all items are with the Secretary at least ten days in advance of the meeting. Items received after the ten days will be carried over to the next meeting unless urgent.  The date of future committee meetings will be announced in the Dog Press breednotes and posted on the club website.

Would all judges on SGHC’s B and C lists, that may be considering nominating themselves for the Limited Show 2011, please note that due to unforeseen circumstances the date has been changed.  The Limited Show 2011 will now be held onSunday 27^th February 2011 and not in March as per my letter.  Apologies for any inconveniences caused.  These notes and others will be posted on the New SGHC’s Web site. www.salukiclub.co.uk.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 4^TH SEPTEMBER 2009.

I  Have received a note from Victoria Armstrong of The Stockbridge Gallery, Stockbridge, Hants of her upcoming shows.  If you have not been to Stockbridge, its a lovely village on the River Test and well worth a visit especially to see the Victoria’s stunning canine orientated gallery. From the 20^th September to 3^rd October there will be a photo exhibition by Eloise Leyden, entitles “Slum Dogs Of India” From October 11^th until the 7^th November the exhibition will be “Sporting Chance”. Information from the Gallery states it is:” A celebration of our sporting breeds captured in a mix of paintings, drawings, prints and sculpture. Both period and contemporary art will be exhibited, including works by Edward Aistrop, Joy Beckner, Thomas Blinks, Lilian Cheviot, Thuline de Cock, Henry Crowther, Maud Earl, John Gray, Nina Harvey, Nigel Hemming, Florence Jay, John King, Belinda Matthews, Charlotte Moreton, Mary Ann Rogers, Sam Sopwith, Hannah Steedman, Tony Uloth, Paula Vize, Georgie Welch and Arthur Wardle.” The final exhibition for the year is “Not Just for Christmas”  will be held on15 November - 24 December. This sale will have canine orientated items for sale for Christmas.  In the Gallery’s permanent collection Victoria has acquired a Saluki by Tony Uloth. It is an open edition in cold cast bronze.  As I was not familiar with Mr Uloth, Victoria has sent the following: "

Tony Uloth was brought up in the country and throughout his life has been drawing cartoons and sketching.  On retirement, as Chief Executive of the Royal Bath and West of England Show Society, he took up sculpting under the guidance of the eminent animal sculptress, Margot Dent at her studio in Broughton.  He lives in Nether Wallop, Hampshire where he is able to follow his interest in country pursuits.  His sculpting subjects include portraits as well as animals." 

Last Friday the Welsh Kennel Club held their Championship Show.  Judging Saluki in place of Daphne Tovey was Buzz Faber.  DCC, BOB was Diane Duckenfield’s Ch Tasia El Imrane with the RDCC to Jenny & Steve Macro’s Nefisa Jeevun.  BCC for her first CC was Martine Smithson’s Chisobee Serenarian.  She was born on 9^th June 2005 and her owner is her breeder.  Her sire is Ch Ukhaydir Aris Hafid Ariba and dam Cairdean Cazzab at Chisobee.  RBCC went to Mary Parker’s Ch Khalils Rana of Classicus (imp) ShCM.  Best Puppy was Mr & Mrs Owen’s Caryna Curetes with Garratt winning Breeders Group.  At the show, a card was circulated and a collection was made for Daphne Tovey as that was her judging appointment and due to medical treatment was not able to judge.  I did speak to Daphne and she said the card was lovely and the flowers are gorgeous.  She thanks everyone for thinking of her.

What do you do when you are a fly-fisherman and want to catch brown trout.?  Andrew Griffiths observed white flies over his local river and the trouts were jumping trying to catch them.  He unsuccessfully tried to tie a fly that would entice the trout but failed. Then he had a brain storm.  What he did, was plucked some coat from his Saluki bitch’s tail attached it to a hook and created a “fly”.  He calls it Kizzie’s Killer and he says it works.  I did not make this up, Jan Banyard kindly sent this article from Countryman’s Weekly, August 5, 2009.

Sunday 6^th September is the date for the South Eastern Hound Club Open Show.  This year, for the first time, it will be held at Hickstead All England Jumping Course, West Sussex BN6 9HS.  Judging Salukis will be Annette Benoit of Belgium.  After the judging there will be a bring and share lunch.  If you have entered or if you just want to come for the day please let Kathy Webb on Telephone no. 01737 353279 or Marie Bryce-Smith on  01342 327573 know what you will be bringing.  I have been told it will be a sausage roll free buffet.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEK ENDING 22^ND AUGUST 2009.

Jenny & Norman Ziman would like me to pass on their thanks to everyone that signed their “cards” at The Hound Association.  Norman is now at home recovering from his hospital stay. 

Daphne Tovey has asked me to say thanks to all those people who signed her card at Hound Association and have sent her cards at home.  Daphne is most disappointed because she has been advised by her doctors that she cannot judge at Welsh Kennel Club, as she will be starting her chemotherapy.  Daphne thanks everyone for their entry and hopes they have a good day.  Her address is Peewits, Howe Green, Sandon, Chelmsord, Essex CN2 7TQ.  We wish her good luck with her treatment. 

Many of you will remember Doreen Stansfield’s neighbour, great friend and exhibitor of Afghans, Lynda LLewellen.  For many years she was on the Committee of the South East Hound and a couple of years ago she stewarded for Doreen when she  judged at Crufts.  Last  week she attended Paignton Ch Show with her granddaughter and stayed the night with friends living in that area.    Sadly during the night Lynda had a asthma attack and  suffered a massive heart attack and died.  Our condolences to her family and  she will be missed in the canine fraternity  

Ann Blake, Chief Welfare Officer has sent the follow warning: “The travellers are showing serious interest in the breed at the moment. I have heard of a couple of incidents where owners were approached and just the other week I was advised to warn a couple that they were being watched!  We are all guilty of dropping our guard if we have been lucky enough to have not drawn unwelcome interest in our pets for some time, please give the following some thought. If you keep to a routine with regard to walking or leaving your hounds try, as far as possible, to vary the times. The heat has meant that many dogs are being walked or run late evening, it may be advisable to switch to early mornings occasionally. Likewise, if you walk the same route every day make some changes, the dogs will appreciate the new sights and smells. If when loose in the garden your dogs can go out of sight thoroughly check the area, weak and/or secluded spots will be noted by a dog thief and may even be baited for some time prior to an attempted theft.

Alan Lucas from Saluki Welfare has send the following regarding the ratification of the Welfare Accounts: “ The AGM of the Saluki Welfare Fund held on the 5^th April 2009 was, unfortunately, inquorate.  A special meeting to approve the accounts was going to be held at the SGHC Open Show, but did not take place.  It is now intended to hold this meeting at a suitable time during the Northern Saluki Club Open Show on Sunday 27^th September at Shirland Village Hall, Shirland, Derbyshire.  All Saluki Club members and Rescue owners will be most welcome.  

Everyone is invited to walk in aid of Saluki Welfare Funds on Saturday 12^th September 2009 starting from St. Peter’s Methodist Church, Riley Street, Earby (Between Colne, Lancs and Skipton, Yorks)  It is open to all Breeds, non showing and rescue Saluki owners especially welcome. For further information please contact David James Hartley on telephone 01282 842617 or email:davidjhartley@hotmail.com.  David will send or email further information.

Winners of the ballot for SGHC’s 2011 Championship Show are David Perkins will be judging bitches, Jean Watts, dogs and Daphne Tovey will do Best in Show.

Last Sunday Bournemouth Championship Show was held.  Judging Salukis was Mr Ben Beynolds-Frost.  DCC, BOB and Hound Group 4 was Marie Bryce-Smith’s Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk, JW with the RDCC to Deborah Copperthwaite’s Ch Al Caliphs Zobeyni JW.  BCC for her second CC in a week was Deborah Copperthwaite’s Al Caliphs Shushma with RBCC to Buzz Faber’s Sufeina Zarita.  Best Puppy was Annette & Brian Buckley’s Al Caliphs Djansa.  Best Breeders were Jan Banyard’s Darquells.  Well done all   After the judging, the twins, Diana Allan and Marie Bryce-Smith has a little impromptu get together to toast their birthdays with cake and nibbles.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEK ENDING 14^TH AUGUST 2009

I have been watching the Channel 5 Evening News with the blogs by Jason Farrell on the Welsh puppy farms.  It has been reported that pet shops buy in puppies from these farms for selling on to the public. In our area of the country, it seems that none of the pet store are involved, therefore it is easier to turn a blind eye as to what is actually happening elsewhere. The shop that is mentioned in the program has locations in Leeds and Manchester and is called ‘dogs4us’. On their web site one can see that they can supply puppies of 36 different breeds of dog. Formally this establishment was called Mayfield Kennels and I remember their conditions and practices were exposed several years ago. In the filming of the “farms” the conditions in which the brood bitches and puppies were kept, was just plain disgusting.  There were scenes of dogs literally going up the walls of the hovels they were confined to.  The shops that sell these puppies are equally as guilty as the people that farm the dogs.  I probably should not call them farmers as farmers have the welfare of animals at heart at these people certainly do not.  Where is the RSPCA and the Jemima Harrison’s of this world, they should be fighting to stop these breeders causing the suffering to these poor dogs? Shouldn’t they also be advising the unsuspecting purchasers who only want a dog to love and be part of their family, educating them to the reasons they should be going to specific breeders who have the welfare and future of their dogs at heart.  It has been said that the Council has approved the conditions and the RSPCA has also been complicit. To read more on this horrendous trade look at the Channel 5 web site and Jason Farrell’s blog.

Karen Fisher the web master for Saluki or Gazelle Hound Club web site has given the site a face-lift.  There are now links for email addresses for all the Committee members and officers of the club for easy contact.  Certain areas like the Secretary’s page, club events and links to shows will hopefully be kept up to date and a source of important Club information..  The address of the site remains the same http://www.salukiclub.co.uk

A couple of weeks ago Michael, Linda Scanlon from USA and I judged at the Skokloster Summer Show in Sweden.  The weather forecast for the first day was quite good but for the second day, rain was predicted.  When arriving at the show, just to make sure we were ready for any weather conditions, we asked where the wet weather facilities were located.  They laughed and asked if we had not brought rain coats?  This brings me to last Saturday and the Hound Association Championship Show.  It was raining when we left home, rained all the way to the show and rained during the complete show.  I am pleased to say the Hound Association had provided us with excellent wet weather facilities.  Our ring was of good size though a bit cramped around the outside while waiting to go in the ring, which was not a problem.  Judging our breed was Mrs Janette Cotterill with a huge entry of 101, the second best entry of the year.  BCC, BOB was Ian and Denise Rogers’ Ch Labakan Chantilly with the RBCC to Helen & Michael Williams, Rosemary Redfern and Daphne Tovey’s Kasaque Neeka.  DCC for his first CC went to Jenny and Steve Macro’s Nefisa Jeevun.  He was born on the 28^th October 2005 and his owners are his breeders.  His sire is Ch Nefisa Samr and dam, Nefisa Bahira.  RDCC was Judy & Trevor White’s Mumtaz Khamsin of Timellie JW.  Best Puppy was Denise Garratt & Sue Oakey’s Caryna Meilichia.  Best Veteran went to Cecila Andersson’s Swed, UK Ch Barakisch Niran Zorshid (imp) and Best Breeders Group was Mrs P Everton’s Kasra.  Well done all!!  At the show, cards were circulated for signing and to send best wishes  to three members of our fraternity who have not been in the best of health, they are Jenny & Norman Ziman and Daphne Tovey.

SALUKI BREED NOTES 7^TH August 2009 

We are very sorry to inform you of the death of Mrs Sonja Scase.  She became enchanted with Salukis as a young girl when she worked as a “Saturday girl” for Gwen Angel the owner of Mazuri Saluki.  From that time to now she has never been without one.  Sonja would never say “no” if she knew a Saluki needed a home.  Her husband, Jim passed away a couple of years ago.

I have received information regarding successes at Open Shows.  At the Kingston Open Show, Annette and Brian Buckley’s Mumtaz Sirocco won BOB under Paul Singleton and Hound Group 2, judged by Maggie Holder.  Sirocco also won 1^st Hound in the Special Beginners Stake and was the ultimate winner in that stake under judge Katrina De Mare.  AT that same show the Buckley’s puppy, Al Caliphs Djansa won Best Saluki Puppy and RBOB.  At Worthing Open Show, held on the previous weekend Djansa won Best Saluki Puppy and Puppy Hound Group 2.

At the Dorset County Show, Jan Banyard’s Darquell Samira won Best AVNSC and Hound Group under judge Peter Higgins.  Well done all!!

“The Saluki” the magazine of the Saluki or Gazelle Hound Club is continuing their celebration for their 40^th birthday.  There is still time to send in ads for this very memorable occasion.  For further information please contact Kathy Webb at advertising@salukimagazine.co.uk or 01737 353279.  Kathy would like me to remind those that won at the Open Show of the special opportunity and rate to have a photo of your winners included in the show write-up.

South Easter Hound Club will be holding their annual show on Sunday 6^th September at their new venue of Hickstead All England Jumping Course, West Sussex BN6 9HS.  Judging Salukis is Annette Benoit of Belguim and BIS Marie Bryce-Smith.  On line entries are available until Monday 10^th August  through Fosse Data

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 17^TH JULY 2009

Daphne Parnham has changed her email address to daphneparnham@btinternet.com. Jean Watts and her husband have moved.Their new address is The Mooring, 30 Callanish. The Isle of Lewis, HS2 9DY tel 01851621251.  In the breed notes of a couple of weeks ago we put the ownership of Labakan Lamerie as Ian and Denise Rogers that should have included Jean Watt’s name  also an owner.

Marie Bryce-Smith has informed me that there will be a silent auction at the SGHC Championship Show which will be held on the 1^st November.  Please let Marie know if you have something you are willing to put into the auction.  Items need not be a Saluki or even a doggy item as last time the hot item was a Christmas cake.  Funds will go towards the Heart testing and the Club’s “90^th” birthday which is not far off.

Blackpool Championship show had an excellent entry for Dr Goran Bodegard of Sweden to judge. BCC, BOB was our own newly crowned Caspians L’aliq Avec Kasaque with the RBCC, to the winner of puppy, Denise Garratt and Sue Oakey’s Caryna Meilichia who was also Best Puppy.  DCC for his second CC went to Marie Bryce Smith’s Fargaze Persian Punch of Saruk with the RDCC to Trevor & Judy White’s Mumtaz Khamsin of Timellie JW.  Best Breeder’s Group was Garratts.

Last Friday was Windsor Championship Show with our judge Frank Farrar back from the USA.  As he has been living in the States for a while now it wil be interesting to read his comments on how he perceives the state of our breed. He had an excellent entry.  DCC, BOB was M S Steer, Mrs H Graham and Mrs F Zampini’s Ch Daxlore Amir of Fernlark with the DRCC to Mr K & Mrs SA Shakespeare’s Chisobee Llywelyn Wyr O Hali of Cairdean.  DCC for her 1^st CC was Miss S Oakey & Mrs D Garratt’s Caryna Calisto.She was born on 14^th July 2004 and her breeder is Mrs D Garratt.  Her sire is Ch Mabrooka Jayid and dam Ch Caryna Hera JW. RBCC went to Mrs SE Bounds Bedu Delphine of Alsahra.  Best Puppy was Mr & Mrs Owen’s Caryna Curetes and Best Veteran was Ms C Andersson’s Swedish and UK Ch Barakisch Niran Xorshid.  Best Breeders Group was Williams.  Well done all!

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 12^TH JUNE 2009

Annette Buckley sent sent the follow to us “Last Thursday, 28^th May, Brian and I attended the Suffolk Agricultural Association Two Day Open Show at Trinity Park, Ipswich.  Mumtaz Sirocco won Best in Hound Group under Peter Jolley from his winning Saluki BOB under judge Caroline Sheppard (Goldswift) from 1^st in Open Class.  Our seven month puppy, Al Caliphs Djansa won Saluki Best Puppy and 4^th in Puppy Hound Group.   We were lucky that the weather held out on the second day of the Show, as the previous day the exhibitors experienced wind and heavy rain causing a lot of confusion and difficulties all round.  I forgot to let you know also that Sirocco won Best Hound at the Tunbridge Wells Open Show at the end of March under judge Mrs Jackie White (Baldrey).” 

I have received a copy of The Kennel Club’s Breed Records Supplement from January to March 2009. During that time there were three litters of Salukis registered totalling  21 puppies.  Last year at that same period there were 35 puppies registered.  One importation of Hisilome’s I am iceman Med Cranstal owned by Mr P & Mrs A Shimmin, origin Sweden.  One export to Belgium, Charrioak Australis and one Show Certificate of Merit to Tadj Mahal Emraniizan (imp Bel) owner Mrs C Chryssolor.

The honeybees at our house have been working hard this spring and we have some honey available at this time.  The price is £3.00 a jar.  If anyone would like us to take a jar to a show for them, please contact us at kasaque@aol.com or call 01635 268269.  All money goes to Jackie the hard working bee keeper. 

BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 5th JUNE 2009

Show Manager for the SGHC, Brendan Austin has sent the following regarding the upcoming Open Show:  “The SGHC Open Show will take place at the Dobermann Club Showground on Sunday 21^st June.  The show will open at 9.00am. Pamela Hargreaves will commence the dog judging at 10.00am and the bitches will follow with Dibby Derfield.  Our Referee is Ann Barrett.  The entries are as follows, dogs 42, entries 63; bitches 42, entries 50, NFC 17. 

This showground has limited wet weather accommodation, although the ring is under a large marquee.  Teas, coffees, soft drinks and cakes will be available all day.  During the lunch break there will be a Rescue Parade and the Junior Handling Competition.  There will also be a ballot for the 2010 Saluki Calendar.”  He also states “As a final reminder for those who have photos for  the 2010 Calendar to send them ‘post haste’  to Brendan G Austin,  103 Vicarage Road,  Sunbury on Thames TW16 7QB.  You can email jpegs to brendangaustin@aol.com The closing date for entries is 14^th June.  If you have any questions please telephone Brendan on 01932 788 040 and leave a message.  Will members please make sure that they take all there rubbish home as there are no refuge facilities at this ground.  Directions to the venue are on the back of the schedule.  If you have any questions then please telephone Brendan on 01932 788 040.  SHOW DAY EMERGENCY MOBILE NUMBER 07956 63 00 94.  ”

PRO, Marie Bryce Smith has sent the following on behalf of the Committee “The Committee have been requested to respectfully remind our members that all dogs taken into Kennel Club registered shows must be entered at that show, either for competition or ‘not for competition’.  There are a few exceptions; companion dog shows which you can enter on the day, guide dogs, etc.  If you do take an un-entered dog onto the designated show area the society could be fined by the Kennel Club.  This would be most unfair to the Society and could bring the SGHC into disrepute.  Your cooperation in this matter would be appreciated. “ 

Last  Monday, it was the turn of Bath Championship Show.  Salukis were scheduled  but without Challenge Certificates.  Our judge was Miss Cecilia  Andersson. BOB, BD and Hound Group 4 was Mrs D Copperthwaite’s Ch Al Caliphs Zobeyni JW with the RBD to Mrs P Carnell’s Darquel Imad TAF.BB went to Mrs D Copperthwaite’s Al Caliphs Nephele with the RBB to our own Ch Kasaque Luzhana JW.  Best Puppy was Mr M McCormick Smith’s Glenoak Juda.  Well done all.

We have received notification that there will soon be a new Saluki magazine but this one will be on the Web.  It will be called “Saluki Insights” and it being compiled in Australia by Paula Brockman-Chato and Yvonne Griffin.  The first edition will be going live in July 2009.  For further information on subscriptions, editorial and advertisement rates please refer to their web : http://www.salukiinsights.com/

Helen Williams

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 29^TH MAY 2009

Alan Lucas has sent the following on behalf of Saluki Welfare “The Saluki Welfare Fund, held on the 5^th April 2009, was unfortunately, inquorate.  It is therefore intended to approve the accounts during a special meeting to be held at the SGHC Open Show, The Dobermann Club Training and Showground, Hertford Road, Digswell, Hertfordshire, AL6 0BU on the 21^st June 2009.  The timing of the meeting will be arranged on the day to fit in with the running of the show, probably during the lunch break.  Club members and rescue owners are welcome to attend. Any planned outdoor event is to some extent weather dependant and the forecast for the Saluki Welfare Picnic and Fun Day on the 16^th May was for heavy showers, strong winds and sunny spells, which proved pretty accurate.

The lure course and equipment was set up early and most dogs that took part seemed to enjoy their run and followed the lure with great enthusiasm and purpose.  Unfortunately, the available field was somewhat remote and down a long track, which for many proved difficult to find and delayed some people in arriving.  A crowd however, had gathered by the time of the picnic, for which there was a selection of food to choose from, followed by a lively auction of interesting items that were keenly sought after.  The afternoon Fun Dog Show was most entertaining and in particular, the Fancy Dress entrants, who all excelled themselves.  The day finished with some more lure coursing for any dogs wanting further exercise.  A big thank you to all those who organised or helped out on the day and to those who came along and supported it, plus of course the dogs – not only salukis – who had a good day out.”

Last Saturday the Scottish Kennel Club held their Championship Show.  Our judge was Miss Jenny Startup. BOB, DCC went to Mrs M. Bryce-Smith’s Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk, JW with the RDCC to Caryna Baccus of Ilsham owned by Mrs B. Payne.  BCC was our own Ch Kasaque Luzhana JW with the RBCC to Barakishch Qashang Axtar (Imp Sweden) owned by Mr P Ash.  Best Puppy was Chisobee Jared owned by  the Tompkin, Thorsteinson & Pass partnership. Bushrah was later short -listed in the Hound Group.

As summer is just around the corner, hopefully, and with summer comes the flea season, especially if we have a hot and dry summer as predicted by the weathermen.  For this reason I have decided to reprint the “Natural Flea Spray”  Take a BIG fat lemon (the more rind the better) and slice it paper thin.  Place it in a bowl with a tablespoon of crushed rosemary leaves (or a 6 inch sprig of fresh)  Pour a quart of hot, near boiling water over the lemon/rosemary mixture and let steep overnight.  Strain and put into a large spray bottle.  Keep in fridge.  Shape well before applying.  The d-lemeone in this spray along with the rosemary oil will give your dog a beautiful shinny coat and keep fleas and other bugs away.

Marie Bryce-Smith, acting PRO for SGHC has asked me to pass the following on behalf of the Committee.(1) In the Open Show Schedule it stated that the Championship Show would be held on Saturday, 1^st November.  This is incorrect as it will be on Sunday, 1^st November 2009. (2) Investigation into DNA for brindling is being spearheaded by Peter Yardley.  There is no quick fix but it is a long term project.  The Committee will keep the membership informed of any development.(3) We would like to inform membership that heart testing at the Championship Show For SGHC members will be free, non members will be charged.  (4) The Club would like donations of cakes for the Open Show.

Helen Williams

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 23^RD MAY 2009

Regarding my comments last week about letting me know about Saluki wins at Open Show or Championship Shows, Heather Naylor-Fibbens contacted me about her late husband’s dog,  Lusaki Ya Yusef.  “Peter had already entered him into Chelmsford CS Open Show at Towerlands Equestrian Centre, which is not far from me. On an impulse I decided to take Yusef along.  It was our first time out, since losing Peter and Yusef, who had been very depressed, needed some special attention. Our Breed Judge was to have been Nina Baxter but, as she had hurt a knee, she could not attend.  Instead we had Carlos Saevich, who is Spanish I believe, and no one seemed to know who he was except the he was also judging other Hounds and Best in Show. Initially, Yusef suffered so much anxiety without his own handler that I began to think it had been a mistake to bring him.  However, once in the ring he certainly recovered himself, perked up and went on to win BOB from being placed first in Open Class and then second in the Hound Group.  I'm so glad to say the experience has had a lasting effect and restored much of his lovely Saluki spirit. Needles to say the other Saluki owners there were wonderfully supportive and pleased for us and my special thanks are due to them. “  Heather would also like to add her appreciation to all the Saluki fraternity who wrote to her following Peter’s sudden death.  She went on to say that those letters and cards did meal a great deal to her.

Last Thursday, Birmingham National held their Championship Show.  We were third in the ring so it was a very long day indeed.  The Saluki Best of Breed winner just made it to the Hound Group Ring in the nick of time.  Our judge was Mrs Liz Stephen.  Two new Champions emerged on the Day.  DCC, BOB was Mr & Mrs D Stuart and Mrs D Garratt’s Caryna Zazma, who was later pulled out in the Group.  He was born 14^th July 2004 and his breeder is Mrs D.L. Garratt.  His sire is Ch  Mabrooka Jayid and dam Ch Caryna Hera JW.  RDCC went to Mrs S Steer’s Fernlark Alsace JW.  BCC went to our own Caspians L’aliq Avec Kasaque.  Lalique is  the first new “smooth” champion for eleven years.  She was born on the 28^th February 2004 and her breeders are Mr & Mrs M Oakley.  Her sire is Int. Ch Arab Bahri’s Shaahin Taali and dam, Bedu L’eghypthe of Caspians.  RBCC went to Mrs K Webb and Mrs D Copperthwaite’s Al Caliphs Nuray.  Best puppy was Mr & Mrs A Bloomfield’s Glenoak Jabari. Congratulations to Mrs M Bryce-Smith’s Ch Nefsa Bushrah of Saruk JW on winning the Veteran Stake.  

Along with making up our first smooth Saluki Champion, we received notification that Lalique’s smooth son, Kasaque Nappanu, owned by Gunter and Jutter Kolewe, has qualified for his German Junior Championship.  Well done to him.  

As our household has been very busy this spring, with guests, I have not had a chance to comment on “The Saluki, Crufts Edition 2009” which is the  publication of The Saluki or Gazelle Hound Club.  With many of the breed magazines ceasing to exist,  it’s all the more rewarding that our Club magazine has gone from strength to strength under the editorship of Karen Fisher and her Committee.

Perhaps I should credit all the contributors in equal measure, for without them there would be no publication.  One area I would like to point out, is the advertisements. All the ads are of  good quality particularly with regard to their photographs.  Perhaps that can be credited to the age of the digital camera.  That put aside advertising your wins, your future plans  or just providing a pretty picture it is all making the magazine a compilation of the history of Salukis and is as important as the articles..

Reading the article on the Length of the Saluki Tail by Karen fisher was very interesting.  I was unaware that there were strains of Salukis with shorter tails. When discussing tails and lengths, Hope Waters would say that a long Saluki tail and ear leathers are a sign of great quality.  I must admit I have always subscribed to those pearls of wisdom. They are all component of what makes a Salukis.  Another article, was reflections on the 1^st issue of the Saluki compiled by Malcolm and June Burt.  The First issue a statement by the then president of SGHC, Hilda Parkhouse  wished June and Malcolm good luck and asked for news and pictures for future editions.  Maybe they had to struggle in those days just as much as today convincing people to sit down and write.  To obtain copies or for advertising please contact Val Prior at email address sales@saluki magazine.co.uk

Helen Williams

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 15^TH MAY 2009

“A reminder that the Saluki Welfare Fun Day is on Saturday 16^th May at Falklands Farm, Wash Common, near Newbury, just off the A34 carriageway, starting about 11.00 am.  There will be lure coursing, a ‘bring and share’ picnic, fun dog show, plus stalls and an auction.  Soft drinks can be provided, but you will need to bring a flask of tea/coffee.  One of the show classes will be Fancy Dress, so be prepared!  You may like to bring some shade or shelter, depending on the weather.  For details of the ‘bring and share’ picnic, phone Nicola Quadling (020 8590 8457), lure coursing Alison Crane (01725 518790), other enquiries to Elaine Rushton (01442 211684) or Ann Blake (01727 826944).  Everyone is most welcome to come along, so bring your chairs and make it a day out.”

The Saluki 2010 Calendar Competition:

The Saluki or Gazelle Hound Club is holding its annual photographic competition for The Saluki 2010 Calendar, on Sunday 21^st June 2009, at The Dobermann Club, Didswell  in conjunction with the Open Show.  Judging for the competition will be by public ballot on this day.

 Entries are FREE and you may enter as many photographs as you wish.  Photographs should be no larger than A5 size please (approx 6x8”).  They may be in black and white or colour.  They should be of a reproducible quality.  Entries should have a SAE for the safe return of your photographs. 

The calendar will include photographs from the following categories: In Action,  About Town,  Head Study,  Puppy (ies),  Born Free,  Just Relaxing,  With Friends,  Rescue dog or bitch,  Anything Goes,  Festive Spirit (for December).  The Calendar will also include studies of the Best Dog and Best Bitch. Please send your entries to arrive no later than 14^th  June to:Brendan Austin,103 Vicarage Road,Sunbury on Thames,Middlesex TW16 7QB Entries maybe submitted by email to brendangaustin@aol.com (jpeg image preferred).  Please include on a separate page all the information from the entry form below.  I will then print your entries for you.The entrant (i.e. the person who submits the photographs), must have permission if chosen, of the photograph and the dog(s) to have the photo printed in the calendar, (if you are not the owner of the photograph).  If a chosen photograph is not of reproduction quality then the next winning photograph will be used.  The organisers’ decision is final. Please attach to each photograph a note, stating which category the picture is entered, also any information that is known. i.e. the name of the dog(s), names of any people who also appear and when and where it was taken. Also if you have any good doggie quotes, please send them to Brendan. 

. Saluki: The Desert Hound and the English Travelers Who Brought it to the West by Brian Patrick Duggan is now available!! Brian said he has not actually had his own copy but has been told that it is on the bookshelves in some parts of the USA. It can be obtained here through Amazon.

You can keep up to date with the fires on this site. Fires closest to us is listed as Kilmore East-Murrindindi Complex South Fire.

http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/incidents/incident_updates.htm#1478303658959 “

The critique for 2006 Southern Counties Saluki judging is now on Higham Press web site. For quick access please go to http://www.dog.biz/cgi-bin/JudgingCritiques.cgi?strFunction=Display&ID=522.

In last week’s Breed Notes we published the criteria for the New Breeder’s Competition. Debbie Copperthwaite has kindly contacted us to say that is not entirely correct. Debbie has quoted from the new update on the website http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/1983 . She has pointed out the second paragraph from the KC site, which appears to be in a question and answer format, which is of interest and may cause some thought before entering the competition.

Ann Birrell has let me know that she still has copies of the various ‘Books of Saluki Champions‘. The first book is virtually unobtainable unless you can find it second hand. The rest of the books are priced at £10.00 except for the latest which is £15.00. For anyone wishing to purchases a set they will get the Blue Book (1981-1985) free otherwise Ann is selling it for £3.00 or £4.00. Unfortunately, because of an undiagnosed knee injury, Ann will be unable to attend Crufts. Her email address is annbirrell@hotmail.co.uk

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 6^TH FEBRUARY 2009

SGHC Limited show will be held on Sunday March 1^st at Steventon Village Hall.  Entries are as below. Daphne Tovey will be bring DNA kits from The Animal Health Trust. As previously mentioned in the Newsletter, The Animal Health Trust has agreed to maintain a Saluki DNA Database which will enable them to undertake research into problems we may encounter in the future. It is important that we build up a strong Database including all our Salukis. A swab kit can be obtained at the Limit Show for £5.00 but to make sure you can obtain one we suggest you contact Daphne on 01245 472692 or email tovey@peewits.fsnet.co.uk Daphne Tovey PRO for the SGHC has sent the following: “The entries for the SGHC Limited Show are as follows:- 41 dogs making 47 entries plus 20 NFC which is quite a good entry. We look forward to seeing you there.”

Brendan Austin has sent the following regarding the new Breeders Competition that started at Manchester. “At Manchester this year the Kennel Club launched the new Breeders’ Competition. There are full details on http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/1961 To précis an enormous amount of procedures; the competition is open to UK breeders at ALL Championship Shows, including shows without cc’s. Judging will take place immediately after Best of Breed and Best Puppy have been declared. There is no fee and you enter on the day with the Ring Steward.

The criteria is that all dogs to be bred by the same breeder or breeder partnership. No combinations of different breeders are permitted. You must also have 4 dogs in a team, and all bred by the same person(s), at any one show. You can change the teams from one show to another providing they are bred as above. Naturally, 4 dogs need 4 handlers and you must have consent from the owner to have the dog as part of your team.

You are awarded points; 1 for Best Breeder in Breed; 4 for Best Breeder in Group; 3 for 2^nd place in Group; 2 for 3^rd place in Group; and 1 point for 4^th place in Group. Once you have reached 20 points then you are exempt from further competitions and go through to the final at Crufts 2010. There may be a need for semi finals.

To take part you need a Record Book (£1.50) from the KC, 0870 606 6750 ext 278, or online from the KC Shop. There is a limited supply from the Secretaries at General and Group Championship Shows.The SGHC will hold its Breeders Competition at this years Championship Show in accordance with the guidelines set out by the KC. “

Helen Williams

SOUTHERN COUNTIES C.A. 2^nd 3^rd & 4^th JUNE 200

Best of Breed & Dog CC: Mrs M Bryce-Smith Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk JW

Res Dog CC: Dr J Hudson Mrs E Hudson Glenoak Inqi JW

Bitch CC: Mrs A Faber Ch Sufeina Pastel JW

Res Bitch CC: Miss S Harms-Cooke Ch Mumtaz Greta Garbo of Timellie

Best Puppy: Miss S Harms-Cooke Mumtaz Khamsin of Timellie

Minor Puppy Dog (3 entries) Abs 0

1^st Mr S J & Mrs J M Macro’s Nefisa Jeevun: Smart puppy with good topline everything is in place but needs time to grow into his body.

2^nd Mr K Ham, Mrs A Hadfield’s Bamjoeh Al Fea; Cream dog with good reach of neck, correctly angulated, elegant head

3^rd Miss B Biggs, Miss N Quadling’s Kasra Tareef with MalenkhaiPuppy Dog (6 entries) Abs 1

1^st Miss S Harms-Cooke’s Mumtaz Khamsin of Timellie: Strongly built red dog everything flows correctly from neck to tail, moved effortlessly

2^nd Mr B & Mrs A Buckley’s Mumtaz Sirocco: Cream puppy less mature than one, but we all grow at different rates don’t we.

3^rd Mr P Naylor – Fibbens’ Lusaki Ya YusefJunior Dog (2 entries ) Abs 0

1^st Mr B & Mrs A Buckley Mumtaz Sirocco

2^nd Mr P Naylor – Fibbens Lusaki Ya YusefYearling Dog (1 entries) Abs 0

1^st Ms S A Steer’s Fernlark Midori: Red & white parti, good reach of neck, topline and angulation.

Graduate Dog (3 entries) Abs 1

1^st Ms S A Steer Fernlark Midori

2^nd Mr P R & Mrs E A Kelly’s Indira Bahraini Bey Del Sharjar: Cream dog feeling the heat so did not do himself justicePost Graduate Dog (5 entries) Abs2

1^st Ms S A Steer’s Daxlore Bishir of Fernlark: Mature looking dog angulation at rear really good.

2^nd Mrs C Cargill’s Hadiyyah Najeeb: Red and white parti, classic head well filled in chest

3^rd Mrs C Jeffery’s Bamjoeh Baleno von KhrisjanLimit Dog (8 entries) Abs 0

1^st Mrs V & Mr T Prior’s Cranstal Quema: This is a mature looking red; everything about him was correct neck flowing into topline and good angulation, moved with great freedom

2^nd Ms S A Steer’s Daxlore Amir of Fernlark: Cream dog rather flat topline but good front

3^rd Mr N F & Mrs D F Tovey Caspians Lancelot of TirzahOpen Dog (6 entries) Abs 0

1^st Mrs M Bryce-Smith’s Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk JW: This is a handsome dog good depth of brisket classic head and moved with great enthusiasm

2^nd Dr J Hudson Mrs E Hudson’s Glenoak Inqi JW:Such a handsome boy everything where it should be, moved with freedom. If there had been a prize for temperament this dog would have won he never flinched when a loose Basset appeared in the ring.

3^rd Mr & Mrs Tovey & Mr & Mrs Williams’ Kasaque Jimna Sh.CMVeteranDog/Bitch (5 entries) Abs 1

1^st 4 Mrs K Webb’s Manzemar Mahdi: Still a fit dog long neck flowing into good topline, good tailset, moved strongly.

2^nd Mr S J & Mrs J M Macro’s Ch Nefisa Samr: Very hard to choose between one & two – one won out on movement.

3^rd Mrs D F Tovey’s Kasaque Imran

Minor Puppy Bitch (7 entries) Abs 0

1^st Mr M J & Mrs S M Oakley’s Bedu Amelie Caspians: Pretty puppy good neck brisket and angulation but has a bit of maturing to do

2^nd Mr D R & Mrs P Everton’s Kasra Tabina: Such a pretty red in lovely condition good neck and depth of brisket moved well covering the ground

3^rd Dr J Hudson Mrs E Hudson’s Kasra Tahira Glenoak

Puppy Bitch (5 entries) Abs 0

1^st Mr A Rawson’s Mumtaz Monsoon: Beautiful puppy good front not always a plus with many Salukis moved well

2^nd Mr M J & Mrs S M Oakley’s Bedu Amelie Caspians

3^rd Dr J Hudson Mrs E Hudson’s Kasra Tahira Glenoak

Junior Bitch (2 entries) Abs0

1^st Mrs M E Parker’s Khalils Phaedra of Classicus (imp Swe): What a stunning bitch everything in the right place from the tip of her nose to the end of her tail, moved effortlessly and I am sure will go places.

2^nd Mr A Rawson’s Mumtaz Monsoon

Yearling Bitch (2 entries) Abs 0

1^st Mr A E & Mrs E A Quick’s Daxlore Calisha at Jorjenjo: Red and white parti – classic head good reach of neck, has to mature

2^nd Ms S A Steer’s Fernlark CointreauGraduate Bitch (4 entries) Abs 1

1^st Mr C M & Mrs H V Williams’ Caspians L’aliq avec Kasaque: Smooths should look like feathered with the hair but sadly they do not always do, but this pretty girl did, lovely topline & front

2^nd Ms S A Steer’s Fernlark Cointreau

3^rd Mrs J Banyard’s Kasaque Laila

Post Graduate Bitch (7 entries) Abs 1

1^st Mr N & Mrs E S Stanmore’s Cottonore Savannah at Altaya: Well feathered cream, good neck, depth of brisket and moved well.

2^nd Mr C M & Mrs H V Williams’s Kasaque Luzhana JW: Slighter built then one which made her look less mature. Moved well and I am sure will mature into a good bitch.

3rs Miss S Harms-Cooke’s Sufeina Parador of TimellieLimit Bitch (9 entries) Abs 1

1^st Mrs F J Minns’ Sufeina Phantom JW: This is the sort of Saluki bitch I admire, everything where it should be, looking like a good huntress and mother, moved strongly.

2^nd Mr D R & Mrs P Everton’s Kasra Nadirah: Another classic bitch, these are the type we should be breeding hard to choose between one and two, one won out on movement

3^rd Mrs E A Macdonald Mabrooka JaninaOpen Bitch (8 entries) Abs 1

1^st Mrs A Faber’s Ch Sufeina Pastel JW: Bitch I have admired for a long time, lovely topline & depth of brisket. moved well.

2^nd Miss S Harms-Cooke’s Ch Mumtaz Greta Garbo of Timellie: Red and white parti colour, not as flowing in movement as one

3^rd Mr C M & Mrs H V Williams’ Kasaque Jarvah

I felt very lucky to go over a lot of Salukis who fit the standard and although we do have problems with breeding what I consider dogs who do not look like the early Salukis, things are not as dire as some would have us believe. Study the Book of Champions.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 16^TH JANUARY 2009

On Monday 29^th December we attended the service and cremation for Sylvia Harms-Cooke. It was a very cold and damp day, as seems to be usual for funerals but the chapel was full of family friends and colleagues. When leaving the chapel there was a collection plate with contributions to be sent to Saluki Welfare. For anyone wanting to send further donations, they can be sent to Daphne Parnham, South Green, Maldon Road, Steeple, Essex CM0 7RT. We have been asked to include an address for cards to be sent, which is Mrs A Faber, Monks Meadow, Ireley, Winchcombe, Glos GL54 5PA.

On behalf of Buzz, her sisters and the entire family we would like to thank everyone for the kind cards and messages sent to them. They have been very much appreciated at this difficult time.

LKA seems such a long time ago, now but hopefully not too long ago for the results. The judge was Mrs Pauline Kendall and they are as follows: DCC, BOB Mesdames F. Zampini, H. Graham, S. Streer’s Daxlore Amir of Fernlark. RDCC Mrs Deborah Copperthwaite’s Ch Al Caliphs Zobeyni, JW. BCC, Mrs Mary Parker’s Khalils Rana Of Classicus (Imp) Sh.CM with the RBCC to Mr Don & Mrs Pauline Everton’s Kasra Tabina. Best Puppy was Heather Naylor-Fibbens’ Lusaki Zai Za’Faraan. Well done all!!

A reminder for the SGHC Limited Show. It will be held on Sunday 1^st March 2009 at Steventon Village Hall, The Green Abington, Oxon 0X13 6AA. Entries close on Tuesday 20^th January (first class post). The judge is Mr T McCrory. For further information please contact the Show Manager Mrs Diana Allan on Tel 01234 708658. Catering will be provided by Brenden Austin.

Helen Williams