SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 13^TH JANUARY 2012

With the holidays now over, the deadlines for Breed Notes is back to normal.  During the holidays even though we are given deadlines, I seem to be always chasing my tail.  This Christmas we received some interesting notes from past people who have been involved with Salukis.  The first one came from Avril Davies.  Most people in the breed today may not remember Avril, while she actively exhibited and coursed under the Aliped affix. Now we only see her name occasionally, when she judges our breed.  Avril has sent the following note: .  I have been keeping up to date with the Saluki world via “Our Dogs”  and have been meaning to write for yonks   I am back in the show ring with two Papillons and two Chinese Cresties - Hairless.   I  will have a Pap at Crufts.   Wish I had had the Cresties years ago, they are obviously in the wrong group as they are like little miniature sight hounds, and so Saluki like.   I have linked up again with Jim Hall, Donsal Salukis, who left Salukis for Cresties and made up several champions, including some that are breed record holders.   He has been unwell for a while having suffered a small stroke, and recently moved himself into sheltered accomodation. He is without a dog at present although has a hankering for a Chihuahua.  I am not able to have large dogs again, as my illness a few years ago knocked all the stuffing out of me, so the littlies are all I can manage.  Unfortunately it is not often Hounds and Toys get together on the same day so I rarely get to catch up with everyone, but at least the Aliped prefix is back in the ring.   Spoke to Janet Bullock over Christmas and she is Saluki-less now.”

On a sad note we heard from Sue Allan that she had lost her husband Tony on the 27^th December.  Right now she is without a Saluki and feels that when she has sorted her life out again, she may have another one.

Charles and Patricia Alexander have also written from Bellingham Washington USA.  Many of the older exhibiters will remember them from their trips over here in the 70s and 80s, though lesser of late. They were very much involved in coursing in the States and had stock that descended from Ch Yazid Burydown Yehudi.  While they no longer have Salukis, they are not taking it easy. They said in their card that they have been retired for three year so have been travelling by car to the far north.  This includes, Canada, Alaska and the Artic Circle.  They have written a book about their experiences which is entitled “Northern Sights”

I would like to think everyone has read about the plight of the missing Tibetan Spaniels from near Didcot in Oxfordshire. At the same time I read that the government is giving planning permission for new sites for travellers.  We live in constant fear that we may just turn out back for five minutes and these travellers from local sites will take our dogs as they have in the past. One feels they may strike again at any time. The owners of the ‘Tibetans’ made the mistake of putting their dogs out in their own garden. They were exercising their right to relax and feel secure, they were not imposing on anyone and these thieves went in to their garden and stole their dogs.  When the government makes laws to help improve the civil liberties of travellers, these poor hard done to people, maybe they should think about the rights of the dog owner also. We do not suggest that all travellers are the same but there is certainly an element within that community who feel that our property is available for them to take. All the dogs that have currently been found were located on static traveller sites. Is that simply a coincidence?  Maybe next time our dogs go “missing” we should either go to Whitehall or the home of our local MP and ask about our rights.

SALUKI BREED NOTES 7^th January 2012

Annette Buckley has requested on behalf of the Committee that help is needed for refreshments at the Limited Show on  19^th February, 2012,  as part of a team, giving about an hour behind the kitchen counter serving hot drinks and cold snacks.  They also need someone to make up bacon butties in breakfast baps for sale between 9.30am and 11.00am as these are always very popular.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 7^TH JANUARY, 2012.

Happy New Year.  We have downloaded our copy of the December Newsletter for The Northern Saluki Club.  Their Championship Show will be held on Saturday 21^st April at the Sharley Park Leisure Centre, Nr Clay Cross, Derby.  Judging will be Ann Jones (Clearwing).    On Sunday 22^nd April the NSC will be holding a judging seminar.  For further information an/or to enrol contact Andrew Sharp at northernsalukiclub@sky.com  For the first time in many years the NSC will be accepting nominations for judges for their Championship Shows.  Please if you would like to put your name or someone else’s name forward and they are on the Club’s judging list, send it to Andrew at the address above.  Nominations will be for the 2014 show. Adverts for the NSC Yearbook are £10.00 for a full page and £5.00 for half.  Cheques in payment should be sent with copy to be included to Beryl Payne no later than 15^th January 2012.

Schedules are now available for the SGHC’s Members’ Limited Show which will be held on 19^th February 2012 at Steventon Village Hall, the Green, Steventon, Abingdon, Oxon OX13 6AA.  Entries close on Monday 16^th January, 2012.  For further information please contact Mrs Annette Buckley on tel. 01424 830361.

We have also received our copy of the SGHC Newsletter.  Please remember to fill in the form on the back page regarding receiving Newsletters in the future as the Club would like to go paperless to a greater degree in the future.  There are three options, 1, receiving an email which can be downloaded in a similar fashion to the NSC Newsletter.  Option 2, to go on a Members only page, using log-in on the SGHC Website or 3, have the Newsletter come through the post.  In the last Committee meeting of the SGHC ideas were put forward for interesting activities in which Salukis and their owners could participate.  Some of the ideas put forward is involvement in lure trials, country walks and other social events.  Please, if anyone has any ideas please contact the secretary of SGHC, Ken Allan on 01234 708658 or email: jazirat@btinternet.com.   

Please remember dues are due for both Clubs.

 Michael McCormick Smith has contacted us to say “ we’ve just received confirmation from the KC that our Mumtaz Zephyr has been awarded his ShCM.  Well don

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 17^TH DECEMBER 2011

Yesterday we attended the last Championship Show of 2011.  It was a well run show but lacked the magic of the old days with everyone having parties and celebrating the festive season.  It is a pity that we cannot bring some of that old spirit back into the day.  One of the important items that I heard discussed at ring side, was “Crufts,” as Christmas is the time we have to get those entries in, if we plan to attend.  The Kennel Club had their stand there but I understand that people wanting Schedules, unless they obtained them very early in the morning, we unable to pick them up.  As one person stated the schedules were supposed to be available at LKA, we had been advised by the KC that this would be the case.  I know of at least one colleague who is not on the computer and finds purchasing two envelopes and sending them to the KC, in the hope that they will send a schedule, rather trying.  Michael has cleverly compared it to Amazon deciding to do business without paying their internet subscription.

With Crufts around the corner, this is a short reminder that advertisements for the Crufts issue of “The Saluki” are soon due. Kathy Webb would like me to remind everyone to start shooting those lovely photos for the next issue. Deadline for ads for the 2012 Crufts issue of the Saluki is 31^st December 2011. To reserve a page please ring Kathy on 01737 353279 or email advertising@salukimagazine.co.uk Editorial  closing date is the same, Also Karen Fisher, magazine editor, is more than pleased to receive interesting articles so please, if you have an idea and would like to write about it, contact Karen on 01279 833855 or email editor@salukimagazine.co.uk

The SGHC Committee needs more committee members so please if you have time available for our breed and would like to join the Committee contact Ken Allan on 01234 708658.  He will let you know what joining the Committee entails. You never know you might just find the experience rewarding!!

Results of LKA, judge Graham Hill, are as follows:  BCC, BOB was our own Ch Kasaque Miracle who was pulled out in the Group but not placed.  RBCC went to Lisa & John Hudson’s Genoak Kamala JW.  DCC for his third and qualifying CC went to the partnership of the Hams, Mrs Bockman-Chato and Mrs Elliot-Ross’ Baghdad Karim (imp)  He was born on the 13^th December 2007 and his breeder is Mrs P Bockman-Chato.  His sire is Int & Aust Ch Baghdad Creme De La Creme and dam Aust Ch Jaejaan Erin Brokovitch.  RDCC went to the SheryL Steer and  John & Lorraine Fitzgerald’s Jorjenjo Mirzam of Fernlark JW.  Best Veteran was Allan Berkenshaw and Gloria Cook’s Daxlore Daisiemae Sh. CM.  No puppies entered.  Best Breeders Group and 3^rd in Breeders’ Hound Group were the Hudson’s .  Well done all!!

Saluki Breed Notes for week ending 2nd December 2011

For no particular reason we have visited a couple of galleries recently and as you might guess spent some time looking for Saluki’s in art. The exhibition at the Sladmore Gallery in Jermyn Street has several works depicting sight hounds and in particular whippets and greyhounds. These were of some interest but we were disappointed that there was nothing exhibited with a Saluki included.

Great Grooms of Hungerford is a antique and fine art gallery that is housed within a Queen Anne town house. The deeds to the property dated 1713 is prominently displayed in the reception area. While browsing we found a painting by John Haywood (1936-1989) depicting an Arab Sheikh with his Saluki carrying a hare. The work is gouache on canvas and measures 46cm x 77cm. The provenance shows Lord Kimberley from Mathaf Gallery London. The painting is notable more for the typical aspect of the Saluki and owner. The Sheikh is attempting to tempt the Saluki to exchange the hare for some form of titbit and the Saluki looks totally unconvinced that it will accept the deal.

The usual procedure for entering Championship Dog Shows has been for the show society to send out a schedule to previous exhibitors and distribute others to dog clubs, ringcraft groups and other dogs shows prior to the event. Upon receiving a schedule one can decide whether to enter on-line or by sending a completed entry form, included in the schedule, by post to the show society. We are advised that Crufts 2012 will not be following this practice, although we only learned of this when speaking to colleagues at a luncheon party. It seems that one must look on the Fosse Data website and look for the Crufts information, find the relevant form and complete it on-line.  Alternatively, one must send a Stamped Addressed Envelope to the Kennel Club requesting that they send you a printed schedule. One must then pay postage a second time when sending the completed schedule to Fosse Data or whom ever is receiving entries for the Show.  One questions why this has been introduced? Is it financial? How is it going to be publicised so anyone wishing to enter will know how to proceed?  Any feedback would be appreciated and we will put any useful information in subsequent breed notes.

We have received a note from Anji Jackson-Main which is actually a thank you note to those who helped make the recent discover dogs Saluki exhibit a success. It seems that the upgraded stand with new graphics and literature is a great improvement, was noticed by those visiting the stand as well as the representatives from the Kennel Club who sent their thanks and appreciation. So we feel we should add our message of thanks to Anji, Ken for his help with the graphics as well as Peter Jackson Main and those that helped on the day for contributing to the success and presenting our breed in a positive light. 

Saluki Breed Notes for week –ending 26^th November 2011

Last week we reported that John Harmer has died following an extended illness. Sheila has written the following about John, his love of Salukis and his other interests, for which we thank her very much. We also send her our condolences in the knowledge that we are thinking of her at this sad time.

“John Harmer: Dogs have always been part of John’s life – his father, an army major, had Springer Spaniels, and then later on the family had Cairn Terriers.

Age 18 John joined the RAF and for a large part of his time served at RAF Changhi, Singapore, and was stationed on the Malaysian island of Car Nicobar which he loved.  He was part of the RAF Fencing Team and continued to teach the sport at night school after leaving the RAF.

In 1958 back in the UK he took up a career in Local Government, joining the Education Department of Hampshire County Council where he remained until his retirement.  We met in 1967, married in 1969, and in the mid seventies decided we wanted a dog.  We were thinking of a Borzoi until one day we saw someone with two beautiful Salukis, and that was then our chosen breed.  We had our first Saluki in 1976 and became members of the Saluki Club.  Over the years we have been owned by ten Salukis and been lucky enough to make up two champions.

Showing was never important to John, he just loved sharing his life with them.  It was never predictable, and often challenging, but his love for the breed and its history never diminished.  In the latter years of his illness when he could no longer walk with them, he always insisted on coming along in the car so he could sit and watch them.

He was a very kind and gentle man with many interests and a keen fly fisherman.  It must have been hard for him but he never complained about his disabilities and always maintained a sense of humour.

I have lost my soul-mate and best friend but I have been much consoled and warmed by the many cards, telephone calls and email tributes at this very difficult time.  Many thanks to you all.”

The SGHC Newsletter will be published in December. This issue will be a watershed in the history of the publication. It will be the first edition that will be made available on the SGHC website. However, it is also intended that it be the last that is generally issued in printed form and sent to the membership by post. To continue receiving the Newsletter members need to complete a form on the second from last page of the coming issue, advising whether one has ‘e’ mail availability and giving Ken Allen, the Hon. Secretary, ones name and ‘e’ mail address. The second alternative is to have access via the website. One must then request SGHC forum access in the second section of the form. The final section advises of absolutely no access to a computer and requests that the Newsletter be sent, as before, in printed form by the postal service and provides a space for the recipients address to be included. The completed form should be sent to: Ken Allan, Dean Croft, Brook Lane, Upper Dean, Huntingdon, Cambs PE18 0NG. If you require further information or you are unsure about what to do next please call Ken on: 01234 708658.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 18^TH NOVEMBER 2011.

Just prior to the SGHC Championship Show we received a note saying that the Sheila and John Harmer would not be able to attend the show as John had had a fall.  Subsequently to that fall, he was hospitalized and I am sad to report that he has died.  John has not been in the best of health for a number of years but in spite of this he and Sheila have managed to attend a few shows.  John’s funeral will be on Wednesday, 23^rd November 2011 at St Mary’s Chapel, Chesil Street, Winchester.  Our thoughts go out to Sheila at this difficult time.

At a time when newsletters, books and magazines are now being made available as digitalized items to be read on the computer or similar device, it is ever more pleasing that “The Saluki” is only available in hard copy.  For the producers of  magazines, it must cut their costs down considerable if they do not have to pay printing charges and for paper.  But there is nothing like the feel of the real thing whether it’s picking it up at the Champ Show or Crufts or its coming through the mailbox.  Needless to say, we do not have a kindle in spite of all the adverts trying to convince us that it would make our lives better.  The latest edition of The Saluki was launched at the Championship Show.  It is beautifully bound with a plastic front and back cover to make the whole magazine very sturdy.  It is the Vogue of the Dog Magazine World.  It has also become a reference book that can be referred to when looking for historical information, club details or photographic studies of our breed. The articles are interesting but what stands out for me in the latest edition, is the high quality of adverts. Every photograph, all very different from each other, with many different messages to communicate, has been beautifully laid out by the layout specialist, Diana Duckenfield.  For this Diana is truly an artist.

Ruweis Huriyyah owned by Breda Dunne ne Barnett (not related to any other Dunne with Salukis) has qualified for her Irish Championship at age 2.5 years.

Midland Counties Championship Show has yet  to be reported.  The judge was Mrs Anne Macdonald.  DCC,BOB went to Deborah Copperthwaite’s Ch Al Caliphs Zobeyni JW with the RDCC to Glaister & Parker partnership for Classicus Cassander JW, Sh CM.  BCC went to Garratt, Oakey & Smith parterned on Ch Caryna Meilichia Sh CM with the RBCC To Ann & Paul Shimmin’s Cranstal Quintessence.  Best Puppy was Pauline & Don Everton’s Kasra Zeleka and Best Breeders in Breed and Group was “Hudsons”.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 4^th NOV. 2011.

It is with great sadness that we must report the sudden and unexpected death of our dear friend Mike Oakley of Caspians Irish Setters and Salukis. The first time I met or should I say, was introduced to Mike, was at our local ring craft class.  I entered the hall with Pearl (K. Jarvah) and was pulled across the floor until she stopped and jumped into the lap of Mike.  Mike was sitting there quietly with one of his Irish Setters and was amused with Peal and besotted by Pearl’s actions.  That was the first time Mike had really met a Saluki and with that introduction felt that he and Sue would liked to be owned by someone like Pearl.  It was not long until that wish came to be fulfilled with a little black & white, part-coloured, bitch from Liz Stephens, aka Bedu L’Eghypthe  of Caspians.  Mike and Sue had two Saluki litters from this bitch, the first to the Frenchman. Int Ch. Arab Bahri Shaahin Tali (smooth) who produced our lovely smooth, Ch Caspians L’aliq avec Kasaque and the late Daphne Tovey’s Caspians Lancelot who had 2CCs.  L’Eghythe’s second litter was to Ch Kasaque Jimna ShCM .  Unfortunately for one reason or another none these puppies  were shown.  Mike and Sue Oakley’s greatest honour in the dog world, without doubt, was having bred the winner of Best in Show at Crufts in1999.  He was the famous Irish Setter, Ch Caspians Intrepid.

Personally I will miss Mike as he was a warm, charming and a very witty man.  Without doubt there will be further obituaries in the paper about him. A service of remembrance and thanksgiving for the life of Mike Oakley will take place at on Monday 7^th November at Caversham Crematorium, All Hallows Road, Caversham Reading  RG4 5LPat 2 pm then the family hopes you will join them at Caspians Lodge, Rag Hill, for refreshments.

We are advised by Brendan that “The Saluki Calendar 2012”  is now ready and copies are available from:- Brendan Austin, 103 Vicarage Road, Sunbury on Thames, Middlesex TW16 7QB, tel: 01932 788 040 or email on brendangaustin@aol.com  Calendars cost £8.75 each or 3 copies for £23.25 including package and postage in the UK. Copies will also be available on eBay, search Saluki Calendar. Cheques should be made payable to SGHC.  Please note that there was an error in the prices quoted in the Championship Show catalogue. 

I hate saying this, but Christmas is only a few weeks away and the Saluki Calendar makes an ideal gift for the New Year.”

Brendan Austin would also like me to include the following:  “Saluki Calendar 2012.   On the month of September Gloria Cook has rightly pointed out that the following words were missing from her photograph that appears in September. 'Alan Burtenshaw rewarding his girls for returning, after chasing and overtaking a sand yacht ! on Inch Beach, Dingle. “

Last Sunday the SGHC held their Championship Show at the Kennel Club Building, Stoneleigh.  For us it was a very long day as Michael, as part of his executive duties of being on the Committe,e was car park attendant for the first shift at 8 a.m.  In case anyone is wondering these jobs are taken very seriously and yes he wore his high viz jacket.  I had no time to wonder around as we had a trade stand selling a few pieces of pottery I had made with a Saluki theme, naturally and Jenny Macro’s diaries.  On one side of us was a stand selling full length dog coats that look extremely smart and warm.  Next to her an artist painting, dog collars were further up the line.  On our other side was Silver jewellery.

Actually we were quite busy  so did not notice if everyone was doing a brisk business.  Daphne Parnham has let me know that the Welfare Stall did quite well at the show taking a profit of £247.00 

Beside the 2011 Calendar available for sale, the new “The Saluki”,  magazine of the SGHC, was available, presenting the latest edition.  It is looking very smart as usual.  I will write more about it in next week’s Breed Notes”.  Copies of the magazine are available from the Treasurer, Mrs Val Prior on telephone no 01304 823546 or email:sales@salukimagazine.co.uk. 

Before the judging commenced, Michael Williams and Peter Yardley opened the show with a bouquet of flowers to the show manager Annette Buckley and her husband Brian, congratulating  them on their 50^th wedding anniversary.  Dogs were judged by Mrs Jean Watts’ giving  DCC went to Denise and Ian Rogers’ Sunswift Azbak Labakan his third and qualifying CC.  He was born on 30th January 2005 and his breeders were Mrs P Buswell and Mrs E Rushton.  His sire is Ch Labakan Ikteer Takha and dam Dakhilak Shenavah.  The RDCC was awarded to Alan and Jacqui Bloomfield’s Glenoak Jabari JW, Sh CM.  BCC, and BVIS for her 3rd CC also went to Denise Garratt & Sue Oakey’s Caryna Calisto. She was bred by Mrs D Garratt and her sire is Ch Mabrooka Jayid and dam Ch Caryna Hera, JW. She was born on 14^th July 2004.  Best puppy was our own Kasaque Phelene.   

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 29^TH OCTOBER 2011

We are pleased to put in the notes the interesting report by Dr. Ron James of Manchester Championship Show 2011.

This entry of 61 dogs with just 8 absentees proved to be a challenging assignment. Having gone over the entry I can easily appreciate the concerns of the breed clubs that were detailed to me in the letter that I received from the Secretary of The Saluki or Gazelle Hound Club in advance of the show, and which I understand is circulated to all judges undertaking  their first appointment in the breed. The more one judges the more one comes to appreciate that truly outstanding dogs are a rarity and that the standard  of most of the dogs that one is asked to judge falls somewhere between acceptable and very good.  A great dog once gone over is never forgotten and lives in the memory forever. When judging dogs that are perhaps best described as average one has to be prepared to compromise.  Judges do vary in the extent to which they choose to penalise specific faults and this can easily result in a multiplicity of opinion with regard to the placing of the same exhibits by different judges or indeed by the same judge on a different day. The standard calls for an impression of grace, symmetry, great speed and endurance, coupled with strength  and activity, a dignified and gentle expression with  far-seeing eyes and light flowing movement. There were quite a few hounds in this entry with what I would consider untypical movement showing a decided lack of extension and excessive lift in their front action. This is a consequence of incorrect forehand construction and requires serious attention by breeders if it is to be rectified. There were also a number of hounds that presented acceptable silhouettes in terms of outline and proportions but which I felt were somewhat lacking in strength of body and muscle mass and tone. I did find some promising youngsters and the senior classes in both sexes contained exhibits that were clearly deserving of top honours. It was a shame and a disappointment that the BOB winner was unable to stay to compete in the group competition later in the day. MPD (2, 0) 1. DOWNEY’S Moolabeanie Diamond Flash, rising 7 months, a striking exhibit, masculine appearance, pleasing overall outline and proportions, a little more length and return of upper arm would be beneficial, ample ribbing and depth of fore chest, well muscled neck, slightly arched loin of right length, shapely quarters with pleasing hock length and placement, as yet a bit unsettled on the move. 2. NICHOLAS’ Kendeci Zumurrud (al3), rising 9 months, not quite the symmetry and flow of outline of the winner, tends to stand steeple-fronted, could have a better cut up and a more typical top line, slightly too short in body length which somewhat restricted the scope of his movement.  PD (10, 2) 1. GLAISTER & PARKER’S Classicus Cassander, 9 months, handsome and striking exhibit, stands well over his ground with moderate construction of his forehand and rear assemblies, strong and supple neck, good depth of rib and fore chest, arched loin of good length, decent cut up, top line could be cleaner and would like a little more slope and resilience of pastern, showed a reasonable gait. 2. CHRYSSOLOR’S Anasazi Early Dusk, 10 months, looked very appealing on the stack, refined head, appealing eye and expression, elegant and symmetrical in outline, pleasing bone and feet, not quite as settled on the move as winner, has time on his side and should finish well in full maturity. 3. POSTMA & BROOKS’ Glenoak Kalima. JD (8, 0) 1. SMITH & GARRATT’S Safaniyah Fast N Furious Chasing Caryna, 13 months, gives an immediate impression of quality and symmetry of outline, refined head and expression, firm unbroken top line, well arched loin of pleasing length, moderately angled front and rear assemblies, would like a fraction more length of upper arm and a little more fill and depth of fore chest, fairly pleasing on the move. 2. LAUCHLAN’S Safaniyah Phalcor, litter brother to winner, has many of the same qualities but not quite the same overall flow and symmetry of outline and not quite as balanced in rear and forehand construction and not quite as light footed on the move.  3. Classicus . Cassande.

PGD (7, 1) 1. PICKERING’S Kasaque Newark, nice overall pattern, pleasing outline and proportions, masculine in appearance and outlook, pleasing head properties, far seeing expression, clean limbed with well shaped bone of good density, well set back sloping shoulder, brisket has good length and depth, well cut up, strong neck, nicely arched loin of good length, a little light in quarters and would prefer more development of second thigh, accurate on the move but could be lighter footed and perhaps show a little more enthusiasm for the job. 2. LAUCHLAN’S Chisobee Cyncariad, pleasing outline and proportions, clean limbed, firm and unbroken top line, balanced construction of front and rear assemblies, slightly steeple fronted, well placed hocks, a little exaggerated in neck line for my taste, not quite as masculine in appearance as winner. 3. McCORMICK SMITH’S Glenoak Juda LD LD(8, 0) 1. SHIMMIN’S Hisilome’s I Am Iceman Med Cranstal (Imp), easily the best mover in the class, an upstanding hound that gives the impression of being fit for purpose, shows obvious masculinity and strength, well muscled and supple neck of good length, long brisket of good length and depth, well cut up, very well muscled hindquarters, pushed hard in the challenge for best male but I just preferred the slightly better balance of outline and proportions of those that just beat him at the post on the day. 2. HAM, BOCKMAN-CHATO & ELLIOT-ROSS’ Baghdad Karim (Imp), striking and glamorous exhibit, pleasing overall proportions, pleasing top line, strong loin of good length with a moderate arch, firm top line which he held on the move, pleasing tail set and carriage,would prefer a better lay and slope of shoulder and a little less lift in front action. 3. AYRTON & FORTE’S Chisobee Bachen Goch Of Allievo  OD (3, 1) 1. COPPERTHWAITE’S Ch Al Caliphs Zobeyni JW, CC & BOB, for me this dog stood away, he is masculine, workmanlike, and gives a most definite impression of being able to do the breed’s intended job. He has a flowing and symmetrical outline, the balance of his front and rear construction is very evident on the stack and on the move with his light and very efficient ground covering movement allowing him to cover twice as much ground with half the effort displayed by some of the less well constructed exhibits that were present in this entry. Purists may not particularly care for his head and expression but the ability to select and retain correctness of construction and other essential breed characteristics across the generations is my view the hallmark of the truly skilled and dedicated breeder. 2. BUCKLEY’S Mumtaz Sirocco Sh.CM, Res CC, very typical exhibit, excelling in outline and proportions, pleasing overall balance and construction, excellent back line, pleasing coupling and well muscled loin, well set croup, well muscled thighs, strong and supple neck of good length, clean and well boned limbs, pleasing tail set and carriage, light footed and accurate on the go around but just not quite the same impact on the eye as the winner. VD (2, 0) 1. WHITE’S Mumtaz Sirius, best veteran, this 8 year-old male shows many breed typical qualities and characteristics with a symmetrical and well proportioned outline, good length and depth of brisket, moderately angled front and rear assemblies, firm back line, well arched and muscled loin and a correct gait. 2. PAYNE’S Caryna Bacchus Of Ilsham, similar age to winner, pleasing head, eye and expression, pleasing length and depth of brisket, pleasing cut up, good expanse of well muscled thigh, not quite as pleasing in forehand construction and balance of outline as the winner. MPB (2, 0) 1. DOWNEY’S Moolabeanie Delightful Dot, litter sister to winner of minor puppy dog class, very raw as to be expected at this age, her outline is quite well proportioned and she is clean limbed with well shaped bone of good density, needs to grow on and develop in depth and strength of body . 2. DOWNEY’S Moolabeanie Baby, litter sister to winner and similar comments apply, seemed a little lacking in forehand in comparison to the winner will be interesting to see how these two turn out in full maturity. PB (3, 0) 1. PARKER’S Classicus Concorrdia, BP, 9 months, ultra feminine, glamorous and very striking exhibit, refined head, far-seeing expression, supple neck of fair length, well extended rib cage of pleasing depth and shape, sufficient length of loin, doesn’t always co-operate with her handler on the stack but held her outline reasonably well on the move, forehand construction could be improved by a slightly better length and return of upper arm. 2. HUDSON & HUDSON’S Glenoak Kamala, 9months, overall a very workmanlike appearance, pleasing head properties, muscular neck of good length, good depth of brisket but not quite the length of rib cage of the winner, pleasing top line, well arched loin, would prefer a slightly lower set of hock. 3. NOTT’S Glenoak Kallie  JB (3, 0) 1. C. Concorrdia 2. G. Kamala 3. G. Kallie PGB (5, 1) 1. HUDSON & HUDSON’S Glenoak Jazmyn JW, very typical in outline, proportions and symmetry, feminine in build and appearance but with a definite impression of strength and stamina, pleasing head properties, far seeing expression, moderately angled front and rear assemblies, ample length and depth of brisket, pleasing  fill and depth of fore chest, strong and slightly arched loin, correctly coupled, good cut up, pleasing on the move, a very correct exhibit in most respects. 2. TAYLOR’S Chisobee Gwerthfawr Awel At Sirtanome, somewhat different style to winner but nonetheless displaying many desirable qualities, good height to length ratio, extremely elegant in appearance, pretty head with gentle and far-seeing expression, rib cage extends well back, correct loin and coupling, just a shade upright in forehand construction for my preference and not quite the same length of front reach as winner on the move. 3. BURTENSHAW & COOK’S Fernlark Nardini At Daandazi JW Ir JCh LB (9, 1) 1. WEBB, ASH & ANDERSSON’S Barakisch Qashang Axtar (Imp), really nice smooth, pleasing head, eye and expression, firm and clean unbroken top line, good balance of front and rear quarters, clean limbed with pleasing bone, good cut up and gives a good account of her self on the move with an accurate and light footed action. 2. FABER’S Sufeina Zarita, pushed the winner hard, looked really appealing on the stack, super outline and proportions, cleanest of heads with the most gentle and far seeing expression, pleases in brisket and top line, well set croup, moderately angled front and rear assemblies, disappointed me somewhat on the move today but I feel sure that she is capable of better things if she just ups her game a little. 3. COPPERTHWAITE’S Al Caliphs Zofeyah OB (9, 1) 1. WILLIAMS’ Kasaque Miracle, CC, had to work hard to take this strong class of top quality females, a very striking and glamorous exhibit that I found to be very correct in many respects when going over her. Gives the desired impression of strength and stamina with endurance yet retains a look of femininity about her. Well proportioned and clean head with dark oval eyes, clean well muscled neck of fair length, excellent rib cage with good depth and length, ample fore chest, pleasing balance of moderately angled front and rear quarters, clean and well boned limbs with pleasing pasterns and feet, shows the desired gait in profile, pleased to learn that this award completed her title. 2. COPPERTHWAITE’S Caliphs Nephele, Res CC, very much my cup of tea, lovely type and quality, so very typical of the type which this breeder so consistently produces, lovely head, neck and forehand, beautifully feathered, super rib cage, good loin and cut up, just not quite as pleasing in rear hock placement as the winner. 3. WEBB & COPPERTHWAITE’s Ch Al Caliphs Nuray VB (2, 1) 1. BURTENSHAW & COOK’S Daxlore Dazijane At Daandazi, 8 years old, pleasing overall proportions and outline, feminine head with gentle expression, well muscled neck, firm back line, well muscled and slightly arched loin, strong rear quarters, a little light in forehand construction and with a tendency o lift her front feet a little too high on the move. Ronald W James (Judge)

Helen Williams

kasaque@aol.com

Saluki Breed Notes Weekending 22^nd October 2011

With the SGHC Championship Show on Sunday I just wanted to remind everyone that there will be a silent auction.  Please donations will be appreciated but do remember to have a look at items available and hopefully make a bid.  All proceeds will be going towards the SGHC’s 90^th Birthday in 2013.

Last Sunday the South Wales Kennel Association held their Championship Show.  Judging Salukis was Miss Jenny Startup.  DCC, BOB for his third and qualifying CC was Paul & Ann Shimmin’s Hisilome’s I am Iceman me Cranstal (Imp).  He was born on the 10^th March 2008 and his breeder is Mrs M-A Axelisson.  His sire is Ch Cranstal Quantum and his dam, Swedish Ch Hislome Dibla.  RDCC went to Lisa & John Hudson’s Glenoak Kiyan JW.  BCC went to Buzz Faber’s Ch Sufeina Zarita with the RDCC to the sister of the RDCC, Lisa & John Hudson’s Glenoak Kamala.  Best Puppy was Ms CA Davis’ Bendegedigal Al Zarka.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEK ENDING 8^TH OCTOBER 2011.

Miya Monk-Schenk, SGHC Health Co-ordinator  has informed us that the Field Spaniel Society Health Committee is holding a health testing day open to all breeds at Alcester, Warks on 30^th October 2011.  For further information about the day or attending please contact Shula Shipton, Field Spaniel Health Representative at  mishules@sky.com

Bendan Austin has sent a note through regarding the Saluki Club Calendar He says “Let me say a big thank you for sending photographs for the Saluki Calendar 2012. There was an excellent selection of pictures again this year and members and their friends at the Open Show in June, chose their favorites. 

The calendar is now ready and copies will be available at the Championship Show on Sunday 23^rd October. This year they will be £7.50 each or 3 copies for £20.00. To order your copies please contact me on brendangaustin@aol.com or telephone me. On 01932 788040.   Cheques should be made payable to SGHC or I can take cards over the phone, should you prefer. Please add £1.25 or £3.25 respectfully for package and postage in the UK. Copies will also be available on eBay after 23rd October.  I hate saying this, but Christmas is only a few weeks away and the Saluki Calendar makes an ideal gift for the New Year.”

Annette Buckley, Show manager for the SGHC has sent this regarding the Club’s upcoming Championship show: “The Saluki or Gazelle Hound ClubChampionship Show is fast approaching on 23^rd October and exhibitors may like to read the following reminders and information to help the show day run as smoothly as possible for all concerned.

1)    Please follow carefully the directions to the ‘Kennel Club Building’ car park at Stoneleigh, given on the reverse of the schedule – the main point to remember is to take the second left turning at the main entrance before the security control kiosk; directional signs will be in place and kindly co-operate with our car park officials on duty.  Drivers who wish to drop off cages etc can use 1st Street which is the first right turn after entering the car park. There will be a barrier across this lane but a marshal will be there to guide you. Drive along this lane, stop at the corner of the grassed exercise area at the south of the building, drop off your possessions, then continue along the left hand roadway to return to the car park via a different route than already used.

2)    At the moment there are no other events nearby the KC building, so the cattle barn slurry running into the car park should not be a problem this year.  Carrie, the KC building manager has promised that if an event is booked between now and our show, she will inform me, in which case the KC has promised that they will designate an alternative car park, at the same distance from the venue as at present.

3)    In light of problems last year we have arranged to put forward names (up to ten people) of any known elderly or infirm guests visiting the show who may need a drop-off facility but do not have a disabled badge on the car. This list to be received by KC up two weeks before the show so please phone or email Annette Buckley 01424.830361 or annette@saluki.plus.com a.s.a.p. with names to be given to the appropriate personnel for checking on the day.

4)    Please bring your own chairs along if at all possible to avoid any possible disappointment on the day.

5)    Catering will be supplied by Churchills’ Catering Company as last year. They will provide breakfast baps early in the day and hot meals, such as cottage pie, lasagne and chicken curry, plus salads, rolls, cakes and drinks will be available at reasonable prices. 

6)    The Club Magazine, The Saluki Calendar, Champions Books and many other interesting items will be displayed on several stands for sale on the day.

7)    Prizes for the raffle and tombola would be much appreciated, plus contributions to the silent auction, which can all be brought along on the day if desired.   Thank you.

We look forward to welcoming exhibitors and visitors to the show, trust that you will have a safe journey and all have an enjoyable day out. “

If you are planning on seeing the Third Iinstallment of the Transformers movie franchise, Transforers 3: Dark Side of the Moon please be aware that there are two Salukis in the movie.  They are from the Aeolus Hounds of Southeastern Wisconsin.  Not having seen any of the Transformer movies myself I do not know the story but I do understand that these two beautiful Salukis play the part of Patrick Dempsey’s dogs

Yesterday Driffield held their Championship Show.  Judging Salukis was Breed Specialist Mr Nick Bryce-Smith. BOB,BCC, was Denise Garratt, Sue Oakey and Karen Smith’s Ch Caryna Meilichia Sh, CM with the RBCC to Lisa & John Hudson’s Glenoak Jazmyn,  DCC for his third and qualifying CC was Annette & Brian Buckley’s Mumtaz Sirocco Sh CM. He was born on the 28^th August 2005 and his breeder is Mrs Z Rawson.  His sire is Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk JW and dam,Ch Mumtaz Desdemona.  RDCC went to Jennette  Glaister & Mary Parker’s Classicus Cassander Sh. CM.  . Best Breeder and winner of the Breeder’ Hound Group went to the Hudsons.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEK-ENDING 30^TH SEPTEMBER 2011

Once again we have been plagued with computer problems, this time attributed to a power-cut and the total demise of our router.  We naively thought installing a new router would be connecting the appropriate wires and plugs and we would be back to square one.  It seems it is not that simple so with a little help of a very clever computer man, we are back on line, for now.

PRO for the SGHC is Kathy Webb.  She has informed me of the following: The SGHC is planning on going paperless.  In order to accomplish this, Ken Allan needs to have everyone’s email address and names of all those members who do not access the computer.  Fourteen people have so far let the Committee know that they will need the correspondences from the Club coming through the post.  If you have not informed the Club and will be wanting to continue  to receive correspondences through the post please contact Ken, his telephone number is 01234 708658.  In line with SGHC utilizing the computer for communications, in the near future, members will be able to go into the Club’s web site, use a password, and read information and even download schedules for upcoming shows.   The Committee is hoping that this will be sooner rather than later. 

The SGHC Championship Show is on the 23^rd October, 2011.  Entry numbers are now available:  Mrs Jean Watts will be judging the dogs and she has an entry of 70 dogs.  Judging Bitches is Mr David Perkins and his entry is 65.  Best in Show is Mr Paul Shimmin.  As a gentle reminder, please remember that raffle prizes are needed for the show. 

On Friday 9^th September, Richmond Championship Show was held.  Our judge was Sade Hohteri (Sfinskin)  from Finland.  BCC, for the third year running at this show was Ch Al Caliphs Nuray owned by Kathy Webb.  She was also BOB this year.  RBCC went to Deborah Copperthwaite’s Ch Al Caliphs Shushma.  DCCand Best Veteran  was Ch Al Caliphs Zobeyni JW owned by Deborah Copperthwaite, with the RDCC to Sue Cronin’s Sufina Jebel Ali.  Best Puppy was Michael, myself, Rosemary Redfern and Jan Banyard’s Kasaque Paloma.  Best Breeders Group was won by Lisa and John Hudson’s group.  It was wonderful to see Sue Cronin at the show and especially nice for her to see her Jebel Ali do so well as Sue is not in the best of health. 

A week to the day later, the show circus moved to Darlington.  Judging Salukis was the ‘all-rounder’ Robin Searle.  BOB, and Hound Group 2 was Denise Garratt, Sue Oakey and Karen Smith’s Ch Caryna Meilishia Sh CM with the RBCC to her kennel mate Caryna Calisto who was also Best Veteran.  DCC for his second CC went to Sheryl Steer and Lorraine & John Fitzgerald’s Jorjenjo Mirzam of Fernlark JW with the RDCC to his kennel mate Kirman Bashaar at Fernlark (imp) also owned by the Steer & Fitzgerald partnership.  There were no puppies entered and Best Breeder’ Group went to the Hudsons

Saluki Breed Notes Weekending 16^th September 2011.

Last Friday, City of Birmingham held their Championship Show.  Judging us was Mr Keith Thornton.  It certainly will be a memorable day for me but for unfortunate   reasons.  This was the day when for the first time in over 40 years I was bitten by a Saluki and the whole episode left me shocked.  Needless to say I have very upset by the incident.  A dog that has a disposition problem should never  be entered at a show.  Sometime the Salukis will lash out when other dogs walk down the gangway in front of the benches, especially if those passing by are not Salukis and this is not acceptable. However, when for no apparent reason a dog and in particular a Saluki, decides to bite ones arm, that is beyond belief.  The owners have promised that this particular dog will never go to another show and rightfully so after his rogue behaviour.  I would like to thank Buzz Faber for the ice-packs she lent me for my arm and to Judith Aryton for immediately reaching for her arnica and insisting that I keep on taking them.

DCC, BOB and 4^th in Hound Group was Steve Ham, Paula Chato-Brockman and Mrs Ross-Elliot’s Baghdad Karim (imp) Sh CM with the RDCC to Annette & Brian Buckley’s Mumtaz Sirocco Sh CM.  BCC went to our own Ch Kasaque Miracle with the RBCC to Denise Garratt & Sue Oakey’s Ch Caryna Meilichia.  Best Puppy was Kasaque Paloma owned by Michael and myself, Rosemary Redfern and Jan Banyard.  Best Breeders group was Hudson who went Breeders Hound Group 3.

Thanks to Jimmi Johnson-White I have a few of the judges at Championship Shows for 2012: Manchester, Colin Ashmore; Crufts, Marie Bryce-Smith, Northern Saluki Club, Ann Jones; Hound Association of Scotland, Jan Pain;  SKC, Gina Simpson; Birmingham National, Denise Garratt; Southern Counties, Ken Allan;  3 Counties, Buzz Faber, Blackpool, John Walton-Haddon; Hound Association, Mary Parker; Welsh Kennel Club, Reina Clark; SGHC Dogs Alain Compagne, Bitches Rosemary Lewis; Midland Counties, Jerry Robinson; Darlington, Jayne Pyatt; LKA Liz Stephen

Last Sunday South Eastern Hound held their Open Show at Hickstead, Sussex.  The weather was not obliging but in spite of it we had a very pleasant day.  The climax of the bad weather was a period of sustain blustery rain at about mid day.  It came just after the Best Bitch class so our judge, Dr Jean-Luc Lemouzy said he would stop judging  and resume for Best of Breed after lunch.  It was a very wise decisionfor  two reasons, one, we were all getting hungry and two, we anticipated that the weather would improve, given time.  Our lunch,as it happens,  was the most wonderful bring and share picnic.  There was not a sausage roll or pork pie in site but rather an array of homemade salads and accompaniment.  The deserts were equally good.  When we finished lunch, the bad weather had abated and we could commence with the judging.  BOB was Hilary Cornock’s Ch Mumtaz Sea Breeze with the BOS to Annette & Brian Buckley’s Mumtaz Sirocco Sh CM (brother and sisters).  Best Puppy was our own Kasaque Paloma.  In the Best in Show ring ( Jean-Luc judging) Sea Breeze won BIS 3 and Paloma was Best Puppy in Show.  It will be an unforgettable day for Annette Buckley.  She has sent the following: “

I was running in the charity stakes at S.E. Hound Show when it started to spit with rain and I slipped on the wet grass and fell flat on my face.  I had forgotten to change into my show ring shoes with rubber ridged soles beforehand.  When I set off on the first run, my right foot slipped but I was able to keep my balance as I was not moving fast at that point but on my second run I slipped again and fell hard on my left wrist and blooded my nose; also hurting my right wrist to a lesser degree.   I saw stars and was disorientated whilst lying on the floor but remember hearing Clair Chryssolor’s voice saying not to get up until I was ready, she tilted my head backwards and told me to take deep breaths to calm down slowly.  Clair has several top certificates for first aid so I knew I was in good hands – apparently she had seen me fall whilst she was stewarding in the next ring and came running over to help.  I was then assisted to a ringside chair and Vanessa Lucas (Deerhounds) took over the first aid and I was also checked by Dr Helps. Vanessa patched up my face and applied a cold compress to my wrist by which time my fingers were starting to swell up and before they ballooned up too huge she had the foresight to remove my rings to avoid possibly having them cut off in A & E Dept.    I have only ever taken my wedding ring off once in nearly fifty years and that was prior to a minor operation.   Haywards Heath Hospital asked what first aid I had received at the dog show and the fracture nurse said the ladies were to be congratulated as their actions were completely correct in the circumstances.  After 4 ½ hours at the hospital I came away with a heavy plaster cast and sling on my broken wrist – the plaster room nurse said if I had gone to Brighton Hospital I would have been given the choice of a light weight fibre glass cast available in many colours, including a sparkled luminous version which is very popular there!

The first couple of days I was typing with both hands as being a touch typist I do not have any idea where the keys are on the board, but I got my knuckles slapped (right hand only!) at Hastings Hospital as fingers on left hand looked like fat pork sausages  – apparently I was not supposed to use left hand at all for a few weeks whilst it mends and one needs to keep arm held fairly high.  The break is misaligned and I may have to have it manipulated into place next week – Ouch!  I am now down to a one handed and mostly one fingered mode of typing which is very frustrating as I have quite a lot of secretarial work ahead connected to show management.   I can hand write the letters and have received kind offers of help from committee and club members to type out reports etc if I dictate them over the phone, for which I am very grateful.

I would like to thank everybody who came to my assistance on the day and also thank the judge, Robin Sadler, and steward Dr  Andreas Schemel, plus exhibitors, who showed concern over my fall and patience at the disruption caused in the ring at the time.   Kathy Webb quickly organised the first aider and doctor to attend and also later informed my Saluki friends of the up-to-date situation – thanks for your time and trouble.    My husband, Brian, and Matthew, our son, have been a great support to me at home and my girlfriends tell me I should milk it for all its worth as the novelty might wear off soon!  Many thanks to all those Saluki people and others from various breed clubs who have phoned, sent cards and emailed with their best wishes which I found very comforting.   Last, but not least, I would like to thank the gentleman exhibitor who paid the supreme sacrifice of giving up his wine cooler ice pack for use on my swollen wrist – as he walked away I heard him say to Vanessa – ‘Make sure you get it back before she goes to hospital as my wine is getting warm!!’.  I think I owe him a drink!   Annette”

In this week’s “Our Dogs" letters to the editor there was a letter from Dr John Hudson regarding the Salukis.  Just in case it was missed I thought I would include it in  the notes and would appreciate any comments anyone has regarding this:  

“I am replying to comments by Ronnie Irving about the Judges Development Programme which appeared in his column in Our Dogs on 26^th August (hoping that this will not sound like some more “Breed Club Hysterics”). I have served on an assessment panel for the JDP so I know a bit how it goes. I have two concerns. One is that, all of a sudden, the proportion of all-rounders judging our breed (Salukis) has, in the last three years, jumped from roughly 20% to around 50%; This year we have 11 all-rounders, 10 breed specialists and 3 judges from abroad. Five of the all-rounders are judging the breed for the first time. This sudden change has not, as far as I know, been discussed with the Breed Clubs and seems directly attributable to the JDP. One respected breed judge judged this year for the first time for thirteen years while an all-rounder will be judging for the second time only eighteen months after his first appointment in the breed. Of course, this is down to Show Secretaries and the all-rounders will eventually lose their shiny new status, but is having 50% all-rounder judges a good thing for the breed?

Which brings me to my second point. There is a wide range of type in Salukis but this does not mean that any type will do. There is a tendency abroad (and increasingly here) to breed for the “generic Show dog” that Mr Irving mentioned in his Chairman’s column in the Kennel Gazette of November 2010. Anyone can read a Breed Standard, and I would imagine it unlikely that an experienced all-rounder would put up an unsound dog, but the appreciation of breed type takes time and experience. All-rounders are particularly exposed to the top winning dogs abroad and can easily get it wrong. I believe that there is already a tendency for judges to look for Salukis that move like Afghans, and have exaggerated necks and narrow heads like Borzois. How can we counteract this? It is not easy to tell an all-rounder his or her business. It has always been the desire of Saluki breeders in this country to preserve the breed as we found it – as an efficient hunter. Would you describe the average show Afghan in this way?

Peter Yardley, President of the SGHC has asked me to post the following:  “.  I had a card from David Waters thanking us for his 100th birthday card. He was very touched that we had thought of him and loved all the photographs. Marilyn says he keeps well and still has his sense of humour. His card will be bought along to the Ch Show for all to see. 

Ken Allan tells me that only 12 people have written to him to let
him know that they do not have access to the internet and will need to
have Club items sent to them in the post. He thinks this is not that
many but maybe everyone else can access our website. This is great as it will save us time and money but if anyone or you know someone who cannot get on to the internet please let us know.

Peter Yardley has sent the following " I have 2 dog crates with internal dimensions 36" long x 24" wide x 271/2" high that were used to import a couple of rescues from Spain. I would like to sell them and anyone interested can contact me at
manarah@tywati.eclipse.co.uk. I can bring them to the CH Show.”

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 2ND  SEPTEMBER 2011

I have just read a very exciting announcement from Sue Ann Pietros .  For many years Sue Ann and Marilyn Brown published a wonderful magazine called Classic Saluki.  All were disappointed when both ladies decided to retire from its production but understood that they had other project they wanted  to involve themselves.

Now I see they are planning on reinstating the magazine but this time as a World magazine.  Personally I find this quite exciting.

Sue Ann states “Let me just announce that the first issue of the Classic Saluki World magazine is all planned out. What we are waiting for is a production schedule when Vicky Clarke can fit in the new magazine to her busy schedule. I believe that by the first of Oct I will be soliciting ads and the first issue will review 2011. After that the magazine will by biyearly. Each issue will have bloodline discussions of direct sire lines and direct bitch lines. We are starting with Sarona Kelb since he is the most prolific sire line in the world. We also will have It Was A Very Good Year. I will list here the dogs I have chosen to cover and then will take suggestions for those you nominate. I am hoping those nominations will be dogs from outside the US. To qualify a dog born in the Very Good Year must still be in current pedigrees and have been infuential in a number of kennels. I am hoping to feature top specialties around the world for 2011 and their winners. So start to think about what other topics you would like covered and suggest them now. I already have a surprise staff of people versed in many aspects of the Saluki. Please participate. Classic Saluki was a success and you all have said how much you missed it....well now is the time to show us we should continue this huge endeavour!  Marilyn, Vicky, and I give up a lot of our lives to bring this to you ! “

I have received a copy of The Kennel Club Breed Records Supplement for Summer 2011 which I always find very interesting .  There were 14 puppies registered which came from 2 litters.  Neither of the breeders of the two litter are Accredited Breeders or members of a recognized Breed Club.  Two dogs were imported, the first being Baghdad Bronzed Aussie which was imported from Ireland and owned by Mr T Gray.  The second, Kirman Dafnia was imported from Finland by Ms S Steer.  Three dogs were given export pedigrees they are Daxlore Gabriella  for France, Daxlore Gaia  to USA and finally Daxlore Gucci to Italy.  There was one Junior Warrant which was the Hudson’s Glenoak Kiyan and one Show Certificate of Merit to Alan Burtenshaw and Gloria Cook’s Fernlark Nardini at Daandazi.  Registration in 2010 up through the second quarter was 95 dogs registered and so far the registration through a similar period this year is 58.

Helen Williams

kasaque@aol.com

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 26^TH AUGUST 2011

The schedule of the 2100 Saluki or Gazelle Hound Club Show is now available.  It will be held on Sunday 23^rd October at the Kennel Club building.  Annette Buckley has kindly sent the following: “Please note that the last date for postal entries into this year’s SGHC Championship Show is Monday 12th September 2011 (1^st Class postmark) to be sent direct please to Fosse Data Systems Ltd., Tripontium Business Centre, Newton Lane, Newton, Rugby, Warwickshire CV23 OTB.   On-line entries can be made up until midnight on Sunday 18^th September at www.fossedata.co.uk.    The show schedule and entry form can also be downloaded or printed from this website.

As last year, the Show will be held at The Kennel Club Buildings, East Hall, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, CV8 2LZ and opens at 9.00a.m. Dog judging starts at 10.00a.m. under judge, Mrs Jean Watts, followed by bitches at 10.30a.m. to be judged by Mr David Perkins.  Our ‘Best in Show’ judge on this occasion is Mr Paul Shimmin  The number of chairs available is restricted to one hundred and fifty and as this is a very well attended Show please help by bringing your own chairs wherever possible.

Items for our usual Silent Auction will be gratefully received on the day or previously by Annette Buckley contact telephone number 01424 830361 or email address annette@saluki.plus.com.   These can be ‘Saluki’ related or otherwise, as the case may be; home-made iced Christmas cakes are always very popular at this time of year.

As you drive into Stoneleigh Park, it is imperative that you use the correct entrance as advised to us by the Kennel Club and follow the relevant directional signs to the exhibitors’ KC car park at the far end of 1^st Avenue.  Please refer to the instructions on the back page of the show schedule for details.

If you require to drop off cages etc you can turn first right just after entering the car park area (first marshal on duty here) and stop momentarily at the nearest corner of the grooming/exercise area of grass outside the south end of the K C East Hall Building (second marshal on duty here) drop off, then continue forward to the left and left again on a return route to the car park.  

It may be that you wish to bring a friend or family member who are incapacitated as regards ability to negotiate the walk from the car park to the venue building and perhaps do not have a disabled badge available; an arrangement has been made with the manager of the hall that if a list of names is given to the Kennel Club prior to two weeks before the show, the marshals will be authorised to allow drop off as near as possible to the entrance doors of those people who are named on the list. There is an upper limit of ten in number, so please apply to Annette Buckley as early as possible please.  We wish you all a safe journey and a happy and successful show day. “ Also she states “Club Calendar for 2012 will be on sale at the breed Champ Show in October and will be the first time to view the winners of the photographic competition held at the Open Show last June.  These calendars make an ideal Christmas present.  Also on sale will be the Champ Show edition of The Saluki magazine and copies of the Books of Champions.” 

 Richmond Championship Show, which will be held at Loseley Park, Guildford on Friday 9^th September 2011.   Judging Salukis will be Mrs Sade Hohteri from Finland.  She has an entry of 78 dogs making 91 entries.

Secretary of Bridgwater and DCS has sent a message saying that the The club is holding an Open Show on Sunday November 20.2011 at Clevedon, North Somerset and have scheduled our breed at the show (for the first time?) The Secretary goes on to say that if they have a good entry they will consider adding additional classes at their next Premier Show. Schedules can be obtained from Alan Dredge telephone: 01934 512355, email bridgwaterdogsoc@aol.com or by mail at 6 Ingleton Drive, Worle, Weston-s-Mare, Somerset BS22 7SU.

Last Friday the Welsh Kennel Club held their Championship Show.  Judging us for the first time with CCs was Mrs Pam Marston-Pollock.  BCC, BOB was our own Ch Kasaque Miracle with the RBCC to Denise Garratt, Sue Oakey and Karen Smith’s Ch Caryna Meilishia Sh CM.  DCC for his first CC and also gaining his Jumior Warrant was Jeanette Glaister & Mary Parker’s Classicus Cassander.  He was born on the 7^th April 2010 and his breeder is Mary Parker.  His sire is Baghdad Karim (imp Aus) and his dam Ch Khalils Phaedra of Classicus ShCM (imp)  RDCC went to Ms JS Forte & Mr P Ayrton’s Chisobee Cachen Goch of Allievo.  Best Puppy was Sheryl Steer and Lorraine & John Fitzgerald’s Kirman Dafnia at Fernlak (imp)  Best Breeder Group was Hudson.  Well done all!!

SALUKI BREED NOTES 19^TH AUGUST 2011

Last week this country was engulfed with “riots” .  Jimmi Johnston White has sent us this report of what has happened in his neighbourhood.  “has all been rather hairy here, our local shops just 4 mins walk away were all looted, Argos, Staples, PC World, Carphone Warehouse, Sports Direct, WHSmith, JD Sports, Maplin, Next, H &M and Clarks. It really was quite frightening, we had an escape plan in place in case it got any worse. Thankfully we didn't have to put it into place.”  He went on to say “The Saluki was non plussed by any noise, the IG's and Dachsies were more than happy to give voice to the masses though. All very quiet here now, Ian went into Woolwich yesterday burnt out buildings and most shops with at least one window boarded up, Banks all closed. Let us hope that is the end of it. Not something the country wants to see at any time.” 

Hound Association held their championship show last Saturday.  Mostly the weather was grey but the rain held off for the most part and the dogs were all able to be judged outside.  Judging us was Nicola Quadling.  BOB, DCC for his second CC was Alan & Jacki Bloomfield’s Glenoak Jabari with the RDCC to Jeanette Glaister & Mary Parker’s Classicus Cassander.  BCC for her third and qualifying CC was Rosemary Redfern, Daphne Tovey, Michael and my own Kasaque Neeka.  She was born on 8^th January 2008 and her sire is Ch Kasaque Jimna Sh CM.  Her dam is Ch Caspians L’aliq avec Kasaque.  RBCC went to Lis Metcalfe & Martin Green’s Tasia Maleisha.  Best Puppy and 4^th in Puppy Hound Group was Sheryl Steer, John & Lorraine Fitzgerald’s Kirman Dafnia at Fernlark (imp).  Best Veteran went to Vicki-ann Tompkins’ Tasia Emilia at Sivendra and winner of the Breeders Group was Vicki-ann  Ch Caryna Mellishia Sh MC owned by Denise Garratt, Sue Oakey and Karen Smith won the Champion Stakes.  Mary Parker’s Classicus Concorrdia had a good day winning three classes giving her enough points to qualify for her Junior Warrant. Well done to all!!

Today, Bournemouth Canine Society held their Championship Show.  Judging us was Mrs Joanne Mahon, who now resides in the Netherlands.  DCC, BOB, BV for, I believe, his 30^th CC was Marie Bryce-Smith’s Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk JW with the RDCC to Ann & Paul Shimmin’s Hisilome’s I Am Iceman Med Cranstal ( imp).  BCC  went to Denise & Ian Roger’s Labakan Chiffonier with the RBCC to Ann & Paul Shimmin’s Cranstal Quintessence.  Best Puppy was Labakan Chiffonier owned by the Rogers.  Best Breeder’s Group and second in Hound Group was Clair Chryssolor. Well done all

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 13^TH AUGUST 2011.

John Hudson has sent the following note regarding my comments about Saluki entries at Open Shows “In your breed notes of last week, you say how good it was to see such a good entry of Salukis at the Worthing Show at Ardingley. Sadly, our experience in and around East Anglia has been quite different. Among other things, we go to Open Shows to train and socialise our youngsters and so we have sampled rather more Shows than usual recently. Apart from a couple of puppy classes, the number of Salukis in breed classes at all-breed Open Shows has never exceeded three in a sequence of seven Shows. And, most of the time, two of those were ours. Worthing was a welcome change but even at Leeds (without tickets) there were only two in junior and four in postgrad. Last week, at the East of England Ladies (a very pleasant Show at the Rowley Mile racecourse), our two were the only ones there. Even the Hound Club of East Anglia (again a very pleasant venue at Sacrewell Farm) could only muster three 3’s and a 2 in the Saluki classes at their Show in May. I understand that entries at Shows further north are pretty good and clearly they are good in the south-east. And I expect the entry for South East Hound will also be up to the usual standard and we look forward to an enjoyable day there. “

We hope that you find the following thoughts and ideas helpful in composing your judge’s reports.

We are proud that Our Dogs does not edit judges’ reports more than is absolutely necessary (unless they are clearly libellous!) and we are also very pleased to publish judges’ thoughts on the breed as a whole before the actual report.

We greatly appreciate the fact that judges take time and trouble to submit reports.  Although it is a Kennel Club requirement, we know that it takes dedication and commitment to write a useful and helpful report from which exhibitors will benefit. In addition we are unique in being prepared to accept reports from first to third place so that more exhibitors can have an assessment of their dogs.

As you will be aware, more judges now submit reports by email and you will also know how easy it is to go to the catalogue printers’ websites to just copy and paste the results into your preferred word processor (or direct into an e-mail) so that you can just add your personal comments to the owners and dogs names.

This is excellent as it enables us to process speedily and get them into the paper and on to OUR DOGS web site more quickly.  However, you can help us speed up this process by following the style shown below to match what is known as the ‘house style’.

Here is a recent report in the style we use:

SPECIAL REQUEST: Some judges spend a lot of time typing up their reports on their computer, only to print it out and post or fax.

 It is very easy just to copy and paste the text into an e-mail which can then be sent direct to

showreports@ourdogs.co.uk  

This would assist us greatly and help maintain accuracy.

Thank you for your continued support and co operation.

Last Wednesday Paignton Championship Show was held.  Judging us was Mrs Jillian Knight Messenger.  It was a bitter sweet day for the Macros as the day before they had to say good-by to Omar (Ch Nefisa Samr) at 14 years.  His presence was felt at the show as his daughter Ch Kasaque Miracle owned by Michael & myself won BOB.  RBCC went to Kathy Webb’s Ch Alcaliphs Nuray.  DCC went to Omar’s son, Ch Nefisa Jeevun Sh CM owned by Steve &  Jenny Macro with the RDCC to Annette & Brian Buckley’s Mumtaz Sirocco Sh CM.  Best Puppy was the Macro’s Kasaque Palmiro.  Best Breeders Group was Mrs C Chryssolor. Best Veteran went to Tony KING’s Lusaki Sola Sharif Of Adhari On the day, Clair Chryssolor’s  Anasazi Early Dusk won his final point for his Junior Warrant.  I apologise for pre-empting this award a couple of weeks earlier.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 29^TH JULY 2011. 

Last Sunday, Michael and I attended the Worthing & District Canine Society Open Show at the South of England Showground, Ardingley.  It must be at least two years since we have attended an all breed open show so I am pleased to note that as far as Salukis are concerned, there was an excellent entry. I can but assume Saluki exhibitors are supporting the Open Shows, which is good to see  .  Judging us was Mrs Wendy Cross of the Sallidene affix.  After the judging she related that her breed was Deerhounds but I had the impression she is no longer exhibiting.   Interestingly many of the exhibitors had travelled a fair distance to attend this show.  The furthest that was mentioned was 127 miles, so I hope their trip was worthwhile.  Best of Breed went to Clair Chryssolor’s Anasazi Early Dusk (I believe he now has sufficient points for his Junior Warrant).  He went on to win the Hound Group and Reserve Best in Show.  Lisa and John Hudson had a rewarding day as their bitch Glenoak Kamala won the final point at an Open Show to qualify for her Junior Warrant.  She also was Reserve Best of Breed on the day.  Our own, Rosemary Redfern and Jan  Banyard’s Kasaque Paloma went Best Puppy and 4^th in Puppy Group.  It was a good day for Salukis.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 22^ND JULY 2011

Last weekend I was sadden to hear of the death of Tim Tieller.  Although we have never met him, his fame went before him.  Mary Parker has kindly sent me the following obituary: “Tim’s first saluki was Sherrah, whom Tim had seen many times whilst walking his whippets in the woods surrounding his home in Zeist, Holland. Sherrah, frequently roamed around the woods on his own, quickly captivated Tim, due to his independent spirit and light elegant movement; it was Sherrah’s movement which set the standard for the future Samoem salukis. When Sherrah’s owners could no longer keep him he was offered to Tim. Sherrah’s dam Diana had been imported in whelp from Mosul in Iraq and her litter was registered as an import. Tim enjoyed considerable success with Sherrah whom he showed eight times; he gained The Amsterdam Winners title and was BIS at Utrecht in 1967. Due to FCI rules at that time he was never awarded his titles. Ch. Burydown Vasha came into Tim’s possession when her owners in Belgium decided she would be better off in another home, as she was unsuccessful in the show ring. In 1971 Tim bred his first saluki litter and selected an elegant male, who combined Dutch and English bloodlines in his pedigree as well as being related to Sherrah, to be the sire. In 1971 Pascha was mated to Sherrah’s daughter and in 1972 to Ch. Burydown Vasha, thus began the legendry Samoem saluki line.

Tim broke many records with his successes in the salukis show ring, and they are far too numerous to list here, but one achievement which must be mentioned are his three BISs at the prestigious World Show; in 1981 he won with Ch. Saliha’s Deianira and 1982 and 1983 with Ch. Abrisa von Felsenkeller, who was sired by Ch. Samoem’s Sakbar Walad.

Tim believed strongly in line breeding, producing progeny which were both functionally built and successful in the show ring. Studying a Samoem saluki or whippet pedigree is an education in itself, as there is a clear pattern of combining the outstanding qualities of his own line, built up through careful selection, with those of other bloodlines. It was this ability, together with a critical eye of his own stock which set Tim apart from other breeders. The Samoem salukis were of such a consistent type they were immediately identifiable from the ring side, as was their movement. The foundations that Tim laid, through his selective breeding programme, went on to reproduce outstanding salukis for other kennels, and many of the top winning kennels around the world have Samoem salukis behind them, something which Tim was justifiably very proud of.

Tim was a very private man, and those of us who knew him well all benefitted from his prodigious knowledge, advice and expertise. The world has lost a great breeder and is a poorer place for his passing. His will be sadly missed by many. 

Ian Stedman Brown has contacted me with information that he has records of all Salukis registered with the Kennel Club from the Start of registrations until the mid 80s.  He is happy to try and help out with any problems regarding pedigrees.  His address is ianstedmanbrown@yahoo.co.uk

 Last Sunday the East of England Show was held.  Judging Salukis was Mr Ian  Veal  DCC, BOB, Hound Group 2, for his first CC was Sheryl Steer, Lorraine & John Fitzgerald’s Jorjenjo Mirzam of Fernlark JW  He was born on 26^th June 2009 and his breeder is Mr T Quick.  His sire is  Ch Fernlark Alsace and his dam Daxlore Calisha at Jorjenjo,  RDCC went to Jacqui & Alan Bloomfield’s Glenoak Jabari.  BCC for her first CC was Pauline & Don Everton’s Kasra Tabina. She was  on the 23^rd November 2005 and her breeder is her owners.  Her sire is Ch Glenoak Inqi JW and her dam, Ch Kasra Nadirah.  RBCC went to Lisa & John Hudsons’ Glenoak Kamala.  Best Puppy was Denise & Ian Rogers & Ms Hough’s Labakan Lorique Well done All!

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 24^TH JUNE 2011.

Congratulation to Phyllida and Marcus Cooke on the safe arrival of their new (first ) grandson.  Phyllida is so looking forward to spending her evenings babysitting for little Henry.  I suppose I should mention the parents, Sebastian and Rachel for  their part.  We are delighted for the Cooke family.

Three Counties Championship Show was held last Wednesday in blustery weather.  Judging Salukis for the first time in the UK was Marion Finney, the Irish Wolfhound specialist, from Ireland. BCC, BOB and Hound Group 4 (judge Mrs Jill Peak) was our own Ch Kasaque Miracle with the RBCC to Lisa & John Hudson’s Glenoak Kamala.  DCC, for his first CC was Ray and Caroline Pickering’s Kasaque Newark.  He was born on the 8^th January 2008 and his breeders are Michael and myself.  His sire is Ch Kasaque Jimna ShCM and his dam, Ch Caspians L’aliq avec Kasaque.  RDCC went to Ch Fargaze Persian Punch of Saruk owned by Marie Bryce-Smith.  Best Puppy was Steve & Ann Ham’s Bendegedig Ya Jameelah .  Well done all.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 18^TH JUNE 2011.

Tomorrow we will be attending the Three Counties Championship Show.  Joining us on our sojourn will be two friends each bringing along one Saluki.  So in our big car (known here as the beast) we shall have five dogs and four people.  With the price of petrol and diesel skyrocketing and all of us so keen on attending the shows, maybe we will now have to find like minded friends to pool together. As long as we can find a mutually agreeable meeting place (We use to use Motorway Services but now they all charge after a couple of hours) where we can safely leave our car or have friends that are willing to come, as they are this time, to our house or pick up on the way.  This does not preclude that the dogs can amicably endure the journey with the other dogs.

 I have a friend currently visiting in the States  and she has said there are similar problems with the price of fuel  there, which is now up the $4.00/gallon. Also in the States the entries are falling which I would say in Salukis at this time they are not.  This may be due to the fact that a couple of years ago we had a few litters  of puppies born around the same time. Another thing in the States they have a many small dog show each weekend, often the size of our Open Shows.  It has been mentioned that the AKC is trying to tighten up on this and is not allowing anymore Clubs to be giving points on top of cutting the amount of shows each club has a year.

Annette Buckley has sent the following information regarding the SGHC Open Show:

 Mr Hamad AlGhanem of The Saluki of Arabia has very kindly donated five lovely canvas prints of Salukis for the principal winners of our forthcoming Open Show on 19^th June at the Dobermann Training Ground.  These will be given to the winners of the following awards: Best In Show, Reserve Best In Show, Best Puppy, Best Veteran, Best Smooth.  The Club is very appreciative of his kind generosity and a letter of thanks has gone out to him.  Cobbydog Foods Ltd has also kindly donated dog food prizes for the top prizes and we are very fortunate indeed to have such good sponsorship in these hard financial times and it makes winning at this show even more exciting.

A new ‘Silver Spoon’ for BIS has been hand made by a silversmith, Phil Marr, from Heathfield in East Sussex, based on the traditional design by Garrards but slightly updated for the 21^st century.  The weight of the solid silver spoon is 29grms which is heavier than most of the more recent spoons and it has been decided by committee to choose the head of the Saluki to be looking to the left rather than head on.  Annette Buckley will bring the spoon around to exhibitors prior to the BIS judging and if interested will show them how the spoon was made, as the silversmith took photographs of the main procedures, which Annette has mounted into a small album to give to the winner of this coveted award.  This information is now on file digitally so that future lucky winners of the SGHC Open Show can receive these details of the manufacture of the spoon (at least for the next ten years, as we have commissioned ten spoons in total from the silversmith).

We are still open to more donations of cakes – please contact Annette Buckley, Show Manager, on annette@saluki.plus.com or 01424 830361 if you wish to help out.  Final date for photographs for the calendar competition is Monday 13^th June – please post to Brendan Austin, 103 Vicarage Road, Sunbury on Thames Middx. TW16 7QB. Tel number 01932 788040 or email: brendangaustin:aol.com.  It should prove to be a very enjoyable day for both exhibitors and spectators alike and the committee look forward to welcoming you all to the show. 

Good news from the Open Show scene.  Karen Smith has contacted to let us know that her boy, Safaniyah Fast N Furious Chasing Cayna won through from the Not Separately Classified Class to take Reserve Best in Show at Kirkcaldy and District Open Show on Saturday 14^th May.  Alan &  Jacki  Bloomfields’  Glenoak  Jabari JW  ShCM  went Reserve  Best in Show at Tyne Wear and Tees Hound  Show under Mrs Rusty  Grayson, on Saturday 28 May.  On Monday 30 May at the Northumberland County Show under Mr M Armstrong he went on to win Group 3.  

Last Saturday Southern Counties Championship Show was held at the Showground here in Newbury.  Judging us for the first time giving CCs was the All-rounder, Mr Jef        

Horswell.  DCC,BOB was Deborah Copperthwaite’s Ch Al Caliphs Zobeyni JW with RDD to Marie Bryce Smith’s Ch Fargaze Persian Punch of Saruk.  BCC went to Kathy Webb & Deborah Copperthwaite’s Ch Al Caliphs Nuray with RBCC to Sue Bounds’ Smooth,Bedu Delphine of Alsahra.  Best Puppy was Rosemary Redfern, Jan Banyard and our own Kasaque Paloma.  Best Breeders Group was “Hudsons” who went on to win Breeders Group 3.   Marie Bryce Smith’s Ch Fargaze Persian Punch of Saruk was second in the Champion Stakes.  He has been in the Champion Stakes 4 time and has placed on each occasion.   Well done to all!!!

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 3^RD JUNE 2011

Annette Buckley, Show Manager Saluki or Gazelle Hound Club, has asked that we advised you of the following:-

The SGHC Open Show will take place at the Dobermann Club Showground on Sunday 19th June.  The show will open at 9.00am and Chris Payne will commence the dog judging at 10.00am with the bitch judging to follow under Anji Jackson-Main. The referee is David Cavill.  The entries are as follows: Dogs – 33, Entries - 67; Bitches – 37, Entries – 60; NFC – 7 making a total of 70 dogs giving 127 entries plus 7 NFC.  Entries are up over 20% on last year due to an increase in second entries.

This showground has limited wet weather accommodation, although the ring is under a large marquee.  Please Bring Your Own Picnic as there are limited catering facilities at this venue; however, teas, coffees, soft drinks and cakes (donations please) will be available throughout most of the day, with the exception of the lunch break, during which time there will be a Rescue Parade and a Junior Handling Competition.  There will also be a photographic ballot for the 2012 Saluki Calendar as usual.  There are no refuse facilities at this ground so will members please ensure that they take their rubbish home with them.  You will find directions to the venue on the back of the schedule.  Please direct any queries to the Show Manager, Annette Buckley on annette@saluki.plus.com or phone 01424 830361/   THE SHOW DAY EMERGENCY MOBILE NUMBER IS: 07522 860368.  We look forward to seeing you on the day.

Tessa Abbott has recently been in hospital for a hip operation.  I understand she is now home recuperating.  We wish her a speedy recovery.

Ken Allan, Hon Sec for the SGHC has sent me the following: “The Club's current Judges List is now available for Show Society Secretaries to download from the Club website (salukiclub.co.uk) and can be found under the 'Judges' link at the top of the page. If you are a judge of our breed could you please check your contact details to ensure that they are up to date. If any corrections are required can you please contact Ken Allan at sghc@hotmail.co.uk" within two weeks of this appearing in the breed notes, so the necessary alterations can be made’. 

News from the Open Shows.  At the Sutton Dog Show Society Clair Chryssolor’s Anasazi Malt Wiskey won the BOB under judge Carolyn Scott and Group 3, judge Catherine Mason.  His brother, Anasazi Early Dusk (Dusk) most recent win was BOB AVNSC under Graham Osborne at Chertsey and Dist. Canine Society.To top it all off Malt Wiskey won BOB, AVNSC Hound, Hound Group 1 under Val Jackson and them Best in Show, judge Debbie Stansbury at the Whitney and District Canine Society.

Gloria Cook and Alan Burtenshaw ‘s Fernlark Nardini at Daandazi has gained her Show Certificate of Merit to complete a trilogy of awards.  She has her Junior Warrant and an Irish Junior Championship.  Well done to all!!

Last week Michael, Miracle. Paloma and myself spent a few days in the little Scottish town of Crathie by Ballater, visiting with Alicia and Brian Thompson who have an Art Gallery called “Knock” there, as well as one lovely Saluki.  Crathie is best known for its proximity to Balmoral Castle, the estate and the little church where the Queen is often filmed attending a service.  We had an excellent time walking the river valleys and some of the more gentle hills.  Every place we went the dogs were welcomed and at some places going out of their way as they had not seen Salukis for years.  Our trip reminded me of the good old days and our journeys to “Dava” for the annual get together of the Salukis and Deerhounds.  As much as I enjoyed that time I think I am not in condition to participate in that sort of coursing at the present time.  The weather was not kind.  Very windy which I was told was most unusual.  After three days walking and fighting the elements we drove south to the Scottish Kennel Club show in Ingliston.  For some unknown reason I thought the weather might have been nicer as we were further south.  Well it did not improve, it rained and it was bitter cold at the show. 

Judging Saluki for the first time with CCs was Mr Mark Cocozza.  BCC, BOB was our own Ch kasaque Miracle with the RBCC to Mary Parker’s Classicus Concorrdia.  DCC for his second CC went to Brian and Annette Buckley’s Mumtaz Sirocco Sh CM. With the RDCC to Mrs J I Mr A Glaister & M Parker’s Classicus Cassander.  Best Puppy went to Kasaque Paloma owned by ourselves, Rosemary Redfern and Jan Banyard.  Well done all!!

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 20^TH MAY 2011

We were delighted to receive a call from Vivian Davies today.  She sounded very well considering the difficult time she is having with her broken hip.   Viv said she was receiving a lot of help from her housekeeper and is now managing to move around using crutches and a wheelchair for longer journeys . Also quite remarkably Viv is managing, with the aid of her helper,  to get her out of their flat and she is very much enjoying sitting in the garden. Viv would like to thank everyone for the good wishes and send special thanks to Diana and Ken Allan, Liz Metcalfe and Rosemary Lewis, who have all visited her on a regular basis.

An SOS from Annette Buckley regarding cakes for the Open Show, they are desperately needed.  Any questions about what cake you should take to the show either contact Annette (email: annette@saluki.plus.com) or myself (tel 01635 268269, email:kasaque@aol.com).  These will be served all day at the Open Show along with coffee and tea.

The following has been sent from Brendan Austin regarding the Calendar competition which is held at the Open Show: “ A brief note to remind you that the closing date for photographs to be entered for the 2012 Calendar Competition is Monday 11th June.  Judging will take place at the clubs' Open Show on Sunday 19th June at The Dobermann Club, Didswell. 

In previous years we have had some wonderful photos, some coming from around the world, showing our breed in a variety of poses and locations, some are fun shots and some more serious but all contribute to a wonderful display in June.  Members and their friends choose by ballot, their favourites for the 2012 calendar. 

Entries are FREE and you may enter as many photographs as you wish.  Photographs should be no larger than A5 (6x8”).  They may be in black and white or colour and should be of a reproducible quality.  Entries should have a SAE for their safe return.  Please send your entries to me, to arrive not later than 11^th June.  Entries may be submitted by email to brendangaustin@aol.com (jpeg image preferred), and they will be printed for you.   Please include on a sheet of paper any information about the photograph, names of dogs when and where it was taken - anything that might be of interest.The entrant, i.e. person who submits the photographs, must have permission if chosen, to have the photograph(s) printed in the calendar, (that is if you are not the owner of the photograph or dog(s).  If a chosen photograph is not of a good enough quality, then the next winning photograph will be submitted.  The organisers’ decision is final.  Photos can be sent to Brendan G Auston, 103 Vicarage Road, Sunbury on Thames, TW16 7QB Tel. 01932 788040”

Last Saturday was the first day in months that we had the much needed rain but it was also Birmingham National Championship Show.  Fortunately we had an excellent marquee with inside/outside facilities.  When the sun shone the exhibitors could be outside and when it rained inside.  Judging Salukis was Mrs Jenny Macro (Nefisa)  DCC, BOB for his second CC was Ann & Paul Shimmin’s import Hislome’s

 I Am Iceman Med Cranstal (imp Swe).  RDCC went to Heidi Woodgate and Connie De Souza’s Sufeina Al Ain.  This young dog suffered a ruptured his cruciate ligament just over a year ago so seeing him back on top of his game is wonderful for his owners who have worked so hard in his recovery.  BCC for her third and qualifying CC was Hilary Cornock’s Mumtaz Sea Breeze.  She was born on 27^th August 2005 and her breeder us Zola Rawson.  Her sire is Ch Bushrah of Saruk JW and her dam, Ch Mumtaz Desdemona.  RBCC went to Ch Al Caliphs Nuray owned by Kathy Webb and Deborah Copperthwaite.  Best Puppy was Labakan Chiffonier owned by Ian and Denise Rogers.  Best Breeder and 4^th in the Breeder’s group was the Hudson’s team.  Well done all!!!

We have received notice of some very good wins by Salukis on the Open Show circuit.  Glenoak Kiyan, owned by Lisa and John Hudson, at the tender age of 12 months, went Reserve Best in Show at the Chelmsford Show.  Breed judge was Tony Quick, Group judge Ken Allan and Best In Show judge Liz Dunhill.

Annette and Brian Buckley had a good day at South of England Agricultural Society Two Day Open show.  Mumtaz Sirocco won Saluki BOB and Hound Group 1 under Mrs. E.L. Watson (Carresmar Basset Hounds) and they joined the winners of the previous day in the final held late on Monday afternoon judged by Mr. Ken Bartlet (Dwilencia).    Rocco was honoured by winning the top accolade of Best in Show and the Society had set up an area inside for the committee to join in the presentation of the cup and several newspaper reporters had been invited to cover this event, so Rocco was a star for the day.  Annette goes on to say that this particular dog show, held in conjunction with The Spring Garden and Leisure Show, is always a very enjoyable day out and especially exciting this year for us with Rocco’s lovely win and the favourable comments and support received from other exhibitors and judges.   For those who live in the South East, the Garden Show is fantastic and very early in the day we were already tempted with the purchase of a bronzed life-sized Buck and Doe which Brian (alias Buck) and I ordered for our gift to each other for our Golden Wedding Anniversary in October (Champ show day!) and now we have happy recollections of the day associated with the deer pair, or should that be ‘dear’ pair! 

Well done all

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 6^TH MAY 2011

It is pleasing to hear that Baghdad Bronzed Aussie is now being looked after by one of the Club members.  The two chaps that had purchased him from Ireland were willing to sell him to a third party on behalf of the breeders. They even delivered him  to his new home. We understand that he was quite thin and the men said they had already put 12 pounds on him so when they first acquired him, he must have been in a state.

The Saluki or Gazelle Hound Club will be holding their 2011 Open Show on Sunday 19^th June at The Dobermann Club Training & Showground, Herford Road, Digswell, Herts AL6 0BU.  Judging dogs will be Mr Chris Payne, Bitches Mrs Anji Jackson-Main with the Best in Show to Mr David Cavill. Postal entries close on Monday 9^th May with online entries can be made up until midnight on Saturday 14^th May at fossedata.co.uk There will be a Parade of Rescued Salukis and Junior Handling during the lunch break.  Tea and coffee will be available from 9.00a.m., but there will be no catering facilities at this venue so please provide your own picnic for your group/self. Further information can be obtained  from the Show Manager, Mrs Annette Buckley on tel. 01424 830361 or e-mail Annette@saluki.plus.com .  Also regarding the Open Show, Pauline Everton has asked us to remind exhibitors that at the Open Show they must take all their rubbish home as the site does not have a facility for it.

Last Sunday the Northern Saluki Club held their Championship.  Judging was Mrs Carole Tipler.  DCC,BIS was Sunswift Azbak Labakan owned by Denise and ian Rogers for his second CC. RDCC and RBIS went to Ch Fargaze Persian Punch of Saruk owned by Marie Bryce-Smith.  BCC for her first CC was Sue Taylor’s Chisobee Gwerthfawr Awel at Siranome.  She was born on 9^th June 2005 and her breeder is Mrs M Smithson.  Her sire is Ch Ukhaydir Aris Hafid Ariba (imp) and dam Cairdean Cazzab at Chisobee.  RBCC went to Lynda & Merriam Shaw’s Anisah’s Desert Stalker.  Best Puppy in Show was the daughter of the Best in Show winner Labakan Chiffonier owned by Denise and Ian Rogers.  Best Veteran was Ch Jazirat Zakiyyah owned by Ken & Di Allan and Joanne & Paul Mahon.  A “get well” card was circulated at the show for Viv Davies .  Diana Allan has kindly sent me the following regarding Viv’. 

“Viv and Betty were on the way to their holiday home in Wales 2 weeks ago, they were being driven there by a friend. They stopped at a garden centre near Stafford, and this is where Viv’s leg gave out and she took a bad tumble, resulting in a broken hip. She was taken by ambulance to Stafford General Hospital where she underwent surgery last Monday. The operation consisted of putting in a partial hip replacement which entailed cutting into the muscle, which has caused Viv a lot of pain. As I write this she is still in the Hospital in Stafford, but we are trying to get her moved, as it is a two and a half hour journey to visit her. We are hoping that she will be able to be moved to either Addenbrookes or Hinchinbrooke within the next week. We are just about coping with looking after Betty, who is completely blind and fiercely independent, but they have some very good friends who are doing most of the caring, like staying with her overnight and caring for her during the day, so far Ken and I have only been able to help out with Hospital visits and daytime care. I know that Viv would appreciate any correspondence from Saluki friends, but as we do not now where she will be from one day to another, it would be best to send cards etc to her home address. It is going to be a long healing process, and also a long time before she will be able to look after Betty, so we are looking into carers for them both. Neither of them have any blood relatives in this Country.” 

On a brighter front, we send Congratulation  to Maya Monk-Schenk’s Kasaque Niagra on obtaining his “Gold” Good Citizen award. 

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 22^ND APRIL 2011

Last Saturday the Hound Show of Scotland was held at glorious Kelso.  It’s a show we very much enjoy attending but this year, unfortunately we could not make it.  Judging us for the first time with Challenge Certificates was Miss Diana Spavin.

BCC, BOB for her third CC was Caryna Meilishia Sh CM owned by Denise Garratt, Sue Oakey and Linda Smith.  She was born on the 14^th November 2008 and her breeder is Mrs DL Garratt.  Her sire is Ch Glenoak Inqi JW and dam, Ch Caryna Nashira.  RBCC went to Kathy Webb and Deborah Copperthwaite’s Ch Al Caliphs Nuray.  DCC was awarded to Marie Bryce-Smith’s perpetual Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk JW with RDCC to Jackie & Alan Bloomfield’s Gloak Jabari SW, Sh CM.  Best Puppy was Glenoak Kiyan owned by Lisa and John Hudson.  The icing on the cake was Caryna Meilishia went on the win Hound Group 3 and Glenoak Kiyan won Best Puppy in Show.  Well done to all!!!

David Hartley has kindly sent me a notice of an upcoming walk in aid of Saluki Welfare Funds.  It is to be held on Saturday 10^th September starting from St Peter’s Methodist Church, Riley Street, Earby.  Earby is located between Colne, Lancs and Skipton yorks.  This is open to all breeds, non-showing and rescue Saluki owners especially welcomed.  .  10am to 11am meet at church for tea/coffee then leave at 11.15am for a walk in surrounding countryside let by members of the local walking fgroup.  Long version is about 5 miles, short version 2 miles.  1.15 packed luches or a visit to the White Lion Pub for good grub and tea/ biscuits provided at the church.  2.30 simple Saluki quiz and fun classes sponsored by Cobbydog photo competition.  4.30 famous fish & chip tea.  The cost is £7.00 with all proceeds to Saluki Welfare.  For further information contact David on tel. 01282 842617 oremail davidjhartley@hotmail.com

On the web site Pets4Homes there is the following advert:  Saluki at Stud £500.00.  Champion Baghdad Bronzed Aussie.  This dog has a world class pedigree, he has just been imported into England and we are please to offer him at stud.  He is red grizzle and stands 27 inches to the shoulder with a brilliant temperament.  On the couple of occasions we have run him, he is extremely fast with fantastic staying power.  Available to Saluki bitches. Greyhounds and quality lurcher bitches.   For further information contact.................................  We understand that this dog was sold originally to Lynda Dunn who regularly exhibits her dogs mainly in Ireland .

SALUKI BREED NOTES 15 APRIL 2011.

Maya Monk-Schenk on behalf of the SGHC Health Committee has sent us some interesting dates for seminars at the Animal Health Trust.  The first one is on Canine Genetics on Saturday 14^th May.

On Thursday 2^nd June there will be another Seminar on Genetics, Neurology and Diagnostic Imaging.  This is an overview of canine genetics plus lectures on neurological diseases, diagnosing conditions such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and syringomyelia.

On 23^rd September there will be a talk on Ophthalmology, Oncology and Genetics.  This is an overview of canine genetics plus lecture on eye diseases and cancer in dogs.  Cost for each day is £15.00 which includes lunch, Coffee in the morning, tea in the afternoon.  There will also be tours of the small animal clinics for anyone that wants to see them.

On Sunday 27^th March the SGHC held their AGM and there was a small but enthusiastic  group attending.  Sitting in the Chair was Michael Williams on behalf of the Vice President who was unable to attend.  The meeting was opened with a minute of silence for club members who had died during the previous year.  They are June Applebee-Burt, Vera Hargreaves, Daphne Tovey, Jean Wissler, Norman Ziman and Alan Lucas. The new Committee was elected and they consist of Annette Buckley, Clair Chryssolor, Karen Fisher, Peter Jackson-Main, Maya Monk-Schenk, Tree Smith, Kathy Webb and Michael Williams (Chairman of Committee)  As there were only 8 nominations and nine place are available, it was decided to invite Anna Cornock to be a co-opted committee member.  Ken Allan was appointed Hon Secretary unopposed.

The winner of the ballot for the Limited Show 2012 was Ruth Dann; Open Show 2012 winner was Vicky-Ann Tompkins with Jan Pain and Best in Show will be judged Mac Macmillan.  Second ballot for Championship Show 2013 will be Paul Shimmin, John Hudson, Nicola Quadling, Carol Seymour and Leslie Brabyn. 

Annette Buckley, Show Manager submitted a survey form to see what the membership wanted with regard to catering, rosette awards, printing and venues.  It was decided to include these forms in the upcoming newsletter in order that the entire membership would have a chance to comment.

Pauline Kendall read out a letter explaining why she wanted to form a Health Charity then ended by saying she had decided to go ahead with the charity off her own back and  she was withdrawing her proposal as previously presented, to work in conjunction with the Saluki clubs. 

Karen Fisher, on behalf of the Magazine has requested interesting articles for inclusion in upcoming magazines.

We understand that Nicola Quadling has had to go into hospital for another operation on her knee.  Hopefully this op will be successful and we will see her running around without her stick.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 25^TH MARCH 2011

Maria Niedzwiedz has a new track for Afghan/Saluki racing near Bicester, Oxon.

So she states that SEAR will be haring off again, at long last, on Sunday 20^th March 2011.  The address is Clues Hill Farm, Bicester, HP18 9UZ.  For further information please ring Maria on 0181 422 7756

It has been very concerning with what is going on in Japan with the earthquate, tsunami and now the threat of a meltdown at the nuclear energy plants.  I have contacted Shuichi Suda of Vogue Salukis to see how he and his family (both human and dogs) are faring. We first met Shuichi when he was over here for the week of the Festival.  He says they and their dogs are pretty fine as they do not live near the ocean.  Their house is 2 hours from Tokyo and the same distance from Sendai.  He is concerned about the nuclear power plant in Fukushima.  Personally I have never been a proponent of the use of nuclear energy and this just reinforces my opinion.

Daphne Parnham thanks everyone for their support of Saluki Welfare.  At the Limited Show they made £127.00 and Christina Campling on her Beach Head Marathon raised a whopping £875.00 for Welfare.

We have a lovely, very active grizzle bitch aged about 9 years young  that is looking for a home.  Information on her can be obtained through Ann Blake on telephone no01727 826944 or Denise Rogers 01302 771143

Crufts with its circus like affect is now gone for another year.  It is always wonderful to attend, visiting with old friends and meeting new ones from all over the World.  This year was not exception.  Our judge was Mrs Diana Allan looking like she was enjoying every moment of her judging.  BOB, BCC for her second CC was Paul & Ann Shimmin’s Cranstal Quintessence.  She was born on the 17^th July 2003 and bred by her exhibitors.  Her sire is Ch Kasaque Jimn ShCM and her dam, Ch Cranstal Incandescence.  RBCC went to Ann McIntosh’s Cottonore Sahara.  DCC for his first CC went to Mrs A Ternest & Mr D Borghijs’s Furat Ter Dolen (Bel)

Born 6^th October 2006.  His sire is Ch Camahr Djaal Lhilal, dam, Anaister Dolen.

RDCC went the Steve & Jenny Macro’s Ch Nefisa Jeevun ShCM.  Best Puppy was Clair Chryssolor’s Anasazi Early Dusk.  Well done all!!!

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 18^TH MARCH 2011

It has now been confirmed that Adele Walton Haddon will be judging at Windsor Championship Show, 2011.  Members of the SGHC should now have received copies of their Yearbook, if you have not received it and are a paid up member, please contact Peter Yardley.

Annette Buckley, Show Manager for the SGHC has sent the following: “The SGHC Limited Show was held at Steventon, Oxfordshire, on Sunday, 27^th February, and our judge was Mrs. Jackie Reader, ably assisted by our stewards, Kathy Webb and Pip Buswell.   Best in Show was a Special Yearling Dog, Tasia Moonshine Over Dawnchase owned by Mr & Mrs. J Fitzgerald and Ms S. Steer and RBIS and BOS awards were given to Tasia Maleisha, another Special Yearling Saluki, owned by Mrs. E.A. Metcalfe and Mr. M.J. Green.  Best Puppy in Show went to Mrs. Clair Chryssolor’s Anasazi Early Dusk, who also took Reserve Best Dog.  Best Opposite Sex Puppy was awarded to Classicus Concorrdia owned by Mrs. Mary Parker and Best Veteran in Show was Fitzgeralds’ Al Caliphs Ajmal.   Members enjoyed a very friendly atmosphere at the Show and particular mention should be made of the ‘Work Experience Chefs’, Andy Chryssolor and Jimmi White, who did a sterling job in the kitchen, producing delicious food and kept smiling all through the long day, which was much appreciated by club members and their guests.  Thanks also to those people who donated generously to the Rosette Fund, Welfare and Club Raffle, and to those who contributed table flowers and homemade savouries & cakes for the lunch menu for guests and the judge’s lunch table – more in depth thanks and information will appear in the forthcoming members’ newsletter.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 11^TH MARCH 2011 

SGHC held it’s Limit Show last Sunday at Steventon Village Hall,Nr Abingdon, Oxoford.  It was a well run show thanks to the hard work of Annette Buckley and Clair Chryssolor.  All trophies were beautifully displayed by John and Caroline Owen, the Welfare table was heaving and Pauline  Everton was looking the Cub’s raffle.  Flowers were beautifully presented by Phyllida Cooke giving the show a “spring feeling” which lightened the mood as it was so cold and wet outside.  The kitchen was manned by Andy Chryssolor and Jimmi Johnston-White serving delicious home cooked food and cakes all day.  So it was a good day all around.   Judging was Mrs Jackie Reader.  Best in Show was Larraine & John Fitzgerald & Sheryl Steer’s Tasia Moonshine over Dawnchase JW with the Reserve Best Dog and Best Puppy in Show to Clair Chryssolor’s Anasazi Early Dusk.  Best Bitch went to the sister of the BIS winner, Liz Metcalfe & Martin Green’s Tasia Maleisha with the Reserve Best Bitch to Clair Chryssolor’s Abu Baqr’s Gazal Galiya for Anasazi (imp).  Best Veteran was Mr & Mrs JJ Smith’s Al Caliphs Zabibi and Best Smooth went to Karen Fisher’s Ruweis Farid.  Well done all!!!

Well soon after reading these notes all will be off to Crufts so we wish everyone good luck

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 4^TH MARCH 2011

The Humberside Hound Assoc has contacted me regarding their Open Show to be held at Costello Stadium HU4 6XQ on Saturday 16^th April.  Entries Close 16^th  March. Schedules can be obtained from Secretary Trish Wells phone 01964 542744 or email Kortebin@tiscali.co.uk  After entries have closed, the Secretary will notify exhibitors of the ‘not before’ judging time if S.A.E. or email address is included with the entry.  Saluki Judge is Judith Robin-Smith (Willowbrae) and BIS judge Mrs Diane Cook (Tedandi).

The following has been sent regarding the Welfare:

The Annual General Meeting of the Saluki Welfare Fund is to be held on April 3^rd 2011 at 2.00pm. To be held at The Village Hall, Weston on the Green, Bicester, Oxon, just off the A34.

Agenda for the A. G. M.

1. Apologies for absence
2. Minutes of the AGM held at Weston on the Green on 28^th March 2010
3. Matters arising
4. Chairman’s report
5. Treasurers report
6. Welfare report
7. Correspondence
8. Election of Officers and committee member
9. Appointments of Auditors
10. To change rule 5.1 as below. Please note that this rule change was instigated by the NSC and agreed by the SGHC. For it to be passed there must be a quorum of at least 15 people attending, so it is important that enough people attend the meeting so that both warden’s honorariums can be paid by Saluki Welfare Fund and not by the respective clubs as at present.

5.1.    Subject as mentioned below the policy and general management of the affairs of the Association shall be directed by an executive committee (“the committee”). The committee shall comprise the Chairman, the Vice Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer (“the officers”). The Saluki or Gazelle Hound Club warden and the Northern Saluki Club warden as appointed from time to time by the Saluki Welfare Committee from lists supplied by the respective clubs and 4 members (at least 2 of which will be members of the Saluki or Gazelle Hound Club or the Northern Saluki Club)

11. Forthcoming events/activities
12. Any other business

One committee member’s position is to be filled, should any member of the NSC or SGHC or rescue owner of two years or more wish to be nominated, please contact Mr. A  Parnham at least 14 days prior to the meeting.

I have heard that Dr Ivor Moss is now in a care home.  He and his wife Gloria were very involved with Salukis until Gloria’s untimely death in about 1985. They made up one Saluki Champion, Tahawi Xanthippe of Negma which I believe was the last Tahawi to be titled in this Country.  They were also active in the Coursing Section of the Club. Since then Ivor has been more involved with the Kennel Club and his duties as Medical Officer for Crufts and Windsor Championship Show. .   His address is Dr Ivor Moss. “Sunrise Of Elstree”, Edgewarebury Lane, Elstree, Hertfordshire , WD6 3RG

Reading other contributors Breed Notes can be quite informing and useful so I would like to thank Bill Bunce (American Cocker Spaniels) for the following information regarding exhibitors whose entries were not in the catalogue.  These exhibitors turn up at shows and produce a proof of posting.  This, according to Mr Bunce, appears to have been more widespread than originally thought, so much so in fact that it has prompted a press release for the Kennel Club informing exhibitors of a database which records all proof of posting information supplied by Championship shows which have in the past had to accept entries on the day. 

As a result of information gleaned from this database, 34 exhibitors were contacted last year and advised that the only proof of entry now accepted from them will be Registered Post documentation, a show society’s own confirmation of receipt or an online receipt.  Failure by these individuals to provide such proof will result in disqualification of awards and possibly a fine.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 11^TH FEBURARY 2011

Liz Stephens has kindly sent the following: “It is with great sadness I write that Chris Cargill of Hadiyyah Salukis was tragically killed in an accident near Southwold on the 19th January, four days after the death of her mother. She was a vivacious, generous and caring person. She was artistic and practical and there were never enough hours in the day for Chris to do all that she wanted, but if she thought that you needed her time she would give it gladly. She loved her dogs, who like herself were always beautifully turned out. The family have been deeply touched by the cards, letters and phone calls they have received and would like to convey their thanks. The funeral will take place at the Seven Hills Crematorium Nacton on Friday the 18th February at 11:15 a:m.Family flowers only. Donations if desired to The Dogs Trust c/o Rosedale Funeral Home, 19 Market Place, Halesworth. IP19 8BB.” 

The SGHC Members Limited Show this year has attracted 74 entries (44 dogs and 30 bitches)  plus 19 NFC Salukis – The same entry as 2010 show.   Judging of dogs starts at 10.00a.m. followed by bitches, so exhibitors with bitches please arrive early. 

The kitchen will be open at 9.00a.m. so why not start the morning with a cup of hot soup or a bacon buttie, often an old favourite with dog exhibitors.   After the judging we would love to see members stay for lunch to enjoy the snacks available from Andy’s Pantry kitchen; tomato soup, jacket potatoes filled with chilli, baked beans topped with grated cheese, or just butter and cheese – the choice is yours.  Filled baps, tea, coffee and homemade cakes will be on offer throughout the show, all at reasonable prices, so leave those sandwich boxes and flasks at home and have a relaxing day!

Please bring along donations of unwanted gifts for the Club Raffle or Saluki Welfare stall as they will be much appreciated.   Several members have already given us promises of cakes but if anybody would like to add to these offerings, kindly phone Annette Buckley on 01424.830361 or email annette@saluki.plus.com; we would welcome a few more desserts please – we already have promises of almond and apple tart, lemon meringue pie, and trifle, plus various flavours of sponge cakes – anybody a whizz hand at apple pies, apple crumble or chocolate cake?  Come on, get those mixing bowls out again! 

We look forward to welcoming you to the show and we wish everybody a very happy day in Abingdon.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 29^TH JAN 2011

We are sorry to report that Saluki Welfare Fund Secretary Alan Lucas has died.  He was in hospital following an operation, but sadly his condition deteriorated and he passed away during the early hours of Tuesday 18th January.  Alan had been Secretary of the SWF since 2005 and will be sorely missed by all his friends in the saluki community.  Our thoughts are with his widow, Barbara.  We do not have details for his arrangements at this time. 

Annette Buckley has sent the following on behalf on the SGHC “I should like to remind members that entries will be closing very soon for the Saluki or GH Club Limited Show to be held on 27^th February 2011 – the postal entry deadline has now passed, however, on-line entries, which were offered unexpectedly by Fossedata, have been extended to 31^st January 2011 (www.fossedata.co.uk).  The show opens at 9.00a.m. and judging under Mrs. Jackie Reader  starts at 10.00a.m. Please support the Club by entering your dogs and hopefully making a donation towards the rosette fund, for which appreciation will be acknowledged in the catalogue.  The Club Raffle and Welfare Tombola stands will be present at this show as usual, so please give generously on the day.

We have been fortunate in acquiring sponsorship from Cobbydog Foods this year with their kind offer of 15kg bags of Lamb and Rice for the three major winners and 1kg bags for the first prize winners of each class.There will be in-house catering offering hot soup and roll, jacket potatoes with various fillings, plus desserts.  Filled-rolls, cakes, plus hot and cold drinks will be available throughout the day.  We would welcome donations of desserts and cakes so if you are able to help in this direction, please email Annette Buckley on annette@saluki.plus.com or ring 01424 830361 with your preferred choice of food donation so we can monitor catering requirements. Thank you. We look forward to a good day at Abingdon and will endeavour to create a happy atmosphere for all to enjoy”. 

On the doglost site on the internet there is a male Saluki that was found on the 14^th January 2011. He is fawn fawn coloured and without a tattoo or microchip.  He was found in the Northampton area wearing a red/silver webbed collar.  For further information please contact telephone number 07515884675 or check the doglost site on the web 

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 24^TH DECEMBER 2010

Very sad to say the Saluki Club has lost their longest serving member. Peter Yardley has sent the following:  June Applebee Burt (1925-2010)” I sadly have to report that June died on 9th December in Bridport  hospital. A couple of months ago she had had a fall at home, was taken into hospital, recovered and went home but alas was no longer able to look after her hound Al Caliph Shaadi, I am sure that was a great loss to her. June had her first saluki in 1947 whose name was Esther bred by Gwen Angel. June joined the SGHC in 1954 and started judging in 1962. At our Championship Show in 2004 we celebrated her 50 years as a member of the Club with a small party and a cake.

June worked for the Inland Revenue and at the age of 40 married Malcolm  Burt, at the time they lived in Thame. Sadly Malcolm died and after his death June moved to Bothenhampton near Bridport where she joined a group of saluki friends including Vera Watkins, Hester Jesson and June Williams. During these last few years she has been helped by Lesley Pearce a friend of June Williams.

June’s contribution to the breed and SGHC was twofold. She started our Magazine producing the first edition in September 1969, it was simple start with the technology available at the time. The Magazine had its ups and downs but is now on a sound footing and is an excellent magazine, I am sure June was justifiably proud of her contribution to the magazine that she started all those years ago. June was also the breed correspondent for Dog World for many years and the main link for those in the breed who do not always frequent the show ring.

June was a private person who was quite happy to work diligently in the background for her beloved breed. She did not seek the modern desire for instant success in the show ring, but she knew and understood her salukis. She produced excellent details on the conformation of the saluki for the magazine, people of her ilk are rare and she will be sorely missed and will be honoured for being June.

Her funeral will be held at the Yeovil Crematorium, Bunford Lane, Yeovil at 2.00pm on Wednesday 22nd December. June leaves no living relatives and has asked for no flowers at the funeral. She has requested that donations in her memory should made to the Saluki Welfare Fund and the RLNI, these should be sent to the undertaker AJ Wakely and Sons, 91 East Street, Bridport. DT6 3LB

LKA, the last Championship Show was of the year was held last Sunday.  Judging Salukis was Mrs Clair Chryssolor.  Her BOB, DCC, Hound Group 2 was Deborah Copperthwaith’s Ch Al Caliphs Zobeyni with the RDCC to Annette & Brian Buckley’s Mumtaz Sirocco Sh CM.  BCC for her third and qualifying CC was Phyllida Cooke’s Kasaque Lydia.  She was born on 1^st March 2004 and her breeders and Helen & Michael Williams.  Her sire is Fin, Nor UK Ch El Hamrah Mehrab Khalifa (imp) and her dam Kasaque Jarva.  RBCC went to Sue Rabey-Wilkinson’s Al Caliphs Noushafarin of Greatplains.  Best Puppy was John and Lisa Hudson’s Gleanoak Kamala

Michael and I would like to wish everyone a Happy and safe Holiday.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 10^TH DECEMBER 2010.

Adele Walton Haddon has written to us regarding comments made by myself in these Breed Notes regarding someone wanting to join a Club and no one wanting to propose or second them:  “ Aren't we supposed to assume everyone is innocent until proven guilty?  Just because they bought a Saluki from someone who may not be as desirable as we would like doesn’t mean they are bad owners.  Perhaps it is easier to monitor someone who is a member of a club and therefore in contact with other members and aware, through newsletters etc., of the sort of standards expected rather than condemn them for no proven reason.”  Any other comments on this?

Kim & Laurence Scowen have sent the following message “

We are unexpectedly having to fly out to NZ on Sunday until after Christmas as my brother has had a heart attack and wondered if you would be kind enough to put a few words in your breed notes to wish everyone a Merry Christmas from us.  I just haven't got time to do individual cards.” I think everyone will understand

The first posting of information from the SGHC has arrived but you will be getting a second posting with Newsletter and Limit Show Schedule (two is cheaper than one).  If you do not receive this please contact Peter Yardley on email manarah@tywati.eclipse.co.uk.  In the first posting there was a “Proposal to form a Saluki Charitable Health Fund”.  This was sent out by the approval of the Committee on behalf of Mr & Mrs Kendall.  Please send any comment and opinions to Mrs Kendall not to Ann Shimmin as stated in the letter. Her address is 2 Lark Rise, Ferndown, Dorset.  BH22 9QU or email gulzar.salukis@btinternet.com

Saluki Breed Notes Weekending 3^rd December 2010

Tony Qick and Anji Jackson-Main represented the Saluki Club at the Kennel Club’s Discover Dogs which was held on 13/14  November at  Earls’ Court, London.  Anji has sent me the following report: “There was a lot of interest from the public, they asked intelligent questions regarding behaviour.  Any inquiries we received regarding the breed was directed to the two Club’s secretaries. It is a hard day’s work for the salukis, and only physically strong dogs with excellent temperament and behaviour should be taken, with frequent breaks. Attending the event there was a large number of children and they tended to poke their fingers through the bars and want to touch the dogs.”

Maya Monk-Schenk was referred by a non Saluki dog friend to an article on the World Wide Web written by Brian Duggan. It seems that a filming company wanted to film Salukis in action in the Middle East but unfortunately they were not able to get the necessary funding.  Plan “B” was to film coursing in California which has similar stumbling blocks to the Middle East effort.  They ended up filming Salukis chasing plastic bags and filming it from the back of a motorcycle.  The article is interesting and the photos lovely.  The web site is http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/ac5fd62e#/ac5fd62e/33

The saga of who won Best Veteran In Show at the Saluki or Gazelle Hound Club has not been concluded.  As the ribbon for BVIS had originally been given out incorrectly, not to the BIS winner, who was in fact a veteran but to the RBIS who was also a veteran, it is only the Kennel Club that can change the original decision so we must wait to hear the last work from the KC.  I will put it in these notes when I hear the final decision.

Our Club magazine has really become a first class publication.  I wonder how many other breeds have a magazine so beautifully presented.  The latest edition, Championship Show Edition 2010 was launched at the Championship Show.  In this issue there are results from the SGHC Limit Show and Open Show with photos of the major winners plus some of the class winners.  It is vital for the magazine to have support and by putting in a photos of your dog winning a class at these show, you are supporting the magazine.  If you have not received a copy and would like one please contact Val Prior on email;sales@salukimagazine.co.uk or  tel  01304 823546.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 19^th NOVEMBER 2010

Ken Allan had to go into the hospital for an operation on the 14^th November, the same day as the Saluki Seminar which he and Clair Chyssolor have organized.  Unfortunately he will not be able to see the results of his hard work.  I am sure he would love to receive cards so please do send them to Dean Croft, Brook Lane, Upper Dean, Huntingdon, Cambs PE18 0NG  Ken will be out of commission for about 6 weeks.

At the SGHC there was a wonderful collection of photographs which I mentioned in the Breed Notes a couple of weeks ago.  They were compiled by Annette Buckley.  I asked her how the show came to be: “Story behind display of ‘Burydown Albums’ at Championship Show:

Having nearly finished my family ancestral tree this year, I decided to turn my historical interest to tracing back the pedigrees of our three Salukis on websites such as that of www.pawpeds.com where you can email details of your dog’s five generation pedigree for inclusion on their database and hopefully receive a posting on their site of a twelve generation pedigree. In fact by using a name in the 12th generation, one can go back even further; in the case of my initial entry of Mumtaz Sirocco, I was able to get back to the first English Champion Saluki dog, Eng Ch Sarona Kelb born 1919, and his parentage, a line which is behind most of the UK Salukis today. 

The print-out told me that there are thirty-one Burydown Salukis behind Rocco, most of whom I had never seen photographed previously.  I wrote to Tessa Abbott, daughter of well known breeder Hope Waters, who was founder of the Burydown kennels, and asked if she was in a position to supply photographs of any of the Salukis listed, as I wanted to make a start on compiling scrap books for each of our boys.  Tessa kindly loaned me a CD of the treasured Burydown Albums, featuring Salukis from the 1920s to the early 1980s, of which Tessa kindly allowed prints to be taken.  I spent hours looking through these fascinating albums, sometimes recognising people featured in past shows and still in Salukis today, and of course seeing well known Salukis that I had only ever heard about but not seen before.   I found myself printing out nearly 100 photographs of the Burydowns and other lines, such as Daxlore, Al Caliphs, Knightellington and Classicus.

Over the next few months I took great pleasure in digesting the ‘feast of nostalgia’ evoked by these black and white photographs and kept returning to them regularly to admire the conformation and beauty of many of the top Salukis in this country spanning seven decades.    Whilst organising the Club Championship Show this autumn, it came to me that I was very privileged to be a witness to these albums and felt that others would like to share that same privilege, not only those who have been in the breed for many years, but also exhibitors new to the breed. What better time than a display at the busiest Saluki or Gazelle Hound Club Show of the year which was coming up in October!   I approached Tessa Abbott for her permission and she was very generous in her immediate positive response.   I understand that Tessa’s family encouraged her mother, Hope, to collate the photographs into albums before emigrating to Canada in 1989, so that this wonderful photographic memorial to past Salukis would not be lost to the sands of time.   How lucky is that for those guardians of Salukis in the UK today to be able to see photographic evidence of fascinating Saluki heritage.   Exhibitors and visitors to the Championship Show voiced their appreciation of this unique opportunity and on behalf of the Club I convey thanks to Tessa and her family for their kind generosity.     Annette Buckley”

I understand that Best Veteran in Show at the SGHC was Denise & Ian Rogers’s Labakan Lenci JW, not as I reported.  At the last Committee meeting of the SGHC it was decided that to win Best Puppy in Show you do not have to be entered in the Puppy Class but must not have be beaten by another puppy.  This will be the same for Best Veteran, not be beaten by another Veteran and also this applies to Smooths. Hopefully this is a technical clarification on any questions regarding this point.

On the KC Web site I noticed a new item called “Find a Dog Club”.  This service will be launched to the public at Discover Dogs.  It is linked to the home page on www.thekennelclub.org,uk and ties in well with other features like find a KC Registered Puppy and Breed Specific Information.  This is the bare basics of the site and in the future it will expand  to encompass all the activities of breed clubs and also other information relating to breed and breeders.  The above reminds me of a call I received a couple of weeks ago regarding someone who had recently purchased a puppy from someone that did not belong to either the Northern Saluki Club or The Saluki or Gazelle Hound Club.  The purchaser loves her puppy and thinks it’s wonderful and wants to try her hand and showing him.  She also would like to be a member of one of our Breed Clubs and join in the Club’s activities.  She attended our most recent championship show to see the Salukis and make enquiries about joining the club.  She felt the Club was not very friendly and no on was willing to sign her application for membership, quite rightly too as they do not know her.  Most of us have purchased our puppies from recognised breeders and they are more than happy to sign the application for membership.  This person maybe fine but no one is prepared to stick out their neck and maybe have it bitten off.  While the Kennel Club may state that the Breed Clubs do exist, we in our breed are very careful, because there are people that have Salukis for the wrong purpose.  Any ideas what this woman could do or how does she prove herself so one of us will sign the dotted line?

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 12^TH NOVEMBER 2010

I have received the following regarding purchasing next year’s SGHC  Calendar from Brendan Austin “The Saluki 2011 Calendar is now available.  The price this year, (same as last year),  £7.00 or £8.25 by post within the UK.  Orders outside the UK or for more than one copy please contact brendangaustin@aol.com or telephone on 01932 788 040.  Cheque's should be made payable to SGHC and sent to Brendan G Austin, 103 Vicarage Road, Sunbury on Thames,  Middlesex,  TW16 7QB.  Or we can take a credit/debit card over the phone, should you prefer.  You can also get your copy on eBay, search - Saluki calendar.  Brendan will also be at LKA (not showing) 

Christmas is only a few weeks away and the Saluki Calendar makes an ideal gift.”

Alan Lucas, Hon Sec for the Welfare has sent the following news:  “The Northern Open Show produced £179. 00 for the Welfare Stall, while the recent SGHC Championship  Show, brought in a magnificent £600.  Apparently Ann Blake, Paula Stacey, Daphne and Tony Parnham were rushed off their feet all day to keep pace with demand.  Thanks to you all for digging deep into your pockets.

On the 23^rd October, Christina Campling yet again completed the Beachy Head Marathon.  She started at 8.00 am, during rain, thunder and lightning, but fortunately the weather improved as the day went on.  Sponsorship for her efforts would still be welcome by Treasurer Daphne Parnham.

‘Saluki Snippets’, October issue is now out and has various features, including information about rescue hounds looking for their ‘forever homes’!  Daphne would welcome any new subscriptions at £6 (£5 for senior citizens) for two issues per year”

Last Sunday Midland Counties Championship Show was held.  Judging us was Breed Specialist Jenny Ziman.  BOB, DCC for his third and qualifying CC was Labakan Lamerie owned by Denise & Ian Rogers and Jean Watts.  He was born on 20^th January 2003 and his breeders are Ian & Denise Rogers.  His sire is Ch Labakan Ikteer Takha and dam, Classicus Zemilyanne.  The Rogers must be delighted as his sister was crowned with her title at the SGHC Show, two weeks earlier.  RDCC went to Ms JS Ayrton & Mr P Forte’s Chisobee Bachen Goch of Allievo.  BCC for her first CC went to Ken & Diana Allan’s Timaru Mazzika of Jazirat (imp USA).  She was born on 2nd July 2006 and her breeders are Mr & Mrs JI Brabyn.  Her sire is Ch Timaru Zephyrus CD SC and her dam, Ch Timaru Nocturne SC.  RBCC went to John & Lisa Hudson’s  Glenoak Jazmyn JW.  Best Puppy was John & Lisa Hudson’s Glenoak Kamala.  Best Breeders Group was awarded to the Hudsons. Well done all!!

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 5^TH NOVEMBER 2010

Sorry to read that my co-writer of these Breed Notes, Helen Graham,  as has had to have an operation and then the expected recovery has not gone according to plan.  Hope all is behind her now and she is in the process of making a full recovery.

The SGHC held their Championship Show a week ago at the Kennel Club Building at Stoneleigh Park.  Having not been there the previous year and having heard all the horror stories, I was not sure what to expect.  Maybe some of the problems of last year had to do with the weather, well this year the weather was beautiful.  A  bright crisp autumn day.  The building itself was light and airy with good amenities.  Caterers were on hand for lunch, coffees etc.  A couple of people sitting with us had lunch and were very pleased with what they purchased and noted that it was good value for money.  One person having the judges lunch said it was dire. 

The whole show was run in an efficiently by the two show managers, Marie Bryce-Smith and Annette Buckley. Well done to them and we actually vacated the place at a descent time.  Best in Show, was awarded by the Best in Show Judge, Buzz  Faber to Denise & Ian Rogers’s Labakan Lenci JW making her a Champion on the day.  She was born on 20^th January 2003 and her breeder is her owners.  Her sire is Ch Labakan Ikteer Takha and dam, Classicus Zemily Yanne.  RBB went to Phyllida Cooke’s Kasaque Lydia.  Reserve Best In Show & Best Veteran in Show went to Deborah Copperthwaite’s Ch Al Caliphs Zobeyni JW. Best Puppy was Mary Parker’s Classicus Concorrdia.  Best Smooth, was Sue Bounds BeduDelphine of Alsahra.

Had a phone call from Nick Bryce-Smith regarding the Contest of Champions, now organized by Eukanuba.  Winner is eligible to compete in California for the International Challenge.  Nick said they made the cut and were in the last ten with Marie’s Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk JW.

SALUKI BREED NOTES 8^TH OCTOBER 2010

I am re-including information regarding the upcoming Saluki Seminar with contact information, which I did not include the first time. The Saluki or Gazelle Hound Club will be holding a Breed Seminar on 14^th November at Bradfield Village Hall in Southend, Bradfield , Nr Reading.  Topics to be discussed will include the Breed Standard, Form versus Function and a Hands-On Session with Championship Show mentors.  Participants can obtain one of the requirements for inclusion on the Club’s B/C judging list.  Provisions will also be made for those wishing to take the breed assessment examination which is a requirement to be placed on the Club’s A judging list.

The seminar will open at 9.30 with Coffee, tea and biscuits.  At 10 am there will be a true or false questionnaire on the Breed Standard.  10.30 An interactive discussion on the Breed Standard.  11.15 talk on Form and Function.  12.00 Joint question time on am session.  12.30 Lunch.  1.15 Splitting into two groups, A & B. Group A (those individuals that want their names on the SGHC B judging list) will go over a group of dogs with a mentor.  Group B (those applying to go on the SGHC A list) will go over 5 dogs and be assessed.  After, there will be feedback and/or question time. Home at 4.30p.m.  For further information and tickets are obtainable from Ken Allan at telephone 01234 708658 or by email at jazirat@btinternet.com. There are still a few tickets available, which will be allocated on a first come basis.

Alan Lucas, Hon Sec for the Welfare has sent the following: “Once again Christina Campling, with her dogs, will be doing the Beachy Head Marathon on Saturday, 23rd October 2010.  This extremely difficult and gruelling walk is over the usual 26.2 miles taking in at least 10 miles of hills, including the famous 'Seven Sisters', which for the last couple of years have had the 'bonus' of wind, rain and mud.  Christina usually starts at about 8.30 am (having already taken the dogs out for a walk!!) and completes in about 9 or so hours, hopefully before it gets dark!.  The motivation for this is again for Saluki Welfare and all contributions to her fund rising from the Saluki world, would be most grateful and welcome.  Please send to Daphne Parnham, our Welfare Treasurer.

Last Friday we attended the Service of Celebration for the life of Norman Ziman.  It was held at Chiltern Woodland Burial Park which is not a traditional graveyard but a wood.  As we sat in the building listening to the eulogies and music I looked out the window and saw the birds flying over head.  The setting was peaceful.  There was an excellent turnout of about 250 people, some Saluki friends, some work colleagues and some members of the Kennel Club.  Contributions in Norman’s memory can be made to Iain Rennie Hospice at Home, who give palliative care in the home of terminally ill patients.  Cheques can be made payable to them.  Please sent them to Jenny Ziman at Fargaze, Lee Road, Saunderton Lee,Princes Risborough, Bucks HP27 9NX

I have received a telephone call from Jimmi Johnston-White.  Sadly he has reported that his mother has died on the Isle of Wright and he is off to her funeral next week.  Part of the funeral possession will be a miniature wire-haired Dachshund owned by Jimmi as his mother was involved in dogs, mainly Rhodesian  Ridgebacks and Great Danes.  Jimmi has asked me to mention how helpful Clair Chryssolor has been at this difficult time.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEK ENDING 17^TH SEPTEMBER 2010

Last Friday City of Birmingham held their Championship Show. Judging Salukis was Mrs Denise Courtney.  BOB for her second CC, was Deborah Copperthwaite’s Al Caliphs Nephele with the RBCC to Ann & Steve Ham’s Baghdad Bamjoeh Diva (imp).  DCC for his first CC was Annette & Brian Buckley’s Mumtaz Sirocco ShCM. He was born on 27^th August 2005 and his breeder is Mrs Z Rawson.  His sire is Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk JW and dam, Ch Mumtaz Desdemona.  RDCC went to Sue Cronin’s Sufeina Jebel Ali.  Best Puppy was Sheryl Streer, Gloria Cook and Anthony Burtenshaw’s Charrioak Sargas at Daandazi.  Well done all.

Annette and Brian Buckley have had a very special weekend.  On Friday their Mumtaz Sirocco won his first challenge certificate and their first challenge certificate as exhibitors.  On Sunday, at South Eastern Hound Premier Open Show they won Best of Breed and then Best in Show.  They would like to thank everyone for the kind words congratulating their happy experiences and to let everyone know they are over the moon.

A note on the upcoming SGHC Championship Show regarding caterers.  The Show managers have arranged for excellent caterer for the show.  First thing in the morning they will have hot bacon baps, coffee and teas.  Later there will be a choice of hot and cold food for lunch and snacks.   I have seen the cakes they make and

they look quite delicious.  So for once you can leave your sandwiches at home.

We have received the following press release from the Stockbridge Gallery: “ First For Equestrian And Canine Art  Lovers of animal art are in for a rare treat as a specialist art gallery in Hampshire, ‘Stockbridge Gallery – Dogs in Art’, is bringing together three of the UK’s top animal painters and sculptors for a superb exhibition of works. Over 75 pieces – many of them specially commissioned – will be available for viewing and purchase during the exhibition, which commences with an invitation-only preview on Sunday 3^rd October 2010 and will run until Sunday 31^st October.Entitled ‘Modern Day Animaliers’, the exhibition will be a veritable feast of captivating works by renowned painter Sam Sopwith and sculptors Kate Denton and Georgie Welch. The pieces will make perfect gifts, be treasured as one-off purchases or sit beautifully as part of a larger collection, and will appeal to animal lovers and art lovers alike. The catalogue of mostly canine and equestrian pieces – with a few additional surprises – will include something for every pocket and taste.

For more information or to request a catalogue for the Modern Day Animaliers exhibition, phone the gallery on 01264 810142, email enquiries@dogsinart.com or visit www.dogsinart.com. The gallery is situated in the picturesque village of Stockbridge, Hampshire and is open to the public every week from Tuesday to Saturday.”

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 3^RD SEPTEMBER 2010.

We have received information that June Burt has had a fall and is in the hospital.  One of her neighbours became concerned when they had not seen June and telephoned the police. When they came, they went into the house and found she had fallen down and immediately phoned for an ambulance.    Many of the new members will not know June but she has been involved with Salukis for over fifty years.   She is the longest living member of the Saluki Club and an equally long contributor of Saluki Breed Notes to Dog World.  For many years she produced and edited “The Saluki” the publication of the SGHC. We wish her a speedy recovery           .

A  big thanks to John Hudson for responding to my plea for a list of next year’s judges.  They are Manchester, Dr Ron James; Crufts, Di Allan; Limited Show, Jackie Reader; Northern Saluki Club, Carol Tipler (NZ), Birmingham National, Jenny Macro; Scottish Kennel Club, Mark Cocozza, Three Counties, Marion Finney (Ire),SGHC Open Show, Chris Payne (dogs), Anji Jackson-Main (bitches),  David Cavill (BIS), Blackpool Nev Newton; Houndshow, Nicola Quadling, SGHC Championship Show Jean Watts (dogs) David Perkins (bitches) Referee TBA.

One cannot fail to notice in the Dog Papers that the topic of the moment is on the use of soft crates.  The soft crates are so light and easily transportable that they have become a must have item.  Truth is that on a couple of occasions I have seen Salukis bust their way out.  We have the crates and tend to use them when we stay in hotels while travelling.  The dogs are quite content to be in them and the hoteliers are happy that our dogs are not running around the room.  One of our Salukis, not mentioning any names, figured how to open the zipper in the top and sticks her head out.  For her, the cages have little use.  If you are planning to use them at a show please be vigilant and keep an eye on them making sure the dog is secure.

South Eastern Hound Show will be holding their Open Show on Sunday 5^th September at Hickstead All England Show Ground.  The judge for Salukis is Jill Cross.  After judging there will be the traditional bring and share.  Please let Kathy  Webb on tel 01737353279, know what you will be taking along as a contribution for the lunch.  For further information and directions to the show please visit the club’s web site on http://southeasternhound.co.uk/the-club.html.

We have just received information that there will be a Canine Healt talk on Friday 3^rd to Sunday 5^th September at City of Birmingham Canine Association.  The Association is inviting all exhibitors to attend the health talks which will be held in the Kennel Club building on site for the duration of the show.  There will be two sessions daily, 10.30 am and 2.00 pm.  Maximum duration 1 hour to include questions and answers.  There will be speakers from the Animal Health Trust.  Sue Murphy, Friday 3^rd September will discuss clinical oncology as she is a cancer specialist.  Saturday 4^th  September Claudia Hartley will speak on small Animal ophthalmogogy and on Sunday will be  Dr Cathryn Mellersh , who is an expert on genetics. Admission is free to all exhibitors on a first come basis, with capacity for 60 attendees per session. You may also attend on a different day from your exhibiting day, as car park and entrance to the show is free.  Enquiries to: fckbirminghamhealthtalks@hotmail.co.uk   

Bournemouth Championship show was held on a Monday.  Not the easiest day to attend a show when one is still working.  Fortunately the weather was ideal with warm temperature with a cooling breeze.  BCC, BOB for her second CC was Phyllida Cooke’s Kasaque Lydia.  DCC was Deborah Copperthwaite’s Ch Al Caliphs Zobeyni JW.  The RBCC went to own Kasaque Miracle with the RDCC to Terry Farris and Mike Cosentini’s Jazirat Zidane.  Best Puppy was our smooth. Kasaque Odetta.

If is not bad enough having one Championship show mid week, there was a second show on Friday.  Our judge was Alec MacKenzie.  DCC, BOB for his third and qualifying CC was Sheryl Steer’ & Lorraine and John Fitzgerald’s Fernlark Alsace JW.  He was born on 17^th February 2007 and his breeder is his owner.  His sire isDaxlore Eron at Fernlark and dam Aziz Odeion at Fernlark.  RDCC went to Jorjenjo Mirzam of Fernlark owned by the Steer & Fitzgerald partnership.  BCC was Deborah Copperthwqite’s Al Caliph Zofeyah for her second CC with RBCC to Kathy Webb & Deborah Copperthwaite’s Ch Al Caliphs Nuray.  Best Puppy was Sheryl Steer , Lorraine & John Fitzgerald’s Charrioak Bright Star at Dawnchase.  Well done!!

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 20^TH AUGUST 2010.

Annette Buckley  has kindly sent the following information:  “Schedules for our breed Championship Show have been posted to paid-up members of the SGHC; those members who have not received a schedule or non members who require a copy, please call Marie Bryce-Smith on 01342 327573.  Alternatively, schedules can be downloaded at www.fossedata.co.uk and entries can also be submitted on this web site.

A plea from Marie and Annette – please send entries as early as possible and do not leave until the last minute. No late entries can be accepted.  If you are not intending to exhibit at this Show, but want to support the Club, perhaps you would consider rosette sponsorship at £8 a class, which can be sent to Marie Bryce-Smith at Mill House, Mill Lane, Felbridge, East Grinstead, W.Sussex RH19 2PQ.”

Last Saturday The Hound Association held their Championship Show.  Up until Limit Bitch, the rain gods were quite kind and then they let go with all their fury.  Everyone picked up all  their chattel and dashed quickly to find the allocated wet weather accommodations, which I might state were very good.  Judging us was breed specialist Denise Rogers.  BCC, BOB for her second CC was Daphne Tovey, Rosemary Redfern , Michael & Helen Williams’ Kasaque Neeka. RCC went to Denise Garratt, Sue Oakey and Karen Smith’s Caryna Meilishia.  Dog CC went to Marie Bryce-Smith’s Ch Nefisa Bushrah of Saruk JW with the RDCC to Ann Barrett, P Winrow & Mary Parker’s Khalils Usaym (imp). Best Puppy was Lindy Shaw & M Shaw’s Anisah Say What U See NAF.  Best Veteran went to Mr A Rawson’s Ch Mumtaz Stellanova JW, Sh CM.

I received our copy of the Kennel Club Breed Records Supplement for April to June 2010.  First breed in the Hound Group is always the Afghans and I was surprised to see that their New Registration for the above period was 14 puppies from 2 litters.  If this had been the Salukis I would have been disappointed but not surprised.  Further on it states that our own breed has a healthy new registration of 51 puppies from 6 litters.  Of these 6 litters 5 are members of a Breed Club.  Our registration for the first two quarters of 2009 was 75 puppies and this year for that same period we are up to 95.  It will be interesting to see if by the 4^th quarter we are still up on last year. 

A request from myself, if anyone has a list of approved Saluki judges for 2011, I would appreciate if they would let me have a copy.

SALUKI BREED NOTES WEEKENDING 13^TH AUGUST 2010

A reader of these notes asked me about the declaration we sign when entering a dog show and if the dog’s ownership is in multiply names how do we arrange for everyone to sign?  I referred this question to the Kennel Club as all the shows we go to are under their jurisdiction. Kathryn Marsh has written back, on behalf of the Kennel Club sending the following regulation.  She refer us to Regulation F(1)9.f which states – “…where an owner makes an entry on behalf of another joint registered owner(s) or where an agent enters on behalf of a single or joint registered owner(s) such person must have the authority and consent from the single or joint registered owner(s) to sign the entry form on their behalf thereby binding them all to Kennel Club Rules & Regulations.  In the event of any dispute, evidence of such authority and consent will be required.”

Yesterday,Wednesday, Paignton Canine Society held their Championship Show near Exeter, Devon.  Rain was on the forecast and it did rain but fortunately the rings were mainly under cover.  Judging us was Mrs Mary Parker. BOB, DCC for his 1^st CC was Mrs S Ham, Mesdames Ham, Brockman-Chato and Elliot-Ross’ Baghdad Karim (imp).  He was born on the 13^th January 2007 and his breeder is Mrs P Brockman-Chato.  His ssire is Aust Ch Baghdad Creme De La Creme and dam Aust Ch Taejaan Erin Brokovitch.  RDCC went to Denise and Ian Rogers and Jean Watts’ Labakan Lamerie.  BCC, for her second CC was Denise & Ian Rogers’ Labakan Lenci JW with the RBCC to Phyllida Cooke’s Kasaque Lydia.  Best Puppy was our own Kasaque Odetta. Well done all!!

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.