16th April 2021

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On Sunday 28th March 2021 we attended two Northern Saluki Club Annual General Meetings which were both, well attended.  It was very interesting as it was held on Zoom.  This system worked out very well as far as I could fathom for everyone attending.  We could sit comfortable by our computers, laptops or telephones and go through the agenda.  Understandably this is why Zoom is being used in many countries where people find it difficult to meet up because of geographical distances.  Certainly, Michael and myself would not have wanted to drive to the North of England for the AGM, even if COVID was not a factor.  At this meeting there was an election of officers.  The Club’s new Patron (the office held by the late Roy Goodby) is Judith White.  Newly elected President is Denise Garrett while David Hartley remains the Chairman.  Vice Chairman is Christopher Lewis, Vice President is John Owen and Adele Walton Haddon.  John Owen is still the Secretary and Jessica Brassington remains as Treasurer. All posts were not contested.  The only report was from Christine Harrison on behalf of the Welfare.  She mentioned two dogs that had been recently, successfully re-homed.  
 
Kevin Carter’s funeral was held on the 29th March.  David Hartley, as a good friend of Kevin and the family, conducted the service.  He said it was very well attended by both people and dogs, of course sticking to the strict rules regarding COVID.  David asked me to pass on the following: “Saluki Welfare wishes to thank the people who generously donated to Welfare funds at the recent funeral of Kevin Carter. A sum of £258 was raised in total. Once more thank you so much”
 
This week I received a notification from the Kennel Club that the Kennel Club Canine Genetics Centre will now be located at the University of Cambridge.  It goes on to say that KC Charitable Trust has funded the centre since it was initially launched at The Animal Health Trust.  The Animal Health Trust has now closed but Dr Cathryn Mellersh, the ex-genetic head has been appointed to be in charge at this new facility. For Saluki owners this is very relevant.  For at least the last 25 years we have been sending DNA samples to the AHT as we are building up a good database for our breed. Thankfully this information is safe having been has been transferred to Cambridge.  I have contacted John Davies, who leads the team in Saluki Health, he has said it is still early days and the new research facility needs time to set up.  As soon as he learns who is dealing with DNA sampling, he will let me know. So, if you have not taken a DNA sample of your dog, please do when the kits are available.  There is a short form to fill in when sending in the DNA samples.
 
Good news, The UK Sighthound Sport has confirmed that they have permission to hold a ‘Trials Day’ on 25thApril 2021 in Moreton-in-Marsh.  For those of you that would like to run your Salukis with the Club you must have your dog approved that he/she will run without interfering with another dog.  This ‘Trial’ day is set up to do just this.  The Club states “All dogs will run a solo run in the first round and then be paired with another dog if ready/required.  
 
This meeting will be run to COVIS secure Rules.  Social Distancing must be adhered to.  Masks must be worn when coming into the paddock.  If you do not want to wear a mask then you must have someone else to bring your dog to the paddock on your behalf.  For further information email contact@uksighthoundsport.com