Appearance

The Bulldog comes in a variety of colours and ideally has a smooth, short coat. The only disqualifier for the breed in the show ring is a liver colored nose, although black-coated bulldogs are not preferred. In the US, the size of a typical mature male is about 50 pounds; that for mature females is about 40 pounds. In the United Kingdom, the breed standard is 55 pounds for a male and 50 pounds for a female, but it is not uncommon for males to be 70 pounds.

[edit] Temperament

Despite their famous "sourmug" expression, bulldogs are generally docile, friendly and gregarious but occasionally willful. Breeders have worked to breed aggression out of the breed, and as such the dog is known to be of generally good temperament. Bulldogs can be so attached to home and family that they will not venture out of the yard without a human companion. Due to their friendly nature bulldogs are known for getting along well with children, other dogs and pets.

A bulldog is suitable for houses as well as apartments due to their size and susceptibility to the weather. They are easily trainable as compared with many other breeds, albeit it can be difficult to keep them away from the dinner table.

[edit] Health

The bulldog's appearance attributes to specific health issues. Breathing issues can be prevalent in the breed due to the shape and the shortness of muzzle, which was originally bred for gripping. In particular, bulldogs are known to snore. In the United Kingdom, some dogs can be prone to interstitial cysts, which are cysts which form between the toes. These cause the dog some discomfort, though they are treatable either by vet or an experienced owner. Other problems can include cherry eye, certain allergies, and amongst older bulldogs hip issues. Bulldogs have extremely strong jaws and are capable of suspending themselves off the ground for over an hour by their vice like grip.

Because of the large heads in proportion to body size, puppies are frequently delivered by Caesarean section as they can get stuck in the birth canal during natural birth. However, it is not uncommon for a bulldog to whelp naturally and successfully.

Bulldogs require daily cleaning of their face folds to avoid unwanted infections caused by moisture accumulation. Daily teeth brushing with a regular human soft toothbrush using a vet approved toothpaste is also recommended.

Like all dogs, bulldogs require daily exercise. If not properly exercised the bulldog could gain weight, which could cause health problems relating to the lungs and heart. Bulldogs are extremely sensitive to heat and cold and great care should be given to the dog during overly warm periods. During these times, the owner should ensure that the dog has plenty of shade and water, and should be ideally kept out of standing heat.

As the breed has developed, the tail in some dogs can be tight to the body and can cause infection if not treated or cleaned underneath regularly.

[edit] History

The term "bulldog" was first used around 1568 and might have been applied to various ancestors of modern bulldog breeds. Bulldogs were bred in England as a cross between the mastiff and the pug.^[1]

In the 1600s, bulldogs were used for bullbaiting (as well as bearbaiting), a gambling sport popular in the 17th century with wagers laid in which trained bulldogs leapt at a bull lashed to a post, latched onto its snout and attempted to suffocate it.^[2] Bulldogs have many distinct characteristics that were bred into them so they would be better suited to bullbaiting. The bulldog's body is short, low to the ground and compact, allowing it to be able to scuttle or crawl low under the bull's horns. The lower jaw sticks out further than the top one allowing the bulldog to grip on the nose of the animal and still be able to breathe due to the lay-back of the nose. The wrinkles on the bulldogs face allow the blood from the other animal to run down the bulldogs face instead of going into its eyes. However this is a common misconception and the breed in its current form has been so inbred by man over the years that were it to perform the task it was origninally bred for it would fail miserably.^{[citation needed]}

The oldest single breed specialty club is The Bulldog Club (England), which was formed in 1875. Members of this club met frequently at the Blue Post pub on Oxford Street in London. There they wrote the first standard of perfection for the breed. In 1891 the two top bulldogs, Orry and Dockleaf, competed in a contest to see which dog could walk the farthest. Orry was reminiscent of the original bulldogs, lighter boned and very athletic. Dockleaf was smaller and heavier set, more like modern bulldogs. Dockleaf was declared the winner that year. Although some argued that the older version of the bulldog was more fit to perform, the modern version’s looks won over the fans of the breed because they proved they were equally as fit and athletic in the walking competition.

[edit] Popular mascot

Main article: List of Bulldog mascots

Because of its tenacity, the bulldog is a symbol of the United Kingdom in general and England in particular and is a popular mascot of dozens of American universities, as well as numerous high schools throughout the United States of America. The bulldog is the unofficial mascot of the United States Marine Corps.

Take one Balinese, dip in the colors of the rainbow and you have a Javanese. The Javanese is everything that is Balinese, and then some…the intelligence, grace and refinement of the Siamese, the luxurious silk of the Balinese coat, combined with the designer colors of the Colorpoint Shorthair. Named for the next island over from Bali, Javanese have been around for about as long as the Balinese. Some appeared in litters of Colorpoint Shorthairs, most likely a result of the longhair gene being introduced via the domestic shorthair when the red, lynx and tortie point colors and patterns were first introduced to the Siamese breed. Most are the result of Balinese breeders using the Colorpoint Shorthair to introduce these colors and patterns into the Balinese breed. The Javanese were finally accepted by CFA for championship competition as of May 1986. The Javanse standard is identical to that of the Balinese - a cat of Siamese type with long flowing coat, the only difference being in the colors accepted for championship competition.

The Javanese is a breed for folks who want a little spice in their lives. A study of contradictions - elegant refinement, sometimes fragile in appearance…in reality hard and muscular with surprising strength. The slender lines and flowing coat hide a rock hard body capable of amazing feats of acrobatic proportions. Highly intelligent, they become familiar with their human’s routine. They will “talk,” gently reminding when you are late with meals or play time, joyously greeting you whenever you have been away. As a rule, the Javanese voice is softer and gentler than the Siamese. They use their paws like little hands to open cabinets and drawers in search of a favorite toy they saw you hide. Many “fetch,” but never delude yourself that you taught them this game. In reality, they have cleverly taught you how to throw. Easy to care for, their coats never mat and tend to shed less than the Siamese or Colorpoints, truly a “lazy man’s longhair” - an occasional combing and bath to refresh the sensuous silky texture of their coat is all that is necessary outside of regular nail clipping.

Pictured: Second Best of Breed GC, BW, RW MIA CHING'S ROXANNE OF KLM, Blue-Lynx Point Javanese Female Photo: © Blue Bayou

While the Balinese might have specific personalities linked to each color, the Javanese most definitely do! Tortie points are an acquired taste, you either like them or you don’t. Their markings can vary from a soft sprinkling of red and cream on a background of seal, blue, chocolate or lilac, to bold splashes of color, sometimes creating a clown-like appearance. Tortie points are the Javanese version of a dizzy blond or crazy redhead acting almost as if, between the splashes of red and cream mixed with the background color, they can’t make up their minds how they are supposed to behave. They “speak” their minds freely and entertain you with their antics. If Lucille Ball was ever reincarnated as a cat, she would definitely be a tortie!

Red and cream points must get their color from Cupid’s arrow -- this has to be the most laid back and easy going of all colors. They seem to exist only to love you. While they love to play and do the same things that “normal” cats do, they take frequent breaks to reassure you of their devotion. They need to feel a part of your life and love to “help,” offering suggestions from a short distance before moving in to assist you with the project in question.

Lynx points seem to be the most popular pattern. There is nothing quite so dramatic as silvery stripes on a seal point background. Lynx points also come in blue, chocolate, lilac, red and cream point colors along with all possible tortie point colors. Lynx point personalities seem to vary between the very regal and dignified to those that seem to be part monkey or squirrel - creative and always entertaining with tricks and toys.

Javanese also come in seal, blue, chocolate and lilac point colors similar to the Siamese and Balinese. However, these colors are not eligible for championship competion in CFA. As with the Balinese, the foremost Javanese breeders use Siamese and Colorpoints in their breeding programs producing “variants” that might look like Siamese or Colorpoints. The coats have a richer feel than that of a true shorthair. Because of the number of genetic variables, the kittens that are marked like Siamese are almost always sold as pets while those that are marked like Colorpoints are used within our breeding programs.

Pictured: Third Best of Breed GC LOBLOLLY HAE RHEE, Blue-Lynx Point Javanese Female Photo: © Larry Johnson

Pricing on Javanese usually depends on type, applicable markings and bloodlines distinguished by Grand Champion (GC), National or Regional winning parentage (NW or RW) or of Distinguished Merit parentage (DM). The DM title is achieved by the dam (mother) having produced five CFA grand champion/ premier (alter) or DM offspring, or sire (father) having produced fifteen CFA grand champion/premier or DM offspring. Usually breeders make kittens available between twelve and sixteen weeks of age. After twelve weeks, kittens have had their basic inoculations and developed the physical and social stability needed for a new environment, showing, or being transported by air. Keeping such a rare treasure indoors, neutering or spaying and providing acceptable surfaces (e.g. scratching posts) for the natural behavior of scratching (CFA disapproves of declawing or tendonectomy surgery) are essential elements for maintaining a healthy, long and joyful life.

There are CFA clubs devoted to the promotion, protection and preservation of the Javanese breed. For more information, please send inquiries to CFA, PO Box 1005, Manasquan NJ 08736-0805.

Text: Kris Willison
Last Updated: Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Kittens usually begin their vaccines at 6 to 8 weeks of age. They receive vaccines every 4 weeks until they have a total of three sets of vaccinations. The first of these final vaccines primes the kitten's matured immune system, while the final set provides immunity for a year.

What Are Vaccines? Vaccines stimulate an animal's immune system, so that the cat is fully prepared and armed with antibodies against diseases. Without proper vaccination, a cat's immune system will not be able to resist the virus or bacteria until it is too late.

Feline Rhinotracheitis is caused by a herpes virus, and can cause sneezing, fever, ocular discharge, and coughing. It can cause permanent, incurable changes to the eyes and the inside of the nose. Some cats are carriers, spreading the disease while showing no signs

Feline Calicivirus- this virus can cause respiratory signs, fever, drooling ulcers of the mouth and footpads, pneumonia, diarrhea, arthritis, and neurologic signs

Feline Distemper or Feline Panleukopenia-very common and contagious viral disease that causes fever, weakness, vomiting and diarrhea. It is often fatal in kittens. The virus that causes feline distemper is not the same as canine distemper virus.

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) -is an incurable virus that destroys the immune system of a cat, leading to fatal infections and cancers. It is transmitted through saliva, urine and other body fluids. It is relatively common in our area. Initially cats appear healthy and normal, yet still are contagious to other cats.

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)- also known as Feline AIDS, this virus also wears down a cat's immune system, predisposing it to eventually fatal infections and cancers. There is no vaccine or cure for FIV. Carrier cats can appear healthy, yet still be contagious. This disease is spread through biting, sexual behavior, and from a mother's milk.

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)- an incurable viral disease that attacks the abdominal organs. It causes a slow onset of anorexia, abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea, ending in death.

Chlamydia- Highly contagious, extremely common infection of the eyes and upper respiratory system

Rabies- this viral disease is most often spread by wild raccoons, foxes and bats. There is no treatment for rabies in animals, and the only test involves removing the brain. Untreated rabies is also fatal in humans, who catch the disease from the bites and scratches of infected animals. Dogs and cats can carry and spread the virus for weeks to months while appearing normal.

Fecal Flotation- the cats stool is mixed with a special solution that causes intestinal parasite eggs to float to the surface. This layer is then examined under a microscope. This test will identify intestinal worm eggs, as well as some other microscopic parasites such as Coccidia or Giardia.

Kittens are vaccinated in a series of 3 shots at 2 to 4 week intervals. The FVRCPC vaccine includes protection against rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleudopenia and chlamydia. Leukemia and FIP vaccinations are given with the FVRCPC vaccine. Kittens older than 4 months that go outside are encouraged to receive a rabies vaccine also. It is important to run fecal samples to check for parasites as a kitten is going through the initial vaccination series. Depending on geographical area, husbandry, number of cats and other factors, additional testing and preventative medications may be necessary. Such testing includes heartworm, leukemia, FIV, and FIP.

History

The earliest evidence of horses with a spotted coat pattern is from the cave paintings dating from the Upper Paleolithic era, circa 18,000 BC found at Lascaux and Peche-Merle in France.^[1] Domesticated horses with blanket spotting patterns have also been depicted in the art of Ancient Persia, in Ancient Greece, the "Celestial horses" of the T'ang Dynasty in China, and 11th century France.^[1][2] Paintings from France in the 16th and 17th century show horses with Appaloosa coat patterns being used as riding horses, and other records indicate they were also used as coach horses at the court of King Louis XIV of France.^[3] In mid-18th century Europe, there was a high demand for horses with the Appaloosa coat pattern among the nobility and royalty. These horses were used in the schools of horsemanship and for parade and display use.^[4]

It is unclear how spotted horses arrived in the Americas, although the Spanish Conquistadors may have brought some vividly marked horses with them when they first arrived in the early 1500s.^[5] One horse with snowflake patterning was listed with the 16 horses brought to Mexico by Cortez.^[6] Additional spotted horses were noted by Spanish writers in 1604.^[7] Additional numbers arrived when spotted horses went out of style in late-18th century Europe, resulting in large numbers shipped to the west coast of America and traded to Spanish settlers and the Indian people of the Pacific Northwest, a voyage survived only by the hardiest animals.^[8]

[edit] The Nez Perce people

See also: Nez Perce

Horses reached the Pacific Northwest by 1700. The Nez Perce people, who lived in what today is eastern Washington and Oregon, obtained horses from the Shoshone people circa 1730,^[9] and from there took advantage of the fact that they lived in excellent horse-breeding country, relatively safe from the raids of other tribes, and developed strict breeding selection practices for their animals. They were one of the few tribes to actively use the practice of gelding inferior male horses,^[9] and actively traded away poorer stock to remove unsuitable animals from the gene pool,^[1][10]and became known as notable horse breeders by the early 1800s.^[11]

These early Nez Perce horses were considered to be of high quality. Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis and Clark Expedition wrote in his February 15, 1806 journal entry: "Their horses appear to be of an excellent race; they are lofty, eligantly [sic] formed, active and durable: in short many of them look like fine English horses and would make a figure in any country."^[1] Lewis did note spotting patterns, saying, "...some of these horses are pided [sic] with large spots of white irregularly scattered and intermixed with black, brown, bey [sic] or some other dark color."^[11]

Though by "pied" Lewis may have been referring to leopard-spotted patterns seen in the modern Appaloosa,^[12] the Appaloosa Horse Club itself estimates that only about ten percent of the horses owned by the Nez Perce at the time were spotted.^[11] It is clear the Nez Perce had many solid-colored horses in the early 1800s, and only began to emphasize color in their breeding program some time after the arrival of Lewis and Clark. In any case, the Nez Perce had many spotted horses by the late 1800s when the tribe and their horses once again came to the attention of the rest of the world.^[13]

[edit] The Nez Perce War

See also: Nez Perce War

The Nez Perce people were a relatively peaceful nation, many of whom engaged in agriculture as well as horse breeding. The encroachment of gold miners in the 1860s and settlers in the 1870s put pressure on the tribe to give up much of their land, and various treaties between 1855 and 1863 reduced their original treaty lands of seven million acres (28,000 km²) by 90%.^[1]

Ultimately the Nez Perce drew the line at the Wallowa Valley of Oregon. While their leader, popularly known as Chief Joseph, was attempting to negotiate a new treaty, a small group of warriors attacked settlers in 1877, leading to a battle in the White Bird Canyon of Idaho and the 1877 Nez Perce War. Joseph then led about 800 of his people, mostly non-warriors, in a remarkable retreat on their Appaloosa horses, traveling southeast through Idaho and Montana and then back north across Yellowstone National Park, roughly 1,700 miles (2,700 km). They first sought refuge with other tribes including the Shoshone and the Crow Nation, then ultimately deciding to try to reach safety in Canada. A small number of Nez Perce fighters, mounted on their fast, agile and hardy Appaloosa horses, successfully held off larger forces of the U.S. Army in several skirmishes, including the two-day Battle of the Big Hole in southwestern Montana.^[14]

However, the journey came to an end when they stopped to rest near the Bears Paw Mountains in Montana, 40 miles (64 kilometers) from the Canadian border, thinking that they had shaken off their pursuers. But Nelson A. Miles, then a colonel, led his troops in a rapid march of over 200 miles (322 kilometers) to catch the Nez Perce. After a devastating five-day battle, the battle - and the war -was over.^[14] Chief Joseph declared in his famous speech that he would "fight no more forever."^[15]

[edit] The aftermath of the Nez Perce War

When the U.S. 7th Cavalry captured Chief Joseph and the remaining Nez Perce on October 5, 1877, they immediately took over 1,000 of the tribe's horses, sold what they could, and shot many of the rest. A significant population of horses had been hastily left behind in the Wallowa valley when the Nez Perce began their retreat and additional animals escaped or were abandoned along the way.^[1] The Nez Perce were ultimately settled on a reservation in north central Idaho, were allowed very few horses, and were required by the Army to breed what mares they still had to draft horse stallions in an attempt to create farm horses.^[16] Thus, although a remnant population of Appaloosa remained after 1877, the Appaloosa was virtually forgotten as a distinct breed for almost 60 years.^[1] However, a few quality horses continued to be bred, mostly those captured or purchased by white settlers and used as working ranch horses. Others were used in circuses and in Buffalo Bill Cody's Wild West Show.^[17] These horses were originally referred to by white settlers as the "Palouse horse", probably because the Palouse River ran through the heart of what was once Nez Perce country. Gradually, the name evolved into "Appaloosa".^[10]

[edit] Nez Perce horse breeding today

The Nez Perce tribe never regained its former position as breeders of Appaloosa horses. However, the tribe began a program in 1995 to develop a new and distinct horse breed, the Nez Perce Horse. Based on crossbreeding the Appaloosa with a Central Asian breed called Akhal-Teke, the Nez Perce hope to resurrect their horse culture, a tradition of selective breeding and horsemanship that was destroyed by the Nez Perce War. The program was financed by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the Nez Perce tribe, and the First Nations Development Institute, a nonprofit organization that promotes tribal business development.^[18]

[edit] Revitalization

In 1937, the Appaloosa had caught the eye of the general public because of a series of articles in Western Horseman magazine, and the Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC) was founded by Claude Thompson and a small group of other dedicated breeders in 1938.^[19][20] The registry was originally housed in Moro, Oregon,^[20] then in 1947 moved to Moscow, Idaho.^[19] The Appaloosa Museum foundation was formed in 1975 to preserve the history of the Appaloosa horse.^[21]

A significant crossbreeding influence used to revitalize the Appaloosa was the Arabian horse, as evidenced by early registration lists which show Arabian-Appaloosa crossbreds as ten of the first fifteen horses registered with the ApHC.^[22] For example, one of Claude Thompson's major herd sires was Ferras, an Arabian stallion bred by W.K. Kellogg from horses imported from the Crabbet Arabian Stud of England.^[23] Ferras then sired Red Eagle, a prominent Appaloosa stallion,^[23] who was added to the Appaloosa Hall of Fame in 1988. Later, Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse lines were added, as well as crosses from other breeds, including Morgans and Standardbreds.^[24] In 1983, the ApHC reduced the number of allowable outcrosses to three main breeds: the Arabian horse, the American Quarter Horse and the Thoroughbred.^[25]

By 1978, the ApHC was the third largest horse registry in the United States.^[19] Today, the Appaloosa is one of America's most popular breeds and as of 2007 there were over 670,000 Appaloosas registered by the ApHC.^[26] The state of Idaho adopted the Appaloosa as its official state horse on March 25, 1975 when Idaho Governor Cecil Andrus signed the enabling legislation.^[11] Idaho even offers a custom license plate featuring an Appaloosa horse,^[27] the first state to offer a plate featuring a state horse.^[28]

[edit] Breed Characteristics

The Appaloosa is known for its preferred leopard-spotted coat pattern and other distinctive physical characteristics.^[29] Because the spotting pattern is a preferred identifying factor, and because several different horse breeds influenced the Appaloosa, there are several body styles found in the breed. Due to this wide variety, Appaloosas are used in many different disciplines.

Most Appaloosas are recognized by their colorful spotted coat, striped hooves, mottled skin (most visible around their eyes and on their muzzle) and white sclera around the eye. Appaloosas can have brown, blue or hazel eyes, and an individual horse may have eyes of two different colors.^[30] While the original, "old time" Appaloosas often had a sparse mane and tail, it was not a predisposition for the breed as a whole; even many original Appaloosas had full manes and tails. Today the "rat tail" trait is usually bred away from and most "modern" Appaloosas have full manes and tails.^[31]

[edit] Conformation

The physical conformation of the original Appaloosa was typical of the range horses found in the western United States. Original or "old style" Appaloosas were highly regarded as hardy working horses. Many ranchers and horse breeders used roan or minimally marked Appaloosas in their programs, particularly in parts of Texas and Colorado. This had an impact on the development of the American Quarter Horse, especially with regard to the Peavy, Roberd and Casement herds.^[32] Modern Appaloosas are both more refined and more muscular, reflecting the influence of Arabian and Thoroughbred breeding as well as infusions from modern American Quarter Horses and other lines.

Appaloosas with a "stock horse" build are well suited to western riding disciplines as well as to short-length horse racing, at distances from 220 yards (200 m) up to a quarter-mile (400 m). The "foundation" or "working" Appaloosa is still sometimes seen, especially on working ranches. This is a slightly smaller, leaner animal considered to be closer in type to the original Nez Perce bloodstock. There are also some Appaloosas that display more of a Thoroughbred or sport horse conformation - taller, with longer legs and a leaner build, bred to be used in English riding competition and middle distance horse races up to 8 furlongs (1.0 mi).^[33] A similarly spotted breed in Europe, with a sport horse build, is the Knabstrup.^[1]

[edit] Color and spotting patterns

Main article: equine coat color

The base color of the Appaloosa horse can include bay, black, chestnut, palomino, buckskin, or any of the variations of dun and grullo. However, it is the unique spotting pattern that most people associate with the Appaloosa horse. These spotted markings are not the same as the "dapples" sometimes seen in grays and some other horse colors. Appaloosa markings overlay the base coat color, and have several pattern variations.^[34]

It is not always easy to predict the color a grown horse will be from the shade it has as a foal. Most foals are born with lighter colored coats than they will have when they shed their baby hair with the exception of gray horses, which are born dark and progressively become lighter.^[35]

The Appaloosa Horse Club recognizes thirteen base coat colors, which may be overlain by the following five recognized spotting patterns:^[36]

• Blanket - white over the hip that may extend from the tail to the base of the neck. The spots inside the blanket (if present) are the same color as the horse's base coat.
• Leopard - A horse whose Appaloosa white patterning is exhibited to an extreme with base colored spots of various sizes covering most of its body.
• Few Spot Leopard - This is a horse whose base color is nearly obscured by its Appaloosa white patterning covering up to 90% of its body. Horse may exhibit patches of color on the heads, knees, elbows, flanks (called "varnish marks"). Some may have as few as only one or two spots.
• Snowflake - A horse with white spots, flecks, on a dark body. Typically the white spots increase in number and size as the horse ages.
• Varnish roan - dark points (legs and head) and some spots or roaning over a light body. May occur in conjunction with another spotting style and change with age. Often starts out as a solid colored horse that gets more white as it ages, but is not a gray.
• Frost - similar to varnish but the white hairs are limited to the back, loins, and neck. May occur in conjunction with another spotting style and change with age. Often starts out as a solid colored horse that gets more white as it ages.^[36]

[edit] Genetics

Main article: Equine coat color genetics

Research conducted by scientists in the Horse Genome Project theorizes that the Appaloosa or LP gene is responsible for Appaloosa patterning and other color characteristics, while other factors, possibly genes, determine the exact spotting pattern.^[37] While there is currently no DNA test for the gene, it is believed that it is located on a single autosomal dominant locus, and may possibly be a gene-complex rather than a single gene.^[38] It should be noted that not every horse with the Lp gene exhibits hair coat spotting. However, even some solid individuals will exhibit characteristics such as vertically striped hooves, white sclera of the eye, or mottled skin around the eyes, lips, and genitalia.^[39]

Sometimes, Appaloosas may also exhibit sabino or pinto type markings, but these are not desirable and are discouraged by the ApHC registration rules. The Appaloosa Project, a genetic study group, has also done extensive research on the interactions of Appaloosa and pinto genes and how they affect each other.^[40] The genes that create these different patterns can all be present in the same horse. However, because pinto genes, particularly the overo pattern, may "cover-up" or obscure Appaloosa patterns, pinto breeding is discouraged by the ApHC, which will deny registration to some horses if they have excessive white markings.^[41]

[edit] Registration

Main article: Appaloosa Horse Club

Located in Moscow, Idaho, the Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC) is the principal body for the promotion and preservation of the Appaloosa breed in the United States. Affiliate Appaloosa organizations exist in many South American and European countries, as well as South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Mexico and Israel.^[42] The Appaloosa Horse Club doesn't release membership numbers, but the circulation of the Appaloosa Journal, which is included with most types of membership, is around 32,000 as of 2008.^[43][44] The American Appaloosa Association was founded in 1983 by members opposed to the registration of plain-colored horses as Appaloosas in the color rule controversy. Based in Missouri, it has a membership of over 2000 as of 2008.^[45]

The Appaloosa is "a breed defined by ApHC bloodline requirements and preferred characteristics, including coat pattern."^[29] In other words, the Appaloosa is a distinct breed from limited bloodlines with distinct physical traits and a desired color, referred to as a "color preference." Thus, Appaloosas are not strictly a "color breed" as many people believe. All ApHC-registered Appaloosas must be the offspring of two registered Appaloosa parents or a registered Appaloosa and a horse from an approved breed registry, which includes Arabian horses, Quarter Horses, and Thoroughbreds. In all cases, one parent must always be a regular registered Appaloosa. The only exception to the bloodline requirements is in the case of Appaloosa colored geldings or spayed mares with unknown pedigrees; owners may apply for "hardship registration" for these non-breeding horses.^[29]

In addition to the spotting patterns previously mentioned, certain other characteristics are used to determine if a horse receives "regular" registration, including striped hooves, a white ring or sclera around the eyes, and mottled (spotted) skin around the eyes, lips, and genitalia. The Appaloosa is one of the few horse breeds to exhibit skin mottling, and so this characteristic is very basic and decisive indication of a true member of the breed.^[29]

Appaloosas who are born with visible coat pattern, or mottled skin and at least one other characteristic, are registered with "regular" papers and have full show and breeding privileges. A horse that meets bloodline requirements but is born without the recognized color pattern/characteristics can still be registered with the ApHC. These solid colored, "non-characteristic" Appaloosas may not be shown at ApHC events unless the owner DNA parentage-verifies the horse and pays an extra fee to enter the horse into the ApHC's Performance Permit Program (PPP).^[46] Solid-colored Appaloosas also have breeding restrictions.^[29]

[edit] Color rule controversy

Any horse that shows Appaloosa markings carries the "Leopard" or Lp gene, which must be present in at least one parent.^[47] During the 1940s and 1950s, when both the Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC) and the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) were in their formative years, minimally marked or roan Appaloosas were sometimes used in Quarter Horse breeding programs.^[48] At the same time, it was noted that two solid-colored registered Quarter Horse parents would sometimes produce what was called a "cropout" – in the Quarter horse world, a term referring to either an Appaloosa or pinto-colored foal, one with too much white in the "wrong" places. For a considerable time, until DNA testing could verify parentage, the AQHA refused to register such horses. However, the ApHC accepted "crop-out" horses that exhibited proper Appaloosa traits, and "crop-out" pintos became the core of the American Paint Horse registry, the American Paint Horse Association. Famous Appaloosas who were "crop-outs" included Colida, Joker B, Bright Eyes Brother and Wapiti.^{[citation needed]}

In the late 1970s, the color controversy went in the opposite direction within the Appaloosa registry. The ApHC generated considerable controversy by a decision to allow solid-colored or "non-characteristic" Appaloosas to be registered with the "N" prefix system.^{[citation needed][49]} Prior to the implementation of the rule, a foal of Appaloosa parents who did not have sufficient color was often denied registration. However, non-characteristic Appaloosas were allowed into the registry and breeder experience showed that some solid Appaloosas could throw a spotted foal in a subsequent generation, at least when bred to a spotted Appaloosa, and in addition, many horses with a solid coat nonetheless exhibited secondary characteristics such as skin mottling, the white sclera and striped hooves.^[50] However, the controversy was intense, and a number of Appaloosa breeders split from the ApHC and founded a separate Appaloosa organization in 1983.^[45]

[edit] Uses

Appaloosas are highly versatile horses, seen in western riding competitions that include cutting, reining, rodeo and O-Mok-See sports such as barrel racing (known as the Camas Prairie Stump Race in Appaloosa-only competition) and pole bending (called the Nez Percé Stake Race at breed shows). The sport horse type Appaloosa used for English riding is seen in hunt seat competition on the flat as well as dressage and Hunter-style events.^[51] There is horse racing for Appaloosas,^[33] and they do well in endurance riding as well as being casual trail riding companion animals.^[52]

[edit] In modern culture

Appaloosas are often used in Western movies and television series as mounts for both cowboy and Native American characters. Examples included "Cojo Rojo" in the Marlon Brando film The Appaloosa^[53] and "Zip Cochise" ridden by John Wayne in the 1966 film El Dorado.^[54] An Appaloosa horse is part of the controversial mascot team for the Florida State Seminoles, Chief Osceola and Renegade, even though the Seminole people were not directly associated with Appaloosa horses.^[55]

[edit] Influence on other breeds

Other popular breeds with Appaloosa coloring and Appaloosa ancestry include the Pony of the Americas^[56] and the Colorado Ranger.^[57] Appaloosas are also crossbred with a number of gaited horse breeds in an attempt to create a leopard-spotted ambling horse. Because the ensuing offspring are not eligible for ApHC registration,^[58] their owners are forming a number of new breed registries to promote gaited horses with spotted coats.^[59]

[edit] Genetic and health issues

[edit] Uveitis

Appaloosas have an eightfold higher risk of developing spontaneous equine recurrent uveitis (ERU), which can, if not treated, lead to blindness, which occurs in Appaloosas at four times the rate of the general horse population.^[60] As many as 25% of all Appaloosas may develop ERU, the highest prevalence in any horse breed.^[61] Current research at the University of Minnesota is attempting to determine if there is a genetic factor involved;^[60] and may have identified a potential gene region that may be linked to the condition.^[62]

[edit] Drug rules

In 2007, the ApHC implemented new drug rules which will allow Appaloosas to show with the drugs furosemide, known by the trade name of Lasix and acetazolamide. Furosemide is used to prevent horses who bleed from the nose when subjected to strenuous work from having bleeding episodes when in competition, and is widely used in horse racing. Acetazolamide ("Acet") is used for treating horses with the genetic disease Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis (HYPP), and prevents affected animals from having seizures.^[63] Acet is only allowed for horses that test positive for HYPP and have HYPP status noted on their registration papers.^[64] The ApHC recommends that Appaloosas that trace to certain American Quarter Horse bloodlines be tested for HYPP, though testing is not mandatory,^[65] and owners have the option to choose to place HYPP testing results on registration papers.^[66]

Both drugs are controversial in part because they are considered drug maskers and as diuretics which can be used to make it difficult to detect the use of other drugs from the horse's system. For these reasons, and also due to lack of membership notice and comment, this rule change has generated controversy.^[67] On one side, it is argued that both the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), which sponsors show competition for many different horse breeds,^[68] and the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI), which governs international and Olympic Equestrian, competition ban the use of furosemide.^[69] On the other side of the controversy, several major stock horse registries that sanction their own shows, including the American Quarter Horse Association,^[70][71] American Paint Horse Association,^[72] and the Palomino Horse Breeders' of America,^[73] allow acetazolamide and furosemide to be used with 24 hours of showing under certain circumstances.

"We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals." ~ Immanual Kant


This quote could not be truer.  A woman walked into my clinic today holding a Jack Russell wrapped in a t-shirt crying.  She began to plead with me to help her to treat her neighbors dog of whom she has stolen.  The poor animal was gasping for breath because it had multiple snake bite wounds and was also possibly pregnant.  Apparently the actual owner saw this and did not care and proceeded to let the animal suffer.

This leads me to my question, "Who would do this to an animal?" I can only imagine the type of ignorant, self conceded, low life that has allowed such a wonderful creature to suffer.  The sad part is the dog would go right back to the owner and love them unconditionally no matter what suffering they went through.  This is why animal cruelty must be stopped! 

If you are an animal lover and want to make a difference you must take a stand and help the organizations out there to fight this epidemic.  Join me in my crusade to rescue the animals, one by one.

I just found this incredible site! It is dedicated to "Frankie" the Dachshund, who was paralized due to a spinal injury and was fitted with a device to help her move around.

Check it out at: http://www.joyfulpaws.com/index.html

So I have a lot of clients asking me about this new "Peticure" product. I reviewed the site and watched the video but am curious as to how well it really works.  It seems to me that the quick could still be "nicked" if the drummel was held on too long.  It seems it would leave a smoother surface vs a freshly cut nail bed, but the problem is that owners do not know where the quick is or the quick is too hard to find due to black nails.  So does this product really help avoid nicking the quick and causing bleeding and pain?

Check out their web site: http://www.peticure.com/

Let me know what you think, if you have used it, or know someone who has.

Characteristics

Appearance

Size

Dachshunds come in three sizes: standard and miniature,^[2] and kaninchen. Although the first two sizes are recognized almost universally, the third size (which means rabbit) is recognized only by non-English speaking clubs like the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (World Canine Federation) (FCI).

A full-grown standard dachshund averages 16 lb (7.3 kg) to 28 lb (13 kg), while the miniature variety normally weighs less than 11 lb (5.0 kg). The kaninchen weighs 8 lb (3.6 kg) to 10 lb (4.5 kg). According to most kennel club standards, the miniature (and kaninchen, where recognized) variety differs from the full-size only by size and weight, thus offspring from miniature parents must never weigh more than the miniature standard to be considered a miniature as well^[3]. While most kennel club size divisions use weight for classification, other kennel club standards determine the difference between the miniature and standard by chest circumference; some kennel clubs even measure chest circumference in addition to height and weight.

H. L. Mencken said that "A dachshund is a half-dog high and a dog-and-a-half long," which is their main claim to fame, although many poems and songs refer to them as "two dogs long." This characteristic has led them to be quite a recognizable breed and featured in many a joke and cartoon, particularly The Far Side by Gary Larson.

Coat and color

Dachshunds exhibit three coat varieties, smooth coat, long hair and wire-hair. Wire hair is least commonly seen coat, and most recent coat to appear in breeding standards. Many people don't recognize wire-hairs as dachshunds and can be mistaken as other kinds of dogs^[2].

Dachshunds have a wide variety of colors and patterns. They can be single colored, single colored with spots (or dappled) and single colored with tan points plus any pattern. The dominant color is red. It is the most common along with black and tan. Two-colored dogs can be black, blue, wild boar, chocolate brown, or fawn with "points", or markings over the eyes, ears, paws, and tail, of tan or cream. A two-colored dachshund would be called by its dominant color first followed by the point color, such as "black and tan" or "chocolate and cream." Other patterns include piebald, in which a white pattern is imposed upon the base color and/or any other pattern, and a lighter "boar" red^[4]. The reds range from coppers to deep rusts, with somewhat common black hairs peppered along the back, tail, face, and ear edges, lending much character and an almost burnished appearance; this is often desirable and is referred to among breeders and enthusiasts as a "stag" or an "overlay" and is referred to as "sable" in the AKC dachshund standard. An additional, striking coat marking is the brindle pattern. "Brindle" refers to dark stripes over a solid background usually red; some dachshunds may present with brindle points even.

Solid black and solid chocolate-brown dachshunds occur and, even though dogs with such coloration are often considered handsome, the colors are nonstandard – that is, the dogs are disqualified from conformance competitions in the U.S. and Canada. Additionally, according to the Conformation judges of the DCA (Dachshund Club of America), and the AKC (American Kennel Club) assert the Piebald pattern a nonstandard^[5] and has voted to dismiss this pattern from competition.

Light-colored dachshunds can sport amber or green eyes, rather than brown; however kennel club standards state that the darker the eye color, the better. They can also have eyes of two different colors; in rare cases, such as the double-dappled coloration (called merle in other dog breeds^[6]), dachshunds can have a blue and brown eye. Blue eyes, partially blue eyes, or a blue eye and a brown eye are called "Wall" coloring. Only the double dapple variety dachshunds can have blue or even partially blue eyes. It is not considered a non-desirable trait in kennel club standards. The standard was changed by the DCA in 2007 to exclude double dapples and changed single dapples to the only dapples. The reason is because the merle gene is linked to blindness and deafness. Wall-eyed is permissible in single dapples. It is impossible for a dachshund to have wall coloring without it being a double dapple. This is because when a dog receives a "dapple gene" from each parent, the genes can cross, washing out coloring within the eye. Without the two dapple genes the crossing of such, blue or partially blue eyes cannot occur.

Temperament

Dachshunds are playful, fun dogs, known for their propensity to chase small animals, birds and tennis balls with great determination and ferocity. Many dachshunds are strong-headed or stubborn, making them a challenge to train. Dachshunds may dig holes in the garden, or chase small animals such as birds, squirrels, or lizards. They have a particularly loud bark, making dachshunds good watchdogs. Dachshunds are known for their devotion and loyalty to their owners, though they can be standoffish towards strangers. If left alone many dachshunds will whine until they have companionship. Some dachshunds are prone to separation anxiety and may chew objects in the house to relieve stress.

According to the American Kennel Club’s breed standards, "the dachshund is clever, lively and courageous to the point of rashness, persevering in above and below ground work, with all the senses well-developed. Any display of shyness is a serious fault."^[7] Their temperament and body language give the impression that they do not know or care about their relatively small size. Like many small hunting dogs, they will challenge a larger dog. Indulged dachshunds may become snappy^[8].

The dachshund's temperament may vary greatly from dog to dog. Long Hair dachshund's have a calmer but also intelligent character inherited from the Spaniel dogs' genes. Wired hair doxies have much of the terrier's spunky personality.

Seemingly most dachshunds do not like unfamiliar people, and many will growl or bark in response. Although the dachshund is generally an energetic dog, some are laid back. Due to this dog's behavior, it is not the dog for everyone. A bored dachshund will become destructive. If raised improperly, dachshunds can become aggressive or fearful. They require a caring owner that understands their need to have entertainment and exercise. Some may not be good with children, and they may bite an unfamiliar child. Others are tolerant and loyal to children within their family, but these children should be mindful of the breed's back and not carry them around roughly.

A 2008 University of Pennsylvania study of 6,000 dog owners who were interviewed indicated that smaller breed dogs were more likely to be “genetically predisposed towards aggressive behaviour.” Dachshunds were rated the most aggressive, with 20% having bitten strangers, as well as high rates of attacks on other dogs and their owners. The study noted that attacks by small dogs were unlikely to cause serious injuries and because of this were probably under-reported.^[9]

Health

The breed is known to have spinal problems, especially intervertebral disk disease (IVDD), due in part to an extremely long spinal column and short rib cage^[10]. The risk of injury can be worsened by obesity, which places greater strain on the vertebrae. In order to prevent injury, it is recommended that dachshunds be discouraged from jumping (something many seem to enjoy doing anyway) and taking stairs, and encouraged to instead take the elevator (though some veterinarians say that slow stair-climbing is unlikely to lead to injury). However, according to the same article above, dachshunds that climb stairs regularly may actually be less problematic probably because the exercise helps to keep them fitter and healthier, and positive correlations were found between physically fit dogs and a lower incidence of IVDD. Hence the importance of keeping the dog at a good body weight. Holding the dog properly is also important, with both front and rear portions level. Under no circumstances should a dachshund be exposed to rough play or handling, as their spines may not tolerate such treatment.

As it has become increasingly apparent that the occurrence and severity of these spinal problems, or intervertebral disk disease, is largely hereditary, responsible breeders are working to eliminate this characteristic in the breed. Treatment consists of various combinations of crate confinement and courses of anti-inflammatory medications (steroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like carprofen and meloxicam). Serious cases may require surgery to remove the troublesome disk contents^[11]. Others may need the aid of cart to get around if paralysis occurs.

A new minimally-invasive procedure called "percutaneous laser disk ablation" has been developed at the Oklahoma State University Veterinary Hospital^[12]. Originally, the procedure ^[13] was used in clinical trials ^[14] only on dachshunds that had suffered previous back incidents. Since dachshunds are the poster children of dogs with back issues, the goal is to expand this treatment to dogs in a normal population.

In addition to back problems, the breed is also prone to patellar luxation.

Some double dapples have problems with deafness and blindness. Therefore they need an owner who understands a disabled dog's special needs.

Other health problems include hereditary epilepsy, granulomatous meningoencephalitis, dental issues, Cushings disease, thyroid problems, various allergies and atopies, and various eye conditions (cataracts, glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy, corneal ulcers, nonucerative corneal disease, sudden acquired retinal degeneration, cherry eye, etc.). It is important to buy from breeders who can guarantee that their stock are free from these genetic problems and whose dogs have been certified for eyes (esp in miniatures).

It is important to follow a good dental health regime, including an annual cleaning if possible.

History

Some have theorized that the early roots of the dachshund go back to Ancient Egypt, where engravings were made featuring short-legged hunting dogs^[15]. Recent discoveries by the American University in Cairo of mummified dachshund-like dogs from ancient Egyptian burial urns may lend credibility to this theory. But in its modern incarnation, the dachshund is a creation of European breeders, and includes elements of German, French, and English hounds and terriers. Dachshunds have been kept by royal courts all over Europe, including that of Queen Victoria, who was particularly enamored of the breed. They were originally bred for hunting badgers by trailing them.

The first verifiable references to the dachshund, originally named the "Dachs Kriecher" (badger crawler) or "Dachs Krieger" (badger warrior), came from books written in the early 1700s. Prior to that, there exist references to "badger dogs" and "hole dogs", but these likely refer to purposes rather than to specific breeds. The original German dachshunds were larger than the modern full-size variety, weighing between 30 and 40 lb. (14 to 18 kg), and originally came in straight-legged and crook-legged varieties (the modern dachshund is descended from the latter). Though the breed is famous for its use in exterminating badgers and badger-baiting, dachshunds were also commonly used for rabbit and fox hunting, for locating wounded deer, and in packs were known to hunt game as large as wild boar and as fierce as the wolverine.

Double-dapple dachshunds are prone to eye disease and therefore are rare. It is generally believed that the breed was introduced to the United States between 1879 and 1885.

The flap-down ears and famous curved tail of the dachshund have deliberately been bred into the dog. In the case of the ears, this is so that grass seeds, dirt and other matter do not enter into the ear canal. The curved tail is dual-purposed: to be seen more easily in long grass and, in the case of burrowing dachshunds, to help haul the dog out if it becomes stuck in a burrow.^{[citation needed]} The Smooth-haired Dachshund is a cross between the German Shorthaired Pinscher, and the Bracke. The Long-haired Dachshund is a cross between all the small dog breeds in the spaniel group, the German Stoberhund, and the Smooth-haired Dachshund. The Wirehaired Dachshund is a cross between the Smooth-haired Dachshund the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, and the German Wirehaired Pinscher.

Symbol of Germany

Dachshunds have traditionally been viewed as a symbol of Germany, despite their pan-European heritage. Political cartoonists commonly used the image of the dachshund to ridicule Germany. During World War I the dachshunds' popularity in the United States plummeted because of this association. The stigma of the association was revived to a lesser extent during World War II, though it was comparatively short-lived. German Field Marshal Erwin Rommel was known for keeping dachshunds.

Due to the association of the breed with Germany, the dachshund was chosen to be the first official mascot for the 1972 Summer Olympics, with the name Waldi.

Sports

Some people train and enter their dachshund to compete in dachshund racing, such as the Wiener Nationals. Several races across the country routinely draw several thousand attendees, including races in Buda, Texas; Davis, California; Los Alamitos, California; Findlay, Ohio; Oklahoma City, OK; Kansas City, KS; Palo Alto, California; and Shakopee, MN. Despite the popularity of these events, the Dachshund Club of America opposes "wiener racing", as many greyhound tracks use the events to draw large crowds to their facilities. The DCA also is worried about potential injuries to dogs, due to their predisposition to back injuries.

Another favorite sport is earthdog trials, in which dachshunds enter tunnels with dead ends and obstacles attempting to locate an artificial bait or live but caged and protected mice. Dachshunds, being true scent hounds, also compete in scent tracking events, with a national championship sponsored every year by the DCA.

Dackel versus Teckel

In Germany dachshunds are widely named as 'Dackel' (both singular and plural). To be classified as a full Teckel, these dogs must undergo Blood Tracking tests. Classically, any dog of dackel heritage is given an official tattoo upon one ear. After suitable training, the dog must then follow a blood trail that is at least 48 hours old successfully to its conclusion. Once this is completed, another tattoo is marked on the other ear to denote full Teckel rank. As 'Teckel' are bred for hunting purposes, teckels tattooed or not, tend to be visibly larger in their chests than their dackel counterparts, though marginally shorter in length.

Popularity

Dachshunds are popular pets in the United States, ranking 1st in the most recent Sarah club registration statistics.^[16] They are popular with urban and apartment dwellers, ranking among the top ten most popular breeds in 76 of 190 major US cities surveyed by the AKC.^[17] One will find varying degrees of organized local dachshund clubs in most major American cities, including New York, New Orleans, Los Angeles, and Chicago. American dachshund enthusiasts will enjoy their visits to overseas, as the breed's popularity is legion in places such as Germany, France, Switzerland, Hungary, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, and Japan. Dachshunds are famous for their peculiar size, body, and face.

In popular culture

• William Randolf Hearst was an avid lover of dachshunds. When his own dachshund Helena died, he eulogized her in his "In The News" column. ^[18]
• Fred, E.B. White's dachshund, appeared in many of his famous essays.
• A collection of Gary Larson's Far Side cartoons was published in the 1990 book Wiener Dog Art. A special section was inserted that chronicled the presence and influence of dachshunds throughout the history of art.
• Lump, the pet of Pablo Picasso, who was thought to have inspired some of his artwork. (Pronounced: loomp; German for "Rascal") A Dachshund's Odyssey, by David Douglas Duncan tells the story of Picasso and Lump.
• Kevin Smith has a dachshund named Shecky.
• Jack Ruby the killer of U.S. President John F. Kennedy assassin Lee Harvey Oswald had a dachshund named Sheba who he often referred to as his wife.^[19] At the time he committed his infamous murder, he had four of them - although he'd had as many as ten.^[19]
• Andy Warhol had a pair of dachshunds, Archie and Amos, whom he painted and mentioned frequently in his diaries.

• Stanley and Boodgie, immortalized on canvas by owner David Hockney, and published in the book David Hockney's Dog Days .
• Wadl and Hexl, Kaiser Wilhelm II's famous ferocious pair. Upon arriving at Archduke Franz Ferdinand's country seat, château Konopiste, on a semi-official visit, they promptly proceeded to do away with one of the Austro-Hungarian Crown Prince's priceless golden pheasants, thereby almost causing an international incident^{[citation needed]}
• Senta, Kaiser Wilhelm II's companion during World War I and his exile to Huis Doorn. Senta died in 1927 at age 20 and is buried in the park of Huis Doorn, near the Kaiser's grave.
• Hot Dog in renegade Krypto the Superdog
• Schatzi (German for "little treasure") in That '70s Show
• Itchy Itchiford in All Dogs Go to Heaven
• Boots in Emergency!
• Little Dog in 2 Stupid Dogs
• Slinky in Toy Story and "Toy Story 2"
• Buster in Toy Story 2
• Wiener Dog, the name of Norm Henderson's dachshund on The Norm Show
• Mr. Weenie in Open Season
• Jorge in Clifford's Puppy Days
• Waldi, the mascot of the 1972 Summer Olympics
• Dinah the Dachshund
• Pretzel in Pretzel by H.A. and Margaret Rey
• Hundley in Curious George by H.A. and Margaret Rey
• Weenie, the pet of Oswald the Octopus, Oswald (TV series)
• Oscar, in the comic strip Liberty Meadows.
• Schnitzel von Krumm, in the Hairy Maclary series of children's picture books by Lynley Dodd.
• Odie in Garfield The Movie, Garfield: A Tale of Two Kitties and the upcoming Garfield Movie,"Garfield 3: A Twist of Time".
• The dogs of The Ugly Dachshund
• Willie from the books by Ezra Jack Keats
• Oliver in the anime series Ginga Nagareboshi Gin
• Bodo in Hausmeister Krause (a German sitcom)
• Origami in Raising Helen
• Rufus "The Red" (of Morehead, Kentucky). Credited for saving 4 children from a burning daycare in Kentucky. Has appeared on many talk shows.
• Belle Constantine Chappy, [Katakana: ベルコンスタンティンチャピ－] the name of the miniature dachshund owned by Japanese artist Gackt.
• In the early Mickey Mouse comics, Mickey had a dachshund named Weenie.
• When Cap Toys resurrected Stretch Armstrong in the 1990s, they also created Stretch's dog, a dachshund named Fetch Armstrong.
• Joe, owned by General Claire Lee Chennault and the mascot of Chennault's Flying Tigers of World War II.
• Shadow and Duke from the Shadow Adventures by Mavis Duke Hinton.
• Petey from Searching For A Starry Night by Christine Verstraete.
• Schultzie from Lady and the Tramp trying to tunnel out the Dog Pound while the dog quartet sings.
• Cheerio from Hank Zipzer
• Jepha Howard from The Used has a Long Haired Miniature named Zelda
• Wally - the dachshund in the Drabble comic
• Dusty- the dog of the Fariss family

Information obtained from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dachshund

Contact your veterinarian or local humane society for information on preparing your pets for an emergency.

BEFORE THE DISASTER

• Make sure that your pets are current on their vaccinations.  Pet shelters may require proof of vaccines.

• Have a current photograph

• Keep a collar with identification on your pet and have a leash on hand to control your pet.

• Have a properly-sized pet carrier for each animal - carriers should be large enough for the animal to stand  and turn around.

• Plan your evacuation strategy and don't forget your pet!  Specialized pet shelters, animal control shelters, veterinary clinics and friends and relatives out of harm's way are ALL potential refuges for your pet during a disaster.

If you plan to shelter your pet - work it into your evacuation route planning.

 

DURING THE DISASTER

• Animals brought to a pet shelter are required to have:  Proper identification collar and rabies tag, proper identification on all belongings, a carrier or cage, a leash, an ample supply of food, water and food bowls, any necessary medications, specific care instructions and news papers or trash bags for clean-up.

• Bring pets indoor well in advance of a storm - reassure them and remain calm.

• Pet shelters will be filled on first come, first served basis.  Call ahead and determine availability.

 

AFTER THE DISASTER

• Walk pets on a leash until they become re-oriented to their home - often familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and pets could easily be confused and become lost.  Also, downed power lines, reptiles brought in with high water and debris can all pose a threat for animals after a disaster.

• If pets cannot be found after a disaster, contact the local animal control office to find out where lost animals can be recovered.  Bring along a picture of your pet if possible.

• After a disaster animals can become aggressive or defensive - monitor their behavior.

Don't forget your pet when preparing a family disaster plan.

 

PET DISASTER SUPPLY KIT

• Proper identification including immunization records
• Ample supply of food and water
• A carrier or cage
• Medications
• Muzzle, collar and leash

information obtained from www.nhc.noaa.gov/HAW2/english/prepare/pet_plan.shtml

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Characteristics

Appearance

The Australian Cattle Dog should be muscular, athletic and substantial in appearance, without any trace of weakness or fragility. However, excessively heavy or cumbersome build is also undesirable as it limits agility, a necessity for any good cattle herder. Along with athleticism, symmetry and balance are also essential, and no individual part of the dog should be exaggerated or draw excessive attention. Even when bred for companion or show purposes, it should have well-conditioned, hard muscles.

Size

A female Australian Cattle Dog should measure about 17 to 19 inches (43 to 48 cm) at the withers. A male Australian Cattle Dog should measure about 18 to 20 inches (46 to 51 cm) at the withers. An Australian Cattle Dog is a well-muscled, compact dog with a dense coat of coarse, rather oily hair with a slight ruff and fine, almost woolly, winter undercoat. It has a naturally long tail, generally carried low, with a slight white tip. An Australian Cattle Dog in good condition should weigh roughly 35 to 50 pounds (16 to 23 kg). Feeding: If you are feeding a dog dry food they should have 2 cups a day. They should have half a can at night and dry food in the morning. Alot of people feed them chicken wings. If you are feed them at least 4 at night with dry food in the morning. For more information on this visist blueheelers.com.au

Coat and Color

The Cattle Dog's coat comes in two basic colors (blue and red) and a variety of markings and coat patterns, sometimes quite striking. The solid blue coat has a bluish appearance, caused by the mottling of black, gray and white hairs all over the dog's body. The solid red coat is distinctly red, generally with some variable percentage of white hairs frosting the coat. With the exception of solid coloring for a mask or a few body spots, the rest of the dog is covered with hairs which are alternately colored and white, like the hair on a roan horse. Contrary to popular belief, the Australian Cattle Dog is not roan or a merle. It gets its color from the ticking gene, the same gene found in Dalmatians, not the roaning gene. The coat of a cattle dog should show an even disposition of color, save in the coat patterns of 'speckle' and 'mottle'. These two patterns (which show in both red and blue versions of the coat) are less common. A 'speckle' is a dark coat with a heavy mix of white speckles, almost in a reverse spotted pattern. A 'mottle' is a light or white coat with regularly-placed denser areas of dark color showing up as spots. Both of these coat variations are considered unusual and uncommon, but acceptable by breeders.

Cattle Dog puppies are born white or black (save for any solid colored body or face markings) and grow darker as they mature. This characteristic is believed to be inherited from their supposed Dalmatian ancestry.

The more common color of the Cattle Dog is blue, sometimes with ginger feet, ginger spots on the legs, and some of the ginger color on the face and underparts. This should not extend up the face, or high above the legs; when it does it is called a "creeping tan." This is not accepted in the breed standard. The alternate genetic color is red. A red Cattle Dog should have no blue whatsoever, (although they can occasionally appear with black 'saddles', this is a strongly disfavoured marking). Its body is flecked with red and white, its mask is red and if it has patches on the body, they are red also. Red is the genetically dominant color, blue is the recessive (but preferred) color.

For dog owners whose interest is primarily in their qualification for conformation shows, even markings are preferred over uneven markings, and large solid-color marks on the body are undesirable. For owners who are more interested in their dogs' performance in activities such as herding or dog sports, the breed's strong work ethic and intelligence are of more importance than the exact coat markings.

The mask is one of the most distinctive features of an Australian Cattle Dog. This mask consists of a blue-black patch over one or both eyes (for the blue coat color) or a red patch over one or both eyes (for the red coat color). The blue variety may also show some red on the face. Depending on whether one eye or both have a patch, these are called, respectively, single (or 'half') mask and double (or 'full') mask. Australian Cattle Dogs without a mask are called plain-faced and may have small red "eyebrows". Any of these is correct according to the breed standard, and the only limitation is the owner's preference.

Most Australian Cattle Dogs have a stripe or spot of white hair in the center of the forehead, usually 1/2 inch to 1 inch by 2 inches to 3 inches (about 2 cm by 7 cm) called the Bentley Mark. This is similar in appearance to the blaze or star markings sometimes found on horses. This mark can be traced to a purebred dog owned by Thomas Bentley. According to legend, a popular dog owned by Tom Bentley passed on this distinctive mark to all Australian Cattle Dogs. They also frequently have a white tip to the tail and a small white patch on the chest.

Tail

Some breeders dock Australian Cattle Dog's tails. This is a controversial practice, and, in some countries, is illegal. The AKC breed standard for Australian Cattle Dogs calls for an intact tail, and Australian Cattle Dog owners are working hard in the U.S. to educate and discourage the practice of docking.

Docking Australian Cattle Dogs' tails is a practice peculiar to the United States, and is most often found in mixed- or pet-bred dogs. Australian Cattle Dog tails are not docked in their country of origin, Australia^{[citation needed]}. The Australian Cattle Dog needs its tail for balance and steering while working or in agility^{[citation needed]}. It is widely believed the tails are docked because of the mistaken notion that the dog will get its tail caught in doors or mouths of irate livestock. An Australian Cattle Dog should never have a docked tail^{[citation needed]}.

The Australian Cattle Dog is not to be confused with the Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog, a square dog which is born with a naturally 'bobbed' tail. The Stumpy strongly resembles the Australian Cattle Dog, but the ASTCD has a taller, leaner conformation.

Temperament

Like many herding dogs, Cattle Dogs have high energy levels and active minds. They need plenty of exercise and a job to do, so non-working dogs need to participate in dog sports, learning tricks, or other activities that engage their body and mind. Some individuals find repetitive training frustrating and dull, so owners should aim to make training sessions varied and more exciting in order to keep their dog interested. Cattle Dogs who do not receive the appropriate exercise and entertainment will invent their own, often destructive, activities. These dogs are, by nature, wary. They are naturally cautious, and grow more so as they age. Their cautious nature towards strangers makes them perfect guard dogs, when trained for this task.

Cattle Dogs drive cattle by nipping at their heels or tails, but they have also been known to herd other animals, such as ducks, chickens, humans, pigeons, and even cars without instruction when left to their own devices.

To relieve the urge to nip, the Australian Cattle Dog can be encouraged to pick up and chew a toy or stick that is thrown for them. The Australian Cattle Dog, given a toy that would last another dog for an extended time, will happily sit down with the object between its paws and skillfully shred it into small pieces^. An Australian Cattle Dog will remove the fuzz from a tennis ball as neatly as it would skin a rabbit. Any toy left with the Australian Cattle Dog needs to be extremely robust if it is to last. It is recommended that a Rubber Horseball be used because the handle on it makes it easy to grip while the weight works the jaw muscles.

The Australian Cattle Dog is gregarious to other dogs with whom it is familiar, working well in combination with other Australian Cattle Dogs, Kelpies, and Border Collies. Because of their plucky nature, the establishing of an order can result in a few scuffles and bites.

It is important for an owner to quickly establish a hierarchy in which they are the dog's pack leader, otherwise the young Australian Cattle Dog may bond to a senior dog, rather than to its owner. As an urban pet, if the young Australian Cattle Dog is allowed to bond too strongly with some senior dog in the neighbourhood, it can be very difficult for the owner to then establish control. If put in any situation where the dog feels threatened, and/or uncomfortable, it will usually resort to aggressiveness towards other, unknown dogs.

Health and Lifespan

Lifespan

Based on a small sample of 11 deceased dogs, Australian Cattle Dogs have a median longevity of 11.7 years (maximum 15.9 yrs). The median longevities of breeds of similar size are usually between 11 and 13 years, so, assuming the 11 dogs were representative of the population, Australian Cattle Dogs appear to have a typical life span for a breed their size. Leading causes of death were cancer (27%) and cerebral vascular "stroke" (27%).

There is an anecdotal report of an Australian Cattle Dog (or a similar dog) named Bluey who lived 29.5 years, but the record is unverified. Bluey is reported to have been born in 1910. The first Australian Cattle Dog standard was written in 1902, only eight years before Bluey was born. It is not clear how closely Bluey resembled, or is related to, the breed as it now exists.

Common Health Problems

Based on a sample of 69 still-living dogs, the most common health issues noted by owners were musculoskeletal (spondylosis, elbow dysplasia, and arthritis) and reproductive (pyometra, infertility, and false pregnancy), and blindness.

[edit] Australian Cattle Dog activities

Australian Cattle Dogs not only tolerate a high level of physical activity, they almost demand it. Like many other herding dog breeds, they have active and fertile minds that turn mischievous if not properly channeled. Australian Cattle Dogs are highly intelligent and can be very bossy. When not active, an Australian Cattle Dog can be kept occupied with mental puzzles. Among the most popular activities for Australian Cattle Dogs is dog agility. While the Australian Cattle Dog is ideally suited for this work, since it is a herding breed and thus very reactive to the handler's body language, some Australian Cattle Dogs become highly frustrated at the repetition and routine necessary to hone agility skills. As for many breeds, frequent brief training sessions are more effective than infrequent long training sessions. For this reason, many handlers find training an Australian Cattle Dog to be challenging. It is important to always change the methods and exercises and not allow the dog or handler to get into a negative routine. Australian Cattle Dogs thrive on change and new experiences.

Only a few Australian Cattle Dogs, therefore, have excelled in obedience competition. For example, the American Kennel Club awards an "Obedience Competition Championship" to the dog-and-handler team that defeats a large number of other teams in open competition. A handful of Australian Cattle Dogs have reached this level. While Australian Cattle Dogs enjoy the challenge of obedience competition, such as retrieving a scented article, the majority of Australian Cattle Dogs are easily bored with precision drilling.

Australian Cattle Dogs are very organized animals. If the owner has established a "toy box," or some other type of holding area for the dog's possessions, it is not unlikely for an Australian Cattle Dogs to return whatever it has taken back to this area. Hence the numerous claims of the Australian Cattle Dogs "putting away its toys," or "picking up after itself." It is not unusual for an Australian Cattle Dogs to put away bones or items that have been taken out of the area by other dogs as well — hence the many claims that the Australian Cattle Dogs "picks up after others."

The dog is strong and muscular, yet compact and symmetrical, with the ability and willingness to carry out any task — no matter how enduring or hard.

Australian Cattle Dogs are expert Frisbee catchers and with just a little work they can master this activity and enjoy it for a lifetime.

History

The precise origins of the Australian Cattle Dog are not known, but they appear to have been a distinct breed as early as 1897. It began when Smithfields were originally used in Australia for herding cattle. They were noisy and bit too hard, so they were bred with the Dingo, a wild dog prevalent in Australia. The resulting crosses were known as “Timmins Biters,” which were quieter, but still bit hard.

A primitive stage of Collie unlike that of today's Border Collies and Smooth Collies, used for herding sheep, were then bred to the Dingo. In 1840, Thomas Hall bred a couple of Blue Smooth Highland Collies with dingoes and got the “Hall’s Heeler.” Then, in the 1870’s Fred Davis bred some Bull Terrier into them to make the dogs more aggressive. These were relatively common as sporting and guard dogs in the late 19th and early 20th century.

The resulting Cattle Dog was of a slightly heavier and more muscular build than the Border Collie and of less temperamental nature, with good herding ability, the stamina to withstand extremes of temperature and the resourcefulness to forage and to feed itself on an omnivorous diet like a wild dog. Physically the Heeler has inherited a big broad head and strong jaws from the Bull Terrier. From the Dingo comes the distinctive sandy color of the legs and rather large pricked ears.

Like the Koolie, the Australian Cattle Dog is fearless with cattle and has a tendency to nip their heels to keep them moving when herding. This trait is undesirable when the dog applies it to humans and horses. It is rumoured that in order to create a breed that had a strong natural affiliation with horses, the Cattle Dog was crossed with the Dalmatian, which although not a working dog, was popular during the 19th and early 20th century as a carriage dog, running beside the horses. As a result of Dalmatian being introduced Australian Cattle Dog pups are born all white and rarely some adult dogs will have floppy ears, although undesirable it is purely superficial and won't affect their abilities.

It was thought that the breeding with the Dalmatian led to the spotted coloration in some Blue Heelers, though this is considered undesirable and is most commonly seen in mixed breed dogs that have Australian Cattle Dog in their ancestry. For many years "Blue Heelers" commonly had large black patches on the body, as well as the Collie's mask. It was also common for them to have ears that lay back against the head like some Collies. The flat ears are now considered undesirable for conformation showing.

Information obtained from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_Cattle_Dog