It is with great sadness and with a very heavy heart that we announce that our dear Assistant Secretary – Jan Hollingsbee – sadly passed away 18th February 2021
Jan has been the Assistant Secretary for many years and she will be greatly missed not only within the club but by all who knew her.
BORDER TERRIER BREED HEALTH 2020
This year has been an unforgettable one for all of us. The spectre of coronavirus has impacted on
many aspects of our lives including health research into animal disease.
Sadly, this year has seen the Animal Health Trust forced into liquidation. Founded in 1942 the AHT
was an independent animal charity which received no Government funding and employed in excess
of 200 vets, scientists and support staff. The Trust provided clinical referral services for both small
animal and equine cases and was highly regarded for its work in the fields of infectious and genetic
diseases, oncology and stem cell research.
In 2009 the Kennel Club entered into a partnership with the Genetics Research Department at the
AHT and over the years this has proved a fruitful union doing much to advance our knowledge of the
genetics of a number of important canine diseases and leading to the development of DNA tests for
22 of them. These tests are applicable to around 50 different breeds so their use has helped to
reduce the incidence of the conditions within the gene pool and to directly avoid the birth of
thousands of dogs doomed to be afflicted by painful or life limiting conditions.
Like many charities the Animal Health Trust had been struggling with funding in recent years and
unfortunately this was greatly exacerbated by the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, leading to
the Trust officially going into liquidation on 31st July of this year.
At breed level the AHT partnered the University of Missouri in the development of the DNA test for
Spongioform Leuco Encephalo Myelopathy (SLEM) and was the laboratory which provided the test in
the UK .It was also storing a large number of DNA samples intended for use in research into trying to
establish the genetic basis of Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome(CECS) also known as Paroxysmal
Gluten Sensitive Dyskinesis(PGSD).
Dr. Cathryn Mellersh, leader of the team at the Kennel Club Genetics Centre at the AHT, has
managed to arrange for the DNA material being held at the AHT to be transferred to the University
of Cambridge where it is hoped that much of the research and testing will recommence.
Unfortunately this has caused problems with SLEM testing. At present this means that the only
laboratory which offers SLEM testing is that of OFA/University of Missouri. They are prepared to
accept samples from the UK, so if anyone urgently needs tests done before they resume in the UK
they could utilise their service .If it proves likely that there will be an extended period before the test
becomes available again in the UK we will look at perhaps making more use of this facility. The latest
news on that in January is, however, positive and it is hoped that the Kennel Club and the University
of Cambridge will soon come to an agreement which will enable testing to re-commence.
SLEM
On the subject of SLEM I am pleased to report that there have been no confirmed cases of any
affected puppies having been born this year. Although it may have been difficult to have potential
breeding stock screened this year we now have a sizeable number of dogs known to be CLEAR,
either by testing or hereditarily. Provided at least one member of a proposed mating pair is known
to be CLEAR no affected puppies will be born.
Breeding advice continues to be that it is irresponsible to mate a CARRIER or UNKNOWN to anything
other than a CLEAR and that any pups from such matings should not be bred from until their genetic
status has been ascertained.
OTHER CONDITIONS
One of the casualties of the Animal Health Trust closure has been a delay in Mark Lowrie’s further
research into CECS/PGSD. The proposed investigation into trying to identify possible genetic factors
involved in the condition has been put on hold. Hopefully the project will continue.
Gall Bladder Mucocoele(GBM) has again been the subject of much interest this year. We know that
after a meal, cholecystokinin(CKK) is released by the duodenum and that its function is to cause
release of digestive enzymes from the pancreas and also contraction of the gallbladder with the
release of bile into the intestine via the common bile duct.
Research by Barker et al has shown that dogs affected by GBM have reduced levels of CCK as
opposed to unaffected animals. They also show an increased immune response of IgA, an
immunoglobulin which has a role in maintaining mucous membranes within the body. It is
postulated that a combination of these two factors results in gallbladder hypomotility thus allowing
for the accumulation of bile and mucus within the biliary system. It is also suggested that PGSD
could be an underlying causal factor but further studies will be needed to confirm this.
Last year it was announced that Border Terriers had been removed from the list of breeds being
monitored for late onset hereditary cataract. Very few cases had been recorded over the years so
this seemed like a sensible move. However, though true that few cases had been confirmed it was
equally true that only a small number of animals had been tested.
We know that cases are being recorded in North America and in Scandinavia so it would be naive to
assume that we don’t have the condition in the UK. Unfortunately previous requests for details of
confirmed cases have met with a poor response. However, this year possible cases have been
recorded in two littermates and their breeder has kindly put the information into the public domain.
The Breed Health Group is keen to try to establish if this is a significant issue within the British
Border Terrier population and if we need to be encouraging more widespread eye testing. It would
be appreciated if owners could fill in a questionnaire for all eye tested dogs, clears included. These
may be downloaded from the Breed Health Site— borderterrierhealth.org.uk .
STATISTICS
There has been a better response to our request for owners to fill in questionnaires this year and
including the respondents to the CECS/PGSD one we have had 75 returned including 10 from
overseas. These questionnaires help us to monitor both existing and emerging health issues and it
would be great if as many owners as possible could fill them in for all their dogs even those which
they regard as being completely healthy.
Of the 64 dogs from the UK ,age range 8months-18years, 16 were reported as having no health
issues. The remaining 48 animals suffered from a range of conditions with a few unfortunates having
multiple health issues.
The conditions reported were:
ENDOCRINE (12) consisting of: Cushing’s Syndrome(8), Hypothyroidism(3), Diabetes(1)
ORTHOPAEDIC(4):Osteoarthritis(3), Bilateral rupture of anterior cruciate ligament(1)
CARDIOVASCULAR(3):Congestive heart failure(2), Patent Ductus Arteriosus(1)
DIGESTIVE(16): GallBladder Mucocoele(9), Pancreatitis(2), Inflammatory Bowel Disease(5)
NEOPLASIA(7):Lipoma(3), Mammary(1,) Soft tissue sarcoma(1), Testicular(1), Warts(1)
NEUROLOGICAL: CECS(10), Other seizures(2)
BEHAVIOURAL ISSUES(3): Aggression(2),Excessive timidity(1)
DENTAL ISSUES (2)
OCULAR(10) :Progressive Retinal Atrophy(1), Underdeveloped optic nerve(1), Diabetic cataract(1),
Senile cataract(1), Cataract detected at BVA eye exam(6)
4 clear BVA eye examinations were also reported.
We also received 11 reports from overseas- Canada, Denmark, New Zealand and the Netherlands.
3 dogs had no health issues and conditions reported in the others were: CECS(1), INFLAMMATORY
BOWEL DISEASE(1), MAMMARY TUMOURS(1), ALLERGIC SKIN DISEASE(1).
5 Eye exam results were declared,1 of which had bilateral cataracts and the other 4 were clear.
It is encouraging that owners have been responding to our requests for details of confirmed cases of
Cushing’s Syndrome, GBM ,CECS/PGSD and also cataracts and I hope that more will continue to do
so.
The Breed Health Group declared our intention to set up an Open register for Cushing’s Syndrome
and we are considering it for other conditions. We appreciate all survey forms completed and would
ask as many as possible of those reporting these conditions to give permission for their dog’s details
to be published.
Remember, sharing knowledge is the best way to maintain good health within our breed.
Eddie Houston B.V.M.S, M.R.C.V.S
Breed Health Coordinator
Following various comments received, Eddie Houston as our Breed Health Coordinator has made some minor alterations to some of the wording on the piece written about Cataracts. Attached is the revised version with the changes shown marked in yellow.
The Survey Form has also been altered to enable it to be tied in more directly to the BVA Eye Panellists’ forms.
Thanks to Euan for having organised and uploaded the changes to the Breed Health Group website.
HEREDITARY CATARACT
For many years our breed was on Schedule B of the BVA/KC/ISDS eye testing scheme as there was concern that it could be affected by late onset hereditary cataract. Last year the Border Terrier was removed from the list due to the low number of affected dogs which had been found.
This might sound like a positive move but in reality so few dogs were actually screened that it probably did not give a true representation of the possible incidence of this condition within the breed.
Hereditary cataracts are known to be present in many breeds and although there is some difference in the appearance of the cataract and the means of inheritance between breeds they can be broadly divided into two categories; juvenile where the changes can be seen within the first few months of life and late onset where changes aren’t usually present until between 3 and 7 years of age. Juvenile cataracts will usually be present and of similar size in both eyes and will often lead to significant sight loss or total blindness by 2 to 3 years of age if left untreated. Late onset hereditary cataracts may be unilateral or bilateral, vary in shape and in the speed at which they progress often taking quite a few years before they significantly interfere with vision. By the time they become apparent affected animals may well already have been bred from.
The concept of a condition which develops from possibly as young as 3 years of age being referred to as late onset may seem a little odd but it helps to distinguish these hereditary cataracts from the “senile” ones which are age related and likely to occur in animals older than 10.
In a number of breeds eye screening is regularly performed on all potential breeding stock. Routine eye screening has not been carried out by the vast majority of Border breeders in the UK as we have been working on the assumption that we do not have a significant problem .
However, in some areas of the world such as North America and Scandinavia eye exams are more commonly undertaken and cataracts are the commonest defect being recorded, albeit at fairly low levels. Both juvenile and late onset cataracts have been recorded and it would seem naive to think that the condition isn’t present in dogs in the UK.
Previous requests for reports of confirmed cases have had a disappointing response but a couple of related dogs have recently been diagnosed with late onset cataract and their breeder has kindly put that information in the public domain. This does not mean that we currently have a major problem but it does raise the question as to whether we should perhaps be more proactive with regards to having routine eye screening carried out.
As it can be difficult to differentiate between cataracts which are hereditary and those which have other origins eg: eye injury or systemic diseases such as diabetes, eye testing is normally carried out by ophthalmic specialists, a list of whom can be found on the BVA (British Veterinary Association) website at:
The Breed Health Group is keen to monitor this condition and we would appreciate our standard questionnaires being completed for any dogs diagnosed with cataracts particularly those confirmed by an ophthalmic specialist. Whether the diagnosis has been made by a specialist or a first opinion vet. please include the dog’s age at the time of diagnosis along with details of the person carrying out the diagnosis. Any additional information would also be welcome.
A good response will help us to formulate future plans for dealing with the condition which may include organising testing sessions at Breed Club Shows when this becomes possible and trying to explore the genetic factors involved.
Remember, the only way breed health can progress is by the sharing of information. Anyone can be unlucky enough to breed a dog affected by a hereditary problem but being open about it may help to prevent issues becoming more widespread.
With the demise of the Animal Health Trust along with various Covid-19 restrictions has caused a serious pause in the testing of Border Terriers for SLEM.
We are pleased to confirm that Dr Cathryn Mellersh is hoping that the Genetics Centre Team will be able to restart testing in the Autumn and that she hopes by then to be based at Cambridge University.
In the meantime the Border Terrier Breed Health Group recommends that anyone breeding Border Terriers should take care that if they have a bitch that is not known to be clear either hereditarily or by testing, they should only use a stud dog that is confirmed as ‘clear’. In such circumstances the progeny should be registered at the Kennel Club with an endorsement ‘Progeny not Eligible for Registration’. This endorsement will be able to be removed when either the mother is tested clear or the puppy itself is tested.
Failure to use a ‘clear’ stud dog in these circumstances risks the litter being affected by SLEM.
We will announce as soon as we become aware that testing in the UK has restarted.
It was agreed at the last Breed Health Group Meeting that we would create two Open Registers on our BHG Website to list dogs suffering from:
A protocol for the diagnosis required before each dog’s name can be added to the Register has now been completed for Cushings Disease and is present on the Website. It is hoped that a further protocol for Gallbladder Mucocoele (GBM) will be available shortly.
In addition a short summary of the Cushings condition has now also been added to the Website.
Thanks to Eddie Houston for the veterinary input and to Euan Castel for his work on the Website
It is with great sadness that we have to announce that our dear Vice-Chairman, Jane O’Shea,
passed away on Sunday 3rd May 2020
Due to the Coronavirus the date for the Championship Show has been put back to
Saturday 7th November 2020
This will be held at the Millenium Centre, Burberry Road, BUCKDEN, Cambridgeshire. PE19 5UY
A new schedule will be issued later and other arrangements will be made for the AGM
Nov 17th 2019 – The East Anglia Border Terrier Club Open Show
Venue: BUCKDEN MILLENNIUM CENTRE (VILLAGE HALL) Burberry Road, Buckden, Cambs PE19 5UY
Judge: Mrs Jenny Miller (Feorlig)
Entries: 65 making 75
Show Critique:
I must thank the officers and committee for allowing me to judge their Club Open show which was a great honour and which I really enjoyed. The hospitality and the friendly atmosphere made for a nice show and the quality of the dogs was exceptional. I must thank the Club for the lovely gift and Jan Hollingsbee for the flowers which are still alive and looking good. I must also thank my steward Julie Green who gave up her entry to steward for me.
Winners
Best In Show: Otterwood Titan
Reserve Best In Show: Oakyard On Song JW
Best Dog: Otterwood Titan
Reserve Best Dog: Lynsett Lewis
Best Puppy – Dog: Oakyard Outspoken
Best Bitch: Oakyard On Song JW
Reserve Best Bitch: Fisherbloom That’s Wot I Like
Best Puppy – Bitch: Tojamatt Ann Brandreth
Best Puppy: Tojamatt Ann Brandreth
Reserve Best Puppy: Oakyard Outspoken
Best Veteran: Bingobongo Wicked Widget At Bimandi
Results
Minor Puppy – Dog
Entries: 4 Absentees: 0
1st – Awbrooksky Endgame (Mr R and Miss L Goddard)
This 8 months stood out in this class, super shape on with an air of importance. Although he has a lot going for him, he is just a little on the tall side for me, I do hope he does not grow on. Head of correct shape with small high set ears, dark keen cheeky eyes, short strong muzzle. Moderate neck length into shoulders capable span, level backline well set and carried tail, nicely angulated front and rear. Good thick skin over a body with some substance and depth, sprung ribs just a little long in loin. Harsh textured red coat with undercoat, excellent presentation. Moved out so soundly on well boned legs and compact feet with good pads.
2nd – Grizzledale Legacy (Mrs M J Medhurst)
Just 6 months and a real baby impressive on the stance and of the height and the overall balance I prefer. Not yet the head shape and balance of my winner, expressive dark well shaped eyes, neat small ears set well. Moderate neck to well set shoulders, spannable, firm backline, high set on and carried tail. Nice body moderately angulated front and rear, good depth to chest and brisket, ribs need to be further back just a little long in loin. Beautifully presented harsh coat good thick skin. Straight well boned legs and compact feet moved out soundly both ends.
3rd – Wispbrook Spider Jack (Miss C K Kovacs & Mr A W Whitley)
Res – Whitestubbs Gandhi Boy Bach (Miss V M Williams)
Puppy – Dog
Entries: 2 Absentees: 0
1st – Oakyard Outspoken (Mr J Parry)
Very impressive this 10 months on the stance working well with his handler. Very smart well balanced with correct outline. Impressive otter shape to head well furnished, good skull and strong short muzzle, dark alert eyes, neat well set ears. Proud head carriage on a moderate neck, correct shoulders with good hand span, nicely angulated front with depth to chest. Firm backline with thick skin, high rooted on gaily carried tail. Body with depth, ribbed well back into short loin. Muscular hindquarters moderate turned stifle and short hocks. Straight well boned legs and compact feet well padded. Keeps your attention on the move with his lovely ground coverage stride, correct soundness from both ends. Should have a bright future, BPD RBPiS
2nd – Reedwater Doc Holliday By Dassett (Mrs S Spafford)
Slightly taller this 10 months. Liked his head of correct shape and skull, small set ears, dark bright keen eyes, strong short muzzle, clean moderate neck well set into correct shoulders capable of being spanned behind. Firm skin to level top line, well set gay tail. Correctly angulated front and rear on a body with some substance and depth for his age, ribs with enough spring but needing to be further back into loin. Beautifully presented harsh textured coat good undercoat. Well boned forelegs nicely balanced, feet could be tighter, inclined to paddle at front and toed-in slightly, sound behind.
Junior – Dog
Entries: 4 Absentees: 1
1st – Onthill Marksman At Ragatam (Miss T Peacock)
For me this boy was a lovely size and correct shape with good muscle tone. Correct otter head shape with small moderately thick ears, expressive dark eyes and furnished strong muzzle. Head carried well on moderate strong neck into laid back shoulders and firm level back to well rooted tail of good length. Super body with good span and thick skin covered in harsh well presented coat with good undercoat. Correct depth to chest and brisket and nicely angulated front and rear with straight well boned forelegs with padded compact feet. Moderate return of stifle and short hocks. Ribs well returned to short loin. Very nice to watch on the move with sound forward reach and rear drive. Happily used tail.
2nd – Baillieswells Ncn’ean (Professor A S Milton)
Very nice to go over when this boy allowed, he was being a “bit of a thug” on the table and played his handler up on the floor, but he had a very smart outline and was of good size and correct balance just slightly taller than my winner. Otter shaped head slightly stronger in skull, small well set and used ears, dark alert cheeky eyes, strong short muzzle and black nose. Moderate neck into shoulders spanned behind, firm back line with thick skin. Tail set on little low but well carried. Body angulated moderately both ends having muscle tone, well ribbed back strong short loin. Very well presented harsh red jacket with good undercoat. Balanced straight forelegs well boned, compact round feet. Once he settled could be seen to be very sound with good reach and drive.
3rd – Twigglestone Onzieme Heure (Miss A Nettle)
Novice – Dog
Entries: 0 Absentees: 0
Post Graduate – Dog
Entries: 6 Absentees: 1
1st – Otterwood Titan (Mr P Armstrong)
This was a stunning workmanlike dog he impressed from his first stance all I hoped is that he moved out as well as he looked. So good to go over on the table loved his head of correct shape, well set used small shaped ears, appealing dark alert eyes, strength to short muzzle, black nose. Good strength to clean neck into laid back shoulders correct span, firm muscled backline with thick skin, high set on gaily used tail. Correct front assembly with depth and correct width, straight forelegs well boned and compact padded feet. A muscular long body of nice weight, well ribbed back with short loin. Excellent harsh, quality beautifully presented red jacket with correct undercoat. Muscular hindquarters with moderate stifle and short hocks, stylish very sound free mover, good forward reach and sound hind driving action. My Best Dog and Best in Show.
2nd – Fisherbloom All Eyez On Me (Miss G Adams)
Very well named dog because you certainly “ have to look at” this boy. I did like this workman like dog on the stance and thought he looked similar to my winner. He was so well presented in a harsh red jacket having correct undercoat. Correctly shape head and skull just his ear set was slightly lower, dark expressive eyes, slight stop, strongly balanced muzzle. Moderate length to muscular neck, laid back shoulders, with correct span behind thick skin over his firm back, tail set on slightly lower but carried well. Slightly heavy in body well ribbed back into short loin. Correct front and rear angulation. Well boned legs and tight compact feet correct free sound mover
3rd – Hartswelin Veritas With Oatberry (Mrs K Tuffin)
Res – Grizzledale War Cry (Mrs C J Burgess)
VHC – Brewbrads Tricky Trickster (Miss V Bradley)
Limit – Dog
Entries: 6 Absentees: 3
1st – Lynsett Lewis (Mr P Armstrong)
Another who impressed on the stance as he is well trained and stands very patiently and works well with his handler. On-going over found he was just as nice to put my hands on. Very smart otter shaped head, nice ear use could be set a fraction higher, dark kind eyes, short strong muzzle well coated. Very proud head carriage on moderate strong neck set well into laid back shoulders with good span behind. Nice fore angulation with depth to his chest not too wide, with straight well boned legs and compact feet. A good body and weight with tone, well ribbed back into short loin, thick skin. Excellent harsh textured well presented blue and tan coat with good under coat. Muscular hind quarters correct stifle and short hocks, very sound free action with drive and reach covers the ground well, with lovely tail
carriage just a little niggle I would like a little more coat coverage on his tail. Res Best Dog
2nd – Gameway Macaroon (Mrs J S Truss)
This boy was a little unsettled on the table and on the floor but is overall a nicely built dog of correct size, length and nice enough to go over, so I forgave his actions. Correct Otter shape to head, well set and used ears, correctly shaped dark eyes, with short muzzle. Moderate neck of strength good shoulders and span. Strength and thick skin to his level backline. Well ribbed back body with short strong loin, straight boned forelegs correct tight feet. Well coated red grizzle with good texture and undercoat. Correct moderate rear of which he used well on the move just a little close a foot, tail carried correctly.
3rd – Southash Blue Jasper (Mr J & Mrs I M Southam)
Open – Dog
Entries: 3 Absentees: 1
1st – Mysulan Going Solo JW (Mrs S J Baxter)
Presents a lovely outline on the stance and is of the correct height to length build. Works well with his handler and is very attentive. Very nice to go over for me I would like little more strength and masculinity. Lovely head well worked with correct ears set and use, dark expressive eyes, slight stop, strong muzzle well furnished. Moderate length of neck into well laid-back shoulders, nicely spanned, firm level back with thick skin, tail set could be little higher yet carried well. Correctly angulated front and rear of a body so well presented with harsh textured blue and tan jacket with good undercoat, with ribs well back into a strong short loin. Enough width of chest with good depth, straight legs and compact padded feet. Would have liked more development and strength in his hindquarters. Nice side action, rear drive and forward reach just a little close at foot.
2nd – Tarkaswell Smart Move To Otterwood (Mr M J & Mrs J M Hollingsbee)
Very nice balance and workman like, just a somewhat different type of boy and of slightly heavier build. Masculine Otter shaped head, dark expressive eyes, well set on ears just not used to advantage. Strong short muzzle well furnished. Muscular neck of moderate neck well laid-back shoulders, firm level top-line to well set tail. Good depth and width to chest brisket and a body with substance, well ribbed back into strong loin. Straight forelegs well boned to tight compact feet with good pads. Rear quarters with moderate angle and short hocks. Slightly open coated but having a harsh texture to a dark grizzle coat. Very free sound mover covering the ground well.
Special Beginners – Dog
Entries: 4 Absentees: 0
1st – Howthwaite Gentil Duke At Tilmoray (Mrs M Small)
This boy has improved so much since I first saw him. He has matured into a nice type, very smart head of correct shape, dark alert eyes well shaped, nicely set ear fraction large but well used. Slight stop, short strong muzzle furnished. Head carried well on strong muscular neck of moderate length, well laid-back shoulders with correct span behind, firm level back well set on and used tail. Angulated front and rear, good bone to legs with strength, padded feet. A muscular body with thick skin, substance with depth to chest and brisket, ribs well back into short strong loin. Body covered in blue and tan harsh textured jacket nice undercoat, well presented. Very sound mover best in class just needed to settle.
2nd – Twigglestone Onzieme Heure (Miss A Nettle)
I liked the size and overall balance of this red grizzle dog presented in a harsh dense textured coat in hard condition. Stronger head and skull shape than my winner, but with well set and used ears giving nice expression to his dark well shaped eyes. Good neck to shoulder well laid back, but not and easy span, firm level back with thick skin to well set and used tail. Well angled front and rear, body a little heavy well developed and strongly ribbed back. Good depth to chest with width, straight well boned legs and feet. Correct hindquarters moved out well.
3rd – Grizzledale War Cry (Mrs C J Burgess)
Res – Brewbrads Tricky Trickster (Miss V Bradley)
Veteran – Dog
Entries: 5 Absentees: 2
1st – Bingobongo Wicked Widget At Bimandi (Mrs M J Holmes)
Very smart workman like dog with a lovely outline looking good for his 9.5 years. Very much a breed type dog of correct size and balance. Otter shape to his well developed head, neat well set ears used well with good expression to his still dark alert eyes, short strong muzzle well furnished, teeth in clean good condition. Strong neck, well laid shoulders, good span, backline firm with thick skin, well set and used tail. Good body depth and substance with ribs well back to short strong loin very smartly presented in a conditioned harsh textured red coat. Deep chest straight forelegs and compact feet well padded, hindquarters well developed and muscled, was pulling out a little which made him little close at foot, once settled showed very sound free action. BVD BViB
2nd – Shaamit Guarantee (Mrs J O’Shea)
This 7 year old was slightly taller and longer in back than my winner but overall looked a nice type. Preferred the head shape of my winner. Stronger head and skull, ear set is ok with a larger ear. Dark alert eyes. Slight longer in muzzle. Firm backline over a body with depth and substance with a good span and thick skin. Well ribbed back, good angulation front and rear, well boned straight legs and tight pads to feet. A textured and shaped red grizzle jacket with good undercoat. Moved out well with good sound action.
3rd – CH Otterwood Amex JW ShCM (Mr M J & Mrs J M Hollingsbee)
Special Open Working Dog or Bitch
Entries: 0 Absentees: 0
Minor Puppy – Bitch
Entries: 3 Absentees: 0
1st – Southash Lavender Blue At Oatberry (Mrs K Tuffin)
Very attractive blue and tan lovely coated baby at just 6 months must have a bright future although she gave way to a much more mature puppy bitch today in the challenge. Very sweet, correctly shaped head and skull well set on and used ears, slight stop, dark eyes with a bright cheeky look, short muzzle having strength. Good length of neck set well into laid back shoulders, correct span, firm level back good thick skin. Very pretty look to a well shaped, presented and textured coat. Lovely weight and depth to her well ribbed back body, nice short strong loin. Well angulated front assembly and hindquarters with short hocks. Straight well boned legs and compact padded feet. For one so young moved very soundly with lovely action and happy well carried tail.
2nd – Whitestubbs We Winnie Winki (Miss V M Williams)
Of a nice height to length and shows a smart outline as she stands under control on the stance and works with and watches her handler. Feminine head in my opinion not the shape or strength of head or skull of my winner, I would like more strength and length of foreface. Well set and used ears, dark sweet look to dark eyes, moderate stop. Good moderate neck well laid-back shoulders good span behind, firm level backline correct tail well set and carried well. Lovely weight and depth to body with ribs well back into short loin. Well angulated front and rear, good straight well boned fore legs and tight padded feet. Hindquarters having good strength, short strong hocks moved out well and was sound both ends. Nicely presented harsh dense red jacket with correct undercoat.
3rd – Umbala Sirocco (Mr & Mrs G J Fordham & Mrs G Cove-Print)
Puppy – Bitch
Entries: 2 Absentees: 1
1st – Tojamatt Ann Brandreth (Mr & Mrs D Matthews)
This 11 months youngster was a beautiful standout example of the breed she took my attention being very attractive and well put together and she was just as nice to go over. Pretty correctly shaped Otter head, good dark eye with a sparkle, well set on and carried ears. Slight stop, strong short muzzle well furnished. Good strength to a moderate neck into shoulders, good span behind, firm level back line, well set and carried happy tail. Correctly angulated forequarters with depth and width to chest, straight boned legs and compact round feet. Lovely depth to body with substance having ribs well back into short loin. Excellent quality coat, harsh textured red with good thick skin. Hindquarters well developed
with moderate stifle and short let down hocks. Very free sound mover with nice style and action covering the ground well. BPB BPiS
Junior – Bitch
Entries: 8 Absentees: 2
1st – Bimandi’s Banana Smoothie (Mrs M J Holmes)
Headed a good class of very nice bitches. Thought this girl looked very smart on the stance and was lovely to go over having a lovely overall balance and build. I preferred her head and skull shape, very well set and hung used ears with dark bright kind eyes, neat strong muzzle all making for a very attractive head. Head carried proud on moderate strong neck, well laid-back shoulders, spannable behind. Firm level back good thick skin, well set carried tail. Good depth and correct width to chest straight well boned legs of good balance with compact padded feet. Body with nice substance, ribs well back into short strong loin. Harsh dense coated grizzle with excellent presentation. Correct hindquarters used to advantage. Very free sound action with reach and drive but inclined to be little unsettled at times. In the final mix not the form of her previous showing.
2nd – Otterwood Nemesis Del Fisherbloom (Miss G Adams)
Another beautiful well built and balanced smart workman like looking bitch on the stance of correct height to length and presented in a lovely grizzle jacket. Very sweet head although I just preferred the head shape of my winner, this girl won me over with her dark eyes and bright expression with mascara eye-lining. Well set and used thin well hung ears, short furnished muzzle with good strength. Strong moderate neck into well laid-back shoulders with good span behind, firm thick skin on level back to well set on and carried tail. Lovely body of substance and good depth with correct angles front and rear. Correctly boned and balanced legs, small thick padded feet. Moved out soundly to the front with good action but moving slightly wide behind.
3rd – Foxfactor Fire Cracker (Mrs K D Stockley)
Res – Southash Kiss Me Kate (Mr J & Mrs I M Southam)
VHC – Twigglestone Serendipite (Mrs L I Aldous)
Novice – Bitch
Entries: 6 Absentees: 3
1st – Twigglestone Serendipite (Mrs L I Aldous)
Placed in the strong Junior class and certainly moved out with a better action and soundness in this class. Very feminine head well shaped and furnished, used her ears better in this class giving her more expression to her dark eyes. Slight stop and strong short muzzle. Good neck well laid-back shoulders and spannable. Has a better and firmer top-line than my second placement and her tail is set on and correctly carried. Well bodied with depth, ribs well back, harsh textured coat and in nice condition. Balanced and boned legs and compact feet.
2nd – Kenaiteen April Fools Day (Miss C Selkeld)
Having quite an attractive head of correct shape, uses well set and hung ears, dark enough eyes with kind expression, short furnished muzzle. Head carried on good length of neck into laid back shoulder, spannable behind. Top line could be firmer and more although she has thick skin. Tail set on and carried low. Well bodied and ribbed with enough depth to chest. Little straight in upper arm, balanced and boned legs and feet, correct hindquarters which gave her drive but not the front action of 1.
3rd – Sweet Pearl (Mrs D J Turner)
Post Graduate – Bitch
Entries: 8 Absentees: 2
1st – Fisherbloom That’s Wot I Like (Miss G Adams)
Very impressive and looks so feminine with an overall balanced look to her size and shape. On the stance she presents a picture of good breed type and was very nice to go over on the table. Attractive correctly shaped head, high well set on and hung ears used to advantage, sweet look to her dark wellset eyes, slight stop strong short nicely furnished muzzle correct dentition. Head proudly carried on muscular moderate neck into well laid-back shoulders, nice span behind. Level strong back with thick skin. Well set-on carried and used tail. Correctly angulated front good depth of chest with nice width, has a body with depth and substance and well ribbed back to a short strong loin, well presented dense harsh textured grizzle jacket. Straight forelegs and small tight padded feet. Moderate muscular hindquarters and stifle with short hocks very free sound mover covered the ground well with reach and
drive. One to watch RBB
2nd – Twigglestone Somethin Else For Lessien (Miss S J Pateman)
Little separated these two very smart bitches I just like the substance and the look of maturity of my winner although there is really little difference in their ages. Very attractive on the stance and equally nice to go over, I really liked her head of otter shape, lovely well set on and used ears, giving expression to her dark round kind eyes. Nice stop and short muzzle. Proud head carriage held on strong moderate neck into well laid-back shoulders, correct span. Firm level back to croup with high set tail well held and carried. Well angulated front and hindquarters. Depth and moderate width to chest, straight balanced legs straight bone and small tight feet. Hindquarters with moderate stifle and short hocks. Well ribbed back into a body with depth and substance, well presented and conditioned harsh grizzle jacket with undercoat. Positive sound mover with good easy stride with reach and drive.
3rd – Ebffiniau Bluebell Before Summer At Tojamatt (Mr & Mrs D Matthews)
Res – Otterwood Diodem JW (Mr M J & Mrs J M Hollingsbee)
VHC – Foxfactor Fire Cracker (Mrs K D Stockley)
Limit – Bitch
Entries: 4 Absentees: 0
1st – Oakyard On Song JW (Mr J Parry)
Stylish very feminine and attractive with a lovely outline and so very attentive to her handler. She is of a lovely size with overall balance, going over she is so well muscled and has lovely substance. Most pretty head with that correct otter shape, well furnished, neat high set well hung and used ears. Dark bright expressive eyes with kind alert expression. Strong moderate neck with well laid-back shoulders, correct span, firm level back with thick skin, high set tail carried and used well. Fore chest with correct width and depth, straight well boned legs and compact small feet. Nicely bodied with ribs well back into a short strong loin. Presented in a dense harsh textured red grizzle jacket with undercoat. Strong hindquarters with moderate stifle and short let down hocks, very sound stylish mover good ground coverage, correct action with reach and drive. BB RBiS and BOS
2nd – Otterwood Domina Candesco JW (Mr M J & Mrs J M Hollingsbee)
Really liked this nice 5 year old bitch of correct size and length with strength and substance to her body. Slightly stronger made being that more mature than my winner. Very attractive otter shaped head well furnished, high set hung ears well used, sweet expression from kind dark eyes, slight stop, short strong muzzle good dentition. Correct head carriage on strong moderate neck into well laid-back shoulders, a firm level top line to well held tail little reluctant to be used on the move. Having a good span and thick skin. Correctly angulated front and rear, well ribbed body with a lovely presented dense coat of good harsh texture with undercoat. Well boned straight forelegs with round padded feet, strong muscular quarters with short hocks. Very sound active mover with forward reach and strong drive.
3rd – Ragatam Essence JW (Miss T Peacock)
Res – Emblehope Butterball At Leysh (Mrs C Ricks)
Open – Bitch
Entries: 3 Absentees: 0
1st – Baillieswells Stronachie (Professor A S Milton)
This is one beautiful bitch I recall from a few years ago when I judged her she still retains her beautiful Otter shaped head, lovely high set ears, sweet expressive dark eyes, slight stop and short muzzle with strength. Proudly held head on strong moderate neck into well laid-back shoulders with good span behind. Strong muscular level back of correct length, thick skin, high set tail well carried. Well angulated front with depth to chest and brisket, straight well boned legs and tight compact feet. Has a lovely body with depth and substance, ribs well back into short strong loin, muscular hind quarters with well let down hocks. Coat textured was very harsh a dark grizzle and nicely presented. Happy tail carriage a free stylish sound mover with good front reach and drive from behind.
2nd – Sulan Strictly Blues Dancin’ (Mrs S J Baxter)
A different type than my winner being taller and much longer in back making her a little unbalanced. Stronger in head with a strong skull, well set ears, dark kind eyes, I would like some definition between eyes, short strong muzzle. Good length of neck well laid-back shoulders, spanned. Firm back line to well held and carried tail. Angulated front lacking in depth to chest stands wide between straight well boned fore legs, compact feet. Body a little long with ribs being short, could be further back into loin. Blue and tan coat is harsh textured and well presented. Moderately developed hindquarters. Moved out soundly with good reach and drive.
3rd – Mysulan Go Easy (Mrs S J Baxter)
Special Beginners – Bitch
Entries: 5 Absentees: 2
1st – Emblehope Butterball At Leysh (Mrs C Ricks)
Was placed in the limit class very nice build of good height to correct length. Attractive head of good shape, with high set ears used well, kind dark eyes, slight stop short strong muzzle. Good strength of neck would like little more length which was spoilt by long coat needing to be taken out. Firm top line to tail well set, much happier carriage in this class. Well bodied with enough angulation front and rear, body covered in a harsh coat just a little long and needing a little more presentation today. Straight well boned fore legs, moderate indquarters and stifle with short hocks, tight compact feet, moved out with reach and drive just a little close at foot behind.
2nd – Kenaiteen April Fools Day (Miss C Selkeld)
Very pleasant girl with a feminine head a little strong and stronger in skull than my winner. High set on ears, one ear needing to settle. Kind dark eyes, nice stop, and short muzzle with strength. Moderate neck with strength, shoulders spannable, firm top line to tail set a little low but used ok. Angulated front, body well developed with rib well back into short loin. Very well presented harsh textured grizzle coat with good undercoat. Strong hindquarters moderate stifle and short hocks. Straight well boned legs and compact feet moved out well with good action
3rd – Tilmoray Turtle Dove (Mrs M Small)
Veteran – Bitch
Entries: 4 Absentees: 0
Fantastic class of which the owners should be very pleased and proud.
1st – Orangecastle Zaurak at Foxfactor (Mrs K D Stockley)
I thought this 7 + year old bitch had an impressive outline with lovely height to correct length. Very attractive and correctly put together otter head, super held and hung ears, expressive dark bright eyes, short strong muzzle with good dentition. Proud head carriage on moderate neck into well laidback shoulders with good span behind. Firm backline with thick skin, well held and used happy tail. Good chest depth and width angulated front to straight boned legs little down on pasterns, small feet. A body with good weight, well ribbed back body, muscled, presented correctly in a dense harsh grizzle jacket. Moderate hindquarters, stifle and short hocks, moved the soundest with good reach and drive with happy tail.
2nd – Int/Am/Can CH Sulan Fancy That (Mrs S J Baxter)
I thought this bitch had a great outline I have written in my book that she was in lovely condition for 9 years but on reading her details in the catalogue found she is 12years old, making her super condition for this age. Well presented and conditioned dense harsh coat of good colour just losing it to grey in few places. Nice head shape and strong skull, eyes still retaining colour and kind expression, well hung ears. Moderate neck to firm back line and well set and used happy tail. Over a body with ribs well back into short loin. Correctly angulated front and rear with well boned straight legs and small tight feet. Moved out well little close at foot front and rear.
3rd – Sextonmagic Bluebelle (Mrs G Maskell)
Res – An Cnoc of Baillieswells (Professor A S Milton)
BORDER TERRIERS 2020
INVITATION TO TAKE PART – TEAM COMPETITION
As part of its fun activities Border Terriers 2020 intends to organise an informal team competition on the second day of the event – Sunday May 3rd.
The competition will be run on a points basis, and there will be two judges.
To compete, each team will need to contain one of each of the following:
The dogs need not be related and anyone who wants to enter can put together their own team of dogs and handlers. They will be asked to give their team a suitable name for the occasion.
There is no fee for entry, but the maximum number of teams will be twelve and team entries will be accepted on a ‘first come first served’ basis.
Potential Team Leaders are asked to contact Ronnie Irving as soon as possible at:
DANDYHOW.KSUT@gmail.com .
BORDER TERRIER BREED HEALTH
NOTES ON MEETING AT PARK HOTEL, YORK
ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 8, 2019 AT 10.30 A.M.
Present: Professor Steve Dean (SD) – in the Chair
Dr Andrew Harbottle (AH)
Dr Eddie Houston (EH)
Professor Jeff Sampson (JS)
In Attendance: Ronnie Irving (RI)
It was agreed that the introduction of the DNA Test had been very successful and the take up by breeders had been encouraging. Up to November 2019 nearly 1,400 dogs had been tested. Of these 85.9% had been tested clear with 14.0% carriers and only 2 (0.1%) affected. With so many dogs now being hereditarily clear the numbers being tested were declining and in the last six months only 127 had been tested of which 117 (92.1%) were declared ‘clear’.
It was noted that as requested by the breed clubs, the KC had classified the official SLEM Test as a ‘recommendation’ for ABS members. The Group discussed whether or not the KC should be asked to upgrade the classification to ‘required’ but recommended this is unnecessary.
The Group was of the view that it was unwise of the KC to adopt the policy that after two generations of dogs declared on KC records as hereditarily clear, the subsequent generations would not be given such official description. Although the reasons for such a policy were understood, it was felt that this approach was inclined to undermine rather than support the validity of the test. It was agreed that the Group should not support the policy but should instead encourage the owners of hereditarily clear sires to be tested if they appeared to be becoming frequently used.
Advice would be provided on the BHG website on a hereditarily clear breed policy and the Kennel Club should be informed of this decision. (Action BHC)
The study by Mark Lowrie and the AHT had been delayed while the research team obtained the relevant RCVS ethical approvals, but these were now in place and volunteered dogs for the study had been sought.
The Group agreed to contact Mark Lowrie to ask if he had obtained enough volunteer candidates with the correct profiles, and to offer support in giving any further publicity to his requirements if there remained any shortage of suitable candidates.
Full support was given to the research work to be done, but caution was again expressed on the low expectation of the Health Group that the work would result in straightforward advice being available to breeders as a consequence. It was again felt that further effort be made to moderate the expectations of supporters of the breed.
Mention was again made of the fact that in coeliac disease in humans (a similar illness to CECS, centred around gluten sensitivity), the genetic marker for the condition was present in around 45% of the general population while the incidence of the condition itself was very small in comparison. This meant that the genetic marker had not proved to be a good predictive tool for that condition.
Disappointment was again expressed on the fact that so far very few people were completing the CECS questionnaire and the General Health Survey on the Breed Health Group Website. The breed clubs had given further publicity to the Questionnaire and Survey but it was felt that attempts should be made to involve as great a number of pet owners as possible to complete the Questionnaire and Survey, and that the organisers of Borderfest should be invited to help with this task.
It was felt that sufficient advice on CECS was currently available on the BHG Website but that this aspect should be kept constantly under review.
The Mark Dunning Study at Nottingham Veterinary School is underway in an attempt to establish the nature of the condition. The Group was astonished to hear that 2,000 responses had been received following the research group’s request for information about Border Terriers suspected of having the condition, to support this research study.
EH agreed to research further the apparent incidence of the condition in Shetland Sheepdogs, Cocker Spaniels and Miniature Schnauzers in the USA and to ask Marg Pough for information about it in Border Terriers there as well. (Action: EH)
It was also agreed that the condition should be given Open Register treatment on the BHG Website and that first Steve Dean should write up a protocol for the diagnosis required before each dog’s name can be added to the Register.
The Group agreed to employ this approach and publication of confirmed cases on the BHG Website would be a consequence, giving the KC registered name of the dog itself, and the names of its parents. Before publication, each case would be verified as meeting diagnostic protocol requirements by the Breed Health Coordinator. (Action: SPD)
Emails had been received giving details of 10 dogs largely from international sources in the USA and Scandinavia.
It was again agreed that Steve Dean should contact the Chairman of the UK BVA Eye Panel to ask if he/she could ask colleagues overseas, for any further information they might have of the condition in Border Terriers, and then decide what further action should be taken. (Action: SPD)
VetCompass information indicated that the prevalence of this condition was approximately the same in Border Terriers as it is on average for all breeds.
It was agreed that the condition should be given Open Register treatment on the BHG Website and that first EH should write up a protocol for the diagnosis required, before dogs’ names can be added to the Register. (Action: EH)
Meantime it was felt that no other breed specific research should be called for, but that the breed should work within the aegis of other non-breed specific research being carried out on the condition.
No other new emerging conditions had been intimated or encountered.
The meeting with the Kennel Club Health Group had taken place in June 2018 and the following action points had been agreed:
The meeting specified in the last bullet point had not taken place because of various changes taking place at the Kennel Club.
It was agreed that, as above, the project should again be taken up with the KC through Tom Lewis. What was thought to be required is a system to calculate the influence of stud dogs on the genetic population of the breed and to show when sires are approaching a maximum advisable contribution level. The possibility of publication of the results on the KC Mate Select Facility with a red/amber/green indicator given, would be suggested.
It had been confirmed by Bill Shorthose the Joint Border Terrier Clubs’ Treasurer that the current sum ring-fenced for health matters within the Joint Border Terrier Clubs’ Account was £15,854.14.
It was felt that there were no immediate requirements to deploy these funds but that the clubs and supporters should be encouraged to continue raising funds for this purpose as an insurance against future needs.
Thanks were expressed to the Clubs and to those who had been working to fundraise for these purposes.
Thanks were extended to Euan Castel for the immense amount of work that he does to keep the Website current.
It was agreed that as the website was growing in content, it would be helpful if the Homepage could perhaps include a list of (and links to) major issues.
RI agreed to talk to Euan about this.
Steve Dean intimated that after many years in the position he had decided step down as the Border Terrier Breed Health Coordinator as from December 31st this year. He has however agreed to stay on as a Member of the Breed Health Group. The Group thanked Steve for his past contribution and confirmed that it looks forward to having his continued help as a BHG Member in the future.
The Group decided to propose Eddie Houston to be Steve’s successor from January 1, 2020, and will ask the seven breed clubs for their support for that proposal.
In addition the Group discussed the proposal to nominate Laura Jordan-Smith B Vet Med, MRCVS as an additional BHG Member. Laura is a Veterinary Surgeon in practice and has been showing Border Terriers for some time now under the kennel name ‘Jordith’. The BHG will put this proposal to the seven breed clubs for approval.
It was agreed that an article on ‘Buying a Border Terrier Puppy’ with some reference to health issues, ought to be prepared for the BHG Website.
It was agreed that RI should prepare a first draft of this.
JS said that having had much experience of such issues while working at the Kennel Club and having listened to the various discussions today, he felt that the BHG was concentrating on sensible issues and was taking appropriate actions.
It was agreed that, unless there was an urgent need otherwise, the next meeting of the Group should be held in September or October 2020.
It was also agreed that the Park Hotel York was a suitable venue.
Afternoon Meeting with Breed Club Representatives
The meeting was Chaired by RI. It was attended by those listed as present above and:
Mike Hollingsbee – East Anglia BTC
Chris Wallace – Midland BTC
Eddie Houston represented the Border Terrier Club
Apologies had been received from:
Anne Gregory – Scottish BTC
Anne Heathcote – Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cheshire BTC
Christine Horner – Northern BTC
Tony Wrenn – Southern BTC
All of the issues covered at the meeting earlier in the day as above (except items 11 and 13) were discussed and reviewed and there was broad support for the conclusions reached and recommendations made.
The topic of high volume breeders registering several litters per quarter apparently from dogs not known to be clear of SLEM was raised. Chris Wallace was asked to research statistics on this matter.
AFTERNOTE: CW has subsequently reported that he has reviewed the last 4 Breed Record Supplements and that in that period five breeders had more than three litters in a quarter, but that of that five litters all sires were Slem Clear or Hereditary Clear apart from one litter.