2017 Issue 2

\"Will \" CH Castlemist A Midsummer Night’s Dream, BN, RN, TKI, CGC \"Summer\" GCH Castlemist Summer Solstice, RATI \"Sophie\" GCH Castlemist Sweet Summertime Sophie, CGCCastlemistMastiffs

\"Rose\" CH Castlemist Sweet Summer Rose \"Gronk\" GCH Castlemist Summertime Party Bus, CGC \"Daisy\" CH Castlemist Hazy Lazy Daze of Summer Heidi Kraft www.CastlemistMastiffs.com * All health screening results posted on OFA site * The \"M & M litter\"*CH. Castlemist Morpheus, CD, TT, TDI, CGC x CH Audley Mummah’s Maia, TT *

MASTIFF CLUB OF AMERICA JOURNAL 2 MCOA JOURNAL EDITOR: 3Year in Review • January 2018 4 Maria Ruoto 5 [email protected] 7 10 JOURNAL TEAM: Bits N Pieces 11 Note from the President 15 Pat Flanagan Borracci Note from the Editor 19 Karen Cornelius Rescue Corner 23 Barbie Fiorentino Mastiff World Cup 26 Marty Hancock Volunteer Opportunities 29 Sarah Laidlaw The Mastiff Museum 33 William Ruoto Pet Ownership Statistics 35 Maria Ruoto Winter Survey Results 38 Shana Stevens Regional Round-Up 39 Q2-Q4 2017 CHIC Awards 41 Printer: Johnson Press of America, Pontiac, IL 61764 Ask a Vet 43 TCVM Winter Wellness 45 The editor reserves the right to reasonable edit all copy used in Tricks 46 this publication. The opinionsexpressed in the Mastiff Club of AKC News 49 America Journal are those of the authors and not necessarily Scent Work Basics 51 those of the Mastiff Club of America or the MCOA Journal. The Not So Guilty Pleasures 52 MCOA Journal is owned and managed by the Mastiff Club of My Scent Work Experience 53 America, Inc. No portion of this magazine may be reprinted Junior Spotlight without permission of the Mastiff Club of America. Mastiff Club Meet the Board Member: Tim Plezbert Fashion Wear, Spa Treatments, and Serious Essentials of America, Inc., Incorporated 1929. Winter Warnings Holiday Hazards OFFICERS: Committee Contacts President: Diane CollingsON THE COVER: Vice-President: Dick Greaver Recording Secretary: Jodi LaBombardGCHS CH Friends One Bad Boy \"Dillinger\" Corresponding Secretary: Marty HancockBreeders and Owners: Jack & Debbie FriendOwner/Handler Series 2017- Ranked #1 in Mastiffs Treasurer: Mitzi WaltersON THE BACK COVER: BOARD OF DIRECTORS:GCHB CH Bluebonnet's Playing The Odds CGCA Lisa SimonsOwners: Tamara. Moyer, Phil & Marty Hancock, Nancy Walker & Bob Kravitz Marty HancockBreeders: Marty Hancock & Phil Hancock Tim Plezbert Tricia Mortensen-Dalman AKC DELEGATE: Becky Campbell CORRECTION: Hall of Fame: CH Millennium's Moonshadow with Champion offspring: GCHG CH Millenniums Ain'T No Stopping Us Now RN CGCA TT TDI CH Millenniums Shoot For The Moon TT CH Millenniums Fly Me To The Moon BN RN CGC TDI CH Millenniums Gatehouse Shot In The Dark CH Millennium Something To Talk About1 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review

JOURNAL ARTICLES DEADLINES: Awards Recognition Section (Specialty & Awards Bits ‘N PiecesJournal #1 — January 1 (Year in Review) Issue): All collar award winners are eligible forJournal #2 — July 1 (Specialty & Awards) 1/3 page in this section at no charge. Owners are MCOA KEY CONTACTS:No article (with the exception of “Letters to the responsible for submitting all award ads and Hall of AKC Delegate: Becky CampbellEditor”) will be considered for publication unless it is Fame ads. Hall of Fame & Working Dogs ads are $35. AKC Gazette Columnist: Karen Corneliussent to the Editor by e-mail or on disk. E-mail: [email protected] RESERVING AD PAGES/COVERS: Awards/Trophies: Karen ParkJOURNAL AD GUIDELINES & RATES: Ad pages and covers may be reserved by E-mail: [email protected] price includes design by members of the MCOA contacting the editor. They must be prepaid online Ph: 801-518-4115Journal Committee when needed. Advertising Dogs via the MCOA PayPal or by check sent to MCOA Breeder Referral: Kelly Meyerand Kennels is for MCOA Members and Associate Treasurer. Cover deposits are nonrefundable. If you 2229 Tennessee Avenue, Savannah, GA 31404Members in good standing only. All dogs advertised are reserving a cover (front, back, exterior or interior) Ph: 912.238.3170must be solely owned or co-owned by MCOA call the editor to confirm availability. Please call the Castlekeeper Times Editor: Jennifer Lambdenmembers or Associate members in good standing. Editor if you need assistance with your ad. Ph: 361-633-1539Advertisements placed by MCOA E-mail: [email protected] Members must include the phrase: “MCOA “TRUTH IN ADVERTISING” Collar Awards: Bonnie BlinkAssociate Member.” Please advise the editor if HEALTH TESTING CLAIMS: All claims of OFA, CERF E-mail:[email protected] are advertising as an Associate Member and or GDC certifications on any Mastiff advertised in Ph: 832-277-8700welcome aboard! the MCOA Journal must be accompanied by the FAQ Maintainer/Webmaster: Dave SpringerBreeders advertising a dog they bred that is owned corresponding permanent certification numbers Futurity/Tournament/Breeders Cup: Julia Kriebsby a person who is NOT an MCOA member, must written on the ad. Photocopies of permanent 135 Valley Rd., West Branch, IA 52358have written permission to do so from the dog’s certifications are not needed. All OTHER health Ph: 319.643.5315owner. Advertisements of this nature may NOT be testing claims, such as “OFA PRELIM”, “thyroid E-mail: [email protected] announcements and are subject to the approval normal” (non-OFA), “vWD clear”, and other Health Committee Chair: Anna Mayof the editor. “certifications” can only be made in Journal PO Box 1197, Murrieta, CA 92564Names of non-members are allowed on advertising if the advertiser sends a copy of the Ph: 951.704.6022Member/Associate Member ads, but the kennel laboratory report (not a veterinarian’s letter of E-mail: [email protected], addresses, phone numbers, and e-mail opinion) with the ad as proof. Generic statements Judges Education: Diane Collingsaddresses of non-members cannot be included. about a particular dog’s certifications and reports, Ph: 415-990-3317All advertising rates listed below, include the such as “he passed all genetic tests” without further E-mail: [email protected] of ONE photo on the ad (must be clarification will not be allowed. Obedience (Co-Chairs): Becky Campbellprovided at 300 dpi or higher). These rates also SHOW RANK CLAIMS: All claims of show rank 4937 Thornhill Lane, Dublin, OH 43017apply to ad pages without photos. Extra photos on any Mastiff advertised in the MCOA Journal Ph: 614.561.1500 (Cell)may be included at the additional cost. If you are will be accompanied by the “as of” date of the E-mail: [email protected] your own ad (not having the Journal ranking (such as “#4 MCOA BOB (3rd qtr. ‘15),” And - Mary Lynn Speerteam design), there is no additional cost for extra due to the lag time between ranking, publishing 2346-140th Ave., Glenwood City, WI 54013pictures. Please send all ads to Maria Ruoto at and distribution. These claims will be verified by Ph: [email protected]. the Journal staff. The Journal will allow rankings E-mail: [email protected] published by other sources ONLY with accompanying Working Dog Committee: Danielle BrownFront Cover: $350 written documentation, such as a photocopy of a 105 Saddle Ridge Cove, Search, AR 72143Inside Front Covers (2 avail.): $225 standings page in a dog show magazine. This must Ph. 501.268.9541Back Cover: $275 be submitted with the ad. E-mail: [email protected] Back Covers (2 avail.): $175 NON-SHOW CERTIFICATIONS: All claims of non- National Show Advisor: Karen Park2 Page Center Fold: $350 show certifications, such as CGC, TDI, TT, etc., must E-mail: [email protected] (Check with editor to confirm availability) have supporting documentation submitted with the Ph: 801-518-4115One interior page: $125 ad, such as a photocopy of the certificate (a copy of Nominating Committee: Margo LauritsenOne interior page “In Memoriam”: $75 the TDI license is all that is needed for CGC/TDI).It is E-mail: [email protected] interior page “Commercial”: $150 not necessary to submit any proof of AKC titles, Collar Social Media/Yahoo: Jann Lanz1/2 page: $75 Awards, Hall of Fame induction or Working Dog E-mail: [email protected]/2 page “Commercial”: $100 titles, as these can be verified by the Journal staff. Ph:707-462-8004Collar Award Winners 1/3 page: N/C The use of the Mastiff Standard in advertising copy MCOA WEBPAGE: http://mastiff.orgVeteran 1/2 page: N/C is prohibited. MCOA FAQ: http://mastiff.org/faq/HOF/Working Dog title 1/3 page: $35 These policies extend to the MCOA Breeders MCOA FACEBOOK PAGE: https://www.Additional photos (each): $12 Directory, published in the Journal. The Editor facebook.com/mastiffclubofamericaBreeders Directory: one insert: $20 reserves the right to remove or make changes to ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:Breeders Directory: two inserts $30 any claim that is incorrect, illegible, does not meet RESCUE FOUNDATION, INC. (NOT open to MCOA Associate Members) these guidelines or cannot be verified in a timely Mary Lynn SpeerBusiness Card (per year): $50 fashion. All advertisements are subject to review 2346-140th Ave., Glenwood City, WI 54013Business Card (per issue): $30 by the Journal staff. HOWEVER, it is the overall Ph: 715-265-7800 responsibility of the ADVERTISER to make sure that E-mail: [email protected] spelling of all names in Journal advertising is all claims are true and accurate. www.mastiffhelp.orgprinted as submitted. HANDWRITTEN AD COPY ISPROHIBITED. If you have any instructions for the BILLING POLICY: Copyright © 2018, Mastiff Club of America.Editor/Publisher as to the design of your ad, you may All Advertisements will be paid in advance by PayPal No portion of this magazine may be reprintedwrite them NEATLY on the ad copy page, but the ad or check. If the check is returned for without permission of the Mastiff Clubcopy itself MUST be typed. nonpayment, MCOA will charge an additional of America. Mastiff Club of America, Inc.,Commercial ads are defined in this magazine as any $25.00 returned check fee. Entries for MCOA Incorporated 1929.ad for a product or service, regardless of whether or National Specialties will not be accepted fromnot the advertiser is affiliated with the MCOA. Please individuals who are in arrears to MCOA.contact the Editor for mechanical requirements oncommercial ads. MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 2

Letter from the PresidentHappy New Year Friends! Welcome to 2018 and I hope that it finds you full of hope and anticipation that only a new year can bring.It’s a time of planning for what is to come and a time to reflect on what was accomplished last year. I thinkthat as a club the membership really stepped up to show what can be done when ideas and talents collide. Hereis a short list of the accomplishments of 2017 and I apologize if I missed any: • Ways and Means committee with the MCOA Store and Café Press • Journal Committees commitment to producing an outstanding and timely publication • World Cup and the funds raised via an on-line auction to support a MCOA Representatives participation. • All committee vacancies are now posted on the MCOA Web and Face Book pages. Volunteers always needed! • 2017 MCOA National in Sacramento, CA, another success! Thank you to Toni Hyland and her show committee • Meet the Breed booths supported at the Rose City Classic in Portland OR, Westminister KC in New York and the AKC Championship show in Orlando, FL. A special call out to the Mastiff Club of Florida for their Best In Show winning Booth in Orlando last month • Ways and Means Holiday auction, another success • Judges Education – Two well attended Breed Presentations as well as continuing to support the education of all judges by coordinating ringside mentors throughout the country and supplying education materials. • 2018 National, Julia Kriebs and her committee hard at work for the St. Charles, Il. show • 2019 National contract signed to be held in Asheville, NC in May • 2020 National site identified, thank you to Karen Park’s diligent efforts behind the scenes • The very hard working Officers and Board continuing to move the MCOA forward and keep us financially soundA sincere thank you to all the hard working MCOA committees and their members for all that you do, mostlybehind the scenes and I hope that I can encourage those of you have that have thought about getting involved,but just needed a nudge. Consider this your nudge, no time like the present to get involved, we need yourenergy, ideas and talents to continue to keep the Mastiff Club of America one of the most respected ParentClubs by the AKC.I’ll end this message by saying that I am extremely excited and honored to be selected by you the membershipto judge this year’s National and I can hardly wait to see all the fabulous Mastiffs produced by responsiblebreeders who truly care about this AWESOME breed. I’m looking forward to seeing you all in May.Stay well,Diane3 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review

Letter from the EditorHere's to 2018 and all of the wonderful things the new year can bring!In this issue, we have some great information on a Working Dog activity that I'm very involved in...Scent Work.It's such an amazing sport. It's one of the few that allows the DOG to take the lead and allows their naturalinstincts to shine. It also pushes the handler to know their dog's body language and behavior. All in all - it's anamazing activity that can help you develop an even deeper bond with your Mastiff.We have also added a new column to the Journal...the Rescue Corner. We hope it touches you as much as itdid us. And, we hope it sparks a desire to get involved with Rescue. As you will read, there is no contributiontoo small and the rewards are priceless.In this new year, I challenge you all to find your \"calling\" in the Breed - be it breeder, owner, handler, spectator,ambassador, or rescuer - whatever it is - do it with the heart of a Mastiff. Find a way that you can give backto the breed that gives us so much. As I was all too vividly reminded this year - our time with these amazinganimals is finite. So, I beg you to treat EVERY moment spent with your dogs - at work or play, win or lose,as if it is a precious gem.My final thoughts... Stand up and cheer for the young puppies in the ring. They are our future. I can't help but smile when I see a young pup in the ring for the first time. It doesn't always go as planned - but they're out there learning, having fun, and being themselves! If you see someone who struggled a bit and didn't have the perfect shining star puppy moment - take a second to offer a word of encouragement to both the puppy and handler. We've all been there! Take a moment to embrace a veteran...no matter who is on the other end of the lead. They are Mastiff Royalty! My heart absolutely sings when I look into their age-softened eyes and see a glimmer of the mischievous puppy that still lives in their heart. I melt when I get a kiss from a distinguished, grey muzzled beast and see their tail thump with a youthful fire. And, I'm grateful that we are seeing more and more of our majestic Breed living to be seniors.Cheers,Maria MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 4

The goal of the MCOA Journal series of rescue articles is to bring the vague notion of rescue to life: to spell out what it does, what it needs, why it’s so satisfying while being simultaneously so maddening; and to make clear the importance of every dollar, every 10 minutes of volunteer time, every moment of participation in the rescue endeavor. By Anne Elwell Trustee, Southern States Mastiff RescueRescue CornerRescue is one of the most simultaneously satisfying and Our vetting costs are our greatest expense. We provide a basicmaddening endeavors known to humankind. Many breed exam, vaccinations, a HW test and fecal float, worming, HW,organizations do not engage in it at all, accepting all those dogs tick and flea preventative. Spay/neuter costs $160-300+ per dogleft behind as collateral damage inevitable in the marketing of and MCOA reimburses $100 per dog. We provide diagnosticstheir breed. Many breed rescues take in only easily adoptable and treatment for conditions which will affect the immediatedogs; refusing the ones who most need rescuing -- the old, the comfort of the dog or its adoptability (cancer, thyroid issues,sick, the injured. Fortunately, MCOA has long been supportive skin issues, infections). That being said, our usual adoption feeof rescue. But few in the Mastiff community participate in is only $450 for young and adult Mastiffs and $200 for seniors.rescue’s daily life; so not many understand what rescue actually When we take in “crisis dogs” where vetting will costdoes and how reliant it is on the financial and physical support thousands, we reach out to the Mastiff community because weof that large Mastiff community. know we cannot meet these needs without donations. These are the severely ill, injured, or sometimes abused dogs. SomeSpotlight on the SSMR Rescue: have been starved until they are skeletal, hit by cars, or injured in game traps. Often dogs urgently need surgery. These areIn this issue, I would like to introduce a rescue with which I extremely stressful times, because we must act immediatelyam deeply involved. I am a Trustee of Southern States Mastiff with no clear knowledge of the extent of the needs of the dogRescue, formed in 2004, one of six rescue entities approved or the cost necessary to save it. Our ability to act efficientlyby MCOA. It is an entirely volunteer organization, operating in rests on the skills of our volunteer base. However, our ability toseven state chapters. We take in all (English) Mastiffs in need, follow through and save the dog is the result of the immediateregardless of age, health or behavior—aside from serious human generous response of the incredible Mastiff community—or animal aggression. Most of the dogs are owner surrendered breeders, groups, individual Mastiff owners—sending donationsor pulled from shelters. We vet them, place them in foster care of 5-100s of dollars. Every dollar makes a difference!as soon as possible, and find homes where they will be lovedand well cared for in the lifestyle Mastiffs want most.Our basic finances are easy to describe. We are a charitable \"...what they all have, without exception, is that501(c)(3) organization, which means donations are tax-deductible. Our annual income is usually less than $50,000 incredible Mastiff heartper year. The income sources are adoption fees, donations,and partial reimbursement from MCOA for some of our spay/ that beats unceasingly for connectionneuter expenses. with its people.\"We spend this income almost entirely on the direct expenses of Day-to-Day Challenges for Rescues: the dogs—vetting primarily, and boarding when a sudden influxof dogs exceeds our foster availability. No volunteer receives In reality, however, the “crisis dog” image of rescue is deceiving.any payment for their work or expenses. By and large, the costs The great volumes of dogs coming into rescue are theof postage and office supplies are borne by the volunteer doing “inconvenient dogs” – who suddenly become a burden whenthe work. As an organization, we do also have some operating the plans or fortunes of the family change. The saddest of theseexpenses, such as insurance and an annual fee for registering are the 8-9 year old dogs surrendered when the family movesour website. somewhere that the dog can’t be taken. But in even greater numbers, we see the 2-6 year old Mastiffs who are deleted from5 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review

their homes because of divorce, an additional baby, or a more conformation. And, their behavioral issues often require somedemanding job. Suddenly the fate of the dog rests on Craigslist, modification. But what they all have, without exception, is thata shelter, or rescue. incredible Mastiff heart that beats unceasingly for connectionCraigslist is the ultimate crap shoot. And, for Mastiffs, the with its people. Thankfully, adopters are looking for that heart,shelter is rarely better. It is a terrifying environment, particularly not the top-line or the angulation.incomprehensible to Mastiffs and one for which they have few We all rail at the heartless owners, but that anger doesn’t savecoping skills. They are often found cowering in their shelter the dogs. We rail at irresponsible breeding and puppy mills,kennels, shaken, and disoriented. They frequently withdraw and but greed and irresponsibility is always with us. No amountoften growl at anyone who approaches. They are easily labelled of finger-pointing will solve the problems of the dogs. Theirunresponsive, timid, or vicious: characterizations that doom problems exist in the immediate here and now! We can all jointhem to the “unadoptable” category -- the ticket to euthanasia. in addressing these with much less effort and much greaterThese are almost all perfectly adoptable dogs. They may not be chance of success than efforts to modify human nature!as adorable as they were at 8 weeks. They may not have perfectA Picture is Worth a Thousand Words...Bela: After Rescue Before...Four weeks into fostercare — 95 lbs and content Bela upon arrival at the hospitalPolo: After Rescue Before...Awaiting transport for final stretch of rehabilitation Polo at shelter with a broken leg MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 6

Special Report: Mastiff World Cup By Karen ParkBienvenue a Dompierre Les Ormes!! A beautiful picturesque no need to re-invent the breed. Stick to the standard! Breedvillage in the Southeast of France: rolling hills, farms to the standard! Learn the standard! Mastiff breeders aredotted with Charolaise cows, hedges of blackberries and red different than people with Mastiffs.currents lining the roads, vineyards here and there; and the • “Class” in Mastiffs consists of grandeur, proportionsetting of the first Mastiff World Cup! and power. Correct type and quality in accordance withThe day prior to the Mastiff World Cup show, a worldwide the standard is critical. Historically, there has beenMastiff conference was hosted by the Club Français du no alibi for exaggeration, nor should there be now.Bullmastiff et du Mastiff (CFBM), bringing together • Lastly, current scientific insights support what hasrepresentatives from around the globe. The countries been long regarded as “the art of breeding.”represented were France, England, Germany, Italy, Sweden, 2. An Overview of Health Testing and Judging in the UnitedDenmark, Norway, Australia, New Zealand and the United States, by Karen Park. This covered the health testingStates. recommended by the Mastiff Club of America -- including anThe morning began with an introduction of all in attendance, update on current health concerns and breeding practices.along with their roles in the breed --- Judge, breeder, etc. It also provided an overview of MCOA’s current Judges’Following the introductions was a discussion on where Education and Mentor programs.breed registrations stood to date, in each country. 3. Reproduction Issues, by Gabrielle Simmons fromEngland: Registrations for 2016 were 102 -- placing Australia. Among the problems common to Mastiffs, onethe Mastiff on the Kennel Club’s Vulnerable Native Breeds issue shared by all countries is the importing and exportinglist. Through the 2nd quarter of 2017, registrations have of frozen semen that fails to produce litters. Australia hastotaled 90. recently tightened importing and exporting regulationsFrance: 200-300 per year with New Zealand. As a result, a number of Mastiff breedersSweden: 35-50 registrations are now working together to ensure the preservation ofNorway: 22 in 2015 the breed.Denmark: 18 in 2016Sweden: 200 in 2015Australia: 82 in 2015; 80 in 2016New Zealand: 3 Litters, totaling 20 registrationsUnited States: 4209 in 2016Each of the countries has a different set of requirements The wealth of experience and knowledge among thefor breeding, set forth by their Kennel Clubs. This is most attendees gathered in one place was incredible! Everyoneinteresting, as here in the United States there are no was there out of concern for this noble breed -- with a greatrequirements. Most of the countries require some health desire to come together as a worldwide community to ensuretesting, with a passing score, prior to breeding--mainly hips the preservation and health of the Mastiff. It was decided toand eyes. Italy additionally requires the dogs to be shown form an ongoing committee of those in attendance, headedonce. by the delegates from England, as England is the originalOne of the main differences between the United States home of the breed.and Europe, as well as Australia and New Zealand when The decision was made to hold the Mastiff World Cup andit comes to breeding, is that Transcervical insemination is Conference every two years, with the 2019 event to be heldthe chosen method, along with a natural delivery. C-sections in Italy.are reserved for emergency situations only. The conference was followed by a wonderful dinner, withIn Germany first breedings must be natural with a natural special guests: The Presidents of the Kennel Clubs of Francedelivery. and Russia.Following the general discussion there were threepresentations:1. The Mastiff, by Christopher Habig from Germany. Thispresentation was on the preservation of the Mastiff. Hismajor points included:• Given that Mastiffs have been bred for 150 years, there’s7 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review

The event that a Mastiff lover cannot missSo… on to the Mastiff World Cup Show -- bright and early Show was awarded to Devine Cornelia from the Big BoysSaturday morning! There was a nip in the air and some Club and Best of Opposite Sex was awarded to Made of Steelshowers; but what a glorious sight! Mastiffs everywhere!!! Du Ranc De Bannes.There were 149 dogs entered, with only 4 or 5 absent. I must I am so grateful for the opportunity to have representedsay, I have never attended a show that was so relaxed: soft The Mastiff Club of America! It was an incredible trip.music playing in the back ground, dogs and people all happy And last but not least, I would like to thank Ann Marieand relaxed! People came from all over Europe for the show Class and the CFBM in bringing us all together for a great-- England, Norway, Denmark , Italy, Poland , and Germany conference and weekend! They did such a fantastic job andjust to name a few. I was very impressed with many of the did so much! What a great success!!! It was truly an honordogs I saw and visited with. Most of them were in excellent and privilege to rub shoulders with such great people!!condition and so sweet! Very lovely examples of the breed.Our Judges for the day were: Mr. Christopher Habig ( GER)-- Dogs and Mr. John Walsh (IRE) -- Bitches. As each dogwas judged, he or she was given a written review. Once thebest dog and best bitch had been chosen, both judges cametogether to pick Best of Breed and Best of Opposite Sex.(I apologize for not having the full results for the day, butthere was just so much to take in and learn! I can easily saythe winners of each class were very deserving.) Special thanks to Hilary Stace and Charlotte Redondy for providing pictures of the event!As for the Best of Breed and Best of Opposite Sex, all I cansay is WOW! They were beautiful representatives of the breedwith fantastic temperaments, as well. Best of Breed, BestChampion Bitch, and Best in Show went to Devine CorneliaFrom The Big Boys Club, (Lexus) a beautiful apricot lovedand owned by Marzenna Liszewska from Norway. Best ofOpposite Sex, Best Dog and Open Dog went to Jorgen Madeof Steel Du Ranc De Bannes, a very impressive lovely fawnmale owned and loved by Charlotte Radondy, WhititeraMastiffs, from France. The World Cup show was followedby a wonderful banquet for all who attended: great food,music, dancing and company -- a great way to end the day!On Sunday, the CFBM and the Continental Bulldogs heldtheir Nationals, and -- just as the day before – there wasa wonderful showing; this time including the Bull Mastiffsand the Continental Bulldogs. As for the Mastiffs, Mr. Habigjudged the bitches and Mr. Walsh judged the dogs. Best in MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 8



VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESPosition: Handbook Chair Position: NSA apprentice L EDescription: Main objective is to proactively Description: Find venues and secure contracts Nreview the Member handbook for necessary changes. for National Specialty's 3-5 years in advance. Work DOften the contact names will change with Regional Clubs or groups of individuals to host Amore frequently. Periodically contact other Committee a National Specialty. Assist National Show Chairs as PChairs to review their sections as needed. Be the needed. Liaison between National Show Chair and Acontact person if members notice necessary changes BOD. Quarterly Castle Keep reports. Annual report Wand facilitate getting the changes made in a timely and budget. Update National Specialty records. Attendmanner. National Specialty.Contact: Marty Hancock or Anyone on the board Skills: Good communication Organizational skills Ability to meet deadlines Working knowledge of Superindendents & AKC shows Prior National Specialty attendance Contract negotiation experience helpful Commitment can be time intensive while searching for venues and securing contracts Contact: Marty Hancock, Anyone on the board, or Karen Park MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 10

The Mastiff MuseumSpecial Delights and a Serious Collection of Art and Sculpture For the Mastiff EnthusiastOriginsThe “Mastiff Museum” emerged after my collection ofMastiff memorabilia became a serious accumulation ofimportant artifacts on the breed.I started off with purchasing various images of antiqueprints, when they could be found, at regional dogshows. Back then it was almost impossible to findanything Mastiff related.Back in the 70’s there was no E-bay or othermethod of finding rare Mastiff artifacts. Leg workand personal time were needed in order to uncoversuch rarities. I spent days at old print shops in NYCand elsewhere, bending over boxes of prints in atticspaces, just to find a single print -- if I was luckyenough to capture one.I spent my days off down at the AKC library photo- E.C. Siter judged by John Singer Sargent for thePennsylvania Art Museum Exhibitioncopying every rare old book and magazine ever printedon the breed. Over the years, this obsessive effort grewinto a rather large collection of Mastiff ephemera coupledto objects of art. It has evolved into an important bodyof work that encompasses sculptures, paintings, photographs,drawings and print.Special FindsOne of my early finds was a mezzotint, engraved by J. Jones in 1778, of the now well-known GeorgeMorland painting, “Cropped Mastiff and a Newfoundland”. It depicts a Bandog, what appears to be aLandseer Newfoundland, and a sheep’s skull. The mezzotint was sufficiently large that I could see thatthe ears of the Bandog were not cropped (as usually described), but set high. I purchased it at theLucas Old Print shop in Manhattan. It’s the only one in existence and was a sweet find! I personallyenjoy the search and the reward of discovery when a formerly unseen object becomes unearthed, soto speak. Quite recently I discovered one of my favorite finds at an auction house. The auctioneervisited a family that was going to dump all of the contents in the attic of their deceased mother’shome; but the auctioneer saw the potential value of a dirty old painting stored in that attic for over70 years and salvaged it. Fortunately, it was relatively near my home so I went to the sale located nottoo far from Chadds Ford PA, near the Andrew Wyeth homestead. I purchased this old 1886 paintingof a Mastiff head done by an artist that was also part of the preservation group who worked at theFrick Collection in NYC. Such finds are hard to come by, but when they happen it,s very rewardingand historically significant. Presently, I’m looking into a painting by Walter Shirlaw that has surfaced.11 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review

One of my most sentimental pieces is that of an old, large photograph of a Mastiff & child which was colorenhanced by hand. It was found at a junk dealer in Brooklyn NY -- \"Jack’s\" in Canarsie. It was already in thegarbage barrel when I discovered it. One can only imagine how many similar objects were destroyed over the years without anyone to recognize their worth. One of the more difficult pieces to acquire was the Herbert Dicksee print on vellum \"My Lady Sleeps\". Only 10 were produced and the plate destroyed, so surviving pieces might be more like 5, if that. It took me several years to acquire one and lots of aggravation from the British dealer in that purchase, but well worth the effort. Sometimes a piece can get away, as in the Sawrey Gilpin Pied painting that I tried to purchase from Sotheby’s. It was enormous in size and I didn’t even know how I would get it into my home if I was successful. It was much larger than my door openings and would have arrived crated -- not to mention where the Hell I would hang the behemoth. Despite that, I still offered a substantial bid, which was turned down. Shipping charges & insurance was $20,000 alone, besides the cost of the painting which was ten times the shipping cost, so one can see this type of collecting is not for the faint of heart. The Museum Today The “Museum” presently houses hundreds, if not thousands, of Mastiff related objects. Several paintings by J. H. Sharp, George Cole and prints by Dicksee etc. adorn the walls, with sculptures by Charles Valton and other animaliers -- including fireplace fenders with Mastiff motifs. Cabinet cards and various old prints from books, journals and magazines are also housed, plus a library of old books related to the breed, including 3 signed original books by W. B. Wynn on the breed. Although I’m running out of room in the area I’ve designated for the museum, I’ve extended it throughout the rest of the home; and in so doing, the whole house has now become an annex to the original “Museum”.By Steve Oifer It’s taken me over 40 years to amass this collection and it’s my hope to see it grow over time and eventually become part of the AKC Museum upon my demise -- perhaps sharing a space with M. Moore’s wonderful collection at that same venue. Until that time, you all are invited to view the collection the next time you visit New Jersey. Just call me for an appt. @ 732 946 8565. MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 12

INSIDE THE MASTIFF MUSEUM Fratin Bronze Late 19th Century Herbert Dicksee “My Lady Sleeps” Etching on velum, rare – one of only 10 printed and perhaps 3 surviving Dated 1905 W.H. Sharp oil on board Late 19th Century13 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review

Cabinet photo: J.C. Wilson, photographer, born in Ottawa Canada in 1848; moved to Ogdensburg, NY, in 1862, and came to Cherokee, LA in 1870. The reverse side of this photo reads, “Fred & Nestor Stiles with dog Oscar one of the bowdishs dogs he ate more than a cow up the yard I heard with cow heads from slaughter house.” Painted Mastiff head on wood 1960 -70Baltan or Clovis Viard bronzeLate 19th CenturyMCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 14

Pet Ownership StatisticsSource: American Pet Products Association's 2017-2018 National Pet Owners Survey NUMBER OF U.S. HOUSEHOLDS THAT OWN A PET, BY TYPE OF ANIMAL in millions TOTAL NUMBER OF PETS OWNED IN THE U.S., BY TYPE OF ANIMAL in millions15 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review

TOTAL U.S. PET INDUSTRY EXPENDITURES(1) in millions (2)(1) Includes food, supplies and over-the-counter medicine, veterinarian care, live animal purchases and grooming and boarding.(2) Estimate. NUMBER OF DOGS IN THE U.S. in millions ** Estimate. MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 16



ayla goldleaf's a la carte 2007 - 2017 when tomorrow starts without me and i'm not there to see.if the sun should rise and find your eyes all filled with tears for me. i wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today. while thinking of the many things we didn't get to say. i know how much you love me as much as i love you.and each time that you think of me. i know you'll miss me too. when tomorrow starts without me. don't think we're far apart for every time you think of me. i'm right here in your heart.

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Re gional Round -Up STAY CONNECTED~Updates From Our Regional Clubs~Mastiff Club of Northern Ohio Regional Club Report2017 Sweepstakes Results Best RearJudge Carrie Klaiber Puppy - Shabri-El’s Jadem Just Add Buttermilk Adult - Ch Leodess’ Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap TDIBest in Sweeps - Bittersweet’s Pearls are Always Appropriate Best ProfileBest Veteran in Sweeps - GCHB Genesis Friends Briezee Ann Puppy - Harvest Haze Pretty Girl Zena Adult - GCh Epics Renewal Comeback2017 Independent Specialty Results Best Coat/ColorJudge Houston Clark Puppy - Shabri-El’s Jadem Just Add Buttermilk Adult - Ch Deez Southern Mic RedBOB - GCHB Eastwinds Float Like a Butterfly Sting Like a Bee CGCA Best MovementBOW - Bittersweets Lost Boy Puppy - Hickory Creek’s First Dark Hunter AcheronBOS - CH Grangeview Becomes a Truestory CGC Adult - Ch Harvesthaze Brazenhead Big HeroSelect - GCHS Watchmans Redbarns Brutus THDN CGC Best Overall - Hickory Creek’s First Dark Hunter AcheronSelect - GCHB Alki-Ivory Gary Schneiders Makin A Splash Audience Choice - Ch Leodess’ Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap TDIAOM - GCHS Friends One Bad Boy DillingerAOM - GCHG Millenniums Ain’t No Stopping Us Now RN CGCAAOM - GCH Millennium Something To Talk AboutAOM & OHBB - CH Eastwinds Family TraditionBest Veteran - GCHS Genesis Jethro At Rydalmount BN RN CGCBest Bred By - Tr2c’s The Girl on Fire2017 Designated Specialty Results Best HandlerJudge Holly Scott Junior - Kassidy Banks Senior - Keith KimbroughBOB - GCHG Millenniums Ain’t No Stopping Us Now RN CGCABOW - Bittersweets Lost Boy Poop n Panty Team WinnersBOS - GCH Epics Farmer Baby CH Mountainviews I Put a Select & OHBB - CH Eastwinds Family Tradition Spell on You “Bri” withSelect - CH Grangeview Becomes a Truestory CGC Cassidy Banks, Kelly Verbridge,AOM - GCH Devincourts Aint No Ships Captain Liz Simon, Lexus Azzaretto,AOM - GCHS Friends One Bad Boy Dillinger and Karlee BanksAOM - GCHS Genesis Jethro At Rydalmount BN RN CGCAOM - GCH Millennium Something To Talk AboutDroolapalooza 2017 ResultsBest Head Puppy - Hickory Creek’s First Dark Hunter Acheron Adult - Ch Leodess Diry Deeds Done Dirt Cheap TDIBest Front Puppy - Freya Infinite Beauty Adult – Ch Leodess’ Into the Mystic23 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review

Fun Facts about some of our members in 2017 CH Int’l CH Deez Guardian of the Gate Druzilla CGC, CA \"Druzilla\" Holds the record as the fastest Mastiff in 2017 FASTCATEthos You Look Marvelous at Hugabull Mastiffs SCN, SEN, SBN \"June\"The first and only Mastiff titled in 2017 in AKC for Scent Work. Looking forward to 2018! April 2018 in Columbus Ohio Independent Specialty judged by Bob BusbyPuppy & Veteran Sweepstakes judged by Mark Tichenor Supported Entry November 2018 in Columbus Ohio Designated Specialty & Puppy & Veteran Sweepstakes U.S. Regional Mastiff Clubs Recognized By MCOAEmpire State Mastiff Fanciers - www.empirestatemastifffanciers.comSouthern States Mastiff Fanciers - www.ssmfmastiff.orgRocky Mountain Mastiff Fanciers - www.rmmf.orgRedwood Empire Mastiff Club - www.redwoodempiremastiffclub.comMidwest Mastiff Fanciers - www.midwestmastifffanciers.orgMastiff Club Of Northern Ohio - www.mastiffclubofnorthernohio.comLone Star Mastiff Fanciers - www.lsmf.comCascade English Mastiff Club - www.cascadeenglishmastiffclub.org MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 24

Empire State Mastiff Fanciers Regional Club ReportThe Empire State Mastiff Fanciers remains a small club, invested WB: Hrothgars R3 Hold Yer Horsesin the breed in a big way. We are home to members from New RWDog/Best Puppy: Eastwind’s An Fathach CaomhYork as well as surrounding states. The club continues to support RWB: Castlemist Lazy Hazy Daze of Summerthe Mastiff Club of America and American Kennel Club effortsfor responsible dog ownership. We have also proudly hosted Sunday March 5, 2017and supported the entries at two prestigious show clusters this Sweepstakes Judge: Ms. Deborah A Tullypast year. We are looking forward to continuing as stewardsfor the breed in 2018, and would love to have you join us! We Best in Sweeps: CH Legend’s Hero of Eastwindare welcoming new members, and encourage Mastiff fanciers to Best of Opposite Sex in Sweeps: Hrothgars R3 the Color Purpleparticipate in our upcoming events. Please mark your calendars. at Green Meadow Best Veteran in Sweeps: GCH Woodhill’s Angelika2018 Planned Events Judge: Dr. Kenneth A DoegAKC Meet the Breeds BOB: CH Nottinghill’s Last CallSaturday, February 10, 2018 at the Piers in New York BOS: GCHG Cooper’s Romancing the Stone Select Dog: GCH Wynwood Summer’s RH of WoodhillConnecticut River Working Dog Show Select Bitch: CH Castlemist Summer SolsticeEastern States Expo in West Springfield, Massachusetts AOM: CH Mountainviews Electric Kiss Saturday, March 3, 2018 - Mrs. Paula Nykiel BOW/WB: Hrothgars R3 Hold Yer Horses Sunday, March 4, 2018 - Mrs. Barbara Dempsey Alderman WD: Kada Hill’s Don’t Poke the Bear RWD/Best Puppy: Giant Sequoia & St. Patrick’s Dream BigMeet the Breeds RWB: Castlemist Lazy Hazy Daze of SummerMeet the Breeds continues to be an event that offers opportunities Wine Country infor many people to get to experience our beloved breed firsthand. Romulus, New YorkThe booth, which boasts many different educational components,was again awarded a Group 1 placement. Pictured are Joe, Pat The Empire State Mastiff Fanciers also welcomed entrants fromand Veronica Borracci, along with canine ambassadors Bones, near and far to the Wine Country Cluster at Sampson State ParkRouge, and Spock. in beautiful Romulus, New York. This venue is a beautiful park, and offers a beautiful backdrop with fall leaves at their peak. Saturday September 30, 2017 Sweepstakes Judge: Mrs. Kay Stivason Best in Sweeps: Harvesthaze Blowin’ It Out Of Da Orchard Best Veteran in Sweeps: GCH Therecco’s Solitaryman Onobi CiConnecticut River Working Dog Show in Judge: Ms. Nancy AmburgeyWest Springfield, Massachusetts Best of Breed: GCH Hrothgars R3 Here’s Your One ChanceThe first of our supported entries, put on by the Connecticut BOS/BOW/WD: Rev Mr. Black’s Circuit Rider O’Nobl CiRiver Working Group Association, drew entrants from the entire Select Dog: CH Hrothgars R3 Changing Of The GuardsNortheast. The show, held in West Springfield, Massachusetts, Select Bitch: CH Hrothgars R3 Hold Yer Horsesoffered an opportunity for exhibitors to see Mastiffs from an extended WB: Harvesthaze Blowin’ It Out Of Da Orchardregion, and enjoy the company of fanciers from several states. RWB: Lazy D’s Against All Odds BellaroseSaturday March 4, 2017 Sunday October 1, 2017Sweepstakes Judge: Mr. William Matlock Sweepstakes Judge: Mr. Kent MacFarlaneBest in Sweeps: CH Legend’s Hero of Eastwind Best in Sweeps: Harvesthaze Blowin’ It Out Of Da OrchardBest of Opposite Sex in Sweeps: Hrothgars R3 Hold Yer Horses Best Veteran in Sweeps: GCH Therecco’s Solitaryman Onobi CiBest Veteran in Sweeps: GCH Mountainviews Kissa My Face Contessa BOS to Best Veteran in Sweeps: GCH Mountainview’s She’s Real FineJudge: Mrs. Sheila DiNardo Judge: Mrs. Ann Marie TaylorBIB: GCH Wynwood Summer’s RH Windsor of Woodhill Best of Breed: GCH Hrothgars R3 Here’s Your One ChanceBOS: CH Castlemist Summer Solstice Best of Opposite Sex: CH Hrothgars R3 Changing Of The GuardsSelect Dog: CH Legends Hero of Eastwind CGC Select Bitch: Harvesthaze Blowin’ It Out Of Da OrchardSelect Bitch: CH Hrothgars R3 Here’s Your One Chance Winners Dog: Rev Mr. Black’s Circuit Rider O’Nobl CiBOW/WD: Castlemist A Midsummer Night’s Dream Winners Bitch: Lazy D’s Against All Odds Bellarose Reserve Winners Bitch: Harvesthaze High Flying Aviator25 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review

Q2-Q4 2017 Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) Awards* *Mastiffs/MCOA members onlyDog's Name Date CHIC # OwnerGREEN MEADOW'S FAVA BEAN 04/13/17 120254 PAM BARTLETT & JANE MITCHELLGREEN MEADOW'S GOURD-GEOUS 04/13/17 120255 PAM BARTLETT & JANE MITCHELLGREEN MEADOW'S OCTOBERFEST 04/13/17 120256 PAM BARTLETT, RYAN WILSON JASON NOELGREEN MEADOW TAYLOR MADE AT ROCKEE TOP 04/13/17 120257 PAM BARTLETT & JANE MITCHELLFRIENDS BIG GUN'S SON CAPONE 06/29/17 120607 BILL & TERESA GAUSPOHL & JACK & DEBBIE FRIENDSTONEHAVEN'S BRITISH STERLING SILVER OF DIVINE 06/22/17 121633 MARY DELISA & ALLISON WYKSBRITESTAR WILBUR AT BLACKPOINT 06/22/17 121962 DIANE & GARY COLLINGSLUPER'S BIG BERTHA 06/29/17 122137 CYNTHIA LUPERGOLDLEAF'S MISCHIEF MAKER 07/06/2017 122275 JANN LANZGOLDLEAF'S SHE'S UNSINKABLE 07/06/2017 122276 JANN LANZGOLDLEAF'S BIG NUGGET 07/06/2017 122277 JANN LANZGREEN MEADOW'S HONEY AT HROTHGAR 07/06/2017 122278 TRACI MCKEOWN-WEAVERLIBERTY MTN'S MASTER OF THE WALTZ 07/13/2017 122426 CELESTE GUERREROCOOPERS THE SPELL WAS CAST 07/27/2017 122703 BECKY COOPERCOOPERS & AUDLEY ALL AMERICAN GIRL 07/27/2017 122704 BECKY COOPERCOOPERS & AUDLEY JEWEL OF THE NILE 07/27/2017 122705 BECKY COOPERCOOPERS ROMANCING THE STONE 07/27/2017 122706 BECKY COOPERCOOPERS LET IT GO!! 07/27/2017 122707 BECKY COOPEREPICS HILLBILLY HIJINKS 08/10/2017 122969 DEBBIE WUETHERICHBRITESTARS IMAGE OF A RAINBOW 08/17/2017 123113 PATTI WILKINSONBRITESTAR BELLA LUNA 08/24/2017 123246 LLEANE GRIMDITCHMACHREES EVERYTHING'S EVENTUAL 08/31/2017 123381 MARTHA HARTLEYNOTTINGHILL'S BOIL TOIL N TROUBLE AT GREEN MEADOWS 09/07/2017 123525 JANE MITCHELLWHISPERING OAKS KEEPER OF THE CASTLE 09/07/2017 123526 KARIN & MARISSA WESELOHBRITESTAR'S GOLDEN TICKET 09/21/2017 123831 DRUANNE MARSHALLKINSMENS MAGIC TALISMAN 10/05/2017 124143 MARY LYNN SPEERThe Mastiff Club of America supports Mastiff health awareness through a variety of health programs and projects, educational outreach and research studies. TO DONATE: Please visit: http://www.mcoamastiff.com/MCOACHT.htm or you can write a check payable to the “Mastiff Club Of America Charitable Trust” and mail it to: Mastiff Club of America Charitable Trust 34253 N Larkspur Court Round Lake, Illinois 60073 It is the Mission of the MCOA Health Committee to always consider the Betterment Of The Mastiff Breed & To Provide For Its Future... MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 26





Ask a Vet Mount Olive Veterinary Hospital with Dr. Sarah Logan 104 US Highway 46 Interview by Carrie Nolin Budd Lake, New Jersey 07828 Phone: (973) 691-9333 Website: www.buddlakevet.comFor this Journal’s segment of “Ask a Vet” we are featuring my Veterinarian Dr. Sarah Logan. She owns the Mount Olive VeterinaryHospital located in Budd Lake, New Jersey. You can read more about her, her staff and clinic at buddlakevet.com. Dr. Logan hastaken care of all of my animals for 15 years. She is very experienced in Mastiffs. My animals LOVE Dr. Logan and her entire staff.I spoke to Dr. Logan about concerns owners should have for our Mastiffs this holiday season. She has lots of great info for us all.What are some basics tips for our Mastiffs as we How can we plan a safe holiday season forapproach the winter and cold weather? our Mastiffs?Like all dogs, Mastiff owners have to use common sense when it The holiday season is filled with family, friends, celebrations andcomes to the weather. During those cold, snowy, stormy days of parties. While this is a wonderful time of the year, it can alsowinter, be careful how long your Mastiff is outdoors. Frostbite bring with it uncharacteristic stress and hazards for our animalmay come on quickly in extreme weather, even with a thick friends. Nothing can spoil a holiday like an unexpected trip toMastiff coat. Although your dog may ask to stay outside, you the emergency room with your dog or cat. Your best defensedon’t want them to be overexposed to extreme temperatures. is a good offense at this time of year! Please make sure you know how to get to your local veterinary emergency hospitalWhat should we watch for in our dogs? before there’s an emergency. If there is more than one in your area, decide ahead of time which one you will use. Keep theirAlways make sure your dog is eating and drinking normally. phone number and directions posted in a conspicuous, location.Make sure your Mastiff isn’t limping or favoring a leg. If they Program the address into your phone, so you’re not trying toseem to be acting “off” -- restless, pacing, or panting heavily, find your way when you are stressed.or otherwise seem to be in any distress or pain -- PLEASE getthem in to see their veterinarian, if only for peace of mind. How can we avoid holiday food dangers for our Mastiffs?What are some common winter ailmentsof Mastiffs? Quite simply, keep people food away from your pet. If you want to share a holiday treat with your dog, make or buy treatsArthritis and other joint disorders are very common in giant that are formulated just for them. Mastiff owners need to bedogs like Mastiffs, and cold weather may worsen their condition. particularly vigilant not to leave any food unattended that isI would recommend a full examination from your veterinarian, left out or served on counters and tables. Due to their size,who may prescribe an inflammation reducing medication. If you these areas are easily accessible to your Mastiff, and you can bekeep your Mastiff on a healthy, well balanced diet, ideally they sure, dogs will be dogs! They will go looking for something a bitshould not need immune support or supplements. However, tastier than kibble, with potentially disastrous consequences.your veterinarian may advise you to use a supplement likeglucosamine chondroitin and MSM. Always consult your Table scraps: Turkey, turkey skin, gravy and meat fat should notveterinarian before giving your Mastiff any prescription or over be fed to your Mastiff. The ingestion of an excessive amount ofthe counter drug. fat can result in pancreatitis, a potentially life-threatening disease process requiring hospitalization. Onions, garlic, macadamiaAlso, be careful of slippery surfaces for your Mastiffs. Most nuts, grapes and raisins are all potentially toxic to dogs. Doughowners are cautious about snow and ice, but wet slippery that contains yeast is problematic because the warm moistfloors can be an unexpected hazard after dogs come in from environment of the stomach causes the dough to expand,the outside. All it takes is a simple slip and fall and your dog can resulting in painful gas and possibly life-threatening bloat.end up in the ER. Chocolate and baked holiday delights: The toxicity level ofIt’s also a good idea to keep an eye on your Mastiff’s feet. Rock chocolate varies based on the type of chocolate and the amountsalt, and even walking on ice and snow, can damage the pads of cocoa, in it. Cocoa contains caffeine and theobromine,of your dog’s feet. Examine their feet daily, checking the pads both of which are harmful to dogs. White chocolate containsand between their toes. Be mindful to wash their feet if they no cocoa and is therefore the least toxic; dark chocolate orhave been on any surfaces covered with Rock salt or any other straight cocoa presents the biggest danger. Chocolate is a doseice-melter. dependent toxicity, so in this regard, Mastiffs are at an advantage due to their size and weight. Other holiday sweets and baked29 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review

goods are generally too rich even for Mastiffs, and may cause A little bit of preparation and planningvomiting, diarrhea and/or pancreatitis. can make the holidays enjoyable for you, your guests and your pets. Remember, youWe have focussed on the specific hazards must be the advocate for your Mastiff, andpresented by poisonous seasonal plants, a safe enjoyable holiday season dependsChristmas trees, ornaments and decorations on your being aware of your dog’s needsin accompanying articles. What else would and setting the boundaries. I wish you all ayou advise readers to be vigilant about during wonderful magical season filled with love,holiday celebrations? family, friends…and of course… Mastiffs. If you suspect your Mastiff has ingestedA Houseful of Guests: While a houseful of guests is pleasant and any toxic substance Call The ASPCA Poisonenjoyable to (most) humans, be mindful of the emotional stress Control at 1-888-426-4435 and get themyour Mastiff may experience when confronted with visitors, to your Veterinarian Immediately!changes in routine, crowds and noise. A little planning andvigilance on your part will go a long way in reducing your dog’s Artwork by Lora Myroupanxiety -- and possibly preventing injuries to your guests.ALL pets should have access to a safe, comfortable, quiet spaceindoors should they wish to retreat. This may be a crate ora room away from the commotion, where guests are NOTallowed. Be sure to communicate to your guests that this is thedog’s safe place and they are not to interact in any way with thedog when he/she is in this safe place.Other helpful hints to enhance your celebrations: Make sure thatguests are aware ahead of time that you have pets (in this case,rather large ones!). Guests who have allergies or compromisedimmune systems need to be aware that your home has pets sothat they can take appropriate precautions or politely declinean invitation.Watch exits closely. People entering or leaving your home, orthat sliding door you opened a crack because the living roomwas getting warm, provide your dog with an opportunity tosneak out to explore the neighborhood. While you’re busygreeting your guests, your Mastiff may be looking to “make abreak for it”. I.D. tags, labeled collars, and microchips all helpto reunite escaped pets with their families. It is important thatyour dog has at least one of these identifiers. Be sure thatyour contact information is up to date on tags and with themicrochip registry.Children: Ah… wild, loud, unpredictable, ear and tail pulling,cherubic canine patters, pokers, petters, huggers and nosekissers! Unfortunately, many young children do not interactappropriately with other people’s dogs, and thus may beparticularly stressful and frightening for your pet. Your guests,the parents, are often distracted and too busy enjoyingthemselves to monitor their angels appropriately. Needless tosay, this can be a disaster waiting to happen. Please, if youngchildren are coming to your home, put your dog away in a safeplace until the gathering is over! This will avoid any possibility ofa trip to the animal or pediatric emergency room. MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 30





Winter WellnessTraditional Chinese Veterinary MedicineIn Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), winter is a time of Yin. Yin by nature is inactive,Cold and Damp. This is the time to get cozy, keep warm, slow down, sleep and eat nourishing foods toprepare us for the new beginning and energy of spring.Sounds great, right? Unfortunately, today’s world doesn't always allow this to happen. We are hustlingand bustling during the Holidays, stressed out and eating on the run. Our pets may feel left out as weshop or go to holiday parties. This may leave them anxious or even bored while at home. Here are someTCVM winter tips to help keep you and your dog happy and healthy this winter season.Nutrition worth, it may be packaged and frozen for up to three months. A convenient way to store small quantities is to freeze the brothWinter time is about nourishing the Kidney. Kidney is the in large ice cube trays, then place the broth cubes in a plasticsource of all Qi, or energy in the body. Winter is a good time to freezer bag. This way you can defrost as many, or as few, brothstore this Qi so it is available when needed in times of stress or cubes as you need.healing. Building Kidney Qi will also enhance Wei Qi, or immunesystem and allow gracious aging. Foods that support Kidney Qi If feeding a raw diet, winter months can be harder on animalsare energetically warming and tonifying. These foods include that are prone to YIn, as many Mastiffs are. The Damp and Coldchicken, seaweed, root vegetables, sweet potatoes and beans. nature of raw foods, including meats and vegetables, can cause digestive upset, including vomiting, burping, gas and diarrhea. IfBeef is more of a tonifying food. Marrow filled bones are very your dog is negatively affected by Damp raw foods, try steamingKidney nourishing and rich. Chewing these bones has an added vegetables prior to feeding, or gently cook the meat. Somebenefit. It is a good activity for your dog to keep their mind Damp draining foods include barley (cooked well), chick peas,active. If you don’t know if your dog will do well with marrow green peas, pumpkin, tuna and anchovies.bones, offer the bone for only a short amount of time andonly after eating a meal. This will discourage them from eating Mastiffs may not need as many calories as they did during thetoo fast, avoiding digestive upset. Gradually give them more warmer months, so be sure to adjust the amount of food yourtime with the bone, as you learn both what kind of chewer dog is eating, especially if they are not active! Heavy dogs willthey are and how their gut handles the marrow. Be careful to put more weight on their joints and hasten the likelihood ofuse appropriately sized bones for your dog to prevent tooth sore, arthritic joints.fractures. A rule of thumb is that the width of the bone shouldbe wider than the width of the dog’s muzzle. For Mastiffs, that Hydration is very important, even in the winter. When weis pretty big! heat our homes it makes the air very dry. This dryness can be irritating to dogs’ eyes and throat and can even make theirA safer way to use this nourishing marrow is to make a bone joints feel stiff. Outside, the blustery wind and extreme cold isbroth. Boil free range chicken or beef marrow bones in a Dutch also drying. To keep your dog hydrated, add soups or stews tooven or crock pot. You may add in vegetables like carrots and meals and always provide fresh room temperature water.other root vegetables if you would like, but no onions or garlic!Simmer overnight. If using chicken, break the bones after eight The best way to start monitoring your dog’shours and continue simmering. After 24 hours, remove allbones. Once cooled, you will notice the broth may have a gel weight is to know his current condition. Yourlike consistency. This is the gelatin from the bones. This brothis high in protein and is good for the immune system and joints. vet can help you determine his ideal weight,This makes it especially good for older dogs, or those with adecreased appetite. set health goals, and even recommend someFor an adult Mastiff, feed about a 1/2-1 cup at a time, either winter exercises to help him meet those goals.added to a meal or alone. If you have more than five days’33 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review

Activity eyes if it is windy, or get them a pair of Doggles! (I know, they may not go for that!) Their paw pads may need someDaily walks and outdoor time may be cut short during TLC also. A product called MUSH can help protect theirthese cold winter months. Make time to get your older foot pads when walking through snow or ice. After walks,dog up several times a day to get the body warmed up wipe any salt off their feet. You may apply coconut oil orby moving around the house. This can help lubricate the Biobalm to their foot pads to soothe and soften the padsjoints and prevent them from getting stiff and achy. Warm and prevent dryness and cracking. This can be applied tocompressing of the lower back and joints of older pets with their noses too, as cold can cause cracking of this delicatearthritis can be comforting and improves blood flow to the area as well.treated areas. Massages are much appreciated too! Massagehelps improve blood and lymph flow, soothes muscles and Lastly, keeping your dog mentally active during the winterhelps support the bond you have with your dog. will help lift their spirits and encourage a healthy mind and body. Playing with other dogs is a great way to keep themIf you are taking your dog to a certified TCVM professional, occupied while indoors. Rotate toys or offer bones to chewthere are acupoints at the lower spine that support the if appropriate so they have something new and exciting toKidney. Massage or acupuncture at these points can increase do. If you have only one dog, be sure to schedule time withthe energy flow to the Kidney. For debilitated Cold animals, them every day to play or take a walk or just be together.acupuncture with Moxa (moxibustion) is very useful. Dried It will also help you to relax! Enjoying the company of ourMugwort (Moxa) is an herb that is burned over acupoints dogs is a wonderful way to be present and to be thankfulto warm the body and to bring more Qi and blood flow to for the joy they bring to our lives!an area. Moxa is especially useful for the treatment of pain. Melissa Behrens, DVM Certified in Veterinary AcupunctureWhen you do go outdoors to walk, make sure your dog Animal Hospital at the Shoresis protected. Be careful when walking in brisk winds. Lake Barrington, IllinoisBecause of the Mastiff’s droopy eyes, their corneas aremore exposed, making them prone to corneal irritation or By Melissa Behrens, DVMscratches. You may apply an artificial tear ointment in their with Karen Corneliuswater is the most yin of all the five elements.  a water animal tends to be fearful of strangers both human and other animals  they can kick out or bite when afraid  they are usually submissive to all other animals in the pack/herd  they need a patient, kind and confident trainer who can give them emotional support. MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 34

4 Tricks you can teach your dogTRICKS this winterAlong with fun in the snow and temperatures that bring out the feisty in your Mastiff, the winter months can also bring daysthat are too cold to go outside to play. This can ultimately lead to a bored dog…which isn’t good for the dog or you! If you livein a climate where severe winter weather isn’t a concern, you most likely face some rainy-day blues. So, why not use thosedays to teach your dog (even old ones) some new tricks. It will be great fun for him and for you and will help develop yourbond with and trust in each other.Learning these tricks may even help you earn a new AKC title. In May of 2017, the AKC introduced a new Trick Dog titlingprogram in which dogs can earn up to 4 different titles.NOVICE TRICK DOG (TKN) - The dog performs 10 skills from the Novice list. If a dog has a Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certificate or title on record at AKC, it can do 5 Novice tricks (CGC + 5) to earn the Novice title.INTERMEDIATE TRICK DOG (TKI) - The dog must have the Novice title, plus perform 10 Intermediate tricks.ADVANCED TRICK DOG (TKA) - The dog must have the Intermediate title, plus perform 5 tricks from the Advanced list.TRICK DOG PERFORMER (TKP) - In this title, handlers perform a short routine with at least 10 tricks previously learned.For more information about this program, as well as useful training tips, visit http://www.akc.org/trick-dog.When working on trick training, it’s important to remember a few simple \"rules”: 1) Use treats that smell good and are high value 2) Use your voice as a tool to encourage your dog 3) Use lots of praise and get excited 4) Be patient, move slowly, and take a step back if your dog gets confused at any time 5) Mini training sessions of 15 minutes, several times a day, are most effective and help keep your dog engaged 6) If you get frustrated, have your dog do a trick they know, praise him, and take a break 7) Always end on positive note Training stimulates theDid You pleasure center of your dog's brainKnow? Training makes your Training reduces the levels Cortisol (stress dog WANT to REPEAT chemical)?positive behavior Training builds confidence and makes your dog happier, less anxious, and more social35 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review

1BACK 1) Call your dog to you and tell him to “wait”.Back can be an extremely useful skill for 2) Take a step or two away from your dog and then begin walking towards him and say “back”.your dog to know. It can be helpful when youneed your dog give you a little space. It will Some dogs will naturally back up as you walk towards them. If not, continue to move towardsalso develop coordination and footwork. your dog, and gently nudge him back using your legs and body, while repeating the command. 3) Praise and reward your dog for each step back he takes. TIP: If your dog turns around rather than stepping backwards, try practicing the trick in a confined space (e.g., a narrow hallway, against a wall, or between parked cars).2SPIN 1) With your dog in front of you, hold a high value treat in one hand and allow your dog to smell the treat. While your dog is sniffing, slowly move your hand in a wide circle, stopping whenThis is a quick and fun trick you can teach your dog is facing you again.your dog. Most dogs get very excited andhappy doing this trick. You can further TIP: If your dog does not naturally follow the treat for the full circle, start with a halfdevelop this skill by adding an additional circle. Once your dog is comfortable with that and moves freely, progress to a full circle.command, “the other way”, and have yourdog spin in the opposite direction as well. 2) Once your dog is comfortable moving in a full circle it’s time to add the command, “spin” when your dog is in motion. Repeat, praise, and treat! Taking periodic breaks. 3) Start saying the command before your dog begins moving and weaning him from being lured with the treat by reducing the size of the circle you make with your hand. Always praise and reward when he completes the circle. TIP: If your dog seems confused at any point during training, take a step back for a few sessions. 4) To add “the other way” to your dog’s repertoire, follow the above steps using your other hand and adding the command “the other way” at the appropriate time. TIP: You can also use the commands “spin right” and “spin left”. MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 36

RING a 1) Hold a bell close to your dog’s nose. When he touches the bell, say “bell” and give him a reward.3BELL TIP: If your dog does not instinctively touch the bell, use peanut butter or a treat to encourageSome people teach their dog this trick as a way the behaviorfortheirdogtoalertthatheneedstogooutside. 2) Once your dog confidently touches the bell, hold it at a distance so that he needs to take a step or two forward to ring it. Continue to say repeat the command and reward your dog each time he successfully taps the bell. If you would like to turn this into a way for your dog to let you know that he needs to go outside, continue to step 3. 3) Once your dog has learned to touch the bell on cue, hang the bell from the door and give the command touch the bell. When he does, say “yes!” and treat. 4) Now, you must teach your dog the correct time to ring the bell. Approach the door with your puppy, point to the bell, and say your cue and as soon as he touches the bell, say “yes!”, open the door and take him outside. Repeating this will teach your dog that, when he touches the bell, you will open the door. TIP: If your dog begins to ring the bell to go outside to play, you need to teach him that the bell is only for potty time. So, put his leash on him when he rings the bell and bring him to his potty area. Give him several minutes and, if he does his business, praise and reward him. If he does not, take him right back inside.4FEET 1) Place a low platform on the floor that is slip proof and sturdy enough for your dog. Use a high value treat to lure your dog to put his front feet up on the platform. Praise andYou can add another level to this trick by reward as soon as both front feet are up.teachingyourdogtostepofftheplatformwithhis front paws and putting his rear paws up. TIP: Some dogs will instinctively step fully (all four paws) onto the platform. Be patient. If your dog does this use the “back” command to get your dog to move backwards and put his rear legs back on the ground. 2) Once your dog seems to be getting the idea, add the command “feet” or “paws up” or “step up”. You can add another level to this trick by teaching your dog to step off the platform with his front paws and putting his rear paws up.37 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review

AKC NEWSTroHponhoireOsf LOivfinfegrPeerdsoinns Effective immediately, trophies may be offered in honor of living dogs or people. This was done to allow clubs to honor those that have made significant contributions to the sport while they are alive to receive the honor. Additionally, trophies may continue to be offered in memory of dogs or people that are deceased. DogTrick Attractions ConPcuorrleinct y AwditdhinSgttaonSpdeicniagl Events Approval Effective January 1, 2018 specialty clubs that host concurrent events with another specialty of the same breed or with an All-Breed/Group event The new AKC Trick Dog program has been may accept 100 entries extremely popular with clubs and exhibitors. per judge per ring per Accordingly, it been added to the list of day. This allows clubs to special attractions that have standing approval accept more than the from the AKC. The complete list of special previous limit of 100 attractions with standing approval can be entries if they have the found here. resources (ring space and judges) to do so. The complete policies (Concurrent Specialty Shows & Same Day Change to Specialty Shows) canGrandChampionshipFor events held on or after November be viewed on the Board Policy Manual.PointsCalculations1, 2017, there are changes to the points JuniorShowmanshipcalculations for Grand Championshippoints that will have a positive RegulaCtihoannsgesimpact on exhibitors. Non-regularclass exhibitors (veterans, etc.) willnow be included in the calculationsfor GCH points determination. There are two changes to the Junior ShowmanshipAdditionally, those awarded Select Regulations which become effective January 1, 2018:will include themselves in the counts 1) FSS Breeds may been shown in All-Breedto determine GCH points. The Junior Showmanship events, provided the dogcomplete rule change can be viewed has an AKC FSS number.on the Orange insert to the Rules 2) Juniors are required to move to the Master classApplying to Dog Shows. The helpfultips for calculating GCH points has on the day of the event if they meet the eligibility criteria of 10 Best Junior wins with competition.also been updated and can be viewedhere. MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 38

SCENT WORK BASICS Objective: The dog must use their nose to search out the hidden odors, and then alert their handlers when the odors are detected. Dogs may paw, bark, point with their nose or body, sit, lie down, or use any other behavior to communicate the location of the odor. The dog is the star of the Scent Work trial--the handler remains mostly passive, guiding the dog's search only when necessary and letting the judge know when the dog has found the scent. In order to earn a qualifying leg, the handler-dog team must find and call all hides in a search area within the time allowed for the class without committing any non-qualifying faults. Major Scent Work Organizations American Kennel Club (AKC) www.akc.org/events/scent-work National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW) www.nacsw.net Performance Scent Dogs (PSD) www.performancescentdogs.comAKC Eligibility* Elements Container • Registered with the AKC, or Interior• Listed with the AKC Purebred Alternative Listing/Indefinite Listing Privilege Exterior Buried (PAL/ILP), or Levels • Listed with the Canine Partners program, Novice Advanced • 6 months of age or older Excellent• Physically challenged dogs may compete so long as they do not display pain Master or discomfort (Judge's discrimination) • Bitches in season may NOT compete Odors Divisions Birch (Betula lenta) Odor Search Anise (Pimpinella anisum) Handler Discrimination Clove (Eugenia caryophyllata),Cypress (Cupressus sempevirens)39 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review

NASCW Eligibility* Elements Container• Dogs participating in an Odor Recognition Test (ORT) must be at least 6 Interior months of age Exterior Vehicle • Dogs participating in a trial must be at least one year of age Levels • Lactating bitches may NOT compete NW1 • Bitches in season can compete NW2 • Dogs must be registered with NACSW NW3 Elite • Handlers must be current members of NACSW Elements Odors Divisions Buildings Containers Birch (Betula lenta) Element Specialty Exterior Anise (Pimpinella anisum) NW DistanceClove (Eugenia caryophyllata), Elite Speed LevelsPSD Novice Advanced Eligibility* Excellent • Dogs may be any breed, mixed breed, or unknown breed • 10 months of age or older• Physically challenged dogs may compete so long as they do not display pain or discomfort (Judge's discrimination) • Pregnant or lactating bitches may NOT compete • Bitches in season can compete Odors Divisions Birch (Betula lenta) For Exhibition Only Anise (Pimpinella anisum) StandardClove (Eugenia caryophyllata), Metallic *Other rules and regulations may apply. MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 40

BSCsyatoouaSucnttghytahrocBatrycaaoBtrfoftnaeretr.rhntStecehltiipsteno,iacptSieulcaiaeclnacenrhintnesSstaseecbderlionnlAicattsatiKeailolCsbyniNlaSiintlocliyeesPesnaewtnNndoWnorscskoyoelrwmvkaopn(re“ikatEebxaslpsohegwerrtaendlLldoeagvhsseoloa”ldtn)sltijhnuweedeghbaeitignahtanherdsestocFloenevnnSeszcluiseltDninstofbWgoorStohtprhkotehrwetAseUKeACSkclayaa.ndsdeamCnyaA.nSKatdCaac.SySctiesancatyWhisigoahrlslkyoConsider this…. Pleasurable hormones coursing through into their world. It’s an invisible world where scents floatyour body causing your senses to explode. All around you, on the air like a leaf floats down a lazy stream. The only waythe world is exciting and interesting. Not only that, but this we can “see” this world is by watching our dog’s behavior.is how you perceive your world…. And just this simple way This sport is Scent Work. Just this past October, AKCof perceiving your world induces calm and can even reduce started allowing clubs to host trials in AKC Scent Work.anxiety. This is your world day in and day out. The way In this sport, the dog searches for essential oils hidden inyou perceive your world, is actually physically enjoyable in search areas that might be inside or outside buildings, inthe very sense of the word. You approach each day like it’s parcels such as boxes or luggage and even buried in thebrand-new and beautiful. And, you don’t even have to try! ground! Not only is this sport fun and enjoyable for theIn fact, you are hardwired for this. dog (not to mention beautiful), but it allows you to in aThis isn’t Science Fiction, this is your dog and his nose. way experience a window into the fascinating world of drugThis is how your dog lives each day. Your dog’s olfactory detection and search and rescue. Yes! You can have yourlobe is roughly one eighth of his whole brain. It’s a true own personal detection dog and you can garner titles andpleasure center in the very meaning of the word. It’s how awards at the same time!he lives. Behavioral experts agree that the act of sniffing You might think that something like this is complicated tocan reduce stress. In fact, in order to lower canine anxiety, teach a dog. The interesting thing is that it’s about as easysimple tools like snuffle mats are often prescribed. as falling off a bike. Dogs live so much through their nosesPart of the reason for this is because the sense of smell is that understanding that a target odor results in reward isthe only sense that flows first through the limbic system. actually quite simple for them to understand. AlthoughSmells course through the amygdala and hippocampus. the skill may seem complex to us, it’s rather easy andThe amygdala is where fight or flight feelings occur and the straightforward to the dog. We teach it simply throughhippocampus is the genesis of long term memory. When a cause and effect relationship between the dog sniffing ayou smell something, you feel it physically. Smell triggers target odor (the essential oils of Birch, Anise, Clove, andmemories and feeling in a way that no other sense can. Do Cypress) and receiving a reward of either food or toy play.you remember your great-grandmother when you smell The great thing is that this cause and effect relationship ismoth balls? I do. I am brought back to vivid memories of a sustained even in competition! YES! The American Kennelhouse near the shore and a jar full of mints on the counter. Club allows food and toy rewards for this activity! That’sI get transported back in time and can see the stairwell great news for our food hounds or for the more timid dogsto the attic lined with little collectable souvenirs. Now that might need a little extra oomph.imagine that this is a common experience and you actually Your dog can get involved and compete as young as 6are hit with these images and feelings to a greater degree months old and can stay active and successful in this sportthan what you can see around you. It’s a truly awe inducing into their gray years. It’s not taxing to the body yet itthought. This is the world that your dog lives in. exercises the mind. It’s truly a miracle sport for those of usYou love your dog, right? You want him to be happy? Well with excitable youngsters or with ancient dogs who havethe best thing you can do is to allow your dog to engage in slowed down physically. And in AKC there is no push tosniffing. Some people like roses or chocolates, dogs like to move up the levels! This is great news for the greener dogsniff! The truly great thing is that there is a sport that not and handler. In fact, you can earn titles for achieving 10only allows us to make our dogs happy but it transports us qualifying scores in each class (these are the “Elite” titles). What a wonderful way to give the young dog experience!41 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review

And unlike other sports, you can do this in your house or your backyard. There’s very little in the way of equipmentneeded so the startup costs are minimal. Are you stuck in your house due to a winter storm and your dogs are drivingyou crazy? All you need to do is set a few hides and your dogs will sleep the rest of the day away! All you need are scentedcotton swabs and tins or straws to hold them.To get started in this great sport, check out your local training club for classes or you can learn online. There’s somethingfor every schedule and every pocketbook!So next time you are looking for something new and exciting to do with your dog, consider Scent Work, currently thefastest growing canine sport! F1,Ut0hN0at0FoAftChouTm1:0aA0ns,0d(ov0ag'0sriessteibmnyseesbroemfeodsr).emesllenissitbievtewetheann inaFtteUrtfNehereFnAsciedCeTw:itohDf iontgchsoemireixnnhgaoslsemtreaillsilrs. ttohropurgehvetnhte slits anyLearn more:Scentsabilities Nosework: www.scentsabilitiesnw.comAKC Scent Work: www.akc.org/events/scent-workFenzi Dog Sports Academy: www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 42

MY SCENT WORK EXPERIENCE Jana Inwood and LincolnWhat's this I keep hearing about scent? discrimination without adding on the The regulations are slightly differentHuh, is someone advocating not wearing stress for my new puppy. I still have my between the organizations, but theydeodorant? Hmmm, now they're talking 11.5 year old mastiff, Lincoln, who has all have several things in common. Forabout Nose Work? What is that? Well, his Utility Title, RAE, DDX, and WDX example, there is an overlap in the scentsit's the newest dog sport around, started . Lincoln misses competition, especially the dogs are trained on (e.g., birch,by the National Association of Canine the attention he'd get from everyone, so anise, and clove). All organizations alsoScent Work (NACSW), mirroring the getting to take his turn running through typically include a “box” search as onedetection-style training that K9 Police the room, searching for that odor makes of the Novice level searches. This searchOfficers and drug sniffing dogs use, him so happy. I have found that he has consists of 10-12 sealed, cardboard boxesbut geared as a competition for pets. picked up on the concepts much quicker scattered around a search area, with onlyCanine – Work and Games (C-WAGs), than I expected and has so much fun. one that contains the entry level scentPerformance Scent Dogs (PSD), the Lincoln would watch what we were doingUnited Kennel Club (UKC), and now and jump in and quickly find the odor,even the American Kennel Club (AKC)that started September 2017.I first heard about it when Isobel The happy light was back in hisGoodchild (MCOA and MCOA Working eyes, along with the joy of doingDog committee member) titled hermastiff in Nose Work. So, when my what he's been trained to do.obedience club started holding classes,I decided to sign up my 7 month old grab the dumbbell or scent article and (birch). Your dog has to search the areaGreat Dane puppy. I wanted to try give it to me. The happy light was back in and indicate the box that has the scent,the sport because, although 4 of my his eyes, along with the joy of doing what then you call “Alert” to the judge. Themastiffs were trained through Utility, he's been trained to do. Plus, when the dogs frequently search on harnesses(2 have their Utility Dog titles, 2 have other dogs see him working, it increases and flexi or long leads, so they worktheir CDX and competed in Utility, but their drive and motivation. independently looking for the odor,didn't finish the title before retirement), which they absolutely LOVE!all 4 tended to stress while during scentarticle discrimination. So, I hoped thattrying this new sport would teach scent Teaching your Mastiff to find the scent and indicate it to you is the easy part. They love it and are total naturals. The hardest part in trials is that you do not know where the scent is hidden and you have to be able to 'read' your dog's body language to know when he is indicating to you that he has found the scent. I encourage you to read up on the various organizations' rules and begin a nose work journey with your Mastiff! Steadfasts Monument to Heartwood, UD, RAE, DDX, WDS \"Lincoln\"43 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review



MOCA Best JR Winner 2017 Multiple AKC Best JR handler wins Pictured with her best friend “Hank” CH Eastwinds Family Tradition CGC45 MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review

It was a joy to write this issue's article on our Board Member. Meet TheTim Plezbert was knowledgeable and articulate about the things Board Member:that he feels make our breed great. His kennel name is MilleniumMastiffs. In researching questions for the article, I got lost looking Timat pictures of his beautiful dogs. PlezbertI hope you will enjoy his answers as much as I did talkingwith him! Barbie FiorentinoHow did you originally start with mastiffs?A friend brought in a puppy one day and I worked odd and side jobs to pay for her. I just had to have her! It didn’t takelong and I had my very first mastiff. She was everything I wanted, even if I went on to learn she might not have been ashow dog.When did you get your first one?September of 1982. I started to show in 1986.Do you own just mastiffs? Or also other breeds and how many?My wife, Chris Jones, has bred Papillion’s for 32 years, with many BIS dogs. We also own one Brittany Spaniel thatis currently 13. I saw them at a show one day and reminisced about having them as a child and loving them. My wifesurprised me with one!Who did you get your first mastiff from?Kodiaks Robin was our first Mastiff. She lived to be 15.5! JoEllen Hollis was the breeder.How did you get involved in showing?Denise King was at a nearby stable and one day we met while going horseback riding. We talked about my dog’s structureand she started my research about the standard. Dogs are very like horses in the pieces that make for sound conformation,so it seemed like a natural progression.The first time I went to a show, I showed to Peggy Anderson (Doberman judge) with a nice scissor bite dog and I won! Iwas hooked, from then on. I have won and lost and I much prefer the winning!What Mastiffs over the years were your favorites?CH Cc Hope of the Nyal owned by Julia and Kevin KriebsCH Windhaven's Leontos Sayyid, owned by Jim and Mary ZellenCH Southports Iron Maiden, owned by Joe and Carla SanchezWhy?Movement is really the key for me. With that foundation in horses (I used to take the dogs with me to rodeos years ago),I really want to see a good moving dog and they were my favorites to watch.What is your favorite part of owning Mastiffs?Companionship. There is nothing like a mastiff for keeping you company while you do chores and go about your life. I loveall the work and hope that goes into having puppies. The hope for the breeding, hope for the litter arrival, hope for thevery best homes, and then hope they are successful at their new “jobs”. From health testing to research, showing to justbeing companions, there is so much hope involved.How long have you been a member of MCOA?I joined Midwest Mastiff Fanciers in 1985 or 86. I joined MCOA in 1987.What are your goals as a board member?I want the MCOA to be a club where people have fun! To make that a priority in support of the breed, but the bottomline needs to be making the club enjoyable.Any sage advice for the membership?There is so much work that goes into putting on these specialties and shows. Remember to support the people making such hugesacrifices so we can continue to enjoy the sport we love. MCOA JOURNAL • January 2018 • Year in Review 46