golden newsletter issue 4 2 january 2013

South in s r e v ie r t e R n e Gold Africa 2 January 2012 Issue 4

Inside this issue:

Introduction

Introduction

1

Breeding Seminar

1

Elbow Displaysia

2

Royal Cain

3

Goldfields Showgrounds 3 My Pet Lifestyle Show

3

Hip Displaysia

4

Nutrition in Breeding

4/5

Spirocerca Lupi

6/7

Top Showdogs 2012

8

COI

8/9

Litter Announcements

10

Artificial Insemination

11

Pets Medical Aids

12-15

Goldens of the Century

16/17

Welcome to the 4th issue of the Golden Retriever Breeders in South Africa Newsletter. Our aim is to provide general information about the Breed, Breeding Advice & Guidance, Support and News about Golden Retrievers in South Africa, and abroad. We hope that everyone had a wonderful holiday, Christmas and New Year and looking forward to what 2013 has to offer! We have some exciting events that we will be holding during 2013, starting off with a Breeding Seminar with Dr De Cramer from - a reproductive specialist and we would like to ask your support in making this event a success. We can all benefit from information being shared and would like to ask that you send us your questions, concerns, problems that you have had before so that we can ask Dr De Cramer to prepare feedback. AND we have a wonderful gift from Marilynn Morphet that donated TWO books for a Raffle draw in benefit of Golden Rescue. Please see page 16 & 17 for all information. Golden Greetings, Arnel Sauer

Breeding Seminar with Dr De Cramer Veterinary Specialist Animal Reproduction

We are going to be holding a breeding seminar in mid 2013 with Dr De Cramer in conjunction with the launch of his new book. We want to hold an interactive presentation and would like to invite all breeders to attend or to submit their questions. We would appreciate feedback on problems that you have encountered or any questions that you have about breeding so that we can all learn more from one another & also from Dr De Cramer that is a specialist in this field. We anticipate this seminar to be held around May 2013 and will advise of exact dates, venue and times in another Newsletter. BREEDING NEWSLETTER FROM DR DE CRAMER

Dr De Cramer has launched a new Newsletter that will deal in specific with any breeding related articles. If you wish to receive his newsletter, please send email to [email protected]

E-BOOKS I have found some excellent breeding and puppy care E-Books that I have downloaded. If you are interested I can send a copy of this. If there are more breeders interested we can share the costs on the download and then send it through to everyone wanting to learn more about breeding & puppy care. Please email me if you are interested in this initiative—[email protected]

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Elbow Displaysia in Dogs Elbow dysplasia has been identified as a significant problem in many breeds. Importantly, the condition appears to be increasing worldwide. It begins in puppyhood, and can affect the dog for the rest of its life. Veterinary surgeons have been aware for many years of a number of conditions that begin in puppies and cause lameness. Hip dysplasia was the first such disease to be widely recognised and a scheme for its assessment and control is well established in the UK. Elbow dysplasia (ED) is a significant problem in many breeds worldwide, and although it begins in puppyhood it can continue to affect the dog for the rest of its life. The principal cause of ED lies in the genetic make up of the animal. Therefore, a scheme that screens animals for elbow abnormalities will allow animals with the best elbow joints to be chosen for breeding, and will help to reduce the level of the problem in the canine population. ED simply means ‘abnormal development of the elbow’. The term includes a number of specific abnormalities that affect different sites within the joint. These cause problems by affecting the growth of the cartilage which forms the surface of the joint or the structures around it. These abnormalities are primary lesions, which then induce a secondary osteoarthritic process. The most common primary lesions are:  Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD or OD)  Fragmented or ununited medial coronoid process (FCP)  Ununited anconeal process (UAP) There are other, rarer, primary lesions that may occur in combination with these or on their own. Primary lesions begin early during the growth of the puppy, and are commonly present in both elbows to some extent. Once the dog reaches skeletal maturity the primary lesions may stabilise. However, once abnormal development has started with a primary lesion, further secondary changes follow, in particular, abnormal wear of the joint surfaces and osteoarthritis (sometimes termed arthrosis, or degenerative joint disease — DJD). The secondary lesions cannot be reversed and remain a potential problem for the rest of the dog’s life. The elbow is particularly vulnerable to this type of disease. The joint resembles a hinge in which the bones and cartilage forming each side of the joint have complex shapes that fit together closely. The elbow has a wide range of joint movement and normal foreleg gait is more dependent on the elbow than the other joints. Thus, a small change in the shape of one part of the joint can have major consequences for the joint function, like a small piece of grit in a door hinge. Once elbow function is affected, foreleg gait becomes altered. An additional problem with ED is that lame dogs are only the tip of the ‘disease iceberg’. Many dogs have subclinical disease in that they have primary lesions or osteoarthritis in their elbows but do not appear obviously lame. Some dogs will be symmetrically lame in each foreleg, which can be very difficult to see. Fortunately, these subclinical dogs can often be identified by taking radiographs (x-ray films) of their elbows. Even though they appear to show no lameness themselves, they have a high chance of producing lame offspring if they breed.

Causes of Elbow Dysplasia ED is a multifactorial disease, which means that a number of factors can influence the occurrence of the condition. The most important factor, however, is the genetic make up of the dog. Other factors such as growth rate, diet and level of exercise may influence the severity of the disease in an individual dog, but they cannot prevent the disease or reduce the potential of the dog to pass on the disease to offspring. However, studies show that ED has a high heritability confirming that a high proportion of the disease is genetic. As the individuals of each breed of dog have a proportion of their genetic make up (genotype) in common, it is not surprising that some breeds are more vulnerable to a heritable condition than others. In general, medium and large breed dogs are considered to be most vulnerable to ED, although the condition has been found in some smaller breeds. Unfortunately, ED is not controlled by a single gene or a simple inheritance. It is a polygenic characteristic, which means that it is controlled by the combination of many genes. One way of visualising this is to think of a ‘normal’ dog as carrying a few of the genes that can cause elbow problems. A dog with subclinical disease will have more of these problem genes and a lame animal will have a higher proportion still.

Advice on Breeding The overall grade is used internationally as the basis for breeding advice. Ideally dogs with 'normal' elbows should be chosen and at least dogs with 2 or 3 arthrosis should not be used for breeding. As ED is a prevalent disease, especially in the breeds listed on page 3, such advice will only be effective if it is continued over a number of generations. The most difficult part of accepting such advice for many breeders is that some dogs have never been lame and exercise freely, but nevertheless may have high grades. This is the subclinical population with the ability to pass on the problem in the breed. For long-term control of the disease these dogs ought not to be bred from.

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Royal Canin has launched a new Breeders Club and you can also qualify for goodies with your points. Please visit their website to register:

www.royalcaninbreedersclub.co.za/

Goldfields Kennel Club—Supporters’ Club Goldfields Kennel Club has always been an excellent dog show and training venue. The Goldfields Showgrounds Management Team is starting a 600 Club. To join the Club you will be required to pay R50.00 per month, payable as detailed below, and then once a month there will be a draw with prizes in accordance with the amount collected that month. For more information and to join and support please email:

[email protected]

A new exciting show is going to be held in October 2013. We will be having a stand there and it is always a rewarding experience (and exhausting) to deal with the public and answer all their questions about Golden Retrievers. Over 15000 pet lovers visited WODAC in 2012 and My Pet Expo will hold the World Agility Championships 2013 at this event - the first time it is hosted outside of Europe!! Over 23 countries are expected to show their stuff in 12 rounds in 6 competitions, over 250 international dogs, over 3 days - making this SA's biggest international event. Visit the website for more information www.mypetlifestyle.co.za

Hip Dysplasia in Dogs: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

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What is hip dysplasia? To understand hip dysplasia we must have a basic understanding of the joint that is being affected. The hip joint forms the attachment of the hind leg to the body and is a ball and socket joint. The ball portion is the head of the femur while the socket (acetabulum) is located on the pelvis. In a normal joint the ball rotates freely within the socket. To facilitate movement the bones are shaped to perfectly match each other; with the socket surrounding the ball. To strengthen the joint, the two bones are held together by a strong ligament. The ligament attaches the femoral head directly to the acetabulum. Also, the joint capsule, which is a very strong band of connective tissue, encircles the two bones adding further stability. The area where the bones actually touch each other is called the articular surfaces In a dog with normal hips, all of these factors work together to cause the joint to func-

Hip dysplasia is associated with abnormal joint structure and a laxity of the muscles, connective tissue, and ligaments that would normally support the joint. As joint laxity develops, the articular surfaces of the two bones lose contact with each other. This separation of the two bones within the joint is called a subluxation, and this causes a drastic change in the size and shape of the articular surfaces. Most dysplastic dogs are born with normal hips but due to their genetic make-up (and possibly other factors) the soft tissues that surround the joint develop abnormally causing the subluxation. It is this subluxation and the remodeling of the hip that leads to the symptoms we associate with this disease. Hip dysplasia may or may not be bilateral; affecting both the right and/or left hip. Hip dysplasia is a widespread condition that primarily affects large and giant breeds of dogs. There is a strong genetic link between parents that have hip dysplasia and the incidence in their offspring. There are probably other factors that contribute to the severity of the disease. Osteoarthritis of the hip is the result of the degeneration of the joint due to a laxity caused by hip dysplasia. Surgical and medical treatments are targeted to prevent and treat the resulting osteoarthritis. The best way to prevent hip dysplasia is through selection of offspring whose parents and grandparents have been certified to have excellent hip conformation.

Nutrition for Successful Breeding: from Conception to Weaning

In extreme cases her only solution may be to reduce the demand by decreasing the number of offspring or by completely aborting the pregnancy. a) Fish oil to aid learning and development One of the most important nutrients in the dam’s diet right from the start of pregnancy needs to be the omega-3 fatty acid called Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

b) optimal omega-6:omega-3 balanced diet Findings from a study involving over 16,000 Beagle matings demonstrated benefits of feeding a dietary matrix (Eukanuba® Working & Endurance), with an optimal omega-6:omega-3 fatty acid ratio in the range of 5:1 to 10:1, compared against a 20:1 ratio. 10 When fed throughout the reproductive cycle, this diet resulted in fewer missed conceptions, a reduced number of stillbirths and more consistent-sized litters from breeding to breeding

350

% Maintenance requirement

During the reproductive process a dam’s diet must support: 1) her body maintenance, 2) the growth of her reproductive tissues, and 3) the growth and development of her offspring. So the dam must obtain a sufficient supply of nutrients from her diet or mobilise them from her body stores. Should her diet fail to meet the required nutrient levels she will respond by sacrificing her own body condition and mobilize nutrients from fat, muscle and skeletal tissue.

300

Estimated energy requirements for lactating bitches

250 200 150 100 50 0 1

2

3

4

5

Lactation (weeks)

6

7

8

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Lactation Recommendations Early lactation: the dam may have a depressed appetite for the first few days. By day 4-5 post-whelping she should have targeted intake of about 150% of maintenance calories. Adequate water should be available as milk is approximately 78% water Mid-lactation: slowly increase amount of food from day 8 to 30. Offer 4-6 meals/day. The general target would be to achieve approximately 200% of maintenance by the end of week 2, 250-300% by the end of week 3 and 300% for weeks 4 and 5. Large litters may require the dam to increase to 500% - which may be difficult for her to attain, so that’s why having correct weight gain during pregnancy is so important. Late-lactation: nutritional management is dependent on what age the puppies are weaned, normally at 6 to 8 weeks of age. After 35 days of lactation the dam’s intake can be 250% of maintenance and can be slowly reduced to 125% at the desired weaning time.

Weaning There is no perfect age for weaning and each litter should be managed individually. The final decision should be based on how well the puppies are eating and drinking. It’s important to use the right breed size puppy diet (small, medium, large/giant), with a high DHA level, from weaning onwards as they have been specifically tailored to support their growth: i.e. extensive studies in large/giant breeds have shown that these diets need to have low calcium (0.8%) to help reduce the risk of skeletal disease.

Top Tips Calcium: if the dam is supplemented with high levels of calcium during pregnancy, her body is not metabolically primed to mobilise calcium from her bones. Therefore, when the demands for calcium are suddenly and dramatically elevated at the initiation of lactation, she is unable to keep up with the metabolic demands, which can result in serious health complications. The dam will receive any added calcium she may require through her increased food intake. Adding calcium also has the additional risk for puppies if they eat the mother’s food during weaning as excess intake can cause bone disorders in large and giant breeds. Folic acid: this nutrient is highly promoted in humans to help prevent neurological defects; however, this developmental disorder is very rarely seen in the dog. In addition, most commercial formulas recommended for reproduction typically contain much higher levels than needed.

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Dr Littermate—Urgent Newsflash about Spirocerca Lupi Over the past decade or two, we used to see the odd case of Spirocerca Lupi in dogs, maybe once or twice per year. During the last 2-3 years the incidence has increased at an alarming rate. We are now confirming cases on almost a daily basis. The problem has now escalated to a stage where we can no longer just adopt a wait and see approach and only act once a dog within the household or colony is diagnosed. Dog breeders at risk should strongly consider introducing monthly preventative treatment of their dogs. Breeders of large to medium breeds are at increased risk. Other risk factors are, residing on large properties, small holdings and farms as well as co habitation with other animals. Although the above puts breeders at increased risk, other breeders should not assume that if they are not on large premises they are free from risk. Ordinary pet owners are also frequently affected anywhere in Gauteng and other areas over South Africa. Within a South African context, it is not true that Hadida’s or their stools are the main culprits. Many bird species and other species are all involved. Preventative treatment is key. We do not advocate embarking on a killing spree of Hadida and other wildlife suspected to be intermediates. Some breeders have already been administering preventative treatment for years. Breeders that are sceptic about preventative treatment should speak to others that have extensive experience in preventative treatment. Besides controlling Spirocerca Lupi, these products also have some efficacy against other worms and good efficacy against skin and ear mites. Numerous products are now available but the jury is not out as to which are best. Cost of some may be prohibitive whilst others are relatively cheap and early indications are that they are effective as well. New products are likely to become available and we will let you know if they do. We are frequently asked if the products are safe during pregnancy. The answer is that we think they are as we have not seen adverse reactions in pregnancy and have used them in pregnant dogs. The companies producing these products however state that “safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been established”. We therefor recommend that they are not used during pregnancy or lactation and only use them in bitches when they have been diagnosed with Spirocerca and happen to be pregnant as well. Also, breeders ask at what age we may start treating dogs preventatively. We do not have clear answers here either but starting at six months of age appears safe. Breeders have to clearly understand that they should be in close consultation with their veterinarian regarding the use of any product in this regard. This is so because these products are potentially fatal in some breeds and almost none are registered for use in dogs. Routine preventative treatment thus becomes a decision made by the breeder in consultation with their veterinarian based on the individual risk benefit assessment of each individual case. Those that surf the internet will notice that in the USA , many breeder advice forums advise not to use long acting avermectins against heartworm but rather use the short acting products in breeding males and bitches. This is because they are not sure whether the long acting products have effects on fertility or not. The problem with Spirocerca Lupi however is that we have no alternative. These heartworm remedies are not effective at all against Spirocerca Lupi. It would be irresponsible of any professional to make any claims one way or another but evidence in practice over many years suggests that there is no problem using them. The breeder has to weigh up the risk of anecdotal reports of possible harm against the reality of fatal and devastating Spirocerca Lupi in their Kennels. However, once the breeder has been fully informed about the risks of treating and risks of not treating, the breeder of the dogs takes full responsibility for outcome. Hopefully products that have claimed efficacy and are registered will soon emerge. Spirocerca Lupi is a nematode (roundworm) that is found primarily in dogs (but also wild carnivores) and occurs throughout the world in warmer to temperate climates. It is not a new parasite but seems to be more prevalent in recent years. The exact reasons for its recent emergence is not known but adaptation of its intermediate host to colder climates (temperate versus subtropical) is speculated to play a role. The adult worm lives in the oesophagus of dogs where it embeds itself in the oesophageal wall and forms large nodules which may later become cancerous. Infected dogs will usually have 2-4 nodules but many more are also possible. Whilst in the oesophageal nodules , the adult worm produces eggs that are shed in the dog’s stool. The eggs are then ingested by dung beetles which act as the intermediate host. The dog can be infected by directly eating the dung beetle or eating the lizard or bird that has ingested an infected beetle. Once in the dog’s stomach, the worm larvae enter intestinal blood vessels and travel to the aorta where they may mature (this may take up to 4-6 months). Following this migration they pass through the wall of the arteries into the wall of the oesophagus. En-route they cause damage to the blood vessels which may cause aneurisms. Aneurisms are weakened areas in the walls of arteries which in time may bulge (balloon) due to the blood pressure. Dogs with aneurisms may not show symptoms and appear perfectly normal. Aneurisms require specialised equipment to diagnose and small ones may be missed. When the aneurism bursts however, the dog will die within seconds from massive internal haemorrhage.

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Spirocerca Lupi is therefore a common cause of sudden unexplained death in areas where the worm occurs. Most frequently however, they just cause lumps in the oesophagus that slowly grow bigger. Initially when the lumps are about pea size they do not cause any problems and the dog shows no visible signs of infection. As the lumps grow bigger the dog may show a poor appetite , lose weight, start regurgitating food after meals, gagging, show a low grade fever and appear listless. Anaemia and presence of dark to black stool due to the presence of half-digested blood in stool (melaena), may also be noted in advanced cases. Although most worms will migrate to the oesophagus as final destination, in rare cases, the worm migrates to other sites (called aberrant migration) and may end up in brain, eye, spinal cord, skin or any other tissues causing a variety of symptoms depending on location. In long standing cases, the lump in the oesophagus may become neoplastic (cancerous). Although dogs of all sizes may be infected, dogs of large breeds are more commonly affected than smaller breeds. All ages may be affected with a peak incidence between 1-4 years. The habit that some dogs have to eat their or other dog’s stools or even stools of other species ( all called coprophagia), clearly increases risk of ingestion of dung beetles and thus infection. Agile athletic dogs that frequently catch birds, lizards or small mammals are also at increased risk. The risk increases if the dog’s actually consume the meat of their catch. Dogs belonging to multiple dog households are more likely to be infected as are dogs residing on large properties. Co-habitation with other farm animals also increases risk of infection. The biggest risk factor of all appears to be the presence of at least one infected dog in the colony. This dog may act as source of infection to dung beetles and indirectly to other in-contact dogs. The practical significance is, that if one dog in the colony is diagnosed with Spirocerca Lupi, not only are the other dogs at risk for infection, but the chances are great that at least some of the dogs are already infected as well. Even though the clinical signs may lead to the suspicion of Spirocerca Lupi infection, special tests are required to confirm this. Radiographs of the chest and stool examination for worm eggs may be helpful in this regard but is not sensitive as many cases can be missed using these diagnostic modalities. Oesophagoscopy (looking down the throat with small flexible endoscopic camera) is the most accurate means of diagnosis. Only the smallest nodules ,as is found in the start of the infection, will escape detection. This procedure requires full anaesthetic. It is important that early diagnoses of infection is made whilst the nodules are still small as this favours outcome of treatment. Advanced cases with large granulomas respond poorly to treatment and if the lump has progressed to cancerous transformation, treatment is not possible. Advanced cases may therefore have to be euthanized. Surgical excision of the nodules has been attempted but is associated with high mortality rates. Treatment of infected dogs is the only option in dogs not euthanized as all untreated dogs usually die from complications. Earlier cases may respond to some avermectin containing formulations. Treatment may stretch over a period of six months or longer. Generally , the earlier the treatment commences , the higher the success rate. Preventative measures include the regular removal of dog faeces to prevent colonization by dung beetles (which usually happens within minutes). The faeces should be disposed of in a manner that ensures it is not accessible to dung beetles, birds, small mammals and reptiles, which may all spread the larvae of this parasite. Dead birds either caught by the dogs or dragged into the garden by cats should be removed immediately to prevent ingestion by the dogs. In one study the administration of avermectins at regular intervals (4-6 weeks) did reduce the incidence of the worm infestation and reduced fatalities significantly. Breeders residing in areas where the risk of Spirocerca Lupi infection is high, should strongly consider on-going preventative treatment using an avermectin contain product. Many breeders have been doing this for years in any event because it has some efficacy against other worms and very good efficacy against ear and skin mites. Numerous registered and unregistered (for dogs) avermectin containing products exist on the market in most countries. It is very important that breeders be aware that some breeds are genetically susceptible to adverse reactions to some drugs in the avermectin group. A single administration of these drugs to susceptible dogs may prove fatal. The known susceptible breeds are Border collie and other collie-types. Individual dogs of other breeds may also carry the gene determining susceptibility to these drugs, albeit it very rare. Fortunately there is a genetic test available to determine whether a dog carries the gene (MDR1) or not. Affected breeders may opt to test all individual dogs for the presence of the gene prior to preventative treatment. Due to the cost of individual gene testing and very low risk in most breeds, some breeders opt to treat without prior gene testing. It is fair to speculate that the emergence of Spirocerca Lupi and associated threat to dogs in some parts of the world will lead to routine preventative treatment of all dogs in that area as is already the case with Dirofilaria immitis (heartworm). Affected breeders should consult their veterinarians regarding treatment and preventative treatment options before randomly administering drugs to their dogs. Most anthelmintic (deworming) agents including heartworm remedies, used for routine deworming of dogs, are not effective in either treating or preventing Spirocerca Lupi infections in dogs.

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Top Showdogs KUSA Top Show Golden of 2012 Ch Ghlenairh Glendower of Lorrel (Gow)

ANIMAL TALK Top 100 Show Dogs: RANK

POINTS DOG'S NAME

61

319

NARAGOLD COLOUR ME GOLD OF MOCHAVULIN

77

255

GHLENAIRH GLENDOWER OF LORREL

116

160

ROSSBOURNE NOEL OF GAVALAT

117

159

JUNANTES MILKY WAY OF ROZKLYNBONY

293

41

QUILLQUEST TOURMALINE OF KINDELL

322

30

QUILLQUEST LADY LUCK

324

29

QUILLQUEST MOONSTONES

359

8

GLADWORD'S CHIVAS REGAL OF SHAMARE

What do you know about COI??? The COI (Coefficient of Inbreeding) / F is calculated up to a maximum of 12 generations. However, if a generation is found where fewer than 75% of the dogs in that generation are known, the calculation stops just short of that generation. So if all dogs are known in the 5th generation but only half of them are known in the 6th generation, a 5-generation COI will be calculated. For dogs with more than 10 generations of pedigree information available, a 10-generation COI is also calculated for comparison and statistical purposes. Accuracy of the COI is not guaranteed. For information on what the COI figure means, see http://www.canine-genetics.com/relation.htm, particularly where it discusses the inbreeding coefficient. For a more complete discussion of genetic principles, visit the Canine Diversity Project.

Linebreeding is a form of inbreeding. There is no clear distinction between the two terms, but linebreeding may encompass crosses between individuals and their descendants or two cousins. [22][26] This method can be used to increase a particular animal's contribution to the population. [22] While linebreeding is less likely to cause problems in the first generation than does inbreeding, over time, linebreeding can reduce the genetic diversity of a population and cause problems related to a too-small genepool that may include an increased prevalence of genetic disorders and inbreeding depression. [citation needed]

Outcrossing is where two unrelated individuals have been crossed to produce progeny. In outcrossing, unless there is verifiable genetic information, one may find that all individuals are distantly related to an ancient progenitor. If the trait carries throughout a population, all individuals can have this trait. This is called the founder effect. In the well established breeds, that are commonly bred, a large gene pool is present. For example, in 2004, over 18,000 Persian cats were registered. [27] A possibility exists for a complete outcross, if no barriers exist between the individuals to breed. However it is not always the case, and a form of distant linebreeding occurs. Again it is up to the assortative breeder to know what sort of traits both positive and negative exist within the diversity of one breeding. This diversity of genetic expression, within even close relatives, increases the variability and diversity of viable stock. [28]

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Outcrossing is where two unrelated individuals have been crossed to produce progeny. In outcrossing, unless there is verifiable genetic information, one may find that all individuals are distantly related to an ancient progenitor. If the trait carries throughout a population, all individuals can have this trait. This is called the founder effect. In the well established breeds, that are commonly bred, a large gene pool is present. For example, in 2004, over 18,000 Persian cats were registered. [27] A possibility exists for a complete outcross, if no barriers exist between the individuals to breed. However it is not always the case, and a form of distant line breeding occurs. Again it is up to the individual breeder to know what sort of traits both positive and negative exist within the diversity of one breeding. This diversity of genetic expression, within even close relatives, increases the variability and diversity of viable stock. [28] Typical inbreeding coefficient percentages are as follows, assuming no previous inbreeding between any parents:  Father/daughter, mother/son or brother/sister → 25% (1⁄4)  Grandfather/granddaughter or grandmother/grandson → 12.5% (1⁄8)  Half-brother/half-sister → 12.5% (1⁄8)  Uncle/niece or aunt/nephew → 12.5% (1⁄8)  Great-grandfather/great-granddaughter or great-grandmother/great-grandson → 6.25% (1⁄16)  Half-uncle/niece or half-aunt/nephew → 6.25% (1⁄16)  First cousins → 6.25% (1⁄16)  First cousins once removed or half-first cousins → 3.125% (1⁄32)  Second cousins or first cousins twice removed → 1.5625% (1⁄64)  Second cousins once removed or half-second cousins → 0.78125% (1⁄128)  Third cousins or second cousins twice removed → 0.390625% (1⁄256)  Third cousins once removed or half-third cousins → 0.1953125% (1⁄512) An inbreeding calculation may be used to determine the general genetic distance among relatives by multiplying by two, because any progeny would have a 1 in 2 risk of actually inheriting the identical alleles from both parents. For instance, the parent/child or sibling/sibling relationships have 50% identical genetics. For purposes of how valuable COI is, I am attaching a table of our breeding dogs & selected stud dogs with the COI of the 10 generation percentage calculated. It is generally accepted NOT to breed with a COI of higher than 10% in both the 10th and the 12th generation. The green indicate acceptable matings and the red not acceptable: Candy Classy Connor Elmo Fudge Hodge Jacob Magic Maverik Max McCain Merlin Nougar Reggie Rocky Spyder

Grace

Gracie

Lilly

Melody

Mikita

Pixie 2.52%

Tina

Zoe

17.81% 16.47%

0.00%

1.50% 15.54% 4.81%

2.52% 2.92% 2.45% 3.41%

3.59% 2.27%

4.54% 10.12% 6.03%

14.99%

2.00% 17.70%

3.90% 17.81% 6.99% 0.00% 5.52% 16.16% 2.52% 4.14%

5.96% 4.77% 15.54% 2.18% 3.91%

6.56%

13.28%

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Litter Announcements MOCHAVULIN GOLDEN RETRIEVERS We are so happy to announce our very exciting plans for 2013. It is quite sad that there are so few “dual” purpose Golden Retrievers around—that does well in the showring and excel in the Field Trials—after all Golden Retrievers were bred as hunting dogs & so much of their natural hunting ability has been lost. When I started showing in 2002, there were many true “dual-purpose” dogs around—both in the field and in the showring. Now even in South Africa we have clear divided lines between show and field dogs and only a select few is participating in both—but none that excel in both areas—which they should ideally do! A lot of people are put off by Field Trials due to the use of live birds and game, but there are lots of other options available with Working Trials and Tests where only dummies are used and the dogs’ hunting ability still developed. If you are interested in starting out in Field Trails, please contact us as we can refer you to the various breed & field trial clubs. The more people are interested, the more training sessions can be scheduled to the advantage of everyone. We are expecting puppies from:

Snowpine Savvy’s Tikka (Ziggy) and Mochavulin Pryncess Fyrfly (Pixie) in February 2013. Ch Ghlenairh Glenfiddich of Tyweire( Fudge) and Ch Giltedge Martina for Goldenzauer in February 2013. Both these matings are combining strong show lines with working lines and we hope to get some true dual purpose Golden Retrievers …..holding thumbs! If you are interested in any of these matings, please visit our website www.goldens.co.za or email us.

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Artificial Insemination Having recently lost the fertility of my Wesley, always postponing to have his semen frozen, I have now taken a bigger interest in AI and what options it all offer us. All of us know about the famous Ch Camrose Cabus Christopher who’s semen was used 30 years after his death. He was once the breed record holder with 42 CC’s and is truly a beautiful Golden Retriever that all of our pedigrees are based on. To have the opportunity to use the genetics of such a stunning dog, 30 years after his death is proof, that with modern medicine we could in fact improve on our current breeding lines and therefore there is simply no excuse to breed with inferior dogs with unacceptable health scores. Dr De Cramer will be offering an AI service from 2013 and that will make the use of AI and semen storage more available to us. The semen will be collected and the entire process managed, where after the semen will be stored at Onderstepoort. Irene has imported semen from Canada that we have used on 2 females and the process was very successful. This allows us to bring lines in from all over the world that we would otherwise not have access to. The process is expensive, but if you are truly a breeder for the “right” reasons then cost saving should not be your major consideration for breeding. Performing canine AI may raise some ethical concerns, mostly to central institutions like the National Kennel Clubs or Veterinarian Orders or equivalent, in particular on what concerns the use of frozen semen and the need for intrauterine insemination, mainly those involving surgical procedures. In fact, several countries (such as Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom) refer to welfare concerns and discourage or even forbid the use of surgical procedures to obtain intra-uterine insemination (England & Millar, 2008; Linde-Forsberg, 2005b). Ethical issues are seldom associated with the non-surgical process of artificial insemination per se. Most procedures used for semen deposition are neither detrimental to the bitch, nor interfere with animal welfare, and even allow protection against certain diseases. However, some attention may be given to the inbreeding of animals that may compromise health of following generations (England & Millar, 2008). Restrictions to the use of AI in animals that never matted despite all physiological conditions met together to guarantee a successful mate, may respond to the ethical issue that demands for ruling out clinical reasons for AI, as an underlying unaware problem (congenital or behavioural) may exists. This concern is in fact previewed in the Fédération Cynologique International (FCI) breeding rules. According to those rules, AI should not be performed in animals not having at least one previous litter registered from natural service. Furthermore, AI to be a recognisable breeding technique must be performed by veterinarian or a specifically recognisable technician, which skills will avoid complications or adverse effects, as well as stress or risks of welfare infringements towards the animals, in particular the female.

Potential benefits of AI:          

Decrease stress, infectious diseases transmission, travel expenses Semen collection without interruption of the male activity (show or training) Splitting of an ejaculate to bred more females Reduction of the costs with maintenance of stud dogs in a colony Worldwide availability of the semen of a given dog Allow early castration of working dogs while maintaining availability of their genes Evaluation of semen quality prior to AI Early detection of male reproductive pathologies Semen preservation, so genetic material may be available in the future Overcome problems associated with the refusal to breed (psychological or physical reasons, precocious ejaculation), inexperienced males  May overcome quarantine restrictions

Potential weakness of AI:    

Induction of physical or psychological trauma during the AI process Risk of performing AI for inappropriate reasons Failure in careful clinical examination of the breeding animals Potential risk for maintaining some disorders in a particular genetic line (hip dysplasia or anatomical abnormality of the reproductive tract)  Potential risk for introduction of inherited diseases or abnormalities  Potential overuse of a given male within a programme or breed  May allow confusion of parentage.

Pet Insurance

Page 12

I have received a lot of enquiries about which is the BEST Pet Insurance available in SA. My friend Tessa had a great experience with Medipet where they covered a complicated procedure that required treatment from the USA. Herewith some features from the insurance companies currently available in SA:

Link to One Pet Plans— http://www.onepet.co.za/compare-our-plans/ Cover for Dogs—R137 Cover for Cats—R127 Maximum overall annual limit for Cover: R 28 000.00 Any diseases that arise due to a lack of care for your pet ie: not taking your pet for annual vaccinations and deworming, will be excluded. Diseases such as obesity, behavioral diseases, hereditary and congenital diseases are also excluded. Fertility, spaying and neutering are excluded. Pregnancies & births are covered—12 month waiting period applies.

cover

excess

1. Vets fees (per annum)

R25,000

2. Vets fee excess (per claim)

R200 or 10%*

3. Death from illness/accident

R1000

pet

premium

Cat (on option 1)

R148 p.m.

R25,000

R200 or 10%*

4. Advertising/reward

R250

Cat (on option 2)

R179 p.m.

R25,000

R200 or 10%*

5. Third party liability

R1,000,000

Dog (on option 1)

R165 p.m.

R25,000

R200 or 10%*

6. Boarding kennel fees p.a.

R1000

Dog (on option 2)

R200 p.m.

R25,000

R200 or 10%*

7. Theft (with police case no.)

R1000

Cover Included:

               

Accidental injuries.

* Excess = R200 OR 10%; whichever is greater per claim.

Any illnesses. Operations. Dog fight lacerations. Gastric torsion. Tumour removals. Snake Bites. Hip replacements. Use any vet countrywide. Cover can be taken from 8 weeks. R50 per day for kennels, catteries or pet sitters (not living with you), if you are suddenly ill or unable to look after your pet. Advertising & reward cover – R250 p.a. for cats and R250 p.a. for dogs. R100 p.m. for prescription diet needed to treat an illness for up to 6 months, on recommendation from your vet. No specified limits – just R25 000 overall general cover. Kindly note that Chronic Care may be subject to certain limits and or conditions, depending on the individual case, and pre-approval will be required. NO routine care cover. Lifetime cover.

They WILL cover you for complementary treatments such as hydrotherapy, herbal or homeopathic medicine, physiotherapy and acupuncture. Your cover may be limited if hereditary and or congenital conditions are present. A letter will be sent to the attending veterinarian requesting more information on this condition.

To keep premiums low, the following conditions are not covered:  regular pregnancy and delivery  grooming  elective procedures  hereditary or congenital defects  pre-existing conditions before insurance was taken

 foods & diets of your choice (unless

specifically advised by your vet to assist in clearing up a medical condition).

Issue 4

Page 13

Benefits

Plan 100 Plan 80 (100% of PetSure's tariff) (80% of PetSure's tariff)

Type of cover

Accident and illness cover Accident and illness cover

Accidental Injury Cover (100% of PetSure's tariff) Accident cover only

Dogs

R175.00

Dogs

R150.00

Dogs

R105.00

Cats

R145.00

Cats

R125.00

Cats

R95.00

Premium per month

Overall Annual maximum

R40,000 Annual Max (Sub maxima's apply)

R32,000 Annual Max (Sub maxima's apply)

R2,480 per accident (no upper age limit applies)

Includes hospitalisations, medicine, X-rays, consultations, etc.

Boarding kennel / cattery fees

R6,600 Annual Max (Sub maxima's apply)

R760 p.a.

R535 p.a.

If the owner of the pet is hos- (At a maximum of R55 per (At a maximum of R55 per pitalised for more than 4 day) day) days

R535 p.a. (At a maximum of R55 per day)

15% of the applicable 15% of the applicable ben- 15% of the applicable benefit with a minimum efit with a minimum of benefit with a minimum Benefits for covered condiof R95 per claim R95 per claim of R95 per claim tions are reimbursed according to PetSure's Tariff Rate thereafter benefits are paid thereafter benefits are paid thereafter benefits are which is based on the South at 100% of PetSure's Tariff at 80% of PetSure's Tariff paid at 100% of PetSure's African Veterinary Council Rate Rate Tariff Rate Guide to Fees Excess

Policy Benefits (click to link)

Page 14

Option A (Accident) What is Covered

Best Value

Comprehensive

Option B (Accident & Illness)

Option C (Accident, Illness & Routine Care)

100% of the tariff rate* 100% of the tariff rate*

Excess Per Claim

R200†

Age limits

No upper age limit

Annual benefit limit

R7 000

R200†

100% of the tariff rate* R200†

8 weeks to 8 years on 8 weeks to 8 years on joining. Once joining. Once insured, insured, cover can be kept for life. cover can be kept for life. R30 000

R30 000

Multipet discount Accidental injury Illness

__

Routine & preventative care Hereditary and congenital conditions Pre-existing conditions

__

__

__

__

__

__

__

__

14 day money back guarantee** Emergency boarding (up to R55 a day) Waiting periods

One calendar month One calendar month One calendar month from policy start from policy start date from policy start date for date for Accident, Illness and Routine for Accidents. Accident and Illness. Care.

There is also a 6 month waiting period for cruciate ligament claims. This 6 month waiting period may be waived if we receive, within 14 days of examining your pet, written certification from your vet that they have examined your pet on or after the policy start date and found no signs or evidence of cruciate ligament conditions.

Items Covered

Items Not Covered

Pre-existing conditions a condition, illness or injury Unforseen Illness e.g. gastroenteritis, pancreatitis, diabetes, that first occurred or showed clinical signs before your dermatitis, autoimmune diseases, thyroid problems, cancer. policy started or within the applicable waiting period Congenital and hereditary diseases e.g. BrachyceAccidental injury e.g. foreign body, hit by a car, dog fight, phalic Syndrome (breathing problems) in Bulldogs, poisoning. Intervertebral Disc Disease in Daschunds. Emergency kenneling: We will pay for essential kennel or Preventable diseases e.g. illness caused by worms, cattery fees for insured pets as a result of the owner being kennel cough, etc. hospitalized for unforeseen circumstances. Routine Care e.g. vaccinations, deworming, flea and tick Hip and elbow dysplasia control, sterilization, dental procedures. Entropion (rolling in of the eyelid) and ectropion One cruciate ligament surgery per annum (outward rolling of the eyelid) One incident of swallowing a foreign object that causes a blockage or obstruction requiring surgical or endoscopic Pregnancy and breeding removal per pet per policy year Treatment for behavioural problems

Issue 4

Page 15

Why Pet Insurance? Ensuring the health and well-being of your pets can become costly. That is exactly why pet insurance is important. Getting a veterinary insurance policy is the smart way to deal with high veterinary costs. Hollard’s Petsure policy can provide cover for illness, accidents and routine preventative care, making it the ideal pets’ medical insurance. Choosing the right veterinary insurance Getting the right kind of veterinary insurance is important. It’s necessary to think about the types of accidents and illnesses that are likely to affect your pets. The right kind of coverage will mean that you save money, taking care of unforeseen medical costs or preventing the need for such costs in the first place. Your pet’s policy can, for instance, provide the cover necessary for routine preventative care. This gives your pets the best quality of life and keeps them in the best condition to fight disease. Pets’ medical insurance benefits Additional insurance benefits offer you further peace of mind when it comes to the well-being of your pets. Hollard, for example, offers a free lost and found service for pet owners. The benefit allows you to choose the licensed veterinarian you are most comfortable with, country-wide, ensuring that your pets are always getting the best treatment. You can also get a discount on covering multiple pets and a 14-day money-back guarantee if you are unhappy with your veterinary insurance cover. What to look for when choosing pet insurance Veterinary insurance cover needs to be able to settle claims promptly and fairly. An insurance broker with a reputation for providing assistance for the care of pets and providing pet medical insurance worldwide is always going to be the smart option when deciding on insurance for your pets.

Issue 4

Page 16

Golden Retrievers—The First Century in the Showring Marilynn Morphet

Marilynn has kindly agreed to send us TWO copies of this amazing book that will be the prize of a RAFFLE, both for the Golden Retriever Club of KZN and the GRC of Transvaal. We would like to use the money and all proceeds from the raffle to assist our Rescue Scheme in helping Golden Retrievers in need of medical care, housing, kennelling, rehoming and transport.

pate in this raffle.

We would like to ask EACH and EVERYONE to please particiFor more information about this amazing book, please visit the website.

This book is sure going to become a Collectors’ Item in the years to come. This book retails at $140AUD + postage & packaging and Marilynn’s kindness to send us 2 copies is truly the opportunity to own this amazing book (I know I will be buying lots of Raffle tickets myself!!!) Herewith some critiques received about this book: I am sure all Golden lovers will find this book absorbing, as the author has gone to great lengths to ascertain and verify all the information, which she has detailed. The Information must be of great interest and help to all those interested in the history of the breed, and to all who are dedicated to Golden Retrievers… Joan Tudor (Camrose Golden Retrievers - UK) This book presents a remarkable insight into the development throughout the years of the Golden Retriever: its wealth of detail will entrance all owners and lovers of the breed and will be available as a superb reference book for them. Those seeking information on any aspect will find answers to their queries: such as the historical aspect, and details of the many dedicated breeders who have made their contributions to ensure the continuation of correct type and well being of Goldens. The author, Mrs. Marilynn Morphet, is to be congratulated for her work in assiduously gathering and presenting the fascinating information which appears within. It is a testament to her long and happy association with a breed which she obviously loves. …. Hope Phillipson (Ferngold Golden Retrievers - Australia) I congratulate Mrs Marilynn Morphet, the author of this exciting new book on the Golden Retriever. Her painstaking researching and gathering of information and statistics will make this a worthy addition to the Golden Retriever enthusiast’s library. I am sure that this book will grow to be a treasure in the history of the Golden breed ... Rose Easton (Montego Golden Retrievers - Australia)

o t s k n a h T !! ! l ! ! a i n c n e y p l S ri a M

Issue 4

Page 17

The love and appreciation of our wonderful Golden Retriever breed knows no boundaries and this volume presents a unique celebration of the beautiful, versatile Golden Retriever. It also provides a comprehensive resource for Golden fanciers who want insight into the Golden Retriever's evolution in the show ring around the globe." … Ainslie Mills (Oriana Golden Retrievers - Canada ) "With quiet determination and, over four years, research that has been careful and diligent, Marilynn has produced a unique record on the Golden Retriever. She weaves a rich tapestry of global stories and facts which will serve as a valuable and important reference to breeders present and future. It is a work of dedication, effort, courage and love and is, truly, an heirloom for our lovely Breed." Muriel Iles and Julia Iles-Hebbert (Glennessa Golden Retrievers) Marilynn's book is a veritable bible for the serious breeder. It deserves a place on every Golden Retriever fanciers bookshelf. The book is a magnificent accumulation of information of the breed. It will serve as an excellent reference book for all Golden Retriever owners and breeders. A truly wonderful book in which the breadth of coverage of both the past and present, as well as the breed around the globe is awe-inspiring. This book, written by an avid enthusiast about the Golden Retriever will have something to offer you whether your interest is in showing, field trial or any other activities, or simply having a happy, faithful companion Mr Henric Fryckstrand (Dewmist Sweden).

Raffle Draw Information Contact

: Arnel Sauer

Email

: [email protected]

Cell

: 083 601 2969 (Arnel)

Fax

: 086 638 5340

Raffle Ticket: R20 per ticket Banking Details: Bank:

Branch: Ellis Park

Standard Bank

Reference to Use:

MM Raffle+”Surname”

Raffle START:

2 January 2013

Raffle Draw:

Before end March 2013

Account Number: 002202522

Raffle CLOSE: 31 March 2013

Please SEND EMAIL and confirm WHICH GRC Club you wish to support to allow the necessary funds to be allocated to the respective clubs, after the draw.

Please include in your email: Your Name, Email Address, Postal Address, Location, Club you wish to support, Payment confirmation, Number of tickets. You don't have to be present at the draw as the book will be delivered to the lucky winner anywhere in South Africa / Namibia. The draw will be done fairly and all numbers will be included in the draw for EVERYONE to get a fair opportunity to win! After all you will have TWO chances!!!! Once the raffle has been closed, numbers will be allocated and the winners announced!! After the draw we will announce the proceeds of this Raffle in the next newsletter.

All in BENEFIT of the Golden Retriever Rescue South Africa.

Golden Retrievers in South Africa Phone: 083-601-2969 Fax: 086-638-5340

Our aim is to provide a co mmunity forum for all Golden Retr iever Breeders in South Africa to share advice, guidance, commen ts and promote responsible breedin g practices to ensure the health and wellbeing of our beloved br eed for future generations!

Please support us!

Please send us your comments, opinions, suggestions, articles, photos and anything that you feel is worth sharing. Also please send us other contacts of breeders and your puppy owners that would want to receive our newsletter. We can also advertise your training schools, kennels, equipment sales, boarding kennels, etc.