The Weimaraner Club of America - May 2022

May
2022

2021 National Field Champion 2021 National Specialty Winner
NFC FC RNL's Indiana Bones GCHG CH Nani Breica N
Crosswinds Aloha

2021
OBEDIENCE HIGH IN TRIAL

Pinky

REGEN'S BELLY DANCER,
UDX3 OM3 SWA SCE CGC

TKI NRD V

Sire: CH MACH2 Regen's Rocket Launcher,
VCD3,JH,MXG,MJC,XF,SD,RDX,VX4

Dam: Pm And Regen's Montana New Year, CDX SWA
CGC TKN SD NRD V

Breeders: Carol Meshon, Dawna Miller
& Anne Tyson

Owners: Carol Meshon & Anne Tyson

THE Bonnie Hill, Editor
WEIMARANER MAGAZINE PO Box 2084

THE MAGAZINE OF THE BEST OF BREEDS Tarpon Springs, FL 34688

Contents Phone: 215.378.0203

Monthly Columns [email protected]
DeTails........................................................9
Futurity Corner.........................................10 National Office
Meeting Minutes.......................................11 Cindy James-Moore,

Features Executive Secretary
Revisiting Spaying and Neutering Dogs 562 S State Hwy 123 Bypass #446

& Cats.......................................................16 Seguin, TX 78155
A Message from the WCA Junior
Phone: 830-624-9699
Committee.................................................24
Weimaraner Club of America 2021 [email protected]
Top Junior.................................................25
Meet Our Juniors......................................26 Hours: 10-4 CST M, W, F
A Rescue Story.........................................37
The Difference Between Field Trials and Cindy James-Moore,

Hunt Tests.................................................42 Futurity Administrator
Dog Allergies............................................46 562 S State Hwy 123 Bypass #446
Cancer and Cancer Treatments in Pets.....48
A Match Made In Heaven.........................70 Seguin, TX 78155

Results Phone: 830-624-9699
BROM FROM..........................................20
Weimaraner Club of Greater St. Louis, Inc. [email protected]
Specialty and Obedience Trial..................34 The Weimaraner Magazine (USPS 673-500)
Top 10.......................................................53
WCA Ratings Awarded.............................60 (ISSN 0162-315X) is published monthly
January 2022 Field Statistics....................62 for $55.00 per year by the Weimaraner
February 2022 Obedience Stats................63 Club of America, 1200 Union Wine Rd.,
New Braunfels, TX 78130. Periodicals
Regular Departments Postage paid at Marshfield, MO and add’l
On The Covers............................................4 mailing office. Corporate address: c/o Incorp
Breeder Referral..........................................8 Services, Inc., 9435 Waterstone Blvd., Suite
Classifieds.................................................52 140, Cincinnati, OH 45249.
New AKC Titles....................................... 58 Vol 79, Number 5, May 2022
New Member Application.........................63
Weim Clubs...............................................64 POSTMASTER:
Calendar of Events....................................67 Send address changes to WCA, 562 S. State
Hwy 123 Bypass #446, Seguin,
TX 78155-9752

Send advertising and articles to the editor,
who reserves the right to edit all copy. The
editor is not responsible for claims made
by advertisers. Statements made by writers
are not necessarily the views of the editor or
the WCA.

No advertising will be accepted that contains
or promotes Weimaraners with known or
obvious disqualifications. Photos of these
dogs may be published if they are part of the
results. No dogs with obvious disqualifying
faults will be published on a cover.

Copyright © 2022 by The Weimaraner Club of
America. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of contents in any form is
prohibited without written permission from the

publisher and the contributor.

w w w. w e i m a r a n e r c l u b o f a m e r i c a . o r g

Front Cover On The Cover
2021 Top Junior

Ashley Landis

Ashley was the WCA Top Junior Handler and Top Junior Conformation Handler for three
years consecutive years, showing “RustyGirl,” GCHG CH Silverhoney's Diamonds And

Rust, JH CA FCA CGC TKN ATT NSD.

Congratulations to Ashley!

See pages 25- to read more about our accomplished Junior members and their Weims.

Back Cover
2021 MACH Titles

MACH Regen's Get This Party Started, MXS MJS XF
T2B3 CGC SD NRD V

“Ella”

Sire: CH Pm Lazy Heart's Gold Rush Boss, JH
Dam: CH Regen's Ready For The Party, CDX RA JH OA OAJ NF CGC NRD VX

Breeders: Judith Voris, Anne Tyson & Teri Rice
Owners: Emily & Greg Burdick

Ella is a wonderful companion and agility partner. Her drive, focus and love of agility
have made training and competing with her so much fun. She is my Novice A dog who
has taught me so much! With everything she does she gives 100%, always looking to do

the right thing. I am so very lucky to have this dog in my life!

Page 4

Back Cover On The Cover
2021 MACH Titles

MACH3 Regen’s He’s On The Dance Floor, UD RN
MXG PAD MJG MFB TQX T2B2 ACT1

“Hogan”

Sire: CH MACH2 Regen's Rocket Launcher, VCD3 JH MXG MJC XF SD RDX VX4
Dam: Pm And Regen's Montana New Year, CDX SWA CGC TKN SD NRD V
Breeders: Carol Meshon, Dawna Miller & Anne Tyson
Owners: Steve & Brenda Basson

Aside from earning Three MACHs in 2021 and being the #1 Agility Weimaraner, Hogan
was the Runner Up at the recently held 2022 National Agility Championship. In 2021 he
was third at Westminster (by under one-half a second). While he competes in Obedience

as well, nothing excites him like being in the agility ring. He gives 110% effort every
time we train and compete. Hogan is a true working dog who is always looking for work

(so he can get paid) and for ways to please his owners. He has a lovely temperament,
travels well, and loves being part of the family.

MACH Regen's Silver Springs, CD SH MXS MJS MXF
T2B BCAT SD NRD VX

“Stevee”

Sire: Silvershot's Phantom Ranger
Dam: CH CT MACH9 Regen's She's On Fire, VCD3 RN MH JHR

MXG3 MJS3 MXF MFG TQX T2B5 SDX RDX VX6 BROM
Breeders: Bruce Bahcall & Anne Tyson
Owner: Bruce Bahcall

Stevee has an athletic and smooth running and jumping style and this along with her
speed take her a blast to have as an agility partner. She is very biddable and has a high

drive loves to do anything as long as she gets to be with me. She is also training in
obedience, tracking, retrieving and is currently working on her Master Hunter title. She
is a very loving and sweet dog and when at home she must sit next to me or on my lap or
behind me and after every agility run she jumps straight up in the air and tries to give me
a kiss on the face. The bottom line is she’s a great companion and friend and her Mama

Ashlee would be very proud!

Page 5

Back Cover On The Cover
2021 MACH Titles

CH MACH Trax Seahabilitation, CDX BN RE JH MXS
MJS NAP NJP MFB NFP T2B DM DSAAS CGC TKA

NSD NRD VX2

“Ocean”

Sire: GCH CH Trax Blaise Pascal, JH BROM
Dam: FC Trax Edenrock Fireworks One, SH OA OAJ OAP NJJP NF NRD V

MXG3 MJS3 MXF MFG TQX T2B5 SDX RDX VX6 BROM
Breeders: Anabel Schafnit, Cindy Cerne & Shirley Nilsson
Owner: Janet Valentovich

Ocean, at 3.5 years old, earned her MACH on November 28, 2021 at the USDTC trial
in Palmetto FL. This girl is super smart, learning the skills needed to qualify and win
placements in large 24 inch classes. With her speed and accuracy, she has multiple titles
in agility and we are currently working towards her MACH 2. She's a joy, has strong
work ethics and always a crowd pleaser. Watch for the rising tide...Team Ocean comes to

play and succeed.

MACH Regen's Lucky I Am To Carry The Torch,
MXS MJS OF CGC TKI

“Calgary”

Sire: CH Brymar's Ode An Das Haus Der Reiteralm, SDX NRD V BROM
Dam: CH CT MACH9 Regen's She's On Fire, VCD3 RN MH JHR
MXG3 MJS3 MXF MFG TQX T2B5 SDX RDX VX6 BROM
Breeders: Bruce Bahcall & Anne Tyson
Owner: Stacey Zaleski

2021 was an amazing year for Calgary...achieved MACH, earned agility HIT at WCA
National Specialty, and competed at AKC National Agility Championship and AKC
Agility Invitational. Calgary is known for being sweet, his expressive eyes and his BIG

personality!

Page 6



WCA Breeder Referral

Expecting Puppies?

by Billie Thompson

A new litter of puppies fills us with excitement, hopes and dreams. It’s a perfect time to
take advantage of your WCA Breeder Referral service.
A few things you might like to know about this service.
• I do not screen inquiries. Instead, that is up to each individual breeder. Breeders

have individual preferences for selecting potential homes for their puppies.
• The greater number of inquiries comes from people wanting a well-bred puppy and

some have also done a little research on the breed.
• The majority of inquiries are from people that do not want to travel far for a pup,

though I encourage them to consider greater distances.
• The majority of inquiries indicate they want to obtain a puppy from a

reputable breeder.
• If no one has listed a litter in an area preferred by an inquiry, I give out contacts for

any local clubs nearby as well.
This service is available to all WCA members. Futurity litters are automatically placed on
the list. If your litter is not nominated, simply email your information to me to be placed
on the list.
Everyone is welcome to notify me as early as pregnancy is confirmed!
Your information should include - sire and dam, approximate due date, your city, state,
email and phone number.
Please send this information to [email protected].
Thank you, and best of luck with your litters!

Billie Thompson
WCA Breeder Referral • [email protected]

Page 8

DeTails from the Office

By Cindy James-Moore

2022 WCA Membership Meeting When Pro Club members declare for the
The meeting will be held prior to the program and identify the WCA as their
National Specialty Banquet on Thursday parent club, Purina matches their weight
May 12th at Purina Farms, Gray Summit, circle points. For every 100 points Purina
MO. donates $10.00. 50% is donated to the
Canine Health Foundation (for the WCA’s
2022 WCA Elections – Call for fund) and 50% to the WCA for health,
Nominations! education and rescue.
If you wish to be considered for a position
that is up for election (Vice-President, Are you receiving WCA News Emails?
Treasurer or Director) or if you have a If not, I need your current email address, or
recommendation for the Nominating the messages may be going to your spam/
Committee to consider, please contact Billie junk folder.
Thompson, Nominating Committee Chair:
513-688-0943, [email protected]. Remember if you have any questions,
please let me know – I’ll be happy to help.
Purina Pro Club Members
Become a Pro Club member and send in Cindy
your weight circles to benefit the WCA!
Participating in the Purina Parent Club Cindy
Partnership Program does not impact your 830-624-9699
Pro Club benefits in any way. If you are wcaexecsec.gmail.com
feeding Purina products, please sign up to
participate.

UNANIMOUS WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE DIRECTORS OF THE
WEIMARANER CLUB OF AMERICA

March 17, 2022

The undersigned, being all the Directors of the Weimaraner Club of America, an Ohio
corporation, hereby unanimously authorize, consent and agree, in accordance with
Section 1702 of the Nonprofit Corporation Law of the State of Ohio, to the adoption
of the following resolutions and taking of the following actions:

RESOLVED that the Weimaraner Club of America approves a payment of $158.50
(a 1/5 share) for a new refrigerator for the field trail clubhouse in Ardmore, OK.

Page 9

Futurity Corner

By Cindy James Moore

Congrats to the winner of the Eastern Field Futurity. Good luck to all attending the Eastern
Show Futurity & Maturity as well as those attending the National Specialty and the Central
Show Futurity & Maturity. May is a busy month for our grey kids.

May 31st closes the 2023 Futurity year for litter nominations. Puppies whelped on and
after June 1st will compete in the ’24 Futurity year events. Hard to believe we are almost
ready to start nominating 2024 puppies, time sure does fly.

If you are wondering when future Futurities & Maturities are, you can find this information
on the WCA’s Website. The web address is http://weimaranerclubofamerica.org. Hover
over the Events tab and then click on Futurity/Maturity. At the bottom of the page is a list
of upcoming events. You can also find the list of Eligible Dogs as well as the Futurity Litter
Nomination Form and the Futurity Rules.

Thank you to the clubs that are hosting these events. We could not do it without you.

If you have any questions, please email me at [email protected].

Cindy

2023 Futurity Litter Nominations

47– PM’S FAST FLYING FAIRY ON TAPP, JH, NSD Bred to TRAX POP ROCKS ON
TAPP, JH. Deanna M. Beach & M. Gail Gegg, P.O. Box 507, Deer Park, WA 99006

48– GCH CH CHEYENNE’S LADY BUG, JH Bred to CH CHEYENNE &
SILVERBAY’S GET LUCKY. Christine Trujillo, 1141 Sherman St., Longmont, CO
80501

49– CH STARGAZER N FREEDOM HILL’S PIECE OF MY HEART Bred to CH
UNITY’S BZYFEET GAME DAY AT STARWOOD. Carol Dubuque & Linda
Caplan, 71 Baptist Rd., Canterbury, NH 03224

50 – CH SILBERKINDER BLAST VON DER PAST MIT PM, JH Bred to CH
BRITANNIA CABALLERO DE PLATA, CD, JH, NRD, V, BROM. Susan Wallace,
Dawna Miller & Shelly Jernigan, PO Box 265, Carter, MT 59420

51 – CH PM’S WINTER FROST FAIRY Bred to GCHS CH SILVERBAY’S BORN
THIS WAY! SH, CGC, TKA, RDX, VX. Dawna Miller, PO Box 265, Carter, MT
59420

Page 10

Minutes of the Monthly Conference

WCA Board of Directors

Weimaraner Club of America member under the By-Laws, Section
Telephonic Board of Directors Meeting 4.B. 2nd By Suzanne Honeyman. Motion
passed.
Wednesday February 9, 2022

The meeting was called to order by Secretary’s Report,
President John Bonner at 6:01 p.m. MST. submitted by Vickie Margolis
Attending the meeting were: President,
John Bonner; Vice President, Sarah The following email was received from
Chvilicek; Secretary, Vickie Margolis; AKC:
Treasurer, Robbe McAlexander. Weimaraner Club of America Donor
Directors: Frank Sommer, Wayne Cowles, Advised Fund
Jill Paige, Suzanne Honeyman and Billie
Thompson. Executive Secretary Cindy 4th Quarter 2021 Statement (1/1/2021 -
James-Moore 12/31/2021)
Absent: Director Julie Aune & AKC *To obtain a history of your organiza-
Delegate Judy Colan tion’s research support or to learn about
research areas in need of sponsorship,
John reviewed the agenda please email [email protected]
Your organization’s 2021 fourth quarter
Motion made by Billie Thompson to AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF)
approve the January Board minutes as Donor Advised Fund (DAF) statement
amended. 2nd by Jill Paige. Motion is above, showing activity through
passed 12/31/2021 and including 2020 Puri-
na Parent Club Partnership Program
Executive Secretary Report, (PPCPP) earnings.
submitted by Cindy James-Moore In addition to reviewing your DAF state-
CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS: ment, we encourage you to refer to our
active research studies that are currently
APPROVE 60-DAY EXTENSIONS: A in need of support (see 2021 Research
list of members applying for the 60-day Grants Portfolio or search by health top-
extension to renew membership were re- ic on our website). In 2021, we awarded
viewed. $3.4 million in new research approaches
According to the By-Laws, Section 4.B., for canine health and increased our port-
Termination of Membership: folio with 50 new studies to help all dogs
“By lapsing. A membership will be con- live happier and healthier lives.
sidered as lapsed and automatically ter- Please contact [email protected] or call
minated if such member’s dues remain 888-682-9696 to discuss specific projects
unpaid 30 days after the first day of the of interest to you and your breed.
fiscal year; however, the Board may grant
an additional 60 days of grace to such If you’re ready to put DAF dollars to
delinquent members in meritorious cas- work for dogs now, you can make your
es. In no case may a person be entitled important recommendation for sponsor-
to vote at any Club meeting whose dues ship by completing a research sponsor-
are unpaid as of the date of that meeting. ship form and support innovative canine
health research. Grant sponsorships at a
Motion made by Sarah Chvilicek to ap- level of $2,500 or more earn regular sci-
prove the members asking to renew their entific progress updates on these critical

Page 11

studies and are great to share with your Of particular interest are bills that are
membership as you follow along with the being introduced under “animal welfare”
work of leaders in veterinary medicine titles, but have many clauses that would
and scientific research. Also, right now, limit breeding, ownership, etc. These
an anonymous donor is matching all do- bills have just been introduced and are
nations to CHF’s Musculoskeletal Con- not yet at a stage where we can have an
ditions and Disease Research Program impact on them. We are monitoring leg-
Area, up to $25,000. islation through information supplied
We look forward to hearing from you. by the AKC and also by several sources
Thank you for your continued partner- available through legislation monitor-
ship! ing groups. We are happy to report that
Sincerely, WCA members have been very helpful
Andrea Fiumefreddo, CHF VP of Pro- in several states with regard to defeating
grams and Operations: andrea.fiumefred- proposed legislation in the past year. We
[email protected] hope the membership will continue to as-
And Katherine Brantley, CHF Director of sist where needed.
Finance: [email protected] Planned Activities: Continue monitoring
legislation in all states related to topics
Treasurer Report, that affect breeding, ownership, licens-
submitted by Robbe McAlexander. ing, health, etc.
Robbe gave the account balances.
Field Committee,
Assign Committee Chairs: submitted by Connie Nowell
• Breeder’s Education – The Weimaraner Club of Washington DC
• AKC Delegate – John Bonner will Area has offered to host the Eastern Field
Classic and Field Futurity. The Field
contact Judy Colan regarding her Committee supports their bid and is ask-
interest in continuing as the WCA’s ing for Board approval.
AKC Delegate. There is a possibility that the Western
Field Classic and Field Futurity will be
COMMITTEE REPORTS: held sometime in August in Oregon.
Photo Contest/Calendar Committee, The Board is asking the Field Committee
submitted by Brenda Reinert to review the Field Classic rules regard-
ing the dates when Classics may be held.
Activity Summary: Motion made by Sarah Chvilicek to ap-
• Updated the sales balance sheet prove Weimaraner Club of the Washing-
• Calendar profited again this year. ton DC Area hosting the Eastern Field
Planned Activities: Create a “teaser” ad Classic and Field Futurity. 2nd by Frank
for future magazine Sommer. Motion passed.
Recommendation: Calendar seems to
continue to be popular and I sold out Health Committee,
quicker than last year. I recommend up- submitted by Debra Konkol
ping the quantity to 300 for 2023 calen- Activity: The WCA BOD and Health
dar. Committee were contacted by a represen-
tative of the Weimaraner Clubs of Aus-
Motion made by Sarah Chvilicek to in- tralia in regards to partnering with the
crease the number of calendars for 2023 Australian Clubs to research Wobblers
to 300 calendars. 2nd by Suzanne Honey- Syndrome in the Weimaraner.
man. Motion passed. • Contacted the Morris Animal Foun-

Legislative Committee, dation to gauge interest in a collabo-
submitted by Christine Boldrick ration on a Wobblers/Cervical Insta-
Activity Summary: We have been mon- bility project.
itoring legislation, and although it has • Committee would like to submit a
been slow, we expect it to ramp up soon. WCA Breed Health Mission State-

Page 12

ment for BOD approval: Rationale:
"The WCA Health Committee is commit- The committee feels that the MVW
ted to preserving the health of the Weima- points from conformation are too heavi-
raner for future generations through the ly weighted against dogs that show in the
education of Weimaraner owners, breed- best of breed class.
ers and the public. The WCA Health In order for champions to get any MVW
Committee recommends and encourages points, they must get a BOB, BOS, Se-
the adherence to the WCA Code of Eth- lect, or an AOM. Dogs that are entered
ics and the pre-breeding health testing in classes (that are eligible to go on to
of both sire and dam in accordance with best of breed- not stud dog, brood bitch,
the OFA CHIC Weimaraner Breed Health or brace) must place 1-4 in their class in
Testing Profile.” order to get 1 point. The classes are much
Motion made by Billie Thompson to ap- smaller than the best-of-breed competi-
prove the Health Committee’s Mission tion. This makes it much easier for the
Statement. 2nd by Wayne Cowels. Motion class dogs to get points and much hard-
passed. er for the champions to get points. So,
by awarding 1 MVW point to champions
Planned Activities: after they have shown in best of breed it
• The health committee will continue makes it more equitable to the champions
than it has been in the past.
to alert the membership to important Recommendation: That the board ap-
health research opportunities where prove the MVW scoring change in time
participation is needed for the 2022 National Specialty.
• Continuing to speak with possible Motion made by Sarah Chvilicek to ap-
veterinary research partners in aca- prove the recommendation to award 1
demia and/or industry to collaborate point (equal to a 1-4 placement in a con-
on a Wobblers/Cervical Instability formation class) to all champions of re-
project. cord entered and shown in Best of Breed
Recommendation: competition at the National Specialty.
• The Health Committee is request- 2nd by Frank Sommer. Motion passed.
ing full support of the WCA BOD
to partner with the Australian Clubs National Show Committee,
on a research project to investigate submitted by Sandy West
Wobblers Syndrome in the Weima- A financial summary of the 2021 National
raner. Specialty has been provided to the Board.
The Board is giving full support for the The WCA did not incur a loss even after
Health Committee to partner with the overcoming a $2500 loss from the can-
Australian Clubs on investigating Wob- celed 2020 Harrisburg Best Western Ho-
blers Syndrome in the Weimaraner. tel contract. The cancelation was due to
COVID. Also, the WCA acted as the host
Companion Committee, for the Central Futurities/Maturities held
submitted by Gretchen Stephenson in Oklahoma City in July 2021.
Activity Summary: The committee met
via a zoom call and had email discus- 2020/2021 saw many cancelations and
sions. rescheduling of the national specialty and
Discussed issue with Most Versatile Wei- the futurities/maturities. Through it all
maraner scoring at the national specialty. the membership stayed with it and kept
Planned Activities: Update MVW rules their dogs eligible. I am grateful for the
upon board approval of the point change. membership, many of the local host clubs
• PROPOSAL FOR MVW SCORING being so flexible with the scheduling and
to the show committee for dealing with
CHANGE - 2022 WCA NATIONAL all the changes. A special thank you goes
SPECIALTY to the group from the Weimaraner Club of
Award 1 point (equal to a 1-4 place- Washington DC Area for all their patience
ment in a conformation class) to all and understanding as we rescheduled the
champions of record entered and
shown in Best of Breed competition
at the National Specialty

Page 13

2020 Eastern Nationals several times. Lifetime Achievement Committee,
submitted by Sandy West
Overall, I am very pleased we didn’t lose • The Lifetime Achievement Commit-
money in such trying times and to work
with people who understand the challeng- tee received and recommends one
es and continue to offer their support. nomination for the LAA award for
the Board to consider. If approved
Future Events by the Board, the award will be pre-
2022 - Nationals at Purina Farms, sented at the 2022 National.
Gray Summit, MO This is going to be Motion made by Sarah Chvilicek to ap-
an expensive endeavor as Purina is under prove the LAA Committee’s recommen-
new management and many things have dation for the 2022 recipient of the LAA
changed since we first initiated our con- award. 2nd by Suzanne Honeyman.
tract. We are working on the premium list Motion passed.
now which will be out next month.
2023 – Nationals in Ventura, CA. All OLD BUSINESS:
events are scheduled for 2023, currently • Roush Estate: Tabled to discuss at a
working on signing all judges.
2024 – Nationals in Perry, GA – Work- special board meeting scheduled for
ing on schedules Wed. February 16, 2022
2025 – Nationals unassigned but looking
into going back to Roberts Center in OH. • Western Field Futurity Trophy:
Waiting to confirm the date the tro-
Judge’s Education Committee, phy was first awarded and a com-
submitted by Billie Thompson plete list of dogs including full
It has been suggested that the Committee name, owner, handler or breeder.
Chair, Stephanie Meyer be invited to at-
tend the next board meeting at a specific NEW BUSINESS: No new business
time. Billie will get back to Stephanie and
invite to the next meeting, (if her sched- Motion made by Vickie Margolis to ad-
ule allows) to discuss the Judges Educa- journ. 2nd by Robbe McAlexander. Meet-
tion video. ing adjourned.

Juniors Program Committee, Respectfully submitted,
submitted by Sarah Chvilicek Vickie Margolis
• A revised Scholarship Policy was WCA Secretary

submitted to the Board for approval
with the changes previously suggest-
ed by the Board.
Motion made by Sarah Chvilicek to ap-
prove the revised Scholarship Policy. 2nd
by Suzanne Honeyman. Motion Passed.

• A revised letter to the membership
was submitted for Board approval.

Motion made by Billie Thompson to ap-
prove the revised letter to the membership
soliciting donations to the Junior Pro-
gram. 2nd by Suzane Honeyman. Motion
passed.

Discussion regarding the payment links
for the Junior Program on the WCA web-
site. The Communications Committee
Liaison will contact the webmaster and
have the additional boxes and links re-
moved.

Page 14

Balloting Results, 2025 WCA Show Events
 Judges for 2025 Show Events
(Top 10 plus ties)
1. Michael Canalizo
2. Douglas A Johnson
3. Robert Margolis
3. Meghen Riese-Bassel
3. Ann Yuhasz
4. Alessandra Floz
4. Carl Liepmann
4. Dr. Donald Sturz Jr.
5. Barbara Dempsey Alderman
5. Dana Cline
5. John S Lucas
5. Elliott B Weiss

71 Members Voting

Page 15

Health

Debra Konkol

Chair of the WCA Health Committee

Revisiting DSpoagysin&gCaantds Neutering

Used with permission: Dr. Jean Dodds’ Pet Health Resource Blog

Overview
The subject of whether and when to spay or neuter our dog and cat companions is
decades old, and the dilemma and controversy has not subsided despite intensive
medical, scientific and social study. The list of just some of the relevant references
at the end of this article attests to the breadth and scope of the existing information.

Some factors that enter into the broader discussion include:

• Societal and community responsibilities and concerns
• Animal overpopulation and environmental issues
• The human-animal bond
• Interests and needs of individuals that both want and deplore animal companions
• Costs of medical and maintenance care of animal companions
• Prevention of cruelty and animal suffering
• Personal preferences for eating meat, dairy and fish or only vegetables
• Using animals for sport and competition events
• Hunting for food and sport

This article will not attempt to address these broader discussion topics, but list them
here as food for thought.

Benefits of Spaying and Neutering
For the individual animal and caregiver

• Means of permanent birth control.
• Less frustration with per caregivers dealing with mating instinct behaviors.
• More convenient for the pet caregiver to not worry about estrus soiling of

females, unwanted pregnancies, and roaming or sexual aggression of males. Pets
more calm and content at home.
• Permits early spay and neutering of dogs and cats in pound and shelter facilities
(8-16 weeks of age).
• Avoids non-compliance (typically above 40%) with pound and shelter
sterilization agreement, if completed before adoption.
• Reduction in undesirable mating instinct behaviors including mounting and
urine spraying, especially problematic in male cats.
• Reduced risk of false pregnancies (pseudocyesis) in dogs, which occurs in about
50% of unsprayed females.
• Prevention of mammary tumors – female dogs and cats are seven times less
likely to get mammary tumors if spayed before their maiden heat cycle.
Mammary neoplasia is common in female dogs, with a reported incidence of
3.4%; about 50% are malignant. Female dogs spayed before their first heat have
a lifetime chance of developing mammary tumors of about 99.5% less than that
of intact females. If spayed after their first heat, the risk is about 92% less. Also,

Page 16

spaying female dogs more than two years before removing mammary tumors
increases the survival odds by 45%.
• In cats, gonadectomy before 5.5 months of age was not associated with increased
rates of death, relinquishment, or occurrence of serious medical or behavioral
condition. Provides important long-term benefits, especially for male cats.
• Prevention of pyometra, hydrometra, uterine and ovarian cancers, and testicular
cancer, although some spayed females may experience pyometra of the uterine
stump.
• Reduction in prostatitis, prostatic hypertrophy, and prostate cancer.

For the community and society

• Reduced pet overpopulation and related cost burden.
• Avoid euthanasia of millions of unwanted dogs and cats annually.
• Reduced destruction and contamination of environmental rural and urban

habitat.
• Reduced wildlife interaction and breeding with domesticated dogs and cats.
• Reduced feral dog and cat population, cost burden, and potential infectious and

zoonotic disease spread.
• Reduced cost and emotional burden of unwanted dogs and cats rescued by

pounds and shelters.
• Reduced non-compliance with pound and shelter sterilization agreement at time

of adoption.

Risks and Disadvantages of Spaying and Neutering
For the individual animal and caregiver

• Increased anesthetic and surgical complications, especially in the presence
of other health issues. The risk for anesthetic-related death with all surgical
procedures is low, about 0.05% for healthy dogs and 0.11% for healthy
cats. However, this risk for sick dogs and cats is about 1.33% and 1.40%,
respectively.

• Increased risk of obesity, which varies between dog breeds, but is independent
of the age at neutering. Obesity risk in gonadectomized cats is associated with
increased food intake.

• Increased risk (two-fold) in dogs of either sex for osteosarcoma; the risk
increases with increasing breed size and especially dog height.

• Increased risk (five-fold in female dogs; 2.4- fold in male dogs) for
hemangiosarcoma.

• Increased urinary incontinence in adulthood if female puppies spayed before
12 weeks of age. But, spaying at 4-6 months of age did not affect urinary
incontinence risk later on.

• Increased urinary incontinence in spayed females, with incidence ranging from
4.9-20%.

• Increased urinary tract cancers in dogs of both sexes. Increased risk of prostate
cancer in dogs (about 2% vs 0.6% in intact males).

• Increased incidence of feline lower urinary tract disease, primarily in males.
• Increased risk in male cats of stones or a plug in urethra, urethral sphincter

incontinence, and urethral blockage.
• Increased risk in dogs of both sexes for adverse reactions to vaccinations (27-

38% increase).
• Parallel increased risk in cats of both sexes for adverse reactions to vaccinations.
• Increased frequency of hypothyroidism in dogs, primarily females.

Page 17

• Increased hormone-responsive alopecia (hair loss).
• Increased loss of cognitive function in geriatric dogs, especially in males;

believed to be associated with testosterone level.
• Increased anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and rupture in dogs.

For the community and society (same as above but the inverse of the beneficial effects

Behavioral Issues with Spaying and Neutering

• Despite numerous studies, a consensus has not been reached concerning the
effects that neutering male and female dogs have on behavior and specifically on
aggression.

• Study results were highly variable so that other factors presumably have a larger
impact than neutering.

• For female dogs with existing aggression, many studies have reported increased
aggressive behavior to humans and other animals, and some found more
separation anxiety.

• In neutered male dogs, more behavioral problems were recorded especially in
aggression.

• In spayed female dogs, the most observed behavioral problem was fearfulness.
• Early-age gonadectomy has been associated with an increased incidence of

noise phobias and undesirable sexual behaviors in dogs of both sexes. [see more
below]
• Spaying female dogs reduces production of progesterone, a natural calming
hormone and a serotonin promotor.

Breed- and Sex- Associated Differences with Spaying and Neutering
Golden Retrievers vs Labrador Retrievers

• Marked increase in three joint disorders (hip dysplasia, ACL tear, and elbow
dysplasia) and four cancers (lymphosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, mast cell
tumor, and mammary cancer) was reported in spayed and neutered Golden
retrievers than in their intact counterparts.

• In male and female Golden Retrievers, with a 5% rate of joint disorders in intact
dogs, neutering at 6 months increased the incidence of a joint disorder to 4–5
times that of intact dogs.

• In contrast, Labrador Retrievers, where about the same 5 % of intact males and
females had one or more joint disorders, neutering at 6 months doubled the
incidence of one or more joint disorders in both sexes.

• For cancers, in female Golden Retrievers, with a 3% rate of one or more cancers
in intact females, neutering at all periods through 8 years of age increased the
rate of at least one of the cancers by 3–4 times.

• The incidence of one or more cancers in female Labrador Retrievers increased
slightly above the same 3% level of intact females with neutering.

• However, in male Golden and Labrador Retrievers neutering had relatively
minor effects in increasing the occurrence of cancers. Comparisons of cancers
in the two breeds suggest that the occurrence of cancers in female Golden
Retrievers is a reflection of particular vulnerability to gonadal hormone removal.

Early-Age Spay and Neutering

• Several studies have indicated the procedure to be safe between 8-16 weeks of
age, with no increase in mortality or serious health and behavioral problems
when compared to conventional age neutering.

• One study showed increased incidence of hip dysplasia (6.7%) for dogs neutered
Page 18

before 5.5 months of age compared to 4.7% for dogs neutered later on.
• No association between age of neutering and arthritis or long-bone fractures, and

no correlation between age of neutering and musculoskeletal problems.
• Study of large breed dogs with ACL rupture found early-age neutering to cause

an excessive angle to the tibial plateau.
• Female dogs neutered early are much more likely to develop cystitis although

the risk did not appear to be chronic.
• Two studies showed an increased risk of canine parvovirus infection with early

age neuter, but causation was not established.
• Separation anxiety, aggression, escape behavior and inappropriate elimination

were reduced while noise phobia and sexual behavior was increased. In
aggressive males, earlier neutering may increase barking. In cats, asthma,
gingivitis, and hyperactivity were decreased, while shyness was increased. In
male cats, occurrence of abscesses, aggression toward veterinarians, sexual
behaviors, and urine spraying was decreased, but hiding was increased.

Traditional Surgical Options and Alternatives for Sterilization

• Classical ovario-hysterectomy and castration still considered the traditional
methods of spaying and neutering pre- and post-pubertal dogs. The ovaries,
fallopian tubes and uterus are removed from a female dog. This sterilizes her and
eliminates her heat cycle.

• Newer methods include ovariectomy (only ovaries removed) and hysterectomy
(only uterus and part of the fallopian tubes are removed). With hysterectomy,
the ovaries remain and produce hormones.

• Spaying with laparoscopy is becoming more popular for females.
• Tubal ligation by snipping and tying off the fallopian tubes can be performed on

female cats and dogs, but few veterinarians perform the procedure.
• Castration or orchiectomy is the typical neuter. The testes are removed, and male

breeding behaviors should cease.
• Vasectomy cuts and ties off the vas deferens, which conducts sperm from the

testes. The testes still produce hormones, so that male breeding behavior can
continue. It is uncommonly practiced in dogs and cats.

These alternatives from complete neutering as they leave the levels and cycle of sex
hormones unchanged. Both sexes will retain their normal reproductive behavior,
and other than birth control, none of the advantages and disadvantages listed above
will apply. These methods are favored by those people who seek minimal change
in natural state of companion animals and yet still achieve the desired reduction of
unwanted births of dogs and cats.
Non-Surgical Sterilization

An approved product available to neuter male dogs; injected into the testes to stop
sperm production and render the dog infertile. Because not all of the hormone-
producing cells of the testes are affected by the drug, the testis will continue to
produce hormones. As research continues, other products for nonsurgical sterilization
should be forthcoming.

W. Jean Dodds, DVM
Hemopet / NutriScan
11561 Salinaz Avenue
Garden Grove, CA 92843

Page 19

in memory

On behalf of the WCA Health Committee we would
like to remember

Cheryl Lent

We would like to thank Cheryl for her dedication to
the committee and for being a champion of Weimaraner

health.

“If you don’t have health, you have nothing.
If you aren’t producing healthy dogs with sound

temperaments,
you have nothing to be proud of.”

Cheryl’s words will be always be remembered and will
continue to guide the Health Committee in our mission to

preserve this breed for future generations.

BROM/FROM UPDATE

Those listed below have recently earned their BROM/FROM titles. Questions? Contact Sandy West at

[email protected], please put BROM in the subject line. The BROM/FROM is available online at

http://www.wcaadmin.com/bromuser.aspx. Please check this site for updates on your dog.



BROM Pts #Ch’s #Nom

NEW BROM SIRES

GCHG CH Josh To Shine Of Fairy Wings JP, SH SD NRD V BROM

194 8 13

Owner: Julie Aune

Breeder: Tomoyuki Funahashi

Sire: GCHG CH Trifar’s Earth’s Shelters Of Moonstone

Dam: Aileen Of Fairy Wings JP

NEW BROM DAMS

CH Greyborn’s Celestial Total Eclipse to Zauberhaft BROM

52 4 5

Owner: Linda Swanson, Rachelle Sanborn, Paul Christopher, Michelle Nowacki

Breeder: Rachelle Sanborn & Paul Christopher

Sire: GCHP CH Diamond Mk The Eagle Has Landed NRD BROM

Dam: GCHP CH Doc’s Greyborn North Star of Acadia BROM

Page 20





2021
MACH TITLE

OCEAN

CH MACH TRAX SEAHABILITATION, CDX
BN RE JH MXS MJS NAP NJP MFB NFP
T2B DM DSA AS CGC TKA NSD NRD VX2

Sire: GCH CH Trax Blaise Pascal, JH BROM
Dam: FC Trax Edenrock Fireworks, One SH OA OAJ

OAP NJP NF NRD V
Breeders: Anabel Schafnit, Cindy Cerne & Shirley

Nilsson
Owner: Janet Valentovich

A Message from the

WCA JUNIOR COMMITTEE

Dear WCA members,

The WCA Junior Committee would like to keep a Further Education Scholarship
program going for our Junior members to encourage them to be involved, and to
learn to be the future of our breed.

As some of you may have noticed, the scholarships offered have been provided by
individual donors. Since we no longer have that privilege for the future and the 2022
year coming up, the Junior Committee has been working with the Board of Directors
to develop a Scholarship Fund where WCA members can donate to in order to keep
scholarships sustained in the future. This can be done in a couple of ways. You can
still specifically offer an amount to support a particular category or donate an amount
that would be used over a variety of categories as needed.

So far we do have some areas covered. Field events such as Field Trial Titles, Hunt
Test Titles, and Rating Titles will still have scholarships offered by an individual
donor. $1,000 has been offered to help with Junior Showmanship and Conformation.
We could use some more towards those. $300 has been offered towards Best Junior
Handler at the 2022 National.

We would like to encourage more kids to participate in Obedience/Rally and Agility.
If you are interested in supporting those categories please let me know. If you would
like your donation to go to a specific category please let me know that also.

In addition, our Junior rules provide for a Rosette for year-end top winner and runner
up in Junior Showmanship and certificates to all the other participants. In the last
few years Rosettes have been given to all participants but those were through an
individual’s donations. If you would like to donate to provide rosettes to the other
participants that would also be appreciated but that donation is separate from the
Scholarship Fund. Please do not use the Junior Program Donation button for that, but
contact me to arrange covering those.

Any funds not won during a competition year will be carried over to the next year.

Other Titles for miscellaneous events are covered with certificates and recognition in
the magazine.

To make a Scholarship Donation please go to the WCA Website at https://
weimaranerclubofamerica.org/ and go to the “Make a Payment” box, “Donation”
Box, and then under “Use this donation for” pull down to “WCA Juniors Program.”

Thank you in advance to anyone who would like to support our youth. Please contact
me at my e-mail address for any more information or how to make a donation.

Sincerely,

Barbara Taylor, Chair ([email protected])
and the WCA Junior Committee

Page 24

Weimaraner Club of America
2021 Top Junior

Ashley Landis

and BOB at the National Dog Show in
2020. My goals when I started handling
dogs was not to be the best or win the
most, but rather to enjoy the sport and
spend quality time with the dogs I love
and train. I think that when a dog and
handler can connect in and out of the
show ring like RustyGirl and I did, it
makes the handling more enjoyable and
fun. It’s that true connection that shines
through and naturally brings success.

I am so incredibly honored to be I have now aged out of Junior
recognized as the Top Junior by the Showmanship and in the fall of 2021 I
Weimaraner Club of America for the started attending West Chester University
third year in a row! These three years of Pennsylvania majoring in Finance
shared with a very special Weimaraner, and minoring in Accounting. I would
RustyGirl, have been deeply meaningful, like to thank the Weimaraner Club of
enjoyable and rewarding to me. I first met America and the generous donors such
RustyGirl in January of 2019 when she as Cindy and Bruce Cassidy and Laurie
was a baby in the 4-6 month puppy class Sales. The WCA Junior Showmanship
and I was fifteen years old. We clicked program is strong with generous stipends
immediately, winning back to back Best and scholarships which I have been so
Beginner Puppy in Show awards. You fortunate and grateful to receive. Thank
could say that RustyGirl and I grew up you.
together and we certainly formed a strong
bond as we trained, traveled and played I would also like to sincerely thank
over the years. I know for a fact that I RustyGirl’s breeder, Suzanne Honeyman,
became a better handler thanks to her. for sharing RustyGirl with me and
trusting her to my care, allowing her to
I appreciate every win, qualification, and live in my home for years. RustyGirl and
title RustyGirl and I achieved over the I were an amazing team and that would
years because they represent the best of not have been possible without Suzanne.
the team we made. I piloted RustyGirl So many beautiful memories were made
to her AKC Championship, Grand and I will always remember them fondly.
Championship, and Bronze & Silver
Grand Championships. I handled her in Finally, and most of all, I would like
the field to a NAVHDA Natural Ability to thank my mom, Amy Fluck, for all
Prize II, AKC Junior Hunter, and WCA her love, encouragement and support. I
Novice Shooting Dog. We qualified to know that none of this would have been
complete in Junior Showmanship at the possible without her. I love you, mom!
Westminster Kennel Club show twice, the
AKC National Championship show three Thank you all!
times for both Junior Showmanship and Ashley Landis
NOHS competitions. Among our most
special wins were BOS at Westminster

Page 25

MEET OUR JUNIORS

Top Junior Scholarship – combined points in
Jr Showmanship and Conformation Handling

Ashley Landis
Runner Up - Alexandra Lorenti

Ashley Landis - Page 25 Shai Lei Shepard – Page 29
Alexandra Lorenti - Page 27 Conner Maher – Page 28
Rylie Gardea – Page 29 Braden Greer – Page 28
Madison Gardea – Page 29 Laila Brickson - No picture submitted
Ashley LaCoste – Page 28 Aaron Bradle - No picture submitted
Grace Parker – Page 28

Weimaraner Club of America Junior Program and Scholarships

We are happy to announce that we have had more Juniors participating this past
year in the program than there has been in many years. We have had approximately
11+ young people competing in Junior Showmanship, Conformation, Hunt Tests,
Obedience, NAHVDA, Trick Dog and so forth.

The Junior Program is not only about Competition but teaches young people
responsibility, dog care, patience, interacting with people, time management
planning, setting goals, being active, and many other life skills while working with
their dogs. Please consider getting your youngster involved in our great program.

We have had a good response in WCA members contributing to the Junior Fund
so we can continue to award Higher Education Scholarships. We could use more
contributions to build a good fund. There is more information available on this in this
edition.

WCA also offers Rosettes and Certificates to youth who participate in the Program
and recognition in the magazine.

In addition to the WCA Junior Program AKC also has a Junior Recognition program
with recognition and Scholarships for youth participating in many of the events they
offer. You can find more information on how this works at this link:
https://www.akc.org/sports/conformation/junior-showmanship/junior-recognition-
program/

To report your wins or for information contact the Junior Chair Barb Taylor at
[email protected]

Page 26

JUNIORS

through December 2021

Junior Showmanship Conformation

Ashley Landis – 90 Ashley Landis - 117
Rylie Gardea – 24 Alexandra Lorenti - 101
Grace Parker - 18
Alexandra Lorenti - 14 Ashley LaCoste - 77
Madison Gardea - 4 Shai Lei Shepard - 59
Shai Lei Shepard - 3 Madison Gardea - 6
Laila Brickson - 3
Aaron Bradle – 1 Grace Parker – 1
Conner Maher - 1

Alexandra Lorenti

Runner-Up

What a year I have had with some of the LEFT: "Cedar", CH Silverhoney's Hot Ashes for
best Weimaraners! I showed 2 dogs to Trees, BCAT, CGC, TKN, ATT
their Championships, qualified for the RIGHT: "Peach", GCHG Silverhoney's Southern Girl
Royal Canin Junior showmanship com- RI, JH, FDC, NA, NAJ, OAP, OJP, OFP, CAA, FCAT2,
petition, and had the privilege of showing SWN, SEA, CGCA, TKN, ATT
a beautiful Weim veteran to some special
wins. I am so grateful to owners Kathy
Manser, Amy and Miguel Rodriguez, and
especially breeder/owner Suzanne Hon-
eyman for sharing their special dogs with
me. I would also like to thank the WCA
and Bruce and Cindy Cassidy for the
generous scholarships. I will be attend-
ing West Chester University in the fall so
they will be put to great use!

~ Alexandra Lorenti

Ashley LaCoste Grace Parker
with “Chloe”, GCHB Starwood’s Chloe with “Violet”, Silver Honey’s One Hot
Von Echo Hollow
Minute BCAT CGC

Braden Greer Conner Maher
with “Mel”, GCHB Wismar’s Swan with “Tori”, TRIPAWD'S BEACH
Creek Melody WINDWALKER @ CALVARY, JH

Page 28

Left: Rylie Gardea, Shai Lei Shepard
Right: Madison Gardea with “Kastiel”, CH Magic's Time Is On
with "Dude”, Kristen N Silverbay’s One My Side TKN TKI TKA CGC VHMP
Special Dude NAVHDA NAP3

Page 29

ANNOUNCEMENT

WCA Junior Program Scholarships offered for 2022

Through the generosity of the donors Additional donors to the Junior
listed the following Scholarships Scholarship Fund:
will be offered for the 2022 year WCA in Honor of Ellen Dodge
retroactive for any wins starting in
January of 2022. We are trying to build a sustaining
Scholarship Fund. Any donations
Offered by Susan Line and Debra made during the remainder of this
Phillips year will be added to the fund for
• Best Jr Showmanship Handler - next year’s scholarships.

$1000 Scholarships will be held by the
WCA for the winning Junior until it is
Offered by WCA in Honor of Ellen requested by the Junior. Scholarships
Dodge, Suzanne Burns, Fredda Rose. will be paid to the degree program
• Best Junior Handler in college or trade school the Junior is
attending, not to the Junior. A Junior
Conformation - $1000 has until the age of 25 to claim their
scholarships. After the age of 25,
Offered by Carol Meshon scholarships will be forfeited and
• Best Junior Handler in Obedience the unclaimed funds will be put back
into the Junior program to fund new /
- $200 additional scholarships.
The scholarship may be used for
Offered by Breawna Fritzler tuition, fees, books, supplies or
• Best Junior Handler in Agility - equipment required by the study.

$200 Juniors may obtain the form to
request their scholarship(s) from the
Offered by Breawna Fritzler and current WCA Executive Secretary.
Barbara & Chip Taylor
• Best Junior Handler in Field Please Note: The Junior Program is
available to any youngster who is
Events - $100 included in a FAMILY membership
or who holds a JUNIOR membership
Each of the following categories in the WCA.
offered by Laurie Sales:
• For each WCA Junior member Junior Program Rules can be found
on the WCA website or by contacting
earning a Field Champion title - the Junior Program Chair.
$750
• For each WCA Junior member Please report your wins to Barbara
earning the following Hunt test Taylor and contact me to join the
titles: Facebook page for Weimaraner
• $200 for JH, $500 for SH and Juniors.
MH.
• For each WCA Ratings Test title [email protected]
earned by a WCA Junior member
- $200

Offered by Allyson Lorenti, Laurie
Sales, and Barb Taylor
• $300 for Best Jr at the National

Specialty Show

Page 30

H 2021
MACH TITLE

O
GAN

MACH3 REGEN’S HE’S ON THE DANCE
FLOOR, UD RN MXG PAD MJG MFB TQX

T2B2 ACT1

Sire: CH MACH2 Regen's Rocket Launcher, VCD3 JH
MXG MJC XF SD RDX VX4

Dam: Pm And Regen's Montana New Year, CDX SWA
CGC TKN SD NRD V

Breeders: Carol Meshon, Dawna Miller & Anne Tyson
Owners: Steve &Page B31renda Basson



2021
MACH TITLE

STEVEE

MACH REGEN'S SILVER SPRINGS, CD SH
MXS MJS MXF T2B BCAT SD NRD VX

Sire: Silvershot's Phantom Ranger
Dam: CH CT MACH9 Regen's She's On Fire, VCD3 RN
MH JHR MXG3 MJS3 MXF MFG TQX T2B5 SDX RDX

VX6 BROM
Breeders: Bruce Bahcall & Anne Tyson

Owner: Bruce Bahcall

Weimaraner Club of Greater St. Louis, Inc.
Specialty and Obedience Trial
March 4, 2022
Gray Summit, MO

Many thanks to the exhibitors who joined us for our Specialty Show. We hope you
enjoyed yourselves! The obedience classes were judged by Ms. Pat Kasten, the breed
classes were judged by Mr. Harry H. (Butch) Schulman and Mrs. Carole Wilson
judged Junior Showmanship.

Michelle Hunter did an excellent job as trophy chairman; she also donated them.
Don Weimer served as ring steward. We look forward to being the host club for the
Weimaraner Club of America National Specialty May 8 through 13, 2022. Hope you
will join us!

Obedience Trial:
Ms. Pat Kasten
No Qualifiers

Breed Classes Robert and Donna Hilgenbrink
Judge: Mr. Harry H. (Butch) Schulman

Bred By Exhibitor Bitches Best of Breed
1. Timberdoodle to the Moon (GCHB • GCH CH Starwood’s Mother Teresa

CH Moonstone’s Pure Magic, at Unity (CH Valmar’s Unanimous
CDX RE JH NA NAJ NF DS CGC Decision x CH Starwood’s Veronika
TKN x Timberdoodle’s Toast to V Win’Weim) b/Kenan Young
Touchstone, CGC) b/Mindy Brown, and Mrs. Gale Young o/Gregory
Marc Dean, and Anne Taguchi o/ McLogan, Amy Tourond, and Kenan
Mindy Brown and Marc Dean Young

Open Bitches Best of Opposite Sex
1. Aldemar’s Baht Sweet Caroline • CH ‘Ekahi’s Who Knew (CH Nani’s

CD PCD BN RA CGCA (CH Indecent Exposure JH, NAJ x CH
Nani’s Baht A Stacked Deck x ‘Ekahi Rissana Know It All) b/
GCH CH Aldemar ‘N Terras Vixen Daryle Oliveira o/Barb Shepard and
in Disguise) b/Deborah and Ray Daryle Oliveira
Parnell o/Cynthia Scott
Select Bitch
Winners Bitch: • GCHG CH Grauschatten N’Nani’s
• Timberdoodle to the Moon
Reserve Winners Bitch: Cabaret (GCH CH Rissana
• Aldemar’a Baht Sweet Caroline, Hillwood’s Perfect Pitch to Nani JH,
NJP x GCHS CH Kolata’s Moving
CD PCD BN RA CGCA Violation, JH) b/ Robert & Donna
Hilgenbrink and Christine Grisell o/
Veteran Bitches Robert and Donna Hilgenbrink
1. GCHG CH Grauschatten N’Nani’s

Cabaret (GCH CH Rissana
Hillwood’s Perfect Pitch to Nani JH,
NJP x GCHS CH Kolata’s Moving
Violation, JH) b/ Robert & Donna
Hilgenbrink and Christine Grisell o/

Page 34

Junior Showmanship
Judge: Mrs. Carole Wilson

Novice Junior
1. Dominic Scott

Aldemar’s Baht Sweet Caroline
CD PCD BN RA CGCA (CH
Nani’s Baht A Stacked Deck x
GCH CH Aldemar ‘N Terras Vixen
in Disguise) b/Deborah and Ray
Parnell o/Cynthia Scott

Best Junior Handler:
• Dominic Scott

BEST OF BREED BEST OF OPPOSITE SEX
GCH CH Starwood’s Mother Teresa at Unity CH ‘Ekahi’s Who Knew

(CH Valmar’s Unanimous Decision x CH (CH Nani’s Indecent Exposure JH, NAJ x CH

Starwood’s Veronika V Win’Weim) ‘Ekahi Rissana Know It All)

SELECT BITCH WINNERS BITCH
GCHG CH Grauschatten N’Nani’s Cabaret Timberdoodle to the Moon
(GCH CH Rissana Hillwood’s Perfect Pitch to Nani (GCHB CH Moonstone’s Pure Magic, CDX RE JH

JH, NJP x GCHS CH Kolata’s Moving Violation, NA NAJ NF DS CGC TKN x Timberdoodle’s Toast

JH) to Touchstone, CGC)

Page 35

CAL 2021
MACH TITLE

GARY

MACH REGEN'S LUCKY I AM TO CARRY
THE TORCH, MXS MJS OF CGC TKI

Sire: CH Brymar's Ode An Das Haus Der Reiteralm,
SDX NRD V BROM

Dam: CH CT MACH9 Regen's She's On Fire, VCD3 RN
MH JHR MXG3 MJS3 MXF MFG TQX T2B5 SDX RDX

VX6 BROM
Breeders: Bruce Bahcall & Anne Tyson

Owner: Stacey Zaleski

A rescue Story

submitted by Becky Weimar | [email protected]

On August 26, 2021, the SPCA in Dallas contacted Weimaraner Rescue Texas to ask
for assistance in placing 46 Weimaraners that a breeder had surrendered. Several
rescue groups took in the dogs for placement: Weimaraner Rescue Texas, Arkansas
Weimaraner Rescue, Mile High Weimaraner Rescue, Grey Ghost Weimaraner Rescue
and Oregon Weimaraner Rescue. The Weimaraner Foundation Fund was glad to be
able to assist with the large expenditures needed for veterinary care. The following is
the story of one Weimaraner who was cared for by the Weimaraner Rescue community.

LUNA's Puppy,
OLIVER

Our Weimaraner journey first started in 2014 when
we adopted our handsome 9-year-old boy, Sal, from
the Arkansas Weimaraner Rescue when he was 1.5
years old. We not only fell in love with Sal, but
also with the breed. And we discovered that being a
Weim parent was so much more than we could have
imagined. We had an outpouring of support after
adopting Sal and were lucky enough to be able to
develop a relationship with his litter mates’ families.
Through the years, my husband and I knew that if we
ever adopted another dog, it would be a Weimaraner
and it would be a rescue.

Fast-forward to 2021, when it was announced that
a breeder in Texas was being shut down and the
details and images were shared. I followed the story
semi-closely and
had already been toying with the idea of adopting
another pup. As soon as I saw that the Arkansas
Weimaraner Rescue, AWR, was pulling some of the
dogs from the Texas breeder, I knew I had to put in
an application. Because I had previously adopted
from AWR, I knew they were the group I wanted to
reach out to. We worked together in finding a dog
that would be the best fit for not only our kids and
family, but also for Sal, being the delicate flower
that he is. We heard about a pregnant dog named
Luna who had come to the rescue and, although
we were not initially sure we wanted a newborn
puppy, we decided to keep our options open. Luna
gave birth to 6 puppies on 10/4/2021, which was
the day our daughter turned 5 years old. We took
the puppies being born on her birthday as a sign
that one of these pups was meant for us!

Through Facebook groups and constant communication, we watched as the puppies
grew and developed. It felt crazy to become so attached to a puppy only through
pictures and occasional videos, but we were obsessed. After the pups’ temperament

Page 37

evaluations, we were assigned Oliver, a handsome, little blue-eyed baby. We live
in California, due to my husband being stationed here, and the puppies were being
fostered in Oklahoma, so we knew we would have to travel to get him. As soon as
Oliver was old enough for travel, we booked our tickets and made our way to pick up
our sweet pup.


December 5, 2021, was the day we made our way to
meet 9-week-old Oliver. We were so excited. We did
have a little hiccup when we got into a car accident
and totaled our rental car 5 minutes from the foster
dad’s home! Luckily, we were ok, Oliver was not
with us, and we had the kindness of Oliver’s foster
dad who rescued us. My husband and I were both
smitten with Oliver the moment we met him. He was
a bit on the shy side but did eventually warm up to
us. Foster dad Chase was amazing with providing
us with all of the paperwork we needed as well as
loading us up with toys and goodies to help with our
plane ride home.

Oliver was not super thrilled to be in his travel kennel
but did so well. His little head poked through his
kennel while we made our way through the airport.
We had many people bee line for us to ask, “oh my gosh, is that a Weimaraner?”, tell
us their Weimaraner owner stories, or just to tell us how cute he was. We also had
many people say, “what kind of dog is that?” or “a weima-what?”. We were happy to
answer their questions. On the plane ride, Oliver
did whine for a short time, but nothing a peanut
butter kong could not fix. As with the plane ride,
he also tolerated the 2-hour drive we had to get
home very well. Lucky for us, he slept most of
the way.

Once we were home, we introduced him to the
family. Our two kids, ages 5 and 3, were in love
and remain obsessed with him. Sal on the other
paw, took a bit more time to warm up to Oliver.
Once Sal realized that this annoying fluff ball was
in fact staying, he ever so slowly started letting
him in. Although Oliver remains - and I have a

feeling, will forever be - an annoying fluff ball in
Sal’s eyes, they are best of friends.

Of course, having a puppy is not easy and there
have definitely been challenges, but we would not
change our decision for the world. He is sweet,
silly, stubborn, loving, too smart for his own
good and most of all he is a happy boy. He loves
his mama and thinks he is a giant lapdog. Oliver
has brought such joy to our family and we adore
him. He was the perfect addition to our family.

Just like with Sal, we have been given the chance
to bond and form a relationship with the families

Page 38

of Oliver’s litter mates. We are lucky enough to
be a part of a Facebook group dedicated to Luna’s
puppies. It has been fun getting to see the puppies
grow, their personalities develop, and share
pictures and videos with each other. I cannot wait
to see what the future holds for our puppies.
I would personally like to thank Hermine Wilkins,
Chase Jackson, and Dawn Haupt of the Arkansas
Weimaraner Rescue. They were all amazing when
it came to the adoption of Oliver. They answered
every ridiculous question I had, provided me with
as much information as they could to set us up
for success, and most of all for choosing us, once
again, to be adopters of a beautiful Weimaraner.

Page 39

NOMINATING COMMITTEE REPORT:
ELECTIONS 2022

In accordance with the WCA Bylaws the WCA Nominating Committee: Billie
Thompson, Chair, Bob Margolis, Linda Bailey, Suzanne Burns; Linda Caplan and
Jamie Sieveking alternate, is pleased to offer the following slate of candidates for
WCA office:

Vice President - Sarah Chvilicek, NV
Treasurer - Robbe McAlexander, CA
Board of Directors:
Frank Sommer, MT
Wayne Cowles, CO
Jill Paige, PA

Additional nominations of eligible members may be made by written petition,
addressed to the Secretary, and received at her regular address, on or before August 15,
2022, signed by ten (10) members, and accompanied by the written acceptance of each
additional nominee, signifying his/her willingness to be a cand idate.

If no valid additional nominations are received by the Secretary on or before August
15th, the Nominating Committee’s slate shall be declared elected at the time of the
December 2nd Board of Directors meeting and no balloting will be required. However,
if one or more valid additional nominations are received by the Secretary, on or before
August 15th, then, prior to October 1st, a ballot listing all the nominees will be mailed
to each member in good standing.

Page 40

2021
MACH TITLE

ELLA

MACH REGEN'S GET THIS PARTY
STARTED, MXS MJS XF T2B3 CGC SD

NRD V

Sire: CH Pm Lazy Heart's Gold Rush Boss, JH
Dam: CH Regen's Ready For The Party, CDX RA JH OA

OAJ NF CGC NRD VX
Breeders: Judith Voris, Anne Tyson & Teri Rice

Owners: Emily & Greg Burdick

The Difference between
Field Trials and Hunt Tests

used with permission | pheasantsforever.org
by Nancy Anisfield

Lots of hunting dog owners, especially newbies, aren’t sure what the difference is
between a field trial and a hunt test. While both are great things to do in the offseason
to keep us and our dogs in shape, training, and having fun, it can be confusing to figure
out what’s right for you and your dog.

Basically, field trials are competitions and hunt tests are not competitive. In a field
trial, one dog wins, or depending on the structure of the trial, one dog in each division
wins. In a hunt test, each dog is judged individually, not in comparison to other dogs,
and is awarded a score based on its performance. At the end of a hunt test, there may
be several dogs with perfect scores, several not passing, and all possible combinations
in between. The objective of a field trial is to pick a winner; the objective of a hunt test
is to assess each dog independently.

Both field trials and hunt tests help breeders evaluate their lines. Both are fundamentally
geared towards producing a better hunting dog by way of developing the dogs’ inherent
abilities and fine-tuning their training. Both have events running on local, state and
national levels, from puppy age to adult dogs.

Whatever level you’re at with your dog, there’s a program you can participate in. And
hooking up with a group of bird dog owners training for trials or tests can be one of
the best ways to enhance your dog’s training program and connect with people who
share the passion.

There are many different organizations running field trials, and the format and style
vary. One major difference is that some are walking trials and others are done with
handlers, judges and galleries on horseback. Criteria for judging differ depending on
whether it’s a pointing dog trial, retriever or spaniel trial. Some field trials use pen-
raised birds; others conduct the search on wild birds. There are non-shooting stakes
and shoot-to-retrieve stakes.

Page 42

The American Kennel Club, American Field Sporting Dog Association, and National
Retriever Club sponsor most of the national field trials, but other groups – such as the
National Shoot to Retrieve Association and National Bird Hunters Association along
with a variety of amateur field trial groups and breed clubs – also host trials.

As far as hunt tests go, the North American

Versatile Hunting Dog Association (for

pointing dogs), AKC, and United Kennel

Club (for both pointers and retrievers),

and North American Hunting Retriever

Association (retrievers) developed hunt test

programs with the initial goal of providing

a non-competitive yet standardized method

of evaluating breeding. Parent breed clubs

and multiple breeds clubs like the German

Jagdgebrauchshundverband (JGHV)

also have developed their own testing

systems. The wonderful byproduct of these

programs is the training that’s offered for

the tests provides handlers and their dog’s

outstanding preparation for hunting in

general whether or not participants ever end

up taking the tests.

Depending on the trial or test, pointing dogs usually must demonstrate their ability to
search for game; hold point; remain steady to wing, shot and drop; and retrieve downed
game to hand. Versatile pointing dogs will also be expected to search in the water for
game; mark and retrieve downed waterfowl; and track game on land. Retriever and
spaniel events judge the dogs’ hunting ability, ability to remain steady, mark downed
birds or waterfowl; make blind retrieves; and deliver birds or ducks to hand.

Whereas in a field trial the dog usually just has one run in a day, in most hunt tests, the
dog performs several times. For example, in a NAVHDA Utility Test, each dog does
a 30-minute field hunt, a minimum 10-minute duck search in a large body of water,
a heeling course, a long tracked field retrieve, and a combination of steadiness and
retrieving tasks from a water’s edge blind. Both field trials and hunt tests have complex
scoring criteria designed to make the judges’ evaluations as objective as possible.

One of the liveliest – okay, let’s be honest and say super-heated – discussions you can
find in the gun dog world is whether field trials or hunt tests produce the better hunting
dogs. Speed, style, practicality, hunting instinct, finish work and a bird bag full of other
elements fuel the debates. What’s important to most of us, however, is what program
appeals to us and what we want out of our dogs. The best advice is to attend a couple
of field trials or hunt tests, ask your dogs’ breeder for recommendations, and do a little
local research to find out what’s available. Then grab your dog and have some fun.

Nancy Anisfield, an outdoor photographer/writer, sporting dog enthusiast and bird hunter, serves on
Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever ’s National Board of Directors. She resides in Hinesburg, Vermont.
This article can be found at: www.pheasantsforever.org

Page 43

SPONSORED ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS IS PROUD TO RECOGNIZE A NEW

CHAMPION MASTER HUNTER
GCHS SILVERSMITH I’LL HAVE ANOTHER

VONSTARK, SH SD RN CGC CA

“SKEETER”

Sire: BIF CH Pikes Peak Silversmith Summit, MH SDX NRD VX BROM FROM
Dam: GCH Meriwoods Silversmith Shedevil, SH NRD V
Breeders: Carrie Albert & Elena Lamberson
Owners: Sharon & Rob Hladio, Bristolville, OH
Skeeter. With his big goofy personality he is loved by all - or at least he thinks he is. In the
show ring he finished his Champion Title at 10 months, his Grand Champion at 14 months
and his Bronze at 21 months. We have finished in the top ten Owner Handler for several
years and won BOBOH in 2018 and 2019 in Orlando. With the help of several professional
handlers he won the Junior Dog Futurity and went Select dog at Nationals in 2017. But
Skeeters true love is field work. He has a very strong prey drive and we are currently working
toward his Master Hunter. He has sired three litters of absolutely beautiful pups and I couldn’t
be prouder. One pup “Maui” owned by Lani Jones won the Western Futurity this spring and
“Ellie” owned by Megan Lamberson Rice won the inaugural 4-6 month puppy at Nationals last
year in Gettysburg.
THIS DUAL WEIMARANER ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WAS SPONSORED BY

Bonnie Hill, Tarpon Springs, FL
Join us on Facebook: Dual Weimaraners Of USA

www.dualweimaraners.com

SPONSORED ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS IS PROUD TO RECOGNIZE A NEW

CHAMPION MASTER HUNTER
GCH CH BREICA VERSA DOUBLE SHOT, MH SDX

“DOVE”

Sire: GCH CH Nani's Versa Cool Hand Luke, TD MH SDX RDX VX2
Dam: CH Breica Its's A Little Dirty
Breeders: Jessica Mendez Cervera & Caley Roberts & Alan Malnar
Owners: Terry Tiller and Mary Tiller, Greensboro, GA
It has been a pleasure watching Dove mature in the show ring, and in the field.
While finishing her Grand Championship under the guidance of Ash Oldfield, she
was also training in the field with Chris Rosario at Beyond the Point. Dove
finished her Master Hunter and her Grand Championship by the end of 2021, just
2 years old. Dove loves to hunt.... She loves to train... She loves to be in the
field... At home, Dove loves swimming in the lake, playing with her Weim
brother, and her two cats. Dove is adored by her owners, and always the clown.
Dove's training will continue, and we will see what her future achievements will
be.
THIS DUAL WEIMARANER ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WAS SPONSORED BY

TJ Palmer, Cumming, GA
Join us on Facebook: Dual Weimaraners Of USA

www.dualweimaraners.com

Dog Allergies

Used with permission | akc.org

Allergies are quite common in dogs of all • can still have an extensive systemic
breeds and backgrounds and occur when allergic reaction due to their body’s
their immune system has a hyper reaction reaction to just that one flea’s saliva.
to a foreign substance such as pollen, flea
saliva, vaccines, spider bits, bee stings or Canine Atopic Dermatitis:
even certain foods that normally would also known as atopy or atopic
cause little or no reaction in most dogs. dermatitis (AD) is a very common
canine allergy. This is usually an
We suspect certain allergies such as • inherited predisposition to develop
atopy or allergies to pollens and plants • allergic symptoms after exposure
are primarily hereditary in basis. Most of • to relatively common substances or
these dogs begin to show allergic signs allergens in the air such as pollens,
between 1-3 years of age, often after grasses, weeds, molds, or fungi.
they have previously been exposed to the Common signs of atopy are itching
underlying cause. While most allergies and inflammation in a dog often
can’t be cured, the goal is to manage them seen in the underarms, groin, face
with treatments that can help relieve or and feet. Atopy is often seasonal.
control a dog’s allergic symptoms.
Food allergies: allergies to food
SIGNS THAT YOUR DOG MIGHT can manifest with a chronic skin
HAVE ALLERGIES condition such as flaky, itching skin,
The signs of allergies vary depending chronic licking or biting of the paws,
on the type of allergic reaction a dog chronic ear infections (often with
is experiencing and can vary from secondary opportunistic bacterial or
dog to dog. Most allergic signs in are yeast infections). Dogs can develop
dermatologic, which can range from allergies to a food or substance over
itching and inflammation of the skin, feet a period of time, so though they may
and ears, to hives, and possibly swelling have had no previous issues with that
of the face. Some allergic dogs can have food substance or protein, initially.
clear watery eyes and nose as well as
sneezing. Gastrointestinal signs can also Contact Allergies: Contact allergies
occur such as vomiting and/or diarrhea are found when a dog has direct
with or without blood. In rarer cases, a contact to a caustic surface or
much more severe and different allergic chemical causing severe irritation
reaction called an anaphylactic reaction to the skin. Household cleaners,
can occur. This is an immediate type of carpet cleaners, fertilizers, topical
hypersensitivity and leads to a potentially medication and essential oils may all
life-threatening situation where a dog potentially cause a contact allergy.
can acutely collapse due to shock and a
severe drop in blood pressure. Bacterial hypersensitivity:
Bacterial hypersensitivity occurs
TYPES OF ALLERGIES YOUR DOG when a dog’s immune system
MIGHT HAVE overreacts to their normal bacterial
There are several common types of flora on their skin. This often occurs
allergies in dogs: when other health conditions are
present such as hypothyroidism,
• Fleas: reaction to the protein in inhalant allergy and/or flea allergy
flea saliva, not the actual fleas. are present.
Therefore, a dog with only one flea

Page 46

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF as the protein source. Most pets
YOUR DOG’S ALLERGIES with food allergies respond well
The best method of controlling allergies when switched to a store-bought
is to know what the allergen is and to hypoallergenic diet, but occasionally
avoid it or control it. Your veterinarian an animal suffers from such extreme
can perform an extensive examination allergies that a homemade diet is
with history to try to help determine the only option. In this case, the
the most likely cause and formulate diet should be customized with the
a practical treatment plan. The gold aid of a veterinarian, veterinary
standard for diagnosing allergies in dogs dermatologist or veterinary
is immunotherapy or allergy testing to nutritionist.
determine the actual cause of the allergic
response and to tailor an allergen specific • Environmental and external aids:
immunotherapy (ASIT). Air-purifiers can help reduce certain
molds. Dusts and pollens are best
There are several options for treating controlled by using an air cleaner
your dog’s allergies: with a HEPA filter. Air conditioning
can also reduce circulating amounts
• Flea Prevention: flea prevention of airborne allergens because
is obvious and relatively easy and windows are then kept closed.
will help dogs who suffer from
allergies to fleas. Eradication • Medicated Baths and Supplements:
through an extensive anti-parasitic Many medicated shampoos have
protocol may be necessary to compounds in them that are aimed
improve the allergy sufferer. at soothing the injured skin and skin
barrier and calming inflammation. In
• Antihistamines: this treatment addition, frequent bathing (weekly
is generally inexpensive and to every other week) can remove
safe with little side effects, but allergens from the coat, which may
different types can have variable contribute to skin allergy flare-ups.
effects and don’t work on all dogs. These shampoos are often prescribed
by your veterinarian and directions
• Medications: Cortisone products for use should always be read
have been commonly used in the completely and followed explicitly.
past with good effects on allergy
sufferers, but these types of • Supplements: Omega-3 and
medications are not without side Omega-6 essential fatty acid
effects, so they need to be used supplements can be considered by
judiciously and only for shorter your veterinarian. These fatty acids
periods of time. Newer medications are natural anti-inflammatory and
such as cyclosporines (Atopica), anti-oxidative agents.
Apoquel, an immunomodulator, and
Cytopoint, an immunotherapeutic, • Antibiotics and Antifungal
are currently being used extensively Medications: Antibiotics are
by clinicians with good results frequently needed to treat secondary
to minimalize the severe itching skin infections. Anti-fungal
response the dog gets from allergies. medications are frequently needed to
treat secondary yeast infections.
• Dietary Changes/Hypoallergenic
diets: Dairy, beef, and wheat can be Each possible allergy treatment has its
responsible for up to 80% of food advantages and drawbacks. Finding
allergies in dogs. Hypoallergenic the source of your dog’s allergy and
diets utilize one “novel” protein discussing a specific treatment plan with
(or only one new protein in a diet) your veterinarian is recommended.

Page 47

CTarneactemreanntdsCinaPnectesr
Used with permission | morrisanimalfoundation.org

Cancer is a scary word for pet parents. In survey after survey, cancer consistently is
cited by pet owners as a major, if not the major, health concern when it comes to their
companion animals.
The good news is advances in therapy over the last 40 years have helped give pets a
fighting chance to enjoy a high quality, longer life.
However, cancer treatment is almost as frightening to pet owners as getting a cancer
diagnosis for their pet. Part of this understandable concern is some cancer therapies
can be financially, emotionally and physically draining.
Understanding the whats, hows and whys behind the most used cancer treatments –
surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy – can help alleviate this anxiety. Let’s
unpack these questions so owners can be armed with the latest knowledge in order to
make the best decisions for their furry friend when cancer is diagnosed.
Cancer terminology
It might be good to stop here and review some cancer terminology before moving on.
Lots of terms are used when discussing cancer in pets and it can get confusing. Here
are a few of the most common pet owners may hear (definitions based on WSAVA
Oncology Working Group glossary).
• Neoplasia/neoplasm – uncontrolled growth of cells, typically forming a mass. A

neoplasm can be benign or malignant.
• Benign – a neoplasm that doesn’t spread to other areas of the body.
• Malignant - a neoplasm that can spread to other areas of the body.
• Tumor – any abnormal lump, bump, growth or swelling. A tumor can be a

neoplasm, and benign or malignant, or not a neoplasm at all, e.g., an abscess.
What is cancer?
By definition, cancer is a malignant neoplasm with the ability to spread to other tissues
(metastasis) being a key feature.

Page 48

Cancer is related to uncontrolled growth of a particular tissue but, at its core, cancer
is a genetic disease. Cancers form when the checks and balances of cell growth, as
dictated by the genetic code (DNA) of an animal, are disrupted.

Cancer is not one disease, but many. There are hundreds of different types of cancer,
and each has unique characteristics. Thinking of cancer this way can help us understand
why one cancer type is sensitive to radiation therapy while another can only be treated
with chemotherapy.

Cell biology basics
Cells go through a cycle of division in order to replicate and replace themselves. Cell
division is important for growth in young individuals and to repair damaged tissue.
Cancer cells tend to divide faster than normal cells, and while this favors cancer
growth and spread, it’s also a weak spot that can be exploited (more on this shortly).

The process of cell duplication often is referred to as the cell cycle. The cell cycle is
divided into several phases and a specific step in cell division occurs in each phase.
Many chemotherapy agents target specific phases of the cell cycle.

How common is cancer in dogs and cats?
Roughly 12 million dogs and cats are diagnosed with cancer each year. Statistics show
cancer is a top cause of death in both cats and dogs. Odds are that pet owners will be
faced with this disease at some point in their pet’s life.

Although we have a good idea about the total numbers of pets affected by cancer, we
don’t know exact numbers for each cancer type. For example, a question we often
hear is “How many dogs get hemangiosarcoma each year?” Unfortunately, we don’t
know this exact number because many dogs might die suddenly with no diagnosis. In
addition, veterinary databases in the United States aren’t linked to each other, making it
hard to find total numbers of diagnoses for a particular disease. This can be frustrating
for owners, researchers and veterinarians alike.

However, we do have information from publications and some databases that give us
an idea of the characteristics of pets with cancer, prognosis and treatment successes
and potential risk factors.

Cancer treatment
Now that we’ve reviewed terminology, cancer basics, the cell cycle and cancer in our
pets, let’s dive into various types of cancer treatments.

Surgery
Surgery as a treatment for cancer dates back to the ancient Egyptians. In fact, it was the
only treatment option for centuries. Surgery has been a mainstay of cancer treatment in
veterinary medicine for more than 100 years.

Surgery continues to be an important and common cancer treatment for animals. Many
cancers (and benign tumors) can be removed completely with surgery. Surgery also is
used as an adjunct to other cancer therapies.

Radiation therapy
Radiation was first used to treat animals with cancer more than 100 years ago. Radiation
works by disrupting DNA inside cells which in turn, prevents cells from dividing. Cells
that are rapidly dividing (such as cancer cells) are most susceptible to the effects of
radiation, but any cell can be damaged (some permanently).

Page 49

Most of us probably have a very negative
image of radiation – we often think of
nuclear weapons or nuclear accidents.
Additionally, most of us know exposure
to radiation can cause cancer. However,
the way radiation is used to treat cancer
is different from these types of exposures
in many ways.

Radiation can be used as the primary
mode of treatment for cancer. It also
can be used in combination with other
modalities such as surgery. Radiation
can be used to shrink a tumor prior to
surgery, and it also can be used post-
surgery as well.

Radiation can be coupled with
chemotherapy to treat cancer. Some
agents (radiosensitizers) make cells
more susceptible to the effects of subsequent radiation therapy.

Radiation therapy usually is administered through an external source, similar to an
X-ray machine. Sometimes, radioactive material is implanted into a tumor. Although
not common in veterinary medicine, a radioactive substance may be given by mouth or
injected into the bloodstream. Radioactive iodine therapy used to treat hyperthyroidism
in cats works this way.

Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is the broadest category of treatment for cancer. Many different agents
fall into this category. Some medications, such as prednisone, are used to treat diseases
other than cancer. Other agents, such as doxorubicin, are only used in cancer patients.

Some chemotherapy agents disrupt different phases of the cell cycle, while others
disrupt specific processes required for cell division. This allows oncologists to rotate
through different types of drugs at different times to treat certain cancers.

For example, vincristine, a common chemotherapy drug, disrupts tubulin which is part
of a cell’s “skeleton” and a component of cell division. Vincristine often is coupled
with doxorubicin, a drug that inhibits an enzyme required for DNA duplication which
is required for a cell to divide. Combining these drugs attacks a cancer cell in two
different ways.

Because cancer cells are dividing quickly, they’re more sensitive to chemotherapy.
Rapidly dividing normal cells also are likely to be affected by chemotherapy agents.
Examples include cells in the bone marrow and intestinal tract, which partially explains
common side effects of treatment such as diarrhea and low white blood cell counts.

Developing chemotherapeutic agents with greater specificity for cancer cells remains
an area of intense research in both human and veterinary medicine.

On the horizon
Although we’ve made great strides in treating pets with cancer we still have a long
way to go. Many of Morris Animal Foundation’s funded studies, both past and present,

Page 50