4th Quarter Edition | Oct•Nov•Dec 2025
www.mpbaonline.org
Putting Our Best Paw Forward What MPBA is accomplishing with your support T FFA Speaking Contest T Working with FFA, 4H, and JAG kids T Scholarships T Dog Shows T Kennel Assistance Program
T Elite Kennel Program T Educational Classes T Kennel Inspection Program
T Public Events (Fairs, Expos, etc.) T Member of Missouri Farmers Care T And many other Programs each year! We thank you for your Sponsorship and Support. You are PAWS-i-tively the best!
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Missouri Pet Breeders Association | Page 1
the Prez Sez
Here we are at the end of 2025–another year down. So that means it’s time to gear up for 2026 and the MPBA Educational Conference/Expo in
March of this year! To our new and renewing members, MPBA memberships are due for 2026. You can apply for or renew your membership online at www.mpbaonline.org/membership. We have already begun receiving sponsorships for the Conference, so be watching our website, www.mpbaonline.org, for tradeshow specials and our speaker lineup. Don’t forget to bring an auction item for our benefit auction following the banquet on Friday evening, March 6th! This auction helps us to have a voice in Jefferson City and Washington D.C., along with doing public events throughout the year, including working with 4-H and FFA events, as well as the Missouri State Fair. Your support of the MPBA Conference, your membership, and your help at our fundraisers allows us to continue to support the community as we showcase the Missouri Pet Breeders.
Happy New Year!
Kevin Beauchamp, MPBA President
Welcome to 2026! The holidays are behind us and a brand new year is just
from your Publicity Director
starting. Hopefully this will be an excellent year for all of us. Our cover photo is another furry friend who attended our 2025 MPBA Conference. We loved this Frenchie’s beautiful colors and bling! The 2026 MPBA Conference is quickly approaching -March 6th & 7th- and we hope to see you there! Bring your friends, family, and pets, and join us for two days of fun events, fellowship, great deals, and educational speakers! We’ll have contests, prizes, dog shows, and many amazing vendors! And don’t forget our banquet and live auction Friday evening, March 6th! This issue of our magazine features a new section dedicated to our readers. Here, we want to share YOUR stories! Look for the new page, “Tails & Tales”, on page 31. Let us know what you think or if you have a story, we would love to hear it! Reach out to mpbamagazine@gmail.com or 417-293-5871 with comments or submissions! Hannah Gordon, MPBA Publicity Director
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Vaccinations
Shampoos
Clipper Blades
Pest Control
Milk Replacer
Lennypads
Missouri Pet Breeders Association | Page 3
House Passage of the Pet & Livestock Protection Act Marks a Long-Overdue Victory for Rural America
By Mindy Patterson
The U.S. House of Representatives’ passage of the Pet and Livestock Protection Act by a narrow 211–204 vote represents a critical and long- overdue victory for rural America, livestock producers, hunters, and landowners who have endured the real-world consequences of federal inaction and activist-driven misuse of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). While the margin was close, the message from the House was clear: conservation policy must be rooted in science, accountability, and respect for private property, not ideology. For decades, gray wolves have exceeded recovery goals established under the ESA. Yet despite this success, ranchers, farmers, and rural families across the country have continued to suffer mounting losses—from depredation of livestock and pets to increased safety risks and economic hardship—while their concerns are dismissed or minimized. The Pet and Livestock Protection Act finally acknowledges what those on the ground have long known: recovery has occurred, and continued federal listing is no longer justified. At The Cavalry Group, we represent members who live with the consequences of these policies every day. They are not opposed to wildlife. They are stewards of the land, conservationists by practice, and partners in responsible species management. But they also understand that conservation does not mean
sacrificing rural livelihoods, family safety, or private property rights to satisfy political agendas or fundraising narratives driven by extremist advocacy groups. The House vote underscores how contentious—and how necessary—this reform is. A 211–204 tally shows just how divided Washington remains on issues that profoundly affect rural communities. Yet it also demonstrates growing recognition that the ESA has been stretched beyond its intended purpose. When a recovered species remains federally listed indefinitely, the Act is no longer functioning as a conservation success tool—it becomes a weapon used against lawful land use and animal agriculture. This legislation restores balance. By delisting the gray wolf and returning management authority to the states, the Pet and Livestock Protection Act affirms a fundamental principle: those closest to the land are best positioned to manage wildlife responsibly.
fuel litigation, donations, or political leverage. Nor does it ignore the disproportionate burden placed on rural Americans who are asked to absorb losses for policies decided hundreds or thousands of miles away. The passage of this bill is also a reaffirmation of private property rights—an increasingly endangered principle in modern regulatory debates. Ranchers and landowners should not be forced to accept uncompensated losses, restricted land use, or threats to their families and animals as the price of living and working on their own property. Conservation must coexist with constitutional rights and economic reality. Hunters, too, stand to benefit. Healthy wildlife management requires balance across ecosystems, prey populations, and human activity. Returning wolf management to the states supports sustainable hunting traditions and ensures wildlife policies are responsive rather than rigid.
State wildlife agencies have the expertise, data, and local knowledge to manage wolf populations in a way that preserves the species while protecting livestock producers, hunters, and rural communities. This is not anti-wolf. It is pro-science, pro-management, and pro-conservation. True conservation celebrates success and adapts accordingly. It does not cling to outdated listings to
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Now, attention turns to the U.S. Senate, where S.1306 will soon be heard and voted on. The Senate has an opportunity—and a responsibility—to stand with rural America and affirm that conservation success should be recognized, not punished. Passage of S.1306 would send a powerful signal that Congress understands the difference between genuine species recovery and perpetual federal overreach. The Cavalry Group urges the Senate to act swiftly. This legislation is not radical; it is corrective. It does not
dismantle conservation—it restores its integrity. It ensures that the ESA remains focused on species truly at risk while respecting the people who feed, clothe, and sustain this nation. The House has taken a bold step. Now the Senate must finish the job. Rural America has waited long enough.
U.S. Senators immediately and urge them to support S.1306, the Senate companion to the Pet and Livestock Protection Act. The future of science- based wildlife management— and the families who live with its consequences—depends on decisive action now. For more information, visit https://cavalrygroupnewswire. com/2025/12/19/pet-and- livestock-protection-act-passes-house/
Call to Action The Cavalry Group calls on
our members, supporters, and all Americans who value responsible conservation, private property rights, and rural livelihoods to contact their
A Letter from the President
December 14, 2025
producers, horsemen, ranchers, and the horseback and rodeo culture that depends on them. To have our work acknowledged by those who live and breathe this lifestyle every day was truly humbling. As you know by now, the Working Animal Protection Act is
Cavalry Group to defend animal enterprise across America. Linked below is the video of Bronc Riding Nation’s award presentation, which I hope you’ll take a moment to watch. Watch the video here: https://mpba.short.gy/ award
Dear Cavalry Group Members,
I just arrived home from the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas and wanted to personally share a special award and recognition of our efforts that took place this past Wednesday, December 10th, during the National Finals Rodeo. I was deeply honored to receive an award from Bronc Riding Nation, presented by its founder, Lori O’Harver, in recognition of The Cavalry Group’s work on the Working Animal Protection Act -- legislation that has already passed in Oklahoma and Arkansas,
preemptive legislation that was created to push back against local overreach and activist-driven ordinances that threaten lawful working animal businesses, traditions, and agritourism. Its passage is proof
Be sure to follow Bronc Riding Nation on Facebook @BroncRidingNation and Instagram @broncridingnation. Thank you for standing with us, believing in our mission, and helping protect the future of working animals, animal enterprise, and the way of life they represent. This moment was a true honor, and a powerful reminder of why our work matters so much.
and in a broader version in Texas.
that when people stand together, stay engaged, and fight for smart policy, real victories are possible. This award and recognition belongs not just to me, but to you, our members, who support our work, trust us to be on the front lines, and make it possible for The
This recognition means more than I can adequately put into words. Bronc Riding Nation represents the heart of the Western way of life, working animals, livestock
With sincere gratitude,
Mindy Patterson President & Co-Founder The Cavalry Group, LLC Missouri Pet Breeders Association | Page 5
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2026 MPBA Youth Party Drawing Contest Requirements: • Parents must be current MPBA members • Artwork must be on white 8” x 10” canvas (can find at Walmart, Dollar Tree, Dollar General) • Colored pencils or art pencils ONLY (crayons or markers not allowed and will be disqualified)
Divisions:
8 - 13 Years Old
14 - 18 Years Old
1ST PLACE WINS $100!! • Top 6 drawings will be displayed at the 2026 MPBA Educational Conference • Voting will be held Fri., March 6th, 2026 at the MPBA Educational Conference - Closing at 5pm • All Conference attendees will vote on the 1st Place winner for each division • Winners will be announced Sat., March 7th, 2026 & prizes awarded • 1st Place Winner’s drawings will be displayed in the upcoming MPBA Magazine • All drawings will be displayed at MPBA events in 2026 to promote our Youth!
Instructions for Submission: • Draw and color your dog or puppy’s silhouette on the canvas • Write on index card and tape to back of the canvas (PLEASE do NOT write on canvas)
Name (First and Last):
Age:
Dog’s Name: Parents: Address: Telephone:
• Mail to: MPBA Membership Chairman, 38669 Antwiler Ave., Edwards, MO 65326 • Deadline: December 31, 2025
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BULLETIN FALL 2025 HAPPY FALLIDAYS!
EVENTS
Autumn is here, bringing a time of new beginnings. With the cooler weather, many people are turning over a new leaf, which makes it a perfect time for you to start something new as well. Let us know how we can help you, your dogs and/or business. Warmly, Vanessa Skou Executive, Breeder Development
Upcoming Health Clinics
Lexington, TX
Xrays
11/6
Southern IN
Eyes
11/6 & 7
Lancaster, PA
Xrays
11/19 - 11/21
Upcoming Seminars
BREEDER FORUM
Grabill IN
10/15
2026
OFCA
Mt Hope, OH
2/20 &2/21
Stacy Mason
Vanessa skou
405-747-6053
919-816-3751
Breed Educational Tours
Tracy Marek
Columbus, OH Springfield, MO
11/13
11/16 - 11/17
Clinic Rates for 2025 Hips/Elbows/LCP - $100 - $120 Eyes - $40 - $50 OFA Submission Fees not included
Sabrina Prim
919-816-3737
919-816-3442
Genetic health and traits testing combined with AKC DNA identification for a powerful breeder tool
Purchase at shop.akc.org/akcdnahealth or call AKC DNA 919-816-3508 Offers AKC DNA profile + over 328 markers for health & traits (incl. colors) Questions? Reach out to your Breeder Development team
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Want to boost your kennel’s rating? Looking to expand your outreach?
Become a member of MPBA’s Elite Kennel Program
For more information, or to fill out an application, scan this QR code with your phone’s camera, or visit www.mpbaonline. org/elite-kennels
O
Questions? Contact Sue Swanigan at (417) 399-9047 or email 4agfriends@gmail.com
Find the Elite Advantage The Elite Kennel Program hosts a Facebook page exclusively for MPBA members. Sell your puppies here!
Visit Facebook @ Missouri Pet Breeders Association Elite Pets Scan this QR code with your phone’s camera
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Winter Preparedness: Keeping Yourself, Family, & Dogs Safe
By Stacy Mason
I can hardly believe the first day of winter is almost upon us! Where did the warm summer sunshine go? Cold weather is just around the corner, and I must be honest: My dog loves winter and I do not. This means we must meet in the middle. Meeting in the middle will look different for many dogs and owners. For me, it means I put on extra layers of clothes in the house, but I get to save on the heating bill! In the winter, my Alaskan Malamute, “Lake Monster,” might move off the cool tile floor and onto one of the seldom used dog beds around the house. If it snows in Oklahoma, he will surely be begging to do zoomies around the yard, and I will be digging out his snow booties and sled in preparation for snow play! Winter Wear For my dog owning friends with Chihuahuas, Italian Greyhounds, Chinese Cresteds, Xolos and other thin- or non-coated breeds, they surely will be
Keep Training Use your nose to sniff out what all the excitement is about when it comes to AKC Scent Work! Scent training can make those cold or chilly walks more interesting for both you and your dog(s). Fun fact, the moisture in snow just might make it a bit easier for your dog(s) to make a “find.” https://www.akc.org/sports/ akc-scent-work/ AKC Scent Work Winter is also a great season to use the extra time inside to work on some fun AKC activities, like Trick Dog and Rally training! https://www.akc.org/sports/ companion-dog-sports/ Use this winter to start a new activity with your four-legged friend(s). You can earn titles virtually in many sports! Fire Prevention All types of heat sources have a fire danger or burn risk for homes, kennels and/or dogs. These devices are even
cranking up the heat and putting polar fleece dog “jammies” on the whole crew.
Check out the AKC Online store for stylish breed specific winter wear to keep yourself warm: www.shop.akc.org/ collections/gifts-for-dog-lovers-breed- embroidery-apparel Stay Active Keeping active during the winter months can be a challenge. Let’s all join AKC Fit Dog today to make sure we don’t add too many unwanted winter pounds. www.akc.org/sports/akc-family-dog- program/akc-fit-dog/ Make sure you and your dog(s) are visible on your walks with good reflective winter gear. I have an Ororo heated vest and love it because it makes those cold winter dog walks much warmer. Watch https://www.ororowear.com/ — they now have a heated dog vest.
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riskier for homes or kennels with multiple dogs. As a dog owning home, I believe the safety of my dog(s) and home depends on a pre-winter deep clean. Dust, dirt, dander and dog hair can all build up to be scary in out of sight places. I make sure to dust and/or vacuum all my corners, behind the furniture and under appliances. I want to make sure I have gotten all the fine particles and stray hairs that may have been missed by vacuuming, sweeping or during dusting. Don’t laugh, but have you tried a leaf blower to get to some of those hard to reach and out of the way places? Secure your breakables, wear a dust mask, and open a door. You will be surprised what you have missed. Don’t forget to clean or change air filters, blowers and vents. Spiderwebs and “dog fur dust bunnies” are a major contributor to home and kennel fires during the winter. Heaters, motors and appliances can overheat or short out when “dog fur dust bunnies” get sucked into the wrong places. Don’t forget to put us a secure barrier between your dog and your heat source. Check out the photograph below that shows a great example of how to keep your pets safe with a sturdy prefab fence around stoves and other heaters. Beware of Scammers With winter comes the holiday season. Criminals are always looking for an easy way to take advantage of people
and put ill-gained profits into their own pockets. As many of you know, dog owners and breeders have been targeted by unscrupulous members of society and unfortunately, I don’t expect this will change in the future. Dog breeders have been swindled out of puppies with fraudulent checks, counterfeit money and fake cashier’s checks. Security Measures In the news, we sadly see that some dog owners and dog breeders have been the victims of violent crimes. It is a well-known fact that puppy sales increase during the holiday season. Here are some ways that dog breeders can keep themselves, families and dogs safe. Cameras Video cameras, video cameras and more video cameras that backup to the internet or cloud storage are the best safety net you can have. Cameras can also be used to help you watch your dog’s behavior and to keep an eye on any pending litters of puppies. Questionnaires A puppy buyer questionnaire is not just to find out if your puppy is the right fit for their new family; it may help you find out if you are talking to a real person, a scammer, or a person with ill intentions. Check Location Google Maps (www.google.com/maps) and similar websites can help you get a virtual feeling of your puppy customer. If something feels off, trust your gut! Video FaceTime or another video chat platform can help share how cute your puppies are with potential customers, but it can also help you see the type of environment your puppies will be going to as well as give you a “face” of whom you are talking with. Safety Net Please make sure you have a “safety net” in place. This can be a friend or family member that knows when you are going to have puppy customers picking
up a puppy. Make sure to keep a log of the people you talk to and share this log with your network and in your cloud storage. Always try to make sure you have someone else on the property when puppy customer meets you. Identification If possible, get a photo identification of the person or people coming to get their new family member. Make sure you have a “safe word” and that your safety net knows what steps they should immediately take if you share your safe word. Look-loos Be wary of “look-loos.” If someone wants to come and look and does not sound serious or the hair on the back of your neck is giving you a tingle, you have the right to refuse. Do not share your information. Payments Do your homework on the types of payments that you should accept. Know which payment methods are the most secure and which ones are reversible. Know how to spot and/or verify fake currency, checks or money orders, if you take these types of payment. Dog ID Make sure your dogs and puppies are microchipped with AKC Reunite. Do not be afraid to tell potential customers and/or post it on your website that your dogs are microchipped. https://www. akcreunite.org/ I hope these tips are helpful and wish Happy Holidays to All and Best Wishes for a Wonderful New Year! Stacy Mason is a Senior Breeder Field Representative for the American Kennel Club. Article gathered from https://www. akc.org/expert- advice/dog- breeding/2025- winter-preparedness- keeping-family-dogs- safe
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2026 MPBA HALLOWEEN Pet Costume Contest
Contest sponsored by Nature’s Best Pet Shop
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2026 MPBA HALLOWEEN Pet & Owner Costume Contest
Contest sponsored by Lebanon, MO MFA
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invites you to attend our Annual Educational Conference March 6 — 7, 2026 Cowan Civic Center • Lebanon, Missouri MISSOURI PET BREEDERS ASSOCIATION
•Speakers •Vendors •Banquet
•Show Specials •ACA Dog Show •Public Dog Show
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Learn how ACA’s Premier Retailer websites help you market and sell your
puppies across the nation! Call for details on how you can have your website designed, hosted, and marketed… all “free of charge” as an ACA Premier Retailer.
Call TODAY for more information. 1 - 800 - 651 - 8332
“ÊProtectingÊyourÊfuture”
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13 Official State Dogs of the USA
By Lucy Hughes | Reviewed by Pawrade Team
“It’s official – I love this dog!” E very puppy owner has experienced this moment of unconditional love for your pet. How about an entire state officially declaring its love for a particular dog breed? Dogs have played an integral part in the history of geographical areas’ developments. Official state dogs embody the qualities the state identifies with, traits like loyalty, steadfastness, dignity, and bravery. These characteristics of various state dogs have resulted in serving as popular canine mascots of local colleges and universities as well. Several of the official state dogs are dog breeds native to the United States, while others hail from areas around the world that have gained regional significance. Regardless of origin, these significant dogs were selected to represent their state for excellent reasons. Meet 13 of the nation’s official state dogs and learn about the qualities that make them perfect representatives of their unique geographical regions.
advocating for the Alaskan Malamute to become the state dog, but a child. Kindergartener Paige Hill led the campaign to convince Representative Berta Gardner to adopt a bill in 2009 in support of the breed. Paige’s efforts paid off when the Alaskan Malamute became the official state dog of Alaska in 2010.
While legislation is constantly being updated, these dog breeds have served current or past tenures as official state dogs. Let’s see what’s so impressive about each dog breed inspiring an entire state to represent their outstanding qualities.
Alaska: Alaskan Malamute
When someone thinks about Alaska’s unforgiving, harsh frozen terrain, sled dogs come to mind. Alaskans recognized how Arctic dogs’ incredible stamina, work ethic, physique, and speed could help move vital goods across the treacherous tundras. The Alaskan Malamute has its origins rooted in the Inuit people who relied on them for survival. Alaskan Malamutes were part of life-saving antidote runs to remote villages, saving hundreds of lives.
Louisiana: Catahoula Leopard Dog
Piercing eyes and beautiful coats make Catahoula Leopard Dogs a striking breed. This dog was named after the Catahoula Parish in Louisiana. “Catahoula” is a combined name with the Choctaw words for “sacred lake.” Boar hunters bred wolfdogs, Greyhounds, Mastiffs, and Bloodhounds to create a gorgeous dog with eye-catching colors and patterns prized for its active, hardworking, protective nature that’s also an all- around wonderful family dog.
It was not adults who began
13 Official State Dogs To Know About
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Governor Edwin Edwards signed House Bill #75 which recognized the significance of Catahoula Cur to Louisiana, naming the Catahoula Leopard Dog the State Dog of Louisiana on July 9, 1979. Today, they are rare outside Louisiana and The South, so you most likely won’t encounter one without exploring the
a Chesapeake Bay Retriever as its mascot in 1966. Nicknamed the “Chessie,” this dog breed excels in both the field and with family with its
large, round eyes, bat-like ears, and smooshed-in noses create an adorable look that has captivated Boston Terrier lovers for over a century.
New Hampshire: Chinook
tireless, affectionate, and intelligent nature. Massachusetts: Boston Terrier One would be correct to assume the Boston Terrier is the state dog of Massachusetts. The Boston Terrier is nicknamed the “American Gentleman” with its dapper tuxedo coloring and friendly, lively personality. The first litter of Boston Terriers was a mix between the English White Terrier and English Bulldogs in 1875 and later bred with Pit Bulls, English Bull Terriers, and Boxers. The breed standard we know today was established in 1883, and the breed’s popularity skyrocketed nationwide. Boston Terriers were chosen as the official state dog of Massachusetts on May 14, 1979, after a persistent campaign thanks to a “feisty Irish lady named Irene Ryan” according to publication descriptions. After 5th graders petitioned to have the Boston Terrier be the state dog and were rejected, Irene continued to advocate for the breed, writing hundreds of letters. She finally succeeded in her massive efforts, and Massachusetts residents can now look to the Boston Terrier as their beloved state dog. Boston Terriers are among the best dog breeds for apartment living and are versatile, happy-go-lucky companions. Their stocky, sturdy little bodies,
You may think a Chinook sounds like a sled dog from the Arctic, like Siberian Huskies or Alaskan Malamutes. However, the Chinook is the only sled dog originating in the “Lower 48” in Wonalancet, New Hampshire. Like their Northern cousins, Chinooks thrive in inclement weather conditions and are right at home in a snowstorm while still working hard despite dismal frigid conditions. New Hampshire native Arthur Walden developed his own sled dogs after spending 24 years in Alaska, mixing Siberian Huskies and Greenland Huskies with mastiff-type dogs, and growing his foundation stock with new generations. However, with the death of Walden in 1947, the Chinook’s popularity dipped so low that in 1965, the Guinness Book of World Records reported the Chinook was the rarest dog breed with 125 dogs remaining. Today, they’re still rare with only around 800 in the world. Schoolchildren from Lurgio Middle School wanted to recognize the Chinook as the official state dog of New Hampshire, and the 7th graders were successful in 2009. The Chinook is a patient, devoted, hardworking dog with lots of energy that loves pleasing its family. They grow to be 50-90 pounds and stand 22-26 inches tall as adults and come in 11 beautiful colors like tawny, buff, and red gold.
region. Maryland: Chesapeake Bay Retriever
A sporting dog sprints through the lapping waters of the Chesapeake Bay shoreline, retrieving a duck that’s just gone down. You think it might be a Golden Retriever, but the color is too dark. You can tell by its curly coat that it isn’t a Labrador Retriever, either. What is it? You’ve just seen a Chesapeake Bay Retriever, a lesser-known retriever out of the 6 recognized retriever breeds. These dogs hold a unique set of skills perfect for the region where it originated, said to be a mix of shipwrecked Newfoundlands and Coonhounds. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are able to retrieve waterfowl equally well on both land and water, making them exceptional hunting and retrieving dogs well- suited for the marshy waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Maryland holds the honor of recognizing the first official state dog in the US in 1964 by choosing the Chesapeake Bay Retriever. The choice was so popular that the University of Maryland, Baltimore County adopted
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American Water Spaniels, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, and Springer Spaniels, to form a new breed called the Boykin Spaniel, resulting in a lively, medium-sized dog superb at hunting specifically for the area, most notably around Camden. While not as popular as other Spaniels, the Boykin Spaniel gained a devoted following in the region. In April 1984, the South Carolina Wildlife and Marine Resources Commission endorsed Boykin Spaniels to be the first official state dog. Today, South Carolinians celebrate Boykin Spaniel Day on Sept. 1 each year. Boykin Spaniels have curly coats that come in chocolate, liver, or chestnut, weighing 25-40 pounds and standing 14-18 inches tall. They are fantastic with children and can keep up with their spirited energy as playmates. Enthusiasts love them because they work hard in the field and are also great family dogs after a good hunting session.
serving as companions. These qualities proved extremely useful when migrating to the New World as settlers made Pennsylvania their new home. A portrait of founder William Penn shows a fawn Great Dane by his side said to have been his best friend. For these reasons, the Great Dane was selected over the Beagle in 1965 to become the state’s official dog breed. While they may be massive with their impressive height and build, Great Danes are gentle giants with not an aggressive bone in their bodies. Their goofy love of life and sensitive nature makes them quite the characters, making owners laugh at the silly shenanigans they get into due to their size and personality. Great Danes love playing with and protecting children and are eager to please their owners. It’s no wonder these magnificent dogs were chosen to represent the state of Pennsylvania.
North Carolina: Plott Hound
North Carolina’s state dog, the Plott Hound, is an example of a dog holding special significance in a particular geographic area. Henry Plott resided in the NC mountains, perfecting a combination of hounds brought by his father from Germany mixed with leopard dogs and various other breeds. People traveled from all over to procure a hound from the Plotts due to their superior hunting skills. As popular game dogs, Plott Hounds were primarily used to hunt wild boar and other animals. Their fearless drive, scent abilities, unique bark, and eagerness to catch prey make them excellent hunting dogs. The NC state legislature made the Plott Hound the official dog of North Carolina in 1989, honoring its courageous nature, and the Plott Hound joined the American Kennel Club in 1998.
South Carolina: Boykin Spaniel
Tennessee: Bluetick Coonhound
South Carolina is home to lakes, rivers, and swamps that have been popular hunting grounds for centuries, particularly for waterfowl. As you can imagine, slogging through the swampy wetlands is cumbersome for humans, but not with the help of a trusty canine companion trained to assist hunters. Hunters wanted to create a dog breed with a great sense of hunting that would fit into a boat while exploring the Wateree River Swamp area. Around 1900, Alexander White sent a brown Spaniel mix named Dumpy to Whit Boykin for training. Boykin used a variety of breeds, including
You’re hiking in the dense Appalachian forests of Tennessee, and you hear the unmistakable baying of Bluetick Coonhounds. They’ve been after a scent for hours, never ceasing to stay on the trail. Their fearless, determined nature has brought them to one tree, where you see a raccoon huddled up on a branch. Historically used to hunt critters that climb trees like racoons, these eager dogs bay, bark, and howl when they catch the scent thanks to their sensitive noses and long, floppy ears that trap
Pennsylvania: Great Dane
Contrary to popular belief due to their name, Great Danes aren’t actually native to Denmark. Descended from large dogs of the ancient Roman era, Great Danes were prized in Europe for their guarding and hunting abilities, protecting estates, and carriages,
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group of enthusiasts brought them back. Although rare, one can find Blue Lacy dogs as far away as Canada,
smells. People who reside in western Tennessee especially are fans of Bluetick Coonhounds, as the University of Tennessee adopted one as its mascot in 1953. Smokey the Bluetick Coonhound is in his 10th generation encouraging fans to cheer for their school.
Virginia: American Foxhound
It’s fitting that the first exclusively American dog breed was developed by one of the first Founding Fathers of our nation, George Washington. As an avid fox hunter and dog lover, Washington aimed to breed a new type of dog with “speed, sense, and brains” as he wrote in one of his journal entries, mixing British hounds and local dogs. He called these energetic, sleek dogs American Foxhounds. Several paintings commemorating his love for these dogs can be seen in galleries across the nation. The Virginia Commonwealth adopted the American Foxhound as the official state dog of Virginia during the 1966 Session of the Virginia General Assembly signed by Governor Mills E. Godwin, Jr. This kind, sweet, loyal, and hardworking dog embodies the spirit of the early American colonists and national spirit. American Foxhounds, a mix of British hounds and local dogs, were once found in just about every colonial town but are now very rare. Their excellent sense of smell and boundless energy prove extremely valuable during hunting sessons. Back at home, the American Foxhound is gentle, affectionate and smart. Article gathered from https://www. pawrade.com/resource/breed- highlights/meet-13-official-state-dogs- of-the-usa
prized for their agile, diligent help herding livestock and other activities like trailing, tracking, and treeing wild game. Wisconsin: American Water Spaniel True to its name, the American Water Spaniel is an American dog rooted in the Great Lakes region that excels in water-based hunting and sports. Their webbed feet, excellent swimming and hunting abilities, and agile, muscular build make them a favorite for sporting activities. American Water Spaniels are small enough to ride in a boat and strong enough to retrieve fallen prey, an important combination to the success of Wisconsin pioneers of the time and today. The Wisconsin State Legislature passed a bill in 1986 making the American Water Spaniel the first state dog of Wisconsin thanks to the efforts of 8th graders at Washington Junior High School in New London. American Water Spaniels remained a rare breed seldom seen outside the Great Lakes region since hunters did not want to share this amazing dog with the rest of the world and almost went extinct, saved by dedicated breeders. Lucky owners of this rare breed find the American Water Spaniel is an obedient, smart, and charming dog eager to please their owners, making them great energetic family pets.
Texas: Blue Lacy
Blue Lacy dogs are right at home on the vast ranches and farms of Texas, built to withstand scorching heat under long working hours rounding up and taking care of livestock. The Blue Lacy is the only dog native to Texas and has played a large part in Texas’s ranching history. Brothers Frank, George, Ewin, and Harry Lacy developed the breed standard by crossing grey wolves, Greyhounds, Scenthounds, English Shepherds, and possibly coyotes. The Texas House Resolution 108 spearheaded by the Texas Lacy Game Dog Association stated regarding their reasoning behind the selection, “Blue Lacys were a common fixture on ranches in the Southwest, where it was said that one such dog could do the work of five cowboys; intelligent, energetic, fast, eager to work, and easy to train and handle, Lacys herded cattle, hogs, and chickens, and also served as droving and hunting dogs.” Governor Rick Perry officially declared the Blue Lacy as the Texas official state dog on June 18, 2005.
However, Blue Lacy dogs almost went extinct in the 1970s, but a small
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Go Where All Dogs Go !
Puppies Need to be House Trained
T o boldly go where most dogs have gone before! Yep, that is the goal for house training a puppy. Outside. On a regular basis. On a regular schedule. For puppy parents, house training can certainly be a challenge, but can be accomplished with consistency and perseverance. Alike, But Different, Too Puppies share many of the same characteristics as human babies. Neither can control their bladders or bowel movements at first. While children get diapers, puppies depend on their canine mothers to clean up after them in their den. They go freely here and mom maintains the area by licking the young animals. Later, puppies will mimic mom’s behavior and begin to learn to go potty outside if they remain together. However, many pups might join a human family before this lesson is fully grasped and the puppy owner will need to do the training or reinforce the earlier instruction. Out and About and On the Spot Puppies need to be taught to poop and pee outside. This requires a consistent
schedule, planning and the big P word, patience. Success will go hand-in-hand with this attention to detail. Puppies are pooping and peeing machines and what goes in comes out very quickly. Since most puppies are still learning to control their bladders and bowel movements, they must go outside often, like every 30-45 minutes. This also means right after they wake up, after eating and drinking, and after vigorous play. Want to House Train Your Puppy? Establish a spot for your puppy to go outside so they make the association to the outside trips. Puppies need to experience the “light bulb over the head” moment at some point and understand, “Hey! This is where I do my duty!” Smell will make a big connection for the puppy. Carry your young charge to the “spot” if possible so you can establish the exact place to eliminate. Put the puppy on a leash, too, since they may wander or take off from the bathroom area. Many dog owners also work to associate certain words with potty breaks. They use words like “outside” for the trip, and then commands like
“go now” and “potty” when at the bathroom spot. A young dog should then be able to eliminate on request as he matures into an adult. Oscar-Winning Performance Don’t distract the youngster when he is training in the designated area. Stay silent as he scratches and smells and only react once he has accomplished his mission. When your puppy does his duty on the spot, praise him! Make him think he has just won an Oscar for Best Performance in a Yard! No kidding. You can never go wrong with treats, either. Dogs are anxious to please their people so a little attention will go a long way. A Watched Puppy is a Safe Puppy House training demands a watchful eye on the puppy at all times. Most likely, puppy owners will start to pick up subtle and obvious cues about the puppy’s need to head to the outside spot like scratching, whining, or moving in a circle. It is important to observe these signs and put the rapid transport system in place to get the fur baby outside in time. Distracted puppy parents will miss these hints and find unexpected urine and feces
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puppies may associate being able to relieve themselves on any papers left on the floor anywhere and any time. For some pet parents, creating a “sod box” works better. This involves a small, plastic container like a children’s pool in the indoor spot. Inside the container, place sod and dog-litter products from a pet supply store. If you have to clean up an accident outside the area, put the dirty paper towels and rags inside it to help the puppy recognize the urine/ feces smell and associate it with the right potty spot. Find a Way Be aware, many adult dogs that are confined all day inside may have accidents because of the length of time between bathroom trips. Finding a way to allow your canine to relieve itself during the day, whether via dog walker or friend, would be a kind gesture for your pet. Imagine not being able to go to the bathroom all day yourself, and the need seems more important. House training a puppy combines consistency, perseverance, and long- term responsibility for pet parents. It is doable. Scores of pet owners have survived the process! Training can be accomplished in days or months, depending on the animal and the instruction. In the end, puppy parents don’t need a degree in rocket science to master house training, just a lot of love and patience. Article gathered from https://www. lambertvetsupply.com/blogs/news/ go-where-all-dogs-go-puppies- need-to- be-house- trained
rubbing a dog’s nose in the mess “so he remembers” does not work. Neither does scolding and yelling. Puppies will not associate any of this with their misplaced elimination. Instead, they will be confused and fearful, making the housebreaking routine longer. Busy, Busy, Busy So you live in an apartment and/ or work full-time and can’t be home to supervise 24/7? Many people fall in this category. House training your puppy will take an additional approach and may last longer, but is still doable. Several options exist, including possibly placing the youngster in a dog care facility where the staff can monitor and work on bathroom training. Some people hire a dog sitter/walker to come into their home and continue the house training. Perhaps a trusted neighbor or relative lives close enough to devote the time necessary for training.
in the house. Because of this potential problem, many experts suggest using a crate/carrier to help supervise a curious puppy when he is not being monitored. Time in the carrier should be limited to only a couple of hours usually, except for nighttime sleep or extended naps. The proper-sized carrier will help reinforce not to soil an area the puppy spends time in and also give them a quiet, safe place to rest and have some down time. Dogs are clean by nature so in the correct-sized kennel, a puppy will not want to sleep in his mess. Never put food or water in the crate. Make it a sleeping/quiet space. Removing his access to water a couple of hours before bedtime will also help prevent an accident in the carrier. Confinement after an accident should not be used as punishment. This sends a mixed message to the young pup as they try to figure out this whole bathroom business. Oops! They Did It Again! Speaking of oops and unexpected pee and poop, accidents will happen. Often. Don’t make a big deal out of it, but do make a big deal of cleaning up the mess. Use odor-removing disinfectants so your puppy is not encouraged to return to the scene of the crime and become a repeat offender due to the smell. If this happens, a more thorough cleaning might be necessary and the area may need to be sealed off with a chair or such to make using the spot again difficult. If you catch a puppy in the act, interrupt him immediately. Startle him and give him the “outside” command as you intervene and take him outside to the correct spot. The old myth about
A Lot of “Paperwork” If none of these methods fit your
budget or lifestyle, puppy owners can designate a small area like a bathroom, mud room, or kitchen as the “indoor spot”. This can even be enclosed with a wire or plastic confinement pen. Areas with vinyl floor covering work best and a tarp or plastic can be placed on the floor first, followed by newspaper or pet pads. Initially, the entire area is covered. As the puppy gets better at controlling his urination and bowel movements, the paper/ pad covered area should become smaller and smaller until it can vanish entirely. Of course, when puppy and owner are home together, the outside house training should continue until this mission is accomplished. One glitch with the paper elimination route means
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WHEN PUPPIES CRASH & BURN RECOGNIZING PROBLEMS BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE
veterinary visits or social outings should not come in contact with the female and her litter during this time. The dam and puppies should be kept separate from other animals to reduce the risk of disease.” PRACTICING THE THREE H’S Effective care of neonatal puppies is tied to how well breeders manage the three H’s: heat, hunger and hydration, says Dr. Cecere. “You have to make sure neonatal puppies are warm, fed and well-hydrated,” she says. “If you fail at one or two of these, you will have a compromised neonate.” Importantly, “neonates are not adult dogs,” Dr. Cecere explains. “They are baby puppies. Their organs and neu- rological systems are still developing. You need to under- stand their differences to provide proper care for them.” Heat: Puppies Cannot Regulate Their Body Temperature A normal body temperature for neonatal puppies is 96 to 99 degrees compared with 99.5 to 102.5 degrees for adult dogs. It is not until puppies are around 3 weeks of age that they begin to regulate their body temperature. “The biggest effect of their inability to maintain body temperature is in the GI (gastrointestinal) system because it does not work if puppies are cold,” Dr. Cecere says. “Food will sit in the GI tract and go nowhere until the body temperature is 96 degrees and above. This could cause reflex opposition or food regurgitation and aspiration.
A somber statistic indicates that about 20 percent of puppies born will not survive. Reducing puppy mortality starts with breeders practicing preventive neonatal care and biosecurity measures. Recognizing potential problems is key. “Puppy loss is a sad reality,” says Julie T. Cecere, DVM, MS, DACT, clinical professor of theriogenology at Virginia- Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. “About 75 to 90 percent of losses occur in the first three weeks. Once you get past 10 to 14 days, things generally go smoothly.” Nearly 80 to 90 percent of common neonatal problems relate to general husbandry, the care and management of the pregnant female and her puppies, Dr. Cecere says. “We have to remember that pregnant dams and their puppies are immunocompromised,” says the board-certified veterinary reproduction specialist. “Puppies have no adaptive immune system when they are born. Other than the passive immunity they receive in colostrum, their mother’s first milk that is rich with anti- bodies, they have no defense to combat disease,” she says. “Likewise, the immune system of a female under the influ- ence of progesterone is suppressed.” Breeding kennels should adhere to “the six-week rule,” Dr. Cecere advises. “Three weeks before the female whelps and three weeks after she whelps, a breeder should lock things down,” she says. “New animals should not come into your kennel or cohabitate in your house with your dam and puppies. Animals that go outside the kennel for companion events,
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“Puppies also are prone to diseases, especially herpes virus, which thrives in a cool body temperature. Naïve puppies in the first three weeks cannot fight herpes.” Maintaining a warm whelping environment is important. “Look for puppies lying in a ‘pig pile,’” Dr. Cecere says. “This means they are cold, and you may need to provide extra warmth. If the dam is hot and the puppies are spread out, it’s a good sign they are warm.” The whelping room temperature should be 86 to 90 degrees from day 1 to day 7 and then taper down, going to 80 degrees from day 8 to day 28 and to 70 to 75 degrees from day 29 and on, she advises. Hunger: Satiating Neonatal Puppies’ Hunger “Puppies have very little fat stores, or energy stores, which means there is little margin of error for them to go without energy,” Dr. Cecere says. “Their organs are still developing, so it is important they nurse regularly every few hours.” This is especially true for newborn puppies. “We need newborns nursing as much as possible. They should be with their dam 24/7 to benefit from nursing,” Dr. Cecere says. “Nursing offers twofold benefits,” she says. “It promotes uterine contractions that release the hormone oxytocin producing milk so the dam can nurse her puppies. In addition, puppies receive passive immunity from IgG antibodies in the colostrum, but they must receive this in the first eight to 10 hours before their GI tract closes.” Hydration: Puppies Are 80 Percent Water As with nutrition to nourish their bodies, puppies require frequent and higher amounts of fluid to support their developing organs. While adult dogs are 65 percent water, puppies are 80 percent water, Dr. Cecere explains. A risk of providing external heat to help puppies stay warm is that it can potentially create a dehydrating environment. “Puppies will dehydrate if they don’t have enough fluid in their bodies,” Dr. Cecere says. “If you don’t support them with hydration or the environment with humidity, it is not the best environment possible.” Humidity in a whelping box environment should be 55 to 60 percent, she says. This is higher than environmental humidity, which averages around 45 to 60 percent. PRACTICING BIOSECURITY “Every breeder should be practicing biosecurity,” Dr. Cecere says. “Breeders have litters for a reason, so it’s important to adhere to practices that reduce puppy loss.” Along with precautions related to separating the dam and her puppies from the rest of the kennel, breeders should be aware that they are fomites for disease pathogens, she says. “We can touch something and carry it back to the dam and puppies,” Dr. Cecere says. “You should never go from being around other dogs directly into a whelping area.” Rather, you should wash your hands, change your clothes and remove your shoes. Frequent cleaning and handwashing are mandatory. “Herpes is the biggest contagion we worry about,” Dr. Cecere says. “The virus is everywhere. It primarily causes neonatal deaths because it is temperature-sensitive and can easily replicate in their lower body temperatures. It
typically affects the whole litter, and most of the time, all the puppies die.” Clinical signs of herpes include crying, greenish stool and abdominal pain. Other pathogens that can affect the dam and her puppies include: kennel cough, or Bordetella bronchioseptica , and bacterial infections, such as salmonella and campylobacter. Parasite infections in the dam can be transferred to pup- pies in the placenta and mammary glands. Deworming females before the puppies are born and deworming puppies at 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks of age is important. Although a lot can go wrong in the first three weeks of caring for neonatal puppies, practicing biosecurity measures can help reduce risks. Breeders should reach out to their veterinarian when they suspect something may be wrong. “Don’t wait until three days later, and things are dire. Be intuitive and pay attention to signs of a problem,” Dr. Cecere says. “Puppies can crash and burn and very quickly,” she says. “While it is normal to experience loss, if you are losing several puppies in a litter, you should be concerned. The implications to your breeding program are important, plus you may be able to help surviving puppies.” ■ • Monitor puppies for “eat, sleep and dream” behav- iors, indicating normal neurological development. After eating, puppies fall asleep and their bodies depict dreaming with slight twitching movements and vocalization. • Check puppies’ reflexes, which are present from birth. These include righting themselves when placed on their back, rooting for a nipple when a forefinger circles the muzzle and suckling when the tip of a finger is in the mouth. A puppy not exhibiting natural reflexes should be seen immediately by a veterinarian. GOOD PRACTICES TO SUCCESSFULLY MANAGE NEONATAL PUPPIES • Locate the whelping box in a separate area of the kennel or your house. The dam and puppies should be sequestered from other animals to protect them from exposure to viral or bacterial pathogens. • Weigh puppies daily at the same time of day and chart their weight. Puppies should gain 5 to 10 percent of their birthweight daily, ultimately doubling their birthweight at 7 to 10 days of age. Puppies that fail to gain weight and have more than a 4 percent weight loss in 24 hours warrant veterinary attention.
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