Christmas Party

It's that time of year again! Get yourself into the festive spirit with our Christmas party next Tuesday (1st).

There'll be party games (for dogs and humans), food and a raffle. There will also be a fancy dress competition for the dogs with prizes for the most creative outfits.

We'll be kicking off at 7.30pm with the fancy dress. Everyone is welcome so see you there!

Then and now

How time flies! Here's a photo of Linda taken at Towcester Racecourse in 1986 when she was showing Old English Sheepdogs.

Banff, Moray & Nairn, 23 years later..........

.............still at it - just slightly less dog to brush!

Thank you to Ron for sharing the photo and for giving me a little inspiration. It's always fun to look back at older photos so how about sending in any that you may have from when you first started training/competing with your own dogs? The club has been going for a good number of years now (I'll try and find out exactly how many) and some of our more senior (nearly called them ancient!) members have been involved with dogs since almost the Dark Ages! Time to indulge in a bit of nostalgia - even though they say it's not what it used to be.

Please email me any photos you might have, with a little bit of information about date, place, people and dogs involved. If you have photos but no way of getting them onto a computer, please pass them on to me via the club and I'll return them after scanning them.

Those of you who haven't been in the dog game for quite so many years are also included, you may not be going as far back but it would be nice to see what dog you started out with or perhaps your first competition placing or win. Anything goes!

Last training night

Don't forget that tomorrow will be the last training night of the year. The Christmas party will be held on December 1st and the Good Citizen tests on December 8th.

Classes resume on January 19th, 2010.

Gundog news

Some of our gundogs have been doing well of late so here's an update.

Sue's Kupah has had a string of successes. At Midland Counties Champ show, held at Stafford on October 25th, he was 1st in Minor Puppy Dog and, after another long trip down to the same venue, he took the same award at The Setter and Pointer Club's Champ show on November 7th. The following weekend was a busy one. On Saturday, at the Gundog Breeds Association of Scotland's champ show at Ingliston, he won another Minor Puppy class then took Best Puppy In Breed and on Sunday, at the Gordon Setter Club of Scotland's open show, he not only won his class but was declared Best Puppy in Show! Congratulations!

Kupah

Also at Gundog Breeds of Scotland - Katie's Lara was placed 4th in a good sized Junior Bitch class, Fran's Diesel was 5th in Post Grad Dog and Nicola's Toby was 1st in Junior Dog and Grad Dog.

Lara

The LKA of Scotland Open show was held in Bathgate the following day and Lara had another good day, she won both her Post Grad and Open classes and went on to Best of Breed and G4. Toby was also at the show and took his first Best of Breed.

Also on the Sunday, the Weimaraner Club of Scotland held a champ show at Lanark, where Fran must have been chuffed to bits with Diesel's 2nd place in his Post Grad class as this means he has qualified for Crufts - his first time, I believe.

Well done everyone!!

Thanks to Sue, Ian and Katie for the photos.

Working and Pastoral Breeds of Scotland

Ingliston was the venue for Working and Pastoral Breeds of Scotland championship show last weekend and I have a number of wins to report.

Elaine's Fitz won his Junior Dog class and also the CC! Good going for a youngster who isn't long out of puppy. There was more success for Elaine when Fitz's litter sister Ava won her Junior Bitch class and Zeta won Post Grad Bitch.

Thanks for the photo Elaine.

Fitz - 1st JD and DCC

June's Benson kept up his winning form with a 1st in his Yearling Dog class.

Katrina's Marty was 1st in Minor Puppy Dog and Leo won his Post Grad class.

Linda and Vic's Gino was 3rd in Post Grad Dog and Buddy ws 3rd in Open Dog.

Congratulations All!

Banff, Moray & Nairn CC

BMNCC's second open show of the year was held at Lossiemouth on Saturday 31st October. It may have been Halloween but the warm and sunny weather made it feel more like a summer day. What a shame we were indoors!

Being a local show, there were plenty of club members present and many took top honours. Going all the way to the very top was June's Benson as he won his class, the working group and was then declared Best In Show - his 5th such award. Congratulations!

Also in the working group, Joanne's Walter was BOB and G2.

Terriers - Cathy's Sula took Best NSC and G1, she later went Best Opposite Sex In Show. Karen's Ceilidh took BOB and G2, I think.

Toys - Sue's Desmond won his class, Jill's Chico won his NSC class but was beaten to Best NSC by Linda and Ron's Esmee, who then went G4. Chico's little brother, Tiger, kept the Chin flag flying by taking Best Toy Puppy and then Reserve Best Puppy In Show.

Utility - Linda and Ron's Denzil was BOB.

Pastoral - Mandy's Lily did very well at her first ever show, she won her AV pastoral puppy class and was declared Best Pastoral Puppy. Jenny's Sadie was BOB.

Hounds - Erica and Doug's Willow won her class as did Charlotte who then took BOB and G1. Heather's Sasha (?) won her class but was beaten to BOB by Liz's Poppy who also took G4. Bob's Luka was BOB.

Gundogs - Sue's Jana won her class. Jennifer's Wallace won his and BOB. Sue's Logan won his class and BOB. Katie's Chewie also won his class and BOB. Lesley's Rommi won her NSC class and then Best NSC and G4. Fran had a very exciting day when Diesel won his class, BOB and then won his first ever group!

Morag's Logie took another Best Import Register.

Glenn won the JH 6-11 year class, Caitlin won the 12 - 16 year class and then Best Junior Handler.

Well done everybody!!

Thanks to Morag, Linda and Ron for contributing some photos.

Logie, Best Import, and Gigha, 2nd
Morag and Ria - twins!

Sula - G1 and Best Opposite Sex In Show

Working group line-up

Working group 1st - 4th

Esmee - Best Toy NSC and G4

Toy group line-up

Toy group 1st - 4th

Tiger - Best Toy Puppy and RBPIS

Denzil - Best of Breed

Utility group line-up

Pastoral group line-up

Pastoral group 1st - 4th

Lily - Best Pastoral Puppy

Charlotte - BOB and G1

Hound group line-up

Hound group 1st - 4th

Gundog group line-up, part 1

Gundog group line-up, part 2

Gundog group 1st - 4th

Junior Handling 6 - 11 years

Best in Show line-up

Benson - Best In Show

BIS, RBIS and Best Opposite Sex


Best Puppy line-up


BPIS and RBPIS

Seminars

Payment is now due for the Hands On and Conformation And Movement seminars which we are holding on December 5th/6th. If you have booked a place, please let Joan (treasurer) have your payment by next Tuesday (3rd Nov).

If you have booked but now find that you are unable to attend, please let Joan or Karen know so that somebody else can be offered your place.

Show results catch up

The North of Scotland Sheepdog Club held an open show at Stonehaven recently. Katrina and Linda were there and both had a successful day.

Katrina's Leo was 2nd in his class but young Marty did even better, winning his class and then going on to Best Puppy In Show!

Linda and Vic's Gino and Buddy both won their classes with Buddy taking Best Dog.

Another recent show was Scottish Utility Breeds, which I think is held at Ingliston (correct me if I'm wrong). Morag's Gigha was third in the Import Register class, Logie won the class and another Best Import Register.

Well done everyone!

Benson goes one better

We didn't have to wait long for great things from June's Benson. Last Saturday, at the Newfoundland Club's Champ show at Stoneleigh Park, he won his class and then went on to take the CC and Reserve Best In Show! What a fantastic year he's had.

Congratulations June! What a thrill to get that first CC, good luck for the next two!

Winter timetable

Now that the darker nights are upon us, please note that, starting from this Tuesday, there will be a slight change to the class times.

Ringcraft - 6.45 - 7.30pm
Puppy Foundation - 7.30 - 8pm
Bronze - 8 - 8.45pm
Silver and Gold - 8.45 - 9.30pm

Gundog Society of Wales Championship Show

There were only two club members that I am aware of who made the journey down to Malvern for the Gundog Society of Wales's champ show last Wednesday.

Sue's Kupah was at his first champ show and qualified for Crufts with his 1st in Minor Puppy Dog.

Elizabeth's Bronni kept up a consistent run of success with a 3rd in Open Bitch.

Well done!

Kupah on the move

Kennel cough

A club member has reported that her dog has been diagnosed with kennel cough so please be aware that it is on the go.

Kennel cough is very contagious so if your dog is coughing or has been in contact with coughing dogs, please do not bring it to training classes and avoid mixing with dogs in general until it is clear of the virus.

Top spot for Benson

It's been a great year for June's Benson, his many wins at open shows have made him the Northern Newfoundland Club's Open Show Dog Of The Year!

Congratulations June and Benson, we're sure there are great things ahead!

Driffield and South Wales KA Championship Shows

Two results from Driffield Champ show which was held 1st - 4th October. Katie's Lara is nothing if not consistent as she took yet another 2nd place in Puppy Bitch. She was also 3rd in Junior Bitch. Lesley's Tilly just missed out on qualifying for Crufts when she took 4th in Minor Puppy Bitch. I think this was her first show and she was very much the baby in a good sized class. Fingers crossed for next time.

The South Wales Kennel Association Champ show was held 8th - 10th October and it gave Elizabeth's Asher the opportunity to take another RCC! Two reserves in a row! Let's hope the next one will be the CC. Bronni also had a good day when she was placed 2nd in Open Bitch.

Well done everyone, keep it up!

Belfast, Perth, Scottish Beagle and Angus & Kincardine

There were a number of shows held last weekend, here's a round up of them.

First of all the two day Belfast Championship Show. I know of only three club members who made the mammoth journey. June's Benson was 2nd in his Limit Dog class, Morag's Logie took another Best Import Register and Katrina's Marty was 2nd in Puppy Dog and Leo 3rd in Post Grad Dog. Well done all, hopefully you've recovered by now!

Perth Racecourse was the new venue for Perth Canine Club's open show on Saturday. Terriers were judged in a marquee whilst toys were in the most unusual of places - a bar! In fact, the bar itself made up one side of the ring. All other groups were judged on the grass between the racecourse and the grandstands. It made for a lovely setting, especially with the sun shining, but might have looked a little different in the pouring rain!

There were places for the few club members present but only one win that I am aware of. Unfortunately I have no names, but see the photo below with the running husky. I'd appreciate further details if anyone has them.

Also on Saturday, Scottish Beagle Club held their breed open show at Alva. The sun shone there too and they even had a wedding at the show! It was a good day for Erica and Doug's Willow as she won the Limit Bitch class. Well done Erica and Willow!

Angus and Kincardineshire CA held their open show at the community centre, Arbroath on Sunday. The only 1sts that I am aware of were Erica and Doug's Willow who went BOB and Elizabeth and George's Lily who took Best NSC toy. Although not wins, there are a couple of places worth mentioning. Karen's Ceilidh was 3rd in a very large NSC terrier class, there were 18 in it! Sue's Louis took 2nd in a class of 16 veterans. It was a family affair in the JH classes with Glenn winning his class and Caitlin winning hers and then Glenn going on to take Best Junior Handler. Well done all.

As ever, please let me know if I've missed anyone.

Willow - 1st LB at Scottish Beagle Club
Photo courtesy of Gary Clacher

A few photos from Perth Racecourse.

The outdoor rings seen from the grandstand

Scone Palace is next door

The toy ring plus bar!

The winners enclosure

Nicola gets some extra handling practice

Katie keeps her head this time

This may have been BD and BB in huskies but I'm not sure

Nicola and Toby

Helen had a couple of places with her dogs

Are perms making a come-back?

The grandstand made a great sunbathing spot

Darlington Champ Show

Darlington Championship show was held at Newby Hall last weekend. Exhibitors must have been so glad that the weather was much kinder this year, the sun shone and the ground was dry - so different from last year's sea of mud!

I don't think that many club members made the journey south and the main successes came from the gundog group.

Katie's Lara was placed 2nd in her Puppy Bitch class. It seems to be a case of 'always the bridesmaid' for Lara as she's had a few such places at this year's champ shows. Fingers crossed for a 1st at the next one!

Lara at Darlington (poor Katie goes headless again)

For one club member, this Darlington was definitely one not to be forgotten. Elizabeth was chuffed to bits when Asher was 2nd in Limit Dog class and then went on to take the RCC! The excitement didn't end there, however, because Bronni then won her Open Bitch class and took the CC and also Best of Breed! This was Bronni's second ticket so keep your fingers crossed that she goes on to get that all important third.

Congratulations Elizabeth and Katie - keeping the HPR flag flying!

Bronni and Asher

Companion show at Nethybridge

Don't forget the show at Nethybridge this Saturday.

Seminars

On Saturday 5th December the club will be holding a Hands On seminar, which will be followed by Conformation and Movement on Sunday 6th December. Eleanor Bothwell will be the assessor.

The venue is St Thomas's Hall in Keith and both days will be a 9am for 9.30am start. Coffee and tea will be provided and the cost is £12 per day.

Priority will be given to club members but, if there are any spare places, it will be opened up to non-members.

If you are interested in attending, please contact Karen - iainandkaren.forbes@btinternet.com

Lochaber Open show

On Sunday, Lochaber and District CA held their annual open show at the usual venue of The Nevis Centre at Fort William. The show was brought forward a few weeks this year, which meant that there wasn't the same show of autumn colours but the journey there was still a very scenic one. The weather was good over on the west coast with plenty of sunshine but the summit of Ben Nevis remained hidden by a stubborn cloud .

There were less club members at the show than in previous years but there are still some good results to report.

June's Benson is still on a roll, he won his class then took the group and followed it up by going Reserve Best In Show! Also in the working group, Joanne's Walter took Best NSC and then G2.

Only one hound result, Ria helped Erica out by handling Charlotte who went on to BOB.

In the pastoral group Jenny's Sadie was BOB and Linda and Vic's Gino won his class and BOB.

The only utility win I know of was Linda and Ron's Denzil, who won his class and BOB.

In toys Elizabeth and George's Giovanni was Best NSC and G2 and puppy Lola was Best Toy Puppy. One of Les and Rita's poms took BOB and a group place but I'm not sure which one at the moment - if anyone knows, please tell me. Ria's Jasper was BOB.

In the terriers, Daveena's Kia (?) was BOB and Karen's Ceilidh beat Fergus to take BOB and then G4.

Congratulations to all!

Some of the winners......

Sadie

Denzil

Charlotte

Jasper

Lola

Pastoral group being judged

Terrier group judging

Terrier group 1st - 4th

Working group judging

Hound group judging

Best in Show line-up

Best In Show - the cocker
Reserve Best In Show - Benson
(Bad photo but they didn't hang around to pose!)

Posing pals

One more from Roseisle

Thanks to Fran for this photo of the fancy dress class at Roseisle.

A sunny Roseisle show

After the non-stop pouring rain of Thursday and subsequent flooding in the Moray area, it was a relief to have the sun shining on our companion show at Roseisle on Sunday. There was a great turn out, the kitchen and raffle did a good trade and a clear profit of £560 was made for our nominated charity, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People.

Thanks to our judges, Karen Elmquist, Joanne Newsome and Fran Murtaugh. Thanks also to all the committee members, helpers and everyone who donated food and raffle prizes - it wouldn't have been possible without you!

It was almost a clean sweep of the top awards for club members with Heather's Sasha taking Best In Show, Morag's Logie was Reserve Best In Show and Les and Rita's Gus (handled by Caitlin) taking Best Puppy. Jennifer's Riley won a very large gundog class and Donna's River was 1st in the working class.

The obedience classes were well supported and again the club had some good results. The first class was won by Ria with Jasper and the top class by Jenny with Brint.

Glenn won the junior handling class and Ria came second.

Well done to everyone!

One competitor makes the most of the sunshine

The judge hard at work in the novelty ring

Gus winning the puppy class

Logie wins the junior class

River - 1st in working

Sasha takes 1st in the hound class

1st - 4th in the veteran class

Glenn wins the junior handling class

(R-L) 1st - 4th Triers obedience

(L-R) 1st - 6th Highers obedience

(L-R) 1st - 6th Fliers obedience

BIS line-up, part 1

BIS line-up, part 2

L-R, RBIS and BIS

BPIS

Scottish Kennel Club Championship Show

SKC held their second champ show of the year at Ingliston last weekend. Despite fairly heavy rainfall on the Friday, conditions were pretty good and the two day show did not become a mud-fest. It was windy though. Does anyone remember a time when it wasn't windy at Ingliston?!

There were quite a number of wins and Crufts qualifying places for club members, which I've picked up from Fosse Data. If I've not spotted your dog then please let me know. I have no photos from the day and would welcome any that you may have taken.

Working - Elaine had a good day with the mastiffs, winning PD, PB (and Best Puppy), PGB (and RBCC). Sorry, I don't know the dogs by name but will find out who was who. June's Benson also won his Yearling class. Sian's Bertie will be Crufts bound next year after his 2nd in PD.

Gundogs - Sue's Finlay was 2nd in PGD, Katie's Lara was 3rd in both PB and JB, Jennifer's Wallace was 3rd in PGD. There was at least one win and some qualifying places in the cocker classes but I am waiting for names, watch this space.

Pastoral - Linda and Vic's Gino was 1st in PGD, Katrina's Marty was at his first show and will be heading to Crufts as he took 3rd in MPD, Leo also took a 3rd in Yearling.

Utility - Morag's Logie won his class, Best Dog and then Best Import Register. Although unable to compete in the group, they got to do a lap of honour in the ring before judging started.

Toys - Jill's Suki won her JB class. Sue's Rosa won her PGB class. Elizabeth and George's Lily (?) was 2nd in NSC Open but Lola went one better by winning her class then Best NSC and Best Puppy. Caitlin handled Gus to take a 1st in his class. Ria's Jasper was on fine form, after taking 2nd in his PG class he was whisked off to the YKC working/pastoral/utility/toy stakes class, which he won! Ria and Jasper also had further success in theYKC and JHA classes with a 2nd and a 3rd, these qualify them for Crufts and Richmond I think but, as there were a number of handling classes, I have to admit to being a bit confused - it was all good news anyway!

Terriers - Daveena's Rowan won her class and then took RBB. Her sister Poppy, handled by Caitlin, took 1st in the YKC terrier/gundog/hound.

Hound - Elizabeth's Bunty was 3rd in PGB. Erica and Doug's Charlotte was 2nd in PGB and Willow was 3rd in OB.

Congratulations to all!


Thanks to Sian for the photo below. Lizzie the horse looks less than impressed by Bertie's news that he's off to Crufts next year!

Where to look for rosettes

Many of you will have seen, and quite possibly won, some of Nicky's impressive home-made rosettes as she has provided them for a number of our events.

To give you a taster of what is on offer at our show on Sunday at Roseisle visit her new blog here. Make sure you're there on the day to be in with a chance of winning one!

Ringcraft rota for this session

25th August..............................Karen and Mary
1st September..........................Joanne and Nicky
8th September..........................Daveena and Helen
15th September........................Sue and Morag
22nd September.......................John and Claire
29th September........................Jenny and Elizabeth
6th October................................Lesley and Katie
13th October.............................June and Mark
20th October.............................Karen and Joan
27th October.............................Joanne and Mary
3rd November..........................Nicky and Daveena
10th November........................Helen and Sue
17th November.........................Morag and John
24th November........................Claire and Jenny (last training night)
1st December............................CHRISTMAS PARTY
8th December...........................Good Citizen test night
19th January '10......................Classes restart after Christmas break

A win for Asher

The Welsh Kennel Club Championship show was held 21st - 23rd August away down south in Builth Wells.

The only result that I could see for a club member was first place in Limit Dog for Elizabeth's Asher, which means he now has his Stud Book number.

Well done Asher!

Back to school

Don't forget that classes start again tomorrow night.

No doubt everyone and everydog is keen and raring to go after the summer break! See you there.

A thank you

June would like to thank everyone for all their encouragement over the past few months and for all the cards and comments received after Benson succeeded in getting his Junior Warrant.

Shows will be so much more relaxing now that the pressure is off, June!

Our annual Companion Show

Our annual show, in aid of Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, will be taking place on Sunday 6th September at the usual venue of Roseisle Village hall - so make sure you keep your diary free that day!

As in previous years, there are 9 pedigree, 11 novelty and 3 obedience classes and judging will take place in three rings. Why not spruce up your pins and give them an airing in the 'best six legs' class? The popular 'fancy dress' class will give you the chance to get creative, the more imaginative the costume, the better. The obedience classes will suit complete beginners, as well as more advanced competitors, so don't be afraid to have a bash. Lovely rosettes are on offer for 1st to 6th place in all the classes.

Refreshments, home-bakes and those all-important pies will be available in the hall. A raffle will be held and you'll also have the chance to win a bottle of whisky in our playing card lotto.

The show is open to everyone, dogs do not need to be Kennel Club registered but must be over 6 months of age. There's something for everyone in the classes so come along for a great day out with your dog and support a very worthy cause!

Click on the entry form below for all the information.

News from the Deep South

Katrina was away on holiday in the south of England recently, a bit of a working holiday as she was also dog and house-sitting for a friend.

While she was down there, she managed to take in Paignton and Bournemouth Champ shows - the only club member that I know of who did so.

At Paignton, Leo won his Yearling Dog class and Cosmo was in a qualifying position with 3rd in Limit Dog. Star took 5th place in a large Limit Bitch class.

Leo kept the Glenfound flag flying at Bournemouth by being placed 2nd in Yearling Dog.

Well done Katrina and gang!

Scotiabear Talk Of The Town at Rathmil JW

Benson after his BIS win at Highland and just before gaining his JW

Keith Companion Show

Sunday's companion show at Keith saw yet another Best In Show for a Spey Valley member, the third one that weekend. This time it was Elizabeth's Asher who took the top honour and not far behind, with Reserve Best In Show, was Morag's Logie.

There was a new layout for the show this year and the dogs were much more a part of the whole show than in previous years. This seems to have helped the entry enormously and the classes were well filled. No doubt the good weather helped there too.

It was a good show all round for Spey Valley. Erica and Doug's Charlotte won the hound class, Karen's Poppy the terrier, Donna's River the working, Elizabeth's Malibu the toy, Jenny's Sadie the pastoral and Sue's Louis was Best Veteran. It was a clean sweep in the Junior Handling with Ria winning the 6-11 year class and Caitlin the 12-16 year and Best Overall Junior.

Congratulations everyone!

Thanks to Sian for the photos of River and Charlotte.

Some of the entrants

Wonder what these two were discussing?

A couple of the Junior Handlers

Dog shows can be SO tiring!

Looks like this basset feels the same way!

Best Crossbreed

Malibu - Best toy

Poppy - Best terrier

Sadie - Best pastoral

River - Best working

Charlotte - Best hound

BIS line-up, part 1

BIS line-up, part 2

Asher, BIS and Logie, RBIS

BPIS

Lap of honour

Tayside and Lochee

Carnoustie Leisure Centre was the venue for this Open show on Saturday. It's located right on the seafront and can often be damp and chilly but the sun shone for most of the day and meant that some groups were judged outside in the near(ish!) tennis courts.

There weren't many club members at the show but I do have a few wins to mention.

Katie's Lara continued her run of success by taking Puppy Group 1.

Erica and Doug's Willow won her class, BOB and Group 4.

Liz's Erin won her class and BOB.

Sue's Desmond also won his class and Louis was Best Toy Veteran.

Well done all!

Finlay comes out on top

At the companion show at Moy on Saturday, Sue's Finlay kept the Spey Valley flag flying when he won the gundog class and then went on to take Best In Show. Well done Finlay!

Thanks to Sue for sending in the photo.

Let's hear it for Benson!

We can all relax now and uncross everything because Benson won his classes and Best of Breed at a show in Lanark yesterday, which gave him enough points for his Junior Warrant plus one to spare! Not only that but he won the group and also another Best In Show!!

For those who may not know, a dog gains its Junior Warrant by collecting points for wins at Open and Championship shows between the ages of 6 and 18 months. 25 points are required in total, a win at Ch level gives 3 and Open 1. It's a major achievement to be able to add the coveted 'JW' after your dog's name and involves hundreds of miles of travelling in order to take in as many shows as possible in the space of that year. Living as far north as we do makes it even harder. As far as I am aware, Benson is the first dog belonging to a Spey Valley member to take such an award.

Huge congratulations to June and Benson!

Of course we can't forget Andy, whose unwavering support has played a huge part in Benson's stellar show career. We all know how much he enjoys dog shows!

Denzil struts his stuff

At the companion show at Turriff on Monday, Linda and Ron's Denzil was in fine form and he was declared Best Puppy in Show. Well done!

Turriff

There was no mud to contend with this year at Turriff, although there were a couple of very heavy showers in the afternoon but, in the main, it was warm and sunny.

It was to be a very good day for Spey Valley with five of the seven contenders for Best in Show being club members.

There was a lot going on at once and I'm sure to have missed wins so please let me know of yours and send in any photos you may have.

Congratulations to all the winners!

UTILITY

Morag's Logie takes Best Import Register

TERRIER
Karen decided to take Ceilidh just for a day out and was delighted when she won her NSC class and then went on to win the group.

Ceilidh - Best AVNSC, G1

Group judging

Group 1st - 4th



GUNDOG
Katie's Lara had a terrific (Turrific?) day. She beat a Sh Ch to take BOB and followed it up by winning a good sized group and also the puppy group!

I think Sue's Finlay may also have been in the group after taking BOB.

Elizabeth's Bronni won her class.

Lara - BOB, G1, PG1

Katie looking chuffed to bits with Lara's group win.

PASTORAL
Roseanne's Toby won his class and BOB.

Jenny's Sadie also took BOB.

Toby - BOB

Sadie - BOB

Group judging



WORKING
Joanne's Danes had a good day, Nana won her class, Walter won his, then took BOB and also the group.

June's Benson won his class and then BOB and G3. He now only needs one point to achieve his JW and he has just two more shows in which to get it. Good luck Benson!

Walter - BOB, G1


TOY
Jill's Chico was BOB then went on to win the group, for the second year in a row. He went one better this year though, by being declared Reserve Best In Show. Well done Chico!
Jill also had success with the cavaliers, Jamie won his class and BOB and I think Barry may also have won his class.

Ria's Jasper is on a winning streak, he won his class, BOB and then G2.

Sue's Desmond won his class, as did Linda's TJ who then went on to take BOB and G4

I don't think Jill's Tony won his class at Turriff but we're catching up with him after his BOB win at Dundee and his minor puppy win at Highland last week.

Jamie - BOB


Chico, with other things on his mind, BOB, G1 & RBIS

Group judging

G1 and G2

HOUNDS
Bob's Luka beat brother Bo to Best of Breed and then went on to G3. This must be his lucky show too because he won the group last year.

Erica and Doug's Charlotte was another who won her class and BOB.

Group judging

Group 1st - 4th



JUNIOR HANDLING
Ria had to put up with a shower of rain during her JH 6 -11 year class but she took it in her stride and came away with a very soggy red rosette.

Caitlin was handling Gus, it was his first show and he gave her a very hard time, but he seemed to enjoy himself!

Gus doing a dance

One of the few moments he stood still!

Ria competing for Best JH

Take them round please........

L - R, BIS, RBIS and Best Opposite Sex

The BIS judge gets up close and personal with some Dane slobber.

The clouds built up just after BIS and then came a torrential downpour halfway through Best Veteran. Sue's Louis was in the ring at the time and was in danger of looking like a drowned rat. Everyone ran for cover except poor, dedicated, steward Isobel, who was busy saving all the paperwork and ended up sheltering under the table until rescue arrived in the shape of an umbrella. Click on the photo to see just how much rain there was.

Two more dates for your diary

I've learned of another couple of upcoming Companion Shows.

The first is at Highland Field Sports Fair, Moy, Inverness on Saturday 8th August and is being held in aid of Pets As Therapy. There are 6 pedigree and 6 novelty classes and the judge will be Mrs J Fraser. Classes cost £1.50 each and judging starts at 1pm.

The other is at Nethybridge on Saturday 26th September and our own Linda Offen (Linconor) will be the judge. I have no further details at the moment but will add them when I do. This one is a must for the home-baking alone!

Don't forget the show at Keith Country Show on Sunday 9th August. Judging will take place in two rings at the same time, Niamh Wilson (Speymalt) will judge the pedigree classes. There are 10 pedigree classes and 8 novelty. Entries will be taken from 12 noon with judging at 1pm, £1.50 for first class and 50p for subsequent.

Clatt Companion Show

Despite less than ideal weather, there was a good turn out for the Companion show at Clatt.....perhaps the home baking on offer in the hall had something to do with it!

Quite a few club members were at the show but I wasn't there myself so am not sure exactly how everyone got on. I do know that Morag's Logie had a great day as he won the Junior class and then Reserve Best in Show. Well done Logie!

Thanks to Sian, who was there with Bertie, for sending in a few photos that she took.

Logie - RBIS

BIS went to Aileen Perry's Gunner

Leeds Championship Show

Leeds Champ show was held last weekend and for one club member it was well worth clocking up all the miles to attend. Katie's Lara was placed 3rd in Puppy Bitch and 2nd in Junior Bitch.

Well done Lara!

Lara (and a headless Katie!) at Leeds

Benson beats them all at Dingwall

Highland Canine Association held their second show of the year at Dingwall mart last Saturday.

The weather was very good, allowing uninterrupted judging in the outdoor rings and a chance to admire the lovely scenery. The sun became quite strong in the afternoon, especially by the time it came to Best in Show. June's Benson seemed to take it all in his stride though, he put in a good performance to win his class, the working group and then top it off with another BIS! Congratulations!

Well done all the winners and as ever, please let me know if I've missed anyone. Thanks to Morag and Jenny for sending in photos.

UTILITY

I missed most of the utility group but, apart from Logie, who won another Import Register class, I think the only win was for Linda and Ron's Denzil who was Best Utility Puppy.

Logie - Best Import Register

WORKING

Joanne's Walter won his NSC class, as did Donna's River who went on to take Best AVNSC Working.

Working group shortlist

TOYS

Jasper won his NSC class and then went on to take his first group win! Jill's Barry won his class, Chico was BOB, G3 and Tony won the toy puppy class. Sue's Desmond was BOB and G2, Pansy was Best Opposite Sex and Louis was Best Toy Veteran.

Jasper puts his best paw forward and wins the group

Desmond - BOB, G2 and Pansy - Best Opposite Sex

Louis - Best Toy Veteran



HOUNDS

Erica's Willow won her class, BOB and G3 (?). Heather's Fraya also won her class and BOB. Bob's Luca won his NSC class.

Fraya - BOB

Willow - BOB, G4

Hound group being judged


GUNDOGS

Sue's Finlay and Logan both won their classes and BOB.

Gundog group part 1

Gundog group part 2

PASTORAL

Katrina's Leo won his Post Grad class and Jenny's Sadie was Best of Breed.

Leo

Pastoral group line-up part 1

Pastoral group part 2

TERRIER

Karen's Fergus won his class, BOB and he was also Best Terrier Veteran (sorry, no photo)

Ria handles Jasper to win the JH 6-11years

Caitlin wins the 12-16 years, Jodi was second

Competing for Best JH. After a tight contest, Caitlin was declared the winner

Best in Show line-up part 1

Best in Show line-up part 2


Best Puppy line-up

BIS and RBIS

Benson's lap of honour

Westfield House Companion Show

On Sunday BMNCC held a Companion show in the grounds of Westfield House, near Elgin. It was part of a fun day which was held to raise money for Spynie Hall. The event was blessed with sunshine, which must have been a big relief to the organisers after the continual rain the day before!

There was a pretty good turn out for the show and I'm sure Joan enjoyed her day enormously. Sian took photos on the day and these can be found on her Animal Snapper website, you can find it in the links in the side bar.

It was quite a nice setting for a show although the ring proved to be a bit of a challenge, what with lots of rabbit smells, pine cones and twigs to avoid, as well as lots of dips and uneven ground! All good practice.

Morag's Logie won the junior class, Ria's Jasper took the toy and terrier, Heather's Sasha won the hound and Lesley's Rommi won the gundog class. Sasha went on to BIS and Rommi RBIS.

Ria won the JH 6-11 class, Caitlin won the 12-16 class and then took overall best junior handler.

Congratulations to the winners.

Jasper wins the toy class and Ria the JH 6-11years

Caitlin - Best JH

BIS line-up part 1

BIS line-up part 2
(Retriever was BV)

BIS and RBIS

BPIS

Lochaber Open Obedience Show

Colin, Fran and Lisa were competing at the two day show at Spean Bridge on Saturday and Sunday. The weather was not good and they had midges to contend with, but they all got placed so it was worth the suffering!

In Pre-Beginners on the first day, Lisa's Ozzy was placed 6th and Max was 10th. On the second day they both went one better with a 5th and 9th respectively in Pre-Beg.

Colin and Fran had to wait until the second day to make the line-up, although Colin got very close on the first. In the Beginners class, Fran's Diva was 9th and Colin's Beauly was 10th.

Well done All!

Dundee and New Deer

Heavy rain on the days leading up to Dundee Open show on Saturday could easily have meant swamp-like conditions at Camperdown Park but it seems that it escaped the worst. Some breeds were judged in the tents but most managed outside. Quite different to the sun and heat of the last two years.

I wasn't at the show but have been sent a few results and a couple of photos. If you had any wins then please let me know.

Jill probably had the most successful day, the Pamojill dogs were winning everything! Young Tony won his Junior class and Best Puppy in Breed, Suki won Post Grad and Chico won the Open class. Tony then beat both Suki and Chico to take BOB......at only 8 months old! Unfortunately, he wasn't able to take part in the toy group because it was being judged by his breeder and he had to make do with a lap of honour.

There were more red rosettes to come for Jill with the cavaliers, who obviously didn't want to be outdone by the chins! Babs won her puppy class and the AV Special Toy Minor Pup class, Jamie won Limit and Barry the Open class. Jamie then took BOB and was shortlisted to the final 6 of the group.

June's Benson got one step closer to his Junior Warrant. He won all three of the Newfoundland classes, BOB and was shortlisted in the group. This gave him one more point towards his JW (only two to go!) and also the last point needed for his Show Certificate of Merit.

Erica and Doug also had a good day. Charlotte was first in Post Grad and Willow won the Open class and BOB.

Morag's Logie won his class and Best Import.

Sian's Bertie was another who did well when he won his Puppy class.

Congratulations everyone!


The day after Dundee there was a Companion Show at New Deer and Willow kept up her form by taking Best In Show! Good going Willow.

Above and below - Willow and Bertie relaxing after the shows

Thanks Erica and Sian for the photos.

Test night

Bronze, Silver and Gold Good Citizen Dog Scheme tests were held on Tuesday and it proved to be a very successful night with the majority of dogs passing. In fact, most of the dogs doing the Bronze test were of a good enough standard to take and pass the Silver test too!

Well done everyone, see you all for the next level on 25th August.

Thanks to Alison for giving up her time to come and be our examiner.

Ellie and Max doing Bronze stays (1 minute)

Silver stays (2 minutes)

Just waiting for the call..............

.............and there it is!

Relaxing between tests

Two Ellies having fun

Diva didn't get this one.
"You wanted me to stop where?"

Rio shows Diva how it was supposed to be done

'Send to bed' - Kya's favourite bit of the test

"I can do this one"

Gold stays (2 minutes with 30 seconds out of sight)



Puppy Foundation
L-R: Karol and Oscar, Jake and Blackie, Lorrain and Archie, Mike and Kye

Bronze passes

Silver passes

Gold passes

Directions to Westfield and a photographer on site

If you were thinking of going to the Companion show at Westfield on Sunday but weren't sure where to find it, click here for directions. I now know that the judge will be our very own Joan Cowie.

Sian Broderick will be attending the show, taking photos, and she will also have a stand at Dundee open show tomorrow. You'll be able to view photos of your dog taken at the show and also have them printed.

The weather forecast is not looking great for tomorrow. Good luck to all going and make sure you take your wellies!

Sunday looks more promising........fingers crossed.

Summer break and upcoming Companion Shows

Training classes finished last week and will resume on August 25th. Tomorrow night will be a Good Citizen test night, which will start at 7pm. Remember to bring some form of poop scoop, a brush and ensure your dog is wearing an identity tag which shows your name and address.

There are a few Companion Shows being held during the next two months and I'll give you what details I have.

On Sunday 19th July BMNCC will be holding one at Westfield House, near Elgin, in aid of Spynie Hall. There will be 9 pedigree classes and 9 novelty, entries cost £1 per class and it all starts happening at 11am.

On Saturday 1st of August you can head up to Clatt for another show, not forgetting the chance to enjoy the great tea-room there. Entries will be taken from 11.30am with judging starting at 1pm. Entry costs £3.50 for the first class and £1 for subsequent but you can also enter before the day at a reduced cost of £3 for the first entry. There will be 9 pedigree and 10 novelty classes. For further details tel: 01464 831004 or email: training@denise-darwin.co.uk

Just two days later on Monday 3rd August, there will be another Companion Show at Turriff Agricultural Show. Entries will be taken from 11.30am with judging starting at 12.30pm. The judge will be our own Lesley Walker (Forguecroft).

Highland Field Sports Fair, Moy, Inverness. Show in aid of Pets As Therapy on Saturday 8th August. 6 pedigree and 6 novelty classes, £1.50 per class. Judging starts at 12 noon and the judge will be Mrs J Fraser. Contact Kate Jack on 01463 241865 for details.


Keith Country Show will also be holding a Companion Show. This will take place on 9th August. There will be 10 pedigree and 8 novelty classes, which will take place in two rings at the same time. Entries will be taken from 12 noon with judging starting at 1pm. £1.50 for the first class and 50p for subsequent. Niamh Wilson (Speymalt) will be judging the pedigree classes.


Roseisle Hall, Hearing Dogs. Our own show will take place on Sunday 6th September. There will be 10 pedigree classes, judge Mrs Karen Elmquist, and 11 novelty, judge Joanne Newsome, and 3 obedience, judge Fran Murtaugh. Don't forget your dog's outfit for the fancy dress class - the more imaginative the better! Refreshments will be available, including the ever-popular pies, as well as a raffle. Entries will be taken from 11am, judging starts at 12 noon. £2.50 for first class and 50p for subsequent.

Nethybridge Public Hall is the venue for another show on Saturday 26th September. Strathspey CC are holding it and proceeds will go to Grantown Dog Rescue. Linda Offen (Linconor) will be judging. There are 5 pedigree classes, 7 novelty and 3 obedience. Entries are £1 per class and will be taken from 12 noon with judging starting at 1pm.

Moving up

Four pups who passed their Puppy Foundation course last week and will be moving up to Bronze level after the summer break.
L-R: Caitlin and Gus, Jackie and Mutley, Heather and Brodie, Ann and Tess.

More from Caithness

Some late results from Caithness show.

Jill's Jamie was Best of Breed in cavaliers and went on to win the toy group, Tony, the baby chin, took Best Toy Puppy.

Katie's Lara won her class and Best of Breed.

Well done!

Bon Accord Kennel Association Open Show and another Best in Show

BAKA held their second Open show of the year at Seaton Park in Aberdeen on Sunday. As there is no wet weather provision at this venue and the forecast was for showers, most people went prepared with shelters and waterproofs but, as is often the case, the forecast was wrong and the sun shone all day. Lots of red faces were to be seen by the end of the day!

The sun didn't just shine, there was plenty of heat too. There was at least a bit of breeze and that helped to keep the dogs from getting too hot in the ring.

June's Benson managed to keep his cool and took top honours yet again! He won his class and Best of Breed, then took the working group and finished off with Best In Show. Congratulations!

Two other winners in the working group were Donna's River, who was first in his Yearling class, and Sian's Bertie, who won the Limit class, despite still being a minor puppy.

Jenny's Sadie brought home a heap of rosettes (to go with the ones that Brint was winning at the obedience show) after she won her class, Best of Breed and G4. She also won the pastoral Minor Puppy class, PG3 and AV pastoral yearling. All that running must be good for you Morag!

Jasper didn't let the side down, he also brought home plenty of rosettes (Jenny needs a new pin board now), winning his Junior class and also AV Toy Yearling. Ria did her bit too when she won the Junior Handling 6-11 years.

Still with the toys, Sue's Rosa won her Yearling class, Desmond won his Post Grad then took Best of Breed and G1. Elizabeth's Malibu was first in her class and Best of Breed. Elizabeth and George's Giovanni also won his class and Best of Breed.

In the hound group, Joan's Bo won his class, Best of Breed and G4. The whippet entry was huge and Liz would have been very pleased when Poppy won her Yearling class. Erica and Doug's Charlotte won her class and Best of Breed.

The club was represented in the terrier group by Karen's Poppy who was Best of Breed and G2.
Caitlin handled Inka to win the JH 12-16 years class and then went on to Best Junior Handler.

Morag's Logie won his Import Register class.

In gundogs, Sue's Logan was Best of Breed and Elizabeth's Bronni won her class. Katie's Lara was BPIB and also took PG4. Robert's Chester won the gundog Minor Puppy class.

Great results for Spey Valley - well done everybody!

Thanks to Morag, Karen, June, Sian, Katie and Anne Macgregor for sending in photos. Quite a few of the winners didn't get recorded but so much was happening at once that it was difficult to cover it all. Please send any photos of your dog if I've missed it and, as ever, let me know if I've missed anyone out.

Sadie - BOB, G4, 1st AV Pastoral MP, PG3

Pastoral group part 1

Pastoral group part 2

Pastoral group 1st-4th

Bertie - 1st Limit

Jasper wins his class

Desmond - BOB and G1

Part of the toy group line-up

Toy group short list

Terrier group 1st-4th

Jasper - 1st Junior and 1st AV Toy Yearling. Ria - Best Junior Handler 6-11 years

Caitlin - Best Junior Handler


Lara - PG4

Best In Show line-up

Benson - BIS

BIS and RBIS

Best Puppy line-up. Pearl's akita won it.

Above and below - Benson and Bertie relaxing after the show

Caithness Canine Club Open Show

The first breed show of the weekend was held in Wick by Caithness CC. It is a very long road up north and only a few club members made it there. Having Bon Accord show the very next day would surely affect the entry but I do know that some folk were brave enough to do both shows.

It was a day for the Seumelga Danes. Joanne's Walter took Best of Breed, G1 and then Reserve Best in Show! Not only that but a son of Walter's (bred by Joanne and Mark) beat Sian's Bertie into 2nd place in their class. I don't know the pup's name but he's the spitting image of his dad!

Linda and Ron's Denzil was on his toes and went away with Best Utility Puppy.

Katie's Lara won her class and Best of Breed.

Congratulations!

Please let me know of anything I've missed and thanks to Sian for the photos.

Sian and Bertie

Walter - RBIS


Seumelga Hot Toddy - like father, like son.