Pacific Northwest Briard Club

Utility is a Blast!

2012-01-23T11:05:00.000-08:00

This past weekend Carol Wolfram ran Tessa in obedience at the Rose City Classic. Over four days of loud and crowded shows and Tessa did just great. Her enthusiasm for the sport of obedience never wavered throughout the weekend.

The first video is of the second day in Utility B.
The second video is of the fourth day in Utility B. (her enthusiastic moans/squeals at the end of this one cost us an extra 3 points and dropped us from first to fourth place.)

Elle & Ranger's Puppies

2011-10-06T03:54:00.000-07:00

Judy Meggitt is proud to announce the arrival of 8 lovely black puppies: 6 girls and 2 boys. The puppies were born October 5 and were all 15 oz or greater and thriving! Parents have good hips and knees and are night blindness clear. Elle is a champion and Ranger is currently pointed out. For more information, contact Judy at jmeggitt@soundandsea.com

Small Brag & Big Life Lesson

2011-08-22T05:15:00.000-07:00

~ submitted by Tracy Thorliefson

Ellie qualified in Rally Advanced and Excellent both days at the Olympic Kennel Club dog shows in Enumclaw this past weekend. She had scores of 98, 97, 96 and 95 and in one class of 21 dogs placed third. With these "q's" Ellie earned the RAE title.

This is not a particularly difficult title to achieve, you just have to double qualify in both Advanced and Excellent ten times. Last fall, when I realized that Ellie already had 8 legs, I decided that we might as well go for the title. She would be 10 in January, but still loved to play at obedience. I started taking her to Rally class with Griffey and she had a ball. (Plentiful amounts of cookies are involved so what's not to love?) I looked at the upcoming show schedule and planned to enter her at the Seattle Kennel Club shows in March.

Then, in February, she was diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma. She had surgery (her tumor-ridden spleen was removed) and then she had chemotherapy. While having chemo she was prohibited from going to dog class because chemo suppresses the immune system. Other than losing all her hair, she tolerated chemo really well. Nonetheless, I never thought that she would go to a dog show again, much less compete.

But Ellie finished chemo and seems to be doing really well -- eating, playing with Griffey, barking at the neighbor dogs and hogging the bed. I took her back to Rally class, where despite some foggy moments she showed she still remembered what "heel" means. So, I decided to enter her at the Enumclaw shows. Why not try for one last title?

We went, we competed, and we qualified -- title earned and goal achieved. But doing this with Ellie, under these circumstances, felt totally different than past shows and rally trials. I can get impatient or exasperated at stupid mistakes (mine and whatever dog I'm with), rue the lost points, plan the next training strategy, and focus on how to get better next time. That didn't happen this weekend. I was pleased with the decent scores and thrilled with the third place in such a big class, but mostly I was just grateful to be there, with Ellie, one last time. I appreciated her and her efforts and was happy with what we accomplished. So -- small brag but big life lesson. Remember to appreciate each moment for what it is and be happy that your dog is there to share it with you.

God willing, I will have Ellie with me for many more months/years. I hope that I will remember the life lesson for just as long.

Go hug your dog(s) tonight and be glad that they share your life. I know I'm just a little more mindful about how grateful I am for their companionship today than I was last week.

Briards Against Mandatory Spay/Neuter

2011-08-21T19:44:00.000-07:00

Jamie Austad is an artist and student in the Seattle, WA area, and she works part time in a veterinary hospital. She is also a dog lover, a member of the Spinone Club of America, and is owned by two fabulous Spinoni who both have their CH titles and also both hunt in addition to being professional counter surfers.

For some time she has wanted to do something to help fight the mandatory spay/neuter legislation in our country. She knows how hard breeders work to build and maintain their lines, spending so much time & effort researching pedigrees, herding instinct, good conformation, sound structure, type, and temperament. She knows that so often a litter produced does not mean money produced, that breeding is a labor of love. The legislation toward mandatory s/n bothers her so much on behalf of ethical breeders, lumping them in where they don't belong and increasing the financial cost of a pursuit that is already so costly.

She's designed some breed graphics that can be printed on various items (shirts, hats, bags, etc), and is making it available at her store on CafePress. It's pretty simple, making the point that without great breeders we wouldn't have the breeds that we love so much.

She will donate a minimum of 10% of the profits of these sales to the NAIA Trust, which is the best organization she's found taking action against this legislation. If you belong to a club who places a bulk order for shirts, tote bags, etc, she will also donate a portion to your club's rescue committee. Please contact her if you place such an order so she will know and be able to send the donation to the right place.

CafePress Store: http://www.cafepress.com/Fetching_Design
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fetching-Design/142308212527074
Website: http://www.fetchingdesign.net/index.html

Family Outing

2011-08-16T08:05:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, Griffey, Ellie and Isabelle got together with Andre and Tia at Sonia Thompson's near Granite Falls for a walk in the woods and nice visit. (They are pictured as named from left to right.) Ellie - Am/Can Ch Deja Vu Sense and Sensibility CD, RE - (10 years old) is the mother of Cachet's "Isabelle" and "Andre" (both 5 years old) and the grandmother of Nightwind's "Tia" (3 years old), who is Andre's daughter, so the picture captures three generations of briards. Griffey - Am/Can Ch Bijou Educated Guess - is the youngest of the group (2 years old) and not directly related to the other four.

Meet "Sam" and her Briards

2011-08-11T13:32:00.000-07:00

"Sam" King lives on a a small ranch outside of Ellensburg, WA. In the photo, Sam (left) and Camilla (right - also Briard owner) are sipping champagne and enjoying a wonderful summer evening with all four dogs. Reflected in the window is the hillside where most of those elk graze under the watchful eye of all four Briards (see photo below).

Sam has owned briards constantly for over thirty years. Until recently all have come from Mon Jovis and Mon Ami kennels. Her current Briards are a seven-year-old black male, Guy, who is battling bone cancer, Ellie a rescue female from LeBec Briards in CA and Joker Bob, Guy's littermate.

Ellie Jelly Belly is five and was rescued from Utah by Jeanne. She had nearly no manners or sense of belonging. Jeanne made sure she was not a danger prior to shipping Ellie. It has taken six months to settle her down. It nearly broke Sam's heart when she raised her voice and Ellie would throw herself into a corner, tuck, shake and cower. Now, she romps along with the others whenever they visit Joker Bob and HIS herd of elk (see photo below). Ellie has brought some life back into Guy. Now, at least, he tries to participate in Briard games such as chase fish in the creek or play chicken with the calves. Guy and Ellie sleep nose to nose.

The dog in the photo with the elk is a seven year old Mon Amis boy, Joker Bob, Sam purchased as a pup. Bob is standing in the field of her dear friends who adopted him from five years ago, during her divorce. They love him beyond description. Although they live nearby, and Sam shares joint custody, Bob has adopted them as his pack.

Sam cannot imagine life without a Briard. Other rescue dogs come along and she conditions them for new homes, but Briards own her heart. She seeks another rescue, by the way, and is willing to work with severe behavior issues, something she already does with horses.

Welcome Maria and "Nique"

2011-05-08T13:54:00.000-07:00

Maria is from Sweden originally. She is excited to present her Briard puppy Nique from kennel Berger la Motte's, Gothenburg-Sweden. Nique is Maria's 3rd briard. He is from excellent Polish and Belgique lines, several champion titles including international champions in the family. Maria is an occupational therapist specializing in pediatrics and Nique comes with her to work and they are working towards a therapy dog title. They take puppy classes, Nique past herding instinct testing with grace at 6 1/2 months and Maria would like to show Nique as well. He has good self-esteem, easy going and social with both dogs and people. Nothing is really scaring this confident young man so far.

Coast to Coast

2011-04-26T10:41:00.000-07:00

~As submitted to the Dew Claw by Gabrielle LaRoche & Sonia Thompson

Pacific Northwest Briards were well represented at a Draft Clinic in Stanwood Washington, hosted by the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Greater Seattle. The instructor was Canadian carting judge, Bernadette van Klaveren of British Columbia. Am/Can CH Déjà Vu Back Seat Driver RA, BN, CD, PT “Nash” attended the intermediate level class which was geared for those dog/human teams that are preparing to trial. Teams at the intermediate level were required to bring there own carts and harnesses. The class covered harnessing, hitching, tight turns, change of pace, back-up, halt, ignoring distractions and negotiating the narrows. The Meggitt's Heartsong Durango -"Ranger" attended the beginner level where the teams were introduced to the harness and cart for the first time. Sarah Kephart’s “Muse” audited the clinic as Sarah hopes to try carting with her when she is old enough to begin load bearing. The Bernese folks were great hosts and encouraged all of us to continue – remarking on the enviable drive and motivation exhibited by all the Briards. (If you are interested in learning about Drafting/Carting and a proposal to develop a program for the BCA, please contact ad hoc committee Chair, Gabrielle LaRoche at seabries@olypen.com.)

The Pacific Northwest has atleast 4 young Briards out charming everyone they meet. “ Zoe” goes everywhere with Louise & Mike Mueller from Bothell; she has been to puppy classes, has passed her Herding Instinct Test and goes to Rally classes. “Dominique”, originally from Sweden, also lives in the area north of Seattle, with Maria Soderquist. He goes to work everyday at a children's Special Education Center and has tried Rally, as well. “Muse” from Carol Wolfram's recent “Tessa” x “”Bono” litter joined Sarah Kephart's eclectic pack in Smokey Point. “Muse” is going to puppy classes and conformation training, as well as trying out rally. Keeping it all in the family, Sarah’s aunt Colleen McDaniel has a Briard too - a Deja Vu pup “Tag”.

And from the confirmation rings, Judy Meggitt's Heartsong Durango -"Ranger" went Best of Breed over Ch Briardale's Camille Lebec – “Elle” on Saturday at the March Seattle K.C. show. On Sunday, “Elle” beat “Ranger”.

Tessa's Son on David Letterman

2011-02-25T10:52:00.000-08:00

BCA 2011 National Update

2011-02-06T13:55:00.000-08:00

Dear Fellow Briarders,

We know you are anxious for information on the 2011 BCA National in Greensboro, NC, and the show committee has been working to fill in all necessary details that will enable you to make your plans accordingly. We are appreciative that so many of you are willing to work on bringing the National to fruition . Due to the fact that we are working within an infrastructure of multiple all-breed shows, some events will be offered by the all-breed clubs.

The host hotel will be the Clarion Greensboro Airport Hotel(http://www.clariongreensboro.com/). The room rate is $74 per night, including a full hot breakfast each morning. The hotel has a shuttle service to and from the airport(including dogs)There is motorhome parking available, and the hotel management is looking to provide us with a hot water bathing area. The hotel is approximately 15 minutes from the all-breed show site, where there will be 5 days of shows prior to the National. The show committee will assist anyone needing rides back and forth to the show events. There will be extra crates available on site for those who might need them, and we will have an area for grooming reserved for Briards.

The schedule of all-breed, agility, and the specialty events is as follows. PLEASE NOTE that the all-breed shows are at the Greensboro Coliseum. The National will take place at the host hotel, the Clarion Greensboro Airport .

ALL-BREED DOG SHOWS: MB-F Superintendent(REGULAR CLOSING DATE of JULY 27, 2011)

Wednesday, August 10, 2011 : Danville Kennel Club
Thursday, August 11, 2011 Danville Kennel Club

Special Events: Puppy Group 8/10, Bred-by Group 8/11

Friday, August 12, 2011 Greater Hickory Kennel Club - Briard Club of America Supported Show, hosted by Atlantic States Briard Club

Special Events: Sweepstakes(pending approval), Puppy Group

Saturday, August 13, 2011 Carolina Kennel Club - Briard Club of America Supported Show

Special Events: Puppy Group, CERF and Cardiac Clinic, CGC

Sunday, August 14, 2011 Carolina Kennel Club - Briard Club of America Supported Show

Special Events: Puppy Group

List of judges (Pending AKC Approval) :

8/10 Capt. William Daugherty(CT)
8/11 Mr. Kenneth Rayner(NJ)
8/12 Mrs. Cathy Daugherty(CT)
8/13 Mrs. Sheila Cann(ENGLAND
8/14 Ms. Virginia Lyne(CANADA)

A brief background of the judges at the all-breed shows:

Captain and Mrs. Daugherty are breeders of Belgian Sheepdogs for 30 plus years, and have judged and exhibited in the US , Canada, and internationally. Mr. Kenneth Rayner has a long and successful history in German Shepherd Dogs, as a member of a family immersed in the fancy. Mrs. Sheila Cann has been involved in Briards virtually since their recognition in England, and has judged both club shows there, as well at Crufts. She judged the 1996 MOBC Regional, and has attended 5 BCA Nationals. Ms. Virginia Lyne is a popular all-rounder from across the border, a successful breeder of her chosen breed, the English Cocker Spaniel, and judged all over the world, and received a high number of votes in the 2011 judges balloting.

NATIONAL SPECIALTY -Caper Dog Shows Superintendent(EARLY CLOSING DATE JULY 20, 2011)

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Monday, August 15, 2011

AM: Obedience/Rally - Judge: Mr. Ted McCall, NC (pending AKC approval)
PM: Puppy and Veteran Sweepstakes - Judge: Michele De Tour, MA (pending AKC approval
PM: All Parade Events After Sweepstakes

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

AM - Judge Mr. Stanley Saltzman, CT (pending AKC approval) - All Regular /Non-Regular Classes for dogs/bitches
There will be a 2 hour break before breed, stud dog, brood bitches, and brace
Junior Showmanship: Mr. Larry Sorensen (pending AKC)

Wednesday, August 17, 2011 BCA Herding Instinct Test
Tester: Gerard Baude
Norton, NC

AGILITY TRIALS

Thursday, August 11, 2011- All-Breed Agility Trials, Concord, NC
Sunday, August 14, 2011 Carrabus Center

ACTIVITIES FOR THE NATIONAL:
Friday: BMT Speaker
Saturday: Educational Evening for Members
Sunday: Judges Education (Afternoon), Annual Meeting PM
Monday: Awards Banquet
Tuesday: Briart after completion of judging

Others events are in planning, but among them are a puppy match, a charity miniature golf tournament, a charity golf match for the real golfers among us!

A website will be up shortly which you will be able to visit for updates on the planned events.
We look forward to seeing you in August, and thank you in advance for your participation and efforts in making the National an enjoyable and successful event.

Sincerely, Joshua Greenberg, Show Chair 2011 BCA National

Winter Photos

2010-12-31T21:45:00.000-08:00

Chester - Lovin' the antlers

Laura Dion's "Chester" after a refereshing snowplow.

Northwest Briards Take Canada By Storm!

2010-11-01T12:13:00.000-07:00

With over 1,000 entries in conformation alone, the Lower Mainland Dog Fanciers shows in Abbotsford BC are billed as Canada's Largest Dog Show, bringing judges from around the world.

On Thursday Am/Can Ch Bijou Educated Guess - Griffey completed his Canadian Championship by going Winners Dog at the LMDF Shows, presented by Janine Starink to Judge Ekarat Sangkunakup of Thailand. Griffey was Best of winners earlier that day in the Peace Arch Working and Herding Specialty. Griffey went on to earn his CKC Rally Novice title on Friday and Saturday earning all three legs in three tries, including one First Place!

Also on Thursday at the Peace Arch Working Herding specialty Judy Meggitt's Am Ch Briardale's Camille Lebec - Elle went Best of winners for a two point major showing to Charlotte McGowan of Newton MA.

On Friday, Am/Can Ch Deja Vu Sense and Sensibility CD, RE - "Ellie" took Second Place in the Veteran Sweepstakes showing to Gary Tucker. Later Ellie took a Group One showing to Jack Boyd of New Zealand. At almost ten years of age, she looked stunning in the Best of Breed ring! What a way to retire!!!!

Am/Can Ch Deja Vu Back Seat Driver CGC, RA, PT, CD Am/Can-RN, JHD-s, TT - "Nash" completed his Canadian Championship on Sunday October 31, at the Lower Mainland Dog Fanciers Shows in Abbotsford BC, expertly presented by Shea Skinner to Judge Paul Stanton. Stanton, an F.C.I. All Breeds judge from Sweden later awarded Nash a 4th place in the herding group. Nash also earned his CKC Rally Novice title with 2-First Place perfect scores and 1-Second Place score of 99.

Mark Your Calendars! Information on 2011 National!

2010-11-01T08:13:00.000-07:00

Host Hotel Details
Clarion - Greensboro Airport Location
Room Rates: $74 per night, including FULL hot breakfast.
**The pet fee has been waived and up to 6 dogs are allowed per room.**
The hotel is located near the Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro, but is within 1 and 1/2 hours from Charlotte or Raleigh airports. There is plenty of shopping nearby in the Wendover Place shopping center for any needs during your stay including Pet Smart, Sally’s Beauty Supply, Target, Walmart, Macy's and many more stores/restaurants and a number of banks, etc.

Show Dates
The National will be the Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday following the all-breed shows at the Greensboro Coliseum (indoors and air-conditioned)
The dates for these shows are as follows:
Danville KC, Wed-Thurs, August 10-11, 2011
Greater Hickory KC, Friday, August 12, 2011
Carolina Kennel Club, Sat-Sun, August 13-14, 2011
These all-breed shows have special events such as Puppy, BBE, Veteran Groups, seminars, etc.
BCA National is August 15-17, 2011
Breed Judge: Mr. Stanley Saltzman (Accepted nomination)
Sweepstakes: Michele DeTour (Accepted nomination)
All-breed Agility trials will be held in Concord, NC, August 10-13, before the National and in Greensboro at the Coliseum starting the day after the National ends and running from August 18 - 21.

2010 BCA National Win Photos Are Up!

2010-10-14T12:40:00.000-07:00

The photos can be viewed here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/44174497@N05/sets/72157625163276522/

National Sweepstakes Results

2010-09-24T21:20:00.000-07:00

JUVENILE
6 -9 Mo Dogs
1 Fairytales Tantome de L'Opera Magnifique
2 Robin Hood-Dior Dalido
3 Deja Vu Chercher First Star I see Tonight

9 - 12 Mo Dogs
1 Eastbay Deja Vu Emmet
2 Penny Lane Eight Days a Week de l'Heureux
3 Dior Everybody Loves a Lover

12 - 15 Mo Dogs
1 - Bijou Educated Guess "Griffey"
2 - Ch Bijou Endless Journey "Norman"

15 - 18 Mo Dogs
1 - Deja Vu Elephant in the Room
2 - Deja Vu Popsakadoo E Equals MC Squared
3 - Voila Ernesto de Los Niegos
4 - Dior Boyz Earl Looney Tunes

6 - 9 Mo Bitches
1 - Free 'n Easy de l'Heureux
2 - Ricci Nina - Dior Dalido
3 - Fairytales Ficelle
4 - French Toast de l'Heureux

9 - 12 Mo Bitches
1 - Eastbay Deja Vu Elbow Room
2 - Mon Amies Escalade
3 - Esme Du Roi De Berger
4 - Classique Ears To Ewe

12 - 15 Mo Bitch
1 - Exactement Wright Moravia Campanella

15 - 18 Mo Bitches
1 - Deja Vu Chercher Eats Shoots & Leaves
2 - Deja Vu Popskadoo Evenger
3 - Elli Of Mystic Oaks
4 - Ch Esprit d'Mystic Oaks

Best Jr Puppy - Eastbay Deja Vu Emmet
BOS Jr Puppy - Free 'N Easy de l'Heureux
Best Sr. Puppy - Deja Vu Chercher Eats Shoots & Leaves
BOS Sr.Puppy - Deja Vu Elephant In the Room
Best In Sweepstakes - Deja Vu Chercher Eats Shoots & Leaves
BOS In Sweepstakes - Eastbay Deja Vu Emmet

VETERANS
7 - 9 Year Dogs
1 - Ch Sagi Bailywick Tintagel's Pride
2 - Chaotic's Tresor Magnifique de Lindeau

7 - 9 Year Bitches
1 - Ch Deja vu Ten
2 - Ch Chaotics Turquoise de Lindeau

9 - 11 Bitches
1 - Ch Deja Vu Ruffles Have Ridges
2 - Ch Best Betes Rambling Rose
3 - Ch Philaine de Bejaune
4 - Ch Deja Vu Sense & Sensibility

11 and Over Bitches
1 - Ch Bigtree's Prima Donna
2 - Ch Kaliphi Magnifique Obsession
3 - Ch Blackwater's Phiddle Dee Dee

Best In Veteran Sweepstakes - Deja Vu Ruffles Have Ridges
BOS To Best Veteran - Ch Tintagel's Pride

Briard in 4-H Blindfold ID Competition!

2010-09-06T21:26:00.000-07:00

~ Submitted by Judy Meggitt Elle and I participated in the Snohomish County Fair 4-H Blindfold Competition on Saturday September 4. There were five 4H participants and only two participants guessed that Elle is a Briard. The kids did an amazing job. It is really hard to be blindfolded and idnitify breeds from just touch. All the kids zeroed in on the ears. One guessed bearded collie and one guessed giant schnauzer in addition to one “I don’t know.” There was an assortment of about 14 different dogs for the kids to identify. Some big, some small, some well known and some obscure. The outcome was very close between two Seniors, a 4H boy and a girl. Everyone got big ribbons for participating and the top three got large trophies.

This is the last year for the old dog barn at the fairgrounds. They are constructing a new building which will house dogs, rabbits, chickens and other foul. I cannot imagine that plan will work out real well.

On Friday night, I also attended the memorial service for Beryl Epling who originated the dog barn idea, construction, and the 4H dog program in Snohomish County. Many stories were told about Beryl and the 4H kids through the years, mostly she came into play when someone got into trouble. There were several laughs and a few tears. The weekend brought back many memories of the 10 years I was a 4H leader for a dog program. I got to reconnect with several young and old 4H friends.

The 4H dog program takes in donations of old trophies in which leaders refurbish and use for dog trophies during fair. The kids love earning one of the big trophies, they are very proud of their achievements.

Tiger and His Beanie

2010-09-06T08:27:00.000-07:00

A Unique Event!

2010-09-05T08:19:00.000-07:00

~ Submitted by Jeanne Lorang Today in the Pacific Northwest, there was a run off in Obedience - two dogs were tied for first place in Utility B. The uniqueness? It was two Briards! That has to be one of the few times (maybe the first time ever) that two Briards were in the same Utility B class, and to have them tie for first is pretty amazing. There are so few Briards working at that level. And yes, there were other dogs in the class, it was about 10 from what Laurie said. So, Ms. Belle with Laurie Beck finished her UD today.

Ms. DC Tessa with Carol Wolfram won the runoff, and picked up about 10 OTCh points. Good thing she won, since the OTCh points would have been wasted on Belle. After today, Belle can start earning her OTCh points - yeah! And start working on those 10 UDX legs.

Congratulations to Carol / Tessa and Laurie / Belle - two very nice teams!

Save the Dates - Oct. 29-31!

2010-09-03T08:20:00.000-07:00

~ submitted by Lynda Ronell California Briarders are trying to get an entry together for the BCNC designated Specialty in Dixon, CA. It is held with the Northern CA Herding Group Show Oct. 29 Judge is Atilla Soos. Oct. 30 Judge: Anitra Kuneo Oct. 31 Judge: Joyce Vanek

California Manadatory Spay-Neuter Bill Dead

2010-09-01T09:05:00.000-07:00

~ Submitted by Pam Ohlsson, BCA Legislative Liaison. As of last night (August 31), California SB250 (mandatory spay and neuter) is DEAD...AGAIN. We've been fighting this thing for 4 years and knocking it out; let's hope this is the last time it rears it's ugly head.

Congratulations to two of the Tessa/Bono puppies for their wins!

2010-08-28T07:49:00.000-07:00

Bijou Educated Guess "Griffey" went BOB over specials for a 3 point major at the Sammamish KC show. Griffey is owned by Tracy Thorleifson and beautifully presented in these photos by junior handler Haley Premble in the group ring. Norman went BOB and on to a Group 4 in Atlanta. Norman is now a champion and has been onwner handled all the way by Karen Terry Cobb (see video below). Tessa is owned by Carol Wolfram. The boys are now 13 months old.

BCA Supported Entry

2010-08-26T12:01:00.000-07:00

The Pacific Northwest Herding Club is holding a herding trial on October. The BCA is supporting the entries of Briards on Sunday October 3rd. Information on the trial can be found here: http://pnwherding.blogspot.com/

Great Weekend

2010-08-24T11:52:00.000-07:00

~ Submitted by Carol and DC Tessa This past weekend I took Tessa north to compete at a herding trial. Boy, what a weekend that wound up being. We compete on C course (boundary/tending style) and this trial not only offered C course on sheep but sheep/cattle and ducks on both A and B courses. A lot going on daily with a trial that filled so much that they needed to add an extra judge each day. Three different judges judged our runs over the three days and all three gave us very similar scores. Tessa was quite consistent and we wound up with scores of 93, 94 and 94 (out of 100.) We needed 9 points to finish our herding championship. Going Reserve High in Trial on Friday we got a four point major, High in Trial on Saturday gave us a 5 point major and not only a new herding championship title but a Dual Champion title as well. The club was offering silver belt buckles for high combined score (highest score total for all three days) so we ran again on Sunday and got an extra 4 point major and the big prize of a silver belt buckle for High Combined on sheep. Not a bad way to finish that championship in two weekends of trials with 3 High in Trials and 1 Reserve High in Trial. Tessa's mother Java was a silver belt buckle winning dual champion as well and I am thrilled to have Tessa following in Java's herding footsteps. Now on to the whelping box for Tessa in the hopes that she will produce a daughter for me to herd with in the future.

Quarterly Update of NW Briard Accomplishments

2010-08-10T12:46:00.000-07:00

~ from Gail Oneal Dara got her second leg for her JHD title and Emmy got her first leg and second place towards her HRD title in the Inland Empire Collie Club AHBA trial.

Tessa's Son Norman With His Scooter

2010-06-17T12:30:00.000-07:00

Spokane Results

2010-06-02T12:23:00.000-07:00

~ submitted by Tracy Thorleifson
photos coming soon
Sat., Spokane KC – WD – Griffey, RWD – Ranger; BOB/BOW – Dara
Sun., Spokane KC – WD – Dobbin (Nightwind’s Just Dobbin), RWD – Griffey, BOB/BOW – Dara
Mon., CDA KC – WD/BOB – Dobbin, RWD/BP Griffey; Best Puppy in Herding Group – Griffey (Dara was pulled on Mon/Tues because she is singled out).
Tues., CDA KC – WD/BOB – Griffey, RWD – Ranger

Sat, Sun., & Mon. Griffey’s junior handler, Haley Pemble, also showed Griffey in Junior Showmanship. Very brave to take a 10 month old puppy into a class where having a dog trained to nail free stacks is what wins. They did not place but looked great together. I overheard one of Haley’s friends telling her that “it takes guts to take a puppy into Junior Showmanship.”

Sat night Gail and husband Bob organized a lovely dinner at a local Thai restaurant. Sandy (Dobbins’ owner), Dallas & Judy Meggit, Hannah (Ranger’s handler) and Luis (Hannah’s boyfriend), Tracy & Haley, and honorary Briard people Dennis & Kathy Morgan (current owners of Boxers who shared our grooming space) all attended.

See You "Later"

2010-06-01T04:49:00.000-07:00

~ submitted by Gail Oneal

Ripley (left) and Later (right) - summer 2005

Later: Ch. Nightwind Ohmy Next Day Delivery HXAd HTDIIId (1997-2010)
Ripley: Ripley Be Leve It Or Not V.D. Hoolhoeve HSAs JHD (2000-2008)

They both loved life to the fullest and were our best friends, as well as with each other. They both teamed up to raise Emmy-and did a wonderful job. Later dearly loved dog shows and was a natural ham. She represented briards well and made many friends for the breed. Ripley was a clown and the most funny dog we ever had-from his "boing-boinging" up and down at the door, to his pouting (with lip out) when he got in trouble. They were well loved and are greatly missed.

Later with sheep

Goodbye Sammy

2010-05-26T11:59:00.000-07:00

~ submitted by Tracy Thorleifson
On Monday I said goodbye to part of my family and one of my best friends. At 11.5 Sammy had developed severe orthopedic issues, front and rear, and could no longer stand, sit, or walk unassisted and would not eat except when I hand fed him. It was time. I spent much of the weekend and all day Monday either crying or denying. The vet came to my house and the end came quickly. It was, I suppose, a good death as such things go, but he is still gone.

One friend, veteran of many more losses than I, commented that at such times there is nothing unique to say. She is, of course, right. For all of us to live and to love dogs inevitably invites loss and grief, sooner or later. While there may be nothing unique to say, I am resisting the idea that my pain is not unique. It is my grief, my loss, my friend and constant companion who is gone – and Sammy was unique. The place in my heart that was his, was his alone. The individual that was Sammy is irreplaceable.

A trainer once aptly described Sam as a 220 amp dog in a 110 amp world. Endlessly enthusiastic and intense, Sammy lived and loved fiercely. He was my first show dog, my first AKC champion, my first obedience dog, my first Novice A title. Most improbably, he was my first (and likely only) High In Trial obedience dog, winning at the 2002 Briard National Specialty by qualifying when far better dogs NQ’ed. He was my entree to the dog community and many of my current friends were met through him.

Happiest when at my side – and always in the same room with me – Sammy and I had reached that stage in our relationship where we knew each others’ faults and no longer tried to change them. I accepted that he would bark long and loud if left outside, fence fight with the neighbor’s dog if allowed, and chase any cat who had the bad sense to be visible on our walks. He accepted that breakfast would inevitably be late on weekends, and that the younger dogs went to class while he stayed home. It was both comfortable and predictable. The crinkle of unwrapping cheese and the hiss of whipped cream in cans brought him running and steak or chicken for dinner meant excellent table scraps. He liked Brie cheese and pasta with pesto sauce. Baby gates were objects of suspicion and accorded great respect, while fireworks and thunder storms were endlessly terrifying. Even at 85 lbs and 27+ inches tall he thought he was a lap dog, and often spent evenings on the sofa next to me.

There will be other dogs. There are other dogs. Ellie, who is 9 and now practically perfect, is a constant comfort. At ten months, Griffey is still carving his own place in my heart. But they are not Sammy and even with their presence the house is quiet. The place next to my bed is empty and no dog lies beneath my desk as I type.
There is nothing unique to say yet everything about this loss is unique. I miss. Right now I think I always will.

Tyee Shows, B.C., Canada

2010-05-18T09:52:00.001-07:00

~
submitted by Carol Wolfram We had a great time up in Canada. There was a large Briard entry of 5 dogs! Four of the five are pictured above - Griffey (left), Ricki and Ruckus (center) and Jojo (right). De La Rossa Moravia Campanella "Ricki" (top left), Crack A Joke Moravia Campanella "Ruckus" (2nd down left) and "Jojo" (3rd down left), an Aladax bitch, are all owned by Bonnie Judd of Aldergrove, B.C. It was fun visiting with them and their owners. Helen Moulden brought her two Briards Dante and Aminta to visit with us. Iris Bergen and her parents were there and brought their Briard Felix by to visit and everybody enjoyed hanging around just to talk Briards. I was kept quite busy with both Bijou All Flash No Cash "Tessa" (pictured at Mill Bay) and Bijou Educated Guess "Griffey" (with judge). Whew, I don't think I have ever run around the ring so many times before. Griffey was quite the little star in the breed ring. He showed well in the classes for both myself and Tracy. Then I had the pleasure of running him around in the adult groups every day as well as two days of puppy groups and puppy Best in Show. He just kept going into the ring again and again. What a trouper he was. I was also very happy with how well Tessa did in obedience plus of course the fact that she finished her Canadian Championship. She earned two titles up there (Ch and CD) and we will go back up for more obedience trials in the future. The last picture is of the mother and son (Tessa and Griffey) on the dock across from the hotel where we stayed, a lovely little park right across the street!

Mother's Day Puppies!

2010-05-13T16:26:00.000-07:00

Ch. Nightwind's Instant Winner - "Ivan" (OFA Good, Thyroid normal) X Radieux's And The Winner Is HSAs - "Emmy" (pointed, OFA Excellent, Thyroid normal). This was a frozen semen breeding so Gail Oneal is especially happy to report that 9 puppies were born Mother's Day: 2 boys and 7 girls. PNWBC members will recall that Ivan was owned by Pat and Sandy Parsons and shown to his championship by Gail in the late 90's. Gail may be contacted via email at gailoneal@q.com

Road Trip

2010-05-13T12:57:00.000-07:00

Griffey (left), Tessa (center) and Nash (right) relax after playing fetch. Tessa and her son Griffey stopped by to visit Nash and stretch their legs on the way to catch the Black Ball Ferry from Port Angeles to Victoria, Canada.

Dog Philosophy

2010-04-20T12:30:00.000-07:00

1. Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride
2. Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy
3. When loved ones come home, always run and greet them
4. Always practice obedience (when it's in your best interests)
5. Let others know when they've invaded your territory
6.Take naps and always stretch before rising
7. Run, romp and play daily
8. Eat with gusto and enthusiasm
9. Be trustworthy, loyal and friendly
10. Never pretend to be something you're not
11. If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it
12. When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently
13. Delight in the simple joys of a long walk
14. Thrive on attention and let people touch you
15. Avoid biting when a simple growl will do
16. On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree
17. When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body
18. No matter how often you are criticized, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout. Run right back and make friends

Southern Gentility

2010-03-25T13:40:00.000-07:00

Tessa's boy Norman now lives in Gerogia. At eight months he has already picked up some proper southern manners. Norman a.k.a. Bijou Endless Journey also picked up 9 points and two majors last weekend in Kentucky proving that you don't have to be rude to get ahead in this world! Congratulations to Norman, owner/handler/trainer Karen Cobb and breeder Carol Wolfram!!!

Seattle Kennel Club

2010-03-15T21:01:00.000-07:00

Bijou Educated Guess "Griffey" shown by Haley Pemble and Heartsong’s Durango "Ranger" shown by Hannah Spencer represented Briards at the Seattle Kennel Club show on March 13 and 14. Both dogs showed beautifully and the Saturday judge commented on the quality of both. Griffey ended up winning both days. In a display of gracious good sportsmanship, Ranger’s handler, Hannah, showed Griffey in his class on Sunday when Griffey’s junior handler Haley was delayed. Hannah ran Griffey around the ring for his 6-9 mos puppy class, raced out and took Ranger in the ring for his class. Fortunately Haley made it to the ring just in time to take Griffey in for Winner’s Dog. Kudos to Hannah!

Tia Is An Agility Dog

2010-03-01T14:53:00.000-08:00

~ Submitted by Sonia Thompson Nightwind's Definitely Maybe made her agility debut this weekend at the ACK Chuckanut trial in Lynden. She proved herself to be an agility dog! She earned 3 Q's and 3 first places (one Q and one 1st place were duplicates of a run during which the timer crashed, so except for the fact that she did another perfect run, actually they didn't count . It was her FAST run, and we did the course differently on her second run, yielding a higher score). She dropped a bar on her Jumpers run, so she didn't Q, but other than that her run was perfect, including 4 perfect sets of weaves. I am very proud of her.

Puyallup News!

2010-01-19T19:15:00.000-08:00

Briards were well represented at the Western Washington Cluster held at the fairgrounds in Puyallup, January 16-18,2010. Six Briards competed in conformation, "Andre" in Rally, and "Tessa" in Open B and Utility B.

CH Deja Vu Back Seat Driver, CGC, RA, PT, JHD-s "Nash" presented by Shea Skinner took BOB and Heartsong’s Durango "Ranger" presented by Hannah Spencer took Winners Dog all three days. On Saturday showing to Charles Olvis, Nightwind's Double Dog Dare Ewe"Dara" took WB/Best of Winners. On Sunday showing to Doris E. Werdermann, Briaramour's Dazzling Femme Fatale "Gia", presented by Erin Winton, took Winners Bitch and "Ranger' took Best of Winners. Click this link to view a video of the Best of Breed competition.

Bijou Educated Guess "Griffey" made his debut at the Puyallup shows at just 6 months old. Shown by three different people in three days, owner Tracy Thorliefson was pleased that "Griffey" had such a good time! The Puyallup shows were also a debut for "Nash" as these were his first shows with his new handler Shea Skinner.
Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

CH Cachet Deja Vu Andantino RA "Andre" finished his Rally Excellent title with a placement. CH Bijou All Flash No Cash, HSc, HSAs, OA, NAJ, RA, UD pleased the crowd with some brilliant moments in the Open and Utility rings.
Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

An informal meeting of the Pacific Northwest Briard Club was held at Charlie's and attended by board members Gabrielle LaRoche, Sonia Thompson, Kath Williams, Tracy Thorliefson and Carol Worlfram and club members Gail Oneal, Judy Meggit and daughter Chelsea. There was interest in hosting a meet the breed booth at the Seattle show (although concern that more lead time might be necessary). The group agreed they would like to work toward holding a supported entry at a show that has obedience, conformation and good access in the hope we might entice folks to travel from California.

Polish Briard Helping in Haiti!

2010-01-19T13:32:00.000-08:00

A nine-year-old rescue dog of the Polish Urban Search and Rescue is helped down from a UN truck as the team searches for survivors together with the International Search and Rescue team ISAR Germany, in Port-au-Prince. There were eleven dogs on the Polish team, only one of which was a Briard. The Dog is International Ch Broyt z Andaye - "Macho" - vice winner of World Poznan 2006.

Bobby Titles Yet Again!

2010-01-19T13:01:00.000-08:00

Bobby (Briard x OES) and Iris were at a big 2 ring Agility trial last weekend. Besides 2 qualifying runs, Bobby also got his Master Jumper title at 9 1/2 yrs of age. It was a very distracting and loud environment and Iris is proud of how well he handled it. Video link of his run to follow.

Pacific Northwest Briard Club Dinner

2010-01-12T14:53:00.000-08:00

WHAT
An early dinner and informal meeting of the Pacific Northwest Briard Club

WHEN
Sunday, January 17 from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm - following the herding group judging

WHERE
Charlies Restaurant is located at 113 E Main Puyallup, WA. Phone: 253-845-0588

For more information contact Gabrielle

New Briard in the Northwest!

2010-01-02T15:18:00.000-08:00

Submitted by Sally Lewis ~ Austyn (photo at left) is now almost 4 months old. She was born Sept 12th. She comes from Aladax Briards, as does her Uncle Jordan. Her dad is Ivy, who is from Portland, Oregon. He is originally from the Czech Republic. Austyn is such a character - a bundle of enrgy and curiosity! She just loves her Uncle Jordan! Austyn's mom is Jordan's half sister. Jordan will be 2 in April!
Austyn and Jordan (above) - classic briards -doing what they do best - couch potatos!!!!! Jordan is pictured (below) in the back yard and standing at the gate waiting to go run thru the barn to the back pasture where he LOVES to play ball!!! Jordan and Austyn are lucky to have 10 acres in Ferndale WA to romp and play. Rumor has it that sheep could be added tp the mix....

Holiday Greetings from Nash

2009-12-24T14:56:00.000-08:00

Click the link to view Nash's holiday greeting.

BCA 2009 National DVDs

2009-12-12T16:56:00.000-08:00

For pricing, availability and shipping info contact Elise McMahon

Holiday Parades

2009-12-04T13:51:00.000-08:00

CH Chercher Deja Vu Mon Ami Divot "Tiger" enjoys the Bakersfield Christmas Parade (photo above). He is the "black blob" riding with the Hoffmann Hospice Therapy Dog Group. Tiger has been involved with therapy work since his first birthday when he celebrated by going to visit the folks at a local convalescent home. He is a perfect gentleman, and a big hit with all the residents. Tiger is co-ownerd by Barbara Lee, Terry Miller and Gina Klang.

Kath Williams' "Windy" Sagi's Taste So Sweet, CDX RA wore jingle bells and flashing lights along with her training buddies as they marched as a doggy drill team in the Pacific Power Parade of Lights in Seaside on the night after Thanksgiving. They got the biggest cheers of any of the entries and won first place in the animal division. Kath and Windy are in the second row, behind the golden. Windy is out of Ch Sagi Snoaire's Midnight Matinee, "Haley" x Ch Ecstasy Noir De La Maison Dur Garde-Barriere, "Romeo".

Another Obedience Coup

2009-12-03T13:56:00.000-08:00

by Tracy Thorleifson. Huge congrats to Carol and Tessa for another obedience coup. Yesterday Carol and Tessa entered Utility B for the first time (because she just earned her UD title) and in Open. She qualified in both, earned her first UDX leg, High Combined and won her Utility B class, earning her first points toward an OTCH title. Way to go! Griffey is very proud of his mother and his breeder.

Ranger Takes BOB, Andre Earns 2 Legs and Tia Earns her RN Title at Whidbey Island Kennel Club

2009-11-23T12:26:00.000-08:00

Story by Sonia Thompson. Heartsong’s Durango "Ranger" owned by Judy and Dallas Meggitt and presented by Hannah Spencer took Best of Breed at the Whidbey Island Kennel Club. Ranger is out of Ch Briardale USS Boston Terroir x Ch Neorageux Unforgettable and bred by Pam Ohlsson. Ranger really looked gorgeous; his coat was so shiny that it looked like black marble. On Saturday, Ranger was the only dog showing. Nightwind's Definitely Maybe "Tia" joined him in the ring for BOB. On Sunday, the other male (2 yr old Marvin) came from Sweden with his family who live in Mill Creek.

CH Cachet Deja Vu Andantino RA "Andre" took a 3rd place in Rally Excellent A on Saturday and Sunday. On Sunday he and another dog tied for 2nd place, but the other dog was 1.5 seconds faster, so Andre got 3rd. His 2nd Exc leg. Because the ring time for Tia's Rally classes conflicted with the Breed Ring both days, on Saturday I asked to be moved to last in Rally and there was no time for them to let me walk the course. I missed 2 "signs" so she did not qualify on Sat. I did only rally on Sunday, and she finished her Novice Title with a score of 97 (there were 2 dogs with 98, and 2 with 97. Again the time difference of a couple of seconds put Tia in 4th place, but we were very happy to be among the 4 scoring in the 90's. The 3 other handlers were Rally/Agility instructors, so I was especially proud of her).

There was alot of rain both days! I don't know how Hannah got Ranger from the grooming building to the ring looking dry and shiny! At the Rally trial, there were the Labs, German Shepherds, Spaniels, Border Terriers and looking as if they were in their element; then there were 2 dripping Briards.....

More NW News from the 2009 BCA National

2009-10-31T16:17:00.000-07:00

Above "Destin" is pictured with Kristl - 1st place 6-9 months . Below is 1st brood bitch. The dogs are Bigtree Act All About Love aka "Valentine" (tawney) then Voila! Ernesto De Los Niegos (middle black) aka "Ernie" and then "Destin". The people are Kristl with Destin, Gary with Valentine and Liz Green with Ernie.

"Destin" Voila étoile montante destinée and Kristl made the trip to Texas from Great Falls MT. Destin is out of CH Bigtree-ACT All About Love and Multi. CH Massai Mara de Los Niegos.

NW News from the 2009 BCA Herding Extravaganza

2009-10-25T15:40:00.000-07:00

Click the link to view photos and video clips from the 2009 BCA herding trials.

Good Weekend!!!

2009-10-06T13:17:00.000-07:00

Story by Iris Bergen. Bobby, my 9 yr old Briard x OES, was in an agility trial last weekend. I am very pleased with how he ran. Fast (for his standard), clean and with enthusiasm. He had a qualifying run in Masters standard and jumpers. Most impressively also a steeplechase run! So far it has always been a time issue. In the standard, he was the only one in the veteran class to Q! This is a qualifying run in Masters Jumper (click on link below). It looks easy, but it had it's own challenges. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nU7F0_aSEgY

We also brought Felix out Saturday and Sunday afternoon. He behaved very well and waited very quietly in his crate even when other dogs came right by his crate. Felix is too young to be trialed, but I thought better to get him used to the atmosphere. Helen Moulden came out Saturday and I showed her my boy. She seemed quite pleased with how he is turning out. Felix came from Veronique Mauroux of Briards de Guerande, Quebec. His parents are Vraiment Belle de Guerande x Grinzing's Aurore Boreale. Felix' registered name is Deux Felix de Guerande.

Herding News from Eastern Washington

2009-09-15T13:29:00.000-07:00

Story by Gail Oneal. Nightwind's Double Dog Dare Ewe "Dara" got her PT at the Labor Day Trials here in Spokane under judges Bob Ewing and Dave Viklund. Although she started with a "flair", she did a great job with controlled runs on both days.

Radieux's And The Winner Is HSAs "Emmy" got 2 legs of her intermediate title on A course sheep with second and fourth places in a class of six. She is a bit intense-and it showed the second day when I called time 30 seconds after the run started!! She forgot I was on the planet so we just called it a day and watched the other runs. On to the specialty!

New Canadian Champion

2009-09-03T17:16:00.000-07:00

submitted by Romy Wood ~ Good news! Rio, “Ne Orageux Assiniboine Admirer” finished his Canadian Championship with a Second in Group placing at the West Kootenay Kennel Club show in Castlegar, August 22! He won the Group at that show two years ago.
We also went to the Cranbrook Kennel Club show the following weekend, but no luck there. Most everywhere we go Rio is the only Briard. The Cranbrook show is at a new venue, beautiful mountain views and lots of space for camping. Maybe we could talk some members from the Spokane and area region into coming over the border next year?
Warm greetings from the East Kootenays!!!

Welcome New Member Chris Marshall

2009-08-04T14:41:00.000-07:00

Chris has Callisto (above) who he obtained her from Lebec Briards in California six years ago when he lived in Chicago. He now live in Corvallis Oregon and both Callisto and he love it. He doesn’t show her (she’s not show quality) but he certainly shows her off in public…and she loves attention. She’s well behaved but has never received formal herding training – just obedience training. Callisto and Chris are too busy hiking and travelling around the Pacific Northwest to head to many dog related events, but he thought it’d be fun to know what was going on around here just in case. Oh…her name: She’s named after a greek nymph who (like many unfortunate characters in mythology was tricked into sleeping with Zeus and summarily punished…in Callisto’s case: she was turned into a bear) – you can read about it http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Callisto_(mythology. At left is picture of Callisto as a puppy (at that time, she was a little scared of water…although now she LOVES swimming). When Chris is not hiking and traveling with Callisto he serves as the Curator & Collections Manager, Cordley Hall, Zoology Department, Oregon State University.

Stumptown News

2009-07-20T10:51:00.000-07:00

Five Briards were present at the Stumptown Shows and Obedience Trials at the Portland Expo July 18 and 19. Ch Lebec's Magical CEO "Chief" (top left) owned by Pat Cardone & Jeanne Lorang and handled by Pat Cardone took Best of Breed both days. Heartsong’s Durango "Ranger" owned by Judy and Dallas Meggitt took Best of Winners on Saturday showing to Mrs. Donna J Buxton. Briaramour's Dazzling Femme Fatale "Gia" (above right and below left) owned by Angela and Max Trimm and handled by Erin Winton took Winners Bitch both days. Enchante's Dreamboat Annie "Annie" (above left and below right)owned by Margot Baron and handled by her daughter Morgan took reserve. The judge on Sunday was Ms. Leslie A Earl. "Windy" was entered in team obedience with her owner/handler Kath Williams.

"I am proud to say that Gia now has 2 points acquired at her debut weekend. I have lots of pictures of her and of her and Annie. What a funny coincidence that Gia and Annie have the same exact birth date, December 28, 08. I feel an addiction to shows coming on" said Angela Trimm.

"Ranger was great on Saturday, he looked fantastic and he behaved" said Judy Meggitt. Pam Sage showed him and he got one point.

Chief is out of Ch Higgins Bohemia Elite x Ch Cherron U Wanna Dance and bred by Jeanne Lorang and Liz Kenitz. Ranger is out of Ch Briardale USS Boston Terroir x Ch Neorageux Unforgettable and bred by Pam Ohlsson. Gia (at left with Max Trimm) is out of Saper II Vom Vossberg x Ch Briaramour's De Moulin Rouge and bred by Benita S. Keiss and Aija Hangland. Annie is out of Ch Hooligan Nadina-Sis x Ch Enchante's Vision and bbred by Kathy Simms.

Kath and Windy's team took first place. Click on these links to videos: heel on leash, team figure 8, stand for exam-a, stand for exam-b, heel free, drop on recall and last but not least Kath's wonderful team shirt designs!!!!

Bastille Day Puppies!

2009-07-15T11:21:00.000-07:00

Ch. Popsakadoo Deja Vu Bono (OFA Good) X Ch. Bijou All Flash No Cash, CDX, HSc, HSAs, OA, NAJ, RA (OFA Exc)Tessa/Bono puppies are here! 6 boys.... ...and 1 girl (below, no collar) at last!Carol reports that Tessa is a great 1st-time mom and that all 7 are happy and healthy! For more on the litter and the parents go to Bijou Briards.

New Champion

2009-06-29T14:16:00.000-07:00

Elle, the Meggitt's “just turned two years” beautiful female Briard finished her AKC championship June 29, 2009. Her name is now, “CH BRIARDALE’S CAMILLE LEBEC.” Hannah Spencer, Judy's X-4H member who is now in college, handled her and did a beautiful job.

Sonia Thompson reports that "Judy Meggitt, Barbara and Pascal Stoltz, who own Nutella (Nightwind's Dances with Wool), Bonnie & Haley Premble (Nutella's handling team) and I (with my husband Bruce Barnbaum on Saturday) had a wonderful weekend at the show in Mt Vernon. Nutella took Best of Opposite on Saturday. Tia took Reserve on Saturday, Nutella took reserve on Sunday. Tia earned another leg of Rally Novice (she did it in spite of me; I had not walked the course due to conflict with the breed ring. I read 2 signs wrong, earning handler error penalties)."

The photo above, courtesy of Vavra, was taken about three weeks ago at the Puyallup show.

Passing of a Loving Briard

2009-06-25T14:37:00.000-07:00

Sandy and Jim Redmond lost Roxy on this evening. She got sick in the late afternoon and died in the evening. She went peacefully. The doctor thinks she might have had cancer or a growth on her heart as she had fluid build up around her heart. She most likely had this for some time, but showed no symptoms even at her most recent annual exam and full blood work. Jim and Sandy are so sad and really having a difficult time accepting that she is gone. Roxy would have been 9 in July. They miss her so much, she was such a loving Briard always looking out for them and there with a big smile when they came home. Many northwest Briarders had the chance to know Roxy when Sandy and Jim lived in Washington. She will be missed by her "brother" Ketchum.

Briard x OES Seal of Approval

2009-06-24T16:17:00.000-07:00

Here Bobby, Iris Bergen's Briard/OES-cross, is on an A-frame that was rubber coated with agile grip at a recent agility trial on Vancouver Island, B.C. It was a windy day. Sunday they even got to run on it after a heavy rain shower and Iris and Bobby love it!!!

Welcome New Member Kristl Lemieux!

2009-06-22T14:55:00.000-07:00

Kristl Lemieux is a new Briard owner. She owns Destin or Voila étoile montante destinée. He is her first Briard, the dream dog that she waited 20 years for. Kristl is a groomer in Great Falls Mt, and has wanted to show dogs for years and finally took the plunge. She plans on doing conformation and herding eventually agility and obedience. Destin is out of CH Bigtree-ACT All About Love and Multi. CH Massai Mara de Los Niegos. She is so excited to show him. Kristl knows getting points will be hard so she figured joining a group like this will help her figure out what shows people will be at. She says she is ready to travel and really looks forward to any help and meeting people at the shows!!!!

Herding Practice

2009-06-16T15:53:00.000-07:00

Here Tessa shows Nash how tending is done with the C-course flock at Brigands Hide Out. Nash didn't do so badly himself... read more

Chief Earns His TT!

2009-06-14T14:49:00.000-07:00

Ch Lebec's Magical CEO "Chief" owned by Pat Cardone & Jeanne Lorang passed his temperment test sponsored by Northwest Working Dogs in St. Helens OR.

The average overall pass rate is 81.6 percent; the pass rate may vary for different breeds. The breed's temperament, training, health and age of the dog is taken into account. Minimum age for dogs to take the test is 18 months.

The test takes about 12 minutes to complete. The dog is on a loose six-foot (6') lead and three ATTS trained evaluators score the dog. Majority rules. Failure on any part of the test is recognized when a dog shows panic, strong avoidance without recovery or unprovoked aggression.

You can find out more about the American Temperament Test at http://www.atts.org/index.html

The BCA will be offering the Temperament Test at the National Specialty.

Puyallup Show Results

2009-06-08T10:24:00.000-07:00

Congratulations are in order to Nutella, Barbara and Pascal! Saturday, at Puyallup, Nightwind's Dances With Wool "Nutella" took best of breed over Briardale's Camille Lebec "Elle" and Heartsong’s Durango "Ranger" showing to judge Virginia L. Lyne. Nutella was groomed perfectly and beautifully presented by junior handler Haley Premble. Haley is dedicated to handling and is working to win an AKC scholarship. She lives south of Monroe, and started her Junior Handling at Dog Works in Monore, with a Sheltie named Elliott. She had also competed with him in Obedience and Rally. In addition, Haley has a show Sheltie, Tip, who has done well for her. In shows this year, she has won several Junior Handler titles; Saturday at Puyallup was really a Blue Ribbon day for her, because she won Best Junior Handler, then Best of Breed with Nutella.

Sunday, at Puyallup, Elle took best of breed over Nutella showing to judge Arlene A. Czech by Hannah Spencer. Ranger didn’t show. On Saturday, Elle was totally distracted having Ranger in the ring. Elle needs 2 points now to finish. Judy reports that she is going to start working with Ranger at classes, and won’t be putting him back into the ring until he’s more confident with another dog running behind him. She also thinks Elle needs to finish first before she puts Ranger in the ring, too. Entering two puppies from the same household can be a bit chaotic.
photos coming soon......

Welcome New Member Iris Bergen

2009-06-01T12:08:00.000-07:00

Please join me in welcoming Iris Bergen. Iris lives on the West Coast in BC, with the Pacific just a few minutes away. Bobby (left in the photo) will be 9 in June and started Agility after competitive obedience (aka BH ) in Germany and some tracking. He started Agility a few years ago, and earned his MAD under the AAC last April (see photo below). So far his highest achievement. Bobby is a Briard x OES. He's Iris' Velcro dog. Felix (right in top photo), her first "real" Briard, joined their family last December and has been started in Agility right from the get go. So far he's doing exceptionally well. Iris can't wait until he's old enough to compete. Felix came from Veronique Mauroux of Briards de Guerande, Quebec. His parents are Vraiment Belle de Guerande x Grinzing's Aurore Boreale. Felix' registered name is Deux Felix de Guerande. Deux can also be derived from "sweat pea" and what a "Sweet Pea Felix" he is! Felix mom Belle, is a black borne gray, and dad is black. Felix is black and natural eared, but getting more and more white hairs on his back, he may be turning gray like his mom after all. Felix will turn 8 months old on June 7! Last but not least, there is Riley. Riley is a smart, speedy, driven and teeter loving Golden Retriever that Iris trains and competes for a friend.

Gia's Holiday Weekend!

2009-05-26T15:15:00.000-07:00

Gia is five months old now. Gia on the rock was taken at the Vista House lookout point, Columbia River Gorge. Anglea and Gia are pictured in front of the Multnomah Falls. Gia is doing very well. She is very smart and loving. Angela can't wait to get out there and show her. Gia is an avid outdoors girl..she loves to go hiking so taking scenic pics are becoming a hobby for Angela. Gia looks so beautiful with all the Pacific Northwest scenery behind her. We can look forward to many more pics of Gia and Angela's summer adventures!

Tiger Finishes With 4 Majors!

2009-05-26T12:03:00.000-07:00

Mr. Woods finished his championship on Monday with his fourth major of the week-end. Tiger is co-ownerd by Barbara Lee, Terry Miller and Gina Klang.
His show history is as follows -
3/29/09 Kern County KC, WD/BW/OS, first point, judge: Arlene A. Czech, Mom (Barbara)handling.
Handled by Dottie Adkins at the following:
5/21/09 Briard Club of America Specialty. WD/BW, 5 pt. major, judge: Dani Canino
5/22/09 Los Encinos KC. WD/BW, 4 pt major, judge: Lawrence E. Stanbridge
5/24/09 San Fernando KC, WD/BW, 3 pt major, judge Judy A. Harrington
5/25/09 San Fernando Valley KC, WD, 4 pt major, Dorothy N. Collier
Now he is: Ch. Chercher Deja Vu Mon Amie Divot
YIPPEE!!!!

Briard Takes 5th Place at AKC Herding Trial

2009-05-25T14:01:00.000-07:00

On Monday May 25, Ch. Bijou All Flash No Cash "Tessa" earned her first leg toward her advanced C-course title under judge Linda Rorem with a 5th place! At the advanced level the distance for the course is between 780 and 880 linear yards and contains 7 elements:

Exit from pen
Narrow road
Bridge
Pause/Traffic
Wide graze/Narrow graze
Placement before the flock
Pen.

The AKC C-Course reflects a tending shepherd’s day and, as such, is the preferred course for many Briarders wishing to compete in herding trials. Until now, however, the opportunity to train and trial in the boundary/tending style, has been limited. This was the 1st time C-course was available at a trial held at PackLeader Farm. The All Breed Herding Club of Western Washington is sponsoring another trail at PackLeader in August that will also offer the C-course. Judges: Ron Fischer, Terry Kenney, Carol Lucero, Craig Watson. For those wishing to brush up on their C-course skills before August, the Pacific Northwest Herding Club is sponsoring a match at Brigands Hide Out on Sunday, July 5. Judges: Ron Fischer for Course C and B ducks) and Bridgette Tuerler for HT/PT, Course A sheep & ducks. For more information contact Nancy Ward.

Mt. Baker Kennel Club Results

2009-05-17T08:02:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, May 16, four Briards were entered at the Mount Baker Kennel Club shows held in Lynden WA showing to judge Patricia Mowbray-Morgan. CH Cachet Deja Vu Andantino RA "Andre" took Best of Breed (BOB), Nightwind's Definitely Maybe "Tia" took Best of Winners (BOW)/Best of Opposite (BOS). Andre was owner-handled by Sonia Thompson. Briardale's Camille Lebec "Elle", Tia and Heartsong’s Durango "Ranger" were all handled by Hannah Spencer. Hannah did most of Elle’s and now Ranger's training and is a freshman at Western Washington University in Bellingham.

Briard Medical Trust Raffle

2009-05-16T10:29:00.000-07:00

The Briard Medical Trust is currently selling raffle tickets for this beautiful quilt made and donated by Karen MacDonald. The quilt fits a queen size bed. I have not seen the quilt in person yet and I am told the colors are much brighter than they appear in the photo. Tickets are $5.00 each or 6 for $25. The winning ticket will be pulled at the Regional Specialty in Canfield Ohio in August. (Need not be present to win.) Please contact Gabrielle LaRoche if you would like to purchase tickets and support the Briard Medical Trust. The Briard Medical Trust (BMT) was established by the Briard Club of America (BCA) in 2005. It was organized under the IRS code as the Briard Club of America Health and Education Trust, a separate 501(c)(3) organization to allow for tax deductible donations, and to serve the medical and health needs of Briards, their owners, breeders, and all who love them.

Tessa Gets Ready for a Herding Trial

2009-05-15T09:38:00.000-07:00

Above Tessa tends the graze at Brigand's Hide Out, Battle Ground, WA, May 15, 2009. Below Tessa is practacing on the new C-course at Pack Leader Farm, Gig Harbor, WA, May 10, 2009.

Tessa is entered at the AKC herding trial at Pack Leader Farm over Memorial Day Weekend. Nash and Gabrielle will be stock handling for Herding Tested (HT) and Pre-trial Tested (PT). Visting Briarder from Texas, Julie Reconnu, will be scribing for the C-course judges.

Elle Gets Her 1st HCT Leg

2009-04-20T08:44:00.000-07:00

Judy Meggitt's Briardale's Camille Lebec "Elle" passes the 1st leg of her AHBA-Herding Capability Test (HCT) on Sunday April 19 at PackLeader Farm. Elle is handled by Barbara Davenport and evaluated by Judge Shelley Fritzke. Shelley is GSD breeder who lives in the BC lower mainland and offers tending instruction and clinics. Since Nash and Gabrielle were stock handling for this event they got to practice with Shelley on the C-course the previous evening.

Ranger's Upset Tummy

2009-04-15T17:52:00.000-07:00

Ranger Meggitt's interest in counter tops and their delicious contents recently resulted in an upset tummy and a trip to the vet. Ranger devoured an entire loaf of raisin bread. Some foods which are edible for humans, and even other species of animals, can pose hazards for dogs because of their different metabolism. Some may cause only mild digestive upsets, whereas, others can cause severe illness, and even death. Grapes and raisins contain a toxin, which can damage the kidneys. However, there have been no problems associated with grape seed extract. Coffee, tea, and chocolate contain caffeine, theobromine, or theophylline, which can be toxic and affect the heart and nervous systems. Onions and garlic (raw, cooked or powder) contain sulfoxides and disulfides, which can damage red blood cells, although garlic is less toxic than onions. There are many more common foods that can cause problems and there is a great deal of informaion on the web if you have questions or concerns. Fortunately for Ranger, his parents took him for a quick trip to the vet, so the consequences were not dire.

Tessa's Up and Coming Agility Career

2009-03-31T09:03:00.000-07:00

submitted by Carol Wolfram I was at an agility trial March 27-29. A PWD person filmed one of Tessa's runs because he thought she was soooo cooooool! Not a great run because we missed the weave entry but check out her contacts and the weaves! Since we already blew the run I tried sending her to a jump right after the table while I started a lateral move but while she could do that in class it was abit too much for her in excitement of competition. We are still a green team but I felt a lot of potential in us this weekend. She got one Open JWW legand one Exc A Std leg both with first places. The video is of Sunday's Exc AStd run. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5_BBqllrbw&feature=channel
The agility people in the northwest pretty much know about Briards since it isn't unusual to have several running at trials. This was an all breed dog show as well so lots of non agility folk were wandering around and yes, they were inquiring about the breed while watching her. It was really funny because Tessa stirred a lot of interest when she ran. On Saturday she hit the weaves so hard that her hind left leg/loin area kind of got stuck in the poles. I was at the head and the front kept weaving while the back end was trying to break free of the pole. Tessa just stretched longer and longer until all of a sudden the rear broke free of the pole and was like a slinky catching up with the front. She never popped out of the weaves. You can see in the video from Sunday that she got caught up a bit in those poles as well but nowhere near as long as on Saturday. I think it has to do with the fact that the spacing between the poles varies from trial to trial. These were 24 inch weaves. I hope that as we get more experience together that Tessa will begin to realize that the weave poles aren't always the same distance apart. At any rate, all weekend long people were commenting on the Briard with the fabulous weaves. I was casually chatting with some people while we were watching runs (Tessa was in her crate) and a BC was running. One of the people said wow what great weaves and another said forget those weaves did any of you see the Briard do the weaves?Amazing! LOL! I got to mention that I saw that Briard do weaves every week because she was my dog.

Tiger Gets His 1st Point!

2009-03-29T18:16:00.000-07:00

Sunday, March 29, 2009, Chercher Deja Vu Mon Ami Divot, a.k.a. "Tiger Woods", went Best of Winners and Best of Opposite Sex, at the Kern County Kennel Club All Breed Dog Show, and received his first point. Having only gone Best of Opposite Sex yesterday, he only got a ribbon and a photo album. Mom said " Rats, we made the stupid photo album, we could always make more, but we could have used that point!" Deja Vu Mon Ami Divot "Tiger" is pictured at handling class 3/11/09. Barbara reports: "he does think very highly of himself, just like his mom (Nonnie). He's absolutely certain that the whole world came to see him!" Tiger was eight months old March 28.

Nash Earns His AKC Rally Advanced Title

2009-03-22T12:37:00.000-07:00

Gia's Spring Trip

2009-03-15T16:47:00.000-07:00

Gia and Angela Trimm enjoy a trip to the Gorge and Skamania Lodge.

Record Entries at Seattle Shows (1-5-0-0)!

2009-03-09T14:22:00.000-07:00

Story by Sonia Thompson; Ring-side Photos by Tracy Thorleifson. There were 6 Briards competing which is the largest number we have seen at one time at any show in this area for the last two years. On Saturday March 7, Briards were judged by Bart A. Miller. On Sunday March 8, the breed judge was David Bolus.

The two days of the Seattle shows were wonderful! Sonia Thompson's Cachet Deja Vu Andantino RN "Andre" (above left) took Best of Breed both days. Judy Meggitt's Briardale's Camille Lebec "Elle" (above right) took Best of Winners both days.
Andre (left) got his championship and is Advanced Rally title. Elle got two 4-point majors and has three single points to go.

Gail Oneal's Radieux's And The Winner Is HSAs "Emmy" (left) was the other open bitch. (Below left to right) Nightwind's Double Dog Dare Ewe "Dara", Nightwind's Definitely Maybe "Tia" and Nightwind's Dances With Wool "Nutella" were the three puppy bitches.
"We are very appreciative of the effort to get Briards together for this show. The Briards received a lot of attention ringside and in the aisles" said Judy Meggitt.

There were many people helping and urging us on. The help and encouragement was fantastic. Judy's delightful friend Hannah Spencer showed Elle, who was at the peak of her charm. Hannah (at left with Elle) did most of Elle’s training and is a freshman at Western Washington University in Bellingham.Gail showed Emmy, who has filled out after the puppies and is looking good. And one of the puppies, Dara, a beautiful, well built puppy. She took reserve on Saturday. Nutella, the 2nd puppy (owned by Barbara and Pascal Stoltz of Kirkland WA) is also beautiful! She was handled by my friend Haley, at 14 yrs, one of the top junior handlers. She took reserve bitch on Sunday. The 3rd puppy, Tia, is still a scruffy girl. And she came in 3rd each day. We had alot of fun, much of it due to the great people who were there: Gail and Tracy worked non-stop at grooming. Haley's mother Bonney had a crash course in grooming Briards, and Barbara and Pascal did alot of work, too. Izzy, one of Ellie's other puppies, came with her person Marcia help with what ever was needed. Other friends appeared to help.

Andre and Tia competed in Rally. Both qualified on Saturday, Tia did not make it to the ring in time on Sunday. Andre finished his Advanced title with a high score and 2nd place!!! We ran over to rally directly from the Breed ring, just as the last dog was entering the rally ring. The steward move his number to the end, we were able to watch, then go on in. The judge was really nice about it. We went into group that afternoon; he was one of 6 who made the first cut, so that was a really exciting end of the day. The only sad part was that I couldn't go home Saturday night to get Cecca, and if I had been able to make it home, I couldn't have made it through the 12 inches of snow to return Sunday. So Cecca missed her agility runs in the venue she loves most of all (the pattern is that after she qualifies she gets to run full speed to her favorite vendor! She knows them all).

Life after being a show dog (many years after) -- the photographer's Ch Deja Vu Outfielder CD RA "Sammy" on the sofa (note the BCA throw in the back).

Nash Is a C-course Virtuoso

2009-03-09T12:43:00.000-07:00

So You Think You Might Like Carting....

2009-03-05T12:38:00.000-08:00

Ever since I first read about briards carting in Diane McLeroth's book, The Briard, I have been captivated by the idea. As I recall, there is a charming picture of black briard pulling a cart much like this antique farm cart (top left) that I found while searching Craig's list for a cart for Nash. This cart dates to the end of the last century and comes from France. Carts like this were pulled by large dogs and tranported children and groceries to and from the market along county roads.

During my earlier briarding years I lived in Alaska where both weather and road conditions disuaded me from pursuing carting. For those years I had to be content with skijoring - a sport where the dog is in a sled pulling harness that is clipped to a hip belt on the cross-county skier.

In November, a new trail was opened that runs along an old railroad grade for 6 miles into downtown Port Townsend. It took only one walk on this trail to re-kindle my interest in carting. Since then I have been researching carting club rules - the Bouvier des Flandres Club, the American Rottweiler Club and the Bernese Mountain Dog Club, to name a few - (BCA doesn't offer a carting test) and the various rigs. As with just about everything there is are several email groups you can join. The two that have been most helpful are Carting-L and chariotsofthedogs. There is also a local list seattledraftdogs but is is not active. We also have several briarders that have patiently answered all my questions, most notably Peggi Weymouth (above left in her RJWalsh sulky), Mary Weir and Caren Landis (her rig at right). There is also a book: Travel at the Speed of Dog by Darlette Ratschan available from her website. This book has a description of a variety of sulkies and their features.

I have narrowed my decision to one of the two dorsal hitch sulkies on the market: the Chalo sulky or the RJWalsh sulky. From the research that I have done, the dorsal hitch sulky is easier on the dog, easier to train and easier to manuever than the traditional carts and sulkies with two side shafts. Dorsal hitch sulkies are balanced so that the driver's weight slightly lifts the dog in its harness. Because a dog with less weight on its paws pulls more easily, dogs are able to cart in a dorsal hitch rig more often and less strenuously than they can in other carts.

Caren decided on the RJWalsh Springtail (above left) with brakes "because it was light, it had breaks and for our purposes, I did not see the issue of spending more money for a heavier model. I can toss this one in my expedition without issue, I can take it easily on my boat when we go away in the summer. I would break it down so as not to have it damage anything while underway." Peggi was lucky enough to find an RJWalsh Millenium Mini on the used market.

Chalo sulkies are made in Federal Way WA. RJWalsh sulkies are made in Australia. The positives about Chalo are that they are local and all the parts are mountain bike parts, so they are easy to find and replace....but then owners report that, "RJWalsh sulkies generally just don't break...and he is very good about standing behind his products." With the Aussie dollar what it is, even with shipping they are competitive in price.

For training and entry level work, many folks have recommended Wilczek Woodworks. They offer a starter kit and lots of information on their website. They do not, however, offer any single dorsal hitch rigs. If one were to start out with one of these rigs and then switch to a dorsal hitch rig, it would mean investing in two types of harnesses, which at $150 -200 for a dorsal is not an insignificant amount.

We are still conducting research and hoping to find a sulky on the used market. Click here to view Nash with a Chalo sulky. We'll be ring stewards at the Hurricane Ridge Kennel Club Carting Test April 4-5 and hope to know more after that. We'll let you know when we finalize our decision.

Welcome New Member!

2009-02-28T16:30:00.000-08:00

A warm welcome is extended to Angela Trimm, her husband, their 3 year old, a small Yorkie and their new Briard puppy! Angela writes: " I am very excited about joining your club and raising my Briard. We actually just received our puppy today. My husband and I live in Camas, Washington and our puppy (Gia or Brandy, not sure which name yet) came to us from a breeder in California. We have never owned a Briard, but are completely already in love with her. " The new pup is show quality and although they've never even thought about it before, they would consider showing her. "Gia" or "Brandy" is out of Jasper II Vom Vossberg "Jasper"x Ch Briaramour's De Moulin Rouge RN, RA, RE, CD "Nikki". Angela would love to meet anyone who lives close to Camas with a Briard and adds that "I am very excited about our new journey with our amazing puppy. "

2009 Herding Trials, Gig Harbor, WA

2009-02-18T08:40:00.000-08:00

Premium Lists and information at All Breed Herding Club Of Western Washington

Valentine Greetings!

2009-02-08T10:48:00.000-08:00

Click the link to view a Greeting from Nash.

PackLeader Farm Presents: TENDING CLINIC

2009-02-07T22:11:00.000-08:00

Saturday & Sunday, March 7 & 8, 2009, 9 AM to 5 PM. Instructed by PNWBC's Carol Wolfram. Questions or to request a registration form contact Debbi Humble – 425-742-.6922 Barbara Davenport - 253-884-5959

A HERDING EXTRAVAGANZA, Plano Texas Oct.24 - Nov.1

2009-02-01T10:11:00.000-08:00

The BCA Nationals Herding Clinic (Oct. 24 & 25) is fast filling!!! If you have any desire to attend, email Mary Weir. The cost is $200.00 for 2 days of C course herding with PNWBC's own Carol Wolfram and Mary Weir as clinicians, over 200 head of sheep and acres of practice courses. Be ready for the trial on Mon and Tues Oct 26 and 27 and have fun with the herders!!!!!! For more information about the National go to the 2009 BCA National page.

Barbara'a New Boy

2009-01-25T20:02:00.000-08:00

Meet Deja Vu Mon Ami Divot, "Tiger", and yes, that is as in Woods. "Tiger" will be six months old on Wednesday, January 28 and is out of "Jonah", Ch. Mon Jovis Renior x "Nonnie", Ch. Deja Vu Bluestone Utter Nonsense. Barbara Lee co-owns him with Terry Miller and Gina Klang. Barbara reports "He's cute, smart, fun, full of himself, generally loves life, and shares his happiness with everyone!" "Tiger" lives with Dudley Do Right, "Dudley", Barbara's one-year-old, tawny, therapy dog in training and Chercher Unmentionables, "Teddi", a 5-year-old black bitch. "Tiger's" mom, 5-1/2-year-old "Nonnie" is in Ohio right now, but will return to the fold at a later date.

Beautiful Bellingham Briard Boy after Blizzard

2009-01-19T18:02:00.000-08:00

Submitted by Sally Lewis ~ Here Jordan and the Lewis' other dog, Gracie were having a ball in the December snow!!! Jordan is 9 months old and is from Aladax Briards, Dripping Springs, TX. Sally and Larry just love him!!! Along with Jordan and Gracie, the Golden Doodle, the Lewis' have two other dogs; Reily and Spiner. Spiner is a 15yr old Golden and Reily is an Austrailian Shepherd-Pyranese mix who is 9yrs old. And last but not least there is Stormy! A 13yrs old orange tabby who runs the house!! Sally and Larry have owned Ruff Day Doggie Daycare in Bellingham for a little over a year. Dogs are their life, now. They are hoping to get their house sold and buy some property with 5 acres at least and do some boarding as well. They would love to get together with other briards in the area.

Agility at Elma & Ridgefield

2009-01-05T07:51:00.000-08:00

At the Portland Agility Club Trials held at Ridgefield, Tessa finished her Open Standard title and moved up into Excellent where she had some great runs. No Qs yet but boy did she show she was ready for that class. Carol ran her January 3 & 4 in Open FAST for the first time and she earned her first two legs! Carol overheard the judge on Saturday as Tessa exploded through the weaves. A single exclaimation of "DAMN!" Afterwards the judge came up to me and commented on the fabulous weaves.

Lark put in some great runs and the last two weekends of trials and Carol reports: "it felt like we actually clicked. She missed a double Q two days by knocking a bar but the other days we did double Q. Just to give you an idea of the competition here, one day Lark was 17 seconds under standard course time (on a standard course) and that wasn't even good enough for a placement. We have some really fast dogs out here!"

With Lark's double Q she now has 14 total and over 700 points!!!! Go Pacific Northwest Briards!!!

Carol ran Tessa in Open JWW and her first time in Exc Standard the last weekend in December at Elma. A friend filmed the runs and posted them to youtube (see links below). This was their first day out after being snow bound in their house for 10 days. Carol said she had one crazy Briard at that trial!

The JWW run had Tessa heading for an off course with a bar down but other than that she was pretty good. It looks like Carol quit the run at the end but actually Tessa cleared the last jump then Carol slowed and Tessa just shot over an extra jump. Watch the run http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfxnu0OovhA

In the standard run Carol said "I was an idiot at the weave entry and didn't remember she is really a green dog. She then proceeded to have two bars down on the rest of the course. It is a bit like driving a Ferrari in that she responds so quickly to the slightest twitch on my part. Nice and yet not so nice........ " Watch the run http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Ja7PSwxjV8

BTW, that isn't Tessa doing all the barking!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T12:34:00.000-08:00

Click here to view a greeting from Nash.

Near Record Snowfall Blankets Eastern Washington Briards

2009-01-01T12:01:00.000-08:00

Emmy, Dara and Later enjoy the snow. Gail ponders where they will put the snow if it doesn't stop soon.

A Christmas (Puppy) Story

2008-12-29T10:38:00.001-08:00

Story and photos by Chelsea and Judy Meggitt
When does the thought of getting a new puppy pop into your head?

For us, it started in November when our 14-year old Briard, Logan, collapsed and appeared to be dying. The whole family participated in getting him down our 15 stairs, into the SUV and to the vet’s office. We were devastated—even Elle (Briard, 18 months) curled into a fetal ball and became lethargic. We had already lost one Briard (Noelle) this fall and the thought of losing another (which would leave only Elle for company at our house) was unbearable.

We sent an email mentioning our dilemma to Liz Kennitz, Elle’s breeder. Almost immediately, Liz sent a return email saying that the perfect puppy might be available for us. We instantly (and excitedly) contacted Pam Ohlsson and learned everything we could about her new litter. For the next month, emails and telephone calls confirmed that we definitely wanted that puppy—he would be OUR PUPPY. We decided to name him Ranger, after a character in Janet Evanovich stories who dresses all in black and rescues the heroine.

The puppy was in Oshkosh, Wisconsin—a place that Chelsea, age 16, thought was a store. It was about this time that winter started coming all across the country – with a vengeance! We had no way of knowing the adventures we would experience in getting this puppy…

Chelsea and I decided to fly to Green Bay, WI, to get this puppy and bring him to his new home. He would be our Christmas Puppy, since he would be eight weeks old the Monday before Christmas. We booked our flights to Green Bay through Chicago for Sunday, the 21st. We would meet Pam Ohlsson, the breeder, at the Green Bay airport for the transfer.

And then…we woke up Saturday morning to a great surprise of several inches of snow in Seattle and more falling. We didn’t think anything of it until it didn’t stop...and didn’t stop…and didn’t stop! Our flights – with dozens of others - were cancelled. This set us of on a scramble to reschedule our flights before Christmas. As many of you saw on the news, airports across the upper part of the nation were packed with travelers and airports were ill prepared for the winter blast. They were operating only a few flights, we were booked on one for the morning of the 23rd of December.

On the morning of the 23rd, we had our bags packed and were ready to fly. When we arrived at the Seattle airport three hours ahead of the scheduled departure, we were absolutely shocked at the number of passengers needing service and attempting to get on flights. Many of them had been in the airport overnight. We couldn’t print boarding passes early, since we would be traveling with a dog, so we had to wait through the check-in line. We waited in several more lines just to find out that our flight had already been delayed and the departure of the next connecting flight out of Chicago to Green Bay was going to leave as much as 3-1/2 hours late. We sat in the Seattle airport for hours waiting to find out if our flight would even depart. United and the other airlines had run out of deicer and were still waiting on delivery trucks. Our flight eventually did depart from Seattle to Chicago with us aboard.

Chicago brought another exciting segment in this ongoing adventure. We thought that there were a lot of stranded people in Seattle—the number of passengers stranded in Chicago was incredible! All flights in and out of Chicago had been delayed or cancelled, and passengers were attempting to reschedule or find alternate modes of transportation to their destinations. People – including us – were talking about every conceivable mode of transportation except dog sleds! Our original flight to Green Bay had been cancelled and the next flight had also been cancelled. We were beginning to lose hope of returning home on Christmas Eve with this new puppy, and we were not at all sure we would be able to get him on this trip.

While our flights were being canceled, rescheduled and canceled again, Pam, our breeder, had gone to the Green Bay airport and was waiting for us with our puppy.

After six hours of Red Carpet Club socializing, we were told we would be put on the standby list for the last flight that day to Green Bay. The odds looked slim for getting onto this flight and there was concern that this flight, too, would be cancelled. As our backup plan, we made arrangements for Chelsea to sleep overnight in the Red Carpet Club and then be put on a plane back to Seattle Christmas Eve morning. Judy would make her way by plane, train, bus, or 18-wheeler to Green Bay as soon as roads or flying conditions permitted. Once we were on the standby list, we headed directly for the gate to find a mob of people who were also on standby. Our chances of making the flight seemed to be poor—our positions on the list had slipped substantially – until we heard our names called at 9:30 p.m. for boarding! We were fortunate – the Briard god must have been smiling down on us. Many other passengers scheduled for that flight had been delayed or cancelled and didn’t make the flight.

Because of the many delays, Pam Ohlsson had to return home. The plan was for her to return with our puppy the next morning at 5:30 AM (yes, that’s AM!).

Because of the kindness and understanding of the United staff in Chicago in getting us on the last flight out, we were finally headed to Green Bay. Plowing the one runway in use in Chicago, deicing the plane, instrumentation flying, poor visibility, and rough flying conditions made for more than the usual amount of excitement on this leg of the trip. BUT, we were on our way!

We arrived in Green Bay at 12:00 PM (that’s Midnight!) and checked into a local hotel. Three and one-half hours of sleep later, the alarm went off. Just as (re-)planned, we met Pam and the puppy, with paperwork and supplies and the transferred was done in about 10 minutes. Hallelujah!!

Of course, getting out of Green Bay on Christmas Eve day wasn’t easy either. We called the family in Seattle to set up backup plans in the event we didn’t get home for Christmas day – kids open presents, adults wait until Saturday, wait on Christmas dinner until Saturday, and so on. At the Green Bay airport, we woke up the United counter representative for service and then waited for hours for a delayed and almost cancelled flight to Chicago. When we had nearly given up, all of a sudden, passengers were directed to return to the gate immediately–they were BOARDING! We couldn’t get there fast enough! Once again the runway was scraped, the plane was deiced and it was an instrument flight due to the bad weather. The flight was bouncy and rough, but we arrived safely in Chicago.

The flight out of Chicago to Seattle had also been delayed. The scene in Chicago was like something out of a movie; there were thousands of stranded passengers, some of whom had been there for two or three days. We stood by until United felt it was safe. We waited our turn for de-icing and finally we were off the ground. This flight truly felt like we were, “goin’ home!” We arrived in Seattle on Christmas Eve day, about two hours late, but with Ranger! Dallas met us at the airport and drove us home. The family was preparing our Christmas Eve dinner when we got home, after driving through Seattle in the snow and ice. And, course EVERYONE Ooohed and Ahhhed over Ranger. And, we had a wonderful family dinner with everyone there including our Elle, Ranger and, guess who else?

Logan, our Briard who almost didn’t survive, had been, at the last minute, diagnosed with Meklazine Vertigo, Vestibular Syndrome, which is a neurological problem in old dogs. With the right medication, he has fully recovered and, in his cranky way, helped us welcome Ranger.

Ellie Makes Her Christmas Wish

2008-12-24T11:36:00.000-08:00

CH Deja Vu Sense and Sensibility CD RE NA, "Ellie", poses with Santa, who is really Tracy's Dad. Although Ellie loves Tracy's Dad she was not too sure about the Santa suit and refused to sit in his lap.

Let it Snow!

2008-12-14T10:49:00.000-08:00

Cold temperatures and recent snowfall bring a winter wonderland to Western Washington just in time for Christmas. View slideshow.

UKC Trial HIT!

2008-12-13T22:40:00.000-08:00

by Carol Wolfram
Saturday I went to a UKC show with both Lark and Tessa. Lark was entered in Utility A for the very first time and Tessa was entered in Open B to try for the first leg of her U-CDX. We had a very successful day. The morning started with Lark winning the Utility A class with a 188!!! I was soooo happy with her. Utility is a tough class at the best of times and UKC has some challenges that the AKC utility class doesn't have. Lark did a great job especially since I just entered her to see where we were in our training. Looks like we are ready to try again! After Utility came Open B and Tessa was totally on top of things. She never took her eyes off me and wound up winning the class with a 198. She is such a wonderful worker! I just love to take her in the ring. At the end of the day after all the other classes Tessa still had the highest score so she was High in Trial. I couldn't have asked for a better day! Laurie Beck was there as well with Page (in Open B and Utility B) and Belle (in Novice C) and she was very complimentary about how both my girls worked (OK, especially Tessa!) Many thanks to Laurie for all your support at these shows.

Elle Wins in Long Beach!

2008-12-12T10:42:00.000-08:00

Briardale's Camille Lebec "Elle" (Higgins Bohemia Elite x Ch Cherron U Wanna Dance) bred by Jeanne Lorang & Liz Kenitz, owned by Judy & Dallas Meggitt and presented by Martin Cabral picked up 4 points by going Winners Bitch on December 10 and 11. Entries were 2-5-(3-1) on Wednesday and 2-5-(3-3)Thursday. On Wednesday, Elle was shown to judge James G. Reynolds at the Kennel Club of Beverly Hills show. Judge Reynolds hails from Ottowa Ontario and has most recently judged Briards at the Santa Maria Kennel Club show in Ventura, July of this year. On Thursday, at the Los Encinos Kennel Club show, she was shown to Paolo Dondina of Monterchi, Italy. Although approved for all groups and BIS, judge Dondina has not had a previous herding group or breed AKC assignment.

PNWBC has 1st AKC OTCH Briard!

2008-12-04T19:38:00.000-08:00

PNWBC Board member Laurie Beck and Page DID IT! Breed history is made in Ridgefield Washington!

Thursday, December 4, they got the last points needed to earn the first AKC OTCH for a Briard - Page, OTCH CH Briardale's One For the Books de Lebec UDX2 (etc), bred by Jeanne Lorang, owned by Laurie and Justin Beck, completely trained by Laurie Beck. Page had earned the UKC Obedience Champion title (not sure if she is the first in that) a couple months ago, but Laurie wouldn't let Jeanne do any bragging until she got the AKC OTCH. She also is the only Briard with a UDX2. Page is 10 next week. Briards now have herding champions, agility champions, and an obedience champion.

Jeanne reports "this has been such a long journey for them both. Laurie made some mistakes early on, Page took advantage of them as only a dominant, smart Briard can, and she came very close to being euthanized for biting. But Laurie fought for them both to get better and learn, and they became a team. There were stretches where the points were just not coming, Laurie was hurting, Page was distracted, etc. Then this summer, Laurie called me in tears sure that Page's career was over, as she could no longer do jumps due to pain. It turned out an infection after dentistry had spread to Page's bones, and it took massive doses of antibiotic over a long period to get her healthy again. And they started picking up those last points, and today she reached 104, with a first place to boot! It's hard to understand how much work Laurie and Page put into this, unless you've followed the whole journey, and Laurie never would let me brag about what she was doing."

Last year Jeanne commissioned Carol Wolfram to make one of her beautiful glass pieces that said "First Briard OTCH", and Carol and friends have been carting it from show to show, waiting for the day. Today Carol was there to watch and give Laurie the plate. "I am so happy for Laurie, and so proud of Sassy's daughter. She'll probably be pissed I bragged before AKC confirmation of the title, but I don't care! No way I could wait! I just wish I could have been there to watch" said Jeanne.

According to Mary Weir a much more dramatic tale is in order......

Carol Wolfram said "the judge had 4 Q's out of the class all present in the ring. Laurie's obedience friends had figured she needed to get 1st or 2nd to finish. The judge announced the 4th place....... doggie walked up got ribbon. The judge announced 3rd place....doggie got ribbon. Drum roll!!!!!!!!!!! judge announced 2nd place... doggie walked up and Laurie had tears in her eyes as she knew she had gotten the title. THEN judge announced 1st and PAGE and LAURIE won!!! The crowd went nuts and the judge hadn't a clue what was going on."

"....and actually before that, the judge asked what legs people were working on. One team just got their 19th UDX leg (towards a UDX2), another their first X leg and a third their 7th leg. She then turned to me and asked what we were there for. I replied, 'oh, we're just here.' She didn't know what to say and everyone laughed" reports Laurie.

What a wonderful way to do it, with friends cheering you on. The judge marveled that Page was the first Briard ever for an OTCH. And Laurie is worried that she didn't comb her hair for the picture. Congrats to the team on a once in a lifetime win!!!!!!!!!!!!!

In retrospect, Laurie writes: "Page has been feeling so good lately that I didn't have a chance to get nervous before we showed. We were the last exhibitors in utility. We went into the ring, she worked with attitude and before I knew it, we were done. Going back into the ring for ribbons I got so nervous, I thought my knees might give out. "

"The commemorative plate that Jeannie had Carol Wolfram make is stunning. Now I understand why for the last few months Carol and friends were always asking how many points Page had. I didn't have a clue!" said Laurie.

"I've been so lucky to have had Jeanne to lean on whenever the chips were down, my trainer, Lori Drouin to call on when something broke (and believe me, when you're trialing for as long as we were, everything broke more than once), a friendly face outside the ring, Carol, to support us, and all of you to recognize our efforts" remarked Laurie.

Father Daughter Outing

2008-12-01T11:38:00.000-08:00

Pictured in the slideshow are Andre (& Sonia) and Nutella, Andre’s 6 month old daughter, as they try out a little sheepherding. Nutella was the star! The farm is a herding training facility and boarding kennel named Canine Country Club owned by Lorri Schubert. It is located in Smokey Point, north of Marysville/Tulalup. Brian Ricard is the trainer. Brain works primarily with Border collies and is a USBCHA judge. The dogs are working in a 50-ft round pen. There are also small & large fields for training. Nutella is a natural, very instinctual. Andre works and works, really hard, to succeed, and Brian says he is very talented, but not with the instant instinct that Nutella showed.

This was Nutella's first ever experience. She was was very keen on it and quite happy about the whole outing. Including what she did when she returned home, to the cat’s sheepskin bed... Nutella was very pleased with herself. Nano, the cat, was not. Photos and story submitted by Barbara Stolz and Sonia Thompson.

Christmas Puppy!

2008-11-26T08:34:00.000-08:00

Judy and Dallas Meggit made the decision to get a new male puppy. Heartsong’s Durango "Ranger" will be picked up from Pam Olsson in OshKosh WI on the 22nd of December at 8 weeks of age. They are really excited. He’s very black. He’s the son of Boston x Natalie (Natalie is the granddaughter of Sendero's Remington). He is pictured here at one (bottom 2) and two (top 2) weeks of age.

Judy and Dallas lost Noelle in September and Logan has recently had a close call, so this will be just the Christmas cheer they need. Photos courtesy of Briard Breeder.

Whidbey Island K.C. Trials & Tribulations

2008-11-16T08:49:00.000-08:00

Cachet Deja Vu Andantino RN "Andre" (pictured at right) got his first leg in Advanced Rally on Saturday November 15 at Monroe, with a fourth place, which is good for an apprehensive "lagging" boy. A fourth place Q even though he lagged!! On Sunday he was very relaxed and was enjoying greeting and sharing treats with several Rally classmates and their people. There must have been really good karma in the room because even the antisocial cattle dog classmate was congenial. Sonia took advantage of the happy atmosphere to get him jazzed before the start. He did a "line up" nicely. Then the first handler error happened: Instead of "heel", Sonia sang out "Ok let's go!" in her most lively tone. He went. The lagger sprinted ahead! He was nearly at the second sign before Sonia picked her jaw off the floor and began to activate her stunned brain. She should have asked the judge if they could repeat #1, but she hadn't really recovered yet, so they went ahead from #2. Sonia resports that she made at least 3 other handler errors, so they did not qualify. But he did what she asked, happily and without lagging except at the last sign! So that was a win as far as Sonia was concerned!

Ch. Deja Vu Back Seat Driver RN PT JHD-s "Nash" was only entered on Saturday. The strategy was that he'd either Q, obtaining his third leg and RA title, or the team would know what they had to work on. Nash and Gabrielle arrived at the fairgrounds early, checked in, picked up the course and found a grassy area where they could warm-up off-leash. Gabrielle was feeling pretty good about their chances. They walked into the ring, Nash didn't want to sit at the ready (not a good sign) and then got a case of the zoomies as soon as they started - dashed around the ring, over the jump, circled a few pylons, into a play bow and they were excused. The audience loved it. "Some days you're the dog trainer and some days you are only the poop scooper."

It was a beautiful sunny autumn weekend in Monroe, unlike many we have seen at that time of the year. Neither competitor could fault the venue. The rally ring had few distractions - it was set up in its own building in the end of the room so that there were walls behind the ring gates on three sides. The only thing one could ask for might be more room to watch and wait, but then that would make it perfect and who has ever experienced an absolutley perfect setting?

Dante Gets His 3rd Q!

2008-11-10T12:34:00.000-08:00

Helen Moulden of Sidney B.C. reports that CKC-CH. Aladax's Sorcerer CDX AGNCH "Dante" finally got his 3rd Starters Q in AAC Agility. Now they are in Advanced and Masters. However, Helen says "he slipped off the teeter in practice and refused to get on again so we may have started something else!"

Dante's qualifying score was for the Agility Association of Canada. In AAC you have to get three perfect scores to move to the next level to get Standard titles. The levels are Starters, Advanced and Masters. Now Dante is in Advanced Standard. Games titles are scored separately. Starters Games require one qualifying score to move to Advanced. Then two qualifying scores are required to move to Masters. Separate titles are available for Team and Steeplechase. Dante runs Masters courses in Jumpers & Snooker.

CKC only offer Standard runs and Jumpers with Weaves. The levels are Novice, Intermediate and Excellent. Here Dante runs at the Intermediate level. The rules are much the same for AKC.

An Autumn Day at the Park

2008-11-07T08:09:00.000-08:00

Lark and Tessa went to the park today. What a fun time they had chasing squirrels, leaves and each other. Carol stumbled upon this park in an adjoining neighborhood after living there for 15 years. She thought she knew all the neighborhood parks!

A couple weeks ago while leaving a client's house, she took a shortcut home and found a small grassy area. Thinking she would let the dogs run for a minute, it turned out that the grassy area was just a finger of this much larger nicer park. It is only about a mile from their house and such a lovely park.

She and the girls have been there several times now and while there is sign of dogs (some people will just never scoop) they have yet to see any other dogs there. The best part is that on a couple of their visits they didn't even see any people!! Lots of nicely mowed green grass with a walking path and a wooded area with lots of little dirt paths through it - and leaves and squirrels of course. Great park!

Oh Canada!

2008-11-01T15:12:00.000-07:00

This year two Pacifc Northwest Briard Club members competed in the breed ring at the Lower Mainland Dog Fanciers of BC in Abbotsford Canada which is billed as Canada's Largest Dog Show. On Friday, October 31, AKC-Ch Deja Vu Back Seat Driver RN, PT JHD-s "Nash" (left) went Winners Dog against Ne Orageux Assiniboine Admirer "Rio" (right) and then took Breed over the Special CKC-CH. Aladax's Sorcerer CDX AGNCH "Dante" (center) showing to Dany Canino. On Saturday, November 1, "Nash" repeated his performance showing to Christina Hubbell. On Sunday, November 2, "Dante" and "Rio" were entered. "Dante" took BOB showing to Judge benny Blid Von Schedvin of Sweden.

To all who missed this show, it is always a lot of fun. The Canadian Briard Club hosts a Booster, PNWBC member Helen Moulden always comes up with wonderful prizes and reserves a grooming space so there is lots of "back-stage" camaraderie. It is also a great venue for Rally and Obedience for those that are so inclined.

Helen also exhibited her Schappendoes puppy (picured with Helen at left) in the parade of rare and unusual herding and working breeds. The Schappendoes is a Dutch herding breed. Bottom photo courtesy of Romy Wood.

PNWBC Goes To California!

2008-10-27T07:45:00.000-07:00

For those of you that have been following the breed ring here in the Pacific Northwest, you know that entries in Briards are down. As such, three PNWBC members headed south to the Briard Club of Northern California Specialty and Supported Entries at the Dixon May Fairgrounds in search of points.

The trip south was not without challenges -Judy had to be towed into Medford for repairs which meant she had to find a place to get Elle groomed since they would be arriving in Dixon later that anticipated. From Port Townsend WA to Dixon Ca it is 788 miles. Mapquest claims it is a 13 hour drive but Thom and Gabrielle chose to break it up with a stop in Mount Shasta. This made for a short leg the second day, allowing them to arrive at the show site early on Thursday and lay claim to the "PNWBC Compound". RV spaces were "reserved" but ended up being a 1st come 1st served situation. Sonia, Bruce and Judy did eventually arrive safe and sound and the shared space for parking, RV, tenting and grooming meant there was a place to relax between ring times. Thanks to Judy's RV, there was always a cold beverage to be had.

Entries at the Specialty where as follows: 6 to 9 Month Dogs - Bodo Dega Gebreab Tyohannes owned by Tom & Nicole Jakaby and Bodo Dawit Tomas Tesfasilassie owned by Chuck Christianson; Open Black Dogs - Lebec's Bodo Andy Medeiros "Andy" owned by Wayne & Gaylene Allen & C. Christianson & J Lorang; Open Tawny Dogs - Cachet Deja Vu Andantino "Andre" owned by Sonia Thompson & Bruce Barnbaum, Avantage Czech Connection Lebec "Mendel"owned by Jeanne Lorang & Janet Couture, and Deja Vu Back Seat Driver RN PT "Nash" owned by Gabrielle LaRoche & Thom Wylie; 6 to 9 Month Bitches - Bodo Devenny Lucas MVP owned by Sally Dobbins & Trevor Barlow & Chuck Christianson and Bodo Devenny Mitchell owned by Kelly & Joe Johnson & Chuck Christianson; 12 to 18 Month Bitches - Briardale's Camille Lebec "Elle" owned by Judy & Dallas Meggitt; Open Black Bitches - Nuage D'Or Adieu Le Alibis "Alibi" owned by Michelle Griffith; Open Tawny Bitches - Unbelievable Unity Moravia Campanella owned by Carmen Griffith; and Best of Breed - Ch Lebec's Magical CEO "Chief" owned by Pat Cardone & Jeanne Lorang and Ch Lebec Bodo Beto Bloxom "Beto" owned by Chuck Christianson & Jeanne Lorang. A huge thanks is owed to Chuck Christianson for ensuring that there were majors in dogs!

It turned out to be a particularly good weekend for Deja Vu Back Seat Driver, RN, PT, CGC, JHD-s "Nash" who finished his championship with 2 BOB's from the classes and 3 major wins! And last but not least, Sonia and Andre were winners at the Halloween costume fundraiser - Andre dressed as a "Taco" and Sonia was "Belle" - costume design courtesy of Judy Meggitt (sorry, no photo available).

This is a show worth traveling to. Dixon May Farigrounds are a lovely venue. The weather was in the low 80's, dry with a pleasant breeze. The Briard Club of Northern California prizes were huge rosettes, embroidered towels, etched glassware and BCNC logo pins. There are also three challenge tophies: for BOB the Barbara Ruby Memorial Trophy and the Shaka Challenge Trophy; and for Best of Opposite the Ch Jessica James De L'Etat D'Or Memorial Trophy. Obedience is also offered although not Rally.

PNWBC Honors Passing of Two Members

2008-10-15T07:47:00.000-07:00

In an on-line vote, the Pacific Northwest Briard Club decided to honor the passing of two members. A donation has been made to the Briard Medical Trust in the names of Briarders Michelle Clevenger and Ray Ronell.