29 Breed Notes – NoEKC Open 2022

The Committee of the NoEKC concluded that due to issues related to the availability of judges and the hall, we would not be able to stage the July Open in the 12 week period laid down in Kennel Club rules and that therefore the show must be regarded as cancelled rather than postponed.

As it turned out, cancelling the show was certainly the right call to make. As although Sunday morning started off relatively cool, by lunchtime temperatures had soared and the sweltering heat would have had the potential to cause serious welfare issues for dogs having to travel for any distance.

Apparently there is more warm weather on the way for this weekend and beyond; advice given out for humans in heatwaves applies equally to all our four legged companions. Remember some dogs really struggle in any heat far more than others, especially if they are older, overweight or have any health issues and in hot weather, missing a couple of walks won’t do them any harm. Not sure if it’s cool enough for a walk? If the ground’s too hot for your bare feet, then it’s also too hot for paws. Ensure they drink enough, adding (extra) water to their food if necessary and make sure there’s always some kind of shade for them when they have to go outside for the necessaries.

A correct double coat is an excellent insulator, keeping the dog warm in winter and cool in summer, so please, never ever be tempted to shave your Keesie purely on the basis that you think it will keep them cool. Removing their natural insulation causes more harm than good and has been known to actually cause heatstroke. The only part of a dog which sweats is their feet, so a paddling pool will help cool both theirs and your feet as well!! Although I do know that a lot of Keesies are averse to getting their paws wet!

Gill Brunt has bravely volunteered to be the new trophy steward for the Keeshond Club; so is now responsible for both clubs silverware! Gill will now start to give trophies out if you are interested, she has the General Ch shows, KC Ch Show and Annual trophies. All the open show trophies are still with the committee in readiness for next year. Officially the club will not commence giving trophies out until 2023. Also anyone who wishes to place an advert in the 2023 edition of the Keeshond Club calendar, please contact Mark Redlar ASAP

Anji Marfleet