Canine Hotline - June 2025
Board Meetings: 1st Tuesday of each month, 7:00 p.m.
General Meeting: 2nd Tuesday of every month, 7:00 p.m.
Location: Church of the Nazarene, 913 E New York Ave, DeLand, FL 32724
President Terry Wagner
Vice President Dee Pounds
Secretary Ginny Merchant
Treasurer Maria Avelino
AKC Delegate Cathy Driggers
FAKC Delegate Cathy Driggers
Show Chair Susan Shephard
Board of Directors
Kati Boswell • Susan Graves • Bain Foster • Dee Pounds • Windie Rhodes • Susan Shephard • Bill Herr
📩 Meeting Minutes from the General Meeting are now available as a PDF download.
Third Reading
Caleb Tolley - New member! Welcome aboard Caleb!
🎉 Celebrating Our July Membership Anniversaries 🎉
This month, we’re proud to recognize and celebrate the commitment of our WVKC members whose dedication to the club has stood the test of time.
Members with 10+ Years of Service:
Mark & Cathy Driggers (joined 2007)
Mark & Maria Avellino (joined 2009)
Judy Boland (joined 2014)
Jessica & Vaughn Hathaway (joined 2011)
Richard Patterson (joined 2011)
Dee Pounds (joined 2015)
Your years of support, enthusiasm, and service have helped shape our club and community.
We also warmly recognize our other members marking their anniversaries this July:
Jim Danhauer and Rob & Windie Rhodes — we’re glad to have you in the WVKC family and look forward to many more years together!
Thank you all for being an important part of WVKC’s ongoing journey!
🎂 Happy July Birthdays! 🎂
WVKC sends warm birthday wishes to our members celebrating this month:
🎉 Bain Foster - July 2
🎉 Kristina Lysanova - July 3
🎉 Christina Mazepink - July 4
🎉 Joe Patrick - July 4
🎉 Ginny Merchant - July 8
🎉 Carol White - July 11
🎉 Susan Graves - July 18
🎉 Tammy Squillante – June 23
🎉 Jordyn Vanscoy - July 29
We hope your special day is filled with joy, puppy kisses, and a few extra treats! 🐾🎈
🐶🎪 WVKC Dog Show Is Fast Approaching — Volunteers Still Needed!
🐩 Planning to Show in Conformation at the WVKC September Show? If you’re a WVKC member and plan to exhibit a dog in conformation at our September show Sept. 19-21, 2025, please be sure to let our club secretary Ginny Merchant know as soon as possible. 📨 Contact Ginny at: kengali53@gmail.com. Let her know your dog’s name, breed, and class if possible. Thank you! |
Our upcoming dog show is right around the corner, and we’re gearing up for another fantastic event showcasing the very best in purebred dogs, sportsmanship, and community spirit. But we can’t do it without you — we still need volunteers!
Whether you can spare an hour or the whole day, your help makes a BIG difference. From ring stewards to hospitality, raffle tables to clean-up crews — there’s a job for every interest and ability.
📅 Show Date: Friday, Sept. 19– Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025
📍 Location: Volusia County Fairgrounds
🕒 Volunteer Shifts Available All Day
Not showing a dog? This is the perfect way to be part of the action, learn more about the sport, and support the club.
New to volunteering? No worries — we’ll show you the ropes or pair you with someone experienced.
🐾 To sign up, contact: Susan Shephard, Mark Driggers, or Dewayne Graves
Or let us know at the next meeting!
Let’s make this show a success together! 💙🐾
Classes are open for registration!
2025 training session start dates:
Puppy Classes: August 11
Basic Obedience: FULL!
Rally: October 15
🎆 Fireworks & Furry Friends: Helping Dogs Cope with July 4th Noise
While some dogs have grown up exposed to a wide variety of loud and percussive sounds and now snooze peacefully through July 4th fireworks or the crashing winds of a hurricane, many others are not so lucky. For them, fireworks aren’t a festive tradition—they're a terrifying sensory overload.
As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day, it’s important to remember that this can be one of the most distressing times of the year for our canine companions. According to veterinary experts, the loud, unpredictable noises of fireworks can trigger deep fear responses, especially in dogs who haven’t been gradually desensitized.
Here’s how to help your dog feel safe and supported during this noisy season.
🏡 Create a Safe Space
Before the fireworks begin, set up a comfortable, quiet, and secure area in your home where your dog can retreat. This might be a crate covered with a blanket, a cozy closet, or a quiet bedroom with calming music playing.
Encourage your dog to go to this space with treats or favorite toys—but don’t force them. The goal is to make the space feel like a sanctuary, not a punishment. [AKC.org]
🔒 Keep Them Secure
Many dogs go missing on July 4th after panicking and bolting through open doors or even breaking through screens and fences. Make sure your dog’s ID tags are up to date and that they’re microchipped. During the peak fireworks hours, it's safest to keep them inside with windows and doors securely shut. [Chewy.com]
🌩️ Use Sound Therapy
Some dogs benefit from ambient noise like white noise, calming music, or even the TV to help mask the sound of fireworks. Classical music and specifically designed pet-calming playlists can reduce anxiety in noise-sensitive dogs. [BlueCross UK]
🧴 Try Calming Aids and Pressure Wraps
There are several calming aids available that may help some dogs. These include:
Pheromone diffusers (like Adaptil)
CBD treats (where legal and appropriate)
Calming chews with ingredients like L-theanine or melatonin
Thundershirts or snug wraps, which apply gentle pressure to reduce anxiety
Always check with your veterinarian before trying new supplements or medications. [PetMD, Chewy]
🧠 Desensitization Takes Time
If your dog is a puppy or young adult, now is the time to begin desensitization training. Gradual exposure to recorded fireworks and other loud noises at low volume, paired with positive experiences like treats or play, can reduce fear in the long term. Early sound socialization is one of the most effective ways to build resilience. [AKC.org]
💬 Stay Calm & Reassuring
Dogs are tuned in to your emotions. If you act stressed or frustrated during the fireworks, your dog may mirror that fear. Speak to them in a calm, cheerful voice, and resist scolding fearful behavior—it’s not a matter of obedience, but of emotional safety.
🐾 Prepare Now, Celebrate Safely
Not all dogs will grow up unbothered by the booms of July 4th, but with preparation, patience, and care, you can help them feel safer and more secure. Whether your dog is a seasoned veteran of noisy environments or new to the world of celebratory chaos, planning ahead can make all the difference.
Sources & Further Reading:
“Tips for Helping Dogs That Are Scared of Fireworks” – PetMD https://www.petmd.com/dog/tips-helping-dogs-thats-scared-fireworks
“How to Keep Your Dog Safe on the Fourth of July” – American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/keep-dog-safe-july-fourth
“Dogs and Fireworks” – Blue Cross UK https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/behaviour-and-training/dogs-and-fireworks
“How to Soothe Your Dog During Fireworks Season” – Chewy Education https://www.chewy.com/education/dog/health-and-wellness/soothe-dog-fireworks-season
Upcoming Conformation Shows
Show | City | Date | Closes |
Horseshoe Cluster | Ocala | July 4-6 | Closed |
Pawprints In the Sand | West Palm Beach | July 11-13 | Closed |
WVKC | Deland | Sept 19-21 | Sept 03 |
Greater Naples DC | Fort Myers | Oct 11-12 | 09/24 |
Brandon FL KC | Plant City | Oct 25-26 | Oct 08 |
Jim Danhauer and his stunning Irish Setter Am CH Kinloch's All Things Considered (“Codee”) had an incredible time at the Tampa circuit! Out of five shows, Mr. Codee brought home four Best of Breed wins over specials, plus two Owner-Handled Group placements!
Jim says, “Needless to say, we had fun!” — and with results like that, who wouldn’t? Congratulations to this dynamic duo on a fantastic showing! 🎉🍀🐶
We’re thrilled to celebrate newest WVKC member Caleb Tolley and long-time member Ginny Merchant on an incredible weekend with CH Kengali's Unbridled Illusion “Shona” at the Sunshine State Rhodesian Ridgeback Club (SSRRC) Regional Specialty in Tampa!
Handled by Caleb, Shona strutted her stuff to earn Best in Sweepstakes both days — a fantastic accomplishment for this young team! Saturday’s win under Mr. Sahloff, a respected Ridgeback expert, was especially meaningful and a moment of pride for all involved.
Caleb shared, “Miss Ginny, your encouragement and guidance have been invaluable as I continue to grow in this breed. I’m so excited for the journey ahead with my first Ridgeback co-breeding and what’s to come!”
Ginny added, “Caleb and Shona had a full weekend at our SSRRC Specialty — Best in Sweeps both days!!”
Congrats to both Caleb and Ginny on a beautiful partnership and an exciting future with Shona! 💫🦁🎉
Got a brag or cry you'd like to share? Email us!
🐾 Understanding When Dogs Can Get Pregnant: A Look at the Canine Reproductive Timeline
Adapted from an article originally published by Revival Animal Health.
Dog breeders and owners alike often ask: When is it safe and appropriate for a dog to get pregnant? While the biological answer might be as early as six months of age—when many dogs experience their first heat—the right answer involves much more than the dog’s ability to conceive.
The Heat Cycle Explained
A female dog’s heat cycle, also called estrus, typically begins between six and fifteen months of age, depending on the breed and individual development. Smaller breeds often cycle earlier, while larger or giant breeds may not begin until later. Heat cycles occur about every six months, although this can vary widely.
Each heat cycle includes several phases: proestrus (where spotting and swelling occur), estrus (when the female is fertile and receptive), diestrus, and anestrus (the resting period). Understanding these stages is key to determining fertility and readiness for breeding.
Just Because She Can, Doesn’t Mean She Should
While a female may technically be able to become pregnant during her first or second heat, this is not recommended. At this young age, a dog is still maturing—physically, emotionally, and hormonally. Breeding too early can put stress on the mother’s body, potentially leading to complications during pregnancy and whelping. Puppies bred too young may also have a higher risk of complications or poor maternal care.
So When Is the Right Time?
According to experts, including those cited by Revival Animal Health, the ideal age to consider breeding a female dog is around 18 to 24 months of age. This allows time for full physical and psychological maturity, and gives breeders a chance to evaluate overall health, temperament, and conformation. A female should also have passed all relevant health screenings for her breed before being bred.
Male Dogs Mature Differently
It’s worth noting that male dogs may become fertile as early as 6 to 12 months of age, but like females, they benefit from maturity before breeding. A mature stud not only contributes better genetic quality, but also shows more predictable behavior during mating.
Why Timing Matters
Beyond maturity, knowing the optimal time within a heat cycle to breed is crucial for success. Ovulation doesn’t occur right when bleeding starts—many breeders test hormone levels to determine the exact fertile window. Misdirected timing can result in missed breedings or unsuccessful pregnancies.
Final Thoughts
Understanding a dog’s reproductive timeline isn’t just about knowing when she can get pregnant—it’s about making the responsible choice when she should. Responsible breeding practices promote not just the health of the mother, but the welfare of future puppies and the integrity of the breed.
For a detailed breakdown of the canine reproductive cycle and more insights, we encourage you to read the full article on Revival Animal Health’s Learning Center:
This summary was adapted with credit to Revival Animal Health. Original article by Marty Greer, DVM..
The Spinone Italiano: Italy’s Rugged and Sweet-Tempered Gundog
By A. Ross, WVKC Member
While Standard Poodles will always be my breed, our household has recently welcomed a new kind of joy—one that’s scruffy, soulful, and astonishingly adaptable. Mochi, our new Spinone Italiano puppy will be stepping into her first AKC-sanctioned conformation ring this September at the WVKC dog show, and I couldn’t be more excited to introduce others to this lesser-known, but utterly captivating breed.
Though still young, Mochi already shows the steady temperament the breed is known for. She’s incredibly calm and mellow when relaxing at home, but when her mind is set on a task—whether retrieving a toy from thick brush or exploring a flooded ditch with purpose—I often joke she’s like an ATV in a dog’s body. Rain or shine, mud or marsh, she will get there, and she’ll do it with a smile.
And then there’s the sweetness. Spinoni are deeply affectionate dogs. Mine is a nose-nudger and full-body cuddler. She likes to rest her face against mine, gently, as though checking in. It’s a quiet love, but constant.
🧬 A Breed Built for Purpose
With origins that trace back over 2,000 years, the Spinone Italiano (plural: Spinoni Italiani) is one of the oldest continental pointing breeds. They were originally bred as versatile gundogs, capable of pointing and retrieving game in all terrains—dry, wet, rocky, wooded—and all weather conditions. The name “Spinone” comes from the Italian word spino, referring to the thorny underbrush the dogs had to work through, and to their wiry, bramble-resistant coat. [AKC.org]
Their purpose required stamina, steadiness, and cooperation—traits that still define the breed today. According to the Spinone Club of America, they are one of the few hunting breeds that will adapt their pace to match their handler’s, whether that’s a slow walk or a brisk hike. They are patient, gentle with children, and famously unflappable.
🧠 A Different Kind of Sporting Dog
Unlike their flashier cousins in the Sporting Group, Spinoni are not built for speed or snappy intensity. They are often described as thoughtful workers—deliberate, thorough, and determined. This makes them excellent companions for foot hunters, but it can also make them seem slow or lacking drive to those used to watching Pointers or Vizslas race across a field.
Judging the Spinone in conformation can also be a challenge. As described in the Spinone Club of America’s judging guidelines, they should not resemble other sporting breeds in silhouette or style. Their body is solid and square, their movement is free and swinging, and their expression must remain soft and intelligent. Their topline should not be level, and their underline should be horizontal with minimal-to-no tuck-up. It’s not a breed you can fully understand by flipping through the Sporting Group section of a breed book. Spinoni break the mold—and proudly so.
✨ Interesting Facts About the Spinone Italiano
The Spinone’s coat is single-layered, wiry, and weather-resistant, which makes them lower-shedding than many other gundogs.
They are naturally gentle and submissive, which makes harsh corrections or training styles ineffective.
Though bred to hunt, they’re also well-suited to therapy work, scent detection, and even agility—albeit at their own, careful pace.
Their distinctive look—with bushy eyebrows, beards, and soulful eyes—makes them popular with people seeking an expressive, “humanlike” companion.
💈 Grooming a Spinone: Natural but Not Neglected
While Spinoni are not a high-maintenance breed in the traditional sense, grooming matters—especially for show dogs. Their wiry coat needs occasional hand-stripping to maintain proper texture. Brushing several times a week helps remove dirt, debris, and loose hair. Beards can get messy after meals, and feet tend to collect mud.
For pet homes, a more natural grooming style is often enough. For the show ring, however, it’s important not to over-trim or sculpt the dog to look like another breed. Judges should expect a natural outline, true to the breed’s rustic origins. [Spinone Club of America]
🐶 Temperament: Velcro Dogs with a Job to Do
If you’ve ever lived with a Spinone, you know they are the ultimate "velcro dog." They want to be near their people—not in a needy way, but in a quiet, reassuring presence. They’re known for their loyalty, intelligence, and patience. They thrive with structure, purpose, and affection, but are not pushy or hyperactive.
As with all intelligent breeds, early training and socialization are essential. Spinoni can be stubborn in a thoughtful way—more “Why should I?” than “I won’t.” Gentle consistency is key.
💬 Final Thoughts
Bringing a Spinone into my life has opened a whole new chapter in my dog journey. She’s not like my Poodles, and I don’t want her to be. She is her own kind of working dog—quiet, tough, sweet, and wonderfully different.
If you’ll be at the WVKC show this September, come say hello. You just might fall for one of Italy’s best-kept sporting secrets.
Sources:
Additional personal experience and breed comparisons by the author
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