A March Through History with Royal Pets

 

The patter of some pretty potent pawprints often followed famous footsteps throughout history.

Royal kingdoms have long honoured the dog, as far back as 3000 B.C.

Ashurbanipal, the last great king of the Assyrian Empire, had a pet Terrier he called "Mischief

Maker".  The monarch was so enamoured of the little Terrier he had thousands of statues carved

of the dog.  Many of these statues are on display today in London's British Museum.

The little Pug dog named Pompey, owned by William, Prince of Orange, saved his royal master's

life during the Netherlands' revolt against Spanish rule.  The prince showed his gratitude by always

keeping a Pug in his court and statues of Pompey at the prince's feet are seen throughout Holland.

During the French Revolution, the imprisoned Empress Josephine smuggled letters to her lover, 

Napoleon, under the collar of her spoiled and pampered Pug, Fortune.   The dog supposedly took

possession of her mistress's bed on their wedding night, nipping Napoleon on the leg whenever he 

dared approach the Empress.

Frederick the Great, King of Prussia, insisted on taking his devoted Greyhound, Gengisk, everywhere

with him.   Gengisk enjoyed being carried about, nestled inside the King's coat when he was a pup.

During the Seven Years' War, the dog saved his master's life by warning of an approaching cossack

raiding party, persuading the king to take refuge.

A little Spaniel named Thisbe visited the prison daily, where her mistress  Marie Antoinette

awaited the fated guillotine, vainly seeking her beloved owner.   Marie's dressmaker and 

companion Arnaud, who cared for the dog during that time, recorded that on the day of Marie's

execution, the bereaved and despairing little dog leaped into the Seine and drowned.

Mary, Queen of Scots, was mistress to another faithful-to-the-end Spaniel named Bijou.

Her final and most beloved pet, the brave and loyal Bijou walked with her mistress to her

execution, hiding beneath the Queen's voluminous robes.

The soon-to-be queen, Victoria, on the day of her coronation, seemed more concerned with

her Spaniel, Dash, than the epic historical event about to take place.   She wrote in her diary

that day in 1838, "I dressed my little Dashy in a scarlet jacket and trousers."   The new Queen,

it is reported, rushed upstairs to bathe Dash immediately after the coronation.   The Queen signed

remissions of all sentences to celebrate her 50th year on the throne, and prisoners were released

in her honour;  except those who were serving time for cruelty to animals.

King George V owned a feisty Cairn Terrier, Bob, who was always at his master's heel like a 

loyal little sergeant-at-arms.

Winston Churchill showed the world his devotion to his Bulldog. 

 Queen Elizabeth II's Welsh Corgi, Susan, accompanied her and Prince Phillip on their royal

 honeymoon.

                                                         DOGS THROUGHOUT HISTORY

Great and decidedly unsentimental minds from the past have found it unthinkable that the "pearly gates" should slam shut in the faces of furry, four-legged arrivals.

James Thurber:   "If I have beliefs about immortality, it is that certain dogs I know will go to heaven and very, very few persons!"

Mark Twain:  "Heaven goes by favour.  If it went by merit, you would stay out and your dog would go in."

Edwin Landseer (19th century animal artist):    "There is in every animal's eye a dim image and gleam of humanity; a flash of strange light through which their lives look out and up to our great mystery of command over them, and claims the fellowship of the creature, if not of the soul."

Albert Schweitzer:  "This question of animal immortality is difficult to settle.   Surely, if people have souls, animals must also, for the Divine Spark, which is within all living beings, culminates in spiritual union and harmony.   One thing, however, is certain:  In order to find out, you have to have one yourself!"

Nathaniel Hawthorne (from his American Notebooks in 1865):  "The survival of death as a reward for the misfortunes of life cannot be considered unless the animal world shares this gift."

Shelley:  "The psychological and moral comfort of a presence at once humble and understanding is the greatest benefit that the dog has bestowed upon mankind."

The three wise men were supposedly accompanied by a trio of faithful dogs, Cubilon, Lubina and Melampo, on their trek to the manger; and folklore has it that any dog now bearing one of these names will be forever blessed.

St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, originated the beloved tradition of the nativity display.  St Francis believed the holiness of Christmas mandated more attention to the plight of unfortunate animals.  He persuaded the Roman emperor  to enact a law against the abuse of animals.   St Francis also initiated a plan whereby animal "hostels" were set up to house and feed stray dogs.

Lazarus, according to the gospel of Luke, weak, starving and covered with sores, was cruelly ignored by his fellow men;  only a dog brought him crumbs from the table and licked his wounds clean.

The blind St. Hervaeus was patiently and faithfully guided down life's path by a tame wolf (the dog's ancestor) in much the manner of a seeing-eye dog of today!

The ancient Toltecs believed the love of a dog for his master is the most perfect demonstration of love.  Their belief was that when a person died the only spirit to accompany them to the mysterious afterlife was that of the faithful dog.

Solomon:  "They all have one breath, so that a man hath no pre-eminence above a beast."

The word of God: "The animals shall be delivered from the bondage of man's corruption and into the glorious liberty of God!"

de Lamartin:  Whenever a man is unhappy, god sends him a dog!"

 

                                              Poetic Love for his Friend

The poet and literary giant George Gordon, the sixth Lord Byron, was born in London, England on Jan. 22, 1788.   Throughout his short, dynamic and controversial life, one thing remained constant ---  his great love of animals.

Shelley, fellow poet and friend to Byron, once wrote after a visit with his friend, that he counted "ten horses, eight enormous dogs, three monkeys, five cats, an eagle, a crow and a falcon" on his property in Italy.

Byron's most beloved dog, a black and white Newfoundland named Boatswain, died at five years of age after having contracted a painful bout of rabies.   The bereaved poet, who had maintained a constant nursing vigil, buried his pet in a garden tomb at Newstead Abbey (Byron's inherited estate).  Byron requested that when he died, he be laid to rest next to Boatswain.

                                              Byron's Epitaph to Boatswain

Near this spot are deposited the Remains

Of one who possessed Beauty Without Vanity,

Strength Without Ferocity,

And all the Virtues of Man Without his Vices,

This Praise, which would be unmeaning flattery

If inscribed over Human Ashes,

Is but a just tribute to the Memory of 

"Boatswain", a dog,

Who was born at Newfoundland, May, 1803.

And died at Newstead Abbey, Nov. 18, 1808

When some proud son of man returns to earth,

Unknown to glory, but upheld by birth,

The sculptor's art exhausts the pomp of woe,

And storied urns record who rests below;

When all is done, upon the tomb is seen,

Not what he was, but what he should have been;

But the poor dog, in life the firmest friend,

The first to welcome, foremost to defend,

Whose honest heart is still his master's own, 

Who labours, fights, lives, breathes, for him alone,

Unhonoured, falls, unnoticed  all his worth,

Denied in heaven, the soul he held on earth;

While man, vain insect! hopes to be forgiven,

And claims himself a sole exclusive heaven.

Oh man!  thou tenant of an hour 

Debased by slavery, or corrupt by power,

Who knows thee well must quit thee with disgust,

Degraded mass of animated dust!

Thy love is lust, they friendship all a cheat,

Thy smiles hypocrisy, they words deceit

By nature vile, ennobled but by name

Each kindred brute might bid thee blush for shame.

Ye!  who perchance behold this simple urn,

Pass on ---- it honours none you wish to mourn.

To mark a friend's remains these stones arise;

I never knew but one---and here he lies.                        Byron

Lord Byron died of fever on April 19,1824 at Missolonghi, Greece, while fighting for Greek independence from Turkey.

Boatswain's collar cherished and preserved, was found among his meagre possessions.   

Lord Byron was laid to rest in the Byron family vault at Hucknall Torckard, near Newstead, on July 12,1824.

Euthanasia

Sadly, many dog owners must face this option when their faithful companion's health deteriorates due to illness or old age.

They trusted you to take care of their health and well-being all these years.   Now, they are trusting you to  take care of them in their pain and misery.

How can you say good-bye?

They have been your shadow, your welcome-home committee, your sympathiser and your best friend.

The one who alerted you when those thieves tried to steal your car.   The one who laid with you in silent vigil when you were so sick a few years ago.

The veterinarian said it would be the right thing to do, but the decision had to be yours.

One day follows another, whilst blindly thinking, he seems a little better today;  not wanting to face the inevitable solution, not wanting to "let go".

Your worst fear comes true.   Laying at your feet is your beloved who cannot muster the strength to rise up and go with you this time.   Looking at those pain-stricken eyes, you pick up the phone and call the veterinarian.   You hear yourself say  "Can it be done today, soon?"

Gently, you pick up this old bundle of fur you love so much and wrap a blanket snugly around that frail body.

The trip to the veterinarian's office seems to take hours;  your loyal buddy laying limp at your side.  You are afraid to speak as the tears might start and you must not arrive at the veterinarian's office out of control.

Choking back the tears, you enter the waiting room, your best buddy in all the world clutched in your arms.   The veterinarian carefully introduces the drug that will take away the pain and you watch those faithful eyes fade, as the spirit moves towards the Rainbow Bridge.  

Holding for a long last hug, you have decided to have that little body cremated and leave to await his ashes to come back to you soon.

When you arrive back home, the silent emptiness inside is unbearable.   Your baby is gone and you did it.

The guilt and sorrow take over and you break down and weep for a long time.

The grief you suffer over the loss of a dear and loyal furry friend may continue for weeks, months or even years.   Everyone deals with grief differently.

                                                                ..........

Dealing with the pain and loneliness after the loss of a beloved pet is a very real and traumatic experience that only animal lovers can comprehend.

Some grieving owners will obtain a new pet immediately to fill the empty spot in their hearts and homes.   Others may be so stricken by the loss they will never leave themselves open to this kind of pain in the future.  Seeking out other animal lovers and "talking out" these feelings can be therapeutic in itself.

Death is inevitable in this life, but the spirit lives on in our hearts and minds.   Preparing for the death of a dearly loved pet can in some cases assuage the pain felt after the fact.

Once your dear one reaches a certain age and you begin to notice a slowing, think about what life will be like without them.  Think about euthanasia, natural death at home, burial or cremation, typically the final step for all living creatures.

Burial serves the psychological needs of those left behind as a kind of "going away" ceremony and, no matter how difficult it may be to accomplish, it is the beginning of the healing process. 

A grave-site should be considered ahead of time.  Perhaps their favourite spot in the garden where they patiently take in the sunshine whilst you work in the garden.   A gathering of their friends and family to wish them a safe journey perhaps.   Others who feel embarrassed showing their emotions, may choose a solo affair or a cremation and a memorial set up in their living room.

Whatever you choose, think it out well ahead of time.   Your dearest little mate deserves a suitable resting place with a loving "send-off".   There is a lot of comfort in believing in the Rainbow Bridge where you will meet again and go together into Heaven.

Writing an epitaph, a story expressing your feelings of loneliness and heartbreak you are experiencing  

or if you are on the internet, getting involved with Groups such as one provided by American Kennel Club Pet Loss Support Group, where you can talk with members who themselves, are feeling so much heartache.    

There is no worse pain one has to endure than the loss of a beloved pet.

In loving memory of  Aus. Ch Nantiki Hop Topic (Tootsie)  (12-6-2003 - 5-7-2017)  and my first born Silky Terrier US Ch Centella Lil Fellah ROM (Fellah)  (circa 1973 - March 1980), who perished when my house and kennel burnt to the ground in my absence.   The love of my life and still loved and adored and not forgotten.   And to US Ch Centella Senorita Chica (Chica)  who perished in the same fire.

 A Christmas Story

Once upon a time there lived a charming little girl named Carla.    Her best and closest friend was named Digby.   He was an adorable bit of silky fluff with four legs, a wagging tail and black intelligent eyes.

Carla and Digby shared a bond without parallel.  Digby was pampered to say the least and enjoyed all the comfort and care a loving owner could bestow.   He slept on Carla's pillow and was bathed and brushed each week.   He ate the best of dog foods and special treats.

One Christmas Eve, Digby was playing with his ball in his shaded fenced garden when a big strong hand reached over the fence and snatched him away from his happy home.  Digby could see Carla calling him earnestly through the back window as the car sped away.

She did not hear his desperate barks.   Carla's continual search for Digby was in vain, but she never forgot her friend and never stopped looking for him.

Digby barked and barked;  he could not control himself.  The man yelled at him to be quiet.  Stunned by the man's gruffness, yet still true to his teachings, he lay motionless.

What had happened?   Digby just did not understand.  The car had travelled many miles; it seemed like a lifetime to Digby.   He now could not control his body from quivering.

Finally the car stopped.   Digby tried to hide under the seat, but that big hand searched him out.   Two young unkempt children ran squealing and yelling to greet them.   They pulled and tugged and pinched Digby.   The man made it clear to the children that the dog could not come in the house.

This was their Christmas present.

The children were very rough with Digby, but delighted in their own way to have a pet.

Darkness soon covered the landscape like a shroud, enveloping everything, including Digby.  He missed his home and Carla desperately.   He spent a tortured tearful night, shivering from cold and hunger.

The children soon tired of their new pet and Digby was virtually left to himself.   They fed him scraps in a dirty foil pan almost every day.

His beautiful silky coat was now dull and knotted and he itched all over.   There was a tiny space in the back of his mind where he faithfully kept his memory of Carla. 

Many months passed by and he was deeply depressed, thin and covered with fleas and sores.

One day he noticed a big fuss going on next door.  People hustling about, some were sobbing and they were all dressed in black.   After a few hours, all became quiet, except for a loud meowing noise.  Digby decided to investigate.   There on the porch of the house next door, he met Mischka.    She was lonely too;  abandoned through the death of her mistress.

Mischka was a master hunter and she taught Digby very well.   Life was taking a change for the better, now that he had a friend and plenty to eat.   Digby had more or less moved in with Mischka and they had a nice warm spot arranged on her porch.

Then it was Christmas Eve, and as they snuggled for warmth and comfort, Digby heard tiny bells ringing.   He jumped up and ran to the edge of the porch.   He looked upward as he heard someone calling his name.   A large and jolly man in a red suit, sporting a long white beard, sitting in a sleigh that was tethered to some sparkling reindeer, magically reached down and pulled Digby into his arms.

"I'm taking you home to Carla" he pronounced, "it is her Christmas wish."

HOME TO CARLA  !!   WAS THIS A DREAM ??

How could he leave without Mischka ?   The man understood and reached down to her.   She scrambled into his arms and away they flew.

Carla was awakened by a very dirty bedraggled but elated Digby.   Carla held him close and squeezed him until he could not breathe !!

The past year was now only a memory to Digby and Carla, and with Mischka they all lived happily ever after.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL !!!

The ANKC official Standard for the Australian Silky Terrier.

I have owned and bred Australian Silky Terriers since 1972 and have studied the Standard and how it defines the Silky. Many breeders and judges have become removed from what the Standard requires and  breed and judge  more to their personal likes and dislikes.

I will endeavour to explain the Standard and hope breeders and judges will pay attention to the Standard and not what is winning at shows. Many times the top winners do not meet the Standard as written, which is now noticeably becoming more and more evident. 

Excuses range from, but he is so showy or I love the silver coat; and the long neck and legs make them look so elegant; or I like the tiny ones; and love the bouncy movement, he looks so happy; or I don't worry about the pug tail, none of them are perfect!

None of the above is in the Standard and in some cases are listed as unacceptable or "must nots".

This is the Australian National Kennel Council approved  Standard of the Australian Silky Terrier as revised in 2009. 

New Babies

Been awhile since I blogged.   
Breeding, whelping and raising babies takes up a lot of time.

The Australian National Kennel Association refused my American Prefix of Centella, but accepted
my second choice of DABNE pronounced dabnee.

My Stella, Ch Allannette Stellar Dream had three babies, a girl and two boys on the 6th June 2019.
Ch Nantiki Mr. Darcy is the Sire and is such a good Daddy.
The girl is named Dabne Miss Georgiana Darcy and has gone to her new home recently.
The boys are named Dabne Mr. Wickham and Dabne Mr. Bingley in keeping with the 'Pride and Prejudice' theme.

I showed them at the Brighton Kennel Club show, just making it at 3 months and one day.  Being their first time out having not left my yard and with little contact with other humans or dogs, I didn't expect too much.
I showed Mr. Wickham in the Baby Sweepstakes on a very cold, windy and rainy day, and Mr Bingley and Mr. Wickham along with their Daddy in the Toy Group later in the day.
Mr. Bingley was Best Baby Puppy and Mr. Darcy was Best of Breed.

The photos from the
Brighton Show are on my
iphone and need to be
downloaded later on.

Mr. Darcy

I once again contacted Jan Boyce, and she had a litter coming, but had promised a bitch and was keeping a bitch for herself, so I said well would she keep me in mind.   

The litter arrived and only two girls and two boys.   I didn't want another boy, but she said I will send you a photo and you can make up your mind.

As soon as I saw his picture, I said I will have him. 

  Here he is all grown up and winning lots of  ribbons and is not only an Australian Champion, but is well on his way to becoming a Grand Champion.   The most adorable little dog with a personality to be envied.   He just turned four years old and we are looking forward to some of his get in the near future.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

USA

I have been absent from my Blog for a long time.   Had a new computer installed and had a lot of
trouble getting my head around all the new functions and spending way too much time searching for
this and that.
Got very frustrating and I " kicked it to the kerb " for a good long time.

I arrived in the USA in February of 1972 and got my first silkys in December of that year.
I imported a male Ch Waitink Tiny Tink (Waiton line) and a female Grajule Sparklet (Lylac line)
from June Chivers of Sydney NSW. 
I named them Tinky and Precious.   They were mated several years later and they had one male.
Ch Centella Lil Fellah ROM.
I later brought into the family Grajule Claudine and she had 4 babies with Tinky.
Centella Sweet Roll ROM was one and  after producing some lovely pups in 3 litters total, was bitten
by a Copperhead snake and died several hours later.   A little bit of me died with her.
She was a very special silky.
Claudine also produced Ch Centella Senorita Chica out of the same litter, who was a big winner.

I travelled throughout the USA in my 28 foot motor home and began a career as a professional
handler and dog show groomer, while at the same time showing my silkys.

I also studied several years at the Texas A&M Veterinary School, in Nutrition, Genetics and
hereditary diseases.   I worked with a veterinarian at the same time, and learned so much from
him.   It was an invaluable experience.

Sadly, my house and kennel burned to the ground in 1980 while I was away and I lost my dearest
Champions Lil Fellah and Senorita Chica.   I lost all my records, books, study notes, and had no
Insurance.   So I was not only homeless, but nowhere to keep my 22 dogs that were left.
A friend kindly ran an ad in the Houston Chronicle and I homed 11 of the dogs that were left.

We lived in a tent on our property for around 6 months, until I sold the land to a neighbor
and built a house in another area. 

I was so traumatised, I pretty much did nothing for another year.   It took 2 years to retrieve most of the dog's registrations.   I had to rely on friends who had show catalogues and thankfully returned
many pictures I had sent them.

I obtained Championships on 13 of my Silkys whilst living in the USA.

I spent 26 years in Texas, before moving back to Tasmania, Australia

I had two girls and an ex-husband and 4 silkys.    The girls and my silkys I brought with me.

When 3 out of my 4 silkys died of old age, I contacted Jan Boyce in NSW and she sent me
a dear little silky CH Nantiki Hot Topic (Tootsie)  and when she reached 12 years, I knew it
was time to get another silky, as the thought of being without a silky at my side was not negotiable.

Next time I will catch up to the present, and now all is working again, I can hopefully make
more entries.

Bits ABOUT ME

My Grandfather Gillon had a little "Sydney Silky" (as called back then in the 1940's), and every time my Dad would go over there it would nip at his heels and Dad hated that dog.  Needs training, he would say.   Our property and my Grandparents' property backed onto one another, covering an area between two streets.   We had stables, where Dad kept pacing horses, and he would drive  them back and forth from Elwick Racecourse attached to their jinkers.   We also had a large vegie garden and Dad had his chickens and Mum had her bantams.   So I grew up amid animals and a city/country life.  Our property is now a concrete parking lot for Woolworths and our house is a shop and my Grandparents' house is completely gone.   Progress they call it !!!
  Dad had two red Kelpies that he showed and dearly loved, especially Flash.   He talked about him until the day he died.   The bitch was named Flame.   Sadly, both died with distemper and Dad never owned a show dog again.  Back then there were no vaccinations.    I don't think he ever got over it.

 Dad continued his interest in the shows and kept, trained and showed other peoples' dogs and often advised Judges, at their request, while serving as a Ring Steward.

  He also had an Australian Terrier named Snoop and I watched her litter be born in amongst some hay in the stable.   That's how it was back in the 1940's.  She had 3 puppies, two were sold and they kept a boy, named Ricky.   He was later re-homed and we just had Snoop then.   She was the best ratter and definitely earned her keep.   Dad bragged a lot about her too.   Here I am with my brothers at the old place with Flash and Flame, and a few photos of Flash and Flame by themselves.

That is Flash on the left and Flame on the right with myself and my brothers.

This is Flash in the top photo and Flame bottom left and Snoop and her baby Ricky (Australian Terriers) circa 1947.

The next picture is of me at the Royal Hobart Showgrounds with my first show dog....Colliehaven Regal Duke.   Circa 1958.   Picture take by the Mercury Newspaper.

Next time my involvement with Silky Terriers and 26 years spent in the USA.

 

A few more helpful hints.

 Just a couple of ideas that may work for you.
If you are having a problem with sunburn on your silky's coat or any other long coated breed, you can move the parting from the centre, a few centimeters either to the left or right, that way when show day comes, you can part it back down the centre line and the sunburned coat will disappear underneath.

Training a new puppy, or raising a home born litter,  hold the puppy a  lot and touch face, inside of mouth, around the gums,  top of head and ears along with feet, nails, tail and the underside as much as possible.   No use waiting until they are at training classes or their first baby puppy exhibit.  It will be a long struggle to get the puppy used to being handled with ease by a judge or for veterinary care.  
The first time I took my silky to the vet. for a check up and shots, he stood in a perfect show stand on the table for the full exam and shots.   The vet was amazed.  She had never seen such a well behaved dog.   He was used to being handled from the day he was born and handled a lot when he came to me at 10 weeks.  

You cannot successfully train a dog without eye contact.   That should be encouraged as soon as the eyes open or as soon as you are in possession of the puppy.   To do that try to get the pups attention with a toy, ball or treat.   Let them smell or mouth it, then move it slowly away toward your own eyes, until they follow the item all the way from them to you.  Then once the puppy locks eyes with you, give them the treat or toy.  NEVER reward a puppy until they do what you are asking them to do.   May take a few times, but they soon figure out how to get what they want, which is the treat.   Only ever feed them that treat when training.  Once you have eye contact with your puppy, that places you in control.   All dogs need a leader for their health and well-being.   Always be training.  Such as don't just throw the ball and wander off.   Stay and call, "bring it" and when they do give them a treat.   Gradually, you will be able to fore-go the treat for a "good dog" and a pat.

When out for a walk, let the puppy sniff and wander on a loose lead.   At the end of the walk pull the collar up under the chin and straighten the lead where the puppy has to walk with the head in a high position, and finish up the walk.   Stop and get the puppy's attention (eye contact) and "stay".
Then give the treat.

The next few Blogs,  I will fill in the "about me" section and post a few pictures from the "good old days".  Also some of my background experience in dog training, showing, grooming etc.

A few helpful hints.

Since I have been without a computer and phone for a long time, while the powers that be fixed lines and more lines to our NBN hook-up, I haven't been able to do any more research on the first silky shows, so I am going to make this post about some helpful hints.  

When buying your first puppy and have set your mind on a certain breed,  do as much research as possible from the internet, breeders at the shows, and books.   Once fully educated, and you make your choice of puppies offered, ask many questions of the breeder as to its' health, parentage, training and known hereditary diseases (which you should know if there are any common to the breed from your previous research), and especially grooming.   If you are not satisfied with the answers, you should abandon this choice even though the puppies are ever so cute.   Don't be in a rush to get A puppy.  You will have to tend to and care for this puppy for around 14 to 16 years, so choose carefully.

NEVER encourage biting (even in play).  Once a puppy lays its' teeth on you at any time for any reason, stop what you are doing and say NO BITING in a firm but calm way.   If the puppy persists, put them away on their own in their crate or bed and totally ignore them for at least an hour.  May take a few times, but patience, patience and more patience.   NEVER lay an angry rough hand on your pup.  NEVER yell !!!   NEVER reward bad behavior, by taking notice of it.   Ignore bad behavior and reward good.  They soon learn what gets them the most attention. Always, calm and assertive.


 Brushing and grooming should always be done on a table and the puppy encouraged to "be still".  If you are lucky enough to have a show quality puppy, investing in a small grooming table with a noose or lead attachment would be worthwhile.   So helpful in training and gets them used to being above the ground, when in the show ring they have to be displayed on a table and will feel secure if trained at home beforehand.   At first keep the brushing and grooming to a few minutes a couple of times a day.   Remember:  Brushing with a natural hog bristle brush (men's brush as the bristle are shorter and stiffer) is all that is needed for a silky terrier coat.   Bathing can be as little as when needed.  The brushing promotes blood supply to the skin and rids the coat of dirt and dead hair.   Since a silky does not shed,  the hair still dies off and must be brushed out or it will knot and that leads to many other problems.   Bathing too much washes out the natural oils and can leave the skin dry and itchy.
ALWAYS cut your shampoo and conditioner to a 50-50 radius mixed with water.
ALWAYS  rinse, rinse and rinse again.   Shampoo left in the dog's hair or on their skin can lead to yeast infections or other bacterial infections (hot spots, rashes etc).

Well, that is all for this week.  Back again next week, with a few more "helpful" hints.

The Australian Terrier

Just came across some interesting facts about the Australian Terrier (whose genes are in  our silky terriers).

Firstly, I am guessing that the rough terrier, first exhibited in the first Canine Exhibition on 12th November, 1862, was the fore-runner of the Australian Terrier.   There were 18 rough terriers exhibited at that first show.   Quite a lot really, considering the total entries.
So in search of the first show where the soft or silky coated terrier first appeared, I found the following:-
in the Mercury dated 27 March, 1890

THE AUSTRALIAN TERRIER

 The "doggy world" is excited just now over the Australian terrier.  This is a wiry-haired little animal that has been evolved in the colony.  Mr. Coupe, the judge at the Victorian dog shows, declares him to be a mongrel, and has a real John Hull kind of contempt for him.   But, to the horror of Mr. Coupe and all his friends,  Lord Hopetoun has actually bought two of the breed, and everyone is anxious to know if he is going to exhibit them, and if he does whether the uncompromising Mr. Coupe will turn them out of the ring as he has always done hitherto.  Dog fancying in Melbourne is progressing vastly.  

However, in the Mercury, 22 August, 1895 at the Tasmanian Poultry and Dog Society Show there were 8 Blue and Tan or Sandy Rough Terrier entries.   So it would seem that 5 years hence, the Australian Terrier was still being names Rough Terrier, but with the addition of Sandy, not seen before.  

So then jump ahead to 1903 at the Kempton Poultry and Farm Produce Society Show, held on the 19th August, 1903 the entries were named Blue and Tan Terrier (dropping the term Rough).

I hope by my next post I will have found some soft/silky coated terriers in the show ring in Tasmania.

The first show in Northern Tasmania

Five years have gone by now to 22 September, 1867 where the first Northern Tasmanian Poultry and Dog Society Show was held.

Then onto Friday, the 10th of October, 1873, as printed in the Mercury, the first Campbell Town Poultry and Dog Show was held.
As written.."Poultry and Dog Shows are daily becoming increasingly popular.
Hobart Town and Launceston having initiated the movement, Campbell Town followed suit, holding a very successful Show."

Amongst the entries of Spaniels, Greyhounds, Setters etc. I noticed one entry of particular note.
Kangaroo - dogs and Kangaroo - sluts.   This term "sluts" was apparently used for "bitches" at the time or changed from bitches since the first show in 1862, where the females were labelled " bitches."
I have been wondering if this term may have been applied to wayward wenches (humans), who were a little too promiscuous, in later years and often heard used even today.
The other entry that peaked my interest, was the Scotch Colley...now known as the rough or smooth collie.  
If anyone has an idea about the breed Kangaroo (canine that is) please feel free to leave a comment.

Up until this point, I have not seen any entries of soft or silky coated terriers, just rough terriers, which were most likely the fore-runners of the Australian Terrier.  

I hopefully, will have found one or both entered in a show as my research moves along. 

I discovered recently from a sight hound owner who once owned a  kangaroo dog.  He said his was crossed between a Greyhound and a Great Dane.   He said his was huge and could run like the wind and fell a full size kangaroo in one strike.   They are not recognized as a breed, rather a type and breeders have never shown any interest in trying to register them with the ANKC.  

If interested the full history of this breed can be seen on Google...Kangaroo Dog.

The first Dog Show in Australia

This,  the first Dog Show in the Australian Colonies,  was a huge event back on the 12th of November, 1862.
The following is the "write up" in the Mercury on the 13th of November, 1862.

                                             CANINE EXHIBITION

The dog is proverbially the companion and friend of man in all climes.   He is marked amongst what is called the brute creation, for his desertion of his own species to attach himself to man.  He is domesticated in our homes, the courageous sharer in our dangers, and the faithful comrade in our sports.   Yet, the family of dogs has its disreputable members as well as the family of men.  And the lovers of this noble animal would be glad to see the breed free from the perpetuation of the useless non-descript curs, that are to be met with at every corner, and in every gutter; not only thoroughly useless , but in many cases mischievous pests; and even sometimes to cause loss of valuable life, as in the case occurring not so many months ago in Melbourne, where a worthless cur sallying out from some hole or other, at the heels of the horse of a gentleman of high military rank was the cause of death to that gallant officer.
A Society having for its objects the improvement of the breed of dogs, and an attempt to check the multiplication of the aforesaid mongrels, has initiated an exhibition of a somewhat novel character, (at least in these parts) in the shape of a real bona fide Dog Show, which, accordingly, took place yesterday, at Moore's Horse Bazaar in Liverpool-street.

***This we may note is the first Dog Show that has been held in the Australian Colonies.

In the said locality, with which most of our readers are no doubt familiar, might therefore be seen a large congregation of these true philanthropists (we use the word in its literal signification); big dogs, little dogs, handsome and ugly dogs (though not ugly in the conventional sense), dogs with curly tails, and dogs without any tails to speak of , dogs cheerful, dogs of a morose turn of mind; in fact no end of dogs.   The whole pack, too, keeping up a continual chorus (for no solos were to be thought of, or suffered for a moment) in a charming variety of keys, with more modulations and occidentals than ever a composer thought of; the general purpose of each chorus being apparently to express their decided objection to being where they were, and a universal wish to be "over the hills and far away"  or in any other indefinite locality.   There was one noticeable exception to the rule of impatient remonstrance however, in the shape of one of the most patriarchal looking dogs ever seen, a beautiful Setter rejoicing in the name of "Hector" and which evidently considered it to be his duty to maintain his dignity properly, but at the same time to exercise a proper amount of calm forbearance towards the petulance of his peers.   But to go into canicular details; the entries were numerous, as will be seen from the following list, to which we append the prizes awarded by the judges, such prizes being denoted by the figures, 1st and 2nd attached to the respective entries

***Here to save time and space I will list all the entries in groups...................

16 Setters   - 1 Imported.    10 Pointers  -  2 Imported.     Other Field Dogs - 1 Hound, 4 Harriers, 2 Beagles and 1 Retriever.   5 Bull Dogs - 2 Imported.    9 Bull Terriers  -  4 Imported.    18 Rough Terriers - 2 Imported.    13 Smooth Terriers.   2 Fox Terriers - 1 Imported.   2 Newfoundlands - 1 Imported.  2 Sheep Dogs.   1 Esquineaux Dog.   2 Poodles - 1 Imported  and 1 Breed Unknown.

Then the Article continued with a summary..............

Not assuming to be in any way competent judges we leave the merits and demerits of the respective breeds on the decisions above given, merely remarking that to all interested in such matters the exhibition was no doubt highly gratifying, and even to those perfectly uninitiated the genus is so favorably familiar, that pleasure could be derived by all from a visit.  From such cause no doubt the attendance throughout the day was tolerably numerous, and the fair sex contributed their presence to the scene.
Of course on such an occasion the animals sent are supposed to be amongst the best of their respective species; and therefore in all some real or comparative beauty or merit may be found; but some peculiarities strike the eye more than others.   We could not help noticing a truly fine bull-dog with an honorable scar-covered nose, about half an inch long and most particularly turn up; but nevertheless said bull-dog being of a most benevolent disposition towards the public generally.
Then in contradistinction to his majesty of dogs, might be noticed a spaniel with magnificent ears, reminding one only of Brobdiguagian  nettled silk purses.  To our patriarchal setter friend Hector we have already alluded.   One dog called an Esquimaux Poodle (if we remember rightly) was remarkable for his woolly coat trailing to the ground, and if he had been a little bigger might have passed very well for a  brown sheep.
There was one sheep dog too, a real Smithfield colley, we warrant; for on suggesting to him privately to "turn 'em down Hosier Lane, he expressed his perfect willingness to do so as far as dog could.
The mutilation of the ears of which folks are now beginning to see the evil, was sadly apparent in two terrier pups; entirely marring them.
And now we leave the Canine Exhibition with a good wish for the furtherance of the objects of the Society.

                                                    _______________________

The first dog show.

This in the Mercury, Wednesday 22 October,1862.

CANINE EXHIBITION - In our advertising columns will be found the notification of the first
exhibition of dogs in Tasmania, which will take place at Mr. Moore's Horse Bazaar, on the 12th of next month, and when prizes will be awarded to the owners of the best bred dogs, of both sexes, (also to whelps under six months old) of any distinct variety or breed, provided they are of sufficient merit.  For the regulations of the show we must refer our readers to the advertisement, where they will find them duly set forth but we cannot omit observing that the object of the society for the improvement of the breed of dogs is a praiseworthy one as holding out an inducement to owners of dogs to cultivate a good breed of these useful animals.  We wish too that the society could adopt some efficient means of ridding the city of the numerous useless curs, which are permitted to prowl about the streets to the annoyance and even injury of the passers by.   We are aware that there is a law to punish persons who allow their dogs to roam about "unprotected", but the machinery to put this law in force is somewhat cumbersome, and if some more prompt measure of prohibition could be adopted, it would be a decided benefit to the citizens.   We look forward to the forthcoming show with some interest, and hope that the breeders of good dogs will not "be backward in coming forward"on this first exhibition of the kind in the colony.

and the Advertisement :

CANINE EXHIBITION. The First Exhibition of DOGS in Tasmania will be held at Mr. Moore's Horse Bazaar, Hobart Town, on 12th November next, when Prizes will be awarded to the owners of the best bred Dogs of both sexes (also to Whelps under six months old) of any distinct variety or breed, provided they are of sufficient merit.
Competitors must forward their entries to the Thatched House, Collins-street, on or before the 5th November, stating the breed, sex, age, and color of their Dogs, also whether bred in the colony or imported.   All Dogs must be delivered at the place of Exhibition by nine o'clock a.m., 12th November, and be provided with suitable chains and collars for their security.
The gates will be open from 12 o'clock at noon till 6 o'clock p.m. on the day of the Show, during which time a full and efficient Band will be in attendance.
                                                      Admission, 1 shilling   Children, half-price.

                                                                                                       J. HUTCHINSON,
                                                                                                               Hon. Sec.

Next week I will share the commentary and results of the first dog show held in the Australian Colonies - IN TASMANIA on the 12th November 1862 !!

Australian Silky Terriers in Tasmania

This is a copy of a newspaper clipping from the Mercury, featuring a photo of my great, great grandfather's masonry business in Macquarie Street, Hobart circa 1860 - 1880.  Right in the bottom front you will see one of the first silky coated terriers, being developed as a breed in Tasmania, with "flop ears".  So this breed has been in my family since those early days - now known and refined into the Australian Silky Terrier. 

Welcome

Welcome to my blog. My name is Jan and I own Centella Silky Terriers. I have been showing and breeding pure bred Australian Silky Terriers since 1972.

On this blog, I'll be sharing stories, tips and information on Australian Silky Terriers including dog shows. Also, I will be posting some of my handy home improvements ideas and other parts of my daily doings.

I look forward to posting my next article soon.

Cheers,

Jan