Welcome to the All Ireland Irish Terrier Club’sSecond Newsletter

May 2015

Table of Contents

Chairperson’s Address ....................................................................1An Introduction to Showing for the Beginner ............................... 1An Introduction to Con Hackett..................................................... 3All Ireland Irish Terrier Club Show 2014 Results ........................ 62014 Judge’s Report...................................................................... 8Vet’s Corner ..................................................................................10Notification of 2016 Club Show ...................................................13Dowling Electrical Advert ............................................................14Essence of the Breed .....................................................................15All Terrier Association/Ulster KBT Advert ............................... 16Cilradharc Advert......................................................................... 17Tippanagh Advert......................................................................... 18Doonrock Advert ...........................................................................19Kerrykeel BIS wins ........................................................................21Getting to Know Maurice Dowling................................................23Peter Jaspers Dutch Report ............................................................25Irish Terriers – A Scottish Perspective ..........................................27For Your Information ....................................................................29

Officers and Committee of theAll Ireland Irish Terrier Club

2014-2015

President: Mr T Deegan Vice Presidents: Mr C Hackett, Mr P Carroll, Mrs S Kealy, Miss J Kealy Overseas Vice Presidents: Mr P Jaspers, Mrs J Mulholland, Mr H Gruettner, Mr K Anderson, Ms M Lovelace Chairperson: Mr J Carroll Vice Chairperson: Mr C Hackett Secretary: Ms F Malone Treasurer: Mr M DowlingIKC Rep: Ms J Kealy Auditor: Mr J CantyCommittee:

Mr P Carroll Mrs L Carroll Mr J Harty Mr M Doyle

Chairperson’s Address

I would like to thank our Secretary Fionnuala Malone for all her hard work over the past year and of course the rest of the committee.

 We have secured the services of an Irish Terrier expert from Europe who has judged our breed all over the world and have themselves exhibited internationally with great success including winning Best of Breed at the world show to adjudicate at our club show for 2016.

 Our social evening was a great success and much fun was had by all who attended. The recent entries for Irish Terriers at general championship shows seems to be  improving this can only be good for the breed lets hope this continues.

 As we all all ready know the IT is a wonderful breed full of character and incredibly loyal and protective to its owners it is very intelligent and can be taught many different tasks and  it is up to us to spread the word and attempt to make the breed more popular, it is a great shame that the majority of the Irish population do not know what the IT is and I am often asked by people when out walking "what kind of dog is that"? and are surprised when told its an Irish Terrier replying "I've never heard of them" or "I did not know there was such a breed" etc. We all have a duty as members of the A.I.I.T.C. to try and make the breed more popular.

John Carroll  

An Introduction to Showing for The Beginner

Showing your Irish Terrier is as well as being a great way to enjoy and bond with your dog is also a fantastic social outlet were you will meet other IT exhibitors and enthusiasts. The whole concept of showing may seem daunting and foreign to many people. However, there is always help and advice available from the IT community to aid and assist newcomers, so don't be put off as you will find most people very approachable and willing to help get you started.

 If you do decide to show your IT it is a good idea to talk to someone with experience who can steer you in the right direction. This may be the breeder of your dog if they show themselves or it may be worth looking into handling / ringcraft classes in your area which are a great way of  both socialising your dog as well as giving you an idea of what you will be required to do in the ring at a show.

It is probably a good idea to attend a show or two just as a spectator,this gives you and your dog a feel for the atmosphere on the day and gives you the opportunity to observe proceedings in the show ring without the actual pressure of taking part. It is a good idea to watch what the judge asks the exhibitors and their dogs to do so you know something of what to expect when you make your first

foray into the ring. Also take note of the presentation of dogs and handlers to get an overall view of what is required . Do not be afraid to approach experienced exhibitors with any questions or for help you may need or indeed just for a chat. It is however, best to wait until judging is finished when handlers are not so busy preparing their dogs for the ring.

 You will need to start your show preparation well in advance of entering mainly to get your dogs coat into show condition but you will find many exhibitors very helpful with any grooming tips to get you started. There is a class for untrimmed dogs at the All Ireland Irish Terrier Club show each year which is an option for newcomers who have not quite mastered the art of trimming.

There is a busy schedule of shows over the year, all the show dates venues and secretaries contact details are available in the Show Date Reservation book which is available from the Irish Kennel Club. Open shows are a good place to start as they tend to be more relaxed and informal than championship shows.Keep an eye on closing dates for entries as it is easy to miss the closing date and this would be most disappointing after all the effort and hard work that goes into the preparation of your dog.

The night before a show is really when you should be getting your final preparations together and packing your show items such as, such as show lead, grooming tools, comb, brush or terrier pad, poo bags to clean up any mess your dog leaves behind and trimming knives, the trimming should at this stage be already done. On the morning of the show let your dog out into the garden or take it for a walk to make sure it cleans its self out before you arrive at the show. Try to give yourself plenty of time and arrive at the venue well before judging of your breed commences , nothing is more off putting and upsetting as a last minute panic. At open shows you may need to see the secretary to collect your ring number whereas at most championship shows you will usually receive them by post. On arrival at the show give your dog another opportunity to empty its self out to avoid any accidents in the show ring during judging but in the same breath accidents do happen, don't panic and always have a poo bag in your pocket just in case. Familiarise yourself with the layout of the venue. Find your own ring as soon as possible and keep an eye on proceedings so you don't miss your slot. When your class is approaching be at ringside and listen for the steward to call your class and ring number, be ready in advance as there can often be some absentees. On entering the ring a simple " good morning or afternoon" and a smile at the judge is just a common courtesy then just listen to for whatever the judge requires you to do and be ready to answer any questions he or she may ask such as how old is your dog etc.

Try to enjoy the experience and your dog will enjoy it too. Whether you win or lose shake hands with your fellow exhibitors, smile breath out and remember in your opinion you are taking the best dog home. Hopefully you are now hooked on showing so welcome to the wonderful world of Irish Terriers.     

An Introduction to Con Hackett

When were you first introduced to Irish Terriers?

I bought my first Irish Terrier in 1987 from the Late Mr Tom Murphy (Rutlan). The pup was a bitch called Rutlan Susan Dear and she would not show to save her life. She was a very well bred bitch and I was aware of her breeding but that changed nothing for me so I gave her to John McGovern. He bred some very good stock from her.

Did you have a history in other Breeds?

I had a number of Kerry Blue Terriers. I bought my first Kerry in 1978 and finished with them in 2004 approx. I bred about 5/6 litters. I loved Kerry Blue Terriers and I still do, very much, but I could not make any headway with them. At the same time I had an interest in Welsh Terriers. I bought my first Welsh in 1983 from Mrs Pauline Quincey and I kept them in the ring until 1997. I bred 4 litters and I enjoyed them immensely. I stopped showing Welsh Terriers due mainly to the general lack of interest in the breed. At that time I had Kerrys, Welsh and Irish all at the same time. I kept a Kerry until 2004, I moved on my Welsh Terriers, of which there were two in 1998. I also had two Irish Terriers alongside my Welsh. I finished with Welsh on the above date.

What made you choose to own an Irish Terrier?

I did not choose Irish Terriers. John McGovern turned up at my door one Sunday night and gave me a bitch. I showed her and made her a Champion. She also won the Club Show. I bred two or three litters from her. I bred down from her offspring on two occasions approx. After a while I decided to give Irish a rest so I started to attempt to promote Welsh once again and I think it is beginning to show progress. I am not finished with Irish Terriers either and never have been but I always wanted to get Welsh off the ground.

How did you choose your kennel name?

I was born in Dublin 8, the Coombe Hospital, to be precise. My parents are Dublin 8 born, my Father was from Bow Lane near Heuston Railway Station, formerly Kingsbridge Railway Station. So I formed my Prefix from Kingsbridge and Bow Bridge and called it Bridgeways.

Did you have any mentors?

I received a great deal of guidance from John McGovern on Irish Terriers. Tom Murphy also helped me out quite a lot and finally Tom Deegan was also very helpful to me. The important message of this is, always listen.

When did you commence Showing/Breeding/Judging?

I commenced Showing in December 1979 when I had my second Kerry Blue Terrier, Ashinvilly King High. He didn’t go far in the Show world. I started judging Limit Shows in 1984 at the DIBTC and the Irish Breeds Limit Show in 1985. My first Championship Show was the All Terrier Association in 1986, I judged Kerrys. I judged Combine Canine Championship Show 1988 and progressed from this.

Have you a favourite Irish Terrier in the breed’s history?

The memorable Irish Terrier dog that I admired was Terrijay Clermont Ferrand bred by Mrs Jane Pratt and eventually owned by Tom Deegan (Thomeilis). Tom allowed me to use him at stud on two occasions and it helped a lot with my dogs. The most memorable bitch was John McGovern’s Fintona Karizma. I believed her to be the best show bitch. They were two great specimens. They were not around at the same time but they were great to watch and admire. They were Terriers that would inspire anyone to try their hand at Irish Terriers. I must also add, I went to Montgomery in USA. There were three shows to see, Devon, Hatboro and Montgomery County. This was a place to go and admire the Shows USA style. I was amazed at the presentation of the dogs but I will stick with Irish Terriers, the quality of the Irish Terriers was outstanding, I was simply bowled over by them.

Of the dogs you have bred/owned do you have any particular favourites? If so who and why?

Bridgeways Roppu in my opinion was my best dog, he was a very well structured dog with a beautiful head and neck and a good topline and tailset and good movement. He was not without fault, he had a dark shadow under his neck that was his main problem. He was a great dog to bring into the Ring, he knew his job and he played his part very well, in fact he was a real team player

Please give details of any of your dogs/bitches that have been influential in the Show Ring or in Breeding Programmes in Ireland or abroad?

I don’t believe I have any suitable photos of any of my dogs that would suit the Newsletter. I am of the view that Bridgeways Roppu played a big part in breeding some very good dogs for me. He is sire to 6 Champions, 4 Champion Dogs and 2 Champion Bitches. His influence is still evident in the Ring today. The sire of Bridgeways Roppu was Terrijay Clermont Ferrand of Thomeilis and the dam was Fintona Georgie Girl. She was a bitch John MCGovern gave to me.

Please describe your ideal Irish Terrier.

My ideal Irish Terrier would have a really nice dark eye of moderate size comfortably set into the socket, not bulging or large but staring with power. The head would be of comfortable width and a really good ear carriage complimenting the power of the eye and the length of head. A nice reach of neck, not too long , but not stocky or short. The Head and neck should run straight and clean to the ground, displaying a really solid, clean front of athletic width. When looking at the rear it is always nice to see a good hard rear end with clean angulation and good sized hocks straight, not too big and definitely not short but strong and ready to show good movement.

When looking at the dogs frame it should be of medium length illustrating a comfortable frame and good legs. The kind of frame that projects real power, courage, confidence, a real work of art.

What breed characteristics makes an Irish Terrier the perfect dog for you?

Presentation is important when you bring your dog/bitch into the Ring. It is really good to go into the ring with a dog who fears nothing and who displays a domineering command of the ring. A dog/bitch who enters the ring believing this is his/her territory is a winner all the time.

Are there any issues that concern you in the breed at present?

I would be concerned that the breed may go soft in temperament. It is my belief and I am sure the belief of all Irish Terrier people that an Irish must be a dog full of confidence. I would also worry that some Irish might begin to get too long in body with exaggerated long reach of neck. These things can and will happen and when it happens I hope people will see the problem for what it is. I don’t believe it was ever the plan to breed Irish Terriers with a very long neck or a very long body or both at the same time. An Irish is a package but it is not a square package.

Do you own any other breeds? If so please give details.

Yes I have a Lakeland Terrier, 3 Welsh Terrier and an Irish Terrier and I enjoy each of them.

At what level do you Judge? Group 3, any other Groups, BIS?

I have judged Group 3, 7, some breeds in Group 8 and Best In Show. In 2014 I hope to progress into Group 6. I have always enjoyed judging and long may it continue.

Are you involved in any Dog Clubs? Please give details?

I am an active member of the Dublin Irish Blue Terrier Club, All Ireland Irish Terrier Club, Fox Terrier Club, Sealyham Terrier Club and the Welsh Terrier Club. I hope I didn’t leave anyone out!

Any other information you wish to provide?

It is good to have a hobby, dogs are my best hobby!

Is there any advice you would give to someone starting out with their first Irish Terrier?

Dont be afraid to ask for advice from Irish Terrier people!

Regards

Con Hackett

2014 Club Show - Judge's Report

It was a great honour for me to be selected to judge the All Ireland Irish Terrier Club show 2014. I was delighted to get such a good entry, one of the biggest in recent years. It was also pleasing to see the special classes so well supported after Best in Show, an innovation that was started during my time on the club's committee. The hope is that someone starting out in these classes would get bitten by the show bug!

The  quality of the entry in the regular classes was mixed, as is now usual in the breed, with only one kennel exhibiting dogs of a consistent type. I found no issues with mouths or feet. I was impressed with my principal winners. As a breeder first and foremost, I take the view that showing is the evaluation of breeding stock, and I am confident that any of my four main prizewinners would  contribute to the breed's improvement.

GSD and BIS was Lovelace's Brazan Manatoba, the winner of Open Dog. This exhibit stood out from the start today. Excellent long head with strength to the muzzle and good fill under the eyes. Very good angulation front and rear, borne out by correct movement. Correct outline with good length of back, well ribbed and with a short loin. Topped off with an excellent double, wiry coat shown in the correct length to appreciate its quality. His virtues were such that he could be forgiven his slight lack of body condition on the day. Delighted to award him top honours.

RGSD was Doyle's Ch. Inisfire Regal Rory, the winner of  Champion Dog. A dog I have judged and admired before. Different type to the BIS winner, not as well off in head or fill under eyes. Nice angles front and rear. Preferred overall size and length of back of BIS winner.  Scored in front movement. Correct coat shown short.

The All Ireland Irish Terrier Club Show - 10 May 2014

Judge: Micheál O’Reilly (Cilradharc) 

GSD and BIS - Ms M Lovelace’s Brazan Manatoba

GSB - Messrs P and J and Mrs L Carroll’s Ir Ch  Carolmac Clarion Call

BPIS - Mr S Kennedy’s Tippanagh Princess Maria of Doagh

 Reserve GSD - Mr M Doyle’s Ch Inisfire Regal Rory

Reserve GSB - Mr S Kennedy’s Tippanagh Princess Maria of Doagh

 Baby Puppy Dog

1. Mr F Byrne’s Carrickanab Ronan2. Mr M Dowling’s Megacant Spokesman

Puppy Dog

1. Ms A McGloin’s Bensheir Red Admiral

Junior Dog

1. Mr F Byrne’s Inisfire Ted

Open Dog

1. Ms M Lovelace’s Brazan Manatoba2. Mr S Kennedy’s Tippanagh Prince Milu of Doagh

3. Mr M Brennan’s Pinleygreen Perseus

4. Mr D Coulter’s Bensheir Michael

Champion Dog

1. Mr M Doyle’s Ch Inisfire Regal Rory

Veteran Dog

1. Mr M Dowling’s Ch Megacant Easy

Puppy Bitch

1. Mr S Kennedy’s Tippanagh Princess Maria of Doagh2. Messrs P and J and Mrs L Carroll’s Carolmac Minesweeper

Open Bitch

1. Messers P and J Carroll’s Carolmac Nipper (CJW14, CW14)2. Mr S O’Donnell’s Doonrock Dance with the Devil

3. Mr S Kennedy’s Insifire Cora at Tippanagh ( JD, Jun Ch)

 Champion Bitch

1. Messrs P and J and Mrs L Carroll’s Ir Ch  Carolmac Clarion Call2. Mr M Dowling’s Ir Ch Padfoot Blath ( Jun Ch)

Brace Class

1. Mr S Kennedy2. Messrs P and J and Mrs L Carroll

Novice Handler Class Winner

Mr John Macken

 Untrimmed Class Winner

John Lawlor

Whelping- Expect the Unexpected!

by Michael O' Reilly M.V.B.

The  arrival of a litter is both an exciting and a stressful time for the breeder. Gestation time for the bitch is usually given as 63 days, but as always with animals there is a normal range for gestation, of 55 to 70 days. Yes, a full week "early" or "late" is actually quite normal!! It is important therefore to know the signs that birth is imminent.

A few days before whelping, the udder may fill noticeably, and as the pups move forward in the womb, the belly may "drop".

One of the markers that a veterinary surgeon will use as a guideline for approaching parturition is body temperature. Approximately 24 hrs before the onset of whelping the bitches temperature will drop below normal. This phenomenon is not a precise timing marker however.

Labour

Labour itself is commonly divided in the literature into first and second stages. First stage labour is when the cervix is softening and opening in preparation for birth. This stage can sometimes last up to 24 hrs. Signs of first stage labour include going off the food, general restlessness, nesting behaviour, reluctance to leave the whelping quarters and panting. This panting can be quite distressing for the owner to observe and may be confused with strong contractions.  

Second stage labour is an active process characterised by strong, obvious contractions leading to actual parturition. It is at this stage that most potential problems with whelping can occur. In the normal course of events, contractions last anything from ten to thirty minutes followed by the appearance of a puppy. Some bitches can take quite a long rest in between the birth of successive puppies, and here is where more confusion may arise. A general guideline to use is if there are active contractions for one to two hours and no pup is produced then there may be a problem. Some commentators advise that if there is a gap of more than four hours between births, whether contractions occur or not, then intervention is necessary.

Issues may arise with the puppies themselves, e.g. foetal oversize or malpresentation in the womb. Difficulties may also occur because the womb muscle is exhausted and is no longer able to contract and push out the puppy. This is known as uterine inertia, and may occur

after a period of prolonged contraction, or at the end of delivery of a big litter. If either scenario is suspected it is better for all concerned to seek veterinary assistance. 

The vet will examine the bitch to check that there are indeed puppies still in the womb. Imaging techniques such as ultrasound or radiography may be employed at this stage. The next step is to examine the birth canal to ensure that there is no physical obstruction, such as a puppy lodged there. Pups lodged in the canal may be delivered manually or with the aid of a forceps. This may be distressing to the bitch. 

If the birth canal is clear, the vet may administer an injection of the hormone oxytocin, along with some intravenous calcium. These drugs help the womb to contract. A pup is normally produced within 20-30 mins. If this is not the case, the next option may be surgical intervention, i.e. caesarean section.

Normal post natal behaviour

The bitch should naturally fuss about the puppies, lick them and eat the placenta.

The pups will normally move towards the teats and will be guided there by the mother to nurse. The act of nursing stimulates the release of natural oxytocin, which speeds up the birth process, aids milk let-down and reinforces the mothering instinct of the bitch.

Post natal care

One of the biggest killers of neonatal pups is, quite simply, cold. A cold puppy will not feed properly and is predisposed to picking up infections such as the fading puppy syndrome. A cold puppy is also more likely to be pushed away and rejected by the bitch. Therefore the whelping quarters should be well insulated against draughts, and the provision of an infra red bulb is beneficial. Care must be taken not to overheat the mother however.

Summary

Signs of impending birth

- Off food

-Nesting behaviour

-Reluctance to leave bed

-Milk in teats/ belly drop

-Fall in body temperature

Guidelines for intervention

- Over 70 days since mating

- Obvious forcing for 1 to 2 hours without producing a puppy

Michael O' Reilly is a veterinary surgeon working in mixed practice in North Cork. He established the Cilradharc Irish Terrier Kennel in 1998. 

The All Ireland Irish Terrier Club’s 50th Anniversary Show

will be held on 07 May 2016in the National Show Centre, Cloghran.

For further details please visit our website

www.irishterrierclub.ie

About Us

Dowling Electrical has been providing electrical service to various Clients for over six years and during this time; has met our customers specific

requirements through various installation & maintenance works.

This includes working with large nationwide retail chains, schools, creches, independent shops of differing sizes in various locations whilst also catering

to individual domestic customers needs.

Services

The electrical maintenance provided to the commercial customer is also enhanced with general maintenance; guaranteeing the least disturbance

possible to on-going trade.

All Enquiries Welcome:Maurice Dowling

mob: 087 9012182fax: 062 53963

email: dowlingelectrical@hotmail.comvat: IE 6739287V

The Essence of the Irish TerrierBy The All Ireland Irish Terrier Club

Overall AppearanceThe Outline of an Irish Terrier is characteristic. He is not a square dog, he is longer in the body than he is tall. The length should come from “well ribbed back”, not from a long loin. He must have substance while at the same time be built on the lines of speed, showing a graceful athletic outline.

TemperamentWhen required an Irish Terrier should be alert and on his toes and displaying an assertive presence. He is loyal and devoted to his family.

ExpressionWithout a typical Irish Terrier expression, the best terrier in the world just becomes a dog. Expression is one of the most important physical characteristics of an Irish Terrier. By his head an Irish Terrier is first recognized and last remembered, because the challenging piercing expression is unlike the expression of any other member of the canine family. All exhibitors, judges but more importantly breeders must always carry in their minds the hard bitten “devil may care” expression which is so necessary and so desirable in the breed.The daredevil Irish Terrier expression begins with a long, balanced head that is clean in the cheek. The correct skull is flat. The eyes appear small and not prominent because they are set moderately deep into the skull with good fill underneath them. Small dark eyes are the focal point of expression. The Standard describes them as “full of life, fire and intelligence”.The distinctive ear set of an Irish Terrier adds the finishing touch to the keen expression. The ears are set and carried differently to any other Terrier. Small and V Shaped, they are set well above the level of the skull, with the tips falling over and approaching the eye corners.The knowledge and understanding of true Irish Terrier expression is the key to maintaining the distinctiveness of the breed.

Coat and ColourThe Irish Terrier must have a dense, harsh, wiry, double coat, which is broken in appearance but still lying flat. The colour should be whole coloured, red, yellow red, red wheaten. All are equally correct. A small patch of white on the chest is permissible.

May not be reprinted without written permission of the All Ireland Irish Terrier Club. Grateful thanks to the hard working Committee of the Club for their input in this Essence. We hope it will lead to a greater understanding of the Irish Terrier.

All Terrier Association

Will host a Seminar on Judging Dogs and aBreed Specific Seminar, in

Bewley’s Hotel, near Dublin Airport In November 2015

For Further Information please contact FionnualaTel: + 353 86 8750614 www.allterrier.com

The Ulster Kerry Blue Terrier Club

Are hosting a Breed Seminar

At 12 midday On 14 November 2015 in

Rathcoole Presbyterian Church Halls,

Rathmore Drive, Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim BT37 9BN

For further information please visit our website www.ulsterkbt.com

Cilradharc Irish Terriers

Established 1998

We are proud to have produced three homebred Irish Champions

with limited breeding and showing.

Honours won by our dogs include:

Green Star and CACIB, St Patrick’s Show 2005

Reserve CACIB, European Winners Show, Dublin 2009

1st Limit Dog, Crufts 2009

Celtic Winner 2010

Best In Show, All Ireland Irish Terrier Club 2010

Best Puppy In Show, All Ireland Irish Terrier Club 2013

All with homebred dogs

We produce one or at most two well planned litters a year.

Champion and Green Star winning dogs at stud.

Michael, Veronica, Aisling and Róisín O’ Reilly

Co. Cork

cilradharc@gmail.com

Doonrock Irish Terriers

GB, Ir & Int Ch. Sinead’s Siofra of Wyndam

Bred by Valerie & John Kenyon in The U.K and now retired from the show ring having two very successful litters and hopefully another in 2015.

Ir Ch. Doonrock Dance With The Devil (Jun Ch)

Bred by us here at Doonrock out of GB, Ir & Int Ch. Sinead’s Siofra of Wyndam & Multi Ch. Kells Fire Storm, Lexi will be taking a break from the show ring for maternal duties we

have big plans for her in 2015/2016.

MerryMac You Will Make It

Elmo Was imported from the very famous MerryMac Kennel we are very thankful to Thomas & Gertrud Hagstrom for trusting us with this very special boy, He will be

campaigned throughout 2015.

Doonrock Celtic Storm Jack was bred by us here at Doonrock and is owned by Enrico Pratesi & Giovanna Omanci

in Italy, He is also out of Multi Ch. Sinead’s Siofra of Wyndam & Multi Ch. Kells Fire Storm. He has had a very successful show carer so far in Ireland and Europe Gaining his

Irish Champion Title and numerous titles in Europe. Jack was Top Terrier out of all terrier breeds in Italy 2014 having won multiple Groups and Best in Shows in Italy he also won

his class at the world dog show 2014 in Helsinki, Jack will return to the ring in 2015He is expertly shown and groomed by Marco Calonaci.

Doonrock Eye of The Storm

Kelly was also bred by us here at Doonrock from the successful combination of Multi Ch. Sinead’s Siofra of Wyndam & Multi Ch. Kells Fire Storm She has not yet been shown but will take to the show ring for 2015.

Kevin, Katherina & Shane O’Donnell, Doonrock Kennels

Gardenfield, Tuam, Co. Galway, Republic of IrelandTel: 353 86 6044553

Kerrykeel Irish Terriers

Who would have thought all those years ago as a young boy back in Belfast I would have had the privilege and honour to have not only owned but to have also bred and handled two Irish Terriers that have won the top prize in the whole of Ireland.

Irish Terriers next to my family have been my life for more years than I care to remember, and as a young boy I started reading all the books and articles I could find relating to the Irish Terrier.I would read the dog papers to see who was showing what dog, where and how they went on, I would then write to the breeders to introduce myself and to pick their brains about how they had bred their dogs and why they had picked particular studs dogs or bitches to use.

I started to learn how to trim dogs with the aim that I would get them to looking their best before going into the show ring, I spent many years perfecting this art under the watchful eye and guidance of a man whom I would term as my mentor and good friend John Crawley, John spent a great deal of time helping me understand and showing me how to trim an Irish Terrier correctly, which reached its pinnacle back in 1997 when I was showing my dog Gentleman Joe at Dehra at the The Great St Patricks Day show.

Joe was a fantastic Irish Terrier bred from my bitch Kerrykeel Rose, he was a fiery dog with attitude and needed some handling, a dog who you could not take your eye off or drop your guard for a second whilst showing but at the same time a natural showman, Joe went best of breed on the day which I was over the moon with, but then he went group 1 in the Terrier Group, this was turning out to be a very special day, I had also brought with me my

two Basset Griffon Vendeen (Petit) which I had also got both the green stars and best of breed with, my heart was now pumping with excitement, was it at all possible this was happening, I calmed myself by working on Joe before we were to enter the big ring, all the years of hard work were now coming down to this one moment in time, I told myself just go in and show the dog, he's done his best and to go home with the green star and best of breed with is a fantastic result, but Joe wasn't happy with that, he wanted the top slot and boy did he show himself off, we stood there in the line up waiting for the judges decision, Joe got his wish and me my dream came true, best in show, at the Great Saint Patricks Day Show.

Then in 2013 I was back in Ireland again, this time showing Kerrykeel Eoghan my young dog bred from my Champion bitch Kerrykeel Orlaith and a German dog Napoletano Von Der Emsmuehle himself a champion dog.Eoghan does not have the fiery temperament that Joe had, but just like Joe he is a natural showman and enjoys his time in the show ring, we were at Bray showing at the All Breeds Ireland Championship show.

Eoghan went best of breed, he is a dog I am very proud of, he has done well showing in Ireland and in the UK, again as back in 1997 when showing Joe, I kept myself busy and composed by grooming and preparing Eoghan for the big event, if there is one thing I have never forgotten its John Crawley telling me that it's not the general grooming that counts when showing but the finer details, the odd hair here or there out of place can make a difference, get the head and expression right and you are on the right track.We went in the ring for best in show, was it even possible that sixteen years later Eoghan could do the same as Joe had done all those years ago, history repeated it's self, Eoghan went best in show, it's impossible to put into words how I felt at that moment, winning one title at that level in the home of the Irish Terrier is a dream come true but to win it twice with dogs that I have bred, groomed and handled myself is the icing on the cake.

I am extremely proud of my Irish Terriers and have shown them in many different countries, but there's no where that gives me more pleasure and pride in showing than back in the native country of the Irish Terrier.The Irish Terrier owes me nothing, but I owe the Irish Terrier everything.

Kevin Anderson

Getting to know You - Maurice Dowling

Your Birthplace ? Kilmallock,  Co Limerick

Your Occupation? Electrical Contractor

Your Kennel Name ? Branrealt Terriers

How you chose it? The little river at the back of our house is called the Morning Star and is overlooked by some high evergreen trees in which Ravens nest in, At the start I applied for Ravenstar but was refused as a kennel in England had that name so the next obvious

step was to take the gaelic version.

First record you ever bought ? Bought for me was " now thats what I call music 2, purchased myself  The Cure" Boys dont cry"

Favourite musician/style of music? The Cure

Best book you ever read ? Captain Corelli's Mandolin

Holiday Destination of choice ? Italy ( love the food)

Favourite Movie/TV programme? The Godfather trilogy

Favourite Sport ? Rugby

Your tipple of choice ? A small drop whisky followed by 4/5 good pints of black

Favourite breed of dog other than your own breed? English Springer spaniels (working type) Do a bit of shooting in the winter season

Saying or quote you like the most? For the love and honour of Saint Jude and the Seven Ninjas

Your most treasured possession? My patience/ sanity

Any goals/ambitions you would like to achieve in life ? To have the sun on my face every day and have bad weather an option of travelling to

Who do you admire most in the world of dogs ? No one person in particular but have a overall admiration for the people behind the scenes who organise shows, working trials,

tests etc just for the love of dogs

Give us one positive and one negative of the dog show scene in Ireland ? The comradery between all the different breed people at shows, Judging Standards can sometimes be

questionable (personal opinion)

Your dream dinner party guests, living or dead, doggy or non-doggy ? Colin Powell(American statesman), Gwen Stefani (singer) , Louis de Bernieres (author) , Cleo

Wattenstron ( swedish tatoo artist,  model) Amy Cutler (contemporary artist)  and my mate Fergal Hanley ( legend )

If you could write your epitaph, what would it be?

Maurice Dowling Finis

Irish Terriers in the Netherlands

The first Irish Terrier was imported in the Netherlands in 1901 by Mr. Timmermans. In 1931 he was one of the founders of the NITC (Dutch Irish Terrier Club).“Irish”, the name of his kennel, was founded in 1904 and later on was continued by Ann Wortel-Waite, who came over from England to the Netherlands as a young girl.She became the handler of Mister and Misses Timmermans’ dogs .Ann was an expert where it came to Irish Terriers as she had been educated and coached by Nora Woodifield at the famous English “Pathfinders” kennels in the sixties. She married a Dutchman and lives in the Netherlands ever since.The last litter of the “Irish” kennel was born in 2004.For years Ann passed on her knowledge to young and new breeders including myself. She is honorary member of the Dutch Irish Terrier Club.

A few years ago, about a hundred puppies were born every year. One breeder had to stop his activities and a few other breeders do not breed as often anymore as they did before. Consequently in the last couple of years the Dutch Kennelclub registered only about sixty to ninety Irish Terriers per year.There are only four to five active breeders who breed on more regular bases.The Irish Terrier has a great reputation as a pet. A considerable number of dog-owners / dog-lovers remain loyal to the Irish, but also newcomers have become more and more interested, hence breeders have waiting lists for their upcoming litters.The average number of entries on dog shows is four to five, often with a few dogs from Germany.The quality is mostly considered to be “very good”, so obviously it is not too easy to get an “outstanding” in order to get 4 CC's to become a Dutch Champion.

The NITC is an active association. Every year the club organizes an NITC weekend, a grooming workshop and a young-dog-day.Once or twice a year members can join in a dog-walk and every few years a Champion-

Clubmatch is organized.The young dog day is very a popular day because all Irish between 6 and 18 months registered in the Dutch Studbook are invited and can enter for free. Every year more than 50% of the newborn Irish Terriers are present. The dogs are judged but not placed and every dog gets a written report. The judge is, if available, a specialist in Irish Terriers or one of the Dutch judges with less experience will be invited and hence will have the opportunity to see a larger number of young Irish Terriers together and so he or she will be able to improve his or her skills. I personally find this a very valuable and informative day for our breeders, as well as for the judge. People can see the descendants of the various stud-dogs and can help to plan a next litter. (Picture's and reports of all youngsters are published on the NITC website see: www.irishterriers.nl search at JH-dagen.)

We got our first Irish bitch in 1972 as a pet but her breeder advised us to show her at least once so we followed his advise. We met other enthusiastic people on a show and so we got

really involved by becoming a member of the Dutch Irish Terrier Club and we are infected with the IT virus ever since.Most important Irish Terriers for me as breeder and for a great part for the Dutch Irish terriers over all are Gnomeshalt Irish Legend and Gnomeshalt Coven Chief, bred by Joan Simcock and imported in the seventies by Ann Wortel. Ch.Redneval Ballinruan Beau was both dogs grandfather, Coven Chief was by Irish Ch.Imperial Major, three bitches out of this combination was successfully bred from in three different kennels.I try to continue breeding this type of Irish: the real Irish expression (as your committee describes on the “Essence of the Irish Terrier”), good racy outlines with substance and harsh coats with good furnishings.The first “v. Koudenhoven” Irish terriers were born in 1975, and soon, in a few weeks time we hope to welcome our 50th litter. In several countries a lot of our dogs got their Champion’s titles and they are used for breeding.I do hope that the original type of the Irish Terrier will not change too much. In the past 10 years I have seen more an more Irish with wrong heads, bold eyes and flat red coats without furnishings. Also the way of trimming has changed, nowadays most of the dogs are very short in coat, hardly decent hair on the legs and sometimes they even have a single coat but shortly trimmed, so it becomes difficult to judge.Many all-round judges seem to appreciate that type and give them CC's.Therefore I am worried of losing the original type of Irish Terrier and it is not easy to convince the new enthusiasts what the original type really should look like, but as long as I live I will do my utmost to do so.

Peter Jaspers

THE “IRISH” – A SCOTTISH PERSPECTIVE

Our journey with the Irish Terrier began, oddly enough, in Bermuda some years ago, when visiting friends for dinner. As we approached their house, we were greeted at the end of the drive by an assertive but attractive looking hound, who was clearly conducting sentry duties with aplomb! Escorted up the driveway and eventually delivered to our host’s door, our first encounter with an Irish Terrier made an impact.

It turned out she was of genuine Irish stock, having beeen brought over from Ireland when the owner took up a locum in one of the islands’ medical practices. We were struck, there and then, our dinner being punctuated by much chat about this biddable canine.

Some years later, we were looking to adopt a puppy, wondering what breed to go for - or indeed a Heinz 57. Our village in East Lothian, Scotland, is on the sea, with plenty of sand dune and woodland walks, so a suitable candidate would have to be selected. In a village brimming with Labradors, Spaniels, Border Terriers and similarly ubiquitous breeds, we thought something a bit different and more distinctive would fit the bill. Our thoughts soon turned to the Bermudian encounter, and the die was cast! It had to be an Irish.

The hunt was on for a suitable breeder, but strangely, none to be found in Scotland, the nearest being in the north of England. So, with one of us being from County Wexford, the Carolmac stable near Enniscorthy was identified as being a front runner. On our first visit to Paddy and John Carroll, we

were given plenty of good advice and clear signals that an Irish would make an excellent family pet. We were sold, and by good fortune and timing, a litter was in the offing. So, with some trepidation we committed, not quite knowing what to expect from our impending new arrival.

A few months later Tuskar joined the family and soon made her mark in the village doggy community. A quick learner, she passed her Kennel Club obedience classes with flying colours, each new exercise tackled with gusto.....that is until she got bored with the repetition due to slower uptake of others in her class. She just wanted to move on to the next exciting challenge - Good Citizen, Silver, Gold, Advanced – her rosettes are testament to her rapid progress and the innate intelligence of the breed.

What a brilliantly adaptable family pet she turned out to be – up for anything, she enjoyed golfing on the links, spectating at ladies’ tennis turn-up and most of all visits to the local pub. She became a true family member, loved people (especially postie Eileen and her daily treat), but nonetheless was highly selective about certain dogs; and as for cats………well, the neighbours’ moggies knew better

than to breach Tuskar’s territory!

After many happy years of living with our dear companion, the characterful Tuskar, she passed on. Following a short break, you’ll not be surprised to learn that we decided to embarked on the

Carolmac trail once again, with a view to renewing our relationship with the Irish Terrier, and all that comes with this particular package of doggy diversity. Now we have Rua, a little beauty of 10 weeks, whose exploration of her exciting new world has seemingly no bounds. Indeed, she has her moments!

Rua is quickly adapting to life in our home and village, and rapidly making her mark with family and friends. We look forward to many happy times with our new charge…………no doubt with a string of adventures and surprises along the way. We do hope so and are braced to always expect the unexpected!

Such is the appeal of the Irish Terrier – the bonniest and most genial of all terriers.

Murray and Ann Marr

For Your Information

Tail Docking and Dew Claw Removal - Following SI 128 of 2014 PROHIBITION ON TAIL DOCKING AND DEW CLAW REMOVAL (DOGS) REGULATIONS 2014, which came into effect on 06 March 2014, it is illegal to dock tails or remove dew claws in the Republic of Ireland.

http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/pdf/2014/en.si.2014.0128.pdf

Micro-chipping - Compulsory dog micro-chipping will be introduced on a phased basis, beginning with mandatory micro-chipping for all pups in September 2015 and expanding out to all dogs in March 2016.

Travel - All dogs  travelling in or out of Ireland must be rabies vaccinated and hold a current EU Pet Passport. The regulations can be read at http://www.agriculture.gov.ie/pets/

Exports -  Persons wishing to sell dogs to other EU Member States must:

Register the premises on which the animals are born and/or reared ( from which they are being exported) with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Registration of Dog Premises - Application Form pet animals of these species may only be traded from registered premises.

Ensure that each pup is microchipped, have attained 12 weeks of age prior to being vaccinated against rabies, are of at least 15 weeks of age at the time of transport, have a Veterinary Report and Balai cert and are using a registered Type 2 transporter. http://www.agriculture.gov.ie/pets/approvedpetcarriersroutes/

IKC Membership - Anyone wishing to join a committee of an IKC affiliated Club must be an associate member of the IKC. http://www.ikc.ie/membership-registrations/associate-membership