KC Liaison Council Elections - Have Your Say

Does your club want to have a bigger say in how dog agility is run?  Does it want to contribute more to promoting the general improvement of dogs?  Does it want to see its ideas acted upon?  Does it want to become part of the solution to issues in the dog world? Your Club should then consider nominating a Representative to one of the Kennel Club Liaison Councils. 

The Kennel Club Liaison Councils play an important role in formulating Kennel Club policy and enhancing the Kennel Club's strategic objectives across every canine activity. 

Representatives should be actively involved within their discipline by way of competing, judging, organising and / or officiating at shows  / trials and events. 

Your club's elected representative to a Council will be responsible for representing the views of your region, breed or activity and for putting forward proposals on your club's behalf to enhance the future of your hobby.  It's a responsible position and the Representative's responsibility will be to regularly canvas your club and others in your area or breed to gather views and ideas, research their viability and then represent them at Council meetings once or twice a year.

Dedicated representatives ensure their constituency's views are brought forward for debate either through regional meetings and/or direct contact with clubs and societies and individuals at events. Representatives should be willing to commit to at least one or two meetings per year, more if they are elected onto a Working Party or Sub-Committee. Council proposals often result in fundamental changes in Kennel Club policy and the Kennel Club values the important work the Councils do and the opportunity to engage directly with those dedicated individuals involved on the hobby on a daily basis.

There are six liaison councils:-

• Agility Council

• Breeds Council (individual breed representation)

• Field Trials Council

• Obedience Council

• Shows Council (regional representation for societies which hold breed shows)

• Working Trials Council

To become a representative on a Council, you must first be nominated by a suitable registered society. All registered societies are encouraged to nominate suitable representatives to make sure that their opinions are heard and that they can make a direct contribution to formulating policy in the future.

Representatives are elected for a period of three years and the current term of office of all Kennel Club Liaison Council representatives ends on 31 December. Therefore, the process for election for the next term of office (January 2016 – December 2018) commences now.

Nominations for election to all Councils must be received by 19 June 2015. Nominations must be signed by an officer of the nominating organisation and submitted to the Canine Activities Department (Council elections), The Kennel Club, 1-5 Clarges Street, London W1J 8AB. Please indicate clearly on the envelope to which Council nominations refer. Alternatively emails can be sent to: elections@thekennelclub.org.uk but these must be on the organisations headed paper and signed by the nominee.

Dogs in Hot Cars Clarification

The Kennel Club General Committee has agreed that the 'dogs in hot cars' notice for Kennel Club licensed shows and events be changed to make clear that it encompasses all vehicles.

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, said, 'We want to make it explicitly clear that dogs can overheat in vans and other large vehicles just as they can in cars. Unfortunately shows have struggled to enforce the correct protocol after certain dog owners have attempted to argue that the policy only refers to cars and no other vehicle. The welfare of our dogs must be the main priority at any show, so the wording has been changed from ‘cars' to 'vehicles' to ensure there is no misunderstanding.'

The Kennel Club Specimen Schedules have been updated to reflect the amended policy.

To find out more about the Kennel Club's campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of leaving dogs unattended in vehicles, visit www.thekennelclub.org.uk/dontcookyourdog.

The Kennel Gazette Returns

The Kennel Club is bringing back the Kennel Gazette in the near future, and it is hoped that the first issue will be published sometime in spring.

Carrie Tomas has been appointed Editor.

It has been decided that the Gazette will retain some of the previously popular items such as Judges' Choice and it is hoped in future it will feature two breeds to allow increased exposure of vulnerable and less well known breeds. The first two breeds that will be showcased will be the Beagle and the Bracco Italiano. Over the next few weeks the Kennel Club will be contacting judges of these breeds for their choice of dogs.

YKC Celebrates 30 Years

As part of their 30th anniversary celebrations, the Young Kennel Club (YKC) has set up a competition for a celebratory slogan! Entries can be along the lines of what the YKC does, what it is about, or just a celebration of 30years!

As well as seeing your idea on all the YKC marketing materials in their anniversary year, you will also win a framed piece of artwork featuring the winning work!

To be in with a chance of winning, email your slogan with a subject line 'slogan competition' to ykc@thekennelclub.org.uk by this Friday, 19 December 2014. Good luck!

Kennel Club Dog & Bone

The Kennel Club and Petlog's phone numbers have changed in order to ensure best value for money for customers. The phone number changes, which are effective from today (20th October), will see the Kennel Club switch to geographical numbers from the existing non-geographical numbers starting with 0844 or 0870.

The change will mean that all customers will only be charged the standard rate for calls, regardless of whether they call from a landline or a mobile. This is different to the current non-geographical numbers, which are charged at a standard rate by the Kennel Club, but which may be subject to additional charges from mobile network providers. The old numbers will remain temporarily in use but customers calling these will hear a recorded message advising that additional charges, beyond the standard rate, may apply and will be given the option to redial using the new numbers.

The new Kennel Club numbers are:-

Advice on Social Media Use

The Kennel Club has issued advice to people using Facebook and other social media platforms to discuss issues concerning Kennel Club-based activities such as breeding, competing with and judging dogs.

The KC is made aware, on a regular basis, of conversations held on public internet forums which sometimes include disparaging comments on dogs bred, one-sided accounts of private disputes, criticism of judging from exhibitors and other judges and, in extreme cases. threats made against individuals. It is unable to directly intervene in the majority of such cases and has issued the following guidance which is intended to provide advice to people who have been the subject of such allegations and criticism, those who have been involved in such discussions, and also to give direction on when the Kennel Club can and cannot intervene.

To those conversing on social media
This is addressed to those who think that careless, uninhibited and ill-considered comment and criticism aimed at judges, dogs and exhibitors on Facebook and other forums is acceptable and that it's impact will not offend, hurt or deeply distress, alongside damaging people's reputations.

Freedom of expression and opinion is, of course, a right of all – but that should be in the context of normal and civil behaviour. In other words, if you have something worthwhile to say, then it should be said in a spirit of constructive criticism and not in an offensive manner.

Judges should take great care in joining in such conversations since it is not acceptable for judges to criticise fellow judges' decisions in a disparaging way. Judges should keep a distance from contentious issues and maintain an independent and private view. This is a matter of perception, public confidence and general respect for those involved in any breed at a senior level. Judges should certainly not give indications about preferences and intentions on placing for a forthcoming appointment. 

Anyone judging at Kennel Club licensed events is warned that in certain circumstances the Kennel Club will refer inappropriate content to the Judges Sub-Committee for a review of status and future appointments.

To those reading social media content...
Anyone who finds him or herself targeted or the subject of such conversations is advised to ignore such material and not to read, respond or engage in the conversation. The law is intended to offer protection from the more extreme material. Try to put the matter into perspective. Everyone's reality is subjective and most of the material is a matter of opinion, on occasions an expression of anger, and is often not based on verified fact. Rude, spiteful and ill-informed comments say more about those writing them than about those who they seek to criticise.

In extreme cases of direct threat or harassment, then the police should be contacted.

The Crown Prosecution Service recently issued guidelines on prosecuting cases involving communications sent by social media and these can be found at their web site. These guidelines take the approach that there must be something more than 'the expression of unpopular opinion about serious or trivial matters, banter or humour even if distasteful to some or painful to those subjected to it' before intervention is possible.

The Kennel Club has to apply a similar approach and policy and is, therefore, unable to intervene in the majority of cases.

It remains our advice that it is better not to read, engage or respond to this sort of material. Sometimes it is better to allow those who choose to air views on these channels the freedom to do so, even if they do not do so in an adult and mature fashion. Those who wish to read such postings should treat such content - particularly if critical - with caution and not make any judgment or assume the truth or foundation on the basis of what is being written. Social media content should generally be treated as gossip and not a validated and reliable source of information.

Ultimately if you feel you have to join in, be informed and be polite. If you have to read the content, do not assume what is said is true and, if you are the subject of gossip or rumour, then treat it for what it is. And remember that the most effective and practical way to deal with offending material is not to join in or respond.

A few general guidelines that all social media users should follow are included below:-

You are responsible for what you post since it is a public medium.

• Maintain privacy: Do not post confidential information. Do not discuss a situation involving named or pictured individuals without their permission.

• Does it pass the publicity test? If the content of your message would not be acceptable for face to face conversation, over the phone or in any other medium, then it is not acceptable for a social networking site.

• Think before you post: If you feel angry or passionate about a subject, it is wise to delay posting until you are calm and clear headed. There is no such thing as a ‘private' social media site, even if you delete a post.

• Be aware of liability: You are responsible for what you post on your own site and on the sites of others. Individual bloggers could be held liable for commentary deemed to be libellous, obscene or which infringes copyright.

What the Kennel Club can and cannot do...
The Kennel Club's jurisdiction lies primarily with the enforcement of it's Regulations and issues arising out of registrations and incidents at licensed events. It does not have any remit or authority to censor material on the internet or to censure those involved and is, therefore, unable to intervene directly in the majority of cases.

However, there are ways to deal with the extreme versions of offending material online, including complaints for defamation or harassment or sending malicious correspondence. These are criminal or civil offences and forum moderators are usually (or should be) quick to respond and remove content that has no place being published. Extreme cases of threat or bullying should be reported to the legal authorities and to the Kennel Club for consideration and advice.

2014 AGM Votes

Kennel Club Assured Breeders will receive a discount on the cost of registering their puppies in appreciation of their loyalty for a scheme that promotes and encourages responsible breeding and puppy buying. The Members of the Kennel Club voted for a decrease in the fees for Kennel Club Assured Breeders, from £15 to £14, at the Annual General Meeting held today (14 May 2014).

The approved motion also proposed that there will be a £1 increase in the fee to register puppies outside of the Assured Breeder Scheme from £15 to £16, to cover the increased costs in postage and administration.

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, said, 'The Kennel Club Assured Breeder Scheme is central to the Kennel Club's objective of improving the standard of breeding and helping puppy buyers to more easily identify and find those breeders.

'We thank members of the scheme for their continued loyalty and support and the decrease in the cost of registering a puppy is just one of the many incentives that we offer them. We hope that more and more responsible breeders will unite under the scheme's banner.'

The Members of the Kennel Club voted for the reinstatement of the Kennel Gazette, which was replaced by the Kennel Club Journal at the beginning of the year. The General Committee will discuss the future direction of a revived Kennel Gazette at it next meeting.

The Members approved a decision to amend the fees for heelwork to music show licences, since the discipline was granted listed status in April 2014, so that the fees are in line with other listed status shows for agility and rally. A licence for a Premier Heelwork to Music show will cost £45, whilst licences for Open shows will cost £35 for registered societies and £60 for listed status organisations.

Noodle is Westminster Dog of the Year
BUT not an Agility Dog!

There was a worthy winner in Westminster as Noodle, an 11 month old Cocker Spaniel/Poodle cross, belonging to Alan Duncan MP for Rutland and Melton, triumphed in the 21st annual Westminster Dog of the Year competition. .

The competition, organised by the Kennel Club and Dogs Trust, took place on Thursday 10 October 2013, in Victoria Tower Gardens, Westminster. Noodle showed dogged determination as she battled it out to defeat 13 paw-litical opponents to be crowned Westminster Dog of the Year.

The MPs entering the competition campaigned hard, canvassing for votes from the public before meeting the expert judges to boast about their dog's heroic deeds and acts of devotion. For the first time, the competition had a winner decided solely from this fought for public vote which was Brodie, an Irish Wheaten Terrier owned by MP for Falkirk, Eric Joyce.

MP, Alan Duncan, said of his Westminster Dog of the Year champion: 'I am absolutely thrilled to bits to have won Westminster Dog of the Year. Noodle is a playful and well behaved dog which caught the judges eye and I am very proud of her. I really like this competition as it highlights the importance of responsible dog ownership.'

The judging panel - Clarissa Baldwin, CEO of Dogs Trust, Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, and MP Charlie Elphicke, owner of 2012's winning dog Star, spent the morning with dogs from different political persuasions and ambitions.

Commenting on the reasons Noodle was selected as the 2013 Westminster Dog of the Year, Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary says: 'Again this year we have seen lots of worthy dogs compete for this title and the bond each MP has with their dog is uniquely special. It was a difficult decision to make but Noodle and Alan struck a chord with us all and are clearly popular with their constituents too. Well done to Noodle, you truly deserve the title of Westminster Dog of the Year.'

Clarissa Baldwin, CEO of Dogs Trust continued: 'It is fantastic to see so many wonderful dogs in attendance with their devoted owners. It seems to get harder every year to pick the winner. I loved Alan's answer to the question, what Noodle would do if she were Prime Minister? His answer was that she would allow a dog to be a winner of the Nobel Peace Prize.'

Leading the opposition in second place was Harry, a Fox Terrier owned by MP for Dewsbury, Simon Reevell, with third place awarded to Cholmeley, a Labrador owned by MP for Enfield Southgate, David Burrowes.

The Kennel Club Launches New Agility Newsletter

The Kennel Club is to introduce an online agility newsletter to be called The Scribe which will be issued quarterly via email to anyone who has registered agility as an interest on their Kennel Club website profile page.

The newsletter is designed with the aim of providing the latest information about the sport, highlighting forthcoming Kennel Club agility events and answering frequently asked questions whilst presenting the fun side of agility. The Scribe will include all new regulation changes as they happen, alongside helpful explanations of some of the more complicated rules and regulations for the benefit of competitors.

The first issue will highlight some of the exciting agility action taking place this summer. There will be an exclusive interview with Team GB Manager, Mark Laker, as well as information about the Kennel Club International Agility Festival taking place this August at Rockingham Castle, Leicestershire. There will also be reminders from the Activities Sub-Committee and clarification of how the Agility Liaison Council makes decisions.

The Kennel Club wants to encourage those involved in agility to let us know what they would like to see featured in future editions. Suggestions should be emailed to cat@thekennelclub.org.uk.

To make sure you don't miss out on receiving future editions, create your online profile today via https://secure.thekennelclub.org.uk/cgi-bin/register.cgi?page=0 and register agility as an interest.

Fire Hazards at Shows

The Kennel Club would like to remind show organisers who use grass areas for parking, to check their fire risk assessments.

Under normal running conditions, any motor vehicle exhaust can become hot enough to start a fire in very dry grass and show organisers should ensure that their risk assessments fully cover this potential hazard.

Steps that may be taken to lower the risk of grass fires include:

• If possible, cut grass prior to the event
• Restrict driving to where grass is short
• Have fire fighting equipment available
• Ensure that an effective communication plan is in place should an incident occur.

Distance Handling in Agility

The Kennel Club has recently considered the issue of distance handling in agility as a result of having received requests for a competition to be scheduled at Crufts specifically for competitors who have difficulty in running an agility course.

In response to the requests, the Crufts Committee has considered this issue accordingly. However, the Committee agreed that as it is permissible for any competitor who has difficulty in running the course to handle from a distance in any of the existing agility competitions, a separate event was not required at this time.

YKC Camp for Children & their Four Legged Friends

Dog-loving children and their four legged best friends are coming to Melton Mowbray for a week of tail wagging action at the Young Kennel Club (YKC) Summer Camp.

More than 80 children, aged from 6 - 15 years old, will be training with their dogs in handling, agility, flyball, the Good Citizen Dog Training Scheme and heelwork to music, made famous by Britain's Got Talent winners Ashleigh and Pudsey. Brooksby College will be transformed for a week as the young dog lovers take over, having fun whilst learning skills with their dogs and keeping them both healthy and active.

Victoria Gleave from Leicester is returning to the YKC Summer Camp after a successful experience last year. Victoria and her dog Tommy, who has his own blog, are already quite experienced in agility and will be using their time at camp to take lessons from the experts and to perfect their skills.

Victoria said: 'I love my dog Tommy - he is very funny and great at agility. I am really looking forward to the agility and Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme training, but also to seeing all of my friends and take part in all of the evening activities.'

Camp is a great way for children to keep active, have fun, make new friends and take part in a wide range of dog training and social events. The programme is packed with a range of activities and evening entertainment that will keep youngsters busy from morning till night. A typical day at the camp includes four one-hour training sessions for the children and their dogs and a selection of team time activities, with some days also including a workshop or masterclass from dog experts. Evening activities include games nights, discos, talent shows and many outdoor events.

Gerald King, Chairman of the Young Kennel Club said, 'The annual camp is an important event in the development of young people. Not only is it run by senior YKC members as part of their development, it encourages attendees to try different canine activities. The key is to enable everyone to work as a team and develop their skills.'

Parents, trainers and members return year after year for a summer holiday with a difference and agree that nothing can match the enthusiasm and innovation of YKC camp.

This year's camp is taking place from 27 July to 2 August at Brooksby College, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire. All places at YKC Summer Camp are booked but if you are interested in attending one of the popular YKC Activity Weekends visit www.ykc.org.uk and find out about becoming a member.

Kennel Club Agility Survey

The Kennel Club Activities Health and Welfare Sub Group has recently developed and designed a questionnaire with the aim to investigate the occurrence, frequency and types of injury which occur in dogs that take part in Agility. They are interested in hearing from dog owners who take part in agility events, at any level, to fill out a questionnaire for all dogs owned or handled by them

The questionnaire is not restricted to dogs taking part in Kennel Club licensed events; owners / handlers who participate in 'unaffiliated' events or events run under regulations set by other bodies running Agility competitions are also encouraged to participate in the survey.

If you wish to fill in a survey or know anyone who would be interested in this please go to the following link http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/agility

This questionnaire is also available in a paper copy. Please note that all questionnaires need to be returned no later than the 10th of May 2013.

If you have any further questions or wish to discuss this further please contact: James Oxley at James.Oxley@thekennelclub.org.uk or ring 0844 463 3980 ext. 207

Code of Conduct Regulations 

Following the introduction of the Code of Conduct for Licensed Events in August 2011, the Kennel Club has announced that it is to support the code with a formal regulation.

This new regulation is being introduced in order to be able to enforce the code of conduct more effectively and address complaints received about conduct at licensed events. 

It is envisaged that the conduct regulation will be an effective measure to use for objections which require some attention and sanction, but which fall short of requiring the Rule A11 (formerly known as A42) inquiry and process.

Therefore, the Kennel Club has introduced a Code of Conduct Regulation for all disciplines and has amended the relevant Penalty Regulations accordingly. The new regulations, which are effective immediately, are as follows:

Code of Conduct Regulation

F3, G3, H2, I3, L3, R3

Those taking part in Kennel Club licensed/approved events are expected to maintain and abide by the highest standards, in accordance with Kennel Club Rules and Regulations and appropriate Codes of Conduct as published from time to time.

Field Trial Regulation J9b.(13) remains as previously published.

Penalty Regulation

From

Fines.

The General Committee shall have power to fine any person for breaches of Kennel Club regulations subject to a right of appeal notice of intention of which must be lodged within 14 days from the date on which the decision is given and subject to the prescribed appeals process as shall be determined by the General Committee from time to time. In the event of such fines not being paid within the time stipulated by the General Committee, that person may, at the discretion of the General Committee, be dealt with as if a complaint under Kennel Cub Rule A11 has been lodged and proved to the satisfaction of the General Committee.

To

F(1)34 , G39, H28, I18, J15, L28, R11

Penalties
The General Committee shall have power to impose any of the following penalties upon any person for any breach of Kennel Club Regulations subject to a right of appeal, notice of intention of which must be lodged within 14 days from the date on which the decision is given and subject to the prescribed appeals process as shall be determined by the General Committee from time to time.

1. Warn

2. Censure/Reprimand

3. Apology directive (Conduct Regulation or the Control of Dog Regulation)

4. Fine

5. Award disqualified

6. A dog's registration record may be marked ‘incident recorded'

7. A dog's registration record may be endorsed ‘not eligible for entry in any event held under Kennel Club Rules and Regulations, nor any unlicensed event recognised by the Kennel Club.'

In the event of any fine not being paid, or non compliance with any apology directive issued within the time stipulated by the General Committee, then that person may, at the discretion of the General Committee, be dealt with as if a complaint under Kennel Club Rule A11 had been lodged and proved to the satisfaction of the General Committee.

Agility Regulations Booklet 2013 Amendment

The Kennel Club would like to point out that in the recently published Agility regulation booklet, the definition for the Grade 5 (Intermediate) class should read as follows:-

Regulation H(1)(A).8.e:

Grade 5 (Intermediate)
Open to dogs which have gained a first place in an Agility Class or three first places in Jumping Classes at Grade 4 at Kennel Club licensed Agility Shows and are not eligible for Grade 3, 4, 6 or 7.

The free downloadable copy on the Kennel Club website has been amended and can be found at www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/2901. An errata will be included in all printed versions, which are available as a handy A5 printed booklet for just £1.50 from the Kennel Club online shop.

Judging Contracts Over Email

Following a number of queries on the issue, the Kennel Club has confirmed that it is permissible to send judging contracts via email across all Kennel Club licenced events, including agility shows and trials.

In terms of the signatures required to offer the invitation and in accepting the appointment, the following methods are accepted:-

• Scanned manuscript signatures

• The judge's indication of acceptance by including ‘I accept the terms of the contract' or ‘I am able to judge at your show and I accept the terms of the contract' (or something similar) and a typewritten name or initials in an email.

Breed Shows Only
In respect of breed shows, the Kennel Club would remind clubs and societies that, when issuing judging contracts, it is recommended that they stipulate the number of classes to be judged, and include an allotted space for the judge to confirm any breed club judges' list they are included on and their position on it e.g. A3, B, C etc. It is hoped that in doing so it will prevent judges carrying out appointments which they are ineligible to accept.

As outlined in Regulation F(1)21 - For Open shows and non CC breeds at Championship shows scheduling more than three breed classes (five classes for Stud Book Band E breeds), the selected judge must, when appointed by the club/society, either:

1. Have previously been approved to award Challenge Certificates to the relevant breed, and not have been declared ineligible to do so by the time of carrying out the appointment, or

2. Be included on a Breed Council/Club B Judges list or above.

Requirements for judges resident in Northern Ireland or overseas are detailed further in this regulation.

Agility Regulation Amendments from 2013

A number of changes have been made to the agility regulations with effect from 1st January 2013, including Listed Status for agility and the introduction of Premier Shows.

To assist competitors and show organisers with these changes, a new regulations booklet including all updated agility and flyball regulations will be issued on 2nd January 2013. These cost just £1.50 for a handy A5 printed booklet and are available from the Kennel Club shop. A downloadable copy will be available from www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/2901.

In addition to the changes previously announced, the Kennel Club has also extended the current submission deadline for societies nominating potential first time Championship agility judges to 18 months, from 1st January 2013. This will ensure there is a longer timeframe to arrange suitable assessments and to provide for second assessments if necessary. Societies can apply earlier than this if they wish, but must now apply at least 18 months in advance of the show.

The timeframe for previously approved Championship agility judges remains at nine months.

Regulation H18.a (Approval of Judges)

FROM
All first time appointments must be applied for a minimum of twelve months before the day of the Show on the form provided. (Deletion underlined)

TO
All first time appointments must be applied for a minimum of 18 months before the day of the Show on the form provided.(Amendment underlined)

There has been some confusion regarding whether a judge could officiate over 450 total runs or 450 different dogs. With effect from 1^st January 2013, Regulation H(1)9.e. has been amended to clarify this.

FROM
The maximum number of dogs a person may judge on one day is 450…(Deletions underlined)

TO
The maximum number of individual runs a person shall judge on one day is 450, excluding unforeseen eventualities such as re-runs…(Amendments underlined)

First Listed Status Agility Club Confirmed

Clevedon Agility Show Society is the first club to achieve 'Listed Status' for agility. Father and daughter, Mike and Claire Bacon are now able to hold licensed KC Agility shows as part of the new Kennel Club Listed Status initiative.

With a combined experience of over 45 years working as dog training instructors, Mike and Claire are both passionate about agility. Mike is an Agility Club Approved instructor (ACAI) and a member of the Kennel Club Accredited Instructor Scheme (KCAI) Claire specialises in agility competition, training, competing at Grade 7 and Championship agility level.

Mike said: 'We are very excited about being the first Listed Status agility society for agility shows. It will allow us to run limited and open agility shows under the Kennel Club umbrella but not have the full committee of a registered club, which means we can make quick decisions and organise shows in a short timeframe.

'Our first show is a limited show for Large dogs on 16 March at Hand Equestrian Centre - a top class venue. Under the new rules we can have three standard classes so all grades will have at least one standard class and two special classes. While it will be a proper show in its own right, we also see it as a trial run for more shows including classes for all sizes and standards of dog.

'We have agreed in principle with Hand Equestrian Centre to run a winter series in 2013/14 and are working with them on the details. We are very pleased to be able to offer agility enthusiasts in the south west more opportunities to compete at Kennel Club shows and it would not have been possible without the Kennel Club's new initiative.'

Caroline Kisko, Communications Director at the Kennel Club, commented: 'The Listed Status initiative was set up to encourage more people to get involved in agility, which is already a hugely popular dog sport. Opening up the possibility for more organisations to run agility competitions will give all independent organisers the opportunity to run Kennel Club licensed events under their own name and the ability to offer dog owners the reassurance of Kennel Club quality and standards. Congratulations to Clevedon Agility Show Society on becoming the first agility club to be registered.'

Organisations that want to hold agility shows can apply for the new Listed Status with the Kennel Club. Once approved, Listed Status organisations will be able to run a range of agility events including new categories to suit those who prefer a more relaxed and less competitive type of show.

Organisations which achieve Listed Status will also be able to apply to run teams under their own name in team competitions qualifying for Crufts and have the details of their training nights, events and other activities listed on the Kennel Club's online Find A Dog Club service which attracts over 60,000 hits a month.

To find out more about Listed Status please contact cat@thekennelclub.org.uk or go to the Kennel Club website for full details - www.thekennelclub.org.uk/agility.

Lesley Olden Replaces Dave Jolly on ALC

It is with regret that Dave Jolly has had to step down from the Agility Liaison Council as he will be moving out of the South & South West council area which he represents in the near future. As a result of his resignation, the position will pass to Lesley Olden who received the next highest number of votes in the recent election.

Lesley has been on the Council for many years and will now continue for the next term of office. She can be contact at Birchwood House Cottage, Sherfield English, Nr Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 6FF. Tel: 01794 323037 Email: lesleysolden@btinternet.com

Agility Liaison Council Reps Announced

At its recent meetings, the Kennel Club General Committee approved the following Agility Liaison Council representatives for the new term of office, running from January 2013 until December 2015.

Scotland

• Olwyn McShane, 19 Hilton Court, Saltcoats, North Ayrshire KA21 6HX. Tel. 01294 463033 Email: olwynmcshane@btinternet.com

Northern Ireland

• Ronnie McAleese, 27 Dermott Walk, Comber, Newtownards, County Down BT23 5NU. Tel. 028 9052 7114

Wales

• Martin Cavill, 15 Gerbera Drive, Rogerstone, Newport NP10 9JD. Tel. 07866 438719 Email: martin.cavill@yahoo.co.uk

North West

• Pauline Baltes, 45 Well Orchard, Bamber Bridge, Preston, Lancs. PR5 8HJ. Tel. 01772 494852 / 07803 261808  E-mail: pabq@blueyonder.co.uk
• Mike Hallam, Hollins View, Leek Road, Bosley, Macclesfield, Ches. SK11 0PP. Tel. 01260 223190/07711058910  E-mail: m.hallam@btconnect.com

North East

• Ian Mallabar, The Granary, Spen Lane, Rowlands Gill, NE39 2BZ. Tel. 01207 544406  E-mail: ian.mallabar@btinternet.com
• Jen Lewis, 22 Dick's Garth Road, Menston, Ilkley LS29 6HF

Midlands

• Jackie Gardner, 17 Middlesmoor, Wilnecote, Tamworth, B77 4PL. Tel. 07787 686806 Email: jackiegagility@hotmail.com
• Yvonne Croxford, The Shade Cottage, Coventry Road, Wigston Parva, Hinckley, Leics. LE10 3AP. Tel. 01455 220245 Email: MeisterMansion@aol.com

South East & East Anglia

• Simon Chandler, 16 Hawth Hill, Seaford, East Sussex, BN25 2RW. Tel. 07772 670086  E-mail: sjabbaman@aol.com
• John Gilbert, Keba Cottage, 100 Bedford Road, Barton-le-Clay, Beds, MK45 4LR. Tel. 01582 882366  E-mail: faldoagility@aol.com

South & South Wet

• Dave Jolly, 1 Mare Lane, Beenhams Heath, Shurlock Row, Berks, RG10 0QH. Tel. 01189 320619 Email: davejolly@btconnect.com
• Chris Huckle, Kingswold, Glenmore, Roborough, Devon, EX19 8TE. Tel.01769 560190 Email: Chris.Huckle@kingswold.myzen.co.uk

• Lesley Olden, Birchwood House Cottage, Sherfield English, Nr Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 6FF. Tel: 01794 323037 Email: lesleysolden@btinternet.com

Specialist Seminars for Agility Handlers

The Kennel Club is offering agility people the opportunity to attend one, two or three different Kennel Club seminars, being held in November at the Kennel Club Building at Stoneleigh, Warwickshire. The seminars will cover Agility Show Management, Sports Coaching for Agility Handlers & Instructors, and Canine Sport Science. The seminars are being held between Friday, 2 November to Sunday, 4 November 2012 and are set to be interesting and informative days for those involved in a variety of canine disciplines.

1. The Agility Show Management seminar, on Friday, 2 November, is aimed at show secretaries, show managers and committees of societies that hold shows - or that may be planning to do so - as well as the organisers of shows within the new ‘listed status' category. It covers the Regulations and Kennel Club requirements and documentation, planning and timetables, practical advice and tips, health and safety planning and risk reduction, venue selection, handling and reporting of incidents, and much more.

The seminar includes an Open Forum and Q & A session, and provides a rare opportunity to discuss practical experiences and solutions with fellow show organisers. The guest speakers on the day include experienced organisers of shows, together with a Kennel Club Field Officer and a health and safety consultant.

2. The Sports Coaching for Agility Handlers & Instructors Seminar on Saturday, 3 November offers a unique opportunity for agility handlers, trainers and club instructors to hear how some of our most successful trainers and dog handlers have been using sports science & coaching techniques to improve their own performance and that of their clients.

The topics and guest speakers include Planning and Preparing for Significant Agility Events with Anthony Clarke; Planning Performance Training with Gary Doyle; Psychological Training: Developing a Mind to Win with Kathrine McAleese; and Movement Skills for Agility Handlers with Alan Pearson of SAQ International.

3. Physical and Emotional Stress in the Working Dog is the third and final seminar on Sunday, 4 November and is the sixth in the Kennel Club's popular series of Canine Sports Science seminars. It will be a full day seminar this year.

Led by professionals from the world of canine health, treatment, training and nutrition, Canine Sports Science seminars aim to help handlers, instructors and trainers to get the best performance from their dogs, with an emphasis on avoiding injuries and taking a holistic approach to the care of canine athletes.

This year's seminar features sessions on Pain and Arthritis in the Working Dog with David Prydie; Myotherapy for Physical/ Emotional Stress with Julia Robertson; Working Sled Dogs – Raising and Training ‘Hard Driving' Siberian Huskieswith Simon Luxmoore; Recognising and Understanding Emotional Stress with Kim Hunt; and Are ‘Performance Dog Stress' and ‘Queuing' Related? with Stephanie Fleig, Dr Jaime Martin and Anya Westland. The presentations will be followed by an Open Forum and Q&A session.

The cost of attending the Agility Show Management seminar is £25 per delegate, and the fee for the Agility Sports Coaching and the Canine Sports Science seminars is £80 per person (all including VAT). This fee includes all refreshments, a buffet lunch, a delegate's pack and presentation handouts. For those attending both the Sports Coaching for Agility Handlers and the Canine Sports Science seminars, a reduced fee of £140 is available. The student cost is £60 including VAT - students must be studying a relevant subject and proof will be required with the ticket application. The cost for Kennel Club members, associates, affiliates and KCAI members is £72 including VAT, or a 10% discount on both seminars. Attendance certificates (suitable for KCAI accreditation) will be given to all attendees.

Each seminar will run from 8:30am – 5pm.

For more information and to download an application form, please visit the Kennel Club website www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/4359 or contact Zoe Tharmasingam at the Kennel Club, 1-5 Clarges Street, London, W1J 8AB, or phone tel. 0844 463 3980 (Ext 313. Alternatively, Zoe can be reached at email: zoe.t@thekennelclub.org.uk.

Guidance on Club Property

The Kennel Club continues to receive an increasing number of reports from registered clubs about difficulties in retrieving club property from former officers. This can include financial and membership records, show entries, minute books, archived correspondence, rescue records, trophies, show equipment and catering supplies, and even access facilities for club website and domain name registration.

It is expected that immediately a person ceases to hold any office within a club, arrangements should be made to return all property to an existing club official. The property of a club is collectively owned by the club membership and any request to return such property must be acceded to without delay. The Committee of a club has a responsibility to its members to ensure that all club assets, including property and information, is property managed. Sadly, failure to return property can be as a result of an ongoing dispute and in some cases a club can be ‘held to ransom' by the retention of information, property, documentation and so on, which should by rights have been returned. The Kennel Club will always maintain that property being retained by former officials must be returned notwithstanding any dispute they may have with the club.

There are steps that clubs can take to safeguard its property and to reduce the likelihood of encountering such problems when officials change. Ideally, an inventory should be drawn up which includes all property, documentation and information which is being held by individuals on behalf of the club.

The first reaction to the thought of an inventory of club property may be that there is nothing worth listing. However, the replacement value of trophies, computers, office equipment, furniture, flags, tentage, catering equipment and training equipment is likely to be substantial. Furthermore, a loss of information such as financial and membership data can have serious consequences for a club.

Hence the need first of all to draw up a proper register of society property and more importantly, to note where it is held and to update it at least once a year and whenever any items are transferred between officials. When committee members change, the property should be formally handed over to new members and the inventory checked and countersigned in effect. Societies may choose to appoint a committee member to take responsibility for monitoring the existence, condition and whereabouts of society property. This system will also be important for insurance purposes.

The Kennel Club will do what it can to assist a club and will reinforce and support any requests made by a club for the return of property in appropriate circumstances. However the Kennel Club does not have any powers to secure the return of property and documentation from former officers but any former officer may find him or herself subject to disciplinary action in the event there is unreasonable conduct and non co-operation and a failure to return club property despite requests having been made. It is important that there is continuity and a seamless transition in any change of officers and that the robust management of a club is not undermined by the departure of any officer.

Warrant Changes as Award Hits the 3000th Mark

The Kennel Club is celebrating the 8th birthday of the Kennel Club Agility Warrant scheme, which has now seen over 3,000 awards issued since its launch in 2004. This comes as the Kennel Club announced changes to the scheme that will make things easier for those who have done well in agility to apply for their Agility Warrant.

The Agility Warrant scheme rewards consistency for agility dogs and has proved to be extremely popular with those who take part in agility, the fastest growing dog sport. 

The Agility Warrant is offered on three levels - Bronze, Silver and Gold - and is based on a points system, whereby points are accrued by the registered owner of a dog which has obtained the required number of points in standard agility and jumping classes at Championship and Open Shows.

From July 16th, there will no longer be a requirement to submit the dog's Agility record book or a photocopy of the record book in order to apply for an Agility Warrant, and an application form has been designed to make the application process more streamlined. In future, if a record book or photocopy of a record book is submitted to the Kennel Club, it will be returned to the registered owner with the necessary application form to complete.

Agility Warrant application forms can be downloaded from the Kennel Club website www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/2853 or by contacting the Services Team on cat@thekennelclub.org.uk or tel. 0844 463 3980 ext. 269 or 226.

KC Announces Changes to Agility Progression

The Kennel Club has announced changes to the Agility Regulations, defining eligibility to progress to a higher grade, with effect from 1 January 2013.

The changes will require dogs and handlers to earn more points than at present – 100 points rather than 75 points – to progress on points from one grade to the next. The rule changes will also remove the ability to progress on points into Grade 5. In addition, from next year dogs will require three wins in Grade 5 (including one win in an agility rather than a jumping class) in order to progress to Grade 6.

The changes follow extensive consultation among the agility community by elected representatives on the Kennel Club Agility Liaison Council, and are based on proposals put forward by an Agility Council working party set up to review the agility grading structure. The principal aims of the changes are to distribute numbers of competitors more evenly between the grades, to improve standards of competition, to avoid excessively easy progression into the highest grades and, ultimately, to protect the quality of the Championship Agility Certificate.

Further suggestions put forward by the working party for changes to eligibility for Grade 7 and Championship classes have not been implemented at present, but will be kept under consideration as part of a continuing review of the whole grading structure.

The amendments to the Agility Regulations which have been approved by the General Committee are detailed below:

Amendments to the Agility Regulations ‘H' with effect from 1 January 2013.

H(1)(A)7 Progression

FROM: Progression from each Grade will require one Agility win or three Jumping wins at that grade, except that progression from Grade 6 will require 4 wins at Grade 6, two of which must be agility classes. Results from Combined Classes will only count towards progression from the dog's current grade.

TO: Progression from each Grade will require one Agility win or three Jumping wins at that grade, except that progression from Grade 5 will require 3 wins at Grade 5, one of which must be an agility class. Progression from Grade 6 will require 4 wins at Grade 6, two of which must be agility classes. Results from Combined Classes will only count towards progression from the dog's current grade.(Amendment underlined)

H(1)(A)8 Points Progression

FROM: At the handler's discretion a dog may progress up to Grade 5 by winning 75 points at each grade, using the Agility Warrant points scheme, Regulation K3.c refers, except that there is no requirement for a minimum number of agility points. If this method of progression is selected, the handler must ensure the Show Secretary signs the dog's Agility Record Book at the first show entered at the higher grade. There is no time limit on this progression, however, once a dog has progressed, it cannot return to a previous grade.

TO: At the handler's discretion a dog may progress up to Grade 4 by winning 100 points at each grade, using the Agility Warrant points scheme, Regulation K3.c refers, except that there is no requirement for a minimum number of agility points. If this method of progression is selected, the handler must ensure the Show Secretary signs the dog's Agility Record Book at the first show entered at the higher grade. There is no time limit on this progression, however, once a dog has progressed, it cannot return to a previous grade. (Amendment underlined)

H(1)(A)9.f. Grade 6 (Senior)

FROM: Open to dogs which have gained a first place in an Agility Class or three first places in Jumping Classes at Grade 5 at Kennel Club licensed Agility Shows and are not eligible for Grade 3, 4, 5 or 7.

TO: Open to dogs which have gained a minimum of 3 first places at Grade 5 at Kennel Club licensed Agility Shows, 1 first place must be gained in an Agility (not Jumping) Class, and are not eligible for Grade 3, 4, 5 or 7.(Amendments underlined)

Measuring Course Times

As part of the recent review into the grading structure and method of progression in agility, the Agility Liaison Council will be discussing the application of course times at its next meeting.

In the meantime, all judges are encouraged to calculate course times using the guidance matrix which is listed below and available on the Kennel Club website, at www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/605.

The course time is set by the judge and consideration should be given to weather and ground conditions.

 Guideline (metres per second)

 Course length / metres per second = course time

It is recommended that course times are given to the nearest whole second. As an example, if a course is 146 metres long and you are judging a Grade 3 Jumping Class and decide to set your speed at 3.5 metres per second the calculation would be: 146 / 3.5 = 41.714. Therefore, your course time would be 42 seconds

The course should be measured using a measuring wheel along the dog's anticipated optimum path.

It is usual for a dog to be allowed to continue once it has been eliminated, but it is permissible, and sometimes necessary, for the handler to be asked to leave the ring once the course time has been reached, and this should be stated during briefing.

KC Reminder on Dogs with Unreliable Temperament

Following a number of incident reports received, the Kennel Club would like to remind competitors, judges and show management in agility, that dogs of unsound temperament, or which show undue aggression to persons or other dogs, should not take part in agility competitions under any circumstances.

The Agility Regulations require handlers to keep their dogs under control at all times, and specifically require dogs which are ‘of such temperament or so much out of hand as to be a danger to the safety of any person or other animal' to be immediately withdrawn from competition and removed from an agility show.

Judges are reminded that they should not accommodate any requests from competitors whose dogs are of an unsteady temperament for alternative running order times, such as during the lunch hour or towards the end of a class. The obligation rests with the owner/handler to ensure that a dog remains under control at all times and in all parts of a show ground.

Kennel Club Licensed Cancellation Policy

The British weather is again being unkind to dog lovers this year with more shows needing to be cancelled due to wet weather. The Kennel Club would like to remind show organisers of its policy in relation to Obedience, Agility, Working Trials, Heelwork to Music and Bloodhound Trials. None of these events can be postponed should the original event not be able to be held due to unforeseen circumstances. The event must be cancelled. If the society wishes to reschedule the show/trial, this can be done by applying for a new licence, issuing a new schedule etc. and entries from the original date may not be carried forward.

This policy should safeguard competitors as they will not be in a position of losing entry fees if a show/trial was postponed to a date on which they were unable to attend. With the increasing popularity of all canine activities, it has become harder and harder to find a suitable date to reschedule a show that doesn't clash with another show and where a suitable venue was available. 

The full cancellation policy for Agility, Obedience, Heelwork to Music, Bloodhound Trials and Working Trials is listed below:-

With the increasing frequency of show/trial cancellations due to inclement weather, it would be advisable for all clubs to state in their schedule their policy in the eventuality of the show/trial having to be cancelled for reasons beyond their control. 

1.    All societies must include their refund policy within the schedule – 'No refunds will be given' is not acceptable, and a suggested wording is:-

'In the event that the show/trial is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances, the society will refund fees, less reasonably incurred expenses, on receipt of a stamped, addressed envelope submitted within one month of the show/trial date.'

2.     When booking services or venues, clubs should establish what the cancellation policy is for any orders placed or venue bookings made. As a priority, clubs should endeavour to negotiate at an early stage a favourable deal on all services and venues which could be cancelled for reasons beyond their control. This would be to avoid paying the full cost for services/venues contracted but not used. A hire contract should be in writing and include details of actions for both sides' costs upon cancellation of the event.

3.     Clubs should try to avoid purchasing non-reusable products too early e.g. catering items and try to source these items as much as possible from companies that have a full credit returns policy.

4.     Clubs should consider the type of insurance they have for their event and what impact this would have on their refund policy.

5. In the event of a show/trial being cancelled, it is of paramount importance that competitors/creditors of the event are updated as soon as possible and on a continued regular basis about the financial implications that affect them and how to apply for a refund. Initial information should be available no later than seven days after the decision to cancel the show is made.
    
6. In the event of a cancellation, a full set of the licensing club's detailed accounts for the show must be submitted to the Kennel Club within three months of the decision to cancel the event, with a copy of the club's refund policy and the date that action was taken on this refund policy.
    
7. Events may not be postponed to a later date. If this course of action is desired a new licence should be obtained with a new schedule, judges' contracts, entries etc.

How to Nominate an Outstanding Agility Junior Handler for a Major Crufts Award

The Young Kennel Club (YKC) is on the look out for young people who have made a special contribution to the dog world this year, and is inviting nominations for the Shaun McAlpine Outstanding Young Person Award. The trophy is awarded annually to encourage young dog lovers to become more involved in dog activities as Shaun himself had achieved considerable success as a dog handler.

If you know a YKC member who tirelessly trains their dog to the highest standard, or who gives up their free time for the benefit of dogs, make sure you put them forward for the award. Finalists will be invited to Crufts 2012 where their dedication and hard work will be celebrated and the overall winner will be chosen.

The award is the highest level of achievement for young dog lovers. For over 20 years, Ed and Cindy McAlpine have presented the Shaun McAlpine Trophy and awards at Crufts in memory of their son Shaun who was tragically killed in a road accident two weeks after his 22nd birthday in November 1984.

Anybody can nominate a YKC member for this fantastic award, including parents, trainers and teachers. Reasons to nominate can include anything and everything that you think warrants a young person to be applauded for their effort in upholding the aims of the YKC and ensuring all dogs live healthy, happy lives. Here are just a few examples:

• Taking part in fundraising or raising awareness for dog charities

• Helping to organise a dog activity

• Helping others (training, stewarding, mentoring)

• Success in competitions and training

• Volunteering (at dog training clubs, stewarding, shows)

Last years winner was 17 year old Alice Moodie from Wem in Shropshire. She started in dog agility in 2000 when she ran a Jack Russell Terrier called Bertie. Alice has since trained and run a number of dogs with differing abilities and has qualified to compete at Crufts each year since. Alice has taken on the role of trainer and has qualified to judge, and she does voluntary work at a local animal refuge. Alice also came 2nd in the Agility Dog of the Year competition with her dog Pip at dfs Crufts 

To nominate your favourite agility junior, fill in the form, which can be found at www.ykc.org.uk, and email it to ykc@thekennelclub.org.uk or post it to Shaun McAlpine Outstanding Young Person Award, Young Kennel Club Team, The Kennel Club, 1-5 Clarges Street, Piccadilly, London W1J 8AB. Nominations close on Tuesday, 31 January 2012.

Kennel Club Agrees Property Move at Historic SGM

The Members of the Kennel Club have agreed to move from their present London headquarters, at a historic Special General Meeting which was held at the Park Lane Hotel, Piccadilly. London. The Club has agreed to move to a neighbouring property in Clarges Street, following a bid to buy its current Mayfair home, from Chelsfield Partners, as part of a wider redevelopment of the area.

At the meeting, Kennel Club Members agreed 'to empower the Trustees of the Kennel Club to negotiate the matter to a satisfactory conclusion on terms no less favourable than those presented to the meeting.'

These terms were:-

• That alternative accommodation provided must be freehold and fit for purpose and retain all functionality as 1-5 Clarges Street.

• That any move must be cost and tax neutral to the Kennel Club.

• That there must be a sufficient incentive figure for the Kennel Club to move.

• That the Kennel Club and its business must be protected during and after the full term of the development and from latent defects.

• That the project is to be delivered as scheduled, on budget, and with no material risk to the Kennel Club.

Steve Dean, Kennel Club Chairman said: 'We are very pleased that the Members have agreed to this historic move, as it will bring with it £12 million of funding which we can put back in to the world of dogs as part of our ongoing work to ensure the health and welfare of all dogs. This money will be invested wisely, and all decisions on how to utilise it will be given careful consideration to ensure that we get the maximum benefit from the great opportunity which is before us.

I would also like to assure Members and anyone else who uses the Kennel Club and its many services, that we will be working hard with our partners throughout this moving process to keep any disruption caused to an absolute minimum.'

The Kennel Club has been at its present address of 1-5 Clarges Street for over 50 years, since purchasing it in 1957, with the freehold acquired in 1964. Their new home will be within Clarges House which will be completely renovated and refurbished before the Kennel Club moves. The proposed date for the move is 2014, with more precise information to be provided nearer to the time.

Steve Dean Elected Chairman of The Kennel Club

Professor Steve Dean has been elected as the new Chairman of the Kennel Club today (June 7th), following a ballot of members of the Kennel Club General Committee. He becomes the 14th Chairman of the Kennel Club, and takes over following the recent resignation of Ronnie Irving, who had served in the post since 2002.

Professor Dean has been a Member of the Kennel Club since 1992 and has been a member of the General Committee since 2005. He has served on the Crufts and Finance & General Purposes Sub-Committees for the past two years and previously spent four years on the Disciplinary Sub Committee.

Upon his appointment, Professor Dean said: 'I am honoured to be elected as Chairman of the Kennel Club and to be given the opportunity to help improve the lives of dogs by ensuring that they live healthily and happily with responsible owners.

'I am aware of the scale of some of the challenges that we face but am excited about the opportunities that exist to help us make a real difference for dogs. I look forward to supporting and working with the millions of responsible dog breeders and owners that there are in this country, and to standing shoulder to shoulder with vets and other individuals and organisations, who are dedicated to improving the health and welfare of dogs.'

Professor Dean, who turns 60 in August, is a veterinary surgeon by profession and is currently the Senior Veterinary Surgeon at Crufts each year. He is a breeder, exhibitor and judge of Border Terriers and has been involved in the breed for 30 years. He is currently Chairman of the Southern Border Terrier Club as well as the overall breed health co-ordinator for all seven breed clubs. He is also President of Windsor Dog Show Society.

Away from the world of dogs, Professor Dean is a keen reader and gardener and is an avid supporter of rowing, treasuring his Henley Regatta medal equally to his achievements in the show ring.

At the same meeting, Mike Townsend was re-elected to the position of Vice Chairman.