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Hickory, North Carolina |
Answers! (A - F) Answers!The Australian Shepherd in a herding dog. They need to have a job to keep them from making up their own fun and games. The Aussie is best known for herding, but they also do agility, confirmation, obedience, tracking, search and rescue, and guide dogs. The Aussie can make a wonderful, loving pet. The dogs can be kept inside or out but they do need a fenced in area to play.
Most of the Aussie's health problems come from improper breed practices, which is the reason a person should know their breeder.
I would be able to help someone if they live within an hours drive from Hickory.
Basenji
An African Hound, the Basenji is sometimes called the "barkless dog." Basenjis are, however, not mute, often speaking a joyful yodel when greeting a friend. Weighing in between 20 - 26 pounds and standing 16 - 18 inches in height, the Basenji is a supercharged, mischievous housepet. It is a must for their home to include a secure, fenced yard to accommodate their high energy level. They have a very short coat of hair in a color assortment of either red/white, black/white, brindle/white or tri-colored. The Basenji is a very clean and odorless pet requiring a warm place on your sofa and in your bed.
Basenjis often live to the age of 15 and many live longer lives. Fanconi syndrome (a kidney related disease) is the most prevalent inherited disease known to this breed. There is no cure. Hip dysplasia and PRA (progressive retinal atrophy) are other genetic defects to be aware of when purchasing a Basenji. Puppy buyers should be aware that a dog may not exhibit any symptoms of inherited disease until several years old and when the family has become closely attached to their pet. Reputable breeders in the dog community regularly test their breeding stock for these potential diseases and will supply a written guarantee to puppy buyers.
The Basenji is a very independent pet often acting like a cat. They lick themselves clean and can be trained to use a litter box. Their playful antics will entertain you a lifetime. With patience and supervision, the Basenji can be a loving and loyal companion. Basic dog obedience class is highly recommended for the first time Basenji owner and their new puppy.
For more information:
Basenji Club Of America, Inc.
BRAT (Basenji Rescue And Transport, Inc.)SUZANNE HEFNER
828-324-8265 (after 6 pm)
Border Terriers
BORDER TERRIERS are quite "mutt-ly" or plain looking. They derive from England (like most terriers!) and are known to be the quietest of the Terriers. However, they are still terriers and have the instinct to kill vermin...or anything that moves! They are a wonderful companion for a family and love children. They must have a fenced yard. It is absolutely out of the question to ever allow this breed to roam free. They are easy to train and do very well in Obedience, Agility and many other events.
Because the Border Terrier breeders are very concerned about their popularity, welfare and genetics, this breed remains quite rare and expensive.
Lynn D. Looper
Granite Falls, NC
828-396-3986
Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier's origin is the highlands of Scotland. The Cairn is said to be one
of the oldest, if not the oldest of terrier breeds. Evidence is given in tapestries and books hundreds of years old depicting a rough coated little dog looking similar to today's Cairn going to earth after quarry. The progenitor of various Scottish terrier breeds,he is the embodiment of the aboriginal Highland Terrier
His original purpose was to be a working terrier, rarely a pet or companion. Hunting foxes, badgers and otters, these little dogs had to be stout of heart and hard as nails or they would not go into the rock piles or "cairns" where vermin would hide. They were prized for their fearless nature and relentless ability to hunt quarry on their own.
Today's Cairn still retains these instincts. Because of his innate hunting abilities it is best if he has a fenced yard to play in, regardless of the amount of property you may own.
Though only standing 10-11 inches at the shoulder and weighing a mere 13-15lbs., this courageous breed is best describes as "a big dog in a small package". The Cairn is not always quarrelsome with other dogs but if challenged he is a brave and adept fighter.
It was a Cairn Terrier that played "Toto" in The Wizard of Oz. What better choice than this to fight witches and flying monkeys?
Willowood Cairn Cottage
Hickory, NC
828-294-6787
Answers!There are two varieties of fox terriers, smooth and wire. It is a very old established breed originally bred for hunting vermin such as foxes, mice, and other rodents. Now they are bred mainly as pets.
The fox terrier is a very hardy breed with few health problems and long lifespan. They are very intelligent and always looking for something to get into. A fenced in yard is an absolute necessity as they go in pursuit of anything that moves, be it a rabbit, squirrel, bird, or even a butterfly. They are very fast and will not normally come back when they are on the trail of some varmint.
One on one the fox terrier makes a wonderful pet. They do not always take to sharing their people with other pets. Some do get along with a cat or another dog, but must be started in very early. They love to cuddle up to you on the sofa and sleep in your bed. While they are excellent as family pets, they are not recommended for very small children. No matter how much they love you they cannot be trusted off lead when you go for a walk.
The Wire Fox Terrier is a very dapper appearing dog, but requires a lot of grooming to keep his very beautiful appearance. The Smooth variety sheds some year round but requires little other than a good brushing and an occasional bath.
For information I may be reached at 704-462-1981 or my email address at
Fox terrier rescue and breeder referral
Phone 1-800-FOX TERR
or email: whstout@earthlink.net
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| Last Modified 9 September 2006 |
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