The Pack Leader

RAAF MILITARY DOGS
As a result of last month’s article on the training standard of the RAAF dogs, I’ve had some interesting feedback from Air Force (and ex Air Force) personnel on the subject. Both from Dog Handlers and the Security Police who work hand in hand together. All agree that the so-called modern methods of training have failed and failed many years ago.

I had many conversations some years ago with Squadron Leader Bill Perrett Rt. 1984 to be exact. At that time he was assisting me when I was setting up boarding and training kennels at my present location at Struck Oil. Bill Perrett was the founder and Officer in Charge of what was then called the Security Guard/Police Dog Mustering for twenty five years. He was also ably assisted by Warrant Officer Kev Saunders who was on the first course ever held. Kev Saunders was renown for the display teams he led throughout the country, from small town fetes to starring in the Royal Agricultural Shows.

Both persons hold the view that the standard developed throughout the sixties and early seventies has been lost. This view is also supported by numerous old mates of mine who have retired, and some who are still serving RAAF Police.

The general opinion is that the standard was lowered when Instructors who were assigned to the Training Centre were obviously lacking in dog training talent. Because the Instructors couldn’t look good in front of the recruits they then cut the standards back to what we have today. A mustering that still lives off the reputation built over twenty five years ago.

Mr. Saunders is openly scathing of the Officer’s in Charge of the mustering, for allowing themselves to be fooled by Instructors who claim a present day high standard. Mr. Saunders is often quoted as saying, "Bullshit baffles brains, and you would never see a better example than what is happening with the instructors in the dog mustering, and the prattle excepted by people of higher rank who should know better." Well said Kev.
Mediocrity seems to be the standard today, not only in dog training, but generally in other fields and trades. I constantly see where dog obedience clubs have changed methods, which mean a lower standard. I notice whilst talking to the people in these fields that they have the gift of the gab. A wonderful knack of explaining away dog training "stuff ups" with polished expertise.

Is it also possible that the RAAF does not have the calibre of Officers they had years ago. The Old World War 2 veterans who knew how a military service had to function to fight a war. Old warriors whose spirits were forged in fire and their lack of tolerance for pathetic excuses. I could imagine the late Group Captain Meldrum’s response if he was told that a Military Working Dog was attacking the Air Field Defence Guards it was patrolling with. Not to mention the reaction from Mr. Perrett or Mr. Saunders. Pathetic excuses such as, "We have encountered a few problems which is to be expected, but we now have strategies in place that will fix those problems," would never be accepted. Heads would have rolled.

Today we appear to have a mustering 50% of its required strength due to low moral. As one dog handler told me recently, "We are keen to work but there doesn’t seem to be any experience to teach us how to train properly."

I may be accused of being a bit tough on the present day system, but lets face some facts. The mustering consisted of an elitist group of trainers. The average handler was a good trainer, and there were a percentage of very talented people who created the image that exists to this day. We had Instructors who were not only good dog trainers, but had the ability to impart knowledge. This current situation burns me as it was a mustering that had enormous pride. Todays hierarchy and the hierarchy since the early 1970’s deserve to have their backsides well and truly kicked, including the Officers in Charge who let this current crises arise.

They only have to look at the standard required by the various State Police Service Dog Sections to see what is desirable.

Christmas BBQ
My favourite day of the year arrives on Saturday the 3^rd of November. Our annual event will be held at the usual venue on Kuno & Christine Becht’s picturesque farm outside Nambour. It is BYO food and drinks. Please bring dogs, and friends or relations are welcome.

To find the place simply find National Park Rd, Nambour. Head through Nambour towards Montville where you turn left at the sign that says,"Kureelpa Falls". The last house on the right and you’re there. (No. 435)

Book Review
The Dogs Mind by Bruce Fogle
A book that I believe should be in every dog person’s library. Bruce Fogle has done an excellent job of putting together a comprehensive outline of the dog and the intricacies of its senses. And it is written in a simple manner for anyone to follow.

The chapter on Hormones in particular, was very interesting to me. I have believed for years that hormones play a part in dog’s behaviour as it does in human behaviour. Particularly desexed bitches. I made inquiries with Veterinary friends of mine and I got the same answer from each of them. "Doesn’t happen with dogs."

All my questions were answered in one chapter of a book printed in 1992. And yes, hormones do play a large part in behaviour.

This book explains everything about the dog in an easy to understand format, such as sight, brain, smell etc.

Mr.Fogle also wrote a well presented book on obedience training. In the interests of diplomacy I will refrain from giving my honest view, other than to say I found it "ordinary".

COURT CASE – INNOTEK V RSPCA
Innotek took action against the allegations made by Victoria’s RSPCA President, Dr. Hugh Writh in regard to electronic anti – barking collars and training collars. These allegations were highlighted by the electronic and written media at the time, with most reports appearing to give a one sided view in favour of Mr. Writh

This matter was heard in the Federal Court, Melbourne for the first two weeks of October. I was one of a number of people who attended to give evidence refuting Mr.Wriths assertions. After legal argument the Judge ruled that I could give expert evidence as a Dog Trainer in relation to the use and effects of these collars in the training of dogs.

Numerous witness were called by both parties including "Animal Behaviourists’. The evidence I heard in my short stay in Brisbane was very interesting. In particular in reference to Citronella anti barking collars. It was given in evidence that Citronella anti barking collars where considered not particularly successful in controlling dog barking, moreover, Citronella has been known to cause damage to the cornea of a dogs eyes.

A decision as to the outcome of the case won’t be forthcoming for the next few months.

MARY GONZALES
Mary is a student of mine from Chicago US, and we have been training her much loved Pit Bull puppy via email and my book.
Over a period of time we have become close friends and she also wrote a testimonial for my web site.
I was elated to receive a phone call from her recently. Her birthday present to herself was a long distance conversation to her old dog trainer. (me of course)
Not only was it great to hear from a person who has become very special to me, but was also a reminder of how modern technology has made the world a small place.

HEALTH
The sex organs of the male dog can, from time to time become inflamed & may have a discharge. It irritates the dog, who licks the offending part & this in turn annoys the owner. Drops of pus are constantly being shed & may or may not be accompanied by an offensive smell.

The condition is called BALANITIS & it is due to bacterial infection of the foreskin & the end of the urethra. Whilst the inflammation of the mucous membranes is not life threatening, it can cause great distress to the dog, especially as the discharge may burn.

If you've ever thought that all doggie discharges are the same – think again.
The following are just a few of the signs & symptoms I have seen.

Improvement in the animal’s environment is all important along with restoring the mucous membranes to health.

An excellent solution for bathing the mucous membranes is made by adding one (1) teaspoon of Calendula or Echinacea herbal tincture to a glass of water.

All the above conditions are curable with homeopathic medicines - no drugs so no side effects - and I would be happy to discuss these treatments with you either personally, by phone (07) 3396 2876 or email eholland@powerup.com.au

Stay happy & healthy - naturally

Elaine Holland Homeopath & Natural Therapist 70 Glenora St Wynnum 4178 (07
3396 2876
Sources: Homeopathic Medicine for Dogs H.G. Woolf
Small Doses for Small Animals Don Hamilton DVM
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	THE PACK LEADER September 2001 Newsletter RAAF MILITARY DOGS As a result of last month’s article on the training standard of the RAAF dogs, I’ve had some interesting feedback from Air Force (and ex Air Force) personnel on the subject. Both from Dog Handlers and the Security Police who work hand in hand together. All agree that the so-called modern methods of training have failed and failed many years ago. I had many conversations some years ago with Squadron Leader Bill Perrett Rt. 1984 to be exact. At that time he was assisting me when I was setting up boarding and training kennels at my present location at Struck Oil. Bill Perrett was the founder and Officer in Charge of what was then called the Security Guard/Police Dog Mustering for twenty five years. He was also ably assisted by Warrant Officer Kev Saunders who was on the first course ever held. Kev Saunders was renown for the display teams he led throughout the country, from small town fetes to starring in the Royal Agricultural Shows. Both persons hold the view that the standard developed throughout the sixties and early seventies has been lost. This view is also supported by numerous old mates of mine who have retired, and some who are still serving RAAF Police. The general opinion is that the standard was lowered when Instructors who were assigned to the Training Centre were obviously lacking in dog training talent. Because the Instructors couldn’t look good in front of the recruits they then cut the standards back to what we have today. A mustering that still lives off the reputation built over twenty five years ago. Mr. Saunders is openly scathing of the Officer’s in Charge of the mustering, for allowing themselves to be fooled by Instructors who claim a present day high standard. Mr. Saunders is often quoted as saying, "Bullshit baffles brains, and you would never see a better example than what is happening with the instructors in the dog mustering, and the prattle excepted by people of higher rank who should know better." Well said Kev. Mediocrity seems to be the standard today, not only in dog training, but generally in other fields and trades. I constantly see where dog obedience clubs have changed methods, which mean a lower standard. I notice whilst talking to the people in these fields that they have the gift of the gab. A wonderful knack of explaining away dog training "stuff ups" with polished expertise. Is it also possible that the RAAF does not have the calibre of Officers they had years ago. The Old World War 2 veterans who knew how a military service had to function to fight a war. Old warriors whose spirits were forged in fire and their lack of tolerance for pathetic excuses. I could imagine the late Group Captain Meldrum’s response if he was told that a Military Working Dog was attacking the Air Field Defence Guards it was patrolling with. Not to mention the reaction from Mr. Perrett or Mr. Saunders. Pathetic excuses such as, "We have encountered a few problems which is to be expected, but we now have strategies in place that will fix those problems," would never be accepted. Heads would have rolled. Today we appear to have a mustering 50% of its required strength due to low moral. As one dog handler told me recently, "We are keen to work but there doesn’t seem to be any experience to teach us how to train properly." I may be accused of being a bit tough on the present day system, but lets face some facts. The mustering consisted of an elitist group of trainers. The average handler was a good trainer, and there were a percentage of very talented people who created the image that exists to this day. We had Instructors who were not only good dog trainers, but had the ability to impart knowledge. This current situation burns me as it was a mustering that had enormous pride. Todays hierarchy and the hierarchy since the early 1970’s deserve to have their backsides well and truly kicked, including the Officers in Charge who let this current crises arise. They only have to look at the standard required by the various State Police Service Dog Sections to see what is desirable. Christmas BBQ My favourite day of the year arrives on Saturday the 3^rd of November. Our annual event will be held at the usual venue on Kuno & Christine Becht’s picturesque farm outside Nambour. It is BYO food and drinks. Please bring dogs, and friends or relations are welcome. To find the place simply find National Park Rd, Nambour. Head through Nambour towards Montville where you turn left at the sign that says,"Kureelpa Falls". The last house on the right and you’re there. (No. 435) Book Review The Dogs Mind by Bruce Fogle A book that I believe should be in every dog person’s library. Bruce Fogle has done an excellent job of putting together a comprehensive outline of the dog and the intricacies of its senses. And it is written in a simple manner for anyone to follow. The chapter on Hormones in particular, was very interesting to me. I have believed for years that hormones play a part in dog’s behaviour as it does in human behaviour. Particularly desexed bitches. I made inquiries with Veterinary friends of mine and I got the same answer from each of them. "Doesn’t happen with dogs." All my questions were answered in one chapter of a book printed in 1992. And yes, hormones do play a large part in behaviour. This book explains everything about the dog in an easy to understand format, such as sight, brain, smell etc. Mr.Fogle also wrote a well presented book on obedience training. In the interests of diplomacy I will refrain from giving my honest view, other than to say I found it "ordinary". COURT CASE – INNOTEK V RSPCA Innotek took action against the allegations made by Victoria’s RSPCA President, Dr. Hugh Writh in regard to electronic anti – barking collars and training collars. These allegations were highlighted by the electronic and written media at the time, with most reports appearing to give a one sided view in favour of Mr. Writh This matter was heard in the Federal Court, Melbourne for the first two weeks of October. I was one of a number of people who attended to give evidence refuting Mr.Wriths assertions. After legal argument the Judge ruled that I could give expert evidence as a Dog Trainer in relation to the use and effects of these collars in the training of dogs. Numerous witness were called by both parties including "Animal Behaviourists’. The evidence I heard in my short stay in Brisbane was very interesting. In particular in reference to Citronella anti barking collars. It was given in evidence that Citronella anti barking collars where considered not particularly successful in controlling dog barking, moreover, Citronella has been known to cause damage to the cornea of a dogs eyes. A decision as to the outcome of the case won’t be forthcoming for the next few months. MARY GONZALES Mary is a student of mine from Chicago US, and we have been training her much loved Pit Bull puppy via email and my book. Over a period of time we have become close friends and she also wrote a testimonial for my web site. I was elated to receive a phone call from her recently. Her birthday present to herself was a long distance conversation to her old dog trainer. (me of course) Not only was it great to hear from a person who has become very special to me, but was also a reminder of how modern technology has made the world a small place. HEALTH The sex organs of the male dog can, from time to time become inflamed & may have a discharge. It irritates the dog, who licks the offending part & this in turn annoys the owner. Drops of pus are constantly being shed & may or may not be accompanied by an offensive smell. The condition is called BALANITIS & it is due to bacterial infection of the foreskin & the end of the urethra. Whilst the inflammation of the mucous membranes is not life threatening, it can cause great distress to the dog, especially as the discharge may burn. If you've ever thought that all doggie discharges are the same – think again. The following are just a few of the signs & symptoms I have seen. balanitis occurring at the same time as urethritis, with the discharge coming from the urethra a bland, thick, green yellow discharge which does not cause soreness a discharge which causes soreness & where the mucous membrane may be affected by small ulcers a copious discharge which does not irritate the dog, but has a strong smell of old cheese none of the above, but the discharge has been there FOREVER – that is to say the condition has become chronic. Improvement in the animal’s environment is all important along with restoring the mucous membranes to health. An excellent solution for bathing the mucous membranes is made by adding one (1) teaspoon of Calendula or Echinacea herbal tincture to a glass of water. All the above conditions are curable with homeopathic medicines - no drugs so no side effects - and I would be happy to discuss these treatments with you either personally, by phone (07) 3396 2876 or email eholland@powerup.com.au Stay happy & healthy - naturally Elaine Holland Homeopath & Natural Therapist 70 Glenora St Wynnum 4178 (07 3396 2876 Sources: Homeopathic Medicine for Dogs H.G. Woolf Small Doses for Small Animals Don Hamilton DVM .............. ... ................. ................ ................ ................ ................. .................. ................. ............ ............ ...... ..... .................. ............. .............. ...........