Wangaratta Dog Club 2014 – 28 June

Mrs Linda Stevens (ACT) judged the hound group at today's Wangaratta Dog Club 2014 show. Best of Breed was awarded to Ch Tambuzi Secret of Road Inish (Willow) beating her father Ch Debrak On The Road Again (AI) (Ringo) who was awarded Runner Up Best of Breed.

Wangaratta Dog Club 2014

Willow Best of Breed - Wangaratta Dog Club 2014

West Gippsland Kennel Association 2014 – 6 June

Mrs Anne-Marie Hearn (Vic) was in charge of the hound ring at the West Gippsland Kennel Association 2014 Show. Mrs Hearn awarded Ch Debrak On The Road Again (AI) (Ringo) Best of Breed. Against strong competition; a quality line up of hounds Mrs Hearn awarded Ringo Runner Up in Group (BIG-2) and Best Open in Group.  Ch Tambuzi Secret of Roan Inish (Willow) was awarded Runner Up Best of Breed. Reserve dog challenge was awarded to Ch Tambuzi The Isle of Avalon (Arthur) and reserve Bitch to half sister Ch Tambuzi The Rinpocheof Qinghai (Ruby). All sired by Ringo. A very nice day for the kennel.

West Gippsland Kennel Association 2014

Ringo - Runner Up Best in Group (BIG-2)
West Gippsland Kennel Association 2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cystinuria in Basenjis

I read with interest the article written by Chris Maxka (SunDiata Basenjis, USA) recently published in the Victorian Basenji Breed Association's B-Mail about Cystinuria in Basenjis. The article explains that Cystinuria or Cystine bladder stones could be an emerging health concern in Basenjis. Cystinuria is potentially fatal and is found more commonly in Newfoundlands and Labrador Retrievers. To find out more about Cystinuria in Basenjis click on the link below.

What is Cystinuria?

cystinuriaWhat is Cystinuria?
Cystinuria is a genetic defect. The defect affects the kidney tubules. This in turn affects the kidney's ability to filter cystine (an amino acid). The filtering process prevents this amino acid from going the urine. When this filtering action fails cystine passes into the urine. Over time crystals and/or stones can form. These stones can enter the urethra and cause an obstruction preventing the flow of urine. This form of blockage is more common in males due to their anatomy. Once there is a blockage the bladder is unable to empty. The bladder is likely to rupture which can be fatal.

Cystinuria is congenital in dogs where the issue is more common. Cystinuria is more common in Newfoundlands, Labradors, and Scottish Deerhounds. However, it can take many years for the crystals/stones to form in order that symptoms present themselves. Sometimes symptoms do not present themselves.

Unlike other bladder stones, cystine stones will not generally dissolve or breakdown with treatment. There are some drugs that can be given to try and break down the stones. These drugs are risky and are expensive. Drugs are not typically advised unless there are no other options. Generally, the stones are removed surgically.

In Basenjis, the symptoms may present at 17 months-11 years old. Cystinuria has been known in Basenjis for a long time. It is mentioned in the Complete Basenji by Elspet Ford. Although cases are rare this issue seems to be on the increase.


Mode of Inheritance
The mode of inheritance in Newfoundlands and Labradors is autosomal recessive. However, there is evidence pointing to the mode of inheritance being  autosomal recessive with incomplete penetrance. That is a trigger is thought to be required for dogs predisposing of cystinuria to develop stones. The mode of inheritance in other breeds, although thought to be autosomal recessive, is not confirmed. The University of Pennsylvania are researching this issue in dogs and cats.

Symptoms

  • obvious pain when attempting to urinate;
  • poor urine flow;
  • blood in the urine;
  • a fowl rotten egg smell to the urine due to the presence of cystine crystals;
  • dogs become despondent;
  • walk with back arched due to pain in the kidney location; and/or
  • cannot pass urine due to a blockage (this needs immediate veterinary treatment)

Treatment

In cases where a dog is diagnosed with this condition but is not presenting:

  • crystals and/or stones;
  • problems urinating; and/or
  • signs of pain or discomfort;

a special diet may be advised. This diet is usually very low in protein which can help reduce the risk of stones forming. Some supplements can also be administered to reduce the risk of stones forming. In the case where stones have formed usually the only course is to have them surgically removed. Removal will prevent possible blockages in the urinary tract. When a blockage has occurred a process called retrograde-hydropulsion is employed. This process pushes the stone back into the bladder. Once the stone is in the bladder it can be removed.

Prognosis

Once diagnoses the prognosis is generally good. A change of diet is generally recommended. Further testing might be required to ensure that stones do not form. Once removed stones can re-form so continued observation is required.

New Information

It seems that most Basenji males block with this condition in the winter months. Basenji males have a season in the Autumn. Basenjis do not tend to drink as much coupled with the holding on (to mark) during the breeding season allows for the urine to be ultra-concentrated during the breeding season. The concentration of urine to any dog predisposed for this issue (has a genetic predisposition) allows for the formation of cystine crystal which then in turn form stones. It is thought that the formation of crystals and stone can take place within a few months hence blockages occur during the winter months. The fact that most Basenjis are house dogs and will hold-on as long as possible because they prefer not to go outside in the cold could also be a factor in the concentration of urine.

Prevention

Although there is no known prevention as such. Keeping male Basenjis hydrated before, during and after the breeding season may assist with preventing the issue in any that may be predisposed for it. Most Basenjis who have blocked were also fed a kibble diet. Feeding a raw based diet where water can be added to the food to increase the water consumption and therefore the hydration of the dog may also be of some benefit.

It is a good idea for owners to watch all males urinate at least once per day. If the flow is strong then the dog is fine. If the flow is not strong and the dog looks laboured then further observation will be required - remember that during the breeding season Basenjis will urinate a little bit a lot - it is not the amount that is important it is if it's a good stream or a dripping trickle that is important to observe. If the Basenji is generally clean, as most males are, and you notice that his bedding is damp or wet with urine in the morning - observe the Basenji urinating.

Should your Basenji try to urinate and no urine presents and the dog is obviously trying but is unable to go and is uncomfortable the dog may have blocked. If so this is a medical emergency. You need to get your Basenji to the vet immediately. If you do not act quickly this can be a fatal condition.

Research
Cystinuria is being researched at the University of Pennsylvania. Chris Maxka (SunDiata Basenjis, USA) is collating information about Basenjis with this issue. A database is being compiled to assist the researchers.  The information being collected includes age and diet of likely patients. Individual information is kept confidential and is not passed to the researchers. Aggregate data is passed to the University of Pennsylvania researchers. If you have a Basenji that has been affected or has been diagnosed with Cystinuria your information may assist the research. If you wish to assist please contact Chris at her email.

Box Hill and District 2014 – 31 May

The Box Hill and District 2014 Kennel Club Inc show was held today. Ms Lyn King (Vic) officiated in the Hound ring. Ms King gave top breed honours, Best of Breed, to Ch Debrak On The Road Again (AI) (Ringo). Not to be out done his daughters were also recognised.  Runner Up Best of Breed went to Ch Tambuzi The Rinpoche of Qinghai (Ruby) owned by Lisa-Jane Hunter and reserve challenge to Ch Tambuzi Secret Of Roan Inish (Willow).

Box Hill and District 2014

Ringo Best of Breed - Box Hill and District 2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

Easter Festival Show 2014 – 19 April

New Australian Champion at Tambuzi

Mrs June Ashton (SA) judged the hound group at this years Easter Festival Show 2014. Mrs Ashton awarded Ch Tambuzi The Isle of Avalon (Arthur) reserve challenge dog. Top breed award, Best of Breed, went to Tambuzi Secret Of Roan Inish (Willow).  A very nice win for Willow against some strong competition. The challenge points awarded to Willow took her total points to over 100. Therefore, winning the points required for her Australian Champion title. Willow attained her Australian Champion Title at this show. Willow was just at a little under 10 months. Congratulations Willow!  Easter Festival Show 2014

Willow Best of Best of Breed - Easter Festival Show 2014

Central Victoria Canine Club 2014 – 12 April

New Australian Champion at Tambuzi

The hound group at the Central Victoria Canine Club 2014 was judged today was Ms Dianne Lee (Vic). Top breed honours went to Tambuzi The Isle of Avalon (Arthur) awarded Best of Breed. The challenge points awarded to Arthur took his total points to over 100. Therefore, winning the points required for his Australian Champion title.  Arthur attained his Australian Championship Title at this show at 9 1/2 months. His sister Tambuzi Secret of Roan Inish (Willow) was awarded Runner Up Best of Breed. Congratulations Arthur!

 

Central Victoria Canine Club 2014

Arthur - Best of Breed
Central Victoria Canine Club 2014

Central Victoria Canine Club 2014Willow - Runner Up Best of Breed
Central Victoria Canine Club 2014

Bulla Oak Show 2014 – 29 March

Today at the Bulla Oak Show 2014 Mr Dennis Lim (Malaysia) presented Tambuzi The Isle of Avalon (Arthur) with Runner Up Best of Breed.

Bulla Oak Show 2014

 Arthur - Runner Up Best of Breed - Bulla Oak Show 2014

Sovereign City Kennel Club 2014 – 23 March

Sovereign City Kennel Club 2014 hound group was judged by Ms Jeanette Lees (Vic). I think this was the coldest day of the year - welcome to Ballarat! Not Basenji friendly weather. Ms Lees presented Tambuzi The Sceret Of Roan Inish (Willow) with Best of Breed. Tambuzi The Isle of Avalon (Arthur) was presented with  Runner Up Best of breed.  And Arthur went on to win Best Puppy in Group. Well done to the puppies!

 

Sovereign City Kennel Club 2014

Arthur - Best of Breed
Sovereign City Kennel Club 2014

Sovereign City Kennel Club 2014Willow - Runner Up Best of Breed
Sovereign City Kennel Club 2014

Mt Elephant and District 2014 – 8 March

The Mt Elephant & District 2014 had a change of Judge. Mrs Norma Zimmerle (QLD) stepped in to judge. The contracted judge was unable to complete the appointment. Mrs Zimmerle awarded Tambuzi Secret Of Roan Inish (Willow) Best of Breed. Later Willow went on to take Best Minor Puppy in Group.

Mt Elephant and District 2014

 

Willow - Best of Breed & Best Minor Puppy in Group
Mt Elephant and District 2014

Basenji Club Victoria Specialty 2014 – 1 March

Property class judge Mr Len Reddie (Redial Basenjis, Australia) placed:

  • Ch Debrak On The Road Again (AI) (Ringo) first place in the prestigious gait class. This is the second consecutive time Ringo has won the gait class at this show. Previously, Ringo was awarded first place by Mr Alan Hunt (Pukkanut Basenjis, Australia).

Basenji Club Victoria Specialty 2014Ringo gaiting at about 12 months old

The Basenji Club Victoria Specialty 2014 breed classes were judged by Mrs Lisa Tyler-Jackson (Shernazar Basenjis, UK). Tambuzi was represented by Ringo, Arthur & Willow. Along with Colleen's Ch Tambuzi The Sherpaof Annapurna (Tobi). Also Lisa's Ch Tambuzi The Rinpocheof Qinghai (Ruby). All with more than respectable results:

  • Ringo was awarded first place in a strong line up of open dogs. He went through to win Opposite Best Open In Show.
  • Tobi was awarded second place in the state bred dog class. This was arguably the most nail biting decision of the show.
  • Arthur was awarded first place in the puppy dog class. He went on to be awarded the reserve dog challenge. And Best Puppy In Show.
  • Ruby was awarded first place in the state bred bitch class. She went on to Opposite State Bred In Show.
  • Willow was awarded second place in the minor puppy bitch class.

The kennel is very honoured with some wonderful critiques.

Congratulations everyone!

Rochester AP Society 2014 – 22 Feb

Rochester AP Society Show 2014 hound group was judged by Mrs G Ford (VIC). Mrs Ford, awarded Tambuzi The Isle Of Avalon  (Arthur)  Best of Breed.  Tambuzi Secret of Roan Inish (Willow) was awarded Best Minor Puppy in Group. Well done kids!

 

Rochester AP Society 2014

Arthur - Best of Breed
Rochester AP Society 2014

Rochester AP Society 2014Willow - Best Minor Puppy in Group
Rochester AP Society 2014

Sunshine Kennel Club Show – 15 Feb 2014

Judge Mr Graham Cruse (NSW) awarded Tambuzi Secret of Roan Inish (Willow) reserve bitch challenge and Best Minor Puppy in Group.