|
2006
Fenix Carriage Dog Trials
Sponsored by BURNS
Celebrating the working heritage of the Dalmatian
report by Anne Dickens
Some of our readers may not know that there
are now working trials for Dalmatians.
The purpose of the Trials is to provide a modern competition
through which to demonstrate the Dalmatian dog's traditional
role as a companion to horses and carriages in past times.
It is both an endurance and obedience event
and all competitors must do a basic obedience test, from their
horse or carriage, with their dog as part of the Trial.
The Dalmatian’s role in the UK as carriage dogs began
in the 17th century.
 Young
English aristocrats visiting Europe were attracted to the
spotted dogs and brought some home. The unusual strength in
their feet and legs enabled them to run for great distances
on the rough roads which, together with their affinity with
horses, made them ideal carriage dogs.
The dogs had to keep pace with the horses on hard roads over
long distances. Their strong guarding instincts made them
useful when travelling and at night in the inns.
In July, the 2006 Fenix Carriage Dog Trials were held at Kelvedon
Hatch. This year’s Trials saw 14 Dalmatians travelling
to Essex to compete for a working title.
For the first time this year, there were three gold level
competitors which requires a 25 mile endurance test. Kelly
Evans’ dog Disco, from Wales, retained the Road Dog
Championship and became the highest scoring Gold competitor.
Carriage Dog Champion was Healey owned by Denise Taylor from
Essex, who won from the silver class and Reserve Champion
was Alison Burgess’ Abbie, from Sussex, another gold
qualifier.
Abbie is fed on Burns, and is pictured here with her house
mate and fellow working dog Woody, who was Carriage Dog Champion
in 2005.
As well as the Trials, the organisers launched the British
Carriage Dog Society that weekend. The Society aims, amongst
other things, to preserve the working heritage of the Dalmatian
as a coaching dog and to run the national Trials.
If you want to know more about the Society and/or join up,
then email Chris
Cleland or phone 01323 833732.
|
