[MR] Dogs at events

[aldis.g at comcast.net]

Gentle Friends,

I want to address a trend that I see growing in Atlantia: that of allowing dogs at events. I am very pleased to see this happening! It is truly wonderful that our four-legged friends are being allowed to share the day with their family.  

However, I am wondering something - are we taking enough care for the health of our dogs?

Here's what I mean:

In the "outside" world, all dog shows, training classes, and canine sporting events require a certification of health (and appropriate vaccinations) before that dog is allowed to participate.  A rabies vaccine is required.  DLHPP (distemper, leptospirosis, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus) and bordatella ('kennel cough') are also usually listed on the forms as a requirement.  Dogs that do not have these important immunizations are not allowed to remain on the grounds. 

I believe that these should be basic requirements for canine attendance at SCA events as well.  

Frankly, I do not know what Atlantia's current practice is.  Are our autocrats requiring proof of immunization?  Are we requiring our canine friends attending the event to have a health certification? 

And if not, why not?

Aldis Grimolfsdottir


Some excellent guidance on the health requirements for dog shows can be found on any 4H site such as this one:  

http://warren.osu.edu/4h/06DogVac.pdf#search=%22%22dog%20show%22%20health%204h%22