News and Updates
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C H R I S T M A S G R E E T I N G S FROM DHARMANSK Dec 2011
I wish all our friends and extended family a very Happy 2011 Christmas
and a Prosperous and Happy New Year ahead from Dharmansk Bernese Mountain Dogs.
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Oct 2011
Dharmansk Veteran Celebration !! & October fun pics next
A Veteran Bernese Mountain Dog is described as one having attained the age of 7 years.
Being a Veteran Bernese is a really important milestone. Today we have a very special celebration for the Bernese bred by me having attained the age of 7 years plus
Bella 13 .5 years 21/12/97 to 12/7/2011 Zhali 12 years 24/12/97 to 27/12./09
Nanya 10 yrs 27/12/2001 → Gemma 10 yrs 27/12/2001→ Barney 10 yrs 27/12/2001 → Charlie 10 yrs 27/12./2001 → Abbey10 yrs 27/12/2001 →
Panda 8+ yrs 30/3/03 → & Newman now 8+ yrs 30/3/03 → Bernese right to left , Bella with , Panda & Newman now 8+ shown here both about 6 months
Rusty 7+ yrs 2/3/2004 Mia 7+ yrs 2/3/2004 Katie 7+ yrs 2/3/2004 Maddy Jnr 7+ yrs 2/3/2004 Zali Jnr 7+ yrs 2/3/2004 Sam 7+ yrs 2/3/2004
Zollie 7 yrs + 23/3/2004 & Anastasia as a puppy 23/3/2004 →
Achieving good longevity in the Bernese that I breed at Dharmansk has become an integral commitment to my breeding program.
Today we really have something special to celebrate with these Bernese achieving their Veteran Milestone !!!
At Dharmansk my approach for breeding embraces individuals (lines) demonstrating good longevity.
My plan acknowledges these individuals and each litter includes in the parentage combination at least one partner with this or other known longevity lineage.
I believe, and overseas studies support, that longevity has genetic expression and therefore I will continue with earnest, this work, in my breeding program to maximize genetic penetration of longevity in the Dharmansk breeding program.
The results so far are very rewarding and consolidating.
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Fun Pics Oct 2011
Barney babysitting Nell helping out with the studying Pandora helping out with relaxing
Bear determined to get all of those Camelia flower chew toy things down !! Pandora in Tassie herding
Piper rather comfortable Buffey's pat slave
Riley's new very groovy non slip boots Buffey trying to steel the groovy boots End of play Riley the teenager
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March 2011
Are you suited to a Bernese Mountain Dog - An Australian Perspective by Fay Carvill
| Are
you suited to a Bernese Mountain Dog? An Australian Perspective
by Fay Carvill The Bernese Mountain dog is a friend and companion functional as an integral member of the family/household. With a moderately low activity level the BMD can be suited to a variety of circumstances because the primary criteria for his happiness revolves around the level of interaction and companionship he enjoys with his owner. Suitability is therefore more about the relationship with his owner rather than other extraneous considerations. With correct type in temperament represented (this is a must), the Bernese is a most agreeable companion when out and about socializing. They usually love the car and enjoy to be included even if only to watch. At home the Bernese wagging tail can clear your coffee table in one sweep and wag a toddler off his feet!! Kitchen and household duties are usually observed in a semi sleep repose from a favorite tactical observation point. (You will probably have to step over himJ ) Computer work or any idle time sitting around is always accompanied by the Bernese strategically parked on your feet for a nudge and a pat. They are great with children and most adaptable to all manner of other family pets and can be bonded quite easily at a young age to pet rabbits etc. Cats in the household are usually still the boss !! Not naturally inclined to retrieve or chase the Bernese prefer to be in your company. Potential owners need to be aware that the Bernese adolescent period does need some extra time. The happy go lucky compliant puppy begins to “push the envelope” exploring the limitations of his world. It is important not to shut him out during this temporary phase of his development & learning as this can result in stress and anxiety. Adopting a patient and calm attitude giving more quiet attention is appropriate. Bernese are not suited to extremes of heat nor consequently prolonged periods of activity. As a rule of thumb, I believe a Bernese should never engage in any activity from which he cannot choose to rest. Thus accompanying you on a bike or horse ride or a run which may be fulfilling your agenda is not suited to him. “Home” is important to the Bernese and they cope just fine with a normal work day routine if consideration is given to him in the morning before you set off for work. This will balance his day until he can spend time with you in the evenings etc. Family holidays are best catered for with an arrangement at home if he is not travelling with you. The Bernese Mountain Dog develops a wonderful bond with his people because of their special interaction. Most people comment that once owned by a Bernese they can never be without one in their lives. The greatest attribute of the Bernese, is their willingness to please you. Whether you choose to explore this through obedience, showing, carting or just walking on the beach or sharing time on the couch at home, you will be touched by the beauty of these magnificent dogs and their capacity to be at one with you. |
Dharmansk Bernese www.bernese.com.au
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Jan/Feb 2011
Recent photos in
In the Hayshed Bringing in the Mail "This is MY sandpile"
" Hold hands for the photo and smile" " Kiss "
Zeb's sandpile Zeb's afternoon nap
" Its your fault - you bathed me so now I have hose rage " " Don't take any notice of him - Pick me - I'm way more adorable!!"
Tango and Riley Zeb 12 months
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Buffey & Bear - (Prince X Ruby kids)
At 8 weeks
At 16 weeks
At 12 weeks in the puppy exercise yard
With Boyd at Emerald Lake ~ 6 months of age Group Shot BMDCV at Emerald Lake Over the Bridge
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Window of Opportunity for Breeding Bernese - Fertility
Endrometritus and Pyometra
Benign Hyperplaysia of the Prostate and Struvite Crystals
Breeding Bernese is no easy matter. Apart from initial screening considerations to determine suitability of breeding stock (ie Hip and Elbow evaluations, & Health criteria) , both female and male entire Bernese can experience limited accessible breeding availability due respectively to the above conditions. These conditions affect fertility and breeding performance and are in no way a concern for the de-sexed Pet home Bernese. Studies overseas indicate that Pyometra is at the top of the list of problems in breeding females. My experience, in my own breeding program, is demonstrating reliably that both males and females commence their fertile time just prior to two years of age but begin to diminish at just over 5 years of age. Whilst there may be individuals who are exceptions to this, the general picture for an optimal breeding time frame is relatively limited.
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Late Dec 2010
Another Milestone for Dharmansk
Dharmansk 6th generation from foundation
Dharmansk Sweet Dream - Lassie's recent litter takes the Dharmansk breeding program into its 6th generation !!
Just born 3 weeks 6 weeks
In the Cart - Bernese Practice Flight Simulation Training for interstate and overseas puppies
Group shot at 8 weeks in the Puppy Exercise Yard
Family Photos
Nell Bentley Loki
Nell and Barney Nell Pandora
Pandora Riley Pia Riley
Tango
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Histiocytosis Cancer and the Dharmansk Breeding Program
Last year, I noted here that Research facilities overseas have made great headway with regard to DNA identification of Histiocytosis Cancer, a condition that can affect some Bernese. Development of a suitable test is suggestive of a 2 year time frame. From a breeding management perspective, utilizing such a test would assist to reduce the proliferation of the condition with a collaborative approach from breeders screening breeding stock.
At Dharmansk my approach embraces individuals (lines) demonstrating good longevity.
As the years have come and gone and I evaluate all of the Dharmansk progeny, there are significant individuals in the breeding program that have made an amazing contribution to longevity.
My plan for breeding acknowledges these individuals and each litter includes in the parentage combination at least one partner with this or other known longevity lineage. The results so far are very rewarding.
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Late Dec 2010
Happy 13th Birthday Bella !!
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Nov/Dec 2010
C H R I S T M A S G R E E T I N G S
FROM ALL AT DHARMANSK !!
With Lassie about to embark on the adventure of Motherhood, and with my impending family commitments as the festive season is on the doorstep, I felt it timely to wish all our friends and extended family a very Happy 2010 Christmas and a Prosperous and Happy New Year from us all at Dharmansk.
We have had an amazing year - lots of new things happening, lots of growth, and all happily so !!
Many challenges still ahead - how else would we like to be ☺
Merry Christmas Everyone ......... BUT ....... what really happened was...........this ........☺
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Lassie is pregnant !!
She is due to have her puppies mid December 2010 - more details early in the New Year.
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a d Ruby and Prince's puppies off on their new life adventure a d
e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e
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November pics - our fave shady deck
Lassie and Ruby Mr Odee
Odee " I'm so good - passed my scores - I got ED 0:0 HD 0:0 !!!" Ruby
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Sept/Oct 2010
Couch Potatoes Incorporated Pty Ltd. ☺
Fulfilling my Job Description
Satdy arvo AFL Footy Grand Final hype ?
(left).....sharing this couch with her ...... well it really gives me the grotts !!
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News on Histiocytosis Cancer Screening for Breeders
Research facilities overseas have made great headway with regard to DNA identification of Histiocytosis Cancer. Development of a suitable test is suggestive of a 2 year time frame. From a breeding management perspective, utilizing such a test would assist to reduce the proliferation of the condition with a collaborative approach from breeders screening breeding stock.
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Welcome Duke !!
Dharmansk Wizards Prince X CH Swiss kiss Empire Rose
" Sassy" with Sally and Nick on the Snow Walk
Lassie 18 months
Prince Charming 4 yrs
Panda 7.5 yrs
Katie 6 yrs
Chocolate ~ 18 months
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July 2010
Zeb 5 months old with Zollie 5 yrs old - romping at the beach
From left to right - Great work by KL bonding with other family members
Lincoln is famous and recently appeared in an "Age" newspaper article on doggy day care
Kobi doing just famously with the marrowbone
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June 2010
Bernese Mountain Dog 10th Anniversary Championship Specialty Show, Victoria - over 100 entries is a record entry. Bernese Specialist Judge from Finland - Satu Yla Mononen.
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Lassie and Tilly
Best mates - Lassie with young Tilly after a tough afternoons play......... zzzzzzzzzzzzz ...... bliss.......
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June 2010
Bernerped, the Australian Bernese Data Base, suspended due to lack of support
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June 2010
Grand Exciting News !!!
Welcome Canadian Champion Hautbois Rembrandt
My sincere thanks to Simon Verge, Dr of Veterinary Medicine in Quebec Canada, for sharing this beautiful dog of his breeding. Rembrandt has excellent credentials and both his parents Hautbois Kootenay and Hautbois Kelowna have been successfully shown at 9 +years of age. Rembrandt will undoubtedly make a wonderful contribution here. My first priority is to introduce him to his new home and friends and get him settled in . You will find more information about him in the Profiles pages.
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May 2010
Coralie's adorable boy "Cooper" to be offered "at stud "
Dharmansk Magic Allure
Details in Profiles - Inquiry welcome
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March, April 2010
Ruby's cute puppies 6-8 weeks of age
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Feb 2010
Well done Ruby !!
Dharmansk 4th generation puppies from foundation
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Tribute to Dharmansk Forest Mist - Zhali
24.12.97 - 27.12.09
It is with profound sadness that I make this tribute to an amazing Bernese friend and constant companion.
One hour into her 12th Birthday, Zhali suffered a stroke and debilitating seizures. She fought on briefly to come to terms with the inevitable and has found her peace and sanctuary.
I will forever miss my little friend (and my boss).
Zhali has made, and shall continue to make an outstanding contribution to longevity through her progeny here.
Her two litters are currently 8 years and 6 years of age.
Zhali 6 weeks Zhali 3 years Zhali 5 years
Zhali's pups Zhali 7.5 years Zhali with her daughter and 1st Grand daughter
Zhali 10th and 11th Year - Her favorite job was on the back deck supervising me with the morning and evening walk and exercise program
Zhali' s Grandson and Great Grand daughter Zhali's Grand daughter and Great Grand Daughter
Zhali almost 12 years Zhali's legacy lives on ............
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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to our friends
From all at Dharmansk
Nanya 8 yrs Zhali 12 years 25/12/09 Zhali daughter & grand daughter
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Dec 09
Cody visits
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Will with "Bear" in his new role as Nanny
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Nov o9
Heritable Diseases Seminar Victoria
Victorian Canine Assoc Seminar in conjunction with Dept of Agriculture - The legislation changes explained
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Nov o9
Sasha and family
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Nov 09
Canine Reproduction Lecture.
Dr Stuart Mason from the Monash Vet Clinic presented Dr Verstegen of Belgium, who is working out of the University of Florida USA and is currently one of the worlds leaders in the field of canine reproduction.
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Nov 09
A Visit to see Tarjh and Barney
Tarjh 3
years
Barney 8 years
Great Friends
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Sept 2009
Pandas baby puppies
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Sept 2009
Interstate jet setter Zollie visits
Annie and Zollie Zollie now 5 years Boyd and Princely hugs
Smoochy Ruby ear rubs Zollie surveying Boyd & Prince new friends
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Aug 2009
Clever Coya's beautiful babies
Not for much longer !! Ruby's family Who Me?
'Morning Mark Chocolate's family Chocolate's new toys
Belly Rubs Ruby Coya and her pups at 2 weeks
Coyas pups at 4 weeks
Coya
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Cooper's 10 months old !!
Cooper and Friends Tug of War Cooper 10 months old
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July 09
Changes to State Legislation affecting all breeders
State Legislation changes (Cruelty to Animals Act), prohibits the breeding of dogs with known genetic defects and requires
the implementation of rigorous screening by all breeders to this end.
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Data Base updates
Dharmansk Date Base on the way to the Berner Garde Foundation (USA) & BernerPed (Aust)
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Sassy's Sleepover
Sassy and Friends at the Beach Sassy in 'Ella & Friends' Publication Sassy's Family
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Summer 08-09 Cooper at the Beach
Cooper & Friends Romping Sand Holes !!! Yipee !!!
Cooper after the beach !!
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Congratulations Coya !! - Due Feb 09
Coya is finally pregnant after 2 difficult episodes of Pyometra which is a condition affecting reproduction. Pyomentra can be a problem particularly for entire bitches over 5 years of age. After a lot of special treatment Coya has recovered and is doing what she loves best - being a MUM !!
Awwww I'd love a pat .............and a treat .............. Pick me !!!
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National Dog Magazine
Jan/feb 09 - Bernese Breed feature
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Balto visits us at 8 months
Balto 8 weeks Balto 8 months Balto, Gillian and Zhali
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Zhali's 11th Birthday !! Date - 25th December 2008
Zhali was the last pup born Christmas morning in Bonny's litter that was mostly born on the 24th December 1997. I can still remember burning toast on Christmas morning when at 8am Bonny was busy in the whelping box again (hours after supposedly the last pup was born !!) Now at 11 yrs of age Zhali and her sister Bella were recently included in the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America's magazine "Alpenhorn" which published a celebrated special world wide December Veterans edition .
Zhali knows everything that goes on around the place - when, where, how, if its right or if its wrong and she can always find a way to let me know so!! She also has a clock in her head I am sure, for at the right time morning and night she starts her excited little tap dance and circling routine to tell me its time for FOOD!! - Amazing !!
She really enjoys the freedom of her wander around the garden time and grins from ear to ear when she arrives back at the house now ready for her nap. It's all really quite precious :)
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In the blink of an eye
Pandas baby puppies Chasing the Milk Bar " Cooper" from Pandas last litter growing up all too quickly☺
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Changes to rules for all breeds from the Australian Veterinary Association - PennHIP
The Australian Veterinary Association recently published an expression of preferential support for the hip screening method PennHIP.
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Keeping abreast of all the news with Dad
'Alby' Bernese demonstrating the importance of staying informed and helping as much as possible (with remote)!!
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The Long and the short of it
Teddy & his tiny aged mate Rhodie who is currently breaking all the records with his amazing chemotherapy treatment progress for prostate cancer.
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Beds - Bernese survival essentials list
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A mothers work is never done !!
At nearly 12 years old Zhali still washes thoroughly her 5 yrs old daughter Katie's face at least twice a day!! This is a privilege Zhali reserves only for her own kids, much to the disappointment of a couple of the other Bernese girls here. Katie carries her Buzzie Bee with her everywhere and I (the human) am only allowed to mind it while she attends to her bathroom activities and dines at the Restaurant !!
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Captions
'I know there are ducks over there Mum" "Pick me !!!" "Kiss"
"Sumwun say lollies????? "Walk anyone?" "I'm sooo over this ....Zzzzz
Cat says:- "Well do ya feel lucky?" "Trickkky" (Prince manoeuvre) " Both hands now "