Blog Archives
Agility Title
~ Willow 2017
I read that you need blog articles. This photo was from two years ago this weekend, however I wanted to send it again as it was one of my proudest moments of Willow.
We worked SO hard to prepare for this Agility title- daily training with the equipment, lots of variables, and much off-leash distraction proofing (her temperament and biddability are exquisite!)And, on top of all that, Willow strained her shoulder (not her fault- she slipped on the dirt in the practice arena as the jumps were placed too close together), so we needed time to heal and recuperate to get her 100% healthy and ready. On this show weekend, not only did she qualify in all three trials, she attained PERFECT scores on each run and attained her UKC Agility I title! I was, and am, SO proud of her!!!
Jan~
Breeder Comment
It was never our intent to become that breeder who produces Show Weims–but this is not the only OwyheeStar success story. Of course, some of the others earned International Show titles because they sported a blue coat–and the Weimaraner Club of America doesn’t allow the blues to compete in Show–they can compete in every other discipline–such as Agility.
Jan has participated with both AKC and WCA (the American Kennel Club –Weimaraner Club of America), but she prefers the United Kennel Club (UKC) experience. Not that Willow could not have done equally well in the other circle of influence, but rather because the UKC is Owner-Handler only and less political. If you are not on the inside of the competition, it might be hard to understand. We get it.
Jan and Willow have earned a lot of titles–we could not be more thrilled or appreciate their efforts anymore. It is no small thing. Consider all these accomplishments–UKC Best-In-Show and High-In-Trial Champion Sunstar Willow of OwyheeStar, AKC Canine Good Citizen, AKC Novice Trick Dog, UKC Rally Obedience I, UKC Agility I, Therapy Dog International certified. What more can we say? Jan says this moment of earning the Agility Title along with the perfect scores is one of her fondest achievements. Congratulations once again for all the two of you have done together, Jan.
Keep This in Mind
Jan Magnuson
SUNSTARAll-Breed Dog Training
http://sunstardogtraining.com
You can find Jan and her Dog Training on Facebook–with more than 45 years experience with the Weimaraner we recommend you check her out. By all means if possible–plan to train with her.
Champion Sunstar Willow of OwyheeStar
~ At 7.5 Years
UKC Best-In-Show and High-In-Trial Champion Sunstar Willow of OwyheeStar, AKC Canine Good Citizen, AKC Novice Trick Dog, UKC Rally Obedience I, UKC Agility I, Therapy Dog International certified
Willow has been a superstar her entire life! She has attained many titles and awards (see above) for Conformation, Obedience and Rally Obedience, Agility, Tricks, and Good Citizen, and include 5 UKC Altered Best-In-Show and 14 Altered Reserve Best-In-Show awards!
Willow is very active as a certified Therapy Dog, and we do visits at retirement, assisted living, and memory care facilities, schools and daycares, and community events. I have served 30 years as a Law Enforcement Officer, and Willow has accompanied me on duty as a Therapy dog on calls and out in the community, and at the police department. Now that I have retired (as of two weeks ago!), we continue to do those same type of activities, just not in uniform!
She is always so gentle and sweet, and allows (and enjoys) folks to pet and fawn over her, making them smile and laugh!
In addition, she is a beloved “furry family member”, and goes with me almost everywhere I go. She loves riding in our truck, going for walks and hikes, running errands, visiting with friends and family, and just hanging out at home with me and her two “little sisters”, a Papillon and a Japanese Chin.
Willow is now 7-1/2 years old, and continues to be energetic, healthy, sound, and happy! I look forward to many more years with my dear girl, who always brings a smile to everyone she meets! Jan~
Jan MagnusonSUNSTARAll-Breed Dog Training
http://sunstardogtraining.com
P.O. Box 98072Des Moines, WA 98198206 241 2908
Breeder Comment
Okay–Willow is one in a million, but without Jan Magnuson none of this would have been possible. They have had a fabulous run together–and it continues. Typically we do not post names and contact information; however, as you will notice, Jan is a dog trainer. We wanted those who live near her to be able to quickly set up training.
Thank you, Jan for everything you have done with Willow and to help us. We appreciate this lovely update.
A Natural
Extremely Nosey
~In a Good Way
I didn’ t realize that Henry has only been learning scent-work since March. We got involved because being an energetic, 3-year-old Weim, with a flair for being extreme nosey, it seemed to be fit. Also, I found the science behind a dogs nose fascinating.
What We Accomplished
Henry has completed Level 1, 2, 3 and working in level 4. More than anything though, it has been an experience for me! I have learned more about myself in the last few months and for that, I am most grateful to my handsome Blue boy. Scentwork is a team trust sport.
Your dog knows what to do, however until dogs and humans can speak the same language, the sport is much more about learning patience, watching your dogs every move, and even more important, trust. We have had good trials and not so good, one thing is certain Henry loves this sport and so do I. We take away something new from each practice or trial. We figure a way through false alerts and keep rewarding the sourced odor.
Henry’s hard work has left us with 3 titles, Level 1 and 2 C-WAGS, Level 1 ABC games, Noteworthy, in our seemingly short period of time. I am very lucky to have Henry enjoy this sport as much as I do. It’s a special bond with a Weimaraner, I’m finding out truly how extraordinary Henry is. Thank-you Cliff and Shela!!
Breeder Comment
We are happy to hear about your continued success. Congratulations to you Patti–what a great team the two of you make. Fun–that is something that is so important. If you are having a good time more than likely, the Weimaraner is as well. At least in Henry’s case, this seems to be his element. Keep up the good work!
Events
Asher
~ AKC Novice Trick Dog (TKN)
You might have seen the Facebook announcement that Asher has another title. He is on a roll, don’t you agree? His previous Nosework and now this Trick Dog title. Congratulations to the both of you–Asher and his human!
Willow
You may well remember that Jan’s Willow also added the AKC Novice Trick Dog (TKN) to the lengthy list of her achievements some time back (click here to check out the original post).
Breeder Comment
For those wanting to get involved, there are options. You might consider beginning with the Canine Good Citizen; however, others have dabbled in Agility, Rally, Nosework, etc. Of course, the competition doesn’t appeal to everyone. Nonetheless, there are events for those who want to see what they can achieve. We are so very proud these Champions–as well as the others of you who have also invested in this type of adventure. Keep up the great work.
ABOUT TRICK DOG
From the 1920’s and 1940’s when trick dogs such as Rin Tin Tin and Lassie won peoples’ hearts, trick dog training has become one of the most exciting new areas in dog training today.
TRICK DOG TITLE INFO:
AKC Trick Dog titles are official AKC titles listed on the dog’s title record.
The processing fee for each title is $20. Multiple titles for the same dog can be sent in together, each one will be processed in succession after each previous title has been added and printed.
Dogs must have an AKC, PAL, or AKC Canine Partners number to earn a title.
All dogs can get a number including purebreds and mixed breeds.
4 TRICK DOG TITLES –
NOVICE TRICK DOG (TKN)
The dog performs 10 skills from the Novice list. (see link to “Application” below for lists of skills). If a dog has a Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certificate or title on record at AKC, it can do 5 Novice tricks (CGC + 5) to earn the Novice title.
INTERMEDIATE TRICK DOG (TKI)
The dog must have the Novice title, plus perform 10 Intermediate tricks.
ADVANCED TRICK DOG (TKA)
The dog must have the Intermediate title, plus perform 5 tricks from the Advanced list.
TRICK DOG PERFORMER (TKP)
I n this title, handlers perform a short routine with at least 10 tricks previously learned.
THERE ARE TWO WAYS YOU CAN EARN AKC TRICK DOG TITLES:
1) Perform the tricks (from the check list in the Title Application) in the presence of an AKC Approved CGC Evaluator. The Title Application will need to accompany the check list for the particular title you are applying for.
2) AKC will recognize Do More With Your Dog!™(DMWYD) titles at Novice, Intermediate and Advanced levels. The Title Application will need to accompany proof of the DMWYD title being earned, such as a copy of the actual title.
****GRANDFATHER NOTICE****
DMWYD Titles Grandfathered Until End of 2017
If you have a DMWYD title that is above Novice, (i.e. Intermediate, Advanced, Expert) until December 31, 2017, you may send proof of the title (copy of DMWYD certificate) and pay only the $20 title fee for the highest level title for which you are applying to earn the equivalent AKC Trick Dog title.
Examples:
If you have a DMWYD Intermediate certificate, send the AKC Intermediate Trick Dog application with the $20 title fee and AKC will issue your AKC Intermediate Trick Dog title.
If you have a DMWYD Advanced Trick Dog title, send the AKC Advanced Trick Dog Application with the $20 title fee and AKC will issue your AKC Advanced Trick Dog title.
If you would like to earn the AKC Trick Dog Performer title, send a copy of your DMWYD Expert Trick Dog or Champion Trick Dog certificate, along with the $20 title fee, the AKC Trick Dog Application for the Performer level, and, YOU MUST INCLUDE A VIDEO.
For more information about the Trick Dog Program check out our Frequently Asked Questions.
Letter
From Asher
~ guess we found our niche
Hey Shela and Cliff, Asher here. It has been awhile but I wanted to update you with a Paw-Awesome report. My days are filled with many adventures from joy rides to the coffee shop, Farmers Markets, and any store that allow dogs. Funny thing about coffee shops is a friendly hello bark gets me treats. Seriously, that is all I have to do to get a treat. Love it! (Psst, if any other Weim’s are reading this—heads up Chick-fil-A does it too.)
Sniff, sniff, sniff…there is a game that my mom and I play it is called Nose Work. She hides treats and I find them. I know right—more treats—love this game! However, my mom tells me that she created a nose detective monster.
As I built my confidence in sniffing it came time for the Odor Recognition Tests (ORT’S). My mom questioned, if she was ready and if she should enter all three or just the one. I told her, “Mom—we got this!”
Paw-Awesome isn’t it?!? My mom and I make such a great team. We passed all three odors birch, anise and clove. She was so happy—I thought, “stop-it mom you’re embarrassing me” but don’t tell her. I was really jumping up and down inside!
And that is how it all began, mom and I trained for the next event our very first trial. She was nervous because it was the first time she has done anything like this. She said, “Okay God calm my butterflies and let Asher do what you created him to do!” She whispered in my little ear, “Okay, handsome—you got this! Let’s go have some fun!”
We had some fun all right. My mom was so excited; I think I even saw tears in her eyes—Gesh, woman! I tell ya! Well, here it is, nine months of preparation of training and confidence building. We received our first title in Detection Dog Class Novice.
Now that is my superstar moment but let me tell ya—the game of Rally-Obedience not so much. My trainer told me, ”My focus has been upgraded from a gnat to a small fly.” I know right, “Are you talking about me?”
Well that is a quick Paw-Awesome report, we have some more trials coming up later in the year and working towards our first competition in Rally-Obedience. A small fly—I’ll show them! Keeping my eye on the prize!!
But first, I am going back to bed!
Love,
Asher Von Owyheestar, DDCN
Happy Fourth
Ribbons
~ Willow Wins Again!
She took an altered Reserve Best-In-Show today! At 6-1/2 years of age! ❤️❤️❤️. Jan
At 7 they are considered a “veteran”, they can certainly still show and win, however, most really top-winning dogs are under five years of age.
She was still limping (from her shoulder injury) yesterday so I pulled her, she was good this morning so we went in the ring for both shows and she did great.I love Willow so much!Hugs, Jan
Breeder Comment
We all Know her
But Do We Really?
~Can We Comprehend the work she does? Probably not!
Jan and Willow we know them. Willow’s official Name: UKC Best-In-Show and High-In-Trial Champion Sunstar Willow of OwyheeStar, AKC Canine Good Citizen, AKC Novice Trick Dog, UKC Rally Obedience I, UKC Agility I, Therapy Dog International certified!
When Jan isn’t showing Willow, she can be found out and about the community where she works for Des Moines Police Department as an Animal Control Officer. In her spare time, she teaches obedience classes, visits her mother at a care facility, and volunteers. We are honored to know her and to call her a good friend. Our Weim business has factored into our relationship. We have joint-ventured on a couple of things. All of this might be of interest to you, but did you know she is a local town hero? I am sure she would blush at that description–forgive us Jan. The only bigger hero here is Rex, the German Shepherd. What a heartwarming story. Thank you, Jan, for your service. We are all blessed indeed to share the love of the Weimaraner with you.
Q13Fox News Reports
Hero dog Rex reunited with officer who saved his life
SEATTLE — Rex, the German Shepherd who was beaten and shot three times while defending his teen owner, was honored Tuesday at a ceremony in Seattle.
PETA presented Rex with a Heroic Dog Award and a get-well care package, “for going above and beyond — at great personal risk — to protect his family from armed robbers.”
“In risking his life to protect his young guardian, this brave dog demonstrated how intelligent and sensitive animals are,” says PETA Vice President Colleen O’Brien. “PETA encourages anyone with the time and resources to care for an animal to adopt one from a shelter and reminds everyone to treat dogs like the loving family members they are.”
Rex was reunited with Des Moines Police Department Animal Control Officer Jan Magnuson, who saved Rex’s life by rushing the critically injured dog to a veterinary clinic.
Click here to read the whole story.
Willow
Jan at the UKC Dog Show
~ Tigard, OR
Beautiful Willow won two Altered Reserve Best-In-Show awards at the UKC dog shows in Tigard, OR this weekend, Yay Willow! Thank You to NW Silken Windhound Society for putting on the wonderful shows, and a special big Thanks to Julie Lechuga who is the hardest working dog club member anywhere!
🙂
Lexi’s Photo’s
Here are a few pics of Willow and me in the ring last weekend, Thanks to photographer Lexi Darienzo !
Breeder Comment
Many thanks to Jan Magnuson for all she does including the competitions. Anyone who has competed realizes the cost on every level. Anyone living within driving distance of Des Moines, WA would be well-served to use her Sunstar All Breed Training Services.
Willow
In The News Again
~ Jan Willow Set the Standard at Perfect!
UKC Best-In-Show and High-In-Trial Champion Sunstar Willow of OwyheeStar, AKC Canine Good Citizen, AKC Novice Trick Dog, UKC Rally Obedience I, UKC Agility I, Therapy Dog International certified!
Breeder Comment
What can we say? Congratulations hardly seem to be enough. For all the natural ability as well as Willow’s excellent temperament none of this would have been possible without Jan. It takes dedication and a lot of hard work to garner a prize, ribbon, or title. When the list of titles continues to grow, it is beyond impressive–the stellar performance makes us so proud too!
PS–what a fantastic photo!
Willow
Happy With herself
~ From Jan (July 3, 2017)
Willow qualified in all three Agility trials with three perfect scores of 200!!!
UKC Best-In-Show and High-In-Trial Champion Sunstar Willow of OwyheeStar, AKC Canine Good Citizen, AKC Novice Trick Dog, UKC Rally Obedience I, UKC Agility I, Therapy Dog International certified!
Congratulations Willow! We know your Mama will be sending an official update but today we celebrate with you.
Owyheestar Weimaraner's News 