SKC At Large

We’re not just about dog shows here at SKC; members give their time and money to help dogs everywhere.

Rabies Vaccine Challenge

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin are working to determine the duration of immunity conveyed by rabies vaccines, with a goal of extending the legally-required interval between booster injections from the currently typical three years up to five, and perhaps even seven years.

As of Spring 2009 the study, which is both expensive and funded entirely by donations, is in its third year.   Each year the members of the Souhegan Kennel Club have chosen to give generously to this important effort.

Some of Our Troops Have Four Legs

photo of Cookie and handler with arms cache

In 2008 we learned that some of the hardest-working troops in Iraq are the bomb-sniffing, er, specialty-search dogs.  From a member’s son stationed there we heard that they were having difficulty getting certain items for the dogs’ care so we put together a shipment of — well, you can read for yourself:

Published in Nashua Telegraph, Nashua NH.
Soldiers thankful for kennel club support
Published: Monday, January 26, 2009
To the editor:

I wanted to extend my greatest appreciation for the Souhegan Kennel Club’s efforts to support our specialty search dogs here in Iraq.

Your donations to support the canines on ground here have had a profound impact on their morale and quality of life. Often this element of the military has specific needs that can be easily overlooked.

Because of your efforts, the soldiers responsible for these animals have been able to provide them regular checks between missions. These needs may seem minute to an organization of your caliber, but your support has been critical to ensuring the happiness and good health of our animals. The collapsible bowls, toys and grooming supplies provided were met with great anticipation and excitement by both our canines and their handlers.

These animals provide a vital mission and often are responsible for saving the lives of many American sons and daughters. Your organization has improved the quality of life for our animals. I appreciate your efforts and thank you for all that you do. Without organizations such as yours contributing to our efforts here in Iraq, our military would certainly have faced a more difficult time.

Lt. Col. Joel Cross,
Commander,
5th Engineer Battalion, Iraq

Dogs are not our whole lives, but they make our lives whole.

– Roger Caras