Golden Retriever Club of Hawaii
Affiliated with the Golden Retriever Club of America…
Officers
President:
Lei Taft
Lei Taft
Secretary, Corresponding:
Charlotte Hee
Charlotte Hee
Treasurer:
Dayle Yokotake
Dayle Yokotake
Vice-President:
Ed Robello
Ed Robello
Secretary, Recording:
Theresa Delgado
Theresa Delgado
Board of Directors:
• Debbie Adachi
• Barbara Krasniewski
• Sharon Samson
• Debbie Adachi
• Barbara Krasniewski
• Sharon Samson
Do you have an interest in or love for Golden Retrievers?
If so, we would like to tell you a little bit about the Golden Retriever Club of Hawaii, Inc. (GRCH).
We realize that the existence and activities of GRCH have been among the best kept secret in Hawaii and we could like to do something to change that.
If so, we would like to tell you a little bit about the Golden Retriever Club of Hawaii, Inc. (GRCH).
We realize that the existence and activities of GRCH have been among the best kept secret in Hawaii and we could like to do something to change that.
Go to Golden Retriever Club of America (GRCA) and learn how to differentiate a reputable breeder from a breeder that produces puppies for money.
The Golden Retriever
People say that I make a wonderful pet, that I am a good family dog: the "perfect dog." They say that I am the best choice for just about everyone. Although I can truly be all of those things that you dream of, read on to find out some facts about me that may make you stop and think about how perfect I might be for you.
Golden Retrievers are very sociable. I was bred to work with people, so it is very important for me to be with my family. You must keep me indoors, housetrain me, and love me. If you take the time to do this, I will become your greatest companion. I will love you, be well-mannered, and play gently with your children. It is your job, and your responsibility, to help me be that way. I am well known for my temperament and trainability. Take me to obedience class and socialize me well. I will repay you with undying devotion.
I do not need acreage to run on. I need, instead, your time and attention. Yes, I need fresh air and exercise, but we can do that together. I love walking, jogging, and playing retriever games. It is a must that you have a secure yard for me to play in. A fence will need to be provided with no way to dig out or jump. I cannot be left outside without being supervised by you. My safety is yours to assure.
I will need excellent veterinary care. No matter the cost, my health is in your hands. I will need to be spayed or neutered to prevent unwanted puppies. I also need to be groomed regularly to keep me looking beautiful and feeling good. I will love your touch as you brush me several times each week, and will look forward to that time together.
I have to be honest with you about some other things as well. I am an intelligent and devoted dog, and I will be destructive if I am bored. If you insist on leaving me outdoors, away from my family, I will destroy your yard. I will dig holes in the ground to find cool earth. Because I am a retriever, I like to have things in my mouth all the time. If you do not provide me with plenty of "legal" toys, I will find my own. I will replant your roses, trim your shrubs, chew the pool cover, and destroy the kids' toys. When you do finally come out to see me, I will be so glad to have company that I will jump on you, knock over the baby, and ignore your commands to behave. I will be a large dog, despite my cute puppy looks, and this behavior will be unpleasant. I will do this from boredom, not to be spiteful. If ignored, I will also become an escape artist. I will learn to dig out, or jump, so that I can find companionship. If there are not fences, I will not hang around. I will become a nuisance, and my life will be in danger. One more thing: my beautiful gold coat must come out at least once a year. When it does, I will shed. I may shed very heavily, and my hair will float across the floor and onto your clothes and furniture. Children with allergies may find my skin and coat to be an irritant.
Am I still the perfect dog for you? If you can give me your time, and your love, all of my potential failings will seem unimportant. My big smile and adoring looks will show you that I truly am worth the effort.
If you are looking for a Golden Retriever puppy, you need to be an educated consumer. Because of the popularity of the breed, you will need to do some homework before purchasing your puppy. The Golden Retriever Club of America has a wonderful booklet called "Acquiring a Golden Retriever". It is quick and easy to read, and will teach you all you need to know. It also includes a breeder's questionnaire to make your research easier. The text of this booklet is available on GRCA's website, or you may request a copy from one of GRCA's public information officers.
I do not need acreage to run on. I need, instead, your time and attention. Yes, I need fresh air and exercise, but we can do that together. I love walking, jogging, and playing retriever games. It is a must that you have a secure yard for me to play in. A fence will need to be provided with no way to dig out or jump. I cannot be left outside without being supervised by you. My safety is yours to assure.
I will need excellent veterinary care. No matter the cost, my health is in your hands. I will need to be spayed or neutered to prevent unwanted puppies. I also need to be groomed regularly to keep me looking beautiful and feeling good. I will love your touch as you brush me several times each week, and will look forward to that time together.
I have to be honest with you about some other things as well. I am an intelligent and devoted dog, and I will be destructive if I am bored. If you insist on leaving me outdoors, away from my family, I will destroy your yard. I will dig holes in the ground to find cool earth. Because I am a retriever, I like to have things in my mouth all the time. If you do not provide me with plenty of "legal" toys, I will find my own. I will replant your roses, trim your shrubs, chew the pool cover, and destroy the kids' toys. When you do finally come out to see me, I will be so glad to have company that I will jump on you, knock over the baby, and ignore your commands to behave. I will be a large dog, despite my cute puppy looks, and this behavior will be unpleasant. I will do this from boredom, not to be spiteful. If ignored, I will also become an escape artist. I will learn to dig out, or jump, so that I can find companionship. If there are not fences, I will not hang around. I will become a nuisance, and my life will be in danger. One more thing: my beautiful gold coat must come out at least once a year. When it does, I will shed. I may shed very heavily, and my hair will float across the floor and onto your clothes and furniture. Children with allergies may find my skin and coat to be an irritant.
Am I still the perfect dog for you? If you can give me your time, and your love, all of my potential failings will seem unimportant. My big smile and adoring looks will show you that I truly am worth the effort.
If you are looking for a Golden Retriever puppy, you need to be an educated consumer. Because of the popularity of the breed, you will need to do some homework before purchasing your puppy. The Golden Retriever Club of America has a wonderful booklet called "Acquiring a Golden Retriever". It is quick and easy to read, and will teach you all you need to know. It also includes a breeder's questionnaire to make your research easier. The text of this booklet is available on GRCA's website, or you may request a copy from one of GRCA's public information officers.
Puppy Inquiry
The demand for quality pups in Hawaii far exceeds the availability. You may have to be patient to get a puppy. Your other option would be to import from Australia or NZ. While the cost of the pup can be comparable, the shipping is high as you would have to go through a shipping service.
If you are not picky about quality, then I suggest you check with vet offices and newspapers. There have been some scams reported through Craigslist so care needs to be taken. Some of the puppy mills have websites but I urge you to avoid them. They breed commercially for profit with little regard to maintaining quality or concern for the breed.
Quarantine laws have recently been amended so you are able to bring a young puppy in from the mainland. That would be another option. There will still be strict stipulations that you must adhere to.
If you go to GRCA.org (Golden Retriever Club of America) there is invaluable information on how to find a reputable breeder and how to spot one that is not. Keep in mind that Golden Retrievers have hereditary issues that need to be addressed prior to breeding. All breeding stock should be cleared for the common issues, by proper specialists, as recommended by GRCA.
Quarantine laws have recently been amended so you are able to bring a young puppy in from the mainland. That would be another option. There will still be strict stipulations that you must adhere to.
If you go to GRCA.org (Golden Retriever Club of America) there is invaluable information on how to find a reputable breeder and how to spot one that is not. Keep in mind that Golden Retrievers have hereditary issues that need to be addressed prior to breeding. All breeding stock should be cleared for the common issues, by proper specialists, as recommended by GRCA.
Club members are usually serious hobby breeders bound by a code of ethics. Currently there are only a handful of GRCH breeders.
Available Litters? There are none available at this time.
If you are shopping for a quality puppy, you will be interviewed to make sure you are a suitable home. Do not be taken aback by all the questions you are asked. Breeders with integrity will want to know their puppies are going to the best possible, forever homes.
Hopefully, this has been of some help in your search for a Golden puppy. If you need any other questions answered, please contact us.
As an aside, GRCH does have a rescue program. If this is of interest, feel free to fill out the online application. The club has had great successes in the placement of our rescues. See the 'Rescue Program' section for details.
Aloha,
Lei Taft, President
Hopefully, this has been of some help in your search for a Golden puppy. If you need any other questions answered, please contact us.
As an aside, GRCH does have a rescue program. If this is of interest, feel free to fill out the online application. The club has had great successes in the placement of our rescues. See the 'Rescue Program' section for details.
Aloha,
Lei Taft, President
Rescue Program
During a General Membership meeting a number of years ago, the GRCH members viewed a video of a Golden rescue operation by a sister club on the East Coast. When the video ended, there were few dry eyes in the room. The club members decided that part of the GRCH mission should include rescue and adoption to ensure that every Golden in Hawaii has a life of dignity, respect and love.
As situations change, some owners are no longer able to provide that for their Goldens. GRCH assists these people by having their Golden released to the club for placement in homes that can provide stability and love for the rest of their lives.
Goldens available for adoption are seen by a veterinarian who does a complete examination and, if the dog's medical history is not verified, updates vaccinations, performs heartworm testing, treats minor ailments such as ear infections as well as starting flea and tick and heartworm prevention if appropriate. The goal is to ensure that each Golden is healthy when placed with the new adoptive family. However, since many rescued Goldens come with an unknown history, their temperament and entire well-being cannot be guaranteed.
Goldens available for adoption are seen by a veterinarian who does a complete examination and, if the dog's medical history is not verified, updates vaccinations, performs heartworm testing, treats minor ailments such as ear infections as well as starting flea and tick and heartworm prevention if appropriate. The goal is to ensure that each Golden is healthy when placed with the new adoptive family. However, since many rescued Goldens come with an unknown history, their temperament and entire well-being cannot be guaranteed.
To place a golden:
If you wish to place a Golden, you may send an email to Lei Taft and we will follow up to assist you as best we can.
To adopt a golden:
1. If you wish to be considered to adopt a Golden, please fill out the application form found here.
(To download the form, hold 'alt' or 'option' key down, then click on the link)
Print the completed form and eMail to Barbara Krasniewski. (barbarakraz808@gmail.com)
2. Alternately, you can mail the completed application to:
Barbara Krasniewski
124 Kuulei Rd
Kailua, HI 96734
A General Release shall be physically signed and $100 Adoption Donation paid at the time of adoption. The GRCH rescue program is committed to providing the very best home for each Golden in our care.
If you wish to place a Golden, you may send an email to Lei Taft and we will follow up to assist you as best we can.
To adopt a golden:
1. If you wish to be considered to adopt a Golden, please fill out the application form found here.
(To download the form, hold 'alt' or 'option' key down, then click on the link)
Print the completed form and eMail to Barbara Krasniewski. (barbarakraz808@gmail.com)
2. Alternately, you can mail the completed application to:
Barbara Krasniewski
124 Kuulei Rd
Kailua, HI 96734
A General Release shall be physically signed and $100 Adoption Donation paid at the time of adoption. The GRCH rescue program is committed to providing the very best home for each Golden in our care.
Membership
There shall be three types of memberships:
A. Adult memberships for those persons 18 years of age and over.
B. Junior memberships for those under 18 years of age. These members must be sponsored by an adult member in good standing with the Club. Junior members shall be non-voting and may not hold elective office.
C. Honorary memberships which may be bestowed upon distinguished Golden Retriever fanciers by a majority vote of those members present and voting at the meeting following their nomination. An honorary member cannot vote or hold office and is exempt from paying dues.
All of these members must be in good standing with the American Kennel Club and subscribe to the purposes of this Club. While membership is to be unrestricted as to the residence, the Club’s primary purpose is to be representative of the breeders and exhibitors in its immediate area.
A. Adult memberships for those persons 18 years of age and over.
B. Junior memberships for those under 18 years of age. These members must be sponsored by an adult member in good standing with the Club. Junior members shall be non-voting and may not hold elective office.
C. Honorary memberships which may be bestowed upon distinguished Golden Retriever fanciers by a majority vote of those members present and voting at the meeting following their nomination. An honorary member cannot vote or hold office and is exempt from paying dues.
All of these members must be in good standing with the American Kennel Club and subscribe to the purposes of this Club. While membership is to be unrestricted as to the residence, the Club’s primary purpose is to be representative of the breeders and exhibitors in its immediate area.
For more information
Contact:
Golden Retriever Club of America, Inc.
PO Box 20434
Oklahoma City, OK 73156
Golden Retriever Club of America, Inc.
PO Box 20434
Oklahoma City, OK 73156
Importation of Golden Retrievers
The GRCA has long been an advocate of rescuing purebred Golden Retrievers. When formal breed rescues developed, the hope was always that someday rescue would no longer be necessary. Due to the promotion of responsible breeding practices and the efficiency of breed-specific rescue, the last decade has seen a steady decline in Goldens in need of rescue.
Health Issues
Obesity Diseases in dogs are on the rise and pose a major health concern for your furry friend.
Resisting those big pleading golden eyes can be difficult, but don't give in! Overfeeding causes obesity, which directly affects your dog's quality of life.
Quite simply, obesity will shorten your Golden Retriever's life.
Resisting those big pleading golden eyes can be difficult, but don't give in! Overfeeding causes obesity, which directly affects your dog's quality of life.
Quite simply, obesity will shorten your Golden Retriever's life.
More Info here.
Please Note:
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Is a Golden for me?The Golden Retriever is NOT the breed for everyone, and for the sake of the breed, this is worth repeating...
THE GOLDEN RETRIEVER IS NOT FOR EVERYONE!
The Golden Retriever is an American Kennel Club sporting breed requiring daily activity as an outlet of amazing energy.
(And no...a short trip to the nearest tree from the front door for a potty break does not count as exercise.)
A Golden's thick coat in addition to a water repellent undercoat makes weekly brushing a requirement.
The Golden is NOT for fussy or fanatical housekeepers. Golden's shed and whether you call them fur balls, fur bunnies or tumbleweeds...they will be in plentiful supply across your living and dining room floors.
If there is water in the vicinity, a Golden will find it...muddy or not!
If your yard harbors small sticks, leaves, etc...a Golden's coat will find it. (And inevitably drag into your house.)
Some of the larger headed Golden's bred for conformation tend to have a looser lip resulting in drooling.
Our girls gave it a more technically scientific name... "being slimmed!" (It's amazing what we have learned to tolerate!)
Being a very social breed -- Goldens are NOT suited for solitary backyard living or being chained to the dog house all day and night.
Golden tackle EVERYTHING with passion and zeal! They will not be satisfied with anything less than being part of the family.
Whether it is a jaunt to the store down the road or a ten-hour excursion to the beach - it makes no difference to them...as long as they are with their family!
We call them the "pocket dog" -- if you can't find your Golden, just turn around...he is probably in your back pocket waiting to see what you want to do next.
Goldens are NOT guard dogs! Golden Retrievers are the most sociable creature on earth and probably invented the saying,
"I'm a lover -- not a fighter!" They have NO enemies and NOBODY is a stranger.
An invitation to a burglar to "come in and take a load off" would be more rational in a Golden's point of view than anything threatening or hateful. After all...the more the merrier!
The Golden's size in combination with their frolicsome playfulness make basic obedience (at the very least) a necessity.
Golden Retrievers without basic knowledge of commands can lead to uncontrollable playfulness, exuberant jumping, etc.
This is not only annoying and irritating (not to mention rude), but a dangerous situation for a child or elderly person...no matter how well meaning their intentions.
One more thing...don't let it be said we did not warn you about shedding.
Having said all the negative, for those willing to take the responsibility an do commit to own a Golden Retriever, you will not find a more loving, sweet, affectionate and devoted member of your family.
(Not counting your spouse!)
Now...did I mention....those fur bunnies... -
Should I breed my dog?Everyone who has ever owned a dog, has at one time or another wondered, "Should I breed my dog?"
Even if the thought was fleeting, the temptation to reproduce what you consider to be the BEST DOG IN THE WORLD is there.
What, you may wonder, are the criteria for breeding a dog and how should you make the decision to breed or alter your companion dog?
Dog owners, fanciers and breeders, both in the United States and elsewhere in the world, are facing some serious challenges in today’s world.
Pet overpopulation is a serious problem in the United States. The most recent statistics I have seen, from the Humane Society of the United States, estimate that in 1992 approximately 7.5 MILLION pets were destroyed in the United States. In a six-year time period, one unspayed bitch and her offspring can be responsible for 57,000 additional puppies!
Those are VERY disturbing figures, especially considering the ever- increasing anti-breed and breed-specific legislation being proposed at both the local and national level.
Taking all of this into consideration, it is my personal belief that the ONLY valid reason to breed ANY dog today is to IMPROVE THE BREED!
Vern Bower Humanitarian Award
In 1989, the GRCA Board of Directors approved the Vern Bower Humanitarian Award for the purpose of recognizing those who have made exemplary contributions to the Golden Retriever, with the prerequisite of being a selfless devotion to our breed.
The award will be given at the Annual Meeting to the candidate, GRCA member or organization who is nominated by the membership and chosen by the Board of Directors for service to the Golden Retriever breed (not to include service for GRCA).
The award will be given at the Annual Meeting to the candidate, GRCA member or organization who is nominated by the membership and chosen by the Board of Directors for service to the Golden Retriever breed (not to include service for GRCA).
Vern Bower Humanitarian Award Recipient
Lei Taft
