Thursday, January 26, 2012
Weather
Our Delaware weather has been fickle this winter. One day it is 55 degrees out side and sunny with little wind. Then next it is 32 degrees with snow flurries. At night the temperature is all over the place. Although, I am not complaining..don't get me wrong I love snow. But, it wrecks havoc on the people the care/tend to there animals! When it's not raining I take some of the rabbits out of there pens and put them out in there runs for some free time.
Studying
In less than a week away I will be taking my Register's Test in Lebanon, PA. I have been studying every day for the past few weeks. I've been reading the Standard of Perfection, Registers Study Guide and various other Guidebooks on the breeds I have raised in the past. Everyone keep your fingers crossed that i'll pass with flying colors.
As soon as I know if I've passed or not, I'll be sending out letters to different show superintendents and judges so I can work under them this winter/spring.
As soon as I know if I've passed or not, I'll be sending out letters to different show superintendents and judges so I can work under them this winter/spring.
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Rabbits For Sale: Giant Angoras
I have two current litters. The 1st litter was born on November3, 2011. The 2nd litter was born on November 8, 2011. I have a waiting list started for Giant Angoras from both of these litters that may become available. Pet/Fiber Prospects may leave when they are 12 weeks old. Show Prospects may leave after they are 16 weeks old. We currently only have bucks available. However, we will be breeding again in the spring.
These Giant Angora Bucks are still available...There is 4 of them.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Baby Weights
Great Find
I got this cute little pen for $20.00 form a Thrift Store down the road a month or two ago. Photos from old blog.
Clover Day Again
These photos were taken from my old blog that was posted on 11/30/11. The pretty green clover makes me feel warm in side, compared to the cold temperatures outside today.
Fuzzy French Lop
This Fuzzy French Lop is Sleepy's Thomas the Tank. He currently weighs 12.2 lbs. I just love his face!
Look at that body!
Thank you Karen D. of Sleepy's Rabbitry!
Our Specail Needs Rooster
Simon was given to us as a Pet for Jessica with the hopes of him being able to reproduce for us this spring. Unfortunately, Simon will not be able to be shown due to the fact that he is blind in both eyes. Simon is super sweet, he loves to be held. In fact he has been to Vacation Bible School this summer and Children's Church this fall. Kids of all ages love to hold him like a baby.
This spring we hope to find a show quality rooster so Jessica can show one.
Application for Register....
I have officially sent off my Application for Register's License today January 4, 2012. Over the past few months I have been to a few shows to ask other ARBA Members in good standing to sign my petition. I was only required to have 20 signatures but I ended up with 26 just in case someone’s membership was expired.
Now I need to study, study and study some more. I will be taking my Register's Exam in February the weekend of the Pennsylvania State Convention known to many of us as PaSRBA. If I pass my Register’s Exam I will need to work at 3 all-breed shows under 3 different judges and have two of the judges endorse me. I am also required to work with a Licensed ARBA Registers at another show.
This is just one more step that I must take to become a ARBA Licensed Judge in the future.
Now I need to study, study and study some more. I will be taking my Register's Exam in February the weekend of the Pennsylvania State Convention known to many of us as PaSRBA. If I pass my Register’s Exam I will need to work at 3 all-breed shows under 3 different judges and have two of the judges endorse me. I am also required to work with a Licensed ARBA Registers at another show.
This is just one more step that I must take to become a ARBA Licensed Judge in the future.
I can't forget the dogs...
I can't forget to post about Bitsy our Borzoi, Ices our Standard Poodle and Yoda our Labradoodle. When I let the dogs out in the morning to go potty on cold days. I make 2 gallons of hot mater with 3 chicken broth cubes for the dogs. This way I am sure they will have plenty of fluids while they are out in there runs for the day.
Chicken Breakfast
I've been following a few Poultry Blogs on Facebook and noticed many small flock owners like myself love to spoil our peeps. Our little flock of 5 are given a warm breakfast in the morings.Which consist of oatmeal, cranberries, flax seed and a pinch of sweet feed. I mix it all together in a big bowl.
Then I add boiling hot water to the mix and let it stand for a minute or two while I go put our guys and girls out in there run for the day.
This is Oopsie Daisy Daisy enjoying her warm mash this morning. It was 27 degrees this morning with lots of breeze!
Then I add boiling hot water to the mix and let it stand for a minute or two while I go put our guys and girls out in there run for the day.
This is Oopsie Daisy Daisy enjoying her warm mash this morning. It was 27 degrees this morning with lots of breeze!
Coated Breeds
Coated breeds are a real challenge, Angoras especially. The Angora breeds I am referring to is English and Giant Angoras. These breeds usually attracts "arty" people; people who apperciate fine lines, elegance and quality. It can be so rewarding to breed, show and grand your own English and Giant Angoras. I really feel that I am on the verge of something big with my Giant Angoras. Maybe a future Best In Show?
If you are to be the "best" in anything then you must pour my heart and soul into it. I have to educate myself constantly working and practing my grooming skills. Evaluating pedigrees to make the best choices for my upcoming breeding's. I love the challenge of breeding, conditioning and showing my English and Giant Angoras. To me it's ver rewarding. That's the neat thing about my "artsy" breeds English and Giant Angoras; they've become so multi-faceted.
Herdsman of the Year Award 2009
UNITED ANGORA RABBIT CLUB SWEEPSTAKES PROGRAM
Final 2009 Sweepstakes Points Standings
Points listed below are based upon show reports for shows taking place during 2009 that were submitted to the Sweepstakes Chair.
Herdsman Points
One point is awarded for each individual Angora rabbit winning a BOB or a BOS during the year (regardless of breed or whether the win counts as a Leg). For this category, each rabbit counts only once, regardless of how many wins that rabbit earns during the year.
2009 Final Standings
Melissa Deitrich 12
Pamela Barnes 8
Colleen Wagner 8
Amy Spang 7
Lisa Rodenfels 6
Kathy Taylor 4
Janet Gruber 2
JoAnn Schoolcraft 2
Terry Robertson 1
Charlotte Schweikart 1
Tina Vance 1
BOB/BOS Wins
One point is awarded for every BOB and for every BOS win by a UARC member during the calendar year. Points for all Angora breeds are combined for a single score for each member.
2009 BOB/BOS Top Five
Colleen Wagner 30
Pamela Barnes 22
Melissa Deitrich 18
Amy Spang 12
Lisa Rodenfels 8
Overall Points
Points in this category are awarded by breed based on show placements, with extra points awarded for BIS/BOB/BOS and for points earned in UARC or National shows.
English Angora
Colleen Wagner: 2051
Melissa Deitrich: 234
Alex Stepnoski: 234
Donna/Maura McGraw: 112
Liz Gaynor 64
JoAnn Schoolcraft 45
Carolyn McGraw 40
Victoria Detolla-Cole 16
Lilly Gaynor 12
Rachel Schmidt 8
French Angora
Amy Spang 2391
Pam Barnes 2376
Lauren Waters 508
Charlotte Schweikart 282
Jessica Cody 226
Kathy Taylor 202
Lynn Miller 160
Lisa Rodenfels 56
Tina Vance 56
Lori White 50
Julie George: 18
Scott Vance: 12
Satin Angora
Lisa Rodenfels: 475
Giant Angora
Melissa Dietrich 509
Janet Gruber 66
Victoria Detolla-Cole 32
Terri Robertson 32
Sue Maccombie 18
Final 2009 Sweepstakes Points Standings
Points listed below are based upon show reports for shows taking place during 2009 that were submitted to the Sweepstakes Chair.
Herdsman Points
One point is awarded for each individual Angora rabbit winning a BOB or a BOS during the year (regardless of breed or whether the win counts as a Leg). For this category, each rabbit counts only once, regardless of how many wins that rabbit earns during the year.
2009 Final Standings
Melissa Deitrich 12
Pamela Barnes 8
Colleen Wagner 8
Amy Spang 7
Lisa Rodenfels 6
Kathy Taylor 4
Janet Gruber 2
JoAnn Schoolcraft 2
Terry Robertson 1
Charlotte Schweikart 1
Tina Vance 1
BOB/BOS Wins
One point is awarded for every BOB and for every BOS win by a UARC member during the calendar year. Points for all Angora breeds are combined for a single score for each member.
2009 BOB/BOS Top Five
Colleen Wagner 30
Pamela Barnes 22
Melissa Deitrich 18
Amy Spang 12
Lisa Rodenfels 8
Overall Points
Points in this category are awarded by breed based on show placements, with extra points awarded for BIS/BOB/BOS and for points earned in UARC or National shows.
English Angora
Colleen Wagner: 2051
Melissa Deitrich: 234
Alex Stepnoski: 234
Donna/Maura McGraw: 112
Liz Gaynor 64
JoAnn Schoolcraft 45
Carolyn McGraw 40
Victoria Detolla-Cole 16
Lilly Gaynor 12
Rachel Schmidt 8
French Angora
Amy Spang 2391
Pam Barnes 2376
Lauren Waters 508
Charlotte Schweikart 282
Jessica Cody 226
Kathy Taylor 202
Lynn Miller 160
Lisa Rodenfels 56
Tina Vance 56
Lori White 50
Julie George: 18
Scott Vance: 12
Satin Angora
Lisa Rodenfels: 475
Giant Angora
Melissa Dietrich 509
Janet Gruber 66
Victoria Detolla-Cole 32
Terri Robertson 32
Sue Maccombie 18
Herdsman of the Year Article: Fuzzibutt's Rabbitry
Here is the article that I submited for the 2009 Herdsman of The Year. This article will feature a full page about me and lots of phtos.
Being Herdsman of the year is very exciting. I could not have done it with out the help and support from my husband who is my grooming partner. Even though, he thinks angoras are not manly enough for him. I would also like to thank my daughter Jessica for being my “little side kick.” She is always the first one to help me groom at shows. Not to mention my great family who I depend on to house sit the four legged kids while we are away at rabbit shows.
Let me start off by giving you a little background on myself. I started raising rabbits when I was 10 years old. I showed Netherland Dwarfs in 4-H and ARBA shows. I then moved on to the large breeds of rabbits which included Rex and Californians. It was by luck that I got into English Angoras. I did not get my first one until I was 16 years old. I won my first REW English Angora doe in a raffle at a local rabbit show. From there I decided to purchased a buck from a local breeder. I bred a few litters and showed at a few more shows. When I went to college I majored in Pre-Veterinary Medicine and Biology. I have minors in Animal Nutrition, Chemistry and Physics. My long term goal was to be a large and small animal Veterinarian.
Here at Fuzzibutt’s Rabbitry we breed and show the following breeds: English and Giant Angoras, Flemish Giants in Black and Blue, Mini Rex in BEW and Red along with Red Rex. We hold several memberships in at least 10 rabbit clubs. Which includes National breed clubs, as well as local clubs for all of our breeds.
We believe that all rabbits should have a name and be treated like members of the family. We try to treat all of our rabbits with dignity, and respect. We have a running joke here at the rabbitry that goes something like this “once a baby rabbit has a name it usually finds a home here permanently.” We pride ourselves on being a small rabbitry, where we can still give all of our rabbit’s treats such as carrots or ginger snaps at night.
Our rabbitry is set up in our 2 car garage. All of the rabbits have ample space to move around. The English and Giant Angoras have 30X30 cages. We have fluorescent lighting for the rabbitry which we leave on from 8pm-7am . We feel that lighting is very important for our breeding success. We also have 8 large fans that circulate air throughout the rabbitry which is left on 24 hours a day. We have hot and cold water which makes it nice during the winter. Our garage is insulated so it stays warm in the winter and cool in the summer. During the day we leave the doors open for fresh air. All of our cages have wheels so we can clean the pens easily. We clean the pans twice a week. Water bottles, feeders and resting pads get bleached once a week.
Our nursery for our rabbits is set up in our house. We use the spare room; we set up crates for the moms. We turn the lights down low. We bring the expecting moms in a few days before they are due to kindle. Once the babies are kindled we check on them a few times a day. We keep them in the house until they are 4 weeks old. We feel that if we can give them a good start in life we will be blessed with them latter on.
When our litters are 6 weeks old we start our 1st phase of the culling process. We look for obvious DQ's such as color, toe nails, and teeth, along with wool consistently, type and texture, and body type. We also start to sex our rabbits at 6 weeks of age. Once we decide on the sex of the rabbit we contact our prospective buyers and let them know that we may have something for them. We do not sell our pets with pedigrees we also encourage the pets to be spayed and or neutered; we work very closely with our Veterinarian. For my English Angoras I know who I plan on using in my breeding program by the time they are 5 months old. For the Giant Angoras I usually grow them out until they are 9 months to a year. I know this may seem like a long time but Giants Angoras are known not to make Sr. weight. This is one of the main problems with this breed.
As far as feeding our rabbits they get free fed grass hay. Every other day they get oat hay. We feed and recommend 18% Pen Pals rabbit feed. During the show season we supplement our feed with a special supplement mixture. We strongly believe in adding Apple Cider Vinegar to our rabbits water every other day. We feel this also aids in the success of our litters.
Our rabbits are weighted every Thursday regardless of breed. We like to know how much our rabbits weigh, we us this information in case someone needs extra food the following week or if someone needs to go on a diet. Thursday is also nail clipping day, not to mention hands on day. We look at every rabbit’s eyes, teeth, butts, and we put our hands on every rabbit to access flesh condition.
I am currently on my 4th generation of Giant Angoras, 3rd generation of English Angoras. I can proudly say that I have a few champions that I have bred my self: 5 Giant Angoras and 4 English Angoras so far this year. I have few Giant Angoras that I am waiting to registered so I can grand them out.
The angoras in show coat are blown out 4 times a week for a minimum of 20 minutes each. Then we move on to grooming there feet and bellies. I must say I really dislike grooming the feet and bellies so my daughter usually does this for me. I use big stand dog dryers for the rabbits to sit under while I blow there coats out. I also use a force dryer. I also band the rabbit’s bangs and cheek furnishings. I also wrap the angora’s coats behind the ears to prevent matting. I do use Ice On Ice as a grooming aid. I love this stuff! Ice On Ice puts a protective barrier on the outside of the hair strand and locks in moisture, it is not oily and Ice On Ice repels dirt, dust, rain, urine, from soaking into the coat. Ice On Ice contains sunscreen as well it also helps keep static down while grooming. Like most angora exhibitors I do use corn starch as well. At any give time I have 4-8 angoras in full show coat. I have also been known to wash an angora coat then blow it back out again.
In conclusion I personally feel coated breeds are a real challenge, Angoras especially. The angora breeds I am refereeing to are English and Giant Angoras. These breeds usually attract “artys” people; people who appreciate fine lines, elegance and quality. It can be so rewarding to breed show and grand your own English and Giant Angoras. I really feel that I am on the verge of something big with my English and Giant Angoras, maybe a future BIS?
If you are to be the “best” in anything then you must pour your heart and soul into it. I have to educate myself constantly working and practicing my grooming skills. Evaluating pedigrees to make the best choices for my upcoming litters. I love the challenge of breeding, conditioning and showing my English and Giant Angoras. To me it’s very rewarding. That’s the neat thing about my “artsy” breeds English and Giant Angoras; they’ve become so multi-faceted. Don’t get me wrong I love the Standard Rex and my Mini Rex but I refer to them more of a wash and wear breed.
Next year, I plan on getting my registers license as well as apply for my judges license in the near future.
Being Herdsman of the year is very exciting. I could not have done it with out the help and support from my husband who is my grooming partner. Even though, he thinks angoras are not manly enough for him. I would also like to thank my daughter Jessica for being my “little side kick.” She is always the first one to help me groom at shows. Not to mention my great family who I depend on to house sit the four legged kids while we are away at rabbit shows.
Let me start off by giving you a little background on myself. I started raising rabbits when I was 10 years old. I showed Netherland Dwarfs in 4-H and ARBA shows. I then moved on to the large breeds of rabbits which included Rex and Californians. It was by luck that I got into English Angoras. I did not get my first one until I was 16 years old. I won my first REW English Angora doe in a raffle at a local rabbit show. From there I decided to purchased a buck from a local breeder. I bred a few litters and showed at a few more shows. When I went to college I majored in Pre-Veterinary Medicine and Biology. I have minors in Animal Nutrition, Chemistry and Physics. My long term goal was to be a large and small animal Veterinarian.
Here at Fuzzibutt’s Rabbitry we breed and show the following breeds: English and Giant Angoras, Flemish Giants in Black and Blue, Mini Rex in BEW and Red along with Red Rex. We hold several memberships in at least 10 rabbit clubs. Which includes National breed clubs, as well as local clubs for all of our breeds.
We believe that all rabbits should have a name and be treated like members of the family. We try to treat all of our rabbits with dignity, and respect. We have a running joke here at the rabbitry that goes something like this “once a baby rabbit has a name it usually finds a home here permanently.” We pride ourselves on being a small rabbitry, where we can still give all of our rabbit’s treats such as carrots or ginger snaps at night.
Our rabbitry is set up in our 2 car garage. All of the rabbits have ample space to move around. The English and Giant Angoras have 30X30 cages. We have fluorescent lighting for the rabbitry which we leave on from 8pm-7am . We feel that lighting is very important for our breeding success. We also have 8 large fans that circulate air throughout the rabbitry which is left on 24 hours a day. We have hot and cold water which makes it nice during the winter. Our garage is insulated so it stays warm in the winter and cool in the summer. During the day we leave the doors open for fresh air. All of our cages have wheels so we can clean the pens easily. We clean the pans twice a week. Water bottles, feeders and resting pads get bleached once a week.
Our nursery for our rabbits is set up in our house. We use the spare room; we set up crates for the moms. We turn the lights down low. We bring the expecting moms in a few days before they are due to kindle. Once the babies are kindled we check on them a few times a day. We keep them in the house until they are 4 weeks old. We feel that if we can give them a good start in life we will be blessed with them latter on.
When our litters are 6 weeks old we start our 1st phase of the culling process. We look for obvious DQ's such as color, toe nails, and teeth, along with wool consistently, type and texture, and body type. We also start to sex our rabbits at 6 weeks of age. Once we decide on the sex of the rabbit we contact our prospective buyers and let them know that we may have something for them. We do not sell our pets with pedigrees we also encourage the pets to be spayed and or neutered; we work very closely with our Veterinarian. For my English Angoras I know who I plan on using in my breeding program by the time they are 5 months old. For the Giant Angoras I usually grow them out until they are 9 months to a year. I know this may seem like a long time but Giants Angoras are known not to make Sr. weight. This is one of the main problems with this breed.
As far as feeding our rabbits they get free fed grass hay. Every other day they get oat hay. We feed and recommend 18% Pen Pals rabbit feed. During the show season we supplement our feed with a special supplement mixture. We strongly believe in adding Apple Cider Vinegar to our rabbits water every other day. We feel this also aids in the success of our litters.
Our rabbits are weighted every Thursday regardless of breed. We like to know how much our rabbits weigh, we us this information in case someone needs extra food the following week or if someone needs to go on a diet. Thursday is also nail clipping day, not to mention hands on day. We look at every rabbit’s eyes, teeth, butts, and we put our hands on every rabbit to access flesh condition.
I am currently on my 4th generation of Giant Angoras, 3rd generation of English Angoras. I can proudly say that I have a few champions that I have bred my self: 5 Giant Angoras and 4 English Angoras so far this year. I have few Giant Angoras that I am waiting to registered so I can grand them out.
The angoras in show coat are blown out 4 times a week for a minimum of 20 minutes each. Then we move on to grooming there feet and bellies. I must say I really dislike grooming the feet and bellies so my daughter usually does this for me. I use big stand dog dryers for the rabbits to sit under while I blow there coats out. I also use a force dryer. I also band the rabbit’s bangs and cheek furnishings. I also wrap the angora’s coats behind the ears to prevent matting. I do use Ice On Ice as a grooming aid. I love this stuff! Ice On Ice puts a protective barrier on the outside of the hair strand and locks in moisture, it is not oily and Ice On Ice repels dirt, dust, rain, urine, from soaking into the coat. Ice On Ice contains sunscreen as well it also helps keep static down while grooming. Like most angora exhibitors I do use corn starch as well. At any give time I have 4-8 angoras in full show coat. I have also been known to wash an angora coat then blow it back out again.
In conclusion I personally feel coated breeds are a real challenge, Angoras especially. The angora breeds I am refereeing to are English and Giant Angoras. These breeds usually attract “artys” people; people who appreciate fine lines, elegance and quality. It can be so rewarding to breed show and grand your own English and Giant Angoras. I really feel that I am on the verge of something big with my English and Giant Angoras, maybe a future BIS?
If you are to be the “best” in anything then you must pour your heart and soul into it. I have to educate myself constantly working and practicing my grooming skills. Evaluating pedigrees to make the best choices for my upcoming litters. I love the challenge of breeding, conditioning and showing my English and Giant Angoras. To me it’s very rewarding. That’s the neat thing about my “artsy” breeds English and Giant Angoras; they’ve become so multi-faceted. Don’t get me wrong I love the Standard Rex and my Mini Rex but I refer to them more of a wash and wear breed.
Next year, I plan on getting my registers license as well as apply for my judges license in the near future.
UARC Results 2/5/11 @ PaSRBA
UARC Specialty Show A (Saturday):
Judge: Randy Schumaker
ENGLISH ANGORA
BOB: Donna McGraw
BOS: Donna McGraw
FRENCH ANGORA
BOB: Melissa Deitrich
BOS: Pam Barnes
SATIN ANGORA
BOB: Miranda Fasnacht
BOB: Karina Anderson
GIANT ANGORA
BOB: Alex Stepnoski
BOS: Alex Stepnoski
BIS: English Angora--Donna McGraw
UARC Results on 2/6/11 @ PaSRBA
Sunday show results:
Best in Show: Amy Spang FA Sr White Doe
English Angora:
BOB: Donna McGraw
BOS: Donna McGraw
French Angora:
BOB: Amy Spang
BOS: Amy Spang
Giant Angora:
BOB: Ashley Shaw
BOS: Alex Stepnoski
Satin Angora:
BOB: Miranda Fasnacht
BOS: Miranda Fasnacht
Spinning Wheel 2/14/11
My husband Phillip for Valentine's Day brought me my 1st Spinning Wheel. It is Kromski Fantasia Spinning Wheel. My friend Jennifer who is teaching me how to spin, has one of these wheels. The both of us can't say enough good things about the Kromski Fantasia. I purchased it unfinished so I can put our rabbitry logo on it. Once I get it put together I will include photos of it.
Here is some information about it taken from The Woolery's website at www.woolery.com
The newest of the Kromski collection. Yes, a thoroughly modern wheel in every aspect but the concept and design are obviously Kromski. What is not obvious is a new single drive flyer design. The whorl is "changeable" for different speeds; to change the bobbins (all Kromski bobbins fit the Fantasia), the front of the flyer simply pulls off - no drive band to deal with in this adaptation of the original Kromski Quick Change Flyer. Very fast bobbin change. The wheel and the flyer spin on sealed bearings for an exceptionally soft feel.
Features:
•Wheel: diameter - 18"; double treadle
•Orifice: height - 28"; diameter - 3/8"
•3 bobbins - these interchange with any Kromski regular bobbins
•Single drive with Scotch tension; interchangeable whorls; sliding hooks on flyer
•Threading hook; attached bobbin holder; oil bottle; elastic drive band
•Ratios: standard - 5 and 8:1; optional - 10 and 14:1, 18 and 20:1
•Wood/Look choices: unfinished wood and MDF wheel; finished wood and veneered MDF wheel with contrasting wheel
•Accent piece: walnut on clear or clear on walnut.
•Weight: 13.5 lbs.
•Kit - assembles very quickly
Here is some information about it taken from The Woolery's website at www.woolery.com
The newest of the Kromski collection. Yes, a thoroughly modern wheel in every aspect but the concept and design are obviously Kromski. What is not obvious is a new single drive flyer design. The whorl is "changeable" for different speeds; to change the bobbins (all Kromski bobbins fit the Fantasia), the front of the flyer simply pulls off - no drive band to deal with in this adaptation of the original Kromski Quick Change Flyer. Very fast bobbin change. The wheel and the flyer spin on sealed bearings for an exceptionally soft feel.
Features:
•Wheel: diameter - 18"; double treadle
•Orifice: height - 28"; diameter - 3/8"
•3 bobbins - these interchange with any Kromski regular bobbins
•Single drive with Scotch tension; interchangeable whorls; sliding hooks on flyer
•Threading hook; attached bobbin holder; oil bottle; elastic drive band
•Ratios: standard - 5 and 8:1; optional - 10 and 14:1, 18 and 20:1
•Wood/Look choices: unfinished wood and MDF wheel; finished wood and veneered MDF wheel with contrasting wheel
•Accent piece: walnut on clear or clear on walnut.
•Weight: 13.5 lbs.
•Kit - assembles very quickly
2010 United Angora Rabbit Club Sweepstakes Results
2010 Sweepstakes Results by Amy Spang
Herdsman Points: One point is awarded for each individual Angora rabbit winning a BOB or a BOS duringthe year (regardless of breed or whether the win counts as a Leg). For this category, each rabbit counts only once,
regardless of how many wins that rabbit earns during the year.
2010 Herdsman Results
Amy Spang 9
Pamela Barnes 6
Joyce Holliday 5
Lisa Rodenfels 5
Melissa Deitrich 4
Charlotte Schweikart 2
Annette Boose 1
Janet Gruber 1
Tina Vance 1
BOB/BOS Wins: One point is awarded for every BOB and for every BOS win by a UARC member during the calendar year.
Amy Spang 18
Pamela Barnes 17
Lisa Rodenfels 5
Melissa Deitrich 4
Tina Vance 3
Janet Gruber 2
Charlotte Schweikart 2
Annette Boose 1
Quality Points: Points in this category are awarded by breed based on show placements, with extra points awarded for BIS/BOB/BOS and for points earned in UARC or National shows.
English Angora
Lori White 80
Melissa Steward 66
Joanne Schoolcraft 6
French Angora
Pam Barnes 2005
Amy Spang 1827
Charlotte Schweikart 832
Tina Vance 760
Lisa Rodenfels 456
Joyce Holliday 141
Jenna Leonard 110
Lorrie Ashcroft 110
Julie George 84
Melissa Deitrich 24
Giant Angora
Melissa Deitrich 51
Satin Angora
Lisa Rodenfels 597
Janet Gruber 90
Annette Boose 36
Victoria DeTolla-Cole 2
Way to go everyone. Congrulations Amy!
Volume 5 Issue 1
Pennsylvania State Rabbit Breeders Association 2010 Sweepstakes
Pennsylvania State Rabbit Breeders Association 2010 Sweepstakes
EXHIBITOR OF THE YEAR 2010 - OPEN 1.LARRY WAGNER, JR.
2. CARL GENTILE
3. DONNA GENTILE
4. BARBARA & PIPER SMITH
5. AARON MARTEN
6. MARILYN MILLER
7. JOHN PLOKHOOY
8. RICHARD & BRENDA GODFREY
2010 SWEEPSTAKES WINNERS - OPEN
AMERICAN FUZZY LOP
1. HEYDUKE, MARIE
AMERICAN RABBITS
2. KAULAKIS, RYAN
3. KAULAKIS, DANI
ENGLISH ANGORA
1. McGRAW, DONNA
GIANT ANGORA
1. DEITRICH, MELISSA
SATIN ANGORA
1. ROWE, SARA
CALIFORNIAN
1. FEHR, DON
2. LENGAL
CRÈME D’ARGENT
1. GENTILE, DONNA
CHAMPAGNE D’ARGENT
1. GEMTILE, CARL
2. GENTILE, DONNA
STANDARD CHINCHILLA
1. CALLAHAN, KAREN
2. CALLAHAN, BONNIE
AMERICAN CHINCHILLA
1. REITNAUER, KEITH
DUTCH
1. MARTIN, AARON
2. BOUNDS, BILLY
DWARF HOTOT
1. MILLER, MARILYN
2. HOLTON, JOYCE
FLEMISH GIANT
1. GENTILE, DONNA
2. STONER, CHRIS
3. WELCH, FRANK
FLORIDA WHITE
1. SMITH, BARBARA&PIPER
HARLEQUIN
1. WAGNER, LARRY
HAVANA
1. WAGNER, LARRY
2. TOON, SHARON
HOLLAND LOP
1. STEELE, CRAIG
2. PLOKHOOY, DAWN
3. BLAINE, JON
JERSEY WOOLY
1. SAYLOR, JENNELL
2. HUFSMITH, LYNN
LILAC
1. SHRAWDER, JASON
2.
ENGLISH LOP
1. HOFFMAN, MATTHEW
2. DUCHARME, COURTNEY
FRENCH LOP
1. MILLER, LYNN
2. BRAMBLE, WILLIAM
3. SLOAN, KRISTINE
MINI LOP
1. ANCHARSKI/STUTLER
2. CLUCK, RITA
3. DAMBROSIO, RICHARD
MINI REX
1. SMITH, BARBARA & Piper
2. BAUER, MICHELLE
3. MAYLE, VALERIE
NETHERLAND DWARF
1. BLAINE, CONNIE & ED
2. RICHETELLE, CARL
3. LUERS, PEGGY
NEW ZEALAND
1. DYE, KATRINA
2. McCONN, FRED & SHIELA
3. GODFREY, RICHARD & BRENDA
POLISH
1. PARKE, JOSEPH
2. NELSON, LUREEN
REX
1. HAAGEN, BEN
2. STONER, ANGELA
3. BECKER, PAUL
RHINELANDER
1. DUCHARME, COURTNEY
2. PLANTHABER, WES
SATIN
1. RAWLINGS, RANDY
2. KISCADDON, HANNAH
MINI SATIN
1. KOLB, KRISTINE
2. TOON, SHARON
SILVER FOX
1. FUNCT, MARGARET
SILVER MARTEN
1. ANCHARSKI/STUTLER
2. GENTILE, DALE
CAVIES
1. MARTEN, ELAINE
2. HAILEY, PEG
3. WESTLEY, FRANK
Breed Justice
No matter which breed a breeder chooses to breed, exhibit or specialize in, one must have both general and breed specific knowledge in order to do the breed or breeds justice. Is it possible for a breeder to have both general and breed specific knowledge of various breeds in their barn?
Let’s use us as an example. Here at Fuzzibutt’s Rabbitry we breed and show six different breeds of rabbits. I agree, if I was looking for a particular breed of rabbit and a rabbi try had this many breeds I would be cautious as well. I would automatically assume that the quality on the rabbits are not the best. How can any one have breed specific knowledge with so many breeds in their barn.
The answerer to this is by the quality of their rabbits being shown. How there rabbits are cared for both at home and at shows. Is the breeder a member of local and national rabbit clubs for their particular breeds. Are they active in there national breed clubs. Do they bring tons of rabbits to a show and only compete against them selves? Or do they bring various breeds with only a few rabbits in their breed to show.
Many people have both general and breed specific knowledge. I myself am working towards my registers license. Some day I want to be a rabbit judge. I feel that I would be a major assets to angora exhibitors. Since I personally have breed and shown all four breeds of angoras. I know the differences in wool and what to look for.
I show all four angora breeds as well as Rex. Phillip shows Flemish Giants, where as Jessica dabbles in a little bit of everything. However, Jessica’s heart breed if you will is the Jersey Woolies. When I say “We” I mean Phillip, Jessica and my self. We all help each other with our breeding and showing goals. However, each one of us have our own specific breeds that we work. We each have general knowledge of the other’s breeds. Along with our own breed knowledge for our chosen breeds.
My husband Phillip, only breeds Flemish Giants. He has specialized in Black and Blues. Recently, he ventured into White Flemish Giants. The varieties he choose to work with he understands their strengths and weakness. So he has committed him self to produce Flemish Giants with the correct color, bone, size and bulk which the breed standard calls for.
I started off with English and Giant Angoras. Only with in the past year did I add both French and Satin Angoras to the mix. I feel that my vast knowledge in both English and Giant Angoras can cross over to me producing nicely typed French and Satin Angoras with the correct coat texture and density for their specific breeds.
I also breed and show Rex in Red. Some of my foundation stock is Broken Castor or Broken Red. Do I cull these out of the litters since I really want to work with Reds. No, I keep the best typed and best furred animals for my breeding and show stock. The others I pet out or offer to other breeders.
Jessica has decided to concentrate on breeding and showing Jersey Woolies. Even though, Jessica is still a kid, she has done a lot of research as well as talking with different breeds at shows. Which has helped Jessica have the correct Jersey Woolies that she wants to breed set up in her mind. Jessica has the general knowledge of breeding, caring and showing rabbits. Now she must work on breed specific knowledge to only keep the best that closely resembles her ideal Jersey Woolies.
With this being said, do we as breeders that choose to breed, exhibit or specialize in, various breeds able to have both general and breed specific knowledge. Are we making a difference with various breeds around the rabbi try? I believe by the rabbits that we breed and show here at Fuzzibutt’s Rabbitry are an accomplishing great things both on the show table and in the nest box.
Can Inbreeding cause.....
Question for the day:
Can inbreeding cause lessened size and loss of vigor, decreased fertility, and increase in hereditary problems and abnormalities? Yes, It can, if you are inadvertently inbreeding on such problems. However, when accompanied by rigid selection, it is the most effective way to produce uniformity of type, potency, and cleansing of undesirable traits from the gene pool to better the future of a breed.
More to come on this subject latter...
Thoughts on Culling...
Culling is a subject people prefer not to discuss because it has a negative effect. Yet, Webster uses “select” as one of the words to describe cull. It also means to pick out something inferior.
Culling to a rabbit breeder should mean one thing. To remove from the breeding population. In essence, culling is a form of negative selection. In its most extreme from it means to kill (slaughter) of the deformed or disease animal. Or to remove a rabbit that is less than superior quality from the breeding program by way of selling it as a pet, brood, fiber. At the better end of the scale , it means selecting those rabbits lacking in breeding potential or show potential for a specific breed.
If a breeder is doing his or her job some very good rabbits indeed will be chosen as pets, while those that are even better will be retained for breeding and showing. The best breeders have a number of rabbits that could stay out of the gene pool. Simply because they have adequate breeding stock. This is one reason why many breeders have a waiting list for prospective breeding to take place.
One method we use here at Fuzzibutt’s Rabbitry is to cull our stock by way of artificial selection. Artificial selection is accomplished by human control of the breeding population based on criteria different from survival. It is culling by mind for the purpose of improving stock or eliminating undesirable characteristics. This elimination simply means that those rabbits that do not meet the breeder’s expectations are removed from the breeding and show pool.
Culling to a rabbit breeder should mean one thing. To remove from the breeding population. In essence, culling is a form of negative selection. In its most extreme from it means to kill (slaughter) of the deformed or disease animal. Or to remove a rabbit that is less than superior quality from the breeding program by way of selling it as a pet, brood, fiber. At the better end of the scale , it means selecting those rabbits lacking in breeding potential or show potential for a specific breed.
If a breeder is doing his or her job some very good rabbits indeed will be chosen as pets, while those that are even better will be retained for breeding and showing. The best breeders have a number of rabbits that could stay out of the gene pool. Simply because they have adequate breeding stock. This is one reason why many breeders have a waiting list for prospective breeding to take place.
One method we use here at Fuzzibutt’s Rabbitry is to cull our stock by way of artificial selection. Artificial selection is accomplished by human control of the breeding population based on criteria different from survival. It is culling by mind for the purpose of improving stock or eliminating undesirable characteristics. This elimination simply means that those rabbits that do not meet the breeder’s expectations are removed from the breeding and show pool.
Jessica is in the new paper...
Here is the link to Jessica in the paper http://www.stardem.com/life/article_d7e2eb7c-66f0-55df-823a-8d97f93b5a95.html?mode=image for the Talbot County Fair.
Jessica Deitrich of Caroline County blows out the coat of hergiant angora rabbit. Jessica won Reserve 4 Class Rabbit for ajersey wooly junior buck, Best Giant Angora, Best Rex, BestOpposite Rex and Best Opposite Jersey Wooly. Jessica placed firstin Novice Rabbit Showmanship.
New Registered Rabbits 11/13/11
Fuzzibutt's Rabbitry & Oopsie Daisy Rabbitry would like to welcome two more rabbits that are Registered with the American Rabbit Breeders Association.
Liberty Junction Shazel, Reg. English Angora Sr. Doe ~Fuzzibutt's Rabbitry~
Fuzzibutt's Dixie Chick, Reg. t English Angora Sr. Doe ~Fuzzibutt's Rabbitry~
Shepherd's Silver Marten, Reg. "Tiddlywink" Jersery Wooly Sr. Buck ~Oopsie Daisy Rabbitry~
New Registered Rabbits 9/24/11
Fuzzibutt's Rabbitry & Oopsie Daisy Rabbitry would like to welcome two more rabbits that are Registered with the American Rabbit Breeders Associaiton.
Why would you want to register a rabbit with the American Rabbit Breeders Assocaition? There are several reasons, why a breeder would want to have registered stock.
Another good reason to register a rabbit is that it is a seal of quality. Only disqualification-free rabbits may be registered. When you look at a pedigree, you may know very little of the ancestors (weight, color, sex and probably breeder), but if some are registered, you at least know that those rabbits had no disqualifications at the time of registration.
One reason to register your rabbit.... you cannot obtain a grand champion certificate unless the rabbit is registered to begin with. You can win the legs first, then register the rabbit, then apply for the grand champion certificate if you need to.
Additionally, when registering a rabbit that has registered parents, your rabbit gets a red seal on its registration certificate. If parents and grandparents are registered, your rabbit gets a red and white seal. And, if all three generations have been registered, your rabbit gets a red, white, and blue seal on its registration certificate.
Fuzzibutt's Shine All Night, Reg. (Black Flemish Giant Doe) ~Fuzzibutt's Rabbitry~
Skyview's Buster, Reg. (Siamese Sable Jersey Wooly) ~Oopsie Daisy Rabbitry~
Another good reason to register a rabbit is that it is a seal of quality. Only disqualification-free rabbits may be registered. When you look at a pedigree, you may know very little of the ancestors (weight, color, sex and probably breeder), but if some are registered, you at least know that those rabbits had no disqualifications at the time of registration.
One reason to register your rabbit.... you cannot obtain a grand champion certificate unless the rabbit is registered to begin with. You can win the legs first, then register the rabbit, then apply for the grand champion certificate if you need to.
Additionally, when registering a rabbit that has registered parents, your rabbit gets a red seal on its registration certificate. If parents and grandparents are registered, your rabbit gets a red and white seal. And, if all three generations have been registered, your rabbit gets a red, white, and blue seal on its registration certificate.
Our Treatment for Sore Hocks
All the years of breeding and showing rabbits I have never in counted sore hocks in any of my rabbits. The other day I noticed one of our Flemish Giants was lying kind of funny in her pen. I took her out to see if I could see anything wrong. When I flipped her over, there was hair on the bottom of her pads missing in one place on each foot, with a small sore on each hind foot. I am not sure how this particular rabbit started to have sore hocks. She is in a big pen with wooden flooring. She has saw dust as bedding in one corner of her hutch that she pees in. The rest of the hutch is lined with straw. Her cage is disinfected and cleaned twice a week.
I went in the house I told my husband about the rabbit and her feet. My husband came out and looked at the rabbit’s feet for himself. I asked my husband to gather some supplies. The supplies that we would need was Antibacterial Dish or Hand Soap, 2-3 bowls, Epson Salt, Antiseptic Mouth Wash, Triple Antibiotic Ointment and a towel. Keep in mind it helps if two people are doing this, one to hold the rabbit, the other to treat.
1. Add warm not hot water to a bowl.
2. Dip the rabbit’s feet into the warm water.
3. Apply Antibacterial Dish or Hand Soap on the area.
4. Message the soap into the sore.
5. Next dip the rabbits feet back into the water.
6. Squeegee excess water off the hind feet.
7. Then towel dry.
8. Take another bowl and Epson Salt to the warm water.
9. Let the rabbits back feet soak for 2-3 minutes.
10. Squeegee the excess water off the hind feel.
11. Then towel dry.
12. Take a cap full of Antiseptic Mouth Wash we use the Original Flavor which is clear.
13. Add the cap full to the empty bowl.14. Soak the rabbit’s feet for 2 minutes.
15. Lastly apply Triple Antibiotic Ointment to the pads of the feet.
Then put the rabbit back into the clean cage, with clean bedding and a clean resting mat, we use EZ- Matt.
Suri Fiber
Before Christmas one of my Face Book friends form Georgia. Wanted some of my Giant Angora fiber, so the two of us decided to swap some fiber. Andrew E. sent me the following Suri fibers:
Brown ( 49.5 grams / 1.76 oz)
Fawn (90.3 g / 3.21 oz)
White (73.0 g /2.57 oz).
I can't wait to blend these with some of my angora fibers.
Monday, January 2, 2012
Giant Angora Bucks For Sale
Fuzzibutt's Rabbitry is now offering a few Giant Angora Junior Bucks to pet or show homes. We can deliver to the PaSRBA Rabbit Show Feb 4 & 5, 2012 in Lebanon, PA. Please email me at melynnoes@yahoo.com or http://melynn.webs.com for more information.
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