Dogs 101

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How can this dog’s tongue save a life?  Is this one of the oldest breeds known to man?  Is this the most decorated dog in history?  Is this breed one of the most popular for show biz?  Does this dog have a nose for finding turtles?   Dogs 101 celebrates man’s best friend.  Today, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, the Boykin Spaniel, the Bull Terrier, the Saluki, the Norwich Terrier. And we start with the breed that is part wild Australian Dingo, the Australian Cattle Dog.

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Looking for some canine chutzpah, enter the Australian Cattle Dog.

DR. NICHOLAS DODMAN VO/OC

These are really hardnosed dogs.

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Need enduring friendship, too?  Australian Cattle Dogs don’t disappoint.

DR. DEBBYE TURNER BELL OC/VO

They are devoted, dedicated, loving, very loyal dogs.

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With some famous human dads.

ANDREA ARDEN OC

I’ll just say that a lot of hot guys have Australian Cattle Dogs.

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Like Matthew McConaughey, Mel Gibson, and country singer, George Strait.  It’s a good bet these manly men are drawn to the athleticism of these rough and tumble working dog, which were bred with one thing in mind.

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DR. DEBBYE TURNER BELL VO/OC

They are what the name implies, great at driving cattle.

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Or in this case, sheep.  But, it’s no secret where this robust and…

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…intelligent dog calls home.

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DR. KAREN HALLIGAN VO/OC

The Australian Cattle Dog was developed in the 1800’s in Australia.

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Australian settlers needed a dog with stamina to drive cattle long distances across rugged terrain.  Their solution, cross Blue Merle Collies with the Australian Dingo.  The Australian Cattle Dog has long had a pension for nipping at the heels of livestock to drive them forward.  And so today, this hardy, herding dog is also known by two other names.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN VO

One is the Blue Heeler, and the other is the Red heeler.

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Blue and Red refer to this medium sized dog’s rain resistant double coat.  The outer coat is dense, straight, and lies flat.  So rain beads off it.  And the coat can be bluish gray or brownish red.  And while some Australian Cattle Dogs are plain faced.  Many conger up pirate imagery because they’re sporting a mask.

DR. NICHOLAS DODMAN VO/OC

There might be a mask over one eye, which is sort of, yeah, like a very striking appearance, or the double mask.

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And this feisty breed has a long, undocked tail with a slight curve, and good brush.

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On any given day you can find this Australian Cattle Dog playing a simple game of fetch.  But, on one remarkable day, two and a half year old Blue made his breed proud.

DIANA BENSCH OC/VO

I have a newfound appreciation for Blue.  And it’s because he stayed with my daughter.  He saved her life.

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On a warm February day, Diana Bensch and her three year old daughter, Victoria, were simply enjoying the sunshine outside their central Arizona home, while their two Australian Cattle Dogs played nearby.

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Diana ran indoors to use the bathroom and within minutes her world turned upside down.

DIANA BENSCH VO/OC

I’m walking out of the house.  I’m over at the swing set area and I am shock.  I’m like, she’s gone.

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An hour before darkness approached and wearing nothing more than a tee shirt, pants, and sneakers, Victoria had wandered away.  She quickly became lost in the miles of desert wilderness that surrounded her home.

ERNEST BENSCH OC

I had really no idea where my daughter was.  It was just one terrifying moment.

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SGT. JEFF NEWNUM OC

Ground, unit one, Frank-A-Tinko, 500.

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Search and rescue crews scoured the area, but there was no sign of the little girl, and it was getting cold.  The good news was that there was no sign of Blue either.

DIANA BENSCH VO/OC

If I couldn’t be with her, I was hoping…

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… that my dog Blue was with her and that he was keeping her warm by some chance.

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As temperatures dipped into the low ‘30’s, authorities were hoping the same.

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SGT. JEFF NEWNUM OC/VO

The way she was dressed was definitely not conducive to getting her out of there without hypothermic issues.

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But, at first light, 15 hours after she was lost, a search and rescue helicopter had great news.

DIANA BENSCH VO

We found her.  We found her.

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Less than a mile from home and her buddy, Blue, right by her side.

SGT. JEFF NEWNUM OC/VO

The dog was kind of moving in circles around her in the general area, would not leave her.

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Victoria was a bit dazed and her legs were a little scratched and swollen.  But, she wasn’t suffering from frostbite…

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…or hypothermia.

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The heat of Blue’s body kept her warm on that frigid night.  And everyone in her tiny town of Cordes Lakes, Arizona knew just who to thank.

THOMAS THURMAN OC

This dog was just absolutely a hero for this little girl.

JUNE THURMAN OC

It was amazing that he had protected her and stayed with her the whole night.

JERRY SCHULTZ OC

In my mind, the dog, it’s, it’s a rock star.

SGT. JEFF NEWNUM OC/VO

Even though that dog probably knew exactly where he was and could have wandered home, he chose to stay with Victoria.

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And I think that’s a pretty special…

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…special dog.

DIANA BENSCH VO/OC

Come on, Blue.  You’re a super, super dog.

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These days Diana and Ernest never forget what Blue did one cold night to protect their only child.

ERNEST BENSCH VO/OC

I think Blue is a very good hero and I have fed him steak.

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If you’re thinking of bringing an Australian Cattle Dog into your home think carefully.  These dogs can adapt to different environments, but demand a high level of physical activity.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN VO

Two to three house of vigorous exercise for this dog.

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They’re relatively healthy, though.  The average lifespan of the Australian Cattle Dog is 15 years.  However, deafness and blindness are known to affect the breed.  Grooming requirements are low, but the shorthaired dogs may need a bath more often than most dogs just because they tend to play rough.  Training should be a rewarding experience, though, because these pooches are highly intelligent.  But, if you have children, be careful.  These high energy dogs could nip at their heels.  On the other hand, once they settle on a favorite family member, they’re devoted to the end.

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To review, the Australian Cattle Dog needs vigorous exercise regardless of where it lives.  It’s a generally health dog that’s easy to groom and train.  But, because of its herding instincts and high energy personality it might not be the best choice for families with small children.  If you’ve got an active lifestyle and you’re looking for a canine companion to go the distance with you, the Australian Cattle Dog just might herd you right into its heart.

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This is one dog that might know how to walk like an Egyptian.  It’s one of the oldest breeds in history.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN VO/OC

The Saluki’s been traced back to the Sixth Millennium BC.

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The breed’s survival is not surprising considering how revered they were in ancient Egypt.

DR. DEBBYE TURNER BELL OC/VO

And, in fact, some Saluki’s were mummified along with Royal human beings and found in ancient Egyptian tombs.

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And in Muslim regions where dogs were considered unclean, the Saluki earned the name El Hor, or Noble One.

DR. NICHOLAS DODMAN OC

This one is considered a gift of Allah.

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The breed spread to England in the late 1800’s where they were known as Persian Greyhounds due to their resemblance to the other speeding sight hound.

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It’s an easy comparison to make as both breeds share the same long, slender frame, a build that allows them to be great runners.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN OC

They’re very lean, muscular animals.

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The Saluki has two different coat types, a smooth variety with short, silky fur and the more common feathered variety.

DR. NICHOLAS DODMAN OC

There’s always long hair around here and long hair growing tufts behind their legs and big flowing tail.

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And Salukis have extra tufts of fur on their paws, which help protect their feet while running on rough terrain.  Strong running ability is a necessity for these dogs, who were originally bred to hunt gazelle.

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Take a closer look at the…

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…Saluki’s gait as he runs.  It’s what’s called a double suspension gallop, when all four feet are off the ground as he extends and retracts his legs.  And sometimes these built for purpose hounds just run for the fun of it.

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One major reason for that great endurance is their heart, which is considerably larger than most dogs.

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As a conditioned runner, the Saluki’s heart beats at a slower rate.  This allows each pump to supply a larger amount of blood and oxygen to the body.  If the Greyhound is the sprinter of the dog world, the Saluki is the marathon runner.

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The heart of a Saluki is also large in one community, and today, with one dog in particular.  This is Ramses.

VICKI BLAIR VO/OC

I really don’t think Ramses knows he’s not a lap dog.  If he’s comfortable it’s okay with him.  If you’re not comfortable that’s just too bad.  Good boy.

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In the past three years, Vicki Blair and her husband, Jim, have become the owners of four Salukis, Ramses being their third.  Vicki grew up revering these beautiful dogs. But, because they are such a rare breed in America she was never able to find the right time...

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…or place to own them.

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All that changed when Jim was transferred to a small town in Illinois, Carbondale.

VICKI BLAIR OC

And I said, where is that?

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What amazed Vicki about her new home wasn’t its location, but its local denizens, Salukis on the street, front lawns adorned with Saluki images.  Vicki didn’t move to just any town.  Carbondale, Illinois is home to Southern Illinois University, and its mascot, the Saluki.

MARIO MOCCIA OC/VO

There’s a lot of bears and tigers and lions and things like that.  But, when you say Salukis, people automatically know that you’re talking about Southern Illinois University.

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Throughout Carbondale, the Saluki is an inescapable presence from the many Saluki owners to the use of the Saluki image on all things related to the university.  All the Alumni carry their Saluki pride.

BRANDON JACOBS OC

I am Brandon Jacobs, running back for the New York Giants.  And I am a Saluki.  I get asked what’s a Saluki probably three times a week.

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My answer next will be me.

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In the 1950’s, the university adopted its first Saluki mascot, King Tut.

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Now that honor rotates among the many Salukis in town for each home game.

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MARIO MOCCIA OC/VO

We just started to use individuals in the community who owned the Salukis and that bring them out to the ballgames.

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Today, Ramses has been selected to be the mascot for the Southern Illinois baseball game.  It’s a special moment for Vicki and what is always a fun occasion.

VICKI BLAIR VO/OC

It’s very thrilling.  Everybody’s there and pumped up and ready for the game.  Actually, the dogs are, too.

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Ramses proves that he’s a great mascot for the team and a joy for the fans as well.

VICKI BLAIR VO

Even the children absolutely love him.

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For Vicki and Ramses it’s a special bond they share in this Saluki haven.

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VICKI BLAIR VO

I enjoy being with him.  I enjoy playing with him.  He is just a very important part of my life.

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The Saluki is adaptable to most environments.  However, it’s important to provide them with a large area to run that’s enclosed by high fencing.

DR. NICHOLAS DODMAN VO

More of these dogs are killed by car accidents than ever die of disease.

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Salukis have a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years, but are prone to some health issues.

DR. DEBBYE TURNER BELL VO/OC

Like eye problems, some cancers, and hypothyroidism.

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The Saluki’s coat is just one layer making grooming moderately easy.

FEMALE WEARING BLUE SHIRT OC

Oh.

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The Saluki is known to be aloof and cad like, making training a challenge.  Their reserved personality can be a good fit for some families.  But, that sight hound nature and skittish temperament mean they can also become nippy.

DR. DEBBYE TURNER BELL OC

So they’re not necessarily the best breed for a family with small children.

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This ancient breed is adaptable to all environments, but needs a safe place to run free.  They can be prone to some eye and thyroid issues, but are otherwise a healthy breed.  Salukis are not difficult to maintain in terms of grooming, but they’re not easily trained.  As a result they’re not suggested for first time dog owners or for families with small children.  But, if you’re looking for a beautiful dog with the heart of a champion and the ability to run for a long time, the Saluki may be the historic hound for you.

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When Dogs 101 continues, how does this dog use its tongue…

MARILYN OC

I love you.

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…to save its owner?  Is this little breed tough enough to drive foxes from their holes?  Why is South Carolina so proud of this breed?  What does this dog have to do with beer?

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The Norwich Terrier, small, spirited, and foxy.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN VO/OC

They’re short, little terriers with cute, little faces with…

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…a foxy expression.

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Because of their cute appearance and trainability, these little guys are popular in Hollywood and TV commercials.  Their famous fans include top interior designers like Jonathan Adler and Betty Lou Phillips.  But, these tiny terriers are not low maintenance and they’re one of the few breeds to give birth by C-section.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN VO/OC

They have very small litter size.  And because of that the puppies tend to be on the bigger side.  So we have to surgically remove the babies.

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The Norwich Terrier came to America from East Anglia, England.  Some think the breed is descended from the Irish Terrier although the exact history is unclear.  They were developed as barnyard ratters and later used to flush foxes from underground.  Small enough to be carried, these feisty canine companions were placed on the ground during a hunt.

DR. NICHOLAS DODMAN OC

They can be pretty willful.

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What this terrier lacks in size it makes up for in personality.  High spirited and charming, don’t confuse the Norwich with a lap dog.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN VO/OC

You are not gonna pick up a Norwich Terrier…

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…and have tea and talk to your friend.

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The Norwich Terrier is sometimes mistaken for the closely related Norfolk Terrier.  But, one physical characteristic that sets them apart are prick upright ears.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN VO/OC

In the Norfolk, the ears fold over.  And that’s the only different…

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…between those two terriers.

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They have a course, wiry outer coat with a softer coat underneath.  With an average height of ten to 12 inches and an average weight of 12 pounds, these pint sized pups are one of the smallest terriers.

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And, there’s an old adage that’s certainly true for designer Lela Rose and her dog Stitch.

LELA ROSE VO/OC

Good things come in small packages would definitely describe Stitch.  I would say Stitch…

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…is kind of a darling.

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At ten inches and 17 pounds, Stitch is not only a darling, he’s a darling of the fashion world.

LELA ROSE VO/OC

When ever models come up they always want to see Stitch.

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With terrier tenacity, panache, and that foxy face, Stitch has been charming the famous and the fabulous, and living it up.

LELA ROSE VO

Laura Bush is one of his biggest fans.  Both former First Daughters, Barbara and Jenna, love him, Mariska Hargitay, Zoe Saldana.  He’s gotten lots of love from Kristen Bell.

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As you might expect, Stitch lives in style in downtown New York City, of course, in a stunning 6,000 square foot abode.

LELA ROSE VO/OC

Stitch definitely has the run of the place.  He gets to do whatever he wants.

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This is what doggy dreams are made of from the red carpet closet to the dining room table that disappears into the floor leaving more room for running, to the Stitchovator, his very own in-house transportation.

LELA ROSE VO/OC

Stitch has never done stairs and I don’t think ever will…  Okay.  …unless they’re fully carpeted.  But, no.  He really doesn’t do stairs.

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Stitch, let’s go.

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Stitch wasn’t always a city dog.  He got his start on a Texas farm where Lela adopted him at five months.

LELA ROSE VO/OC

I just fell in love.

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And this country dog didn’t know what to make of the Big Apple.

LELA ROSE VO/OC

He’d never seen concrete.  He’d only been on grass.  He was petrified of everything.

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As the constant companion of Lela, he lets the good times roll.

LELA ROSE VO/OC

Stitch leads a pretty fabulous life.  He goes pretty much every place that I ever go.

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Every day, on a custom made tricycle, Stitch rides through Manhattan with Lela to work in New York’s garment district.

LELA ROSE VO/OC

People see him in the bike all the time and ask does he ever jump out?  And I always say, he’d have to walk then.  Of course, he doesn’t jump out.

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His workday is a busy one.

LELA ROSE VO/VOC

He kind of mans the office.  He hangs out with the sewers in the morning.  He hangs out with me in the afternoon.  He loves to sit on bolts of fabric.  If there’s a bolt of fabric laid out on the ground, Stitch will figure out how to nestle right in into the fabric.  The shoulder needs to be slightly lifted.

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From model fittings to meetings…

LELA ROSE VO

Okay, Stitch Pooh, pay attention.

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…this fashionista has his finger on the pulse.  But, it’s not all work and no play.  Back home it’s party time.

SIDNEY OC

Stitch is definitely a party animal.

LELA ROSE VO/OC

Any food that drops on the floor is definitely his favorite part of the party.

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While this dog may have trappings that many humans would envy, he’s true to his terrier nature in his affection.

BRANDON OC/VO

Stitch’s favorite part of his life is just being around Lela all the time, it’s riding in the trike, it’s getting to go everywhere.

LELA ROSE OC/VO

Honestly, Stitch is my first child.  Every big thing in life Stitch has been there for.  He’s just my little guy.

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Just like Stitch, Norwich Terriers are suited to apartment living, but they’re full of energy and don’t want to sit around.  They’re generally a healthy breed.  But, in additional to Cesarean births, they’re prone to a few health issues, including back problems, eye disease, and upper airway syndrome, a respiratory disorder.

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Grooming a Norwich Terrier is a bit tricky because of their double coat.  They require regular grooming and a trip or two to the groomer for hand stripping.

ANDREA ARDEN VO/OC

They pluck the older part of the coat out and that can be a little bit expensive and time consuming.

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These dogs have spirit and spunk.  But, training is not difficult with good ground rules.

DR. NICHOLAS DODMAN VO/OC

They’ve got to know that you’re in charge.

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The Norwich Terrier is good with children and makes a good family pet.  But, they’re not for homes with pocket pets, which could be mistaken for prey.

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So, in general, the Norwich Terrier is a spirited little dog who could do well in an apartment with regular exercise.  They’re a pretty healthy breed.  Grooming requirements include some professional grooming.  And, Norwich Terriers are good for families with children, but not for homes with pocket pets.

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More Dogs 101 ahead.  Why is this breed known for nipping at ankles?  How does this dog help save turtles?  And was this breed saved from the dog ring?

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN VO/OC

It’s just a, a stunning dog to look at in, in a very short, little package.

ANDREA ARDEN OC

They’re smart little dogs.

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You’re looking at the Boykin Spaniel, a dog bred by South Carolinians for South Carolinian hunters.

ANDREA ARDEN VO/OC

The dog actually was developed in part to be able to travel with hunters in their boats.  And that’s part of why the dog has the nickname of the “Dog That Doesn’t Rock The Boat.”

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These dogs are so loved by the state of South Carolina that not only are they the state dog, they have their own official day.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN VO/OC

September 1st is actually Boykin Spaniel Day in South Carolina because it’s the first day of duck hunting.

MALE WEARING WHITE HAT VO

Go.

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And twice South Carolina has used an image of the Boykin for their popular duck stamp.

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These affectionate dogs are a relatively new breed.  In fact, the Boykin can trace its origins back to a pair of strays found in South Carolina in 1905.

DR. NICHOLAS DODMAN VO/OC

So they mate Dumpy, who is a male, with Singo, who is a female, and lo and behold there is the Boykin…

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…Spaniel breed.

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And the first thing people fall in love with is the Boykin Spaniel’s beautiful liver to chocolate colored double coat.

ANDREA ARDEN VO/OC

They have a coat that go anywhere from being sort of slightly wavy to sort of super curly, almost like a poodle, except it’s got a softer, more silky texture.

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Another striking feature, the Boykin eyes.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN VO

They have the most beautiful yellow, amber eyes against the brown liver color.

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And the Boykin Spaniel has a soft mouth that won’t chew up or destroy the things it retrieves.

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Finally, the Boykin is an extremely intelligent dog.  These dogs can even be trained to find an ancient reptile on the brink of extinction.

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Yep.  That’s right.  Meet a pack of Boykins that are helping to save turtles.

JOHN RUCKER VO/OC

Say, we love tennis balls, but we’re easy on turtles.

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JOHN RUCKER VO

Enter.

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It all started with a hike in the woods.

JOHN RUCKER VO/OC

All I said was, Buster, what’s that?  And he walked up to the turtle and he smelled it and he looked at it, and we continued our walk.  And then just a few minutes later, to my amazement, he came running up to me with one gently held in his jaws.  Good boy.  Yep.

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Owner John Rucker was amazed when each walk became a turtle hunt for buster.

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JOHN RUCKER VO/OC

And almost immediately my second one, Sparky, it was just monkey see, monkey do.  And he started finding me turtles, too, and they got very competitive at it.  Enter.

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Soon the entire family of Boykins was hunting turtles without ever harming a single one.

JOHN RUCKER VO

Did you find your turtle?

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Not far away in Tennessee, another John, John Byrd, was beginning a study on box turtle populations.  John loves box turtles and is worried human development could drive them into extinction.

JOHN BYRD VO/OC

Turtles have been around for over 200 million years.  And what they can’t survive is human activities.  They cannot survive habitat destruction.

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So John partnered with several universities to begin a large scale study to find solutions to the problem.  But, collecting the data he needed turned out to be harder than expected.

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JOHN BYRD VO/OC

We would send out a team of students and they would intensively search for box turtles.  And, as it turns out, that’s a real challenge.

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Students were only finding about one turtle for every four hours of searching.  And John Byrd knew there had to be more out there.  That’s when he got wind of the turtle dogs.

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JOHN BYRD VO/OC

I was fortunate enough to run into John Rucker at a conference over in North Carolina.  And he agreed to bring…

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…his dogs over and help us.

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JOHN RUCKER VO

Find turtles.

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The Boykin pack began working alongside the students.  And together, they were suddenly finding four to 12 turtles in one hour.

JOHN RUCKER OC

Another beautiful female.

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You can see the dogs love their job as they eagerly sniff out these critters.  And, of course, the dogs never hurt a single turtle.

JOHN  BYRD VO/OC

The dogs are soft mouthed.  Turtles represent a prize to them that they’re gonna get a reward for.  And that reward is gonna be hugs and kisses and praise.

JOHN RUCKER OC

Good boy.

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MALE WEARING GRAY SHIRT  VO

405 grams.

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Each turtle is caught, weighed, measured, and then released.

WHITNEY BELL VO/OC

If we didn’t use the dogs, we’d never find these turtles.  The dogs are so cute and very efficient workers, and always a blast…

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…to work with.

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Thanks to the Boykins’ keen sense of smell and desire to please, the turtle study is a success.  And John could not be prouder that his dogs are part of something important.

JOHN RUCKER VO/OC

Without my Boykins my life would be dull.  I could probably do my fly fishing on my own, but everything else pretty much depends on them.

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Like these turtle dogs, all it takes to train a Boykin Spaniel is some time and energy.

ANDREA ARDEN VO/OC

They’re very interested in interacting with you.  And that’s what training’s all about.

FEMALE WEARING BLUE JEANS OC

Sit.  Sit.

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But, like most sporting dogs, Boykins Spaniels need to be active.  They thrive on it.  So they may not make the best pets for an apartment dweller.  One thing you have to remember is to take care of their ears.

DR. DEBBYE TURNER BELL VO/OC

They have those long, flappy ears where moisture can get trapped and tend toward infection.  You have to be careful about keeping them clean and dry.

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With proper care and attention, Boykins will usually live 14 to 16 years.

HOST VO

And in that lifespan, they make good companions.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN VO/OC

Loyal, loving, great family dog.

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One way to bond with your Boykin is during grooming because it can take a little more time than with some other dogs.

DR. NICHOLAS DODMAN VO/OC

So, it’s on the way to being difficult.

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To sum up, Boykin Spaniels are high energy dogs that need space and stimuli to thrive. You have to pay extra attention to their ears, and brushing them thoroughly once a week will help keep their coat in great shape.  The Boykin is eager to please, and therefore, easy to train.  Finally Boykin Spaniels make good pets for all types of families, including ones with children.

JOHN RUCKER VO/OC

I honestly think that I would risk my life for my Boykins just as any mom or dad would do for their children.  That’ good, oh yeah.

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Each breed is wonderful in its way.  But, some dogs go above and beyond to show us their devotion and bravery.  That’s why we’re honoring these pooches with a segment all their own.  And now it’s time to meet today’s wonder dog.

MICHAEL HINGSON OC 

What a good girl.

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Roselle is more than just a good dog.  She’s a guide dog.

MICHAEL HINGSON VO

Let’s go.

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Her owner, Michael Hingson, has been blind since birth.

MICHAEL HINGSON VO/OC

She has been my buddy and my friend ever since I got her.  We have a very special relationship.  And, even right from the beginning she was very confident in her job.  Good girl.

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HOST VO

Michael worked for a Fortune 500 computer firm located on the 78th floor of the World Trade Center.

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One September 11, 2001, Roselle’s guiding abilities and the strength of their teamwork would be put to the ultimate test.

MICHAEL HINGSON VO/OC

Our first indication that something was wrong was we heard kind of a muffled explosion.  We felt the building shutter.  And then it began to tip.

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HOST VO

His coworker, David, described what he saw to Michael.

MICHAEL HINGSON VO/OC

He started shouting there’s fire and smoke.  We got to get out of here.  We need to get out of here right now.  And sitting next to me on my left side was a dog who was wagging her tail and yawning and not indicating that she felt in any danger.

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HOST VO

They took to the stairs, encountering many frightened people on the way.

MICHAEL HINGSON VO/OC

People stopped, froze on the stairs, and said they couldn’t go on.  And literally we had a group hug to get them started.

HOST VO

In the most intense situation of their lives, Roselle and Michael worked together to lead, and everyone followed.

FEMALE VOICE VO

Keep going.

MICHAEL HINGSON VO/OC

As long as she was doing what I asked her and she was behaving in a calm way, then I knew that I could trust her, and likewise, she knew that she could trust me and that I wasn’t afraid.  It is all teamwork as we…

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…work together wherever we are.

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HOST VO

Finally, 45 minutes later, Michael, Roselle, and his thankful coworkers made it out.

MICHAEL HINGSON VO

She saved my life and I saved hers.  She focused.  She did exactly what I would want her to do.  And I think she’s a great companion.

HOST VO

Way to go, wonder dog, Roselle.

MICHAEL HINGSON VO

You’re a good girl.  Yes, you are.

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HOST VO

Still more to come on Dogs 101.  What makes this little guy a hero?  And is this the only breed with triangular eyes?

HOST VO

But, first it’s time to play Pick The Pooch.  Which ancient deer like hound has the ability to jump as well as the rabbits he hunts in his native Spain?  Can you guess which breed it is?  The answer when we come back.

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HOST VO

Which ancient hound jumps high and broad just like the rabbits he hunts in his homeland of Spain?  It’s the Ibizan Hound.  The ability to jump over rough terrain makes this deer-like dog a great hunter.

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HOST VO

The Bull Terrier has been described as a three year old child in a dog suit.

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DR. KAREN HALLIGAN VO/OC

Busy, busy, busy.  What can I get in to?  Keep me entertained.

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HOST VO

The clownish antics of these dogs have drawn fans that include the powerful…  President Theodore Roosevelt had one.  …the Royal… England’s Princess Anne has two.  …and the famous, the dogs themselves.  Most well known maybe Spuds MacKenzie, who reigned as the spokes dog for Bud Light.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN OC/VO

Spuds MacKenzie was actually a female dog.  And she didn’t like beer.  Of course, dogs shouldn’t…

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…be drinking beer.  But that’s just a side note.

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HOST VO

As the name implies, the Bull Terrier is part Bulldog and part Terrier.  They were bred in 19th century England for the then popular pastime of dog fighting.  And were called the gladiator of the dog world.  But, they were disappointing in the ring.

DR. NICHOLAS DODMAN OC/VO

They were actually pretty successful, however, in the...

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…rat killing ring.

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HOST VO

In 1850, an English dog dealer created the White Bull Terrier, which became a fashionable pet.  A cross between the old Bull Terrier, the English White Terrier, and other breeds rumored to include Dalmatian, Collie, and Borzoi, resulted in the smaller, more elegant dog we know today.  Today these personable dogs come in a variety of coat colors.  But, are most easily identified by their egg-shaped head, which slopes to a Roman nose.

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HOST VO

Scientifically, their unique head shape is due to the fact that the Bull Terrier’s skull has no indentations in the dorsal ventral nose bend.  So the skull is rounded and sloping.

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HOST VO

Another unique feather, their triangular eyes.  They are the only recognized breed to have them.  The Bull Terrier is not a big dog.  Their average weight is 45 to 50 pounds, and it’s mostly muscle.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN VO/OC

Pound for pound, the Bull Terrier has more muscle than any breed of dog.

HOST VO

The whole package adds up to one charismatic canine.  Case in point, Rufus, who could be the most decorated dog alive today.

BARBARA BISHOP VO/OC

Can we just have some quiet time?

HOST VO

In 2005, Rufus, a Bull Terrier won Best In Show at the National Dog Show.  Then did it again at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York City.

DR. DEBBYE TURNER BELL OC

Rufus lit the Madison Square Garden on fire.

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HOST VO

Winning both is like the same team winning the Super Bowl and the World Series in one year.

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And now, wherever Rufus goes, fans follow.

TOM BISHUP VO

That’s Rufus.

FEMALE WEARING HEADBAND OC

Hi, Rufus.

TOM BISHOP VO

Yeah, you could pet him.

BARBARA BISHOP OC

You can pet him.  He’s gentle.

HOST VO

It’s no surprise to Barbara and Tom Bishop.  They knew Rufus was a standout the minute they saw him.

TOM BISHOP OC/VO

He was phenomenal.

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He was this great, little puppy.  We wanted a…

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…dog that we could show.

BARBARA BISHOP VO/OC

We decided that, oh my goodness.  This Bull Terrier is just amazing.  And took him home right then and there.  And the rest is pretty much history.

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HOST VO

Rufus’ history is impressive.  He’s the top winning Bull Terrier of all time.

BARBARA BISHOP VO/OC

Rufus starting showing when he was about 11 months old and pretty much started winning once he stepped into the ring.

HOST VO

Five years ago Rufus…

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…retired from the show ring.

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But, this superstar was not ready to relax.

TOM BISHOP VO

Would you like to meet him?

FEMALE WEARING RED JACKET OC

Hey, Rufus.

HOST VO

These days, Rufus, like most retired celebrities, spends his time as many do maintaining his strength…

BARBARA BISHOP VO

What are you gonna do for this?

HOST VO

…playing, basking in the adulation of fans.

MALE WEARING BLUE SHIRT VO

Bye, Rufus.

GIRL WEARING HEART SHIRT OC

Bye, Rufus.

TOM BISHOP VO

Bye, bye.

MALE WEARING BLUE SHIRT VO

Bye.

BARBARA BISHOP VO/OC

Yeah, he knows he’s a celebrity.

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HOST VO

And donating time to pet causes.

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Today’s appearance is at a library near his New Jersey home for a local organization called Mardog, which promotes dog parks and responsible pet ownership.

BARBARA BISHOP VO

Hi.

ALISON DEEB VO

You’re so cool.

BARBARA BISHOP VO

Oh, thank you.

ALISON DEEB OC/VO

He’s even cooler in person.  We wanted to do an event with celebrity dogs.  Then I said, Rufus.  Yes.  Rufus.

HOST VO

And Rufus is the consummate pro.

BARBARA BISHOP VO

He enjoys posing with the people.  He sits there.

GROUP VO/OC

Rufus.

MALE WEARING ORANGE SHIRT OC

Rufus.

BARBARA BISHOP VO

He just really enjoys the social interaction.

FEMALE WEARING TAN SUIT VO

Oh, is that cute.

BOY WEARING LIGHT BLUE SHIRT OC

Cheese.

ALISON DEEB OC/VO

Rufus definitely delivered.

TOM BISHOP OC

He’s an ambassador for the breed.

HOST VO

Late into the evening, this ten year old Ambassador will wind down.  Just another day in the life of a retired legend.

BARBARA BISHOP OC/VO

He’s my heart you know.  He’s the love of my life.

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HOST VO

It’s clear, that like Rufus, these delightful dogs have charisma and are great companions.  But, they’re an active breed and will do well in an apartment only with vigorous, daily exercise.  Bull Terrier puppies must be checked for deafness.  They are also prone to a myriad of health issues, including heart and kidney problems, slipped kneecaps, skin allergies, epilepsy, and OCD.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN VO/OC

You’ll see Bull Terriers chasing their tail.

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Although that might seem kind of funny, it’s really OCD.

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HOST VO

Grooming is easy.  They have a sort, dense coat that only requires occasional brushing.  These are smart dogs with strong personalities.  Training will be less of a challenge with structure and consistency.

DR. NICHOLAS DODMAN OC

I don’t think a Bull Terrier is a dog for a novice to own.

HOST VO

And they’re loyal dogs who become attached to their owners.  They do well with an active, older family who can provide companionship and supervision.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN OC/VO

They just have too strong of a personality for…

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…a lot of kids in the house.

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HOST VO

So, in general, the Bull Terrier is an energetic dog who will do well in an apartment with regular exercise.  They have a list of health issues, but grooming is a breeze.  They make delightful companions and a good pet for active families with older children.

FEMALE WEARING SWEATSHIRT VO

Good girl.  Yeah.

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HOST VO

When Dogs 101 comes back, find out why this dog can taste danger.

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DR. DEBBYE TURNER BELL OC

It’s cute as all get out.

HOST VO

This furry little fellow is the Cardigan Welsh Corgi.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN OC

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is…

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…fun, fun, fun.

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Big dog in a small package.

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DR. NICHOLAS DODMAN OC/VO

Corgi’s come in two flavors.  There’s the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN VO/OC

The Pembroke Corgi is the one without the tail.

HOST VO

And their personalities are different too.

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ANDREA ARDEN OC

Cardigans tend to be a bit more tenacious.  They tend…

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…to have a little bit more drive than the typical Pembroke.

HOST VO

But, what’s really unique about this dog is his low, long, body.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN OC

They, basically, look like a dog who was just cut in half.

HOST VO

And these courageous bundles of energy love to herd and are the shortest dogs in the herding group.

DR. DEBBYE TURNER BELL OC

And they were bred to be so…

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…short so that if a cow tried to kick them, the hoof would go right over their head.

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HOST VO

Not only is this breed really old, but it’s fairly rare, too.

DR. DEBBYE TURNER BELL VO/OC

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi came from Cardiganshire with the Celts to Britain in 1200 BC.

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HOST VO

Here’s what you get with a Cardigan Welsh Corgi, a double water resistant coat whose hair is coarse on top and soft underneath.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN VO

The fur is actually thicker around their neck and their rear legs, so it kind of gives them a very unique appearance.

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HOST VO

The dogs have large ears that are erect and lightly rounded at the tip.  And their body is long and strong with a prominent breastbone.

DR. NICHOLAS DODMAN OC/VO

There are some people have called this dog the yard long dog because it measures approximately a yard from the nose to the tip of its long, bushy tail.

HOST VO

Welcome to scenic Cape May, a gorgeous ocean resort town, located at the southern tip of New Jersey, thankfully stuck in a beautiful time warp.  And nestled in amongst the splendor is a pretty special seven year old Cardigan Welsh Corgi named King Tut.

MARILYN OC

I love you.

HOST VO

Tut is Marilyn’s dog.

MARILYN OC

You love me, too, huh?  Yeah.

HOST VO

He’s affectionately by her side every minute of the day.

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MALE WEARING BLACK & WHITE SWEATER VO

What up, dog?

MALE WEARING WHITE SHOES VO

What are you doing?

FEMALE WITH CURLY HAIR VO

Dogs are so pretty.

FEMALE WEARING GLASSES VO

King Tut, he’s a pretty boy.

HOST VO

But, King Tut isn’t the only Corgi lapping up all the attention.  Marilyn’s daughter, Wendy, has a Corgi, too, named Jimmy Choo.  Together the two little buds make sure business runs smoothly at the Cape May carriage stop.  And every once in a while, Tut and Chewy get to cruise the town riding copilot…

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…while taking in the sights with their mommies.

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WENDY OC/VO

Spoiled rotten little man.  They love getting on the carriage.  They go for rides.  And everybody...

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…knows them. They’re pretty much famous in Cape May.

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HOST VO

But, while this all looks like everyday resort town fun…

MALE POINTING FINGER VO/OC

Freddy, look at the dogs in the carriage.

HOST VO

…for King Tut, this is serious business.  He has saved Marilyn’s life on several occasions.

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HOST VO

When Dogs 101 comes back, find out why this hero dog is so attentive to his owner.

HOST VO

King Tut is a very special Cardigan Welsh Corgi who lives here in beautiful Cape May, New Jersey.  And he’s made it his job to take care of his mommy, Marilyn, every day.

MARILYN VO

Good boy.  That’s a boy.  You’re such a good boy.

HOST VO

Marilyn is diabetic and has had life threatening hypoglycemic episodes.

MARILYN VO/OC

He does not like to go and leave me.  Even in our small apartment he always positions himself where he can see me no matter where I go.

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He’s a very serious dog.

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HOST VO

But, thanks to King Tut’s super sensitive, little nose, he’s saved the day and her several times.

WENDY OC

There have been times when her sugar has dropped to the point to where she could have slipped into a coma.

HOST VO

In fact, the first time Tut alerted Marilyn that something was dreadfully wrong she was sound asleep, dreaming that she really was dying.

MARILYN VO/OC

He came and put his paws on my shoulders and woke me up.  I thought he had to go out, stood up, and almost fell down because I was so hypoglycemic I couldn’t function.  I don’t know what I’d do without him.  He knows I love him.  And I know he loves me.  He shows that every day and I try to show it to him.

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MARILYN VO/OC

This is your special coat that you wear because you saved my life.

HOST VO

King Tut has since saved Marilyn’s life many more times and is now an official, active service dog who travels with her all the time.  But, he wasn’t trained to do this.  He just has a nose that knows.

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HOST VO

When a person’s blood sugar level severely changes, a dog can tell something is wrong by smelling the sweet ketone chemicals that the person in trouble gives off.  And Tut checks Marilyn’s sugar levels constantly by licking her and kissing her all day long.

MARILYN VO/OC

At least every 15 minutes or so, Tut checks on me.  He just always checks.

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HOST VO

So if you ever find yourself in Cape May, New Jersey, keep your eyes peeled for King Tut.

FEMALE WEARING RED JACKET OC

Are they Corgis?

WENDY VO

Yes.  They’re Cardigan.

FEMALE WEARING RED JACKET OC

Oh, they’re adorable.

HOST VO

Saving lives and riding carriages is a pretty good life for these lovable, little pooches.

MARILYN OC/VO

It’s a great life for King Tut.  He spends his days at the carriage stop.  Sometimes he gets a ride in one.  It’s a great life for me because I’m alive.

HOST VO

And while Tut loves the beach, most Corgis can live anywhere.

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DR. DEBBYE TURNER BELL VO/OC

But, remember, they are a herding breed by nature.  So they need exercise.

HOST VO

And while these doggies do have a full lifespan of 12 to 15 years, they’re prone to back problems.

DR. KAREN HALLIGAN OC/VO

So you want to make sure that they don’t jump up and down on furniture or into the car because that’s gonna cause them to have a back problem.

HOST VO

As for grooming brush regularly using a firm bristled brush.  Being highly intelligent, they’re trainable, but it may take time.  And they’ll make a good pet for families with older kids, but they may try to herd younger children.

HOST VO

So in general, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi can live anywhere, but needs exercise.  Because of their long, low backs they can have back problems.  Grooming should be done regularly.  And they can be stubborn, but trainable.  As for being a good pet, they are, but do best in families with older kids.

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HOST VO

So, to recap.  The Australian Cattle Dog was bred to help farmers round up sheep and cattle.  Today this loyal breed is still popular on the ranch, but may want to herd small children.  The Saluki is an exotic sight hound known for its speed.  It comes from the Middle East and is revered in the Muslim world.  The Norwich Terrier is a smart breed, popular in commercials and in movies.  The Boykin Spaniel is a fine hunting dog bred by outdoorsmen in South Carolina.  They are so loved in that state that they are the official dog of South Carolina.  The Bull Terrier is a tough looking dog that, luckily, was a failure at fighting, but a success as a pet.

HOST VO

Spuds MacKenzie helps sell beer and Rufus was the most decorated dog of all.  The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a unique little dog bred to herd big animals.  Today, it’s mostly a lap dog.  Remember, each individual dog is unique and may not conform to breed standards.  If you’re adopting a dog, do your homework, and check out Petfinder.com to search for specific breeds near you and choose your next best friend wisely. 

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