North American Mixed Breed Registry

For the thousands of us who share our lives with mixed breed dogs, the excitement and challenge of an obedience ring has not been available to us for many years. Only registered Canadian Kennel Club "papered purebreds" had the option of going into an obedience trial that was, until the birth of the North American Mixed Breed Registry (NAMBR). The registry, started in 1995 by Linda Reidt, encourages dogs of any genetic makeup to join the fun and competition of obedience and other activities such as flyball, and agility to name just a few. After working for a major pet food company for several years and travelling across the province Reidt was constantly asked by store employees and dog owners about care, nutrition and training. She saw a real need for information sharing and education. She wanted to create an organization that would offer pet dog owners the opportunity to enrich their relationships through knowledge and activity. As she geared up her efforts and spoke with people about her idea they all seemed to have one thing in common, they were the proud owners of mixed breed dogs. "I wanted to reach out to dog owners in so many ways" explains Reidt and the vision statement of NAMBR has certainly achieved that.

To unite the owners of the mixed breed dog

To share knowledge and experience

To promote responsible pet ownership and long term commitment

To enlarge and expand activities and opportunities for the mixed breed dog and his owner

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NAMBR welcomes dogs which have been adopted from a shelter or breed rescue program

NAMBR welcomes dogs of recognized breed without registration papers

NAMBR welcomes business owners with a service or product of interest to a pet owner

NAMBR is a pet registry only. Spaying and neutering of mixed breed dogs is encouraged.

So what's all this "doggy" fun about?

Obedience: Many of you may have been involved with or joined an obedience class to learn the fine art of canine communication. Novice obedience includes the basics of sit, stand, stay, heeling and recall (come when called). Your points are tallied with each successfully completed exercise. Handling technique and a good rapport with your dog are great assets. You can climb the "obedience ladder" as you advance in skill and accomplishments.

Flyball: This fast paced action packed game is played with dogs jumping over four hurdles, taking a ball from the "ball box" and then going back over the same four hurdles. Teams of dogs compete against each other for fastest times and fewest errors. This game is great fun for those "ball crazed" dogs that would love you to buy a tennis ball launcher for the backyard!

Agility: Many of you may have seen this sport on television. It is a maze of jumps, walks, tunnels, weave poles and tires and requires good SAFE solid training. Dogs must at least one year of age, be in good health and physical condition to deal with the jumping, running and climbing that is involved. Once acquainted with the equipment most dogs love this challenging course. Agility is truly a team effort and creates a strong bond between owner and dog. Competitions are judged by fastest time and fewest faults.

NAMBR often hosts seminars and demonstrations from leading canine authorities and boasts an informative newsletter that includes articles on nutrition, behaviour and health and lots more!

To become a member of NAMBR or to find out more about this organization call Linda Reidt at 1-905-342-3391 or visit their website at: www.eagle.ca/~nambr

Lorraine Houston

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