KUSA News

Congratulations - Examination Results

Posted in KUSA News

KUSA JUDGES’ LEARNING PROGRAMME – EXAMINATION RESULTS – 15th November 2025
BREED
 
The following Learner Judges were successful in passing PAPER 2 for the Groups indicated and may now judge at Championship Show Level:
 
FREE STATE
Mr J Taute – Junior Showmanship
Ms J Kern – Hound Group*
GAUTENG
Ms G Brits – Junior Showmanship
Ms M Tregoning – Utility Group
 
WESTERN CAPE
Ms M Halmi– Working Group
DOGSPORT
The following Learner Judges were successful in passing the Schedule 03 & 09(B) DOGSPORT

Crufts 2026 - Agility

Posted in KUSA News

Helena Immelman

Congratulations to the South African Agility qualifier for Crufts 2026!

Helena Immelman, with her Border Collie, Giftnell's Gift of Hope, qualified at the KUSA Championship Show in Cape Town on 31 October 2025.

National Flyball Team 2025

Posted in KUSA News

Flyball

CONGRATULATIONS - National Flyball Team 2025
Judge: Vanessa de Villiers

1st Place: Cape Furr Fly - Best time of 17.44s

Captain: Simonne Sables and Lizbè Henze

Boxloader: Warren Sables

Boss with Jenna Harris

Gadget with Lizbè Henze

Image with Jenna Harris

Luna with Lizbè Henze (handled by Gerhard van Wyk)

Maddy with Lindsay Kaiser

Prinz with Debbie Matlby (handled by Simonne Sables)

2nd Place: Furrytail Flying Foxes - Best time of 17.20s

Captain: Sonelle van Wyk

Boxloader: Karin Roos

Ace with Sonelle van Wyk

Amaze with Jacques van Vuuren

Dream with Brigitte Rheeder

Emi with Sonelle van Wyk

Lyra with Anelize van Wyk

Rapid with Shannen Jacoby

3rd Place: Furrytail Flying Fires - Best time of 17.76

Captain: Sonelle van Wyk

Boxloader: Karin Roos

Coal with Yolande Johnson

Keen with Shannen Jacoby

Luna with Shandé Steenkamp

Mythic with Shannen Jacoby

Pace with Brigitte Rheeder

Xena with Sonelle van Wyk

KUSA Nationals 2025 - Carting

Posted in KUSA News

13

CONGRATULATIONS - Carting (Standard) National Champion 2025
1st - Noreena Sattlegger and Rosie
2nd - Bridget Jansen and Shari
3rd - Noreena Sattlegger and Lilly
Judge: Eleanor Gow

 15

CONGRATULATIONS - Carting (Mini) National Champion 2025
1st - Louise Thompson and Troy
Judge: Eleanor Gow

KUSA Nationals 2025

Posted in KUSA News

12

CONGRATULATIONS - Obedience National Champion 2025
1st - Dawn Crawshaw and Parker
2nd - Sylvia Stringer and Danny
3rd - Howard Armour & Chhloe
Judge: Claire Patterson-Abrolat
Steward: Olive Knipe

 11

CONGRATULATIONS - Rally Dog National Champion 2025
1st - Shannon Hall & Lucy
2nd - Sylvia Stringer and Danny
3rd - Dorea Fischer and NiNa
Judge: Helen Ramsay
Steward: Michelle Pietersma

For the Urgent Attention of: KUSA Members transacting via the KUSA Members’ Portal 

Posted in KUSA News

banner21

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO KUSA MEMBERS WHO USE THE KUSA ONLINE MEMBERS’ PORTAL TO SUBMIT ONLINE APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS, AFFIX RENEWALS AND DOG/LITTER REGISTRATIONS. 

As a result of an unforeseen development, the processing of Credit Card payments for online applications via the Members’ Portal will be terminated at the end of October 2025. Following a buy-out of the business, the payment gateway Service Provider for KUSA’s online transactions has given its customers 30-day notice of termination of service.

The sudden loss of the payment gateway service, currently integrated into both the existing Members’ Portal and the new portal under development, is not only a significant setback, but also presents technological challenges which are impossible to resolve in the short term.  After careful consideration, the Federal Council ultimately endorsed the KUSA Office’s recommendation that the new payment gateway technology only be integrated into the new portal. Retrofitting it to the old Members’ Portal, that has reached the end of its shelf-life, would be an unnecessary costly expense and would hamper and constrain the progress being made with the development of the future  platform.

Users of the current Members’ Portal are hereby advised, that as from 31 October 2025 members will no longer have access to the links to submit online applications for services like Membership Renewal, Affix Applications, Litter Registration Applications and Single Dog Registration Applications.

Until further notice, Members are requested to submit their duly completed and signed application forms to the KUSA Office, via email, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. This should be done in one email with all supporting documentation attached, including proof of payment for all fees due.

17.10.2025 | Notice to Judges' accepting appointments in foreign Countries

Posted in KUSA News

banner21

For the Urgent Attention of:
Licensed & Learner Judges of Breed and Dogsport 

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO JUDGES LICENSED BY KUSA PERTAINING TO THEIR ACCEPTANCE OF JUDGING APPOINTMENTS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES

It is necessary to bring to your urgent attention three amendments to KUSA Schedules which affect Judges who intend accepting invitations to judge in foreign countries. The amendments to the KUSA Regulations were fully motivated and approved at a Special Meeting of the Federal Council held on Monday, 25 August, of which Minutes are available on the KUSA website on the following link:

[Minutes & Agendas]

The following three amendments have relevance:

Amendment One:

SCHEDULE 10 – REGULATIONS – KUSA BREED JUDGES’ LEARNING PROGRAMME

Effective 01.01.2026

Regulation 5

Insert new Regulations 5.1 & 5.2, elimination of former Regulations 5.3, 5.4 & 5.6, and renumbering former Regulation 5.6 as Regulation 5.3, slightly amended.

29.09.2025 | Important Notice

Posted in KUSA News

IMPORTANT NOTICE

AMENDMENTS TO THE REGULATIONS FOR REGISTRATION OF IMPORTED DOGS

EFFECTIVE 01.10.2025 

We bring to your attention amendments to the Regulations for the registration of imported dogs that come into effect on 1 October 2025.

Additional supporting documentation* will be required to be attached to the application form. Application for Registration of a Single Dog – BREED Register – version Oct 2025, will be the only application form accepted.

22.08.2025 | A  first for South Africa!

Posted in KUSA News


Malik Davids dog (002) 
APT pic
 
In June this year, the Dobermann Club of the Cape hosted an Aptitude test in Stellenbosch.
Of the two dogs that passed, one was a Basset Griffon Vendeen (Petit) - the very first of it's Breed to be awarded this qualification in SA!
 
The dog in question is White Squall What The Fudge aka Phoebe, proudly owned by Nerina Napoli and Louis Kruger, and pictured here with Team Leader, Mike Eisler.
 
Each dog is graded for the following abilities:
 
Approachability
Drive to Hunt
Social Fighting Spirit
Activity Level
Level of Aggression
Defence
Nervous Constitution
Toughness
Eagerness
Steadiness to Gunshot
 
The other dog to be awarded a passing mark at this event was a Rottweiler, Eisengard G-Paco, owned by Mr S Effendi, handled by Mr AM Davids, pictured with Test Leader, Mr Selvin Lewis.
 
Congratulations on your achievements!

21.08.2025 | The FEDCO FCI Portfolio holders

Posted in KUSA News

over view
 
Overview from the KUSA FEDCO FCI Portfolio Holders who attended the FCI General Assembly held in Helsinki Finland and World Dog Show (WDS) from Monday the 4th August 2025 to Sunday the 10th August 2025.
 
The FEDCO FCI Portfolio holders, Jenny Hubbard and Michael Vorster attended the FCI General Assembly held in Helsinki, Finland from Monday 4 August to Wednesday 6 August.
 
Monday was the A20 Section Meeting, opened and chaired by the A20 President, Mr Augusto Benedicto Santos III from the Philippines. Mr. Santos went through important discussion points that were discussed by the FCI Executive Committee the day before. These included what to expect from the FCI General Assembly on Tuesday and Wednesday.
 
Tuesday and Wednesday was a two-day jam-packed agenda at the FCI General Assembly. Voting took place for candidates whose term had come to an end and were up for re-election plus potential new candidates, presenting to the General Assembly hoping to fill various positions on the main board and other commissions. The standing president of the FCI, Dr Tamás Jakkel was voted in as President for a further two years. Countries competing to host a future WDS presented to the General Assembly as too why they should be considered to host a future WDS. Countries applying for various FCI membership status also presented to the General Assembly why they should be approved. The tail docking and ear cropping was a hot topic of discussion and explained in detail to the General Assembly. A task team will be set up with experts of the various breeds plus the countries of expertise. The task team has strict criteria to operate within and will give regular feedback to the FCI Board.
 
Both Jenny and I had numerous meetings with the FCI Executives, which included amongst others, to adopt the FCI Breed Standard for new KUSA recognised breeds and the FCI International Judges status.
 
The FCI General Assembly ended on Wednesday evening, Jenny and I stayed on to attend the World Dog Show. This was done at our own cost. It was a wonderful experience to see such a large number of dogs in attendance and sit at ringside to observe breeds that are not here in South Africa. The highlight was watching the World Dog Challenge on Friday evening, with the Afghan Hound, Multi Ch Zaida Bint Muti vin Haussman from Chile taking top honours.
 
Both of us flew home on Saturday evening, exhausted after an eventful week.
 
Michael Vorster (Fedco FCI Portfolio Holder)
21.08.2025
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

20.08.2025 | STATEMENT FROM THE FCI - CROPPED/DOCKED DOGS OF BREEDS CUSTOMARILY CROPPED/DOCKED

Posted in KUSA News

 
Subsequent to the Statement posted by the KUSA Office on 18.08.2025, the FCI has issued its own Statement on the above issue by way of Circular 16/2025.
 
The content of FCI Circular 16/2025 accords with KUSA’s earlier Statement but, in the interest of full disclosure, appears below. The list of affected breeds was posted as part of the earlier Statement issued by the KUSA Office.
 
16 2025 Page 1

20.08.2025 | DNA PROFILES and ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATIONS USING FROZEN SEMEN

Posted in KUSA News

DNA PROFILES  and 

ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATIONS USING FROZEN SEMEN

Some concern has been expressed recently that DNA Profiles are required for foreign sires whose frozen semen is used in artificial inseminations.

Please be advised that KUSA does NOT require DNA Profiles of sires used in frozen semen Artificial Inseminations, irrespective of the date the semen was collected, provided it is a single sire breeding.

Dual sire breedings whether natural matings or frozen semen always require parentage testing of all puppies using DNA profiles of both possible sires.

DNA PROFILES  and

ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATIONS using IMPORTED FROZEN SEMEN 

Some concern has been expressed recently that DNA Profiles are required from foreign donor sires for artificial inseminations.

19-08-2025 - FCI GENERAL ASSEMBLY, HELSINKI, 2025 – TAIL DOCKING AND EAR CROPPING.

Posted in KUSA News

Agenda Item 17.5 Cropped and docked dogs: 11 breeds for which the Breed Standard has been changed.

Simply put, the FCI Circular 57/2021, which came into effect on 01.01.2025, has been put on hold with immediate effect. This Circular provided as follows:

“FCI Circular 57/2021 - CROPPED/DOCKED DOGS OF BREEDS CUSTOMARILY CROPPED/DOCKED REMINDER

On the occasion of its online meeting on November 24, 2021, the FCI General Committee decided to remind the FCI Members and Contract Partners about the circular 8/2016 (dated 7/3/2016) referring to cropped/docked dogs of breeds customarily cropped/docked.

The FCI General Committee insists that, effective from 1st January 2025, the dogs with cropped ears/docked tail, belonging to breeds for which no reference is made to the cropped ears/docked tail in the FCI breed standards, will not be allowed anymore to be shown in any conformation event where the FCI breed standards are used.

21.07.2025 | KUSA SA Dog Jumping Championships 2025

Posted in KUSA News

Large

 Congratulations - KUSA SA Dog Jumping Championships (Large)

KUSA SA Dog Jumping Champion - Melanie de Klerk and Sinna

Reserve Champions - Sonelle van Wyk and Ace

Third - Quinton Nortje and Rango (with owner Lindsay Dunsmore)

Judge: Heidi Coetzee and Noelene Pretorius

18.07.2025 | 2024/2025 KUSA Showdog of the Year

Posted in KUSA News

1000424782

2024/2025 KUSA Showdog of the Year Working Group Winner and Overall Winner:

Siberian Husky (WC Sim)                              

SP.CH GR.CH CH HIGHTOWER'S KNOXVILLE COWBOY WITH SPIRITKEEPER JM ZAW'24’25 CGC(BR)

18.07.2025 | 2024/2025 KUSA Showdog of the Year

Posted in KUSA News

test

2024/2025 KUSA Showdog of the Year Working Group Winner and Overall Winner:

Siberian Husky (WC Sim)                              

SP.CH GR.CH CH HIGHTOWER'S KNOXVILLE COWBOY WITH SPIRITKEEPER JM ZAW'24’25 CGC(BR)

2024/2025 KUSA Showdog of the Year Toy Group Winner and Best Opposite Sex:

Papillon (LH Atcheler & J Rhodes)

CH WEIEFORS NATURAL GRACE OF FLEETWOOD ZAW’22’24

23.06.2025 | PALEOPET PURE KUSA SA AGILITY CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025

Posted in KUSA News

494560415 1123947386430408 8721142852027205343 n

PALEOPET PURE KUSA SA AGILITY CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025
BROUGHT TO YOU BY ONEPLAN INSURANCE
Congratulations to the winners in the Small height category

L to R: Sheldene Fourie and Tanzy (SA Agility Reserve Champion – Small), Mike Taylor (Judge), Carolyn Chelchinskey and Katy (SA Agility Champion – Small), Bev Hourquebie (Judge) and Gail Killian and Emily (Third Place - Small)

29.05.2025 | NEW IMPORT/EXPORT GUIDELINES

Posted in KUSA News

The Department of Agriculture (formerly DALRRD) has published updated 

GUIDELINES ON REGISTRATION OF IMPORT/EXPORT AGENTS AND IMPORTATION AND EXPORTATION OF DOGS 

We draw you attention to Part 3: (4) which has been revised to read as follows:

1)  All dogs imported to South Africa are mandated to be sterilized if they are going to be used for other purposes other than breeding or they must be pre-approved by AIA registered registering authorities if they are imported to be used as breeding

Declared companion dogs (not meant for breeding) imported to South Africa permanently must be sterilized and are prohibited to be imported if they are less than 8 months old.

a) Dogs imported to South Africa temporarily for certain purposes (e.g. vacation) should be sterilized temporarily using chemical castration and proof (preferably from a State Veterinarian) of such must be provided.

06.05.2025 | KUSA Nationals Dog Dancing

Posted in KUSA News

HTM Singles Gaby Grohovaz & Flumi

KUSA National Dog Dancing 2025

Congratulations to Gaby Grohovaz and Carnelian Famous Flame of Wesavi (Flumi) for winning Heelwork to Music: Singles

Judge: Sue Woodiwiss

Thank you to Royal Canin for your generous sponsorship of prizes

17.04.2025 | IMPORTANT NOTICE:

Posted in KUSA News

FCI REGULATIONS FOR SHOW JUDGES – effective from 1 April 2025!
 
With the upcoming FCI-CACIB SHOWS, we alert KUSA accredited FCI Judges to the FCI Regulations for Show Judges – April 1, 2025, to the following:
 
“Regulation 11 – BEHAVIOUR 
1. General
 
The dogs that a judge handles at an FCI-CACIB show where he is not acting as a judge must be either bred, owned or co-owned by him, by a partner, by a member of his immediate family or any person living with him in his household.” 
 
The complete list of FCI Regulations for Show Judges can be viewed or downloaded from the FCI website https://www.fci.be/en/Show-Judges-44.html
 

03.10.2024 | Important Announcement

Posted in KUSA News

banner21

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT
KUSA AFFIX (KENNEL NAME) REGISTRATION
MANDATORY SIMULTANEOUS REGISTRATION ON FCI INTERNATIONAL KENNEL NAME REGISTER 

We are pleased to inform KUSA members with registered KUSA Affixes (Kennel Names) of a new and exciting development that will enhance the status of KUSA Affixes internationally and protect KUSA Affixes from possible duplication, exploitation and expropriation in FCI member countries. 

12.06.2024 | Clarity on Animal Improvement Act

Posted in KUSA News

CLARITY ON ANIMAL IMPROVEMENT ACT PERMITS FOR DOGS LEAVING SOUTH AFRICA AND RETURNING

Following an enquiry from the KUSA Office, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform & Rural Development (DALRRD) has clarified the uncertainty surrounding AIA Export/Import Permits for South African dogs travelling to attend Shows held in neighbouring countries, or abroad, and thereafter returning to the RSA.

Dogs travelling on either INTER-TERRITORIAL MOVEMENT PERMITS or PERMITS TO TRAVEL FOR RECREATIONAL PURPOSES, are also required to apply to DALRRD for an Import/Export Permit, as required under the Animal Improvement Act, using the Application to Import/Export Animals for Certain Purposes form.

· The AIA Import/Export Permit will cover both the exit from and re-entry to South Africa.

· The AIA Permit must be applied for first and then submitted, in conjunction with and attached to, the application for the Veterinary Permits.

· The AIA Permit is required in addition to the usual Veterinary Permits/Inter-Territorial Permits.

· The current cost of the AIA Import/Export Permit is R460.00 payable to DALRRD.

· An AIA Import/Export Permit can cover multiple dogs (it is not necessary to obtain one permit per dog).

19.04.2024 | Compliance with the Animal Improvement Act, No 62 of 1998

Posted in KUSA News

COMPLIANCE WITH THE ANIMAL IMPROVEMENT ACT, No 62 of 1998
IMPORTATION OF DOGS INTO SOUTH AFRICA FROM 1 APRIL 2024
 
The directive issued by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform & Rural Development (DALRRD) on 23 March 2024 and media statement of 10 April 2024, has reference.
 
A delegation of the Kennel Union met with the appropriate officials in the DALRRD on Friday, 12 April 2024, with a view to finding a solution to the imminent or near-imminent arrival of dogs imported on the strength of Veterinary Import Permits which, at the time of issue, were not required to be supported by a permit from the DALRRD attesting to the importer’s compliance with the Animal Improvement Act. We are pleased to advise that the officials of the DALRRD were receptive to KUSA’s appeal to, as an interim measure, compromise on the 30-days turnaround for issuing the Animal Improvement Permit and the DALRRD undertook to fast-track any urgent application, if brought to its attention.
 
During discussions it was agreed to recommend the following procedure to KUSA members who intend acquiring an Animal Improvement Permit from the DALRRD prior to applying for a Veterinary Import Permit:
 
• Obtain the required Application Form for an Animal Improvement Permit from the DALRRD
• Complete the required sections of the Application Form
• Scan and send the Application Form to KUSA at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., accompanied by Proof of Payment for R200.00 paid into KUSA’s bank account, using the payment reference “[Mem No.] – DALRRD Import Permit”.
• Upon receipt, KUSA, as the DALRRD-registered Breeders’ Society, shall attest to the member’s compliance with the Animal Improvement Act and return a scan of the signed and stamped Application Form to the member for submission to the DALRRD.
• The DALRRD provided the following three email addresses for the submission of applications:
 
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

19.04.2024 | DALRRD Media Statement

Posted in KUSA News

 
agri banner
 
MEDIA STATEMENT 10 APRIL 2024
 
THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE INTRODUCES NEW DIRECTIVES FOR THE IMPORTATION AND EXPORTATION OF LIVE ANIMALS
 
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) would like to alert importers and exporters of live animals about the newly introduced directive in respect to authorisation required for the purposes of importation and/or exportation of live animals.
 
The newly introduced directive is in line with the requirement for import authorisation for live animals in terms of the Animal Improvement Act, 1998 (Act No. 62 of 1998) (AIA) and it is aimed at intensifying compliance with Section 16 of the AIA. Authorisation for the importation and exportation of live animals and related genetic materials must be applied for in terms of the AIA.
 
This includes all existing veterinary import permits, which were issued prior 1 April 2024. In the case of new applications, the Animal Improvement Permit/authorisation must be applied for first, and the AIA Permit/authorisation must be attached to the application for the Veterinary Import Permit submitted to the department.
 
In the case of veterinary import permits issued prior 1 April 2024 under the Animal Diseases Act, 1984 (Act No. 35 of 1984), importers/exporters must please ensure that they include copies of the valid AIA permits.
 
Game and/or wild animals, as well as animals such as cats, birds and fish do not require an AIA Permit/authorisation for importation
 
Issued by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development:
• Media Liaison Officer and Spokesperson: Mr Reggie Ngcobo, 066 298 0980 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• Eviction Toll-free Number: 0800 007 095
 

10.04.2024 | KUSA Statement DALRRD Directive

Posted in KUSA News

KUSA STATEMENT on the DALRRD’S DIRECTIVE WITH REGARD TO THE IMPORTATION OF DOGS INTO SOUTH AFRICA

On 13 March 2024, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) issued a directive that, with effect from 1 April 2024, all applications for Veterinary Import Permits must be accompanied by a confirmation of compliance with the Animal Improvement Act No. 62 of 1998 (AIA) issued by the Registrar of Animal Improvement in the DALRRD. This directive seeks to enforce the provisions of section 16 of the AIA and does not only apply to production animals, but also to dogs.

08.04.2024 | Important Notice

Posted in KUSA News

IMPORTANT NOTICE

TO LICENSED JUDGES AND LEARNER JUDGES

CURRENTLY WORKING THEIR WAY THROUGH VARIOUS STUDY PATHS OF THE

KUSA BREED JUDGES’ LEARNING PROGRAMME (KBJLP)

At the Special Meeting of the Federal Council held on Thursday, 4 April 2024, the following amendments to Schedule 10 Appendix 1 (Group Course) and Schedule 10 Appendix 3 (Breed Specialisation Course) pertaining to the application of the pass mark across the various sections of the following examination papers:

  • Paper 1 Group Course or Breed Specialisation Course
  • Paper 2 Group Course
  • Paper 2 Breed Specialisation Course

10.08.2023 | Introducing FCI A2O Section Championship Shows

Posted in KUSA News

 logs

 INTRODUCTION OF ASIA, AFRICA & OCEANIA (A2O) SECTION SHOW TO SOUTH AFRICA 

Following interest expressed by local Clubs to host an A2O Section Show in South Africa, KUSA has come to an agreement with the A2O on the terms on which KUSA, or any of its All-breeds member Clubs may, for the foreseeable future, acquire licences to host an A2O Section Championship Show at which the A2O’s Certificats d'Aptitude au Championnat (CACs) will be on offer in addition to KUSA’s CCs.

19.10.2022 | Exclusion of Dogs from Exhibition Due to Aggression

Posted in KUSA News

EXCLUSION OF DOGS FROM EXHIBITION DUE TO AGGRESSION

In the case of a dog aggression incident having taken place at a KUSA Show, the following procedure is to be followed as described in Schedule 3 Regulation 14.

Regulation 14 – Exclusion of dogs

A Show Committee will have the power to exclude, refuse or remove any dog which is, owing to disease, savage disposition, or any other cause, not in a fit state for exhibition at a specific Show. Once a dog has been excluded or refused admission or has been removed from the precincts of a Show because of disease, savage disposition or any other cause, it will not be brought into the Show at any time or under any circumstances.

The Show Secretary, on behalf of the Show Committee, shall submit to the Secretary within seven (7) days of the close of the Show a written report supported by sworn statements of any witnesses and all other evidence available to the Show Committee at the time of the incident.

Exclusion of Dogs (TEO) Temporary Exclusion Order Manual. https://bit.ly/3EQq9wn

08.04.2022 | FCI Concession for Awarding the Title of FCI A2O International Beauty Champion (FCI-C.I.B.)

Posted in KUSA News

FCI CONCESSION FOR AWARDING THE TITLE OF FCI A2O INTERNATIONAL BEAUTY CHAMPION (FCI-C.I.B.) FOR BREEDS NOT SUBJECT TO WORKING TESTS FOR THE DURATION OF SOUTH AFRICA’S NATIONAL STATE OF DISASTER

With the termination of the National State of Disaster announced by the President, effective from the 5 April 2022, notice is hereby given of the withdrawal of the FCI concession for the awarding of the title FCI International Beauty Champion (FCI-C.I.B).

With immediate effect, the following criteria will need to be met to earn the title of International Beauty Champion (FCI-C.I.B.) as per the Regulations for FCI Asia, Africa & Oceania (A2O) Section International Championship :

  • Four (4) FCI-C.A.C.I.B.®s,
    • awarded by four (4) different Judges,
    • from three (3) different Countries.

The period for accumulating FCI-C.A.C.I.B.®s under the FCI concession , would thus be limited to the period 1 January 2020 to 4 April 2022.

22.10.2021 | FCI International Champion Concession

Posted in KUSA News

FCI CONCESSION FOR AWARDING THE TITLE OF FCI A2O INTERNATIONAL BEAUTY CHAMPION (FCI-C.I.B.) FOR BREEDS NOT SUBJECT TO WORKING TESTS FOR THE DURATION OF SOUTH AFRICA’S NATIONAL STATE OF DISASTER

1. According to the Regulations for FCI Asia, Africa & Oceania (A2O) Section International Championship, the following criteria need to be met to earn the title of International Beauty Champion (FCI-C.I.B.):

• Four (4) FCI-C.A.C.I.B.®s,
• awarded by four (4) different Judges,
• from three (3) different Countries.

2. Following an appeal to the FCI for the relaxation of these requirements for South Africa for a finite period, i.e. until the National State of Disaster Regulations are repealed, we are pleased to advise that the FCI’s General Committee has agreed to KUSA’s request on behalf of exhibitors.

3. In consequence, for as long as the National State of Disaster prevails, South African dogs would be permitted to gain their FCI-C.I.B. titles by meeting the following criteria:

• Four (4) FCI-C.A.C.I.B.®s,
• awarded by four (4) different South African Judges,
• or by a combination of four (4) different South African and foreign Judges,
• subject to the following:

4. The period for accumulating FCI-C.A.C.I.B.®s under South African Judges in order to apply for the FCI-C.I.B., will be from 1 January 2020 up to the date of the repeal of the National State of Disaster.

5. FCI-C.A.C.I.B.®s awarded by foreign Judges prior to 1 January 2020 will be considered for supplementation of those earned under South African Judges post 1 January 2020 to fill the required quota of four (4) FCI-C.A.C.I.B.®s in order to apply for the FCI-C.I.B., provided that such FCI-C.A.C.I.B.®s have been earned within the period of three years before 1 January 2020, i.e. between 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2019, and provided further that the combined submission is acceptable to the FCI.

6. The FCI has not, as yet, committed to any dispensation on the issue of FCI-C.A.C.I.B.®s earned subsequent to the repeal of the National State of Disaster supplementing those earned under South African Judges as from 1 January 2020.

IMPORTANT NOTICE for KUSA Licensed Judges When Officiating at FCI and Non-FCI Events

Posted in KUSA News

Earlier this year, KUSA reported on the judgement handed down by the District Court in Dortmund, Germany, which concluded that the Verband für das Deusche Hundewesen (VDH) had violated German and European antitrust laws by seeking to restrain the Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (SV) from releasing its German Shepherd Dog Specialist Judges to member organisations of the Weltunion der Vereine für Deutsche Schäferhunde (WUSV) that are not members of the FCI’s National Canine Organisations (NCOs) in various countries of the world. This decision came about as the result of a legal challenge mounted by three WUSV-affiliated Clubs in various countries against an earlier directive issued by the VDH.

The VDH appealed the Dortmund finding to the Higher Regional Court of Düsseldorf and, on 7 September 2020, the Higher Court ruled in favour of the VDH, causing the three claimants to lose their case.

UPDATE: GSDFSA Vs Registrar DALRRD and Others Statement

Posted in KUSA News

Members may recall that, in the Fedco update posted mid-May 2020, it was reported that the German Shepherd Federation of South Africa (GSDFSA) had applied for a Judicial Review under the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act (PAJA) to have certain actions of the Registrar of Animal Improvement in the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) (since renamed Department of Agriculture, Land Reform & Rural Development – DALRRD) set aside. The impugned actions were the Registrar’s decision to register KUSA as the Breeders’ Society for 218 canine breeds (including German Shepherd Dogs) and as a Registering Authority for canines.

The above application was heard on 9 March 2020 and on 11 May 2020, the Honourable Shanaaz C Mia, Judge of the High Court, Gauteng Local Division, Johannesburg, dismissed the application with costs.

Important Club Notice - Show Disclaimer

Posted in KUSA News

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO THE OFFICERS, SHOW MANAGERS & TRIAL MANAGERS OF CLUBS AND OTHER ORGANISERS OF KUSA-LICENSED  SHOWS AND EVENTS

We refer all those involved in the organisation and management of KUSA-licensed Shows and Events to the Minutes of Fedco 06-2020, in particular to Items 3.12.2 (Clubs’ Disclaimer Notice) and 3.12.3 (Clubs’ Right of Admission Reserved Notice). These Minutes were distributed to all interested parties in July 2020 by the KUSA Office and the respective Provincial Councils and are also available of the KUSA website.

At its meeting held in June 2020, the Federal Council resolved that, for the reasons set out in detail in the Minutes, it would be mandatory for Clubs and other Show and Event organisers to display the following Notices at all KUSA-licensed Shows and Events:

Notice to Affiliated Clubs, Provincial Councils and National Sub Committees Re: Use of Training Dog Collars

Posted in KUSA News

This serves to remind all KUSA Clubs, Members and Organisations that the use of Prong (Spike) and Electric Shock Collars as a means of training dogs is not condoned by the Kennel Union of Southern Africa.

This notice serves to remind all KUSA Members of the following:

1. In 2007 KUSA published the following:

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Spike and Electric Shock Collars

Members are reminded that the use of spike and electric shock collars for the training of dogs is prohibited and anyone found using them may be liable to having Disciplinary action taken against them. Members should also be aware that should spike or electric shock collars be used, it is possible that, if discovered by the authorities, they could be charged with an offence in terms of Section 2(F) of the Animals Protection Act No 71 of 1962 (as amended).]

Extract of Section 2(F) of the Animal Protection Act No 71 of 1962 (as amended) :

2. (I) Any person who-

(f) uses on or attaches to any animal any equipment, appliance or vehicle which causes or will -cause injury to such animal or which is loaded, used or attached in such a manner as will cause such animal to be injured or to become diseased or to suffer unnecessarily;

2. KUSA Regulations are specific under SCHEDULE 05B(04) – Working Utility Dog, where it states:

3.3 Collars

The Judge(s) will ensure that during the exercises each dog under his jurisdiction wears only a plain training collar. Nothing will be attached to collars during exercises except leads when required. No spiked collars to be used. Tick collars and repellent devices will be allowed.

3. KUSA Schedule 05B(02) (Appendix B) -- FCI GUIDELINES FOR THE INTERNATIONAL UTILITY DOG TRIALS and INTERNAITONAL TRACKNG DOG TRIALS (IGP) states under the Preamble:

a. When it comes to training the physical as well as the psychological health of the dog is top priority. It is imperative then that the dog be handled in a fair, orderly and humane way .

b. It remains the ethical responsibility of man to raise and adequately train the dog. The applied methods must meet the standards of behavioural sciences, especially in regards to the breed. In order to achieve the upbringing, training or training effect, it is important to not utilize force and to use positive methods for the dog. Furthermore, it is imperative to decline the use of techniques that do not utilize the proper training, raising and training aides . Using a dog for dog sport has to be oriented to his capabilities, his competitive spirit and his willingness. Influencing the dogs training capabilities through the use of medication or animal cruelty must be avoided .

4. KUSA Schedule 05B(02) – Regulations for International Working Dog Trials and International Tracking Dog Trials (IGP) states:

3.3.7: Where there is a conflict between the Regulations for the International Utility Dog Trials and the International Tracking Dog Trial of the FCI and KUSA Schedules and administration, the KUSA Regulations will apply insofar as they do not alter the FCI IGP Trial rules.

5. KUSA Schedule 9 – Code of Ethics for Members of the Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA) states:

ETHICAL BEHAVIOUR OF KUSA MEMBERS AS DOG OWNERS OR KEEPERS

KUSA Members shall, at all times, ensure that dogs owned by them, or entrusted to their care,

3.13 are not trained or worked beyond their willingness or capabilities and strictly confine training to methods that are humane and which do not cause undue fear, distress, or pain;

Members shall, at all times,

5.7 refrain from verbally or physically abusing any dog for not having performed to the expected standard or for having failed to achieve an expected award, or for any other reason whatsoever;

6. KUSA Regulations are specific under SCHEDULE 05M – Regulations for Flyball where it states:

10.2 Collars, Flyball harnesses and Leg wrapping

10.2.1 All dogs competing are to wear a flat buckle collar or Flyball harness of any material. Nothing in size. No hanging parts are allowed that are liable to flap around when the dog is racing. Holding any dog by the scruff of the neck or other parts is not permissible and will result in disqualification from the team.

10.2.2 Protection wrapping on dog’s legs may be used. Such wrapping should in no way impair the dogs’ performance and should not have any loose or hanging parts to it.

10.2.3 Unacceptable collars for all dogs attending Flyball events will include:

● Electronic collars

● Dummy electronic collars

● Pinch, pressure or prong collars

7. Other areas within the KUSA Constitution where there are references to the use of collars are:

Schedule 05N – Basic Working/Behaviour Test (BH)

1. On Lead Heeling - the on-lead dog, wearing an animal rights approved collar or harness

This is a serious matter. First and foremost, please ensure that dogs are trained by trainers who are keeping up with the modern view of positive reinforcement training. Prong, spiked and electric collars are simply cruel, being used to apply an aversive (stimulus that is painful or unpleasant) in order to prevent the animal from performing a particular behaviour. Under the Regulations of the Animal Protection Act the use of these collars is a Criminal Offence. KUSA has no alternative but to institute disciplinary action against those members or clubs which are found to utilise this method of training.

KUSA Statement

Posted in KUSA News

KUSA statement on developments in the Netherlands affecting brachycephalic breeds

20th of June 2020

The Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA) stands in solidarity with the National Canine Organisations (NCOs) around the world in advocating for the health and preservation of purebred dogs. The circumstances that have led to the recent decision by the Raad van Beheer op Kynologisch Gebied in Nederland (Dutch Kennel Club), to limit the registration of twelve purebred brachycephalic breeds, and further allow cross-breeding to increase muzzle length, is most disappointing. The impact of this decision will affect many responsible breeders in that country, making it impossible for them to continue improving the health and conformation of these breeds, within the framework of their breed standards.

These restrictions will have the greatest impact on the responsible breeders who focus on breeding healthy dogs, which best represent the breed standard, with no impact on those who breed indiscriminately. 

The prevalence of health problems in brachycephalic breeds is of concern to KUSA, particularly those pertaining to respiratory function and temperature regulation. These conditions related to Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) can have a serious and lasting effect on the welfare of affected dogs.

GSDFSA vs Registrar AIA & Others

Posted in KUSA News

Fedco Update - German Shepherd Federation of South Africa vs Registrar of Animal Improvement and Others

Members will recall that the German Shepherd Federation of South Africa (GSDFSA) applied for a Judicial Review under the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act (PAJA) to have certain actions of the Registrar of Animal Improvement in the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) set aside. The impugned actions were the Registrar’s decision to register KUSA as the Breeders’ Society for 218 canine breeds (including German Shepherd Dogs) and as a Registering Authority for canines.

On 11 May 2020, the Honourable Shanaaz C Mia, Judge of the High Court, Gauteng Local Division, Johannesburg, delivered her Judgement in the above matter, explaining the main issue at stake as follows:

“The main issue for determination is whether the Registrar was empowered to take the decision to issue a certificate to KUSA as a Breeding society on the 23 October 2015 and as a Registering authority on 13 June 2016 without consulting the Federation before taking the decision. Flowing from that, taking into account the provisions of s 7 of PAJA which prescribes the timeframe of 180 days for the institution of a review application; whether the application for review was brought within the prescribed timeframe.

New views required for Elbow Dysplasia certification submissions

Posted in KUSA News

The South African Elbow Dysplasia (ED) scheme was initiated in 1999 to assist breeders to improve breeding selection to reduce the incidence of this very common and often crippling disease in dogs, particularly larger working dogs. Certification is done according to the Guidelines of the International Elbow Working Group (IEWG) and as approved by WSAVA. The number of views required to certify dogs varies in different countries with increasing views resulting in more accurate grading.

In 1999 the minimum requirement of a single flexed lateral view of each elbow was instituted to start the SA scheme to minimise costs and gain greater breeder compliance. We are now 20 years further with additional knowledge of subtle radiological changes in dysplastic elbows as well as the X-ray digital era upon 98% of veterinary practices. This creates additional opportunities to improve ED grading accuracy with minimal cost implications.

In discussions with KUSA and the National Clinicians Group of the SAVA and based on IEWG guidelines and a recent article* on the incidence of hip and elbow dysplasia in South Africa, the following two views of each elbow will be required for elbow grading as from 1 June 2019:
• Fully Extended ML view
• Pronated CrCd view
Minimal, if any, cost changes to owners are envisaged with the introduction of the new views.

The KUSA HD/ED approved radiologists will also directly inform veterinarians of these changes. KUSA members are however requested to confirm the extra views with the veterinary practice at time of admission of their dogs for ED radiographs. Incorrect submissions of the old single elbow view will be accepted for the first three months after the implementation date to allow a smooth transition period. Updated HD/ED application forms are available on the KUSA website.

Phenotypic hip & elbow dysplasia trends Rottweilers & Labrador Retrievers in SA | courtesy of Prof Kirberger

Posted in KUSA News

Phenotypic hip and elbow dysplasia trends in Rottweilers and Labrador retrievers in South Africa (2007-2015):

Are we making progress?

Canine hip and elbow dysplasia are major orthopaedic problems prevalent the world over, and South Africa is no exception. Hip and elbow dysplasia phenotypic status is certified by a number of different radiographic schemes in the world. South Africa uses the Fédération Cynologique Internationale system to certify hips, and the International Elbow Working Group scheme to certify elbows.