Flat Creek Border Collies

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

January 2014 January 2014

Lillie Goodrich Co-founder

Glen Highland Farm

217 Pegg Road, Morris, NY 13808 sbcrescue@gmail.com www.glenhighlandfarm.com

Table of Contents
Glen Highland Farm Background
Page 1

Evaluation of the Flat Creek Dogs

Page 1

Medical Overview of the 35 Dogs

Page 2

Emaciation
Page 3

Untreated Medical Conditions

Page 8

Poor Hygiene, Unsanitary Conditions

Page 20

Fear of Humans
Page 25

Undersized, Underdeveloped Young Dogs

Page 28

The Breeding Program at Flat Creek

Page 29

Glen Highland Farm Conclusions

Page 33

Glen Highland Farm Background

Glen Highland Farm (GHF) is a 501c3 devoted to the rescue and rehoming of Border Collies. In 13 years, over 2000 dogs have found safe haven through the Farm, located in Morris, NY. GHF is dedicated to assisting only this breed and is the largest Border Collie rescue organization in the United States. In all cases, the mission of GHF is the same: to evaluate the health and temperament of the Border Collies which come into our care; to address any deciencies with the provision of medical treatment, training and behavioral and physical rehabilitation therapies; and to place them into new homes where their needs will be understood and met on an ongoing basis. GHF covers the entire northeast region as far south as Virginia, as far north as Canada and west through all of Pennsylvania. GHF has also rescued Border Collies from other countries such as Japan, China, Saudi Arabia and Mexico as well as other US states. GHF takes in dogs from all different backgrounds: dogs relinquished directly from loving, long-term homes; dogs abandoned in shelters or found running as strays; dogs with working backgrounds; and even dogs who have been used in breeding programs. It is not unusual for breeders to relinquish dogs directly to the Farm when they are getting out of the business altogether or when a change of life circumstances has occurred. GHF has also previously received dogs from seizures by state organizations in almost two dozen of these seizure cases, the dogs were voluntarily surrendered to rescue.

Evaluation of the Flat Creek Dogs

Glen Highland Farm was asked by the Montgomery County SPCA to assist in the conscation of 35 Flat Creek Border Collies in Sprakers, NY. There are 35 Border Collies in our care, with 25 of them fully surrendered to Rescue. 10 are in our care, awaiting court proceedings. Four adult dogs and 17 puppies still remain at Flat Creek. To appropriately evaluate these dogs, GHF contracted Dr. Jonathan Davis of Valley Veterinary Associates in Sidney, NY. This practice works with GHF on hundreds of dogs each year. Their evaluation of 33 dogs will be provided separately. The other two dogs (in foster care) have been evaluated by another veterinarian those reports will also be provided separately. The Border Collies from Flat Creek suffer from a number of serious health challenges, all revealed through physical exams and diagnostics performed by the vets. Additionally, GHF staff evaluations provide insight on issues related to the temperament of the dogs. GHF has seen hundreds of Border Collies in somewhat similar situations, in varying degrees of health. As a group, these dogs are semi-feral and fearful of human contact.

It is evident that basic, routine care was not provided to the Flat Creek dogs. As a group, these dogs are showing signs of malnourishment, an abnormal level of injuries and grooming neglect, all of which can cause pain and discomfort. This is not a recent problem. It is due to the ongoing conditions at Flat Creek.
A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY Page 1

Medical Overview of the 35 Dogs

Age
n n

30 dogs are 1-2 years old* 5 dogs are adult, ages 3-6 years old*

* Ages are approximate

Weight: 83% are undersized

n n

Out of 35 Border Collies, only 6 t the breed weight standard of 35-45 pounds. The majority are adult Border Collies weighing an average of 25 pounds.

Body Condition Score: 74% are malnourished

n n n n n

Score of 1 Emaciated: 10 dogs out of 35 Score of 2 Underweight: 16 dogs out of 35 Score of 3 Acceptable: 8 out of 35 dogs Score of 4 Overweight: none Score of 5 Obese: 1 out of 35 dogs

Health Condition: 100% are medically compromised

None of the dogs are healthy enough for routine spay/neuter due to heavy parasitic load and body condition.
n n n n n n

100% have extreme worm infestation: 35 out of 35 dogs 100% have coat/skin conditions: 35 out of 35 dogs 100% have behavior problems: 35 out of 35 dogs 66% have dental issues: 23 out of 35 dogs 63% have ear problems: 22 out of 35 dogs 43% have wounds: 15 out of 35 dogs

On the pages that follow are a closer look at the medical and behavioral issues of the dogs that are related to conditions at Flat Creek.

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 2

Emaciation
The outward appearance of the Flat Creek dogs is deceiving. Since their fur is dirty and matted, it appears they are much heavier. A body condition score rating system of 15 is used in veterinary medicine. 26 of the 35 Border Collies scored at the lowest level of 1 (Emaciated) and 2 (Underweight). This indicates that their nutrition and lack of care placed them in jeopardy of starvation. Most of these dogs have rib bones or hip bones protruding, without any body fat or muscle mass (Exhibits 1, 3, 4 & 5).

exhibit 1

While food was provided, these dogs could not receive proper nutrition to maintain body mass due to an extreme parasite load (Exhibit 2). The parasite load of the Flat Creek dogs is at an extremely high level compared to other dogs coming into rescue.

Flat Creek Dog: D25

Wetting down a dog shows the protrusion of rib cage and hip bones.

No matter how much they eat, without medical treatment, dogs with heavy worm loads will become anemic and have the potential for organ failure and death.
In their reports, Valley Veterinary Associates quantied the horric condition of these dogs by measuring the exact worm load. Parasitic infestation is totally preventable with proper weekly and monthly care and it is critical in a multiple dog group situation. Cleanliness of pen areas requires daily fecal removal as well as deworming on a regular schedule. Since puppies are naturally born with worms, it is critical to deworm at a very early age and throughout the life span of any dog living in these conditions.

exhibit 2

Mature roundworms in the feces of a Flat Creek dog.

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 3

Veterinarians indicate that most of these dogs are not healthy enough to undergo any surgical procedure, including routine spay or neuters.
exhibit 3
A Flat Creek female with a waist measurement of about 15 inches.

Flat Creek Dog: D20

exhibit 4

A Flat Creek female with a waist measurement of about 16 inches.

Flat Creek Dog: D37

exhibit 5

Approx. 16.5 inch waist of a female from the breeder in Flat Creek.

Flat Creek Dog: D10

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 4

Rescue Perspective
GHF offers an expert perspective having cared for over 2000 Border Collies. We have accepted many dogs in good condition that came from breeders. We currently have four from a different NY breeder, one who no longer wanted to stay in the business. All four of those dogs came into rescue fully-vaccinated, in good health with an acceptable body score (Exhibits 6 & 7). They lived outside in kennels, but when temperatures dropped, were brought in at night to a heated garage. All of the dogs came into rescue with waists of 18-19 inch in diameter, a little underweight, but not severe. None of these four dogs were in a condition as severe as the Flat Creek dogs with 1516 inch diameter waist sizes. (Previous Exhibits 3, 4 & 5). As a comparison to a dog living outside, a family dog living in an inside setting will hold their weight in a more normal fashion. See Exhibit 8 of adopted GHF dog at full body weight, 22 inches at the waist.

exhibit 6

exhibit 7

GHF Rescue Dog

GHF Rescue Dog

Approx. 19 inch waist of a male surrendered to GHF from a breeder wanting to get out of the business.

Approx. 20 inch waist of a female surrendered to GHF from a breeder wanting to get out of the business.

exhibit 8

A female dog living as a family pet in an inside setting will hold their weight in a more normal fashion.

GHF Dog: Adopted

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 5

A Closer Look
D1 is a 1-year old male Border Collie (Exhibit 9), lethargic, dull-eyed and nonresponsive upon conscation. He had roundworms coming out of his rectum and was severely dehydrated. His bloodwork is consistent with malnutrition. Now, one week later, he is still struggling to recover:

exhibit 9

Report from the foster home: He is still pretty lethargic and drinks tons of water. Saying he is starving is an underFlat Creek Dog: D1 statement. He nally pooped yesterday and he ate it up so fast it was scary. I have never seen a dog do that. He eats so fast and then frantically looks for more. I am feeding him 4x a day. His back end has no muscle to it. He tries to do the stairs but has no energy to push his body forward.

exhibit 10

D32 is a 1-year old male Border Collie (Exhibit 10), who was coughing upon conscation and moved to isolation at the vet. Bloodwork ndings are consistent with malnutrition and the presence of an infection. Antibiotics are required for fourteen days with close monitoring. Those are two cases more are documented in the reports of Valley Veterinary Associates and The Village Animal Clinic along with the scientic data reporting the extreme parasite load.

Flat Creek Dog: D32

Improper Nutrition Leads to Malnourishment

In addition to the rampant parasite infestation in these dogs, the Flat Creek dogs puppies and adults are not being fed the proper quality food. According to the vet report from Dr. Caroline Ennis (submitted 1/6/14): The adult dogs and puppies are being fed a dog food that was in a generic white, unbranded bag labeled Dog food with a protein content of 18%. When asked if this is what he feeds to the puppies, he said yes. I did not see an indication that the food was AAFCO certied. Adult dogs need a moderate protein level of 24% - 27% for a normal lifestyle in a home setting. For proper growth and development, puppies need a high protein diet of at least 30%. The food of both adults and puppies at Flat Creek was only 18% protein. For dogs living outside, a very careful protein/fat ratio is required due to the adverse temperatures.

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 6

See expert recommendations below: According to Dr. Joe Wakshlag, Associate Professor, Clinical Nutrition Section Chief, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: A typical border at 45 lbs. should be getting about 1200-1400 kcals (not herding) to stay at 45 lbs. So they need about 2-3 cups of a 30% protein and 20% fat food. Puppies and lactating bitches should receive a 30% protein and 20% fat food. Pups should be fed according to the high end of feeding guidelines on packaging. Bitches should be fed 50% higher than typical the last 4 weeks of gestation. 1600-1800 kcals a day. At lactation its around 20% more per day per puppy. A litter of 4 in a dog getting 1200 kcals for maintenance should get about 1800-2000 kcals. The food being fed at 18% protein was probably around 11-12% fat which is unsuitable for those life-stages and every breeder knows that. In the vast experience of feeding over 2000 Border Collies at Glen Highland Farm, we have never seen a dog thrive on an 18% protein diet. The only exception would be seniors with medical conditions who must be on reduced protein. The additional issue is the quality of the protein. Low-cost dog food is high in llers that do not provide a proper protein source. The fecal volume coming out of the Flat Creek dogs (Exhibit 11) is easily three times the normal volume of dogs being fed a quality diet (Exhibit 12). Especially given the smaller size of these dogs, this indicates the type of food being given is indeed of poor quality. According to Dr. Joe Wakshlag, Associate Professor, Clinical Nutrition Section Chief, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: The large fecal volume is likely due to poorly manufactured pet food or ingredients leading to undigestible protein and starch as well as excessive ber all of which leads to large stool volume and even less protein and carbs that can be effectively digested and used by the dog. All of this contributed to the poor body condition of the dogs.

exhibit 11

Flat Creek Dog

exhibit 12

GHF Rescue Dog

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 7

Untreated Medical Conditions

Many of the Flat Creek dogs have untreated medical conditions which should have been easily noticeable and treatable when they rst arose. Failure to treat these medical conditions promptly has given some of these conditions time to develop into severe and painful issues for the dogs.

Yeast Infections in Ears

Seven of the Flat Creek dogs have severe ear infections. When this disease is not treated, a condition known as cauliower ears or aural hematoma occurs where the ear aps and inner tissues swell so large, the opening of the ear canal is actually blocked (Exhibit 13 & 14). Bleeding occurs inside the tissue from the dog shaking their head due to the infection. This requires immediate treatment and if left alone, causes pain and discomfort and permanent thickening of the tissues. Compare to healthy ear shown in Exhibit 15.

exhibit 13

exhibit 14

Flat Creek Dog: D41

Flat Creek Dog: D26

Cauliower ear, showing a partially obstructed ear canal due to thickened tissues.

Cauliower ear, showing obstructed ear canal due to thickened tissues. A healthy dogs ear showing an unobstructed ear canal.

exhibit 15

GHF Rescue Dog

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 8

Ear Mites
Highly contagious tiny spider-like parasitic mites were found in the ears of many of the Flat Creek dogs (Exhibit 16). These mites can infect the external and internal canal and lead to skin and ear infections if left untreated. Severe ear mite infections can cause serious problems for the dog, such as severely damaged ear canals and eardrums which can lead to a permanent loss of hearing. Routine ear cleaning is required to prevent this condition from occurring or spreading.

exhibit 16

Flat Creek Dog: D41

Ear mites can lead to skin or ear infections if left untreated. Infection usually produces a characteristic dark discharge, as shown here. The ear canal can become entirely obstructed by this coffee ground-like debris.

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 9

Broken Teeth Leading to Infection

Numerous Flat Creek dogs have this condition with multiple broken teeth down to the gum level, showing infection (Exhibits 17, 18, 19 & 20). Once a tooth cracks or breaks, bacteria can enter the tooth and into the jaw and the infection spreads into other body organs. Prolonged exposure to bacteria can cause damage to the heart and organs and even lead to death. The Flat Creek dogs with broken teeth require extractions and antibiotics as soon as possible.

exhibit 17

Canine is broken into the gumline exposing the root.

Flat Creek Dog: D10

exhibit 18

Infected tooth that extends into the gumline.

Flat Creek Dog: D30

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 10

exhibit 19

exhibit 20

Flat Creek Dog: D39

Flat Creek Dog: D39

Severe tartar

Cracked molar

Severe Dental Disease

Numerous Flat Creek dogs have severe tartar indicating dental disease is present (Exhibits 21 through 24). Left untreated, periodontal disease leads to severe oral pain, loss of teeth and other complications in the body, including an impact on organs and the heart.

exhibit 21

exhibit 22

Flat Creek Dog: D39

Flat Creek Dog: D26

exhibit 23

exhibit 24

Flat Creek Dog: D16

Flat Creek Dog: D20

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 11

Urinary Tract Infections

Blood in the urine was noted in several young Flat Creek dogs with indications of infection. These dogs are being monitored carefully. Antibiotic treatment is now underway. Causes of this infection can be bladder stones, bacteria or organ-related disease. This type of infection worsens without veterinary care and must be treated immediately.

Tick-borne Diseases
Two Flat Creek dogs have tick-borne diseases Lyme and Ehrlichia. Both tested positive on diagnostic tests. Since the infected dogs were living on the same property as the other dogs, it is highly likely that they have all been exposed to ticks carrying the Lyme and Ehrlichia virus. As it can take weeks or months for these diseases to manifest themselves, it is highly likely more of the dogs will develop these diseases in the near future. Both of these potentially deadly diseases could have been prevented with application of a monthly tick preventative.

Ehrlichia canis is an infection of white blood cells that can eventually affect bone marrow function, including production of blood cells. Lyme disease can potentially lead to glomerular disease, a type of kidney damage if untreated.
One of the dogs, D8 (Exhibit 25), 6-years old, could have greater damage since the disease was allowed to progress over a longer period of time. The other dog is a young adult.

exhibit 25

Flat Creek Dog: D8

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 12

Mastitis
One recent nursing mother exhibited enlarged, extended nipples due to a bacterial infection of her mammary glands (Exhibits 26 & 27). Veterinary examination revealed an advanced infection of pus-lled teats. Mastitis, if not treated, can lead to gangrene mastitis. This condition can be caused from poor hygiene or systemic infection originating elsewhere in the body or from a trauma from a puppy nursing. Treatment needs to be given immediately before the infection spreads into the bloodstream. Laying on feces-covered ice and snow at Flat Creek also contributes to the advanced condition of infection.

exhibit 26

Flat Creek Dog: D10

exhibit 27

Flat Creek Dog: D10

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 13

Body Wounds
As a group most of the Flat Creek dogs have body wounds (Exhibits 28 through 33) on muzzles, legs, feet and ears. Many dogs also have scarring and scabs on their bodies.

Many wounds are fully exposed, raw, red or bleeding. No evidence of previous medical treatment was seen. Bacteria in these untreated wounds promotes disease processes in the bloodstream.
exhibit 28

Flat Creek Dog: D21

exhibit 29

Flat Creek Dog: D8

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 14

exhibit 30

exhibit 31

Flat Creek Dog: D18

Flat Creek Dog: D27

exhibit 32

exhibit 33

Flat Creek Dog: D25

Flat Creek Dog: D25

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 15

Missing Nose Pieces and Missing Ear Pieces

Numerous dogs have permanently damaged noses and ears (Exhibits 34 through 39). Possible causes could be injuries sustained from dog ghting, frostbite, the electric wire fencing or infectious disease. All of these wounds are preventable.

exhibit 34

exhibit 35

Flat Creek Dog: D15

Flat Creek Dog: D15

exhibit 36

exhibit 37

Flat Creek Dog: D22

Flat Creek Dog: D31

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 16

exhibit 38

Flat Creek Dog: D39

exhibit 39

Flat Creek Dog: D39

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 17

Raw, Peeling Foot Pads

As a group, the Flat Creek dogs have very scarred, hardened rough paw pads. A number of dogs have reddened and peeling pads, some more severe than others. Normal hair growth has disappeared. In a peeled pad, the outermost tough covering is peeled away, leaving a red, tender inner part exposed. This is extremely painful to the point where most dogs cannot bear any weight on the affected foot. The peeling skin can occur from frostbite and running over rough, icy surfaces. Frost-bitten skin appears red, gray or whitish and peels off as we are seeing in some of the dogs (Exhibits 40 & 41). Immediate medical treatment is required. Compare to the healthy foot in Exhibit 42, of a non-Flat Creek dog.

exhibit 40

exhibit 41

Flat Creek Dog: D25

Flat Creek Dog: D25

exhibit 42

A view of a healthy paw pads showing the fur in between pads for protection from the elements. Note there is no scarring or peeling on the pads.

GHF Rescue Dog

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 18

Eye Injury
One Flat Creek dog, D8, has signicant vision issues in both eyes (Exhibit 43), at this time diagnosed as corneal abrasions or demarcation; however he must have an ophthalmology exam in order to further diagnose his vision problem. This condition could also be Progressive Retinal Atrophy, a genetic condition resulting in xed pupil dilation or he could have Pannus, a progressive inammatory disease of the cornea. Diagnosis and treatment from a specialist is critical in his case since D8 could become fully blind if not diagnosed and treated. With proper diagnosis and treatment, these problems could have been prevented and possibly still can be corrected with medication or surgery. Annual re-examinations are required.

exhibit 43

Flat Creek Dog: D8

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 19

Poor Hygiene, Unsanitary Conditions

All of the Flat Creek dogs have poor coat condition: dull, matted, brittle, dry skin, dandruff, urine-stained and feces-coated hair (Exhibits 44 through 52). There has been no evidence of brushing, bathing or any general grooming care with the dogs. The older the dog, the worse the matting and some hair was lled with feces and urine-stained. Compare to a healthy-coated dog in Exhibit 53.

exhibit 44

exhibit 45

Flat Creek Dog: D8

Flat Creek Dog: D8

exhibit 46

exhibit 47

Flat Creek Dog: D29

Flat Creek Dog: D15

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 20

exhibit 48

exhibit 49

Flat Creek Dog: D11

exhibit 51

Flat Creek Dog: D10

exhibit 50

Flat Creek Dog: D11

Flat Creek Dog: D30

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 21

exhibit 52

exhibit 53

Flat Creek Dog: D10

GHF Rescue Dog

This Flat Creek dog has a dull, brittle coat.

This non-Flat Creek dog has a healthy coat.

When Glen Highland Farm arrived at the Flat Creek property, the team of ve Caretakers discovered that all the dogs were living in small penned areas lled with excrement.

The only place any dog could eliminate was the area they ran in, walked in, ate in, and lived in. The dog pens were covered in fecal matter a health situation that easily spreads parasites to other dogs.
The remaining Flat Creek dogs (4 adults and 17 puppies) are still living in an environment where they cannot avoid contact with feces and urine (Exhibit 54). They are walking in it continually re-infecting themselves. Without proper clean-up, this is a vicious cycle of re-infestation and disease. Any human stepping into the pens will contaminate other areas where they walk since there is no proper kennel cleanliness evident on the property. Hookworms, whipworms and roundworms can be transmitted to humans as well as dogs.

exhibit 54

Flat Creek Dogs

We observed that the conscated dogs now residing at Glen Highland Farm instantly eat the feces of any dog. This pattern of behavior is consistent with malnourishment and lack of vital nutrients. Daily cleaning and fecal clean-up is required to insure a proper standard of hygiene for dogs and humans. Well-scheduled and maintained parasite treatment is necessary to prevent this unsanitary and contagious setting.

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 22

Border Collies Are Now Companion Animals

Border Collies originate from the climates of Scotland and England where the average winter boasts highs in the 40s and lows in the 30s (Exhibit 55). Here in upstate NY, our average highs are in the 30s and with lows down into the teens (Exhibit 56). Border Collies were not bred to live outside in sub-zero temperatures. It is a customary practice for the dogs to be inside a barn or inside a home when not working. On the whole, farmers do not leave their working dogs exposed to severe outdoor elements. They are considered prized possessions a much needed tool to be protected and valued. However, the need for working farm dogs has lessened in the past 70 years with less farms. The majority of the dogs are NO longer even working outside at all. Border Collies are being raised as companion animals who reside as a family member INSIDE. They live as pets.

Reports about Flat Creek indicated 75 Border Collies were in residence, comprised of 58 adults and 17 puppies all living outside in sub-zero temperatures without enough shelters for the number of dogs. These dogs lived in a situation they were not bred to endure (Exhibits 57 through 60).
Even in the best working Farm situations, they would not be outside 24/7. But, even more importantly, the lack of health care as well as appropriate nutrition, makes this setting deadly. The veterinary ndings support the fact that these dogs are suffering from improper care on all levels and then forced to endure a lifestyle that not even their working counterparts in Scotland would undergo.

exhibit 55
Average Fahrenheit Low 36 40 43 47 Temperatures In: Pitlochry Aberdeen Glasgow Thurso Average Monthly Temperatures, UK/Scotland Jan High 40 43 43 43 Low 30 32 34 33 April High 45 50 52 46 Low 34 37 37 37 July High 57 64 66 59 Low 48 52 52 50 Oct High 46 54 54 52 Low 40 43 43 43

ct

gh

exhibit 56
Average Average Monthly Temperatures, New York State, US Jan High 28 31 31 36 Low 10 15 19 23 April High 55 58 55 58 Low 33 37 37 42 July High 80 82 80 83 Low 58 62 62 68 Oct High 58 60 59 63 Low 36 40 43 47 Average Fahrenheit Temperatures In: Pitlochry Aberdeen Glasgow Thurso Fahrenheit Temperatures In: Sprakers, NY Albany, NY Buffalo, NY New York, NY Jan High 40 43 43 43

Average Mont

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 23

exhibit 57

Photos show the sparse and inadequate shelter available to the Flat Creek dogs. Even puppies are living outdoors. Photos were taken at the time of a record-shattering cold spell in the region with overnight lows in single digits and wind chills down to -35 degrees.

exhibit 58

exhibit 59

exhibit 60

A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

Page 24

Fear of Humans
GHF takes an average of 200 dogs into rescue annually. It is normal for dogs coming into rescue to go through an adjustment period during which they may be fearful. Normally socialized dogs of similar age to the Flat Creek dogs typically adjust within 24 hours, and begin soliciting attention and affection, playing with toys, and exploring their new surroundings easily and happily.

exhibit 61

The Flat Creek dogs are not able to condently adjust to human contact. Some of these fearful behaviors are inuenced by poor genetics and nutritional deprivation. From our experience dealing with dogs from similar situations, we nd that the Flat Creek dogs are suffering from severe and prolonged neglect, with little or no socialization with humans.

Flat Creek Dogs: D40 & D17

exhibit 62

This was evident in the seizure process when GHF assisted the SPCA in handling these dogs. We asked the Flat Creek breeder, Herbert Weich, if he could catch the dogs and he said no. He told us that two mature dogs, D41 and D35 would not come to him at all. Weichs neighbor, who was assisting in the process, asked Weich to get his hook pole the stick with a large metal hook on the end that catches the large metal rings Flat Creek Dog: D39 attached to the collars of the dogs (Exhibit 63 & 64). The neighbor explained to GHF founder Lillie Goodrich that he needed someone to shine the ashlight into the dogs eyes to blind it, so he could hook the ring on the collar and then pull the dog out of the shelter. This particular dog then bit the neighbor as he yanked her out with the hook pole.

exhibit 63

exhibit 64

Flat Creek Dog: D41

Collars removed from the conscated Flat Creek dogs show the large metal catch rings.
A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

D41 shown with the ringed collar.

Page 25

As a group, the Flat Creek dogs exhibit semi-feral behaviors (Exhibits 61 & 62, 65 through 69) which include:
n n n n n n n n

exhibit 65

rigid with fear complete mistrust of humans unresponsive to voice and activity minimal response to attention and stimuli eeing interactions with a person hiding in a catatonic state heightened sensitivities to inside sounds survival panic with any movement

Flat Creek Dog: D18

These Flat Creek dogs missed appropriate socialization and it may take years for them to relate normally to humans.
exhibit 66 exhibit 67

Flat Creek Dog: D39

Flat Creek Dog: D41

exhibit 68

exhibit 69

Flat Creek Dog: D15

Flat Creek Dog: D19

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Foster Homes Conrm Semi-Feral Behaviors

A number of surrendered dogs are now in experienced foster care settings and showing semi-feral reactions due to the lack of human contact.
This is not normal canine behavior nor is it a normal rescue dog behavior. These dogs have been detrimentally impacted by the conditions at Flat Creek. While these dogs may have appeared normal, running around Flat Creek, they have no experience of a trusting relationship with a human being. Like other inappropriate breeding situations that Glen Highland Farm has been witness to, the rehabilitation of these Flat Creek dogs will be long-term, involving many years of commitment. Foster home report on D36, female (Exhibit 70): She runs away if looked at directly. When walked on a leash, she stays directly behind me (out of eyesight), and if I should slightly turn one way or the other, she scoots to the opposite side to continue to stay in my blindspot. Almost any decibel above a whisper sends her running to the end of her leash. She will not eat if Im watching her, but as soon as I turn away, she inhales her food. Foster home report on D29, male (Exhibit 71): D29 is emaciated. I am feeding him 4 times a day, but he has some very sad and disturbing eating phobias. He is completely unsocialized, and when he arrived, he would not eat unless he was alone. After days of working with him by progressively desensitizing him to my hand, he will still not eat or drink if anyone else is in the room. He is friendly with my other dogs, but he similarly will not eat or drink if they are anywhere near. I believe that he is responding this way because he is from an environment where food and water were very scarce; he must have been very low in the pack order. He will not allow me to touch him, and he cowers in the back of his crate when approached. He is especially fearful of the leash. As an intact male, he is too weak to lift his leg to urinate, he is very unsteady, and his personality is dull. He is gaining strength daily, but there is no evidence that a caring or even indifferent human has ever handled him. Foster home report on D27, male (Exhibit 72): He panics everytime I put a leash on him and he will walk but then lie in the grass. I have to tug him to get him moving again then on leash his entire body shakes with fear from being outside.
A Report on the 35 Border Collies from Flat Creek in Sprakers, NY

exhibit 70

Flat Creek Dog: D36

exhibit 71

Flat Creek Dog: D29

exhibit 72

Flat Creek Dog: D27

Page 27

Undersized, Underdeveloped Young Dogs

All of the dogs between 1- and 2-years old are extremely undersized compared to the average breed standard of a 35-40 pound Border Collie. They have much thinner and shorter hair growth. Vet reports conrm these dogs are not only undersized and underweight, they are underdeveloped in their muscle structure with very poor muscle tone. In the females, even the vulvas are undeveloped due to malnutrition. All of the Flat Creek dogs are carrying a high parasitic worm load one of the most common consequences of roundworms is growth reduction. See the size differences in these young 1- to 2-year old females, in Exhibits 73 through 76.

exhibit 73

exhibit 74

Flat Creek Dogs: D30 & D33

Flat Creek Dogs: D30 & D33

exhibit 75

exhibit 76

Flat Creek Dog: D12

Flat Creek Dog: D28

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The Breeding Program at Flat Creek

Border Collies have historically been bred to herd sheep, working on farms (Exhibits 77 & 78). There is a voluntary registration with the American Border Collie Association (ABCA) for breeders who maintain a breed standard: The ABCA exists to register, maintain and verify the pedigrees of Border Collies; to promote and foster in North America the breeding, training and distribution of reliable working Border Collies; and to promote stockdog trials and exhibitions. Flat Creek Border Collies advertises on their website that their dogs as part of this program (Exhibit 79): Our dogs are ABCA registered and our lines originate from England, Scotland, Wales and the US. When Glen Highland Farm asked the ABCA about the accuracy of the claim on Flat Creeks website, the ABCA indicated that it is not true.
From Debbie Bailey, representative of the American Border Collie Association:
GHF Rescue Dog: Adopted

exhibit 77

GHF Rescue Dog: Adopted

exhibit 78

exhibit 79

These people are making a false claim that they are afliated with ABCA. They are not members of ABCA. Any breeder recognized for solid breeding standards wants the acknowledgment of the ABCA. It provides a measurable standard aligned with the history of the breed itself.

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Healthy well-bred Border Collies are dynamic, highly intelligent dogs who need a task to accomplish. Whether its herding sheep or running an agility course, these dogs are like the Ferarris of the dog world. Their origin lies over 200 years ago in the border counties of Scotland and England, handling livestock. This breed is prized for its uncanny intelligence, extraordinary instinct and a jaw-dropping capacity to work in partnership with humans (Exhibits 80 through 85).

exhibit 80

exhibit 81

GHF Rescue Dog: Adopted

GHF Rescue Dog: Adopted

exhibit 82

exhibit 83

GHF Rescue Dog: Adopted

GHF Rescue Dog: Adopted

exhibit 84

exhibit 85

GHF Rescue Dog: Adopted

GHF Rescue Dog: Adopted

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The breeding program at Flat Creek Border Collies is far below par. For breeding stock they are using malnourished, worm-infested, undersized, AND heavily inbred dogs.
Breeders of border collies must understand that there are special health concerns associated with breeding dogs of certain color patterns, such as merles dogs with mottled splashes of color (Exhibits 86 through 91). When a border collie is born of two merle parents, it has a 25% chance of having two copies of the merle gene. This is problematic because these double merles identiable by being mostly white and having small merle patches have a high probability of serious medical problems. Most of them are completely deaf; many have bad eyes with reduced vision. The United States Border Collie Clubs position: In Border Collies, where the gene is [uncommon] even rare there is no excuse for accidentally breeding a double merle; and there is never a good reason to do it intentionally. In seeing the proliferation of merle dogs from Flat Creek, we are highly concerned that these dogs may be breeding indiscriminately, with no human oversight or plan.
Flat Creek Dog: D15

exhibit 86

Flat Creek Dog: D9

exhibit 87

exhibit 88

Out of a total of 40 adult dogs at Flat Creek (conscated & remaining), 57.5% are merle and white.
If the merle dogs are allowed to mate with each other, on average, 25% of their pups will be born with an extremely high chance of congenital deafness, blindness or both. The Flat Creek dogs also have an unusually large proportion of dogs with buttery noses (Exhibits 86 through 88) where they are missing some or all of the dark pigmentation which normally protects dogs from sunburn and skin cancers. It is especially dangerous to keep these dogs, which lack natural protection against developing skin cancer, exclusively outdoors.
Flat Creek Dog: D22

exhibit 89

Flat Creek Dog: D27

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exhibit 90

exhibit 91

Flat Creek Dog: D41

Flat Creek Dog: D31

Deafness is evident in the Flat Creek dogs:

Case 1: An all white Flat Creek male (Exhibit 92) obtained prior to the seizure is deaf. This dog is now in rescue awaiting adoption. Case 2: A deaf merle puppy (Exhibit 93) of a Flat Creek dog is now in rescue at Glen Highland Farm. The deaf puppys father (Exhibit 94) was a stud dog obtained from Flat Creeks kennel by another NY breeder. The genetic aw of deafness is not desirable in breeding. Both father and puppy were surrendered to GHF.

exhibit 92

Rescue Dog: Awaiting Adoption

A deaf dog, originally from Flat Creek (not part of the seizure), now in rescue. A stud dog (originally acquired from Flat Creek) sired a deaf merle puppy. This dog and the deaf puppy were surrendered to GHF.

exhibit 93

exhibit 94

GHF Rescue Dog

GHF Rescue Dog: Adopted

Deaf offspring of Flat Creek stud dog.

The lack of oversight in proper breeding in combination with the lack of veterinary care is catastrophic to the dogs whose life span is likely to include pain, discomfort and early death.

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Glen Highland Farm Conclusions

Glen Highland Farm strongly advises against the return of the 10 dogs whose legal status has not yet been determined. We also strongly advise the removal of all the remaining adult dogs and puppies from Flat Creek, and that they be permanently surrendered to the care of the Montgomery County SPCA or Glen Highland Farm.
n Every dog still on the Flat Creek property is being exposed to the exact same poor conditions which have led to 100% of the dogs we have examined having moderate to severe health and behavioral problems. n The 10 dogs with the to be determined legal status require immediate veterinary assistance to alleviate the painful and possibly permanently debilitating or deadly medical problems which they are now experiencing. The remaining dogs at Flat Creek will also require critical veterinary care. n The Flat Creek property is so heavily contaminated with parasites that the dogs currently on site, even if treated, would almost immediately fall prey once again to the same health issues. n None of the dogs are of sufcient soundness, either in temperament or physical condition, to be used in a breeding program. n Without intensive behavioral therapy, these semi-feral dogs will never be sufciently socialized for contact with humans to accept the basic preventative treatment, such as wormers, ear cleanings, dental checks and tick preventatives. n RIGHT NOW, the remaining puppies on the property are in a critical time period in their behavioral development if they do not get sufcient socialization with people RIGHT NOW, it will take years of behavioral work to undo the damage. n With 100% of the surrendered Flat Creek dogs showing behavioral problems due to insufcient socialization with people, GHF has NO condence that appropriate socialization is occurring with the puppies. n The provision of improved shelters is not going to keep these dogs from suffering, because the deciencies in the dogs care go beyond the lack of adequate shelter.

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Lillie Goodrich Co-founder

Glen Highland Farm

217 Pegg Road, Morris, NY 13808 sbcrescue@gmail.com www.glenhighlandfarm.com

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