Comments on the Thai Ridgeback Dog...
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Hello all TRD owners and fanciers:

I get hundreds of emails every year from people who are curious about how they to can obtain a STERLING TRD for their very own from the number one TRD breeder here in the states or how to get a TRD direct from Thailand. Ten years ago the TRD was very popular in Thailand. When I discovered this breed in Bangkok, a decade ago, I really thought a lot of people back in America would also fall in love with them as I did. I bought the first three TRD in the BLUE colour as I really though that would be what everyone will fall madly in love with. I was right! To this day the BLUE TRD is still the number one seller in the states over the other colours. But the NEW SUPER REDS of STERLING TRD are fast becoming what the BLUES were ten years ago.

In that ten year period only a few people have decided to become breeders and in most cases they only did it once or twice and then quit. Most all you will find in this breed is the occasional pet owner having one or two litters. The Thai Ridgeback Dog is a very BIG issue back in their home of Thailand. (Thailand's land mass is about the size of the great state of Texas or that European country they call... France...the French were the first white foreigners to arrive in Thailand many centuries ago.. thus the Thai call all of the white foreigners FRANG or FALONG after the first French) Many Europeans also saw the beauty of the TRD a decade ago and also imported many TRD into many different European countries.

The Thai economy took a nose dive back in 1997 and this affected everyone in Thailand, as well as the TRD breed. Many breeders could not keep so many dogs and just dropped out of sight from all the Bangkok dog shows and from the breeding business. Today, a lot of new Thai people have gotten back involved with the TRD as they can see by the many people on the INTERNET who are claiming to be TRD breeders worldwide. The real TRUE TRD breeders are people like KHUN SOMKIT of Chanataburi, Thailand who has been in the breeding business of TRD for over 60 years. Now, in her mid 80's she is still the BEST in Thailand. Many of her dogs are in the homes and breeding kennels of hundreds of people in Thailand and around the world. She has always told me RED is the colour and forget the hybrid BLUES.. I did listen to her in 2000 and got my three SUPER REDS directly from her top breedings(SUPER REDS is the name I gave the very dark coloured red TRD in 1999. The name "TRD" was also my idea in 1994 for this breed.)There are many excellent TRD breeders in Thailand now and the prices are just going up and up due to the cost of breeding and the constant demand for good dogs here in America and Europe. It will be at least 20-30 more years before the TRD is as well known as the Chinese Shar-Pei or the Dobermann, Rottweiler,or German Shepherd dog (GSD) or that they will be apart of the AKC rank and file. ATRA will continue to be the registry of choice here in America for the TRD. (As TRAC is in Canada.)

If you are a very serious person who wants only the very best in quality in this breed, I suggest you go live in Thailand for about 3 months and then you will find that perfect TRD. If you just want a pet and cannot afford such a venture, I would suggest you can search the net to find someone who is MAYBE a real TRD breeder and buy from them when you can find one.... OR you call me here in Los Angeles, CA at 818-364-1467 and place your "order" for a future STERLING TRD puppy or let me find the type of quality that you require back in Thailand.

My plans of moving there to live this summer have been postponed due to my parents health and I need to care for them. I will be going over soon in a short trip to buy a few TRD puppies for a few people. If you are serious now for a TRD puppy or want to wait for my next STERLING TRD litter of SUPER REDS, don't wait as some did and missed out on these really fantastic SUPER RED puppies from my 12th litter whelped on New Years day the year. Contact any of the owners from my STERLING TRD owners list and they will tell you what they got... You can always bet you will get a great dog from any of my future STERLING TRD breedings... and WIN in the ring!!

All the Best, Jack Sterling and all the STERLING TRD

Date: Sat, 14 Jun 2003 12:14:25 -0600 

Jack,
thanks for the wonderful internet site with the great pictures. My husband and I have visited it many times. We are very interested in acquiring a blue-silver Thai ridgeback pup (female) to add to our family and would be very grateful if you could help us out. We currently have 2 dogs, a rhodesian ridgeback (3 yrs) and a black and tan coonhound (2 yrs). Our ridgeback has recently been diagnosed with a form of bone cancer and wont be with us much longer. We are looking for a new dog that will be a good role model and companion for our coonhound. We have loved the ridgeback personality with its sensitive and loyal nature, and intelligence as a discriminating watchdog. My husband works at home and our dogs go everywhere with us. We prefer the female nature and would be looking for a dog with a muscular build and well defined ridge.

We live in Edmonton, Alberta (Canada) and would be happy to travel anywhere in the states to pick up a puppy. I look forward to hearing from you.

Keith and Donna Rose
Edmonton, Alberta
Canada T6H 2Y5

To: jacksterling@hotmail.com
Subject: TRD
Date: Sat, 7 Jun 2003 19:30:14 EDT

Our TRD is doing great. We decided to keep him. He is the most intelligent dog I have ever seen.

If you never received the pictures I will send them again. I also will
have some updated pictures of my TRD I will send.

Steve

Date: Sun, 20 Apr 2003 21:57:11 -0700

Hi Jack,

Just wanted to let you know that I received your voicemail and we made
it through the first night with flying colors! Marie and I decided to name
her "Nala". Nala made it through the first night just fine...NO ACCIDENTS!
She's still getting used to us and her new environment. She moves away
from us when we try to get close to her and pet her, but I'm sure she'll
get used to us very soon. She didn't eat or drink very much last night,
but she seemed to eat a little more today. Also, she doesn't seem to want
to walk anywhere yet. We put the leash on her to walk her outside to
potty, but she didn't want to move. I ended up carrying her outside.
Anyway, so far so good! We couldn't be happier with our new pup! Thanks
for all your help and I'll keep you posted on Nala's development.

Sincere regards,
Alex & Marie

Alex Emralino
(619) 218-9846
emralino@cox.net

From: "Sarah Houseman" <shouseman@nt.alleganisd.org
To: <jacksterling@hotmail.com
Subject: Arrival of our new puppy!
Date: Fri, 21 Mar 2003 13:29:20 -0500

Hello Jack,

Thank you for the beautiful puppy. He arrived yesterday (still not certain of a name, we are thinking either Gunner or Jabez). Jon and I drove for two and a half hours in the driving rain, and blinding lightening. Upon arrival to the airport we were told that the flight had been delayed due to weather. Once the puppy arrived all of the above did not matter. He was tired and cold and so happy to plaster me with wet kisses! At that point I was convinced he was a keeper. The drive home was so cool due to him just falling asleep and relaxing after his journey. He snores very loudly may I add!

When we arrived home he started to investigate the house a bit. The very first thing he found was a set of sliding glass doors. He immediately let the other dog (his reflection) know that he was now the boss of the house. Jon and I laughed so hard.

Anyway, he made it 'home' safe and sound and is going to be a welcomed delight to our house hold.

Thank you so much for everything!

Sarah

Date:March 2003

Thought I'd send this pic. It is one of my favorites. He is with his buddy/cousin Casey (my parent's 11 year old lab). I think the two have interesting expressions on their faces. Trajan was always pestering him for a while in the beginning because he wanted to play. Unfortunately, when Trajan met Casey, Casey just went through surgery and couldn't really jump around in addition to him being a senior dog anyway.

The other pic, I thought you would get a kick out of. He is wearing the new high-tech soft Elizabethan collar (he had hurt his paw and the vet didn't want him to lick it) - those collars are great - they don't even notice them and they can play and do things as they normally would do. They even work as a pillow to sleep on. Luckily though, he didn't have to wear it long. Trajan has been really good about not licking his wounds too much - even when he was neutered, he didn't lick the stitches - that was a relief.

Do Thai Ridgebacks ever swim? I take him near a river here and there are other dogs playing there on the grass, as well as swimming. He wants to go in the water, but won't. He watches the other dogs jump in and fetch
toys and he seems agitated that he can't/won't follow them. I suspect when the water gets warmer, he will take the plunge. He did start jumping in another very shallow part of the river (which is EXTREMELY muddy) . It took him awhile to get his dainty little feet wet - but he did it - and boy was he proud - he spent the next 20 minutes jumping in and out of the water like a maniac.

So while he hasn't yet attempted even wading in the water, he has become a retriever. Trajan LOVES to play fetch with tennis balls, though often he likes to turn it into a CHASE game, especially when he steals other dogs' toys - a thing he loves to do. At home, I am supposed to throw the squeak toys down the hall, so he can run and get them. Loads of fun.

Later!
stacey feldman

From: "Adrian Shaw" <shaw75@earthlink.net
To: <jacksterling@hotmail.com
Subject: Thai ridgeback puppies
Date: Sat, 1 Mar 2003 15:41:31 -0800

Dear Jack,
Hi. My Name Is Adrian Shaw and I live in Long Beach, CA. I
am in the process of buying a home right now and that means getting a
dog. I've checked through most of all the different breeds and I really
like the Thai Ridgeback. The fact that there is little to no shedding
really appeals to me. I've been to the ATRA web site and have read all
about this beautiful dog. I was wondering if I could ask you a few
questions. First would be how many puppies will you be expecting to
have toward the end of March beggining of April? Do I have to reserve
one? How much are they? that sort of thing. If you could give me a
quick reply back that would be great. Thanks for your time,
Adrian

shaw75@earthlink.net

From James and Tracy Hernandez, dated 02/05/2003

Dear Jack,

Please find enclosed a check for the shipping of the two dogs as well as an extra tip for your time. Tracy and I are very happy with the dogs you sent us. The female is dominating Lil' SAKORN right now. Hopefully this will change. SAKORN is a little darker than i expected, but he is beautiful and we love him.

Even though I got impatient and very uneasy at times. I can't complain now considering within 1 1/2 to 2 weeks I recieved TWO beautiful dogs.

I appreciate your efforts to get us the two dogs, but it was realistically the best way due to geographics. Everything worked out great despite the few obstacles we both incurred. I would gladly recommend your service to anyone and would certainly call you again if we pursue another TRD.

Through all the difficulties, you came through for me in the end and that's what is important to me. Thanks again for everything and for getting us these two great dogs.

Sincerely,
James Hernandez CEO
FLORTEC HARDWOOD DESIGN INC.
< flortecjh@aol.com>

Shane Vaughn

From: Doug Ferrin [mailto:namjulim@earthlink.net]
Sent: Sunday, January 12, 2003 1:38 PM
To: shane@wirelessinstitute.net
Subject: Thair ridgeback dog

I spoke with Jack Sterling last night, and he recommended that I ask you how you like the dog you bought from him. Tell me about the characteristics of this breed, how it compares with other breeds you have had, and the things you like the best and the things you like the least about the breed. This would include temperament, barking, friendliness, over-friendliness, ability to be trained, inability or ability to endure separation from its master, etc.

Thank you,--- Doug Ferrin

DATE: Mon, 13 Jan 2003 13:40:16
From: "Shane Vaughn" <shane@wirelessinstitute.net>
To: <namjulim@earthlink.net>

Doug,

I'll be happy to help any way I can to figure out if the TRD is the right breed for you. I know I looked at about 300 breeds before I settled on this one. It can be a real task.

One of the main reasons I chose the TRD was the breed history. Dalmations, Setters, and most of the common recognized breeds have severe inbreeding problems from puppy mills. I wanted a registered dog just because I've never had one. I'm used to hounds and my Labrador, but they've all been "just dogs". After a lot of research I figured my best bet was to select the best breeder I could find of a truly rare breed -one that hasn't yet been popularized by a Disney movie or other fad.. I looked at probably every rare Molosser breed in the world, and during the search found reference to the TRD.

Just as a sideline I looked them up. They're one of the prettiest breeds I've ever seen. I talked to one breeder who didn't impress me much, though they spoke highly of the dogs. Then I got to talk to Jack. He's a long-winded SOB, but he told me what I wanted to know. There wasn't a single question he couldn't answer. After talking to him for a couple of hours I was convinced he was the right breeder. Over the following week I decided this was also the right breed.

Giger has been one of the best dogs I've ever had, and that's saying something. I live a few miles out of town with several acres of woods. There's a fence along the road in front of the house, but the rest of the property isn't fenced. When I'm home during the day, Giger and the lab are pretty much outside all the time. Giger likes to investigate, but he's never run off. He's pushing six months now and he knows his place in the world. If I call him, he comes running. He's a good watchdog.

I'm in the unique position of taking my dogs to work with me every day. That means I have little experience with them being separated from me. I do leave them home alone (in the house) from time to time if I'm not going to be gone long. Giger has never caused a problem in that situation. He fusses a bit, then settles down to sleep.

He's a pretty high energy dog, but no more than any other puppy I've ever had. This breed seems to have claws much like a Chow. They're located high on the toe, so they don't scrape the ground during normal walking. That means they stay razor sharp. He plays rougher than many dogs of similar size/age. I've never had a dog leave so many whelps on my arms from playing. His jaws are very strong -I didn't understand from the pictures I saw on the web, but these are extremely powerful dogs. His puppy teeth were brutal, but he's lost those now. If he started playing too hard with me, I just bit him on the ear lightly and he got the message. At three months he found and ate a small turtle in the yard. He cracked it open and ate the chewy bits and brought me the broken shell. That might give you an idea of the power in his jaws.

He's a very clean dog, and not afraid of water. He'll walk into the shower with sometimes just to see what's going on, and he's stepped out into the pond but the water's very cold this time of year. I have yet to give him a real bath because his coat just stays so clean. He has very dense fur beneath the outer coat, which can make ticks difficult to remove. I've been waiting for him to hit 6 months before putting flea/tick drops on him.

He is extremely loving. He likes to lick, which is a new experience for me. None of my hounds or my lab have been lickers. He can be skittish around strangers, but once he gets to know you (about 30 seconds), he's extremely friendly. He jumps up on people for attention, which can be a problem with his claws -he could damage fine clothes. I'm working on that.

He learns commands quickly. He already knows Down, Stay, Come, and Get The Hell Off Me. I can't remember the last time he got in the trash or pulled something off the kitchen counter. I haven't been training him formally yet, but that's starting now. He's the only dog I've ever owned that never once left a pile in the house. He only peed a few times in the house.

He slept in a cage the first couple of weeks I had him, but after I was sure he wouldn't get in the trash during the night I let him start sleeping on the bed. He sleeps through the night almost without exception. Rarely he'll need to go pee, and he'll fidget and whimper until I wake up and let him out. He snores louder than I do sometimes. His snoring has woken me up a few times. Fortunately you can roll him over and he'll quit.

I think the warnings about socialization are well founded. He's around people all day every day. He's with my lab 24/7, and I get him around other dogs whenever possible. He was worse about being scared of people or other dogs when he was very young. Now he takes up with anyone right away. He'll walk right up to strays in the yard, but if my lab starts to get in a fight with a stray, Giger will come running to get me as fast as he can and yelping like he's on fire. It's like he wants me to know Finn needs help.

I honestly can't say enough good about this dog. They're loving and affectionate. They have the most expressive faces I've ever seen on a dog. I would worry about owning one if I knew he were going to spend a lot of time alone, or if I didn't have time to get him around people. I might worry that he could play too rough early on with kids (although his play is considerably more gentle now).

Giger still likes to chew. I'm trying to get him to understand that toys are things I give him rather than whatever's handy. He's not nearly as bad a chewer as other dogs I've had.

Hope that tells you at least some of what you want to know. I'll be happy to answer any other questions or help any other way I can.

-shane.

Jan 5, 2003

Hello Mr. Jack Sterling,

I already have a pair of Rhodesian Ridgebacks,and just found out about the Thai ridgebacks. I am interested in obtaining one or two, but they must be either super-red or blue-silver. I was wondering if you could send me some information on your dogs. I think I saw on your website that you were having some super-red puppies this week,are any still available? Thanks, Carla Stewart
Hello Carla, Go see the puppies on my website at www.ThaiDog.org/sakorn/news There you will see the puppies you missed out on... I will repeat this breeding again as the puppies were so damn AWESOME! Everyone one of the TRD owners of all STERLING TRD are totally in love with they puppies. I am accepting deposits now on this upcoming litter of SUPER REDS... Don't miss out again as this will be her 2nd breeding, litter #13 and I will not breed her again for at least a year to 18 months. The next breeding after that will be is a year from now with my SUPER DARK RED male Ch RED BO-DANG and a POL from litter #11 GAWKAI. Now that will be something to wait for...

All the Best, Jack Sterling

DATE: Mon, 25 Nov 2002 11:16:32
From: "Shane Vaughn" <shane@wirelessinstitute.net>
To: <info@K9Pet.com>
Cc:

Just a quick update. I could not be happier with Giger. Well, I might be happier if he were declawed. He's just about testicle-height when he jumps up on me and with those vicious needles he gets my attention quick. He's learning more all the time. He still has a tendency to drift off in his own world when he's out in the yard, but eventually he notices me yelling for him and comes running home. He's very affectionate with everyone. He's curious and alert, but not destructive or disruptive. All in all he's just damn-near perfect. He's still growing like he's on steroids. I'm going to have to buy him a new collar today. This collar's maxed out at about 15 inches and it's a bit snug on him now.
Anyway, I guess congratulations are in order if you're going to be a dad again in January. Keep up the good work. -shane.

DATE: Sun, 24 Nov 2002 20:26:37
From: "SUSAN NEIBURGER" <SNEIB@mc.net>
To: <atra@eudoramail.com>
Cc:

Thank you Jack for your attention to my emails. We(my husband and I) have no intention of giving up our TRD(Dori). She is a love of a dog and after training and constant reinforcement she has been approved by the parents of our grandchildren...which is saying alot!!

Your story of the breed almost matches the SharPei. We have had several and paid thousands of dollars for them..(.the breed in general were overbred, not temperament tested, had terrible immune mediated diseases and untimately died at an early age.)

We lost two of these wonderful animals at about 4 to 6 years of age...and they are a difficult breed also. The third one is still alive and now 12 years old. So we decided to join the Sharpei rescue. We have one that is lab/sharpei mix...she is okay...and now we have Dori...we have her because someone at the dog pound said she was real sweet and did not want to put her down. So they called the rescue, thinking she was a Shar pei of some sort, and then the rescue called us because we are known to adopt problem dogs. We are now at capacity, but are always looking...We have fallen in love with the breed even tho we had never heard of it. I would like at sometime in the future to meet more of the breed, since only knowing one is not good enough.

Thank you again for your time and expertise...and I will send you a better picture by snail mail.

Susan Neiburger
sneib@mc.net

DATE: Mon, 18 Nov 2002 08:35:39
From: "gonetropo" <gonetropo@netzero.net>

Hello, my name is Anthony Blennerhassett and I have a dilemma. We rescued a Thai Ridgeback from a local pet store in San Diego, someone had abandoned a litter of puppies in a near by park and Petco took them in and adopted them out. She was spayed by Petco so she cannot be used for breeding purposes. We got her at nine weeks old and now she is a year old. She has been trained with love and positive reinforcement and is a beautiful healthy one year old dog. When we decided to adopt her we had a very old golden retriever and a pug. Had we known what kind of dog she was we may have decided against getting her because of the pug. I made an error in judgement one day and left them in my car with the pug unrestrained and she bit him and hit an eye, needless to say we had to have the eye removed and he is now healing. We are terrified of the other eye getting damaged even accidentally by Daisy and don't know how we would handle it. We are also moving in a few months to a place where the dogs will be quarrantined for 30 days and I am concerned that she may become aggressive in that time and not be the same dog when we get her back. Until this happened with the eye the dogs had not had a scrap in months and actually were very friendly towards eachother since he is a male. I feel that it is inevitable that there will be another episode. I love both of my dogs intensely and the thought of giving one up is very uncomfortable. We have a house with a big yard right now but we may be moving into a condo with no yard. The only way I could see myself giving up Daisy is to a home where she would be treated with respect and was able to be free and loved, I could not see her living in a kennel as a trophy dog. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I have always thought of myself as a person that would never give up a dog but if my pug is killed I don't know if I could feel the same way about Daisy even if it is an accident. Thank you for your attention to this matter. My email is gonetropo@netzero.net. Tony.

DATE: Mon, 11 Nov 2002 17:39:46
From: "CWR Riedel" <scoot007@msn.com>
To: <jack.sterling@ThaiDog.org>
Cc:

Dear Jack,
My name is Charles. I live in Orlando Florida, and I am interested some info on Thai Ridgeback puppies. What is the availability? I understand that these dogs are rare and that availability is extremely limited. What is the best way to go about purchasing one? Any info would be appreciated. Thanks, Charles

DATE: Wed, 30 Oct 2002 00:03:49
From: Jeff

Hi there, I hope you can help me out. I have a TRD that I am in desperate
need of finding another good home for. I recently go married and found that
the now 4 year old female TRD I have is extremely jealous of my wife. We
have tried everything we can to modify her behavior toward my wife with
little or no effect. We are planning to have children soon and have just had
several babies come into our lives (due to friends, relatives, etc., having
babies) I cannot trust the dog around my wife and I certainly cannot trust
her around children either. I have tried to reach both the breeder and the
man I actually got the puppy from and have met with some difficulty. I do
not want to give her to a pound due to her special needs. The breeder was
Kathy Hughes of Georgia and the man who actually sold the puppies for her was
Mick Latimer of New Jersey. I have tried emails to Mick and cannot reach
him. I left a message on his home phone and received no call back. Kathy
actually answered a few emails and offered to take the dog back to help
retrain and relocate her, but she has not answered an email in the last month
now. I do not know if something bad has happened to her or to Mick and I
hope that is not the case. I know that Kathy was having some medical
problems a while back. Anyway. If you can help in anyway I would appreciate
it. I live in Connecticut but I am willing to drive the dog any where on the
East Coast and would consider anywhere else if necessary to find her a good
home. She is a very loving and affectionate dog most of the time, but she
needs to be, in my opinion, in a single male household. A female would
probably be fine as long as she bonds with her, but definitely a one person
home with no children. A warm dry climate would be beneficial as well as she
hates the cold and rain. Once again any help would be appreciated. Thank you
in advance.

-Jeff
Coventry, CT

Comment..

See what happens when you buy cheap from a backyard breeder who really knows nothing of the animals their are breeding...There are many such stories from people who are not right for this breed as this breed is not right for them... Be careful who you buy your TRD from and ask them how long have they been involved with this breed as well as how long have they been breeding dogs in general and to back up what they tell you in writing...ATB. Jack Sterling

On Thu, 24 Oct 2002 15:48:17 Shane Vaughn wrote:

I've never lost so much blood from a puppy. Nor have I ever had as
much fun doing so. This guy's teeth are killing me, but he's a blast.
It's progressed to the point now that clients are making me bring him
out with me. I don't think any have broken something just to so I'll
come out, but they all tell me to be sure to bring him in when
I
come. There are dozens of people on a familiar basis with this guy
now.
He just goes prancing down the halls and into offices, looking for
pretzels or whatever else he can find. I haven't weighed him in a week
but I think he's 26 or 27 pounds now. He's growing very fast. -shane.

Hello Shane,

Keep up the good work in the writing of emails about your boy. Stacey will be adding your text soon to the "comments" section at the HoS website for all to read and get a chuckle over. All six people are very pleased with their selections of the 10 TRD that I had available this past fall. I still have 3 more TRD for sale which are one BLUE male, two red TRD, one boy and one girl. I also have a pair of Thai Bangkaew as well for sale to the right person. Keep the emails and fotos flowing in to me and Stacey.

Thanks again for loving my boy!

Jack Sterling

DATE: Wed, 16 Oct 2002 11:34:13
From: <shane@wirelessinstitute.net>
To: <atra@eudoramail.com>
Cc:

Jack,
Everything's still going well. Giger is doing great. He's over 20 pounds now. He can drink from the toilet but he can't quite get up on the bed. He spent yesterday afternoon running all over the woods behind the house with me and the lab. He never strayed too far away. People are amazed that I don't have him on a leash. I need to spend some time with him on a leash just so he'll learn about them, but he's not showing any predilection for running off. He ate a turtle yesterday, which is something I've never seen a dog do. He found a small turtle (couple of inches) in the woods and cracked it right open. He brought me the crushed shell.
I'm going to see about getting him tattooed next week. Everywhere he goes he's cooed over like mad. Many of my clients now ask me to bring him in when I come by because he's so cute and playful. It just supports my theory that we'd all be more productive and happier if we could bring our pets to work with us. Anyway, thought you'd like to know that things are going swimmingly. I'll send you some more pictures as soon as I find the charger for my camera.
-shane.

DATE: Mon, 29 Apr 2002 15:08:48
From: SwayBabe@aol.com
To: info@K9Pet.com
Cc:

Hi there!

for starters its just me that wants one as a 100% pet for now. It would be
great to try and establish the breed over here but i dont know many people
that even know what a TRD is, let alone wanting to own a pup. which is
definatly not a good starting point for a new breed. at least u have been
honest with me, and seriously i thank you!! i truly dont blame you for
trusting no-one, it seems you have been lied to and decieved by people you
thought were honest about their intentions with your dogs, I can assure you i
wouldnt do that. I would love to purchase a dog from america, thailand or
europe but will have to move to one of the countries for a couple of years to
avoid quarantine (as i said, i dont agree with our stupid quarantine laws) by
having pet passports, even though this may seem insane to you i am thinking
about that very seriously! dogs are a huge part of my life and i have looked
into this breed alot. i am fully aware of their temperament and to be honest
i really cant wait to have a TRD by my side, they seem to me like my ideal
breed! i currently have a South African BoerBoel and 2 Rhodesian Ridgebacks
so i wont be attempting to move for a few years yet, not till my boys and
girl have gone!
You mention other breeders talking badly of you, i think that
must happen just about everywhere (i have experienced that first hand!)
Once again i thank you for your advice and beleive me i will
follow it! at least i know not to make the mistake of buying a TRD from
england!. no doubt i will be contacting u again when the time comes for me to
start my little mission!
Thanks again
Yours Jodie
London, England

Date: Sat, 10 Nov 2001 11:22:13 -0800

Hello,
I just wanted to say that you have some of the most beautiful dogs I
have
ever seen. Until I happened upon your website I had never heard of the TRD.
I am truly impressed. I can't tell you how amazing those dogs are,
beautiful, simply beautiful. I'm sure they are ten times as wonderful in
personality, but you probably already know that.

My husband and I have a Pembroke Welsh Corgi and I am supposed to go
today
to rescue a Dutch Shepherd. Someday we would like to add a TRD to our
family but it will be a while.

Anyway, I just wanted to say that you have an excellent website, very
educational. It is quite obvious even from the pictures that you raise
happy and healthy dogs and that you truly care about the breed. We hope
to someday share that pleasure.

Keep the pictures coming. We love to check your site and see how your
" kids" are doing.
Sincerely,
Samantha Eaton
Cartersville, Georgia

Subject: Re: Thai Ridgeback
Date: Sat, 6 Oct 2001 13:47:31 EDT

Hi Jack.
Thanks for getting back to me so quickly a few days ago. I was away
for a while so I didn't get a chance to get back to you. Yes, I am
serious as well as anxious to get a TRD. I did check out your web site
which proved to be extremely helpful. That is where I learned most
about this breed. My Rottweiler passed away last week and I wanted to
get something different and unique. After looking at many breeds I
kept coming back to the TRD which
certainly possesses those qualities and more. I soon learned that they
were
not so easy to get and after falling in love with this breed I, of course,
wanted one as soon as possible. One individual I contacted was in Thailand
who said he had show quality pups available, choice of sex/color and would
include shipping cost for $1350 but I felt very uncomfortable about having
a
puppy shipped on such a long flight.
I got in touch with a guy in IA, whom I'm sure you know, who has puppies
ready to go in Nov. so hopefully I'll have my blue male TRD next month.
I can't wait to hear "the question."
Thanks again,
Tom!

Great news For sure! The only reason for my breeding 7 litters in 7 years was to tell and show all people about this Thai Ridgeback Dog breed and also about the crooked ways of John Sebasino Capanetto. Finally, after seven long years, he might have been stopped by you folks. All mention of him will be aired on my web site for years to come. I hope we never have to deal with people like John Caponetto and his partner in New Jersey, Thomas "Mick" Michael Latimer. These two guys were the worst thing that could have happened to this breed. I hope only the "right" people now start to mend the damaged cause by these two guys. There are still several people who have started into the TRD world but I hope they are not going down the same path as these two guys did. God Bless all four of you pet owners in your fight to rid the dog world of these people. Now I can really enjoy my pets and hope the new people in this breed will do the right thing!

ATB. Jack Sterling

Subject: Update on Caponetto
Date: Fri, 31 Aug 2001

Jack, More news...

According to one of the dog owners involved in the Caponetto case, they went to court to see what would happen.  Apparently, John's lawyer did not show and he changed his plea.  A new trial will be held in Sept.  Here is the scoop.....

"channel 8 was there with the camera crew......the next thing we heard was someone telling channel 8 that John's lawyer couldn't make it, but that he had withdrawn John's plea of not guilty, and we are now going to trial on Sept. 6 at 1:30......."

Also, not sure if you are aware but.....

Caponetto was told he could not advertise in Dog Fancy magazine anymore.  Well... he placed an ad on the sly as follows:

CANE CORSO KENNEL DISPERSAL--Puppies and young adults, out of Italian import. FCI registered.  Stock all colors. (352) 568-2322.  e-mail sakigirl1@aol.com

I checked and this is John # and email.   

Dog fancy says:

"Sent: Sunday, August 26, 2001 10:54 AM

Subject: RE: Update on case????

John is banned from all magazines. Perhaps his ad in DF was placed on the "sly". I will check on that and I thank you for the tip. However I believe we have responded with due diligence to this issue and I would hope your future comments would reflect that. In no way are we assisting a crook...but ads are placed or attempted to be placed in many different ways every month. Since I have personally handled this particular matter, I must say Gary that I am somewhat personally offended by your implication.

Lastly, according to someone who called John based on the ad, his dogs are already spoken for.  Sounds like he is selling them all to the same person and closing shop.  He said something about judging and showing only."

Well... trial is Sept. 6th ... and I will keep you posted.

MM

Hi Jack,

According to the state investigator, Caponetto plead not guilty, therefore he will go to trial in August. As for standing up to him, we worked on this for well over a year and all the while did so publicly online.  No one but the original 4 people came forward with horror stories. I think many were pissed off about John Caponetto's terrible way he deals dogs, but were not willing to do anything about it.

Anyhow, I couldn't let him continue to perpetuate problems by breeding willy-nilly just for the money. Mr. Gary Mountain's dog of Northern California not only had severe mange, but also severe vaginitis, which required a removal of her reproductive parts. Therefore, she can not be bred and that is what he paid for - breedable quality.  Also, the last I heard, his dog has bad hip problems that will require surgery. Debbie's dog is skittish and had skin mange and the vaginitis issue, but not as serious. My Cane Corso male has had severe mange and cannot be bred as well. He also had an ear problem that came back several times and has a hernia as well. What kind of breeder would send animals out like this to new owners AND CHARGE $1,500+ FOR THEM? I TOO CROSS MY FINGERS THAT THE STATE WILL DO THE RIGHT THING AND PREVENT HIM FROM BREEDING, AS WELL AS FINE HIM AT THE MAX... THROW HIM IN JAIL FOR A WHILE.  Maybe he'll think about his actions then.

But I really doubt it. Just think of the people who bought from him, fell in love with their dogs and now have sickness and defects to deal with. He just doesn't give a shit. Tell all the people you can about this terrible man John Caponetto of Blanch-o Kennels in Bushnell, Florida.

I'll keep you posted as I expect to hear from the state as I am the only one he sold to that has an invalid health cert. that was forged by himself.  I am sure they will need the real thing in court.

Thanks for your support...

(Name withheld upon request)

Subject: Update on Caponetto
Date: Mon, 23 Jul 2001

Jack,

Not sure if you remember me but I am one of the many dissatisfied customers who purchased a dog from John Caponetto of Blanch-o Kennels. Just thought I would pass along what I think is great news...

With the help of several other "owners" who purchased dogs from John Caponetto, he was arrested by the Florida Dept. of Agriculture. Caponetto was handcuffed and arrested June 19th, 2001, on 4 misdemeanor charges including, but not limited to, failure to provide health certificates with the sale of dog/cat, which is required by law. He also got bagged for not keeping any records for at least one year and for providing fraudulent certificates (i.e. bogus paperwork) when shipping dogs out of state. His arraignment was this week and we have yet to hear from the state investigator as to whether he settled or will go to trial. I am so glad that what goes around comes around and this guy finally got slapped.

Sincerely,
A now happy customer of this evil man......
(name withheld by request)

Subject: WWPSA Show
Date: Sun, 8 July 2001

Hi Jack,

I didn't know you were so close to me. I am also in the Westwood area and work for the SPCA-LA. I have been telling everyone about your beautiful canine companions. I hope to one day be able to give a TRD a happy home and family/human pack to live with. I also think I saw you in the distance at the WWPSA show in Anaheim this weekend. Anyway keep up the good work.

Eric Akaba

Subject: Mr. Big
Date: Sun, 24 June 2001

Hi Jack, it's Dori Ganan, in Chicago. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I was just looking at your website and was not expecting to read the news about Mr. Big. I am glad I had the chance to meet him at the WWPSA Trade Show last year in Long Beach. I remember he was playing with his havaball and Poo-Nee was trying to get it away from him. My thoughts are with you.

Dori

Subject: Mr. Big
Date: Fri, 22 June 2001

Hi Jack,

It's Beau. I am sorry to hear about Mr.Big. I have not been to your site for a while, and I obviously just learned the news. Congrats on your new TRD though.

Suay is doing very well. I will send you pictures as soon as they are digitized, we only have about 500. Everyone calls her "Catdog". She just has a way about her. Anyway, hope to speak with you soon. All the best.

Beau

Subject: Gingy
Date: Sat, 19 June 2001

Jack,

Hi Jack!!!!

This is Yafit, Doug is in Portland for the week, and I was at a friend's house on the weekend. I came back and was very happy to hear that you came to see your parent on father day, very, very good.

I am sorry we were away, and we couldn't meet, but I hope it isn't the last time you will come. Gingy is doing great, she is so so beautiful and smart. Take a look.

I have taken a lot of pictures of Gingy lately, but in a regular camera, so I will send it sometime when I have time to scan them from work, because we don't have a scanner at home.

We will talk later, I am going to sleep now, keep writing us - good night.
Yafit

Subject: Gingy
Date: Sat, 12 June 2001

Jack,

Hello Jack,

Things have been very busy with us. The job has been a great success. We built a house which turned out very nice, thank goodness it's done. And then there's Gingy. Things have seasoned to a point where I can give feedback. I'll send some pictures before the weekend. How did Mr Big die?

We would like to thank you for the opportunity of introducing the Thai Ridgeback as a breed to us. Gingy has turned out to be the nicest, friendliest dog we have ever known. She has been well behaved, even-tempered and always loves to be by our side. We thank you Jack, your love of the breed and hard work introducing the breed to America is an effort well appreciated.

Sincerely,
Doug and Yafit Harris

Sniffer Dog...

A man is sitting in a plane which is about to take off when another man with a dog occupies the empty seats alongside. The dog sits in the middle, and the first man is looking quizzically at the dog when the second man explains that they work for the airline.  

The airline rep says, "Don't mind Rover, he is a sniffer dog, the best there is, I'll show you once we get airborne and I set him to work."

The plane takes off and levels out when the handler says to the first man, "Watch this." He tells the dog, "Rover, search."

The dog  jumps down, walks along the aisle and sits next to a woman for a few  seconds. It then returns to it's seat and puts one paw on the handler's arm. He says, "Good boy." He turns to the first man and says, "That woman is in possession of marijuana, so I'm making a note of this, and the seat number for the police who will apprehend her on arrival."

"Fantastic!" replies the first man.

Once again he sends the dog to search the aisles. The dog sniffs about, sits down beside a man for a few seconds, returns to its seat and places both paws on the handler's arm. The airline rep says, "That man is carrying cocaine, so again, I'm making a note of this, and the seat number."

"I like it!" says the first man.

Once again he sends the dog to search the aisles. Rover goes up and down the plane aisle and after a while sits down next to someone, and then comes racing back and jumps up onto the seat and craps all over the place.

The first man is surprised and disgusted by this, and asks, "What the bloody hell is going on?"

The handler nervously replies, "He just found a bomb!

Subject: Mr. Big
Date: Sat, 9 June 2001

Jack,

We (Blue, myself, and my family) are with you. Again, we are VERY saddened by hearing of your loss.

As you well know, I am not privy to the insiders world of dog showing, breeding, or promoting. I only care about the breed, not about the hype. I care that these good dogs go to good homes because this is such a rare, sweet, dedicated, and lovable breed. THAT is all I care about. Not that I want to tell you what to do, because I'm not privy to the information of what's going on in this war, but to even mention this creeps name in your e-mails isn't worth the effort of typing. Forget him (or them) and focus on the breed, like you've been doing. Take the high road, like you've been doing, and all will fall into place!!!! (No, I won't see what this other guy is printing about you because I don't care and neither should you!)

Thank you for your efforts, thank you for your courage, but most of all, thank you for being you!

Most sensorially,
Robert Stearns, Blue, and family.

Subject: Mr. Big
Date: Wed, 6 June 2001

Jack,

My deepest and most heartfelt sympathy on your loss.

Robb

Subject: Mr. Big
Date: Tue, 5 June, 2001

Dear Jack,

Sorry to hear about MR.BIG. Talk to you later.

All the best from your friend Ray

Subject: Mr. Big
Date: Tue, 5 June 2001

Jack,

I am very sorry to hear your news. I can't imagine how difficult it must be.

On an up note, Madison is doing really well and she is also my best friend.

Take care,
Rob and Todd

Subject: Mr. Big
Date: Tue, 5 June 2001

Dear Jack:

We are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of your dearest friend. Angela and I know enough about you to know that your dogs are your family and that you will mourn the loss more so than most. We hope that you and your other dogs recover from this as soon as possible. We wish you all the best.

Sincerely,
Larry & Angela

Subject: Mr. Big
Date: Mon, 4 June 2001

Hi Jack,

I'm so sorry to hear about Mr. Big. It is so hard to lose a beloved friend.

Peggy
Riverwind Shar-Pei
Home Of The Pampered Pei
Where Wrinkles Come In All Colors

Subject: Mr. Big
Date: Mon, 04 June 2001

Jack,

I am very shocked and saddened by your loss. I just met you and Mr. Big at the dog show in Claremont and did not even know he was sick. We are in very similar situations. I just had to put my horse to sleep, because he had arthritis. He had been my best friend for 17 years!!! It was definitely the hardest thing I have ever had to do and I just cried and cried. Mr. Big was a beautiful TRD and in the very short time I have had my Thai (Rikshaw) which I got from Andrea, I am so attached. My thoughts and prayers are with you and let me know how you are doing. Keep in touch.

Your friend,
Tamatha Clemens

Subject: Love your site
Date: Sun, 03 June 2001

Your poem is wonderful. thank you for all your hard work and the dedication put into your web page. I'm looking for a new puppy to join our family of two whippets. We lost our rottie to bone cancer in March. Was looking for a Ibizan hound, Pharoah hound or this wonderful breed that you now love. Any information or help will be appreciated.

Thanks,
Jeff

Subject: Future TRD Owner
Date: Mon, 07 May 2001

Dear Mr. Sterling,

Thank you for your dedication to this majestic breed and introducing it to American pet lovers. I came across your site by accident when I was researching nearby [LA] breeders of Rhodesian Ridgebacks.

I have asthma and wanted a clean-smelling, short-haired dog who didn't vocalize too much and would be equally amenable to lying around the house or office as she would be running in the dog park. She needed to be intelligent and look intimidating when I took her for evening walks. A Rhodesian seemed to fit the bill. Unfortunately red is not my favorite color and neither are floppy ears. And then...an unexpected gift.

As I'm certain many people have told you, it's love at first sight when they see the majestic TRD's [there is no other adjective] on your site. The astounding range of colors displayed on beautifully sculpted bodies! And, as a bonus, the ears are erect. I was in heaven and wanted to get my puppy the very next day. Unfortunately I will have to wait 8 to 12 months as I am remodeling my house and currently living in an apartment. This will give me time to get to know my options.

I hope you can steer me to some TRD breeders in Southern California that I can visit to experience these animals in person. Or perhaps there are upcoming Pet Shows where TRD's will be shown.

I was very sorry to read that you are no longer breeding without advance orders as your dogs have beautiful faces. Some of the TRD's on other sites tend to look to fierce, with almost a pit bull gaze. I want to get a California bred dog that I can visit before I buy. I need to love the face.

I would be willing to consider a show or pet quality puppy, if the face was appealing. An adult dog might also be ok. An emotional connection would be the key.

Are there any breeders within a half day's drive of LA that I could visit? Perhaps some gregarious owners? Pet Shows?

Thanks for your assistance and maybe I'll luck out and you'll have some pups available when I'm ready to make my commitment.

Sincerely,
Ari Sikora

Date: Sun, 6 May 2001
Subject: There is a question at the end of this email

I couldn't resist emailing you... I recently returned from the small beach pueblo in Mexico where my Cousin currently lives, he lives there with Siam and Tyson - two deep black TRD's! - and it just isn't quite possible to communicate with people who have not been introduced to these dogs the absolute awe that they inspire. To see something so exquisite on this planet was a beautiful experience I did not expect on my visit but am so thankful for. I had never imagined being so awestruck by a dog. I'm embarrassed to admit that I took almost as many pictures of the dogs as I did of my cousin!...lol And as many as I took, there were far more missed because I couldn't take my eyes off them.

On my last morning there, after experiencing their personalities of such unbelievable scope, we took a walk down the long beach, I saw them at a full and perfect and free run and then their mock fighting with those delicate yet razor white teeth contrasted against their black coloring! I was just blown away by these dogs and had to babble to someone who obviously loves them too :) and note that I am respecting you by not babbling much more about them!...lol. I am not a person without dreams...I dream of being able to one day share my home with two of these lovely creatures :) and I do not consider that a shallow dream :)

I am curious if any pictures in your photo album are available for sale, I'm specifically thinking of a photo on page 2 with the caption of "sterling_jack_-_sakom_photo_3b.jpg"?

Thank you for your web page, It's the only one I've found so far and a much appreciated eye full.

Enjoy,
Deneen :)

Date: Mon, 9 April 2001
Subject: Buying your first TRD

We all agree at ATRA that it is important for all people who are looking to add a TRD as a new family member to read the following story. Here is a clear view of what should not have happened to a new TRD owner. This so-called "Florida TRD breeder" DID NOT inform this person of the DERMOID SINUS (D.S.) that this young pup had from birth. A D.S. is positively noticed by the breeder of any TRD pup at the "moment of birth." The breeder sold this pup as he does to so many other people without telling them at all about the D.S. condition, only to make a fast buck! He sells them for show quality prices as well, even though he knew this pup had a DERMOID SINUS CYST.

This same story has come to me from several people around the country who have bought from this Florida breeder. There are only a few respectable breeders of this breed who will tell you of this problem. So PLEASE be wary of the breeders down there. Florida tends to attract the "so-called" puppy millers, in all breeds, from all over the midwest and northeast due to the great weather that Florida has. Many people who have purchased from these people have been burned bad. This one TRD breeder had over 10 breeding pairs of TRD and has had over 25 litters in a very short period of time. They are now being investigated by the Florida Agricultural Dept and the IRS for many cases of fraud to respectable people like this lady.

One single pet owner in New Jersey has joined in to help his fellow puppy miller friend in Florida to slander me on his website. He calls me a "puppy mill on wheels" and steals many fotos off of my website for his own use since he is to lazy to go out and create his own history with the TRD - he wants to steal it from me. These are the kinds of people you really have to be careful of. I own two breeding pairs of TRD. I will not breed my TRD unless I have buyers in advance. Not like these Florida puppy millers who breed for quantity. Last summer he had 92 puppies of many different rare breeds on the ground at once. They were counted by a field rep. of the Florida State Ag Dept. That case is still on going...

PLEASE! ALL FUTURE BUYERS of a TRD - BEWARE! GET YOUR FACTS FIRST! Call other owners of TRD and ask many questions. I will give many, many, names of happy owners worldwide. Just email me!

Subject: Koji's Story
Date: Fri, 6 Apr 2001

Koji is my year and a half old blue TRD and my best friend! We got Koji from a breeder in Florida in January last year when he was just 3 months old. He was a shy puppy and arrived with a snowstorm which blew through Richmond and gave us a foot of snow.

We had to dig a trail just so our new puppy could walk outside because he was so small. In fact, digging is now one of his favorite pass times, he can often be found with a muddy muzzle from a hard day of digging in the yard. Koji has so much energy and loves to run and jump around. This is one of the reasons we enrolled him in the agility classes which he loves! Koji is, even now, a little shy, especially with strangers, but we are working on that aren't we Koji? Koji likes going to doggie play school to visit his friends (and some say he has a girlfriend there too!) a couple of times a week. Koji's doggie friends tend to be the quieter dogs and he leaves the bigger dogs to the ruff and tumble games. He's far too cool and mellow to do that.

Unfortunately, Koji was not doing too great last year. He was diagnosed with a dermoid sinus, this of course worried us a lot. We had read about it a lot prior to getting Koji and were shocked to find that our little guy had a dermoid sinus and that he would have