The Board has been working diligently on many projects these past several months as we embark on our NEW BEGINNING. 

First, however, I want to give you an update on a grant which the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America Foundation (YTCAF) has been involved.  In 2005, the Foundation agreed to partially fund (in the amount of $1,300) a Thyroid Research Grant at the University of Georgia (that totaled $97,878).  This is a study on hypothyroidism which is the failure of the thyroid gland.  It is the most common hormonal abnormality in dogs.  It can cause many medical problems, including hair loss and skin infections, and the Yorkshire Terrier is one of several breeds that fall victim to the problem.  Our 2006 commitment is another $1,300 and once the final payment as been made, we will have $4,244* remaining on deposit with the AKC Canine Health Foundation 
(CHF).  You will be advised when we receive any results of the study. 

This January, the AKC CHF asked the Foundation to consider contributing $5,000 to support a grant at the University of Tennessee to evaluate a minimally invasive imaging technique called "transplenic portal scinitigraphy (TSPS).  This procedure is performed on dogs under light sedation to diagnosis Porto systemic liver shunts (or abnormal liver structures) and will allow lower doses of radioisotopes to be used.  This could mean better patient care and increased staff safety in diagnosing shunts in our dogs.  The Board unanimously voted to support this study by utilizing the remaining $4,244* on deposit with the CHF 
(these are monies are left over because CHF called off the study we were supporting with Cairn Terriers) and supplementing it to meet the requested $5,000 (+$756). 

Our primary focus has been the upcoming Health Survey which I discussed in my last communication.  Step one in the process has been to negotiate a contract with a Statistician or Tabulator.  I am pleased to report that Beckie Stanevich, who was highly recommended, has agreed to take on the task.  A delegate to the AKC from the Mountaineer Kennel Club, Beckie has conducted two health surveys for the Newfoundland Club of America and one for the American Brussels Griffon Association. She helped put together health survey responses for the Kuvasz club and serves on the AKC CHF Advisory Counsel.  At this point, her experience, suggestions, and expertise have been invaluable to us.  The Board is committed to put forth the best questionnaire we can:  one that is easily understood and not complicated, one that can be completed with ease, and one that will give us the best possible return. 

In these next several weeks, the Board will begin the final process of preparing the Survey.  Our goal is to include everyone involved with Yorkshire Terriers who has knowledge of health problems in our breed.  This Survey will be a wonderful tool once it is completed.  It will insure we are focusing on the right health issues and it will also show where the YTCAF needs to direct its assets.  However, success depends on YOUR participation - we cannot stress that enough.  The Survey will be completely confidential and anonymous.  Please contact any board member if you have a health issue that you would like included in the Survey. 

So, now we can ALL set a goal!  Let's make the Yorkshire Terrier Health Survey the one that will stand out as an example to the other breed clubs.  The Board will work on its presentation --- its success will be YOUR job! 

Sincerely, 
The Foundation Board
May 16, 2006 

   Today, your Yorkshire Terrier Club of America Foundation (YTCAF) has a  A NEW BEGINNING with a Board of Directors who is recommitted to regaining your respect and placing our Foundation on a positive (+) charge once again. 

   First, I thought I would clarify a few things because you asked.  The By-Laws which run this Foundation dictate that the Board of Directors is the governing body for the Foundation and as such makes all important decisions affecting its business and operation.  Recently, I agreed to be the new Foundation President because I saw in this board a strong team of committed individuals who wanted to go forward.   I saw my job as no harder than any board member except that I would serve as their spokesman.  Commitment, focus, and teamwork are all necessary ingredients for a successful governing board.  This team has those assets and I believe that our group can and will reemerge as the responsible health care vehicle for promoting and fostering the public's knowledge and appreciation of our Yorkshire Terriers and the health problems which can effect them. 

   The most common question that I have been asked over the years, "What is the Foundation doing?"  Rightfully, you had every reason to know and ask.  Not only because of our shared love and concern for the good health of our Yorkies but because many of you have contributed money so the YTCAF could do a job.  In reply, I can say with much truth that the AKC Canine Health Foundation (AKCCHF) pulled the plug on a large research study we committed to with the Cairn Terriers.  But, I know you don't want to hear excuses.  I promise I am not going to tell you what we are "GONNA DO"  anymore!  Instead, we are going to ask you what you want us to do.  What do you think are the biggest heath problems facing the Yorkshire Terrier today?  Then, we are going to find out what research studies are available that can help solve those problems. 

   A health survey is not a survey put together, mailed, and compiled overnight.  We plan to make it anonymous.  An independent individual (statistician) will tally the results and analyze the survey on a no name needed reply form.  But to insure we don't forget to list something you believe is important and necessary, we need your input on what you would like to see on the questionnaire.  Our future depends on YOUR commitment to help us serve you better.  Effective immediately, you will know what YOUR Foundation is doing.   The YTCA has agreed to allow the YTCAF space in the quarterly Yorkie Express.   I promise we will use the Express to advise you what we are doing!  Similar information will appear on the YTCA web page as well. 

   Lastly, let me thank past YTCAF President, Carl Trehus, and all of the previous board members for their help and contributions.  Let me also welcome Georgina Miller (CA), who was recently elected  to serve on this team.  We all learned quickly Georgina will be a valuable member of the board.  It was the dream of one of our founding members and late first President, Betty Dullinger, that the YTCAF would strive to solve and combat some of the afflictions that beset our precious dogs.  Please give us a chance to gain your confidence back.  In the meantime, let us hear from you. You can contact me directly, Sharon McCadam, our Secretary, Pat Quinn fields calls for information on specific health issues, or any board member for that mater.  We need your help as we undertake this  New Beginning of your Foundation.  Please give us another chance to improve the health of our beloved breed.