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                             Chinese Shar-Pei

                              [sharpei.jpg]

Author

  Heidi Merkli ([email protected])

  Created Feb. 6, 1995.
    * Revision: March 14, 1999
      Changes to rescue and club sections
    * Revision: Sept. 28, 1998
      Changes to and new hyper links added.
    * Revision: Feb. 22, 1998
      Changes to health, grooming, diet, FAQ's sections. Addition: Puppy
      Buyer's Guidelines.
    * Revision: Oct. 24, 1997
      Additions to frequently asked question section. Correction to
      mailing list address.
    * Revision: Sept. 16, 1997
      Changes to health and rescue sections.
      Additions: Crate Training, Vet List and Mailing List.
    * Revision: March 10, 1997
      Changes to health, rescue and FAQ's sections.
    * Revision: July 1, 1996

            Changes to health and rescue sections.
  Copyright 1995-2001 by Heidi Merkli.
    _________________________________________________________________

Table of Contents

    * History
    * The AKC Standard
    * Socialization
    * Crate Training
    * Showing
    * Frequently Asked Questions
    * Health Problems
    * Diet
    * Grooming
    * Puppy Buyer's Guidelines
    * Shar-Pei Vet List
    * Shar-Pei Mailing List
    * Breeders
    * Clubs
    * Rescue
    * Suggested Readings
    * References
    _________________________________________________________________

History

  The origin of the Chinese Shar-Pei can be traced to the province of
  Kwun Tung and has for centuries existed in the southern provinces of
  China. These dogs helped their peasant masters in various tasks such
  as herding cattle, guarding the home and family, and have proven
  themselves to be qualified hunters of "wild game, usually wild pigs."

  The Shar-Pei is believed to have shared a common origin with the
  smooth-coated Chow-Chow because of the blue-black mouths and tongues,
  possibly the Great Pyrenees, a source of the double dew claws, and the
  Tibetan Mastiff. It was believed in ancient times that the dark mouth
  of the Chow-Chow, exposed when barking, helped to ward off evil
  spirits. The first Shar-Pei may have appeared as a mutation. The
  Shar-Pei when translated means "sand-skin" or "shark skin." This
  uniquely rough, loose, prickly coat enabled the Shar-Pei to wriggle
  out of its opponents grasp while fighting in the dog pits. The coat
  when stroked against the grain may be abrasive, producing a burning,
  itching sensation. Their tail is carried over their backs on either
  side exposing the anus. The first tail set is a tightly curled tail, a
  "coin" tail. The second tail set is the loose curl, and third is
  carried in an arch over the back. The Shar-Pei with his tail sticking
  out straight or between his legs was thought to be cowardly. The tail
  should denote bravery.

  While viewing the body head on, if the toes were slightly turned out
  this was thought to help the dog with balance according to old-time
  dog-fighting g fanciers. The Chinese crawling dragon with his feet
  pointed east and west was considered a sign of strength. Because of
  these poor breeding practices many of the Shar-Pei have bad fronts. A
  dog with straight forelegs is correct.

  Incidentally, any dog in China that protects property is called a
  fighting dog, whereas in Canada and the United States they are
  referred to as guard dogs.

  Following the establishment of the Peoples' Republic of China as a
  communist nation, the dog population was virtually wiped out. If not
  for the efforts of Matgo Law of Hong Kong, the Shar-Pei would not be
  here today. Due to his dedication to the breed, a small number of
  Shar-Pei were brought to the United States in the 1960's and early
  70's. In 1974 American and Canadian fanciers answered Matgo's appeal
  for help and in 1976 the first Shar-Pei was registered. The foundation
  stock brought over from Hong Kong were of poorer quality then the
  Shar-Pei we see today. In August of 1991 the Shar-Pei officially
  completed the requirements for recognition by the American Kennel club
  and was placed in the Non-Sporting Group. In 1992 the Canadian Kennel
  Club also officially recognized and grouped the Shar-Pei in group 6,
  Non-Sporting n g events. Since that time several Shar-Pei are now and
  continuing to become CKC and AKC champions.

  Together the United States and Canada can now boast over 100,000
  Shar-Pei in the world. This unique breed is also recognized by the
  FCI, HKKC, and the CSPCGB. The CSPCGB operates independently receiving
  no input or influence from the [British] Kennel Club. I would also
  mention that the FCI recognizes the HKKC standard and not the AKC's at
  this time, as per its general policy of using the standard from the
  country of the breed's origin.
    _________________________________________________________________

The AKC Standard

  The Standard is the physical "blueprint" of the breed. It describes
  the physical appearance and other desired qualities of the breed
  otherwise known as type. Some characteristics, such as size, coat
  quality, and movement, are based on the original (or current) function
  for the dog. Other characteristics are more cosmetic such as eye
  color; but taken together they set this breed apart from all others.
  The Standard describes an ideal representative of the breed. No
  individual dog is perfect, but the Standard provides an ideal for the
  breeder to strive towards.

  Because of copyright concerns over the collection of all the Standards
  at any single site storing all the faqs, AKC Standards are not
  typically included in the Breed faqs. The reader is referred to the
  publications at the end of this document or to the National Breed Club
  for a copy of the Standard .
    _________________________________________________________________

Socialization

  Shar-Pei are extremely devotion to their family, and as with all
  breeds early socialization is important. Because the Shar-Pei can be
  stubborn and somewhat standoffish towards strangers, puppy
  kindergarten and general obedience should be a consideration for a new
  prospective owner.
    _________________________________________________________________

Crate Training

  Crate training is a positive way to train your dog. Your dog will come
  to think of its crate as a safe place to re-treat to when they need
  some quiet time.
    _________________________________________________________________

Showing

  Many Shar-Pei throughout the world have gained their titles with
  Companion Dog (CD), Companion Dog Excellence (CDX), and Utility Dog
  (U.D.) degrees. They have also proven themselves in tracking and
  retrieving. The Shar-Pei have won many conformation titles and are
  known to have an excellent gait when at full trot.
    _________________________________________________________________

Frequently Asked Questions

  Why is its tongue black? Do any other breeds also have a black tongue?

    The Shar-Pei shares this distinctive characteristic with only one
    other breed, the Chow-Chow, indicating that there may be a common
    ancestor.

  What happens if a Shar-Pei has a spotted black tongue, is it mix?

    If the Shar-Pei has a spotted tongue it is a major fault. The
    tongue should be a bluish black unless it is a dilute in which case
    a lavender tongue is acceptable. A solid pink tongue is a
    disqualification.

  What colors do the Shar-Pei come in?

    The Shar-Pei can be a number of colors. The coat must be solid in
    color and any Shar-Pei with a "flowered coat" (spotted) or black
    and tan in coloration (i.e. German Shepherd) is a disqualification.
    Colors include black, cream, fawn, red-fawn, red, sable, apricot,
    chocolate, isabella, and blue. The nose may be black or brick (pink
    with black), with or without a black mask. A Shar-Pei can also have
    what is called a "dilute" coloration. Meaning the nose, nails and
    anus of the dog is the same color as the coat, (i.e. chocolate coat
    with chocolate nose, nails and anus). All of these color variations
    are acceptable and beautiful, but the coat color must be solid and
    well blended throughout the whole body of the dog.

  The puppies are SO cute and wrinkly! Do they stay this wrinkly?

    No, in the adult Shar-Pei the wrinkling is confined mainly to the
    forehead and withers. However, some have more wrinkles than others.

  Are they good with other dogs? Children? Cats and other pets?

    Yes, like most breeds if raised with children and other pets the
    Shar-Pei can be a loving member of the family. Puppy kindergarten
    is a good way to socialize your puppy with other dogs, people, and
    unfamiliar surroundings. When considering a Shar-Pei as your family
    dog make sure you see the parents of your prospective pup. This
    will help you determine what your pup's temperament will be like.
    "A well-bred Shar-Pei, bred by a pedigree-knowledgeable breeder,
    rarely, if ever, has had a problem with this in the past 10 years.
    While it's true some of the original 12 dogs imported to the United
    States that make up the breed's genetic foundation in this country
    were street dogs with nasty dispositions, conscientious breeders
    have made tremendous strides in eliminating people-aggressiveness
    tendencies." This is why socialization when young is very
    important. The Shar-Pei thrive on lots of attention and
    interaction.

  Why do Shar-Pei shy away when a person tries to pet them on the head
  or approaches to quickly?

    "The breed's eyes are hooded by skin, which limits its peripheral
    vision. As a result, they have difficulty seeing people approach
    from either side until they're almost directly in front of them.
    The sudden appearance startles the dogs, which causes them to shy
    away. When approached from the front, Shar-Pei don't react this
    way." Always let the dog sniff your hand and allow him/her time to
    familiarize themselves with you. Sniffing is a dog's way of making
    friends just as we say "Hello" or shake hands. Young children
    especially should be taught how to approach a dog and a child
    should never approach a dog unless with their parent(s) and the
    dog's owner are present.

  Are they suspicious of strangers? Do they make good watch dogs?

    Yes, they are aloof with strangers and make excellent watch dogs.
    They are defensive of their home and loved ones. They are an
    independent breed, very owner-oriented. "A plus as well as a minus
    in the training situation. Independence is a plus because dogs
    possess the necessary confidence to work at a distance from their
    handlers, but it's a minus because it sometimes translates into
    stubbornness". Training sessions should be brief and not with
    force. Shar-Pei respond best to praise and or food reinforcement as
    a reward for good behavior.

  Do Shar-Pei snore?

    Yes, Shar-Pei snore, some more then others. The Shar-Pei also snort
    which may be mistaken for growling. As with all squashed-faced
    breeds, Bulldogs, Pugs, etc., snoring and snorting go hand-in-hand.

  Do they shed much?

    No, only once a year to lighten their dense coat for the summer.
    Always use a bristled brush or a hound glove.

  How long do they live?

    They live to be approximately 8 to 12 years of age but some have
    been known to live as long as 15 years or more.

  Is the Shar-Pei suitable for apartment living?

    Yes, but they need daily exercise otherwise they will begin to feel
    pent-up. This should include more then just taking them out to do
    their duties.

  Are Shar-Pei intelligent?

    Shar-Pei are very intelligent and excel in obedience training. They
    are quick to learn therefore training should be varied in order to
    maintain their interest.

  Do Shar-Pei drool?

    Only after they eat do they get slobbery due to water getting
    trapped in the folds of their muzzle. Oh, and of course if they are
    offered some tasty treats!

  Can Shar-Pei tolerate extremes in temperature?

    Shar-Pei should not be left in the sun for long periods of time as
    they can get over heated easily. In cold weather the Shar-Pei are
    fine but should not live as an outdoor dog. Remember to put
    Vaseline on the pads of their paws to protect them from the salt
    some cities put down for vehicles. This salt can burn the pads of
    their feet and be very painful. The Shar-Pei do not do well with
    climate extremes, "because of the health problems living as an
    outdoor dog presents (i.e., flea bite dermatitis, inhalant
    allergies to plant material) and because of the breed's possible
    increased susceptibility to airborne diseases such as parvo. The
    social isolation associated with living as an outdoor (or kennel)
    dog also is not beneficial to this owner-oriented breed".

  What is the general disposition of a Shar-Pei?

    "The Shar-Pei is a bright, affectionate dog that makes a terrific
    companion animal. In addition it is an able contender in the
    obedience or agility ring when trained with the appropriate
    methods. It is easily house-trained, exceptionally clean and
    requires minimal grooming. And, it is stable and temperamentally
    dependable when bred by reputable breeders knowledgeable in
    genetics".
    _________________________________________________________________

Health Problems

  In general, dogs with any of the following conditions should not be
  bred. You want to make sure that the parents of the puppy you may be
  considering have been cleared or checked for any of these conditions.
  The following health conditions are not present in all Shar-Pei. This
  is an introduction to health problems that may occur in this breed and
  is not intended as a generalization.

  If your veterinarian requires more information about the Chinese
  Shar-Pei, send the name and address of your veterinarian (for overseas
  orders, send $2.00 in U.S. funds for postage) to:

                              Jeff Vidt, DVM
                            210 S. Park Street
                         Westmont, IL 60559-1940

 Entropion

  The Shar-Pei are 1 of 14 breeds that can have this condition. This is
  where the eyelid rolls in towards the eye, rubbing against the cornea
  and irritating this sensitive structure. Watery eyes, infection, even
  a corneal ulcer, can occur. Surgical correction is required. Dogs with
  this condition should not be bred, as a genetic component is
  suspected.

 Hypothyroidism

  The thyroid glands secrete a hormone which controls the basic
  metabolic rate of the entire body. Inadequate hormone levels reset the
  body to function at a lower metabolic level. In that case, dogs fatten
  easily on a normal diet, become sluggish, and are easily chilled. Hair
  changes are most noticeable and include loss of hair from the flanks
  and back, increased pigmentation of the skin, scaling and seborrhea
  (an abnormality in the production of skin cells.) Secondary bacterial
  infection of the skin is common. The ears may also be affected,
  filling with thick, yellow greasy material which may predispose the
  dog to ear infections. Blood tests will determine the level of thyroid
  function and administration of thyroid hormone can treat the
  condition.

 Familial Shar-Pei Fever and Amyloidosis

  Familial Shar-Pei fever also known as "Swollen Hock Syndrome" (SHS)
  typically may include the following symptoms:
   1. Swelling of the hock joint and sometimes other joints can be
      affected.
   2. Reluctance to move.
   3. Sometimes a swollen painful muzzle.
   4. Abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and shallow breathing.

  "Familial Shar-Pei Fever (FSF) is an episodic fever disorder. Shar-Pei
  with this disorder have one or more bouts of unexplained fever,
  usually 103-107 degrees but rare cases may go higher. Fevers usually
  start when they are less then 18 months old but sometimes the first
  attack is not until they are adults. Fever episodes usually become
  less frequent with age. Fevers last 24-36 hours in most cases without
  treatment". The disorder is "thought to result from an inability to
  regulate the immune system. Dogs suffering from this disorder are at
  risk of dying from a related disorder, amyloidosis. Affected Shar-Pei
  with amyloidosis have an inability to break down chemicals released in
  the bloodstream when inflammation results from abnormal deposition of
  amyloid protein throughout the body. While not all dogs with Shar-Pei
  fever die of amyloidosis, when they do, death most commonly occurs
  between the ages of 3 and 5 years".

  The CSPCA has setup a charitable fund. A tax-deductible donation may
  be made payable to:

                          CSPCA Charitable Fund
                        c/o Lee Arnold, Chairman,
                        P.O. Box 7007, Bedminster,
                                NJ 07921.

 Demodectic Mange

  The mite, Demodex canis, starts off as small dry areas on the head,
  chest, and legs of the Shar-Pei. Because the dog scratches to relieve
  the intense itching, the skin becomes red and raw with a leathery look
  about it. Check with your veterinarian for prescribed medication,
  shampoos, and other appropriate treatment.

 Seborrhea Oleosa

  Severe rancid body odor which comes from raw, scaly, bloody skin.
  Could be caused by hypothyroidism, yeast infections, and or food
  allergies. This situation should be immediately discussed with a
  veterinarian and the appropriate shampoos and medication can
  effectively treat this condition.

 Malocclusion

  Overbites are very common. This can occur due to the misplacement of
  the incisors causing an overcrowding. Extraction at a young age can
  prevent the adult canines from cutting into the hard palate.

 Tight Lip Syndrome

  This is where the excess flesh from the lower lip covers the teeth
  making it difficult for the Shar-Pei to chew. This excess flesh also
  traps food and is usually associated with an overbite.

 Ears

  Due to the breed standard calling for small ears, this results in the
  Shar-Pei having very narrow ear canals. Attention should be taken in
  cleaning the ear thoroughly with a vet prescribed ear solution. Do not
  use a Q-tip to dig down in the ear canal. Use a make-up pad to gently
  clean the ear and then let the dog shake.

 Nose - Stenotic Nares

  These dogs snore because of excess flesh. If the dog is unable to pass
  air with ease, surgery to altar the folds of the nostril may be
  necessary. An "elongated soft palate" is likely to be the cause of
  "respiratory distress."

 Carpal Laxity

  This is a weakness is the carpal ligaments which causes instability
  and bowing forward in young puppies. Decrease the protein level and
  exercise on a non-slippery surface. In severe cases soft wraps will be
  in order.

 Patellar Luxation

  Is where the knee cap slips out of its socket. Any Shar-Pei with this
  condition should not be bred.

 Hip Dysplasia

  A dysplastic dog has an abnormal hip joint where the femur and
  acetabulum are misaligned. This can range in severity from mild
  (controllable) pain to dogs in such agony they must be put down. Make
  sure the parents of any puppy you consider has been cleared of Hip
  Dysplasia through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals.

 Regurgitation/Vomiting

  "Megaesophagus and or diaphramatic hernias may not be detected until
  the dog is much older when they will appear underweight or emaciated
  with a history of vomiting. This is a developmental defect possibly a
  delayed maturation of the esophageal nueromuscular system. Mild cases
  in young dogs can improve with careful feeding." Feeding the dog by
  elevating the food in such a way as to raise the dog's front end.
  Putting food bowls on a stair or two and then allowing them some time
  to digest in the same position may help.

 Cutaneous Mucinosis

  "Mucin is the substance in the Shar-Pei skin that causes all the
  wrinkling. It is clear and stringy and acts like glue in fight
  wounds." Some Shar-Pei have an excess of Mucin causing it to form
  clear bubbles on the skin that may rupture and ooze. May be associated
  with possible allergies and can be treated by a alternate day steroid
  therapy.

 Torsion/Bloat

  Being one of many deep chested breeds, bloat can occur in Shar-Pei.
  Can also be caused by the way you roll your dog. Although similar to
  colic in horses, "bloat and torsion occur when the stomach swells with
  gas and then twists and cuts off its blood supply. Without timely
  surgical intervention the condition is fatal". The dog must see a
  veterinarian as soon as possible.

 Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Disease

  Often complicated by food allergies and or Chronic stress diarrhea.
  Usually responds to a strict hypoallergenic diet.

 Allergies

  Some Shar-Pei can be susceptible to allergies caused by food, grass,
  plants (indoor and outdoor), flea bite dermatitis an allergy based
  condition where the dog develops an itchy rash in reaction to flea
  saliva after being bitten. Try to keep the dog's living quarters and
  play area as flea free as possible. Other allergies are "Inhalant
  allergies" that causes the dog to lick his/her paws, scratch, and rub
  its muzzle. "Eliminating the allergy's cause, using the correct type
  of shampoo and administering antihistamines or cortisone are common
  forms of treatment". Always consult a Shar-Pei knowledgeable
  veterinarian for proper treatment and care. "In addition some breeders
  believe the Shar-Pei has a weakened immune system that makes it more
  susceptible e to and less able to recover from airborne viruses such
  as parvo. This condition makes timely inoculation especially
  important".

 Cancer

  "In regard to cancer, several forms have a high incidence in the
  breed. At present, the CSPCA is surveying club members to determine
  which are most prevalent. Once isolated, the organization's Charitable
  Trust plans to fund relevant cancer research".
    _________________________________________________________________

Diet

  Food allergies may cause skin and stomach diseases. This breed should
  have a well balanced, preservative free diet and one that is low in
  protein, approximately "(16-21%)." Some alternatives to rawhide and
  store bought treats are raw or cooked veggies when ever you are
  steaming some up for yourself, nothing from the cabbage family or
  onions, and most fruits such as bananas, apricots, apples, etc. are
  also healthy alternatives to store bought treats. No table scraps
  because we as humans tend to dress up our veggies with butter,
  margarine, salt, sugar, and/ or gravy. Anything with soya or beef,
  dyes, or chemical preservatives liked BHA, BHT, or Exthoxyquin should
  be avoided. Instead look for foods that are preserved with vitamins A,
  C, or E. A chemical-free food is often enough to make a huge
  difference in a dog's health.
    _________________________________________________________________

Grooming

  The Shar-Pei requires minimal maintenance. Brushing with a good
  bristle brush every other day keeps its unique coat in excellent
  condition. Bathing may occur occasionally using warm water and a good
  shampoo recommended by a vet. Contrary to popular belief the Shar-Pei
  do not need to be bathed every week. This constant bathing will make
  the skin dry (increase itching) and cause the coat to look dull. By
  doing this you will wash all of the dog's natural oils away. Only bath
  the dog if he/ she smells with a vet recommend shampoo for general
  bathing needs. The nails of a Shar-Pei grow fast so frequent clipping
  is in order. Always touch your puppy's paws and the puppy all over to
  get them used to grooming. Because the Shar-Pei have tiny ears
  frequent cleaning is a must. Usually once every week or every two
  weeks depending on the individual dog. Use cotton swabs or make-up
  pads (cotton ones) with an ear solution from your vet. Do not use
  Q-tips as it may push the waxy build-up further down the ear canal.
  After you have cleaned the ears let them shake and then later clean
  the excess. The ears, eyes, and the whole body in general should be
  inspected frequently to have a happy, healthy Shar-Pei.
    _________________________________________________________________

Puppy Buyer's Guidelines

  These are just a few suggestions a new prospective owner of a Shar-Pei
  puppy should be aware of and consider when looking for a new puppy:

  * Puppies should at least be 8 weeks of age before going to a new
  home. A puppy needs adequate time with his/ her littermates and mother
  for proper socialization to begin.

  * Buyers should see both parents. "Although it's normal for a Shar-Pei
  to behave in a standoffish manner when in the presence of strangers,
  neither the sire nor the dam ( nor puppies) should behave in a shy or
  aggressive manner.

  * Buyers should look for a puppy that is confident not shy, aggressive
  or fearful.

  * Health should be of the utmost importance for a new prospective
  owner. No discharge from the eyes or nose, distended or potbellied
  abdomen, dull coat, and no lethargic behavior.

  * Check with the kennel club in your area if you are not sure about
  what papers you are entitled to, but you should not be asked to pay
  extra for the registration papers of your new puppy. Papers included
  in the purchasing g price of your pup are a signed pedigree, copies of
  the contract of sale and health guarantee, a complete health record
  that includes the dates of worming and a veterinarian's certificate
  proving inoculation. "The breeder also should provide written proof he
  or she will take the puppy back within a limited period of time if it
  is found to be ill or suffering from some defect. Dogs should be
  examined by a veterinarian within 48 hours of the sale. Pet quality
  dogs should be sold with a spay/ neuter contract or limited (i.e.
  non-breeding) registration".

  * The price of a pet quality Shar-Pei, and again it depends on where
  you live, should be between "$300-$500" in the United States and in
  Canada $600-$800. Show quality starts at $1000 and escalates from
  there.
    _________________________________________________________________

Shar-Pei Vet List

  This is a list of Shar-Pei knowledgeable vets throughout North
  America, overseas and abroad, compiled by the CHIS-L list members
  (Chinese Shar-Pei mailing list). It can be found at:

  http:/ /www.geocities.com/heartland/meadows/3520/ge00006.htm.

  You can also try this web URL for the vet list maintained by the
  Shar-Pei Breeders & Lovers Network.

  http://www.miniweb.net/dogs/webring/vets.htm
    _________________________________________________________________

Shar-Pei Mailing List

  This is the website for eGroups. At this link you will find a list of
  email groups geared to Chinese Shar-Pei fanciers.

  http://www.egroups.com/search?query=shar-pei
    _________________________________________________________________

Breeders

  Contact your local kennel club or the parent clubs listed below for a
  list of breeders in your area.
    _________________________________________________________________

Clubs

  The American Kennel Club
         5580 Centerview Drive,
         Raleigh, NC 27606.
         Publication: American Kennel Gazette

  The Canadian Kennel Club
         100-89 Skyway Avenue,
         Etobicoke, Ont.
         M9W 6R4.
         Publication: Dogs in Canada

  Chinese Shar-Pei Club of America
         Vicki Mauk
         8075 Clouse Rd
         New Albany, OH 43054-9716
         [email protected]
         Publication: The Barker

  Chinese Shar-Pei Club of Canada
         Donna Patrick
         (613)-472-0531
         [email protected]
         Publication: The Wrinkle Gram

  Shar-Pei Club of Victoria Inc.

                 Katie Holson
                 P.O. Box 392
                 Box Hill
                 Victoria, Australia, 3128

         National Shar-Pei Club of Russia

                 Tatiana Chigova
                 Moscow
                 (095) 383-2349

  Shar-Pei Club of Great Britain

                 Mick Cooper
                         Amberley,
                         449 Chester Road North,
                         Kidderminster, Worcestershire.
                         DY10 1TW
                         [email protected]

                 Publication: The Wrinkle
               The Shar-Pei Club of Sweden
                         Elisabeth K�m�ves
                         Alings�sv 248
                         504 75 BOR�S
                         [email protected]
               The Shar-Pei Club of France
                         Xavier LEROY
                        12 Grand'Rue,
                        62760 Thi�vres
                        [email protected]
               German Shar-Pei Club

                [email protected]

  Alberta Shar-Pei Association
         Secretary
         Acting Secretary
         Cheryl Alfolder
         25 Valley Cres.
         Lacombe, AB T4L1R9
         (780)782-6875
    _________________________________________________________________

Rescue

  CANADA
  CSPCC Rescue
  Please visit the CSPCC Official Rescue Web Site at
         http://www.geocities.com/ Pet sburgh/8304/

  UNITED STATES

  CSPCA Rescue

  Please visit the CSPCA Official Website at
  http://www.cspca.com/rescue.htm

  Rescue throughout the United States

  Companion Animal Rescue Effort
         Sara Rogers, San Jose, CA
         [email protected]

  Shar-Pei Rescue of Nashville, Tennesse
            Wendy Cook
         Nashville, TN.

                 [email protected]

  Seattle Purebred Dog Rescue
         P.O.Box 3523
         Redmond WA 98073
         (206) 654-1117


  Dominion Shar-Pei Rescue Club,
         Virginia Beach, VA
         Vicky Goldrich


  SE. Michigan, USA
         Amy Cox (313) 697-1137


  Lancaster, PA., USA
         Operation Scarlet
         Deb Sylvia, (717) 898-8049
         Dawn Hertzog, (717) 397-6362
         [email protected]

           [email protected]


  Northern Virginia, USA
         Sharyl Mayhew (703) 754-0158 (leave message)
         [email protected]


  Chicago, Illinois, USA
         "RASP", Rescue A Shar-Pei
         Deborah J. Cooper, (708) 848-2226
         [email protected]
         The Mid-Atlantic Chinese Shar-Pei Rescue Operation
         Rescue for abused and abandoned Shar-Pei.
         Please contact:
         Joyce Hanes for more information at:
         Phone (301) 881-1221.
         or
         Mrs. Barbara Sellers at (703) 221-5327
         You can also send email to: [email protected]


  Other rescue links:
         http://www.cheta.net/connect/canine/rescue/chinshar.htm

  For a rescue closer to you contact the Shar-Pei club in your area or
  your local kennel club.
    _________________________________________________________________

Suggested Readings

    * Chinese Shar-Pei, The - Debo.
    * Chinese Shar-Pei, World of The - Nicholas.
    * Shar-Pei, Book of The - Brearley.
    * Chinese Shar-Pei, Understanding The - Redditt.
    * Chinese Shar-Pei, An Owner's Guide to a Happy Healthy Pet -
      Redditt.
    * Puppy Book, The Chinese Shar-Pei - Redditt.
    _________________________________________________________________

References

  References used for this FAQ include:
  Nicholas, Anna Katherine. Chinese Shar-Pei. New Jersey: T.F.H.
      Publications. 1990.
      Paulus, Elly. "China Dog." Dog Fancy. Jan. 1995: 44-45.
      Pflaumer, Sharon. "China's Wrinkled Wonder." Dog World. Mar. 1998:
      14-19.
      Weathers Debo, Ellen. The Chinese Shar-Pei. New Jersey: T.F.H.
      Publications. 1986.
      Tintle, Linda DR. DVM. "Familial Shar-Pei Fever, Swollen Hock
      Syndrome and Familial Amyloidosis of Chinese Shar-Pei Dogs: a
      recently described syndrome of dysregulation." The Barker.
      July/Aug. 1994.
      Tintle, Linda DR. DVM. "Chinese Shar-Pei a Guide for The
      Veterinarian ." March. 1994
      American Kennel Club Inc. The Complete Dog Book. 18th ed. New
      York: Howell, 1992.
    _________________________________________________________________


   Chinese Shar-Pei FAQ

  Heidi Merkli, [email protected]
  Have you hugged your Shar-Pei today?