This Site Chosen By Microsoft As THE Afghan Web Link for Encarta Saluki Gazelle Hound Database and Breed Information Exchange

SALUKI (GAZELLE HOUND) BREED NOTES

Saluki Breed Notes 18/11/96

John Hudson, Saluki Club PRO has sent the following: "I expect you will already heard that Vera Watkins has died. She passed away on October 3rd and the funeral will be on Wednesday 16th October at Netherbury church in Dorset at 2.30 p.m. It is suggested that there should be no flowers but people may make donations instead to the Saluki Welfare Fund."

Vera H Watkins was a member of the Saluki establishment for so many years. As it was with her friend, Helen Baker, we the Saluki fraternity, are lessened by her passing. Vera herself told us the story of her being allocated to Salukis, as the breed most suited to her, by her fellow officers, during an after dinner discussion in 1943. Two years later Zahara Zulieka was acquired and a lifetime of allegiance to the breed followed. It would not be right to discuss age but to say that Vera graduated from Oxford University in 1926 gives one an indication of her years, her intellect and her character, having become a successful woman in the commercial world at a time when circumstances precluded such occurences. The list of Windswift champions and important foundation stock is a large one. The 'Saluki Companion of Kings' was a book written by Vera and became a vital item to be collected by all Saluki devotees. My memory is of a person with much personality and grit. People like Vera Watkins are rare and we must cherish her memory.

An exhibition of the art of Giacometti will be held at the Royal Academy of Art, in Piccadilly,London, from the 8th October. His famous bronzes include that named 'Dog, 20th Century'which is recognisable as a Saluki walking.

The 1997 Saluki Calendar is now available. It will cost 6.00 Pounds inclusive of postage. It has been beautifully produced by Ken Allan. Copies will be for sale at the SGHC Championship show on the 19th October at the Sports Connection or contact Helen Williams on 01635 268269.

Michael Williams (101547.503@compuserve.com)

GoTo SALUKI HOMEPAGE