Leonberger canines make for strong service pets
L.J. GAMBONE
APPLE VALLEY REVIEW
After years of service to the United States in both the Navy and Naval Reserves, Apple Valley resident Carl Barnum Jr. admits he’s a little worse for the wear. During his military career, the disabled veteran said he completed dozens of parachuting jumps, which damaged his knees beyond repair.
But something good came out of all that physical pain and suffering. Out of sheer necessity for a service dog to help him get around, Barnum found new purpose in raising and training a rare German canine breed known as the Leonberger. For the past 16 years, he has worked with several of these dogs, which he says epitomize the phrase “man’s best friend.”
“Leonbergers have such sweet dispositions,” said Barnum. “They love all people and all dogs and also are very affectionate. They’re pretty amazing creatures.”
Barnum moved to Apple Valley in 1979 after completing four years of active duty in the Navy. He went on to serve in the Naval Reserves and retired with a Chief Petty Officer rank in 1993.
By that point, Barnum’s knees were shot so he went in search of a dog he could lean on when performing certain movements, such as stepping on or off a curb. After many months of research, he decided on the Leonberger, which has a reputation for being a reliable service animal.
“My research entailed going to a lot of rare breed dog shows and also reading a lot of books,” said Barnum. “I finally decided that the Leonberger was the dog for me. Not only do they have all the physical characteristics I prefer but they also have the strength to support my weight, which is very important.”
Leonbergers, which weigh around 160 pounds at maturity, originate from Leonberg in Baden-Württemberg, Germany with roots dating to the 1800s. These good-natured creatures are muscular and powerful, yet light on their feet. Their most prominent feature is a lion-like mane around the neck and chest.
With proper training and socialization, Leonbergers become vigilant and loyal companions, Barnum said.
“Besides being great service dogs, my Leonbergers are the most wonderful pets,” Barnum said.
Along with raising Leonbergers for service purposes, Barnum also trains his furry friends to compete in dog shows. His beloved Yuhar, who sadly passed away this month during surgery for an intestinal blockage, completed his American Kennel Club Grand Championship Title in 2014 and also was ranked third in the nation among his breed.
Additionally, Yuhar earned a Canine Good Citizen title from the AKC, as well as championship titles from the International All Breed Canine Association and the United Kennel Club. He also earned an invitation to compete in the Westminister Dog Show this month, although Barnum admits Yuhar wasn’t quite ready for that.
He said he is deeply grieved by the loss of his faithful and beautiful “son.” However, the memories of Yuhar’s unconditional love and fierce loyalty will continue to be a constant source of strength and encouragement.
“The reality of this loss hasn’t set in yet,” said Barnum. “Yuhar’s presence filled my home with harmony and happiness. In our AKC campaign across the country last year, Yuhar met all of the other Leonberger owners and their dogs and everyone fell in love with him too.
“My friends called earlier from the Westminster Dog Show and said that they’ll be wearing black arm bands in his memory at the show.”
Visit www.facebook.com/yuhar.vomkaniberg for more information and photos.