Table Talk · September 4, 2019
I am a huge fan of the live streaming of dog show judging on social media; if it is done responsibly. It is a terrific educational tool not only for “spectators” (and by spectator I mean an individual who is not otherwise involved in the sport) but for fanciers as well. Live streaming enables breeders to see dogs that they have bred that they may not otherwise be able to see the show. Novice handlers can watch the competition to learn various methods of presenting different breeds. Handlers themselves can watch playback of the actual judging to improve their own handling skills. And of course, it is terrific spectator outreach. Spectators can watch a somewhat “backstage” view, up close and a bit more personal.
Live streaming has to be taken seriously by the person streaming it because, well… IT IS LIVE! If a dog starts to misbehave and requires correction, or any type of altercation ensues, the streaming should stop immediately. The person live streaming should pay close attention at all times to avoid any negative situations being broadcast live on social media. Remember, live streaming also has audio! If negative comments are being made in the proximity of the streaming device, either ask the person to be quiet or stop streaming. No phone or camera should ever be left unattended while streaming an event. There is no way to control what is being broadcast and it is not fair to the dogs, or their owners and handlers, or the sport in general to broadcast something that can be construed as cruelty by those who do not understand our sport. If a show chairman sees an unattended phone or camera streaming, they may ask that it be shut off. Use common sense and show the best side of our dogs and our sport!
The discussion of live streaming brought to mind another thought about the perception of the sport of purebred dogs.
As long-time fanciers, some of our habits or techniques may appear strange to a spectator. An innocent practice such as walking a setter by the ear, walking a poodle by the ear or the chin, lifting a terrier by the tail, or even pulling coat on a terrier when grooming it, can make it appear that the handler is mean or the dog is uncomfortable. In reality, we are doing what our dogs are used having done to them, and these techniques and practices have purpose. There is nothing mean about what is being done and the dogs are not being hurt. Unfortunately, it is the perception of the spectators, and worse yet, the animal activists, that don’t know about the accepted practices. As fanciers, we should remain aware of those around us, and act accordingly to ensure the sport is viewed in a positive light.
The fancy is mourning the loss of several dear friends this week:
Jean Fournier has passed away. A long-time fancier, revered Siberian Husky breeder, and AKC judge, Jean was loved by all and will be sorely missed. We’ll all remember Jean’s presence in the ring. She always looked her best and her kind demeanor mirrored her exterior beauty.
Marie Somershoe also passed away this past week. Known for her hats and her outstanding Great Danes, Marie was always a kind, bright light at the shows. There is no doubt that she will be missed by anyone that had the good fortune to know her.
John Connolly passed away. A long-time Boxer fancier and AKC judge, John was a kind soul who was always a pleasure to show dogs to and a pleasure to talk to outside the ring as well.
The fancy was lucky to have all of these folks as part of our family and they will all be missed.
I am happy to report that Jennifer Harper has completed her final chemotherapy treatment. Congratulations, Jen! On to brighter days ahead! We are all pulling for you!
Dalmatian fancier and handler John Benoit continues his chemotherapy treatment. Kris reports that John is a really tough guy and is fighting the good fight. We look forward to seeing you back soon, my friend! Kudos to Danielle Frykman who is pinch-hitting for John and doing a spectacular job!
Many of our friends are bracing for Hurricane Dorian. Our thoughts are with all of you who may be impacted by this terrible storm.
We wish a Happy Anniversary to Tim and Megan Terella. May you two lovebirds have many more happy, healthy years together.
Celebrating birthdays this week are: Betty Leininger, Bobby Fisher, Eddie Dziuk, Beep Lee, Brianne Major, Kim Calvacca, Bonny Datema, and Lisa Thomas.
As summer comes to a close, some of us in the Midwest and East Coast will be transitioning from outdoor shows to indoor shows, which means we have to adjust to cement or hard surface floors from grass. I don’t know about you, but this transition has always been a challenge for me.
Be safe out there my friends. Be kind to one another, and remember: The workers at the shows are volunteers and the judges are human! Until next time…
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