Table Talk · November 1, 2023
The American Kennel Club recently changed the rules applying to sweepstakes classes at specialties. Previously, classes were allowed for dogs up to 18 months of age. The rule has been revised to allow dogs up to 24 months of age to show, but the club continues to have the right to dictate what classes will be held, if champions are allowed, and if handlers are allowed to exhibit dogs that are not owned by them.
There has been ongoing discussion among the fancy regarding whether champions of record should be shown in sweepstakes, and if handlers should be allowed to show dogs in it. If you have strong feelings one way or the other, you should communicate directly with your parent club as they have decision making authority regarding sweepstakes at their specialties.
AKC Executive Field Representative Mary Dukes will be retiring at the end of the year. The AKC is currently recruiting to fill her position. Trying to fill Mary’s shoes will most certainly be a challenge. Best wishes on the next chapter in your life, Mary!
Anyone who has had the pleasure of attending a dog show where Rhanda Glenn and Marietta Singleton were in attendance knows not only the strong bond and friendship these girls enjoy, but the FUN that comes with it! I was so excited to see that Rhanda and Marietta have been re-united for a visit! With Rhanda’s retirement from full-time handling, the girls do not have the opportunity to see each other nearly enough. Oh, to be a fly on the wall at THAT reunion!!!
Terri Erickson recently traveled to the Siberian Husky National Specialty in Southern California to judge their sweepstakes. Congratulations on a great assignment, Terri!
Jason Hoke has returned from a judging assignment in Costa Rica where he was also able to have a bit of fun and sightseeing. There’s no rest for Jason, thought, as he will turn around and travel to New Mexico for the upcoming Great Dane National Specialty.
Kristyn and David Stout are enjoying a well-deserved vacation on a 10-day cruise of Greece! Thanks to Grandma Linda, the couple is enjoying some mommy and daddy time. Safe travels, my friends!
Have you ever wondered how to get an amazing candid ring shot photo of your dog? In addition to having a great photographer with great timing, the following tips should be considered when you have either retained a ringside photographer or notice one “shooting” your ring:
- If your down and back is messy, ask for a “re-do”. A lot of your best movement happens on the second try.
- Give the photographer the opportunity to take pictures of your dog during cute/funny/sweet moments. Photographers are there to capture your relationship with your dog.
- Do not be afraid to play with your dog when it is not your turn. The judge cannot see you if they are not looking at you!
- Drop your lead below the dog’s head or move it to the other side of the face when you see a photographer. That is where the best headshots come from, and photographers prefer not to have the lead in the dog’s face.
- Be sure to have fun!
Armando Angelbello is spending a bit more time than normal at home because of being a bit under the weather. I hear Armando is healing from shingles and sciatica. That sounds like a miserable combination! Feel better soon, Armando. We will see you running left-handed circles again very soon, I am sure!
Congratulations to Brianne Major who said ‘I do’ to Jesse Weber this past weekend in Texas. May the two of you enjoy a long life of love, success, health, and happiness!!
We have many Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week. They are: Linda Clark, Susan Olsen, Anna Gracie, Kathy Bilicich-Garcia, Katherine Smoot, Domino Parker, Brenda Weiss, Peggy Browne, Esteban Farias, Alfonso Escobedo, Jerry Klein, Alberto Montila, Becca Pentecost, David Williams, Christian Manelopoulos, Hal Bierman, Dasha Mlinarich and Ernesto Lara. Here’s to a great trip around the sun for one and all!
This week’s thought: Those who judge will never understand, and those who understand will never judge! – (Credit: Wilson Kanadi)
Wherever your journey takes you this week, please be careful, and please be kind! I look forward to seeing those of you who will be attending the Old Fort Cluster in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Please be sure to stop by the Purina Booth and say Hi!
Until next time…
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