Table Talk · October 16, 2024
This past week over 1,100 Golden Retrievers descended upon the Big E in Massachusetts for the Golden Retriever Club of America National Specialty. Fortunately for those of us who could not attend, the event had magnificent live streaming and social media coverage. As someone who is always interested in learning about breeds that I am less familiar with, I jumped at the chance to watch as much of the GRCA National Specialty as I could. I would like to give a shout-out to all who had a hand in providing such great coverage of the National.
For anyone who is interested in Chairing a National Specialty or being part of a National Specialty Committee, I encourage you to either attend or reach out to those who put on this show. What a well-oiled machine it is!!!!
A message junior handlers, aspiring owner/handlers, judges, exhibitors, etc.–watching coverage like the Golden Retriever National is a great way to learn! Not only can you learn about the breed, but you can learn about handling, how dogs should and should not be presented, examined, etc. Additionally, I was so impressed, class after class, at the amazing sportsmanship portrayed.
This, my friends, is one of the excellent ways social media can be used as a teaching/training tool!
Recently, Professional Handler Rebecca Cross posted a PSA I would like to share:
Public Service Announcement:
To Junior Handlers transitioning into Professional Handling careers: I strongly advise seeking mentorship from a reputable Professional Handler for at least two years, ideally in a live-in capacity. This immersion fosters essential skills for independent success. Parents of Juniors, please note that handling other people’s dogs demands expertise in animal husbandry and recognizing health issues, which typically requires extensive experience. In my opinion, 18-year-olds lack the necessary expertise without prior hands-on experience under a seasoned handler.
Critical considerations include liability insurance, reliable transportation, emergency veterinary access, and a comprehensive business plan. Real-world experience under guidance is paramount. This apprenticeship approach allows handlers to gain knowledge akin to collegiate education. Aspiring professionals must prioritize gaining expertise over rapid financial gain. It is crucial to understand that professional handling entails unwavering dedication to animal welfare, often taking over a decade to master. Urge novice handlers to seek mentorship before advertising services–and to prospective clients, thorough research is vital to ensure optimal handling experiences.
It is disheartening to see rates listed at a discount in order to gain experience. If you want it, you work for it, it is not given to you. Please do not gain experience and make mistakes at the expense of the animals. In the long run, it will not do you any good.
Agree to disagree, but too many accidents have happened in our sport – we do not need more!!
This is so well said, Rebecca! I personally know of horrific accidents that have happened because a “professional” who did not have sufficient training and experience jumped the gun. As owners we must take the responsibility to ensure we are sending our dog with an individual with sufficient training, resources, dedication, and experience.
One of the segments I am planning in Orlando this year to broadcast via Table Talk Live is to talk with seasoned, reputable professional handlers about THEIR training to help educate our future handlers. Please reach out to me at deb.cooper@caninechronicle.com if you are interested in participating in this important Table Talk Live subject.
While Hurricane Milton was not quite as severe as originally predicted, there was still extensive damage suffered by many. Several fanciers had to evacuate to ensure safety. Charlotte Patterson hosted John and Lloyd Constantine-Amodei and Sydney Good. They made a “party” out of it! I’m glad you guys stayed safe and had some quality time with friends in the process.
There are some exhibitors who were upset about not receiving refunds for their entry fees for shows cancelled due to the hurricane. We must remember when we enter shows that acts of God do NOT require clubs to issue refunds, and clubs suffer great expense when they cancel shows. From the cost of the venue, judge’s travel expenses, superintendent fees, etc., these costs add up and–depending on the size of a club’s treasury–show cancellations can literally put a club in jeopardy of going under. Please! Be kind and understanding when disasters such as hurricanes occur. No one wants to cancel a show.
Healing thoughts to Pam Bruce who had an unexpected visit to the hospital this past weekend. Feel better soon, Pam!
It is with great sadness that I pass on the news that Poodle legend Delbert Dahl passed away last weekend. Del was loved by all who knew him and greatly respected by the poodle fancy. He began his career in dogs as an assistant to Peggy Hogg. Rest in Peace, Del. The fancy will not be the same without you.
Happy trails to Kim and Angela Booth who are off on their annual African Safari! I look forward to seeing more phenomenal photographs!
Happy Anniversary to Rod Ott and Pilar Kuhn. Best wishes for many more happy, healthy years ahead!
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week include: Maureen McCreery, Justin Smithey, Tristen Lawrence, Kasey O’Brien, Jamie Hubbard, Lacy Bauer, Ray Filburn, Margaret Rucker, Stevie Wei, Brad Jenkins, and Nancy Hritzo Heimann. Cheers to another trip around the sun!
Remember this my friends: What you show, shows what you know!!!!
Be safe out there! If your travels take you to Del Valle this week stop by the Purina booth and say hi! Until next time…
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