Been There, Done That – Whimsy & Wisdom from Dog Shows

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146 – June, 2022

By Elaine J. Lessig

“Who knows where the roads will lead us? Only a fool would say.”

Frank Sinatra, the crooner of crooners, got it right. We don’t know. This past month took me to some of the most genuine places I have been in a long, long time. The sweet, kind, gentle county fairgrounds shows are disappearing quickly. I can remember pulling onto the wet, green grass to park and unload early on warm summer mornings. If I got there early enough, I could watch the fog drifting off the grounds. I would sit in my car and watch the show come to life in front of me. The vendors setting up the booths, exhibitors bringing equipment to their grooming spaces, and club members putting colorful tablecloths on the ring tables are just a few of the memories of those special days. It had the feeling of watching the sun rise to open the curtains on the soon to come hustle-bustle of the dog show.

South County Kennel Club

The sight of sun-filled outdoor rings with assorted pop-ups provided the first impression of South County Kennel Club on the Washington County Fairgrounds in Richmond, Rhode Island. There, standing at the gates of the show was Tony Raposo, show chair, to welcome the judges and exhibitors. It was the start of good things to come.

Judges’ Reactions:

Who knew? Homemade bakery goods (memorable blueberry scones), yogurt parfaits at breakfast, lunch made to order from the food trucks, more snacks, Whoopee Pies, Ring Dings, and Devil Dogs were all available for us. What was there not to like? At lunch we marveled at the exhibitors who were enjoying themselves as much as we did. The shop talk got replaced by fun stories, personal memories, and taking time and interest in one another.

Exhibitors’ Reactions:

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146 – June, 2022

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