Table Talk · August 2, 2023
Nothing is more encouraging to me than a judge who is already approved for a breed that asks for a refresher from a breed expert! As I have stated in the past, in my humble opinion, the best dog people are those that always feel they have something to learn. No matter how many years we have been involved in the sport–in our respective breed or judging–all of us can learn something. That something may be very simple such as an update to a breed standard, or it may be more in-depth like trying to learn a new breed we know nothing about. The fact remains there is always something to learn. To better ourselves, we all must recognize that we do not know it all! To me, the biggest turn-off is arrogance and believing one knows everything there is to know. We can all improve. We can improve our evaluation of dogs if we are judging; we can improve conditioning and presentation if we are exhibiting. And we must all continue to improve the quality and health of our dogs through our breeding programs. If someone asks for your help, please take the time to help them or kindly direct them to someone who can.
If you see a new exhibitor struggling to present their dog, offer a helping hand. You will have a friend for life! If you see someone struggling with a dog that is not good enough quality to succeed in the ring, feel the person out and determine if they would be open to help. Delivery is very important! You will either encourage that person to come to more shows, or you will scare them away forever.
The heroes in our sport are those who take the time to increase their knowledge, ask questions, and listen, regardless of their history in the sport.
I recently read an article by the late Dr. Bob G. Smith who talks about his judging being nothing personal. He stated that he only recognized who is at the end of the lead for the person that is first in line–to manage his entry. Even then, he really paid attention to something they were wearing to manage his entry. He specifically stated that he didn’t care what his exhibitors wore, who they were, or even how they handled their exhibit. He was focused on how the dogs in his ring measure up to the standard!!!! How refreshing! There are a great many exhibitors who are looking for reasons their dog lost, and it seems none of which have to do with the dog. We must remain focused on what we have at the end of our lead. If, you do not believe the judge you are showing to has the same mindset as Dr. Smith, perhaps you should reconsider showing to that person.
I heard great news! Jackie and Terry Stacy will be back judging beginning with the IKC shows in August. We all look forward to having you back center ring!
Congratulations to Heidi Hartman on grandbaby #3! Enjoy spoiling little Scarlett Monroe, your first granddaughter! Here’s to many tutus, tiaras, ballet classes and tap shoes. Enjoy!
As the summer temperatures continue to soar, I have a message to those attending outdoor dog shows. Do not give your dog ice cubes if they are hot! This shock to their system can cause serious complications including bloat and other dangerous, life-threatening situations. If you have not had the chance, check out the Table Talk Live! segment about heat stroke on our Facebook page and website. You will find a lot of helpful information in that segment.
By now many of you have booked your hotel rooms for the 148th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show to be held May 11-14 at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center for the second year in a row. If you have not booked your room, I strongly suggest doing so. Rooms at the Marriott LaGuardia at the WKC rate sold out within an hour! Hotel listings can be found on the Westminster Kennel Club website at www.westminsterkennelclub.org. You can check Westminster’s website or the Canine Chronicle website (www.caninechronicle.com) for a schedule of events.
Happy Anniversary to David and Jennifer Harper! Best wishes for many more healthy, happy, successful years ahead!
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week include Wayne Cavanaugh, Glen Lajeski, Roz Kramer, Lisa Bettis, Cole Vanover, Greg Myers, Dale Kaplan, Devon Kipp Levy, Galyna Maier, Shane Hooper, Brian Almojera, Taffe McFadden, Karen Coffey, Becky Arch, and Edu Artero. Remember this my friends – you are not getting older you are getting BETTER!!!! Enjoy your special day.
Please remember this: Never say, “That’s Not My Job”. That oozes arrogance and laziness. Chip in to help with what needs to be done, even it’s not your responsibility. Do what needs to be done or help someone find the solution. EVEN WHEN NOBODY’S WATCHING!!!
Be safe out there, my friends. If your travels take you to the Canfield shows this week, please stop by the Purina Booth and say Hi! Until next time…
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