Table Talk · July 14, 2021
There is no doubt that social media has done great things for communication amongst those in the sport of purebred dogs. Like any resource, Facebook groups can be a great resource to find breeders, handlers, assistants, dog sitters, etc., but references should always be checked beyond what you read on that Facebook group. I see people asking for referrals all the time, and I also see people posting availability. I think it is our responsibility, as seasoned fanciers, to caution those less experienced to do their homework regardless of where they have found their contact. Just because an individual makes a post on a handlers chat group does not make them a reputable handler who knows and is willing to do what it takes to care for dogs. Just because someone posts a litter on a breeder’s chat group does not make them a reputable breeder who has done health checks, raised their puppies in a responsible manner, etc. Just because an individual is listed on Rover.com does not make them knowledgeable about animals. It does not mean they have the best interests of pets as their top priority or that they possess the knowledge to care for them properly. “Pet people” (and I would like to add that I proudly consider myself a “pet person”) need us to educate them and encourage them to do their homework before trusting someone with their family member. Of course, checking references on breeders is equally as critical.
This year’s Oklahoma/Texas March has not disappointed thus far! There has been a great deal of celebration, and the shows have also given exhibitors the opportunity to band together to remember some key members of our sport who are no longer with us. Jon Cole’s 50 years of AKC judging were celebrated at the Oklahoma shows. Jon’s close family and friends attended to celebrate his judging career. Congratulations on 50 wonderful years, Jon!! We know there are many more to come!
It was very difficult for the volunteers at the Dallas cluster this year. This was the first year without AKC Executive Field Representative Sue Vroom and club member Don Sutton. A lovely memorial was held for both. Sue and Don’s families were present to give memorials for two members of our dog show family who are missed greatly. Kudos to everyone involved for a lovely remembrance of our dear friends.
The Dallas shows also marked the end of Jeff Wright’s professional handling career. Friends gathered to celebrate Jeff’s new job and his accomplishments as a handler. He will begin his new job as an AKC Executive Field Representative covering the area previously handled by Gina Wieser. Best wishes on the next chapter of your life, Jeff!!
It is great to see that Bobby Paust has ventured out with Lori and is attending shows again. Bobby made the trip with her to Oklahoma, then Dallas. I look forward to seeing him in Houston in a couple of weeks! Keep up the great work, Bobby! The fancy is thrilled to have you back!! Lori and Bobby will be relocating from California to Oklahoma in the near future.
The heat was a concern to those planning to attend the Sacramento Kennel Club shows and specialties this past weekend in Lodi, California. The volunteers who put on these shows, rescheduled this year from their regular April dates, were faced with record temperatures. They all worked very hard to make exhibitors and dogs as safe and comfortable as possible. Buildings were used as cooling centers and golf carts were used to transport exhibitors and their dogs around the show grounds. The club purchased 3,000 pounds of ice and 200 cases of water to have available to exhibitors and judges. Kudos to all involved for your hard work in making the show safe!
The AKC is looking for clubs in and around the Connecticut area to participate in a “mini” Meet The Breeds event co-sponsored by ESPN on August 24th The event will be taped and aired on ESPN shortly thereafter. Clubs interested in assisting should reach out to sara.crisman@akc.org. This is another terrific outreach opportunity for our sport!
Tristen Lawrence is healing from a recent ankle surgery. Her dogs are in the capable hands of Jody Garcini until she can return to the ring. You will be back before you know it, Tristen! Take care of yourself and heal quickly!
Our most sincere sympathies go out to Lynda Beam who lost her mother last week. Sadly, Tony Carter also lost his father this past week. Our thoughts are with you at this most difficult time.
Jimmy Rush, a long-time member of the Site Control team who most recently worked with Nina Fetter at Executive Dog Shows, passed away suddenly this past week. Our thoughts are with Nina and Jimmy’s family and friends at this most difficult time. He will be missed by all.
Happy Anniversary to Andrea and Jack McIlwaine. May the two of you enjoy many more adventures in the coming years.
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week are: Linda Rowell, Danny Smith, Arlene Davis, Jim Ham, Shari Lee, Terri Erickson, Paula Nykiel, Mari-Beth O’Neill, Tammy Bohlke, Paul Clas and Barbara LaVere. Eat, drink and be merry my friends! Enjoy your special day.
To those attending week three of the march in Texas: Don’t forget to pace yourselves! I look forward to seeing you all on the other end in Houston!
My thought for this week are: “Do good and they will talk. Do bad and they will talk. Do you and let them talk!!!!” Be safe my friends. May there be lots of beautiful puppies and ribbons in your future. Until next time….
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