Table Talk · July 6, 2022
In 1878 nine original charter breeds of the American Kennel Club were recognized. They were the Pointer, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Clumber Spaniel, Cocker Spaniel, Sussex Spaniel, Irish Water Spaniel, Irish Setter, English Setter and Gordon Setter. In September 1884, the first meeting of the American Kennel Club was held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In 1887, the AKC opened its first office on Broadway in New York City. It was a 15×20 foot room. Fast-forward almost 138 years. The AKC recognized its 200th breed, the Bracco Italiano and earlier this year they recognized the 198th and 199th breeds–the Mudi and the Russian Toy. More breeds mean bigger groups, and bigger groups mean dog shows take longer. Some might say that’s acceptable. Others, present company included, feel that there needs to be a limit to what we ask humans and canines to endure in one day.
While I have not heard the official word, I have heard rumblings that the group re-alignment proposal discussed by the board in 2010 is being dusted off and discussed once again. Would this be happening because there are now potentially 200 breeds to be judged in a day and the size of some groups is becoming unruly? I will be sure to keep you posted about this topic as more news becomes available. In my humble opinion, we need to do something creative to prevent exhibitors leaving a dog show at 10 PM while being expected to be back before 6 AM to care for their dogs and do it all over again! Does realigning the groups address this situation? I doubt it.
At the September AKC Delegates meeting, voting on the modification to the rules governing dog shows will take place. This rule change will allow class animals who obtain a Group 2, 3 or 4 to be awarded the maximum championship points available in that group excluding any placement higher in the group. Currently, this is allowed for Group 1 placements only. I think this is a positive move–especially for those low entry breeds that in many cases, have had to finish their championship by winning a Group from the classes.
A big thank you and congratulations to the Golden Retriever Club of America for their response to a disgruntled “doodle” breeder who took exception to their position on crossbreeding golden retrievers and poodles. Hopefully, the education provided will help educate the individual who believed two years of research was sufficient to start a “cross” breeding program! One can only hope… I have shared the doodle breeder’s letter and GRCA’s response on my Facebook page. It’s priceless!
After four terrific years as Janice Hayes’ right-hand, KayCee Klang has gone off on her own. Janice Hayes and Eric Ciceron are now empty nesters, and KayCee, who is relocating to Glendora, California, will start her solo handling career. Congratulations KayCee! I am sure that you will make us all proud, especially Janice and Eric!
After a two-year hiatus due to COVID, the Del Monte Kennel Club dog shows that are held in beautiful Carmel, CA are back, and their entry is even up a bit! Welcome back my friends, and all the best for a great 2022 show!!
At last, the honeymoon period is over for friends, Maddie and Adam Peterson, who are expecting baby Peterson in January of 2023!!!! Congratulations to you both!
It is with great sadness that I share the passing of Irish Terrier fancier David Salcido’s father who was just shy of his 93rd birthday. We are thinking of you and your family at this most difficult time, my friend.
Congratulations to lovebirds Emily Thiel and Ryan Kubisiak on your joyous day! May the two of you enjoy many happy, healthy years of wedded bliss.
Several fanciers are celebrating birthdays this week, starting off with a very special Happy 86th Birthday to Michael Kemp! Others celebrating this week are: Clay Coady, Sylvia Jones (proud momma to Vicki Seiler-Cushman), Heidi Gervais, Rod Ott, Christian Rutten, Laura King, Ron Spritzer, Tom Pincus, Jaimie Larkman and Jim Augustus. Enjoy your special day, my friends!
This week I have a lesson to share:
I learned a lesson not too long ago when I took my dog to an all-breed show. As I watched him standing in the ring, I overheard a comment which hurt me deeply. It was then I realized there in a trice, don’t say anything that isn’t nice. Each dog may have his faults in your opinion. You may not like his color, movement, or size, but to the person who loves him he’s the most perfect thing. That is why they are showing their dog in the ring! We’d all like to win, but there aren’t many blues; the judge may not give one to your dog and you. So, remember that each dog is a winner in his own master’s heart. So please don’t stand there and pick their dog apart! …Anon.
Pace yourselves, my friends! Summer shows can be a challenge! Be safe, and PLEASE! Be kind! I’ll see you soon down the road! Until next time…
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