Table Talk · March 2, 2022
The Canine Chronicle recently published an article written by a fancier about what they viewed as a situation of impropriety at the most recent AKC National Championship http://caninechronicle.com/?p=224919. In this specific situation, the AKC found that there was no violation of the rules. However, many fanciers feel that there was a conflict. Each individual is indeed entitled to their own view/opinion, however, when administering the AKC Judges’ Rules and Regulations, the powers that be will refer back to that language. There are similar situations that occur somewhat regularly, even though some people have been suspended and fined for the appearance of impropriety while others’ actions have not been considered a violation.
Several years ago, the judge voted in to judge the Best of Breed class at my national specialty had a known relationship with the dog/owners of an actively shown special. They travelled to shows together regularly and had a close relationship: They bred dogs together and had a close friendship. They were not members of the same household, and did not co-own the dog in question, so they were not breaking any rules. Sadly, I fully expected this dog would be exhibited to this individual–after all, there was no rule against it, right? As expected, the dog was shown, and won the Breed. In my opinion, the entry for the Breed class at this national would have been larger if this conflict of interest did not exist. Further, in my opinion, in this situation the win was tainted by the facts at hand.
When it comes right down to it, each of us must be comfortable with our own actions. While I try not to judge others for their decisions, there are some that will. As exhibitors, we can decide who we will and will not enter under and show our dogs. This is how we can take matters into our own hands. If you do not believe the judge that day will judge your dog on its merits, don’t show to that person. We should not be questioning why a dog won for any other reason than the judge liked that dog the best on that day.
Many years ago, my mentor advised me of the following: If you have to ask, don’t do it! I have followed this advice throughout my career. To that end, the language in the rule book states the following: “There will always be ’gray areas’ that perplex judges. When faced with such a dilemma, ask yourself whether the situation, however innocent, projects an outward appearance of impropriety. A good rule of thumb is: If you have concerns about whether something is inappropriate, you probably should avoid the situation.”
I have heard that entries for the rescheduled Westminster Kennel Club will open on March 18th and close April 8th. Those exhibitors whose entries were accepted for the January show will be accepted for the rescheduled June show. To view recently announced judge changes, go to http://caninechronicle.com/?p=224811. Stay tuned for more information.
I’m pleased to report that after 15 months, Elizabeth Salewsky, more commonly known as Crom’s partner in crime in the ‘Cromicles’, has returned to work as a Police Officer. Elizabeth has had a long, tough recovery from an injury sustained on the job, and she has demonstrated resilience and perseverance in her journey back. Congratulations, Elizabeth. Thank you for your service and stay safe!! Now, for more Cromicles!!! We miss them!
Healing thoughts to Cindy Stansell who recently had surgery to repair a broken leg. Cindy will be spending March in rehab and has had to cancel assignments for March and early April. We look forward to having you back center ring, soon, Cindy!
When celebrating a birthday, we try not to spend it the way Lynda O’Connor-Schneider did! Lynda tripped over a dog and ended up on the pavement with a swollen knee. Here is hoping it is nothing serious!
Happy Anniversary to Dog Show Photographer extraordinaire Rob Skibinski and his wife, Diana. Here’s hoping you guys have many more wonderful years ahead.
The Canine Health Foundation celebrated their 27th anniversary this past week. Fanciers celebrating birthdays are: Nate Francesco, Jan Moore, Lesley Potts, Wendy Kampinski, Ines Medina, Sarah Drake, my ‘utha mutha’ Judy Cooper, Tuni Conti, Andrew Evans and Diana Hadsall. Best wishes to each of you for a wonderful year ahead.
To quote Lada Gaga, “If you have a dream, fight for it. It is not about how many times you get rejected or you fall down or get beaten up, it is about how many times you stand, are brave, and keep on going.”
Those of you who will be in Pomona for the Malibu, Great Western, and Beverly Hill Kennel Club shows, please stop by the Purina booth and say hi!! Be safe, stay well, and don’t forget about lending a helping hand! Until next time…
Short URL: http://caninechronicle.com/?p=225331
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