Table Talk
I have had conversations with fanciers over the last several years about whether or not I would be applying for my judge’s license. My response has been consistent. I did not feel comfortable applying until I was “done” exhibiting dogs; I was concerned about a conflict. I have had additional discussions recently with judges and exhibitors about this topic and my view on this topic has changed.
In my opinion, one of the most important traits an individual or judge can have is integrity. If one has integrity that should carry through and potential conflict should be irrelevant. In fact, after discussions with many in the fancy, I agree with the viewpoint that a judge that exhibits a dog or dogs benefits from that experience by not only appreciating the work that goes into preparing that dog for the show (bathing, trimming, conditioning), but also setting up at the show with all the equipment, etc. In addition, I believe that the connection a judge has with the dogs he/she is examining is better when that judge has a regular connection with dogs. It is easier to read a dog when an individual is around dogs frequently, and I think our dogs know when the human approaching them has that connection.
Congratulations to the Black Diamond Cluster. They will be holding their shows next week on April 26-29th in West Virginia. The cluster is up over 200 dogs each day. This is another positive sign that our sport is making a comeback!
I want to give some friendly advice to exhibitors. Please remember that after you have packed up your setup at the end of a show weekend, your work is not done! Please remember to sweep your dog hair, etc. and take your trash to a proper receptacle. Show venues become more difficult to find all the time, and this is one of the reasons. In addition to your setup inside, please clean up after yourselves out near your rig by throwing trash away and sweeping up shavings.
I heard that Samoyed breeder/exhibitor Allen Browning passed away this last week. We extend our condolences to Allen’s friends and family.
I also received word that Brian Caccavari of Melia Photography passed away suddenly. Please join me in extending sympathies to his father, Pete, daughter, Amber, and the rest of his family. The Southern Handlers Charity League is accepting donations in his name.
I know all my dog friends join me in wishing Moe Miyagawa well. Moe suffered an aneurysm and is hospitalized in critical condition. I will be sure to keep everyone posted on his progress.
Happy Anniversary to Chow Chow fanciers Vicki and Phil DeGruy. May you guys enjoy many more years of happiness together.
I was relieved to hear that Luke Baggenstos and his crew and dogs are okay following a serious crash in his rig when his rear dual tire blew out coming home from shows last week. This is yet another indication how important good quality, sturdy, well-made crates are when travelling with dogs!
Celebrating birthdays this week are: Nick Grubb, Polly Smith, Bryan Martin, Alyssia Booth, Rosie Steinke, my dear friend and partner Linda Teitelbaum, Courtney Norris and Tiffany Skinner.
To all of my poodle friends who are here at Purina Farms, I wish you the best of luck. Conformation begins today!
Wherever your travels take you this week, please be careful and please be kind to your fellow exhibitors. Hug your pooches, and have fun out there my friends!
Until next time…
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