Table Talk · February 13, 2025
I hope everyone had a safe return home from NYC. When the announcement about the change of venue for the 149th Westminster Kennel Club dog show was made, I was excited. I had huge expectations for its return to Manhattan and Madison Square Garden, and finally having our breed judging at the Javits Center. My expectations were exceeded exponentially! I believe this year’s Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show was the BEST of all I have attended over thirty-plus years. Over the last four years the Westminster team did a great job of trying to recreate the feel of Madison Square Garden while using alternate venues; and when we returned to group judging at the Garden, I realized there TRULY is only one MSG. Are there weather challenges? Of course, it is February. I personally believe those problems are worth the positive energy Madison Square Garden adds to this show.
This year there were great crowds for the group judging, and it was truly electrifying. I cannot count the number of exhibitors who had the privilege of piloting their charges on that green carpet at MSG and described the experience as electrifying and amazing. The crowds for the Groups and Best In Show this year were larger than many of the shows I attended in the past.
Five of this year’s Westminster Group Winners were Breeder or Breeder-Owner Handled! Each of those fanciers have strong roots in the sport, and they all started out as novice individuals who had a lot to learn – and look at them now! This should be an inspiration to all, and it reinforces the notion that hard work and dedication are keys to success. In fact, Archer the Terrier Group winner is owner/handled by Antoinelle Vulpis, and he’s her very first show dog! Now, that’s a dream come true
Taylor Johnson and her Old English Sheepdog, Sven, won Best Junior at Westminster. This was Taylor and Sven’s last trip around the ring, and Taylor’s last time exhibiting in Junior Showmanship. I am glad that I won’t be there for Sven’s “shave down”. I am sure tears will flow.
When I arrived early Tuesday morning at the Javits Center I witnessed Donald Sturz, President of the Westminster Kennel Club, standing at one of the entrances welcoming every exhibitor. It was one of the highlights of my week! This effort represents the priority that he and his team place on the dogs and their exhibitors. Exhibitors were released from the benches early on Tuesday due to impending weather. Westminster let everyone leave at 2:30 instead of 4 PM to ensure safe travels for the exhibitors and their dogs.
The experience at Madison Square Garden, in my opinion, was also better than ever! Little things such as allowing the exhibitors who placed to take their “pet photo” on the photo stand and not allowing the public in the benching/grooming area made the experience for exhibitors incredibly smooth with the least amount of stress. Bravo, Team Westminster!
Sadly, PETA once again tried to make their presence known, but John Miller and his Site Control Team did a great job of making short work of the spectacle. Thank you to Harry and John Miller and the Site Control Team for always keeping us safe and doing a terrific job of keeping things running as smoothly as possible. You guys are the best.
If you did not get a chance to watch the Table Talk Live coverage of Westminster 2025, please be sure to go to The Canine Chronicle Facebook page, caninechronicle.com, or caninechronicle.tv. We captured several special moments. Best of all, we had some fun, too!
Please join me in thanking Donald Sturz and his hardworking group by dropping a comment on this column on Facebook, or by sending me a note at deb.cooper@caninechronicle.com. I will ensure he sees every comment!
It was great to see Will Alexander out and about again while judging his first assignment at Westminster. Will, you look great, and it looked like you were having the time of your life while standing center ring.
Congratulations to Jordan Olivera (and mom and dad Jorge and Susie Olivera) on your recent engagement. May you lovebirds have nothing but happiness in the next chapter of your lives.
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week include Allan Brown, Berna Hart Welch, Erika Busby, Heidi Hartman-Booth, Jeré Marder, Michelle Michael, Jamie Clute, Jackie Beaudoin, Beth Blankenship, Dot Izmirlian, Susan Sprung, Dr. Cassidy Jackson and Lenny Gremminger. Cheers to one and all
Here’s a thought for all to consider: “It’s the little things that usually have the greatest impact in life: a smile, a hug, a thank you and a compliment.”
My next stop is Madison, Wisconsin. If your travels take you to Madison, please stop by the Purina booth and see me! I will also be in Louisville bringing you Table Talk Live coverage! Please make plans to join in the fun. Wherever your journey takes you next, be safe and enjoy it!
Until next time…
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