Table Talk · December 24, 2025
And just like that, we start over again! I hope everyone achieved their 2025 goals, and most importantly, that every one of you enjoyed the journey!
As we embark upon the 2026 show year and you establish your goals and the path to achieve those goals, please remember that being part of our sport is a privilege, so cherish every moment of this experience.
This is the time when some specials’ careers end while others begin their quest to be ‘special’. Remember that new teams take time to develop chemistry, and patience is a necessary element to building the confidence of a new partner. You’ll encounter humbling moments as you discover each other’s quirks and strengths. Submit to the process and learn from it. Most importantly, be kind to those dogs who want nothing more than to please you.
Jeopardy aficionados were surprised when Whiskey the Whippet and Banana Joe the Affenpinscher were on the query board! How fun is it that Jeopardy included stars from the sport of purebred dogs in their broadcast.
Make sure to tune in to the wonderful broadcast of the 2025 AKC National Championship on Sunday, December 28th, at noon Eastern Time on ABC! The broadcast is three hours. It’s entertaining, and it is a great way to educate the general public about purebred dogs and those who love and breed them. I had the opportunity to be backstage during the groups, and I watched some of the segments that will air during the broadcast. I am excited to see the entire production.
Sadly, the Del Monte Kennel Club has announced that it will not be having a show in 2026 due to venue issues. Club volunteers are already hard at work planning the 2027 show with the goal of making it better than ever.
Congratulations to Ashlie Whitmore and Alfonso Escobedo on their engagement! No, Ashlie, it is not a dream! Best wishes for many more happy, healthy, and prosperous years ahead.
Condolences to Camille and Kim Bakker on the loss of their father. We are thinking about you at this most difficult time.
Charlotte Patterson checked in to give a status report on her knee. The diagnosis is bursitis. After a painful injection, she will do physical therapy combined with cold therapy. She says she will be back in the center of the ring soon. We look forward seeing you at shows again, Charlotte!
The BEST news is in from Lisa Miller. She is in REMISSION!!!! Lisa, you have been a true warrior and example of perseverance! You have received the most awesome, well-deserved holiday gift!
The Clas/Murray household headed off to Paris for another family adventure. It is always fun to watch the family’s travels, as they are seasoned international travelers and really know how to maximize their adventures. Thanks for sharing, as always!
Congratulations to Doug Belter on AKC Registered Handler Program Member of the Year for 2025! This honor is well-deserved, my friend.
It is hard to believe that in less than a week, I will be heading to my first show of 2026. I am a lucky girl to be starting my show year at the most beautiful cluster in the country, The Kennel Club of Palm Springs! The format is a bit different this year, with specialties and group shows on Friday, followed by three all-breed shows Saturday through Monday. Please join me for Table Talk Live coverage from this fabulous cluster! If you have a story you want to share with the fancy, I’d love to hear about it and consider it a segment! Email me at deb.cooper@caninechronicle.com, or drop me a Facebook message!
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week include Diane Skibinski, Mary Dukes, Paula Thomas, Andy Linton, Jay Shen, Claire Wisch Abraham, Linda Williams, Janine Rodriguez, Jeff Wright, Carol Spritzer, Andy Vance, Matt Chumbley, Bobby Schoenfeld, Jessica DiPerna, and Johnathan Herbert. Here’s hoping you get a little extra cheer this holiday season!
As we begin a new year, I want to share this with you: The high road is always the right path, as lonely and frustrating as it can be.
Best wishes for a fantastic holiday to one and all! I look forward to spending another great year with you! I’ll see you down the road. Until next time…
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