Table Talk • March 25, 2026
I am sure a lot of you have noticed that dog shows go much later than they used to in the “good ole days”. Wayne Cavanaugh discussed his view about the “why” of this problem in his article in our March issue titled, “Here’s Your Hat, What’s The Hurry?” Here is the link to that article on caninechronicle.com:
https://caninechronicle.com/current-articles/heres-your-hat-whats-your-hurry/.
I was at a show a couple of weeks ago, and I was wondering why, at 1 pm on Sunday, when there were several judges sitting ringside at the ring where groups were scheduled for 3:30, there was nothing going on in those rings. In fact, there was only one active ring at that time. It is frustrating for exhibitors to see so much “dead space” when everyone wants to get on the road to go to their next destination or home sweet home!
In his article, Wayne speculates that the primary reason groups run so late is because of the available pool of judges and financial constraints. We have talked about the increased number of dog shows as compared to years prior, diluted entry numbers, and entry quality. When we compare the judging pool with the large number of shows and lower entries, the problem is obvious.
Those tasked with the onerous job of Show Chair have their work cut out for them. Many clubs are financially strapped. One of the first things hard-working Show Chairs try to do is save money on judging panels by hiring as few judges as possible, thereby saving money on what is one of the largest line items on a show budget. While this is the responsible thing to do, it minimizes schedule flexibility, and then what happens? The show drags on longer than any of us would like.
Given this challenge, I think it is important for Show Chairs to require their superintendents to send judging schedules to them for review prior to publishing. Show superintendents work for the clubs. The contract between superintendents and kennel clubs should require that review. Hopefully, that could help avoid scheduling problems. Having the club’s representative review the schedule certainly does not hurt. I assumed this was a routine step between show superintendents and clubs, but I have learned this is not always the case.
This year’s Ft. Worth Kennel Club shows are the last for Show Chair Denise Tatro, who will be passing the torch. Thank you for all your years of hard work and dedication, Denise!!
I heard that Sam McDonald was at the shows in Texas this past weekend with a huge smile on his face. I’m so happy to hear that he is feeling better and able to get out and about.
I was thrilled to hear that David Miller “rang the bell” and has completed chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Despite the cancer diagnosis, David is relieved and hopeful after his treatment. He will miss a few shows in March and April, but he is looking forward to returning to the ring to judge soon!
Sadly, I heard that AKC Judge and long-time Afghan Hound breeder Carol Reisman has passed away. Carol was known for her outspoken observations, sharp wit, and great knowledge of the Afghan Hound breed. Sincere condolences to Carol’s family and friends at this difficult time. She will be sorely missed by the fancy.
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week include Pilar Kuhn, Mercedes Vila, Kay Belter, Dale Sullens, Kate Murray, Tad Brooks, Kelly Shupp, Allison Alexander, Terri Myers, and David Powers. Best wishes to all of you for a most awesome year ahead.
My thought for this week: You either get bitter or you get better. You either take what has been dealt to you and allow it to make you a better person, or you allow it to tear you down. The choice does not belong to Fate; it belongs to you.
Be safe out there, my friends. Good luck to one and all. I look forward to seeing you down the road. Until next time…
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