Table Talk • August 26, 2026
For several weeks in a row Table Talk has included tributes to fanciers who passed away. I was saddened to have to include what felt like an unending number of obituaries. Sadly, as we age, we know more of the people that pass way. It is the unpleasant part of life.
What is NOT part of life is having to write about the loss of dogs, or the harm to dogs, because of negligence, negligence due to illness, “accidents”, etc. These accounts have been part of my weekly report recently and, sadly, I must write about it again this week.
This past week at the shows in Doswell, Virginia, a 2-year-old Golden Retriever died while it was on the grooming table. Various reports claim the dog fell off the table and strangled to death while hanging from the grooming noose. I wasn’t there, so I cannot verify this claim. One of the primary questions being asked by many is who is responsible for this dog’s demise? Is it the handler who supposedly left the dog in someone else’s care? The individual who was reported to be supervising the dog? Both? Sadly, pointing fingers and focusing on the “who” distracts us from the “why” and “how”.
In my opinion, each one of us needs to learn from these horrible occurrences. The adage that we should, “learn from others’ mistakes” rings true. It is my sincere hope that everyone takes a long, hard look at what has happened and thinks about how you will avoid putting your dogs in harm’s way.
After this dog died, a bench hearing was conducted, and while that committee has not recommended a “sentence” at this time, I am told the AKC staff committee will review the circumstances and the show committee findings, and supposedly it will decide who, if anyone, is held responsible–and if anyone is punished.
We must remember that until the decision is published in the AKC Secretary’s pages, no one has “gotten off” and no one has been punished. I’ll be sure to keep an eye on this situation and keep you posted any consequential news.
I’m sure you will all remember “Reign”, the Doberman who died when left in a hot car by her handler a year ago. The Doberman National is coming up this fall, and the DPCA Board originally determined that they were not going to allow “Reign’s” owners to receive her ribbon at the event. The club had a policy in the past that dogs not present could not receive their ribbons at the event–and no exception would be made. Many fanciers, including the owners of “Reign” voiced disappointment, and that decision has now been reversed by the DPCA Board.
The United States Australian Shepherd Association Board is reviewing a proposal to make the Australian Shepherd a ramp-optional breed. Having come from a breed where the ramp was initially introduced as optional, I can say this is a great way to introduce the ramp. Aussie fanciers will quickly learn that this is a win/win situation for exhibitors and judges!
Anyone who has shown dogs in the Midwest knows Jeff Inman, previously a superintendent with Roy Jones Dog Shows, who now works for BaRay. Back in June a plea for a kidney donation was posted on social media, and unfortunately, Jeff is still on the list waiting for a kidney. Jeff has given so much to the fancy, and now he needs our help. Please share his story and keep Jeff and his family in your thoughts.
Heads up to all Hatboro, Devon, and Montgomery County Kennel Club fanciers. RV and grooming reservations are now open on the Site Control website. I am excited to bring you Table Talk Live coverage at Hatboro and Montgomery, and I look forward to enjoying all things Terrier throughout the week!
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week include Patty Keenan, Bobby Fisher, Erin Myers, Tim Terella, Virginia Murray, and Julie Lawrence. Happy birthday to all! May this next year bring cherished memories, health, and happiness to you.
Remember this, my friends. You should not have to beg for the basic consideration you freely give to others. Choose people who choose you!
I look forward to seeing you down the road. Until next time….
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