Many years ago, I wrote a very popular column for the UK’s most successful canine publication. This assignment came about at an interesting time in dogdom; in the fallout of Pedigree Dogs Exposed when, it seemed, every ill was placed at the feet of ‘those evil pedigree dog breeders’.
“While the path ahead may not be clear, one thing is: action must be taken to ensure the safety and well-being of the next generation.”
Around here, the Edison shows have come to symbolize the kickoff of that non-stop show calendar that doesn’t ease up until winter. At least for local exhibitors it represents our first big opportunity to rack up points. Bronx and New Brunswick understand that, which has directed the ongoing structure of this weekend from the start.
In 1960, my parents (Jim and Lee Canalizo) were a young married couple with three small kids. After the loss of an infant brother, Lee wanted a dog in the home. She was attracted to the Afghan Hound after seeing Ch. Shirkhan of Grandeur go Best In Show at the 1957 Westminster Dog Show. Maybe because his breeder (the ubiquitous Sunny Shay) was “now” a local legend…it wasn’t hard to find her kennel that was within 10 miles of our home.
Herding forced a self-described “city bred” man who could barely tell a cow from a sheep to become someone who can speak with some authority about a half dozen bovine breeds along with almost a dozen sheep breeds and even a few different breeds of ducks and goats.
Stand ringside at a conformation show and you’ll often hear criticism of the judging. That’s to be expected. Everyone involved–exhibitors, owners, handlers, and judge–is human. All have their own opinions of what the breed in question should be, and all may disagree a little or a lot with what the judge is doing.
It was a hard month of March. The dog community suffered excruciating losses of family, loves, friends, mentors, and beloved dogs–so many of all these far too soon
This sport attracts such a wealth of talent and energy that sometimes we take it for granted. In truth, we often don’t realize how lucky we are until it’s gone. That sums up the many contributions of Howard Atlee.
Will Alexander Drops Some Knowledge About What’s Happening in the Sport of Dogs. It’s Deep… It’s Humorous… It’s Provocative… It’s Will Unfiltered! Will Alexander has an in-depth conversation with Charlotte Patterson. Click here to watch on Canine Chronicle TV!
Deb Cooper chats with Katie and Adam Bernardin at Westminster 2024. Click here to watch on Canine Chronicle TV!
