Table Talk
I really enjoyed seeing all of my Midwest friends this past weekend at the Fort Wayne Cluster! This circuit was reduced from 5 days to 4 this year, which I think we all will agree is a bit more sane and manageable for everyone. The entry was still of decent size by today’s standards averaging over 1100 per day. The shows continue to offer exhibitor hospitality each morning and mid-day which the exhibitors truly appreciate. The Juniors clinic that has been held at the cluster continues to receive great support from the professional handler community, as does the annual raffle.
This is really a terrific venue for a dog show. The parking situation this year was a bit tenuous due to all of the other events being held there at the same time, but we all survived. Apparently the Coliseum has its own fire department so the parking folks were not concerned about packing motor homes in like sardines. This issue continues to be a serious safety concern at shows around the country. Another concerning thing I noted. Years ago vendors lined the entire outer edge of this show, but not anymore. They barely covered one wall this year. This, too, seems to be a sign of the times.
The Animal Control truck showed up at the Ft. Wayne show on Sunday. Apparently someone (not sure if it was a spectator or exhibitor) saw someone walking dogs to their vehicle in a manner they were uncomfortable with and took a cell phone video….. Voila, enter Animal Control. We need to be mindful of all of the technology that is out there now, folks. Something as innocent as a lead correction to a non-dog show person can be taken as cruel and inappropriate. If they take a video or photograph the incident, it can appear much more severe or “cruel” than it really is in actuality. As a result, my suggestion is that if one needs to correct or be firm with a dog, think about who may be around you before you do it.
Very special birthday wishes to Peter Green, who I believe celebrated his 80th this past week! You don’t look a day over 21 Peter!!! Also celebrating birthdays this week are Jim Noe, Erika Moureau, Julie Parker, Linda Hurlebaus, Ellen Fetter, Bill Hempel, Terry James, Alyssa Beutler and John McCartney.
Don’t forget folks, the AKC Championship entries are closing soon: November 18th to be exact. Hotels are filling up so if you are planning on attending, you’d better make your plans and get your entries in!
Wherever your travels take you, be careful, and remember…dogs first!
Until next time…
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