Table Talk – January 23, 2019

One of my favorite events to watch at a National Specialty is the Veteran class.  It warms my heart to see the older generation enjoy their opportunity to once again shine in the ring.  Not only are the Veteran classes a joy to watch, it is an excellent opportunity to see how certain bloodlines age, and it’s also is a chance to see the longevity in certain bloodlines when considering pedigrees for breeding purposes.  While watching the old dogs run around the ring can be quite emotional, it also is a good reminder of the emotional bond between handler and dog.  Those exhibiting in the Veteran classes can use our support.  I encourage all to take the time to remain ringside and watch the Veteran classes.  Some clubs have strategically placed the Veteran classes between other classes to encourage spectator participation.  Whether at the beginning, middle or end of the show day, please give our old dogs consideration and stay and cheer them on!

The popular Rose City Cluster in Portland, Oregon was held this past weekend.  This 5-day cluster with one day of specialties and 4 days of all-breed shows is held at the Portland Expo Center. This is a terrific venue and the shows boast entries of over 2,000 dogs each day.  This year, many fanciers came together to raise funds for the NAIA (National Animal Interest Alliance) with a Gala and auction on Saturday night.  While the final number is not in yet, they are estimating that they raised about $15,000 for the Alliance, which is very active in the preservation of the sport of purebred dogs and our rights to breed and own them.  Congratulations to all who participated in this fund raising event.

Meanwhile, in the Midwest, the shows in Novi, Michigan at the Showplace venue were also taking place. This cluster has grown significantly over the last couple of years, and this year was the first year the shows were held in the newly expanded venue, which was met with excellent reviews from exhibitors and spectators.  We congratulate the show committee on their great work!

I understand that a Pomeranian got out of the rig he was staying in and was hit by a car in the parking lot at the Michigan shows.  Fortunately, the dog was found and taken to the vet for pelvis surgery.  This is another reminder to all that we cannot be too careful when caring for our dogs!

The American Kennel Club was very busy this past week as they broadcast the groups for both the Portland and Michigan clusters on AKC.TV.  This is a great way for those who can’t attend to still be a part of the sport.

I continue to be puzzled by people’s lack of respect for those in our sport who came before them; those who spent years gaining experience and knowledge about purebred dogs, and finding a way to succeed at the highest levels of our sport.  We should all take the opportunity to stop, listen and learn from successful, experienced breeders and exhibitors.  It will help us all gain knowledge that we can share with the next generation in years to come!

For the first time in a couple of years, the Westminster Kennel Club show reached its entry limit of 2,800 dogs and many entries were returned.  The increase in entries is great news for our sport!  Topping this year’s Westminster entries are 76 Dachshunds, 57 Golden Retrievers, and 48 French Bulldogs.

The WKC groups and Best in Show will be broadcast on FS1 from 7P-11PM EST on Monday and Tuesday evenings.  Folks can view select breed judging on Nat Geo Wild on Monday and Tuesday from 1PM-4PM EST and live stream judging will air on the Westminster Kennel Club website throughout the day at westminsterkennelclub.org.

I am looking forward to making those who cannot join us in New York this year feel like they are there with our Table Talk Live! coverage throughout Westminster week.  We are still looking for folks who are interested in helping with breed priority segments.  If you are interested in participating for your breed, please reach out to me at deb.cooper@caninechronicle.com.

Gabriel and Ivonne Rangel had a huge scare this week when their daughter Ariana’s school was placed on lockdown due to a bomb threat.  After several hours, all were released unharmed but they did find explosives on a student.  We are so glad that Ariana and her classmates are all okay!

Robin Stansell is home recovering from knee surgery.  Hang in there, Robin! We look forward to having you back in the center of the ring soon with your new knee!

German Shepherd Dog fancier Daniel Smith passed away on January 14^th.

Sheltie fancier and AKC judge of the Herding and Working groups Stanley Saltzman also passed away.  Our prayers and best wishes go out to their families and friends.

Lee Reasin passed away at the age of 98 years old with Larry McCormick, his partner of 47 years, and his daughter at his side. Those who wish to reach out to Larry can mail him their condolences to: Larry McCormick, 1602 S. Cerritos Dr., Palm Springs, CA 92264

Our condolences go out to all who have lost friends and loved ones.  May you find peace at this most difficult time in your lives.

Celebrating birthdays this week are:  Marilyn Vinson, John Wade, Kristin Dowd, David Cook and Karen Livingston.

Be safe, my friends, and stay warm!  Until next time…

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Posted by Tom on Jan 23 2019. Filed under Current Articles, Editorial, Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.