The Juniors Perspective – An Inside Look

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248 – November/December, 2022

By Jessica Braatz

This month, I was honored with the opportunity to have an “inside look” into the minds of two influential Junior’s judges who showed in Junior Showmanship themselves. I hope they give you a new perspective on the importance of Juniors and the lasting impact it had on their careers, as well as some tips and advice. Without further ado:

Both Mrs. Karen Mammano and Ms. Valerie Nunes-Atkinson have had highly successful careers in breeding and professional handling. They both have even judged Best Junior at the esteemed Westminster Kennel Club! I asked them both a few questions regarding their experience in dogs, especially regarding Junior Showmanship.

When did you become involved in dog shows?

Karen:

I have been involved in dog shows my whole life. Growing up, I was immersed in dogs, raising and breeding Golden Re-trievers under my family kennel name: Windfall. One of my family’s goldens, named Liberty, even went to President Gerald Ford!

Valerie:

I started at age 8, showing a pup from my father’s first litter. Dave & Donna Gilliam, who would later become Donovan’s German Shorthaired Pointers, took me to my very first dog show. I showed their pup, Schatzi, and won second place in Juniors.

What is your role in dogs now?

Click here to read the complete article
248 – November/December, 2022

Short URL: https://caninechronicle.com/?p=250819

Posted by AnthonyA on Nov 20 2022. Filed under Current Articles, Featured. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.