Table Talk · March 15, 2023
Well, Crufts 2023 is in the rearview mirror, and I enjoyed watching all the show updates and excitement shared by all of our American friends at the show! The USA was well-represented, indeed! For many, showing a dog at Crufts is a dream, while others dream of attending as a spectator. It is certainly on my bucket list!
The big winner at Crufts was Orca, the Lagotto Romagnolo. Orca will never be forgotten by those who followed her successful career in the USA from 2020-22. She was piloted by Phil Booth and was the #1 Sporting Dog in 2021. Orca returned to Europe just in time to go Best In Show at Crufts! Congratulations to Team Orca on a most impressive win!
One of the topics near and dear to my heart is mentoring. I have stated many times that our sport needs mentors, and equally important, the new people in our sport need to take advantage of the experience mentors are willing to share.
A couple of years back a dear friend of mine picked up a client who had my breed, and I offered conditioning advice and “tricks” about the breed, and she took me up on my offer. The first visit to her setup was a bit rough, as while she was very interested in my help, the owner of the dog(s) was extremely apprehensive. I have since watched the dogs in her care evolve into the best specimens they could be, and to me there is no greater reward. This past weekend I received a call from my dear friend telling me she won a competitive breed and a group 4! Not only am I so proud of the work she has put into these dogs, but I am grateful for the phone call with her appreciation! Each of us–regardless of how long we have been in the sport of purebred dogs– can always learn something. We should never stop learning or teaching.
Entries for the Whippet National in Kansas have closed, and Whippet fanciers will be enjoying the largest National Specialty in history! With an entry of 970, it is shaping up to be a very busy week! I am sad that I will not be able to make it this year but wish everyone a great time!
When the AKC introduce the 4-6 month puppy competition, they had a couple of objectives in mind. They wanted to provide a venue for young puppies to get experience, and welcome new exhibitors to the fancy. With shrinking club membership, I think clubs should make every effort to have the 4-6 puppy competition and be sure to have a club member or two at the rings to welcome newcomers and pass out information about club membership.
I hear Dana Cline is recovering nicely from his heart surgery. In fact, he will be back in ring judging next week! Welcome back, Dana. Take it easy, and don’t overdo it! We are happy to have you back.
Stan Matsumoto is in the hospital recuperating from heart surgery. Stan is getting stronger every day. Best wishes for a speedy recovery, my friend!
Many of you on the West Coast who visited the Purina booth prior to Carol Grossman’s retirement had the pleasure of meeting our mascot, Lilly the Border Terrier. Lilly put smiles on the faces of so many, and never met a stranger. She made going to work a true joy. She was such a good girl! Lilly passed away in her sleep at nearly 16 years old this past weekend. Rest well, sweet girl–you were truly one in a million.
Congratulations to Cheslie Pickett-Smithey and Justin Smithey on the birth of their son, Grayson, born March 3rd and weighing 7.1 pounds. I cannot wait to meet your little bundle of joy! Best wishes for a brilliant future, little man.
925 reserved grooming reservations were received for the Kentuckiana Cluster in Louisville! With a record number of grooming reservations, a few changes will be necessary to ensure everyone has a sufficient grooming spot. Please be patient and kind as the team makes all efforts possible to accommodate everyone. If you made a reservation for all four days, and will not be arriving for Thursday, you must text Debbie at 270-272-2799 with your arrival information. If you do not notify the club of your late arrival, your spot will be given away. Exhibitors will be allowed to set up on Wednesday morning as soon as the grooming area is completely set up. Spot numbers will be posted at the entrances to the building, on the wall at the entrance of the main show building, and at the Superintendent’s Office. Volunteers will be available to help exhibitors locate their grooming areas.
Happy Anniversary to Diane and Michael Severns. May you guys have many more happy, healthy years ahead!
Fanciers celebrating birthdays this week are: Taylor Johnson (Happy Sweet 16, Taylor!), Jean Gauchat-Hargis, Jann Butler, Kate Hanlon, Lindsay Gorder, Marion Thompson, Jess Johnstone, Tyler Crady-Roche, Susan Allison, Dick Greaver and Doris Cozart. A very happy birthday to each and every one of you!
Erin Piercy-Foreman, who traveled to Crufts this year, had this memorable quote: “Get on that plane. Meet the dog of your dreams. Have the desire to want more for the dogs you love. Make life-long friends while doing it. Life is short. I’m so blessed to be here.”
Be safe out there, my friends! I look forward to seeing those of you who will be in Louisville!! Until next time…
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