Table Talk · May 15, 2024
Westminster 2024 has concluded. What a great show! I hope everyone’s memory bank is fully stocked with fun times had with great friends and great dogs. For me, Westminster week has always been just as much about spending time with friends as it is about getting a big win. We should all remember that attending Westminster is a privilege–whether you are exhibiting, spectating, working, or volunteering. In the end, creating Westminster lifetime memories should be what it is about. Of course, those memories are made even more special by victory, and everyone’s idea of victory is different. We should all continue to be supportive of everyone’s victory! Each fancier gets to compete with their dog on the green carpet is victorious! Cherish the victory and the experience.
I encourage everyone to read our Publishers most recent thoughts in the May issue of CC (https://caninechronicle.com/current-articles/from-the-publisher-52/). I often think about what goes through the judge’s mind when given the responsibility of judging at the big, prestigious shows. While exhibitors have their own set of nerves, judges most certainly have theirs. As exhibitors, we should remember this sage advice: Show your dogs to the best of your ability, and may the best dog win!
The American Kennel Club sent out a press release last Friday announceing a new Personal Conduct Policy effective immediately. You can read the entire press release on our website at https://caninechronicle.com/breaking-news/the-american-kennel-club-announces-personal-conduct-policy/. In summary, the AKC reaffirms their zero-tolerance policy pursuant to the Charter and Bylaws, and those convicted of a crime, or subject to a disposition of criminal proceeding are subject to AKC discipline.
When AKC becomes aware of a possible violation of this Policy, the organization may undertake an investigation, the timing and scope of which will be based upon the circumstances of the matter.
Congratulations to Arlene Davis who celebrated the birth of her first great-granddaughter! May you have many more years of joy with your beautiful family.
Rodney Merry is celebrating a milestone in his recovery, as he was released from wound care! He is starting rehab, looking good, and seems to be well on his way to full recovery! We look forward to having you back at the shows soon, Rodney!
Best wishes to Andrew and Vienna Mueller who just could not wait any longer to tie the knot! There will be a celebration of their marriage for family and friends later this summer. Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Mueller! We wish you a happy life together!
Maureen McCreery of Laurel-Highmoor Whippets and Fuzzywumpets had a great idea for this vacation season! We have all been in the situation of finding quality, experienced dog care while we head out on family vacations. Maureen has suggested that individuals in similar situations swap dog care responsibilities. If you are interested in pursuing this idea, reach out to Maureen via Instant Message.
Congratulations to our fellow fanciers who are celebrating birthdays this week! They include Jackie Fisher, Cari Jensen, Alessandra Folz, Liz Tobin, Kara Janiszak, Cody Koch, Jay Richardson, Tony Vacha, Kim Rudzik, Bill McFadden, Brenda Combs, Bert Rettick and Judy Descutner. Celebrate your special day in style, my friends; and may you have many more terrific trips around the sun!
I leave you this week with words of wisdom from author Dean Koontz:
Dogs lives are short, too short, but you know that going in. You know the pain is coming. You are going to lose a dog, and there is going to be great anguish, so you live fully in the moment with them, never fail to share their joy or delight in their innocence, because you can’t support the illusion that a dog can be your lifelong companion. There is such beauty in the hard honesty of that, in accepting and giving love while always aware that it comes with an unbearable price.
Maybe loving dogs is a way we do penance for all the other illusions we allow ourselves and the mistakes we make because of those illusions.
Best wishes to all for safe travels, cherished memories, and beautiful dogs. I look forward to seeing you soon down the road. Until next time…
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