Originally published: June 2015

While flying to an event in Dallas, I read an article in the Delta Sky magazine about Mr. James Corden. I hardly ever read anything in a ‘Sky’-type magazine but I love James Corden so I dove right into the article. It talked about his explosive start on late night TV and how he didn’t re-invent the genre as much as created an atmosphere. He allowed his guests to trust him. I started thinking and realized that this would make a great topic for an article in The Canine Chronicle.

I don’t think anyone has exploded on to late-night talk show hosting with such aplomb. Corden is fresh, funny and self-effacing. He has great fun with his audience and the people he interviews, but never at their expense.

What has this got to do with dog shows?

Well, it’s all about atmosphere.

When asked about his formula for success James Corden said, “We are never going to try and do you over in any way. If anybody is going to look silly on our show, it’s going to be me.” He prides himself on protecting his guests and audience from embarrassment thereby establishing trust. They are genuinely game to do or try anything. Now, how can we create an atmosphere in our sport where people trust us and choose to attend our show over another?

In our beloved world of dog shows the atmosphere that surrounds you at a show often dictates its popularity? If it’s one of trust and respect, like at the Late Late Show, you will be genuinely game to try anything. If trust is low or missing and people feel unappreciated or disrespected the atmosphere is anything but fun and welcoming. The difference lies between always choosing to attend a show or choosing to avoid a show at all costs [even with great judges] based on how we feel while at the show.

It starts with the show chairs and club committees deciding to make the atmosphere of their shows pleasant for everyone in attendance. The atmosphere starts at the parking lot, food tents, grooming tents and, finally, the ring. All of them need to be welcoming and supportive to all competitors, workers and spectators. This is a difficult task to achieve if everyone involved is not in the mood to create a positive atmosphere.

How did James Corden set up his surroundings to assure he created the atmosphere he wanted? He said, “We would talk much more about the atmosphere than we would ever talk about a comedy bit.” Their [guests and audience] experience was key. How the guests felt impacted how the audience perceived the program, and so it rolled.

It was never about the brilliance of James Corden, per sé, but his ability to focus on what was the most important part of the show, the atmosphere he wanted to create for everyone in attendance. Without this dedication to providing the best atmosphere he may have slogged through the growing pains of a new late night program, as others had, until he found a responsive schtick. Instead, James Corden chose to recognize that it was the atmosphere he could create at Late Late Night, not what he himself did, that would bring everyone along for the ride. They needed to feel safe in order to become a part of the magic. After all, it’s his show but should not be about him.

In the dog show world, atmosphere starts from the time the show is planned by the committee. It is then handed off to the superintendent and the premium is received by the perspective participant. Dog shows live or die by the ambiance they create. Their atmosphere will either encourage people to travel to the show no matter what or skip it and go to another show. The judging panel may also play into someone’s decision. However, let’s leave that for another article. This article is focusing on the atmosphere you bring to the show as the host of the dog show fancy, participants and spectators at the event.

When choosing which dog shows we attend, we tend to gravitate toward the shows that provide the best atmosphere; they are inclusive and helpful. Some we attend less for the positive atmosphere and more for their iconic nature. Iconic shows may be seen as less inclusive or helpful. This lack of care is often accepted because it is always this way at —- show, so get used to it if you want to participate. This adage can only ring true if the people running the iconic show:

a. Are not asked for better in a nice way.

b. Are given suggestions they can review and possibly implement with the complaint.

c. Choose to retain the status quo over responsiveness to constructive suggestions.

Some iconic shows may, for reasons we do not know or understand, choose to remain in status quo and not respond to participant pressure. Looking beyond these iconic shows, at shows we choose to attend each weekend, we can measure the impact of atmosphere through attendance statistics, by the numbers showing up at a show year after year. We have had great turnout for the long, multi-day dog show weekends and specialty events. This may be because they are efficient or less expensive. With regard to individual breed club specialties, we are among our peers, in the breed we love, and they treat us [participants and spectators] like valued family members.

Feeling special and valued for being in attendance and participating in an event creates an atmosphere that encourages people to save their money, block out that particular weekend and splurge on attending the show that entices them. They need to enjoy an event not only by showing their dog but by engaging with others who attend. Show committees, exhibitors and spectators all need to feel appreciated and supported by the club hosting the event and the people who came to participate. It’s all about the atmosphere. You will find people gravitate to iconic shows because they are, well, iconic. However, there are those shows you would never miss because the club/committees are inclusive and kind to their exhibitors. These shows tend to attract competitors and spectators who are good to one another. It’s all about the atmosphere.

For example, if the drop-off and unloading is easy and supported, spectators and participants will return year after year. That show committee has recognized what kind of atmosphere creates repeat attendance. Ironically, it is not the winning that brings us back, since we all attend/intend to win. It is the dog show atmosphere, where people participate in a social event, not just competition, that has them choose to come back again next year. These responsive show committees recognize that only a few people win the breed, group or Best in Show. If the atmosphere is not conducive to the enjoyment of all, their repeat numbers will be slimmer. Competitors and spectators usually return to certain venues for a show, year after year, not because they always have great judging panels or because they win all the time [although that can be part of the reason they return]. It is often because of the people, place and fun that venue affords.

Exploring the show committee’s response to competitors’ needs and wants is one way to help shift how competitors treat one another. Whether it’s your national or it’s a three day event that showcases your dog, being a good competitor in a supportive environment makes the atmosphere more tolerable. If you’ve been stuck in traffic on the way to the show and arrive to compete all pinched off because of anger and frustration, if the atmosphere at the show is one of ease and commiseration and conducive to slowing down and recognizing the reason you’re here, you recuperate more quickly. If you arrive at a show and everything continues to be difficult, that creates an atmosphere that perpetuates being pinched off. As a competitor, if you come to a show simply thinking about yourself, your dog and your win, the atmosphere you create is unwelcome to those around you.

Think about the atmosphere you like at a dog show. Most of the shows you look forward to attending create themselves with more of an eye on “the atmosphere.” If the committees and competitors decide to have/attend a show that is supportive and appreciative of your participation in all its moving parts then the prevailing atmosphere will be positive. As Corden said, talk about the atmosphere is more important than talk “about a comedy bit.” Creating an atmosphere that fosters pleasant experiences and camaraderie will bring out the best in all. Those are the shows we love to attend and replicate because of that good feeling.

If we take a minute and focus on atmosphere, great things will transpire.

Originally published: September 2014

For those of you reading this article, raise your hand if you are able to do one thing at a time to completion? Impossible? I am not so sure, but we believe we must multi-task to get everything done in a day. However, it does take commitment to remain completely focused on a project from start to finish.

What is the outcome of being mindful at a dog show? It enables you to tune in more fully to your dog. This connection can provide you with the presence to present them at their best. Being mindful, at every stage in your dogs development and presentation, can give you that winners edge, providing a tool which will consistently enable you to present yourself and your dog as winners.

Have I caught your attention? I hope so. What you will read below, if practiced, may help you to be a more effective breeder, owner and handler of your beloved breed. Personally, when I engage in mindfulness with my dogs incredible things happen.

Mindfulness is the art of clearing your mind of all distractions by meditating or being fully present where you are and what you are doing. It helps you focus and clear your mind of the extraneous distractions that come with life. It may sound Zen or Buddhist, yet recent scientific studies show that the brain expands and tests at a higher level of cognitive resource for people who practice mindfulness.

Let me fill you in on what mindfulness is according to the experts. According to Kate Pickert, the author of The Art of Being Mindful published in Time magazine’s February 3, 2014 edition, “Mindfulness is simply the giving of your full attention to what you are currently doing.” For we in the dog show world, loosely translated, mindfulness means being present in the ring, the set-up or the kennel and limiting multi-tasking.

Google brought mindfulness to Silicon Valley, where IT distractions run rampant and focus has become something highly desired. Google created and supports a program called Search Inside Yourself, a seven week program that teaches employees attention-focusing techniques. Wisdom 2.0, was created by techno enthusiasts as an annual mindfulness retreat for Silicon Valley leaders. In 2009, 325 people attended. This year attendance is expected to be seven times that of 2009. Both programs teach techno-consumed employees how to focus on single solutions. They practice the art of mindfulness, which in turn creates space for awareness of new technological innovations they can then bring to market. By eliminating distractions, they become more aware of solutions, creating outcomes and solutions that are a win/win for all.

Elizabeth Stanley of Georgetown University teamed up with Amishi Jha of the University of Miami to create a program on mindfulness for an elite US Marine Corp group. After completing their mindfulness training, the Marines’ effectiveness in stressful situations was significantly heightened and, based on these results, the NIH agreed to fund millions of dollars in continuing research.

If the above research intrigues you and you’d like to know more about how you might apply mindfulness into your own world of dog shows, focus on the following tips:

First, focus on one task at a time, become mindful of your thoughts.

Second, start with a simple observation. Begin to filter out distractions that are taking your energy away from the completion of the task at hand.

Third, if you find yourself constantly distracted by the ‘ooooh shiny’ things in life, actively refocus. Mindfulness helps you do this and creates the pathways for your brain to start slowing down.

Mindfulness also helps you see all you want to achieve as you prepare your dog for competition. It helps maintain your equilibrium. Equilibrium helps you compete at a higher level and keeps your dog balanced. Having the competitors on both ends of the lead at ease provides leads to better results for all.

By applying the three techniques outlined above you will be able to recognize when your focus drifts and this will help you actively choose to refocus. This can make a huge difference in your presence in any venue. These tools can help you win consistently, pick the best puppy from a litter, and prepare a dog for the show ring.

How do I know this? I recognize I am often mindful by accident. When I look back at my biggest successes, it occurs to me that I was singularly focused. One example of my being mindful occurs when I have puppies. I take the time out of my busy day to sit and be present with the puppies. This is where and how I learn about their personalities, movement, natural conformation and reactions to outside stimuli. I do this alone. I know what I am looking for in the puppy I intend to keep and the puppies I place with others.

I find when I remain mindful and limit outside distractions, things work out for me. An example of this was the Irish Setter National Dog Show in 2000. I went to this dog show at the last minute, remained off-site and connected with my two entered dogs the entire time. I showed these sisters myself, one in Bred-By and one in the Open Class. We won both classes. I went back in the ring on my Bred-By for the Winners competition. A wonderful junior, who co-owned my Open Bitch went in on her for Winners. My Bred-By bitch went winners and my Open Bitch went Reserve.

I realized much later that this show was the first time I had been totally focused on one thing. Mindful by accident. All the stressors of the National were surmounted because I stayed focused on what I had come to do. Distractions did not pull me off of my appointed task.

If you would like to try applying mindfulness techniques in your breeding, handling or exhibiting practice it can be as simple as clearing your mind of all distractions, focusing on the task at hand, and recognizing that when your mind drifts you have the ability to pull it back on task. The latter is the most important piece of mindfulness.

Try grooming with soft music playing in the background or turn off reality TV. Keep a hand on your dog being completely present with them. Sit in the whelping box alone and just look, listen and feel the differences in each puppy. Intuitively you will see things much clearer than you can with the naked eye.

Mindfulness 101 – It is not as new age as you may think. Science now shows it frees up mental space enabling you to focus on being present with your dog and what you are doing right now. Increased focus, heightened presence, a more balanced response and synchronicity with your furry companions make it worth a try.

By Debra Vey Voda-Hamilton, Esq./Mediator Hamilton Law and Mediation, PLLC

Happiness is never getting sued. However, when people are in conflict over an animal, deciding to sue is an easy choice. Usually none of the parties feel heard; their issues have not been adequately addressed. Deciding to work within the relationship and appreciate another person’s point of view on the subject seems crazy.

The first two articles of this series addressed drafting and understanding a contract and identifying the language and communication you use to better describe the outcome you want. Now it’s time for the tough talk. None of the diligent drafting or language suggested has worked to avoid this disagreement. You and your breeder/co-owner/handler/client are at odds. Each of you believes that your opinion of the facts surrounding this disagreement is correct.

There are two ways to approach this impasse. One option is to hire an attorney versed in the art of litigation and strong-arm tactics and sue. It will cost a significant amount of money to bring a lawsuit. You and your attorney must be fully committed to the win/lose paradigm. Courts are reluctant to take on cases involving disputes civil or contractual about animals. For that matter, the AKC is not keen on becoming embroiled in litigation. Litigation of conflicts over registrations stand firmly outside the purview of the AKC. The AKC will often suggest litigation as a means of resolving matters involving disputes in ownership or registration. It is not that the AKC doesn’t care, it’s not their fight to have. They don’t know the facts. They don’t hold themselves out as the arbiter of facts. Rather, they prefer parties settle the issue elsewhere and then come back and see them. Local courts would like to tell you to do the same but they are the place in which people bring lawsuits. In court, petitioners believe they will get a fair hearing and a supportive decision in their favor. Maybe, maybe not.

In the case of a divorce, recent cases have struggled with the issue of custody of the beloved dog. NY courts have rendered decisions firmly upholding the status of dogs as property. They have not rendered decisions following the best interests of the pet because that standard is reserved for children and humans, not non-human family members. In the 2013 case, Tracy vs. Murray, 2013 NY Slip Op 23405[42 Misc. 3d 447] Justice Matthew Cooper evaluated the divorcing spouses’ disagreement under a “the best for all concerned,” standard. In a later NY case, Gellenbeck vs. Whitton, 2015 NY Slip Op 30289(U) Justice Arthur F. Engoron threw out the ‘best for all concerned’ standard as not applicable. He told the parties to decide who gets the property (their beloved dog) or he would sell the dog, which is within his power to do, and split the proceeds. When interviewed by a NY newspaper, the judge said it was the most difficult decision he had ever had to make.

Since courts are divided on how to decide these domestic disagreements over the dog/cat/bird, imagine how divided they are over pure commercial transactions (i.e., the sale of a dog, co-ownership rights/responsibilities/terminology and responsibilities under contract law). Your adversary and the court look for any reason to avoid taking on the case. Addressing the meat of the disagreement may never be reached if a contract is found unenforceable for any of a number of technical reasons. Even though an argument can be made that all the parties knew what was meant by the terms of a contract, they may never get there if the contract is found unenforceable. No one’s story will be told nor explanation of meaning heard due to a glitch that throws the contract out the courthouse window.

If you could, would you like to avoid going to court even if you are sued? Would you like to address the terms of the contract you entered into for clarity? How would it feel if all the parties defined the language used within the contract? If misunderstandings could be corrected or appreciated, would you chose that process? If this sounds like something you would rather do than engage in an expensive court fight and a possible invalidation of the contract then mediation is a first step for you.

Mediation is the venue through which parties can get what they want. They decide if what they want is enough and agreeable. If not, the mediation can be shut down and lawsuits ensue. Mediation reality tests the parties’ wants and desires against the wants and desires of the other side. Each gains a better understanding of what is really important and what is not.

When you get sued, the process you choose after one-on-one communication breaks down is mediation. Often, how the parties choose to proceed dictates whether the outcome is a win/lose or win/win. Win/win seems in the best interest of the animals involved. If everyone’s ego gets involved, it can spell disaster for the pet.

The ‘If ego rule’ – read below…

Recalling from the prior two articles, mediation allows the parties to engage in confidential conversation with or without their attorney. All parties must agree to participate. If one party has an attorney, the other will need to get one since neutrality and fairness rules in mediation. In mediation, attorneys are present but the mediator is in charge. The mediator facilitates the parties’ conversation, which had been hampered by the communication break down.

If the mediator is familiar with a conflict like yours, involving a breakdown of communication over a show dog, they will know they need to allow for each party’s story to be told and heard. In that one process most disagreements can be resolved, sans litigation. We are often unable to fully listen to the story of our adversary due to our planning on the retort we needed to make in response to their story. We haven’t heard the other side. Now we get that second chance to speak and be heard.

There are the 3 steps you should take if you get sued:

1. Read the summons and complaint or attorney advisement letter thoroughly. See exactly what underlies the claim and when you must respond with your answer. Do not allow a default judgment to be filed against you because you ignored a due date.

2. Find an attorney who is mediation aware and friendly. Attorneys who review divorce mediation can be the first place to start. They already know the process and are friendly to party self-determination. These mediation friendly litigators will help you weigh the pros and cons of engaging in litigation or starting with mediation.

3. Do your homework. Find a local community-based mediation program that accepts private actions (they are usually free or low fee and give you two hours or more to work out your differences).

A side-benefit of opting in to mediate first is that the court may likely look favorably on your process choices. The court may assist you in encouraging the other side to participate in mediation. Mediation is a voluntary process not favored by litigious attorneys or clients. However, courts are examining the benefits of requiring mandatory mediation in cases like this. Ask for and opt into mediation first. It may make the process less costly and onerous for all and find the path of least resistance toward resolution.

Last month’s column talked about contracts and asked the following four questions:

1.) Did you read the contract you entered into with your breeder, buyer, leaseholder, handler or even the show superintendent?

2.) If you read the contract, did you understand all the terms and responsibilities enumerated and required?

3.) Do you want to maintain a good relationship with the person/people with whom you have contracted?

4.) How do you resolve a disagreement that arises out of the contract?

This month’s article will look at contractural language and why being clear and brief may save relationships.

When writing a contract, especially as a breeder, keeping your finger on the pulse of this puppy you have raised for 8-12 weeks is important to you. Contracts, usually written by the breeder, often contain clauses directing the new owners on diet, activities to refrain from/participate in, and vaccination protocols. It also delineates the promises made regarding show responsibilities and retained breeding rights. These contracts are not reviewed by a local attorney. If they are reviewed, the attorney may not understand the terms included or the reasons behind certain clauses. They may advise against certain contractual clauses, but leave them in at the breeder’s insistence. It’s a conundrum attorneys face when they know their client wants to include something which may not be enforceable or could be enforced but at a great cost to all (except the attorney).

If you are writing a contract, there are 4 Pre-Conditions you need to consider:

Communication: Whatever terms are written into the contract, you must keep the ability to communicate open. People become embroiled in litigation because they feel they were never told, they were told but misunderstood the reality of the situation, or feel unheard. Many cases are fought over who is right, when in reality they are both right. At the time the contract was entered into, all parties believe they understand one another. Time degrades memories. Enabling a conversation that is not adversarial can save the relationship.

Enforceability: Make sure you have your contract reviewed by an attorney. A number of terms you may want to include might not be enforceable in your state. Those terms that are enforceable may not be in the best interests of the dog. All these questions must be addressed at the time of the contract. If questions arise after execution, refer to the paragraph on communication.

Terms aka The Got to Have/Nice To Have Language: Many breeders subscribe to the kitchen sink-method of contract drafting, putting every possible eventuality in just in case you might need it. It may be better to think about what you really want to put in the contract. Then, after you find out it can be enforced, see if what you require/sign is possible for you to monitor/meet. Contracts that require major oversight are difficult. How do you assure a dog is kept in a fenced yard, eats a certain food, or goes to handling class? This is hard to monitor if the breeder & owner live a few state lines apart or even in the next town.

When writing contract terms remember KISS, Keep It Simple Stupid. Put in terms you absolutely need. Make sure both sides understand their responsibilities. Build in periodic check-ins to assure the original understanding is maintained effortlessly for the life of the relationship. Impossible you think? Not if the terms are short, well thought out and each party reads, understands and commits to the terms.

Relationship: This is probably the single most important part of the contract pre-conditions. It is something each party has to WORK at for the life of the contract, the dog and beyond. Just because you are the breeder, you don’t have carte blanche to dictate/deny things an owner needs/wants to do because you had them agree to do/refrain in a contract. Just because you are the owner, you do not have the right to ignore/force terms you agreed to do in that very same contract. Recognize that respectful relationships make better fields for contract negotiations than the barren deserts of litigation.

The world of AKC dog shows seems to be ruled by contracts. We enter into oral or written contracts to buy, handle, register, breed, show, and co-own our dogs.

A contract is an agreement entered into freely by two or more legally competent parties who have the capacity to exchange consideration and create a mutual legal obligation. The agreement is not dependent on whether you’ve read the terms of the contract, voluntarily acquiesced or believe what the terms say. In fact, most exhibitors, handlers and dog owners never read the contracts they enter into. They are thrilled to be getting a puppy from that nationally-recognized breeder, selling a puppy to a well-respected owner, having a successful handler handle the puppy, or submitting their entry into that prestigious show. By the way, this is not only endemic to the sport of purebred dogs — those who adopt from rescues and shelters sign unread contracts all the time. The adopters feel they are doing a corporeal work of mercy so why read the fine print. It is that fine print in a contract that is not to be ignored.

Now, for the attorneys in the sport, this article is meant to provide legal information for the benefit of the reader. It is not giving nor meant to be used as legal advice, which you can only get from an attorney licensed to practice in your state. Now we will look at how contracts made with the best of intention (or not) go awry and what you might do to save the relationship.

Question 1: Did you read the contract you entered into with your breeder, buyer, leaseholder, handler or even the show superintendent?

If your answer is no, go back and read it now. You may have agreed to things you didn’t understand or worse, to which you had no intention of agreeing. Reading the contract that is the basis of an agreement is the single most important thing you need to do. If an oral agreement is made, you may want to verbally memorialize that agreement on your smart phone on the day you enter into it, having all the parties participate in the recording. It may not be admissible in court, but you can use it in informal discussions.

If you have questions about a contract you signed, this article will provide you with some insight into ways to explore possible alternative dispute resolution processes to address these questions. Such alternative processes may allow you to engage in a more peaceful dialogue about a misunderstanding or disagreement, thereby nipping the conflict in the bud before it nips you in the butt.

Question 2: If you read the contract did you understand all the terms and responsibilities enumerated and required?

If your answer is no maybe you should ask the drafter of the contract, not your neighbor, for clarification of things you do not understand. The drafter is required to explain what the terms within their contract mean. For better or worse, confusion as to the understanding of a term in a contract is construed against the drafter. Get the definition of a confusing term from the ‘horses mouth.’ This is the only way a contract can reach full agreement.

Question 3: Do you want to maintain a good relationship with the person/people with whom you have contracted?

This is very important on both sides of the contract. Maintaining open lines of communication among the parties can nip conflict in the bud like no other method of resolution. Being able to ask the drafter in a non-threatening way what they meant, or explain what you meant if you think a misunderstanding is brewing is key to addressing issues and avoiding litigation.

Question 4: How do you resolve a disagreement that arises out of the contract?

If there isn’t a clause for resolution of disagreements in your contract, ask the parties to the contract to explore the possibilities of adding one. You can ask for this whether you are the creator or simply a signator to the agreement. It will encourage everyone to explore and possibly agree to add an alternative method of resolution to an already existing contract that requires the parties to engage in before litigation. Either side can bring the parties together and employ alternative dispute resolution to conduct a confidential clarifying discussion.

Typical solution clauses include arbitration or mediation of issues. In arbitration, the arbitrator typically reviews documents and hears argument from the parties then renders a decision. The arbitrator’s decision, whether good or bad, is often if not always final. In mediation, the mediator does not make a decision, rather they support each side’s view of the facts, allowing the parties to control the process, work together to resolve their differences and find a solution they can abide by while retaining their relationship going forward. If the issues cannot be resolved in mediation, the parties can proceed to litigation which is often more costly and protracted.

In the world of AKC dog shows, entering into contracts is an every day occurrence. It allows for smoother transitions and conversations. Reading these contracts, with a view toward understanding the meaning of each term is crucial. Reasons given for not reading a contract can run the gamut from no time, to trusting the other party, to not wanting to appear stupid, to feeling bullied into agreeing or grateful for the opportunity to have this puppy or person on your team. Whatever the reason for not reading the contract, it is not a good one.

Always ask that a clause requiring alternative dispute resolution be placed in the contract. It not only encourages you to have a conversation before you sign the contract, it protects your ability to continue to have a conversation and maintain relationships with all the parties. This clause can help you avoid endless and costly litigation where conversation is seldom if ever permitted.

This is the first in a four part series on contracts. The next article is entitled: Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt – Using Terms and Language that are Enforceable.

Until then, see you ringside.

Originally published: September 2014

For those of you reading this article, raise your hand if you are able to do one thing at a time to completion? Impossible? I am not so sure, but we believe we must multi-task to get everything done in a day. However, it does take commitment to remain completely focused on a project from start to finish.

What is the outcome of being mindful at a dog show? It enables you to tune in more fully to your dog. This connection can provide you with the presence to present them at their best. Being mindful, at every stage in your dogs development and presentation, can give you that winners edge, providing a tool which will consistently enable you to present yourself and your dog as winners.

Have I caught your attention? I hope so. What you will read below, if practiced, may help you to be a more effective breeder, owner and handler of your beloved breed. Personally, when I engage in mindfulness with my dogs incredible things happen.

Mindfulness is the art of clearing your mind of all distractions by meditating or being fully present where you are and what you are doing. It helps you focus and clear your mind of the extraneous distractions that come with life. It may sound Zen or Buddhist, yet recent scientific studies show that the brain expands and tests at a higher level of cognitive resource for people who practice mindfulness.

Let me fill you in on what mindfulness is according to the experts. According to Kate Pickert, the author of The Art of Being Mindful published in Time magazine’s February 3, 2014 edition, “Mindfulness is simply the giving of your full attention to what you are currently doing.” For we in the dog show world, loosely translated, mindfulness means being present in the ring, the set-up or the kennel and limiting multi-tasking.

Google brought mindfulness to Silicon Valley, where IT distractions run rampant and focus has become something highly desired. Google created and supports a program called Search Inside Yourself, a seven week program that teaches employees attention-focusing techniques. Wisdom 2.0, was created by techno enthusiasts as an annual mindfulness retreat for Silicon Valley leaders. In 2009, 325 people attended. This year attendance is expected to be seven times that of 2009. Both programs teach techno-consumed employees how to focus on single solutions. They practice the art of mindfulness, which in turn creates space for awareness of new technological innovations they can then bring to market. By eliminating distractions, they become more aware of solutions, creating outcomes and solutions that are a win/win for all.

Elizabeth Stanley of Georgetown University teamed up with Amishi Jha of the University of Miami to create a program on mindfulness for an elite US Marine Corp group. After completing their mindfulness training, the Marines’ effectiveness in stressful situations was significantly heightened and, based on these results, the NIH agreed to fund millions of dollars in continuing research.

If the above research intrigues you and you’d like to know more about how you might apply mindfulness into your own world of dog shows, focus on the following tips:

First, focus on one task at a time, become mindful of your thoughts.

Second, start with a simple observation. Begin to filter out distractions that are taking your energy away from the completion of the task at hand.

Third, if you find yourself constantly distracted by the ‘ooooh shiny’ things in life, actively refocus. Mindfulness helps you do this and creates the pathways for your brain to start slowing down.

Mindfulness also helps you see all you want to achieve as you prepare your dog for competition. It helps maintain your equilibrium. Equilibrium helps you compete at a higher level and keeps your dog balanced. Having the competitors on both ends of the lead at ease provides leads to better results for all.

By applying the three techniques outlined above you will be able to recognize when your focus drifts and this will help you actively choose to refocus. This can make a huge difference in your presence in any venue. These tools can help you win consistently, pick the best puppy from a litter, and prepare a dog for the show ring.

How do I know this? I recognize I am often mindful by accident. When I look back at my biggest successes, it occurs to me that I was singularly focused. One example of my being mindful occurs when I have puppies. I take the time out of my busy day to sit and be present with the puppies. This is where and how I learn about their personalities, movement, natural conformation and reactions to outside stimuli. I do this alone. I know what I am looking for in the puppy I intend to keep and the puppies I place with others.

I find when I remain mindful and limit outside distractions, things work out for me. An example of this was the Irish Setter National Dog Show in 2000. I went to this dog show at the last minute, remained off-site and connected with my two entered dogs the entire time. I showed these sisters myself, one in Bred-By and one in the Open Class. We won both classes. I went back in the ring on my Bred-By for the Winners competition. A wonderful junior, who co-owned my Open Bitch went in on her for Winners. My Bred-By bitch went winners and my Open Bitch went Reserve.

I realized much later that this show was the first time I had been totally focused on one thing. Mindful by accident. All the stressors of the National were surmounted because I stayed focused on what I had come to do. Distractions did not pull me off of my appointed task.

If you would like to try applying mindfulness techniques in your breeding, handling or exhibiting practice it can be as simple as clearing your mind of all distractions, focusing on the task at hand, and recognizing that when your mind drifts you have the ability to pull it back on task. The latter is the most important piece of mindfulness.

Try grooming with soft music playing in the background or turn off reality TV. Keep a hand on your dog being completely present with them. Sit in the whelping box alone and just look, listen and feel the differences in each puppy. Intuitively you will see things much clearer than you can with the naked eye.

Mindfulness 101 – It is not as new age as you may think. Science now shows it frees up mental space enabling you to focus on being present with your dog and what you are doing right now. Increased focus, heightened presence, a more balanced response and synchronicity with your furry companions make it worth a try.

Remember, download your Pet Passport by visiting https://hamiltonlawandmediation.leadpages.net/pet-passport/ . We’ll keep you updated on news, events and trainings being held by HLM once you grab your FREE Pet Passport.

https://hamiltonlawandmediation.leadpages.net/pet-passport/

Wishing you peace with pets and their people,

Debra

Debra Vey Voda-Hamilton

Hamilton Law & Mediation, PLLC

Originally published: April 2015

“Why do we breed and show dogs?

It is certainly not to get rich.”

We all read with profound sadness articles recounting the loss of Jagger, the Irish Setter, after the Crufts Dog Show. It struck particularly close to home because I breed, own and love Irish Setters. My life has been shared with these beautiful dogs since eighth grade. Having bred and shown them since 1984 under the Rumraisin prefix they have won best in show, national specialties, obedience, field and performance titles. It is difficult to read about any dog getting poisoned. When you read about a dog of your beloved breed arriving home and dying after competing in a show as prestigious as Crufts, it gets personal.

One thing I observed, in social and other forms of media, was just how clearly dog show people showed the world the compassion they had for each other. The Irish Setter Club of America sent a condolence card to our friends across the pond. We hoped it would provide some small solace at such a terrible time. Many of our English counterparts come stateside to attend our National and are members of our National Club. A number of us have travelled to England for Crufts, the Irish Setter Club of England’s Centenary (2008) and are members of the UK National Club.

We are now confronted with the horrible fact that someone (or more) poisoned several dogs who were at Crufts. It may or may not have happened at the dog show. It may or may not have been a competitor. It could have been a spectator or other outside faction. If we were all watching each other’s back, something this sport is known for, how could this have happened?

This terrible incident started me thinking about why we do what we do. In the world of dog shows, it is the people and their dogs that make this sport what it is. We all love our dogs with every fiber of our being. They own us at hello in the whelping box or as we take them home as puppies from our breeder.

Why we participate in this sport can be complicated. In most instances, it is due to our passion about our dogs. We raise and love these beauties and are committed to our chosen breed. Exhibitors take the time and provide the effort to educate others about their breed. We are members of our national and local clubs. Our passion keeps these dogs sound and healthy. If we show our dogs in any AKC, UKC or other venue event we take time to condition and train them to compete successfully. They assume their place as our companions and partners in the sport.

The dog show world is a close-knit group. For the most part, we look out for our friends. One only need look at events held by Take the Lead, an organization created to support the fancy here in the US, to find us contributing funds for the support and well-being of other dog show people who may have fallen on difficult times. These kinds of fundraising events are held during large dog show weekends and provide us with the opportunity to be generous with our time and money to people we may not know personally as well as socialize as a group.

When one looks around a dog show, it seems to be a place where competitors feel secure. Everyone is taking care of their colleagues and the dogs. The fact that someone was able to poison Jagger is unfathomable. We all look out for each other and our dogs. Isn’t that part of the ‘why’ we do this? We recognize there are good and bad parts of this sport, its people and competitive nature. An example of the good and bad can be seen when one competitor compares their definitions of a breed standard with their colleague. We each hold our own mental picture of the correct description of our breed. If we are honest with ourselves we should be able to see where we have met this mental picture and where we have not. Criticism of a type should never end in jealousy nor the taking of a dog’s life. These conversations can be peaceful if you take a step back and remember that the differences in the dogs and the opinions of judges are the reason we compete in the sport.

Why do we breed and show dogs? It is certainly not to get rich. Understanding why you spend all your time and money showing your dogs in breed, obedience, rally, agility and in the field can lead to more peaceful participation. Think about why you do it instead of how well you are doing at it. If you do, your satisfaction with the sport will increase exponentially. I tell my puppy buyers that I sell family companion dogs, not show dogs. What they turn this beautiful puppy into is up to them. All I want is for my dog to be an integral part of their family. The fact that they can put a lead around their dog’s neck and actively compete in any conformation or performance venue is icing on the cake.

When you look around the dog show arena how many people in your breed are friends? How many people outside your breed do you know? Will you be able to count on all or most of these fellow competitors in an emergency? The camaraderie that comes with this sport knows no bounds. If I am on an airplane and hear someone talking about their show or performance dog I turn around and say hello. We are kindred spirits. I probably don’t know them. They may have a different breed of dog. However, there is this unspoken connection which enables you to engage in a conversation. We both speak a language and take part in a sport few people understand.

Our dogs are not simply companions, they are our partners in a sporting venue. This is a big part of why we do this sport. It is one of the reasons we all watch out for our neighbor’s dogs at the show/event. We know how important these dogs are to us, our colleagues and everyone involved in any area of the sport of dogs.

With the tragedy at Crufts still fresh in our memory, let us think about why we do this. Maybe we need to say hello to the person who sets up next to us at the next show more often. This would begin a relationship for the day, weekend and beyond. We can watch their dogs and they can watch our dogs when it is our time to be in the ring. Otherwise, we may need to hire someone to come along with us to the show simply to be at the set-up while we are away showing our dogs.

It is up to us as exhibitors, owners and animal lovers to band together recognizing we are in this together. It truly is but for the grace of God goes our dog. If the only reason we compete in dog shows is to win and when we lose we leave or downgrade our competitors, maybe we should rethink our participation. I suspect, most of us are here for the camaraderie, sharing of ideas and information and assistance that comes when needed from comrades in arms. If this is true, then we must find out how this happened. It is only from gathering all the information surrounding this tragedy that we can brainstorm a way to prevent it from happening again.

Next time you go to a dog show ask yourself why you are there. We all want to participate in the show and leave with our beloved show companions intact. Forging new relationships may be the best offense against this invisible threat.

Originally published: November 2014

Nothing has captured the attention of the dog show world quite as effectively as social media…

It is an invaluable tool for keeping in touch with fellow breeders and owners/handlers who have our dogs. The quick and easy exchange of information on ring timing, assistance, emergency coverage and engaging immediate help for a dog or person who goes down, is invaluable. Many a life has been saved due to the quick actions taken via a post or directions obtained off Google+! Social media also supports, for better or worse, the dissemination of misinformation. Difficult and unkind discussions, intentional or unintentional, are often publicly broadcast via chat rooms, breed groups, judges lists, and a myriad of other social media dog sites. These sites can carry this misinformation globally in a matter of seconds. Several dog show exhibitors have been victims of general social media gossip or worse.

However, these damaging experiences are minuscule when compared to the global impact social media has given animal welfare groups. Their ability to garner mass action, on behalf of animals, is extraordinary. Do you ever really know who reads your Facebook, Twitter or Instagram posts? Please do not assume animal welfare advocates are not reading your posts, even if they are private. Nothing is private anymore, just ask Jennifer Lawrence.

Animal welfare advocates now use social media to find issues they can rally around. They take on a matter that concerns them, no matter how innocent the actions may have been, and incite flash mobs of support. A great example of this use of social media took place last winter. As the northeast braced for a prolonged period known as the polar vortex, animal welfare advocates heated up the social media airwaves and used the internet to gather support for a cause.

In upstate New York, a man who raised herding dogs had his dogs seized. His dogs were outside, tethered to blue plastic barrels with no insulation. In prior years, complaints by his neighbors about the dogs’ situation were met by law enforcement visits, conversations with the man, and observations that his care of the dogs met the minimum standard of care under the law. Law enforcement assured everyone the dog’s care met all state and county laws. Which it probably did.

Enter the polar vortex, social media and impassioned animal welfare advocates. Taken together, they created the perfect storm. Animal welfare proponents came on his property and seized his dogs. This was done without any legal finding that he had violated a law or ordinance. All the actions took place in the name of animal welfare. He thought they were coming to help him and his dogs. Instead they stepped in and condemned his way of life.

This kind of social media blitz, which underpins the taking, rescue and rehabilitation of animals, is what I call the animal welfare steamroller. Their definition of animal welfare is the only definition that counts. To animal welfare advocates, having dogs in kennels, tethered to blue barrels, staked in front of dog houses, or in crates in a van is tantamount to improper or inhumane treatment of animals. I am not condemning or approving of the care of the dogs in New York. I would have rather of had a conversation with the man and helped him shift his paradigm going forward, not just take his dogs. This story is meant to illustrate the power of social media for rallying supporters for a cause.

NYS law enforcement was powerless to stop this steamroller. They were bullied into acting, though technically no law was violated. The local district attorney questioned the legality of the taking of these dogs and was blasted by animal welfare supporters for his inhumane position. Animal Welfare proponents ran roughshod over one person’s rights. They felt justified because of the deafening call for humane treatment of these animals by the tens of thousands of Facebook, Twitter and Instagram followers they had rallied. It was the epitome of an animal welfare social media flash mob.

As breeders, owners and handlers of purebred dogs, it is not a gigantic leap to visualize this happening to us. We keep and travel with multiple dogs who are housed in cages a good deal of the time. This is not an ideal life for a dog as envisioned by animal welfare experts. Animal welfare proponents do not live in our homes or understand the care we give our show dogs. What they do know is that we breed purebred dogs for offspring to show. Two of our most common actions alone, crating and breeding, may bring the wrath of an animal rights flash mob down upon us. To them, what we do proliferates the plight of shelter dogs. In their opinion, we should spay/neuter our dogs and adopt from shelters.

This article is meant to alert the dog show world to use care when posting something about someone on social media. It may come back to harm you, someone else, or the sport you love in ways you never intended. Making statements to be funny, with no foundation in fact, may set off an animal welfare steamroller. You never know who is reading your post, who they forward it to, how those people might react, or the actions they may take as a result of what you said. Take your time and think before you post. Choose face to face communication, if possible, when disagreements arise. It could save you and others from a possible flash mob response to your post.
Social media and the dog show world, the best and worst of worlds.

Embrace it for all the wonderful information it can provide which enables us to show easily and safely. Use it with care, respecting its depth and breadth of holding us responsible for what we post.

by Debra Vey Voda Hamilton, Esq./Mediator

People who find themselves in conflict rarely choose to address the problem. This is akin to taking a trip without checking out the best route to your destination. They hope by ignoring a problem peace will return to their lives. Sometimes this choice works and so perpetuates the decision to ignore rather than address the issue. This is not always the case. Often things snowball and reach a tipping point. Once that point is reached, relationships are destroyed. Has this happened to you, either as the giver or receiver of built-up anger?

Conflicts are, more often than not, the result of the failure to address issues when they were small. You might have waited until you were at the end of your rope with a person, and then let loose with both barrels. Haven’t we all been guilty of this reaction? You were happily ignoring a fellow exhibitor who borrowed your things and never returned them or returned them used or broken. You allowed a breeder, owner or handler to speak to you rudely because they were the best or had the money/clout to get your dog to number one. There are a million reasons why you ignored things to keep the peace. Then, there was that one thing, the event that caused you to explode.

This event occurred because all the parties, even you, were bliss- fully unaware. Being aware is part of the Rapid Resolution Roadmap. By using the tips below, your ability to have a difficult conversation will be a thing of the past. You will not only know how to have the conversation but will have it.

Awareness that a conflict is brewing is key. People likely know when something is up. Your knee jerk reaction may be to rise above and ignore it. This is the best of all worlds. People have their own issues. If you can keep from making them your issues you are ahead of the game. This is called staying grounded. Allow people to carry their own water in a conflict. Avoid getting sucked into the middle of a conflict whirlpool.

By Debra Vey Voda Hamilton, Esq./Mediator

How many of you have contributed to the AKCPAC? The AKC Canine Legislation Support Fund (CLSF)? Both groups work tirelessly to help educate candidates (PAC) and incumbents (CLSF) on the desired rights and responsibilities purebred dog owners and breeders want to see implemented or sustained.

See the following:

https://www.apps.akc.org//apps/pac/index.cfm

AKC Canine Legislative Support Fund and PAC

WHAT ARE THEY?

For those of you who may be unclear as to the differences between a PAC and a Canine Legislative Support Fund, the following short lesson is for you. PACs lobby candidates who are currently running for office. They seek to educate and evaluate a candidate to see whether they are aligned with AKC’s mission of legislative non-interference in responsible pet owner’s rights to own, breed and sell dogs. The CLSF educates incumbent representatives and the public on what it means to be a responsible pet owner and how maintaining the right to own and breed your dog should not be inhibited by overbroad legislation.

Recently, a new PAC organization entered the PACs for animal welfare group. PetsPAC lists veterinarians, pet owners, service providers and veterinary nurses as the animal-interested parties it seeks to serve. In an article appearing in Today’s Veterinarian Business, [http://todaysveterinarybusiness.com/-petspac-packs-political-punch/], Mark Cushing*, the policy and political adviser to PetsPAC and the Veterinary Innovation Council, said, “PetsPAC’s main objective will be to focus exclusively on state legislatures and agencies in all matters affecting pets.” They will, “oppose bad legislation to stop it from becoming law.”

It also states it is the first PAC, “to work on the state and local legislative level.”

PAC groups first and foremost advocate for a cause and constituency. The original PAC organization for the protection of purebred dogs and the purebred dog fancier is the AKCPAC. PetsPAC seems to have a similar mission. It intends to serve pet owners by working to preserve their rights. PetsPAC states, “it looks forward to bringing veterinarians and pet owning clients together as a stronger voice to promote pet friendly legislation.” AKCPAC goes a step further by identifying its constituency as responsible breeders and pet owners.

As PetsPAC continues to formulate its mission, this may be a good time for the AKCPAC to reach out and welcome them to the neighborhood.