It's Showtime
Doggie massages, pooch psychics and makeshift fire hydrants...rehearsals are all over now and today was the first day of the Wesminster Kennel Club Dog Show...for real! This four-ring stage at Madison Square Garden was no place for the weak of heart, and it was time to judge the Best of Breeds, part 1.
The day started with a few disappointements. First of all, it was no gold ribbon for our old friend Moose - the Swedish Vallhund. You remember, we met him on Friday at the hotel. But we had also met Riley, that darling Glen of Imaal Terrier, and he won Best in Breed! Ah, the ups and downs, highs and lows.
Reality check set in when I realized I couldn't be in four places - or rings - at the same time. Well how are you supposed to choose between beagles or bulldogs?
Before making a ring decision, I took a peek at the salon of all salons and caught more than a few canines having a bad hair day. Not this poodle though...
I couldn't help wondering if he sleeps in pink plastic rollers?
Then there was miss Afghan. I guess the below freezing temperature required a special warm-up suit? Funny, I always thought winters were harsh in Afghanistan?
OK, back to decision time. I love 'em all, but I have to say there's just something about Lassie that always makes my heart skip a beat.
And suddenly I gained a new appreciation for Blue Merle Collies...
OK, decision made...it's off to Ring 3 and the Herding breeds.
Strangely, not many collies actually look like Lassie???? You gotta love those artful Border Collies...
Standing ringside you pick up a lot of the human experience attached to showing a dog. These are real people with real lives, and I heard some pretty amazing stories about what brought them to participate in the sport. The time spent in the ring moves so fast compared to the travel and prep time. Everyone has a unique tale to tell and I learned a few insider tricks.
Like 'double handling.' A technique particularly popular for the keen investigatory senses of German Shephards. When they're in the ring, two handlers will stand outside the ring on opposite ends, causing the dog - who is looking and searching for them - give the appearance of constantly being on the alert! Pretty clever, eh.
Then there are the ice cold towels, placed underneath of a waiting dog to cool down his possibly sweating paw pads. Who knew?
The time flew by, but tomorrow I'll plan on orthopedic shoes and snacks. For now, it's sweet dreams for me just thinking about the sweeties group of Shetland Sheepdogs ever imaginable. Check out this Blue Merle Sheltie!
If you're visiting the show or just want to talk about it, go to our chat boards at my.petside.com
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Comments (2)
J. Papada February 12, 2008 1:55 PM
Riley,I think I know you, did you once live in New Orleans? We met in Pgh over a year ago - I always thought you were insightful. I hope you remember me, the little red- headed Shiba.
Merlin49 October 22, 2009 8:24 AM
This brought me to the following 3 suggestions. ,
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