Senior Citizen Pooch Wins Westminster Dog Show

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| Print | By | February 11, 2009 11:13 AM

By: Jo Singer

I was overjoyed this morning as I read the headlines announcing the winner of the 133rd Westminster Dog Show in New York City. Since I am also a senior citizen, it was highly gratifying to learn that a kindred spirit of the canine persuasion had romped off with the first prize at the event.

Ah, those golden years! At 70 years-of-age, while many of us are enjoying retirement, pursuing a leisurely lifestyle, apparently this is not the case in the canine world this year. Stump, whose official name is Clussexx Three D Grinchy Glee, this handsome 10 year-old Sussex spaniel, is approximately 70 years old based in doggie years and has completely dispelled the myth about old dogs learning new tricks.

After a five year hiatus from the show ring due to a serious and rare illness which required a 19 day hospital stay in 2004, nearly causing him to lose his life, this courageous canine has just made a fantastic comeback, winning the prestigious Best in Show at the 133rd Westminster Dog Show, representing the Sporting group. Chosen as the first of his breed by Judge Mrs. Sari Bewster Tietjen, Stump not only took this top award but has become the oldest dog to ever capture this win.

And if Best in Show was not sufficient, Stump, the "come back king", trumped six other dogs to win the "Super Bowl" of the dog world during the two-day competition. Stump's competition for Best in Show was a Standard Poodle, a Brussels griffon, a Puli, a Scottish terrier, a Scottish deerhound and a Giant Schnauzer. In 1991 a Standard Poodle won the top honor, and in 1995 the win was claimed by a Scottish terrier.

My hat is off to Stump and his owner. I kinda think that his amazing win, especially in light of his seniority, demonstrates that anything is possible if we keep our eye on the prize, so to speak. I have to tell you that not only was I impressed by Stump's performance, but I feel especially inspired by his tenacity and his obvious positive attitude. I think we can learn a lot from this charming pooch who has definitely touched my heart.

Did Stump's victory touch your heart? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment.

RELATED TOPICS: Blogs (262) , Dog Shows (2) , Westminster (2)

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Anonymous February 11, 2009 2:34 PM

Sussex spaniels are not a breed I find particularly attractive, but cudos to Stump for persevering and still enjoying the show. (And I know he's still enjoying it, because a dog that didn't wouldn't show well and consequently wouldn't win.) I'm amazed (and jealous) that he doesn't have any gray on his muzzle! That's just not fair!

Anonymous February 11, 2009 4:54 PM

I was watching as this beautiful dog was named Best In Show. I was just overjoyed. It was so nice to see an older dog get this great honor.

Anonymous February 11, 2009 7:13 PM

I was very happy when Stump won the show! Not only is he elderly, but also I just love Spaniels. :>)

Big Congrats to the beautiful Stump!!

Anonymous February 12, 2009 3:06 AM

What a wonderful feel good story ! Stump is a real handsome chap and also being a senior citizen too like he is,I think his success is great.

Anonymous February 12, 2009 4:23 AM

I watched parts of the show on both nights. I was very tickled when I saw this dog enter the ring. He had a special look to him before I even knew his age and background. Congrats to his owner and may they both have long wonderful healthy lives.

Anonymous February 12, 2009 10:15 AM

Way to go Stump! It really is an upbeat story!
-Joanne

Anonymous February 12, 2009 10:27 AM

Min here, noting country song "There might be a little dust on the bottle
But don't let it fool ya 'bout what's inside
There might be a little dust on the bottle
It's one of those things that gets sweeter with time" Congrats Stump!!!!!!!!

Anonymous February 12, 2009 10:31 AM

Pardon if this is a repeat--some problem with submitting.Quote from a country song"There might be a little dust on the bottle
But don't let it fool ya 'bout what's inside
There might be a little dust on the bottle
It's one of those things that gets sweeter with time"
Min here, with a big congrats to Stump !!!