Show Positivity
ADF is pleased to welcome this new column highlighting the best of our sport and community. If you would like to share and spotlight your recent positive experience, in our out, of the ring please submit via direct message our Facebook page. We hope you enjoy, find encouragement and inspiration in this new addition!
“Major” Win
By Dee Ambrose-Stahl
From September to June, I consider myself a “weekend warrior,” attending dog shows only on the weekends because my real job–high school English teacher–requires a great deal of time and energy. Also, my district frowns on taking days off for such things as running around in a circle dressed in a suit, so I stay pretty local for those months. This has been my life for roughly twenty years, and I truly have experienced the good, the bad, and the ugly that comes along with this sport. Saturday, April 30, 2022, will remain forever in my heart as one of the best dog show experiences I’ve ever had.
I entered my four-month-old Pumi puppy at the South Hills Kennel Club show in Morgantown, WV. I am so thankful that the Beginner Puppy shows are offered, as it seems matches are a thing of the past now. It’s a great experience for our youngsters, and I have to say that I am truly impressed with the quality of puppies that I’ve seen.
My only goal when showing puppies in BPUP is that they have fun and learn that the show ring is a great place. When the judge makes the experience fun for puppies and exhibitors, it’s a “major” win! Judge Mr. Brian Bogart graced the BPUP ring with a warm smile and a jovial attitude. He took his time with every puppy and went out of his way to make sure the puppies had a good experience. He chatted with exhibitors while still keeping his ring “moving along.” Call it a sixth sense. Call it good judging. Whatever phrase you use, one thing is certain. If every new exhibitor had the privilege of showing to Mr. Bogart, they would fall in love with the sport and keep coming back.
