“I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN A MENTOR TO NEWCOMERS BECAUSE I REMEMBER HOW I STARTED AS A COMPLETE NOVICE AND HOW APPRECIATIVE I WAS OF THOSE WHO HELPED ME ALONG THE WAY TO MY BLESSED SUCCESS, by imparting some knowledge and, in many instances, just offering an encouraging word.”
goals of positive camaraderie and, in many cases, new friendships. The AKC has launched the very suc- cessful National Owner-Handled Se- ries (NOHS) aimed at trying to make All-Breed shows more appealing and rewarding for owner-handlers and many novice handlers. The confi- dence and knowledge gained here has resulted in many transitioning into the competitive regular Group rings with new-found success. Do not be discouraged with those “negatrons” who want to steal your dreams. We have challenges with some of the bad actors, including breeders, exhibitors, professional dog handlers, and some judges. Many do not play fair. That is a reality in all fac- ets of life. We need to surround our- selves with positive individuals who work hard to become successful and who have ethics. We need to stay clear of toxic individuals whose personali- ties are not suited to our highly com- petitive endeavours. Do not fall vic- tim to their unsportsmanlike actions and shenanigans. Seek out those who compete in a positive and funmanner. There will be judges who appear un- able to find good dogs, whether they be exhibited by owners, novices or professional handlers. The ma- jor cause of poor judging is a lack of
expect to win? Take a small step to increasing your winning percentage by increasing the odds, by spending just five minutes every day on train- ing. Practice EVERY day for only five minutes with a bit of stacking, baiting, and movement—all in a fun atmo- sphere. You will be shocked with the results after just a few weeks. Do not be afraid to ask for help from professional handlers and success- ful owner-handlers. They are always willing to help because it is in their best interest to see that you succeed and continue in the sport. Besides, good breeders are always looking for new owners to help with their breed- ing programs and share in their suc- cess. Handlers are always “prospect- ing” for new clients, and their initial encounter helping you has, many times, resulted in a new-found cli- ent—whenever you are not able to get to a show and require the services of a professional. Many have adopted a “win at all costs” mentality and are fearful to welcome newbies. Our sport is in decline be- cause we are not nurturing. When was the last time you offered advice or words of encouragement to a nov- ice with a promising dog? Take them under your wing and show them the fun side of working on our common
knowledge of a specific breed. I en- courage my fellow judges to continue with your knowledge and education of breed type, form, function, tempera- ment, and soundness, so that you will have the confidence to find the right dog—on the day. Be fair in your place- ments and do not fall prey to all the nuisances that occasionally adversely affect our decision-making process. I have always believed in competing with creativity, not negativity. When my competition prevailed over me... I bred better dogs... I groomed more and I trained more... and success fol- lowed, as opposed to those who com- peted negatively and found every ex- cuse to explain their losses, from bad judges to the un-level playing field. Just work harder, with passion and dedication, and you too will succeed. Everyone started as a novice!!!
56 • T op N otch T oys , N ovember 2021
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