Top Notch Toys - July 2022

2022 WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB

3. Daytime live-streaming of the show is now expected. How does this complement the live broadcasts at night on Fox Sports? Live-streaming is a staple of the WKC events because we want to share the competition with those fanciers who cannot attend, and with people interested in learning more about dogs. 4. Could you say a few words about Westminster’s significance to the sport of dogs in the 21st Century? History will tell the story, but from my perspective, the organi- zation’s goal is to continue to fulfill its mission (to celebrate the companionship of dogs while promoting responsible dog own- ership and breed preservation) by building on the foundation of the WKC Members of the past. Over a century of historic dog people have created Westminster, the essence and stature of the event. Today, Members strive to maintain the tradition of excellence, continue the mission of promoting purebred dogs, and ensure that the club and sport remain relevant. 5. In your opinion, how does Westminster reflect positively on the value of the Preservation Breeder? Each year, WKC uses its platform to educate the public about preservation breeders through PR messaging, social media campaigns, and telecast commentary. For 2022, in addition to promoting the two new breeds (Russian Toy and Mudi), we highlighted four “Hidden Gem” breeds. We selected breeds from different Groups that are low registration breeds. This year we featured the American Foxhound, Bergamasco Sheep- dog, Skye Terrier, and Sussex Spaniel. When talking with the News Media about these breeds, I could explain how these historic breeds are low in registration num- bers but wouldn’t even be here today if it wasn’t for the dedicat- ed preservation breeders who have maintained the breeds and produced generations of healthy dogs. We use AKC registration statistics and WKC show records to tell the story of how some of these beautiful breeds appeared at the first WKC show in 1877 or have been working companions for centuries. Today these breeds are vulnerable, so we want to celebrate them and the breeders who produce them. It’s important to help the public learn more about the qualities and rich histories of dog breeds.

6. As a former Junior Handler, what is the show’s significance to today’s Juniors? To their families? When a Junior competes at Westminster, I hope they feel pride in their accomplishments through- out the year and enjoy the experience on show day. The competition is deep in Juniors at WKC, and it always has been. Making it to the Finals and plac- ing or winning is a significant accomplishment. Still, it’s important to remember that just qualify- ing for Westminster is a feat to be proud of, and the experience of competing with your dog is the real win. 7. What can the average exhibitor do to promote the sport and increase awareness of our community? I think two actions are “low-hanging fruit” when promoting the sport. First, join a local dog club and work for them. Everyone can contribute something, even if you work remotely on the website, local PR or archives, etc. Local clubs’ events are critical to public education. Second, be positive when speaking with new people exhibiting, strangers asking about your dog, and potential puppy buyers calling. We have all heard the accounts of breeders being unresponsive or unkind to people wanting to learn. In my mind, as a participant in the sport, you are a steward of the sport. It’s easy to help those interested in learning more about our dogs and competitions. Be kind and send them to AKC.org , where they can learn how to get started in a sport, find a breeder, etc.

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