Spring 2016  Saber Tails 33    

Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen Club of America

number of people from other states who came to West-

minster specifically as a place to meet dogs they might 

consider as their next family pet. I met a wonderful woman 

who had flown in from Birmingham, Alabama for the 
chance to ‘shop’ for the next breed she might 

want.  She 

had a short list of dogs she wanted to see and knew 

she could put her hands on them and talk to breeders 

who could answer her questions.  This brings us face-

to-face with an interesting ‘dilemma’ of sorts.  

D

og showing is a hobby for most of us and a profes-

sion for others but dog shows for many people are a 

place to meet dogs they wouldn’t see anywhere else 

and ask questions.  I’m very happy to find out that 

the general public is still interested in ‘learning more.’  

Seeing dog shows, and the breeders and exhibitors 

who participate in them, as a source for information is 

a HUGE benefit to those of us that hope this sport will 

continue on for years to come.  Breeders – make time 

to talk with all the people who ask a lot of questions 

and be grateful they are interested in and excited by 

Iceage Waiting for a Treat

Peter Parker Standing for His Close Up 

Buddy Strutting His Stuff

our breed.  Handlers – remember that the general 

public does not distinguish between you and any 

other person at the show.  Exhibitors – smile, be 

welcoming and ready to answer questions.  Every-

one I saw at this show was doing a great job of be-

ing an ambassador for the breed and for the sport 

of showing dogs.  

T

o everyone who participated in Meet the Breeds, 

Agility, Conformation showing, conversations with 

interested spectators at the benched areas, etc. – 

THANK YOU so much for representing PBGVs and 

our club!

I

f you missed the breed judging, you can watch it 

online at westminsterkennelclub.org.  Click on ‘Video’ 

from the main menu and you will find PBGV judging 

under ‘Breed Judging – Day 1.’