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.’