POINT/COUNTERPOINT
TOPIC
OF THE
MONTH
Why do you think more and more exhibitors
are exploring non-AKC show venues? Should
this be a concern to the AKC fancy?
BREEDER-EXHIBITOR
Cindy Cooke
This question really requires an article. My blunt answer is, yes, AKC needs to be concerned, not only that exhibitors are trying other venues but that exhibitors are just
quitting altogether. Reasons given by owner-handlers include: 1) a not completely
inaccurate perception that judges favor professional handlers; 2) judges who give
the impression that they are disinterested in the dogs they are judging or are rude to
exhibitors; 3) in many coated breeds, and especially Terriers, grooming has become
more important than breed type; and 4) the high cost of travel, entry fees and advertising. Right or wrong, there is a perception that you cannot special a dog without a
big advertising campaign. The NOHS is, I believe, working to slow the pace of exhibitors
abandoning the sport, but many owner-handlers perceive it as an attempt to distract us
from the glass ceiling above us.
PROFESSIONAL HANDLER
Arvind DeBraganca
Attending conformation shows around the country has allowed me to witness the decline
in entries everywhere. Many individuals are finding cost and politics to be deterrents.
We have a lot of options on a weekly basis. People are seeking a return on their investment, not necessarily monetary. If you attend show after show and are defeated, for
a host of plausible and implausible reasons, you start to question why. Then I hear a
lot of newcomers complain about the atmosphere: too little knowledge shared and an
unwelcoming vibe at shows. Add to this some judges who behave as if they are doing
the exhibitor a favor, and you have a serious problem.
AKC should be concerned. We need knowledgeable judges and a system in place for
checks, balances and mandatory continuing education. We need more interactive events
that help exhibitors feel welcome. The concern is losing exhibitors to organizations that
provide a feeling of joy, fairness and camaraderie. Yes, with the undercurrent that buzzes at
most shows, AKC needs to consider this a wake-up call.
JUDGE
Elaine Lessig
Today’s exhibitors are very savvy consumers who make informed decisions before paying
their entry fees. Among the criteria being considered are the location, judging panel and
the special events being offered at each show. At AKC shows, those special events may
include competitions for owner-handlers, puppies, bred-by exhibits and veterans, all
of which are available to exhibitors with no additional fees beyond the usual entry fee
for conformation judging.
What I see from inside the ring at AKC shows, which is my milieu, is increased participation at these events. As a judge, what I also see is a ring full of excited exhibitors
who take advantage of these offerings to show their dogs in the additional competitions.
There is good sportsmanship, camaraderie and, at the conclusion, proud winners running
off with a rosette toward the photo stand. DIR
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