The first Westminster show was held on May 8, 1877. No other continuously held competition in the United States is older except for the Kentucky Derby, which was first held in 1875. The show originated as a show for gun dogs, initiated by a group of hunting men who met regularly at the Westminster Hotel at Irving Place and Sixteenth Street in Manhattan. 
They decided to create a Kennel Club called the Westminster Kennel Club specifically for the purpose of holding a dog show.Today, there are more than 2500 dogs from over 150 breeds being shown. It is considered by many to be America's most prestigious dog show. I watched the Toy and and Hound portion of the Westminster Dog show Monday night.
I am always amazed at how riveting the event is. Even in today's tough economy, the sale of pet supplies and pampering treats for our four legged family members remains steady if not increasing. This means many of you are just as attached to our pets and this competition as I am.
The top winners of the Toy breed this year are The Toy Poodle, the Pekingese, the Shih Tzu and the Papillon. Although the Bichon Frize, Pug and Chi Hua Hua still deserve attention in my book. If I could afford it, I'd have dozens of them all. But as time passes, I realize my dog breeding days are long past.
I still have my last Lhasa Apso, Brandy, and she is 20 years old. However, I know that If I decide to get one or more dogs in the future, they will be rescued from the shelter locally. I suggest everyone else to do the same. In the mean time, Day Two of Westminster will provide dog lovers everywhere our guilty television pleasure one more night on USA channel. Go ahead...no-one will know.
4 comments:
I have a great idea. Why don't we put together an Ulster County Dog Show? We could use the Deitz Stadium mid summer when school is out.
Tell me this isn't a good source of tourism dollars.
Proof of Ulster residency, and up-to-date papers for the dogs required.
I think you stumbled on something worth pursuing here.
Havent there been Dachshund gatherings at SkateTime in the recent past? That building could serve at the alternative site if it were to rain on whatever date you guys set. Maybe even the Midtown Center right on Broadway.
They may already have something scheduled at the UC Fairgrounds. Contact UC Agricultural Society or UC Buildings/Grounds Department who keep a listing of events scheduled at the County Fairgrounds. If UC does not have a dog show, then we should. We have HITS which has turned into a well attended event throughout the summer. When HITS is here you can't get a hotel room anywhere locally.
I think the most important point you make is the need for people to chose dogs from the shelters rather than pet stores if they are going to bring home a new family member.
If you find yourself at Armadillo for dinner, make a point of asking Merle if she has a line on a needy dog that fits your taste. Always start where you can trust the source.
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