Out of more than 100 dogs, I didn’t really expect (though I did hope) that Tooey would come home with a win. But no. Instead:
- In the first show, she seemed tired. She lagged behind me, didn’t show any energy or enthusiasm, and generally seemed low and down. This clearly wouldn’t impress any judge.
- In the puppy Sweeps, she had much more energy. So much energy in fact that, instead of gaiting smoothly around the ring, she galloped and bunny-hopped. Not a good impression either.
- In the Specialty show, she (and I) finally did really well. We gaited smoothly, Tooey kept her head up and looked happy and upbeat — it all went well. We just didn’t win. Commentary from the gallery speculated that the judge was looking less a movement and more at head structure. Oh, well.
But, and this is a lovely but, Karl Hogg showed Tooey in Juniors. That’s a competition in which young people learn how to show dogs. Karl did a beautiful job, Tooey looked great, and the two of them took 1st. I was very pleased with both of them.
Jeremy Kezer (in foreground), Patrice, the judge, Tooey, Karl, and the show chairwoman
What a great shot!! Karl and I thank you again for letting him use Tooey. I can’t wait to see the videa Russ took.
It was great to see Karl in the ring again! He did very well with Tooey.