Our Dogs

Northern Advocate, 22 July 1939, Page 4 (Supplement)

Our Dogs

By “LEAD”

I suppose that by now all owners and their charges are getting settled down again to their ordinary daily routine after a hectic two days at the local show, upon which I must offer my congratulations to the Northland Kennel Club, particularly its president, Mrs Donaldson; show manager, H. Parkin, and secretary, A. W. Griffiths, and their willing band of workers. As a ringside spectator. I must 'say the announcing of aiwardls by ring steward Allen, was very much appreciated, allowing all spectators to mark their catalogues as each event was finalised. Mr Allen is a new face to me at the local show, but in my opinion ho is the best ring steward I have seen for years, and one who not only knows what to do, and When to do it. but does it pronto, and keeps things moving smoothly. Also, I would like to congratulate the card stewards, Mrs Lingard find Mrs H. T. Parkin, on their efficient work. On going round the benches immediately the judging was finished it was pleasing to find all award cards in their places. t The dogs were well cared for under the (watchful eye of bench steward W. Hadwin, and all visitors were loud in their praise of his work. All exhibitors, both 'winners and losers,, appeared in good spirits, and to thoroughly enjoy themselves. Of course we always have someone who is disappointed in not collecting a red ticket, but I would remind young exhibitors that each award is only one man’s opinion. Do not be discouraged, but try again and your turn must come. The judge, Mr Graham, who had the final say. did a good job of (work, and got through his task very , well. He could not please everyone, but he is a man of long show experience, and for a breeder to have built up a kennel of the standard of the old “Gambler Kennels,” of Wanganui, is no moan feat. I can assure my readers that judge Graham does know how a deg should look and handle. However I (was disappointed not to see him on the job in the evening, as that is the time judges are in great demand, and their remarks are very useful to new exhibitors, and often very helpful to anyone about to purchase a dog or puppy. Seeing the judge did not leave a critique on the local dog show, Mr Editor, I may perhaps be allowed at some future date to give my own opinions as I saw them on the benches and in the ring. I would like any local fancier with any news for a “doggy column” to forward same to “Lead,” c/c “Advocate,” for inclusion in this column.