The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is a prestigious three-day event that showcases the best dogs in different categories, culminating in the selection of the Best In Show winner. However, behind the scenes, there are breeders, owners, and handlers who work tirelessly year-round to prepare their dogs for this competitive stage. These individuals form strong bonds with their dogs and dedicate countless hours to training and conditioning them for the show.
One such individual is Jamie Goodrich, a breeder-owner-handler from Central Square, New York, who has been showing her dogs for the past decade. Goodrich emphasizes the importance of exposing dogs to various stimuli and environments to ensure they are prepared for the chaotic show environment. From handling classes to visits to noisy locations like Home Depot, Goodrich ensures her dog, Aero, is ready for anything. Despite the stress and pressure of the competition, Goodrich finds moments of levity, such as when Aero displayed unexpected behavior in the ring.
Another dedicated individual is Kay Reil, a breeder-owner-handler with over 32 years of experience. Reil, who is showing a bull mastiff named Arthur at Westminster, values the emotional bond she shares with her dogs. She emphasizes the importance of physical conditioning for both dogs and handlers, as dogs often mirror their handler’s movements and energy level. While Reil has encountered challenges, such as other dogs exhibiting aggressive behavior, she works hard to maintain a positive and safe environment for her dogs.
Mara Flood, a breeder-owner-handler, has made showing dogs a family affair. Starting in the late 1980s with her sisters, Flood took a break from showing until her daughter, Becca, was old enough to compete. Together, they participated in over 100 dog shows before Becca went off to college. Flood fondly recalls memorable moments shared with her daughter at various competitions, including winning Best Junior and Best of Breed at Westminster. Despite competing solo now, Flood cherishes the memories made with her daughter in the show ring.
Kamilla Szasz, a breeder-owner-handler from Queens with eight years of experience, emphasizes the importance of trust and fun in the show ring. While acknowledging the competitive and emotionally charged nature of the sport, Szasz believes that enjoying the process is essential. She incorporates training into her daily routine, creating a seamless transition for her dogs between work and rest. Szasz also highlights the pressure to live up to expectations, especially when working with dogs related to previous champions. Ultimately, Szasz believes that those in the sport should be motivated by a desire to improve the breed rather than seeking recognition.
The dedication, passion, and hard work of breeders, owners, and handlers like Jamie Goodrich, Kay Reil, Mara Flood, and Kamilla Szasz form the backbone of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Their commitment to training, conditioning, and bonding with their dogs is evident in the success and achievements they have experienced in the show ring. Despite the challenges and pressures that come with competitive dog showing, these individuals find joy, fulfillment, and camaraderie in their shared love for dogs and the sport. The Westminster Dog Show may showcase the Best In Show winner, but it is the unsung heroes like Goodrich, Reil, Flood, and Szasz who truly make the event special.
