It was a dog-day morning and afternoon on July 22 and 23 at the annual Putnam Kennel Club All-Breed Dog Show at Veterans Memorial Park in Carmel. Most dogs and their masters — all dogs were required to be owner-handled — seemed not too bothered by the heat, as long as they remained in the tents attached to each of the seven show rings.
Each dog had his or her day at the competition, from the familiar (16 German Shepherds) to the new (Berger Picard and Pumi breeds, both officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in the past two years, and both unofficially determined to be awfully cute by this non-credentialed judge).
Judging a Schipperke.
A komondor in motion in the ring.
A strollerful of Papillons
Showing the star her ribbon
Delighting in his Kerry Blue Terrier
Where does one begin and the other end?
Perhaps this Russell Terrier is considering a quick bolt off the table?
Socializing, canine and human, was a part of the proceedings.
Inquisitive French Bulldog.
Obedience and Rally skill competitions took place at the same time as breed judging.
'Twiglet', a/k/a 'Twiggy', a German Shorthaired Pointer. "She has an Instagram account, called Branford and Twiglet. She wants to be famous. She doesn't like being a show dog, she wants to roll around in the field, finding an eating revolting things."
'Betty', a Wire-haired Dachshund. "A showboat who thinks she's a 125-lb. Deerhound. We have nine of them in the house."
Two English Springer Spaniels in circular flight.
An Old English Sheepdog post-fluffing.
Gunner, a Bull Mastiff, and Best in Breed winner. "Gunner will just keep eating and drinking without stopping. You have to remove the bowls."
Seeing triple was a common occurrence.
Keeping an eye on her Great Dane.
Two of the 26 Border Terriers (there was specialty for the breed) entered, surely smelling something not-so-artfully hidden.
Lillian Esposito, excited winner of three ribbons: Best of Winners, Best of Opposite Sex, Best Owner-Handler. With her is bearded collie 'Highlands My Fair Lady'. "They're all named after Broadway shows."
A pensive Shetland Sheepdog, on the grooming table.
Behind The Story
Type: News
News: Based on facts, either observed and verified directly by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
Rooney was the arts editor for The Current since its founding in 2010 through April 2024. A playwright, she has lived in Cold Spring since 1999. She is a graduate of Binghamton University, where she majored in history. Location: Cold Spring. Languages: English. Area of Expertise: Arts
