The Dog Show

(Thomas Brown and Ebony have a clean sweep to win the Companion Dog Title!)

At the Cabarras County Arena all 3 buildings are packed with dogs, their handlers, and spectators like myself! There is so much to take in all at once it's overwhelming. People and dogs shuffle in all directions like slow-motion bumper cars. Booths line the exterior of the show rings with a variety of products and services for canines and humans. Every breed we can think of (and some we didn't) are here, represented. Each building has a focus: Agility, Conformation, and Obedience.

The Agility area is dominated by two large rings, surrounded by stadium seating. Harried dogs and their handlers scurry to one side or the other. Here the hustle and bustle is frequently punctuated by yips of anticipation and barks of exuberance. Dogs of all shapes and sizes fly through complex courses. We cheer indiscriminately at the dazzling canines going breakneck speed through the courses.

(Brutus and I have competed in Rally Style Obedience)

In the center building the large space is gated into 8 showing rings, where each breed struts at it's appointed time. It is a dizzying symphony of controlled motion all around as we turn first one way, then another to ogle pampered pooches parading by finely dressed judges who poke, prod and caress their coats. Exhibitors awaiting their turn are very friendly and willing to share information about their breed(s), and the dog they are showing.

In the far building three more large rings hold a variety of dogs competing for Obedience or Rally titles. Like the Agility, pure and mixed breed dogs can compete to earn awards. The dog and handler teams must accurately perform set patterns to earn a title. They may have to sit, down, stand, stay, go over a jump, retrieve things, heel past food, toys or children in any combination or order depending on which title they are pursuing. These things also may be on or OFF leash depending on the level of competition.

(Brutus said "But I don't want to hold the ribbons in my mouth Mommy!")

We wander through all of the buildings and the grooming area learning more in each section until our feet start to ache and our shoulders are stiff from holding all of our purchases. A glance around reveals many people are packing up- done for the day. We no longer inch along shoulder to shoulder with dozens of other canine connoisseurs. As we wander to our cars, we agree that we really must make time to go to another show soon. It's too good of an experience to miss!