WHO IS THE FRANCHISE PLAYER ON YOUR TEAM?
“The union of a well-cared-for dog and a well-rounded exhibitor creates a powerhouse team in the dog show world. Both, treated as franchise players, contribute significantly to the team’s success. ”
community well-being for the dog translates into a well-rounded, competitive, and admired (even envied) show dog, reflecting excel- lence and drawing awe at every appearance. Similarly, the exhibitor must mirror this approach, focusing on personal fulfillment, robust community ties, financial stability, physical health, and a mean- ingful role in the community. Together, this synergetic approach, where both the dog and exhibitor thrive as franchise players, not only elevates their performance in the ring but also solidifies their reputation and success in the world of purebred dogs. This holistic strategy is the key to standing out in our highly competitive and passionate realm of dog shows. The union of a well-cared for dog and a well-rounded exhibitor creates a powerhouse team in the dog show world. Both, treated as franchise players, contribute significantly to the team’s success. Their combined excellence in the ring, strategic preparation, and ability to captivate and engage ringside and judges alike elevate their status, making them not just participants but stars of the show. This dual focus on the well-being and development of the dog and the exhibitor is the cornerstone of building a legacy in the world of purebred dogs, ensuring not just short-term wins but also long-game reputation and success. In this intricate dance of showmanship, the dog and the exhibi- tor must be seen as vital spokes in the wheel of success. For the dog, it means ensuring he is professionally engaged, socially well- adjusted, financially well-cared for, physically fit, and valued with- in the community. These aspects contribute to a dog that not only performs with excellence but also captivates and inspires members of the dog community. Your dog is the franchise player of your team. As such, he should be handled with great attention to detail. On the other hand, the exhibitor must mirror this holistic care in their own life. Profes- sional fulfillment, robust social networks within the dog show community, sound financial planning, personal physical health, and a meaningful role in the broader community are essential. This ensures that the exhibitor remains motivated, capable, and fully engaged in the journey towards dog show success.
3. Economic Stability: Financial stability is essential for your dog’s comfort, safety, and security. Investing in quality care, nutri- tion, and living conditions for the dog is basic. To achieve maxi- mum success, take advantage of the best training opportunities available. Often, exhibitors invest in dog training classes without investing in courses specifically to engage and teach the handler. Of course, the exhibitor should manage finances effectively to maintain involvement in dog shows for the long term. Budgeting for travel, entry fees, and training expenses is critical for support- ing the franchise players. You can’t be an advocate for your dog’s stardom unless you know how many shows you can get to and how far you can travel. 4. Health & Fitness: A dog’s fitness regime should include proper diet and exercise to maintain peak health and vitality for show condition. Clean skin grows coat; this is important regardless of coat type, length, and texture. The exhibitor must also prioritize their own health and fitness to meet the demands of dog shows. Run, run, run! Both of you! 5. Community Well-Being: The dog can engage in commu- nity events or therapy work, while the exhibitor can contribute to breed clubs and participate in community events, sharing knowl- edge and experiences. For example, the Miniature Schnauzer Club and the Cairn Ter- rier Club in the Portland area have annual walks during their spe- cialty weeks. It would be easy to get together more regularly with the members of your clubs to create an on-site community with other members of your breed. You and your dog become valuable to others in a community setting. Treating both the dog and the exhibitor as franchise players, focusing on these elements of well-being, elevates their perfor- mance and reputation in the world of purebred dogs. This holis- tic approach not only enhances immediate show success but also builds a long-term legacy in this passionate field. In the dynamic arena of dog shows, both the exhibitor and the dog emerge as crucial “franchise players,” each pivotal to the team’s success. Ensuring professional, social, financial, physical, and
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Lee Whittier has over three decades of experience in the world of purebred dogs as an experienced breeder, exhibitor, and internationally recognized judge. A former AKC Executive Field Representative, Lee now judges multiple Groups at prestigious shows worldwide. As the founder of the Dog Show Mentor program, she empowers owner handlers globally with strategic approaches to showing dogs. Lee currently resides in Vancouver, Washington, where she enjoys her Tibetan Terriers, gardening, and hiking. If you want more information about how to expand your dog show horizons, contact Lee@DogShowMentor.com At Dog Show Mentor, we make winners.
164 | SHOWSIGHT MAGAZINE, FEBRUARY 2024
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