The Rose City Classic

The Herding group

The Animal Planet commentators.

Shelties getting all dolled-up for the show ring.

Something Al and I have always wanted to do is go to the Westminster Dog Show in New York City. Yesterday, we did the next best thing. Maryanne, AJ, Al and I attended the Rose City Classic Dog show, a Westminster qualifying show. The Classic showcases AKC bred dogs in Agility, Obedience and the regular classes that you see on TV. An added bonus was that the Animal Planet Network was there filming the Best of Group classes and the Best of Show. It was really fun to be a part of the festivities. Beyond that, we learned alot. Unlike the very organized horse shows that we used to particpate in, dog shows seemed to be very chaotic. Dogs and people are everywhere, they groom right next to the show rings, and some handlers get very upset if you touch their freshly primped puppies. Big surprise for Al who got a really dirty look and a wagging finger in his face when he reached out to pet a sweet little Sheltie. Oops! We should have brushed up on our dog show etiquette. We didn't get to stay for the entire show but we did get to see Maryanne's favorite group, the Terriers, and my favorite, the Herding Group...love those Collies! And the Toy group was hilarious. These little show dogs have plenty of attitude and really know how to strut their stuff. After the dog show we headed to Lake O for dinner at Manzana's and then home. What a fun day!