Sunday 26 July 2015

Winning Ways!

After years of avoiding doing this, in case I disgraced 'Her Indoors' in front of her friends and neighbours, yesterday she succumbed and, in a rash moment, entered me for the village dog show. 

Her performance left a bit to be desired if I'm frank.  She had no idea of the show-ring protocols, was unsure if the card with the safety pin was for her or for me, was late for my first class as she mistook it for the previous 'dog with the waggiest tail' group, and when we had to trot round the ring together she ran like a complete girl.

I, on the other hand, was in my element.  I had an admiring audience, treats, and a nice lady who stood at the front and showed lots of interest in me.  I was entered for the 'dog with the most appealing eyes' class, which I was well equipped for.  As well as having two of them,  I engaged the judge in direct eye contact and used the expression that I normally reserve for eliciting treats or getting me out of trouble (Fizzy, you might want to show your pups this so they can start practising).  It worked: I won.  'Her Indoors' was so surprised she thought I had been shortlisted rather than getting first place.  Honestly.... 

Anyway, by the time we got to the second class, 'best senior', she was beginning to get the hang of it.  I had to stop to read the peemail and leave a little message in response, but my arthritis wasn't playing up so I didn't limp, and I was pretty lively for the oldest dog in the group.  I was pipped to the post by a very worthy senior of ten years, who looked about five, but I took second place.  For a dog who has never stepped into the show-ring I thought it was a credible effort and even 'Him Indoors' was impressed.  He's started calling me 'Champion the Wonder Dog' and it makes a nice change to have an alternative name that isn't offensive.  It just goes to show that you're never too old to try, and succeed, at something new.  Now where can I put my rosettes....
Giving the judge my undivided attention with my 'appealing eyes'




To the victor the spoils.....

                                         

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