I’ve arrived at the press room for Piers 92 and 94, where there are two events going on today: The Masters Agility Championship and the AKC Meet the Breeds event.
This is the first time both events have been held at the same time as the big dog show, and the crowds are tremendous! Last night in the hotel lobby, it was pretty funny because a lot of people didn’t know that Westminster was this weekend, and they couldn’t figure out why everyone had a dog with them! The 2 Boxers shown above waited so patiently in the check-in line. Such good dogs!
Special note to Pattie who wanted me to follow a long-haired cream Doxie: That was one of the first dogs I saw when I arrived. However, he was a whirling dirvish inside his kennel, so I couldn’t get a picture!
I didn’t realize it, but as a convenience to the handlers and owners who are traveling, many of the specialty groups (Toys, Hounds, etc.) have held conformance shows throughout NYC over the past week. I spoke to a woman this morning whose Chinese Crested had won Best in Breed during the Toy Specialty show. She reports that a Yorkie took Best in Group. I’ll see what I can find out about the other groups while I’m poking around this weekend.
I have to say, I’m a little intimidated, as it’s the first time I’ve ever been anywhere as a member of the press. And my little camera phone will definitely not compete with the professional photographers and all of their elite equipment.
But I will give you my first-hand accounts and impressions of everything I see. Wish me luck!