There's no denying the fact that one of the great problems facing show giving clubs today are the costs and expenses of putting on an all-breed event. While many clubs look for ways to increase income one factor seems to be ignored by all too many show-giving committees. That is of course ways and means to lure additional spectators onto your show grounds on the day or days of the show itself. Not only will this increase the gate for parking but this can be combined into a money making spectators gate as well. There are at least two activities that have a tremendous appeal for the general public above and beyond the conformation side of putting on a show. And with all due respect to the Special Events categories such as the Owner-Handler Competitions or the usual Bred by Competitions and the like is the excitement generated by having people have their own dogs take part in the show itself. This is being very successfully done through the Agility oriented promotional idea called MY DOG CAN DO THAT!

At those shows where people learn through proper advanced publicity that they can bring their pets-purebred or otherwise- to the shows and actually take part in the event the spectator gates have increased tremendously and immediately as well. Furthermore this is a way to induce people to partake in future dog show events once they have tasted the thrill of their dogs' participation and successes. Let's face it the O-H event is little more than an extension of a dog show competition, which has minimal appeal to John Q Public. But by introducing the concept of actual participation at a show with owner and pet the interest of the spectator is piqued, which results in the earning of additional income for the show-giving club. This idea is well worth exploring for all show-giving clubs!!

Another potential draw for spectators is the Dancing Dog concept. This is a smash hit in the UK and draws spectators by the hundreds to the thousands as paying customers. Now then there's no getting away from it when the dancing dogs were first introduced I was aghast and vehemently disliked the idea. I am still not so crazy about it but let's be realistic-the dog loving public adores watching these acts and those dogs perform. Indeed so popular in certain circles are these acts that it is fully recognized in the UK as a sport alongside Agility, Obedience and the like. I have a gut feeling it would take off like crazy at many an indoor show and make a great deal of extra money for the clubs utilizing the event. I think it may be worth the while for the enterprising show chair person to look into and investigate this as a possibility.

Little did I realize when I asked the Question of the Week about the Owner-Handler competitions it would become a cause célèbre. But so long as it has become one I would like to introduce you to the AKC letter being sent out to all Judges who may judge these classes at future shows and the Rules, which have been adopted about the competition.

On an unhappy note is the passing of Sheldon Adler. Sheldon was a major factor in helping the AKC/CHF during its early years. He played a major role in helping the organization to develop into a major player in the realm of the health of all dogs and so his recent passing is noted with sadness but tempered with thanks for all he did in assuring the continuity of that organization. The AKC/CHF Foundation is a living memorial to all those thousands of people so concerned with promoting the health of the dog. Sheldon Adler was proud of his many accomplishments with AKC's CHF as well he should have been and particularly was this true in the role he played in developing the C.H.I.C. wing for that organization. Our thoughts are with his wife Marcia and his entire family.

Instructions Received for Judging The Owner-Handler SeriesDear AKC Judge; As you are aware, you are scheduled to judge at an upcoming show. Included with this show is a new series aimed at recognizing the Owner-Handler. This new series will provide a way for dogs exhibited by owner-handlers to be recognized both regionally and nationally. The Owner-Handler series, initially only to be offered at select events throughout the country in 2012 may be offered at any All Breed dog shows across the country starting July 03, 2012. As all events will now have the opportunity to offer this special competition, it is vital that you fully comprehend the process in selecting the Best of Breed in the American Kennel Club Owner- Handler series to avoid confusion and to instill confidence in the exhibitors and in this new exciting series. The procedure will be similar but not identical to that of the selection of the Best Bred by Exhibitor at the AKC National Championship. Please review the instructions included in this letter regarding the selection of this award carefully. Proficiency in everyone's procedure will avoid disputes and complaints at the event and to the AKC offices. Please also review the proper procedure for this series with your ring steward prior to judging to insure their understanding of this award and your expectations. If you should have any questions regarding the proper procedure associated with this series or require further clarification, you are encouraged to contact the Judging Operations Department of the American Kennel Club in advance of this assignment. In addition, all judges will be required to meet with the Executive Field Representative or a Representative of the Events Department of the AKC in attendance at this event prior to judging on this day. We appreciate your cooperation in this new and exciting series. Sincerely, Tim Thomas Judging Liaison 919-816-3639 tjt@akc.org