The Gossip Column: April 19, 2024
This week brought the very sad news that former American Kennel Club field representative and judge of four groups JIMMY MITCHELL had passed away. His passion was dogs, but he shared that with his love of Persian cats, which were top winners at cat shows. In his 81 years, he learned a lot about dogs and shared his knowledge with all who sought it out. His easygoing ways made him a great field rep, known for his calm demeanor and sense of humor. He carried those qualities into his judging career, which kept him very active. A great friend to so many, so well loved and admired. Jimmy was an institution. I have lost a personal good and longtime friend, and the rest of us at DOG NEWS send his partner DOUG BOUCHELLE and family our deepest condolences. They have requested that those who wish send a donation to TAKE THE LEAD in JIMMY’S memory. A memorial service will be determined at a later date. ...
KAREN LEFRAK, the Poodle-loving pianist, dropped a new instrumental on Spotify titled FLORA. ...
Advertising artist ANTOINELLE VULPIS, who designs advertisements for many top dogs in the country, has added another facet to her career as a dog-show photographer. This weekend she makes her dog-show photographing debut at a Corgi specialty. All of us at DOG NEWS wish her good luck as she adds this to her resume. ...
The AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB has announced the availability of genetic testing called AKC DNA + HEALTH. It offers a DNA profile plus 328 markers for information on health and traits, and aids in meeting the AKC registration and Breeder of Merit Bred with H.E.A.R.T. requirements. ...
The owners of a rescue dog that is an “emotional support dog” living in their Manhattan apartment are being sued for the dog’s attacks on several tenants. Lawsuits involving dogs are not uncommon, as we all know. In 2023, nationwide there were 19,062 dog-bite lawsuits with payments of more than $1.1 billion, according to the INSURANCE INFORMATION INSTITUTE.
If you are exhibiting at the WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB, you might want to consider entering the three days of Long Island dog shows: Friday and Saturday, back to back LADIES’ KENNEL ASSOCIATION, and the Sunday LONG ISLAND KENNEL CLUB. Less than an hour’s drive from the Tennis Center, the venue is the beautiful grounds of the Planting Fields Arboretum, home to the famous Coe Estate. There is lots of room for motorhomes. Entries close at MB-F on Wednesday, May 1. For further information, contact Long Island Kennel Club show chair HONI REISMAN at 516-776-0923 or roxiethedoxie@aol.com.