Editorial: April 26, 2024

Another year has almost gone by, and the Westminster Kennel Club dog show is just weeks away. The envelopes containing entries and judging schedules have been mailed and received by exhibitors. Final touches on travel plans have been made and for those with some leisure time, dinner reservations and theater tickets have been organized. The dog show held over four days includes obedience, agility and conformation. But it’s not all work over the weekend, which kicks off with the co-hosting skills of four ladies — Karen LeFrak, Patricia Hearst, Missy Galloway and Ellen Charles — on Friday evening. Their French Poodle Cocktail Party is a hot ticket. A glittery affair with guests from around the world, chatting about everything from world politics to who will be judge Roz Kramer’s choice for the coveted Best in Show award. Followed by Saturday and the specialties and obedience and agility trials at the Tennis Center. Sunday a private memorial service for the late Wendell Sammet will take place to celebrate his life. The invitation-only service was organized for friends “to bring their fondest memories of Wendell to share with his friends and raise a glass in his honor.” Then the crowning touch, Sunday evening the coveted black-tie social event, the Purina Pro Plan Show Dogs of the Year Awards Dinner partnered with Dog News, takes place in Manhattan at the uniquely beautiful Gotham Hall. This event celebrates the top-winning dogs of 2023, the top obedience dog and junior handler. In addition, there are the results and announcement of the national online voting of the top judge, all-breed handler, breeder, owner handler and dog show. The evening is topped off by the announcement of the newest inductee of the Purina Pro Plan Anne Rogers Clark Hall of Fame. A great and memorable evening that celebrates our sport, and Dog News is pleased and honored to be a part of it. Wishing you all a great New York experience and good luck at the show.