Show dogs congregate in Marlborough Aug. 19-21

87

Two golden retrievers in the grooming area at last year’s show
Two golden retrievers in the grooming area at last year’s show

Marlborough –  One hundred different breeds of purebred dogs will compete for the coveted Best in Show award at two all-breed dog shows Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 20 and 21, at the Royal Plaza Trade Center, 181 Boston Post Road West (Route 20), in Marlborough. These shows will be put on and managed by the Wachusett Kennel Club, the local American Kennel Club (AKC) chapter.

President John Seeley of Harvard said, “Not only is this a fun activity for families but it is the perfect place to talk to breed experts about topics such as training, grooming and deciding on the right breed for your lifestyle. An AKC dog show is a great place to start your search for the right dog for your lifestyle and find a responsible breeder. It’s perfect for dog lovers or those who want to learn more about specific breeds they may be interested in sharing their home with in the future.”

The shows start at 8:30 a.m. both days with individual breed judging, then the best of each breed competes in one of seven groups starting between 2 and 3 p.m., culminating in the seven group winners vying for Best in Show late afternoon each day. Specific breed judging

Judges examine a dog at last year’s show. (Photos/submitted)
Judges examine a dog at last year’s show. (Photos/submitted)

times can be found by downloading the weekend judging program from the club’s website:  www.wachusettkc.org. Judges will fly in from all over the country, including one from Prince Edward Island, Canada, to select the best quality specimens.

New this year on Saturday will be a “PeeWee” class for kids between the ages of 5 and 9 years old accompanied in the ring at all times by a responsible adult. This is not a competition, but rather a fun learning experience. Other weekend events include obedience competitions both Saturday and Sunday, two rally trials and a “Novice Night” obedience trial Friday, Aug. 19, from 3 to 8 p.m., and 4- to 6-month-old beginner puppy events Saturday and Sunday afternoons.  Vendors will also have booths selling unique – many of them homemade – dog supplies and gifts.

The Friday event is free to the public. Admission for Saturday and Sunday is $5 for adults; $3 for children under 12 and seniors 60 and older. Plenty of free parking is available near the show site, and food and beverages will be available during show hours at the Trade Center snack bar. This event is only for pre-entered dogs – unentered dogs will not be allowed in the building.

No posts to display