Welcome to the National Dog Show Presented by Purina® hosted by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia.
On behalf of the members of the Kennel Club of Philadelphia, I thank you for joining us today as we celebrate both the 23rd annual National Dog Show Presented by Purina® and the Kennel Club’s annual showing of purebred dogs in the Philadelphia area. The Kennel Club of Philadelphia had its first purebred show in 1879 and it became an annual event in 1933. The Kennel Club of Philadelphia proudly supports a number of canine-related organizations and has donated over $1.1 million dollars in the past 9 years.
We have a lot to celebrate this year!
The National Dog Show Presented by Purina® is broadcast annually on Thanksgiving Day at noon on NBC and has been thrilling dog lovers ever since it began in 2002. We estimate that since then, one quarter of a billion people have watched!
Enjoy the dog show and follow us on social media at www.Facebook.com/natldogshow
Happy Thanksgiving!
Wayne Ferguson, President, Kennel Club of Philadelphia
Watch The National Dog Show Presented by Purina® Thanksgiving Day at Noon, November 28, on NBC.
GREATER PHILADELPHIA EXPO CENTER MAP
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2024
8:00 AM Breed Judging Begins ................................................ (Halls A, B, & D)
9:00 AM Pro Plan Performance Team .................................................... (Hall B)
10:00 AM Pro Plan Performance Team .................................................... (Hall B)
11:00 AM Pro Plan Performance Team .................................................... (Hall B)
11:30 AM Purina Pro Plan Incredible Dog Challenge Agility Show ............ (Hall C)
12:40 PM National Anthem Ceremony .................................................... (Hall C)
1:00 PM The National Dog Show Group Judging ................................... (Hall C)
6:00 PM The National Dog Show Best In Show Judging ......................... (Hall C)
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2024
8:00 AM Breed Judging Begins .......................................... (Halls A, B, & D)
9:30 AM Pro Plan Performance Team ............................................. (Hall B)
10:30 AM Pro Plan Performance Team ............................................. (Hall B)
11:30 AM Pro Plan Performance Team ............................................. (Hall B)
12:30 PM Pro Plan Performance Team ............................................. (Hall B)
1:30 PM Pro Plan Performance Team ............................................. (Hall B)
1:45 PM Kennel Club of Philadelphia Group Judging ...................... (Hall C)
5:00 PM Kennel Club of Philadelphia Best In Show Judging ............ (Hall C) Visit the National Dog Show Social Media Booth in Hall B.
INCREDIBLE DOG PERFORMANCES
SATURDAY,
SUNDAY,
Watch Incredible Canine Athletes and their handlers perform their skills throughout the weekend in Hall B, next to the Purina Booth. Watch
Go to incredibledogchallenge.com and carsonevents.com to learn more.
HOW TO WATCH THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW
in person and on television as if you have been doing so for all of its 23 years.
By DAVID FREI Co-host of NBC’s National Dog Show
Wow! Where am I?
Welcome to an all-breed dog show, the National Dog Show Presented by Purina® and hosted by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia. This year marks the 140th anniversary of the formation of the American Kennel Club and this is one of nearly 2,000 all-breed shows staged each year by its member clubs.
What am I looking at?
Imagine your daily dog walk, multiplied by - in the words of Buzz Lightyear – “infinity and beyond.” There may be more than 200 breeds and varieties, and somewhere in the neighborhood of 2,000 dogs competing here today. A lot more in number and variety than you’re going to see on a walk to the neighborhood dog park.
Where do I start?
It’s just fine to walk around, to look and point and smile. Start in the benching area, where the dogs are assembled basically by breed as they wait for their time in the ring with their judge. Find your favorite breed, maybe it’s your dog at home. Or find something new and different. The dogs may be sitting on their crates or grooming tables, just looking at everything that is going on, or they may be being groomed for their competition.
I have so many questions.
Ask away! Right there with the dogs you will find their handler or breeder or owner (that could be all one and the same person). Talk to them, ask them about their breed, remembering that we have entries from all around the world (e.g., many breed names include their countries of origin: Australian, German, Belgian, Polish, Norwegian, Finnish, Icelandic, Spanish, Swedish, et al (see page 18-19 for more names); the people (and their dogs) may speak limited English, be patient!
These are all fair questions to ask: “What’s the deal on that hair?” “What does he weigh?” “What was she bred to do?” “What country do they come from?” “What is their personality?” “Are they good with kids?” “Are they good apartment dogs?” “Will they fit my lifestyle?” “What’s their name?” “May I pet them?”
I want to know more!
Ask about care, responsible ownership, and the great sport of showing dogs.
Can I touch?
Yes. But name a sport where you can hug the competitors on the playing field / court. Have you ever hugged Bryce Harper (Phillies) or Jalen Hurts (Eagles) or Joel Embiid (76ers) at a ball game? With the dogs, first ask their people, they may be giving their canines their final touchups before heading into the ring.
What is going on in the ring?
The conformation competition is like an advancing bracket in sports – think March Madness. The dogs compete at three levels. They start at the breed level against other dogs of the same breed (remember, there might be over 200 different breeds in competition). The judge compares each dog in the breed ring to the breed standard, a written description of the ideal specimen. The standard is based on the form and function that helps them do
the job that they were bred to do. There are a number of awards in the breed ring, but the single dog selected by the judge as the one that most closely matches that ideal dog described in the standard will be named as Best of Breed for the day and advances to the next level which is ….
… its Group. Those 213 breeds and varieties are divided into seven Groups – Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting and Herding. The number of breeds in a Group can range from 21 to 35. And now, another judge selects winners (1st through 4th place) and the dogs that win each Group 1st advance into the final competition …
… Best In Show. Those seven group winners come together and yet another judge selects one of them as the ultimate winner for the day, Best In Show. Another dog is selected as Reserve Best In Show (first runner-up).
VISIT THE BENCHING AREA
Check out the benching area where show dogs and handlers prepare for their big moment!
Please be sure to ask the dog handler/owner before you pet their dog.
What else is going on?
There are a lot of dogs running around!
The dogs in the conformation (show) ring move somewhat orderly at the direction of the judge, so that they may be evaluated by their structure and their ability to do the job that they were bred for. But the dogs that you see running, jumping, negotiating obstacles and weave poles are competing in agility, the AKC’s hugely popular and competitive activity. In fact, it is so popular that the National Dog Show’s “sister”, the “Incredible Dog Challenge”, has become a hit sporting event seen on NBC’s Peacock Network.
Watch Junior Showmanship, competition for youngsters age 8-18, where they are judged on their talents in presenting the dogs. Visit our myriad booths, especially the Purina booth, to learn about pet nutrition and the AKC booth to learn about all the great things the AKC does for all dogs. And or course, there are lots of vendors and food!
I have run out of time, I didn’t get to see everything!
Watch us on NBC on Thanksgiving Day, noon-2pm in all time zones: The National Dog Show Presented by Purina® and Hosted by The Kennel Club of Philadelphia. The show repeats on NBC Saturday night and often on the Peacock Network, as do many of our previous shows through the years.
NEW BREED
LANCASHIRE HEELER
JOINS THE FRAY!
The Kennel Club of Philadelphia’s National Dog Show Presented by Purina® features one new breed this year, the Lancashire Heeler, a member of the Herding Group.
The Lancashire Heeler is on hand this weekend here at the Expo Center to compete for Best In Show, and the breed will make its broadcast television debut on NBC’s The National Dog Show Presented by Purina® on Thanksgiving Day from noon-2 p.m.
The Lancashire Heeler is a rare breed, numbering only around 5,000 worldwide. They can be seen as small and sturdily-built, but their small size adds to their charm and does not hinder their athletic ability or their willingness to compete. Heelers have weather-resistant coats of black and tan or liver and tan. Lancashire Heelers are energetic workers who can learn new tricks quickly.
Aside from their mighty features, Lancashire Heelers are quite friendly and loveable. They are affectionate to their owners, happy and talkative. This breed has a characteristic called the Heeler Smile, which is when they draw back their lips to resemble a human smile. New breed information is courtesy of www.AKC.org
ABOUT JUDGING
The judges examine the dogs and place them according to how closely each dog compares with the judge’s mental image of the perfect dog as described in the breed’s official standard. The main consideration is the dog’s conformation or overall appearance, temperament, structure and movement. The judges are looking for characteristics that allow the dog to perform the function for which his or her breed was developed.
EARNING POINTS
A dog will begin its show career by competing to become a “Champion.” To earn an AKC Championship title (and to be able to place Ch. in front of its name) the dog needs to win 15 points at AKC shows. Points are earned by defeating other dogs of the same sex and breed in classes held specifically for non-champions. Points used to determine national rankings are recorded by the AKC and based on the number of dogs defeated. A dog gets one all-breed point for each dog defeated at a dog show. The top dogs in the country easily have more than 50,000 points in a given year.
BEST OF BREED
In order to win Best In Show a dog must first be judged the best of dogs of its same breed competing in the show. Some breeds have more than 100 dogs entered. The winner of the breed moves on to the Group judging.
FIRST IN GROUP
Each of the 213 AKC registered breeds and varieties are assigned to one of seven groups (Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, and Herding) representing characteristics and functions for which the breeds were originally bred. By winning the Group competition, that dog joins an elite group of winners of the seven group competitions that go on to compete for the ultimate Best In Show award, the coveted gold and blue rosette, and to become winner of The National Dog Show.
SPORTING GROUP
THE SEVEN GROUPS
Each of the 213 registered breeds and varieties are assigned to one of the seven groups generally representing characteristics and functions for which the breeds were originally bred.
The invention of the gun led to the development of the sporting, or gun dogs, to aid in hunting upland game birds and waterfowl, performing at the direction of the hunter. While a number of these breeds perform more than one task, it is generally the duty of pointers and setters to point and mark game, for spaniels to flush game, and for retrievers to recover dead and wounded game.
HOUND GROUP
Originally classified as sporting dogs because of their function as hunters, breeds in the Hound Group vary greatly in size, shape and coat. Most of these breeds were developed to hunt somewhat independently of their humans, who usually followed on foot or on horseback as the hounds chased down the prey.
This group informally consists of scent hounds, dogs that hunt by tracking a scent, and sight hounds, who spot their game and run it down.
WORKING GROUP
While the uses and appearances of the dogs in the Working Group vary, most are powerfully built and intelligent, performing various tasks for their handlers. These dogs are working farm and draft animals. They guard homes and livestock, serve heroically as police and military dogs, security dogs, guide and service dogs, and hunters.
TERRIER GROUP
Almost all of the terriers evolved in the British Isles. The geography of the specific area (water, rocky terrain and more) helped to determine the exact duties of each breed but it usually involved
hunting vermin and varmints ranging from rats to badgers to otters and more. These are dogs of great determination, courage and self-confidence, with a great willingness to go to ground in search of their quarry.
TOY GROUP
Toy dogs have been around for centuries, and are bred for one purpose: to be companions for their humans. Many have been bred down from and still resemble their larger cousins.
Their small size and portability make them ideal for city dwellers and those with limited space.
NON-SPORTING GROUP
The AKC originally registered dogs as either Sporting or NonSporting. Eventually, hounds and terriers were split from the Sporting Group and the Toys and Working dogs were split off from Non-Sporting, with the Herding Group eventually splitting from
Working. Today, the NonSporting Group is literally every breed that is left, resulting in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, coat, function and history.
HERDING GROUP
Herding is a natural instinct in dogs that is seen in the wild. Humans have used that instinct to their advantage on farms and ranches with herding dogs who have the sole purpose of gathering and moving livestock from one place to another.
2023 - Best in Group Winners
A look back at the seven Best in Group winners from last year. Choose your favorite breed within each of the seven groups this year!
Group
Group
Working Group
Sporting
Hound
Non-Sporting Group
Herding Group
Toy Group
Terrier Group
THE BREEDS - Group Order
SPORTING
English Setter
Gordon Setter
Irish Setter
Irish Red and White Setter
Pointer
German Shorthaired Pointer
Weimaraner
Vizsla
Wirehaired Vizsla
Brittany
German Wirehaired Pointer
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Barbet
Lagotto Romagnolo
Spinone Italiano
Bracco Italiano
Flat-Coated Retriever
Curly-Coated Retriever
Golden Retriever
Labrador Retriever
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
Nederlandse Kooikerhondje
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Irish Water Spaniel
American Water Spaniel
Boykin Spaniel
English Springer Spaniel
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Field Spaniel
Clumber Spaniel
Sussex Spaniel
English Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniel (ASCOB)
Cocker Spaniel (Parti)
Cocker Spaniel (Black)
HOUND
Afghan Hound
Saluki
Azawakh
Sloughi
Ibizan Hound
Pharaoh Hound
Cirneco dell’Etna
Greyhound
Whippet
Borzoi
Scottish Deerhound
Irish Wolfhound
American Foxhound
English Foxhound
Harrier
Beagle (15)
Beagle (13)
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Norwegian Elkhound
Basenji
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
American English Coonhound
Black and Tan Coonhound
Bluetick Coonhound
Redbone Coonhound
Treeing Walker Coonhound
Plott
Bloodhound
Otterhound
Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen
Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen
Basset Hound
Dachshund (Smooth)
Dachshund (Longhaired)
Dachshund (Wirehaired)
WORKING
Doberman Pinscher
German Pinscher
Black Russian Terrier
Giant Schnauzer
Standard Schnauzer
Rottweiler
Bernese Mountain Dog
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Alaskan Malamute
Siberian Husky
Chinook
Samoyed
Akita
Boxer
Great Dane
Bullmastiff
Mastiff
Tibetan Mastiff
Neapolitan Mastiff
Dogo Argentino
Cane Corso
Dogue de Bordeaux
Boerboel
Portuguese Water Dog
Newfoundland
Leonberger
Saint Bernard
Great Pyrenees
Kuvasz
Komondor
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
TERRIER
Airedale Terrier
Irish Terrier
Welsh Terrier
Lakeland Terrier
Wire Fox Terrier
Smooth Fox Terrier
Parson Russell Terrier
Russell Terrier
Border Terrier
Kerry Blue Terrier
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Bedlington Terrier
Manchester Terrier (Standard)
Rat Terrier
American Hairless Terrier
Miniature Schnauzer
Australian Terrier
Cairn Terrier
Scottish Terrier
Sealyham Terrier
Cesky Terrier
West Highland Terrier
Skye Terrier
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Glen of Imaal Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier
White Bull Terrier
Colored Bull Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Miniature Bull Terrier
Norfolk Terrier
Norwich Terrier
TOY
Italian Greyhound
Chinese Crested
Toy Poodle
Pomeranian
Smooth Coat Chihuahua
Long Coat Chihuahua
Toy Fox Terrier
Miniature Pinscher
Toy Manchester Terrier
Russian Toy
Havanese
Maltese
Shih Tzu
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
English Toy Spaniel (B&PC)
English Toy Spaniel (KC&R)
Japanese Chin
Papillon
Silky Terrier
Yorkshire Terrier
Biewer Terrier
Affenpinscher
Brussels Griffon
Pug
Pekingese
NON-SPORTING
Poodle (Standard)
Poodle (Miniature)
Bichon Frise
Coton de Tulear
Lowchen
Dalmatian
Xoloitzcuintli
Finnish Spitz
Keeshond
American Eskimo
Norwegian Lundehund
Shiba Inu
Schipperke
Lhasa Apso
Tibetan Spaniel
Tibetan Terrier
Boston Terrier
French Bulldog
Bulldog
Chinese Shar Pei
Chow Chow
HERDING
German Shepherd Dog
Belgian Laekenois
Belgian Malinois
Belgian Sheepdog
Belgian Tervuren
Briard
Berger Picard
Pyrenean Shepherd
Collie (Rough)
Collie (Smooth)
Shetland Sheepdog
Australian Shepherd
Mini American Shepherd
Border Collie
Bearded Collie
Old English Sheepdog
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Puli
Pumi
Mudi
Canaan Dog
Australian Cattle Dog
Bouvier des Flandres
Beauceron
Bergamasco
Entlebucher Mountain Dog
Norwegian Buhund
Finnish Lapphund
Icelandic Sheepdog
Spanish Water Dog
Swedish Vallhund
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Pembroke
Welsh Corgi
Lancashire Heeler
2023 BEST IN SHOW WINNER
The proud and confident Sealyham Terrier, Stache, captured the hearts of the judges and the attention of 20 million viewers on NBC last Thanksgiving, winning Best In Show at Philadelphia’s renowned National Dog Show Presented by Purina®.
The Terrier was guided to the big prize by prominent local breeder-handler Margery Good of Cochranville, Pennsylvania, making a big splash as a top competitor bred and raised in the region. Good and Stache won the Montgomery County Kennel Club Terrier Show just weeks earlier, setting up their national TV victory over a top-rated lineup of six other groupwinning breeds competing for the title.
GCHP CH Goodspice Efbe Money Stache a.k.a. Stache
Stache is not the first in his family line to have accomplished a spectacular feat. His grandfather, Charmin, was the winner of the World Dog Show, the AKC National Championship, and Crufts, the Birmingham, England-based dog show that features over 20,000 dogs.
Best In Show judge Carrie Chase of Martinsburg, West Virginia called Stache “the epitome of an excellent dog” showcased by his “condition, breed type and showmanship.”
PREVIOUS BEST IN SHOW
2022 - GCHP Fox Canyon’s I Won The War at Goldshield (a.k.a Winston)
2002 - Ch. Ale Kai Mikimoto on Fifth (a.k.a. Miki)
The Expo Center Viewpoint: Special Dogs Rule The Day
Greater Philadelphia Expo Center General Manager Bill Marchese has been on the scene with The National Dog Show since its inception in 2002. He has seen it all, from that first year until now as the show approaches its 25th year. Bill and his staff collaborated on this Q&A, providing special insight into the endearing annual November canine chaos.
Q The Greater Philadelphia Expo Center has been involved with the NDS since its debut years at the Fort Washington facility. What are the memories of those early days?
AWe share a long history! A few of our staff members here at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center started out at Fort Washington, just as the National Dog Show did. We have worked alongside NDS as it grew into one of the biggest shows there and that relationship brought the National Dog Show to the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center when we opened in 2009. Fifteen years later, our facility continues to proudly host the National Dog Show and thousands of dogs and their human friends and fans.
Q
We’ve always said there’s something magical about 2,000 dogs and 10,000 people in the same place at the same time because of the innocence, craziness and excitement around competition and the engaging family friendly attraction. What’s your take?
A
We absolutely agree. The buzz starts even before the doors open, when questions start pouring in each October about the National Dog Show. NDS is one of those events that attracts people and families of all walks of life and all ages We equate the energy to a sports event— everyone has their favorite breed and they root for their pick as the competition progresses, with the
added excitement of being surrounded by others with a common interest. ‘Going to the game’ is part of the experience.
Q You handle hundreds of shows every year, including with live animals. What are the unique challenges presented by the NDS?
AFor 2,000 dogs, you would think there would be some challenges… or the occasional little surprise! But these aren’t just any dogs. These are special dogs on their top behavior hoping to become Best In Show! The biggest challenge we face is not tousling their freshly-groomed floof before showtime.
Q Has the prominence of the NBC broadcast on Thanksgiving elevated the GPEC brand in the Delaware Valley and beyond? If so, how?
AIt’s nearly impossible to find anyone who isn’t familiar with the iconic blue carpet and exceptional pups shown on NBC every Thanksgiving after the parade. Naturally, when potential clients consider our facility, the National Dog Show is one name we proudly mention to illustrate how we can handle events, national television and major production elements of any scale.
It’s
Showtime!
once again in 2024 as The National Dog Show arrives
By Chris Perri
When the lights turn on and 2,000 spectacular dogs, TV and Broadway stars, and an audience of 20 million viewers come together, the only way to describe the scene is “Showtime.” Those components (and many more) align every November to bring to the Philadelphia region and the American TV audience NBC’s holiday special, The National Dog Show Presented by Purina®, which has captivated audiences for 22 years.
• John O’Hurley, the Seinfeld ensemble actor and Broadway star.
• David Frei, America’s most prominent authority on all things canine.
• The top-ranked competitors in the showdog world from hundreds of breeds.
• NBC, the network of the Olympic games, Sunday Night Football, and The National Dog Show Presented by Purina.
• The Kennel Club of Philadelphia, which has produced this show since the 1800s, including every year since 1933.
• Some 15,000 people from the Delaware Valley and across the country, drawn to the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center (GPEC) for the only “benched show” in America.
The show’s hosts offer both expertise in their field and decades of experience on air. John O’Hurley and David Frei, who deliver a combination of folksy humor, expertise, and audience familiarity, have handled the microphones every year since the show’s debut in 2002. “It’s a great production onsite as far as being a great dog event, but it’s also a great event for television. ‘Showtime’ is the word that says it all,” offered Frei, who hosted the famed Westminster Kennel Club dog show for 27 years.
O’Hurley, one of the industry’s most versatile talents, is best known for his role as J. Peterman on the iconic sitcom Seinfeld, as well as for emerging as champion in the first season of Dancing with the Stars. “Two thousand of the best dogs in the country are all competing for Best In Show. Every single one of them has been a breed winner at some point, and it just adds to the excitement that this is the only benched
“There’s no dog show in the world that has the television audience that we do. That’s a lot of people that get to learn about dogs. They get to be entertained by the competition and the looks of the dogs and seeing ones they’ve never seen before.”
~ David Frei
show in America,” O’Hurley said.
Feature reporter Mary Carillo, a former professional tennis player, is an esteemed sportscaster and dog enthusiast. A lifelong dog owner, Carillo broadcasted the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in partnership with Frei for six years and The National Dog Show in Philadelphia for most of the past decade. “‘Showtime’ is a perfect description of the National Dog Show.
“I
think even the dogs know that it’s showtime. They seem to understand the moment and the glitz of it, and that’s what’s so much fun.”
~ Mary Carillo
All those dogs look like they’re ready for a big show,” Carillo said. “They come in prancing and flouncing; they know they’re a big deal.”
Since its inception in 2002, the National Dog Show has not only captured the attention of the American public, but a few pop culture references have also manifested over the years. A few favorites include:
In 2018, the CBS sitcom Murphy Brown on Thanksgiving night featured a news desk scene in which Corky announced that their telecast would be pre-empted on Thanksgiving Day to make room for The National Dog Show, exclaiming, “Go, Yorkies!”
In 2019, superstar actress Jennifer Aniston told interviewers that the first item on her Thanksgiving
“Two-thousand of the best dogs in the country are all competing for Best In Show. Every single one of them has been a breed winner at some point, and it just adds to the excitement.”
~ John O’Hurley
schedule is watching The National Dog Show, creating another viral moment for the NBC special with Aniston among some 24.6 million viewers that day.
In 2023, actor Ben Stiller joined the conversation on
“The simple expression that dogs are chosen to come here. Any dog can have its day, but the dog who wins Best In Show is the dog who comes to show.”
~ John O’Hurley
social media when he spotted a dog named Zoolander competing in the show, replying enthusiastically on X, drawing attention to the connection with his iconic
character in the 2001 movie Zoolander.
“The buzz starts even before the doors open, when questions start pouring in each October as the National Dog Show approaches,” said Bill Marchese, GPEC General Manager. “NDS is one of those events that attracts people and families of all walks of life and all ages.”
“I’m absolutely mesmerized by what a grand show it is. It’s a delight to be a part of it.”
~ Mary Carillo
Annual photo shoot signals “Showtime!” is here
By David Frei Expert Analyst, National Dog
Show Presented by Purina
For me, the Thanksgiving Day National Dog Show Presented by Purina® whistle blows when we bring together a few dogs and people for our annual NBC publicity photo shoot in September.
Last year’s Best In Show winner, the new AKC breed(s) eligible for this year, and a variety of dogs of different sizes, shapes, colors and function, meet up for a day of art direction from one of the sports world’s greatest creative artists, the incomparable Simon Bruty, Sports Illustrated cover and content photographer, to create a
portfolio of publicity photos and a magazine cover shot for our use.
Tthe National Dog Show has become a platform to promote the show both nationally and in Greater Philadelphia, where the Kennel Club of Philadelphia weekend is an annual family entertainment treasure. This shoot happens in early September because the timing is right - Mary Carillo is in New York for her U.S. Open Tennis television duties and I am in New Jersey for the Westchester Kennel Club Dog Show (I am a member). We go find John O’Hurley and get him to town between his unending entertainment appearances around the world, and we set aside what is usually the second
Tuesday of the month for our yearly adventure.
We often have a theme – this year it is “Showtime!” which accurately describes what we do for 25 million Thanksgiving Day viewers every year. This year you will see lots of TV lights in our setting and the “talent” (Mary, John and me) in formal wear. “Showtime” indeed.
The day at the studio
So we get to our Midtown studio and have a great day of shooting. It’s fun and adventurous and often hilarious (you have probably tried to take pictures of dogs). You can imagine what it can be like when we are trying to get 5-8 dogs to sit quietly, look the same direction, stay groomed, and hold the pose. Simon is a genius and always manages to get the shot.
This year’s lineup of our canine models:
• Stache, the Sealyham Terrier from Morgantown, PA who was Best In Show last year (owners Margery Good, the handler; Emily Bennett, Lucy Spiegel, and Sandra Middlebrooks);
• Rufus, a Bullmastiff from Malvern, PA (owner Mike Devine and handler Dennis Collins);
• Kai, a Chinese Crested from Reddick, FL (owner Kay Peiser and handler Lluvia Summer);
• Cash, an Icelandic Sheepdog from Brunswick, GA (owner and handler Cynthia Cardoso Iken);
• Willy, a Lancashire Heeler from Bremen, OH, the new breed (owners Jeff Bazell, the handler, and Jeff Kestner, Michael and Maggie Jones);
• Azul, a Tibetan Mastiff from Chippewa Falls, WI (owners Nicholas, the handler, and Jason Stabenow-Schneider);
• Tenzin, a Tibetan Spaniel from Ringoes, NJ (owner-handler Martha Feltenstein); and
• Playboy, a Xoloitzcuintli from Gloucester, VA (owners Lauren Hopkins, the handler, and Kayla Wise).
Simon shot a great variety of pictures with various numbers of dogs (no humans in the shots except for John, Mary and me). And he shot a fun “team shot” with all of us, for all of us, at the end of the day with everyone we can find in the studio – handlers, groomers, publicists, grips, makeup artists, groomers, Beagle people, friends and more in the picture.
Publicity, photography, social media and on-air promotion teams from NBC Entertainment were on hand, led by Nancy Schwartz, director of Photo Production, and publicist Kylie Finnigan of Entertainment Communications.
“RockyFest”, our new partner
This year, another highlight of the photo shoot came from a dynamic new partnership of the Kennel Club of Philadelphia’s National Dog Show with the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corp., which has created “RockyFest,” the early-December celebration of the iconic movie
“Rocky” and its unique relationship with the “City of Brotherly Love.” The collaboration celebrates the connection between Rocky and his Bullmastiff, Butkus, who was Rocky’s (Sylvester Stallone) pet and running partner.
National Dog Show co-hosts John and David donned boxing gloves to create some fun publicity photos with Rufus, playing the role of Butkus for the photo shoot. The Visitor Center also brought a Rocky impersonator and their staff to generate promotional materials. https://www.phlvisitorcenter.com/
“Showtime,” indeed. See you at noon on Thanksgiving Day!
Photographer, Simon Bruty
THE TALENT
John O’Hurley , versatile host, actor, and television personality, returns for his 23rd consecutive year as host of The National Dog Show Presented by Purina®.
Dubbed one of People magazine’s “Sexiest Men Alive,” he is best known as “J. Peterman” on Seinfeld, for which he received a Screen Actors Guild Award. He was also the ultimate champion of the first-ever Dancing with the Stars. He has authored three books – Before The Dog Can Eat Your Homework First You Have To Do It: Life Lessons from a Wise Old Dog to a Young Boy (Hudson Street Press, 2007), the New York Times bestseller It’s Okay to Miss the Bed on the First Jump (Plume, 2007), and his latest book for children The Perfect Dog (Grosset & Dunlap, 2013), which since its release has inspired The Perfect Dog, a musical designed for children’s theatre. The musical production is licensed by Broadway Licensing as part of its catalog of musicals. He stars in his own one-man show A Man with Standards, a humorous and poignant take on
his life and experiences in show business, which has been touring since 2017. O’Hurley is now appearing in public service announcements as spokesperson and ambassador for the Puppy Food Bank, an organization that began by providing food to pet rescue groups in Texas and has recently expanded its footprint to assist pet rescue shelters all across America. In support of no-kill shelters and reducing the number of euthanized pets each year, their virtual food bank is currently taking donations. The O’Hurley family owns a pure-bred Havanese named Lucy and two small rescues named Charlotte and Mia.
David Frei , America’s most renowned authority on all things canine, is a natural choice to serve as the expert analyst for NBC’s National Dog Show Presented by Purina®. An American Kennel Club (AKC)-licensed judge who has officiated dog shows all over the world, Frei hosted television coverage of “The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show” for 27
years (1990-2016). He has co-hosted the National Dog Show on NBC since its inception in 2002, becoming a Thanksgiving Day fixture in millions of American homes. New York Magazine once called David “probably the most well-known human in the world of canines.”
A successful breeder, handler and owner in the purebred dog show world, he is proudest of the work his dogs have done as therapy dogs at the Ronald McDonald House New York, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, the New York City VA Hospital, the VA Hospital of Seattle, and more.
His first book, The Angel By My Side (2002, with Mike Lingenfelter), claimed two Dog Writers Association of America (DWAA) awards. His second book, Angel On A Leash (2011), also a DWAA award winner, is his view of his world of therapy dogs and his life in dogs, taking its title from his charity. In 2018, David was inducted into the DWAA Hall of Fame.
Today, True Dat, David’s beloved Cavalier and constant companion, visits patients every week at Seattle’s VA Hospital. She is carrying on the work begun by his late therapy dog warriors of the past 25 yearsGrace, Teigh and Belle, all Brittanys, and Angel, his first Cavalier.
About his life in the dog world, he says, “A Bible verse tells us that ‘a faithful friend is the medicine of life.’ I think we can say that about all dogs, our faithful friends indeed, whether you find them with their people at the National Dog Show, or as therapy dogs visiting people in need, or as a family member sitting next to you on the couch at home.”
Mary Carillo , longtime NBC Sports analyst, brings a wealth of experience to the National Dog Show Presented by Purina® commentary team. Best known for her work as a television analyst for major-event tennis coverage, she also serves as a correspondent for the Olympic Games on NBC. This past August, Carillo took on her 16th Olympic assignment, serving as a reporter and commentator for the tennis competition and providing feature stories surrounding the lives of Olympians and Parisian culture. In addition to her work as the National Dog Show’s interviewer and backstage feature reporter, Carillo co-hosted the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show alongside David Frei in 2009, 2013 and 2016. Her distinguished career in broadcast journalism, including a prominent role on HBO’s Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel, has earned her three Peabody Awards, most notably for her work on the HBO documentary Billie Jean King: Portrait of a Pioneer. She also has four
Emmy Awards. A former professional tennis player, Carillo was named “Best Commentator” by Tennis Magazine from 1988-91 and “Broadcaster of the Year” by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) in 1981 and 1985. She was inducted into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 2018. On the court, she is a Grand Slam Champion, having won the 1977 French Open Mixed Doubles title with childhood friend John McEnroe.
Carillo is the proud owner of three dogs: Zuzu The Wonder Dog, a five-year-old Goldendoodle; Petey Boy, a 15-year-old rescue of indeterminate bloodlines; and Ranger, a Mini Sheepadoodle just under two years old.
Britney Eurton serves as a reporter for NBC Sports’ horse racing coverage, including the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and the Breeders’ Cup World Championships. Eurton made her NBC Sports debut in June 2017 on the Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series, and worked her first Triple Crown for NBC Sports debut in 2018.
In 2024, Eurton made her on debut on NBCUniversal’s Olympic Coverage as a tennis reporter for the Paris 2024 Olympics. She also served as a host of the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games.
Eurton began her broadcasting career in 2014 with TVG Network, where she continues to serve as a paddock host and reporter. At TVG, she covers Thoroughbred racing across the U.S. and internationally.
Eurton resides in Los Angeles, CA., and is a graduate of the University of Southern California. She is the daughter of Peter Eurton, a former jockey and accomplished thoroughbred racehorse trainer.
Britney Eurton serves as a reporter for NBC Sports’ horse racing coverage, including the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and the Breeders’ Cup World Championships. Eurton made her NBC Sports debut in June 2017 on the Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series, and worked her first Triple Crown for NBC Sports debut in 2018.
In 2024, Eurton made her on air debut on NBCUniversal’s Olympic Coverage as a tennis reporter for the Paris 2024 Olympics. She also served as a host of the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games.
Eurton began her broadcasting career in 2014 with TVG Network, where she continues to serve as a paddock host and reporter. At TVG, she covers Thoroughbred racing across the U.S. and internationally.
Eurton resides in Los Angeles, CA., and is a graduate of the University of Southern California. She is the daughter of Peter Eurton, a former jockey and accomplished thoroughbred racehorse trainer.
Watch The National Dog Show Presented by Purina® Thanksgiving Day at Noon, November 28, on NBC.
Kennel Club of Philadelphia Heralds
Butkus Amidst RockyFest Celebration in Philly
In a dynamic new Philadelphiacentric partnership, the Kennel Club of Philadelphia’s National Dog Show will be part of “RockyFest,” the newlyminted early-December celebration of the iconic movie Rocky and its unique relationship with the “City of Brotherly Love.” As part of the National Dog Show’s 2024 canine extravaganza, the collaboration will celebrate the connection between Rocky and his dog, Butkus, Sylvester Stallone’s pet and running partner.
A pillar event of RockyFest is set for Thursday, December 5 at Cherry Street Pier, where Philadelphians and their furry friends will come together for “Southpaws Yappy Hour” at 121 N. Christopher Columbus Boulevard at the Cherry Street Pier along Penn’s Landing. This event is free and open to the public. The National Dog Show will bring a representative of Butkus’ breed, the Bullmastiff, to the event along with other members of the National Dog Show Therapy Dog Ambassador Team to meet and greet the public.
RockyFest, created by The Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation, in partnership with The Sly Stallone Shop and promotion of the National Dog Show/Kennel Club of Philadelphia collaboration began in September. It included a high-end studio photoshoot in New York City, the annual National Dog Show press preview earlier this week in Montgomery County and acknowledgments at the National Dog Show this weekend.
Rocky Day in Philadelphia is celebrated Tuesday, December 3, to honor the most iconic Philadelphia film sites that made it into the Rocky series.
Following this renowned Philly celebration will be RockyFest, which takes place from Thursday, December 5, to Sunday, December 8.
The Philadelphia Museum of Art’s 72 memorable steps that appear in Rocky are now commemorated by the Parkway Visitor Center’s Rocky Shop and the triumphant statue located nearby, mirroring the pose Rocky once struck at the top.
Representing Butkus the Bullmastiff, Rocky’s memorable companion, will be Wasabi, a Bullmastiff
member of the National Dog Show Therapy Dog Ambassador Team. Butkus was named after former Chicago Bears linebacker Dick Butkus, who Stallone believed to be “possibly the fiercest football player in history.” Under financial stress, Stallone was forced to sell Butkus to another family. But when the movie production became a reality and Stallone was cast in the leading role, he was able to reacquire his cherished pet so that Butkus could appear alongside him onscreen.
“Rocky Day” launched in 2023 with Stallone making an appearance in Philadelphia for a day-long celebration. On the 47th anniversary of the original movie’s release, 3,000 dedicated fans gathered by the steps of The Philadelphia Museum of Art on a rainy day to celebrate the grand opening of the Rocky Shop, at which the superstar actor gave a motivational speech heralding the phenomenon that has now become an annual Philadelphia happening. More information about Southpaws Yappy Hour and RockyFest 2024 is available at PHLVisitorCenter.com/RockyFest.
The National Dog Show Therapy Dog Symposium ersity
The National Dog Show Therapy Dog Symposium at Rowan University brings together those working and volunteering with therapy dogs, mental and physical health care clinicians, academics and those looking to learn more about therapy dogs to share information and develop common practices within this growing initiative. This year’s event will offer in-person and virtual opportunities. Prior keynote speakers include: Ann Howie, LISW; Rise VanFleet, PhD; Temple Grandin, PhD; Cindy Otto, DVM, PhD & Carlo Siracusa, DVM.
Friday, December 13, 202
Chamberlain Student Center
Rowan University 201 Mullica Hill Road | Glassboro,
$75 In-Person | $65 Veteran or Senior $50 Virtual | $30 Student (In-person or Virtual)
For More Info:
Visit: go.rowan.edu.edu/TherapyDogSympo
Friday, December 13, 2024
Email: PetTherapy@rowan.edu
$75 In-Person | $65 Veteran or Senior
$50 Virtual | $30 Student (In-person or Virtual)
e National Dog Show Therapy Dog Symposium at Rowan ngs together those working and volunteering with therapy and physical health care clinicians, academics and those lookin more about therapy dogs to share information and develop practices within this growing initiative. This year’s event wi person and virtual opportunities. Prior keynote speakers include: Howie, LISW; Rise VanFleet, PhD; Temple Grandin, PhD; Cindy PhD & Carlo Siracusa, DVM.
For more info visit: go.rowan.edu.edu/TherapyDogSymposium or Email: PetTherapy@rowan.edu
Rowan University
201 Mullica Hill Road | Glassboro, NJ
he symposium is co-hosted by David Frei and Michele Pich. expert analyst from NBC’s National Dog Show, broadcast Thanksgiving. He is a prolific writer and founder of Angel currently volunteering with his therapy dog, True. Michele runs the Shreiber Family Pet Therapy Program at Rowan was previously a faculty member, and veterinary/mental Michele has worked in animal-assisted therapy (and other interventions) for many years, including with her own certifi dogs, Vivian Peyton & Ralphie. Both Pich and Frei's dogs therapy dog ambassadors for the National Dog Show.
The symposium is co-hosted by David Frei and Michele Pich. David is an expert analyst from NBC’s National Dog Show, broadcast annually on Thanksgiving. He is a prolific writer and founder of Angel on a Leash, currently volunteering with his therapy dog, True. Michele Pich built and runs the Shreiber Family Pet Therapy Program at Rowan University, and was previously a faculty member, and veterinary/mental health counselor. Michele has worked in animal-assisted therapy (and other animalassisted interventions) for many years, including with her own certified therapy dogs, Vivian Peyton & Ralphie. Both Pich and Frei’s dogs have been therapy dog ambassadors for the National Dog Show.
David Frei
Michele Pich
Co-hosts Michele Pich and David Frei
WAYNE FERGUSON, today’s show announcer, is President of the Kennel Club of Philadelphia. Wayne has been immersed in the dog world for over 50 years and has bred and shown top Saint Bernards. Through the years he has served as President of the AKC Canine Health Foundation and Director of the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine and is President and Show Chairman of the time honored Morris & Essex Kennel Club.
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Welcome to the 23rd annual edition of The National Dog Show Presented by Purina® hosted by The Kennel Club of Philadelphia.
We continue to build upon our efforts to make our show experience entertaining and educational for all. Our traditionrich shows are a regional treasure as well as a national phenomenon and a win at Philadelphia is considered one of Dogdom’s greatest achievements.
The Kennel Club of Philadelphia is no newcomer to the dog show world. Since hosting a major dog event in 1876 at the Centennial Exposition, we’ve been at the forefront of the purebred dog world. The KCP and its predecessors have been presenting shows since 1879. Our club predates the American Kennel Club (AKC), which was organized at a meeting of the then Philadelphia Dog Club on September 17th 1884.
We are not only one of America’s oldest continuing sporting events but our annual National Dog Show TV special is the most widely watched canine event in the world, capturing 20 million plus viewers a year with its broadcast on NBC at noon on Thanksgiving Day and an NBC prime time encore presentation the following Saturday.
We hope you enjoy your visit to our shows and return many years to come.
Sincerely, Wayne Ferguson, President
THE KENNEL CLUB OF PHILADELPHIA
FRANK DEPAULO SHOW CHAIRMAN
Frank is a long time KCP member and has been Show Chairman since the 2014 KCP shows. As such, he acts as overall coordinator of the various aspects of the physical staging of the dog shows, including venue and judging ring setup arrangements, the competition schedule and the smooth running of the judging process. Frank is a lifelong dog lover who founded Tahari Kennels in 1979. Since that time, he has bred many Best In Show champions in the Ridgeback, Pointer and Whippet breeds that have carried the Tahari prefix. Frank continues to show and campaign dogs and is an AKC licensed judge. In addition to his role with the KCP, he is a lifetime member of the Lehigh Valley Kennel Club and a long time member of both the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of The United States and The American Pointer Club in which he has held various positions, including Show Chairman, Board of Directors, Vice President and President. Frank lives in Pennsylvania with his wife Judy and his two daughters.
The American Kennel Club: The Kennel Club of Philadelphia’s National Dog Shows are sanctioned by the AKC, the principal registry for purebred dogs in the United States and the largest registry in the world. Every year, owners register approximately one million dogs with the AKC. The AKC’s Canine Health Foundation is the world’s largest funder of exclusively canine research, with a mission to develop significant resources for basic and applied health programs with emphasis on canine genetics to improve the quality of life for dogs and their owners. The AKC and its affiliate, AKC Companion Animal Recovery, have been crucial in providing long-term care to displaced animals.
WHO’S WHO
in The Kennel Club of Philadelphia
OFFICERS
Wayne Ferguson – President
Stanley Broadbent – Vice President and Permanent Ring Steward
Dr. Duane Butherus – Secretary and Chief Ring Steward
Milan D. Lint - Treasurer and Judges Committee
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Harry Booker – AKC Delegate and Hospitality Chair
William Burland
Frank DePaulo – Show Chair
David Frei – Publicity Chair
Peter Green – Judges Committee
Michael Halstead – Marketing Chair
Steven Sansone – Vendor Chair
Ann Viklund
Alan Welch – Event Committee
MEMBERS
Lisa Burland
Connie Butherus – Hospitality
Carol Commerford Welch – Trophy Chair
Judy DePaulo – Hospitality
Lauren Gerloff - Hospitality
Sally Halstead
Peggy Helming – Hospitality
Robert McLaughlin - Show Committee
Sooz McLaughlin - Show Committee
Mari-Beth O’Neill– Scholarship Chair
Cynthia Sansone – Vendor and Hospitality
Debbie Scott – Hospitality
Beth Sweigart – Hospitality
Eric Tweer
Frank DePaulo, Show Chair
DOGS’ BEST FRIEND AWARD
PACT stands for People + Animals = Companions Together.
PACT gives peace of mind to Veterans, hospital patients and military personnel by placing their pets into temporary foster homes until their owners can be reunited with the devoted companions they love.
“Thank you PACT for helping me through a difficult patch in my life and giving me piece of mind that I will be reunited with my beloved dog at the end of the ordeal.”
~ Bryan, Owner
PACT is the only organization of its kind. PACT has facilitated the placement of more than 3,000 companion pets and approved more than 1,400 foster homes in all 50 states.
“I couldn’t have asked for better service all around. If Pablo could sing he would surely sing PACT’s praises!”
~ Alena, Owner
“PACT was that light in the dark I needed the most, and they made sure that I could keep my best friend and have her to come home to.”
~ Olympia, Owner
The best way to characterize the amazing impact of the prodigious work of PACT for Animals is through the words of those who benefitted from its mission. Below are some testimonials from a collection of owners and fosters who have partaken in PACT’s process.
“This gave us a great opportunity to combine our love of dogs with our love for those serving our country. We had a great experience with PACT and can’t wait to foster again. This is a great organization, and provides a service that is truly needed.”
~ Manacchio Family, Fosters
The Kennel Club of Philadelphia created “The Dogs’ Best Friend Award” to inspire and motivate others to contribute to animal welfare in their community and protect our region’s dogs whose service and companionship are a critical and enriching part of American life.
THERAPY DOG TEAM
The National Dog Show Therapy Dog Ambassador Team now numbers 22 dogs and 23 handlers across six states. Based on a survey of team members from 2023, the National Dog Show Therapy Dog Ambassador Team delivered an estimated 4,341 hours of visitation last year, bringing comfort and smiles to people in need. It is estimated that these dogs and their humans have visited over 50 institutions, traveling almost 15,000 miles in cities from Oregon to Delaware.
Phoenix Animal Rescue of Chester Springs Recognized by The National Dog Show
By Haley Begany
Phoenix Animal Rescue (PAR) of Chester Springs may be the most unique nonprofit of its kind in the Delaware Valley. Since 2007, the organization has renewed hope for thousands of dogs while equipping some with the skills to serve in public safety. In recognition of its work, The National Dog Show is making a donation of $5,000 to help PAR with its mission.
PAR is committed to offering a haven for dogs, regardless of breed, size or behavioral challenges.
The dedicated volunteers at PAR are fueled by their passion for rescue, rehabilitation and, in many cases providing working dogs with purposeful lives.
“When we find special dogs, for instance, Belgian Malinois, we are compelled to make them as great as they can be,” said Marta Gambone, Intake Manager at PAR.
Founder Bruno Lombardo’s background working with Belgian Malinois for Search and Rescue has shaped PAR’s focus on shepherds and other highdrive breeds. These dogs often find placements in law enforcement or other specialized fields like narcotics detection.
But not every dog is suited for such specialized work. For the vast majority of canines, PAR focuses on finding loving homes. Many of these dogs arrive in poor health. PAR volunteers work tirelessly to rehabilitate these animals, returning them to health and preparing them for adoption.
This mission, however, is not without its challenges. Recent changes to Pennsylvania’s dog laws have required PAR to replace their kennels to comply with new regulations. This has strained their budget for vet bills and other essentials. “This donation couldn’t have come at a better time,” said Gambone. “We’ve had to make expensive upgrades to our facilities, all while still providing urgent care for our rescues. The $5,000 will help cover the costs of vet bills and keep us compliant with the law.”
For more information on how you can help PAR or adopt one of their incredible dogs, visit the website, www.phoenixanimalrescue.com. Every contribution counts in the fight to give dogs a second chance.
Heroes Heroes
First Responder Therapy Dogs offer stress relief for firefighters.
By Jen Reeder
The first time California firefighter Amber Henderson saw therapy dogs arrive at the base camp of an active wildfire, she thought it seemed a little ridiculous—even though she’s a dog lover.
face walk by a dog.
DOG WRITERS AWARD
Then she watched a tough crew captain with a “terrible” look on his
“You could tell he was just miserable. He stopped at the dog. He got down on his knees with the dog and literally rolled around in the grass at base camp with this dog. When he stood up, he looked like a different person,” she recalls. “It was such an eye-opener for me.”
Sponsored by The National Dog Show Presented by Purina®, NBC’s Thanksgiving Day TV special, this award will be presented to the article or production in any media that best captures the essence of the human/ animal bond in the context of therapy dog visitation at schools, healthcare institutions, weather/tragedy locations or other relevant venues where a need for comfort or anxiety relief is serviced by certified therapy dogs dispatched by a verified organization. The award is being sponsored in conjunction with the National Dog Show Therapy Dog Symposium at Rowan University, America’s most prominent open forum for
Now Henderson, a battalion chief who works in Employee Support Services for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), depends on volunteers from the nonprofit First Responder Therapy Dogs to help her support firefighters in critical incident stress management and at base camps for wildfires.
developing and sharing best practices for advocates, aspirants and practitioners in both the veterinary and lay communities. The award consists of a $500 cash grant to the individual to be used as an incentive to further pursue the topic going forward. www.dogwriters.org
The National Dog Show Therapy Dog Symposium Friday, December 13 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. https://sites.rowan.edu/wellness/
Birdie comforts a first responder at the 2021 Caldor Fire in California. It was active for 69 days and consumed over 221,000 acres.
PAWS FOR PEOPLE
The National Dog Show Supports PAWS for People’s WAG & Walkathon Once Again
The three year-old partnership between the National Dog Show (NDS), the Kennel Club of Philadelphia (KCP) and PAWS for People is a product of the shared values of the organizations and their commitment to the practice of therapy dog visitation, which has flourished once again with the global pandemic in the rearview mirror.
One of the most accomplished therapy dog organizations in America, PAWS for People executed its 16th annual month-long WAG & Walkathon fundraising initiative in September and October. This month-long event, spanning from September 19 to October 19, consisted of a cumulative marathon that allowed people to log 26.2 miles anytime and at their own pace. Individuals registered online and tracked their progress, driving donations from friends and relatives to honor the effort.
The initiative culminated on October 19 at Delcastle Park in Wilmington, Delaware, with the PAWS Furry Fall
Festival, a family-friendly event with entertainment, food and games. For the third consecutive year, The National Dog Show and The Kennel Club of Philadelphia were on hand, distributing premium items and marketing tickets for this weekend’s shows here at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center.
The Delcastle Park event was attended by hundreds of people, raising over $50,000 for the PAWS for People Pet Therapy programming in Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
“The love of dogs is a good foundation for any friendship,” offered Clarice Ritchie, the Executive Director of PAWS for People about the alliance with the NDS and KCP. “The timing of the WAG & Walkathon and the National Dog Show allows us to boost the audience for each and introduce the organizations to new fans and volunteers. That is exactly what we accomplish every year when we bring pet lovers together to experience the joy of reaching a shared goal.”
Watch The National Dog Show Presented by Purina® Thanksgiving Day at Noon, November 28, on NBC.
IN MEMORIAM
JAMES MITCHELL
The Kennel Club of Philadelphia lost a very special member this year. Jimmy was from Boston- where he first was involved in the restaurant business serving as a matre’D
Then he found the dog world, going to work for Bill Trainor in 1955, Anne Rogers, and Richard Bauer.
Moving to Delaware, he continued involvement; grooming during the day, working in the restaurant business, and as a Superintendent for Foley Dog Shows in the late 1970’s.
His Judging career began in the late 80’s starting with Poodles, Pembrokes, Cardigans, Shetland Sheepdogs and Collies- soon to complete the Herding Group., Followed by the Toy and Hound Groups.
In 2001 Jimmy became and AKC Executive Field Rep, first serving in the Memphis area and moving back to Wilmington, Delaware.
In 2020 Jimmy returned to the judging community adding the Non-Sporting Group to his repertoire.
Jimmy will be missed by all of the dog fancy, especially his friends in the Kennel Club of Philadelphia.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Watch The National Dog Show Presented by Purina® Thanksgiving Day, November 28 at 12:00 noon (all time zones) on NBC
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