|
February 14, 2015
by Jackie Caruso, Devinwood Collies
> View the 2015 photo gallery
L-R (Jackie Caruso and Pat Holmes
Losure with "Bruce."
Meet the Breeds 2015 was one of the most popular Meet the Breeds in the history of the event, according to the AKC. It was clear that New Yorkers love their purebred dogs and they turned out in droves to meet them, in spite of the cold and snowy Saturday in New York.
The Collies are always a huge attraction at Meet the Breeds and this year was no exception. It was non-stop all day, showcasing the dogs, answering questions, and handing out the wonderful information the Collie Club of America provides on the Collie. There are probably 1,000 people running around New York with “I Love Collie” stickers!
"Events such as the Meet the Breeds are so important if we want to preserve the purebred dog and the collie in particular."
Events such as the Meet the Breeds are so important if we want to preserve the purebred dog and the collie in particular. There are many forces working against us, not only the organizations who would like to see purebred dogs and their breeders disappear, but also the damage we have done from within to our own breed with the big rescues we have had this year, among other things. The world has changed and with the internet, Facebook, Twitter etc., word of these negative events spreads like wildfire and the perception of the purebred dog breeder affects all of us.
"They never let down. They were all wonderful examples of true collie temperament—patient, loving and adaptable to every situation. They took it all in stride with the happy good humor that collies have."
The public is very knowledgeable. They ask questions about DNA testing, health issues, CEA etc. It is important to have people in the booth who can answer the questions. We are fortunate in our breed that we have great information to give them that will answer many of these questions.
I want to say a big thank you to the CCA members who came to promote the collie with their dogs: Pat Holmes Losure and her daughter Julie McNellis with CH Inverrary Thunder Road, “Bruce,” Pat , Chuck and Ryan Yaeger with Shadowlines SuperShock, “Electra” and my own Devinwood Raebeth Two for the Road, “Fiona.” These members know that being involved in this hobby and passion of ours is not just about going to dog shows, or winning—it is about giving back to the breed we all love.
The collies were the superstars of the day. “Bruce,” “Electra” and “Fiona” were on display all day and they happily accepted hugs and kisses from throngs of people. They never let down. They were all wonderful examples of true collie temperament—patient, loving and adaptable to every situation. They took it all in stride with the happy good humor that collies have. We were so proud of them all!
"It is about giving back to the breed we all love."
^ Back to top
|
