Dog Days

Augusta - For five days last week the Sussex County Farm and Horse Show Grounds were turned into a small city as dog show enthusiasts from all over the country arrived in RV’s for the 25th All Breed Dog Show Obedience Trial and Rally Trial hosted by the Palisades Kennel Club. More than 1,400 dogs representing 156 breeds were entered in five shows over five days. “Nationally there has been a 10 percent decrease in the attendance at shows so we are very proud of the fact that our numbers are actually up from last year,” said show chairman, Richard Reynolds. “The fact that we cater to the exhibitor here by providing all hook-ups and dumping stations really makes people want to come,” he added. Local exhibitor Jane Sajban from West Milford has been showing dogs for 13 years, and her West Highland Terrier “Buck” took Best in Breed in Friday’s competition and a Terrier Group 4th placement and Best in Breed in Sunday’s competition and a Terrier Group 3rd placement. “When you show, you can travel as much or as little as you like but it is nice to have an event like this so close to home,” she said. Each of the five shows were completely separate events. The dogs do not actually competing against each other but against a written standard. The show was held under American Kennel Club Rules.