Vendors offered pet owners services from pet photography to pet therapy. The latest in scientifically designed pet food was available, along with snacks, antitearing products and, of course, a complete trousseau for that special pooch. Doggie beds, personalized dishes and semen preservation were all available at the show.

Dr. Nancy Bruington, a retired chiropractor, held sessions for pets and owners at her Animal Whispering booth. When Bruington retired, she took some of her skills and applied them to animals and their owners, especially a particular technique that deals with emotions.

“Pet owners frequently have questions about car travel, show behavior and the showing experience in general,” Bruington said. She asserts that you can understand and relieve your animal’s stress and problems that exist in the family/pack/herd. Several clients could be seen throughout the day, chatting contemplatively with Bruington as their pets lie at their feet.

In the main covered assembly area, judging proceeded to determine which lucky pet would take home a blue, red or white ribbon. Dogs were brushed, primped, fluffed, combed, hair sprayed, and implored to be on their very best behavior. Their companions were pretty spiffy, too, with the men wearing jackets and ties and the ladies mostly attired in attractive day wear. All suitably subdued, of course, so as not to take away from the stars of the day — their dogs.

Kathleen Sepulveda of San Diego was delighted at the great weather for the show, and the fact that her Japanese Chin had fared well in the judging. “I’ve been to this event before, but this is my first time as a participant, although I have been showing dogs for 40 years,” she stated.” The show has been really well-organized; the only thing I would recommend improvement on is the parking situation for dog owners,” concluded Sepulveda.

Local resident Suzanne Neill sat with her elegant Afghan, Beegee. “I come every year; it’s always a great show,” she commented.

Andrea Carpenter, a Coachella Valley resident, loves the sporting groups. “We really enjoy watching all the dogs; it’s such a friendly atmosphere, and you can see the dogs returning all that affection to their owners,” she enthused.

Considering the judges had the task of scheduling 3,000 dogs, it was remarkable that the event maintained its demeanor and air of professionalism. Appreciative audiences were treated to the high drama of the various elements of showing purebred dogs, while nervous owners awaited the judge’s decision hopefully. The outcome was that all experienced a fabulous day of beautiful sunshine in a verdant setting, and enjoyed the company of everyone’s best friend — the dog.

For more dog show photos by Janet Walker, click here.

For more about the Kennel Club of Palm Springs, click here.

For more about the Empire Polo Club, click here.