Page 88 - Aussie Magazine no1, 2023
P. 88
An Interview with a Handler
time after I explain they understand and agree. show, when the judge is looking or when to relax
Every dog I show has an order of priority and the when it's not their turn. They definitely feed off
owners are told this, so if I have two in one group the attention they get, especially in a big show
it will depend on which dog has priority and that when there's lots of cheering.
will be the one, I show.
What is most difficult thing about handling the
How do your dog's travel to the shows? Australian Shepherd?
I have a motorhome that I travel in to the shows, I think Australian Shepherds are one of the easier
so I am with the dogs all day and night. Each dog breeds to show, but I guess if I had to pick one
has its own crate with a bed, toys and water at thing it would be that sometimes it's difficult
all times. getting inside their head and figuring out what
makes them want to work for you.
You handle many different breeds, what do
you enjoy most when handling the Australian We have previously mentioned that you showed
Shepherd? ‘Ribbon’ to perfection and won the 2022
I love how Australian Shepherds are always up National Specialty Best of breed with her and
for anything, they know when it's time to put on a No1 Aussie. Also, ‘Archer’ (Empyrean's Bullseye
at CopperRidge) was No1 Aussie All Systems
for 2019! But what has been your greatest
handling achievements and most memorable
wins with the Australian Shepherd?
As previously mentioned Deuce was one
of my greatest achievements and her
Deuce Westminster Kennel Club Group win will
always be my greatest memory. Although
Ribbon winning Best in Show in Orlando at
the second biggest dog show of the year is a
memorable win. I've been so lucky to show such
amazing dogs to such big wins.
Do you have any superstitions, routines or
procedures to bring you luck, maybe a lucky suit
or special lead you prefer to use?
I definitely am superstitious with show leads.
Every new dog will get their own special lead
and if they win right away with it then that is
their leash until they retire and it retires with
them.
Do you have any advice for anyone who might
be interested in learning more about handling?
Definitely put in the time working for a handler
before you decide to become one yourself.
Handlers are so full of knowledge and you will
learn things you never even thought you needed
to know.
On behalf of The Australian Shepherd Magazine,
we'd like to thank you for this wonderful interview.
88 | A Worldwide Magazine for the Aussie • Issue 1/2023
