It’s show time – more specifically, time for a dog show!
Next weekend is the Sault Ste. Marie Kennel Club’s annual All-Breed Conformation Show.
The SSMKC was founded in 1964 and held its first annual Canadian Kennel Club-sanctioned all-breed dog show in July 1966.
The club encourages everyone to come watch the show, meet the dogs and talk to club members and exhibitors from across Canada and the United States, who the club says are an excellent source of information on all things dog-related.
The club said it was able to hold its shows this year at the Northern Community Centre on Goulais Avenue thanks to the generosity of the Tourism Development Fund and the City of Sault Ste. Marie.
There is no entrance fee, but donations are gratefully accepted, according to a press release from the club.
Forty breeds are taking part in the six shows, some of which are ranked at the top of the Canadian rankings and all are “beautiful representatives of their breed,” according to the club.
The judges examine each dog based on the breed standard, which is the written description of what the perfect dog of this breed should look like.
“It’s always fun to pick your favorites and see if the judges agree!” said the club.
The dogs compete for points toward Canadian championships at various levels, points toward top dog placements, and the coveted Best in Show award.
There is a “show only” class for puppies 3 to under 6 months of age, which is always very popular with the public.
“Who can resist a cute puppy?” the club said. “You can’t predict what a puppy will do, but you know it will make you smile and probably laugh too.”
On Friday and Saturday, July 12th and 13th, the event begins at 9:00 a.m., and on Sunday, July 14th, it starts at 8:30 a.m.
The end times are usually between 4 and 5 p.m.
Only dogs participating in the event or registered service dogs are allowed on the show grounds, according to the club.
“Be careful! Always ask before petting a dog. Come out and cheer on your favorite!”
