As the different breeds of dogs settled in, the Long Island Kennel Club’s 115th annual dog show played host to a large canine crowd, from the most elegant poodles to the sharp, charming Golden Retrievers.
The Kennel Club arranged different obstacle courses and activities for dogs at Oyster Bay’s Planting Fields Arboretum on Sunday, May 17, which provided more than 500 dogs an area to run around and enjoy the beautiful day. The show was open to the public and everyone was encouraged to bring their dogs and participate in the various events that took place.
“The whole event is special,” said the show’s chairman, Honi Reisman.“The kids are so excited, and just everyone’s so excited to see all the dogs and to get to play with all the dogs.”
“It’s our first year out here, and it’s nice to see all the vendors and see the agility course and especially the dogs jumping in the water,” said Cindy Zuvich, who attended the show with her son, Landon.
The Zuvichs, along with many other families, flocked to the show’s newest event, the Dock Dog Competition—a nationwide sport, which features all different breeds running and jumping into a measured pool. The dogs get a running start and their owners toss a ball into the air, which the dogs then secure in their mouths, while finishing with a splash landing. The judges measured the dogs’ distance and recorded them for the contest.
Also featured at the show were judged competitions, where participants walk their dogs around, allowing the judges to evaluate them and pick a winner. The judges inspected the dogs and picked a winner for a breed showcase and a confirmation competition.
Obstacle courses were set up throughout the open fields, which allowed dogs to show off their best tricks. One of the show’s most popular events, “My Dog Can Do That,” paired dogs with personal trainers who escorted them through obstacles, testing their agility and obedience. These dogs were given a crash-course on the correct way to maneuver an obstacle course, by jumping over poles, running through tunnels and balancing on uneven boards.
“Over the past few years, the most popular event has definitely been ‘My Dog Can Do That’,” said Reisman.
After the amateur dogs had their opportunity on the agility course, Henry and Eddie, two well-trained Golden Retrievers showcased their skills, which included reading and following commands, praying, playing the piano and dunking a basketball. The two hounds performed their tricks on the command of certain songs.
“The best part is seeing the dogs and getting out here on a nice day,” said Fran Bamel.
The event was topped off by a perfect sunny day, which allowed the dogs to enjoy their games even more. Whether participating in a contest, or navigating through an obstacle course, each dog came complete with two things: a wagging tail and an enormous smile on its face.
