HOUND ASSOCIATION OF SCOTLAND CH SHOW

14th April 2007

Judge: Lisa J Moir

Junior Handling

Firstly, may I take this opportunity to thank the Hound Association for inviting me to judge the handling at their championship show, it was a real privilege.  

General notes – some handlers aren’t showing their dog’s teeth well, and a few handlers broke the golden rule - going between judge and the dog. Also please bear in mind that the overall presentation is very important.

My biggest piece of advice to all the handlers is to keep practicing at home, stick around and watch the older handlers you may just pick up some tips and most importantly be sure that you and your dog enjoy yourself.

JHA 6-11 years (5, 1a)

1. Charley Donaldson (10) – handling a Whippet. Charley did a good job, her lines were straight and she completed her pattern work to a good standard. Her presentation throughout was very neat, showing consideration for her dog throughout. Presentation of her dog’s teeth was done with care and consideration. Charley was smartly dressed to complement her dog. In the challenge for Best Junior Handler I just felt that Rebecca carried off her patterns with a little more professionalism.

2. Caitlin Leiper (9) – handling an Afghan. Caitlin did a good job handling her Afghan, speaking to it throughout and showing consideration. I just felt that Charley’s handling was slightly neater. Caitlin I would just suggest that you tie back your lovely long hair as I felt it disadvantaged you as it was getting in your eyes and I think this was why your lines weren’t as straight as they could have been.

3. William Croxford (9) – handling an Elkhound. William’s dog wasn’t being the most willing participant today; however I really liked his calm attitude and the sympathetic way which he handled his charge, with plenty of encouragement and enthusiasm. A very good job William, now you just need to familiarise yourself with the rules of J.H.A handling (i.e. the ‘Golden Rule) and you will go far. One to watch.  

4^th Morven Macdonald (9) – handling a Beagle.

JHA 12 - 16 years (5 entries 1 abs)

1. Rebecca Ellrich (14) – Rebecca put in a flawless performance, handling a Basset Hound. Pattern work was very neat and accurate and she was at one with her dog offering gentle encouragement throughout. Presentation of her dog’s teeth was spot on and the whole performance unflustered. A quietly confident handler who presented her dog to its best, at all times. Well done. (BJH)

2. Kerry Maidwell (12) – Handling a Whippet. Kerry pushed Rebecca the whole way for the top spot. Kerry’s pattern work was neat and accurate; she showed consideration for her charge throughout with gentle encouragement. Another faultless performance, today I just preferred the handling style of Rebecca. Keep up the good work!

3. Allison Donaldson (14) – handling a Hamiltonstavare. Another lovely handler, speaking to her dog throughout and considerate of the others in the ring. I just felt that today Allison didn’t handle quite as neatly as Rebecca and Kerry, just need to tighten up your lines a bit.  

4. Meghan Hunter (12) – handling a Elkhound.

Remember, practice makes perfect, keep working on it at home and you’ll just keep getting better. Well done to you all and good luck at Richmond.

Webmaster: thanks to Lisa for sending this critique in.

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