The Westminster Dog Show: How We Connect with Pets
The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is something many of us look forward to on Thanksgiving. They give us entertainment through competitions to see which dog can perform the best in several physical events. The show has been nationally televised since 1948, yet it continues to captivate audiences. While the idea of pups training vigorously and competing against each other may seem silly, it is actually very meaningful to the people involved in the sport and to the viewers. Not only is it exciting to watch, but it is a perfect example of how important animals are in people's lives and how they bring people together. Whether they are playing with a pet of their own or cozy on the couch watching the dog show, animals make us happy and allow us to connect with others on a deeper level.
The owners, including breeders and other handlers, pour their heart and soul into training their dogs to be the best they can be. What sets the Westminster Dog Show apart from a regular dog show is that it is one of the most competitive and prestigious shows in America. It is hosted by the Westminster Kennel Club and is televised live every Thanksgiving.
This show enhances the connection between the owners and the dogs, as they have to work so hard together to even dream of being a part of this competition. Many of the pet-owner pairs go through countless hours of training, grooming, and playing to prepare for the shows, and they have to be extremely dedicated to each other and the show business. For the viewers, they simply have to turn on the TV, and the joy is insurmountable. When watching the 2022 show with my family, we practically squealed in excitement when the adorable French Bulldog was named “Best in Show,” and we laughed happily as the owner of the Frenchie swept him into his arms and twirled him in the air. Watching the dog show has become a family tradition and one that brings delight to us every year.
Dog shows aren’t the only way we connect to animals. Many of us have pets we call our own; while they might not live the glam life of a show dog, the love we hold for them is just as special. Cats, dogs, horses, reptiles, and more all provide us with a deep connection that we all search for in our lives, and can even help us appreciate our human relationships even more. Also, taking your pet to the park or on a walk can introduce you to so many people that you may have never been exposed to. Many people say their pets are their children. The fondness people have for their animals goes both ways in providing love, affection, excitement, companionship, and fun in their lives. Even if you don’t have an animal of your own, you can always turn to the annual dog show and see that it provides you with just as much adoration.
By Ella Marks