2013 Minnesota Responsible
Dog Ownership Day

By Peg Thomas

SEPTEMBER 7, 2013: It was a hot summer day filled with plenty of sunshine and thankfully, a nice summer breeze. Portuguese Water Dog Club of the Twin Cities members gathered at our designated space before 9 am, at the Washington County Fairgrounds, and began to unload crates and tables, books and art, dogs and an EZ up shade tent. All this was in preparation for the Minnesota AKC Canine Experience. This event was sponsored by 52 All-breed, Group and Specialty Dog Clubs from across Minnesota, with a goal of providing a family friendly event to the public at no charge for admission or parking and an opportunity to meet various breeds of dogs and participate in a variety of dog related activities.

We set up our tent for the much needed shade, our club banner and our table to display information on the Portuguese Water Dog and many very interesting "Portuguese" items for display. Once we had the dogs cool and comfortable in their crates in the shade (with plenty of cold water available), we set up grooming tables and chairs. Our booth was ready!

There was always at least one PWD, and usually more, up on a table for Meet the Breed. The dogs loved the attention and petting, and we love talking about our special PWDs. We had a grooming demonstration and "Question and Answer" session. And we also were available to answer questions regarding training and handling.

Club members attending included: Peg Thomas and Helen, Wendy Olson and Sherlock, Deb Pina and Sagres, Steve Bergerson and Magen, Don Heian and Magic, Leslie Kiedrowski and Vasco, Carol Konkol and Carlos, Penny Wetmore, Bingo and Lucy, and Chris Olson and Clipper. Kristina Olson and Chelsea joined us also.

Portuguese Water Dogs and their owners participated in Agility, Canine Good Citizen Testing, conformation training, the Conformation B Match, and the Microchip Clinic. Deb Pina and Sagres won Best of Breed and Working Group 4 in the B Match. Congrats to Deb and Sagres! It was a fun day for all and we look forward to another opportunity to participate next year.