Every new dog show handler experiences some amount of "unease" prior to his first show - no matter how many training classes and puppy matches he has attended. Arriving at the show with plenty of time to spare and with all equipment you need, plus a well-thought out procedure for preparations before stepping in the ring will help both you and your dog relax.
A dog show list is imperative. There may be old-timers who can pack without a reference, but newer handlers need a list they can depend on every time. It is a horrible feeling to arrive at a show and realize you have forgotten your lead or grooming table! Keep your list on a computer if possible so that it can be printed out each time you are ready to pack. If you need to add or delete items at any time, it's very easy this way. When you print the list, it's very easy to check off each item as it is packed.
The list is divided into three sections.
- things the dog requires (including grooming equipment)
- things you require
- miscellaneous
Items for your show dog depend greatly on the kind of grooming that will be done. Assuming you have a dog that requires substantial grooming, your list will be longer than a "wash and go" breed.
Simply omit from these suggestions what is not necessary for your particular breed.
Dog:
- [Tack box]
- brush & comb
- scissors
- thinning shears
- chalk - block & powder
- hair spray
- hair dryer
- leads
- [Equipment]
- grooming table, noose, & arm
- exercise pen & mat
- pen shade cover with clamps
- bath items (i.e. rinseless or regular shampoo, sponges and bucket)
- towels
- crate
- crate fan
- wheels & bungee cords
- food for dog (after the show)
- water & water bucket
- newspapers/paper towels
- pooper scooper/plastic bags/trash bags
- weather gear (i.e. cool coat, rain coat)
Handler:
- grooming smock/apron
- appropriate ring clothes & shoes
- bait and/or small toy
- bottled water
- snacks/ice chest
- sunscreen
- portable chair
- tent (EZ-Up) or large shade umbrella
- emergency raincoat & change of shoes
Miscellaneous:
- Entry
- Map/directions to show site
- Motel reservations
- First aid kit for both you and dog (*be sure to carry liquid children's Benadryl for insect bites, bee stings; check with your vet for appropriate dosage for your dog)
- Medications you require
- Medications your dog requires
- Cell phone
- List of emergency contacts
The list is adjustable as you learn what to pack and what you can do without. Every handler has preferences in equipment and products and changes will be made as you gain more experience in the dog show world.
Please remember: you represent all dog show participants - including your breed and other clubs to which you belong! Leave a good impression wherever you go. Clean up after your dog and try to be courteous about noise from your dog both at the show and in the motel.The next article in this series addresses what to do before you go in the ring.
Additional resources:
AKC Beginner's Guide to Dog Shows
Getting Started Showing Your Dog
