Dog show fans to PETA: Leave Westminster alone!

Back in December, the BBC announced that it wouldn't air the Crufts dog show because of concerns over purebred dogs' health.  Earlier this week, we told you that PETA is asking the USA Network, which broadcasts the Westminster Dog Show every February, to follow the BBC's lead and discontinue coverage of America's most prestigious dog show.

We suspected a lot of you would take issue with PETA's premise: that breeding dogs for the show ring locks in genetic defects that, it argues, plague "as many as one in four purebred dogs ... with a serious genetic problem."  But we were surprised by just how vocal you were: More than 300 of you have commented on the story so far. 

Some of you agreed with PETA.  Christine said, "I think it would be great if the USA Network dropped this show. Let's do a special on the USA Network about all the adorable shelter dogs available!"  And Carl S chimed in, "PETA is spot on. The AKC is about money and human arrogance, not about what's in the best interest of dogs."

Most of you, though, said the show must go on.  "It is a total misconception that mixed breeds are more healthy than purebreds. Responsible breeders routinely screen for health problems. A mixed breed dog has no such testing and can inherit problems from many ancestors," said Janet.  And Purebred dog lover mused, "We are now in an era with the animal rightists trying to destroy and discredit breeders of purebred dogs. It must be duly noted that there are no health statistics kept on mixed breeds, just on purebred dogs. Who knows how many mixed breeds die of disease or breed problems gotten genetically from their mixed parentage?"

--Lindsay Barnett

Photo: USA Network

Comments

[Mitleid]

While it is true that the health of mutts is not tracked as assiduously as those of purebreds, it is true that in order to produce the desired attributes can and DOES result in a certain amount of inbreeding. Look at the propensity of hip displaysia in many large purebreeds. Not to mention anxiety attacks (Doberman Pincers, Great Pyrenees, Pointers), inability to breathe properly (any breed with a smashed in face), chronic ear infections (pretty much all the long-eared hounds), hyperactivity, snappiness and incontinence (Chihuahuas, Maltese and all the Spaniels) and finally, the bred-to-order violent tendencies that have pretty much rendered pit bulls, presa canarios and staffordshire terriers incompatible with modern society. Sure, there are exceptions (two of my best friends are a pit bull rescued from the fighting circuit and a chihuahua who thinks she's a pit bull), but until actual laws are established to regulate breeding, puppy mills will continue to flourish and pet shops will be swamped with sub-par puppies. The same is happening in horse racing. One reporter, who had been covering racing for over 40 years commented that horses nowadays look like 500 pounds of meat on toothpicks. Why do you think Eight Belles blew out? And what about Barbaro? Uh, Big Brown anyone? There was a bow-legged pony named Sea Biscuit with a funny gait, big butt. If anyone was just going for looks, no one would have picked him. But being strange made him a winner. So I say, gimmie a mega-mutt any day, shut down the puppy mills and vivre la difference!

[Lacy Bauer]

Please leave the airing of Westminster alone!!!!

[abby]

Unfortunately, people beleive everything they see. That BBC show is a case of sensationalism, they found a few bad breeders and made it out to seem like all dog breeders are like that.

The vast majority of dog breeders that are at dog shows are ethical people. They test dogs for genetic health issues prior to breeding, and don't breed dogs with problems. (OFA, CERF, BAER, Penn-Hip, to name a few tests.) They want to better the breed in physical appearance, temperament, and health.

The people that are against dog shows don't understand what dog shows are. They are a way to test breeding stock. If you are a breeder, you may overlook a flaw in your own dog. At a dog show, your dog is judged against the written breed standard to ensure you are breeding only dogs that are of the correct type.

PETA is against dog shows because they are against the notion of domestic animals period. Their goal is to phase out domestic animals: pets, service & police dogs, livestock, etc.
PETA does a pretty good job at sugar-coating their true agenda and many naive people still support them. I truly wish people would research an organization before blindly supporting them.

[Dottie]

I have a question for the PETA folks, how many of you owned pets, dogs, cats, gerbils, ect.? Have you ever shared you life wtih an animal? If not, please don't tell the rest of us we cannot do it !!! I'm 66 years old, pets have been a very important part of my life since the age of 4. They have given me love through some very rough times, Iin turn give the a safe home, good food, the best of vet care.and I will protect them from thelikes of you for as longas I live!!

I'm sorry you have never known the love of an animal.

[Megan]

THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A RESPONSIBLE DOG BREEDER.

[Tammara]

The majority of dogs found in shelters needing homes do NOT come from *responsible* breeders - they come from irresponsible owners. Most dogs in shelters are of mixed breed pedigrees. Responsible breeders breed specific breeds - they do not mix. Yes, I am saying Goldendoodles, Pugles, etc, are NOT purebred dogs - they are mixed breeds with their breeders givng no concern to the health issues in the pedigrees. Responsible breeders seriously screen new homes and have stipulations in their contracts that no matter the age, the dog does not go to a shelter, but must be returned to the breeder if the home can no longer keep the dog. Westminster Dog Show being televised is a venue where the public can learn more about purebred dogs and dogs that might be appropriate for their lifestyle. People need to learn about PETA. They are a marketing organization and their goal is for no companion dogs or cats in homes. The plan of action is to shutdown all breeders leaving only shelter animals. Sounds good? What happens when all the shelter animals are gone and their are no breeders? There will be no companion animals. PETA wins.

[Norma-Jean Campbell]

If everyone bought a dog from an ethical breeder who would take the dog back (for it's whole life, like I do) if the family can't keep it any more there would be no shelters.

[Kayla]

This is ridiculous. The breeders at the Westminster show are top of the line and RESPONSIBLE dog breeders, they are breeding towards a standard to better the breed and keep all of the genetic defaults out of the top quality dogs they they produce. I bet if PETA actually spent their time in a quality manner instead of being the canine paparazzi, they would find out that the majority (if not all) of these breeders have to have their animals tested for disease and various defects.

My message to you PETA people- go get a job and help the economy, you're never going to amount to anything other than a pain in the butt. You need to realize that every animal is not yours and it's not your business, who are you to tell these people what you should and shouldn't do with animals? Where do you get your statistics from? If you want to go support the animals of today, go help the dogs that are chained to a tree starving to death or the horses that aren't being fed due to the financial burden that the economy has sprung upon us, or any other way, not protesting at the rodeos, (but rodeos are a WHOLE other topic- they are what made our history and will never be affected by your supporters) or being concerned about the prestigious breeders of the Westminster dog show, go on the streets of the cities and help the pit bulls that are being fought or anything other than starting unrealistic nonsense.

[Joy DeSipio]

I can't believe anyone is giving PETA the floor to even pose this suggestion. YES, there are TONS of shelter-dogs out there that need homes. But does PETA even realize that many, many, many of these dogs are adopted by the very breeders that PETA wishes to discredit?? I belong to a kennel club and I am proud of my membership. I am also proud of my purebred dogs that I participate in dog sports with on a regular basis. But my love for my purebreds and appreciation for what they were bred to do is equally matched by my absolute and total LOVE for every rescue dog that has come into my life. In fact, my love of Collies (one of my purebred dogs) led to my mother's recent adoption of a "shelter" Collie in need of a home. My dogs come from long lines of dogs that have had genetic testing, eye certifications, and hip x-rays to ensure that future generations only better the breed genetically and help to do away with future health issues. I certainly hope USA continues to show Westminster on the air as well as I hope we continue to see AKC and USDAA (which allows mixed breeds to show) agility trials on the air, along with Animal Planet's continued coverage of "shelter" cops that work daily to save every dog out there that needs a home. All of these networks assist in educating the public about ALL dogs. PETA, can't you find something better to focus your energy against, rather than coming after responsible breeders who take every precaution to better their breed while often times still assisting in the rescue and placement of many shelter dogs still looking for homes????

[Susan]

PETA does not differeniate between a puppy mill/backyard breeder who breeds purely for profit and the hobby breeder that breeds to show dogs. It is in a hobby breeder's best interest to breed only from the very best dogs and the very best dogs will be physically and emotionally healthy. Most hobby breeders breed as to have a show dog and place the rest of the puppies as companions. These puppies will be good examples of the breed. PETA is trying to destroy first purebred dogs and then they will set their sights on mutts. They would better spend their efforts going after the commercial breeders/mills that supply the pet stores and flood the internet with puppies.

[Michelle]

It's about time they show our side of the story instead of giving into the extremities of PETA! Would have appreciated as long an article as they got though, there were lots of excellent comments about good responsible breeders there that were omitted.

[Kathy Carella]

What people need to understand is that PETA wants to stop people from owning dogs ALL dogs. Wether they are mix-breeds or purebred. They don't believe we have the right to be dog owners. They would like a world where none of us has a dog in our homes. Why doesn't anyone really look at their mission statement. Why doesn't anyone really investigate the way they operate. I would think the general public would be very surprised at their true anti-dog owning genda.

[EFM]

Peta can take a flying leap. I show dogs and very responsible in treating my dogs better than some humans treat their children.

[Carly]

The people breeding to better the breed are the responsible breeders. They spend monumental amounts of money on health and other issues to present the best and most proper breed standard in the show ring.

PETA needs to direct its attention to the 'greeders' who breed strictly for personal gain. They do not care how dogs are kept, only that they make more dogs. These are the breeders that cause an over abundance of dogs and the shelters to have them!

[Radio]

Um, this show is about money.... period. By that I mean, no one has the right to tell these people what to do with their property. If they wan to breed Purebreds, they most certainly can - and will. Furthermore, the TV networks make money off of the advertisments during this very-watched dog show, and so have no incentive to not show it. Especially since if USA drops it, another broadcast company with less conflicted morals will pick it right back up, reaping all of that profit. The only reason the BBC can drop it without compunction is because there is no major competitor. It can lose hat profit without batting an eyelid because it has virtual, if not actual, monopoly over british airwaves. I still think they're bloody idiots, but still, there is no incentive for a competitive network to not air the show.

[Tannim]

PETA are clueless fools who front domestic terrorism, and their cronies are the ones pushing snip and chip in Riverside County next week, headed by their chief infiltrator, the county vet!

Sorry, but PETA knows about as much about pets as monkeys do about calculus: nothing.

[Pat Ross]

The notion is so wrong - these folks who devote their time and effort to purebred dogs are the good guys.. .
breeding dogs responsibly ..... all the time all that effort and in the end all they get from it is a ribbon ... and the privilege of spending lots of time with great dogs and dog lovers .....

[Sandy McFarland]

Westminister coverage gives the public good examples of well bred , health screened , responsibly bred purebred dogs
The coverage also includes interviews and short videos to educate the viewers.
The coverage is a highlite of the year for those who truly recognise quality and reponsible ownership.

[Doglady]

If the average pet owner only realized that PeTA's & HSUS's underlying agenda is total non-ownership of pets of any kind they might change their tune.

Ethical breeders of purebred dogs, breed sparingly and see to it that their dogs are health tested and very well cared for.

[Concerned]

If PETA and HSUS are SO concerned about the amount of shelter and rescue dogs why don't they give SOME OF THE MONEY THEY COLLECT FROM THEIR MONEY CAMPAIGNS TO HELP THE PETS? They have BILLIONS of $$$$$$ that people give them thinking they actually help those poor dogs and cats in their commericals. If they gave the money they get we would have no shelter and rescue problems because all the pets would be taken care of, as it is in some areas they have to import shelter and rescue dogs to keep up with the demand. People need to open their eyes to PETA and HSUS, it's all about money and taking your pet's from you.

[Linda Rappaport]

Typical terrorist organization attempting censorship of public thought and deed. If PETA had its way, no one would own dogs.

[L.A. Voter]

Frankly, it's just incorrect to say that purebreds are as healthy or healthier than mixed breeds. My vet told me on her first day of vet school she learned the term "hybrid vigor" which means dogs with a varied genetic background are less vulnerable to certain types of diseases and genetic weaknesses, especially as younger dogs, including cancer, hip dysplasia, eye problems, breathing problems, etc. English Bulldogs are so malformed that they can't even give birth to their puppies normally anymore, they have to have Caesareans. I have two mixed breed dogs and one purebred and it's certainly true that the purebred has more problems.

The term "reputable breeder" gets thrown around a lot, almost like it's Kryptonite to deflect criticism. But the fact is truly reputable breeders don't make money breeding dogs. Reputable breeders breed a small number of dogs once a year, because overbreeding a dog can cause a lot of health problems. The AKC is a business and it can't subsist on people who breed a small number of pet dogs once a year. Let's all keep in mind that Joe Biden went to one of these "reputable breeders" and literally the next day it emerged that she had multiple code violations, including not having vaccination records for her puppies, which is a huge no-no.

The AKC has historically supported puppy mills/large scale breeding operations because that's where the money can be made pedigreeing dogs.

We all have emotional attachments to certain animal-related events. And truthfully, I'm not a huge PETA fan in general because I think they do a lot of harm to the cause of animal protection when they just look for publicity rather than staying focused on animal abuse. But when someone says, "There's a problem with (take your pick) dog shows, circuses, zoos, etc." it would be helpful if, instead of automatically attacking the messenger, we actually listen to the message. PETA didn't just pick on Westminster out of the blue. There is a legitimate problem with how purebreds are being bred to accentuate certain (currently) showstopping features at the expense of their health and longevity. The BBC is hardly a radical organization, but when Crufts refused to address these issues it decided not to broadcast them this year. It is certainly legitimate to question whether or not American dog shows are promoting the same damaging practices here, in addition to the fact that many competitors in American dog shows come from other countries, including England and the UK.

Dogs shouldn't be crippled or dying of cancer at two and three years old. It just shouldn't happen.

[dan bucks]

Responsible breeders showcase their breed stock to other responsible breeders at dogshows. This allows breeders to evaluate a much larger population of intact animals with characterized genetic backgrounds for consideration in their breeding programs. In addition to being critical to responsible breeders, dogshows are enjoyed by non-breeders as well for the beauty, grace, and poise of these "best of the best" representatives of each breed.

[Professor Anthony Milton]

The BBC is wrong to refuse to broadcast Crufts, The USA networks must not head PETA and must broadcast Westminster. PETA , like all antivivisection organizations, is fundamentally a terrorist organization.

[Jennifer]

The sport of purebred dogs in respect to the dog shows is a long standing tradition. Most of the dogs are treated not only as a family member but with great love and attention. It takes a lot of time and money to breed a dog for the show ring. There are many people with the dog's best interest at heart. They do all of the health testing that is prevailant in their breed. Raise the puppies with the upmost care with attention to socialization. Find great homes for the ones they wish to go as pets. Buy back the puppies if there is an issue so they don't end up in shelters. PETA needs to focus the attention onto the many puppy mills that are out there. They are one of the main reasons we have so many unwanted animals in the shelters. They breed for profit. The show people breed to better the breed in the areas of health and confirmation.

[Sarah Parrish]

As A breeder of show dogs for many yrs.I feel westminister should be aired during the judging and after,it is a must for all owners of show or pet dogs, and teaches others how to love and respect our dogs.

[Bill]

If PETA are so concerned about the health of the dogs, instead of banning the dog show, how about lobbying the Kennel Clubs and registries to REVOKE SHOW titles for dogs which (a) have (b) LATER experience (c) test positive (not just as carriers, but affected by) for genetic problems and to prevent their offspring from being titled or keeping titles unless proven to be clear of the issue.

[Tanns]

PETA knows nothing about saving lives of dogs. PETA is the worst kill center I have heard of. Leave purbreed dogs alone, you have no place in the dog world. Real rescue centers do not kill, the resuce and place so that the dogs can live there life as it was meant to, with loving families

[Mrs Shirley Davies]

I am apalled that the terrible BBC program, completely biased and showing none of the GOOD work dog breeders who exhibit also do for dogs should have led to such a dreadful anti-showdog campaign which has now spread to the USA.
In the UK it is people who breed but do not show who do nothing about inherited conditions on the whole.
Yes there are a few breeds which need to wake up to reality and address the problems they have ...but the show exhibitors are NOT the worst offenders at bad breeding..it is the great number of one-off and puppy farming etc breeding which leads to most problems persisting.
Most pedigree dogs are sound and healthy, there are some genetic problems...but it is show breeders usually who address these and produce codes of ethics etc....but anyone who is not a member of a show-breed club does not have to even know about such codes of ethics let alone abide by them....it is a pity the BBC did not give a balanced picture as it has led to all of us who are respectable careing breeders being tarred with the same brush as the irresponsible breeders..

[Marilee Rianda]

PETA preys on the emotionally immature. Don't support PETA!

[lee fogel]

i agree and disagree.....what should be looked at is how the dogs are treated at the shows and the corruption of the shows themselves.....judging,,,,, i've only been showing for a bout 2.5 years and i cannot believe the things i have seen...i will never show another dog again...too bad.....before i ever did show i respected the whole show thing......just my comment.....

[Libbye Miller DVM]

No one ever seems to mention the millions of dollars that AKC and the Canine Health foundation have invested in medical research that benefits ALL dogs as well as humans.

"Adorable mixed breeds" get cancer, epilepsy, allergies, heart disease, and orthopedic problems just like purebreds. I see it every day in my veterinary practice but mixed breed dogs aren't tracked like the purebreds so they have a reputation as "healthier" that is actually undeserved in many cases.

I am so tired of PETA and their bogus war on the dedicated breeders who strive to breed healthy dogs, place puppies in appropriate homes, and feel responsible for their puppies for life.

I wish someone would do a expose on PETA but the media seems really afraid of them.

[John Bowen]

PETA gets more than twice the money that AKC earns through services. Plus, PETA kills more than 90% of the animals it takes into its shelter.
Now, who is actually for the animals? Peta with a no animal ownership position written in stone, or AKC with the Canine Health Foundation which has eliminated certain diseases, identified the cause of others and been immeasurable help to dogs and owners?
Peta is un-American, dictatorial, and uses the exact tactics of Hitler and the Communist party. Don't believe me? Do the research, or shut up.

[Cris]

Sooo no one breeds any more we all get these spayed and neutered dogs/cats from the shelter. Your pet gets sick and dies where will you find YOUR next dog/cat? Sorry there are NO more domesticated pets PEOPLE wake up! This is what PETA and H$U$ want! Why don't we ask them how many animals they have brought into our Country from around the world to fill our shelters. Thats right people brought into YOUR country to help fill YOUR shelters/animal rescues!

[John Galt]

PETA and HSUS have worked together to remove all dogs from the planet for years by trying to convince the general public that breeding dogs is morally wrong, and that instead the public should visit THEIR source of discarded dogs and adopt them. Meanwhile they have made attempts to show that purebred dogs have health issues not shared with mixed breeds. Yet, of course, there is no data on mixed breeds because they are often unsupervised breedings with puppies that are the casualties of inept owners.

Some of the public as well as community leaders around the country have bought this line of half truths and begun a campaign against the enemy--anyone who breeds dogs as if they are immoral, have no scruples, and are only money hungry dregs of the barrel of mankind.

Meanwhile, show breeds routinely health certify their dogs with the Orthopedic Foundation of America as well as CERF for a wide variety of health issues that have been occured in their breed of interest. Of course, PETA overlooks this fact and most people are ignorant of it.

As a 25 year veteran breeder of show dogs, who spays and neuters ALL dogs placed as pets before they leave for new owners, who routinely health checks ALL of my dogs, and REFUSE to place puppies before they are 6 months of age whether someone wants a young puppy or not because I want to know of its adult dentition and health, I believe that too many government leaders, as well as the media really needs to do some homework before they join the bandwagon against breeders of pure bred dogs.

I am really getting tired of news reports that take on a life of their own based on such little information as speculation and the loud voices of a few who demand to be heard and who want NO PETS of any kind to share the homes of humans, and who want a vegetarian society.

[heather]

I adopted my dogs and believe me, getting dogs from a good, ethical breeder who does health tests on hips, eyes, etc.. is a GREAT idea. Good breeders do NOT contribute to the overpopulation of dogs b/c they are very selective on the owners, don't breed for profit and take dogs back for any reason. Also, they don't breed and then sell--they have people waiting for litters. Everyone needs to look up what a good breeder is and either adopt a dog or get one from an outstanding breeder. It may cost more, but it is worth it. As a vegetarian for 15 years, I think PETA gives people a bad taste in thier mouth.

[Kathy DeWees]

After 22 yrs of doing Akita Rescue, I still support good ethical breeders and enjoy watching dog shows. The problems are majorly caused by pet stores & puppymillers who don't care about any health checks or follow-up on the puppies they mass produce. Good ethical breeders are the future of our dogs -- to lump them in with those mass-producing & causing the issues would be wrong. Sure there are things that need to be fixed but this is not the way to fix things! We all know PETA doesn't even believe in allowing anyone to have a pet and I can tell you that I always want to have my Akitas by my side! PETA is going about this all wrong and sadly its the pets that will pay the price in the end!! Yes, do a special on shelter & rescue dogs, that would be great but do NOT allow PETA to hold good ethical breeders hostage for issues they did not cause in the first place.

[Kristin S.]

I have owned pound puppies to purebreds and have loved them all the same. I have yet to see a purebred at the pound so those owners are not the ones filling the shelters. I have had happy and healthy dogs, pedigree or not. If you are talking a stand with PETA, make sure you really understand what they stand for.

[Debbie]

Be careful what you wish for!! PETA and HSUS are not "good guys" wanting to help the poor animal that is being abused.

These organizations are trying to stop pet ownership all together, rob us of our personal property rights, and destroy purebred animals (not just dogs, but purebred animals of any ilk).

Don't fall for the propaganda that is out there. Dog shows are not cruel, the dogs LOVE what they do, go to a show and watch, you'll be pleasantly surprised.

Dog shows are the epitome of "team work" between the owner/handler and the dog. Dogs love being part of a team and enjoy conformation, agility and obedience work.

Don't be fooled, support reputable/repsonsible dog breeders and exhibitors.

Debbie

[Border Terrier lover]

PETA needs to have its head examined ... RESPONSIBLE BREEDERS do test for genetic problems within the breed and do not breed dogs that maybe affected by those problems ... RESPONSIBLE BREEDERS will also make a commitment to rehome or take back any puppy bred by them so that they DO NOT end up in a shelter.

Do the deliberate crossbreads (puggles and goldendoodles come to mind) do health testing and make the same commitment? What about the backyard breeder who wants their kids to experience the miracle of birth and then refuses to help their puppy people with problems or concerns? What about the puppy millers who do no testing at all and subject their dogs to horrific conditions and then sell them at pet stores for equal to or more than buying the same type of puppy from a RESPONSIBLE BREEDER.

RESPONSIBLE BREEDERS should be supported for their efforts NOT maligned.

The people wanting to buy a puppy should also take responsibility for RESEARCHING their breed and making sure that it is the RIGHT DOG FOR THEM. So many people get taken in by a cute picture and have no clue as to what the dog's inherent temperament really is or don't realize the amount of time it really takes to integrate a new puppy as a loving and trained member of the family.

Do your research and buy your puppy from a RESPONSIBLE BREEDER.

[Marisa Welch]

I think that it should be aired. PETA is a bit ridiculous in saying that show dogs owners are breeding in defects. In fact they are doing the opposite. Most breeders have their dogs testing for disease, and other issues and if that dog is found to have any thing wrong with it they will not breed that animal.

[Nick Ziegler]

The issue is not only the health of pure breds, but also the issue of animal populations. Those of us who generally have concern for the well being of sentient creatures do not like seeing others proactively and selectively increasing dog populations for their own enrichment and leisure while other already existing animals with an equal capacity to feel and experience pain and pleasure languish on the streets or in pounds. Breeders are enslaved by an outmoded and indefensible Cartesian notion that humans are selves residing separately and in a position of superiority to nature and therefore entitled to utilize other animal species to whatever ends they wish without ethical consideration. It is a shame.

[Janet L]

Regarding your poll and the NO category, breeders do not breed solely for the show ring. As a breeder, I breed because I want to improve on the dogs I currently have - healthier, sound temperaments, seeking to get that "ideal". Not all breeders belong to AKC and not all breeders breed for "looks". Many breeders look for that ideal performance. The retriever who can bring back the downed bird, the hound that can run down or track prey, the herding dog eyeballing the recalcitrant ewe.

Yes my dogs are in the show ring. It's how we judge a dog according to its ideal. But they are also involved in lure coursing, agility, herding and other activities, including just being a great family pet.

Oh and if anyone thinks these dogs are abused or exploited, let me tell you that if they didn't enjoy it, they wouldn't do it. Especially the performance events!

[Lindsay]

I don't own an AKC breed, but I do enjoy watching the show. Do I think that some breeders are ruining their respective breeds? Absolutely. Do I think that Westminster being televised has anything to do with that? Not at all. Considering many of these breeds were in the process of being wrecked since before television was even invented, I don't think it makes one iota of difference.

PETA is a group of extremists, and how they remain a non-profit rather than labeled as a terrorist group is beyond me. This is just one step on their never-ending march to make sure humans don't lay hands on (ie, "exploit") any animals, and that they're all free to live their lives as they see fit. No seeing eye dogs, no research animals, no bacon on your plate, no goldfish for your kids. As a dog owner, I give the proverbial middle digit to PETA.

[Elizabeth Montgomery]

If Peta would health check themselves as much as most of us breeders do for out show dogs and companion dogs , than they would not have anything to complain about. Most good breeder are very careful where our dog go and to whom.
All of my breeding stock (4) have all the health check for there breed.
We would be wasting out money and repertation plus most of us sign ethel contracts with our clubs and I belong to 4 different clubs and signed one each time. So
SO WILL YOU PEOPLE GET REAL AND FIND OUT THE TRUTH BEFORE YOU SPOUT OUT LIES.

[Veronica St Claire]

The next request for a ban will be on football games (too dangerous) and basketball games (players might injure their knee) and golf games (players might hit someone).

Dog shows are full of wonderful camraderie, friendship, competition and being together in the great outdoors (or indoors) and furthering the concept that a companion is the most wonderful thing for persons who are young and beyond to very old. Dogs love you no more what (for the most part) and Shows are better TV than all that other stuff that the tube offers.

[Surely Rawlings]

Westminster is the second oldest sporting event in the US, second only to the Kentucky Derby which beats it by ONE year...and that was because of the war. People who compete and show at Westminster are responsible breeders, who breed dogs only when they are looking for that next great winner. They sell the remaining puppies to prople who want a puppy to show or breed or on a liminted (meaning they are NOT allowed to breed that dog that they buy) breeding registration. These breeders check out the prospective new homes and have home checks to make certain that the new owners have everything they need, like a fenced in yard and not too many dogs, and if they live in the City, like NYC, they will take the dogs to the many dog parks in NYC and/or walk them many times a day and pick up their messes, and are responsible dog owners. These new owners must treat these puppies as if they are one of the family members. They are not allowed to keep them in untidy homes and MUST give them ample exercise and attention. Including veternarian care and ample food and water and any medication that they may need for their well being. These dogs are selectively bred and have the best chance of being healthy and great pets with great temperaments. In contracts with the breeders, they must take the dog/puppy to kindergarten classes and obedience classes and learn how to get along with other animals... They learn to be a Canine Good Citizen. It is a lifelong commitment to get a dog for a pet and these breeders do not breed or sell their puppies without making certain that the puppies will have a home for life. There are many Rescue Groups for all breeds and the dogs that did not work out in a family are taken and re-homed, after they have been checked carefully for their health and temperamen and then the propective new family is carefully checked, including a home check, with someone from the breed rescue actually going to the propective new home and checking that they DO have a FENCED yard and a CRATE and the ability to house and love this animal for the rest of its' life. These dogs are not adopted out IF there is any questions about it's temperament and a concern for it's abitlity to get along with a new family. If it does not like cats, then it won't go to a home with cats, if it does NOT like children, they it won't go to a home with children, if it does not get along with other dogs, then it will not go to a home with other dogs...IF IT HAS ANY SIGN OF AGGRESSION TOWARDS PEOPLE, it is put to sleep, as we do not want these animals in the community with a possibility of hurting someone...these RESCUE GROUPS may be found on the internet by GOOGLE the breed you are looking for and the area and you will find a place to start, with an application to fill out, much like an adoption for a child. WE are serious about these dogs getting a perfect home and the people getting the perfect dog.
I hope this has helped some of you a little bit about pure bred dogs and the work and energy that goes behind the scenes of a show like Westminster. It is not just a whim... It is a lifelong commmitment from the breeders who are showing at shows such as these. This is just another way for PETA and HSUS to smear in a very very bad way responsible breeders and owners of these wonderful dogs. PETA's ultimate goal is NO MORE PET DOGS, CATS, BIRDS or any animal, they feel they are better off dead than living in a safe and prtected home by loving owners. Read PETA's ultimate goal on their webpage and you will see what they do. They do not have one rescue of any animals...they put them to sleep immediately, that is their answer to the best solution for an animals' life with a loving owner. It has been proven two times in courts that they would take dogs and cats from rescue centers, swear that they would be taken care of....and then in the parking lot of the establishment, they put them to sleep...and then DUMP THEM IN A PIGGLY WIGGLY DUMPSTER on their way back to the large multi-million center that PETA has which is in Virginia, not far from Washington, DC...these poor animals never had a chance to be adopted, they were killed immediately. These employees were arrested, and only because of PETA's great lawyers, they got off the charges and were released. It is an absolute travesty for these poor kittens and puppies...and these are facts.

[Gayle Roberson]

As a professional pet groomer I have to vehemently disagree with the absurd percentage of 1 in 4 purebreds with "serious genetic problems".

What I would LOVE to see aired on USA Network, in addition to Westminster, of course, is an expose of the questionnable tactics and the motives that are behind the so-called research and conclusions of PETA as well as HSUS. PETA's goal is world wide veganism! WHO asked their opinion?? As for HSUS, they are a multi million dollar lobbying force, whose aim is to end the breeding/owning of pets as well as food source animals. While we all want animals to be treated with respect, making crazy laws that in fact punish everyone _except_ lawbreakers is not the way to accomplish this result, any more than prohibition was successful in ending the effects of "demon rum". It's moderation and common sense that works, NOT terrorist tactics.

[Diana]

I think the spotlight should be shinning on the number of animals PETA is responsible for killing every year. Responsible show breeders are NOT puppy mills. Wake up America before someone comes in your home and takes your right away to own a well bred dog. More thought is going into the breeding of purebreds today both health and temperament wise than is being put in to human children...PETA is a nightmare...wake up...say NO to their insanity.

[dogmama]

I am glad that dog fanciers have spoken out. AKC has donated $16 million to fund veterinary research. Much of this money has gone to research causative disease
factors or the development of genetic tests. Just look at vetgen.com There are many tests for hereditary disorders, many of which affect ALL dogs, including mixed breeds. These tests would not have been created without the impetus, participation and fundraising by breed clubs. All lifeforms are subject to disorders, but purebred dog fanciers are actively working to minimize them. Can this be said of any other group of animal lovers?
I have been involved in dog sports for decades. I became involved because I love dogs and dog sports
enable one to enjoy dogs intensively and share that
love with other people. I encourage the general public
to attend dog shows and meet and chat with fanciers.
You will see that we are very dedicated to our animals
and that we strive to know as much as possible about
veterinary issues, dog psychology, dog care, training,
and issues in relationships between dogs and people,
We are experts in everything dog--that will become
very apparent in any lengthy conversation with an
accomplished and responsible fancier. Many people who compete in performance sports are every bit as adept (or even more so) trainers as famous trainers who appear on television. Our dogs are raised to be
at the peak of physical health and mental soundness.
We are devoted to our dogs, their well being and happiness, and we make personal sacrifices for such,
including supporting rescue.
On another note, I would like to point out that dog shows
date back to only 1859. Breeds such as bulldogs
and pugs, which are criticized for being "deformed"
have origins hundreds of years ago. Some breeds are
thousands of years old. Dog breeding has taken place
all over the world, usually for practical reasons (dachshunds are the shape they are to hunt animals underground); it is simply wrong to blame dog shows for pure breeds and whatever problems they have.
If you are against the domestication of animals, you
are way too late. We would be still living in caves if
people had not domesticated wolves. Also please
note that the record keeping of dog breeders has contributed to the mapping of the canine genome
and helped human genome projects, projects that will
help treat and prevent genetic disorders in both species.
I'm glad the Times has finally let dog fanciers have
more of a voice in this debate and I hope the response to
the Unleashed post affects editorial policy in the hardcopy paper, too. I agree with previous posters
that animosity towards the show world is a PREJUDICE
(a kneejerk reaction that exaggerates negative bits of facts and which is grounded in and perpetuates ignorance, hatred, anti-social opposition and even violence) and I think the media needs to take a deeper look at both camps (fanciers and animal rights activists) in this argument. Look at the facts and you will see a very different world that what popular attitudes assume.