Man's best friend helps kick off Red Willow County Fair activities

James Neel, left, tries to contain his excitement at earning the Senior Showmanship Champion award with Aspen the Aussie. Center, Jackson Blomstedt and Bella, the Golden Irish, were deemed the Champions in the Intermediate Division and Best in Show. Second from right, Kyler Hoyt and his girl, Izzy the Toy Aussie, won the top prize in the Junior Showmanship Division. Right, Eva the Border Collie begs for forgiveness from handler Spencer Strauch. Eva just couldn’t resist following Spencer instead of staying as instructed, but after a bit of consoling from mom, Spencer was able to overcome his disappointment and Eva’s devotion gained her good standing with Spencer once again.

McCOOK, Neb. – Wags and wiggles - leashes and loves were featured Friday at the Red Willow County Fair 4-H dog show in the Alice Building in McCook.

And while a few of the dogs caused a bit of anxiety for their young handlers, it was apparent that all of the canine companions were well-loved and forgiveness came easy.

Not only were the dogs expected to sit and stay (for at least a whole 60 seconds, mind you); but the human competitors had to know the answers to impromptu questions presented by the judge.

What vaccinations are required and when should they be given? What are common health issues for your breed of dog? What parasites can infect a dog?

And if that isn’t enough pressure, maintaining a genuine smile, eye contact with the judge, while at the same time giving your dog the proper amount of interaction and attention, as well as following any instructions the judge may give for handling and showing the dog -- it can all lead to the thrill of victory or the agony of defeat. But the agony doesn’t last long when you have a four-legged companion licking your face and asking to play.

While a trainee may fail miserably at obedience, unable to resist following his or her beloved master in the long down command, he could redeem himself in the showmanship competition by earning the highly coveted Champion Showmanship Award. Such is the life of a well-trained show dog.

James Neel and his six-year-old Aussie, Aspen, won the Senior Showmanship Division. The Champion in Intermediate Showmanship was 13-year-old Jackson Blomstedt and his Golden Irish Bella. Jackson and Bella were also chosen Best in Show. Izzy, the two-year-old toy Aussie, and his handler, eight-year-old Kyler Hoyt, were the Junior Showmanship champions.

Watch the Gazette for full results of the 4-H dog show competition, as well as all the 4-H entries, following the fair.