Crufts 2008

A memorable achievement for the society was achieved between Thursday 6th of March through to Sunday 10th of March. The societies first public engagement representing the Bavarian Mountain Hound was at Crufts, in the ‘discover dogs’ row.

Six of the members B.M.H’s took part and all behaved absolutely impeccably, making the most of the attention that was lavished on them over the four days.  The stand was decorated with various pictures of B.M.H’s at work, a fallow skin, roe skin, plus tracking/training equipment. The tracking shoes, complete with deer slots attached, attracted questions which gave us a chance to educate people on the work of the breed, somebody did ask if they are real dogs feet in those traps! We were all kept busy on all four days.

A stern faced lady of the kennel Club visited our stand, looking it up and down, to congratulate us on showing that we have a breed that is still worked. The three secretaries of the various breed clubs, who all gave us a letter of support to aid our registration of title with the K.C, were all given a small gift as a token of the societies appreciation. Andrew Brace, who is a world-renowned judge who has judged B.M.H’s on the continent, also visited us. Mr. Brace will also be mentioning our society in the weekly ‘Dog World’ paper. Amongst the general public we had a visit from celebrity, Johnny Vaughn.

A special thanks goes to members Del Walters, John Owen, Steve Coles, Helen Brett, Louise Shervington and Austin Weldon, who gave up their time to assist committee members, Mark Montgomery, Alison Montgomery, Nick Rout and Ann Marie Hill, who dealt with the K.C to make it a successful first outing for our society. Also we would like to thank the Borzoi Club for their assistance along with Ros Garraway, Lucy Healy and Michelle Woods who though not members lent their assistance. All who attended deemed it a great success.

Your secretary.

Andrew Brace writing in Dog World said in his article 'Reflections on crufts and a day with the Shelties' dog world March 21st 2008.
 
"The people who put so much time and effort into championing their breed in Discover Dogs deserve a medal. they work tirelessly dealing with the public some of whose questions can try the patience of a saint. I was particulalry interested to drop by the Bavarian Mountain Hound Society stand where the breed was presented in a very authentic and factual manner, making no secret of it's hunting background, not always appreciated in these politically correct times. The breed seems to be in safe hands and its pioneers in this country are keen to ensure that the Bavarian's go to understanding homes which understand their heritage."