On a winning streak

Reuters photo staff [Shannon Stapleton/Reuters] can be credited with capturing this winsome endearing picture of Sadie, the Westminster Best in Show winner 2010. But where was Reuters when I struck the poses and performed the stunts that remain alas known only to a lucky few? Where was Reuters when, newly bathed and coiffed I returned home, bow on collar and smelling of a subtle combination of lavender and rose?

I admit I only browsed the entire online showing of Westminster which in any case was televised over a couple of days. I had other, more pressing shows to watch. Primarily, Law & Order; my good friend, now, sadly, deceased, Jerry Orbach, plays his role of roles Lenny Briscoe. Lenny Briscoe is a fully developed character that Orbach wore like a skin. A working class man with a Catholic-Jewish childhood. A recovering alcoholic with a past littered with damaged relationships and long-borne hurts. A good cop. A good friend. A tender human being. A 20th century man. Yes, Law & Order by and large trumped the Westminster.

The poodle showing in the "Toy" category disgraced himself. No, that's not quite correct. Human beings seem determined to impose specific cuts and shapes to our naturally luxuriant hair in order to conform to their own odd whims. Yes, the dog had teased locks in front and shaved hair (none) on the rear. This look is not modern; poodles are mocked for it. But remember, poodles were long exploited as hunters and retrievers of water fowl. During those days, now consigned to a tiny historical footnote, the cut was required by the demands of the job. The 21st century makes no such demands on poodles; the Westminster--and the AKC to whom it owes allegiance--should rethink these archaic demands. Poodles everywhere would rejoice.

I titled this entry "On a winning streak" and I'll end with what's been won. Visibility on prime time television for dogs everywhere. Respect for owners who choose gourmet food, provide basic necessities & plenty of treats, heightened awareness of the importance of education and entertain for their dogs. And reminders, if such were needed, of the relevance of dogs to civil society. And finally, a comfortable seat on the couch from which to watch the dog show, mounted in NYC, and Law & Order, shot in NYC, from my safe, warm home in Athens, GA.