Project Description

Juniors Journal: My Experience at My First Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show

By Stella Keimon
Wright City, Missouri

I would first like to thank the American Chinese Crested Club for supporting junior handlers and helping provide opportunities and experiences that encourage us to grow in the sport. The support juniors receive along their journey truly makes a difference and allows moments like this to become possible.

Attending the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show was an incredible experience and my first time in New York City. Dogs have been part of my life for as long as I can remember, and they have given me opportunities as a Junior Handler with the American Kennel Club. Earning an invitation to attend the 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show was one of the biggest milestones for me, and stepping into the ring there as a junior handler was something I had worked hard for that became a reality.

Growing up in the sport has taught me patience, confidence, and how important teamwork is between a handler and their dog. Being hands-on in the whelping pen, helping raise and socialize puppies, and learning to understand their behavior from an early age helped prepare me for moments like this. I have also had the opportunity to junior handle several breeds from different AKC groups, and learning to adjust my handling style for each breed has made me a more well-rounded handler. Those experiences helped me feel ready to take on an event as special as Westminster.

I was excited to see dogs from all over the country gathered in one place and to be part of such a historic show. One of the best parts was seeing so many junior handlers I have met over the years all under one roof. We cheered for each other, celebrated, and were happy just to be there together. The energy throughout the show felt like a true celebration of Junior Showmanship and Sportsmanship.

Westminster was also an opportunity to watch and learn from some of the top handlers and owners in our breed. Seeing how they present their dogs, handle different situations in the ring, and work as a team gave me so much to learn from and goals to work toward.

One special opportunity I had while at Westminster was being selected to participate in the Junior’s Experience at Madison Square Garden. We helped test the lighting and sound in the arena, and being able to run the carpet alongside other junior handlers was an incredible moment. I am very thankful to everyone who organizedthis experience. It created a lasting memory and encouraged juniors like me to continue working toward our goals of one day competing in one of the most iconic arenas.

My current Juniors dog is GCHG NewCrests Thunderstruck at Regal, known as Rumble. Rumble loves going to shows and traveling with me, which makes our partnership even more special. I especially want to thank Rumble’s owners, Norma Feldman, Amy Bray, Liz Keimon, and myself for trusting me with the opportunity to showcase him. Their support and belief in my handling and care for Rumble means the world to me.

At Westminster, I had the honor of exhibiting Rumble in the Breed ring, and earning an Award of Merit under Judge Mrs. Connie Clark was a proud moment. Being recognized among such a beautiful and competitive group of Chinese Cresteds i is something I will always cherish.

My first Westminster experience was filled with excitement, learning, and memories I will never forget. It motivated me to keep working hard, continue growing as a Junior Handler, and appreciate every opportunity this sport provides. In the city that never sleeps, I made memories I hope to relive again someday, and I look forward to returning to Westminster in the future.

I would like to thank everyone who has supported me along this journey and helped make this trip such a meaningful experience. The Chinese Crested community played a huge role in making my trip a success. Near and far, I felt the love, encouragement, and support from so many people, and it truly meant the world to me. I am also very grateful to Dr. Donald Sturz and his entire team for their dedication to making this prestigious event so memorable. Their support and commitment to junior handlers made my first Westminster truly special.

Westminster was only the beginning, and I am excited to continue learning, growing, and chasing my dreams alongside the dogs and people who make this sport so special.