Prepare to go into sports overload. February 7th is the big day for the Colts followed by the Olympic Winter Games opening ceremony February 12th on NBC. Then on Monday, February 15th, USA Network will air America's second longest continuously held sporting event, behind only the Kentucky Derby. Can you guess what it is? Here's a hint. It is held annually in New York City at Madison Square Garden. It is the sport of purebred dogs-the Super Bowl of dog shows-the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. The show was initiated in 1877 by a group of hunting men who regularly met at the Westminster Hotel in Manhattan. This show will be the 134th. That makes the 44th Super Bowl just a youngster. There will be 2,500 entries from all 48 states, the District of Columbia and 8 foreign countries, representing 150 breeds. The Westminster Kennel Club was the first club admitted to the AKC after AKC's founding in 1884. This year there are three new breeds being introduced to the show by AKC, one of which is the Irish Red and White Setter. I am particularly interested in this because we have one of these rare beauties as an area neighbor and customer at our store. His name is Shawn (Shaun?) and I have known him since he was a puppy. This breed, known in Ireland since the 17th century, once nearly extinct, began to reemerge by the 1940's. It is a distinct breed, not just a different color of Irish Setter. The coat's base color is white with solid red patches. Last year's winner was a boost for the senior citizens of the dog world. Just like some of our other favorite athletes, a 10-year-old Sussex Spaniel came out of retirement to become the oldest Best In Show winner. His name is Ch Clussexx Three D Grinchy Glee with a nickname of Stump. Oh those names! For AKC registration I remember naming our purebred Bassett Clarissa Red Legs of Broadway. She became Chloe to us. Everything is so formal in this sport, right down to the judges wearing tuxedos. I looked online and found that you can get tickets ranging from $46.00 to $695.00. If that's not in the budget you can stay home and for $5.00 per spectator (free on opening day) you can attend the Indy Winter Classic Dog Show at the fairgrounds February 11th-14th (Thurs.-Sun.). This is really a great family event and a wonderful way to learn about breeds if you are considering a purebred. I love the show. It is four days and is comprised of four all-breed shows, three obedience trials and three rally trials. Two days are hosted by the Central Indiana Kennel Club and two days are hosted by the Hoosier Kennel Club. This is the real deal. It is always tense because these are serious breeders and handlers who are trying to make schedules meet. It butts right up to Westminster which starts that Monday. Many of the dogs leave Saturday to go to New York. Those that have to stay until Sunday are pressured, many times because the weather at this time of year for traveling is a factor.

If you go, here's what to know. Get a guide book at the door included with ticket. Judging is based on how closely dogs conform to their breed's standard. That includes general appearance, size, proportion, coat, color, gait and temperament (don't bite the judge). Sit ring-side and ask questions. People are proud of their dogs and love to brag. Your kids will enjoy watching the Jr. Showmanship (Sat. & Sun.) where young handlers, ages 9-18, compete based only on their handling abilities with their dogs. Each day of the show at 10:00 AM and 1:30 PM there is an Emergency First Aid Clinic. These are 20-minute classes that include CPR taught on animal dummies. I particularly enjoy the various vendors who set up their wares. They sell everything imaginable. This is where I shop for purses, sweaters and jewelry that are dog-themed. There is great stuff especially if you want anything that is breed specific.

Just for fun I have to share some of the official's names with you. . . of course with formality: Mr. Fred Bassett, Mr. Robert Fox, Ms. Debb Wolfe, Mr. Tom Claus (Claws) and Mr. Scott West (he must be a mix between a Scottie and a Westie). Go and enjoy. Only show dogs are allowed on the ground. The event phone number is 317-508-8129. If you want to see a specific breed, look on-line for the schedule. Should you fall in love with a breed please consider adopting from that breed's rescue group. Every breed has one.

Pets make you smile.