10 Questions ...

Profession: Dog judge

Dog-sport involvement: Newfoundland Club of America JEC, Hungarian Pumi Club of America, American Dog Show Judges board member

Hometown: Rincon, Georgia, a suburb of Savannah

Astrological sign: Virgo

1. Do you have any dog-show superstitions?

When I was showing, a judge told me that I had a nice red dress on, so he was awarding me second place. I never wore red again!

2. TV-show guilty pleasure?

I like “American Ninja Warrior.” The work that these people do is awesome. I am so envious.

3. If you were president of AKC for one day, what would you do? 

I’d give everyone a level playing field.

4. Most valued material possession?

An old shirt of my mother’s. Sometimes I think I can still smell her …

5. What is something no one would guess about you?

Then it wouldn’t be a secret, would it?

6. Who would you compare yourself to? 

No one. I seem to be from a different mold. It might come from being an only child.

7. What are you “famous” for?  

Certainly not my cooking. Maybe my patience with puppies.

8. What website do you visit most often?

Delta.com.

9. What was more memorable, your most satisfying win or disappointing defeat? And what was it?

I think I’ve had both, but winning the national where we used to live was the best. I think I cried for two days. Some people have the honor of winning many times, but I started later than most, and worked hard showing my dogs year after year. It was a dream. I’ll never forget it, and I won’t forget those people in the ring who are doing the same thing. Just judge the dog!

10. What do you wish someone would ask you? 

I don’t think people understand why judges put themselves through the travel, the hoops the AKC puts in front of them, the swollen feet, the tired bodies, etc. I can’t answer for many, but for me it is because I get kisses occasionally from a dog. I see a dog doing something funny, and it embarrasses the handler until we all enjoy the antics. A dog is god. They love you, win or lose. They don’t care. Maybe some do, but, heck, regardless, they are the best part of my life. When I retire, I will miss them, but I will have such incredible memories. My dogs will take over then, because I couldn’t live without them.