From the first time I heard about Crufts, I have wanted to attend. Over the years I have gained many friends abroad and they have all often invited me to come on over and go to the big show. It has been on my BIG 'bucket list' for many years and I wanted to combine the trip to Ireland, England and Scotland with Crufts. Everyone was giving me a really hard time about taking my big vacation in March, 'too cold', 'too wet', 'too gray', etc. etc. etc. But knowing I would probably only get one shot to make this kind of trip, I was committed to go during Crufts, even if I could only get one day to view the spectacle.
Lately, I have heard all the criticism surrounding Crufts, and how the British are going after small breeders and trying to be more "PETA-like" in their approach to purebred dogs. Yes, I have read it all, seen it all and am aware of what the general public believes is going on in the world of dogs. It is happening in the US, too! But that hasn't stopped me from attending Westminster, Eukanuba or any of the other major shows in this country. So I am not going to let any of this stop me from reaching my 'bucket list' goal. I am going to Crufts for the dogs and the shopping, not for any political or social statement...
Crufts is the largest annual dog show in the world, as declared by Guinness World Records, and lasts four days. It is held every March in the city of Birmingham, at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC).
Crufts was named after its founder, Charles Cruft, who worked as general manager for a dog biscuit manufacturer, travelling to dog shows both in the United Kingdom and internationally, which allowed him to establish contacts and understand the need for higher standards for dog shows. In 1886, Cruft's first dog show, billed as the "First Great Terrier Show", had 57 classes and 600 entries. The first show named "Crufts"—"Cruft's Greatest Dog Show.
It was at the Centenary celebrations in 1991 that Crufts was officially recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the world's largest dog show with 22,973 dogs being exhibited in conformation classes that year. Including agility and other events, it is estimated that an average 28,000 dogs take part in Crufts each year, with an estimated 160,000 human visitors attending the show.
Crufts is not an open competition; dogs must have qualified throughout the previous year by successfully competing (gaining a top-3 place in their class) at a Kennel Club licensed Championship show where Challenge Certificates are awarded. Dogs can become qualified for life upon attaining their Kennel Club Stud Book Number.
There is also a section known as Discover Dogs, where visitors can see almost every breed recognised by the Kennel Club on view, and discuss each breed with knowledgeable owners.
Crufts also holds special shows and demonstrations, where specially trained dogs may perform in front of an audience.
In 2010 The Kennel Club released Crufts Vintage iPhone app, with more than 100 vintage photographs from the Kennel Club archives and in August 2011 the Crufts Best Match app, which is a Trump Card style game, available for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch devices.
So, with no remorse and no agenda, I plan to attend Crufts, visit with friends, see over 10,000 gorgeous dogs and SHOP TIL I DROP!
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