A benched show is different from normal all-breed shows. At a benched show, you and your entry must arrive by a
certain time and can not leave until a specified time. You are given a bench number and an aisle at which your dog will be located for the day. Please make sure that you bring your entry along with you as you will need it to get your dog out of the building when you are leaving.
You will need to take your grooming table, grooming supplies, leads, water & snacks for your Kerry. It's always nice to bring a small cooler along to put your own drinks and snacks in, plus you can keep your dog's water cool. You will need a crate & something comfy for the dog to lay on in the crate. This goes on the benching area and when your Kerry gets tired or you would just like to put him away you may do so. You will set up your table in front of where you dog is benched. They give you a fair amount of space but it still becomes crowded. Make sure to bring a chair along for each person in your group, you will get tired and need a place to sit. The most important thing to remember is to bring your sense of humor, you will need it!
We usually decorate our area for our Irish dogs. Be ready for a lot of people and hundreds of questions. It is a good place for the public to learn about your breed and a good time for you to teach them some correct information. It is also a great experience for the dogs as well as the handler.
I hope to see a lot of you at Club-sponsored benched shows (such as the annual International Kennel Club of Chicago show) and good luck if you are entered at a benched show!!
-- Reita Nicholson
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