It's show time – dog show time, that is!
This coming weekend is the Sault Ste. Marie Kennel Club’s Annual All-Breed Conformation Show.
The SSMKC originated in 1964 and held its first annual Canadian Kennel Club sanctioned all-breed dog shows in July 1966.
The club encourages everyone to come and watch the show, meet the dogs, and talk to club members and exhibitors from all over Canada and the U.S. who are great sources of information about anything dog-related, according to the club.
The club said thanks to the generosity of the Tourism Development Fund and the City of Sault Ste. Marie, it is holding its shows this year at the Northern Community Centre on Goulais Avenue.
There is no entry fee, but donations are gratefully accepted, the club said in a release.
There are 40 breeds entered at the six conformation shows. Some of these are top ranked dogs in the Canadian Standings, and all are "beautiful examples of their breed", the club said.
Judges examine each dog against the breed standard, which is the written description of what the perfect dog of that breed should look like.
"It’s always fun to pick your favourites and see if the judges agree!" the club said.
The dogs are competing for points towards Canadian championships at various levels, points for top-dog rankings and the coveted Best In Show award.
There’s an “exhibition only” class for baby puppies, ranging in age from 3 months to under 6 months, which is always a crowd favourite.
"Who can resist a cute puppy?" the club said. "You can’t predict what a puppy will do, but you just know they’ll make you smile, and probably laugh a little."
The action starts at 9 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, July 12 and 13, with an 8:30 a.m. start on Sunday, July 14.
End times are generally between 4 to 5 p.m.
Only dogs entered in the event, or registered service dogs, are allowed on the show site, the club noted.
"Be safe! Always ask before you pet any dog. Come out and cheer for your favourites!"