ASHCROFT BEDLINGTONS

Each year the Bedlington Terrier Club of America holds a National Specialty dog show. A specialty means it's ALL Bedlington Terriers! However, since ours is such a small breed, we usually hold it in conjunction with an all breed show.

In March 2008, you'll have the opportunity to see more Bedlington Terriers in one place in the USA than at any other time. This is the perfect opportunity to meet not only the dogs, but the people who breed them. Talk to breeders, ask lots of questions, and find someone you like, and can reserve your Bedlington Terrier puppy with! Keep in mind that prior to judging we're busy with last minute grooming of our dogs. But a quick conversation can end with an agreement to meet after judging for a more in depth discussion, a business card can be given out and calls made later.... You can watch us groom, and take home little tips and tricks for making your Bedlington even more handsome or beautiful.

The National is part of a five day show circuit in Louisville, Kentucky. Keep in mind that after a breed is judged, the exhibitors may leave the show, and often do, to check into their hotels, take care of their dogs, etc. So plan on coming an hour or two before judging starts to meet people and arrange for further conversations, visit with the vendors, and just get acquainted with the show site and atmosphere. For more information about this show circuit, the "Kentuckiana Cluster", visit the superintendent's website a few weeks before the show. Entries close early March and judging programs - the times and rings for our breed judging, will be published on the super's website about a week and a half after that.

Sunday is a tough day to meet breeders, because after judging, many have a long drive home. Bedlingtons will be there from all over the country. Some will have flights to catch, others will drive long hours into the night, reliving the excitement of the last four days. But it's a great day to watch dogs, shop for breed specific items from the many vendors and enjoy the atmosphere.

If you're an agility enthusiast, there are also agility competitions being held in the same location Thursday - Sunday.

Additional hotel options, area maps, etc can be found via the Louisville city's website http://www.louisvilleky.gov/Visitors/

Restaurants can be found all around the hotel and expo center area, Bardstown Road takes you through a historic district with lovely homes and some wonderful restaurants.

Some things to remember:

Dogs that are not entered in the show are not welcome on the show grounds. Bring photos, but leave the pup home. Enjoy the dogs you meet there - some might be relatives, and having your hands free gives you an opportunity to carry packages of goodies you find.

Always ask before touching a dog! We spend a LOT of time grooming, and getting every hair "just so", as this is a VERY important weekend for us. After judging many folks are happy to let you pet their dogs, just ask.

There will be a charge for parking. Bring $$ for "stuff" you never knew you wanted or needed - many items will only be found at shows this weekend.

Buy a catalog so you can compare armband numbers to the book and see who is who! Mark the dogs you like and chat with their breeders about a future pup. Remember, there are pets in every litter, some are just prettier pets than others!

Bring a camera and enjoy yourself with it. Place your chair early to get a good "spot" to watch judging.

Come to THE NATIONAL!! It will be a day to remember if you love Bedlington Terriers!