Each year, the superintendents of the 4-H Dog Show solicit the help of a judge from outside the region. This year's judge was Gail Vlahovich of Bloomington.

Vlahovich is a dog owner and trainer who shows her dogs throughout the region. She also works with a variety of county fairs, serving as a judge for the 4-H youngsters.

During the course of the morning, Vlahovich took great interest in the kids and their dogs, often stopping after a class to demonstrate proper methods of showing and assisting kids in understanding how to best present their pets to the public.

At one point, she borrowed the dog owned by Amy Howe and demonstrated how a dog should be led at a "gait" in the showmanship class. She explained that when the dog is basically trotting on a leash, he will hold his body more erect and upright, making for a much better showing than when he is simply walking.


Pictures by Nila Smith

Amy Hyde and Amanda Davis take a quick sip before going to "stand post" for the figure-eight competitions.

The sit-and-stay competition.

Vlahovich demonstrates showmanship.

Amy Howe, best of showmanship

Zac Gill, second in showmanship
 

Katie Lynn, best in junior showmanship

Hannah Stewart, best in obedience

Kamryn Aylesworth, best in dog care and selected as a state fair delegate

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