Named for the markings around her eyes, a Dalmatian from Rossford is bringing home top honors in her breed from the 142nd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
Spotlight Maybe It's Maybelline, or May for short, was named Best of Breed during Monday’s events at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The nearly 5-year-old female is owned by John and Elaine Bachey, who watched her compete from Florida via online streaming.
“It was very thrilling,” Mr. Bachey said. “That is a very, very difficult field. It’s the best of the best.”
The Bacheys operate BretD Kennels and breed Dalmatians. They did not produce May, but she will become part of the breeding program at their kennel.
The couple has had a number of dogs entered at Westminster over the years that have brought home other titles in the breed. But May is their first Best of Breed winner, overcoming 25 other Dalmatians at the show.
Mr. Bachey noted when dogs get to the level seen at Westminster, determining which dog rises to the top comes down to minute, subtle differences.
“To go in and win any kind of award is really difficult,” he said. “But to be the best of breed is really a tough thing.”
May enjoys the show life, and it shows in the ring. Mr. Bachey said he saw her personality come through while watching her compete at Westminster.
“Some dogs have an attitude that just says, ‘Look at me,’” he said. “Sometimes that comes through, sometimes it doesn't. But she had her ‘look at me’ face on.”
May advanced to the non-sporting group ring Monday night and did not place, though Mr. Bachey said her show career is still ending on a high note. She is retiring and will return to the kennel to become a mother.
Other Westminster dogs with area ties and their results include:
Contact Alexandra Mester at: amester@theblade.com, 419-724-6066, or on Twitter @AlexMesterBlade.