Unexpectedly high entry numbers have forced Nanaimo Kennel Club to expand its venue for its upcoming show.
Close to 1,000 dogs from across B.C., Alberta and the U.S. Pacific Northwest are entered in the four-day show at Beban Park, which starts today and runs through Sunday (June 13-16).
The response has forced show organizers to add another show ring and hire an extra judge.
“This is absolutely amazing in these days when entries are falling at shows,” said Sandi Malcolm, club spokeswoman, in an e-mail to the News Bulletin.
Events begin Thursday with the Smiling Blue Skies Walk for Canine Cancer, starting at 4:45 p.m., around the Beban Park Golf Course and off-leash park. The walk supports canine cancer patients and honours pets that have succumbed to the disease.
Friday features the Breeder’s Classic with entries restricted to dogs and their breeders, which is followed up with an outdoor movie night, complete with popcorn for children and their dogs.
Saturday’s show has a nautical theme when competitors are invited to attend in costume for chance at winning the prize for Best Costume at day’s end.
This year’s show also features a Poodle Club of Canada National Specialty competition, plus indoor obedience and rally competitions.
For more information, please visit the Nanaimo Kennel Club website at www.nanaimokennelclub.ca.