Dog Clubs and Exhibitors Have High Hopes For North Branch Cluster Dog Show
On September 6 – 9, 2012, dog shows known as The North Branch Cluster will be held at North Branch Park in Bridgewater, NJ. Last year heavy rains during and after Hurricane Irene forced a last minute cancellation of what has become one of New Jersey’s largest dog show weekends. Returning this year with sponsor Purina, the cluster begins Thursday, September 6th with Sporting, Hound and Non-Sporting group shows, and features all-breed shows Friday through Sunday.
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The cluster’s cornerstone club has been The Somerset Hills Kennel Club (SHKC) and this year will mark their 78th all-breed dog show. Their show will run from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm on Saturday, September 8th. Lisa Warren, last year’s show chair for SHKC said, “We were extremely disappointed for all the exhibitors and participating clubs not to mention the spectators who had worked and planned for last year’s show. We are looking forward to a tremendous comeback this year. This is a very special weekend for those in the dog fancy. A special attraction to this year’s cluster will be The American Kennel Club’s new Beginner Puppy Competition. Puppies from 4–6 months will compete for the title of Best Beginner Puppy in Show. It’s sure to be one of the most enjoyable events for spectators.”
This year’s cluster will host another special event. Cupcakes from the famous Carlos Bakery in Hoboken, NJ will be on sale at the Saturday (Somerset Hills Kennel Club) and Sunday (Westchester Kennel Club) shows. Proceeds will benefit “Take The Lead” an organization that provides direct services, support and care for people in the sport of purebred dogs who suffer the devastation of life-threatening or terminal illness. On Saturday afternoon, Mauro Castano, head baker for Carlos Bakery will make a personal appearance in support of this effort. Mauro will be available to sign autographs and pose for photos. T-shirts commemorating the event will also be on sale.
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There is no charge for admission or parking to the shows. Attendees can purchase food and a wide range of dog product vendors will be on-site. With all AKC breeds represented, it will be a great event for dog lovers and prospective puppy buyers will have an opportunity to see different breeds up close and speak with knowledgeable owners and breeders. For more information about the SHKC dog show contact Lisa Warren at 610-349-7586.
