JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) – The annual Magnolia Classic Dog Show is back at the Mississippi State Fair Grounds, bringing over a thousand dogs to compete this year.
“I’ll say what’s special about this event is that we have doubled our entries since last year. I mean, it’s pretty incredible. We have handlers from all over the country, some from out of the country,” Mississippi State Kennel Club President Roxanne Hilsman said.
One long-time handler talks about how special these shows truly are.
“Dog shows are remarkable events because you can participate and enjoy at any level. You can have a neurosurgeon and a high schooler… talking dogs and getting excited about their dogs and their individual achievements and the latest grooming product. Everybody is just having a good time and chilling,” Professional Dog Handler Nancy Pincus said.
The event, hosted by the Mississippi State Kennel Club, includes all-breed dog shows, junior showmanship for the young participants, puppy competitions and much more.
Club President Roxanne Hilsman says there’s much more to these competitions than more people realize.
“You want to finish your championship, which means you have to get 15 points, two which are majors, which means you have to beat a certain number that day of your breed, conforming to a standard, a written standard for that breed, so you are competing against that standard. Then, when you become a champion, you can compete as a special. That’s what most of these dogs here that you are looking at right now because it is the afternoon, when the groups are showing, are specials, which means these are the top dogs,” Hilsman said.
Obedience trials and training tips are also offered alongside vendors selling items for you and your furry friend.
Whether you and your pet are well-versed in completion or you’re just starting out, handlers say it’s an opportunity for all to come together and learn.
“For families, it’s great. I actually have my mom down here from Illinois visiting, and my daughter came earlier today. She is 8 years old and got to do the peewees, so she got to show. So we have three generations here showing today,” Beth Chastain said.
“Seeing newcomers come into the sport and get as excited as I got, so it’s refreshing to remember that. I like seeing families together doing things, and you see that here,” Pincus said.
The competition will continue through Sunday evening. The show is open to the public, but they are accepting $2 donations to benefit local dog causes.
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