Westyminster Kennel Club

It has taken an obscure competition and turned it into an event that draws huge ratings every year for cable network USA. It has grown from a small group of sporting gentlemen to the ultimate authority for what constitutes greatness among dogs. And best of all, its name, far from pretentious, came from a bar in New York!

Of course, I'm talking about the Westminster Kennel Club, who just held their 2007 show. This year's winner was a springer spaniel with the unassuming name of James.

The show is a must-see event for my wife and myself, and we didn't miss it this year. And the Westminster Kennel Club's website is today's FamilyFirst pick.

Now, just because you might have missed this year's show, don't despair. In fact, there are hours of video you can download that was never even shown on TV. For instance, we're miniature Schnauzer fans. On TV, you just got to see the winner of the schnauzer competition. But you can watch a 15 minute video online of the entire schnauzer competition. Cool!

You can also watch the showings of a whole slew of breeds that didn't make it onto the TV presentation.

But be careful! You may spend a few hours here before you realize it!

You can also browse records of winners dating back to 1907, see lots of still photos of recent competitions, and check out their Angels on a Leash program, which is putting dogs to work to help out people in need.

Have fun!

http://www.westminsterkennelclub.org/

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