By Lisa Peterson

More than 50 AKC-registered puppies and dogs and their handlers were put through their paces at the Newtown Kennel Club AKC-Sanctioned Match at the Fairfield County Extension Center in Bethel on Sunday, October 7.

Judge Cathy Daugherty awarded Best Puppy in Match to an adorable Alaskan Malamute, Glaciers Weir Speaking Softly, owned by Paul Cronk, from the 3-6 month-old puppy class. A smart looking Standard Wire-Haired Dachshund, Hobarra’s the General, owned by Shawny Cirincion, captured the heart of spectators winning Best Adult in Match awarded by judge Dr. Frances Paulin of Newtown.

Junior handlers enjoyed the day as well with Best Junior in Match going to Open Senior Rachel Lee. Newtown Kennel Club member Debbie Studwell gave a “Safety Around Dogs” presentation to the junior handlers as well.

Match Chairman Pat Benincasa not only planned the well-attended match but arranged for a beautiful sunny day!  

Newtown Police Officer Andrew Stinson and his K-9 partner, the German Shepherd dog, Baro, gave an impressive demonstration of his police training with a fellow Newtown Police Officer playing the fleeing suspect. Officer Stinson answered spectators’ questions and let the crowd check out his specially outfitted patrol car, which included some rather interesting canine gear in the trunk.  

Information tables included Canine Advocates of Newtown, manned by volunteer Adria Henderson, with the CAN mascot Po the Pomeranian and AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day table hosted by Newtown Kennel Club member Lisa Peterson with her Norwegian Elkhounds, Jinx and Linx.

The Newtown Kennel Club, founded in 1947, celebrates its 60th anniversary, hosts two annual AKC championship dog shows, one match, dinner meetings and regular training classes on Edmond Town Hall on Tuesday nights.

For more information visit www.newtownkennelclub.org.