1. How old were you when you started showing in AKC events? What got you started? Was this a family affair? Did you compete in any events other than showmanship?
I was about 11 years old when I started showing dogs. My grandmother, Anna Wanner, was a dog show judge and had gotten me interested in showing. My mom had acquired a Doberman puppy and my brother wanted a Border Terrier. I ended up showing my brother’s Border Terrier in juniors.
2. What are some of the highlights from your time in junior showmanship?
Competing at Westminster Kennel Club and AKC National Championships. I made finals at the National Championship and being in there with many, many friends. I also enjoyed traveling all over the eastern seaboard with my mom.
3. Who were your major influences/mentors in the sport?
Gerardo Reyes, Tracy Szaras, Carlos Rojas, Sue Whaley, my mother and grandmother among many others
4. Is there anything special advice you received along the way that still guides you to this day? If so, what was it?
On any given day any dog can win. Go in and show your best each day and have fun.
5. Where did life take you after you aged out of junior showmanship? Handling apprenticeship? College? Work?
I went to college on a softball scholarship and then went on to work in DC and work for Sue Whaley as her assistant while working in DC as a paralegal.
6. What is your current job, and do you think participation in AKC dog sports/junior showmanship played a role in leading you to this career?
I am a senior paralegal for a medical device company. I also handle dogs professionally. Juniors led to me handling on the weekend.
7. Do you have any advice or words of wisdom for current Junior Handlers?
Put in the work to learn from someone. Apprentice ask to help a handler on the weekend. You never stop learning. It has been MANY years since I was in juniors and I am still learning things each time I go to a show. Whether it is on handling, grooming or just care. Get a foundation before you decide to go out on your own as a handler.