What We Can Learn From America’s Top Dog
Stump, a floppy-eared, droopy-eyed Sussex spaniel was named The Westminster Kennel Club’s Best in Show – the oldest champ ever.
What can we learn from Stump?
1. Retirement is for cats.
2. Old Age is not a reason to stop competing. Stump is 10 years old, that’s 70 in dog years.
3. Just because it’s never been done, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try. Stump is the first Sussex spaniel to cop the crown during the 133 years that Westminster has been bestowing it.
4. Good health is important. Stump overcame a near fatal illness in 2004.
5. Don’t look back. Stump beat out 2,500 rivals.
Stump proved an old dog can still pull off some new tricks.
Editor Note: I wonder if the new President was watching? He IS looking for a new first pooch.
Photo by Wenig/AP.
Jaclyn on February 12th, 2009 10:26 am
That is a very inspiring story all around. I always thought that the westminister only nominated dogs that were youthful and spirited…all the one’s i’ve seen on tv have always’ been a very young dog and i’ve heard of breeders retiring their dogs from the westminister challenge once they hit five year’s old or so…so for that dog to be 10 years old and win the championship…that is endearing and inspiring to other breeders out there.
cassy on February 13th, 2009 7:51 pm
That is really nice story that westminister can inspire the breeders that their dogs become one of those inspiring dogs someday like stump. And also the dogs can make their breeders happy because they try their best to follow the command of their teachers.
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