Man's best friend invades Madison
What event could possibly place Tinkerbell and Hedy Lamarr in the same place at the same time?
Together with approximately 50 of their closest friends, the pair competed in the annual "Bark in the Park" amateur dog show in Madison on Oct. 20. Marking its sixth year, the event is sponsored by the Madison Women's Club.
"We had approximately 50 dogs that participated and most of them participated in at least two categories," Sheryl McGrath said.
McGrath was chairwoman for this year's event. "We tripled the amount of money that we had made in previous years. All proceeds go to The Ark Animal Shelter in Huntsville."
Judges were Mayor Sandy and Melissa Kirkindall and Madison veterinarian Dr. Jane Nall. S. A. Hale served as emcee.
"I would really like to say a special thank you to David Ballard, owner of Animal Trax. Animal Trax donated four gift baskets valued at a minimum of $70 each. Three of the baskets were used as door prizes and one basket was awarded to the best in show winner," McGrath said.
A long-haired teacup Chihuahua received the blue ribbon for Best in Show.
"Tinkerbell is American Kennel Club (AKC) registered, but I was told years ago she was too tiny to enter (professional) dog shows," owner Debra McAllister said.
"This was the first dog show we've ever entered." Tinkerbell is seven years old and weighs in at 2.5 pounds.
Kate Hewitt entered her dog, Hedy Lamarr, because "the money goes to The Ark. And it's fun to let her interact with the other dogs that are there. She's an only dog."
Hedy Lamarr, a Lucas Terrier, competed in the best-dressed category as a hotdog. The Lucas Terrier breed is recognized in the United Kingdom, but not the United States. Hewitt is current president of Madison Women's Club.
Taking home honors for "largest dog" was Chief Joseph d'Iskandar, a Great Dane, who was fathered by Umar d'Iskandar from France.
"We don't show Chief (professionally) in the United States, because he is not a color that is recognized in the United States," owner Melanie McAdams said. McAdams is owner of Highlands Danes Kennel.
Another Great Dane, Amelia, won the title for "most spots." Amelia's owner is Valerie Alvarez, a senior at Bob Jones High School.
