As a child, watching Westminster on TV, I’d eagerly try to name each breed before the announcer could. It wasn’t just a dog show; it was a challenge, a game, a dream of being part of that world. Little did I know, years later, that dream would come true, all thanks to a very special Kerry Blue Terrier named Anubis.

I was at my friend’s house, picking out my own puppy from a litter of adorable Kerry Blue Terriers, when she casually mentioned, “Hey, Westminster entries just opened; you should enter!” Before she could even finish the sentence, my laptop was open, and I was filling out the application. It was like a switch flipped – the dream suddenly felt tangible, achievable. And then, the best part: I called my other Kerry Blue friends, who were relatively new to showing, and told them they had to enter too! The crazy thing is, they actually got in! I was over the moon with excitement for all of us.

From that moment, I knew my life was about to change. It wasn’t just a fantasy anymore. It was a goal, a possibility, a dream within reach. Then came the email – the “golden ticket” – the official invitation to Westminster! I distinctly remember screaming – a sound that sent my whole family running. It took me a minute to stop jumping and screaming before I could even tell them why I was so excited!

Soon after, I revealed the exciting news to my clients at Designer Paw Salon, my grooming salon in Columbus Ohio with two locations. While many of them aren’t deeply involved in the dog show world, they knew what Westminster was and understood its significance. Even my clients who are heavily involved in showing, whose own dogs didn’t get in, were genuinely happy for me. They shared the common wisdom that your first Westminster is something you never forget.

And then came the packet, the physical embodiment of my dream. Holding it in my hands, with the official Westminster Kennel Club seal, was a surreal experience. It felt like holding a piece of history, a key to a world I’d only ever glimpsed from afar. The email packet included videos from the President of the Westminster Kennel Club, explaining what to expect, the routines, the atmosphere. They tried to prepare you, they really did. But honestly, nothing, nothing can truly prepare you for the moment you step onto that green carpet.

This wasn’t just any trip to New York; I’ve been to the city a dozen times, but this was different. This was Westminster New York. Even the journey was special. Flying with Anubis for the first time was nerve-wracking, checking into the hotel with a champion Kerry Blue Terrier in tow was an adventure in itself. And the city itself was buzzing! Everywhere we went, people would ask, “Are you here for the dog show?” Their excitement was infectious, especially knowing it was back at the Garden after five years. Then came the TV interview with Fox & Friends. They asked us about the Kerry Blue Terrier breed and what they were originally bred for, and we even got to introduce Anubis on air! It was such a thrill to share our story. Suddenly, we were celebrities! People would cross the street just to say, “Oh my gosh, we saw you on TV!” It was a very exciting and humbling experience. The atmosphere was electric, a shared joy and passion for dogs that was truly uplifting. Everyone was there for the love of dogs, and that was a beautiful thing to be a part of.

The night before the show, setting up my bench, I felt like a giddy schoolgirl. Trolley in place, pictures snapped of my setup and the surrounding buzz, I was jumping and giggling, unable to believe I was finally there. The anticipation for the next day was almost unbearable. Of course, I didn’t get much sleep – not from nerves (I’ve been to plenty of dog shows!), but from sheer excitement. It was Westminster! And the fact that I could take my boy there, showcase our hard work, and honor my breeder’s dedication, was enough. Just being in that ring, with Anubis, was a victory in itself.

Anubis and I stepped onto the green carpet together. He looked around, taking in the sights and sounds with his intelligent, curious eyes. He was a star! He handled the attention like a seasoned pro, head held high, tail wagging, soaking it all in. It was a moment I’ll never forget.

Walking to the Garden was a different kind of experience. The excitement was still there, but it was mingled with reflection. Seeing the Empire State Building and Madison Square Garden lit up in gold and purple, I thought about everything that had happened. Stepping inside, joining my fellow dog enthusiasts, regardless of background or status, was such an honor. We were all there for the dogs. It didn’t matter if you were a “nobody” or a famous handler; we were united by our shared passion. We even had a well-known actor sitting behind us, and he was just another dog enthusiast asking questions. It was a reminder that the love of dogs transcends everything else.

After I returned, everyone at the salon wanted to know: “How did you do? How was it? Did you love it?” I love talking to my clients about dog shows in general, but this was extra special.

Westminster was more than just a dog show; it was the culmination of a lifelong dream. It was a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and the incredible bond between a human and their dog. Anubis and I may not have won Best in Show, but we won something far more valuable: the joy of shared experience, the pride of accomplishment, and the unwavering love that connects us. And who knows, maybe next year… Maybe breed, then group, and who knows… maybe even Best in Show! A girl can dream, and I can dream big.