Level 3Experienced
Two of my dogs are on at the same time: how do I organise myself?
The answer
Two dogs ready, two numbers in your pocket… and two almost simultaneous calls! Even with good shoes, you can’t be in two places at once.
The solution is to check the situation with the stewards and plan a handover. Here are nine tips for dealing with this overlap.
Beginner — Solving the immediate problem
1. Check that the calls really overlap
Two identical times in the programme do not tell you how the judging is actually progressing. Ask each steward when your class will be called.
The useful phrase: “My two dogs have the same announced time. Where are you up to in the running order?”
2. Tell both rings about the problem
Give your dogs’ numbers, their classes and the rings concerned. Ask which solutions are possible before deciding where to wait.
Careful: an arrangement must not be taken for granted. Under the FCI framework, problems with the organisation of the ring are dealt with by the chief steward and the judge.
3. Look for an available handler
MyDogShow tip: line up a third person able to show your dog: a well-briefed helper can take over for one of the turns.
The good reflex: choose someone who can handle your dog calmly, rather than handing the lead to the first volunteer.
Intermediate — Preparing an effective handover
1. Hand over the dog who is most at ease with your helper
If one of your dogs already knows that person, it can make the transition easier. Do watch its reaction, though: a short introduction is better than a rushed handover.
The practical tip: do a few steps and a stop with the new handler before the call, if time and the dog’s condition allow.
2. Pass on a small complete kit
Hand over the right lead, the correct number and the essential information: class, ring, usual treat and presentation instructions.
Your mini-check: does the person know which dog to show, where to go and which number to wear?
3. Have the steward confirm the change
Say who will be showing the dog and ask for the instructions to follow. The FCI regulations provide for the steward or the secretary to notify the judge of changes of handler.
The useful phrase: “This person will show my dog for this turn. Is there any particular instruction?”
Advanced — Anticipating the next situations
1. Allow for the comparisons too
The overlap can appear after the individual judging, when several of your dogs have to come back together. Keep your helper available until everyone’s participation is clear.
The practical tip: after each result, ask what the next call, if any, will be.
2. Define everyone’s role precisely
One person shows the dog; the other can look after the second dog, prepare the equipment and follow the schedule.
The official benchmark: attracting the dog’s attention from outside the ring is “double handling”, strictly forbidden at FCI international CACIB shows.
3. Plan a decision in case no solution is possible
If nobody can take over and no arrangement is accepted, ask the team what this means for each turn. You may have to give one of them up.
For next time: line up a back-up handler as soon as the timings show a risk of overlap, with a few joint training sessions beforehand.
The best plan: everyone knows their dog, their ring and their role before the first call.
What the official sources say
MyDogShow tip: if someone else shows your dog, even when you are absent, keep the entry in your name.
For FCI international CACIB shows, the regulations set out how organisational problems are handled, the notification of changes of handler and the ban on “double handling”. These provisions do not guarantee a postponed turn in the event of an overlap.
The kits, role splits and rehearsals suggested here are practical tips.