The weather is bad: how do you handle the show?

The weather can complicate your day. The aim remains simple: keep your dog comfortable and adapt your participation to the actual conditions.

Here are nine tips for preparing your outing.

Beginner — Protect and observe

1. Check the event’s conditions

Before leaving, look at the forecast and the organiser’s latest information: indoor or outdoor show, access, shelter available and any changes.

The right habit: don’t assume the event has been cancelled, moved or kept unchanged. Check the official announcements.

2. Prepare a suitable waiting spot

In cold, damp weather, look for a sheltered spot and keep a dry blanket for resting. If it is hot, favour a shaded, ventilated area with water available.

Careful: a closed tent can heat up quickly. A shelter must be assessed according to the conditions at the time.

3. Dry your dog after the rain

Use a towel and replace wet blankets. A suitable coat can help a dog who feels the cold, as long as it stays comfortable and allows free movement.

The useful detail: bring several towels rather than a single one that is already soaked on arrival.

Intermediate — Adapting your ring preparation

1. Look at the ground before practising

Spot puddles, mud and slippery areas. Report any problem to the steward and ask for instructions before your round.

The practical tip: check your shoes too. Your coordination will be easier if you both have a secure footing.

2. Cut back on activity when it is hot

Avoid long trotting practice. Keep the breaks and offer water regularly. Exercise can cause overheating, even when a dog still seems enthusiastic.

Your aim: to reach your round with a dog who is fresh, without having worn them out during preparation.

3. Watch your dog’s reactions

In cold weather, persistent shivering or listlessness should alert you. In heat, very heavy panting, a lot of drooling or confusion can signal overheating. Stop the activity and get veterinary help.

To remember: their behaviour matters more than your wish to finish the day.

Advanced — Planning when to change the programme

1. Set your stopping criteria

Before leaving, decide to withdraw if you can’t provide suitable rest, if the ground becomes dangerous or if your dog copes badly with the conditions.

The practical tip: plan your departure so you can leave easily. Let the team know if you are cutting your participation short.

2. Don’t turn the car into a waiting room

Don’t leave your dog alone in a car in hot weather, even in the shade or with the windows slightly open. These precautions are not enough to prevent a dangerous rise in temperature.

The FCI regulations also prohibit exposing the dog to conditions dangerous to their health, notably by leaving them in a car in excessive heat or cold.

3. Know the first steps in case of overheating

If you suspect heatstroke, stop the activity and move your dog to a cool place. Immediately start cooling them with cool tap water over the body, avoiding the nose and mouth, and create a draught. Contact a vet as soon as possible. To avoid: wrapping them in a wet towel, which can trap heat. Offer water without forcing them to drink.

A presentation can wait. Your dog’s comfort and health come before the result.

What the regulations provide

For international shows awarding the FCI CACIB, chapter 4 gives priority to the welfare and health of dogs. It prohibits exhibitors from putting their dog in a situation that is dangerous to them.

This principle does not mean that a show is automatically cancelled in bad weather. The organisational instructions must be checked with the event concerned.

The tips about towels, footing and criteria for leaving are practical adaptations for the show.