ear about 50 people and their dogs showed up to show their support, with about half taking a carriage ride. “A Spinone Italiano who won breed came to the stables and took a ride,” says Blumhagen. She also recalls a Belgian Terverun, Sheltie, Dachshund, Basset Hound, English Toy Spaniel, Tibetan Spaniel, and others, all Westminster champions.
The people and dogs were able to tour the stables and see firsthand the relationship between the horses and their drivers. “They saw the personalities of the horses and how they are just as unique as their dogs,” Blumhagen recalls. “It was also wonderful to see how the dogs, some who had never seen that the carriage horses, were so calm, and seemed to also have a great time.”
Torie Marks and her Tibetan Spaniel, Gibbs, enjoyed a ride. Marks reports that Gibbs was on the edge of his seat, watching the pedestrians from his coach as though he were royalty. “Plus, he just seemed to have a great time!” she adds.
This year, Blumhagen hopes for a greater turnout. It’s not just a good time; it’s a good cause. Explains Blumhagen, “All animal ownership is under attack, and we need to be united. Dogs, humans, and horses have a bond that has endured for centuries. Westminster is just as iconic as the carriage horses, and the people involved with both industries love their animals. We need to show the anti-animal groups that we support each other. An attack on one is an attack on all.”
Want to know more? Visit the Canines and Coaches Facebook page, the NYC carriage horse Facebook page, and the Save the NY Carriage Horses website. The 139th Annual Westminster Dog Show happens Feb. 16 and 17.
Read more about last year’s Westminster show:
About the author: Caroline Coile is the author of 34 dog books, including the top-selling Barron’s Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds. She has written for various publications and is currently a columnist for AKC Family Dog. She shares her home with three naughty Salukis and one Jack Russell Terrier.