Mary Allen
Introduction: The Westminster Dog Show
The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, commonly known as the Westminster Dog Show, is the second-longest continuously held sporting event in the United States. It is an annual competition showcasing purebred dogs from around the world, held in New York City. The competition is divided into two events: breed judging and group judging. In the breed judging, dogs compete against other dogs of the same breed, while in the group judging, dogs of different breeds are judged together in their respective groups.
History of Westminster Dog Show Entry Fees
The Westminster Dog Show was first held in 1877, and at that time, there was no entry fee. However, in 1905, an entry fee of $2 was introduced. The fee remained the same until 1948, when it was raised to $3. In 1973, the entry fee was increased to $5, and it has been raised several times since then.
Current Entry Fee for Westminster Dog Show
As of 2021, the entry fee for the Westminster Dog Show is $100 per dog. This fee is the same for both the breed judging and the group judging. However, if a dog is entered in both events, the total entry fee will be $200. The entry fee must be paid by the entry deadline, which is usually several weeks before the competition.
How is the Entry Fee Determined?
The Westminster Kennel Club is a non-profit organization that is run by volunteers. The entry fee is determined based on the cost of putting on the competition, which includes renting the venue, hiring judges, providing awards, and other expenses. The club also takes into consideration the number of entries and the popularity of the event when setting the entry fee.
What Does the Entry Fee Cover?
The entry fee covers the cost of the dog’s participation in the competition. This includes entry into both the breed judging and the group judging, as well as the opportunity to win various awards and titles. The entry fee also includes a catalog that lists all the dogs entered in the competition.
Are There Additional Fees Beyond the Entry Fee?
There may be additional fees for other services, such as grooming or handling services, but these are not required to compete in the Westminster Dog Show. Additionally, if a dog needs to be transported to the competition, there may be additional fees for travel, lodging, and meals.
How Do I Pay the Entry Fee?
The entry fee can be paid online or by mail, using a credit card or a check. The entry form can be found on the Westminster Kennel Club’s website, and it must be completed and submitted along with the entry fee by the entry deadline.
Can I Get a Refund on the Entry Fee?
No, the entry fee is non-refundable. Once the entry form and fee have been submitted, they cannot be changed or refunded, even if the dog is unable to compete for any reason.
Does the Entry Fee Vary by Breed or Category?
No, the entry fee is the same for all breeds and categories. However, if a dog is entered in both the breed judging and the group judging, the total entry fee will be $200.
Is the Entry Fee Worth It for Participants?
For many dog owners and handlers, the opportunity to compete in the Westminster Dog Show is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The entry fee may seem steep, but it covers the cost of participating in a prestigious and historic event, and the chance to win various awards and titles. Additionally, the exposure and publicity gained from participating in the Westminster Dog Show can be valuable for breeders and owners.
Conclusion: Entry Fees and the Westminster Dog Show
The entry fee for the Westminster Dog Show is $100 per dog, and it covers the cost of participating in both the breed judging and the group judging. The fee is determined based on the cost of putting on the competition and the popularity of the event. While there may be additional fees for other services or travel, the entry fee is non-refundable. For many participants, the chance to compete in the Westminster Dog Show is worth the entry fee and the opportunity to compete in a prestigious and historic event.
Additional Resources for Westminster Dog Show Participants
For more information on the Westminster Dog Show, including rules, regulations, and entry forms, visit the Westminster Kennel Club’s website at westminsterkennelclub.org. Additionally, many breed clubs and dog organizations offer resources and support for participants in the Westminster Dog Show.