12 Dec 2025 09:00
Celebrating 150 Years of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show with Donald Sturz, WKC President & Show Chairman
In this episode of Ask the Vet, Dr. Ann Hohenhaus is joined by Dr. Donald Sturz, President and Show Chairman of the Westminster Kennel Club, as they celebrate a historic milestone: the 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. With decades of experience as a handler, judge, and leader in the dog show world, Dr. Sturz offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most iconic events in American sporting history.
Topics include:
- Why the 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is historically significant
- What happens behind the scenes at Westminster
- The role of junior showmanship and why it’s vital to the future of the sport
- How dog breed standards are developed
- Why dog shows should honor dogs as companions, not just competitors
- The history of Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show
- How Dr. Sturz's background as a clinical psychologist informs his approach to leadership at Westminster
- How dogs, handlers, judges, and spectators experience the event
Also on this month’s show:
- Trending animal story about the heartwarming rescue of a lost sea otter pup
- Animal news, including research showing urban raccoons may be showing early signs of domestication
- Pet Health Listener Q&A: Whether anesthesia is necessary for dental cleanings and x-rays; enrichment ideas for senior cats on prescription diets; and whether dogs should wear collars at all times
Do you have a pet question for Dr. Hohenhaus? Email [email protected] to have your question answered on Ask the Vet's Listener Q&A.
