PlayTyme Papillons and Phalenes, a breeder in the Grand Rapids area, had impressive results at the AKC all-breed Conformation dog show at the Birch Run Expo Center last Saturday, April 9, 2011. They competed with three Papillons, who each brought home impressive wins.
Lina, a gorgeous white, sable, and black female Papillon came into the competition with back-to-back-to back 4 point major wins at a February AKC Conformation show. She had stellar results once again, winning the prestigious title of Best of Breed.
Bella, an adorable sable and white, 8 pound female Papillon won first in Open Girl Class, Best of Winners, and Best of Opposite Sex.
Diesel, a stunning 7 pound tri-colored male won first in Open Dog Class and Winners Dog.
The dogs are relatively new to the world of dog shows, but their owners are veterans in the ring. PlayTyme Papillons and Phalenes is primarily run by Tammy DeWitt and her daughter Cherish DeWitt. They have been breeding, showing, and judging dogs since 1980.
DeWitt (Cherish) attends approximately two shows a month and travels from East to West coast for events. “Competition is addicting,” DeWitt remarks. “Knowing you have succeeded with a dog-man’s best friend is fun.”
Even though she is driven to win, DeWitt has established friendships amongst her competitors. “The Papillon ring is one of the friendliest groups,” she reveals. “We often get together and hang out after the shows.”
Showing dogs is a passion, but DeWitt makes it clear they compete strictly as a hobby. She states the main reason they attend shows is to ensure their dogs are as close to the breed standards as possible. “Dog shows are a comparison against other breeders to see how they match up. All good breeders should show dogs. All good breeders should also be doing health clearances to make sure they (the dogs) are free of diseases of breed,” DeWitt contends.
The success from Saturday’s show proves winning dogs come from winning breeders. The title Best in Breed isn’t earned in the ring alone; it’s established over time through reputable breeding techniques and a genuine love for the dogs.
Additional pictures and show news can be found on PlayTyme Papillons and Phalenes’ website: www.playtyme.us. A list of group winners and Best in Show results from the Birch Run show can be found at www.dogshowresults.com.
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