If you are heading to Westminster with your Belgian for the first time, be prepared. It is the best of dog shows and the worst of dog shows. The weather looks decent for Monday (and Tuesday if you are a lucky Best of Breed winner). Blizzards have socked dog show folks in in previous years.
Even Belgians used to dog shows can be a bit overwhelmed by the Big Apple. It is fun to watch dogs deal with the sidewalk area across from Madison Square Garden with the moving colored lights. Some pounce, some leap and some simply ignore the action.
Many, if not most, exhibitors end up staying in the Hotel Pennsylvania. This hotel takes dog comfort to the max. In the basement there is an incredible dog exercise area, complete with fresh shavings and fireplugs. Here you will see top handlers, well known breeders and wealthy owners alike in their PJs doing early morning or late night walk duty. It is wonderful not to have to go outside and try to find a patch of grass as the wind whips down those cement canyons. There is often a doggie treadmill or two set up to keep your Belgian in top notch shape on the road trip.
This is a benched show which means you and your dog are required to be in your benching spot all day unless you are grooming (and grooming times are specified) or exercising your dog. Hopefully your Belgian is willing to at least pee in the sawdust pens.
You will have an assigned crating/bench spot but grooming will be on your own. There is a grooming area. Make sure you have all your paperwork. The officials are very serious about making sure all dogs are safe and with the people they belong with.
There is no space to set up a chair. With luck, a dog near you will be absent. In that case you can trade off a chance to sit down with fellow Belgian fanciers. The Belgians will be crated together so it is nice to share food, drink and dog watching duties. This also gives you a chance to meet Belgian fanciers from across the US and see dogs you may have never had the chance to meet in person.
Crate size is specified and dogs are to be visible to the public. As for the public, you will lots of "the public". Your Belgian will be eyed by New Yorkers of all ages, sizes and income levels. New Yorkers love "their dog show".
Plan ahead for plenty of time to get to your ring. There are literally going to be thousands of people in your way. The rings are not large but are nicely carpeted. The carpet is set on wood, which is set over the ice rink. That means the footing may wobble or tip a bit as you gait around. A few Belgians "dance" when they feel the floor sway!
Remember that win or lose, you and your Belgian will be featured on live streaming. Smile and do your best even if the judge is clearly having an "off" day and does a lousy job, ie, put you last in line. After all, you made it to Westminster!
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