I'm looking for a bit of advice/reassurance/support

the boy I bred that has qualified for Crufts (yay) is looking like he'll have a novice handler - ME!!

Of his owners, one def can't make Hound Day, the other is 50/50 whether he can get time off work - I was initially asked to go with him as he doesn't drive and I was thrilled as a) I can cheer them on from ringside and b) I have never been to Crufts and wanted to go anyway...

now it looks like I may have to handle him as well - EEEEK - I am very out of practice and starting to feel quite intimidated just thinking about it :(

I have left a message for them asking what shows he is booked into before then so I can practice handling him, he is very fussy with me and I really don't want to let him or his owners down

any suggestions?? 

Just remember Crufts is just another show, no more no less, and enjoy.

You don't have a breed that is fussed about with in the ring from what I have seen and they are moved at a moderate speed, so take a nip of Dutch courage 15 minutes before and enjoy.

ah just a nip?? Lol if I wasn't driving I'd take a bloomin flask :)

am sure it will be fine, I'm just a worrier

hey maybe I'll meet some CD'ers :)

Well as it is Hound day you will definitely see me with 2 - 3 of mine.

It is just another show -I'm letting my 14 year old daughter handle of of my dogs at Crufts, she's so far only handled at one show. :) If you can do it at any show you can do it at Crufts, you just dress a little bit nicer LOL. You'll be fine!

Just relax and enjoy it - yes there's a buzz from handling at Crufts, but it's great fun! I love it - and Henry really seems to know about the occasion and pulls out all the stops too!

thanks guys, I know I'm going to be worrying bout what to wear etc etc.....but at the end of the day it's the dog that matters, and as long as I don't totally mess it up I'm sure we'll be fine ;)