THE DEADLINE FOR THE APRIL ISSUE IS APRIL 7TH, FEATURING 2025 SPECIALS, WORKING GROUP, AND OWNER HANDLERS.

SUBSCRIBE
ADVERTISE

First Time at the Big Show: A Viewpoint from a 10-Year-Old

Robin Mathews

First Time at the Big Show: A Viewpoint from a 10-Year-Old

Raven’s journey began with a love for dogs and an incredible mentor. Between playing hockey and showing her Silken Windhound, Zelda, a non-AKC dog breed, Raven and her mother, Leigh Alexander, were fortunate to befriend a sassy little Dachshund, Zoom, and her owner, Robin Mathews, at their weekly show handling class at Bayshore Companion Club in Tinton Falls, New Jersey. Even with all of the things in a busy 10-year-old’s schedule, the highlight of her week was working with Zoom at class on Wednesday nights.

It was at their first show in Freehold, New Jersey, that these two really shined and a beautiful partnership was born. They loved being in the ring together and hanging out the rest of the day with friends at the shows. It was then we knew they had something special.

Raven holding her three-week-old Silken Windhound puppy. photo by Leigh Klatzky Alexande

What is your favorite part of showing Zoom?

Raven: I love being with Zoom.

Why are you excited about showing her in the Smooth Dachshund ring at Westminster?

Raven: I am excited to stay in the hotel room with her and spend time with her at the show.

What do you know about The Westminster Kennel Club?

Raven: It is in New York City and it is on TV! I started watching it with my Mom every year and we talk about how beautiful the dogs are and how cool it is to be able to show your dog there.

What does it mean to you that Westminster is back in New York City?

Raven: I have never been to a dog show in a city before and to go to NYC for a show feels almost magical. I imagine lots of lights and dogs and people everywhere. The best part, besides going into the city, is that I get to miss school and my class is going to be watching us and cheering us.

What are you looking forward to the most about showing Zoom at Westminster?

Raven: I am excited to be a part of it. Everyone keeps talking about how long this show has been going on and that it has been in NYC for so long—and now I get to be there! Plus, my family and friends can watch on TV.

What did you enjoy most about the show?

Raven: I loved being in the ring in front of all these people with Zoom and all of these other great dogs.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

Raven: I loved that Zoom was number 30 because that it is the number on my hockey jersey.