For 21 years, usually during the summer, the Mountain Valley Cluster Dog Show has made its way to Salem. Over a five-day period – August 2 to August 6 – this year’s Dock Diving Event and Conformation Show attracted thousands of attendees of all ages. Each day started at 8 a.m. and featured approximately 150 different AKC recognized dog breeds competing against each other.
The James River Kennel Club offered various eye certification and cardiac clinic health care screenings on Thursday. On Saturday, dogs had the chance to search a small, fenced-in area for rats in tubes hidden among hay bales. A Barn Hunting Seminar and a “Instinct” Simulation was offered on Saturday. “When I was in school I took a few classes on dogs,” Tyler Williams said with a smile on his face. “If my coursework was as interesting as this dog show, I would have never missed an assignment.”
Steve Mize, Operations Manager for North America Diving Dogs, said over 80 dogs participated in the dock diving show. “I have been an avid diving dog competitor for about nine years now,” he said. “I then moved into helping put on events like this to bring the fun to everyone.”
Tony Robertson has been coming to the Mountain Valley Cluster Dog Show for years. Normally, he just brings his wife and two daughters. He brought additional family members this year. “It’s just a great opportunity to see some really talented dogs,” he said. “It’s also a free event that the whole family can enjoy.”
The absolute best thing about the Mountain Valley Cluster Dog Show is seeing just how creative dog owners can get, according to April Miller. “Of all the summer events in Salem, this is easily one of my favorites,” the Roanoke County native said.
Steve Mize says there are plans to add to next year’s dog show. “Each year we look to get bigger and bigger,” he said. “For more information people can go to http://northamericadivingdogs.com.”
