I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by my trainer. I am especially grateful since I am the first of my breed to win Best in Show. I thank Uno the Beagle for his service, this last year. However, it is time to put puppyish things aside.
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One hundred thirty-four dogs have now taken the Best in Show. Triumphant barks have been barked during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the ribbon is given amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. We are at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred that is BAD. VERY BAD! Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of being BAD!
These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land — a nagging fear that decline is inevitable, and that the next generation will not get treats. Well, we must get treats, but to get those treats we have got to be GOOD!
On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas (let’s give our poor tired mothers a rest), that for far too long have been BAD. For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are Working Dogs, Sporting Breeds, Toys — and even the Non-Sporting dogs. Some of us are purebreds, some of us are mutts, but we are all GOOD DOGS.
To the Cats, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. We will extend a paw if you are willing to withdraw your claws.
The challenges we face are great, but they shall be met. However far the ball gets thrown, we shall run and run and get it and bring it back. It will get worse before it gets any better. And quite frankly the next year is going to be RUFF.
Thank you. Dog bless you. And Dog bless the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
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I now have hope. And worms.
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