Westminster Kennel Club Superstars Help Unveil Poster For 2004 Dog Show and to Benefit Animal Medical Center

NEW YORK (December 9, 2003) — J.R., Kirby and Mick, three superstars from the world of dogs, were on hand today to help unveil a spectacular water color painting to be reproduced as a poster to commemorate the Westminster Kennel Club’s 128th Annual Dog Show February 9-10, 2004.

The painting, an image rich with dogs, people and New York scenes, is entitled “Westminster. There’s only one.” and is the creation of noted artist Misha Lenn. Proceeds from the sale of the poster will be donated to the Animal Medical Center in New York.

The three canine superstars were all Best In Show winners at Westminster:

Kirby (Ch. Loteki Supernatural Being), Papillon (1999)

Mick (Ch. Torums Scarf Michael), Kerry Blue Terrier (2003)

J.R. (Ch. Special Times Just Right), Bichon Frise (2001)

The Westminster Kennel Club and USA Network co-hosted the unveiling at New York City’s famed Blue Water Grill.

“We are thrilled to have such a wonderful painting to represent Westminster’s rich heritage and exciting annual dog show,” said WKC President Peter R. Van Brunt. “Misha has done a wonderful job of capturing the essence of Westminster.”

Also on hand for today’s event were Dr. Guy L. Pidgeon, President and CEO of the Animal Medical Center; Thomas H. Bradley, 3d., Westminster Show Chairman; Gordon M. Beck, Senior Vice President of Sports for USA Network; Bill McFadden (Mick’s handler); Scott Sommer (J.R.’s handler); and John Oulton (Kirby’s handler and owner).

The Westminster Kennel Club show will once again be televised live from Madison Square Garden on USA Network, which is in its 21st year of association with the event.

The Animal Medical Center in New York City (www.amcny.org) is a not-for-profit veterinary hospital that provides life-saving care to more than 60,000 pets each year. With the philosophy that pets are family, the AMC takes pride in having the most advanced veterinary care available to all of its patients. Since 1963, the Animal Medical Center has provided inpatient and outpatient veterinary care 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Westminster. There’s only one. It’s a celebrity frenzy, and the ecstatic crowd is eagerly trembling for a spectacular performance. The superstars strike a pose for the paparazzi. Hearts are pounding with fervor and anticipation as the famous green carpet of Westminster has been rolled out. It’s the moment of truth, and the energy is undeniably thrilling and spine-tingling. It’s truly a unique affair, and it’s been that way for 128 years.

The scene glistens with the glamour of the Golden Era. The grandeur, elegance and poise are ever present in both the contestants and their people, but it is the dogs’ night. They are the class acts as they strut their stuff with the carriage and demeanor of a winner. They are the stars.

Westminster. There’s only one.

For more information on Westminster’s 128th Annual Dog show visit www.westminsterkennelclub.org.