Dog, a man’s best friend and valued companion, needs to be recognized and cherished. That’s why the Linganore Community show hosts a “Strut your Mutt.” Dogs of all sizes, shapes, and colors are celebrated in an evening of fun. 

A unique way of giving back to those in need, the entry fee for the competition is a can/bag of dog or cat food to be donated to the Frederick County Animal Control.

The judges for the event were Miss Francis Scott Key Outstanding Teen Madi Spencer, Hope Cencula, and Melvin Tyler. 

Madi Spencer said, “After being involved in the community show, I’ve realized how diverse and talented people can be. Linganore is such a unique community and the ‘Strut your Mutt’ is a great example of that.”

Students from the pre-vet class contribute by putting together prizes for the winning dogs and adding treats into goodie bags. The prizes awarded to class winners were sponsored by Sunchaser Kennels. 

Cryin’ Johnnies, owned by Stacy Hurley, provided hot dogs that were the perfect way to celebrate the dogs who were in the competition. Not only do Linganore students and faculty participate in the “Strut your Mutt” show, but local businesses and members from the community help make the community show a success. 

Pre-Vet teacher and FFA advisor Patricia Beachy plays a big role in the community show, and the dog show is one of her favorites.

“The community show is so special because there’s something for everyone, no matter what you do. It’s a way for people to showcase their talents and bring people together,” said Beachy.

Devin Wynne, a student in Ms. Beachy’s Pre-vet class, decided to enter her two dogs, Max and Terp for the first time.

“I think it’s vital for people to come show their support and participate in the community show because agriculture is a dying passion. This way, members from Future Farmers of America get to teach young children the importance of this practice,“ said Wynne.

The Best Costume award and best trick went to Hot Dog, who was handled by Joey Ewen. A Cavalier King Charles breed who was dressed as a pinata, Hot Dog amazed the crowd with her trick of sitting on a scooter board while being pushed around by a toy truck.

Best Veteran was won by a beagle mix named Sarge handled by Emma Bowers. He came ready to blow the judges away with his stylish explorer costume.

Best Rescue and Most Obedient award went to Max, a Staffordshire who was handled by Devin Wynne. Max was rescued from the Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCS) when he was three years old. 

Waggiest Tail award went to Chase who was handled by Sherry Fowler.  Chase the Black Labrador Retriever wowed the judges with his tail-wagging skills–basically, he was just very excited.

The Prettiest Eyes award was given to Sanza, who was handled by Jessica O’Sullivan. Sanza is a Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier.

Diva, who was handled by Teresa Reeder, stole the show and had the audience laughing at how spunky a little dog could be. With a lot of energy in a tiny body, the chihuahua won the award for Prettiest Girl.

The Most Handsome Boy award went to Chase, a french bulldog from Hungary, who was a unique addition to the show. He was handled by Pre-vet student, Tatyana Hopkins.

The Community Show is meant to gather locals of all ages, Abby and Lily Grey handled their dog Peanut who won the 10 years and younger award. The Grey sisters took turns strutting their Bichon Shih Tzu in all different entries.

You can read more articles about the Community Show on The Lance!