Bulldogs are ready to make friends
BY REBECCA MORTON Staff Writer

MARLBORO — Adorable "sourmug" pooches will be taking over the Marlboro Recreation Community Center, Wyncrest Road, on Aug. 17 when the Bulldog Club of New Jersey (BCNJ) hosts its annual match show.

Bulldog owners, potential owners and members of the public are invited to watch these pups strut their stuff before judge Bob Gilmour. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. with judging beginning at noon. Admission is $8 for adults, $5 for senior citizens and children under 12. The price of admission includes lunch.

The dogs will be divided into age classes for judging, starting as young as 3 months. Winning dogs will be selected in eight different areas.

"We invite anyone interested in learning more about bulldogs to join us for this fun event. They will meet many people who enjoy educating others about bulldogs, and there will be plenty of puppies of all ages, as well as adult dogs, who can't wait to make a new friend," Show Chair Julian Prager said in a press release.

The event provides pet owners with a demonstration and a chance to learn what happens in the ring at a professional dog show, said Judee Shuler, the publicity chairman for BCNJ. She explained that the event, which is sanctioned by the American Kennel Club and held twice a year, helps new handlers and new puppies.

E ducational materials specific to the

breed will be available for anyone who may be interested in adopting a bulldog. Shuler said reputable breeders will share their knowledge with anyone who has questions about bulldogs.

Shuler said the summer event has been held in Marlboro previously and has been a great success. Many of the handlers live in the area and interest is always high.

BCNJ, founded in 1936, is concerned with the education of pet owners and breeders of bulldogs, encouraging responsible pet ownership. BCNJ is a member club of The Bulldog Club of America and the New Jersey Federation of Dog Clubs.

Membership in BCNJ includes bulldog aficionados from throughout the state and surrounding region. The club meets monthly. For more information visit www.bcnj.org.