Lessons learned from a Dog Show

This past weekend, RTP and I went to a dog show for the first time. Now we've watched shows on TV before, but I can say there are things you notice in person that are not apparent from the couch. First of all, the dogs are for the most part well-trained and on task...just like musicians ready to take the stage. I don't know what I was thinking, but I expected a lot more barking and dog poop...Everything was very orderly. Many times I was tempted to go pet one of the cute dogs, but I could tell that he or she was getting ready for the judges. I can relate as a musician, since we need to find our own quiet space before a performance to get focused and mentally prepare for the concert. Secondly, the tension is almost palpable between the different owners/handlers. We observed on more than one occasion, some jealous eyes checking out the competition. And then in a flash the decision is made and if you don't place, your dog is quickly escorted outside. Just like an orchestral or band audition. You may observe (or block out) the competition in the warm-up room, the audition takes only a few minutes compared to the hours/years that you have prepared, and then in a flash the decision is announced. Instant excitement or disappointment. There must be a lesson that we learn from entering these competitions or people/dogs must just love to compete, because ultimately there is always only one winner. Why else would musicians spend so much money taking auditions and dogs allow humans to brush and spray their coat 1000 times in preparation for one walk around the ring?