Canine crusaders out to cause treble at Crufts

MICHAEL KEAVENY

While qualifying for Crufts would be considered the pinnacle of most dog breeders careers, a family from Gibbstown will be in the unique position of having three dogs in the world’s most prestigious dog showing event, which takes place this week in Birmingham.

Michael Heffernan along with his mother Patricia and his nephew Tadhg McFadare travelling with golden retrievers Enzo, Alfie and Naoise to the prestigious show, with all three having qualified for the show via dog shows around the country.
Despite this being Michael’s third time at the event, he still considers himself to be a “newbie dog” handler.
This is because when the Heffernans got their first dog, Enzo, they just wanted a pet and had no intention of showing him. In fact, it was only when the breeders got in touch to see how the dog was getting on in its new home and pointed out ‘Enzo’s’ potential that the thought even entered their heads.
The family who owned him needed him rehomed and Michael came across the dog on Facebook.
It was only when breeders Margaret and Mairead Cummins from Wilkinstown got in touch that Michael became aware of Enzo’s potential as a show dog.
Enzo qualified for Crufts by winning a show in Belfast in 2017. Never expecting to pick up a prize, Michael couldn’t believe it when Enzo scooped two. “There were 46 dogs in his class and he came in second place. He was also third overall in the golden retriever group. It was very emotional.
“We weren’t expecting it, there are so many top breeders there from all over the world.
“You never expect anything, you hope to be shortlisted at best but to be second is incredible.”
Although the dogs are amongst the best in the world and their puppies can fetch as much as €1,000, Michael isn’t willing to sell them because they are “invaluable” to him. “I’m not in it for the money”, he says,” it’s all about the prestige. It’s a huge honour to be competing at Crufts with the best dogs and trainers from all around the world so we’re delighted to be there.”