Page 54 - ShowSight Express, June 8, 2020
P. 54

 PANDEMIC 2020:
WILL IT CHANGE
THE GAME?
BY: WALTER SOMMERFELT
The Covid–19 Pandemic has indeed affected the lives of all Americans as well as the global population. Those of us who are now considered senior citizens can remember the vaccinations for polio, smallpox, and many other infectious diseases that have been treated during our lifetimes. Likewise, there are still parents who choose not to vaccinate their children against these infectious diseases for a variety of reasons which allows them to continue to be exposed.
As Americans we have survived Civil and World Wars, numerous protests, disease scares, the Great Depression and multiple highs and lows in our economy. We have seen periods of rationing, high unemployment, various forms of discrimination, as well as political and religious discord. However, this Pandemic is the first time I can remember where our entire country was put on “lockdown.”
The United States, as well as the rest of the world, has seen just how global the world we live in is today. A virus that started in the city of Wuhan, China, has now spread across the entire world in a period of just a few months. The virus has caused a pandemic that has been responsible for hundreds of thousands of deaths and millions of infected people throughout the world. Not only have we suffered the deaths and infections of masses of people, but we have also seen a complete shutdown of so many aspects of our lives that we have always just taken for granted.
For many of us involved in the sport of purebred dogs, the pandemic has had a huge influence causing the cancellation of hundreds of our competitive events. The effect of these cancellations will not be known for a long time. Kennel clubs, exhibitors, handlers, judges, vendors, superintendents, photographers, facilities, and all supporting aspects have suffered some type of financial loss along with the question of what happens when this “stay at home” period ends and we return to some type of normal daily life.
As we watch the updates on our televisions and listen to the medical specialists, it is very clear that some diseases are spread very easily just by being in close contact with a carrier. We see people wearing masks, gloves, and other protective gear to prevent the spread.
It is clear by looking at social media that many of our friends are chomping at the bit to get back to competition, while others are indeed very concerned about our future. Thinking about our shows and trials one must wonder can we really “go back” to
how it was before Covid–19?
 Note: This article was written in mid-April 2020. With the ever-changing information coming out and the delay in publication dates some of the information may no longer be relevant.























































































   52   53   54   55   56