The MVCDS, hosted by the Roanoke, James River and New River Valley Kennel Clubs, is held each year at the Salem Civic Center, Salem, VA., the first week of August. The five (5) days of shows at the Salem Civic Center feature approximately 140+ different AKC recognized dog breeds each day. The competition begins each morning at 8:00am, with eight (8) rings of Breed completion throughout the day, fo
llowed by the Group competitions, and Best in Show. On Thursday, the James River Kennel Club offer various health screenings for dogs. These clinics include Eye Certification, Cardiac Health and Semen Evaluation. On Friday, the Roanoke Kennel Club sponsors Canine Chiropractic Adjustment Clinic. Also on Friday, the Roanoke Kennel Club will hold its AKC Sanctioned "Match" 30 minutes after the conclusion of Best in Show. The "Match" is good practice for puppies, young dogs, junior handlers and novice handlers. Saturday afternoon, beginning 30 minutes after the conclusion of Best in Show, is the Roanoke Kennel Club "Elite Dog" Competition. This year's competition is open to amateur handlers who have competed in the RKC shows on Friday and Saturday. Each evening, approximately 30 minutes after the conclusion of Best in Show, the Mountain Valley Cluster will offer "Junior Handler events". These events are in support of our Junior Handlers ... the future of the sport of dogs. Vendors will be available offering a vast array of dog merchandise and supplies
Spectators are welcome. Admission and car parking are free. Only dogs registered to compete, dogs attending health screenings or "Service Dogs" are allowed in the Civic Center. No dogs are sold at the show.