12/05/2023
Dear members
Following some recent shows, a number of issues have been brought to the attention of the Society concerning the apparent disregard for and breaches of the Society rules relating to ‘trimming’ and ‘artificial aids’ as set out in the WPCS’s Judging and Showing Handbook 2023.
Abiding by these Society rules is a condition of competing at our affiliated shows and should be upheld by all competitors. The rules are clear, they are not open to interpretation and any deviation from them will not be tolerated.
It is disappointing that a small minority of competitors feel the need to push the boundaries and flout the Society show rules. The WPCS judging & showing rules have evolved over many years to maintain animal welfare, breed standards, ring etiquette, health and safety and encourage a fair and level playing field for all competitors and their animals and must be adhered to.
2. Rules for Exhibitors, Owner & producers:
2.1 Exhibitors competing at affiliated shows are deemed to be fully conversant with rules contained within this handbook and the rules pertaining to the respective show.
The WPCS is also aware of several videos and threads circulating on social media and it is equally disappointing to see negative comments about the WPCS and its Panel Judges; it is as much the competitor’s responsibility to familiarise themselves with and abide by the Society’s showing rules.
The WPCS will now carry out investigations into these recent incidents, liaising with the show organisers, and will follow our processes to deal robustly with any breach of our Judges & Showing rules, Codes of Conduct, and social media Policy.
The WPCS reminds our members and Judges of current rules in relation to ‘trimming and use of ‘artificial aids’:
4.5 Show ring production.
The overall image has to be in keeping within the natural beauty of the Welsh breeds. Pulled & shortened manes and tails detract from this ‘native’ look as does clipping of body hair. Exhibitors & Judges alike should be aware that production of this nature serves to do the Welsh breeds an injustice in the show ring. Any act of production which looks artificial and detracts from the ‘native’ look should be discouraged.
4.6 Trimming for shows.
It is acceptable for Welsh breeds to have their hair trimmed under the jaw line and protruding from the ears. Please note: Youngstock must not be body clipped
4.6a The Trimming of whiskers is prohibited.
Whiskers should not be trimmed. Following the FEI General Assembly held on 23/11/2020,a new rule that prohibits the clipping/shaving of sensory hairs was passed as part of the veterinary regulations. This has been implemented on Welfare grounds.
2. Exhibitors, Owner & Producers
2.19 Exhibitors must not use any artificial aids to aid the showing of their animals. Plastic bags, excessive and abnormal use of whips, noise producing objects are all deemed to be artificial aids. Outside assistance using similar aids is also forbidden and judges are empowered to ask exhibitors making use of such assistance to leave the ring. Judges will receive the full support of the Society.
Your attention to this matter, is greatly appreciated.
Your sincerely
Mervyn Davies- Chair Judging & Showing Committee
