Judge Information

Judge Name:

Michael Hegarty

Location:

Tyne And Wear, Great Britain

Kennel Name:

Chantismere Cavaliers

Website:

Types of Shows:

Conformation

Type of Breeds

Biography

Michael is retired and lives with his husband, Jerry Munroe of Paddlewick Papillons, in Northern Ireland. While growing up in the countryside of south Co Derry, he had several mongrels that were a treasured part of his family's life. His introduction to the Cavalier was as a child watching his neighbour's dog Paddy out on his daily walks past his house. Paddy looked like a 'thoroughbred' and Michael now recognizes that he was a richly marked, well balanced dog with a beautiful headpiece, the eyes we all strive for and the Cavalier temperament which is unrivaled by any other breed.

Michael doesn’t really remember when he first ventured into the show ring. He spent much time going to shows to fix his eye on the 'best of the best' before venturing into the world of breeding and showing. This gave him the opportunity to develop his eye and become more attuned to the breed for when he established Chantismere Cavaliers. He believes that we are merely custodians of this treasured breed and hopes he has not only left his mark on the show world but also on the lives of many people who have bought beloved pets from him.

When asked about significant changes in the breed since he got started, his reply is "Changes, yes! Significant, I’m not sure." He notes that there has been a huge reduction in the number of dogs shown and bred and this has impacted the availability of quality males to incorporate in breeding plans. Despite this, many responsible breeders have gone to great lengths to preserve both the genetic diversity and health of the breed by transporting dogs and semen over great distances. Looking at old photographs it’s not hard to see a clear path of progress culminating in the style of Cavalier we know today. But we need to keep in mind that the breed standard has not changed. The key words contained in the standard should be our mantra when breeding the next generation. Cavaliers are a breed without exaggeration and it is possible to breed active, sound, graceful, happy dogs that are not overdone in any way. Heads that are over skulled and extreme, even if accompanied by great eyes that convey a 'Disney' look that appeals to many, is a look which is not correct and is better suited to a greeting card.

As part of being a true participant, Michael has served as a committee member of the Northern Ireland CKCS Club as well as the Parent club in the UK. He considers judging to be a privilege and takes the matter very seriously when asked to offer an opinion on a fellow enthusiasts' dog. People spend so much time, effort and money on this hobby and therefore courtesy, honesty and time is a small price to pay for the opportunity to go over some beautiful dogs. He is licensed to judge the Toys & Companion group at the international level and has had the opportunity to judge the group at numerous shows around the world. He is also honoured to have bred four UK champions and numerous other CC and RCC winners as well as 15 Irish champions and sent many dogs overseas who have not only gained titles but have gone on to produce well for others. His journey has taken him to many wonderful places and allowed him to meet fantastic people whose friendships and their care for his dogs is treasured beyond measure.

Future Assignments

Past Assignments

2019

Cavalier Fanciers Of Southern Ontario
on Sunday, June 30, 2019 (Event Details)
on Sunday, June 30, 2019

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