How To Run A Conformation Dog Show During COVID-19 in Canada

Inspired by a true story.

DO

  • Consider the need to have a conformation dog show. We have a pandemic raging. Our curve is starting to rise like a pimple.
  • Be open and transparent.
  • Include the dog show people in your plan. Ask for feedback.
  • Include the public in your plan. Ask for feedback.
  • Share the process of investigating safety during the phase you are in.
  • Share the plan you are developing. Explain how this plan relates to provincial guidelines and share your sources.
  • Keep entrants limited to local areas, even if it’s legal for them to travel interprovincially. CKC, we are in a pandemic. If you’re going to allow shows, you need to allow region-specific ones.
  • Expect questions, concerns, and criticism.
  • Address questions, concerns, and criticism calmly and understandingly.
  • Make it your priority to understand why people are upset and make sure they have direct access to the latest information on how you are planning the event.
  • Feel free to set standards for communication, for instance; “We will respond to questions and comments, but comments containing foul language and racist/sexist/homophobic/etc. language will be deleted.”

DON’T

  • Delete messages that ask questions, express concerns, or criticism.
  • Keep your plans for running an event during COVID-19 a secret
  • Respond with an appeal to emotion. Facts that people can verify strengthen your case. Emotional dialogue that attempts to sway them to your cause makes you look like you have no facts to back up your case.
  • Label all disagreement with your course of action as ‘hate’.
  • Belittle, mock, or insult people who disagree with your course of action.
  • Respond to criticism personally.
  • Threaten any person who criticizes your event by doxxing, harassment, or other attempt at retribution.
  • Allow falsehoods to permeate social media. If you see someone claiming something that is not true, correct it.

LEARN TO TAKE CRITICISM AND RESPOND TO IT IN A MANNER AS BEFITTING A SPORTSPERSON

the internet never forgets

SCREENSHOTS ARE FOREVER

your group’s official online activity is how people are going to see your group

THERE IS A PANDEMIC GOING ON THAT HAS BROUGHT THE WORLD TO A SCREECHING STUTTER

don’t look for loopholes


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