There is nothing more exciting than being behind the white picket fence. The feeling is indescribable, you must experience it for yourself to completely understand.

My name is Jessie Schulz and I am a professional dog handler, a senior at the University of Florida, and co-owner of Chilcote/Credit Brittanys. I began showing dogs five years ago when I got my first Brittany puppy. After two years of traveling to dog shows, I realized this sport could become more than just a hobby.

After five years of learning the business from my mentors at Fort Elle, I am now showing many different breeds. I have two different Brittanys in the top twenty five in the country. Vito is #13 in Breed points and IQ is #17 in All-Breed points. My Greyhound, Stella, is currently #6 in All-Breed points.

Showing dogs is a very rewarding experience but it goes hand in hand with hours of preparation. The behind the scenes work is more extensive than one might think. The dogs must be trained, socialized, groomed, and kept in impeccable physical shape. The time spent showing dogs is minimal compared to the hours of work leading up to any given show.

There is a show coming up on July 11-12 at the West Palm Beach Fairgrounds. The Jupiter-Tequesta Dog Club is in charge of the show. It is a great family event and a good place to meet many breeds of dogs. After watching and experiencing the show maybe you will get a glimpse of why I wouldn't trade this career for anything.