Sunday, October 31, 2004

Udderly mindboggling

For years, I've been wanting to attend The Royal Winter Fair in Toronto. In a few weeks, we'll finally make the trip. I had not realized how big of a deal The Royal has become. Like so many other contests involving beauty and skill, the competition for best holstein is tight, and great efforts are being made to keep the competition clean.

Howard Dobson, a veterinary radiologist and professor in the department of clinical studies at the University of Guelph's Ontario Veterinary College, is heading the Royal's ultrasound-screening program for the fourth year. He won't say whether he has caught cheaters, but admits that udder adulteration, as he calls it, is "a worldwide problem."

"It's like with doping in athletes," says Dobson, adding that he reports his findings only to the show staff. What they do as to publicity or punishment is up to them.


The Bessies of The Royal seem to enjoy their spa treatment. Trimming, fluffing, powdering, oiling .. makes for pretty cows. Brennan believes even the cows know they look good. "They get your attention, they are even more beautiful to look at. They're walking with grace and poise," he says. "They want to be there and show their stuff."

Suddenly I feel dowdy.

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