Mutts will strut around Lime Rock Park once again this summer as part of the Great Country Mutt Show, an exuberant celebration of all things canine, set to dazzle dog lovers of every kind.

This Westminster-style dog show, embracing every breed and mix, will take place at Lime Rock Park on Sunday, June 9th, from 11 am to 2:30 pm, rain or shine. With a wide array of competitive categories this event promises fun and excitement for both participants and spectators.

There is an opportunity for everyone’s beloved dog to compete under the big tent in a wide range of competitive categories including Junior Category (for humans 12 and under), Most Unidentifiable Mix, Sweetest Pair of Dogs, Best Ears, Best Trick, Best Lap Dog Over 40 lbs, Best Senior, Best Kisser, Waggiest Tail, Looks Most Like Owner, and Best In Show.

“Dogs bring so much love, light and laughter into our lives, and this day is truly a celebration of that ,” said Executive Director Jenny Langendoerfer.

Returning as a celebrity judge is the esteemed theatrical animal trainer Bill Berloni. Mr. Berloni was just 20 years old when he found a rescue dog to train to play Sandy in the original production of Annie, beginning his career-long commitment to training rescue animals for Broadway, off-Broadway, national tours, regional theaters, special events, the New York City Ballet, motion pictures, television, and commercials. Mr. Berloni is the author of Broadway Tails, Doga, Wags to Riches, and Sandy, The Autobiography of a Star.

Nicole Nalepa will be this year’s Mistress of Ceremonies! Nicole is the anchor of Connecticut’s No. 1 morning newscast, “Eyewitness News This Morning”, and the co-hosts the WFSB’s lifestyle T.V. show–“Great Day at 9A.”. Nicole also hosts weekly franchises including: “Family Friday”, “What’s Going On”, “The Bright Spot”, and “3 Things You Need to Know & 1 You Don’t”. The mom of two also produces and hosts a weekly show called, “Mommyhood Unscripted”, tackling some of the biggest topics and least discussed issues surrounding motherhood. Nicole is an avid animal lover, and is thrilled to be
supporting the Little Guild at this year’s Great Country Mutt Show.

Outside of the rings there will be live music by the Joint Chiefs, a raffle, pet themed vendors and food available from Ben & Jerry’s, Barnstormer Burgers, Crepe Royale, and Lime Rock Park Concessions. Tito’s Handmade Vodka is a sponsor of the Great Country Mutt Show, and will have a Bark Bar offering a variety of cocktails for adult attendees.

For the dogs, Tito’s Handmade Vodka will be offering a hydration and treat station, with a photo opportunity area and fun games like bobbing for balls!

Free and open to the public for spectators, the $20 registration fee allows for you and your dog to compete in two categories and supports the vital animal rescue work of the Little Guild! The Little Guild is a 501(c)(3) organization, it is the largest animal shelter in Northwest Connecticut and boasts one of the highest save rates nationally for a no-kill shelter.

Dedicated to rescuing, healing and individually nurturing homeless dogs and cats and to matching these animals with caring homes in the community, the Little Guild also provides programs that strengthen the bonds between pets and people, and partners with local organizations to support pet owners in the community.

To register for the Great Country Mutt Show, please go to www.littleguild.org.