Best In Show

Tex Thomas is an ARBA Hall of Fame member, former Vice President, longtime Standards Committee Chair, three-time ARBA Convention Best in Show winner, and our most requested guest!  In this episode, recorded live from the annual ARBA Homecoming in the Hall of Fame Library and Museum, Tex takes us from his beginnings as a youth breeder in West Texas through several ARBA milestones and reflections on a legendary and impactful tenure in the hobby.

Dr. Lukefahr is globally recognized as a pioneer in the field of rabbit production science.  His work as a professor, author, and humanitarian have earned him many honors.  In 2022, he spearheaded the update of the book, Rabbit Production, a 330-page resource which every rabbit breeder should own as a go-to for topics of rabbit nutrition, management, color genetics, reproduction, sustainability practices, and so much more.  Also in this episode, Briony takes us back to the ARBA in 1982 with some history, and Allen shares a research article by Dr. Lukefahr on the benefits of small-scale rabbit operations.  

Ask any rabbit judge or breeder which breed is the most challenging and the Harlequin will likely top the list.  Rachel Zarse shares her story of relentless determination, and introduces us to her treasured breed.  Also in this breed spotlight episode, Briony and Allen pay tribute to the Harlequin through its speculated origin and ARBA standard evolution.

ARBA's 50th recognized breed is all the buzz in the industry these days.  Maddie Pratt was part of the successful team of breeders and COD holders who brought the breed from Europe to ARBA recognition.  She discusses evaluation, management, handling, and if Dwarf Papillons might be the next breed for you. Also in this episode, Briony and Allen chat about the upcoming 2022 ARBA Convention, as well as basic tips on handling rabbits.

Continuing from Episode 40, Briony interviews Kevin Whaley to hear the journey from concept to reality during the design and construction of the new ARBA Headquarters.  Kevin unveils "the car," discoveries made while digging through never-seen ARBA relics, and a unique early rabbit breeder who had links to the Titanic.  Also in this episode, a recap of 100 years of ARBA headquarter locations.

It's that time of year when breeders take to the highways and skies with their rabbits and cavies to compete in annual breed national shows. What exactly is a breed national show and how does it differ from the ARBA Convention?  If you had to choose between one major show each year, how might you decide between a breed national show and the ARBA Convention?  In this episode, Briony and Allen answer those questions and share insight on attending major rabbit and cavy shows.  To find out more about national breed shows, visit the ARBA website for links to each national breed club, https://arba.net/recognized-breeds/

Mini Lops became a recognized ARBA rabbit breed in the early 1980s with roots in Germany and California.  Today, they remain one of the most popular breeds, especially with youth rabbit breeders.  Sara Kitsemble has more than 25 years of experience as a top Mini Lop breeder and in this episode she introduces us to her breed and shares tips on selection, management, and showing.  Also in this episode, a look back at 1995, and a history lesson on Mini Lop colors.  

The ARBA spans international borders, including long standing crossover between rabbit and cavy breeders in Canada.  But, did you know there are organizations in Canada which are separate from the ARBA which also license rabbit and cavy judges?  Mary Lou Eisel is licensed across these associations, and explains the differences as well as how she was perceived as President of the American Cavy Breeders Association.  Also in this episode, a look back at 1986 and a university study on personality types in cavies.

Showing rabbits and cavies is one of the most family friendly activities, with unmatched life lessons and bonding experiences.  When sitting down for dinner each night to catch up with the family is a rarity these days, just the drive to an ARBA show can bring parents and kids together for treasured moments.  Carol Green and Nate Burbidge share their stories of how rabbits became a beloved journey for each of their families.  Also in this episode, a look back at 1998, some lessons on coccidiosis, and very happy birthday wishes to Briony!

Showing rabbits or cavies for the first time can seem overwhelming.  How do you find out about shows in your area?  Which of your animals do you enter?  What do you pack for the show?  Who can you ask for help once you're at the show?  In this episode, Briony and Allen share helpful tips from you, our listeners, to answer some of the common questions new breeders face at ARBA shows.  Whether showing is new to you, or whether you're a longtime ARBA rabbit and cavy show guru, there's something to learn in this episode!  

The ARBA spans geographical borders beyond North America.  Some of the first rabbit breeders on this frontier were Beh and Yo from Malaysia, who, in 2006, imported some of the first ARBA rabbits to their country.  They recently visited the USA for three weeks while Beh finished his requirements to fulfill his ARBA judge license.  Learn how the ARBA first came to this part of the world, as well as their first-hand accounts of visiting ARBA shows for the first time in the USA.  Also in this episode, a look back at 2006, and Briony's crash course in Malaysian royalty.

Mentorship is a defining feature of the fancy.  2019 ARBA Convention Best in Show winner Linda Hibbert talks about her journey from mentee to mentor as she and a special broken American Fuzzy Lop doe danced to the ultimate award.  Shortly after this show, Linda and her fellow breeders in Colorado faced lengthy shutdowns due to Covid and RHD.  Always one to embrace a challenge, Linda persevered and along with a new club, inspired others to do the same.  Also in this episode: a history of ARBA Cavy BIS winners and research on social behavior in wild rabbits.

For nearly forty years, Deb Morrison has been a force in the south central United States as a show secretary, distinguished Master Breeder, and ARBA District Director.  Her Palomino passion, relationships with feed companies, and mentorship by the great Fibber McGeehee shaped her as one of the most heartfelt advocates for the show rabbit and cavy industry.  Also in this episode, a look back at 1988 when the ARBA recognized four new breeds!  Can you guess which they are?

Briony and Allen kick off Season 2 by catching up since the 2021 ARBA Convention, including the 411 on a new advent to the process of accepting new varieties by the ARBA Standards Committee, and some fun trivia about ARBA Convention Best In Show winners from the last 50 years.  They each share their "bucket list" of upcoming podcasts guests, as well.  Don't forget to follow The Rabbitry on Facebook for links to past and current podcast episodes!  

Briony and Allen speak to representatives from MedGene Labs of South Dakota, including Ashley Peterson, a senior scientist and Dr. Amanda Jones, a veterinarian and rabbit breeder.  MedGene Labs is the developer of the first U.S. manufactured vaccine to protect rabbits against RHDV2.  Both Ashley and Dr. Jones will also be present at the 2021 ARBA Convention in Louisville, and be giving a symposium at Rabbitcon on the developments of the MedGene RHDV2 vaccine.

Chris Zemny has been an ARBA member for nearly 40 years, and paved the way for women in the rabbit industry.  She has traveled extensively around the United States and been invited to judge countless ARBA Conventions, breed national shows, and inaugural ARBA shows in Asia.  In 2010, Chris earned an ARBA Distinguished Service Award, and in 2016 was awarded an ARBA Lifetime Judge License.  Also in this episode, Briony and Allen go back in time to 1984, and compare earlier ARBA breed standards to those we know and love today, including the Blue Vienna which was later dropped from the ARBA Standard of Perfection.

There are many faces which comprise the ARBA which we all know and love, but few come close to the daily work of our Executive Director.  While showing rabbits and cavies are linked to our weekends, Eric Stewart's full-time job is in serving the ARBA, every day of the week.  In this episode, Allen visits the ARBA's new home in Knox, Pennsylvania, and sits down with Eric on a busy Tuesday.  Eric shares memories of his early start, as well as his heartfelt transition from a childhood hobby to a lifetime career.  Also in this episode, Briony and Allen discuss the upcoming ARBA Convention in Louisville, including the development of new breeds and varieties under review by the ARBA Standards Committee. 

It's been a long wait, but the final weeks before the 2021 ARBA Convention in Louisville, Kentucky are upon us!  Briony and Allen share some ARBA Convention trivia, facts and updates from the 2021 Louisville team, as well as volunteer opportunities which we all can take part in.  Also in this episode, a special tribute to remember the late Stephanie Karinen Deatherage.

Whether you're attending your first or 40th, the ARBA Convention is the most anticipated event for all rabbit and cavy breeders.  With that said, there's a lot to prepare for, and discover as you walk through the doors.  In this episode, Briony and Allen share their tips from many past convention experiences, as well as insight from audience members.  From cups and coops to dollar store dustpan deals, it's all here in this episode to make your next ARBA Convention a memorable one!

American breeders have increasingly turned an eye to our roots across the Atlantic.  While many breeds are different, the UK Polish (Britannia Petite to the ARBA) breed is remarkably similar.  On the eve of his national specialty show, Phil Gould of Fortune Stud shares his experiences, dedication and philosophies about the breed, from his beginnings to a historic double Best in Show win at the prestigious Bradford show.  Also in this episode, a look back at 2015 in the ARBA, a tribute to Vern Palmblad, and a historic glance at the Britannia Petite breed.

Johnny Haussener joins us to outline how rabbit and cavy breeders can earn their elevated status as an ARBA Master Exhibitor or ARBA Master Breeder.  With rabbit and cavy shows back in gear and the 2021 ARBA Convention on the horizon, there's no better time to get excited about the ARBA's new Masters Program!  Also in this episode, a look back in time to the ARBA in 2011 and an educational segment dedicated to tips on handling rabbits and making a thorough and safe showmanship routine. 

ARBA District 9 Director, Johnny Haussener, shares insight from his personal research of over 100 years of history behind the ARBA Registration system.  Did the registration process begin during the “Belgian Hare Boom” to give a sense of quality assurance to buyers of sight unseen rabbits?  As more and more rabbits are purchased through social media photos, the registration system just might have more value to your program than you first thought!  Also in this episode, Briony and Allen discuss their favorite cross-country interstates, pay homage to Oren Reynolds, and learn about medical dosages from Dr. Jay Hreiz.

While agriculture is part of daily life for many in Kansas, fairs still serve an important purpose in introducing youth to animal projects, 4-H, and ultimately the ARBA.  Registrar Karlee Wigton talks about her journey from a beginning 4-Her in the rabbit project to county leader, superintendent and judge.  

For many of us, rabbits are a multigenerational hobby.  2008 ARBA Queen Chelsea (Tucker) Landzettel describes the impact that the ARBA youth program made on her life and shares her excitement at introducing her sons to the hobby, including the life lessons it offers.  Listen for a special cameo appearance by first-time Lord contestant, Jake!  Also in this episode, Briony and Allen offer insider tips on creating a winning application for ARBA youth contests.

Both Briony and Allen are quick to boast that without having a local fair as an introduction to rabbits, neither of them would be here today.  The same is true for many others.  In this episode, Dr. Kim Miller and Nik Kieler, from the Orange County Fair, describe their role as livestock supervisors in one of the fastest urban-growing environments in the United States.  They share the challenges and solutions they have developed to encourage exhibitors each year at the OC Fair, while being located in a demographic that is made up of anything but the like-minded farmer.  

All ARBA members will agree that receiving the latest issue of Domestic Rabbits magazine is like a Christmas morning.  In this podcast, the creative and intuitive mastermind behind our treasured magazine, Sandra Wight, shares what took her from a love of rabbits to an industry revolution.  Also in this episode, a genetics lesson on Blue-Eyed Whites, reflection on apron fashion, virtual livestock auctions, and group CODs for new breeds and varieties.

Longest-serving active ARBA judge, ARBA Convention Best in Show Winner, Hall of Famer, Successful presenter of the Thrianta breed, and former ARBA Director, Vice-President and Secretary/Executive Director: it's difficult to put Glen Carr's accomplishments into a short summary.  In this first of a two-part series, Glen reflects on his beginnings in the industry, mentors who helped him succeed, and changes he's witnessed in ARBA during his 60 plus years of active involvement.  Also in this episode, a historical glimpse at the Checkered Giant breed.

Whether you show rabbits or cavies, you know that some varieties are thought of as unthinkable when it comes to taking home the biggest national awards.  For Steve and Margie Lussier in June 2021, that unthinkable became reality.  Listen to their pathway to winning Best of Breed American Cavy with a roan sow at the 2021 ACBA Specialty, as well as their insider breeder tips on how to achieve such major milestones, no matter what you choose to specialize in.  Also in this episode, a flashback to ARBA in the 1970s, as well as a scientific study on polygamy in wild cavies.

If you're like us, you're eagerly anticipating the upcoming ARBA Convention in Louisville, Kentucky, also affectionately known as our "family reunion."  Crossroads Rabbit and Cavy Shows General Chairman Gordon Williams gives us an update on Convention planning as well as some tips for success for new and seasoned exhibitors!

Many breeders don't have ready access to a veterinarian with rabbit experience and rely on word of mouth for advice with herd management, disease prevention and treatment..  In the second part of this interview series, Dr. Hayhow answers some of the most frequently asked rabbit health questions, provides an update on RHDV2 best practices, policy and vaccine production and gives advice on finding and working with a veterinarian.  Get ready to take notes!

Dr. Chris Hayhow joined the ARBA in 1967 and has been a continuous member of the ARBA for over 50 years.  He is an ARBA Hall of Fame member, lifetime ARBA member, and an all-breed ARBA rabbit judge.  Few have served the ARBA quite like Dr. Hayhow, including several terms as President, founder of the ARBA Rabbit and Cavy Health Committee, and District Director.  His lifelong passion for rabbits and cavies and his professional career as a veterinarian have combined to safeguard the ARBA in broader reaching ways such as animal medicine, pharmaceuticals, and federal recognition.  Dr. Hayhow published his book, “Care of the Domestic Rabbit” in 2003, and is a frequent contributor to publications on the topic of rabbit and cavy health.

Betty Chu has unquestionably the most celebrated line of Angora rabbits in the history of our industry, worldwide.  She captured the first-ever ARBA Convention Best In Show by an Angora in 1992, and has an unmatched winning history which spans nearly four decades.  With an uncompromising philosophy on perfection, there is no one like Betty Chu.  Listen to her story of persistence, revolution, fame, and above all, passion! 

Without many ARBA show opportunities or traditional club meetings, preparing ARBA youth for county fairs and the upcoming 2021 ARBA Convention is no easy feat.   ARBA District 8 Director, Terry Fender, along with Amanda Beehee, accepted the challenge and discovered just how to reach these kids through inventive social media and Zoom technologies.  What they didn't expect, was just how many people they would impact!  

Show rabbits in Southeast Asia have seen a growing interest over the last decade, with newly chartered ARBA clubs and sanctioned shows in five countries.  Why are rabbits so popular in this warm, metropolitan, equatorial region of the world?  ARBA's first Asian-born judge, Arie Wardhani, explains the trend, and shares her personal story of the ARBA in Asia.

Best In Show at the ARBA Convention is equal to none, and remains a lifelong pursuit for rabbit breeders. Joe Kim shares his unique journey which includes ARBA Royalty, a break from rabbits, and a determined return in the early 2000s.  This episode is the second in a series of episodes featuring those who have achieved the ultimate, ARBA Convention Best In Show.

Becoming a judge requires dedication and determination, no matter the time or season of life.  Veteran judge Allen Barr and newly licensed judge Kathi Groves discuss their paths to licensure, the changes in the process, and some of their challenges, inspirations and memorable moments as an applicant and judge.  

Attending ARBA shows bring people of all ages together in a safe, fun, and supportive environment.  It's not uncommon for rabbit and cavy breeders to come from multi-generational families.  Longtime ARBA rabbit and cavy judge, Gene Gillispie, takes us back in time to the 1970s, and shares how he and his wife raised their children, and now grandchildren, in this incredible show animal activity.

The most coveted award in the ARBA is Best in Show at the annual ARBA Convention.  This is the first in a series of episodes featuring those who have achieved the ultimate.  Doug Harrah shares some history of the award as well as his own path to putting his name on the Fibber Cup.

Also known as guinea pigs, cavies are an important facet of the ARBA.  While cavies are often found on show tablesat ARBA sanctioned shows, alongside rabbits, they share some very unique differences in standards, judging, and management.  ARBA cavy judge, Linda Loucks, shares her many years of experience as both a cavy and rabbit breeder, including her unprecedented 2020 show sweep with her Peruvian named “Atlas.”

Rabbit and cavy shows have never been harder to organize than during 2020 and 2021.  ARBA show guru, Jason Karwoski, shares how he, and some of Minnesota's most dedicated breeders, chartered a club and pulled off a successful, COVID-safe show within 60 days.  Hear his story and be inspired by his team's diehard determination to preserve the ARBA show industry.  

Professor of Animal Sciences and Lifetime ARBA Judge, Dr. Scott Williamson, shares how rabbits remained with him from a child, to graduate student, to professor, and to his role as a father.  He shares tips from his decades of expertise and lecturing in animal sciences to explain the complexities of rabbit reproduction for the everyday breeder.  

Past ARBA President, Josh Humphries, talks about his upbringings in rabbits, the importance of youth involvement, and how the ARBA sculpted his pathway in life.

A podcast about rabbits, really? Briony and Allen share their candid childhood stories of how they were introduced to showing rabbits, and why they have continued to devote their lives as adults to the industry.  Their stories might sound a bit like your own!