Junior Handler Octavia Stensen
Interview with Junior Handler
Q: Please tell our readers how you got involved in the world of dogs and dog showing.
I got started in the world of dog shows because of my first Norwegian Buhund, Fiona. We were looking for a new pet for our family and fell in love with the Buhunds, particularly Fiona. Although the breeder wanted Fiona to earn her GCH, at ten years old I stepped up to the task. I have been showing dogs ever since then.
Q: Who were your mentors from the beginning of your dog journey, and do you currently have the same or any additional mentors?
Tammie Wilcox, Jannet Warner, and Sammie and Trever Lewis were important mentors in my early years. I took handling classes from all of them. I even went on to work for Sammie and Trever, and later for Tammie as an assistant. My current mentor and biggest inspiration is my boss Andy Linton, who has taught me many valuable lessons in this amazing sport and how to be an ethical and humble human.
Q: What breed/breeds have you been involved in handling?
I have handled many different breeds, but my personal breed is Norwegian Buhunds.
Q: What, in your words, is the purpose of dog shows?
I believe the purpose of dog shows is preserving purebred dogs, something so important to our history. Dogs have been around for most of human history and were the first animals to be domesticated. They are a deeply important part of who we are, and preserving and perfecting purebred dogs is an art. Dog shows help preserve that art and show the public the beauty of these amazing dogs that breeders have put their hearts and souls into striving for.
Q: Do you find it difficult to balance personal, school, and dog show life? How do you make time to fit everything in?
Balancing personal, school, and dog show life has been challenging at times, but since it’s my passion, I’ll do whatever it takes to make it work. While I prioritize school, ensuring my school work is up to date gives me the flexibility to pursue my love for dog shows and spend time with my loved ones.
Q: What profession would you like to have as an adult?
Having just completed my first year of college, I’m still exploring my career options. My dream is to become a professional handler. I’m currently majoring in Chinese Language and Culture, so I’m also interested in careers that utilize my skills, such as translation or interpretation. Ideally, I’d love to pursue both paths.
Q: Do you prefer handling table dogs or larger dogs?
I enjoy handling all types of dogs, regardless of size. Showing dogs brings me joy regardless of their size!
Q: What dog, at any point in time, do you wish you could handle and why?
There are so many exceptional dogs that it’s hard to choose just one. I’ve been fortunate to handle some amazing dogs already, but my personal favorite has been Pineapple, my Buhund. She’s not only my pet but also a dog I bred and whelped. Handling her is incredibly special to me; she’s my heart dog and has helped me achieve my greatest aspirations.
Q: Do you show your own dogs in breed competition, and if so, what breeds?
Yes! I have shown my Norwegian Buhunds, Pineapple, and her mom, Fiona, in both Juniors and Conformation.
Q: What have been some of your greatest achievements in the breed ring?
My greatest achievements in the breed ring have been earning Best of Opposite two years in a row at the Norwegian Buhund National and winning a group first with Pineapple.
Q: What is your favorite show of the year to attend, and why?
I absolutely love both the AKC National Championship and WKC. They are both such special shows that are crucial for a dog’s career. The excitement leading up to these events is unparalleled, and I cherish the opportunity to reunite with friends and handlers I don’t often see.
Q: Have you been to any shows outside of the USA, and if not, would you like to?
Yes, I have. I attended the Crufts dog show in March, representing the United States in the International Junior Handling Competition.
Q: Junior handlers are the future of the sport. Do you feel, in general, that you and other Juniors are treated with the respect you deserve to inspire you to stay in the sport?
I can only speak for myself, but I feel respected within the dog show community. Everyone’s experiences may differ, but personally, I’ve received nothing but respect from my peers and others, which motivates me to continue pursuing my goals in the sport.
Q: Do you have any pastimes outside of the world of dogs?
Outside of the world of dogs, I enjoy spending time outdoors on the rare sunny days we have in the PNW with my close friends and family. I love hiking and spending time near the many beautiful lakes and rivers we have in Washington.
Q: What are your own personal future goals in the world of dogs?
My next personal goal within the world of dogs is to achieve a Best in Show win and continue to excel as an assistant. Ultimately, my priority is always to love and care for our amazing dogs.
