Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Shelter Management • Clicker Training • Breed Recognition

Show Handling

Term from Animal Care industry explained for recruiters

Show Handling refers to the skill of working with animals in exhibition or competition settings. This includes preparing animals for shows, managing them during events, and ensuring their comfort and safety throughout the process. It's similar to being an animal trainer, but specifically focused on presentation and competition aspects. People who do show handling work with various animals, most commonly dogs, horses, cats, or livestock, making sure they look their best and behave properly during shows. This role combines animal care knowledge with presentation skills.

Examples in Resumes

Achieved multiple ribbons while performing Show Handling duties at regional dog competitions

Trained junior staff in proper Show Handling and grooming techniques for exhibition animals

Specialized in Show Handling and Handler responsibilities for large livestock at state fairs

Typical job title: "Show Handlers"

Also try searching for:

Professional Handler Dog Show Handler Livestock Show Handler Animal Show Handler Exhibition Handler Competition Handler

Where to Find Show Handlers

Professional Organizations

Job Resources

Learning Resources

• AKC Handling Classes Search
• Local Dog Show Events

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a difficult animal during a major show event?

Expected Answer: A senior handler should discuss various calming techniques, backup plans, safety protocols, and explain how they'd evaluate whether to continue or withdraw from the show based on the animal's behavior.

Q: What experience do you have in training other handlers?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership experience, ability to teach proper handling techniques, safety protocols, and show regulations to others, plus examples of successful mentoring.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What preparation routines do you follow before a show?

Expected Answer: Should explain grooming procedures, health checks, exercise routines, and how they ensure both the animal and necessary equipment are ready for the show.

Q: How do you maintain show-quality care for multiple animals?

Expected Answer: Should discuss organizing daily care schedules, tracking individual animal needs, and balancing multiple animals' training and preparation requirements.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic grooming techniques do you know?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe basic cleaning, brushing, and maintenance procedures for show animals, demonstrating understanding of breed-specific needs.

Q: How do you ensure safety when handling animals?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic safety protocols, proper use of equipment, reading animal body language, and maintaining calm control during handling.