The Cocker Spaniel Club of Rhode Island (CSCRI) has been a cornerstone of the local dog community and is chaired by Sheryl Gadol and Carol Pinto. It champions the beauty, athleticism, and wellbeing of this beloved breed. From long-standing conformation shows to high-energy agility trials in Connecticut and New Hampshire, the club brings together passionate handlers and exceptional dogs for events that regularly sell out with more than 350 runs per day.

CSCRI also gives back in a big way. Each year, the club proudly hosts a fundraiser supporting the AKC Junior Agility Scholarship-Grant Program, helping young handlers and their dogs chase big dreams in the sport they love. It’s eight decades of dedication, community, and Cocker Spaniel pride—still going strong.

Representing the Cocker Spaniel Breed 

The American Spaniel Club (ASC) has stood as the guiding force for the Cocker Spaniel breed in the United States. Established in 1881, ASC is the official National Breed Club dedicated to preserving, promoting, and advancing the health, performance, and versatility of the Cocker Spaniel.

Each year, ASC hosts two of the most anticipated events in the spaniel world:

• The Cocker Spaniel National Specialty Show in July
• The Flushing Spaniel Show in January

The July National Specialty has become especially beloved among agility enthusiasts. Featuring four full days of AKC-sanctioned agility trials, this event consistently draws an impressive number of competitors. In recent years, the agility trials have often reached capacity at 350 runs per day—the maximum permitted for a single ring by the AKC. This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the dedication and organization behind the scenes.

Staff That Care and Unforgettable Events

Much of this success can be credited to Vivian Hudson, who has served as the Agility Trial Chair for this past year and for many of the previous July Nationals. Her leadership, attention to detail, and passion for the sport have helped elevate these trials into some of the most reliably well-run events in the community. Beyond her work at Nationals, Vivian also manages four local ASC agility trials in New Hampshire, further strengthening the club’s presence and accessibility for competitors in the region.

While agility is not featured at the ASC’s January Flushing Spaniel Show, this winter event offers a wide range of other exciting dog sporting activities. Together, these two annual showcases demonstrate the breadth of talent within the breed and ASC’s ongoing commitment to offering opportunities for both seasoned competitors and newcomers.

The ASC Summer Nationals highlight the important work of the American Spaniel Club Foundation (ASCF). Formed in 1997 as a partner to the American Spaniel Club, the foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of Cocker Spaniels through research, education, and rescue.

Cocker Spaniel Coat Care

From their centuries-old sporting roots to their signature flowing coats, Cocker Spaniels are a breed where beauty and function meet. That same coat, while striking, requires intentional care. Areas such as the ears, chest, legs, and tail are especially prone to tangling and matting, making consistent grooming essential for both comfort and coat health.

Regular bathing, conditioning, and brushing help prevent knots, reduce breakage, and maintain proper moisture balance in the hair. Using products designed to support slip, softness, and strength allows the coat to be managed without weighing it down or stripping it of its natural texture. The Mane ’n Tail Pet Me line fits naturally into this routine, offering gentle care that supports detangling and manageability for longer, finer coats.

 At Mane ’n Tail, we’re proud to recognize the ASCF’s ongoing commitment and the positive impact it brings to the Cocker Spaniel community year after year.