Getting Ready
So you are getting ready to attend your first show. This can seem like a very daunting task to someone who has never shown before. You must select what mice you will be entering for the show, but once that has been done and your entry forms submitted, what do you do to get ready? Here are some basic guidelines to follow when preparing to go to a MAMA show.
- Pay attention to
cleanliness, especially in cages of those mice attending. Certain
types of bedding may cause staining in the coat. Make sure cages are
cleaned a little more than normal and that your mouse doesn’t get
dirty.
- Watch your mouse’s
diet. Make sure you are given the correct amount of food daily, so
your mouse is not over or underweight. You also pay close attention
to your mouse’s coat condition, as some diets and certain foods
can cause the coat to look greasy or not enough of something may
cause the mouse’s coat to become dull.
- Make sure your show
boxes are cleaned inside and out. Also prepare and clean cages the
mice will be traveling to the show in. Your mice should not arrive
in the show in their show boxes, but rather an appropriate container
(leave wire cages at home).
- Take the time to wipe
down the mouse’s coat with a soft cloth or take one with you to
the show. A small brush may also be helpful with longhair mice.
- If lunch will not be
provided, be sure to pack a lunch. Refreshments may be available so
be sure to bring some cash so that you may purchase any food items.
- If entering your mice
the day of the show, please remember to bring your pre-filled out
entry blank as well as your entry fees.
- If you are selling
mice, be sure to bring any pedigree or paperwork that you may need
to supply to the buyer. You may also bring handouts and business
cards to distribute.
- If you are showing your
mice, bring a white bath sized towel, in case you need a photo taken
of your animals.
- If you are staying
overnight, call in advance to make hotel reservations.
- Make sure you have
directions to the show site on hand and phone number to the show
location in case you get lost.
- Be cautious of leaving
mice in the car during both colder and warmer weather.
- Be sure to arrive on
time!
- Allison Hamilton. Used with permission.