I remember the first show Riley was involved in. She was showing one of my dogs. The dog became very nervous and agitated before the competition. Riley had read in a book that if you wrapped a dog and cradled him, he'll relax. Riley took a ribbon out of her hair, wrapped the pup in it, and cradled him a little. The dog calmed down instantly.

What sets Riley apart is her willingness to learn and her desire to win. In a competition, she wants to do well. If she doesn't, she feels like she's let the dogs down somehow.

Riley has the poise, the confidence, and the maturity of somebody much older than she is. She loves the dogs she shows and they respond to her completely.