Mason-Dixon Bernese Mountain Dog Club

08/19/2026

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🐾 Ask A Draft Judge!🐾

A Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Nashoba Valley WAGinar
Have you ever wondered what a draft judge is really looking for? Curious about how draft tests work, confused by a regulation, or simply want to learn more about one of the most fun ways to work with your Berner?

Join the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Nashoba Valley for “Ask A Draft Judge,” a friendly, informal WAGinar featuring BMDCA Draft Judges Phil Atkinson, Alison Jaskiewicz, and Susan Van Ocker!

📅 Saturday, August 29, 2026
🕙 10:00-11:00am
💻 Zoom (link at end of post)

Whether you’re just discovering draft, getting ready for your first test, an experienced competitor working toward the next level, or simply a Berner enthusiast who wants to understand what it’s all about—you’re welcome!

Bring your questions (or presubmit them at this link: https://forms.gle/PXV4CBhadNvS7G7B6) about draft, draft tests, equipment, training, judging, or draft regulations. Wondering what judges notice in the ring? Not sure how a particular rule is interpreted? Want to know what makes a successful draft team? This is your chance to ask!

No question is too basic, too advanced, or too “I’ve always wondered…” Our judges will share their knowledge, experience, and perspective in a relaxed, welcoming conversation designed for Bernese Mountain Dog people of all experience levels.

So grab your coffee, your Berner, and your questions, and join us on Zoom!

Come curious. Ask questions. Learn something new. And have fun talking draft with fellow Berner people!

Everyone is welcome!

Zoom Info:

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85673127882
Meeting ID: 856 7312 7882

📸photo: photo of Fennel by Ruth Nielsen

04/21/2026

Thank you to everyone who came out for our Draft Tests this past weekend!
The weather was typical PA- hot and dry one day, cold, rainy and windy the next, but we all enjoyed the time with our special dogs!
Thanks to all the entrants, congrats to all the qualifiers!
Thanks to our judges who traveled from afar, Jennifer Brightbill, Kathy Berge, and apprentice judge Cindy Lee!
Thanks to our stewards, we could not have done it without you- Eileen, Sam, Tina, Christine, Brianna, & Kayden!
Thanks to our super organized secretary, Babs and our chairs who kept it all moving- Sue and Jill.
It was a great weekend and looking forward to next year!
Photos by Cindy Lee. Feel free to post your own in comments.

04/06/2026

Just a reminder that the Mason Dixon BMDC's draft test close this Wednesday, April 8th!
Get those entries in now!! ASAP!!!
Our secretary Babs can accept entries overnighted, just make sure no signature is required.
And for those not entered, if you can help out as a steward, it's a great way to learn the sport and see great Berners doing the work they were historically bred for! No experience necessary and if you work all day, we will provide lunch. Even 4 hours of volunteering is a great help! We cannot run these amazing tests without our wonderful volunteers!

03/31/2026

Mason Dixon BMDC Draft Tests
April 18 & 19
Canine Meadows, John Rudy County Park, York, PA
Entries close April 8- NEXT WEEK!!
Judges: Kathy Berge & Jennifer Brightbill
Great judges, wonderful location, dog friendly judges' dinner on Saturday night and fun to be had for all!
STEWARDS NEEDED! If you are interested in drafting or would just like to watch dogs doing amazing work in a draft ring, please volunteer! No experience necessary, we can train you in less than 5 minutes! Please contact us if interested!