A 7-year-old dog and his devoted young handler grabbed the lion’s share of the attention at this week’s Greensburg Salem School Board meeting.

Superintendent Ken Bissell presented the winning team of sophomore Natalia Backos and her Parson Russell terrier, Boozer, with a certificate of commendation for their accomplishments in the show ring, including titles they captured in November at the National Dog Show in Philadelphia.

Boozer took best in breed in the national competition, while Backos, 15, of Salem, was the top junior handler at the show, claiming $5,500 in scholarships.

They’re not resting on their laurels. They’re set to compete in an all-breed dog show this month in Maryland, a national specialty show for the Parson Russell breed in April in Georgia and the Westminster Kennel Club show in May in New York City.

Bissell said Backos sets an example of the positive ways student can get involved in activities beyond school walls.

“Thank you to Natalia and Boozer for making Greensburg Salem proud,” Bissell said. “We talk a lot about what we can do at the school to get our students engaged.”

Just as important, he said, is “being engaged in the community in things that turn our children into good adults whenever they leave us and graduate.”

Bissell read from a January proclamation by the Westmoreland County commissioners honoring Backos and Boozer for their November wins as well as for making the final cut of 12 competitors among about 130 entered in a Florida show.

It’s taken much work for Backos and her dog to reach the head of the pack on the show circuit. A third-generation handler, she’s been working with dogs since she was 2 and has shown Boozer since he was 3.

“It’s nice for the school and county to recognize me,” said Backos, who has noted she might consider post-secondary studies in mathematics or business.

The Backos family pack also includes other Parson Russell terriers, a Siberian husky, an English pointer and some Chihuahuas.

Bissell also recognized the commitment of Backos’ parents, Jerry and Dawn, for supporting her involvement with dogs and travels to shows in multiple states.

Backos’ mother and older sister, Alexandra, a biochemist in Virginia, also have shown dogs.

“Once my daughters got involved, it was more of being the driver,” said Dawn Backos. “It’s more exciting to watch them show.”

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