Jo Ann Evans, a nurse practitioner from Richland, has found a unique way to unwind from the demands of her high-pressure career—by competing in the competitive dog show circuit alongside her Alaskan malamute, Brio.
Evans’ journey into the world of dog shows began after extensive research and guidance from a mentor. She co-owned her first show-quality puppy, a black Labrador, with the breeder, with the goal of winning a championship. “He won a lot, so I was hooked!” Evans recalls, reflecting on how that initial success sparked her passion for the sport.
Having grown up without pets due to her mother’s allergies, Evans was eager to own a dog when she became independent. She first had a Labrador and a golden retriever, but seeking a more challenging breed, she turned to Alaskan malamutes—a breed she describes as a compromise between her husband’s love for huskies and her preference for Labradors.
“My first malamute was a breed compromise between my husband and myself,” she says. “I did some research and presented him with the Alaskan malamute as a husky with a bit of a calmer demeanor. We both fell in love with the breed’s personality and history and never looked back.”
Today, Evans and her 4-year-old Alaskan malamute, Brio, are regulars in the dog show scene, with Brio recently ranking No. 2 in the national standings for the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) Grand Championship. The duo also holds titles in obedience rally and farm dog competitions, with Brio having earned an AKC Grand Championship silver medal. Although they were invited to compete at the prestigious Westminster Dog Show for a third consecutive year, they were unable to attend this year due to inclement weather. Evans hopes to return next year.
Evans and Brio have maintained a busy schedule despite missing Westminster. In February, they competed in Wisconsin and Massachusetts, and in March, they attended regional events in Kentucky and New Jersey.
With over two decades of experience in the dog show circuit, Evans has shown more than 20 dogs, with a range of activities from conformation and obedience to weight pull, backpacking, rally, agility, scent work, and farm dog events. “I learn what my dog enjoys and focus my attention there. If they do not have fun, it is not worth it,” she says.
Dog shows involve evaluating each dog against breed standards, with judges inspecting both the dogs’ appearance and movements. Evans explains that dogs are not compared to one another but are instead judged based on how closely they match the written breed standard.
Beyond the competitions, Evans says the dog show world has brought her closer to her dogs and introduced her to a supportive community. “The malamute community is small, tight-knit, and supportive of one another,” she says. “Yes, we are competitive in the ring, but outside of it, we support each other. We come together for the betterment and preservation of this breed that has embedded itself into our DNA. I drive a stupid amount of miles to convene for our club specialties—I have found my tribe in the show ring.”
For Evans, the combination of preparing, grooming, and competing with Brio offers an enjoyable, fulfilling way to relieve stress while strengthening their bond. “It’s a partnership that allows me to destress in a productive and fun way,” she says.
Whether on the show circuit or at home, Jo Ann Evans and Brio continue to thrive as a team, enjoying both the competitive victories and the friendships they’ve built along the way.
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