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Dog Bite Injury Attorney in Westminster, SC

There's something inherently heart-warming about dogs. When trained and cared for properly by a family or an individual, they can bring endless amounts of joy and happiness into your life. They can make you feel better when you're sad and love you without judgment - something that's hard to say for many humans in today's world.

While dogs are called "man's best friend" for their loyalty and companionship, they're still animals that can react aggressively or instinctively in certain situations. Unfortunately, dog bites can result in serious injuries that can be traumatic for victims in South Carolina. From disfigurement and disability to scarring and infection, dog bites can cause devastating harm, including broken bones, lacerations, and even death. If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog in South Carolina, it's important to explore your legal options.

Under South Carolina law, dog owners are accountable for their pets' actions, regardless of the animal's history. Unless the owner can prove the dog was provoked, they must take responsibility for any injuries their pet causes. The financial costs of a dog bite can be overwhelming, including medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Dog bites are serious and life-changing on many levels. As such, those responsible should be held accountable according to South Carolina law. That's when retaining a seasoned dog bite attorney in Westminster, SC, starts to make a lot of sense.

Fortunately, every dog bite attorney at Lauren Taylor Law is experienced in handling dog bite cases in the Palmetto State and is ready to help guide you through the legal process of obtaining compensation.

Understanding Dog Bite Law in South Carolina

Did you know that, on any given day, almost 1,000 victims in America are taken to the ER and treated for dog bites? Perhaps more frightening than that statistic is that South Carolina ranks in the top 10 states for dog attacks resulting in death. In fact, in 2021 alone, 1/3 of all homeowner liability claim payouts were from dog-related injuries. Given those startling numbers, you may be wondering what the State of South Carolina does for victims of dog bites.

In South Carolina, if you are the victim of a dog attack, the owner or handler may be held responsible for your injuries. However, this liability only applies if three specific conditions exist:

1. The injuries you sustained were caused by the dog in question.

2. When the dog attacked you, you weren't trespassing on someone's land.

3. You didn't do anything to provoke the dog into attacking you.

To successfully navigate a dog bite liability case, it's important to be aware of how insurance companies may try to avoid responsibility by focusing on certain conditions of the law. For instance, if you trespassed on the dog owner's property or provoked the dog into attacking you, the owner may not be held liable. However, with the guidance of an experienced dog bite attorney in Westminster, SC, who understands the tactics of insurance companies, you can confidently fight for your rights and receive the compensation you deserve.

Strict Liability for Dog Bites in South Carolina

South Carolina has a dog bite statute that follows a strict liability rule, which applies when someone is attacked or bitten and injured for the first time by a dog. In South Carolina, the strict liability rule holds dog owners accountable for injuries caused by their pets, even if the owners were not directly at fault. This means that victims of dog attacks can seek compensation for their injuries without having to prove the dog's history of aggression or the owner's failure to control the animal.

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South Carolina Requires Dangerous Animals to Be Registered

One aspect of the law that many dog bite victims are unaware of is that dangerous animals must be registered. As per South Carolina law (Section 47-3-760), any dog that is deemed a "dangerous animal" due to its history of attacks or tendency to attack must be registered and kept confined by its owner. If the owner fails to register their animal or keep them confined, they can be held accountable.

Speaking of dangerous animals, there is legislation in South Carolina that relates specifically to certain dog breeds. In order to prevent dog attacks, breed-specific legislation has been implemented in certain areas of South Carolina. This legislation limits the public's exposure to and regulates ownership of breeds identified as dangerous. Currently, pit bulls are presumed to be dangerous in several municipalities, while Rottweilers, Doberman pinschers, and chow chows are considered vicious in one municipality.

Dog Bite Settlements 101: How Victims are Compensated in South Carolina

Now that you know a little more about dog bite laws in South Carolina, you're probably wondering what types of compensation are available for victims. Determining the average settlement amount for dog bite cases can be challenging due to the confidential nature of legal settlements.

However, there are some statistics that can provide insight into potential values. For instance, in 2019, State Farm's Insurance Information Institute reported over 300 dog-bite-related insurance claims in South Carolina. The cost per claim ranged between just under $32,000 and just under $56,000. While this information can serve as a starting point, it's important to remember that each dog bite case is unique, and as such, these averages won't be accurate for your dog bite claim. That's why it's so crucial to contact a dog bite attorney in Charleston, SC, soon after you're injured.

Types of Dog Bite Compensation in South Carolina

In South Carolina, a few categories of damage have been recognized in personal injury cases, and those include dog bites. Typically, damages relating to dog bites focus either on deterring dog owners or helping victims and are classified as Compensatory or Punitive, respectively.

1. Compensatory Dog Bite Damages in South Carolina

Compensatory damages, also known as actual damages, are used to help the injured party return to their original state. In essence, the purpose of compensatory damages is to return the injured party to the position they were in before the dog bite incident took place. In South Carolina, dog bite victims are entitled to recover two types of compensatory damages: economic and non-economic damages.

Economic Dog Bite Damages Explained

When seeking compensation for dog bite injuries, it is important to consider economic damages, which provide objective monetary losses for victims. Often, these damages can cover expenses such as medical bills, prescription medications, physical therapy, counseling sessions, and lost income. With lost income damages, victims can recover the amount of money they would have earned had they not missed work due to their injury.

Non-Economic Dog Bite Damages Explained

Getting damages for a measurable dollar amount is great, but what about losses that can't be measured objectively? We're talking about subjective losses like pain and suffering, mental distress, and diminished quality of life. Although these losses can't be accurately measured, they can still be awarded by the court. However, proving non-economic damages can be challenging in South Carolina. That's why having a dog bite attorney in Westminster, SC, is so valuable for dog bite victims and their families.

2. Punitive Dog Bite Damages in South Carolina

When seeking damages for a dog bite injury or attack, compensatory damages aim to restore the plaintiff's losses, while punitive damages aim to hold the defendant accountable for their misconduct. Punitive damages serve as a deterrent to both the defendant and others, punishing them for their actions and discouraging similar behavior in the future. However, punitive damages are not viable in cases where the defendant's actions were merely negligent.

Instead, South Carolina law mandates proof of willful, wanton, or reckless behavior. Essentially, the defendant must have intentionally caused harm or acted without regard for the consequences of the dog bite or attack. Proving this type of intent can be very difficult, especially in South Carolina, which is why you should consult with a dog bite lawyer. Your attorney from Lauren Taylor Law will help determine which types of damages are viable in your case and fight relentlessly to get you the compensation you're owed.

What Factors Affect the Value of Dog Bite Cases in South Carolina?

At Lauren Taylor Law, our dog bite lawyers are often asked to give an approximate value of an average dog bite case in South Carolina. That's easier said than done, as the circumstances of each dog bite case are different. However, there are components that can affect the amount of compensation you or your loved one receives after being injured.

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Lost Wages

Dog bites are no laughing matter, especially when they're serious and result in injuries. As such, many dog bite victims have no choice but to take time off of work to heal, both physically and mentally. Unfortunately, doing so often means missing out on raises, bonuses, promotions, and more. In such an event, victims can often claim both past wages lost as well as the value of the lost raise or promotion.

Cost of Medical Treatment

In dog bite cases, medical treatment costs can be a significant factor. While a bite from a small dog like a chihuahua may require minimal care, larger dogs can cause serious injuries that result in debilitating physical and psychological effects. The severity of the injuries can lead to higher medical bills and, ultimately, a higher settlement value.

Damage to Property

While property damage may not occur frequently in South Carolina dog bite cases, it can still pose a significant concern. In some instances, victims' phones, glasses, or clothing may sustain damage from an attack. Additionally, wild dogs may cause harm to jewelry, furniture, and even vehicles that you use for work.

Hire a Dog Bite Attorney in Westminster, SC

To receive proper compensation for what you've had to endure, it's essential that you work with a skilled dog bite lawyer. At Lauren Taylor Law, our legal team fully understands what it takes to win your dog bite case and will work tirelessly to gather favorable evidence on your behalf. Our attorneys are also highly skilled negotiators who will aggressively defend your rights to help ensure you receive the maximum settlement amount possible.

Unlike some dog bite law firms, we take a personalized approach to each case we handle, diving deep into the unique details of your situation so you receive the best possible outcome, allowing you to move forward in life with your head held high.

Is It WorthHiring a Dog Bite Attorney in Westminster, SC?

Dog attacks in South Carolina can be extremely frightening, and the aftermath can be even worse. The scars and emotional trauma that victims can experience can last a lifetime, particularly when the victim is a child. Fortunately, South Carolina law provides the opportunity for dog bite settlements to be paid by the dog's owners or keepers.

However, the process can be difficult, with the first challenge being determining if there is insurance coverage available. While the owner's homeowner's insurance policy is often the source of coverage, securing a fair settlement is not always straightforward. That's where hiring a dog bite lawyer as your advocate can be a life-changing choice. Here are just a few of the biggest reasons why you should consult with a dog bite law firm in South Carolina

Insurance Companies Don't Care About You

It's important to realize that insurance companies, despite their friendly commercials, are ultimately focused on minimizing their own costs. Their claim adjusters are skilled professionals who are trained to resolve claims in the company's favor, and they also have access to a long list of legal resources. Having a dog bite lawyer on your side helps even the playing field. That's especially true at Lauren Taylor Law, where our dog bite attorneys fight fearlessly against insurance corporations on behalf of our clients.

Settlement Amounts

Determining the value of a dog attack case is a multifaceted process that takes into consideration numerous factors. Key variables that can substantially impact the value of a case include the possibility of future plastic surgery to address scarring, emotional distress, and the potential for punitive damages.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

When it comes to negotiating a settlement with an insurance company, it can be a confusing and overwhelming experience for most individuals. Even seasoned negotiators can feel out of their element when it comes to dog bite cases. In the face of low settlement offers and unfounded reasoning, it's important to remain level-headed and not let emotions cloud your judgment.

As the victim, keeping calm in the face of an outrageous settlement offer is easier said than done. It's natural to feel emotionally invested, but it's crucial to maintain objectivity when making decisions that could have lifelong implications. Fortunately, an experienced dog bite attorney in Westminster, SC, can take the lead in these intense negotiations. In doing so, you have a better chance of getting a fair settlement while you focus on recovering and spending time with your family.

Handling Medical Evidence

In order to secure a favorable settlement for your dog bite case, medical evidence must be handled and presented correctly. The truth is that medical evidence can have a significant impact on the amount of compensation you receive. As such, investigating and presenting future medical requirements in the correct manner is crucial. Many dog bite victims undergo future surgeries and ongoing counseling for the rest of their lives. A skilled dog bite lawyer from Lauren Taylor Law can help you secure a settlement that adequately covers these expenses and more.

What Clients Say About Us

Divorce Attorney for Ariane Cossette

★★★★★

I cannot recommend this firm highly enough! From the very beginning, Sydney and her team were professional, responsive, and incredibly steady throughout a very emotional and difficult process. I always felt informed, supported, and taken seriously. Every question I had was answered clearly, and communication was timely and thoughtful at every step. What stood out most was their ability to combine legal precision with genuine care. They navigated sensitive issues with calm, integrity, and clarity, and I always felt that my best interests were being protected. Even in moments of stress or uncertainty, they were present, reassuring, and incredibly competent. If you’re looking for a legal team that is not only highly skilled but also respectful, organized, and human in their approach, this is it. I’m deeply grateful for their guidance and professionalism.

Criminal Defense Lawyer for Clayton Burnette

★★★★★

Professional, responsive, and truly cares. Highly recommend.

Child Support Lawyer for Julianna Weeks

★★★★★

The attorneys there are hard working, caring, and great to work with!

Child Custody Attorney for Monica “Kincaid” Moore

★★★★★

When I went into Lauren Taylor Law and met Alex, she did not know what she was getting herself into. I took her an almost impossible divorce to get through and she tackled it with grace and compassion. Alex gave me my life back, she fought for me, for my kids, and for my freedom! I cannot say enough about how grateful I am for this firm! If you want someone who will listen and fight for you Alex is your girl!

Personal Injury Lawyer for Robin Bush

★★★★★

They are very friendly , knowledgeable,. They really explained and had patience with helping my sister navigate thru her will , power of attorney etc . We were not rushed . They made sure we understood everything .

Family Law for Nicole Sinnigen

★★★★★

Sydney Ford helped me with a post-divorce custody issue and couldn't recommend her and her law practice more. I especially valued that her and her team's responses were always very prompt, even to simpler questions or requests. Most importantly, I felt heard and appreciated how she handled our case. Thanks for everything Sydney (and Alexa).

Attorney for Amanda Davidson

★★★★★

Working with Sydney Ford has been a great experience. She has confidently and compassionately guided me through one of the most difficult chapters of my life. Sidney is a wonderful communicator, she takes the time to answer every question (and there have been plenty!) with patience, kindness, and clarity. I knew what to expect every step of the way and was never left wondering what comes next. Her professionalism and empathy set her apart, and her steady guidance has brought so much peace of mind throughout this process. I can’t recommend her highly enough to anyone in need of a knowledgeable, caring, and trustworthy divorce attorney.

Estate Planning for Linda Birnbaum

★★★★★

Embarking on the challenging journey of divorce after 39 years of marriage was no easy feat. However, Alex Saindon was a beacon of support, answering every question and thoroughly explaining every detail to my absolute satisfaction. Her expertise proved to be invaluable during this time. The entire team at the law firm has been incredibly supportive and helpful. I truly couldn't have asked for more! I have already recommended Lauren Taylor Law Firm to others, and I will continue to do so for anyone seeking outstanding representation.

Sexual Harassment Attorney for Ana Del Rio

★★★★★

Lauren’s law practice reflects a deep commitment to her clients and community, showing a thoughtful and caring approach to complex legal issues. Her extensive experience in criminal defense and family law shines through in every interaction, revealing a knowledgeable professional who genuinely puts people first. Lauren’s dedication to guiding clients through difficult times with clarity and compassion makes her an exceptional attorney to trust.

Lawyer for Devin Thigpen

★★★★★

Couldn't ask for better service from Gabriella Graham and Sydney Ford as my attorneys!

Divorce Attorney for Jeff Sutherland

★★★★★

I highly recommend the team at Lauren Taylor Law on Daniel Island! From our very first meeting, Gabriella made me feel supported, informed, and confident throughout the entire divorce process. She and Sydney were always available to answer my questions, explained every step clearly, and truly advocated for my best interests. Not only was the entire team of Gabriella, Sydney, and Rochelle incredibly knowledgeable and professional, but they were also compassionate and understanding during such a difficult time. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, I achieved a fair and favorable outcome. If you are looking for an attorney who genuinely cares and will fight for you, look no further!

Criminal Defense Lawyer for Haley Byrd

★★★★★

I was told by my ex that he thought we’d be “better off as friends.” in September 2024. At the time, I was going through probate for my dad’s estate. I asked the real estate attorney if she had any recommendations for a family court lawyer. She reached out to a Facebook group & LTL was the top recommended. So I filled out the online info form one night to see what my rights would be going through this divorce. Talking with Alex on the phone definitely made me nervous but after a big life changing event that expedited my need for an attorney to file, I met with Alex & was immediately at ease with her. She was kind & truly cared about me. Without Alex, I don’t think I’d be in such a good position after mediation. She has shown me what it’s like to take hold of your life after feeling like you have no control. She has empowered me not only as a woman but as a person. I seriously would not be the woman I am today if it weren’t for her. Thank you Alex for always being there for me & continuing to cheer me on in life. I couldn’t have gone through this chapter without you. She’s 10/10 would recommend. ????

Child Support Lawyer for Cameron Hyatt

★★★★★

This is my second time hiring Lauren Taylor Law, and my first time working with Alex, whom I am very grateful for as a client. She was so knowledgeable, patient, and exceedingly helpful to ensure my case was as smooth and straightforward as it could be. While I hope I don’t have need for a lawyer for a third time, I would happily go back to Lauren Taylor Law should I ever need to.

Child Custody Attorney for David McGuire

★★★★★

My wife and I recently worked with Lauren Taylor Law on a custody case regarding our four grandsons. Our Attorney (Alex Saindon) was exceptional! She is exceedingly bright and well versed in the law. She guided us through the process and clearly communicated our options and strengths of various positions. She communicates directly and with compassion. We HIGHLY recommend her!

Personal Injury Lawyer for Stephanie Foster

★★★★★

This group of amazing women walked me through one of the hardest experiences of my life. They were patient with me, well prepared and thoroughly explained everything so there were no surprises. They fought hard to make sure my future would be bright. I’m so grateful especially to Alex and Gabriella for representing me and being my voice. I highly recommend Lauren Taylor Law to anyone needing legal representation.

Family Law for Mesha

★★★★★

They were very caring and helped me get in to be able to understand the process because I was trying to do it on my own. I feel very confident and comfortable with them and I knew I was in good hands. They went above and beyond and I thank you so much and my lawyer was Alex S. Thank you, Alex and my divorce so easy and so rewarding.

Attorney for Anna Seel

★★★★★

This practice is very professional, efficient, and communicative. Alex was so easy to work with and quick to respond to any questions we had. We would highly recommend this practice and Alex!

Estate Planning for Nicole Abraham

★★★★★

Working with Alex has been such an amazing experience. She is kind, compassionate, extremely hard-working, and caring. Her work ethic is unmatched, and she consistently goes above and beyond for her clients. She knows what to say and how to say it when people are going through hard times. She is an incredible attorney, but also an incredible person. You can't get better than that!

Sexual Harassment Attorney for JAMES RUSTIN

★★★★★

They lady’s at this office are the best so knowledgeable and friendly and helpful. Gave me the greatest advice will definitely refer and continue to use best place in charleston

Lawyer for Zach

★★★★★

I couldn’t be more grateful to everyone at Lauren Taylor Law. Alex was amazing and explained every option so I could make the best decisions for me. The whole team was great and made a trying process much easier to manage, from setting up the initial consultation to walking me through next steps and reaching a conclusion I could be happy with moving forward.

Divorce Attorney for Mike M

★★★★★

I can’t say enough about these amazing women! Their communication throughout my case was incredible. I felt like I had a whole team of lawyers and was confident in this group from day 1. Their team approach played a large part in securing a very successful outcome. Thank you for everything!!

Criminal Defense Lawyer for Sherry Howard

★★★★★

I was listed as a witness for a friend of mine who was getting an annulment. These folks made us quite comfortable and it was done within minutes! Highly recommend you contact them!

Child Support Lawyer for Gary Smith

★★★★★

If you’re looking for a lawyer who truly cares about her clients and brings both heart and skill to the table, I wholeheartedly recommend Gabriella Graham.

Child Custody Attorney for Glenn Strovilas

★★★★★

After my mother‘s passing, I needed guidance on both family matters and setting up a new LLC. The council I received was incredibly helpful during a difficult time. The process of establishing a new business with smooth and efficient I would highly recommend this firm to anyone seeking reliable legal support.

Personal Injury Lawyer for Tim Conway

★★★★★

Incredibly professional service and representation

A Dog Bite Attorney in Westminster, SC, You Can Trust

If you are looking for a knowledgeable yet fearless dog bite attorney in South Carolina, Lauren Taylor Law is the firm you can trust. Our team of dog bite injury lawyers can help with every aspect of your dog bite case, from evidence gathering and witness interviews to negotiations and everything in between. Put simply, our dog bite attorneys aren't afraid to fight for the compensation you deserve, no matter how much pushback the insurance company gives you.

The damage a dog bite causes can result in a horrific experience no person should go through alone. We can make the recovery process easier for you and give you the attention and support you need to pick up the pieces. If you're ready to reclaim a normal life, we're here to help. It all begins with your initial consultation at our law offices in South Carolina. Contact Lauren Taylor Law today to get started today.

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West-Oak Football (2024) Schedule

Sign inWest-Oak WarriorsVarsity Football Westminster, SC392FollowersFollow24-25Overall4-8Region0-4 (5th)SC Rank1952024-25 V. FootballWest-Oak Football (2024) Schedule2024-25PrintOverall4-80.333 Win PctRegion0-45th AAA Region 1Home3-2Away1-6Neutral0-0PF183PA461Streak1W* Region** Playoffs*** TournamentDateOpponentResultGame Info8/23@...

West-Oak WarriorsVarsity Football Westminster, SC392Followers

24-25

Overall

4-8

Region

0-4 (5th)

SC Rank

195

2024-25 V. Football

West-Oak Football (2024) Schedule

2024-25

Overall4-80.333 Win Pct

Region0-45th AAA Region 1

Home3-2Away1-6Neutral0-0

PF183PA461Streak1W

* Region** Playoffs*** Tournament

Date	Opponent	Result	Game Info
8/23	@First Flight	W 12-6	Box Score
8/30	Non Varsity Opponent	W 63-14	Box Score
9/6	@Seneca	L 42-3	Box Score
9/13	@Franklin County	L 49-17	Box Score
9/20	@Landrum	L 48-0	Box Score
10/4	vsBelton-Honea Path*	L 55-6	Box Score
10/11	@Crescent*	L 56-7	Box Score
10/18	vsPendleton*	L 57-7	Box Score
10/25	@Walhalla*	L 62-0	Box Score
11/1	vsGreenville Hurricanes	W 26-3	Box Score
11/15	@Christ Church Episcopal**	L 42-2	Box Score
10/31	vsAnderson Christian	W 40-27	Box Score

PrintSchedule CorrectionScore CorrectionAll School Events

West-Oak High School 130 Warrior LnWestminster, SC 29693

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‘Goober’s a ham’: How this SC spaniel and owner stood out at the Westminster dog show

GEORGETOWN — The list of Grand Strand natives to make multiple appearances on the big stage of Madison Square Garden is a short one.Now add Goober the Sussex spaniel to that exclusive company.Following his appearance at the 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show's Feb. 2-3 Best in Show main event, owner Tara Darling-Lyon returned to Georgetown from New York City feeling like a proud parent while Goober stayed with his handler for a victory tour on the dog show circuit."He's the No. 1 Sussex spaniel in the coun...

GEORGETOWN — The list of Grand Strand natives to make multiple appearances on the big stage of Madison Square Garden is a short one.

Now add Goober the Sussex spaniel to that exclusive company.

Following his appearance at the 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show's Feb. 2-3 Best in Show main event, owner Tara Darling-Lyon returned to Georgetown from New York City feeling like a proud parent while Goober stayed with his handler for a victory tour on the dog show circuit.

"He's the No. 1 Sussex spaniel in the country for the second year," said Darling-Lyons, whose Tara Kennels has been breeding spaniels in Georgetown for 40 years. "A big part of it is Goober's attitude. He loves to show. He loves every aspect of it. He thinks of all the grooming as like a spa day."

Goober defended his Best of Breed title to represent the sporting class in the Best in Show at the historic Garden. Although he didn't win the overall award among the more than 2,500 qualifying dogs from over 200 breeds, Goober provided a highlight moment that elicited audible "awws" from the packed house.

Following Goober's moment in the spotlight to run around the arena, slow-motion replays on the Jumbotron showed his drooping face bouncing with each step, followed by a tongue lick that circled his entire nose. While some dogs are spooked by bright lights and crowd noise, he laps up the attention.

"He's a showman, for sure. He loves the crowd," said Darling-Lyon, who named him Whatchamacallit after the peanut-flavored candy bar but calls him Goober for his "goofy, sweet" personality.

"Goober's a ham. He thinks he's the king, and the crowd are his adoring people."

Darling-Lyon was his first fan, seeing something special in him even as a pup, and the dog show community agreed as Goober began to fetch a growing trophy collection. Now as a 5-year-old, reveling in the peak of his dog show days, Goober's resume includes a combined three Westminster Kennel Club and American Kennel Club Best of Breed championships and the title of Grand Champion Gold.

Despite Goober’s charming personality, Darling-Lyon said the criteria for judging is solely based on breed standards, a list of ideal traits and characteristics each dog must display. She also serves as a judge at dog shows and said Goober checks all the boxes of the bloodline's five Ls.

"Sussex spaniels should be long, low, level, liver-colored and have a lively tail, and Goober certainly has the last one in spades. He outwags every dog," she said. "They're almost the ideal dog because they're active when you want to be active or couch potatoes when you want to snuggle."

The Sussex spaniel has a flowing, feathery coat and a somber facial expression with sorrowful hazel eyes that defy its friendly temperament. In fact, the breed scores its highest marks for "affection with family" with five out of five stars, according to the American Kennel Club ratings.

Described by the AKC as "looking a bit like a cross between a cocker spaniel and a torpedo," the Sussex spaniel traces back to 18th century England, where pheasant hunters bred a small, sturdy bird dog to navigate the dense brush and hedgerows of the south coast countryside.

The result was a hunting dog and loyal companion described by the AKC as "placid, affectionate, even-tempered, true-blue, loyal … the Sussex Spaniel, a slow-but-steady hunter, and congenial housedog. His frowning expression is delightfully at odds with a typically cheerful nature."

While Goober is crossing the country for dog shows with handler Ingar Rismyhr, Darling-Lyon is bracing for a flood of interest in the breed following his appearance on the big stage. Winning at Westminster means traveling to dog shows as many as 180 times per year and a growing list of fans.

"It's huge for the Sussex spaniel," she said. "Westminster is different than every other dog show. There's a lot of prestige and pressure, so it's sort of like our Super Bowl. Every judge in the country is watching and sees who wins. It puts you on notice as the top dog."

Couple in their 70s found dead in South Carolina home

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