Out of the doghouse

Young Chang

FAIRGROUNDS -- Paco the Star Dog always knew how to jump, but he

wasn’t always the showstopper he is today.

His previous owners in Wichita, Kan., abused him badly, and he grew

accustomed to climbing up the fence and jumping down to freedom, said

Gary Noel, owner of the Doggies of the Wild West show.

Today, Paco jumps off 10-foot ladders and into Noel’s arms for each

show at the Orange County Fair in Costa Mesa. The rat terrier wears a

neckerchief that is either red, white, turquoise, black or pink -- it

changes to match his owner’s show attire -- and racing costumes made of

silk and labeled No. 12.

He’s reached stardom thanks to Noel’s philosophy of making stars out

of rescued pets, enjoying wild applause and affection from canine-lovers

who frequent fairs nationwide to witness Noel’s dogs center stage.

A company of eight performing dogs will put on shows three times a day

through July 29 at the Orange County Fairground’s Newport Arena, each

with their own talents.

“There’s nothing special about them. They’re just regular dogs, but

people love animals and the fact that they’re rescued dogs,” Noel said.

Princess Precious, a Boston bull terrier boxer mix, jumps rope and

plays dead.

Miss Prissy, a Chihuahua, balances on one paw on Noel’s thumb.

Dolly Barkin sings, Paco jumps off ladders, Pistol Peanuts balances on

his head, and Peppy walks on his hind legs.

“There are three things you need to train a dog,” Noel said. “Time,

patience, tender loving care, and -- oh you need four things -- dog

treats.”

Pistol Peanuts, a large Chihuahua, is another dog with a sad past.

Noel found him at a New Jersey vet having lost all of his hair because of

pesticides. Peanuts was in bad health, and no one was willing to adopt

him.

“But we took him and brought him back to health, and he’s been our

best dog,” Noel said.

Giovanna Cardella, Noel’s fiance and the show’s “silly sidekick,”

grooms each dog in the morning. Everyone gets bathed with a washcloth and

soap, brushed, adorned with neckerchiefs and whatever other accessory

might suit their act -- visors, helmets, cowboy hats, etc. -- and fed.

Each canine has performed for packed bleachers since the fair opened,

delighting especially the front-row haystack sitters who get the closest

-- and cushiest -- view.

“The best part of the show we’re performing is that we see all the

happiness we emit,” Cardella said. “It’s just great to see the love that

the people give back.”