Contest rules
This section provides an overview of the contest rules and explains what participating in the contest entails.
Description for each Title
Florida Puppy
The Florida Puppy Contest shall be restricted to any human that identifies as a canine.
Judging/Scoring System
A panel of five (5) judges representing different aspects of the community will score 5 categories. Florida Puppy/Pet/Hander Contest will be using an Olympic scoring system, the highest and lowest score from each category will be dropped and in the event of a tie, these scores will be added back in. The contestant whose aggregate score is the highest will be declared the winner.
The contestant whose scores the second highest will be first runner up. In the event of a tie under the Olympic scoring system, or in the event of a dispute of the final tally, one final question will be asked from each contestant to be able to determine the winner.
Each contestant agrees to be present at the contest locations at the scheduled start time of all categories, it is highly recommended contestants arrive earlier than category start times. Showing up late to any of the events during the contest will result in a loss of 10% of the score of that portion.
Further you agree to appear on stage and that the presentation will/may be recorded in photographic or other media form and may be displayed on websites and/or promotional materials for Florida Puppy and Pet Weekend. Any hood requirements will be honored but must be made known to the producers at the beginning of the contest.
Contest Categories
Meet and Greet (maximum 50 points, up to 10 points per judge. Bonus up to 10 points.):
Each contestant is required to meet with each judge during meet and greet. They are to present themselves as contestants and have conversations with the judges at their leisure. Contestants are not judged on conversations but are awarded 10 points for each judge they speak with at meet and greet. Additionally, there will be five random plants in the crowd at meet and greet who are each worth a bonus of 2 points totaling 10 bonus points.
On stage question (maximum 50 points, up to 10 points per judge):
Each contestant will draw a random question from a pool. First will be a serious question followed by the second being a fun question. They will be given time to read the question to themselves, then the emcee will read it aloud. The contestant will answer the question and move to the next when both questions are answered.
Interview (maximum 300 points, up to 60 points per judge):
Each contestant will meet with the judging panel in private to answer questions about the contestant’s interest in human puppies/pets, fetishes, knowledge, willingness and ability to represent the title. Interviews will last no longer than 15 minutes each, therefore it is important to listen to the questions being asked by the judges and respond in a concise and complete manner so that all the judges have a chance to ask questions of the contestant. If the judges would like to know more, they may ask for additional information.
Speech (maximum 150 points, up to 30 points per judge):
You will be given 2 minutes for your speech. The Time Keeper will not stop you after that 2-minute limit so if you go over there is a 10% deduction from the total speech category which will be deducted by the tally master. Keep your speech short and to the point, speak about what you are passionate about, but you want to ensure the audience knows what you are talking about as well as the judges. If you choose to wear a hood please make sure you are comfortable talking through the mouthpiece and that others will be able to understand you.
Play/Scene (maximum 150 points, up to 30 points per judge):
Each contestant will have the choice of either option listed below:
1) Scene: The contestant will present a scene in which they are able to express themselves best as a Puppy, Pet, or Handler. Judging in the category is based on a contestant’s creativity, knowledge of safe play practices and spontaneity.
2) Play: Each contestant will enter the stage and select one mystery bag from local shopping destinations. Inside each bag are several items, which the contestant must find some creative use in their scene. Judging in the category is based on a contestant’s creativity, knowledge of safe play practices and spontaneity. You will be accompanied by the Den Parent to help you if requested.
