Don is a former professional handler and is approved to judge all breeds. Don has been showing and breeding dogs since 1961. In addition to breeding Standard Smooth Dachshunds and Toy and Miniature Poodles, he has also owned and exhibited Whippets and Beagles. Since beginning his judging career, Mr. Fitzsimmons has adjudicated in Argentina, Australia, Bermuda, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Finland, Ireland, Slovenia, USA, and Venezuela. His wife, Patricia Fitzsimmons, is a licensed judge for Sporting, Hounds, Terriers, Toys, and Non-Sporting Groups.