Owner Marina Khenkina has defended American handler Rebecca Cross . The handler picked up Scottish terrier Knopa by its neck and tail at auction . Almost - outraged animal - lovers sued for Cross to lose her title . But Moscow breeder Khenkina said it 's legitimate to grab a terrier by its tail . She said those who sign the contract know nothing about the dog breed . Khenkina also dismissed jokes that Russia was involved in mercury poisoning .
Owner Marina Khenkina has defended American handler Rebecca Cross . The handler picked up Scottish terrier Knopa by its neck and tail at Crufts . Almost 200,000 outraged animal-lovers called for Cross to lose her title . But Moscow breeder Khenkina said it's legitimate to grab a terrier by its tail . She claims those who sign the petition know nothing about the dog breed . Khenkina also dismissed jokes that Russia was involved in dog poisoning .