This blog is dedicated to our beloved Royal pack.
Our leader, King, Our Precious Princess Molly. Our Darling Duchess Sammy and Our Sweetest Lady May.
Four sets of paws reunited over Rainbow Bridge.
They will Rule Forever more, in eternal peace and good health.
So sadly missed and so lovingly remembered.
Rainbow Bridge took some of our paws to reign over us from above this year. Play safe dear ones.
Although your physical bodies are no longer with us, we still feel your presence.
You are forever in our hearts.
Thanks to an extended pack of wonderful dogs we've carried on this year. We've had a few newcomers and we're so happy they've joined us.
At Royal K9 Korner it is our wish that every paw has a safe and wonderful holiday with their family.
When you sit down to your dinner this year, take a moment to think about the paws you have within your household.
Remember to take care of their needs as well. They don't understand what all the fuss is about. They only know how busy you've been. They love you and need you and trust you to be there for them to keep them safe. Through all the hectic times during the holidays, take a moment to bend down and stroke them. Look into their eyes, feel their heart, let it warm yours and smile.
If they are visiting us this holiday, we promise to do the same.
Let's watch those tails wag as they say, -
"Merry Christmas mommy and daddy. We Love You!"
From Maverick and Hazel
From Bentley, River and Mylu
From River and Lil Molly
From Hoss and Festus
Lady May and her Royal Highness Princess MollyDawg
There are just so many duties to take care of when the little Countess River visits. When there's only a few visitors present to entertain, you'd think there should be more time to relax and enjoy a quick "cat nap," NOPE! BOOM! That's when a feline will saunter atop the fence line! Time to zoom into action and guard that perimeter!
Come quickly! There's a cat on the hill!
Countess River has been kept busy doing all her duties. Has she had any time to rest her weary paws? Oh yes, she most certainly has. However, first this little darling will stand guard for us all day long. She may be little, but she makes up for her size in her attitude to defend. The little Countess has a very sharp, and high-pitched bark. There is no doubt when she has made a discovery and she will need me to tend to her attention immediately!
Go away birds! This is MY yard!
Other times The Countess wants to be left alone. If she sees you watching her, she will stroll around the grounds in a secretive manner. If you look closely, you'll see she has a toy in her mouth. She has a look about her that can best be described as looking very much like a little thief about to steal. She checks out corners and crevasses and chooses the very best place to tuck toys into. If you walk towards the place, she has just hidden a toy she will dash in front of you and take it away. She is so clever and so quick! She makes me laugh so hard. It's no wonder I get nothing else done during the day. Playing hide and seek with River and her stuffy is an all-day event!
Perfect! No one is watching!
I must be quick!
Not very concealed little one!
Sometimes they are so well buried it's hard to see them. You know they're there; you just must dig to retrieve them!
What are you talking about Mrs.? There's nothing buried there!
Trust me I can see it!
Toys are not only hidden outside in gardens and behind pots. Sometimes this sneaky little girl will find just the right place to hide them indoors. One of the best places is in the food storage area. I swear she knows; I patrol that area and thinks its the very best hiding place ever. No dogs are allowed to hang around in there. Thus, a strategically placed stuffy is absolutely safe.
Oh good grief found again!
Then off she goes to defend the house against all those sun spots and shiny reflections on the walls and floor. There is no rest until the toys are tucked safely away and the floors and walls are reflection safe zones.
Okay, I think the spot is clear now!
Only then will she scout out the best place to rest her dutiful bones.
There are just so many birds to ward off and toys to hide and shadows of who knows what to guard. My goodness when does the day ever end! You are a very good girl little Countess River and we thank you for being ever vigilant in keeping us safe and entertained. Rest well little one tomorrow is another day.
Yes! Christmas is just around the corner! We are fully booked up! There is no more room at the inn. We're setting out our safe displays and baking up a few batches of Hooman goodies! Most of our visitors right now have started on healthy eating habits so we're not even going to make Puppy cookies this year!
Lady May - "WHAT NO COOKIES!!" Lil Molly - "Fine we'll make our own!"
"Errmm, excuse me! This is not a chef's hat!"
I don't think yoor s'posed to lick the bowl first!"
If you booked your sweetie in for a visit during the next few weeks, be prepared. The Mrs. here has her camera ready! I even saw a box of red 'n green hooman things. If I recall right, we get manipulated into putting them on!
Maverick - "WAIT! Whaddya mean no cookies!??"
Lil Molly - "I know! We always get cookies when we have dress up days?"
River - "How's that gonna work this year??"
Maverick - " My dad said I CAN have COOOKIES!"
lil Molly - "Did he just get a cookie??!!"
River - "Im not chunky! That's just baby fat!"
We've brought down the boxes of decorations and we're sifting through to see what will adorn our tree this year.
Lady May, "Oh WOW We're gonna have a tree!! RrrrROOooo!"
Mommy-" Now, now, now! Don't get overly excited. I am not hauling out the great big tree this year! There is just too much going on. We'll have a look and see what we can find as a replacement. Just so we can have a little somewhere for SantaPaws to put the prezzies.
Lady May, "Santa PAWS?! Is he really going to come visit us at Royal K9 Korner??"
Well we certainly hope so! We know Santa Paws knows you've been very good little puppies!!
Hazel - "Fine! I'll wear them! I still think it's dumb!
Miss Mylu - We be bestest puppy dogs EVER!
Countess River- "Me watch doorway for him"
Santa Paws knows how good all the dogs have been this year sweet Mylu. He wont forget you. I'm not sure what entrance Santa will use his "Magic Key" this year dear little Countess River, but you can bet he'll find a safe place to leave your goodies. We have lots of time left before then. Lets just keep playing safe and having fun! Oh and lets hope for SNOW. We had a bit of a snow teaser the other day. It sure put the zoomies in our Princess MollyDawg. She was feeling really good that day!
We're setting our safe Tree Treasures aside for a few more days and boxing up a few of our unsafe things for the thrift shop. We've unwrapped the first box and admired them once again! Our dog safe ornaments are very special to us. They are all created by our good friend Penny and her mom and dad. Margaret and Hubert at Tree Treasures.com
We've been adding to our collection for quite a few years now. These safe wooden ornaments are made with the most amazing craftsmanship we have seen in a very long time! They are so intricately hand-painted with a high gloss heavy shellac coating! They are so beautiful! You really have to see them to appreciate them. We even have our very own personalized ones for our Royal family. We really encourage you to purchase your own gorgeous Tree Treasures . You will be thrilled and they are TOTALLY SAFE! Be sure to check out their web sites.
You can find them here at Tree Treasures Amazon as well as Tree Treasures Etsy
Our Marchioness lil Molly spent a few days with us over the weekend. It's not very often she's here alone any more. I tend to have to divide my attention, yet she has never complained.
She is such a wonderful girl.
Dec. 2019 lil Molly Marchioness
She can be bossy at times and tends to make sure others KNOW her rank and bow to it. If they don't they will receive the Royal "I IGNORE YOU" from her. Most do not want to be ignored by this little Marchioness. She is our onsite Royal exercise companion. It is with her that most receive their daily zoomies and ball time during their visits.
Although she's almost 11 yrs old now, she is always ready for a good game of 'chase me' and try to get my toys. She trys to be a very demanding girl at times. She'll give a very loud and clear "BARK, BARK, BARK!" to let me know it's time to throw the ball so GET WITH IT Mrs!! Mostly she's just a delightful ole girl who we absolutely LOVE!
She is dawning her crown of white with dignity and we always give her the respect she deserves.
"I'm NOT bossy! Get the ball!"
'lil Molly has been with us since she was just 8 weeks old. I don’t know where the time has flown. She was taught how to ruff and tumble and how to be calm and polite from The Best! She has seen the happy times, the sad times and the struggles we've gone through. She was bestowed her title as one of the "peers of the realm" by her loyalty to the crown.
2009 - King teaches lil Molly how to be tuff but fair
2009 Princess MollyDawg teaches lil Molly the value of sharing toys
Today one of The Marchioness' roles is to meet 'n greet the new comers. Sooner or later everyone visits with her. As our longest standing visitor to Royal K9 Korner it is important that everyone is comfortable visiting with her.
We want them to get to know the loving sweetheart she truly is.Once a visitor is in her 'goodbooks' they're friends for life!
We're so happy you joined out realm sweetie pie. You keep a smile on our face and a spring in our step! Stay healthy, stay happy and keep visiting us often. We miss you when you're away. "Who is Lil Molly?"
A little shy at times there dear one?
The Marchioness lil Molly and Her Majesty Lady May enjoy a Royal afternoon nap
We can always tell when lil Molly is fast asleep. Just watch the paw.
The Marchioness lil Molly - "Just DONT TOUCH MY toys and we'll be fine!
Over the weekend, we had a surprise visit from our young 2 yr old Marquis de Maverick. We were happy because the very next morning our new 2.5 yr old visitor, Miss Sadie was scheduled to spend the day with us. Their meeting went over without a hitch. They seemed to fall in love at first sight.
Sadie, "Hi, Im Sadie. Wanna be my friend?"
We did our usual indoor getting to know each other. Maverick came to me several times asking if it was time to go run in the yard yet. I knew full well, if I let them outside to early, 'The Marquis' would be raring to go and get hooked into zoomies before he had a chance to fully meet the more mellow Miss Sadie. There was plenty of toys and lots of room for floor play. I sat back and let them entertain me with their affectionate play. My goodness these two really hit a soft spot in my heart.
Okay, We're ready now. Can we go outside to play?
I watched and listened to Sadie for when she was ready to head outdoors. She's still getting to know me and it took her a little while to come and ask. By mid morning she was ready to go with her new found friend. We woke up the lazy Royal Ladies and gathered up a few choice toys and out we went.
The weather was cooperative so we were able to stay outdoors for a good length of time. I decided to clean up the burning barrel wood pile. Over the course of the year it's been growing and becoming a wood chew toy pile for the dogs. I don't mind some of it being used as chew toys, but I'm particular about what's safe to be chewed. It needed to be done and this was the perfect day.
Of course for most of the day I was without a camera so I missed the most precious photos ever. Like when they each shared a stick from the burning pile. They were absolutely so cute. They lay side by side and chewed their own pear branch stick. Every few minutes or so they literally nuzzled the other, and then switched sticks. OMdawG! They made me giggle. They were so much fun to watch, I almost forgot to tend my burning barrel. Good thing our daddy was home to help tend it for me. Thank you Daddy!
Sadie sits and watches while Maverick zooms around the yard with his favourite little green squeakie ball.
Maverick,"Does my head look okay Sadie?"
These two snuggled and played so nicely all day long together. Whether it was doing zoomies in the yard or sharing toys on the mat. Maverick was a true gentleman. Even when Miss Sadie tired a bit quicker than he, Mav. was content just to zoom around the yard after his chosen toys while she rested. I hope there's many more times for these two to play together. They are an absolute delight to have.
Thanks for visiting Miss Sadie and Maverick!
At Royal K9 Korner we know staying over night can be stressful to some dogs and their parents.We want to create an opportunity for new comers to feel comfortable when they have no choice in needing daycare. We love trial sleep overs.It makes the adjustment much easier when the day comes that mom and dad must leave town. Not everyone who visits has that opportunity and we certainly accommodate those, but we sure recommend it!
"The Bernie Brothers" Hoss & Festus had a sleep over.
Hoss,"When are mom and dad
coming back?
We were thrilled their mom and dad agreed to it. These two "brothers" were a delight to have over night.We knew they weren't sure of all the evening routines, yet they accepted my leadership and happily complied. We spent time checking out rooms and sleeping areas. Even though they've visited before, end of day is so different. Things are winding down and tummies are empty. Regular playtime is over. It's a time to get ready for the evening and show where sleep time will be and the all important, where is my food bowl?
Hoss & Festus arrived later in the day and were already in relaxation mode.They came in, said their 'Hellos' to The Royals, and did the usual walk through checking important things out. Like toys! They each had a drink of water and then were eager to find their designated eating spot.I like to show them where their bowls are before its time to eat as a reassurance.
Don't worry boys, your mom remembered your food.
We gave Lady May ample opportunities to stay in a safe area. Although she's already met the boys, it took her awhile again, to gain her confidence around them. They are big boys and she is not stable on her feet.
Lady May makes a quick retreat to a safety area.
Festus,"Hey! Look, mom packed our food too?"
Once they know their bowls are in place it's easier to have a bit of quiet time.After dinner, Hoss was sure to let me know, there should be a treat. Yes, you're right Hoss, mom packed it for you.I love when dogs can tell me there is a routine they're used to. One that I should follow. I also love when moms and dads give me that information in advance. It makes for no guessing what that "thing" is.I promise, boys, I won't forget your treats.You sure deserve it. Besides it keeps your teeth healthy and your breath fresh!
Hoss crunching his after-dinner teeth cleaning treat
He chooses to be separate from his brother during treat time. Smart boy!
When all the mats and quilts had been tested, each found one comfy enough for a little after dinner rest. Another important time for social bonding.I always watch for any beginning signs of anxiety or a lack of relaxation. Festus was ready to have a bit of quiet time. He happily searched the toys for a good after dinner chew and quickly relaxed. Hoss was not so sure he really wanted to be here and asked to go out to see if mom and dad were coming back yet.We took a few walks round the yard and checked out the gates. With some words of reassurance and cuddles, he decided mom and dad weren't coming back yet. Hoss was ready to head back indoors for quiet time.
After a deep sigh we knew Hoss was settling and would be okay
Hoss is a very loving boy with clear signals that make it easy to understand him. He really didn’t want to be here but agreed to try it out.We had lots of cuddle time and it didn’t take him long to show he was relaxed enough to stay and soon would be ready to sleep.Good Boy Hoss. I know it's difficult for you. You can do this!
It was almost bed time before Lady May felt confident enough to allow the boys to lay beside her.Hoss was a true gentleman and gave her the space she needed. Even though Festus is still a puppy, he was able to recognize her insecurity and responded accordingly to her social cues. Well done puppy Festus. You're a very good boy.
Lady May, "Gee mom, do we have to have boys here?"
When bedtime rolled around, we sauntered outdoors for a last piddle and then headed downstairs for the night.Festus walked straight into the bedroom and chose his spot. Hoss was a little more reluctant about the sleepover. He headed for the stairs and looked back at me as if to say, "Ummm lady? I think I want my mom now, okay?" We went outside one more time to check the gates and then back downstairs. I took some time to cuddle him and reassure him he was safe here and redirected him back to the sleeping areas. This time he walked into the bedroom and chose a mat at the foot of the bed and circled into a spot. Good boy Hoss.
Hoss, "Okay, I'll stay. I hope mom and dad don't forget me"
I believe its important to give new over night visitors a bit of reassurance without over indulging.I need them to know there is no reason to worry. I use a calm "matter of fact" voice and gestures to show we are going to sleep now. New comers need to choose a spot. I don't allow dogs to sit by the door or pace.That is a clear sign of anxiety and shows they are not ready for bedtime. I want to squash that immediately with redirection and sometimes another walk around the yard before bedtime. It can be difficult for some dogs to understand mom and dad are not coming back yet. Everything we do between after dinner and bedtime is setting up for this moment. By sleep time I want visitors to be relaxed enough to have a good nights rest. I keep a soft night light with me so I can watch to see that they're relaxing enough to fall asleep.
Fortunately, these two beautiful boys settled easily. They were ready to sleep. They had chosen a temporary spot and moved to different places through out the night. Each one of them left the bedside mats to lay in a cooler place. That's good info for me to have for their next sleep over. I'll be sure to have a more accommodating light weight mat positioned for them. Thank you, boys.
The Bernie Brothers, Fast Asleep (Yes, that's The Princess in the background, now wearing her BIG cone.)
By the time the morning came, they were well rested and more comfortable with our eating routine and fell into step for breakfast like perfect gentlemen.
Hoss, "Hey Mrs, Where's my breakie?"
It wasn't long before they were ready for mom and dad to pick them up to have a wonderful day together. They knew it was time to go and they still complied to my request for calm before mom opened the door to greet them. They were so good!!
Pssst, hey bro? I think I hear mom and dad!
I believe these two fellas are ready and will be comfortable to the fullest when they need to return.I sure hope mom and dad had as restful a night during their boys' absence. Thank you for allowing them to have this opportunity!
These gentlemen will be visiting us again near the end of Dec
We are looking forward to their stay. Thanks for visiting boys. You were very good!!
We have 6 month old little Hazel staying with us. She is such a sweetie. She's keeping us on our toes every day all day long. True to puppy nature, she's checking out everything that moves and most of those wonderful things that don’t. In the house we keep all doors closed and the gates stay in place. Everything is up beyond her reach and we're moved any wooden furniture she might find interesting.
She is as quick as a bunny and will reach for things she thinks look like fun. She has found my shoes and dish towels a few times. Fortunately, she's very good at showing you that she has them and is compliant about trading them. She drops them like an obedient little girl. Thank you, Hazel. It's very hard not to laugh at her. She has such an expressive little face.
Hazel loves to help with the dishes
Outdoors she loves things that are easy to catch and so much fun to chew on. Our wood pile is one of her favourite places to investigate. She also loves twigs, leaves, raspberry canes, rope, cardboard and most of all, her lead, if you're not watching. Yes, we've put her back on lead for a few times a day.
Hazel is so enthralled with the fun things in the yard, she's choosing not to come when called. Oh, dear Missy, if you don’t come, you will be on lead. Yep you guessed it, we're working on leash skills and recall.
Hazel,"How come I have to wear a halter and they dont?"
In the mean time Hazel is delighting us with all her silly puppy antics. One of our favourites is her love of being under the couch. At first, it was a game of throw my toys under and have fun retrieving them. Now it seems it's a cozy, warm and private place for her to keep her toys and rest. We know Hazel will be a big girl when she's grown, how much longer she'll fit is anyone's guess. For now, we giggle at her and enjoy the games.
Hazel, "I think I lost a toy under here"
Guess Who?
Hazel has also decided that she wants to be a crate puppy. As soon as one of the crates are vacant, she snaps it up and has a wonderful restful sleep. She's taken a shine to Lady May and will often choose a crate close to her. Or saddle up as close to her as she can get.
Lady May, "Will you hurry and lay down please. Im tired!"
Crashed but staying close to any possible action
Sleep well girls. See you in the morning.
We know that Hazel's mommy and daddy miss her very much. I've been trying to capture some video of her to send them. The problem with that is, I can NOT be taking pictures while this little girl is playing about. She is a PUPPY after all! I've pulled a few things out of her mouth several times. So I'm discovering that most of my pictures are of her asleep lol
Oh good grief! How boring is that?
I'll continue to try in between my laughs. She is with us for a few more days, so hopefully more videos will be possible. You can visit her Facebook album. Here - Hazel's Facebook Album.
I'll try to get more posted asap.
