Playdays for the 'Monkey Girls'

We went from a calm relaxed few days to a zoom filled romping day over night. Young Khione and Miss Sadie have been waiting patiently for a play-day for quite some time. My calendar has been full and there hasn't been an opportunity to fit them in. Finally I was able to say, "Yes, come on over!" There was only Sage visiting that day and it would be a great chance for her to burn some energy.

Yes, such lovely and sweet little Monkeys. Don't be fooled by a still photo.

 

Hey, if you're going to race, be careful. I'll be referee."

Miss Sadie happy to announce she won the race to the mat
Khione - "Ya, well, I let her win!"

Sage, "Hey, look what I found"

Speaking of finding things. Sage has created a new game. I think she learned it from our previous visitor Miss Hazel. I'm sure everyone recalls how Hazel spent so much time under the chair. Well here's another giggle for you.

What this short video doesn't show, is how Sadie girl steps in from time to time to make sure this play doesn't get out of hand. Although Sadie has never had puppies, and she is only a few years older than these girls, she behaves very much like a matron to these youngsters.  Many times Sadie is laying on the sidelines of their play, watching. She seems to provide a safety zone for Khione to go for a timeout.
Good girl Sadie!  We're sure happy you keep the play safe here.

Khione - "Thank you Sadie. I needed a break"

Sadie - "Is everything alright here?"
Khione - "Yep, I almost have her."

Sage - "Do we really have to nap now?"
Khione - "Yes, Sadie said so"

Shhhhhh It's quiet time.

Sage - "I'm positive we've already had quiet time."

We had a really wonderful day. The sun was shining and actually giving some warmth to the ground. We were able to come and go inside and out with out being soaked.
Thank you Sadie and Khione's moms for being so patient while we found a day to accommodate
these three little monkeys.

We hope you can all come back again soon

So Long Diesel. Stay Safe Boy.

Diesel sporting his
new bowtie & RK9K tag

Diesel went back with his dad a few days ago. I know he must be over the moon with happiness. Diesel was an exceptional boy while he visited but it was obvious how much he really wanted to be with his dad. Sometimes, even though they may have to endure a bit of discomfort, the best place for our companion is by our side. By the end of the 5th day, Diesel was beginning to settle into daycare very well. He opened up to the other dogs in care and began searching through the toys. His tail began to wag more often, and he no longer shadowed me. He was relaxed enough to seek out more areas in the yard on his own and came running back when I called him. He is a very, calm, and loving boy. He accepted my ear scrunches and gentle stroking of his silky coat. He placed his head on my lap often and just sighed. There were so many times I would see him stand and watch longingly out the gate and see those same deep sighs. The way his chest heaved, and his ears perked up when a similar sounding vehicle to his dads drove by. His almost silent whines and wide eyes, they touched my heart. I knew what he wanted most of all, but I couldn't give it to him. Diesel is so loyal and devoted to his dad. They have been side by side since puppyhood, for 9 years. His dad placed him with us because he knew it was a temporary safer environment for his buddy. Finally, dad said Diesel could safely be back with him. I know Diesel has to remain in the truck while dad works but I also know Diesel would much rather do that and see his dad out the window. He'd had a few days here with running and stretching his legs and meeting others. He was ready to be back with dad.

Of all the toys in the bins, Diesel chooses a Kong. Smart boy.
Off we go to stuff it.

Little Sage - relaxed by Diesel's calmness

Diesel enjoys a peanut butter oatmeal stuffed Kong.

Really, honestly, I'm just warming it for the daddy
(sigh)

Thank you for visiting us! You are ever welcome here Diesel. I hope we have an opportunity to be together again one day. Stay safe big buddy!

Shanti & Bentley and Two New Boys

Shanti and her mom and dad safely arrived back to their home last Saturday! Whew, what a scary time they had. We were happy to be able to accommodate their precious little 10-year-old bulldog mix, Shanti, while they stayed elsewhere in town. Shanti and her Mom and Dad say, "Thank-you for the generosity and hospitality of  the Lillooet Community!"
They will visit our town again on brighter days.  We will gladly welcome them again with open arms!

During Shanti's visit with us she had the opportunity to spend one day with Sir Bentley. 'Our' Sir Bentley is a very social happy 3 yr. old Border Collie cross. It was no surprise when he met Shanti with a smile, full of energy and ready to play. Shanti was happy to meet Bentley though she seemed a bit hesitant. Bentley is very good at reading/listening to other dog friends. He was bursting to zoom with her, but he allowed Shanti some space to feel safer with him. What a good boy Bentley! I had to laugh at their indoors toy play time together. Shanti had already been here 3 days by then and already 'claimed' a few toys as her own. Bentley has a few he likes to play with when he visits as well. It so happened that one of his favs was on Shanti's mat. He kept looking at me as if to say," She has my fav toy! Am I allowed to take it back? Of course, Bentley would never do that. He simply waits for her to release it or just goes to find another. Believe me there's loads to choose from.

She chooses just the right toy and happily brings it back to her mat to play with.

By the time Bentley arrived she had already laid claim to quite a few.

Bentley - "I think I'll let her have that one."

Bentley - "The purple chewy dumbbell is my favourite but I'm sharing with Shanti."

You ARE such a good boy Bentley.
Thank you for visiting us and making Shanti feel welcome to our extended Pack.

Welcome 14 month old Henry!

The day Shanti and her family left we had a Meet & Greet with Henry!  His mom texted me back in July asking for one after he was neutered in Sept. He's been waiting, and we finally had an opportunity to welcome him.  Thank you for your patience mom!

Henry is a mixed breed hound/lab/retriever with a super exuberant personality. His nose and his booming voice fit his breeding and his energy fits his age. We weren't able to do a safe full meeting between him and Lady May just yet. They only met briefly with a gate between them. His excitement with his new surroundings and all the doggy smells of our house were just too much for his sensitive senses. Henry is currently booked to begin training sessions soon. He'll be spending this weekend with us. I better get my sleep! I already know he's going to test my energy against his. We welcome you into our pack Henry.
You really have a wonderful personality!

Welcome 9 year old Diesel!

The very next day we had an unexpected drop in visitor from Diesel, a 9 year old purebred Red Bone Coonhound and his dad. They currently hail from Kamloops, but his dad is among those working on the railway slide just outside of the Lytton area.  Diesel has been on the job-site with his dad for the last week. He's not had much time to just be a dog. Much of his time has been in the truck so dad could keep him safe.  Diesel has been a very good boy on the job site but dad knew it was best for Diesel to be in a daycare where he would have more freedom to stretch his legs and sleep better at night. Thanks to a Google search, dad found us!
To borrow a coined expression from a the past. "How Cool is that?"

Diesel warms my heart when I hear his beautiful voice. He brings back memories of our Duchess Sammy and her beautiful howls.We're not sure how long Diesel will spend his days with us. He sure is a wonderful boy and true to his breed. Even-tempered, mellow, and kindly. He's spending time during the day with little Sage. The polar opposites!  Such a fun week!

Little Sage and her mom have been out of town for a few weeks. We are happy to Welcome them both back. Lady My was actually quite pleased to see Sage again. I laughed at Sage's funny little submission behaviours. She is just so 'damn' cute!

Hi Lady May! Did you miss me?"

"Hi Big Red Dog! I think I love you"

Try as she may, Sage could not entice The Big Red dog to play. Diesel was very much interested in who might be driving by. At one point while I was throwing the ball for Sage, he decided to join in the chase but quickly resumed his vigil. Sage just sat on the hill above him in confusion. I'm sure he'll join in sooner or later Sage. We just have to give him some time sweetie. 

Sage - "Why you not chasing me big dog?
Look I have the ball"

Sage - "I'm showing him how to sit nice for cookies, right Lady?
I should get double. Right?"

Today little Suzy Q joined us for the day. We played outdoors and everyone helped me rake more leaves while we waited for Sage to arrive. Well everyone stayed outdoors with me, but no one really helped!  What a job! Why didn't I buy that leaf raker last year? (Oh ya we bought 'Cora') {sigh}

Suzy Q - "Gramma, you better get back to those leaves.
It might snow soon"

Soon Sweet Sage arrived and I was able to take a break! Oh Goodie! Thank you little Sage.
It must be cookie time. Diesel shows little to no interest in the girls. What a great way to gain their respect. Even the usual over the top silliness of little Sage was subdued this morning. Thus I am sitting down to do some writing! I better quit while Im ahead. Let's see if the calm holds out long enough for me to get some photos posted to Facebook!
Stay safe everyone! Please don't travel unless it's essential!

Yay! More cookies! Smile everyone!

Shanti Meets Koda and Bentley

 Shanti had plenty of time to get used to our yard and all the toys. Koda wasn't due to arrive until just after1 pm. It was a perfect relaxed day for her and she made good use of it to investigate every inch. At first she stayed close by Lady May, but soon wandered off further.

Lady May - "Im just going to relax here in the grass Shanti. You can go play if you want to"

Wow, this is kinda like an adventure for me. So many sights so many smells!

I found a ball here! I wonder who left it here?

The strawberries are covered for the winter so she wasn't able to try them out but she did get a good snuffle in them. I missed that picture! Drat!

I think I can smell some of that wonderful white stuff.

I tagged along behind as her curiosity diminished. She made her way back to the basement door mat. She sat her little bottom down on the heated mat and just smelled the cool air for a while. Such a little darling. She knew where to head back when she had enough outdoor time. So in we went and cozied on a mat in between toy time and lunch time. 

I really like these tuff chew toys! I have to tell my dad to buy me some!

Soon it was time for Koda to arrive. I was glad I had spent ample time with Lady May and Shanti.  I knew Koda (read Koda's M&G here) would be worried when his dad left him alone. Day care is very new to him and this would be a big challenge for him.  I made sure to put a good sized halter on him for safety. You all know how much I despise tugging on a dogs collar. Dad was wonderful and agreed to do a walk around the yard together with Koda before he left.  I believe it gives an added bit of peace of mind and to feel safer. Having dad stay a bit longer was good in an effort to make being left, less stressful. Leaving when a dog is calm is so much easier on them and us. More so than having them frantically tugging and crying at the gate. We walked with Dad walked back to the gate. Dad said, "See ya buddy. You stay" and off he drove.  Koda watched in silence. What a hard thing, but what a good boy! We spent awhile outdoors alone before going in to meet Shanti and reintroduce Lady May.

Did I hear my dad's truck??

Okay I'll check out the yard and smells here but I'm listening for dad.

Koda - "I'm still watching and listening for my dad though."

For the first while, as expected Koda became more worried. He really wanted to stand by the gate and watch. I always allow some time for them to pine their mom and dad. Then I step in and redirect and distract them away. A dog will continue to watch and they tend to get themselves into a state of heavy anxiety if allowed to go on.  Even though Koda really didn't want to leave the gate, he did comply when I used my knee to gently push him into the direction away from the gate. He was hesitant when I tugged on the halter but slowly allowed himself to be redirected to the house. Then he walked with a loose lead. It was time to go indoors where there was more distractions and less opportunity to see the road. He even settled enough to relax on the porch with Lady May It didn't take long for that to be too much for him. Seeing people coming and going and cars on the road I put up my doorway gate and had him stay indoors. He still could look out but his vision was limited. Slowly, minute by minute we went through the day.

Koda- "Oh good I can see the gate"

Shanti was very excited to meet a new dog and had trouble remaining calm enough to allow for free time together with Koda in his current state of concern. He stood politely still and allowed a greeting by Shanti. When it was time to reciprocate the 'hello' Shanti moved just a bit to fast and scared Koda. I see no reason to introduce dogs further when the possibility of them having to be buddies is pretty much zilch in the future. So up went my barrier fence and the day progressed in safe separation.  Walking on lead back and forth, every so often. Making sure each one passed the other on lead a little closer, always a safe distance between, but close enough to touch noses or body when they seemed ready.  One in each yard with a fence separating them and always on lead.  Koda relaxed well enough for the better part of the afternoon. I even dropped the gates for a short time.

"Shanti - "But I only want to play with you!"
Koda - "Yes, I know, but I'm not ready!"

Shanti obligingly staying comfy in a gated off area while Koda stretches to relax.

Shanti decided she may as well nap in the crate if she's going to be here anyway.

Koda made it through the first 3 1/2 hours with loads of cuddles and ear scrunchies, belly rubs and bum rubs. We brushed his back end and scratched his shoulders and head and neck for him. We had a few cookies. We had a calm play afternoon full of redirection and distractions. Koda had his fill of us and was more determined to get home by the time 4:30 came around. He saw a car across the street that may have reminded him of his own. He wanted home NOW! I could feel his desperation and texted mom and dad like we had agreed earlier. Koda's mom came to pick him up and he was over the moon.

Is my mom coming to get me now?

Yes, Koda, mom is on her way. We'll do another short day, soon for you buddy. You're a very good boy and I look forward to another visit with you.  Thank you for your patience with us today buddy!

Shanti and Lady May are gaining more comfort with each other. Its so cute to see little Shanti cozy up beside her. They sleep like angels at night and have a renewed energy for the morning.
Good thing.
The next day it was Bentley's turn to meet Shanti.

After Koda went home Shanti and Lady May crashed.
Using mental energy is tiring as well as physical.

Get some sleep sweeties. Tomorrow is another big day.

Snow arrived and Shanti had a great play day with Bentley!

I'll post their day soon!

Koda's Meet and Greet and Welcome little Shanti

12-year-old back country boy Koda is a home boy and is always by his mom or dad's side. 

He had a very unfortunate run in with a car last summer. Today he has recovered but now has some pain/discomfort in his hind end. Koda is on pain management meds and happily seems to be doing very well. Although now, he can no longer manage the day to day in and out car rides and can't be left at home while mom and dad are at work. He needs to be in a safe place a few days a week.
Enter Royal K9 Korner Daycare.
When Koda came up the stairway to our yard he seemed eager but skeptical. He is a very smart boy and watches every move his mom makes. He seemed quite interested in checking out  the doggy smells in the yard but stuck right by his mom's side. He seemed very happy and when something really captured his interest he made sure not to miss it. As mom and I strolled around the yard Koda was right there. If mom was a few feet away, he would glace over several times to make sure there was very little distance.  If I could read minds I would guess he knew something was up and wanted to stay on top of whatever it was.
There was absolutely no issues when it was time to introduce Lady May and little Suzy Q
They greeted each other politely and were ready to head out to the yard. Cool, that was easy peasy!

Suzy Q - "Okay, this is boring. Now what?"

Koda's mom and I discussed the best day for a trial visit. She explained his degree of separation anxiety and we set up the best way to help this boy get used to daycare.  Further into his visit with his mom he was happy to relax and easily allowed my touches and shows of affection towards him. His temperament was easy going with a calm demeanour.  He laid comfortable on the floor beside mom while we completed paperwork  and decided the very next day would best for him to come for a 4 hour previsit. Mom and dad would be easily available if it was too difficult for Koda to stay with out them and no other daycare visitors were scheduled for that day. Set!  We'll see you tomorrow Koda!
Off they went and we carried on with the rest of our day. 

10 year old bulldog mix Shanti
arrived in her winter coat at 9:30 pm

As we were getting ready for bed that night, my phone went off but I decided it was too late for business phone calls and I would leave it till the morning. It went off two more times within a few minutes and then went to a text message. I could not let it go without checking into it. I'm so glad I did. The caller turned out to be a lady who was desperately looking for a safe and warm place for her little bulldog to stay. She and her hubby had spent the last night sleeping in their car after being stuck behind a mudslide trying to make it back home to Vancouver. They had just travelled through the town of Merritt in disbelief and alarm. They had made it to our town but could not go any further due to more road closures. The next day they found a B&B but it was not dog friendly. She was worried about her little Shanti spending time alone or being in the car over night again! Well! My heart was opened and so was my door.
Enter little Shanti.
After filling out an application and going through a shortened version of a M&G mom left with a smile  and little Shanti wiggled her way into our hearts.  Lady May was too sleepy to do any serious introduction but accepted Shanti's presence with ease.
Such a good girl Lady May!

10 year old Shanti took a few minutes to feel comfortable enough to eat.
Soon she gobbled her dinner and settled in for the night.

As per all newcomers to RK9Korner, Shanti was fitted for a halter before we took her out for her final piddle.  She was quick to find her 'spot' and headed straight to the door to be cozy and warm again. Her mom had thoughtfully brought Shanti's blanket so settling was easy for her that night.

Do you mean I'm staying over night here tonight?

Yep, you are little girl. As soon as you're completely relaxed we'll tuck you into bed.

Sweet dreams Shanti. See you in the morning

We never heard a peep from her all night long. Well, okay. That's not exactly true. This little girl has a very big snore going on! It's common for her breed and we just giggled.  When Lady May woke the next morning, Shanti followed her routine and was ready to head out for her morning ritual.
She fell into step with having to wait for me to get my boots and coat on and waited with Lady May like a little doll.

I dunno what's goin' on but I hope it involves a potty break"

When her morning business was complete she headed straight back to the door she had exited and waited patiently on the heated mat. No body had to tell her twice where the warm spot was.
SO darn cute!  Thank you HeatTrack for my heated snow mats. Yay, no slipping first thing in the morning. Every entrance to our home is now has snow/ice free.
BONUS - They keep a water bucket from freezing. I know! Great eh?

Yay, I can wait till your ready to go in now my bottom is warm.

Being a senior has its advantages when it comes to using past knowledge. Shanti knew to follow Lady May's lead when it was time for breakfast.

Oh, okay. I get it. We wait here until that lady gives us our bowls. Cool. I can do that!

I'm having fun getting to know Shanti and her funny little quirks. I was happy her mom and dad and had her bundled up in a snow coat. She's far to little with to light a coat of her own to keep warm in our dropping temps. Fortunately The rain had stopped. I could see the sky filling with snow clouds. I tried to keep my mind on the dogs and not let it wander to those who had been trapped in the mudslides on the hwys of BC. My heart goes out to all those lost and the families in grief through this troubling time.
Shanti was good for my soul this day. She certainly loves the snow! Of course! Here's a little video of her first play with us. It was difficult to capture her little zoomies. Being cooped up in a car for the length of time she was she was very anxious for me to throw a toy for her.
I think she's enjoying herself. What do you think? With the sky threatening snow, the temp had warmed up enough for Shanti to play outdoors with out her coat. We kept a safety halter on her as per our norm. I need to have quick access to newcomers and I dont believe in tugging on neck collars. Shanti didn't seem to mind it at all. Good Girl Shanti.

Oh I can see the road from here! Maybe mom will come to play with me.

Her mom and dad did come to play with her!  As a matter of fact they came and picked her up to be with them for a while the next day. Shanti's little tail wiggled wildly. What a good mom and  dad.
For today she had another buddy to meet. 12 yr old Koda was on his way for his trial day. I had no idea little Shanti would be here today. She seems to be a well adjusted girl and I know my abilities with anxious dogs. So I set my sights on preparing the house for the possible separation I may need.
I told Lady May and she was ready!
Come on over Koda. We're ready for you

Sweet Shanti and Lady May wait for Koda to arrive.