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.

Mid November Slides in!

November arrived with a blue sky and mild temperatures. We were outside most days and the dogs still played and rolled in the green grass. It wasn't long after that the sky changed and gave us fair warning of what was to come.

My son and daughter-in-law arrive to put 'Cora's' cover for the winter on.
Thank you so much!

Suzy and Muffin ignore the sky giving warning of imminent colder weather

Although the dogs still wanted to romp around outdoors, the clouds rolled in and the sky changed to Gray and the temperature dropped. When our Countess River. lil Marchioness Molly and Miss Sadie visited we spent a great deal of time indoors. I made sure to have the porch gate covered so our sweet Sadie could relax with out seeing her home across the street. It's very difficult for her to accept being with us when she can clearly see her home so close by. So out came all the tarps and the fences were all covered for her.  Sadie enjoyed her visit with us for a full week with no need to fret at all.

As long as Sadie can not see her house across the street she is relaxed

<

This is the cookie que. Right lady??

There was enough outdoor time for these lady's to play, but they were happy to be called in for the warmth indoors. They carried on their playtime and settled in for cozy time easily.

River, "Aww come on Sadie, it's my turn with that squeaky"

Three sweet girls wait quietly while I finish some mending.

We had our gentleman Sir Cash join us for an over night visit. It was good to see him again. Cash has been very busy with his mom. We're so happy he was able to spend a bit of time again with us.

Let's check out all the smells in the yard okay?

This was Rivers first time meeting Sir Cash. She seemed pleased to meet him and allowed him some space to get acquainted with her before she pounced!

River, "Hi Cash. I like playing with that toy too. Wanna share?"

River was a good girl giving Cash some space before she strikes out to try to steal his toys.

The temperature during the day was beginning to drop.  Its easy to see it when the frost stays on the grass in the shaded areas. I had to laugh at these three when I noticed they all decided to warm their little bottoms on the heated mat at the top of the basement steps. What a funny trio!

Sadie- "Hey can you guys shove over please. I need some warmth too!"

They played happily all day, and totally crashed at night. It was nice to have our senior old man for a visit. We hope you can drop by again soon Sir Cash.

River- "... but you can't have this toy ok Cash? It's mine. Ok?"

Asleep like Royalty. Good night darling Countess.

Sir Cash - A Knight down for the night

The darling Miss Sadie with a pillow for extra comfort!

Marchioness lil Molly - Fast asleep unaware that she is on a blue blankie! (oh the shock of it!)

All calm and quiet at Royal K9 Korner, and then, the RAIN came. . .

Introducing 'Cora'

 Nope, Cora is not a new dog!

Last month we decided to start looking into purchasing a motorhome. The anxiety we felt during this year's fire season had given us a sense of urgency. We began watching Craig's list and RV related websites. We were fortunate to find just the right one in Abbotsford, in a very short time. The price was right, and we snapped it up. Thank you, Bob and Colleen, for posting your motorhome for sale! We love it! 

28 ' 1989 Corsair HOME!

Thank you Logan and Lucas for the thumbs up and tagging along with us to pick it up and drive our truck back home.

Logan and Lucas give 'Cora' their seal of approval!

We took our first over night camping trip in many years this Thanksgiving weekend. Of course, we had a visiting dog join us. Lil Molly was great company for Lady May. She was a bit hesitant when we started out but soon settled in to the hours long drive to our favourite camp spot at Rogers Creek along the Duffy Lake Road.
We arrived at dusk, just enough daylight to head to the water for a quick sniff around. Daddy got the campfire started and the dog mats in place. We were so happy to have the earth damp after a good rainfall and felt worry free at last. We listened to the sky open up and drench the earth while we drifted off to sleep, warm, cozy and dry!

Lady May - "We'll soon be at the creek lil Molly. You'll see. You'll love it!"

Wow you were right . I love this!

'Cora' in place, fire started and dog mats positioned.
Easily slid under the RV during the rainy night.

The next day we gathered the dogs and set off for a walk. Lady May was excited to be able to run and enjoy all the fresh scents with her buddy lil Molly. Their long leads gave them ample opportunities to safely check things out before we reached them. Then they were off again for another scent to follow.

'Es Brueggli Fuers Schatzeli'
Rogers Creek Bridge

The air was fresh and clear. The weather was definitely cooler, and the ground was good and damp. Autumn is certainly in the air.

With so many scents to explore we occasionally took Lady May out of her chair to fully enjoy herself.

Most of the time she was content to just be along for the journey.

Can you turn out the lamp please dad. I'm tired

By bed time everyone was ready to sit by the fire and relax some more. We anticipated rain and we were prepared. 'Cora's' furnace was pumping out heat and the beds indoors had warm quilts waiting to wrap us for a good nights sleep.
 We spent a short time outside, had dinner and then headed indoors for the warmth.

lil Molly to tired to wait for me to take her halter off.
I had to do it while she slept.

Another little soul fast asleep while I removed her halter.

The floors of Cora are a smooth lovely hardwood. Lovely for us but not so much for the dogs. Way to slippery. I happen to have a roll of 1/8th inch Neoprene hanging around. Not my chosen colour for Cora's floors but never mind.  I covered them so now, the dogs could enjoy themselves without slipping. Perfect and I highly recommend it!
The girls were ready for snuggles and dreamland. Mom and dad enjoyed a good chat, laughs and a game of cribbage. It's been so long since we felt such relaxation. It seemed long over due.
We were back home in time to greet our next visitors, little Suzy Q and Countess River.  Lady May and lil Molly had so much to tell them.

River - "You mean you slept in there? Wow! Cool!"

River decided to check it out for herself.

Wow you even had toys!

When we were driving home, the surrounding mountains reminded us that camping season is just about over. We'll be getting 'Cora' ready for the winter soon.

Farewell Rogers Creek see you next year!

Fresh snow the first reminder Winter is just around the corner.

Come next Spring we'll be making the most of our 'new' RV as often as possible!
Watch your driveways. We might surprise you!

Baroness Mylu has crossed Rainbow Bridge

Last week we received a message from Mylu's dad. The beautiful almost 7 year old Baroness Mylu was very sick, and was struggling to recover. When she was not fully recovering it ultimately led to surgery and a 3 day visit in Kamloops Oriole Vet Clinic.  At some point over the last while, Mylu had eaten a pine cone and it had lodged in her small intestine.  Her mom and dad were understandably, "shattered"  but had hoped they could spend some "serious recuperating time" together back at home.

Earlier this week I received another message from her mom, Vivian, saying dear Ms. Mylu was not "rallying" as they had hoped. She was unable to keep even water down.  She was able to lay on her porch and watch the birds. She wrote it was evident she was in severe pain and discomfort. 

Mylu lived with a seizure disorder that began at an early age when she was hit by a car. She was kept on very strict and precise medications that controlled her seizures and allowed her to live a happy normal life. She was happiest when she was going on hikes and trail walks with her mom and dad and her friends. Mylu loved swimming and best of all her yard filled with birds and wildlife.
 No one knew it, although both her mom and dad had their suspicions over the last year that she had something going on. Mylu had underlying liver disease, probably from the very same medications that controlled her seizures.

Her dad wrote to say, "It was too easy to blame it on the heat and her medications. It wouldn't have made any difference if we had figured it out as she needed the medications.  It was heartbreaking to make the decision to have her put down, but knowing she had gone in to liver failure explained the lack of recovery post surgery and helped with the final decision.
We were both with her when she passed and Dr. Quinn was very kind.

Thank you for the care you provided her.  We always knew she was in good hands and never worried when we left her with you.  She truly was one of the most gentle and kind dogs I have ever known.  She has left a big hole in our lives right now. ~ Ian."

Mylu was allowed to go peacefully at Cache Creek Vet Hospital on Oct. 5th 2021

We are so sad and grieving along with her mom and dad, Ian and Vivian, at the loss of Royal K9 Korner's very own Baroness Mylu. I am so thankful I was chosen to be her daycare provider when  Mylu couldn't be with her mom and dad. We fell in love with Mylu very quickly. She really was so kind and gentle. So very easy to love.
We are sending all the emotional support we can muster to her mom and dad at this very difficult time.
May she run pain free and healthy forever more. 🌈🐾💝

Mylu was always happy to visit us. Although, she made sure
to keep a close eye on the gate in case mom or dad came back.

Mylu loved being outdoors and would lay for hours in the shade of our maple tree when she visited us. Even while her friends played around her, she would lay in watch for her mom and dad.  The same spot each and every visit. It was always easy to find Mylu. 

Lady May, Hazel and Sadie leave Mylu alone to watch while they play as usual.

Mylu, "I'm not sleeping I'm just squinting to keep the sun out of my eyes.
I can still see the gate if my mom and dad come back"

We will miss stroking her beautiful thick, soft, black fur.  When she stayed overnight, she slept beside my bed and I could reach down to feel her through out the night. I already miss you sweetheart.
You were such a good girl!
Rainbow Bridge has a New Baroness joining The Royal Family.
May you continue to reign with all the Royals who passed before you.
No more seizures for you girl. Angel life forever more darling.
Run! Say hi to everyone for us.
Until we meet again!

Rest in Peace Sweet Baroness Mylu  Nov. 2014 - Oct. 2021