Welcome 2 year old Toba

4 months ago this beautiful 2 year old Shepsky (Shepherd/Husky cross) was adopted by her mom and dad after being through a string of rescue societies. She has finally landed in her happy forever home.
Welcome Miss Toba.
Due to mom's work schedule, Toba will be travelling with her back and forth between Burnaby and Lillooet.
Mom has been in frequent contact with me about getting daycare set up for Toba.
Between mom's back and forth schedule and the full days at Royal K9 Korner we've finally been able to make it happen.
Thank you for your patience mom!

Toba visited on a day that our Countess River was on site. There was no question about how well these two will get along. Toba was politely asking for play and River was responding very politely. 

I made the decision to keep them separate until we get to know Toba's play style better.
Mom tells me she loves to rough and tumble and zoom. I can think of a few other visitors who'll fit her play style perfectly, in time. 

Earlier this week Toba came for her first 4 hour visit. A beautiful day that allowed us to be outdoors for getting to know each other. Toba immediately found the squeaky she had played with at her M&G and several other plush toys to romp around with.

Toba - "Hey, this one smells like me! Can I keep it?"
Me - "You can keep it here and play with it whenever you visit sweetheart."

Toba is still working on her recall so we had some practice while we played. Toba is a jumper so a bit of a concern of mine.  If she decided to attempt to jump the fence line, mom said she would no doubt head home. Apparently she has run after deer in the past and always comes home.  I kept a long lead on her until I was certain there was zero separation anxiety and that I could keep her focused on staying in the yard.
She was as happy as a lark to stay with me and showed no signs of looking for a way to escape.
Whew! One check box ticked off. I'll be watching for her safety if the deer are passing by.

Indoors we went through all the areas she needed to feel comfort with. Listening to my voice, hearing the various different sounds of my house, responding to my signals and compiling with my requests.  Each time Toba was 100% attentive and completely comfortable and obliging. Her eyes were spot on me when I asked and she quickly responded with each request when she understood what to do.
The vacuum is of little concern to her, except that she would prefer not to be around it when it's working. Me neither Toba, I can certainly relate.

"Are you really going to turn that noisy thing on?
I was trying to play quietly here"

Toba and I played with several toys together on the porch and in the living room. She always allowed me to share it with her and was willing to let me take it from her in mid chew.

"These are great chew toys lady. Wanna share?"

At meal time she allowed me access to her bowl mid eating and even to temporarily take her bowl away. She will never have to worry about another dog having access to her bowl, or her space during eating time. It's great to know people are safe in her proximity during her eating time.

Toba was a big fan of the frozen veggie/fruit treats and gently took and ate every one I presented her.

"Is this PINEAPPLE? Wow I love pineapple! Thanks lady."

One of my indoor safety rules is for all dogs to wait patiently, no charging in front of me heading up or downstairs. Toba waited patiently for my all done signal. In fact she chose to have a little lay down while she waited. That suits me fine Toba. although I'm quite sure it won't happen when others are present. WTG Toba you're passing with flying colours.

"Is this gonna take long?
'Cuz I was kinda hopin' to go out"

"I don't understand why I can't just run out the door,
but, ok if you say so."

Toba eagerly followed me around the yard and was frequently choosing to come when called. I'm certain once she has visited a few times, her recall with me will improve. There were so many distractions and fun things to do, having to stop play and come running to this unknown lady was not high on her priority list this day.
We'll be working on that task on future visits. I may need her to STOP what she is doing and run to me immediately for a possible safety issue. One step at a time. Mom is working with her trainer on shaping up Toba's skills. It's very obvious how much she cares about Toba and keeping her safe.
Well done mom!

At the end of our 4 hours, Toba had crashed and was very ready to head home.
She is more than welcome back to visit us and I'm looking forward to finding a day for Toba to come to meet others in our extended Pack.
Welcome to Royal K9 Korner's Daycare Miss Toba!

Karma Day with Cooper

Cooper has been away for a while and is back now. He was having major dental work done. We’re so happy he’s healed up well enough to visit.

Cooper - "But my smile is still cute right?"

He managed to accept a few bits of a soft treat but really didn’t want any lunch. Dad says, that’s normal for Coops. He can be a bit fussy at mealtimes. It’s good to know it’s probably not from the dental work. During his visit he stayed fairly close to Karma most of the day.  
He seemed to get over the separation anxiety much quicker this time from when his dad dropped him off. Yay Cooper, as mom says, “Progress”

Cooper - "I'm just checking in case he shows up unexpectedly"
Karma - "Trust me, 'The Lady' will tell you when he's here"

Just after lunch, Miss Sadie stopped in for a quick hello. I wish I had my camera. It was so sweet to see her head up the stairs to see the boys, with her tail just a waggin' so happily.  I ran for my camera but was too late. Sadie's mom took this video for me from a distance. It's quite blurry but you can make out Sadie's tail wagging. She was so happy to see them. I hope they get a chance to be together one day soon.
A trio of cream coloured beauties.

The two little men had a relaxing kind of ‘follow me’ day. I was able to get more painting done while they sauntered the back yard. Cooper is not allowed off lead in the front yard yet. There is a small gap in the driveway gate that he can very easily fit through. So it's back yard only, unless on lead, and I’ll figure out a way to repair that gap. 

No one complained about being in the back yard all day

Cooper - "You should come in the sun and work on your tan"
Karma - "No thanks I like the cool shade.
Besides, I can see the cookies from here."

Cooper - "Do you s'pose my dad will forget about me?"
Karma - "Naw, he loves you and I can promise, 'The Lady' won't let that happen.
You should ask her for a treat"

Cooper will be back again next week during ‘Karma day’ and Bailey will join them. It’ll be a sleepover for those three. I can’t wait!
This weekend will be busy with Countess River, Bailey and the gorgeous black Bear. There's more painting planned and I wonder who’ll go home with splashes of white this time.
Oh my, two long furred black dogs!
I’m hopeful this will be the last of the painting this year.
I hope!

Welcome 5 year old Poppy

 5 Year old Poppy is an American Cocker Spaniel, and what a sweetie she is!

She came for her Meet & Greet one month ago in the middle of May. Yes, you're right I'm a wee bit behind in my updates. We finally found a day for her to return for her first 4 hour visit.
Thank goodness her mom is so patient.
It's a pleasure to have this little girl join us. She came flying through the gate with the happiness and anticipation of a youngster about to open Christmas presents. Wow, she jumped straight into my heart like gangbusters.
She's 30 lbs of wiggly love. Her breed traits certainly shone through. She's a brave little soul who was up to every challenge of the day.
Welcome Miss Poppy.

Poppy has already had an opportunity to meet with Sir Karma. He was here on the day of Poppy's M&G. It's been difficult to find days with no other dogs booked. Fortunately Karma seems unfazed by Poppy's presence and mom and I were able to go ahead.

Karma - "I hope she doesn't like cookies"
Poppy - "Hello Sir, can you show me the way to the water park please?"

Poppy is very much a water girl and her favourite past time is the sprinklers. She spent the better part of her first half hour with me zipping from sprinkler to sprinkler in the back yard. There was no stopping her and no sense trying. This was at the top of her list for fun things to do today. And that she did.

Woo Hoo I hope you don't run out of water lady! This is G-R-E-A-T!

Well, the water did end shortly after that. I simply turned off the tap in order to have Poppy turn her attention elsewhere. She's very compliant when the water is gone. We did my usual walk around the yard together with out her harness on. I know. It totally goes against my new dog rule. I couldn't figure out how to fasten it. Pfft dummy me. When mom arrived to pick Poppy up she showed me its a simple little draw string stopper. Oh good grief! Never mind, Poppy and I made out just fine with out a lead on. Her sniffer went into high gear and I'm certain there wasn't an inch of ground that was missed. What good little hunter traits.

I discovered Poppy is not big on recall and so we did a fair bit of - ' I call you, you run the other direction. I zip around and holler, and pretend I'm having so much fun with out you, then you come running to me and get a reward!' Oh man, my neighbours must think I've lost it!   It worked and by the end of the 4 hrs, Poppy's recall had improved. We'll do more on future visits.

"You better have a really good treat ready, if you expect me to come running when you call."

Poppy enjoys toys and when I brought out the red Jolly Egg, it was an instant hit!

I can't wait to find out if Karma and Poppy will play together with it.
She also loves stuffies and had fun choosing just the right one both indoors and out. We spent time sitting together talking and sorting through the bins.
She's a doll and has her little paws already in my heart.

Poppy - "Do I hafta have the little toys? I'd rather have bigger ones please."
Me - "Absolutely Poppy I agree, these toys are not a best fit for you."

Poppy was great when I asked her to wait before going outdoors or at the top of the stairs for me.
Her little legs can manage my big set of stairs easily. She chose to use the ramp when she headed out up from the basement door. Each time she waited to be given the 'all done' before she moved.
What a good girl! 

Poppy - "Can I come down yet?"
Me - "You sure can good girl Poppy!
All done."

Poppy - "I think I get this. I hafta stop until you say, "All done."
Me - "You are such a clever girl Poppy"

Poppy's mom sent along a set of bells for Poppy. She uses this signal when she needs to go out.
Thank you so much 'Mom'. I know it'll help both Poppy and me on her stay overs here.
I can't wait until she asks to go out.

Poppy - "You're s'posed to put them on a closed door lady."
Me - "I get it Poppy. I promise.

Poppy was very inquisitive
Poppy was super comfortable in the house and watched me closely for direction. With practise I have no doubt she's going to understand what I require in order to make her visits safe.

I do a lot of vacuuming and it's one of the areas I need to see the level of comfort in. Poppy paid no attention when I brought the vacuum out. When I switched it on, she simply made the decision to move away from it. No issues there. Great! Thank you Poppy.

Poppy - "I'll wait on the porch for you to finish lady."

Poppy's next visit will be to meet a new buddy. We have a day set up and I'm excited for it to happen. 
She's going to be a fun and easy going visitor. I'm so happy mom decided to choose us.

"I'm not quite ready to leave yet. Okay if I stay a little longer?"

Thank you for a fun day Poppy. I'm looking forward to seeing you soon!

An Update From Sage

It's only been two and a half months since Sage and her mom, Sush, moved from town. It seems like  ages ago!  They set off together on their road trip across Canada. Two girls on a cross country adventure! Sush wrote to tell me all about it back mid April and I'm only now sitting down to pass their adventures along. Yes, I'm so bad!
They hopped in their car and set out down the highway headed back East. Along their way they made many stops. They enjoyed the scenery of various towns along their journey.

Sage on a morning walk at Wapta Falls just outside Golden.
"Can I bring my stick please mommy?"

Another stop along the side of a farm in Swift Current, Saskatchewan.
"Where's all the sticks?"

They had great weather after a snowstorm and a nice stay in a cabin, where they explored a very snowy Thunder Bay. Mom says, "It was quite lovely. Sage has definitely had some good romps so far!"

A sleepy travel companion no doubt dreaming on home.

They stopped at a dog park in Winnipeg and Sush said,"Sage was the best behaved one there. Ran with the other dogs but came when called. She learned all of that with you!! I was so proud of her! "

Sage -"Wait a minute. Are these glasses 3D
 I need my cool shades for this."

Their trip involved driving through a snowstorm to Thunder Bay, and then some pretty gorgeous driving around Lake Superior!

Sage - "Do you think I should avoid swimming here today mom?"

They are now settling in a little cottage in Chelsea Que. and have been there for the past 3 weeks.
They are adjusting to settle in.
Sush says, "It’s certainly been lovely seeing old friends! Especially Hazel, Vicci and the twins!
Hazel and Sage had a lovely reunion, though, as always, Sage was much more taken with Hazel."
She says, "Sage has been SO good with young children, although she was a bit scared, I’m very proud of her! "

Sage - "You can scratch my chest just dont try to brush me okay?"

Sush says, she's not really sure about city life. The traffic, people, keeping Sage restrained all the time... Sage is definitely missing all the freedom and adventure she had in BC."

Their trip was a mixed bag of adventure and experiences but Sush says, "Regardless, we miss you very much!!!"

Sage wonders what's happening back at the Dog yard in Lillooet.

We all miss you both very much Sush and Sage and hope one day you can find a way to visit us again. Thank you so much for the great update!
Give it a chance girls. It will no doubt take some getting used to the new way of things.
You can do it! 
Please write again soon!
All our paws and fur buddies miss you immensely!
Hugs 'n tail wags.
"from all of us"

Eight Dogs A Week - Just Right.

Miss Sadie was the first of eight visitors the first week after my time off.  She is so lovely.  I see Sadie every day from across the road. She is always happy to greet me and she always asks to come over to say hello. Sadie is now into the late stages of osteoarthritis. It was so nice to have her join me as I puttered around in the yard.We had ample time together for cuddling and chatting and just being close.

She followed me around and found a cozy place to lay while I worked close by. If there was a small bit of shade, it was her first choice. Other wise she found a cozy place on a blanket I had laid out for her earlier.

Sadie is only 8 yrs old but her pain is becoming difficult to manage. Her mom has frequent contact with her vet and has Sadie on a very good pain management schedule. We hope she feels better soon.

She really just wants to rest these days but is always happy to have a buddy to saunter the yard with. Fortunately for her, Sir Karma had booked his visit at the same time. Another buddy always brings a smile to Miss Sadie. One who is more her energy level is always a good day for her.

Sadie - "We don't have to run or zoom do we lady?"
Me - "No sweetie you can just take it easy today."
Karma - "But we can if we want to.Right?"

Karma is also feeling the aches and pans of arthritis these days. His happy disposition still shines through whenever he visits. Having a buddy like Sadie to hang out with was just fine by him.

Karma - "I feel good today. Maybe you should give me a cookie? Do you agree Sadie?" 

Once Sadie had returned home Karma was content to lay and wait for the next visitors.

He didn't have to wait long. The very next day Mr Chip and his sister Maggie arrived.This visit proved to be more positive than the previous one. Chip was more accepting of Karma this visit and even allowed him to approach Maggie.

Chip- "But you have to play nice with her okay? She's just a girl."
Karma - "Does she like cookies?"

Maggie - "Whad d'ya mean, I'm just a girl? I'll out run the likes of you two in a heartbeat!"

Chip offered a good game of chase and Karma readily accepted it.  I thought I had my camera on video mode, but. . .  well you can see... Of course... drat!  I only caught the tail end of the play as a photo instead. ...sigh...

Karma - "Hey! Wait up! My leggies don't go that fast!
Chip- "That's an old man excuse Sir Karma. Just admit it! I'm faster!"

Dogs 5 and 6 last week were my good pals Bailey and Ruby. These two haven't seen each other since the beginning of March. They were super ready for a playday. The weather was cooperating and after a short,  "Hello, how are ya!" in the house we spent pretty much the rest of the day outdoors.

Bailey - "We're done saying hello now Lady."
Ruby, "Ya, we are. Can we go out now PLEEASE?"

I spent most of the day working in the yard while these two ran from area to area. Always with a toy in tow or being tugged between them. They stopped only when I called, "Take a break" Then it was back at it for the next round. Bailey will have two more of his favourite tug buddies in May. He'll be super happy and pleasantly surprised when he sees who's returning for playdates. Stay tuned...

I thought it might be nice for them to have the pool to cool off in after a round of tug. Instead they used it as a drinking bowl. That's fine by me, what ever works. I just continued to get my yard work done.

By the time they went home I had almost completed the pool area and set out the gazebo dog bed ready for the next visitors. Kaia and her brother Kona.

No more leaves to rake and hedge to prune. I am SO HAPPY!

They took no time at all to find the shady spot in the gazebo.
Our late Duchess Sammy's trolley was converted into a day bed a few years ago. It's always a favourite spot to lay and not often left empty.

Kona - "It has a blue blankie so it's for me. Right Lady?"

Kaia - "Nice try blockhead. I had it first."

Sometimes a brother and sister have to take turns. It would seem Kaia always get first dibs. She's just older and wiser and knows what feels best.

Kaia - "That's right. Right now this pool feels best, so go find a ball Kona!"
Kona - "But I wanna drink"

Kaia and Kona are really a wonderful pair of siblings. They have a delightful bond. Even though Kona can be a bit of a pain of a brother. That's what brothers do. He's young and loves his sister. If only she would give him the toys first!   I love their visits and being the only dogs on site allows me to see their true personalities shine through.

Kona - "But you love me more. Right Lady?"

I love you both Kona. Now go to sleep. It'll be home time tomorrow.

I think I like only having 2 or 3 dogs at a time. It allows me to stay closer to them and I can still do my daily chores.  That may mean I am turning visitors away but I believe the quality of care can continue longer. Plus, maybe I will retain more energy? Who am I kidding? Well perhaps it's a new goal??

May is upon us and it's another full month.
We have plans to see young Miss Lilly again and also Miss Ellie has returned from her time away! We're excited to have both as well as Ruby again as day visitors for Bailey!
Also booked are Karma, Chip & Maggie and the little toughie Nugget will join us!
We have a new comer setting up for a Meet & Greet and we can't wait to meet her!
I hope you'll come back to see how we make out.

Back At It

We’ve had a great 2 weeks! We took ‘Cora’ out, saw family, took day trips and slept in.
Just 2 days after closing our gates, we loaded up 'Cora' and set off down the highway. 

Heading off to Mission via Hwy 12 heading towards Lytton

The day was cool but promised sunny skies later in the day. We didn't care we were off to visit friends and family come rain or shine.

Thank you for your hospitality. If only we lived closer, we could 'do coffee' every morning together.

We parked 'Cora' for a few days and enjoyed the company of our family and their furries.
Kitties- Mouse, Bebe and Teddy. Very different than we're used to back home but just as loving and cuddly for sure.
It was wonderful to visit with my sister and her family once again. It seems like ages ago. We relaxed and giggled and planted some flowers. We ate well and slept in every morning. What a great visit!

A new planter created as a memory of sisters visiting together 💗

I find it difficult to remember the gender of cats. For some reason they all seem female to me.
Go figure eh?
I know (I think) two of my loving sister's kitties are male (I think) and one is a girl.
I think Teddy's a boy, right sis?
I'm pretty sure Mouse is also male. Although he certainly seems female to me. So Bebe is the girl?
I hope. Or is it two girls and one boy? Hmmm I have to re ask again. Sorry sis.

Mouse - "I am NOT a girl"

Before long it was time to hit the road again and off to Hope we journeyed.

A Beautiful day with Beautiful friends at The Owl Street Cafe in Hope BC

We reunited with old friends and met a beautiful new buddy. Mr. Benji. What a darling boy!  He's a two year old border collie cross who has happily landed with our good friend Paula from Delta. 
It was great to visit again after so many years. Why does time keep moving along so fast?

Benji, you have landed in a perfect Happy Ever After home!

Benji enjoyed relaxation in 'Cora' while we enjoyed a luncheon together at our favourite restaurant
The Owl Cafe in Hope BC.

We dropped our table and made a perfect resting place for Benji

We could have gabbed for days but time keeps on ticking and we had to get back home soon. I can't wait for our next visit. Tell your mom Benji, Lillooet is waiting for your visit!
Once back home our yard-work continued.

Last year's hedge roots waiting to be removed

We worked to remove the old hedge roots and debris. What a job!  We reorganized the lawn furniture, did weeding, and planted grass seed.  Pruned trees and I even mowed the lawns. Our main goal is to get our yard and pool area back up to a clean summer fun area. There are still several things to do, but we’re on the road to completion now.

In between working I even went shopping! That's a big wow!  I saw people I haven't seen for ages. I had real people conversations! In real people language! No doggie talk!  We took a day for a road trip and enjoyed the beauty of Lillooet. Gorgeous days filled with a glorious sunny sky. I felt like a dog off lead and free to run. It's been great!

Duffy Lk road heading back home

The yard work is not going away any time soon. Oh man. Never ending, eh?  Next up is to clean out the carport and the gazebo, where everything has landed during the reorganizing process. For now things are a big mess!

What a mess!

So I’ve rediscovered, I’ll only take a break from the laborious task of yard work if I'm not home, or I  have dogs around.
Guess who came to visit while we were 'closed'? Yay to Karma and Bailey and Sadie and Peaches. Such a happy diversion from yardwork!
My yard gates were blocked off and certain areas are marked as unsafe areas. Karma and Bailey stayed overnight. They didn't seem to mind the blocked off areas.

Bailey - "Ermm, 'scuz me Lady, but why is this gate closed?

Bailey - "There must be some mistake. You don't mean me? Do you Lady?"

Well, maybe Bailey minded. Much to his dismay there was limited play areas and toys. After all, I am technically closed and its my relaxation time. Sorry buddies.

When I rest, everyone rests.

Sadie and Peaches also came across the street for a quick hello. Such sweeties. They often say hi to me when they’re on their porch and this time they actually were allowed to come in the yard to have a quick sniff around. I got my cuddles and loves and off they went on their walkies. They were a fantastic break from my back aches from weeding. I didnt have my camera on hand but they have plans to visit us again for a few days in July. It'll be a fun 3 days for sure.

Sadie & Peaches at home waiting for a visit across the street.

Guess who else we went to visit? Two of my favourite border collies, Sir Bentley and his brother Oskar. Oh, how I’ve missed those two happy ball dogs! Thanks for the fun ball time boys. Thanks for letting me say hello and throw the ball for them mom. You sure made my heart glow.

Bentley - "Put your camera down lady. Throw the ball."
Oskar - "Ya hurry, do it now!"

An easy decision on what's more relaxing, playing with dogs or doing yard work.  Thank goodness.
I’m putting away my rakes and shovels and wheelbarrow. Well, not too far away.
I’m nowhere near finished the yard work.
Two weeks off and I’m ready for a break!

Royal K9 Korner is open for dog visitors again.
This weeks schedule reads, Karma, Chip & Maggie and Bailey & Ruby and Kaia and Kona.  Ellie is scheduled to return starting in May.
Get ready!  Here we go.