Here you will view each current guest and learn what they are up to as well as viewing pics and videos of the current month's dog games. We also post pictures and videos on our Facebook page.

Enjoy!

Note: We will only be posting blogs and pics of dogs we're training, or are otherwise involved in activities such as swimming, hiking or showing. If you want pics of dogs who are here for only boarding there will be an additional fee of $15 per picture session as it's time consuming. Note: Often, however, our play yard videos (on Facebook) will feature all of our K9 guests; even those who are not scheduled for additional activities.

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If you're interested in reading more about dogs, cats or horses, subscribe to my Substack Newsletter below. I am always happy to receive topic suggestions, too. Just send me a message at: [email protected]

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May 2026
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Cindy

Cindy is a young English Cocker. She's with us for a 4 week board and train program. She is WIDE open! Lots to learn and she is doing so. First, the jumping up...constantly. It's a learned behavior and she learned it well. Second, laying down for tummy rubs instead of walking on a leash. It took us a few days to convey that there's no belly rubs or treats until she learns to focus and learn. After a week of work she has learned, come, sit, down, short heeling and short stays. The jumping up is diminishing, too. She's having fun playing with Iggy and anyone else who'll join in.
5/9: Her antics became ridiculous when working in the grassy areas. Her nose works overtime, as hunting dog noses do. So, I began using the Comfort Trainer. Big difference! We are progressing quickly now. I can move all the way around her during her sit/stay. Her heeling is much better. Less jumping up and biting. Her down stays are improving and she gets belly rub rewards.

Iggy

Iggy is visiting for about a month as his parents' travel. He goes on daily hikes and gets a bit of social time, too, depending on his ability to control his play style a bit.
4/15: Iggy is doing fairly well hanging with Roux and Joni. Neither of them put up with his humping behavior. They just walk away, then he does as well. So far, he's eating well. No stress, just a happy pup.
​5/7: Iggy loves Cindy. The two of them hang together as well as race around the yard playing. He doesn't even get irritated with her when she pulls his bed out the doggy door. Iggy has done well with all grooming administrations and loves his daily hikes very much.

Hazel and Jax

Hazel and her brother, Jax, have been visiting for more than a week. Jax enjoyed daily hikes on the mountain. The first couple days here Hazel did as well. Then, she and I got back to work practicing for the upcoming show season. The first show is Saturday May 15. She'll be aiming for her second leg of Intermediate level. She knows everything very well, though sometimes lags a bit or her nose gets the better of her. We worked outside today (5/8) as the weather was nice. 

​Our new member of the Shady Mountain Pet Retreat family - Bear, demonstrates how to teach loose leash walking and progress to off leash hiking in the woods.

Play Yard Fun

​Shady Mountain Pet Retreat Proudly Uses and Recommends NuVet Nutritional Pet Supplements. For More Information Click Here.
Or Call:
800-474-7044
ID Code: 34080

Kuranda Dog Beds

Shady Mountain Pet Retreat uses Kuranda dog beds in all of our suites. They have sizes for every dog made of highly durable and easy to clean materials. This is the ONLY chew proof bed on the market that dogs find 100% comfortable. They also have washable plush mats that adhere to the hammock beds for more warmth and comfort. If you are looking to purchase a dog bed this is a product that is more than worth the expense as it lasts forever. Click on the link below and get 10% off!!!

Kuranda Dog Beds