Golden anniversary… sort of
Litter mates gather for fun, furry birthday party in Lower Onslow
Kenzie celebrated her first birthday by swimming, playing and eating, and her guests all went home with dog treats.
When Paulette Stone decided to hold a birthday party for Kenzie, her golden retriever, she invited the dog’s litter mates – along with a few other friends and relatives. There were 15 dogs jumping in the pool, running around the lawn and gobbling up cake and muffins. Some came from as far as Liverpool and Quispamsis, N.B.
“There are seven here from the same litter,” said Stone. “It’s so nice to see these dogs all together, just having a good time. There’s so much sadness around, and these dogs bring joy.”
Stone’s had golden retrievers in the past, and is a big fan of the breed.
“I love their companionship,” she said. “They’re loving, loyal, a good family dog, and just a great pet.
“I’ve also met good friends because of dogs. Dogs bring out the best in people.”
Stone also has a golden retriever/ Labrador retriever mix called Lola, who she adopted through Golden Retriever and Friends Rescue. Lola was the lone black dog at the party.
The dogs turning a year old were able to socialize with their mother, grandmother, aunt and great uncle during the day.
“I set up a Facebook group where the people who got the pups could share pictures, information and support,” said Shelley Whidden, breeder of the litter. “I feel that when you’re breeding it’s important to provide support for a lifetime.”
Several people who attended the party with their dogs got to know one another through the Facebook group, and hadn’t met in person until the event.