Twas the night before Christmas at Kennel Craney Hill.
The dogs were sleeping and the night seemed quite still.
The Springers sprawled out in their cozy warm beds,
While visions of pheasants flushed in their heads.
The Cockers curled up in tiny tight balls,
And dreamt of birds retrieved from long falls.
Christina and Todd had just settled in,
A moment of peace away from the din
To enjoy a scotch or maybe a bourbon.
But what happened next was somewhat disturbin’
For out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
The dogs began barking. What was the matter?
Todd sprang to the window and to his dismay,
Santa was landing in his tiny red sleigh.
He rubbed his eyes, beckoned Christina come near.
Together they watched but the dogs showed no fear.
Santa went to the barn and took in the view,
He chuckled and laughed and knew what to do.
Dogs all around him, so carefully bred.
He knew their jobs well and the lives that they led.
He gave a pat to Braker, Simon, Bud, Chance, Dessa, Frasier, Tilly, Dane, Rex, Mae, Noodles, Smitty, Betty, Dottie, Marla, Shannon, Monty, Kaya, Rose, Meg, Bailee, Minks, Roz, Fletch, Clair, Daisy, Aidan and a rub on the chest for Dudley & Dixie.
The scene in the barn looked quite warm and cuddly.
Most had stopped barking, tails wagged to and fro.
They hupped at attention while all in a row.
Santa lay a finger in front of his lips,
And the jolly old man silenced the excitable yips.
He smiled as he looked at those brown Spaniel eyes,
And what he said next was quite a surprise.
I didn’t bring presents or bones to chew.
I know something better.... What you’re going to do.
You all will work hard. Todd is gentle and fair.
Do what he wants! Show how you care.
Your work is important; you’re lucky you know.
For some dogs in this world are only for show.
When it’s time to hunt, be lively and smart.
Use your nose and find birds. Give all your heart.
Good work will be praised. Keep raising the bar.
Show style and good sense. You’ll hunt near and far.
The best gift of all is to give something back.
That’s why there nothing for you inside of my pack.
To people all ages you’ll bring lots of joy.
That’s more important than any old toy.
Sleep well little pups, dream of big things.
At the end of your lives, you’ll have earned your wings.
Santa went back to his sleigh and quickly took flight.
But the dogs heard him exclaim as he flew out of sight.
Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!!
Grateful, Thankful & Blessed!!
Our kennel has been blessed with great dogs that have been successful
in the field not only for us but for our clients as well.
This year at the Nationals was very busy for all of us.
Congratulations to everyone!!
Merry Christmas to all and especially to our Craney Hill family.
Todd & I are grateful to all of you!!