In fact it would be fair to say Royalmint is a five-star getaway for the dog breed once the preference of Royalty and in particular, their namesake King Charles I.

Helen Taylor, the host at the regal homestay getaway, is living her dream caring for the loyal and loving regulars who drop in for a day or two or sometimes even longer for a holiday.

She stipulates that Royalmint is specifically for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels - not because she doesn’t love other dogs, but simply because she is confident that breed can harmoniously share their environment.

However she has also been known to welcome other four -legged creatures such as a miniature pony named Peaches.

It would be fair to say that Miss Taylor has a soft spot for animals in general with her Bowral menagerie including a goat named Gertrude who lives in the chook pen with several chicks but loves her daily ventures out into the garden that extends across almost a hectare of land.

There are also two alpacas, Aristotle and Pluto, a sheep named Baa-bra, Tabatha the Cat and three Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Alexander, Heloise and Ophelia.

Meanwhile the animals that have previously graced Royalmint are not forgotten.

For the full story see the Southern Highland News, Friday, September 26

jackie.meyers@ruralpress. com