Originating as a royal companion dog named after King Charles II of England (who was famously devoted to his spaniels), Cavalier King Charles spaniels (CKCS) have gained popularity over the years. The dogs are known for their noble appearance and actions and remain a favorite breed for families who seek an affectionate, gentle and easygoing pet.

Eleven-year-old Violet is not just a sweet CKCS with gentle eyes and a silky tri-color coat. The pup has been an angel in the arms of Amy and David Kovacs, providing comfort and solace during a time of a heartache and grief over the loss of their first child.

Violet was born in 2015 and was brought to her Serena neighborhood home from a local breeder at nine weeks old. She is the family’s first pet and they love everything about her.

“We brought her home as an emotional support dog, and comforting us came so naturally to her,” said Amy. “Violet is incredibly perceptive and seems to sense when someone needs extra love. Her expressive eyes almost speak to you.” Amy added that when they hold Violet, she rests her head on their shoulder like a baby.

Amy and Davis welcomed their son, Lucas, in 2016. He shares a special bond with Violet, as he has grown with her over the years. “Violet is the best dog. She is so cute and cuddly. I love her,” Lucas said.

The breed is deeply devoted to their people, are known for their loving cuddles, and enjoy physical activity or just relaxing indoors. The family likes to joke that Violet takes her royal heritage very seriously as she carefully sniffs and inspects her food and treats before eating. She eats one kibble at a time, like a proper princess.

Violet enjoys tug-of-war and fetch, as well as daily walks around her neighborhood and Coyote Ridge Park, where she prefers trails to sidewalks. When there is more time to hike, the family enjoys the loop around Dawson Butte Ranch Open Space Trail, along with paddle boarding and hiking around Lost Lake Trail and Lake Isabelle in the Rockies.

“When she was younger, Violet would join us on six- or seven-mile hikes. Those little legs were strong! Now that she is getting older, we usually keep our outings to about two or three miles and follow her lead as her energy slows down,” said Amy.

Both Amy and David work as mental health professionals. Amy is a child adolescent therapist and David a clinical psychologist. The family is looking at adding a second CKCS to their family as both a pet and to aid in therapy sessions. CKCS is an appropriate breed for the job, as they are known as “comforter spaniels” because of their emotional intelligence and soulful eyes that can lower stress levels. The fact that they are happy to sit quietly but are also highly social makes them ideal for high traffic environments such as schools, hospitals and nursing homes.

“During our grief, Violet was our sweet source of comfort and cuddles, and I honestly don’t know what we would have done without her,” shared Amy. “To say she was the perfect fit for our family is an understatement.”

 

By Julie Matuszewski; photos courtesy of Amy Kovacs