About Rupert

Rupert is our Olinda garden dog and takes his job seriously. A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the senior dog of the family, he is the active one. While Daisy holds court at reception, Rupert is outside doing laps, checking the fence line and keeping an eye on the birds. Like Daisy, Rupert is based at Olinda only, so you won’t run into him at Mooroolbark.

Don’t be fooled by the bowtie. Rupert was bred to sit on the laps of royalty and has never accepted this. At full speed across the lawn he looks less like a lap dog and more like a wild white wombat that has wandered in from the forest, which is roughly how he sees himself. He puts up with the formal wear because it makes him look more official.

You’ll mostly see him in the garden as you arrive or leave. He is loyal and kind with people, and if you stop for a moment he will usually come over to say hello, then return to his duties.

Rupert doesn’t attend therapy sessions. His work is outdoors, where he provides:

• A friendly welcome at the gate
• Something to watch while you wait
• Ongoing surveillance of the chickens, from a respectful distance

If you’d prefer not to interact with Rupert, that’s completely fine. Just let us know and we’ll make sure he’s occupied at the other end of the garden.