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Beginning in the 1960's, Chalquest Kennels orginally operated under the name of Chalquest Hilton
Kennels. The original owner heard a stirring speach by then President John F. Kennedy, in which he repeatedly referred
to the nation's challenge and quest. From that speach the name Chalquest was born. Hilton was added because the
owners felt it had a nice ring to it.
When Russ, and Lynne purchased Chalquest Hilton Kennels in May 2002, they decided to
drop the Hilton part of the name and opted for the slightly simpler Chalquest Kennels. SBA, Small Business Administration
who funded the purchase, insisted that the business must have a formal corporate structure so LLC (Limited Liability Company)
had to be added.
Your Innkeepers,
Russ and Lynne Post
Russ and Lynne, owners of Chalquest Kennels, share a common background in training guide
dogs for the blind.
Russ Post began at Guide Dogs for the Blind, San Rafael, CA in 1964. He became the 24th
person to be licensed by the State of California, Board of Guide Dogs for the Blind in 1967. Russ also did obedience
and adjustment training privately after hours, and dabbled briefly in protection training, field dog training, AKC Obedience
training, and tracking dog training. His first Rottweiler, Russell's Herzchen, became the first of that breed to earn
AKC's "Tracking Dog" title. He ultimately decided that his greatest interest lay in helping people understand and work
with their pet dogs, however, and has focused on this specialty throughout his career.
Lynne holds a Masters Degree in Orientation & Mobility from Western Michigan University.
Her interest in dogs led her to Guiding Eyes for the Blind as well where she became a Master Instructor and Assistant Director
of Home Training Department.
In 1989, Russ resigned his position as Executive Director of Guide Dogs for the Blind, taking
the opportunity to become Director of Training at Guiding Eyes for the Blind. When Russ and Lynne decided it was
time to move on into the private sector, Chalquest Kennels was reborn. Both remain actively involved with Virginia Beach
Guide Dog Puppy Raising Program.
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Chalquest;
Not just another
boarding kennel.
As guide dog trainers, Lynne and Russ became acutely aware of how stressful, even traumatic, a stay in
a kennel can be to a dog. Sudden isolation from familiar surroundings and family can easily cause a dog to feel threatened,
insecure, intimidated, or at least confused. That’s why the daily outings are a regular part of the program at Chalquest,
not just an additional service for an additional fee. "What kenneled dogs miss most," they agree, "is human companionship."
For some dogs a vigorous run in the "big field" offers an opportunity to relieve some stress, especially if it involves a
lively game of tennis ball or frisbee. For others, a gentler outing on the lawn with lots of petting is their indicated choice.
Still others just want to spend a while sitting on someone’s lap. Whatever a particular dog indicates to need most is
what he’ll be offered.
Favorite beds, favorite toys, favorite food or treats are welcome at Chalquest Kennels; whatever an owner
feels will help their dog feel more at home. Beds will be placed in the kennel run in lieu of the usual artificial sheepskin
mats Chalquest provides. Toys, food, and treats are stored in individual cubbies, clearly marked with the dog’s name,
to be meted out appropriately.
NOTE: Beds should be no more than 30" in length or width. Food should be enough
for the dog's stay, plus an emergency day or two.
Medications, whether topical, oral, or injectible, will be given expertly and on the prescribed timetable.
To put if briefly, Lynne and Russ want to reunite every dog left in their care as clean, healthy, and happy
as they day the arrived – sometimes cleaner, healthier and happier - joyous to see their family and eager for a return
visit.
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