There’s been an outpouring of love for a beloved dog who inspired a children’s book, and became well known to listeners of radio station, The Breeze .
The station’s Auckland breakfast team of Robert Rakete and Jeanette Thomas penned the book Ernie and the Magic Kennel in 2020.
It tells the story of Ernie, a corgi of right royal pedigree, who travels the world in a magic kennel with street dog Benny, inspired by Thomas’ rescue dog, and a colourful cast of adorable doggie pals.
In a post on social media this week, the radio hosts said Ernie had crossed the Rainbow Bridge leaving broken hearts absolutely everywhere.
“The world lost a very special li’l fella today and we’re very sad.”
“Ernie was the beloved corgi of our former boss, Will and his wife, Mo – more devoted dog parents you simply couldn’t find,” they said.
“That little guy was an infusion of joy. It didn’t matter what room he waddled into, and Ernie waddled into many, he lit it up. We were so lucky – he visited us at Breeze HQ lots.”
“We’ll miss you, dear Ernie – rest easy, you are so very loved,” the post said.
Ernie was also a therapy dog volunteer for almost 6 years at St Margaret’s rest home.
Meanwhile Will and Mo Maisy said they had said goodbye to the “greatest gift we could have ever been given.”
“Being your mum and dad was a joy and pride that can’t be measured and will continue swelling our shattered hearts, ” they said.
“Sharing you with the world and everyone we meet was our favourite pastime, along with adventures to every beach, park, bush and city we could.”
Book purchases of Ernie and the Magic Kennel supported two charities: the Saving Hope Foundation, and Duffy Books in Homes.
It was also made into an audio book.
The Maisey’s said they’d been overwhelmed by the reaction to the loss of Ernie.
“This week has reminded us of the power of community, and our corgi community Ernie built, our friends, family and neighbours have helped immensely in sharing our loss,“ they said.
