PHOTOS: Kitty the St. Regis resort dog celebrates his sixth birthday party

Kitty Jacob Astor II, the St. Regis resort dog and Grand Marshal in the recent Fourth of July parade, just celebrated his 6th birthday in the St. Regis courtyard. Kitty is a Bernese Mountain dog named after the founder of the St. Regis, John Astor IV. The party started around 5:00 p.m. with the ceremonial champagne sabering — a tradition dating back to Napoleon. Refreshments were served for guests and their dogs alike, with fancy dog treats and a full-service bar on hand. The party was also complete with a photobooth, DJ, and clown. 

Over 12 dogs attended the party, including three other Bernese Mountain dogs. This yearly tradition has become a favorite of locals and out-of-town guests alike. Ajax Standefer, now aged 10, attended Kitty’s first birthday party when he was four. Kitty was also the Grand Marshall in the Fourth of July Parade and rode shotgun in the Jeep that led the fire department’s procession.