Abuela Was Watering Her Petunias. Chispa Picked the Best Seat in the Garden.
Water streams from the spout of a dented metal watering can onto a bed of pink petunias and orange marigolds. Abuela, in a light blue T-shirt and a floral apron splashed with pink roses, tips the can with practiced care, her glasses sliding down her nose as she watches every drop. Tucked into the corner of the garden bed is Chispa, her black and white Havanese, with a silky mop of fur, a shiny black nose and dark round eyes looking up at her person. Rosemary, aloe and potted herbs crowd the patio behind them, and a pair of slippers sits by the path.
Havanese are small, cheerful companion dogs known for being affectionate and people-oriented, which is part of why they are so popular with families and older adults. They usually want to be wherever their person is, whether that is the kitchen or the garden. Their long, soft coat needs regular brushing to prevent mats, and it can easily pick up burrs, leaves and soil during outdoor time. A quick brush-through after garden work helps. Because they are small, they can also get warm quickly in the sun, so a shady spot and fresh water nearby are always a good idea.
In this little garden, the flowers get watered, the herbs get trimmed and Chispa gets to supervise it all. It is a fine way to spend a sunny morning.






