Grandpa Sat on a Quiet Bench by the Sea. Jasper Looked Up at Him Like That.
Sea grass waves along the dunes, and a rope fence lines the sandy boardwalk leading down to the water. The sky is pale and soft, and the ocean is a quiet line on the horizon. On a sun-bleached wooden bench, Grandpa sits in a tan cardigan over a grey tee, his glasses on and his hands folded in his lap. He is looking down with a tender, thoughtful smile at Jasper the Bengal, who sits upright on the bench beside him, gazing back up with total devotion.
A trip to the beach can be a wonderful change of scenery, but cats need some special care in this environment. Sand can get very hot in the sun and burn delicate paw pads, so time on the boardwalk or in the shade is safer. Wind, crashing waves, and unfamiliar smells can make cats nervous, so a secure harness and a carrier to retreat into are important. Fresh drinking water is a must, since cats should not drink seawater. Light-colored or thin-coated areas such as the ears and nose can be prone to sunburn, so limit time in strong midday sun. Bengals are confident, but even bold cats appreciate a calm spot to rest.
There is a special kind of peace that comes with the sound of the ocean and the company of a loyal friend. Grandpa and Jasper have found it here, on a quiet bench at the edge of the sea.






