Grandma Watered the Pansies, but the Best Grin in the Garden Wasn't Hers
Water sprinkles from the spout of a silver watering can onto a raised bed bursting with purple, pink and yellow pansies. Grandma tips the can with a big laugh, and Grandpa in a navy T-shirt crouches beside the bed, hands on his knees, smiling at the flowers like they are old friends. Rufus sits right at the corner of the garden bed with his mouth open in a goofy grin, ears hanging low and eyes bright. Garden tools lean against the fence behind them, and a few terracotta pots line the path, waiting for their turn.
Gardening with a dog around is a joy, and a little planning keeps it safe. Many common garden products, including some fertilizers, slug baits and weed killers, can be harmful if a dog licks or eats them, so store them out of reach and follow label directions closely. Mulch made from cocoa shells is best avoided around dogs. Some plants are also risky for pets, so it is worth checking before adding new ones. Pansies are generally considered pet-friendly, which makes a bed like this a nice choice for a household with a curious nose. If you ever suspect your dog ate something toxic, call your vet promptly.
Rufus may not be much help with the watering, but he brings excellent energy to the job. Every garden could use a cheerful supervisor.
