Grandpa Put an Old Record On. Rufus Wanted to Know Where the Music Was Hiding.
A black record spins on a turntable perched atop a tall stack of well-loved albums. Grandma in a cozy oatmeal cardigan smiles at the sound, and Grandpa in a green sweater leans closer, eyes crinkling as an old favorite fills the room. Rufus has wedged himself onto the couch right beside the record player, front paws planted, nose stretched out toward the spinning disc as though he is trying to figure out where the music is hiding. Books stacked on a shelf, a potted plant in the window and a pair of reading glasses on the side table round out a room full of memories.
Music can be a pleasant part of a dog's day as well as a person's. Many dogs seem calmer with soft, steady music playing at a moderate volume, and some shelters use quiet music to help animals relax. Very loud or sudden sounds can bother dogs, whose hearing is more sensitive than ours, so it is kind to keep the volume comfortable and give them a way to leave the room if they want. Around record players and electronics, keep cords tucked away so curious pets do not chew them, and keep a little distance between wet noses and delicate equipment.
Rufus may not know the words, but he seems to recognize a good song when he hears one. Perhaps he simply likes the way his people smile when the needle drops.
