Grandpa Cast a Line Off the Old Dock. Rufus Heard Something in the Reeds.
The planks of this little dock are gray and weathered, and the pond beside it is still enough to reflect the reeds. Grandpa in his camouflage cap and plaid shirt holds a fishing rod low over the water, a reel clicking gently in his hand. Grandma sits close in a gray cardigan, smiling at something only the two of them understand. Rufus sits tall at the front of the dock, ears hanging, gaze fixed somewhere beyond the camera, as if he has heard a frog and is deciding whether to do anything about it. A chain-link fence and the corner of a house sit just behind the trees.
Docks and water can be wonderful for dogs, but not every dog is a natural swimmer. Basset Hounds in particular have heavy bones, short legs and a dense body, which makes swimming difficult for many of them. A well-fitted dog life jacket is a smart idea whenever a dog is near deep water, especially on a dock where a slip is easy. Fishing gear brings its own hazards: hooks, lures and line can injure a dog that sniffs or swallows them, so keep tackle boxes closed and pick up stray line. If a hook ever catches your dog, call your vet rather than pulling it out yourself.
The fish may or may not be biting today. Either way, a quiet dock, a patient partner and a loyal hound make for an afternoon worth repeating.
