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An older man in a gray hoodie and vest sits on a wooden boardwalk bench by the beach, petting a tuxedo cat beside him. 33 / 37

Golden Light on the Boardwalk, and Grandpa Saved a Spot on the Bench

AI imagetuxedo catbeach boardwalkseaside

Sea grass sways beside the weathered boardwalk, and the ocean glints in the distance under a pale evening sky. Grandpa has pulled a gray hoodie on under his trusty vest, and he sits on a sun-bleached bench with a towel slung over the backrest and a water bottle propped nearby. One hand rests gently on Domino's back. The cat sits tall beside him, squinting his yellow eyes against the breeze, whiskers swept by the salty air, looking like a seasoned beach regular who has seen a thousand sunsets.

Coastal outings can be fun for adventurous cats, but they take some planning. Sand can get hot enough to hurt paw pads, there's little shade on many beaches, and cats shouldn't drink seawater, so bring fresh water and a bowl. Wind, crashing waves, gulls, and dogs can all be startling, which is why a well-fitted harness and leash are essential anywhere outside the home. Many beaches also have rules about pets, so check before you go. Afterward, a gentle brush helps remove sand and salt from the coat. Plenty of cats, of course, are happiest hearing all about the beach from the comfort of the couch.

Domino, at least on this bench, seems completely at ease. He has a warm hand on his back, a view of the water, and nowhere to be.

Some friendships feel like a long walk along the shore, steady, easy, and never in a hurry.

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