Roy Had a Whole Line of Clean White Sheets Drying. Then Copper Ran Through.
Crisp white sheets and towels sway on the clothesline, and Roy is reaching up to pin another one in place with a wooden clothespin, laughing as he glances down. His blue plaid shirt sleeves are rolled up, his suspenders hang loose over his shoulders, and the morning breeze ruffles his gray hair. Copper is trotting happily between the flapping linens, mouth open in a big grin, tail swinging, his deep red coat bright against all that white. A woven laundry basket, a pile of clothes, and pots of plants sit beside the blue-gray house behind them.
Laundry day can be surprisingly exciting for dogs, especially retrievers who love to carry things around. Socks, underwear, and small towels are common targets, and swallowing fabric can cause serious intestinal blockages that may require surgery. Keep laundry baskets up off the floor, close the door to the laundry room, and store detergents securely. Laundry pods in particular are a known hazard for pets because they are small, squishy, and full of concentrated chemicals. Dryer sheets and fabric softeners can also cause stomach upset if chewed. If your dog swallows fabric or detergent, call your vet promptly rather than waiting for symptoms.
The sheets may end up with a few red hairs on them by the time they dry, but Roy does not seem to mind. Laundry is a lot more fun with a cheerful helper underfoot.






