Roy Only Planned to Dip His Toes in the Lake. Copper Had Bigger Ideas.
Golden evening light shimmers across the lake, and Roy has kicked off his shoes to sit at the very edge of the old wooden dock, trousers rolled and bare feet dipped in the cool water. He wears a plaid flannel shirt and brown suspenders, his hands clasped in his lap as he laughs down at his companion. Copper has gone all in, standing chest-deep in the lake right beside the dock, his long mahogany coat floating around him, mouth open in a blissful grin and eyes turned up toward Roy. Lawn chairs and leafy shrubs line the grassy shore in the background.
Golden Retrievers were bred to fetch birds from the water, and many of them are natural, enthusiastic swimmers. Even so, a little caution keeps lake days safe. Avoid water that looks scummy or discolored, which can be a sign of harmful algae, and keep your dog from gulping large amounts of lake water. After a swim, rinse off with clean water and dry the ears thoroughly, since floppy-eared breeds are prone to ear infections. Some retrievers develop a temporarily limp, painful tail after long swims or cold water, a condition often called limber tail. It usually improves with rest, but it is worth calling your vet if you notice it.
Roy keeps his toes in the shallows while Copper takes the deep end. Between the two of them, they have found the perfect way to cool off on a warm summer evening.
