They Came Home Soaked From a Rainy Walk. Grandpa Didn't Reach for a Towel First.
Rain still streaks the window by the door, and a wet raincoat drips from its hook on the wall. Grandpa Gus and Sunny have just made it back inside, and he has wasted no time. Crouched in the entryway, he wraps her in a thick, cream-colored knit blanket, tucking it up around her neck and chest with both hands. Sunny sits still and lets him, her ears damp, her fur slightly ruffled, her gaze calm and trusting. Rubber boots, a black umbrella, a basket of odds and ends, and a potted plant crowd the little mudroom.
Walking a dog in the rain is part of life, and a few habits make it easier. Drying your dog soon after coming inside helps them stay comfortable, especially older dogs or those who feel the cold. Towel off the legs, belly, and paws, and pay special attention to the ears, since moisture trapped inside can contribute to infections, which Labradors are known to be prone to. Check between the toes for mud or small stones. Labs have a water-resistant double coat that sheds rain well, but it can still take a while to dry fully underneath. A warm, draft-free spot to rest afterward is a nice touch. A doormat and a towel kept right by the door can save your floors, too.
The weather outside may be gloomy, but in this entryway it is all warmth. Nothing chases away a rainy day like being bundled up by someone who loves you.






