The Fire Was Roaring and the Quilt Was Warm, but Grandma Edie Kept Smiling at Moose
Flames crackle in a soot-darkened stone fireplace, throwing an orange glow across the room. Grandma Edie has wrapped herself in a cream patchwork quilt over her green quilted vest, and she beams down at Moose, who sits right beside her with his chin raised and his tongue peeking out. A houseplant sits by the window, a blue throw is draped over a chair, and a pair of knitted slippers lies forgotten on the floor. The whole room feels like the coziest corner of winter.
Fireplaces are wonderful on cold nights, but a few safety habits keep pets out of harm's way. A sturdy screen stops sparks and keeps curious noses from getting too close. Dogs can lie closer to heat than is good for them, so it helps to watch for panting or restlessness and move bedding back if needed. Saint Bernards were built for snowy mountain work, with dense coats that keep them warm, so many actually prefer a cooler spot a few feet from the hearth. Keep matches, fire starters, and ashes out of reach, and never leave a dog alone with an open flame.
Even so, there is nothing quite like a fire, a quilt, and a big warm dog at your side when the weather turns. Grandma Edie looks as content as anyone could be, and Moose seems happy to guard the hearth all evening long.
