Grandma Edie Only Dipped Her Toes in the Lake. Moose Clearly Went All In.
Toes in the cool lake water, Grandma Edie sits at the edge of a weathered wooden dock, smiling down at Moose through her glasses. Her green quilted vest is zipped over a gray shirt, and her sandals sit abandoned a few planks back. Moose lies stretched out beside her, his fur damp and clumped along his back as though he has already had a dip or two. Pink flowers bloom in a pot on the shore, a blue bucket and a garden hose lie in the grass, and the calm water stretches away toward the distant trees.
Lakes are a favorite summer spot for many dogs, but they come with a few things to watch. Still, warm water can sometimes grow blue-green algae, which can be very dangerous to dogs, so it is wise to avoid water that looks scummy, discolored, or has a foamy film. Fresh drinking water from home is a better choice than letting a dog lap from the lake. After swimming, rinsing the coat and drying the ears helps prevent irritation and ear infections, especially for floppy-eared breeds like Saint Bernards. Their thick fur takes a long time to dry, so a sunny spot and a good towel come in handy.
Some of the best summer moments are also the simplest. Cool water, warm boards, and a soggy, happy friend leaning close make an ordinary afternoon feel like a small vacation. Grandma Edie looks in no rush to pull her feet out of the lake.
