Grandpa Ken Grabbed the Shovel After the Big Snow. Mochi Grabbed the Snowbank.
A fresh layer of snow has buried the lawn and the edges of the driveway, the shrubs are frosted white, and Grandpa Ken has come out to tackle it. Bundled in a charcoal knit cap, glasses, a plaid shirt, and an olive fleece vest, he pushes a wide black shovel through the powder with steady strokes. Mochi has taken one look at the snowbank and decided it is her personal playground. The little Yorkie is bounding through it, front paws sunk in deep, ears flapping, snow clinging to her whiskers and legs, looking back over her shoulder with a mischievous sparkle. A bicycle, trash bins, and neighboring houses sit hushed under the winter sky.
Long, silky coats like a Yorkshire Terrier's have a funny winter quirk: snow tends to cling to the hair and form little ice balls, especially on the legs, belly, and between the paw pads. These clumps can become uncomfortable or make walking difficult. Keeping the fur between the toes trimmed short helps, and some owners use dog booties or a protective paw balm before heading out. After playtime, melting the ice balls with a warm, damp towel rather than pulling them out is gentler on the skin. A cozy sweater can help tiny dogs stay warm, and keeping winter play sessions short is wise for small breeds that chill easily.
Mochi does not seem the least bit concerned about the cold right now. Ken may finish the driveway eventually, but first he has to stop smiling at the tiny snow plow working beside him.
