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Smiling Black grandpa in a green cardigan sits on a beach boardwalk bench as a black Labrador leans against his knee. 12 / 33

The Ocean Was Right There, but Duke Had Something More Important to Lean On

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Sea grass sways beyond the boardwalk railing, and the weathered boards are littered with flip-flops, a cooler, a mesh beach bag, and seashells piled in a corner. A bicycle leans against the gray-blue cottage behind them. Grandpa Walter sits on a sun-bleached bench in a sage-green cable cardigan, a watch on his wrist and a broad smile under his white beard, his hand resting on Duke's back. The black Lab leans heavily against his knee with his mouth open in a relaxed, happy pant, gazing up at Walter as if waiting for someone to say the magic word: swim.

Most Labs adore the water, and a beach day can be pure bliss for them. A few safety notes help. Ocean waves and currents can tire even strong swimmers, so keep swims short and stay close, and consider a canine life jacket in rough water. Rinse salt and sand from the coat afterward and dry the ears well, since moisture trapped in floppy ears can lead to irritation. After a long, vigorous swim, some sporting dogs develop a temporarily limp, sore tail, sometimes called limber or swimmer's tail. It usually improves with rest, but it is worth a call to your vet. Bring fresh water, too, so your Lab is not tempted to drink seawater.

For now, Duke is content to lean on his favorite person and soak in the sea breeze. The waves will still be there in a few minutes, and so will Walter.

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