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An elderly Asian American grandpa in a sweater vest hammers a wooden fence as a black Devon Rex holds a stick in its mouth. 15 / 21

Grandpa Grabbed His Hammer to Fix the Fence. His Assistant Brought Her Own Tool.

AI imagedevon rexfence repairbackyard

The sun is setting over the backyard, and Grandpa Kenji is kneeling by the half-built wooden fence with a hammer in hand. He wears a green sweater vest over a blue checked shirt, glasses on, and a cheerful smile as he lines up the next nail. Right in front of him, Pepper sits with a small stick clamped in her mouth like a proud assistant who has brought the right tool. Her curly black coat shines in the low light, and her huge ears stand tall. A bucket of nails, a pair of work gloves, scrap lumber and an aloe plant clutter the work area around them.

Cats carrying objects is a playful behavior with roots in instinct, much like bringing prey back to a safe spot. Devon Rex cats are known for their dog-like personalities, and some even learn to fetch. During home repair projects, though, it is important to keep pets at a safe distance. Loose nails, screws, sharp tools and splinters can cause injuries, and hammering noise can be stressful for sensitive ears. Paints, stains and sealants should be stored tightly closed. Many owners keep cats indoors while they work and let them out to inspect afterward, when the area has been cleaned up.

Working with your hands on a project like a fence keeps older adults active, capable and proud of a job well done.

Pepper has not hammered a single nail, but she has clearly brought the most important supply. Every builder needs a helper with enthusiasm.

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