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A rain-dampened grandpa wraps a wet merle Border Collie in a thick knit blanket by the door, with boots and leashes nearby. 14 / 22

The Rain Caught Them Halfway Home. Grandpa Took Care of Skye First.

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The rain caught them halfway through the walk, and it shows. Earl's hair is plastered down, his vest is speckled with drops, and his muddy hiking boots have been kicked off by the door next to a tangle of leashes. Through the window behind him, the yard is still gray and streaming. But his first concern is clearly the dog. He has wrapped Skye in a thick, cream-colored knit blanket like a burrito, leaving only her damp merle face peeking out, ears drooping and eyes a little sheepish. Earl looks down at her with a tender, tired smile, gently rubbing her dry through the wool.

Border Collies have a weather-resistant double coat that sheds water fairly well, but a thorough soaking can leave the undercoat damp for a long time. Toweling a dog off after a rainy walk helps them stay comfortable and keeps the house drier, and paying special attention to the ears, belly, and paws helps prevent irritation. Wet feet can pick up mud, grit, or road chemicals, so a quick wipe between the toes is wise. Older dogs and smaller breeds can chill faster than you might expect, so a warm, dry resting spot afterward is a kindness. If your dog seems unusually stiff or itchy after wet weather, check in with your vet.

In another few minutes Skye will be dry enough to wriggle loose and shake whatever water is left all over Earl's floor. He will probably laugh and hand her a biscuit anyway. Rainy days are just part of the deal.

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