Grandpa Otis Pulled the Quilt Up by the Fire. Bear Moved Closer.
Logs crackle in the stone fireplace, throwing an orange glow across a room full of baskets, books, and folded blankets. Grandpa Otis sits deep in a worn armchair, wrapped in a thick cream cable-knit cardigan with a blue and white patchwork quilt pulled over his lap. His glasses rest low and his gaze is tender as he looks down at Bear. The black German Shepherd presses close against the arm of the chair, nose almost touching Otis's hand, ears relaxed. A potted plant, a tea mug, and a stack of papers on the hearth make the whole scene feel like a long winter evening.
A crackling fire is cozy for everyone, but it pays to be careful with pets around the hearth. A sturdy fireplace screen keeps sparks and embers in place and stops a curious nose from getting too close. Dogs often lie right in front of a fire, so watch that they don't overheat, and make sure fresh water is nearby. Never leave a fire unattended with pets in the room, and keep matches, lighters, and fire-starting products out of reach. German Shepherds have a thick double coat, so many of them prefer to rest a little farther back from the heat once they've warmed up.
Between the quilt, the fire, and a loyal dog leaning in, Otis has found the warmest seat in the house. Some evenings ask for nothing more.
