The Rain Kept Coming. Grandpa Otis and Bear Stayed Right Where They Were.
Rain falls in a steady gray curtain over the yard, soaking the grass and the trees beyond. Under the shelter of the porch roof, Grandpa Otis sits in a tan shawl-collar cardigan, sunglasses pushed up on his head, gazing out with a thoughtful, faraway expression. Bear sits close at his side, black coat glossy and slightly damp, mouth relaxed, eyes turned toward something off in the drizzle. A green watering can, clay pots, a pair of rubber boots, a doormat, and a plaid blanket tossed over a chair all hint at a porch that gets plenty of use, rain or shine.
Some dogs are unbothered by rain, while others get anxious when storms roll in. Signs of storm worry can include pacing, panting, trembling, hiding, or clinging to their person. If your dog gets nervous, staying calm yourself helps, as does offering a quiet, enclosed spot like a crate with a blanket over it. Some dogs do well with snug-fitting wraps or background noise, and your vet can suggest other options for dogs with severe fear. Also check fences and gates after heavy rain, since soggy ground can loosen posts and give an escape artist new opportunities.
Bear looks perfectly content to watch the weather from a dry spot beside Otis. Rainy afternoons don't have to be gloomy when there's someone good to sit with.
