Grandpa Otis Picked Up His Knitting. Bear Got Wrapped Up in It First.

The knitting needles are clicking along nicely, but the yarn has gone completely off course. Grandpa Otis sits on a cream couch in a beige cable-knit cardigan, glasses on and a wide smile on his face, working a small square of knitted fabric. Below his hands, loops and strands of cream yarn spill everywhere, wrapped around Bear's legs, draped over his back, and looped around his neck. The black German Shepherd lies sprawled across the cushion with his mouth open in a happy pant, apparently delighted to be part of the project. A basket of yarn balls sits on the floor, a remote control rests on the armrest, and a plant brightens the blue wall.

Yarn and string look harmless, but they can be risky for pets. If a dog swallows a long strand, it can cause a serious intestinal blockage that requires urgent veterinary care. Tangles can also wrap tightly around legs, necks, or tails. Keep yarn in a lidded basket or bag while you work, put projects away when you step out of the room, and never leave a pet unattended with loose string. If you suspect your dog has swallowed yarn, call your vet right away rather than trying to pull it out. A sturdy chew toy nearby gives a curious dog something safer to focus on.

Bear looks so pleased with himself that it's hard to scold him. Otis will have some untangling to do, but he's clearly enjoying the company.