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An elderly man in a cream sweater vest sits at a lace-covered tea table as a red and white husky rests its nose by the cups. 7 / 32

Grandpa Kenji Set Out the Good Teacups. Maple Brought Her Best Manners.

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The good teacups are out today. A white lace cloth covers the little table, a pot of tea has been poured into speckled cups, and a slice of pound cake waits on a saucer beside a tiny cream pitcher. Grandpa Kenji, wearing a cream cable-knit sweater vest over a blue shirt, sits back with a pleased, gentle smile. Maple has rested her chin right at the table's edge, nose pointed hopefully at the cake, one blue eye calm and patient as if she, too, was sent an invitation.

Tea time with a dog in the room is mostly about good manners and a few safety basics. Hot drinks and dangling tablecloths are a risky combination with a big, curious dog, because one tug on the lace can bring everything down. Keeping cups away from the edge helps. Many baked goods contain ingredients dogs shouldn't have, including chocolate, raisins, macadamia nuts, and the sweetener xylitol, so it's safest not to share cake at all. Caffeinated tea and coffee aren't good for dogs either. A small dog biscuit offered in place of the treat keeps everyone happy. Teaching a solid 'settle' or 'place' cue can also help a husky relax beside the table instead of hovering.

Maple, to her credit, seems to be on her best behavior. She's watching, hoping, and maybe calculating, but she hasn't made a move.

Some afternoons are made for slowing down, pouring a second cup, and enjoying good company. Grandpa Kenji has the tea, Maple has the patience, and the cake might just survive.

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