Grandpa Went Out to Shovel the Driveway. Peanut Found the Tallest Snowbank.
The porch light is on, the snow is deep, and the driveway still has a long way to go. Henry stands bundled in a navy sweater vest, gripping a black snow shovel and peering over his glasses with a mild, amused look. Peanut has abandoned all pretense of helping. She has scrambled right up onto the biggest snowbank, legs planted, mouth open, and eyes bright, looking thrilled with herself and dusted in white. Snow covers the bushes, the yard, and the roofs down the street, and the evening sky is turning blue-gray.
Chihuahuas are not built for snow, so a little winter planning goes a long way. Their small size and short legs put their bellies close to cold ground, and they lose heat quickly. Keep outdoor time brief in freezing weather, and consider a dog coat or sweater. Ice-melting salts and chemicals can irritate paw pads and are harmful if licked off, so wipe paws with a warm, damp cloth after walks, or look for pet-safe products. Watch for shivering, lifting paws, or reluctance to move, which mean it is time to go inside. Shoveling is hard work for anyone, too, so pace yourself and take breaks.
Henry might not get much help clearing the driveway, but he certainly gets entertainment. Every snowbank needs someone to stand proudly on top of it, and Peanut has claimed the job.






