Harold and Bev Went Fishing Off the Dock. Duchess Came to Supervise.

Two fishing rods lean out over the dark water, a tackle box sits open on the planks, and Harold and Bev are laughing so hard it's a wonder any fish stick around. They sit side by side on the edge of their backyard dock in matching cream cable-knit sweaters, Bev with her glasses pushed up into her hair, Harold grinning back at her. Right in front, taking up most of the view, Duchess sits on the weathered boards with her impressive Ragdoll ruff fluffed out and her blue eyes staring dead ahead. String lights glow on the porch behind them as the evening settles in.

Many cats are fascinated by water and fish, even if they don't want to get wet. If your cat likes to join you near a pond or lake, a few safety steps go a long way. Docks can be slippery, and while cats can swim, a heavy, long-coated cat like a Ragdoll can tire quickly once soaked. Keep them on a harness near open water. Fishing hooks and line are a real danger, so close the tackle box and never leave a baited line unattended. And as tempting as it may be, raw fish isn't an ideal treat; cooked, boneless fish in small amounts is safer.

Whatever the catch of the day turns out to be, the company is already first-rate. Duchess will happily take credit for any fish that show up.