Abuela Was Carving Something Out of an Old Block of Wood. Copito Had to Know What.
Curl after curl of pale wood falls into Abuela Rosa's lap. She sits on the back porch in a plaid shirt and her floral apron, carefully guiding a small knife along a block of wood, her brow furrowed in concentration. The shavings have piled up in a little drift around her knees and onto the boards below. Right beside her, Copito sits with his chin tilted, watching each curl drop as if it might turn into something exciting. Around them the porch is cluttered with garden tools, worn boots, a basket of rags, potted geraniums, and a blue watering can.
Wood shavings might look like fun toys to a curious dog, but chewing wood is not a good idea. Splinters can injure the mouth, gums, or throat, and swallowed pieces can irritate the stomach or cause blockages. Some woods are also treated or varnished with chemicals that are not safe to ingest. When doing woodwork around pets, sweep up shavings regularly, keep sharp tools stored when not in use, and give your dog a safe chew of his own to focus on. If a dog starts gagging, drooling, or pawing at its mouth after chewing wood, call your vet.
Copito might never understand what Rosa is carving, but he clearly enjoys being part of the process. Whatever takes shape out of that block of wood, it will be made with a loyal audience sitting just inches away.
