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An older Asian American man whittles a small piece of wood on a porch as a brindle Boxer watches wood shavings fall nearby. 15 / 29

Grandpa Ken Sat Down to Whittle on the Porch. Rocco Became Very Concerned.

AI imageboxerwhittlingporch

Curly pale wood shavings are piling up on the porch boards, and each new one drifts down to join the heap. Grandpa Ken sits hunched in his argyle sweater, carving knife in one hand and a small block of wood in the other, focused and quietly smiling. Rocco stands close by with his big brindle head lowered toward the shavings, nose twitching and brows furrowed in the classic Boxer expression of deep concern. A canvas tool bag, a small potted sprout, a pair of sandals, and the open screen door frame this calm afternoon on the porch.

Dogs are drawn to the smell of fresh wood, and some love to chew it. Small wood chips and shavings might look harmless, but splinters can irritate a dog's mouth or digestive tract, so it is best to sweep them up rather than let a dog snack on them. Carving knives and tools should be put away whenever you step away. Handcrafts like whittling are also a nice way for older adults to stay engaged, since they involve focus, fine motor skills, and the satisfaction of making something by hand. A dog nearby makes a patient, appreciative audience.

Rocco may not know what Ken is carving yet, but he is clearly invested in the outcome. Perhaps it will be a little wooden dog, wrinkly forehead and all.

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