Rocco Came Home Soaked From the Rain. Grandpa Ken Was Ready at the Door.
Muddy paw prints trail across the hallway floor from the open front door, and outside the rain is still coming down. Grandpa Ken kneels beside Rocco in his argyle sweater vest, carefully wrapping the Boxer in a thick cream knit blanket until only his face peeks out. Rocco's fur is damp and spotted with raindrops, and he looks up at Ken with soulful brown eyes and the tip of his tongue showing. A row of shoes lines the wall, an umbrella leans in the corner, and a wet doormat sits just inside the threshold.
Drying a dog thoroughly after a wet walk helps keep him comfortable, especially short-coated breeds like the Boxer that do not have a thick undercoat for insulation. Towel off the body first, then give special attention to the paws, between the toes, and the folds around the face, where moisture and dirt like to collect. Wiping paws also removes any mud, salt, or lawn chemicals picked up along the route. Keeping a towel or old blanket by the door makes the routine easy. If your dog seems unusually chilled, shivers for a long time, or develops irritated skin between the toes, check in with your vet.
Rocco does not seem to mind the extra fuss one bit. Wrapped up snug and warm, he looks less like a soggy Boxer and more like a very happy burrito.






