Harold and Bev Cast Their Lines Into the Misty Pond. Duke Had the Best Seat.
A soft morning mist hangs over the pond, blurring the trees and the little shed on the far shore. Harold and Bev sit together at the end of a weathered wooden dock in their matching cream cable-knit sweaters, fishing rods propped over the water, smiling and in no hurry at all. An open tackle box, a bucket full of gear, and a water bottle sit on the boards beside them. Duke has planted himself right next to Bev, his giant fawn head and droopy jowls filling the foreground, mouth slightly open and eyes gazing off across the water.
Fishing trips with a dog can be relaxing, but tackle needs careful handling. Fish hooks, lures, and lines are among the more common hazards for curious dogs, since bait smells tempting and dangling lures look like toys. Keep tackle boxes closed, never leave baited hooks lying around, and collect any discarded line. If a dog ever swallows a hook or gets one caught, do not pull it out; call your vet right away. Docks can also be slippery, and while many dogs can swim, a giant breed like a Great Dane can tire quickly in the water. A canine life vest is a smart idea for any dog who spends time near deep water.
Whether anyone catches a fish today hardly matters. A quiet dock, a misty pond, and a big gentle dog leaning in close already make it a very good morning.
