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A white-haired woman in a green quilted jacket sleeps on a porch swing with a black and white dog asleep against her. 32 / 33

Grandma Sat on the Porch Swing for a Quick Rest. Pepper Climbed Up and Time Stopped.

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The porch swing hangs still on its chains, and both of its passengers have surrendered to sleep. Grandma Nell leans back against a green cushion in her olive quilted jacket and plaid shirt, white curls tousled, eyes peacefully shut. Pepper lies pressed against her chest and lap, his big black head resting on a soft green throw, his gray-flecked muzzle relaxed and his eyes closed. The two of them breathe in the same slow rhythm. Behind them, the house siding and a few potted plants blur softly in the gray afternoon light.

Dogs that sleep curled against their people are showing a deep level of trust. In the wild, sleeping is a vulnerable time, so choosing to rest pressed against someone signals a dog feels safe. For senior dogs like Pepper, comfortable resting spots and plenty of sleep are important, and older dogs often nap more throughout the day. If your dog enjoys snoozing on porch furniture, make sure the swing or bench is sturdy and that he can get down safely when he wakes, especially if his joints are a bit stiff. A ramp or step can make life easier for an aging dog.

There is no rush on this porch. The swing will keep its place, and so will they, until somebody's stomach announces supper.

Some of the best afternoons are the ones you sleep right through, side by side with someone you love.

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A white-haired woman in a quilted vest feeds ducks on a small pond while a scruffy black and white dog sits close by.The Ducks Paddled Right Up to Grandma's Hand. Pepper's Reaction Says Everything.A white-haired woman in a quilted vest naps on the lawn at dusk with her head resting on a sleeping black and white dog.Grandma Lay Down in the Grass at Dusk. She Found the Softest Pillow in Town.A white-haired woman in glasses waters pink petunias from a metal can while a black and white dog with a red collar watches.Grandma Nell Was Watering Her Petunias. Pepper Took His Job Very Seriously.A white-haired woman in a navy quilted vest sits on a wooden dock holding a fishing rod as a black and white dog sniffs it.Grandma Brought Her Rod Down to the Foggy Dock. Pepper Had to Inspect It First.