Earl Fell Asleep in His Recliner. Pearl Took Over Guard Duty.
The television is off, the tissues are on the side table, and Earl has lost the battle with his eyelids. He is sunk deep into his well-worn brown recliner, head tipped back, mouth relaxed, overalls rumpled over his plaid shirt. Pearl, however, is wide awake. She has stretched herself along the armrest with her front paws crossed and her chin raised, looking calmly out at the room like a tiny white security guard on duty. Behind them, a basket of knitting needles and yarn sits on the TV stand, a stuffed bunny leans against a stack of papers, and houseplants catch the window light.
Many dogs naturally keep an eye on their people, and settling close by while someone sleeps is a common sign of attachment. Dogs often choose a raised spot like an armrest or the back of a couch because it lets them see the room and stay near their favorite person at the same time. For older dogs, jumping on and off high furniture can be hard on the joints, so pet steps or a ramp beside a favorite chair can help. It is also worth checking that recliners are fully closed before a dog settles underneath or beside them, since the moving footrest mechanism can pinch small paws or tails.
Earl gets his afternoon nap, and Pearl gets the honor of standing guard. Somehow, this arrangement seems to suit them both perfectly.
