Grandma Was Pinning Up Clean White Sheets When Something Burst Through Them
Rows of crisp white sheets hang from the backyard clothesline, pinned up with wooden clothespins and catching the warm, golden light. Dottie stands among them in her cardigan, pinning one more corner into place and laughing at the little whirlwind racing past her knees. Teddy has burst out from between two sheets in a full gallop, ears flying, front paws lifted, and mouth open in a delighted grin. A laundry basket overflowing with clothes, a pair of gardening gloves, a green watering can, and potted herbs sit around the patio, completing the cheerful chaos of laundry day.
Fluttering fabric is a magnet for playful dogs, because the movement sets off their natural chase instinct. Little dogs like Shih Tzus can be surprisingly energetic in short bursts, and games like this are a fun way to burn off energy. A few safety habits help. Wooden clothespins can splinter or be swallowed if chewed, so it is best to keep spares off the ground. Socks and small clothing items are a common thing for dogs to swallow, which can lead to dangerous blockages, so laundry baskets are best kept out of reach. Laundry pods and detergent should always be stored up high, since they can be harmful if a dog bites into them.
The sheets might end up with a few paw prints, but Dottie does not seem to mind at all. Laundry day is a lot more fun when someone turns it into a game of hide-and-seek.






