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A silver-haired woman plays an old upright piano while a gold and white Shih Tzu sits beside her on the wooden bench. 28 / 38

Dottie Sat Down at the Old Piano and Found She Had a Duet Partner

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Sheet music is propped open on the stand of an old upright piano, its dark wood worn soft at the edges, and Dottie's fingers are resting lightly on the keys mid-melody. Her glasses are pushed up on top of her silver hair, and she plays with a small, private smile, eyes on the music. Teddy sits upright on the wooden bench beside her, close against her side, gazing out across the room with a calm, dignified look and a brown collar peeking through his fur. A mug and a little brass candleholder rest on top of the piano, a cozy throw drapes over the side, and family photos hang on the wall behind them.

Playing an instrument is a wonderful pastime at any age. For older adults, it keeps the hands moving and the mind engaged with reading, rhythm, and memory, and many people simply find it calming and joyful. Pets often like to be close during these moments. Dogs hear a wider range of sounds than people, so if a dog stays nearby while you play, that is a good sign they find it comfortable. If they leave the room or seem uneasy, giving them a quiet space elsewhere is the kind thing to do. Small dogs perched on piano benches should be helped down instead of jumping, since that can strain little backs and legs.

Teddy may never learn to play, but he clearly enjoys his front-row seat. With a familiar tune and a faithful companion beside her, Dottie's afternoon could not sound sweeter.

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