No Fish Were Biting at the Old Dock. Grandpa Earl Didn't Seem to Mind One Bit.
The fishing rod is out, the line is in the water, and Grandpa Earl is in his element on the old wooden dock. Cap pulled low, white mustache glinting in the late sun, he's wearing his khaki vest with pockets stuffed full of lures and gear and a pair of brown work gloves. Beside him sits Domino, his towering harlequin Great Dane, mouth open in a wide happy grin, tongue lolling, black collar snug around his spotted neck. Around them, tackle boxes, a net, buckets, and a rowboat crowd the dock, and the marshy water glimmers with golden light.
A fishing trip with a dog can be a lovely way to spend the day, but tackle needs watching. Hooks, lures, and fishing line are among the more common outdoor hazards for dogs, who may grab a baited hook or swallow line along with a tasty-smelling lure. If that happens, it's important not to pull on the line and to see a vet right away. For a giant dog like a Great Dane, a stable spot on the dock matters too, since docks can be slippery and a big dog's sudden lunge could be risky. A dog life jacket is a smart choice around deep water, even for confident swimmers.
No fish yet, but no complaints either. With a buddy this cheerful, even a slow day on the water feels like a good one.






