It Rained All Afternoon. Grandpa and Moose Had Nowhere Else to Be.
A soft rain is falling over the yard, and the air is thick with mist. Walt sits on the edge of his rough wooden porch in his overalls and plaid shirt, elbows on his knees, smiling as he watches the weather roll through. Moose sits on the damp grass right in front of him, close enough to lean back against his grandpa's legs, his coat dotted with tiny raindrops and his gentle brown eyes gazing off to the side. Behind them, a garden hose hangs on a post, potted plants line the boards, and a vegetable patch fades into the fog.
Most Bernese Mountain Dogs do not mind a little rain, thanks to their thick coat, but they can come inside smelling like wet dog and carrying plenty of mud. Keeping an old towel by the door makes cleanup much easier. After a soaking, drying the coat thoroughly, especially the dense undercoat and the area around the ears and paws, helps prevent skin irritation. Floppy ears can trap moisture, so a gentle wipe is a good idea. Thunderstorms are another matter. Some dogs become anxious with thunder, and offering a quiet, cozy place to retreat can help. If storm fear is severe, your vet can talk through options.
Today there is no thunder, just the steady patter of rain on the roof. Walt and Moose seem content to sit and listen. It is the kind of gray afternoon that feels peaceful rather than gloomy when you have good company.






