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A grandpa waters pink petunias in wooden planter boxes in a sunroom while a Yorkshire Terrier stands beside him. 31 / 37

Grandpa's Sunroom Is Full of Flowers. His Yorkie Thinks She's in Charge of Them.

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Golden light streams through the window of Earl's little sunroom garden, where wooden planter boxes overflow with pink petunias, purple pansies, orange marigolds, and fragrant rosemary. Earl crouches low in his overalls, tipping a dented metal watering can so a gentle shower falls over the blossoms. He is smiling down at Peanut, who stands at the edge of the planter, tail up and head tilted, watching the water as if she is in charge of quality control. A couch with folded blankets and shelves of houseplants fill the room behind them.

Indoor and porch gardens can be wonderful hobbies, especially for seniors who enjoy tending plants without kneeling in a big yard. With a dog in the house, it helps to choose plants carefully. Petunias, marigolds, and rosemary are commonly listed as low risk for dogs, though marigolds can cause mild stomach upset if eaten in quantity. Some popular houseplants, like lilies, sago palms, and dieffenbachia, are much more dangerous and are best avoided. Keep potting soil, fertilizer, and plant food stored away, since dogs may be tempted to dig or lick. If your dog chews on a plant you are unsure about, call your vet.

Peanut's job today is mostly supervising, and she takes it seriously. Earl seems to enjoy every minute of their little garden routine. With flowers like these and a helper like that, the sunroom feels like the happiest spot in the house.

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