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Grandmother sips from a mug on sunny front steps while a Jack Russell Terrier in a brown collar sniffs toward the cup. 27 / 40

Abuela's First Sip of Morning Coffee Had a Very Interested Witness

AI imagejack russell terriermorning coffeefront steps

Mornings start the same way at this house: a mug of coffee on the front steps and a dog who wants to know what is in it. Abuela Rosa sits on the sun-warmed concrete in a denim shirt and floral apron, cradling a plain tan mug close to her lips and taking a slow first sip. Small gold earrings glint in the light. Next to her, Chispa stretches her neck up toward the cup, nose working, brown collar snug, as if hoping the morning ritual comes with a tasting. Potted plants line the steps, a doormat sits by the brown front door and the neighborhood glows in early sunshine.

Coffee might be a beloved morning ritual for people, but it is not safe for dogs. Caffeine can cause restlessness, a racing heart, vomiting and more serious problems, and small dogs can be affected by fairly small amounts. Coffee grounds, beans, tea bags and energy drinks are even more concentrated, so they should be kept out of reach and tossed in a covered trash can. If your dog gets into caffeine, call your vet or a pet poison hotline right away. A better way to include your pup in the morning routine is a small dog-safe treat or a few minutes of play before the day starts.

Rosa knows the rule, so the coffee stays hers. Chispa gets a scratch behind the ears instead, and honestly, that seems like a fair trade.

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