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Laughing grandmother in glasses winds up to throw an orange ball as a Jack Russell Terrier springs forward in the backyard. 30 / 40

Abuela Pulled Her Arm Back to Throw the Ball. Chispa Didn't Wait Around.

AI imagejack russell terrierplaying fetchbackyard

One arm cocked back, an orange ball gripped tight and a laugh bursting out of her, Abuela Rosa is ready to make the big throw. She stands in the grassy backyard in a blue T-shirt and floral apron, glasses on and gray hair in a bun, looking every bit the star pitcher. Chispa, though, has not waited for the ball to leave her hand. The little terrier is already launching forward, mouth open, ears flying and paws stretched out in front, pure anticipation in every muscle. Laundry hangs on a line along the wooden fence, a blue water bowl sits in the grass and potted plants line the edges of the yard.

Jack Russells were bred to be tireless working dogs, and fetch is one of the best ways to help them burn off that energy. Many need a good amount of daily exercise to stay happy and avoid boredom behaviors like digging, barking or chewing. A few tips keep fetch safe. Use a ball sized so it cannot be swallowed or lodge in the throat, and avoid tennis-style balls that get chewed apart. Mix in short breaks for water, especially on warm days. Throw on soft grass rather than hard ground to protect joints, and watch for limping or excessive panting. Puzzle feeders and sniff games help tire out the mind too.

Rosa may need a breather before Chispa does. But that laugh says this backyard game is just as fun for her as it is for the dog.

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