Abuela Found a Quiet Bench by the Sea. Chispa Found the Best Seat on It.
Just beyond the weathered fence, the ocean glints silver-blue, and the breeze carries a hint of salt. Abuela Rosa sits on an old painted bench with peeling blue paint, wearing a denim shirt and her floral apron, glasses slipping a little down her nose and gray hair pinned back. Her smile is quiet and deeply content. Snuggled across her lap with both front paws draped over her knee, Chispa gazes straight ahead with her ears folded and head held proud, looking every bit the well-traveled beach dog. Spiky succulents in clay pots, a few garden plants and the boardwalk railing complete the sunny coastal scene.
Beach outings can be a treat for dogs, with new smells, soft sand and fresh air. A little preparation goes a long way. Bring plenty of fresh water, since dogs should not drink seawater, which can make them sick. Sand can get very hot in summer, so check the temperature with your hand, and offer shade with an umbrella or a covered bench. Light-colored, short-coated dogs like many Jack Russells can sunburn on thin areas such as the nose and ears, and some owners use a pet-safe sunscreen. Rinse salt and sand from the coat afterward, and always check local rules, as many beaches have leash requirements or dog-free seasons.
No rush to go anywhere. With the sea in front of them and a friend in her lap, Rosa has found the perfect spot to sit and watch the day drift by.






