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Grandmother works on a flower garden jigsaw puzzle at a kitchen table while a scruffy Jack Russell sits on a chair watching. 40 / 40

Abuela Started a Brand New Garden Puzzle. Chispa Pulled Up Her Own Chair.

AI imagejack russell terrierjigsaw puzzlekitchen table

Piece by piece, a garden of pink and purple flowers is coming together on the kitchen table. Abuela Rosa leans over the puzzle in an olive T-shirt and floral apron, gray hair twisted up, pressing a small piece into place with careful fingers and a quiet look of concentration. Loose pieces are scattered across the wood, around a blue patterned mug, a dish towel, a bowl of garlic and onions and a small pot of succulents. Seated in a wooden chair at the table's corner, as if she has her own place setting, Chispa sits upright with her scruffy face turned toward Rosa, ears softly folded and eyes alert, the very picture of a patient puzzle partner.

Jigsaw puzzles are a popular hobby for many older adults, and for good reason. They encourage focus, visual thinking and patience, and finishing a big one brings a satisfying sense of accomplishment. They can also be a nice social activity, shared with family or friends over several afternoons. With a dog in the house, it helps to keep the puzzle on a table away from the edge, since loose cardboard pieces can be chewed or swallowed. Onions and garlic, like the ones in the bowl here, are also toxic to dogs, so they should stay up on the counter or table and out of reach of curious noses.

The puzzle might take a few more days, but Rosa has a loyal teammate who will sit at that table for every single piece.

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