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Grandmother in glasses knits on a sofa while a Yorkshire Terrier sits in her lap tangled in loops of cream yarn. 32 / 39

Grandma Was Halfway Through Her Scarf When She Looked Down at Her Lap

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The knitting needles are clicking along nicely, but something has gone a bit sideways in Grandma June's lap. She sits on a patterned sofa in a denim shirt over a gray sweater, glasses on and silver braid draped forward, working on what looks like a cozy cream scarf. A basket overflowing with colorful yarn balls sits behind her, along with a mustard knit blanket, a mug of tea and a few loose papers. And there in the middle of it all is Pip, thoroughly tangled in a web of cream yarn, strands looped around his legs and body, gazing straight ahead with a solemn expression, as if he has no idea how this happened.

Yarn can look like an irresistible toy to dogs, but it carries real risks. If a dog swallows long pieces of yarn, string or thread, it can lead to a serious intestinal blockage that may require surgery. Small breeds like Yorkies are especially vulnerable because even a short length can cause problems. Keep knitting projects in a covered basket or a yarn bowl, and put supplies away when you leave the room. Offering a sturdy chew or a puzzle toy while you knit gives your dog something safe to focus on. If you think your dog has swallowed yarn, do not pull on any visible strand. Call your vet right away.

June will set down her needles soon and carefully free her tangled assistant. After that, the yarn basket might need a lid.

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