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An older woman in glasses and a floral apron sits on a boardwalk bench by the beach with a brindle Shih Tzu on her lap. 10 / 28

Abuela Rosa Found the Perfect Bench on the Boardwalk. Chispa Found Her Lap.

AI imageshih tzuboardwalkbeach

Salt air, a cloudy sky, and the soft hush of waves beyond the boardwalk railing. Abuela Rosa has found a weathered blue bench and settled in with Chispa on her lap. She wears her peach-flowered apron over a light blue tee, glasses on, gray hair swept up, and she is gazing down at her little companion with a quiet, contented smile. Chispa sits upright against her, shaggy brindle face turned toward the camera, a brown collar visible under all that fur. Behind them, pots of red flowers brighten the deck, and a strip of sandy beach meets the gray sea on the horizon.

Beach trips can be fun for small dogs with a little planning. Sand can get hot quickly, so early mornings or cloudy days like this one are kinder to paws. Bring fresh water, since dogs should not drink seawater, which can make them sick. A long-coated breed like the Shih Tzu can pick up sand and salt in its fur, so a rinse with fresh water and a thorough brushing afterward helps prevent itching and mats. Always check local rules, as many beaches and boardwalks have specific dog hours or leash requirements. A light harness is often more comfortable than a collar for small dogs on walks.

Rosa is not in any hurry to leave. The breeze is cool, the bench is comfortable, and her favorite beach buddy seems perfectly happy to watch the world go by from her lap.

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