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An older man in a vest wrapped in a plaid quilt sits by a crackling fireplace with a fawn French Bulldog resting against him. 20 / 34

Snow Fell Outside. Grandpa Gus and Waffles Had the Fire to Themselves.

AI imagefrench bulldogfireplacewinter

A real fire crackles in the hearth, and Grandpa Gus is bundled in a big blue plaid quilt that he has pulled up around his shoulders. His fishing vest peeks out from the folds, his white mustache is calm, and his eyes are lowered, as if he is listening to the logs pop. Waffles is tucked against his side, the fawn French Bulldog's wrinkly face turned toward the flames and his dark eyes half open. The snowy day shows through the window behind them, and the mantel is cluttered with books, a mug, glasses, and a framed family photograph.

A fireplace is a cozy place on a cold night, but it needs a few safety rules where pets are involved. Use a sturdy screen so sparks cannot jump out, and keep dogs from getting too close to the heat or the hearth. A quilt is a good addition for a short-coated breed like the French Bulldog, who can feel cold easily. Watch for signs that he is too warm, such as heavy panting, and let him move away if he wants. Never leave a dog alone with an open flame, and keep an eye on dangling blankets. Smoke can bother some dogs, so ask your vet if your dog seems to cough or sneeze near the fire.

Gus shifts the quilt a little higher over both of them. Outside the snow keeps falling, and inside the fire burns low and steady, the best kind of winter evening.

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