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An elderly Black man in a cardigan washes a soapy red Shiba Inu sitting in a large metal tub in a backyard. 20 / 31

Earl Filled the Old Tub and Maple Gave Him Her Most Serious Look

AI imagered shiba inubath timebackyard tub

The galvanized tub is full of warm suds, and in the middle of it sits Maple, her rust-red coat plastered flat and her fur combed into little wet points. Earl leans over the tub with a soft, patient smile, his glasses glinting, one soapy hand working through her fur. Maple's dark eyes look straight ahead and her mouth is set in a calm, mildly offended line. Behind them the backyard is tidy, with a fence, potted plants and a patch of grass in the afternoon light.

Shiba Inus have a thick double coat that keeps itself fairly clean, and in fact they do not need frequent baths. Too many baths can strip natural oils and dry out her skin, so many owners wash only when she is truly dirty. Use a dog shampoo, since human products can irritate, and rinse thoroughly so no soap remains. Keep water out of her ears and eyes, and keep her warm afterward, since the thick undercoat can take a long time to dry. Regular brushing is the best everyday care. If she scratches a lot or has flaky skin, ask your vet.

Maple endures the bath with the dignity of a dog who knows it will soon be over. Earl speaks to her softly and keeps the water gentle. When she is out, she will probably shake all over him, and he will probably laugh.

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An elderly Black man in a brown cardigan sits at a lace-covered table with tea and a scone while a red Shiba Inu sits nearby.Earl Poured Afternoon Tea. Maple Sat Down Like She'd Been Invited.An elderly Black man in glasses naps in a brown recliner with a red Shiba Inu resting alert on the armrest beside him.Earl Nodded Off in His Recliner. Maple Stayed Wide Awake on the Armrest.
An elderly Black man in a green cardigan stirs cookie dough in a bowl while a red Shiba Inu looks up at the counter.Earl Was Scooping Cookie Dough When Maple Crept Up to the CounterAn elderly Black man in a cardigan wears headphones on a couch near a record player while a red Shiba Inu looks up at him.Earl Put On His Headphones and a Record. Maple Waited Right at His Side.An elderly Black man in a cardigan and a red Shiba Inu sleep together in a rope hammock under oak trees.Earl Lay Down in the Hammock for a Minute. Maple Climbed Right In.An elderly Black man in a cardigan waters a wooden planter of flowers with a metal can while a red Shiba Inu stands watching.Earl Watered His Flower Box. Maple Watched Each Drop Like a Gardener.