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An elderly Black man in a cardigan wraps a red Shiba Inu in a plaid blanket by a rain-streaked window and boots by the door. 29 / 31

The Rain Soaked Maple Through on the Walk. Earl Had a Plan for That.

AI imagered shiba inurainy dayplaid blanket

Rain streaks the glass behind them as Earl crouches by the door, tucking a thick plaid blanket around Maple's shoulders. His cable-knit cardigan sleeves are pushed up and his glasses reflect the gray light as he works with careful hands. Maple the red Shiba Inu peers out of the folds with a damp, serious face, only her head and the tip of one paw showing, a leash still clipped to her collar. Muddy rubber boots, a basket of toys and a coat on a hook line the entryway.

After a wet walk, the first job is a good drying. Rub her with a towel, paying attention to the belly, paws and the spaces between her toes, since lingering damp can cause skin irritation. Shiba Inus have a dense double coat that sheds water well, but the undercoat can stay damp underneath, so a thorough towel rub is worth it. Check her paws for debris and wipe off any mud. Keep her warm until she is dry and offer fresh water. If she seems chilled, lethargic or reluctant to eat afterward, call your vet.

Maple endures the fuss with dignity, though the blanket is clearly welcome. Earl pats her dry and chats softly as he does it. Nothing says home like a warm towel after a rainy walk. The rain can keep falling outside.

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