Grandpa Ken Just Wanted a Quiet Sip of Lemonade. Mochi Was Watching.
A warm afternoon has settled over the porch, and Grandpa Ken is taking a long, slow sip of lemonade through a striped straw. Ice cubes and a lemon slice float in the tall glass. He sits in a weathered wooden chair in an olive sweater and plaid collar, glasses low on his nose. At his knee, Mochi sits perfectly upright and stares up with enormous, hopeful eyes, as if one polite look might earn a taste. Potted plants, a pair of slippers by the door and dappled sunlight complete the lazy summer scene.
As tempting as it is to share, lemonade is not a good drink for dogs. Citrus can upset a dog's stomach, and sugary drinks offer nothing a dog needs. Some sugar-free versions contain xylitol, a sweetener that is dangerous for dogs, so it is best to keep all sweetened drinks out of reach. Fresh, cool water is the right refreshment, especially for a flat-faced breed like a Pug that can overheat on warm days. Shade, a shallow bowl of water and a cool spot to lie down are the best ways to help a short-nosed dog enjoy summer. If you want to give a little treat, a plain ice cube is usually a fun option.
Mochi will have to settle for water and a scratch behind the ears, but the begging technique deserves high marks. Grandpa Ken knows that face well. Summer on the porch is better with someone who hangs on your every sip.
