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An elderly woman in a denim jacket whittles wood on a porch chair as a red-gold Golden Retriever watches the shavings. 21 / 36

Grandma Odessa Whittled a Little Block of Wood. Copper Followed Every Curl.

AI imagegolden retrieverwhittlingporch

A little knife is making short, careful strokes through a small piece of wood, and pale curls are spiraling down onto the porch below. Grandma Odessa sits on a plaid-cushioned chair in a blue denim jacket and burgundy shirt, silver hair neat, focused with a small smile. Copper sits right in front of the pile of shavings, his long red-gold fur dark in the dusk and head lowered, eyes locked on each curl as it falls. A porch light glows on the siding behind them, with flowerpots on the railing and a small bowl of water near the steps.

Wood shavings are an irresistible curiosity to a dog, but they are not harmless. Some woods can be toxic, and splinters or large pieces can hurt a mouth or stomach, so sweep them up promptly. Keep a knife and other sharp tools out of reach, and work somewhere your dog cannot get underfoot. A retriever's mouth is always looking for something to carry, so give them a safe chew or a puzzle toy to keep them busy. Whittling is a gentle craft that rewards patience, and many enjoy a quiet evening with a project. Fresh water nearby is a good idea. If your dog swallows a piece of wood, call your vet.

Whatever Grandma Odessa is making, it will be done when it is done. Copper will watch every single curl until then.

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