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An elderly woman in a gray cardigan sleeps on the grass with her head against a sleeping red-gold Golden Retriever. 35 / 36

Grandma Odessa Lay Down on the Lawn. Copper Made Himself Her Pillow.

AI imagegolden retrieverlawn napbackyard

The grass is warm and the light is golden, and Grandma Odessa has stretched out on the lawn with her cheek resting against Copper's shoulder. Her eyes are closed, her silver curls are brushed to one side and her gray cardigan is tucked around her. Copper lies on his side with his long russet muzzle on the grass, his eyes closed and a few fallen leaves near his paws. A pair of sneakers, a plastic water bottle, a basket and a ball are scattered across the yard behind them, and a house with a bright window glows in the distance.

Dogs often sleep soundly when they feel safe, and curling up next to a trusted person is a lovely sign of comfort. A lawn nap in mild weather is a nice treat, but there are a few things to check. Ticks and fleas can hide in grass, so check your dog's coat after time outdoors and ask your vet about prevention suited to your area. Make sure the lawn has not been treated with fertilizer or pesticides lately, since dogs can pick up residues on their coat and fur. Offer shade and fresh water, and keep naps to mild days, since a thick coat can feel hot. Grass can also be damp, so a blanket helps.

The sun slides across the yard, and neither of them stirs. It is the kind of afternoon that asks for nothing at all.

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