Grandpa Was Sewing a Quilt. The Dog Chose the Fabric Pile
Gus pulls the needle through a patchwork quilt in plaid and floral squares, concentrating on each careful stitch. Biscuit has made herself a bed on the pile of fabric in front of him, her chin resting on a bundle of cloth and her eyes closed in deep comfort. Behind them a couch, a laundry basket, and a few folded towels fill the cozy room. A cup of tea sits on a table and a window lets in soft gray light.
Quilting is a patient craft, and a dog snoozing nearby can make a project feel even more peaceful. Fabric piles are inviting to dogs because they are soft and carry the smell of their person. Keep pins, needles, and thread well out of reach, since thread and needles can be dangerous if swallowed, and call your vet right away if your dog eats any of them. Keep an eye out for loose scraps that could be chewed. A golden Retriever's shedding can sneak into a project, so a lint roller and a washable cover for finished work are handy tools. Wash your fabrics and any bedding regularly to keep dust and hair to a minimum.
The stitches will add up and so will the naps. By the time the quilt is done, it will have a little extra warmth, and probably a golden hair or two woven in as well.






