Grandpa Sipped Lemonade on the Porch and Pearl Made Her Case

Grandpa takes a long, cool sip of lemonade from a glass full of ice and lemon slices, his glasses perched on his nose and his green cardigan hanging loose. On the porch around him are the signs of a well-used afternoon: a basket of gloves, a stack of boots, and a watering can by the rail. Pearl the white Poodle has pressed herself against his side, her blue collar neat and her dark eyes fixed on his face with polite, hopeful attention. It is a shady, quiet corner of the day. The cool glass sweats in his hand while the afternoon lazes by.

Warm afternoons call for fresh water for your dog, and a shady spot is just as important. Dogs cannot cool themselves as efficiently as people, so watch for heavy panting, drooling, or lethargy on hot days, and call your vet if you are concerned. Lemon, citrus peels, and sugary drinks are not good choices for dogs, so a bowl of cool plain water is the best treat. Poodles are active and can heat up quickly, so quiet shade breaks are wise.

Pearl does not get lemonade, but she does get the best seat on the porch and a loving pat. Grandpa knows how to share what matters. Summer afternoons are just long enough for a drink and a rest.