Grandpa Flipped Pancakes and Pearl Waited as Patiently as She Could
The kitchen is bright with morning light, and Grandpa stands at the stove with a spatula in hand, studying a perfectly golden pancake in a skillet. The counter is busy with a bowl of fruit, a dish of butter, and a few jars. Down by his knee, Pearl the white Poodle waits in perfect stillness, her dark eyes locked on the pan and her mouth just open enough to show a pink tongue. She has the posture of a dog who has been promised something. A dish towel and a half-empty glass of water sit by the stove.
Cooking and dogs can be a tricky combination, so a few habits help. Teach your dog a spot, like a mat or bed, where she can wait while you cook, and keep her clear of hot pans and spills. Many foods that taste good to us can upset a dog's stomach, and some, such as onions or chocolate, are harmful. If you want to share a bite, ask your vet which plain foods are safe, and keep portions tiny so treats do not crowd out her regular meals.
Pearl is on her best behavior, and Grandpa knows it. The pancake is flipped with a flourish, and the kitchen smells like butter and syrup. Good manners, in this house, are always noticed. Whether she gets a nibble is up to him.
