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A man in plaid naps in a hammock with a Yorkshire Terrier curled up asleep on his chest. 25 / 29

Grandpa Swung in the Hammock and Pip Curled Up on His Chest

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Grandpa lies back in a rope hammock under the oak branches, his red-and-blue plaid flannel rumpled and his eyes peacefully shut. Pip is curled up on his chest, nose tucked in, as though she has been there all afternoon. Behind them, a patio full of flowerpots, a watering can, and a few scattered shoes tells the story of a day of backyard chores.

Sunlight filters through the leaves and dapples the hammock. The ropes sag in a comfortable curve, and their breathing seems to be in perfect rhythm.

Hammock naps are a joy for many people, and small dogs often love a warm spot on a trusted person. Keep a few safety points in mind: make sure the hammock is firmly secured, since extra weight can surprise you, and watch that she does not get tangled in the rope or jump down awkwardly. Small dogs can injure themselves from a hard landing, so lift her down if you can. Shade and fresh water matter outdoors, and a blanket in the hammock makes it more comfortable. If your dog snores or seems to struggle to breathe while sleeping, mention it to your vet.

The breeze will rock them gently until they wake. Neither of them has anywhere to be, and the afternoon is long enough to go as slowly as it likes.

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