Otis Cast On a New Row and Pepper Cast Herself Into the Yarn

Otis is working a row of stitches with his glasses low on his nose, while Pepper sits in the middle of the couch wrapped in loose yarn. Balls of wool lie in her lap and along the cushions, and a mug of something warm sits on the side table. Pepper looks up with a serious expression, as if the tangles are a surprise to her too. A cream throw is tucked beside them, and the needle tips are just visible among the loops.

Yarn and string can be dangerous if a pet swallows them, so keep craft supplies in a closed bag and don't leave loose strands in reach. A dog that chews yarn needs prompt attention, and any swallowed string should be handled by a vet. A Shih Tzu's long coat can also catch fibers, so check her fur after a craft session. Offer her a soft toy or chew of her own, and she will be less inclined to help with the project. Better still, a basket with a lid keeps temptation away.

Otis is patient, and the stitches are still going. The yarn can be wound back up later, and no one is in a rush. There are worse ways to spend an afternoon than in a cozy knot with a loyal friend. The scarf will wait.