A Curly Goldendoodle Decided the Baby Goat Needed a Bath
A tiny pink tongue peeks out from a big curly face, and the baby goat in front of it is getting a very thorough wash. The red Goldendoodle, with a mop of copper ringlets and soft brown eyes, carefully licks the top of the little white goat's head, while the kid closes its eyes halfway and leans into the attention, clearly enjoying the spa treatment. Behind them, a shoe rack overflows with sneakers and boots, a plaid blanket drapes over a basket, a chew toy lies on the floor and a cardboard box sits by the plant.
Licking is one of the ways dogs show affection and bond with others. Mother dogs lick their puppies to clean and comfort them, and many adult dogs carry that nurturing behavior over to other animals and people they care about. Gentle grooming between friendly animals is usually a good sign, but it is worth making sure it does not become excessive or bothersome to the smaller animal. Goats, like dogs, can pick up and pass along certain parasites and germs, so keeping both animals on regular health checks and parasite prevention is wise. Talk to your vet about the right schedule when dogs and livestock share space.
Whether the goat needed a bath or not, it has definitely received one. Some friends show their love with words, and some, it turns out, show it with a very gentle tongue.
