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A scruffy gray and white puppy sleeps curled in front of a shaggy pony lying on a blue and cream rug. 24 / 32

A Scruffy Rescue Pup Fell Asleep Inside a Pony's Gentle Curve

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On a worn blue-and-cream rug, a scruffy gray-and-white puppy is fast asleep with his nose tucked into his paws, and a shaggy tan pony has wrapped her body protectively around him, her chin resting by his back. The floorboards are old, a basket sits against a pale wall, and a bit of light enters through the door. Everything is quiet. It feels like the calmest spot in the whole house.

We could call the pony Clover and the puppy Scout. Scout's wiry fur and tiny body fit neatly inside her curve. Clover keeps her eyes shut, with one ear tilted toward the puppy, as if listening to his breathing.

Mixed-breed puppies are a wonderful surprise, since each has a unique mix of traits, and many shelters are full of sweet pups looking for homes. A new rescue puppy benefits from a quiet resting spot, a regular routine and a visit to the vet for vaccines and a general checkup. Animals that sleep close together often share body heat and feel safe, which can help a nervous young dog relax. Ponies are herd animals that appreciate companionship, so it is not unusual for them to befriend a smaller pet. As always, supervise any contact between animals of very different sizes.

Scout and Clover look so calm that even the room seems to be holding its breath.

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