A White Bichon and Four Kittens Sat in a Row on the Porch Steps

On the weathered wooden steps of a porch, a fluffy white Bichon Frise lies with his paws forward and his dark eyes turned slightly to the side. Tucked against his shoulder are four tiny kittens, black-and-white, gray, cream and ginger, huddled in a row with sleepy faces. A potted plant and a doormat sit nearby, and the evening light glows warmly through the open door. The steps are worn smooth from many evenings just like this.

We might call the Bichon Cloud. His curly coat is the color of cotton, and the kittens look like small dark and orange buttons against it. They rest together as the day winds down. It looks like the end of a good day.

Bichon Frises are cheerful, playful dogs with curly white coats that need regular brushing and trimming. They are friendly and social and usually get along well with other animals, though they can be sensitive and prefer company. Porches are good places to relax, but make sure kittens cannot wander down steps or into the road, and supervise outdoor time. Kittens need warmth, so keep them off cold concrete. Wipe your dog's coat after outdoor time if it gets dusty, and ask your vet about vaccines for kittens before they spend time outside.

Cloud and the kittens look ready to watch the evening settle. The porch light will come on soon, but they are in no hurry to move.