A Smiling Husky Lay Among the Sunflowers With Kittens Tucked Close

Tall sunflowers nod behind a red-and-white Siberian Husky who is stretched on the grass with her mouth open in a calm, happy smile. Right against her white chest sit five kittens, ginger, gray, black-and-white and cream, huddled together and looking out. A wooden fence and a rooftop sit in the background, and the afternoon light pours over everything. Bees drift lazily between the blossoms, and the whole garden feels warm and slow.

We might call the Husky Aspen. Her thick fur is soft and warm, and the kittens have clearly decided it is the best place in the garden. Her ears are pricked forward, and she looks pleased with her little crowd.

Siberian Huskies are friendly, energetic and talkative dogs that were bred for pulling sleds across the snow. They have a thick double coat and usually do best in cooler weather, so shade and water matter on warm days. They also have a strong prey drive, which means supervision is essential around kittens and other small animals. Sunflowers are generally considered safe in a yard, but fertilizers and pest sprays can be harmful, so check what is used in your garden. Kittens should have a shaded place to rest, and your vet can explain the best outdoor safety steps.

Aspen and her crew look relaxed, and the sunflowers seem happy to watch over them. It is a golden, quiet afternoon.