The Havanese Carried One Very Small Passenger Across the Lawn

There is a parade crossing the backyard, and it has exactly one rider. A scruffy black and white Havanese trots across the lawn at a steady pace, long silky fur swinging, with a pink piglet balanced on his back like a tiny jockey. She has her front hooves planted wide and her chin lifted, ears flapping a little in the breeze. The porch lights are glowing in the background, and fallen leaves dot the grass.

Havanese are cheerful little companions, originally from Cuba, known for being social, playful, and eager to be near their people. Their long coats need regular brushing to prevent tangles, and they are happiest when they have company. A piglet, by the way, is not a saddle-ready animal, and neither dog nor pig should be asked to carry anything for long. Brief, gentle moments are fine, but a small dog's back can strain easily, so never let a child or another animal ride a little dog. If you are curious about safe play between a small dog and a young pig, ask your vet for advice on size and weight.

We can call the little rider Pearl. She seems to think this is the best way to see the yard, and the Havanese, with his head held high, seems proud to be of service. The two of them are not going far, just across the grass and around the garden. But they are clearly enjoying every step of the trip.