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A tortoiseshell cat swats the water as a golden puppy crouches beside her in a shallow muddy creek. 4 / 37

A Muddy Creek, a Busy Paw, and One Very Surprised Puppy

AI imagetortoiseshell catpuppycreek

Mud, drizzle and a very busy paw. A tortoiseshell cat, her coat a swirl of black, orange and brown, is leaning into a shallow puddle of creek water and sending droplets flying. Next to her, Waffles the puppy has squinted his eyes shut against the spray, though his body language says he is having a wonderful time. Behind them is a gray wooden house, a flowerpot on the steps and a foggy autumn yard.

Most cats are not fans of getting wet, but plenty of them enjoy playing with water, especially when it moves. Tapping and splashing is part of how a cat investigates things, and a creek full of ripples is a lot like a toy. Puppies, on the other hand, usually love water but have no sense of caution about it. If your dog or cat is out near a stream or pond, stay close, watch the depth, and dry them well afterward. Wet fur left damp can get uncomfortable, and muddy paws are best wiped before they head inside.

Tortoiseshell cats have a reputation for strong personalities, and this one is living up to it. She is clearly the one in charge of the water play, and Waffles is happy to be splashed. Somewhere there is going to be a towel waiting for both of them. By the end of the afternoon, the yard will be a little muddier and the friendship a little stronger.

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