A Shih Tzu and a Bunny Found the Softest Spot in the Hayloft

A black and white Shih Tzu has pushed her face deep into a pile of fresh hay and fallen fast asleep, her long ears flopped across her paws. Right beside her, a small brown bunny has done much the same, tucked into the straw with eyes closed and ears relaxed. A wicker basket sits on a ledge behind them, and the whole scene has a soft, warm, barn-loft feel.

Hay is a rabbit's best friend. It makes up most of a healthy rabbit's diet, helps keep the teeth worn down, and keeps digestion moving, which is why many rabbits love to burrow and nap in a heap of it. For dogs, hay is mostly a comfy bed, though some dogs may try to eat it, and dusty or moldy hay can irritate sensitive noses, so it is best to use clean, fresh hay. A Shih Tzu's long coat can pick up bits of straw, so a quick brush afterward helps. Resting together is one of the clearest signs that two very different animals have become comfortable with one another.

This nap looks deep. The Shih Tzu's breathing is slow and even, and the bunny's whiskers barely twitch. Neither seems to have a care in the world. If there is a better recipe for a peaceful afternoon than warm hay, a quiet corner, and a friend close by, it has not been invented yet.