The Dachshund Puppy and the Pony Fell Asleep in Front of the Stove

The wood stove glows in the background, and on a soft knitted blanket in front of it, two sleepers have melted into each other. A tiny brown Dachshund puppy lies curled with his eyes shut and his paws tucked under his chin. Beside him Clover the shaggy pony rests her head on the blanket, her long lashes closed and her pale mane loose around her face. Slippers, a basket of throws, and a vase of flowers sit nearby, making the room feel gently lived in.

Dachshunds have long backs and short legs, and that unusual build is part of their charm. Because of it, many owners avoid letting them jump from high furniture and try to keep them at a healthy weight, as extra pounds can strain the spine. Puppies sleep a great deal while they grow, and a warm, draft-free place is ideal for them. A wood stove is wonderful for atmosphere, but it also gets very hot, so pets should always be kept at a safe distance and the stove protected with a guard. Your vet can give you advice about keeping a Dachshund comfortable and safe at home.

Neither of these sleepers is thinking about anything but warmth right now. The puppy's breathing is soft and slow, the pony's breathing matches it, and the crackle of the fire keeps time. It is the kind of quiet that makes everyone in the room speak a little more softly.