A Saint Bernard Plays Lifeguard as Five Ducklings Wait at the Pond
At the edge of a still green pond, a red and white Saint Bernard sits with enormous dignity. His broad, soft face tilts toward the water, and beside him a diagonal line of five yellow ducklings waits on the muddy bank, ready to go in. Reeds and grass grow at the water's edge, and the pond reflects the pale gray sky. A pale mist hangs low over the water, and the grass is wet with morning dew.
Saint Bernards are famous for their gentle, patient natures and for a history of working in the snowy Swiss Alps. They are very large dogs, so they need plenty of room, regular grooming, and careful attention to heat, since their thick coats can leave them uncomfortable on warm days. Ducklings love ponds, but little ones need supervision near deep water, and a gentle ramp or shallow edge makes it easier for them to get in and out safely.
The dog's wise, relaxed face suggests he has seen a lot of water in his time. He looks like a lifeguard, calm and steady, with no need to rush. The ducklings pay him the respect that sensible students pay a good teacher.
The ducklings are lined up like students at the beginning of a swimming lesson, and the big dog is clearly the teacher. When the first one steps forward, you can bet he will be watching every ripple.
