A Border Collie Napped With a Bunny Cradled in His Big White Paws

With his nose on the floor and his eyes closed, a black and white Border Collie sleeps soundly, and cradled between his big white paws is a small brown bunny. The little rabbit sits upright with her ears folded down and her eyes calm, as though this is the safest place in the world. The wooden floor catches a warm streak of sunlight, and a plant and a doorway fill the blurred background. The collie's black ear flops over his face like a tiny blanket.

Border Collies are among the most intelligent dogs, and they were bred to herd sheep, so their instinct is to guide and gather animals. That can be a gift or a challenge around rabbits, since a herding dog may try to circle or stare at a small animal. Staring can scare a rabbit, so a collie who sleeps beside one has learned a great deal of calm. Plenty of exercise and mental work helps collies stay relaxed at home.

The collie's front paws form a little cradle. He seems to be dreaming, and the bunny doesn't wake him. His breathing is slow, and the bunny's small body rises with it.

A sunny floor, a soft sleeper, and a friend who feels safe enough to rest. Some pictures simply ask you to slow down. It is a peaceful lesson in how to relax.