Snow Covered the Yard, and a Saint Bernard Kept the Horse Company
Snow covers the ground and the fence posts, and a big red and white Saint Bernard has put himself right up against a resting chestnut horse. The dog's fluffy chest and soft brown eyes are turned toward the horse, whose face is calm and relaxed. A little straw and a few boards are visible behind them, dusted with white. The Saint Bernard is Gus again, and the horse is Copper. The yard is quiet, and the snow muffles every sound.
Saint Bernards were bred in the snowy Alps and are famous for their calm strength. Their thick coats keep them warm in cold weather, and many love the snow. Even so, they need shelter, and regular checks for ice between the toes. Horses grow thick winter coats and can handle plenty of cold, but they need dry shelter, windbreaks, and enough hay to keep their bodies warm.
Winter care matters for every animal. Provide fresh, unfrozen water, check for signs of cold stress like shivering, and keep bedding dry. Wipe your dog's paws after walking on salted roads, because salt can irritate skin and is harmful if licked. Talk to your vet about how best to keep your pets safe through the winter.
Gus is a warm wall of fur, and Copper is happy to lean on him. The snow feels softer with a good friend. It looks like the start of a long, peaceful winter evening.
