The Stockings Hung Above Her, and She Slept Right Through the Excitement
Three stockings, one cream, one red, and one green, hang from a mantel with evergreen branches while a small white puppy with tan ears sleeps on the rug below. Her cheek rests on a knit blanket, her eyes are closed, and her paws curl softly in front of her. A woven basket mat lies beneath her, and a bright window lets in a gentle daylight glow.
Even high-energy breeds like Jack Russell Terriers need lots of sleep as puppies, and they often crash hard after a burst of play. A puppy's sleep matters for growing and learning, so a quiet, warm spot away from the busiest foot traffic is a good idea. If she wakes with energy to burn, a short play session and a potty break should come first. Stockings are fun, but candy or small toys inside can tempt a curious nose, so hang them well out of reach, and avoid stuffing them with chocolate, raisins, or sugar-free gum. Check with your vet about safe treats.
The stockings dangle quietly above her, full of promise. She does not stir. For a dog who will likely spend most of her life on the move, this peaceful nap is a rare and lovely moment, and everyone in the house will tiptoe by. The mantel fire is out for the night, the house is quiet, and a small chest rises and falls in a slow, steady rhythm that makes everyone smile as they pass.
