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A shaggy short-legged sable dog sits on a wooden floor beside a broken white vase, spilled water, and pink roses. 9 / 29

Rusty Only Wanted to Smell the Roses. The Vase Did Not Make It.

AI imagesable dogcaught in the actroses

The flowers were lovely, right up until about thirty seconds ago. A shaggy, short-legged sable dog sits on the wooden floor next to the shattered remains of a white ceramic vase, its pieces scattered in a puddle of water along with a dozen pink roses and their green leaves. The dog's fur shades from black along the back to warm tan on its face and chest, and its floppy ears frame a pair of brown eyes glancing sideways with an unmistakably guilty expression. In the background, slippers, a laundry basket, and a couch draped with a blanket sit in soft window light.

Accidents like this happen often in homes with energetic dogs, especially when a wagging tail meets a low table. The biggest risk afterward is the broken ceramic or glass, which can cut paws or mouths, so it is wise to move the dog to another room before cleaning. Vase water can also contain flower food or bacteria that may upset a dog's stomach. Roses are generally considered non-toxic, though their thorns can scratch, while some other popular flowers, such as lilies and tulips, can be harmful to pets. Placing arrangements on higher, sturdier surfaces is the easiest way to prevent a repeat.

We will call him Rusty, and Rusty would like it noted that he was only trying to smell the roses. It is good advice for anyone, really. He just happened to do it with a little too much enthusiasm.

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