A Bulldog Poet Held His Little Book and Forgot the Next Line
Wrinkles have never looked so literary. A fawn and white Bulldog in a black velvet cap peers out over a round white ruff, jowls hanging just so, with a face that suggests he has recently finished an especially sad sonnet. A small brown book of verse rests in his white-gloved paw, a thumb tucked in to keep his place. The black doublet is covered in gold embroidery of leaves and curls, and the green wallpaper behind him adds a serious, dusky mood. Poet Winston seems to have forgotten the word he wanted, but he keeps the pose beautifully.
Bulldogs are gentle, sociable and famously laid-back, with a stubborn streak and a love of lounging. Their short muzzles, however, make breathing harder, especially in warm or humid weather, so they should never be pushed to exercise in heat. Keep walks short and cool, provide plenty of water and shade, and ask your vet about weight control, since extra pounds make breathing more difficult. The skin folds on the face should be gently wiped and dried to prevent irritation. With the right care, a Bulldog makes a loyal, comical, deeply affectionate companion.
A good poem needs patience, and a Bulldog has plenty. By the look of him, the next line is on its way, probably after a nap, a drink of water and a long thoughtful sigh. Great verse cannot be rushed, and this poet has never rushed anything in his life.
