Dog Beach

The beach at the dog park is never a dull place. Dogs love the beach, and there is always a lot of action. With the coming of warmer weather, the beach has become even livelier.

A tiny Pomeranian urges his person to throw the ball so he can swim after it, even though the wind is kicking up significant waves.

A lanky Great Dane wades out far beyond where the labs start to swim. Flip, the little Jack Russell Terrier, swims after his orange ball, nothing above water but his head, his tiny stump of a tail ruddering behind him.

Joe, the dog walker. wades out with his pack, looking forward to the warmth that will make human swimming possible. Two puppies play tag over and under the benches and driftwood logs, king of the mountain as much a part of the game as chase-me.

A beautiful Golden Retriever puppy, half grown and chubby with baby fat, scampers her way into every group of people and dogs, too young to worry about manners, human or canine. In my book, even a wet, sandy puppy is worth a cuddle. Doggie smiles are joyful by definition.

Meanwhile, replete with sun, the Basset Hounds enjoy sunbathing as they convince their public that they are unloved. Not true: they have a loyal following. Basset names are often as funny as they are. Clockwise, from top, they are Cleopatra, Buster, Betty (reclining), and Buttercup. Sugarbear was sticking close to the treat source and unavailable for pictures.