Hazel's first Songkran, and what I learned about water

Hazel is a Pomeranian puppy, only four months old, with a fluffy orange coat and a loud little bark that fits his body far too well. This was his first Songkran, and I spent the whole week worrying about him. Bangkok in April is nothing like a quiet morning walk, and every street in Lat Phrao seemed to have a bucket waiting. We stayed mostly at home. I let him watch the splashing from the balcony, and he barked at the water guns from a safe distance. When we did go down to the soi for a quick look, I kept him in my arms, away from the crowds and the ice. I realized that a festival that feels fun to people can be overwhelming for a small dog. Hazel was happiest when he could sniff the wet grass and sit in the shade with a bowl of cool water. Next year we will probably pick a quieter spot. Some things are better left to the grown-up dogs.