Slim asks Carlson to take a shovel with him when he goes to shoot Candy's dog because he was being careful and understanding towards Candy's dog's death. He reminds Carlson to take a shovel to hint to Candy that 'It's alright, He's going to get a proper burial' and was intended to make Candy feel better.
A shovel
His Dog Is Too Old And He Should Shoot Him In The Back Of His Head
Slim agrees with Carlson because he understands the practicality of putting down Candy's old dog, as it was suffering and there was no hope of recovery. Despite feeling sympathy for Candy, Slim recognizes the necessity of ending the dog's pain for its own sake.
Carlson: A large, big-stomached man who works at the ranch, Carlson complains about Candy's dog and eventually offers to put the old dog out of its misery. George steals Carlson's gun to shoot Lennie after Curley's wife is murdered. Slim: The jerkline skinner at the ranch, Slim is a seemingly ageless man who carries himself with great gravity. He gives Lennie one of his new litter of puppies to care for. Curley initially suspects that his wife is having an affair with Slim.
Carlson suspects that the Luger, which George later used to shoot Lennie, was taken by Slim. Carlson thinks that Slim may have hidden the gun since it wasn't found in its usual spot.
In Chapter 2 of "Of Mice and Men," the conflict between Slim and Candy arises when Slim suggests that Candy should let his old dog be put down because it is no longer useful. Candy is attached to the dog and doesn't want to let go, while Slim argues that it would be more humane to end its suffering. They ultimately agree to have Carlson shoot the dog.
Slim's remark about shooting the dog highlights the theme of mercy killing and the value of ending suffering in Steinbeck's "Of Mice and Men," while Carlson's insensitivity further emphasizes the harsh reality of life during the Great Depression. The contrasting reactions to the dog's death also serve to characterize Slim as compassionate and Carlson as callous. Overall, these remarks contribute to the novel's exploration of morality and empathy.
Slim tells Carlson to take a shovel with him when he shoots Candy's dog in "Of Mice and Men" to bury the dog afterwards.
Slim tells Carlson to take a shovel with him because they are going to put down Candy's old dog and bury it. Slim knows that Carlson will need a shovel to dig the grave, as well as to use it to put the dog out of its misery.
Lennie gets excited because Slim and Carlson are discussing getting a puppy for Slim's dog, which Lennie sees as an opportunity to have a pet of his own and take care of something small and gentle. This sparks his desire for companionship and responsibility.
Slim is understanding and sympathetic, offering George support and reassurance. Carlson is more concerned with the inconvenience and suggests George should have shot Lennie himself to avoid further trouble.