Grandpa Reached for the Reddest Apple. Domino Had a Better Idea.
The branch bends low with fruit, and Grandpa has his eye on the reddest apple of the bunch. Reaching up with one weathered hand, he grins beneath his bushy white mustache, his olive fishing vest stuffed with pockets, clips, and gadgets over a plaid flannel shirt. Down below, his Dalmatian, Domino, has found a far more interesting task. With nose to the ground and brown leather collar hanging loose, the spotted dog sniffs through the fallen apples scattered across the grass. A woodpile, a blue watering can, a rake leaning on the fence, and potted plants fill the yard beyond.
Apples can make a crisp, refreshing treat for many dogs, but there are a few rules worth knowing. Slices of fresh apple, with the core and seeds removed, are generally considered safe in moderation. The seeds contain compounds that can be harmful in quantity, and the core can be a choking hazard. Fallen fruit is a different story: apples lying in the grass can start to ferment, and eating a lot of rotting fruit can make dogs sick. Dalmatians are energetic, food-motivated dogs, so it's wise to rake up windfalls regularly. If your dog gorges on fallen fruit, call your vet.
Grandpa will pick the good ones for the pie basket, and Domino will keep up his inspection of the ground. Between the two of them, not a single apple in this orchard is going unnoticed.






