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A gray-bearded man in a knit cap and suspenders rakes leaves as a brindle Boxer leaps into the pile with leaves flying. 13 / 23

Gus Spent All Morning Raking the Perfect Leaf Pile. It Lasted About Two Seconds.

AI imageboxerautumn leavesbackyard

Leaves explode into the air in a swirl of orange, gold, and rust. Gus, in a gray knit cap, olive work shirt, jeans, and suspenders, still has his rake planted in the pile he just spent half the morning building. He is grinning anyway. Bruno is mid-leap, front legs tucked and big brindle body airborne as he crashes straight into the center of the heap, leaves bouncing off his back and ears. Behind them, a blue house with a cluttered porch, a basket and plaid blanket, potted mums, rubber boots, and an old bicycle make the perfect autumn backdrop.

Leaf piles are a joy for many dogs, but it pays to check them before the fun begins. Piles can hide sticks, rocks, sharp objects, or even small wildlife. Damp leaves can grow mold, which can upset a dog's stomach if eaten, and some dogs love munching on whatever they find in the yard. Ticks also hide out in leaf litter, so check your dog's coat afterward, especially around the ears, neck, and between the toes. Keep rakes with the tines facing down when you set them aside to prevent injuries. And if you burn leaves where that is allowed, keep pets well away from the fire.

The pile will need raking all over again, and Gus knows it. But judging by the look on his face, watching Bruno take that flying leap was worth the extra work.

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