Grandma Edie Reached for the Best Apples Up High. Moose Had Found His Own Down Low.
Branches heavy with shiny red apples hang over the orchard, and Grandma Edie stretches one arm up to pluck the ripest one. Her white hair is pinned back with a clip, her glasses are on, and her green quilted vest is layered over a gray sweater. Down below, Moose has found the real treasure: apples scattered across the grass. The Saint Bernard lowers his big nose to investigate, studying the fruit with intense focus. A blue bucket, a tote bag full of apples, a pair of gloves, and a coiled garden hose sit nearby in the leafy grass.
Apples are one of the friendlier fruits to share with dogs, in moderation. Sliced apple without the core, stem, or seeds makes a crunchy, low-fat treat, since seeds contain compounds that are best avoided. Fallen orchard apples deserve more caution. Fruit that has been lying on the ground can start to ferment or grow mold, which can upset a dog's stomach, and a big dog can gobble several before anyone notices. Swallowing a whole apple core can also pose a choking or blockage risk for some dogs. Keeping a dog on a loose leash in the orchard is an easy way to prevent an apple feast.
Still, it is hard to blame Moose. The air smells sweet, the ground is covered in red, and his favorite person is right there filling her bag. For both of them, a crisp fall day among the apple trees is about as good as it gets.
