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A grandma in a green quilted vest scatters grain to mallard ducks at a small garden pond as a Saint Bernard sits nearby. 35 / 36

A Pond Full of Ducks, One Handful of Grain, and a Saint Bernard Right at the Water's Edge

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A small, mossy pond in the corner of the yard has drawn a crowd of mallards, their glossy green heads bobbing as they paddle closer. Grandma Edie bends over the water's edge in her green quilted vest and plaid flannel, sprinkling a pinch of grain from her fingers. Moose sits right beside her, chest puffed and ears soft, watching the ducks with calm curiosity rather than any urge to chase. Rubber boots, a canvas bag, and potted plants rest near the brick house, and fallen leaves float on the water.

Feeding ducks is a classic outing, and what you offer matters. Bread is a common choice but offers poor nutrition for waterfowl, and leftover bread can foul the water. Better options include cracked corn, oats, birdseed, chopped lettuce, or thawed frozen peas, offered in small amounts. With a dog along, keeping a calm, controlled distance protects both the birds and the dog. Some dogs will lunge or try to swim after ducks, so a leash and a reliable sit are helpful. Pond water can also carry bacteria or algae, so it is best to discourage drinking from it and offer clean water instead.

It is a sweet sight: a giant dog, a gaggle of ducks, and a grandmother who makes everyone feel welcome. Moose may be the largest guest at this little pond party, but he is also the best behaved. The ducks seem happy to keep the peace.

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A smiling grandma in glasses and a green quilted vest rests her hand on a Saint Bernard in a frosted autumn garden.The Garden Was Done for the Year. Moose Insisted on One Last Inspection.A white-haired grandma in a cream puffer jacket offers a sandwich to a Saint Bernard while sitting on a wooden bench.Grandma Edie Sat Down to Eat Lunch Alone. That Lasted About Four Seconds.A smiling white-haired grandma in a green quilted vest sits at a lace-covered tea table beside a large Saint Bernard.Grandma Edie Set the Table for Tea. Somebody Invited Himself to Sit at It.A white-haired grandma in a green quilted vest holds a vanilla ice cream cone as a Saint Bernard licks the top.The Deal Was One Tiny Lick of Ice Cream. Moose Read the Fine Print Differently.