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A smiling older Black woman holds a leash attached to a white Maltese at an outdoor produce stand with crates of vegetables. 16 / 26

Grandma Odessa Came for the Tomatoes. Pearl Came to Be Admired.

AI imagemaltesefarmers marketouting

Wooden tables are loaded with summer's best: crates of ripe tomatoes, glossy zucchini, bundles of fresh herbs, and baskets of leafy greens in pots. Grandma Odessa strolls through the little outdoor market in a sage linen shirt, a canvas tote over one arm and a brown leather leash in her hand, beaming with a wide, joyful smile. Pearl stands in the foreground, her white coat brushed and fluffy, her brown collar snug, gazing off toward something interesting with a slightly serious, distinguished expression. A string of bistro lights hangs overhead and a weathered fence frames the stalls, giving the whole place a friendly, neighborhood feel.

Farmers markets can be a fun outing for dogs, but they are busy places full of distractions. Before you go, check whether dogs are allowed, as rules vary. Keep small dogs on a short leash so they do not get stepped on in a crowd, and consider carrying them through especially congested areas. Watch for dropped food on the ground, since grapes, onions, and sweets can be harmful if gobbled up. Bring water on warm days and take breaks in the shade. And if your dog seems stressed by crowds, noise, or other dogs, a quieter time of day might be a better choice.

Pearl seems to be handling the market with poise. She may not be interested in zucchini, but she is clearly enjoying the sights and smells.

Odessa will head home with a tote full of vegetables, and Pearl will head home with plenty of new stories to sniff over.

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