Browse ›
A grandma adjusts the collar of a red Golden Retriever beside farmers market stalls full of beans, apples, and sunflowers. 25 / 29

Grandma Went to the Market for Green Beans. Rusty Went for Something Else.

AI imagegolden retrieverfarmers marketautumn

The farmers market is in full swing, with canopy tents shading tables piled with produce: a basket of fresh green beans, crates of red and green apples, cucumbers, bunches of leafy greens, and buckets of bright sunflowers. Ruth has paused between stalls to bend over Rusty and straighten his collar, her silver braid swinging forward and a fond little smile on her face. Rusty stands patiently in the trampled grass, looking up toward the nearest vendor's table with a happy, open-mouthed expression. His deep red coat practically matches the autumn apples, and he seems to be enjoying the market every bit as much as she is, maybe more, given all the smells.

Busy outdoor markets can be great outings for well-socialized dogs, but they are a lot to take in. Before bringing a dog, check whether the market allows pets at all, since some do not because of food safety rules. Keep the leash short in crowded aisles, carry water on warm days, and watch for dropped food, which can include things dogs should not eat, like grapes, onions, or corn cobs. A sturdy, snug collar or harness matters too; checking that it fits properly, as Ruth seems to be doing, means it will not slip off if something startles your dog. If your dog seems stressed by crowds, a quieter time of day is a good compromise.

Rusty, for his part, looks thrilled to be along for the shopping. Ruth may come home with green beans and apples, but he will come home with a head full of new smells and a very satisfied tail.

More from this collection

All 29 →