Harold and Bev Parked the Old Pickup at the Edge of the Field
The old blue pickup has seen better days, its tailgate scuffed and rusted along the edges, but it makes the perfect bench. Harold and Bev sit side by side on it at the edge of a wide, grassy field, their matching cream cable-knit sweaters keeping out the fall chill. Bev rests her hand on Harold's arm and both are smiling. Duke has settled on the ground right in front of them, leaning his big fawn body against Harold's legs and gazing off toward the horizon with calm, thoughtful eyes. A white house, a fence, and autumn trees stretch out behind them under a cloudy sky.
Riding in or around trucks with a dog calls for a little caution. Dogs should never ride loose in an open truck bed, since sudden stops, turns, or bumps can cause serious injuries. The safest options are a secured crate or a dog seatbelt inside the cab. Getting a giant breed like a Great Dane in and out of a vehicle also takes care, because jumping down from a height can be hard on the joints. A sturdy ramp or set of pet steps protects both the dog and the people trying to help him. On outings, bring water and a towel, and keep an eye out for burrs and ticks in tall grass.
No one is going anywhere in a hurry today. The truck is parked, the field is quiet, and Duke has found the best spot of all, right at Harold and Bev's feet.
