Grandma Raked the Leaves Into a Perfect Pile. It Didn't Stay Perfect for Long.
Autumn has painted the backyard in shades of rust, gold and brown, and Grandma Loretta is out in her plaid flannel shirt and work gloves, raking the fallen leaves into a big crunchy pile. She hasn't gotten far, because the pile has a resident. Cotton has bounded right into the middle of it and popped up on his hind legs, front paws in the air, fluffy white curls flecked with bits of leaf and his mouth open in a joyful grin. Loretta laughs down at him over her rake. Pots of mums and hydrangeas, rain boots and a coiled hose crowd the porch behind them.
Leaf piles are a favorite fall playground for many dogs, and the rustle and crunch make them irresistible. A few safety tips help keep the fun easy. Check the pile before jumping in or bagging it, since sticks, rocks or even small animals can hide inside. Wet, moldy leaves can harbor mold and bacteria that may upset a dog's stomach if eaten, and some fall plants and mushrooms in the yard can be toxic. Ticks are still active in cool weather, so check your dog's coat afterward, especially in dense curly fur like a Bichon's. A quick brush also removes leaf bits before they turn into tangles.
The leaves may need raking twice today, but that's a small price for this much fun. Cotton has turned a chore into a celebration, and Loretta wouldn't have it any other way.
