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A smiling white-haired grandpa holds a vanilla ice cream cone while a red and white Border Collie licks it. 3 / 20

Grandpa Had One Vanilla Cone on a Hot Day. Copper Had Plans for It.

AI imageborder collieice creamsummer

Harold holds the cone, and Copper takes the first lick. The white-haired grandpa smiles with the patient look of a man who already knows he isn't getting this ice cream back. His red buffalo-check flannel is rolled at the cuffs, and the soft vanilla scoop is melting down the side of the waffle cone. Copper stretches his neck forward, eyes half closed in bliss, pink tongue pressed right to the scoop. Behind them, the backyard is full of pleasant clutter: a blue watering can, succulents in pots, a woven basket, scattered boots, and garden gloves on the ground.

Sharing ice cream with a dog is a common summer temptation, but it is best kept to a rare, tiny taste. Many adult dogs do not digest lactose well, and dairy can lead to an upset stomach. The sugar is not great for them either. More importantly, some flavors are risky: chocolate, coffee, raisins, and macadamia nuts can be toxic, and some sugar-free products contain xylitol, which is very dangerous for dogs. Many pet stores sell frozen treats made just for dogs, or you can freeze plain yogurt or blended banana in small portions as a cooler alternative. Your vet can help with safe options.

Today, though, Harold seems to have decided that one lick won't hurt. The look on Copper's face suggests it was the best thing that has happened all week. Sometimes a hot afternoon calls for a small indulgence and a lot of love.

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