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Smiling grandmother sprinkles seed over a pond full of ducks while a Yorkshire Terrier in a brown collar sits beside her. 13 / 39

Grandma Brought Seed for the Pond Ducks. Pip Had Never Sat This Still.

AI imageyorkshire terrierduck pondpark

Golden late-day light dances across the pond as a little flotilla of ducks paddles closer. Grandma June crouches at the water's edge in her denim shirt, silver braid draped over her shoulder, smiling as she sprinkles a handful of seed into the ripples. A shiny green-headed mallard and a few brown hens are gliding right up to the bank for their share. Sitting beside her, Pip in his brown leather collar holds perfectly still, ears up and nose pointed straight at the ducks, his silky blue and tan fur glowing in the sun. Reeds, lily pads and neat houses with flowering yards frame the peaceful neighborhood pond.

Feeding ducks is a classic outing, and choosing the right food makes it better for the birds. Bread is a common habit, but it offers little nutrition and leftover pieces can foul the water. Many wildlife groups suggest options like cracked corn, oats, birdseed, chopped lettuce or frozen peas instead, in small amounts. Check local park rules, since some places discourage feeding wildlife altogether. With a dog along, a leash is a must around ducks and geese. Even small terriers have strong instincts to chase, and geese in particular can be aggressive. Pond water may also carry bacteria or algae, so keep your pup from drinking it.

Pip is clearly fascinated, and to his credit he is staying put. June's quiet pond outing is going exactly as planned.

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