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An older woman in a floral apron holds an ice cream cone as a brindle Shih Tzu licks it in a sunny kitchen. 18 / 28

Abuela Rosa Offered Chispa Just One Lick of Her Ice Cream Cone

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Heat like this calls for ice cream, and Abuela Rosa is not the type to eat it alone. She holds a vanilla cone in one hand, her glasses sliding down her nose and a soft smile on her face, while Chispa leans in for a lick with her tongue just touching the top. The brindle Shih Tzu has her whole front end pressed against Rosa's lap, eyes half closed in bliss. Behind them the kitchen glows in late sunlight, with a basket of fruit, a striped dish towel, a blue mug, and a little aloe plant lined up on the counter like an audience.

A shared treat feels harmless, but it helps to know a few basics before offering sweets to a dog. Many dogs tolerate a lick of plain vanilla ice cream, but dairy can upset some stomachs, and sugar is not good for them in larger amounts. Chocolate, raisin, macadamia nut, and anything sweetened with xylitol should never be given, since those can be dangerous. For hot days, safer cool treats include a few ice cubes, a spoonful of plain unsweetened yogurt for dogs that handle dairy well, or small pieces of dog-safe fruit frozen overnight. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, talk to your vet about what treats suit her best.

Rosa laughs and holds the cone steady, letting Chispa take her little turn. It is a simple afternoon pleasure, a grandmother, a small dog, and a cold sweet something to share while the day cools down slowly outside.

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