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An elderly Black man in a cardigan holds a leash while a red Shiba Inu walks beside him among pumpkins and dry vines. 14 / 31

Earl and Maple Strolled Through the Pumpkin Patch and Found a Surprise

AI imagered shiba inupumpkin patchautumn

Pumpkins of every size lie scattered among dry, tangled vines, and Earl strolls among them with a gentle grin. His tan cardigan over a plaid shirt looks perfectly seasonal, and in his hand he holds Maple's leash loosely. Maple the red Shiba Inu trots beside him with her tail curled over her back, nose forward and dark eyes bright. In the background, the porch of a house is decorated with pots of orange and yellow mums, and the leaves are drifting down across the yard.

Autumn is a wonderful season for dog walks, with crisp air and lots of new smells. Pumpkin season brings a few things to watch for, however. Plain pumpkin is not poisonous to dogs, but large amounts can upset the stomach, and old, moldy pumpkins or decorations on the ground can make her sick. Keep Maple on a leash near the patch, especially because Shiba Inus have a strong chase instinct. Wipe off muddy paws after a walk, and check her coat for burrs or ticks. If your dog eats something questionable, call your vet.

Maple takes her leash walk seriously, moving with the confident air of a dog who knows the way. Earl follows a pace behind, smiling. There are plenty of pumpkins to see, and no one is in a hurry to pick one.

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