A Poodle Sits Perfectly Still as Grandpa Feeds the Pond Ducks

At the water's edge, Grandpa crouches on the grass with a handful of seed trickling from his fingers, and a crowd of mallards paddles close for their share. His cardigan is buttoned warm against the autumn air and his glasses catch the light as he smiles down at the birds. Pearl the white Poodle sits right beside him, her brown collar snug, studying the ducks with the focused look of a dog who is very interested and very well behaved. Reeds and golden trees surround the pond. The water is still, and the quacking is soft and cheerful.

Dogs and wild birds are often curious about each other, but a few good habits keep everyone safe. Keep your dog on a leash near ponds, since a sudden dash toward ducks could scare the birds and put your dog in the water. Many parks suggest that bread is not a healthy food for ducks, so ask a local park or wildlife group about better options such as seeds or leafy greens. It is also wise to rinse your dog off after pond visits to keep her coat clean.

Pearl has not made a single move toward the ducks, and Grandpa is proud of her calm. The mallards seem to approve of the quiet visitors. Some friendships are best admired from the shoreline. Everyone leaves with a full belly and a good story.