Grandpa Raked a Giant Leaf Pile and Pip Dove Right In
Grandpa grips a wooden rake and grins as a pile of crisp orange and brown leaves rises at his feet. Pip is mid-air, front paws forward, leaping toward the heap with a wild look of joy. His red plaid flannel, olive trousers, and glasses suit the autumn afternoon, and a cream-colored house and a hose are visible behind them.
Leaves swirl around her as she lands, and a few stick to her silky coat. The pile is crunchy and perfect for jumping, and the whole scene is full of bounce.
Leaf piles can be great fun for dogs, but they hold a few hazards. Wet leaves can grow mold, and pointy sticks, thorns, or small sharp objects may be hidden inside. Check her coat and paws afterward, and brush out leaves that cling to her fur. Some dogs eat leaves, which can upset their stomachs, so it is smart to watch her. After outdoor play, offer fresh water and a warm towel, and ask your vet about tick prevention in the fall.
The pile will need raking again, and nobody seems to mind. Autumn seems made for this. The pile will be a little flatter by the end, and the rake will have to start over. That is fine, since the best part of the job is clearly the jump that comes after it.






