Someone Brought Autumn Leaves Into the Living Room, and Two Friends Moved In
Someone brought autumn inside, and two friends are thrilled about it. A cream Shiba Inu with its curled tail held high leans down to inspect a little white baby goat, who has settled comfortably into a crunchy pile of brown and orange maple leaves right on the wooden floor. The goat gazes up with calm, half-closed eyes while the Shiba sniffs its face with gentle interest. A sofa with a mustard throw, a laundry basket heaped with sweaters, a coffee mug on the floor and a potted plant by the door make it clear the leaves have taken over the living room.
Shiba Inus are an ancient Japanese breed known for their fox-like faces, curled tails and independent spirit. They are clean, alert and often reserved with strangers, and while they can be affectionate with their families, they also tend to have a strong prey drive and a mind of their own. Introductions to other animals should be slow and supervised. Shibas shed heavily, especially during seasonal coat blows, so brushing more often during those times helps. Dry leaves are fun to play in, but check them for mold, sharp sticks or acorns, which can upset a pet's stomach if chewed.
Raking may be a chore for people, but for these two, a pile of leaves is pure entertainment. Somebody will be sweeping for a week, and it will have been worth it.
