A Pomeranian and a Piglet Rested in the Shade of the Apple Tree

Under a tree heavy with small apples, a cream Pomeranian lies on the grass with her fox-like face turned toward something in the distance. Pressed against her side, a small pink piglet sleeps with her eyes shut and her snout resting on the grass. A few fallen apples lie nearby, and the little house behind them has a watering can and flowers by the door. The shade is cool, the light is soft, and neither friend seems to be in any hurry. One bruised apple sits just beside the piglet's snout, which she has politely ignored.

Fruit trees are lovely, but fallen fruit needs a bit of care around pets. Rotting apples can attract bees and wasps and can ferment, which is not good for animals, so it is wise to pick them up regularly. Apple seeds and cores should also be kept away from dogs, and your vet can tell you which fruits are safe in small amounts. Pomeranians have thick coats, so a shady spot like this helps keep them cool on a warm day, and a brush now and then keeps their fluff in good shape.

Penny seems to believe the Pomeranian is the finest pillow beneath the tree. The dog keeps one eye open, ever the watchful friend. A summer afternoon in the shade is simple and sweet. The apples can wait to fall.