A Cocker Spaniel Puppy and a Pony Discovered the Autumn Leaf Pile

Orange and red maple leaves spread across the floor of the porch, and a golden Cocker Spaniel puppy sits right in the middle with his long ears hanging and his eyes bright. A dark brown, shaggy pony leans down beside him, sniffing the leaves with her nose. Coats and boots hang by a doorway in the background, and a lamp glows warmly nearby. Every leaf is a different shade of fire, and the porch feels like the heart of the season.

We might call the pony Clover and the puppy Maple. Maple seems delighted with the pile, and Clover is intrigued by its crunch. Autumn has come to the porch, and the pair are making the most of it.

Cocker Spaniels are gentle, cheerful dogs with silky ears that need regular cleaning, especially after outdoor play, since damp ears are prone to infections. Puppies enjoy exploring with their noses and mouths, so watch for them eating leaves, sticks or acorns, which can cause tummy trouble. Ponies are also curious and may sample things, though oak leaves and acorns can be harmful to horses, so keep them out of grazing areas. After play in a leaf pile, check your puppy's coat for burrs and ticks, and ask your vet about the best preventive care for your area.

Maple and Clover have found the best part of autumn, and it is all around their paws.