The Shiba Led the Way Through the Crunchy Leaves, and a Calf Followed

Leaves in orange and rust cover the ground of the yard, and in the middle of them a black and tan Shiba Inu trots with her ears pricked and her mouth open in a happy grin. Right beside her, a brown and white calf lowers its head toward the leaves, curious about the crunching sound. A blue bucket, old boots, and a wooden shed stand in the autumn light behind them.

Autumn is a great season for pets, but fallen leaves hide a few hazards. Damp piles can grow mold, and mushrooms often pop up in the fall, some of which are poisonous to dogs and livestock. Acorns, too, can be harmful if eaten in quantity by cattle and dogs, so check what is on the ground before letting pets roam. Shibas are tidy, spirited little dogs who often enjoy a good romp in leaves. Calves explore the world with their noses and mouths, so it helps to clear anything dangerous from their space. If you are unsure about anything your animal has eaten, call your vet.

The picture feels like the very best of fall. The Shiba and the calf are not playing a fancy game. They are simply enjoying the rustle and the smell and the crisp air. The best autumn memories are often the simplest, a pile of leaves and a friend to share it with.