The Aussie Puppy Took a Break by the Firewood While the House Got Busy
Next to a neat stack of split logs and a few round pumpkins, a tricolor Australian Shepherd puppy sits with his head slightly turned, white chest and brown eyebrows bright against the dark coat. Fallen leaves in red and gold cover the ground, the back door of the house stands open behind him and a bag and a few garden tools are tucked against the siding. It looks like the quiet part of a busy day.
Autumn yards are full of interesting smells for a puppy, but there are a few hazards. Wet leaves can hide sticks and sharp objects, firewood may have splinters and decorative pumpkins can be chewed into pieces that upset a dog's stomach. Mushrooms sometimes pop up in fall leaves, and some can be toxic, so it is wise to watch a curious puppy and call a vet if he eats something odd. Australian Shepherds are energetic herding dogs that love to run, fetch and learn tricks. A short game of fetch outside before the guests arrive helps burn off steam so that he can relax once the party starts.
The leaves crunch, the pumpkins glow and the puppy sits still for a moment. That quiet pause on the step is a small gift before the house fills up with voices and the smell of roasting turkey.
