In and Around the Garden

Ralphie loves to be outdoors with me, in the perennial garden or near the barn by the vegetable bed. This morning we spent time in both areas. I trimmed the lavender plant, potato vines, the dusty miller hedge, and then deadheaded zinnias while Ralphie explored, and barked at the cat.

In the veggie garden, I plucked out a few weeds and pulled up the last of the potatoes. As I carried the potatoes in a crate to the house, Ralphie kept jumping up to see what was inside the wooden box. I lowered the crate and let him look. Ralphie was as excited as I was with the crop, and grabbed one with his teeth. Together, we brought our harvest into the house. I took mine to the kitchen. Ralphie played with his in bed. I’ve never fed Ralphie table food. When we’re in the vegetable garden, I’ll make an exception. Although I doubt he will eat a potato.

Ralphie is only a year old, so this is his first experience with a vegetable garden. It will be fun to see how Ralphie handles a tomato. For sure, I won’t let him bring one inside the house. I’m not into cleaning up tomato juice. Sharing fresh produce can sometimes get a little messy, especially with a canine companion.

Ralphie and I garden well together. I labor; Ralphie plays, gets a fresh treat from the garden to eat or to amuse himself with, and then takes a nap. It’s all great, especially when you’re with a special companion. Copyright © 2010 Dianne Marie Andre

PS:  After posting this story, I was informed that potato skins are harmful to dogs. For a list of other fruits and veggies that are bad for dogs please read the following link:  

http://gomestic.com/pets/be-a-good-dog-owner-fruits-and-veggies-that-are-bad-for-your-dog/