The Science Behind Why Dogs and Humans Can’t Resist Leaf Piles
Whether it’s your boisterous toddler or rowdy pup, a perfect pile of autumn leaves might be too good to resist! You probably remember the days when you also jumped into a crunchy orange leaf pile without a second thought. But why do humans and dogs love jumping into huge piles of leaves?
The main (and most obvious answer) is because it’s fun! For kids, dogs, and even some adults, jumping and rolling around in the fall leaves is a satisfying form of play that releases energy. While this may be the simple reason for humans, there are a few more reasons your canine companion can’t resist a tower of leaves. Instinct to Dig Digging is a dog’s favorite pastime that dates back to their wolf ancestors. Just as natural as sniffing and barking, digging is an ingrained behavior for dogs, and they want to follow their instincts the moment they see a leaf pile. Whether they’re digging in to rest in the cool leaves or demolishing the pile entirely, your dog is just doing what dogs have always done. Irresistible Seasonal Scents Our sense of smell doesn’t even come close to dogs’ incredible scent skills. While we have 5 million scent receptors, dogs have anywhere
between 125–300 million! This means they can smell countless other scents we can’t, and autumn may bring some exciting aromas your dog hasn’t experienced in a while. The result? They’ll dive right into a leaf pile and get sniffing! Marking Territory Another scent factor could be your dog wanting to claim a particular leaf pile. We already know dogs use their scents to mark territory, and rolling in a beloved pile of leaves is a way to infuse their scent. After diving head first into some leaves, they leave their scent behind so other animals can smell them and know that the leaf pile has already been claimed! Whatever the case, jumping into a pile of leaves is completely normal — and fun! — for both humans and dogs.
HELPFUL TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES FOR SSDI APPROVAL
Check the work and SGA requirements. In addition to medical considerations, you must meet other non-medical requirements to qualify for disability benefits. Two significant examples
Applying for Social Security disability benefits can be overwhelming. The instructions can feel cryptic, and navigating the complex process can be confusing. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments are a much-needed lifeline for many people. But, the Social Security Administration (SSA) initially denies about
are work credits and substantial gainful activity (SGA). You need at least 40 work credits. Of these, 20 credits must be from the past ten years. You can earn up to four credits yearly based on your total
70% of SSDI applications. Often, this is due to paperwork errors or lack of medical evidence. Below, you’ll find some tips that will help save you from a frustrating and disheartening experience.
annual wages or self-employment income. You cannot exceed SGA thresholds for monthly income. For 2023, this amount is $1,470 for most people and $2,460 for blind individuals. You cannot earn more than this amount while receiving disability benefits. Hire an experienced disability attorney. The most significant step to improve your chances for SSDI approval is to work with a skilled disability attorney. The lawyers at Keefe Disability Law have years of experience handling various SSDI claims. Our team understands the complexities of the application process and can help present the strongest case possible to the SSA. Give us a call to learn how we can help you!
Review the SSA Blue Book listing. SSA lists qualifying conditions in its Blue Book. The list of impairments is broken down into several sections. The medical listing for each disability outlines specific criteria for meeting that listing. Search the SSA Blue Book for your condition and check if your disability meets the listing requirements. If you do not meet the criteria or your condition is not listed, you may still qualify for SSDI benefits. However, there is a greater burden of proof to support your disability benefits claim.
• 1-877-9-DISABLED (877-934-7225) • KeefeLaw.com
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