<![CDATA[IdlePaws Store: Latest News]]> https://www.idlepaws.com Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:55:38 +0000 <![CDATA[Did You Know Natural Shed Antlers are Healthy Chews for Your Dogs?]]> https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/did-you-know-natural-shed-antlers-are-healthy-chews-for-your-dogs/ Sat, 03 Jun 2023 15:18:01 +0000 https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/did-you-know-natural-shed-antlers-are-healthy-chews-for-your-dogs/ Natural Shed Elk and Moose Antlers

Hey dog lovers, do you want to give your furry friends something to keep them busy and happy for hours? If so, consider natural shed elk and moose antlers as chews for your dogs. Natural sheds differ from what you will see in a typical big box store. They tend to sell harvested antlers cut from animals taken for food. Then they dry the antlers in a kiln, sucking out the natural moister and making them dry, brittle, and subject to cracks and splinters. Natural sheds fall off every spring and 'cure' correctly, making them more durable and not subject to shattering or splintering. Here are some reasons why these antlers are suitable for your pups:

They are Natural and Organic.
Unlike some synthetic chews that may contain chemicals or artificial flavors, antlers are simply the hard bone-like structures that grow on the heads of elk and moose. These animals shed their antlers every year and leave them in the wild, where they are collected from ethical and sustainable sources. You can rest assured that no animals are harmed while making these chews.

They are Long-Lasting and Durable.
Antlers are very tough and can withstand the strong jaws of your dogs. Unlike other chews that may pose a choking hazard or damage your dog's teeth, they won't splinter or break easily. Antlers can last for months or even years, depending on your dog's size and chewing habits. This means you can save money and reduce waste by buying fewer chews over time.

They are Nutritious and Beneficial.
Antlers are rich in protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, glucosamine, and other minerals that are essential for your dog's health. Chewing on antlers can also help clean your dog's teeth and gums, prevent plaque and tartar buildup, and freshen their breath. Antlers can also satisfy your dog's natural instinct to chew and relieve boredom, stress, or anxiety.

As you can see, Natural shed elk and moose antlers are good chews for your dogs. They are safe, healthy, eco-friendly, and fun for your pups. 

If you want to try them out, you can grab some in our online store. We use only A grade antlers for a better and more consistent chew. Make sure to choose the right size and shape for your dog and supervise them when they chew. Remember, antlers used properly are 100% digestible - just not immediately. So you don't want your pet swallowing large chucks. If the antler becomes small enough that your dog can swallow it whole, take it away and replace the old antler with a new one. 

]]> Natural Shed Elk and Moose Antlers

Hey dog lovers, do you want to give your furry friends something to keep them busy and happy for hours? If so, consider natural shed elk and moose antlers as chews for your dogs. Natural sheds differ from what you will see in a typical big box store. They tend to sell harvested antlers cut from animals taken for food. Then they dry the antlers in a kiln, sucking out the natural moister and making them dry, brittle, and subject to cracks and splinters. Natural sheds fall off every spring and 'cure' correctly, making them more durable and not subject to shattering or splintering. Here are some reasons why these antlers are suitable for your pups:

They are Natural and Organic.
Unlike some synthetic chews that may contain chemicals or artificial flavors, antlers are simply the hard bone-like structures that grow on the heads of elk and moose. These animals shed their antlers every year and leave them in the wild, where they are collected from ethical and sustainable sources. You can rest assured that no animals are harmed while making these chews.

They are Long-Lasting and Durable.
Antlers are very tough and can withstand the strong jaws of your dogs. Unlike other chews that may pose a choking hazard or damage your dog's teeth, they won't splinter or break easily. Antlers can last for months or even years, depending on your dog's size and chewing habits. This means you can save money and reduce waste by buying fewer chews over time.

They are Nutritious and Beneficial.
Antlers are rich in protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, glucosamine, and other minerals that are essential for your dog's health. Chewing on antlers can also help clean your dog's teeth and gums, prevent plaque and tartar buildup, and freshen their breath. Antlers can also satisfy your dog's natural instinct to chew and relieve boredom, stress, or anxiety.

As you can see, Natural shed elk and moose antlers are good chews for your dogs. They are safe, healthy, eco-friendly, and fun for your pups. 

If you want to try them out, you can grab some in our online store. We use only A grade antlers for a better and more consistent chew. Make sure to choose the right size and shape for your dog and supervise them when they chew. Remember, antlers used properly are 100% digestible - just not immediately. So you don't want your pet swallowing large chucks. If the antler becomes small enough that your dog can swallow it whole, take it away and replace the old antler with a new one. 

]]> <![CDATA[Appetite for Destruction]]> https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/appetite-for-destruction/ Tue, 14 Jul 2020 06:24:22 +0000 https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/appetite-for-destruction/ Pets are great; so incredibly loving, fun to play with, and great to have around. It's not all fun and games though. Some pets can be destructive. Perhaps it's during the night or when you're at work, but, as many of you already know, they can cause a lot of damage and cost you an exorbitant amount of money. Pets are destructive for different reasons. Many times, it's puppies and kittens who are acting out. I had a beagle puppy who chewed everything he could find, including CDs, wires, clothing, and reading glasses. It wasn't an easy thing to deal with, but there are proper ways to go about it. Plus, it's not only puppies and kittens who cause damage; older dogs and cats may act out too. Let's talk a bit about why our pets are doing this and what actions should be taken.

First off, let's take a look at what is actually being destroyed. Is it something preventable, like shoes or items left around the house? If this is the case, that's a fairly easy fix. Remember, your dog is a "wild" animal that you're attempting to domesticate. Sure, they've been domesticated for years, but their true nature still comes out, especially without proper training. We should first take a step back and ask ourselves why they may be acting out. Puppies chew more than average because they are teething, so giving them a chew toy or bone may be the answer to all your problems. Some dogs chew different items because they're stressed. Have you moved around a lot? Do you have an erratic schedule? That sort of chaos can be extremely hard on a pet. They love to have a routine. It's comforting to them when they know when to expect you home. According to lifehacker.com, excessive chewing may also be caused by a vitamin deficiency, so don't rule out chatting with your vet about their destructive behavior. In all honesty, your dog or cat is probably acting out in an attempt to tell you something. Perhaps it's not chewing. Many dogs and cats attempt to get your attention by treating your house/apartment as their personal bathroom/litter box. If it's a younger dog or cat, make sure they're receiving proper potty training. Perhaps you're not letting them outside enough. Maybe they're in pain or sick and they're trying to let you know. If your dog is chewing items he/she is not supposed to be chewing, or if your cat is scratching your furniture up, don't just let it happen. Don't look the other way. The problem will continue and most likely worsen. Try to get to the root of the problem. Once you do, you'll most likely be able to remedy the issue.

After you've figured out why your pet is behaving the way they are, it's time to start thinking about preventative measures. So, your dog is chewing everything? Keep specific chew toys and appropriate bones around so they go for those instead of your $300 boots. Keep in mind how big your dog is so that you can buy them the correct size toys and treats for the job. You'd be surprised how cheap and easy it is to please your pets. For instance, many cats love to chew on toilet paper rolls. Go figure! When buying chew toys for your dog, remember the following quote by Cesar Millan...

"If you buy your dog a Kong type toy, check and make sure the hole in the toy is not so big that the dog can get his lower jaw stuck in it. I have seen several emergency cases where a dog comes in with a toy stuck in his mouth. Do not give toys that resemble inappropriate items; for example, do not give your dog an old shoe to chew on, because he will not know the difference between the old chew shoe and a brand new pair."

Make sure to reward good behavior! Let them know that certain items are good to chew on, and keep the other non-chew items away from reach. Depending on why they're doing it, if your dog or cat is peeing where they shouldn't, there are multiple solutions. One main (obvious) reason for inappropriate elimination, is that they simply can't hold their bladders as long as you may think they can. Small dogs have a hard time holding it all day. Heck, no dog should have to hold it all day! Some can, but none should. It's not good for them. Small dogs, especially, need to have access to the outdoors every few hours, so keep that in mind when you're thinking of purchasing a small dog. Perhaps your dog or cat peed in a specific area inside your house, and now they think it's okay to continue doing so. If this is the case, try sectioning off that area so they can't get to it. Make sure to clean it well, and when you let them back near that spot again, keep a close eye on them and reward them for not peeing there. Let them smell the area, and then take them directly outside after to relieve themselves. If your dog or cat is peeing all over your house and it's getting overwhelming, check with your vet. In many cases, they're sick in one way or another and are attempting to let you know. Then, for instance, if they have a bladder infection, you can get them the proper medications to resolve the problem. What you'll want to avoid though, is yelling at your dog or cat. That, along with shoving their face in their own droppings, will only scare them. They won't understand what they did wrong and you'll only get frustrated even more so. "Beyond that, it's also just not a very nice thing to do to an animal for doing what comes natural to him or her." - (lifehacker.com). When cleaning up after your pet, you may want to try placing the urine-soaked paper towels (or treats) in the proper designated potty area. This may lure them over. This little trick has worked well for people that I've personally known.

Whether it's chewing, scratching, relieving their bladders where they shouldn't, or some other form of destruction, we can all agree that owning a pet isn't always an easy task. In fact, it hardly ever is. It takes responsibility, love, and a whole lot of patience. Just remember that your pet isn't doing these "bad" things to upset you. There's always an underlying reason that's not always easy to see. It may take a little digging to figure out why your pet is acting the way they are. But trust me ... it's worth it for both of you! I'm sure you love your pet and want them to be happy, so doing a little detective work on your part to figure out why they're acting out should be a no brainer. Remember ... they can't speak to us in a language we understand. They have to let us know if something is wrong in other ways, so go easy on them. Ultimately, all they want is our love.

]]> Pets are great; so incredibly loving, fun to play with, and great to have around. It's not all fun and games though. Some pets can be destructive. Perhaps it's during the night or when you're at work, but, as many of you already know, they can cause a lot of damage and cost you an exorbitant amount of money. Pets are destructive for different reasons. Many times, it's puppies and kittens who are acting out. I had a beagle puppy who chewed everything he could find, including CDs, wires, clothing, and reading glasses. It wasn't an easy thing to deal with, but there are proper ways to go about it. Plus, it's not only puppies and kittens who cause damage; older dogs and cats may act out too. Let's talk a bit about why our pets are doing this and what actions should be taken.

First off, let's take a look at what is actually being destroyed. Is it something preventable, like shoes or items left around the house? If this is the case, that's a fairly easy fix. Remember, your dog is a "wild" animal that you're attempting to domesticate. Sure, they've been domesticated for years, but their true nature still comes out, especially without proper training. We should first take a step back and ask ourselves why they may be acting out. Puppies chew more than average because they are teething, so giving them a chew toy or bone may be the answer to all your problems. Some dogs chew different items because they're stressed. Have you moved around a lot? Do you have an erratic schedule? That sort of chaos can be extremely hard on a pet. They love to have a routine. It's comforting to them when they know when to expect you home. According to lifehacker.com, excessive chewing may also be caused by a vitamin deficiency, so don't rule out chatting with your vet about their destructive behavior. In all honesty, your dog or cat is probably acting out in an attempt to tell you something. Perhaps it's not chewing. Many dogs and cats attempt to get your attention by treating your house/apartment as their personal bathroom/litter box. If it's a younger dog or cat, make sure they're receiving proper potty training. Perhaps you're not letting them outside enough. Maybe they're in pain or sick and they're trying to let you know. If your dog is chewing items he/she is not supposed to be chewing, or if your cat is scratching your furniture up, don't just let it happen. Don't look the other way. The problem will continue and most likely worsen. Try to get to the root of the problem. Once you do, you'll most likely be able to remedy the issue.

After you've figured out why your pet is behaving the way they are, it's time to start thinking about preventative measures. So, your dog is chewing everything? Keep specific chew toys and appropriate bones around so they go for those instead of your $300 boots. Keep in mind how big your dog is so that you can buy them the correct size toys and treats for the job. You'd be surprised how cheap and easy it is to please your pets. For instance, many cats love to chew on toilet paper rolls. Go figure! When buying chew toys for your dog, remember the following quote by Cesar Millan...

"If you buy your dog a Kong type toy, check and make sure the hole in the toy is not so big that the dog can get his lower jaw stuck in it. I have seen several emergency cases where a dog comes in with a toy stuck in his mouth. Do not give toys that resemble inappropriate items; for example, do not give your dog an old shoe to chew on, because he will not know the difference between the old chew shoe and a brand new pair."

Make sure to reward good behavior! Let them know that certain items are good to chew on, and keep the other non-chew items away from reach. Depending on why they're doing it, if your dog or cat is peeing where they shouldn't, there are multiple solutions. One main (obvious) reason for inappropriate elimination, is that they simply can't hold their bladders as long as you may think they can. Small dogs have a hard time holding it all day. Heck, no dog should have to hold it all day! Some can, but none should. It's not good for them. Small dogs, especially, need to have access to the outdoors every few hours, so keep that in mind when you're thinking of purchasing a small dog. Perhaps your dog or cat peed in a specific area inside your house, and now they think it's okay to continue doing so. If this is the case, try sectioning off that area so they can't get to it. Make sure to clean it well, and when you let them back near that spot again, keep a close eye on them and reward them for not peeing there. Let them smell the area, and then take them directly outside after to relieve themselves. If your dog or cat is peeing all over your house and it's getting overwhelming, check with your vet. In many cases, they're sick in one way or another and are attempting to let you know. Then, for instance, if they have a bladder infection, you can get them the proper medications to resolve the problem. What you'll want to avoid though, is yelling at your dog or cat. That, along with shoving their face in their own droppings, will only scare them. They won't understand what they did wrong and you'll only get frustrated even more so. "Beyond that, it's also just not a very nice thing to do to an animal for doing what comes natural to him or her." - (lifehacker.com). When cleaning up after your pet, you may want to try placing the urine-soaked paper towels (or treats) in the proper designated potty area. This may lure them over. This little trick has worked well for people that I've personally known.

Whether it's chewing, scratching, relieving their bladders where they shouldn't, or some other form of destruction, we can all agree that owning a pet isn't always an easy task. In fact, it hardly ever is. It takes responsibility, love, and a whole lot of patience. Just remember that your pet isn't doing these "bad" things to upset you. There's always an underlying reason that's not always easy to see. It may take a little digging to figure out why your pet is acting the way they are. But trust me ... it's worth it for both of you! I'm sure you love your pet and want them to be happy, so doing a little detective work on your part to figure out why they're acting out should be a no brainer. Remember ... they can't speak to us in a language we understand. They have to let us know if something is wrong in other ways, so go easy on them. Ultimately, all they want is our love.

]]> <![CDATA[Is a New Pet the Right Fit for My Family?]]> https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/is-a-new-pet-the-right-fit-for-my-family/ Wed, 24 Jun 2020 23:06:38 +0000 https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/is-a-new-pet-the-right-fit-for-my-family/ The first few things kids think of when the idea of getting a new family pet (namely, a dog) comes up:

1. A fun play partner.

2. Epic snuggling.

3. Walks and new adventures.

The first few things adults think of when the idea of getting a new family pet comes up:

1. There goes all our extra cash.

2. Do we have enough free time to spare?

3. Ultimately, I'll be the one cleaning up and taking care of this animal.

Okay, maybe that's not 100% accurate, but let's be honest, getting a new pet is a huge responsibility and isn't for everyone. Keep in mind that not all pets are the same. A dog may be perfect for one person, but a fish may better suit another. So just make sure you know the workload you can personally handle when it comes to your pet. This will help narrow down your search. For the sake of blog length, I'll stick with talking about pets that require more of your time, such as dogs.

Owning a dog is serious business. An animal's life is in the palm of your hands. You are responsible for giving this creature the best life possible. You are responsible for training, feeding, and walking him/her. You get the point, I'm sure ... but sometimes when you're looking at their cute furry faces in a shelter, you simply throw everything out the window and act on impulse. It's easy to do. Just sit back for a minute, and think about a few things. Make sure you have enough spare time to dedicate. Your dog won't want to live a lonely existence in an empty house while you're working constantly. Perhaps you can bring your dog to work though, or there are others at home while you're not. That would be optimal. Dogs aren't cheap. Good quality dog food can take a chunk out of your wallet. It's just a fact. But don't skimp and get the poor quality stuff. Your dog deserves better. Think about what you spend on yourself and compare it to them. I'm sure, even with buying them top of the line food, it won't come close to what you spend on yourself. Vet bills are expensive too, so you should consider getting them pet insurance or starting a savings account strictly dedicated to their health. As they get older, your vet bills will most likely rise too. Another thing to think about, is if you already have a pet. Will your new pet get along with your current pet? Don't assume they will. It's fantastic if they do, but that isn't always the case. I know from personal experience. Another good question is, what breed is right for your family? Certain breeds require more training, like Huskies ... and Shepherds need a lot of exercise. It's questions like these that will help you determine which breed is right for you and your family. Is the dog you're interested in trained already? If not, are you willing to spend the time (and money if needed) to train them? Many people are dead set on getting a puppy, but many people are also unaware of how much more work it takes to raise one. Just make sure to do your research. Also, what is your living situation like? Are you in an apartment that even allows dogs? If so, do they allow big dogs? If so, will there be enough room for them to be happy? Small dogs require less space. Yeah, I know ... there are definitely lots of questions, but it's important to ask yourself all of these before taking that leap.

So is this new pet really for you ... or for your kid, who's dying to get a new cute puppy? If it's mainly for your kid, you need to let them know about the responsibility of owning a dog and seriously ask yourself if they're ready for it. It's not an easy question sometimes. First off, how old is your child? If they're smaller, will they be able to handle a bigger dog? Dogs grow quickly and will soon outgrow your small child, depending on the dog's size. For older kids in their teens, are they responsible? What are their attributes? You know your kids better than anyone. Will they follow through when it comes to taking care of a dog? Will they be there to feed him/her, take them for walks, etc? Or, will it all fall on you, and if it does, will that be okay, or will you simply give up and get rid of your new family member? Because, if that's the case, don't get a dog in the first place. Own up to your decision and give your dog the best life possible. Another big question to ask your child, is how much available free time will they have to be with their new dog? Are they signed up for lots of extracurricular activities and at friend's houses all the time? If so, maybe a different sort of pet would be better fitting. Ultimately, a dog requires and deserves attention. Most thrive on being social and their entire world will most likely end up being you and your family. So remember that before adopting. It's always good to be fully informed before making a big life choice.

Just so you all know, this blog isn't supposed to hinder or scare you out of adding a dog to your family. I've just known so many people who acquire dogs prematurely before fully understanding the situation, and that never ends well. I wouldn't want that to happen to you or your family. Being "in the know" is important. Also, being honest with yourself about everything (i.e: your income, free time, responsibility) is a must. Some people just aren't ready for a high maintenance pet ... and yeah, most dogs are high maintenance. Trust me! After all is said and done, you'll know what's best for you and your family. Hopefully it all works out and your new "best friend" will be at home and by your side in no time.

]]> The first few things kids think of when the idea of getting a new family pet (namely, a dog) comes up:

1. A fun play partner.

2. Epic snuggling.

3. Walks and new adventures.

The first few things adults think of when the idea of getting a new family pet comes up:

1. There goes all our extra cash.

2. Do we have enough free time to spare?

3. Ultimately, I'll be the one cleaning up and taking care of this animal.

Okay, maybe that's not 100% accurate, but let's be honest, getting a new pet is a huge responsibility and isn't for everyone. Keep in mind that not all pets are the same. A dog may be perfect for one person, but a fish may better suit another. So just make sure you know the workload you can personally handle when it comes to your pet. This will help narrow down your search. For the sake of blog length, I'll stick with talking about pets that require more of your time, such as dogs.

Owning a dog is serious business. An animal's life is in the palm of your hands. You are responsible for giving this creature the best life possible. You are responsible for training, feeding, and walking him/her. You get the point, I'm sure ... but sometimes when you're looking at their cute furry faces in a shelter, you simply throw everything out the window and act on impulse. It's easy to do. Just sit back for a minute, and think about a few things. Make sure you have enough spare time to dedicate. Your dog won't want to live a lonely existence in an empty house while you're working constantly. Perhaps you can bring your dog to work though, or there are others at home while you're not. That would be optimal. Dogs aren't cheap. Good quality dog food can take a chunk out of your wallet. It's just a fact. But don't skimp and get the poor quality stuff. Your dog deserves better. Think about what you spend on yourself and compare it to them. I'm sure, even with buying them top of the line food, it won't come close to what you spend on yourself. Vet bills are expensive too, so you should consider getting them pet insurance or starting a savings account strictly dedicated to their health. As they get older, your vet bills will most likely rise too. Another thing to think about, is if you already have a pet. Will your new pet get along with your current pet? Don't assume they will. It's fantastic if they do, but that isn't always the case. I know from personal experience. Another good question is, what breed is right for your family? Certain breeds require more training, like Huskies ... and Shepherds need a lot of exercise. It's questions like these that will help you determine which breed is right for you and your family. Is the dog you're interested in trained already? If not, are you willing to spend the time (and money if needed) to train them? Many people are dead set on getting a puppy, but many people are also unaware of how much more work it takes to raise one. Just make sure to do your research. Also, what is your living situation like? Are you in an apartment that even allows dogs? If so, do they allow big dogs? If so, will there be enough room for them to be happy? Small dogs require less space. Yeah, I know ... there are definitely lots of questions, but it's important to ask yourself all of these before taking that leap.

So is this new pet really for you ... or for your kid, who's dying to get a new cute puppy? If it's mainly for your kid, you need to let them know about the responsibility of owning a dog and seriously ask yourself if they're ready for it. It's not an easy question sometimes. First off, how old is your child? If they're smaller, will they be able to handle a bigger dog? Dogs grow quickly and will soon outgrow your small child, depending on the dog's size. For older kids in their teens, are they responsible? What are their attributes? You know your kids better than anyone. Will they follow through when it comes to taking care of a dog? Will they be there to feed him/her, take them for walks, etc? Or, will it all fall on you, and if it does, will that be okay, or will you simply give up and get rid of your new family member? Because, if that's the case, don't get a dog in the first place. Own up to your decision and give your dog the best life possible. Another big question to ask your child, is how much available free time will they have to be with their new dog? Are they signed up for lots of extracurricular activities and at friend's houses all the time? If so, maybe a different sort of pet would be better fitting. Ultimately, a dog requires and deserves attention. Most thrive on being social and their entire world will most likely end up being you and your family. So remember that before adopting. It's always good to be fully informed before making a big life choice.

Just so you all know, this blog isn't supposed to hinder or scare you out of adding a dog to your family. I've just known so many people who acquire dogs prematurely before fully understanding the situation, and that never ends well. I wouldn't want that to happen to you or your family. Being "in the know" is important. Also, being honest with yourself about everything (i.e: your income, free time, responsibility) is a must. Some people just aren't ready for a high maintenance pet ... and yeah, most dogs are high maintenance. Trust me! After all is said and done, you'll know what's best for you and your family. Hopefully it all works out and your new "best friend" will be at home and by your side in no time.

]]> <![CDATA[Tick Tock - Tick ... STOP!]]> https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/tick-tock-tick-stop/ Wed, 27 May 2020 21:52:11 +0000 https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/tick-tock-tick-stop/ Tis the season to be wary; wary of encountering ticks! According to Wikipedia, ticks are nasty little "arachnids, typically 3 to 5 mm long, and part of the superorder Parasitiformes. Along with mites, they constitute the subclass Acari. Ticks are external parasites, living by feeding on the blood of mammals, birds, and sometimes reptiles and amphibians." Spring is upon us, and so are these little jerks. I'm constantly taking my dog, Cairo, out on hikes with me, and now that the weather is getting "nicer," we're out as much as possible, as I'm sure many of you are! We should all take ticks very seriously, as certain ones can cause Lyme Disease. Every one of us should be as knowledgeable as possible and take the proper precautions when it comes to them. I know it's annoying ... trust me, but such is life, and we all do what we have to do to protect ourselves and our furry friends. So yeah, let's take a look at some of the different types of ticks, where they live, and what to expect from them.

There are over eight types of tick species out there. Don't worry ... I won't bother with their Latin names, but I will briefly talk about each one. Let's start with a scary one; the Blacklegged or Deer ticks. These are the little suckers that transmit Lyme Disease ... as well as other diseases, such as Babesiosis (the infection of red blood cells), and Anaplasmosis (causes fevers, headaches, chills, and muscle aches). They reside predominately in deciduous forests. I'm sure that many of you reading this are from the Northeastern part of the U.S. If so, watch out! These things are all over! American dog ticks are found predominantly in areas with little or no tree cover, such as grassy fields and scrubland. They can transmit diseases such as Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) (bacterial disease causing fevers, headaches, and rashes) and Tularemia (symptoms vary and can be life threatening). Lone Star ticks are found in woodlands with dense undergrowth. The adult versions of these guys can transmit the pathogens causing Monocytic Ehrlichiosis (causes fevers, headaches, chills, muscle aches, and upset stomach), RMSF, and 'Stari' borreliosis (causes a 3 inch rash [approx.&91;, and the victim may experience fever, headache, fatigue, and/or muscle pain). They are aggressive human biters. Brown Dog ticks are worldwide and definitely found all over the U.S. Watch out for these in southern states mostly. They transmit RMSF (to dogs mainly) and sometimes to humans. They also transmit the agents of canine ehrlichosis and canine babesiosis (to dogs). Rocky Mountain Wood ticks are found in lower elevations in wooded areas. They can transmit Colorado tick fever virus (fever, chills, headache, body aches, fatigue, sore throat, vomiting, abdominal pain, and/or skin rash) to humans and RMSF to humans, cats, and dogs. They're also known to cause "tick paralysis" in humans and pets, so watch out! Gulf Coast ticks, Pacific Coast ticks, Western-Blacklegged ticks, and Cayenne ticks are, yet, four other varieties of ticks which are still being studied. Check your internet sources for more updated information on these.

Now, let's take a minute to discuss what can be done involving preventative measures. First off, check your pet (and yourself) daily, especially if you've been around "tick terrain." After a tick has attached itself to its prey, it only takes a day or so before parasites can be transmitted, so definitely check as much as possible. Attempt to "tick-proof your yard." Trim your weeds and keep your grass cut. Clear leaf piles and try making a tick trap using a bait box. You can use certain pesticides, but that comes with a risk, so use that as a last resort. Personally, I prefer to keep my yard pesticide-free. Also, a fenced in yard will help to keep out wildlife that can spread ticks, such as deer. There are certain medications that help too, though these come with pros and cons. Do some of your own research on this, as I'm not completely comfortable recommending products that could cause a possible negative side effect. The website, https://www.consumerreports.org/pets/tick-prevention-for-dogs-cats/, talks a bit about some of the tick medications used, such as topical ointments, oral medications, and vaccines.

Well, it's bound to happen sometime, right? Okay, a tick has burrowed itself into you or your pet. What should you do now?! First things first. Remove the tick. You should do this with fine pointed tweezers. "Grasp it from the side where it meets the skin, and, using steady gentle pressure, gently pull in the opposite direction from which it embeded, until the tick is released." - iladef.org | Save the tick (in a zip-lock bag) and wash and disinfect the bite. Now you can look at the tick to figure out exactly which one bit you and how to proceed from there. Remember, the longer a tick is attached, the higher the risk of transmission. It is more likely to get Lyme disease if a tick has been attached to you (or your pet) for over 24 hours, but if it has been attached for less, that doesn't mean that the risk posed by those bites is zero. It is recommended that you contact your health care provider after being bit by a tick. I can't say that I personally do this, as I hike all the time and find ticks on me more than I'd like to admit, but yeah ... do as i say, not as I do. HAHA! Consult your physician involving antibiotics that prevent Lyme. Ask specifically about Doxycycline. My dog had Lyme and went on a regiment of this immediately. He's doing great now. I'm not saying it's a miracle cure by any means. I'm just saying, do your research and be knowledgable about everything.

It's a crazy and dangerous world out there, especially in these trying times lately. With everything else going on, it may be easy to put other serious issues on the back burner. Just be smart involving ticks. They're out there in full force lately. I have 5 acres of woods and trails behind my house that my dog loves to run around in. I need to be smart about it. My dog is my everything and he deserves to be happy and healthy, as do I; as do we all. Remember your preventative measures and what to do if, god forbid, you get bit. It's not the end of the world. Ticks, unfortunately, are everywhere nowadays. I never even thought about them growing up. It's crazy how they've infiltrated our everyday lives now. All we can do is adapt and stay as safe as possible without sacrificing our outdoor activities too much. I hope this helped ... and good luck!

]]> Tis the season to be wary; wary of encountering ticks! According to Wikipedia, ticks are nasty little "arachnids, typically 3 to 5 mm long, and part of the superorder Parasitiformes. Along with mites, they constitute the subclass Acari. Ticks are external parasites, living by feeding on the blood of mammals, birds, and sometimes reptiles and amphibians." Spring is upon us, and so are these little jerks. I'm constantly taking my dog, Cairo, out on hikes with me, and now that the weather is getting "nicer," we're out as much as possible, as I'm sure many of you are! We should all take ticks very seriously, as certain ones can cause Lyme Disease. Every one of us should be as knowledgeable as possible and take the proper precautions when it comes to them. I know it's annoying ... trust me, but such is life, and we all do what we have to do to protect ourselves and our furry friends. So yeah, let's take a look at some of the different types of ticks, where they live, and what to expect from them.

There are over eight types of tick species out there. Don't worry ... I won't bother with their Latin names, but I will briefly talk about each one. Let's start with a scary one; the Blacklegged or Deer ticks. These are the little suckers that transmit Lyme Disease ... as well as other diseases, such as Babesiosis (the infection of red blood cells), and Anaplasmosis (causes fevers, headaches, chills, and muscle aches). They reside predominately in deciduous forests. I'm sure that many of you reading this are from the Northeastern part of the U.S. If so, watch out! These things are all over! American dog ticks are found predominantly in areas with little or no tree cover, such as grassy fields and scrubland. They can transmit diseases such as Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) (bacterial disease causing fevers, headaches, and rashes) and Tularemia (symptoms vary and can be life threatening). Lone Star ticks are found in woodlands with dense undergrowth. The adult versions of these guys can transmit the pathogens causing Monocytic Ehrlichiosis (causes fevers, headaches, chills, muscle aches, and upset stomach), RMSF, and 'Stari' borreliosis (causes a 3 inch rash [approx.&91;, and the victim may experience fever, headache, fatigue, and/or muscle pain). They are aggressive human biters. Brown Dog ticks are worldwide and definitely found all over the U.S. Watch out for these in southern states mostly. They transmit RMSF (to dogs mainly) and sometimes to humans. They also transmit the agents of canine ehrlichosis and canine babesiosis (to dogs). Rocky Mountain Wood ticks are found in lower elevations in wooded areas. They can transmit Colorado tick fever virus (fever, chills, headache, body aches, fatigue, sore throat, vomiting, abdominal pain, and/or skin rash) to humans and RMSF to humans, cats, and dogs. They're also known to cause "tick paralysis" in humans and pets, so watch out! Gulf Coast ticks, Pacific Coast ticks, Western-Blacklegged ticks, and Cayenne ticks are, yet, four other varieties of ticks which are still being studied. Check your internet sources for more updated information on these.

Now, let's take a minute to discuss what can be done involving preventative measures. First off, check your pet (and yourself) daily, especially if you've been around "tick terrain." After a tick has attached itself to its prey, it only takes a day or so before parasites can be transmitted, so definitely check as much as possible. Attempt to "tick-proof your yard." Trim your weeds and keep your grass cut. Clear leaf piles and try making a tick trap using a bait box. You can use certain pesticides, but that comes with a risk, so use that as a last resort. Personally, I prefer to keep my yard pesticide-free. Also, a fenced in yard will help to keep out wildlife that can spread ticks, such as deer. There are certain medications that help too, though these come with pros and cons. Do some of your own research on this, as I'm not completely comfortable recommending products that could cause a possible negative side effect. The website, https://www.consumerreports.org/pets/tick-prevention-for-dogs-cats/, talks a bit about some of the tick medications used, such as topical ointments, oral medications, and vaccines.

Well, it's bound to happen sometime, right? Okay, a tick has burrowed itself into you or your pet. What should you do now?! First things first. Remove the tick. You should do this with fine pointed tweezers. "Grasp it from the side where it meets the skin, and, using steady gentle pressure, gently pull in the opposite direction from which it embeded, until the tick is released." - iladef.org | Save the tick (in a zip-lock bag) and wash and disinfect the bite. Now you can look at the tick to figure out exactly which one bit you and how to proceed from there. Remember, the longer a tick is attached, the higher the risk of transmission. It is more likely to get Lyme disease if a tick has been attached to you (or your pet) for over 24 hours, but if it has been attached for less, that doesn't mean that the risk posed by those bites is zero. It is recommended that you contact your health care provider after being bit by a tick. I can't say that I personally do this, as I hike all the time and find ticks on me more than I'd like to admit, but yeah ... do as i say, not as I do. HAHA! Consult your physician involving antibiotics that prevent Lyme. Ask specifically about Doxycycline. My dog had Lyme and went on a regiment of this immediately. He's doing great now. I'm not saying it's a miracle cure by any means. I'm just saying, do your research and be knowledgable about everything.

It's a crazy and dangerous world out there, especially in these trying times lately. With everything else going on, it may be easy to put other serious issues on the back burner. Just be smart involving ticks. They're out there in full force lately. I have 5 acres of woods and trails behind my house that my dog loves to run around in. I need to be smart about it. My dog is my everything and he deserves to be happy and healthy, as do I; as do we all. Remember your preventative measures and what to do if, god forbid, you get bit. It's not the end of the world. Ticks, unfortunately, are everywhere nowadays. I never even thought about them growing up. It's crazy how they've infiltrated our everyday lives now. All we can do is adapt and stay as safe as possible without sacrificing our outdoor activities too much. I hope this helped ... and good luck!

]]> <![CDATA[Don't Lose Me! You're My Whole World.]]> https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/dont-lose-me-youre-my-whole-world/ Wed, 22 Apr 2020 21:30:26 +0000 https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/dont-lose-me-youre-my-whole-world/ Having a pet is a major responsibility. That's a plain and simple fact. In all honesty, humans should probably have to take some sort of test to be able to have one. Many of us aren't meant to be pet (or human) parents. But, alas, basically anyone can have a pet. All I ask though, is to try and be as responsible as possible. Put your pet's needs ahead of all else. They deserve that. With that said, accidents happen; even to me. I've left the door open and my dog (when he was much younger, of course), flew out and ran into the woods. We aren't perfect ... that's for sure. We do the best we can, but still, unfortunate circumstances can bring us to these hard times. There are numerous ways to go about locating your dog or cat if they stray away from home. But first, let's talk a little about preventative actions that can be put in place.

Some of these preventative measures may seem like common sense, but I'm going to list everything, regardless. First, make sure your dog or cat has a collar on with a tag stating their name and home address. Easy enough, right? Make sure their collar isn't too loose. My dog has been known to back out of his on occasion. When outdoors with your dog, keep them leashed. If you have an enclosed area, that's one thing. But no matter how trained your dog may be, if you're out away from home and they see a wild animal, most of them will sprint without thinking. Better safe than sorry. A great preventative measure is to get a GPS tracker for your dog or cat. Even better; get them microchipped. You'll always know where they run off to. In my opinion, these two actions are probably the most important. Make sure that, if you have a fenced yard, it's "escape-proof." Many times, there could be a compromised area that was overlooked. Keep certain windows and doors closed that could be used for escaping. Sure, more common sense stuff, but I still feel it needs to be said. Precautionary measures, such as stress-relieving supplements and tight calming clothing, may prevent your dog from running away due to a stressful or loud situation. Lastly, stay alert and always check your surroundings. There are way to many lost pets due to being unaware or not paying attention. WAKE UP, PEOPLE!

Okay, so your dog/cat has already escaped you. That's the absolute worst feeling! First and foremost ... act immediately! Do I really need to say this though?! Of course you would act immediately. Before going all out, search your own property first. If you have a big place, your dog or cat could be anywhere! Check all the corners of your own house/yard before anything else. Nothing? Are they microchipped? Can you track them somehow? If so, do that. Still nothing? Start putting up flyers around the neighborhood. Make some bigger poster size ones as well and put them in high traffic areas. Describe them in detail with a clear picture. That way, people will be able to see/read them from their vehicles. Next, find out where lost pets are taken in your town. Perhaps they've already been picked up and are waiting for you to get them. Make sure to check local shelters and rescues as well. Look online. I'm sure there are different websites that have lost pets on them where you can search by city. The power of scent can be extremely useful. Try going to where you saw them last and leaving some of your clothing, their toys, litter boxes, crates, etc. there for them to find their way back to. Their noses work a thousand times better than ours! Contact your local vet clinic to see if any random dogs or cats came in matching your pet's description. If there are still well read local papers in your area, you could place an advertisement. The internet is probably a better bet though. You could check roads to make sure that (god forbid) they didn't get hit by a car. You could even contact the DOT to be more certain. Lastly, if they're a newer rescue dog or cat, you may want to contact their former owner. They could have attempted to go back there.

Hopefully these preventative measures and ideas for locating a lost pet will help you. Hopefully, you'll never lose your pet to begin with. It's a horrible and stressful experience that I'd wish upon no one. Life happens though, and bad luck strikes us all at one time or another. We just have to accept that and be as ready as possible when the time comes. No matter how strict you are with your pets, accidents DO happen, so take these preventative measures seriously. And to all of you dog/cat parents who think you can (pardon my French) half-ass it and be fine ... grow up! If you don't want the responsibility of a pet, don't get one. To you, they may only be around when it's convenient for you ... but to them, you're their whole world. Show them the love they deserve.

]]> Having a pet is a major responsibility. That's a plain and simple fact. In all honesty, humans should probably have to take some sort of test to be able to have one. Many of us aren't meant to be pet (or human) parents. But, alas, basically anyone can have a pet. All I ask though, is to try and be as responsible as possible. Put your pet's needs ahead of all else. They deserve that. With that said, accidents happen; even to me. I've left the door open and my dog (when he was much younger, of course), flew out and ran into the woods. We aren't perfect ... that's for sure. We do the best we can, but still, unfortunate circumstances can bring us to these hard times. There are numerous ways to go about locating your dog or cat if they stray away from home. But first, let's talk a little about preventative actions that can be put in place.

Some of these preventative measures may seem like common sense, but I'm going to list everything, regardless. First, make sure your dog or cat has a collar on with a tag stating their name and home address. Easy enough, right? Make sure their collar isn't too loose. My dog has been known to back out of his on occasion. When outdoors with your dog, keep them leashed. If you have an enclosed area, that's one thing. But no matter how trained your dog may be, if you're out away from home and they see a wild animal, most of them will sprint without thinking. Better safe than sorry. A great preventative measure is to get a GPS tracker for your dog or cat. Even better; get them microchipped. You'll always know where they run off to. In my opinion, these two actions are probably the most important. Make sure that, if you have a fenced yard, it's "escape-proof." Many times, there could be a compromised area that was overlooked. Keep certain windows and doors closed that could be used for escaping. Sure, more common sense stuff, but I still feel it needs to be said. Precautionary measures, such as stress-relieving supplements and tight calming clothing, may prevent your dog from running away due to a stressful or loud situation. Lastly, stay alert and always check your surroundings. There are way to many lost pets due to being unaware or not paying attention. WAKE UP, PEOPLE!

Okay, so your dog/cat has already escaped you. That's the absolute worst feeling! First and foremost ... act immediately! Do I really need to say this though?! Of course you would act immediately. Before going all out, search your own property first. If you have a big place, your dog or cat could be anywhere! Check all the corners of your own house/yard before anything else. Nothing? Are they microchipped? Can you track them somehow? If so, do that. Still nothing? Start putting up flyers around the neighborhood. Make some bigger poster size ones as well and put them in high traffic areas. Describe them in detail with a clear picture. That way, people will be able to see/read them from their vehicles. Next, find out where lost pets are taken in your town. Perhaps they've already been picked up and are waiting for you to get them. Make sure to check local shelters and rescues as well. Look online. I'm sure there are different websites that have lost pets on them where you can search by city. The power of scent can be extremely useful. Try going to where you saw them last and leaving some of your clothing, their toys, litter boxes, crates, etc. there for them to find their way back to. Their noses work a thousand times better than ours! Contact your local vet clinic to see if any random dogs or cats came in matching your pet's description. If there are still well read local papers in your area, you could place an advertisement. The internet is probably a better bet though. You could check roads to make sure that (god forbid) they didn't get hit by a car. You could even contact the DOT to be more certain. Lastly, if they're a newer rescue dog or cat, you may want to contact their former owner. They could have attempted to go back there.

Hopefully these preventative measures and ideas for locating a lost pet will help you. Hopefully, you'll never lose your pet to begin with. It's a horrible and stressful experience that I'd wish upon no one. Life happens though, and bad luck strikes us all at one time or another. We just have to accept that and be as ready as possible when the time comes. No matter how strict you are with your pets, accidents DO happen, so take these preventative measures seriously. And to all of you dog/cat parents who think you can (pardon my French) half-ass it and be fine ... grow up! If you don't want the responsibility of a pet, don't get one. To you, they may only be around when it's convenient for you ... but to them, you're their whole world. Show them the love they deserve.

]]> <![CDATA[Outdoor Exercise in Syracuse While Still Practicing Social Distancing]]> https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/outdoor-exercise-in-syracuse-while-still-practicing-social-distancing/ Tue, 31 Mar 2020 21:26:17 +0000 https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/outdoor-exercise-in-syracuse-while-still-practicing-social-distancing/ Times are strange lately. Things escalated quickly involving COVID19 and none of us are quite sure how long this pandemic will last. To be honest, it's pretty scary. The majority of us have quarantined ourselves in our homes while the "essentials" are still out there braving the masses (or what's left of them anyway). We've all been told about social distancing and it's a very serious matter. We absolutely (100%) need to be staying away from others as much as possible. Oh, and don't forget to wash your hands! So, if you're like many others out there, you're stuck at home indefinitely ... and your dog couldn't be any happier about it! Our furry friends love our company and would be with us every second of every day if it were up to them. But we should still be getting them outdoors; walking, running, hiking, and exploring. Now for the big question that you're most likely asking; "where can I go that won't be overpopulated?!"

Normally, it wouldn't matter how many people may be walking by (or next) to you. But with CoronaVirus all around us (especially here in Onondaga County), we all need to be smart about this. Sure, try your usual spots. Maybe you already have some great ones! But just in case you don't (or they're currently overrun), I have a handful of excellent nature trails that you should check out. I, personally, stay away from crowded spots anyhow, so I'm still hitting up all my usual hiking trails as if nothing is even happening. First off, I'd avoid state parks. I'm not saying that they'll always be busy, but most people head to well known areas first (like state parks). I absolutely love Clark Reservation in Jamesville, but I went there a few weeks back and it was jam packed. I couldn't even find a parking spot. Now that many of us are out of work, I imagine that it's still just as busy, if not more. I also drive by the Erie Canal quite often and see a bunch of people walking that trail too. Keep in mind though, the Canal gets super busy in certain sections. In E. Syracuse, the Canal is very busy, as well as the Canal entrance near Warners. However, if you hit up the section in Memphis, you'll probably see way less traffic, plus it's a very pretty section. If you head towards Weedsport, you probably won't see many people until around Elbridge. I'd also steer clear of the Parkway next to Onondaga Lake. It's recently been packed. I'd hit up the Westshore trail off Longbranch Rd. (across from Longbranch Park). You'll probably see a lot of cars parked there, but if you veer off to the right (off of the paved trail) a short way in, you'll avoid most of the people, who mainly stay on the paved portion.

And now for some of my favorite trails! Keep in mind, these are not posted trails, so there's no need to be worried about trespassing.

1. Split Rock: This trail system is vast with different types of terrain, including wooded areas, rock beds, and fields. There're also old ruins and structures, some hilly areas, and a pond called "Lost Lake." I normally park at the trail head on Kasson Rd. If you start driving on Kasson next to the Walmart in Camillus, you'll go about a mile or so up the road. When you hit the top of the hill, there will be a small place to park on your left. I grew up around this area and loved exploring there as a kid. Since then, there have been even more trails added and repaired. I still take my dog, Cairo, there to this day. If you go far enough, you'll find an old ammunition factory (I believe that's what it was) back from WWII with a small cave system to explore.

2. Assembly Trail: This trail system is a little newer for me, but I love it! I've been hiking there for a couple years now. The terrain starts out completely wooded (with raging streams in the spring) for the first half, then turns into fields for the finish. There are lots of different sections to explore. The beginning of the trail is on Fay Rd. in Syracuse (Taunton area), across from The Cider Mill (Maury's Cider Mill), at the very back of the parking lot of Grace Assembly of God Church. The trail head is to the far back right and I rarely see anyone there.

3. Gully Road Trails: Located in Skaneateles, this isn't just one trail system. There are multiple trail heads all down this road ... and also on the intersecting road (New Seneca Turnpike). The first trailhead down the road (if you're coming from Old Seneca Turnpike), is about a mile down on the left; it's called Guppy Falls Trail. It's a nice size loop with a pretty waterfall to look at. My favorite on this road, is if you drive past Guppy Falls about a half mile. You'll see a place to park on the right. In this section, there are multiple trails to choose from weaving in and out of each other. The terrain is mostly wooded with a beautiful view of a pond/lake. There are some points where there are bridges taking you over the water to the other side. Keep in mind though, the other side of the water has a bit of elevation.

Those are my top three go-to spots for hiking, but here is a short list of other not so well known hiking spots that I love...

- Harris Road Trails: Turn left onto Harris Rd. (Syracuse) from Split Rock Rd. and park on the right about a half mile up. It's just a small spot to pull your car over. The trail head is on the opposite side of the street. Mainly wooded and not too difficult/long of a hike.

- Hinchcliff Family Preserve: This is a little further out, but it's worth the drive. It's located on route 41. If you're coming from Skaneateles, it'll be on your right hand side, probably about ten or so miles down the road. It's one big loop, but has a little bit of everything (terrain-wise) including some crazy elevation at the end. You'll see lots of cool animals, grassy fields, wooded areas, water, and old structures.

- Camillus Unique Area: I love this place. It's huge and there's rarely no more than a handful of people there ever ... most who I never even encounter. I just know they're there because of the few cars that are in the parking lot. It's located in the Camillus/Warners section of Syracuse and has a lot to offer, such as elevation, fields, wooded areas, and water. Turn left onto Thompson Rd. off of Warners Rd. and it'll be on your right. Warning - it gets super muddy in the springtime.

- Bird Sanctuary (Rand Tract Park): A nice size loop with some elevation (all wooded) at the dead end of Hopper Rd. in The Valley portion of Syracuse.

All of these places are great options for maintaining social distancing while still getting plenty of exercise. No need to fret! This pandemic is horrible. That's the sad fact. We might as well make the best of it while being as safe as possible. That doesn't mean we have to stay inside 24/7. Now that you have these cool new spots to check out, you'll have plenty to do ... and your pup will love you for it! Please, everyone ... stay as safe as possible out there. Don't go out around others unless it's absolutely necessary. We'll get through this together, and while you're stuck home, enjoy the company of your four legged pals! They love you unconditionally and can't wait to check out all these new trails with you. Happy hiking!

]]> Times are strange lately. Things escalated quickly involving COVID19 and none of us are quite sure how long this pandemic will last. To be honest, it's pretty scary. The majority of us have quarantined ourselves in our homes while the "essentials" are still out there braving the masses (or what's left of them anyway). We've all been told about social distancing and it's a very serious matter. We absolutely (100%) need to be staying away from others as much as possible. Oh, and don't forget to wash your hands! So, if you're like many others out there, you're stuck at home indefinitely ... and your dog couldn't be any happier about it! Our furry friends love our company and would be with us every second of every day if it were up to them. But we should still be getting them outdoors; walking, running, hiking, and exploring. Now for the big question that you're most likely asking; "where can I go that won't be overpopulated?!"

Normally, it wouldn't matter how many people may be walking by (or next) to you. But with CoronaVirus all around us (especially here in Onondaga County), we all need to be smart about this. Sure, try your usual spots. Maybe you already have some great ones! But just in case you don't (or they're currently overrun), I have a handful of excellent nature trails that you should check out. I, personally, stay away from crowded spots anyhow, so I'm still hitting up all my usual hiking trails as if nothing is even happening. First off, I'd avoid state parks. I'm not saying that they'll always be busy, but most people head to well known areas first (like state parks). I absolutely love Clark Reservation in Jamesville, but I went there a few weeks back and it was jam packed. I couldn't even find a parking spot. Now that many of us are out of work, I imagine that it's still just as busy, if not more. I also drive by the Erie Canal quite often and see a bunch of people walking that trail too. Keep in mind though, the Canal gets super busy in certain sections. In E. Syracuse, the Canal is very busy, as well as the Canal entrance near Warners. However, if you hit up the section in Memphis, you'll probably see way less traffic, plus it's a very pretty section. If you head towards Weedsport, you probably won't see many people until around Elbridge. I'd also steer clear of the Parkway next to Onondaga Lake. It's recently been packed. I'd hit up the Westshore trail off Longbranch Rd. (across from Longbranch Park). You'll probably see a lot of cars parked there, but if you veer off to the right (off of the paved trail) a short way in, you'll avoid most of the people, who mainly stay on the paved portion.

And now for some of my favorite trails! Keep in mind, these are not posted trails, so there's no need to be worried about trespassing.

1. Split Rock: This trail system is vast with different types of terrain, including wooded areas, rock beds, and fields. There're also old ruins and structures, some hilly areas, and a pond called "Lost Lake." I normally park at the trail head on Kasson Rd. If you start driving on Kasson next to the Walmart in Camillus, you'll go about a mile or so up the road. When you hit the top of the hill, there will be a small place to park on your left. I grew up around this area and loved exploring there as a kid. Since then, there have been even more trails added and repaired. I still take my dog, Cairo, there to this day. If you go far enough, you'll find an old ammunition factory (I believe that's what it was) back from WWII with a small cave system to explore.

2. Assembly Trail: This trail system is a little newer for me, but I love it! I've been hiking there for a couple years now. The terrain starts out completely wooded (with raging streams in the spring) for the first half, then turns into fields for the finish. There are lots of different sections to explore. The beginning of the trail is on Fay Rd. in Syracuse (Taunton area), across from The Cider Mill (Maury's Cider Mill), at the very back of the parking lot of Grace Assembly of God Church. The trail head is to the far back right and I rarely see anyone there.

3. Gully Road Trails: Located in Skaneateles, this isn't just one trail system. There are multiple trail heads all down this road ... and also on the intersecting road (New Seneca Turnpike). The first trailhead down the road (if you're coming from Old Seneca Turnpike), is about a mile down on the left; it's called Guppy Falls Trail. It's a nice size loop with a pretty waterfall to look at. My favorite on this road, is if you drive past Guppy Falls about a half mile. You'll see a place to park on the right. In this section, there are multiple trails to choose from weaving in and out of each other. The terrain is mostly wooded with a beautiful view of a pond/lake. There are some points where there are bridges taking you over the water to the other side. Keep in mind though, the other side of the water has a bit of elevation.

Those are my top three go-to spots for hiking, but here is a short list of other not so well known hiking spots that I love...

- Harris Road Trails: Turn left onto Harris Rd. (Syracuse) from Split Rock Rd. and park on the right about a half mile up. It's just a small spot to pull your car over. The trail head is on the opposite side of the street. Mainly wooded and not too difficult/long of a hike.

- Hinchcliff Family Preserve: This is a little further out, but it's worth the drive. It's located on route 41. If you're coming from Skaneateles, it'll be on your right hand side, probably about ten or so miles down the road. It's one big loop, but has a little bit of everything (terrain-wise) including some crazy elevation at the end. You'll see lots of cool animals, grassy fields, wooded areas, water, and old structures.

- Camillus Unique Area: I love this place. It's huge and there's rarely no more than a handful of people there ever ... most who I never even encounter. I just know they're there because of the few cars that are in the parking lot. It's located in the Camillus/Warners section of Syracuse and has a lot to offer, such as elevation, fields, wooded areas, and water. Turn left onto Thompson Rd. off of Warners Rd. and it'll be on your right. Warning - it gets super muddy in the springtime.

- Bird Sanctuary (Rand Tract Park): A nice size loop with some elevation (all wooded) at the dead end of Hopper Rd. in The Valley portion of Syracuse.

All of these places are great options for maintaining social distancing while still getting plenty of exercise. No need to fret! This pandemic is horrible. That's the sad fact. We might as well make the best of it while being as safe as possible. That doesn't mean we have to stay inside 24/7. Now that you have these cool new spots to check out, you'll have plenty to do ... and your pup will love you for it! Please, everyone ... stay as safe as possible out there. Don't go out around others unless it's absolutely necessary. We'll get through this together, and while you're stuck home, enjoy the company of your four legged pals! They love you unconditionally and can't wait to check out all these new trails with you. Happy hiking!

]]> <![CDATA[Thinking of Adding a New Pet to the Family?]]> https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/thinking-of-adding-a-new-pet-to-the-family/ Tue, 10 Mar 2020 22:11:36 +0000 https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/thinking-of-adding-a-new-pet-to-the-family/ As most of you probably already know, owning a pet is a giant responsibility. It's one thing to say, "Hey, we should get a dog," and another to actually have one who's demanding all of your attention at every moment. It kind of forces you to become responsible overnight. I've had my dog, Cairo, for nine years now and he's one of the best things to have ever happened to me. We've lived with other people, animals, and on our own as well. In my experiences with him, it's not always easy to add another pet to your tight knit pack. Animals can get jealous, angry, and territorial. It'd be great if we could just let them know ... "Hey buddy! I got you a friend to play with!," but it's not always that easy, and in many cases (even after being together for an extended amount of time) if done incorrectly, it may very well fail. If you truly want to add another pet to your family, or if you are going to be combining families with preexisting pets, there are definitely some things to consider.

If you're planning on introducing two dogs, remember that it should be done slowly and safely. Don't just let them off leash together from the get go. This could cause immediate problems and possible injuries. Because your first dog isn't used to this new one, having them meet on "neutral ground" is smart. Go to a friend's house or a park for their first introductions, and proceed from there. Taking them on a walk together is a great way for them to get used to each other's presence without causing any unwanted tension. If this all goes well, you can let them sniff each other and play. Do this with their leashes still on (but dragging) in case you need to control them quickly. Also, avoid enclosed and confined areas which may cause problems. This is a good time to then have them together in your house. I suggest bringing your resident dog outside at first, and your new dog inside. Then allow your resident dog to come indoors to greet the new dog (which he/she should have already become acquainted with away from home). This should help. Bringing a new dog into a house to greet the resident dog may lead to territorial issues. Keep the indoor meet and greet short and pleasant. These introductions are very important and set the tone for their future relationship. While you're away (and until you know it's safe), keep the dogs separated. No need for fighting or injuries. Proceed as you see fit at this point.

If you're planning on introducing a dog and a cat, many of the same rules apply, but there are also some other things to consider. Make sure that your cat has the ability to escape the dog whenever he/she wants. You could call this your cat's "dog-free sanctuary." This should be an entire room where the dog is not allowed. High areas for your cat to go will also keep stress levels low. To start, it's smart to keep them both separate. They will both come to the understanding that they live in the same house and will feel less territorial about one another's presence. They will also get used to one another's smell and sounds. Make sure they get fed in separate rooms to avoid unnecessary fighting. With each feeding, move their food bowls a little closer to the closed door separating them. Continue until each pet can eat calmly right next to the door. If your dog (or cat) understands basic commands, this will help with controlling them around each other. Now it's time for a face-to-face meeting. Don't use your cat's "sanctuary" room though. Make sure the meeting is short and sweet and reward good behavior. Keep your dog leashed and under control as your cat walks around. If your cat shows aggression, attempt to redirect him/her with a treat or by tossing a toy. Repeat these meetings daily until you feel comfortable to allow them to be loose together. At this point, it's up to you and how comfortable you feel they are around each other as to how to proceed next. Obviously, the goal is to live together in harmony.

In some cases, certain animals will have a hard time living together. That's just a fact. But if the right precautions and actions are taken from the beginning, there's a much better chance at success! I know from firsthand experience that it's a difficult process. My dog has a hard time with other animals. It takes him a while to warm up to them. I've successfully had him living with two other dogs and a cat for years. It can be trying and will most definitely test your patience. In most cases though, it will be successful. Just be smart, calm, and in control. Animals are very good at sensing your stress levels, which, if high, will cause them to act out more. On the other hand, some dogs and cats will instantly get along with a new pet and have no problems whatsoever. Hopefully that'll be the case for you! If not, reread this blog and take it slow. Good luck to you and your soon-to-be harmonious household!

]]> As most of you probably already know, owning a pet is a giant responsibility. It's one thing to say, "Hey, we should get a dog," and another to actually have one who's demanding all of your attention at every moment. It kind of forces you to become responsible overnight. I've had my dog, Cairo, for nine years now and he's one of the best things to have ever happened to me. We've lived with other people, animals, and on our own as well. In my experiences with him, it's not always easy to add another pet to your tight knit pack. Animals can get jealous, angry, and territorial. It'd be great if we could just let them know ... "Hey buddy! I got you a friend to play with!," but it's not always that easy, and in many cases (even after being together for an extended amount of time) if done incorrectly, it may very well fail. If you truly want to add another pet to your family, or if you are going to be combining families with preexisting pets, there are definitely some things to consider.

If you're planning on introducing two dogs, remember that it should be done slowly and safely. Don't just let them off leash together from the get go. This could cause immediate problems and possible injuries. Because your first dog isn't used to this new one, having them meet on "neutral ground" is smart. Go to a friend's house or a park for their first introductions, and proceed from there. Taking them on a walk together is a great way for them to get used to each other's presence without causing any unwanted tension. If this all goes well, you can let them sniff each other and play. Do this with their leashes still on (but dragging) in case you need to control them quickly. Also, avoid enclosed and confined areas which may cause problems. This is a good time to then have them together in your house. I suggest bringing your resident dog outside at first, and your new dog inside. Then allow your resident dog to come indoors to greet the new dog (which he/she should have already become acquainted with away from home). This should help. Bringing a new dog into a house to greet the resident dog may lead to territorial issues. Keep the indoor meet and greet short and pleasant. These introductions are very important and set the tone for their future relationship. While you're away (and until you know it's safe), keep the dogs separated. No need for fighting or injuries. Proceed as you see fit at this point.

If you're planning on introducing a dog and a cat, many of the same rules apply, but there are also some other things to consider. Make sure that your cat has the ability to escape the dog whenever he/she wants. You could call this your cat's "dog-free sanctuary." This should be an entire room where the dog is not allowed. High areas for your cat to go will also keep stress levels low. To start, it's smart to keep them both separate. They will both come to the understanding that they live in the same house and will feel less territorial about one another's presence. They will also get used to one another's smell and sounds. Make sure they get fed in separate rooms to avoid unnecessary fighting. With each feeding, move their food bowls a little closer to the closed door separating them. Continue until each pet can eat calmly right next to the door. If your dog (or cat) understands basic commands, this will help with controlling them around each other. Now it's time for a face-to-face meeting. Don't use your cat's "sanctuary" room though. Make sure the meeting is short and sweet and reward good behavior. Keep your dog leashed and under control as your cat walks around. If your cat shows aggression, attempt to redirect him/her with a treat or by tossing a toy. Repeat these meetings daily until you feel comfortable to allow them to be loose together. At this point, it's up to you and how comfortable you feel they are around each other as to how to proceed next. Obviously, the goal is to live together in harmony.

In some cases, certain animals will have a hard time living together. That's just a fact. But if the right precautions and actions are taken from the beginning, there's a much better chance at success! I know from firsthand experience that it's a difficult process. My dog has a hard time with other animals. It takes him a while to warm up to them. I've successfully had him living with two other dogs and a cat for years. It can be trying and will most definitely test your patience. In most cases though, it will be successful. Just be smart, calm, and in control. Animals are very good at sensing your stress levels, which, if high, will cause them to act out more. On the other hand, some dogs and cats will instantly get along with a new pet and have no problems whatsoever. Hopefully that'll be the case for you! If not, reread this blog and take it slow. Good luck to you and your soon-to-be harmonious household!

]]> <![CDATA[Rescue Dogs vs. Shelter Dogs]]> https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/rescue-dogs-vs-shelter-dogs/ Sat, 22 Feb 2020 12:23:30 +0000 https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/rescue-dogs-vs-shelter-dogs/ I was told that I should write about the differences between "fostering" a pet and "adopting" a pet. Well, I just finished writing this entire blog and realized that I didn't do that at all. HAHA! I ended up talking about the differences between "rescue dogs" and "shelter dogs." Many people out there aren't 100% sure how exactly they differ, including myself to an extent. So yeah, fostering vs. adopting will be next time! I've done some extra research on the topic of rescue dogs and shelter dogs and plan to keep things fact-based and less opinionated, which does tend to come out in my writing regardless. Animal shelters and dog rescue groups all take in "unwanted" dogs and attempt to re-home them. Yes, they're both working toward that common goal, but there are a couple big differences between the two.

"A rescue dog is a dog that has been placed in a new home after being abused, neglected, or abandoned by its previous owner. Many animal rescue organizations exist to rescue, protect, care, and re-home dogs from unnecessary euthanasia." - Wikipedia || A huge part of a functional rescue group is its volunteers. Without them, the group would barely exist. Rescue groups are funded mostly by donations and most of the staff are simply doing this out of their love for animals. Yup ... no paycheck here most likely. Since rescue groups don't have shelter facilities, all the rescued animals are given special treatment and placed directly into foster homes. This, however, may sound easier than it really is, given the volume of rescues that come in compared to the amount of volunteers available to find them all new homes. Most definitely a bit daunting.

"An animal shelter is a place that stray, lost, abandoned, or surrendered animals (mostly dogs and cats - sometimes sick or wounded wildlife) are kept and rehabilitated. While no-kill shelters exist, it is sometimes policy to euthanize animals that are not claimed quickly enough by a previous or new owner." - Wikipedia || Shelters are, in most cases, run and funded by local government. Like rescues groups, some shelters put animals into foster homes, however, many are housed on site in kennels. This is where the term "dog pound" comes from. It has negative connotations and isn't normally used now, but what it referred to, is a town's animal control office that often houses dogs that have been seized. The term "animal shelter" is now used in reference to this and the term pound.

To delve just a little deeper, shelters are either "kill" shelters or "no kill" shelters. The latter is a bit harder to come by. A no kill shelter is similar to a sanctuary. The animals are not euthanized unless they're in poor health or pose a threat of some sort. These shelters are extremely full most of the time and some of the animals they house have been there for years. In kill shelters, the animals that come in are given what is called, a "grace period," where they have a specific amount of time (sometimes only a few days) to get adopted. After that grace period, if the shelter has no extra room, the animal will be "humanely" euthanized ... no matter the age, breed, or potential. Keep in mind, that dogs are in shelters for numerous reasons ... not necessarily bad ones. Also, if you end up going to a shelter (either to adopt or surrender), remember to ask what their "kill policies" are. It's always important to make informed decisions.

Ultimately, it's up to you as to where you get your next furry pal from. There are lots of breeders, rescue groups, and shelters. May I suggest though (my opinion leaks out here and there), that if you're not looking for a specific breed, try a local rescue group. The volunteers are doing this out of the goodness of their hearts and, often times, don't have space to house all the animals that they find. If not them, hit up your local shelter and bring home your next best friend. There are so many abandoned dogs out there that just want to be loved. It's honestly heartbreaking. Animal shelters and rescue groups are working toward a common goal and, as animal shelters evolve, I believe that the lines between the two will become more blurred. There are thousands of dogs out there (all shapes, ages, and sizes) who need homes and almost every town will have rescue groups and shelters at your disposal. Consider yourself informed and educated! Now it's time to contact your local rescue group and/or shelter!

The following are some local Syracuse, NY (and the surrounding area) rescue groups and shelters to get you started...

-Humane CNY

-SPCA

-Barks & Rec.

-Cat Coalition

-Forever Friends

-Mountain Rottie Rescue

-Helping Hounds

-Second Chance Shelter

-Misfits Animal Rescue

-Wanderer's Rest

-Wayward Paws

-Recyclable

-Seventh Heaven Rescue

-Marsha's Mulligans

-Doggie Gone Inn

-Bernard's Beagles

-Fetch-a-Friend

-Kitty Korner

]]> I was told that I should write about the differences between "fostering" a pet and "adopting" a pet. Well, I just finished writing this entire blog and realized that I didn't do that at all. HAHA! I ended up talking about the differences between "rescue dogs" and "shelter dogs." Many people out there aren't 100% sure how exactly they differ, including myself to an extent. So yeah, fostering vs. adopting will be next time! I've done some extra research on the topic of rescue dogs and shelter dogs and plan to keep things fact-based and less opinionated, which does tend to come out in my writing regardless. Animal shelters and dog rescue groups all take in "unwanted" dogs and attempt to re-home them. Yes, they're both working toward that common goal, but there are a couple big differences between the two.

"A rescue dog is a dog that has been placed in a new home after being abused, neglected, or abandoned by its previous owner. Many animal rescue organizations exist to rescue, protect, care, and re-home dogs from unnecessary euthanasia." - Wikipedia || A huge part of a functional rescue group is its volunteers. Without them, the group would barely exist. Rescue groups are funded mostly by donations and most of the staff are simply doing this out of their love for animals. Yup ... no paycheck here most likely. Since rescue groups don't have shelter facilities, all the rescued animals are given special treatment and placed directly into foster homes. This, however, may sound easier than it really is, given the volume of rescues that come in compared to the amount of volunteers available to find them all new homes. Most definitely a bit daunting.

"An animal shelter is a place that stray, lost, abandoned, or surrendered animals (mostly dogs and cats - sometimes sick or wounded wildlife) are kept and rehabilitated. While no-kill shelters exist, it is sometimes policy to euthanize animals that are not claimed quickly enough by a previous or new owner." - Wikipedia || Shelters are, in most cases, run and funded by local government. Like rescues groups, some shelters put animals into foster homes, however, many are housed on site in kennels. This is where the term "dog pound" comes from. It has negative connotations and isn't normally used now, but what it referred to, is a town's animal control office that often houses dogs that have been seized. The term "animal shelter" is now used in reference to this and the term pound.

To delve just a little deeper, shelters are either "kill" shelters or "no kill" shelters. The latter is a bit harder to come by. A no kill shelter is similar to a sanctuary. The animals are not euthanized unless they're in poor health or pose a threat of some sort. These shelters are extremely full most of the time and some of the animals they house have been there for years. In kill shelters, the animals that come in are given what is called, a "grace period," where they have a specific amount of time (sometimes only a few days) to get adopted. After that grace period, if the shelter has no extra room, the animal will be "humanely" euthanized ... no matter the age, breed, or potential. Keep in mind, that dogs are in shelters for numerous reasons ... not necessarily bad ones. Also, if you end up going to a shelter (either to adopt or surrender), remember to ask what their "kill policies" are. It's always important to make informed decisions.

Ultimately, it's up to you as to where you get your next furry pal from. There are lots of breeders, rescue groups, and shelters. May I suggest though (my opinion leaks out here and there), that if you're not looking for a specific breed, try a local rescue group. The volunteers are doing this out of the goodness of their hearts and, often times, don't have space to house all the animals that they find. If not them, hit up your local shelter and bring home your next best friend. There are so many abandoned dogs out there that just want to be loved. It's honestly heartbreaking. Animal shelters and rescue groups are working toward a common goal and, as animal shelters evolve, I believe that the lines between the two will become more blurred. There are thousands of dogs out there (all shapes, ages, and sizes) who need homes and almost every town will have rescue groups and shelters at your disposal. Consider yourself informed and educated! Now it's time to contact your local rescue group and/or shelter!

The following are some local Syracuse, NY (and the surrounding area) rescue groups and shelters to get you started...

-Humane CNY

-SPCA

-Barks & Rec.

-Cat Coalition

-Forever Friends

-Mountain Rottie Rescue

-Helping Hounds

-Second Chance Shelter

-Misfits Animal Rescue

-Wanderer's Rest

-Wayward Paws

-Recyclable

-Seventh Heaven Rescue

-Marsha's Mulligans

-Doggie Gone Inn

-Bernard's Beagles

-Fetch-a-Friend

-Kitty Korner

]]> <![CDATA[Should My Dog be Vegan?]]> https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/should-my-dog-be-vegan/ Tue, 04 Feb 2020 23:41:23 +0000 https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/should-my-dog-be-vegan/ So, I'll preface this blog with a statement; I'm vegan and have been for over 19 years. The Vegan Society defines "vegan" as "a way of living which seeks to exclude, as far as is possible and practicable, all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing, or any other purpose." The vegan population has grown exponentially since I began living the lifestyle, and just recently (between 2014 and 2017), "the number of U.S. consumers identifying as vegan grew from 1% to 6%; a 600% increase!" - www.forbes.com. Unfortunately, along with that diet/lifestyle comes a lot of negative trash talking from others. It's as if other non-vegans feel attacked, somehow, by how I choose to live my life. Well, that's their problem I guess. HaHa! So anyhow, I have a dog. Not just any dog, but the best and most awesome dog in the entire world (we all say that about our dogs, right?)! His name is Cairo and I found him when he was still trying to nurse. Someone must have abandoned him. I seriously don't understand how someone could be so cruel. It baffles me. He's turning nine this month and we have been through so much together! When he came into my life, I asked myself, "can dogs be vegan?" And then, I asked myself another similar (yet very different) question; "should dogs be vegan?"

I went back and forth for a while about what to feed Cairo. What I have learned in the nine years that I've had him can't be summed up in one sentence. Eating vegan for me is one thing, but I wanted him to be healthy and to thrive as much as he possibly could. Perhaps I'll get crap from my vegan friends about this blog, but I decided to feed him non-vegan high quality food and treats. Okay ... I won't lie. He gets junk food treats sometimes too. That's the route I decided to go. Yes, I purchase food and treats containing meat. Call the vegan police if you want. I do want to make it clear that I've done plenty of research on this topic, and it is possible for dogs to thrive on a vegan diet. Most people consider dogs to be carnivores (where meat is a necessity), however this is inaccurate. Dogs are actually omnivores. Their digestive systems can easily digest and derive nutrients from fruits and vegetables. The thing is, most dog food (almost all dog food) on the market, contains meat. There's only a small percentage of food and treats that are actually vegan, which can make it a bit more annoying in the overall scheme of things. I, also, went the route of letting my dog choose for himself, what he wanted to eat. I purchased a vegan dog food for him to try out. He ate it, but I could tell that he didn't love it. So I tried a few other brands and settled on one that had multiple flavors to choose from, but was not vegan in the least. There's definitely a fine line as to wanting your dog to be healthy, wanting your dog to be living by "your" ethical standards, and wanting your dog to be happy. It's really up to you and your dog.

Okay, so the short answer is that, yes, your dog can thrive on a vegan diet. But, you also need to watch out. Finding a meat and dairy-free dog food that has all the proper nutrients for them to live their best life is pretty difficult. A canine's digestive system has an easier time processing animal matter than it does plant. Vitamins and antioxidants from plants are fantastic, but fats and protein aren't as readily available. Basically, if you do decide to put your dog on a vegan diet, make sure you know what you're doing. Do your research. Chat with someone who's already doing it or a professional who knows about it firsthand. And don't trust just anyone. A lot of people out there are biased and will just tell you that it's cruel and/or impossible for your dog to be vegan. It's true that it may be a bit more annoying, but it's definitely doable. I have a good friend who has been feeding his dog a vegan diet for years now ... and he's very healthy. Basically, do your own research as well as seeking advice from others, and keep in mind that making your dog vegan could lead to health complications and malnutrition if done improperly.

Ultimately, it's up to you as to whether a vegan diet it right for your pup. There are pros and cons to both sides. There are dog foods out there that are vegan, but do they actually have the proper nutrients in them for your dog to be healthy? Will your dog actually like the food? You can always consider a compromise where you feed your dog a vegetarian dog food (but not vegan). Or, maybe you'll find the perfect vegan food for them containing all the proper nutrients and he/she will love it! Just remember though, if you're vegan for ethical reasons, it can be tough to find a happy balance involving you and your dog. It is possible, but what it really boils down to, is that you are responsible for the life in front of you (your dog), and it's his/her life that should come first and foremost. Good luck!

Here are some vegan and vegetarian dog food options...

- V-Dog Vegan Kibble Dry Dog Food

- Halo Vegan Garden Medley Dry & Wet Dog Food

- Evolution Food for Dogs

- Natural Balance Vegetarian Dog Food

- Nature's Recipe Healthy Skin Dry Dog Food

]]> So, I'll preface this blog with a statement; I'm vegan and have been for over 19 years. The Vegan Society defines "vegan" as "a way of living which seeks to exclude, as far as is possible and practicable, all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing, or any other purpose." The vegan population has grown exponentially since I began living the lifestyle, and just recently (between 2014 and 2017), "the number of U.S. consumers identifying as vegan grew from 1% to 6%; a 600% increase!" - www.forbes.com. Unfortunately, along with that diet/lifestyle comes a lot of negative trash talking from others. It's as if other non-vegans feel attacked, somehow, by how I choose to live my life. Well, that's their problem I guess. HaHa! So anyhow, I have a dog. Not just any dog, but the best and most awesome dog in the entire world (we all say that about our dogs, right?)! His name is Cairo and I found him when he was still trying to nurse. Someone must have abandoned him. I seriously don't understand how someone could be so cruel. It baffles me. He's turning nine this month and we have been through so much together! When he came into my life, I asked myself, "can dogs be vegan?" And then, I asked myself another similar (yet very different) question; "should dogs be vegan?"

I went back and forth for a while about what to feed Cairo. What I have learned in the nine years that I've had him can't be summed up in one sentence. Eating vegan for me is one thing, but I wanted him to be healthy and to thrive as much as he possibly could. Perhaps I'll get crap from my vegan friends about this blog, but I decided to feed him non-vegan high quality food and treats. Okay ... I won't lie. He gets junk food treats sometimes too. That's the route I decided to go. Yes, I purchase food and treats containing meat. Call the vegan police if you want. I do want to make it clear that I've done plenty of research on this topic, and it is possible for dogs to thrive on a vegan diet. Most people consider dogs to be carnivores (where meat is a necessity), however this is inaccurate. Dogs are actually omnivores. Their digestive systems can easily digest and derive nutrients from fruits and vegetables. The thing is, most dog food (almost all dog food) on the market, contains meat. There's only a small percentage of food and treats that are actually vegan, which can make it a bit more annoying in the overall scheme of things. I, also, went the route of letting my dog choose for himself, what he wanted to eat. I purchased a vegan dog food for him to try out. He ate it, but I could tell that he didn't love it. So I tried a few other brands and settled on one that had multiple flavors to choose from, but was not vegan in the least. There's definitely a fine line as to wanting your dog to be healthy, wanting your dog to be living by "your" ethical standards, and wanting your dog to be happy. It's really up to you and your dog.

Okay, so the short answer is that, yes, your dog can thrive on a vegan diet. But, you also need to watch out. Finding a meat and dairy-free dog food that has all the proper nutrients for them to live their best life is pretty difficult. A canine's digestive system has an easier time processing animal matter than it does plant. Vitamins and antioxidants from plants are fantastic, but fats and protein aren't as readily available. Basically, if you do decide to put your dog on a vegan diet, make sure you know what you're doing. Do your research. Chat with someone who's already doing it or a professional who knows about it firsthand. And don't trust just anyone. A lot of people out there are biased and will just tell you that it's cruel and/or impossible for your dog to be vegan. It's true that it may be a bit more annoying, but it's definitely doable. I have a good friend who has been feeding his dog a vegan diet for years now ... and he's very healthy. Basically, do your own research as well as seeking advice from others, and keep in mind that making your dog vegan could lead to health complications and malnutrition if done improperly.

Ultimately, it's up to you as to whether a vegan diet it right for your pup. There are pros and cons to both sides. There are dog foods out there that are vegan, but do they actually have the proper nutrients in them for your dog to be healthy? Will your dog actually like the food? You can always consider a compromise where you feed your dog a vegetarian dog food (but not vegan). Or, maybe you'll find the perfect vegan food for them containing all the proper nutrients and he/she will love it! Just remember though, if you're vegan for ethical reasons, it can be tough to find a happy balance involving you and your dog. It is possible, but what it really boils down to, is that you are responsible for the life in front of you (your dog), and it's his/her life that should come first and foremost. Good luck!

Here are some vegan and vegetarian dog food options...

- V-Dog Vegan Kibble Dry Dog Food

- Halo Vegan Garden Medley Dry & Wet Dog Food

- Evolution Food for Dogs

- Natural Balance Vegetarian Dog Food

- Nature's Recipe Healthy Skin Dry Dog Food

]]> <![CDATA[It's Freezing Outside ... and I'm Bored!]]> https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/its-freezing-outside-and-im-bored/ Sun, 19 Jan 2020 22:05:13 +0000 https://www.idlepaws.com/blog/its-freezing-outside-and-im-bored/ Okay, so living in Syracuse, NY has toughened me up to cold weather. If you live around the Central NY area, there's simply no way around it. Approximately half of the year is going to be cold and snowy, with temperatures dipping into the negatives. Some bigger name dogs, such as Labs, Huskies, and St. Bernards, love the snow, but there are numerous other breeds (and mixed breeds) that want nothing to do with it. Plus, many of us, humans, dislike the cold, snowy weather too, no matter if our dogs enjoy it or not. So I've learned how to be creative with my dog during the snowy season here in Syracuse. Here are some ideas for indoor activities when it's just too cold to be outdoors...

- LET'S PLAY FETCH! Yeah, it's not quite as fun as hurling the ball as far as we can outdoors, but dogs still love this! My place is tiny, but I still have a hallway to throw my buddy's ball down for him. Just make sure there are no breakable objects around!

- HIDE AND SEEK IS FUN! Even if your place is small, like mine, your dog will still love playing. Get creative! It may seem silly to you, but your dog will be moving around and enjoying him/herself.

- AN INDOOR OBSTACLE COURSE IS LOADS OF FUN! Move some chairs around and build a little course. Then you can show your pup how to run the course and give them a treat when they finish. This will help to give them the exercise they need during that negative degree weather!

- NEW TRICKS! Think your dog already knows it all? Well, there's always some sort of new trick you could teach them. Or perhaps just work on certain commands that they already know. No need to be too strict about anything though. They will just love that you're hanging out and paying attention to them!

- HIDING TREATS CAN BE FUN! Put them inside different toys that your dog loves. Or, put them under blankets that they lay on. They're sense of smell is way stronger than ours, and they'll have fun trying to find the treats. If they're having trouble though, it's okay to help them out.

- TRY A TREADMILL! Some dogs enjoy walking (and running) on treadmills, just like we do! I'll admit though, my dog hates them and barks at them, but I do know some other furry friends that love to use them. Just make sure it's safe. Always watch them and never leave them unattended. Please note, this definitely isn't for every dog, but it doesn't hurt to try it out if you have one handy.

The cold weather can be 'ruff' (pun intended)! Dogs get bored, just as we do. The winter season in Syracuse (and many other areas) calls for a little creativity. I'm not saying that we should never take our dogs outside when it's cold. All dogs should be taken outdoors every day (even in the winter). But some dogs (and people) would rather stay inside. Still ... when I get the chance, and the weather warms up slightly, I jump at the opportunity to take my dog on a hike. You may have to shorten the duration of the hike, but your four-legged buddy should still have the chance to get outside as much as possible. Keep in mind though, that when it's simply too darn cold, it's good to know how to keep them entertained, exercised, and happy within the comfort of your own home. Have some indoor fun and remember, spring is just around the corner!

]]> Okay, so living in Syracuse, NY has toughened me up to cold weather. If you live around the Central NY area, there's simply no way around it. Approximately half of the year is going to be cold and snowy, with temperatures dipping into the negatives. Some bigger name dogs, such as Labs, Huskies, and St. Bernards, love the snow, but there are numerous other breeds (and mixed breeds) that want nothing to do with it. Plus, many of us, humans, dislike the cold, snowy weather too, no matter if our dogs enjoy it or not. So I've learned how to be creative with my dog during the snowy season here in Syracuse. Here are some ideas for indoor activities when it's just too cold to be outdoors...

- LET'S PLAY FETCH! Yeah, it's not quite as fun as hurling the ball as far as we can outdoors, but dogs still love this! My place is tiny, but I still have a hallway to throw my buddy's ball down for him. Just make sure there are no breakable objects around!

- HIDE AND SEEK IS FUN! Even if your place is small, like mine, your dog will still love playing. Get creative! It may seem silly to you, but your dog will be moving around and enjoying him/herself.

- AN INDOOR OBSTACLE COURSE IS LOADS OF FUN! Move some chairs around and build a little course. Then you can show your pup how to run the course and give them a treat when they finish. This will help to give them the exercise they need during that negative degree weather!

- NEW TRICKS! Think your dog already knows it all? Well, there's always some sort of new trick you could teach them. Or perhaps just work on certain commands that they already know. No need to be too strict about anything though. They will just love that you're hanging out and paying attention to them!

- HIDING TREATS CAN BE FUN! Put them inside different toys that your dog loves. Or, put them under blankets that they lay on. They're sense of smell is way stronger than ours, and they'll have fun trying to find the treats. If they're having trouble though, it's okay to help them out.

- TRY A TREADMILL! Some dogs enjoy walking (and running) on treadmills, just like we do! I'll admit though, my dog hates them and barks at them, but I do know some other furry friends that love to use them. Just make sure it's safe. Always watch them and never leave them unattended. Please note, this definitely isn't for every dog, but it doesn't hurt to try it out if you have one handy.

The cold weather can be 'ruff' (pun intended)! Dogs get bored, just as we do. The winter season in Syracuse (and many other areas) calls for a little creativity. I'm not saying that we should never take our dogs outside when it's cold. All dogs should be taken outdoors every day (even in the winter). But some dogs (and people) would rather stay inside. Still ... when I get the chance, and the weather warms up slightly, I jump at the opportunity to take my dog on a hike. You may have to shorten the duration of the hike, but your four-legged buddy should still have the chance to get outside as much as possible. Keep in mind though, that when it's simply too darn cold, it's good to know how to keep them entertained, exercised, and happy within the comfort of your own home. Have some indoor fun and remember, spring is just around the corner!

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