Meet Sugar

If you follow us on social media, you’ve probably seen Sugar stopping by our stand on farmers market days. Sugar is a very special dog, and we consider ourselves lucky to have met her and her human, Kimberly. Despite her health issues, Sugar is the friendliest, happiest dog with all the love in the world to give. The following is her story, as written by her human.

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My mother got Sugar from Seminole County Animal Services in 2012 after losing both of her black labs to cancer. She was told Sugar was given her name because of her sweet disposition. My mother always said Sugar seemed to have a special connection with me. After my mother passed away in 2015, Sugar became mine. She has been my emotional support through losing my mother, my job, and everyday stressors. She has been my travel companion for any mini-adventure. As of late, we have been on a tour of her last adventures because she is dying because of a myxomatous neoplasia sarcoma in her face. Last December, her face started to swell out of nowhere. I was told by one specialist it was a tooth abscess, and when my vet went to that surgery in January, they said it clearly wasn't that and took a sample for testing. After receiving the cancer diagnosis, I scrambled to get her to see a cancer specialist; meanwhile, I was in search of quality bone broth. That’s where I found Carole with Pawsitively Pure Dog Food. A friend of mine recommended her because he trusted the human-grade dog food, bone broth, and treats she made.

My first time meeting Carole was at the Maitland Farmers Market. I remember her being so kind to me as I clumsily purchased my first bag of bone broth for Sugar. She gave me her card and told me to call if I needed anything. 

Fast forward to the second weekend in February, and I did just that. I called desperately, looking to help Sugar through food as the first cancer specialist told me there was nothing they could do but offer radiation, and because of the size of the mass, it would limit her life to six months. I decided at that point I would do whatever I could to give Sugar the best quality of life I could. I figured, why not start with her food? Up to then, Sugar had always been a grazing kibble dog. She never seemed excited about food but ate it because it was there. I always thought if the stores sell that food, it should be a balanced, safe meal. I was mistaken, and Carole opened my eyes to better choices for Sugar. She seemed so excited about her new food, waiting in the kitchen as I plated it for her.

Sugar and I went to UF Small Animal Hospital on 2/16, where their oncology surgical team said they could attempt to remove the mass, but Sugar would need radiation treatments afterward. I asked if there was anything else I could do to give her the best outcome, like changing her diet. I was told no; the priority would be just to keep her eating and make sure we don't cause any GI issues. I proceeded with that plan, and while there were speedbumps, Sugar finished her last radiation treatment in May. Throughout this process, Carole and Joe were there checking in and making sure Sugar had their chicken crisp treats for all our travels.

Everything seemed to be turning around until the end of June. Sugar started sneezing, and her primary vet chalked it up to her being more sensitive to allergies after radiation. Then, in July, her mouth began to bleed from what I thought was an abscess. I went back to UF only to hear the cancer was back and growing fast. I was given a two-month life expectancy for Sugar.

At that point, I focused what money I had left on giving her the best food and the best last adventures I could. 

I genuinely believe Pawsitively Pure Dog Food has been an integral part of extending Sugar’s life. We are now in December and while Sugar looks different than what she once did, she is just as sweet and happy as she once was before. 

I'm hoping she will continue to prove everyone wrong and live a few more months as I would like to take her to see snow for the first time in January.

September is Responsible Dog Ownership Month

Simply put, owning a dog is a joy. Once you welcome a dog to your family, you can look forward to days filled with sloppy kisses, adventures in the park, and warm snuggles. But dog ownership is more than just fun and games–it’s a responsibility, too. Just like caring for any other animal, or even a child, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your dog is fed properly, exercised, and in good health at all times. 

Unfortunately, not all pet parents practice responsible pet ownership. For example, many animal shelters say that they receive the highest influx of owner surrenders in the period between December and February when people turn over their “gifted” pets that they no longer want to care for. That’s why the first step of responsible pet ownership is making sure that you have the time and capacity to dedicate to the well-being of your new furry friend.

With that in mind, September is Responsible Dog Ownership Month. As dog moms and dads, we should always strive to give our “furiends” the best possible care every day. The following are just a handful of things you can do to step up your game as a responsible pet parent.

X Ways You Can Be a Responsible Pet Parent

Many of these tips are inexpensive and readily available to every dog mom and dad! With some dedication and preparation, every dog parent has what it takes to be a responsible owner.

Prepare before you purchase

As we mentioned above, responsible pet parents are people who take time to consider the obligations that come along with dog ownership well before they welcome a new dog into their lives. Owning a dog does come with additional expenses, from vet visits to food, toys, and treats. Make sure you’re able to spend that money on your pup as needed and have a little extra padding in case of emergency. 

Beyond money, pet care involves a time commitment and perhaps some lifestyle changes. Your dog will need daily walks, some safe and quiet spaces, and room for zoomies and play sessions. If you’re living in an apartment or condominium, you’ll also need to make sure that your residence doesn’t have pet restrictions that would prevent you from keeping your dog. Take your time with a thorough analysis of your life and make sure you’ll be a good fit for your future dog before you start any adoption or purchase paperwork.

Make a household schedule

Dogs are, for the most part, creatures of habit. They thrive when they can count on routine walks, feeding, playtime, and so on. A great way to ensure you’re building good habits for your dog is to create a schedule for the whole household. Divide tasks between household members based on their comfort levels and personal schedules. For example, the person who leaves the house first each day can be in charge of morning feeding, while the person who works from home can take care of afternoon walks. When everyone takes part in your dog’s wellness, it’s easy to succeed!

If you’re living alone with your dog, no worries–just create a schedule that fits in with your daily routine while addressing all of your dog’s needs.

Don’t skip regular vet appointments

You may think that as long as your dog is acting normally and isn’t sick or injured, they don’t need to see a vet. However, regular vet visits are important for your dog’s overall wellness, especially as they age. Be sure to keep up with your dog’s annual appointments and vaccine boosters to ensure they are protected from common illnesses and diseases. Your vet will be able to recommend a good at-home care program to help them stay healthy between visits.

Provide plenty of exercise

Both physical and mental exercise are so important for your dog’s health. Beyond your regular walks, there are numerous ways you can help your dog stay in shape, from swimming to playing fetch and taking agility courses. As for mental exercise, you can choose from hundreds of different kinds of puzzle toys to help improve your dog’s logic and problem-solving skills. You can also take your dog on different walking routes every day to allow them to sniff new smells and see new sights. Exercise should be easy and fun for both of you!

Feed them a wholesome, nutritious diet

The world of pet nutrition has changed greatly over the last decade or so. Many pet parents are saying goodbye to kibble in favor of fresher, more wholesome foods. The main benefit of feeding gently cooked dog food over kibble is that kibble is packed with fillers–mainly carbohydrates–that can make it difficult for your dog to maintain a healthy weight and fill their digestive systems with excess sugar. Gently cooked dog food provides your dog with whole proteins, fresh veggies, and absolutely nothing that they don’t need. If you haven’t transitioned yet, talk to your vet for recommendations. It’s easier to make the switch than you’d think!

Leashes, IDs, and microchips–oh my!

When you and your dog are exploring, it’s important that you have full control of them at all times. Even if your dog is good off-leash, it’s important to follow all posted leash laws and be courteous to other dog walkers in the area. Leash training is foundational to good behavior in other aspects of your dog’s life. 

Even with lots of practice and control, accidents may happen. For that reason, it’s important to keep your dog’s ID tag and microchip up to date at all times. These will allow people to quickly find you and return your dog should they slip away.

And please, always pick up your dog’s poop and dispose of it properly.

Responsible Dog Owners Want the Best for Their Pets

Responsible pet ownership shouldn’t be viewed as a chore. Rather, it’s an opportunity for you to make your dog happy and healthy for the rest of its life with you. Responsible dog parents, celebrate September with Pawsitively Pure Dog Food! Head over to our shop to order wholesome, gently-cooked food and all-natural dog treats today. 

Vet Checkups Can Be Difficult, but They’re Important

It’s rare to hear about a dog that loves going to the vet. New animal smells, unfamiliar people, poking, prodding, and injections can all contribute to a stressful and sometimes scary experience for any dog. They’re equally as likely to cause some anxiety for dog parents as we attempt to soothe our fretful furry friends with hugs and healthy dog treats. Despite the hassle, however, regular vet checkups are critical in maintaining our dogs’ health and wellness.

If you and your dog find yourselves frazzled when it comes time for a vet appointment, you’re not alone. The best way to get through it while ensuring your dog’s healthcare needs are fully addressed is by preparing ahead of time. The night before your dog’s vet appointment, you can:

• Set up their carrier in the car or an easily accessible place for load-in

• Set aside a small bag of their favorite treats to take with you

• Desensitize your dog’s sensitive spots–i.e. Gently touch and handle their paws, belly, tail, and so on

• Make a note of any changes in your dog’s behavior and prepare questions to ask your veterinarian

That last bullet point is the most essential step. Having a list of key talking points on hand can help you stay on track and address any pressing issues while helping your dog stay comfortable.

Ask Your Vet About These Health Topics

Veterinarians are eager to answer all of your questions to ensure your dog is receiving the best possible care. Here are a few questions that will help you keep your dog healthy for years to come.

What are these bumps/lumps on my dog?

Lumps and bumps are fairly normal occurrences for any dog. Just like humans, dogs may encounter acne, warts, skin tags, and so on at any stage of their lives. However, some bumps may indicate more significant problems beneath the surface. If you’ve noticed any new growths on your dog’s skin, or you feel a thickness that wasn’t there before, be sure to note its location and indicate it to your veterinarian for assessment.

Is my dog’s weight appropriate?

Your dog’s weight and diet have a significant impact on their longevity and quality of life. According to the 2022 State of the U.S. Pet Obesity Report, an alarming 59% of dogs in the U.S. are considered overweight. Your veterinarian can help assess the proper weight range for your dog based on their breed, age, and other factors. They can also recommend an all-natural, healthy diet that will help boost their energy levels while maintaining the proper weight.

Does my dog need any additional vaccinations?

Most veterinary offices will give you reminders when it’s time to give your dog the necessary shots and boosters, but it’s always good to check. This is especially important if you’ve recently welcomed your dog to your family, as you want to make sure they’re appropriately protected from common illnesses and diseases. 

Is their behavior (chewing, itching, barking) normal?

Every dog acts out once in a while. However, if you’ve noticed a recent hyperfixation on certain behaviors, or brand-new behaviors they’ve never displayed before, it’s worth checking in with your vet. Sometimes, behaviors like paw chewing or excessive itching can indicate allergies or even mental health conditions. Dogs have good days and bad days just like their humans do, but it’s up to us to make sure those bad-day behaviors don’t become habitual.

How much exercise should my dog get daily?

The amount and type of exercise a dog needs varies greatly depending on their breed and stage of life. Whereas large breeds tend to need a few hours a day, toy breeds can be perfectly healthy with less exercise time. Your vet can give you a ballpark figure to aim for, as well as recommendations for appropriate types of exercise. If your dog is highly energetic, they may enjoy obstacle courses and long trail walks; low-energy dogs may be perfectly content with a simple walk and a few puzzle toys.

What signs of distress and disease should I look for in the future?

Your vet can’t watch your dog 24/7, so you have to be an advocate for your dog’s health at home. Based on your dog’s medical history, age, breed, and other factors, your veterinarian can give you a list of disease symptoms and warning signs to watch out for. Preparation is your most powerful tool when it comes to managing your dog’s health issues.

Give Your Dog a Treat After Their Next Vet Appointment

When you go to the vet’s office equipped with these questions, your dog’s healthcare provider can offer personalized solutions for a healthy lifestyle. After sitting patiently through examinations and treatments, your dog deserves a healthy treat to celebrate a job well done! Order a bag of our fresh and delicious Chicken Crisps for dogs and your dog will be ready to take on any challenges that come their way.

Your Dog is the Perfect At-Home Coworker

If you’re one of the many people who work from home, you know how special it is to have your dog by your side while you complete your daily tasks. Although occasionally distracting, dogs are great coworkers: They offer you a source of comfort and support when you’re stressed, they encourage you to take regular breaks away from your desk, and they never have an issue with what you have for lunch. Your dog appreciates your constant companionship, too! You know they’d never pass up the opportunity to spend more time with you (and all those extra belly rubs are an excellent bonus). 

But many companies are starting to encourage their employees to return to the office. This can be a difficult transition for you and your dog alike–you’ll both need to get used to new routines and a change in surroundings. If you’ve been called back to the office, it’s important that you help your dog adjust to the situation as much as possible. 

Dogs Thrive on Routines

Dogs are at their best when they’re able to follow a consistent routine. Giving them set times to eat, walk, play, and sleep helps them to be at their best behavior; they gain a great deal of calmness and confidence in themselves when they’re able to regularly practice daily tasks and commands. 

When you no longer work from home, you’re creating a huge change in your dog’s regular routine. Keep reading to learn five great techniques you can use to help make the transition much less stressful for your dog. 

Gradually Increase the Amount of Time You Spend Out of the House

If you suddenly switch from staying at home 24/7 to being gone for more than eight hours a day, there’s a good chance your dog will struggle and even experience some form of separation anxiety. If it’s possible, take a couple of weeks before your official back-to-the-office date and gradually increase the amount of time you spend away from home and your dog. 

As you go through this process, make sure you establish patterns that you’ll be carrying out before you leave and after you return from work. For example, start each morning by taking your dog for a walk and feeding them breakfast at a specific time; when you return, you can dedicate a few minutes to playing with their favorite toy or spending some time in the backyard. Whatever routine you choose, just be sure it’s as consistent as possible.

Give Your Dog as Much Exercise as Possible

Going for a long walk first thing in the morning, or before your shift begins, is a great way to tire your dog out so they’ll have the opportunity to sleep through your absence. All exercise can help boost your dog’s endorphins and increase their sense of independence. Furthermore, exercising together–whether you go on a trail run or play Frisbee in the backyard–is the perfect way to bond with your dog and let them know just how much you care about them. They’ll be at ease when you leave for the day, knowing that they’ll get to enjoy another great play session as soon as you return. 

Create a Safe Space for Your Dog

By now, your dog should have at least one safe, comfortable space to call their own in your home. If you’ve been working from home for some time, one of their safe spaces is probably somewhere in your office–I know I have a dog bed ready in the corner of my own home office. When you’re away from your dog for longer periods of time, they’ll need some extra comfort and reassurance, so be sure to put a piece of clothing or a stuffed animal that smells like you somewhere they can easily access it. 

Crate training can be extremely helpful in situations like these. Not only does a crate offer your dog a safe and comfortable place in which to retreat, but it can also help protect your home from any damage that could be caused by anxious and destructive behavior. Some dogs tend to chew or scratch when they’re home alone to help soothe the anxiety they’re experiencing. Crating is a great solution to this issue, but if you do decide to crate your dog while you’re away, it’s crucial that you ensure they have access to food, water, and a place or opportunity to potty.

Desensitize Your Dog to the Cues That Indicate You’re Leaving

Do you ever get the feeling that your dog can tell when you’re about to leave? Well, they can! Your dog can associate cues like putting on shoes or packing a backpack with you leaving the house. Some dogs can even determine if you’ll be away for a long time based on what your routine is before you leave. 

To help combat the nervousness your dog may experience when you take these actions, go through your leaving routine without actually leaving. For instance, if you put on your shoes and grab a backpack but don’t leave the house, you’ll weaken your dog’s association of these actions with you leaving the house. When you actually do leave, they won’t be starting the day with anxiety through the roof. 

Give Your Dog Puzzle Toys

Offering your dog mental stimulation is a great way to keep them distracted and wear them out. Whether you give them a Kong stuffed with treats or a puzzle filled with hidden goodies, they’ll be so focused on getting those tasty morsels that they won’t be as prone to anxiety. 

A word of caution before you go this route: you should never leave your dog unsupervised with a toy they could choke on. Make sure you do a trial run with your toys before you set them out to entertain your dog; and if you know your dog to be a chewer, it may be best to avoid giving them such toys while you’re not at home. A soft snuffle mat would be a great choice as it doesn’t have small parts that could be hazardous to your pup. 

Above All, Be Patient With Your Dog

Just as it will take you some time to adjust to your new routine, it will also take some time to adjust to being away from you for longer periods. Transitions are never easy, so be patient with your dog and offer them plenty of high-reward treats for good behavior. Pawsitively Pure offers delicious, healthy dog treats for dogs of every age and life stage. Browse our online store or send us a message to learn more!

Enjoy the Dog Days of Summer With Your Dog

Taking a road trip is the quintessential summer vacation. You load up the car with necessities, a handful of snacks, and a map (or just your smartphone nowadays), and you find adventure wherever the road takes you. Want to know what makes a road trip even better? Taking your dog with you!

Your dog can be the ultimate adventure partner when you’re ready to hit the road. Whether you’re hiking and camping or you’d rather stay somewhere with room service, Central Florida is home to plenty of awesome destinations that you and your dog can enjoy together. Many such locations are less than a day’s drive away from the Orlando area.

Should I Take My Dog on a Road Trip?

Every dog has a unique personality, just like the humans who love them. While some children enjoy camping trips with their parents and siblings, others would prefer to stay in the comfort of their homes. In much the same way, be sure your dog’s temperament is suited to the activities you intend to enjoy on your road trip.

If your dog gets uncomfortable during car rides, a road trip will not be a good fit for them. If your dog is sick or injured, they should stay at home to rest and recover. Additionally, if your dog doesn’t deal well with crowds, you won’t want to bring them with you to a popular destination. Some dogs enjoy being out at dog-friendly restaurants while others prefer exploring quiet trails. You know your dog better than anyone else does; use your common sense and don’t force them into a situation that will be too overwhelming. 

What Supplies Will You Need on Your Dog-Friendly Road Trip?

Adequate preparation is the best tool to help you ensure you and your dog will have a great time on your vacation. When you’re packing for your dog, be sure to bring:

• Plenty of food and fresh drinking water and appropriate dishes. You’ll want to make sure you bring along a sufficient amount of food to keep your dog fed for the duration of your trip, with a little extra just to be safe. Additionally, make sure you take along a few jugs of drinking water so your dog can stay safely hydrated. If you feed your dog fresh food, make sure you have a reliable way to keep your food chilled, whether you will have a refrigerator at your destination or you intend to maintain it in a cooler.

• Lots of high-reward treats! If your dog is being introduced to a new environment, you want to make sure you can reward them for good behavior in unfamiliar situations. Bring along plenty of healthy, natural dog treats to reinforce their training and encourage them to play and explore safely.

• Leash, collar/harness, and ID tags. Your dog’s safety should be your top priority on your road trip. Make sure you have appropriate collars or harnesses and leashes so you can make sure your dog’s exploration is controlled and easily monitored. Also, even if you have your dog microchipped–which you should–be sure to attach an updated ID tag to their collar to ensure they can be returned to you quickly and safely should they wander.

• First aid kit and vet records. Accidents happen. If your dog has a medical emergency, you want to make sure you can address it from your current location instead of having to drive all the way back home. Make sure you have a complete first aid kit so that you can patch up minor cuts, scratches, and bug bites right away. In case you run into a more serious issue, it’s a good idea to have their veterinary records handy. 

• Toys and comfort items. Even the most adventurous dog can become overwhelmed in a new setting. Be sure to bring along some of your dog’s favorite toys and any blankets, pillows, or comfort items they use to self-soothe. Whether you’re staying in a hotel or camping in the wilderness, you’ll want to set up a safe space for them to call their home away from home.

Where Are the Best Dog-Friendly Road Trips in Central Florida? 

Many major destinations around the state of Florida are considered dog friendly! Here are a few selections to choose from based on your personal preferences:

Beach Destinations

Key West is known for being a dog-friendly destination, and the Key West Dog Beach is a great place to start. After some fun in the sun, you and your dog can cool off at one of several nearby dog-friendly restaurants and bars. Many hotels and rentals in the area are dog-friendly and even geared toward dog lovers. 

If you’d rather head north, Jacksonville also has several great dog-friendly beaches to choose from. Just be sure to check the calendar before you hit the sand with your furry friend: dogs are generally not allowed on the beach during turtle nesting season. 

City Destinations

Vacations with dogs don’t just have to be outdoorsy! Many cities are becoming increasingly dog friendly, with resorts, parks, and activity centers for dogs of all ages and breeds. If you prefer a staycation, Orlando is a wonderfully dog-friendly city. Enjoy a latte with your dog at Cups and Pups, or take them out for a tail-waggin’ good time at Pups Pub. There are plenty of parks around the city where you can enjoy a stroll and a sniff. 

West Palm is also becoming one of the most dog-friendly destinations in the state. Most notably, the luxury Ben Hotel even offers dog-friendly room service! With so many restaurants and boutiques named after the owners’ dogs around the city center, it should come as no surprise that our furry friends are highly celebrated there. 

Adventure Destinations

Sniffing out new trails? Your options are abundant! Head to St. Augustine to explore the oldest city in the United States. The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is dog-friendly and gives you the option to explore real Florida history. The area is known for being welcoming to dogs and their humans. 

Lake Louisa State Park in Clermont has luxury “glamping” accommodations that are dog-friendly and give you easy access to some incredible hiking trails, canoeing and paddleboarding sites, and nature watching opportunities. This is a great option for anyone looking to experience a variety of adventures all in one place!

Take a Trip You and Your Dog Will Never Forget

We’ve only just started to scratch the surface of all the wonderful places throughout Florida where you can take a great road trip with your dog. When you’re ready to stock up on extra dog food and treats for the road, head over to our shop and order a few of your dog’s favorites. We can’t wait to hear about all of your amazing adventures together!