In Vermont, when daytime temps are above freezing and nights below freezing, that can only mean one thing: It’s time to collect that beautiful tree sap that turns into Vermont’s famous maple syrup.

MORSE FARM MAPLE SUGARWORKS, located just 2.7 miles outside of Montpelier, is one place you can visit to learn all about the sugaring process—and it’s a great place to take your dog.

Open to the public from 10am to 5pm, Morse Farm is a throwback to a simpler, quieter time, when generations of the same family worked together to carve out a living on the land.

You and your pup can visit the sugarhouse, walk the “maple trail,” which winds through the sugar bush, and then stop for a visit with Rex and James, the Morse Farm goats. Pieces of folk art and antique farm implements dot the property, making it a fun adventure for everyone.

To cap off your day, check out the dog-friendly Morse Farm store, brimming with maple products, as well as an assortment of Vermont specialty foods and gifts. And, of course, you’ll have to try the farm’s renowned maple creemee (a swirling tower of Morse Farm maple syrup-flavored soft serve piled high upon a sugar or waffle cone), named an “exceptional creemee” by New England Traveler Today.

www.morsefarm.com

PALMER’S SUGARHOUSE in Shelburne is another great sugaring season option. While only service dogs are allowed to enter the actual sugarhouse, visitors and their pups can hit the Nordic trail system with views of the Adirondacks, listen to live music, or visit the farm’s barn.

For over 50 years, Palmer’s Sugarhouse, a family-run business, has opened its doors to the public for an event called Sugar on Snow. Every Saturday and Sunday, March 3–April 14, from 9am to 4pm, Palmer’s has special Sugar on Snow tastings, as well as sugaring demonstrations, free maple samples, maple products for sale, live music, and horseback rides (weather permitting) offering views of the Adirondacks.

Palmer’s Sugarhouse is a friendly, comfortable family experience with plenty of parking and is handicap accessible. Schedule your visit to enjoy all that sugaring season has to offer.

www.palmersugarhouse.com

Move That Mutt!

Winter weather is here, but you still need to get outdoors, and so does your pet. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, more than half of all dogs are overweight. And a dog that weighs too much is at a greater risk for osteoarthritis, high blood pressure, orthopedic problems, ligament injuries, skin disease, heart and respiratory disease, cancer, and a lower life expectancy. Get your dog moving with plenty of walking and playing. You’ll reap the benefits of regular walks as well, including increased heart health, decreased muscle pain and stiffness, stronger bones, and a boost in your energy and mood.

Paws for Play and Boost Your Joy

Besides being our loyal companions, animals bring us fun. Have you ever watched a cat chase a laser or a dog chase its tail? Fun lowers stress levels, decreases blood pressure, and increases the “happy chemical” serotonin. Studies show that just petting a dog, cat, bunny, or horse lowers blood pressure. The mere presence of a beloved pet produces physical and mental changes: suppressed stress hormones, lower cortisol levels, and increased feelings of peace and happiness.

Exercising with your pets offers even more benefits. Dog parents are more likely to work in daily exercise, reach their fitness goals, or lose weight. This helps prevent chronic disease, leading to a sense of confidence and overall well-being. While dogs keep you active, cats have more of a calming effect; both are associated with lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Keep Pets Cozy This Winter

Many people may assume their pet’s fur coat is perfect protection from the winter weather, but given a severe drop in temperature and windy conditions, your pet may be in danger of hypothermia, potentially leading to frostbite to your pet’s ears, paws, and tail. Consider a sweater for your furr baby, especially if they are small or have short hair.

Spoil Your Furry Friends in Style

GIVE THE PERFECT GIFT

We all consider our pets a part of the family, so it makes sense that we’d want to buy them gifts, not only during the holidays, but all year long.

LEARN WHAT’S TRENDING

TREND 1: “Smart” devices: Caring for your pets is easier than ever with high-tech devices like smart collars, GPS trackers, automated feeding systems, and veterinary telemedicine. Plus, there are now wearable health devices like FitBark 2 activity trackers and DoggLeggs cardiac monitoring vests, and personalized nutrition apps like Pet Diet Maker and Feedog.

TREND 2: Eco-friendly products: Pet owners are increasingly looking for biodegradable toys, organic food, and eco-conscious grooming supplies. Standouts include hemp dog and cat collars, toys made from recycled plastic, felt, and wool, and natural rubber.

TREND 3: Innovative nutrition: Pet food makers are now combining the nutritional benefits of raw diets with the convenience of dry pet food. Some brands to try: Tender and True, Honest Kitchen, and Stella & Chewy’s.