ARF's First Annual 5K Run with Dogs and People Who Love them - to Benefit the Animal Rescue Foundation

ARF (Animal Rescue Foundation), located on Wolcott Avenue, or 9D, tucked back in the woods by the Fishkill Creek, is unleashing its First Annual 5K Run/Walk with the Dogs, held this Sunday, May 22nd at 9 AM at Memorial Park. All proceeds go to ARF, a friendly place for dogs and cats without homes and in need of care - from all over the country. ARF has a partnership with the Pilots n Paws program, in which pilots fly dogs and cats scheduled to be euthanized to shelters who can care for them and help to find them homes. ARF is one such shelter who receives and cares for these animals.

The 5K's course is easy - just a lap around Memorial Park, then up to the Beacon High School, then back through some residential streets, finishing back in the park. You've got this!

Registration is $30, and walkers and runners of all levels are welcome. Even strollers! Dogs who get along well with other humans and dogs are encouraged to participate. Major sponsors include Roosevelt Vet and AARauctions.com, as well as DJ Vybe and Pet Supplies Plus in Fishkill. Many other businesses from throughout the region have contributed as sponsors, including Beacon-based friends The Vault, Yankee Clipper, and Drink More Good.

See you Sunday to cheer on the runners and ARF for their continued great work! Click here for details about the event. At any time, you can always donate to ARF, and donate supplies like food, brushes, leashes, etc. ARF is even hooked into shopping affiliates, where if you click on a link to Amazon from their website, ARF gets a small commission. If Amazon is where you do your shopping, then ARF can be where you start your web browsing. Why not net them a donation from your order of paper towels?

Dogs and Cats are Waiting for You at ARF - Have You Seen These Guys?

Deep in the woods, nestled above the Fishkill Creek, is ARF (Animal Rescue Foundation), a shelter for homeless dogs and cats from all over this nation. It is a 100% volunteer, non-profit, no-kill shelter that takes in dogs and cats that have been rescued and have nowhere else to go. With the help of the Pilots and Paws program, a program involving pilots who are dedicated to saving a dog or cat from being euthanized at a facility by flying the animal to a shelter, ARF has saved 335 animals to date. Of those, 293 were dogs - some of whom gave birth to a total of 22 puppies shortly after arriving at the shelter. My dog was a pound puppy, born in the pound in Charleston, SC, adopted by me at 12 weeks. Gerdy lived for 17 healthy and happy years with me until this holiday season.

As part of my healing process for my dog, I looked into donating to ARF. They graciously accepted canned and dry food I had just purchased for her, as well as newly purchased supplements to help her arthritis (Dasuquin) and powdered garlic-based flea and tick internal powder, which I can swear by, because my dog never got fleas until the spring I forgot to start back up with the powder regimen. ARF already gives Dasuquin to their dogs in need, and they were on the lookout for a new flea prevention system.

Phoenix has been at ARF for over a year and still needs a home. She and her four
newborn puppies had been living on their own in North Carolina, until they were
discovered by a county official, who brought them to a local humane society. Then
she and her pups were transported by plane from NC to ARF in Beacon, NY.All of her puppies were adopted. Now it's her turn... Will you be the one?

One of the many kitties ready for adoption at ARF.

While driving along 9D, you probably have passed ARF's sign many times - right next to the Mid Hudson Animal Aid Cat Sanctuary, down a tranquil path called Simmons Lane. While ARF's building is easy to miss as you are driving, let this blog post help you to remember them in your donation plans, or when you start to think about adding a dog or cat to your family. You can see all of the dogs and cats who are ready for adoption right here. Animal lovers watch ARF's active Facebook page with helpful, hopeful eyes every time new cat and dog adoption photos are shared.

ARF has participated in Beacon's City-Wide Yard Sale, and are recurring participants in the annual Beacon Barks Parade. It's easy to donate to the shelter: Bring them food, or watch their blog for specific requests, like these chew-proof beds, sponsoring a dog, or (especially if funds are tight!) donate your time and walk a dog.

Adopting a dog from an animal shelter is a very special act of giving that involves a lot of love. Animals who find themselves in shelters are often scared and uncomfortable, yet want to be loved and cared for. When you're ready to adopt a dog from a shelter, you will want as much of their life story as you can get, so that you can understand where they are coming from when you start to build your relationship with them.

Shelter dogs are dear to my heart. When I found my Gerdy, it was after two visits to the shelter. We had been looking for a calm dog that got along well with other dogs, as we sought a friend for a super-smart and high-energy border collie terrier, also adopted from the same shelter. In fact, on Gerdy's note card on her kennel door, her history included being fostered and returned. The reason she had been returned? "Played too much with older dog." WELL. That is exactly what I wanted. We brought the border collie terrier with us to the shelter, and they let us walk with her in private pens to see how the dogs would get along. Which was just about perfectly.

OMG The Cutest Beacon Barks Parade for 2015 and Photos From Their Instagram

The Beacon Barks Parade is in its 9th year, and is part of the fabric of Beacon. It's not only part of the fabric, but it's like Opening Day for Spring in Beacon. The parade happens rain or shine, and this year for 2015, it's tomorrow, which is only days after pelting ice fell from the sky (!?!) onto beautifully blossoming hyacinths, daffodils, and newly opened flowering tree blossoms. The parade was inspired by the team at our local pet food store, Beacon Barkery, "to show appreciation for animal shelters and the wonderful cats and dogs they care for." The parade has brought over 4,000 people to Beacon to walk the streets, play and learn from the animals, meet animal educators, and shop from vendor tables and Main Street businesses.

Can Beacon Barks add to the fun? Yes! This year, Beacon Barks joined Instagram and have been doing countdowns from as far back as 102 Days until the next Beacon Barks Parade. And that day has finally arrived! Here are some highlight photos from their Instagram, and what you can expect at tomorrow's parade:

Everything starts at 10am, where the parade gathers at the West end
of Main Street. The Blessing of the Animals is at 10:15, a costume contest
at 10:45, and the parade walks at 11:10am. Full schedule is at
BeaconBarks.org

Nixie Sparrow is hand stamping dog tags. I have a tag like this for my dog,
and it is the cutest! You definitely want one.

Brook Farm Veterinary Center is handing out keychains
at their vendor table, which comes in handy if you are a
member of the Beacon Dog Park, funding of which came
in part from a Beacon Barks Parade in years past!

This guy, Leroy, is one of Beacon's most well known dog
trainers, and will be doing a training demonstration.

This pug, Bella, will actually be attending the parade, and
you should just follow this motto in general.

Shelter and rescue organizations will be in attendance, like this
one - the Curly Tail Pug Rescue.

I am giving a special shout out to Roosevelt Vet on the Hudson for enabling my 15 year old German Shepherd/Chow Gerdy to walk in the parade for the first time! Ever since Roosevelt did an Partner Article with A Little Beacon Blog about their recommended osteoarthritis treatments for dogs, Gerdy has been getting one easy injection once a month, and she can now go up our front steps with minimal assistance, skip with excitement if we are going on a walk, and looks forward to walking to Main Street instead of turning around.

See you at the parade!

More annual events are coming up, don't miss them! See A Little Beacon Blog's Annual Events Calendar for several don't-miss events.

Beacon Barks Parade, April 25, 2015 - A Celebration of Animal Love

Beacon Barks marks the coming of Spring and bringing animal friends and people in the community together. This year, the parade is on April 25, 2015, and everything begins at 10am and goes until 3pm. Beacon Barks is in its 9th season of animal love and glory parading down Main Street.  In 2015 Beacon Barks opened an Instagram account, the photos of which we blogged about here.

Sponsored and created by Beacon Barkery, our most delicious and nutritious pet store, and the Dutchess County SPCA, proceeds have helped support numerous animal welfare initiatives, including the opening of Beacon’s Dog Park along with supporting the great work of area shelter and animal rescue groups. It’s just as true today as it was all those years ago – Beacon Barks is the largest celebration of animal shelters and rescue groups in our area.

The full schedule of events is at Beacon Barks website, but it all starts at 10am with Opening Ceremonies and lining up of everyone in the parade. If you're driving, get here early to find parking on side streets. Follow along Beacon Barks' Instagram account for cute dog photos 

Here's what you can expect during the day:

• A lot of fun.
• A lot of sun (hopefully!!).
• A lot of happy dogs, some in costume.
• A lot of dog enthusiasts and kids who love dogs.
• A lot of walking and shopping from a market of vendors you may not have seen before, and the shops on Main Street.
• A lot of food! This is your chance to eat your way down Main Street, between the vendors and the shops, you will be happy.

More annual events are coming up, don't miss them! See A Little Beacon Blog's Annual Events Calendar for several don't-miss events.

St. Patty's Day in a Can for Dogs: Food at Beacon Barkery

Merrick's "Kiss Me I'm Irish Stew" dog food at
Beacon Barkery for limited time.

Because you always get your dog a treat for St. Patty's Day, right? Merrick brand dog food has always had the best looking canned dog food that you really could serve the family and they may not know it's Beef Stew for dogs. Just look at the ingredients, and you'll find most of them are the real food that you eat too, like sweet potato, duck, lamb, and more. From actual bratwurst, to Thanksgiving Day Dinner there are a lot of entrees to choose from. This late winter season, Merrick releases their Kiss Me I'm Irish Stew, the grain free stew made with Yukon gold potatoes, carrots, and more yummy that Beacon Barkery co-owner Nancy Pate has admitted to trying - herself. Pick up a can and delicious doggie cookie with icing at Beacon Barkery. The new pet food and live bait store mid-Main Street also carries Merrick, but we have not confirmed this seasonal favorite.

Beacon Shopping Guide - Store Hours, Days and Ideas in Beacon!

Shopping! So fun, yet so strategic. With so many options to shop on Main Street, we compiled a Shopping Guide for your shopping and bookmarking pleasure! Save this in Pinterest or on your phone to refer back to as you shop! Before we get started, here are the tough questions we asked ourselves before compiling the Shopping Guide.

Things you should know about this guide:

• Open and Closed Hours are posted, but we know that small business owners need to make sudden changes based on personal situations, so keep that in mind as you shop and always call a store first.
• Special Message For Businesses: If you are a business wanting more information about being featured in this Guide, or if your business has been featured in this Guide and you want to enhance your listing with an advertising package, click here for more details.

Mountain Tops

144 Main Street
(845) 831-1997
PrAna, Patagonia, Keen and many other of your favorite (or soon to be favorite) brands are in this small but packed shop. Find boots, walking shoes and hiking shoes, and the socks to match. And find boots and socks for wee ones as well. As always, socks are buy 4 get the 5th free!
HOURS
Open Daily:11am-6pm
Sunday: 11am-5pm


COLORANT
145 Main Street
Colorant is a high-end fashion boutique that Beaconites first knew as a pop-up shop, and has rooted its concept store here permanently. Inside the store, you will find silks, cotton, cashmere, and wool garments that were hand-dyed by COLORANT using colors from naturally derived ingredients such as indigo, weld and madder root. They delight in the unpredictable nature of a color, depending on where and how the material was grown. Select from COLORANT's own designer label, as well as others designers carried in the store.
HOURS
A weekend shop.
Friday - Sunday: 11am-6pm

Nella Bellas Boutique

155 Main St.
(845) 838-3833
Nella Bella's Boutique is a women's and teen's boutique. The boutique is filled with of unique finds hand picked by the owner herself and has friendly prices for great fashion.
HOURS
Wednesday-Sunday: 11am - 5pm
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays

Lorraine Tyne
161 Main Street Beacon, NY 12508
845-418-5LTS
The easiest bling you'll ever buy. From huge statement necklaces to tiny wrist bracelets. There is usually a sale or special deal going on at Lorraine Tyne, so stop in to see what you can piece together.

River Winds Gallery
172 Main St, Beacon
(845) 838-2880
River Winds Gallery is the brightly lit gallery you see as you first drive or walk into Beacon. Always festive, their window is twinkling each night with lighting and wearable art found within. Oh yes, you will find large or small canvas paintings here, but you will also find jewelry from sought after designers from metalsmiths to glasswork.
HOURS
Wednesday - Monday: Noon-6pm
Closed Tuesdays

NFP

457 Main St.

(646) 823-3274

For those who like the cozy, sexy, sleek sweater look, this is a must-shop. Super cool, unique and high fashion sweaters and knitwear are designed by Gail Travis.

Open Saturdays 11am-5pm or by appointment only

Reservoir and Wood

460 Main St.

Reservoir & Wood is lifestyle boutique of the modern, mid-century, rustic and inspired. The clothing is high-end design and is pretty dope. Find fashions for women, men, baby, and some household.
HOURS
Monday: 11am-6pm
Thursday-Friday: 11am-6pm
Saturday: 11am-7pm
Sunday: 11am-6pm
Closed Tuesday & Wednesday

Lauren & Riley

462 Main Street

(845) 831-3862

A hip little shop to find bling, dresses, and sometimes tops and sweaters. You'll find perfumes and lotions and girly things, yet for those who love the skull and crossbones, you'll also find some punk designs as well. Also find an assortment of tea and honey, wallets, and other unexpected adornments like cuff links and jewelry.

HOURS
Monday: 11am-5pm
Closed Tuesdays 
Wednesday-Friday: 11am-5pm
Saturday: 11am-6pm 
Sunday: 11am-5pm

Echo Beacon

470 Main St.

(845) 440-0047

Women can find complete outfits in Echo. From skinny pencil skirt/dresses, to stretchy tops, to slouchy sweaters. Also find a line of shoes from Fly London and other brands. Oh, and there's the lip gloss, purses, nail polish, and more.
HOURS
Mon-Sat: 10am-7pm
Sun: 10am-6pm

The Bra Fit Expert
470 Main St. (inside of Echo Beacon, in the back near the fitting rooms)
Women's wardrobes are complete with a variety of bras to choose from, including stretch lace, under-wire, strapless, and more. This popup bra shop was opened by Christina Faraj, a professional bra fitter. Thought you needed a fitting room in Victoria's Secret to get measured? Not anymore.
HOURS
Thursday, Friday, Saturday

Gwenno James

17 E Main St.
(845) 202-3224
Gwenno James signature designs incorporate hand dyed and hand printed fabrics which are crafted at her studio and boutique in Beacon, New York. Using traditional textile techniques such as silk screening, marbling and blueprinting, Gwenno considers each fabric piece as a fluid canvas onto which an original surface design emerges...one color, one brushstroke, one imprint at a time.
HOURS
Tuesday-Wednesday: 11am - 6pm
Friday-Sunday: 11am - 6pm

Closed Monday and Thursdays
 

Mountain Tops
144 Main Street
(845) 831-1997
Easily find a gift for the man in your life. Camping gear usually mean gadgets that men love, like propane, head lights (lights you put on your head), manly slippers, sunglasses, hats, and much more.  As always, socks are buy 4 get the 5th free!
HOURS
Open Daily: 11am - 6pm
Sunday: 11am - 5pm

Reservoir and Wood

460 Main St.

The jackets for men that you will find in Reservoir and Wood will give your man a unique look. This is the store for the stylish but rugged man.
HOURS
Monday: 11am - 6pm
Thursday-Friday: 11am - 6pm
Saturday: 11am - 7pm
Sunday: 11am - 6pm
Closed Tuesday & Wednesday 

Echo Beacon

470 Main St.

(845) 440-0047

New to Echo is a men's line of coats and heavy duty gloves, as well as scarves and hats.
HOURS
Mon-Sat: 10am-7pm
Sun: 10am-6pm

Clay Wood & Cotton

133 Main Street
(845) 481-0149

Delightful little store for hand made pottery, jewelry, stationery, wood based designs, and many other things. Has an entire room devoted to knitting.

HOURS
Thursday-Monday 11am - 6:30pm


 

Hudson Beach Glass

162 Main Street, Beacon
(845) 440-0068

Beautiful. Anything you find in Hudson Beacon Glass is special. From ornaments to wind chimes to large platters. Like with many of the galleries in Beacon, the art you find here may be acclaimed world wide. Their studio glass blowers include those who have created major architectural installations and have crewed with Dale Chihuly. Stop in to find blown glass objects of all kinds, from lights to bowls to wind chimes and ornaments. Do investigate their extensive jewelry case for jewelry from local designers. Special for the Holidays are the glass blown ornaments where you or your child can blow into an ornament and preserve the breath forever.
HOURS
Monday - Saturday: 10am-6pm
Sunday: 11am-6pm

Notions-N-Potions

175 Main Street

(845) 765-2410

Where the motorcycle enthusiast and the spiritualist come together!  Notions-N-Potions makes products that are handcrafted using only the finest herbs, essential oils and fragrance oils, and are made in the store. Find apparel, books, candles, helmets, herbs, pocketbooks, incense, tarot cards, and more.

HOURS
Monday: Noon-6 pm
Thursday: Noon - 6pm
Friday: Noon - 7pm
Saturday: 10am - 7pm

Sunday: Noon - 4pm
Closed Tuesday & Wednesday

Dream in Plastic

177 Main St

(845) 632-3383

An addictive shop for items you never realized you needed until you wanted everything. Full of whimsical items like over-sized cupcake pillows, mugs, whimsical to-do list pads, and more. And socks. Lots of really cool socks. You can find something for anyone on your holiday list.
HOURS
Monday: 12p -5pm
Thursday: 12p -7pm
Friday: 12pm-7pm
Saturday: 11am-7pm
Sunday: 12pm-6pm
Closed Tuesday and Wednesday
 

Beacon Bath & Bubble

458 Main St

(845) 440-6782

Bubbles and soaps of all shapes, sizes and colors.

HOURS
Wednesday-Saturday: 11-6pm
Sunday: 12-4pm
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays

Utensil

480 Main St.

(845) 202-7181

Utensil is the home chef's go to store for anything you need in the kitchen, from honey to french presses, to wooden pizza peels (aka giant spatula).

HOURS
Monday: 11am-6pm
Wednesday-Saturday: 11am-6pm
Sunday: 11am-5pm

Closed Tuesdays

After the Barn
508 Main St
(845) 202-7146
Live the reclaimed life in After the Barn, where you can find beautiful tables, chairs and other pieces of furniture made from dismantled old barns. But that's if you didn't want to make it yourself. Owner Bob Staab brings back collectibles like printer's keys with different fonts, wooden crates, lights, and more. After the Barn brings new life to old barns by painstakingly dismantling barns and turning them into fine furniture, flooring, cabinets, even birdhouses.
HOURS
Wednesday-Saturday: 10am - 6pm
Sun: Noon - 5pm
Closed Monday-Tuesday

FABHAUS
512 Main St
(845) 440-7090
FABHAUS Beacon is a creative store that sells meticulously designed products and offers Hudson Valley residents an opportunity to make their own ideas a reality. With the FABHAUS in-store laser cutter, customers can have objects fabricated from a wide variety of materials, or customize their existing gear by laser engraving. Great place for a custom-made holiday ornament!
HOURS
Thursday-Saturday: 11am - 7pm
Sunday: 11am - 5pm

Closed Monday-Wednesday

Trendy Tots Take Two

296 Main Street


(845) 838-2200
This unique infants & children's consignment boutique sells new and gently used children's apparel and gear for your little ones.
 Very friendly pricing and a source for big and little ticket items from pac-n-plays to mittens.

HOURS
Tues-Sat: 10am-6pm
Thurs 10am-7pm 
Closed Sunday-Monday

Play

167 Main St.
(845) 838-2134
Don't be fooled by the name - Play is for adults and kids. Play is a toy store that has something fun for everyone, of all ages. Retro toys like slime balls and metal lunch boxes, fun books like Regretsy (and some books with titles we can't publish here!), a wide selection of wall art, hanging beads for doorways, jewelry, games, books, artwork, rare candy, tricks & novelties galore. Be sure to check out their darkroom in the back for electricity balls and other glowing things. If you have a creative girl on your list, there are many design books available for her to draw in.

HOURS
Open Daily: 11-6
Sunday: 11-5 
2nd Saturday of each month: Beacon Open House til 9

Beacon Bath & Bubble

458 Main St

(845) 440-6782

Bubbles and soaps of all shapes, sizes and colors. An easy stocking stuffer!
HOURS

Wednesday - Saturday: 11am - 6pm
Sunday: Noon-4pm 
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays 

Echo Beacon

470 Main St.

(845) 440-0047

Ho Ho Ho, so many choices. Echo specializes in toys from Calico Critters and Melissa & Doug, as well as retro Fisher Price favorites from your childhood. Train sets galore, and if you're into educational toys, owner Karen has selected some of the best games.
HOURS
Monday-Saturday: 10am - 7pm
Sunday: 10am-6pm

Lauren & Riley

462 Main Street

(845) 831-3862

The perfect spot for a holiday dress for a little girl. Owner Kim also has a daughter, so the wardrobe she makes available for your toddler is one you want to pick up and show off in pictures.

HOURS
Monday: 11am-5pm
Wednesday-Friday: 11am-5pm
Saturday: 11am-6pm 
Sunday: 11am-5pm
Closed Tuesdays

Reservoir and Wood

460 Main St.

A high-end boutique with adorable pajamas, leggings and other clothes for a new baby or funky toddler. The baby clothes and leggings you'll find here are a perfect gift for the most perfect parent on your list. You'll also find belly cincher secrets for the pregnancy stage.
HOURS
Monday: 11am-6pm
Thursday-Friday: 11am-6pm
Saturday: 11am-7pm
Sunday: 11am-6pm
Closed Tuesday & Wednesday

Waddle n Swaddle 
484 Main St
(845) 831-5952
Waddle n Swaddle is a natural parenting store and wellness boutique, focusing on the essential needs of mama, child and the “naturally modern family”.  They hand-pick eco-friendly toys, maternity/nursing bras and clothing, baby carriers, feeding supplies, potties, cloth diapers, swaddles, gear and more.
HOURS
Monday-Wednesday: 10am-5pm
Thursday: 10am-6pm
Friday-Saturday: 10am-7pm
Sunday: 11am-5pm

American Gypsy Vintage
263 Main St
(845) 440-3670
A little bit country, a little bit rock & roll. From bohemian to bike, this boutique sells a well-edited assortment of vintage and contemporary designers. In addition to running the shop, owner Nicole Alyse is also a sought after personal style blogger who does photo shoots in Beacon and NYC. For inspiration or fashion envy find her on twitter and instagram.
HOURS
Thursday-Monday: 1pm - 7pm
Closed Tuesday and Wednesday 

Blackbird Attic

442 Main St

(845) 418-4840

Michelle Caves' consignment boutique is an orderly, well-curated mix of reasonably priced modern, vintage, and designer clothing & furniture/decor pieces.

HOURS
Sunday-Monday: Noon - 5pm
Thursday-Saturday: Noon - 6pm (or later)
Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Vintage:Beacon

478 Main St.
(845) 202-7172
A stylist edited consignment and resale boutique, specializing in women's vintage and designer fashion. It's a cozy space that owner Angela Hasting stocks full of amazing finds.
HOURS
Mon: Noon - 6:30pm
Thurs-Fri: Noon - 6:30pm
Sat-Sun: 11:30am - 6:30pm
Closed Tuesday and Wednesday

Mountain Tops
144 Main Street
(845) 831-1997
Kayaks, canteens, non-electric coffee makers, hats, river shoes, Frisbee golf, you name it. If you want to climb a mountain or go camping, this is your store. As always, socks are buy 4 get the 5th free!
HOURS
Open Daily: 11am - 6pm
Sunday: 11am - 5pm

Peoples Bicycle
430 Main St
(845) 765-2487
An old school bike shop with new-school style. Find a wide range of bikes from custom-built heavy-duty cargo bikes to kids’ tricycles. Visit the beautiful new Main Street storefront meet all the dudes who make and maintain these beautiful bikes!
HOURS
Open Daily
Monday-Friday: 12pm-7pm
Saturday-Sunday: 8am-7pm

Beacon Natural Market
348 Main Street
Beacon, NY 12508
(845) 838-1288
Though you will find organic produce here, you will also find heavy duty men's and women's jackets and shirts here as well. If the sturdy hemp material is what your favorite person likes, then this is a good place to swing by to choose from a carefully selected stock of outdoor-wear.
HOURS
Monday-Saturday: 9am - 7pm
Sunday: 10am - 5pm

Scarborough Fare

257 Main St.
(845) 831-7247
Scarborough Fare has a large selection of gourmet olive oils and vinegars and their shelves are stocked with local and imported goods. Want to impress the foodie on your list with flavorful olive oil or vinegar? You pour the oil into a bottle that you can bring home and back for a refill. Try their Pumpkin Spice Vinegar to transform your baking, and see our recipe for using in to bake banana bread. While visiting enjoy a tasting of their enormous collection of pastas, sea salts and spices.
HOURS 
Monday-Friday: 11am - 7pm
Saturday: 10am - 7pm
Sunday: 11am - 6pm

Beacon Pantry
382 Main Street, Beacon
(845) 440-8923
Known for carrying French and Italian delectables, Beacon Pantry is a great idea source for eclectic gift baskets for the foodie in your life. They have wonderful gift boxes for every type: pasta lover, Francophile, tea drinker, chocolate lover, cheese lover and more.
HOURS
Monday-Friday: 7am - 8pm
Saturday: 8am - 8pm
Sunday: 8am - 6pm

Drink More Good
383 Main Street, Beacon
(845) 797-1838

Drink More Good produces small batch soda syrups, tisane concentrates, and cocktail bitters that are thoughtfully handcrafted using organic ingredients. Their ginger syrup is also a great addition to veggie juices and smoothies!

HOURS: Daily 10am-8pm, and Tuesdays 10am-3pm

Alps Sweet Shop
269 Main St
(888) 442-2577
Chocolate made in small batches, fresh ingredients, attention to detail and respect to tradition, Alps Sweet Shop hand makes over 100 different confections.
HOURS
Monday-Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 11am - 5pm

The Beacon Barkery

192 Main St

(845) 440-7652

It’s unique place to find the coolest gourmet cookies and treats in the Hudson Valley-for your beloved furry ones! Favorite treats include “Cannolis”, “Peanut Butter Puppies”, and “Tail Bangers” for dogs and “Bonita Flakes” and seafood treats for cats. Also find leashes, collars and clothes.

HOURS 
Monday-Friday: Noon - 6pm 
Saturday: 10am - 6pm 
Sunday: 12:30pm - 5pm

 

Jake's Main Street Music

393 Main St

(845) 765-8548

A music store and stringed instrument shop featuring quality new, used, vintage and consigned stringed instruments as well as music lessons.They also carry a wide variety of strings and accessories, art, gifts, CDs and vintage vinyl recordings. It's a relaxed, low-pressure shop where visitors are encouraged to stay a while and try things.

HOURS
Wed: Noon-8pm
Thur-Sat: Noon-7pm
Sun: 1pm-6pm


Beacon Music Factory
629 Route 52, Beacon
(845) 765-0472
As the name suggests, this is a music factory where kids and adults can learn, be in rock bands, and can listen to music. Do check out their Rock Band Boot Camp for upcoming camps and performance dates.
HOURS:
Hours vary; contact business.

2 Way Brewing Company

18 West Main St Beacon, NY
(this is down the hill from Main Street proper, near the train)

(845) 202-7334

On your way up from the train station, either on foot or by car, Beacon's own brewery is a must-stop. Check out the artists on display as well!
HOURS:
Thurs: 5pm-11pm
Fri: 3pm-11pm
Sat: 3pm-11pm
Sun: noon-5pm

Denning's Point Distillery
10 N. Chestnut Street, Beacon
This spot isn't technically under the "Beer" category, but it shouldn't be overlooked. Denning’s Point Distillery in Beacon, NY crafts the finest artisanal spirits available including Viskill Vodka, Beacon American Whiskey & Denning's White Rye Whiskey. They use high quality grains from New York state farms and strive to create classic spirits of unique character and depth. Denning's Point Distillery works from a unique, urban production space and offers impromptu tours and tastings.
HOURS:
Fri: 2pm-8pm
Sat: 2pm-8pm
Sun: 2pm-6pm

The Hop
554 Main Street, Beacon
(845) 440-8676
The Hop is not just a delicious restaurant with artisanal fare. Its beer store boasts an amazing selection of craft beers. Perfect place to pop-in for a unique 6-pack!
HOURS:
Mon, Wed, Thurs & Sun: noon-10pm
Fri-Sat: Noon- Midnight

Osteoarthritis: Roosevelt Vet on the Hudson Solves Mysterious Licking and Itching in My Dog

When we moved from Manhattan to Beacon, I was leaving my longtime and most trusted vet for my dog and two cats. In fact, my dog has saved my cat when she was a kitten because my dog obsessively licked her ear until the fur faded in color. Turns out my cat had a polyp in her ear, and my dog, Gerdy, knew it.

When Gerdy was licking her own self over the past few years, either biting itching or licking, I chalked it up to her "seasonal allergies" that vets had come to call it. When it didn't go away, I had her tested for mange, but she was all clear. Totally perplexed, I'd ramble on and on about Gerdy's itching to Libby at Beacon Barkery, who suggested an allergy to chicken. So I pulled all chicken out of her diet, which was really tricky because chicken is in everything, including the cat food that Gerdy sneak eats.

The itching subsided, but she was still licking her paws and ankles. I went on a 12hour road trip to Ohio and Gerdy had her own back seat in the car. The night after our arrival, Gerdy couldn't get up. Her legs wouldn't work and I thought she was having a stroke. At 1am, I rushed her over to an animal emergency room at Ohio State University, where 4 vet students took her out of my car on a gurney (on which Gerdy promptly stood straight up and I had to promise that she really wasn't walking).

It was in that emergency room that the doctors told me that Gerdy had a lot of arthritis which had crippled her body, and after the long road trip of not moving, her body was in pain. They had me feel her back, which felt rocky. I had no idea. I'd been going to another vet in the Hudson Valley, but they had never mentioned arthritis. It was then that I went in search of a new vet to immediately start a new system for Gerdy's arthritis so that she would live in less pain, and to stop the progression of the arthritis.

Roosevelt Vet on the Hudson had been on Main Street for a while, and I called them up to inquire about an appointment for Gerdy and her arthritis. Emilia, Roosevelt Vet on the Hudson's office manager, let me know that one of the vets there, Dr. Tamara McArdle, was very knowledgeable in osteoarthritis and could see Gerdy right away.

The first question Dr. McArdle asked me was: "Is she licking her joints? Because if she is, she could be licking where her joints are in pain from arthritis." Dr. McArdle gave me a handout she'd written about how to identify arthritis, ways to treat it, and how to prevent it. I learned that “Osteoarthritis” or “degenerative
joint disease” is painful inflammation and cartilage loss in one or more joints. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body – even in the back or neck.  In dogs the hips or knees are most commonly affected. Dogs may show joint pain by limping, having difficulty with exercise, or just “slowing down.”  Early on there may be no symptoms. Trouble is, Gerdy was 13 when I first noticed it, and according to Dr. McArdle and the OSU vets, Gerdy could have been taking joint supplements years prior to help her keep her cartilage healthy and cause less damage.

We started Gerdy on a regimen of pain medicine, an antihistamine (for the mystery itching until the chicken was gone from her system), and Dasuquin®, a joint supplement that has glucosamine and chondroitin, which are both components of healthy cartilage, and Roosevelt Vet carried a chicken free flavor in their office! Dr. McArdle worked very closely with me to monitor the pain meds, test Gerdy's blood, and suggest alternatives when it appeared that Gerdy's kidneys were too old to handle the preferred pain medicine of NSAID pain relievers (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and needed something milder. We are currently considering an injection of Adequan®, which is a polysulfated glycosaminoglycan (PSGAG) which slows the progression of arthritis and aids in joint healing.  Because it is given by injection rather than by mouth, the molecules can reach the joints without having to survive digestion first.  Adequan® is initially given twice weekly for 4 weeks then as often as needed for comfort (often monthly).

What has been key, however, is the joint supplement Roosevelt Vet on the Hudson recommended. In pet stores, there are a lot of joint supplements one can buy. So I asked Dr. McArdle what makes her recommendation of Dasuquin® so special, and what can we watch out for when researching other brands? She says: "Independent testing has shown most glucosamine products (human and animal) to be pretty good about containing as much glucosamine as advertised.  Chondroitin, however, is not so consistent - many products (even high cost human products) fail to meet the labeled levels of chondroitin when independently tested.  Cosequin® & Dasuquin® are the two veterinary brands I generally highlight because I know that what they claim is in the bag actually is.  Because chondroitin-containing products are much more expensive than glucosamine-only products, I would encourage careful research before buying any other chondroitin product.  Consumer Reports is a good place to start."

Dr. McArdle and Roosevelt Vet on the Hudson are also "big believers" of Omega 3 fatty acids (i.e. fish oil) because of their anti-inflammatory properties and are helpful for joint disease as well as skin, brain, and heart health.  Dr. McArdle believes that Omega 6 (i.e. corn oil) or Omega 9 (i.e. olive oil) supplements are less beneficial.  A high quality purified EPA / DHA supplement such as Free Form Snip Tips will be more effective than a regular “fish oil” pill.  EPA / DHA supplements are also generally preferred over flax oil, another common source of Omega 3’s.

In terms of how to purchase Omega 3s, Dr. McArdle issues this word-to-the-wise: "Omega3's are best supplemented rather than being included in the dog food since Omega3 fatty acids break down in contact with air and light.  So even if they are in the bag when they make the food, they may not be present at adequate levels by the time your pet eats the food. The dosage of DHA & EPA recommended for pets with arthritis is often much higher than what is on the label (the dose for arthritis is very close to the maximum safe dose).  You should consult with a vet for the appropriate dose for your pet."

There is lots more to learn about osteoarthritis in my dog, and how to treat and prevent it, but it is amazing to know that Roosevelt Vet on the Hudson is on my team with this, as we take steps to improve Gerdy's life. I wish I had started her on Dasuquin and Omega3 supplements earlier!

[a Partner Post with Roosevelt Vet on the Hudson]

Roosevelt Vet on the Hudson

Roosevelt Vet on the Hudson is a favorite in our house and trusted by our 

dog and two cats. For Beaconites, Roosevelt Vet on the Hudson is within

walking distance or a short drive, located in the middle of Main Street.
They  specialize in Wellness Care,Vaccinations, Low Cost Spay & Neuter,
Dental Care, Surgery, Radiology, Pharmacy, In-House Lab, and House Calls
And did you know that the owner of Roosevelt Vet also co-founded the 

Main Squeeze Juice Bar & Cafe right across the street? One of Roosevelt 

Vet on the Hudson's vet technicians was an experienced raw juice bar barista,

and they thought it a good idea to start the Main Squeeze Juice Bar & Cafe.
We are proud to have Roosevelt Vet on the Hudson as a sponsor of this blog.

Visit their website >

SPONSORED BLOG POSTS:
Osteoarthritis: Roosevelt Vet on the Hudson Solves Mysterious Licking and Itching in My Dog 

Keen Natural Dehydrated Whole Food for Dogs at Beacon Barkery

The latest food marvel at Beacon Barkery is this Keen, which I spotted with my little eye while picking up my dog her usual Lamb wet dog food from Merrick. Dehydrated food in a box? Just add water and you have a wholesome meal in 5 minutes? Curious.

Everything I've bought at Beacon Barkery has been spot on, so this may be worth a try. Even though my dog is happy with her current food setup (Call of the Wild dry + Merrick Lamb formula wet + joint supplement + pain meds for arthritis). It was Libby, Beacon Barkery's owner, who I give huge credit to for helping my dog into a new phase of comfort. For years, Gerdy has dealt with "seasonal allergies" but they didn't go away these last few years. Gerdy ate a lot of chicken, and after getting her tested for mange and whatever else, Libby suggested eliminating chicken. Which for Gerdy kind of stunk because she likes to lick my plate of eggs in the morning.

But we took the plunge and went cold turkey with the chicken. Within weeks, a noticeable difference. But, Gerdy was still licking her paws. So I took her to Roosevelt Vet On the Hudson, and right away, based on an earlier incident with Gerdy becoming immobile after a road trip, they suspected arthritis, and that Gerdy was licking joints that hurt :(.....

So with the new food regiment and the meds, I think Gerdy is a happier camper. I could always ask the animal communicator whose flyers I see at Beacon Barkery every time I go.

So many choices at our local pet boutique! Seriously - if you have a need or problem, Libby always seems to have the answer...