STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — With spring and warmer weather ahead, our furry family members will begin to shed much more. It’s on your clothes, in the corners of your home, and the sun shows more than the naked eye can see.
But instead of pulling out a heavyweight vacuum, there are other options for a quick cleanup. Check out these handheld vacuums. Be sure to look for a good warranty, low noise, and ergonomic design.
Black & Decker Dustbuster Handheld Vacuum
One of the oldest and most trusted names, Black and Decker is reliable and effective.
Sowtech Rechargeable Cordless Cyclonic Vacuum
This pro-cyclonic suction system is both powerful and helpful for allergy sufferers.
Shark UltraCyclone Pet Pro Plus Cordless Handheld Vacuum
This handheld is cordless so you can take it anywhere in your home and out to your car.
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Handheld Vacuum
It’s not as strong as some comparatives, but it will grab the pet dander.
Meet Loaf…

Meet Loaf!
Loaf is a charming tabby with a personality as unique as her name. She adores being pet and will happily soak up all the attention — until she’s had her fill, at which point she’ll politely let you know it’s time for a break. A true relaxation expert, Loaf loves to lounge around and keep an eye on her surroundings, always looking for the perfect sunny spot to nap in.
More information: Visit ASPCA.org/Adopt to learn more and submit an application. (Courtesy/ASPCA)ASPCA
Adoption Events
If you want to adopt, please remember that there are loving senior and disabled pets who need your care and attention, too. If you cannot adopt, please consider fostering or sharing the information with someone who could use some good company.
Mar. 9
- Louie’s Legacy will be at PetSmart (East Brunswick, NJ) – 300 NJ-18, East Brunswick, NJ 08816, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m
- Staten Island Animal Hope Rescue will be at Petco, 165 Bricktown Way, from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Animal Care Centers of New York City is open for adoptions of dogs, cats, guinea pigs, and rabbits at 3139 Veterans Road West on Monday and Tuesday (12 pm – 4 pm) and Wednesday – Sunday (11 am – 5 pm).
For general information on adopting from ACC and other community-based programs through ACC, go to www.nycacc.org
You can also come into ACC to register and purchase a NYC license for your dog from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
This is Elaine…

Meet Elaine! Elaine is a 7-month-old, 32 lb hound mix who’s a fanatic for snacks and snuggles!
Elaine is a quick learner who’s hard at work learning commands (knows sit already!) she’s still a puppy working on potty training but is getting better everyday. She loves all toys, benebones and did we already mention snacks?!! She loves those! So far her favorite snacks are doggy biscuits and apple slices!
If you’re looking for a medium size lap doggy to bring with you through life, Elaine’s your gal!
Elaine is currently being fostered in Ewing, NJ. Her adoption fee is $500.
To adopt this animal, please visit https://www.louieslegacy.org/adopt (Courtesy/Louie’sLegacy)Louie’sLegacy
Hiking trails
Dog-friendly parks
· Allison Park, off-leash area in the field at the end of the trail bordered by Prospect Avenue, Sailors Snug Harbor Cemetery and the pond
· Amundsen Trail, off-leash area between Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard
· Arthur Von Briesen Park, off-leash area, lawn area, mid-park on the right side
· Bloomingdale Park, dog run, Maguire Avenue behind athletic fields closer to Ramona Avenue
· Clove Lakes Park, off-leash area in the open field above picnic area near Royal Oak Road and Rice Avenue
· Clove Lakes Park, off-leash area, Brookside Avenue between Alpine Court and Kingsley Avenue (lawn area)
· Clove’s Tail Park, off-leash area in lawn area, corner of Victory Boulevard and Little Clove Road
· Conference House Park, dog run, Clermont Avenue and Massachusetts Street
· Cozzens Woods Park, off-leash area, Page Avenue between Hylan Boulevard and Amboy Road
· Crescent Beach Park, off-leash area, Tennyson Drive, and Glover Avenue; located in the meadow area leading to the beach
· Evergreen Park, off-leash area, Greaves Avenue and Evergreen Street
· Father Macris Park, off-leash area, lawn beyond ball field
· Ida Court Playground, dog run, Ida Court between North Railroad Street and Drumgoole Road East
· Lemon Creek Park, off-leash area, the bottom of Seguine Avenue at Johnston Terrace; just below the playground
· Siedenburg Park, off-leash area, Greaves Avenue, and Evergreen Street
· Silver Lake Park, dog run, Victory Boulevard below the pavilion, across from the Parkview Apartments
· South Beach Park, off-leash area. Note: On sand only after Labor Day and before Memorial Day
· Willowbrook Park, off-leash area, Archery Range Field
· Wolfe’s Pond Park, dog run, to the left of Cornelia Avenue
For more information, rules and regulations, visit nycgovparks.org/facilities/dogareas.
Dogs cannot enter any bathing facilities, including those at New York City beaches. However, from Oct. 1 through May 1, leashed dogs are allowed on the sand and boardwalk at Midland Beach and South Beach.
Leashed dogs are allowed on the boardwalk/promenade at Midland Beach and South Beach.
Meet Jacques…

Meet Jacques, a charming and friendly 3-year-old bunny with a sophisticated Parisian flair. This all-black rabbit is a true lover of family time—he enjoys being held, petted, and cuddled, making him the perfect companion for those who want a bunny with a calm, loving personality.
Jacques is playful around both adults and children, but like any refined soul, loud noises can make him nervous. When things get too hectic, he may seek out a quiet place to hide and gather his composure. Because of this, he’d thrive in an active household that understands the importance of providing a safe, peaceful space when needed.
This sweet bunny would also appreciate regular playtime outside of his cage to keep him active and engaged. While Jacques is a well-behaved gentleman, he does have a tendency to scratch rugs and hardwood floors, so it’s important to provide him with appropriate outlets for his natural behavior, like safe chew toys or a scratching post.
With the right care, attention, and a gentle touch, Jacques will blossom into a loyal, loving companion. He’s looking for a home where he can relax in comfort, play freely, and shower his family with affection. Could that be with you?
If you would like to visit me, stop down to the Staten Island Animal Care Center – 7 days a week from Monday and Tuesday (12pm – 4pm) or
Wednesday – Sunday (11am – 5pm) or you can search and see all the other adoptable animals in our Care Centers here: https://nycacc.app/#/ (Courtesy/ACC)ACC
Pet poison helplines
If you think your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, contact the Pet Poison Hotline at 855-764-7661 or petpoisonhelpline.com, or contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 or aspca.org.
As the seasons change, keep in mind the plants that are poisonous to animals: https://www.rover.com/blog/poisonous-plants/
To report animal cruelty
To report an incident of animal abuse, call Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS or visit www.nypdcrimestoppers.com.