A Day in the Life of Koa

  • Pumpkin Pupcakes: A Holiday Treat Your Pup Will Love 

    by Andy Honda
    The holidays are a time for family, friends, and of course, delicious treats. But why should humans have all the fun? Treat your furry friend to a...
    Posted in dog recipe, dog treat, holiday, thanksgiving

  • What is Thanksgiving? A Celebration of Gratitude and Togetherness

    by Andy Honda
    Thanksgiving is one of the most cherished holidays ,\ a day dedicated to expressing gratitude for life’s blessings. With deep historical roots and...
    Posted in holiday, thanksgiving

  • Cold Spring: An Easy Day Trip from NYC

    by Andy Honda
    A day trip to Cold Spring, NY, offers an ideal escape from the bustle of New York City. Just an hour and a half from Grand Central Terminal via Metro-North's Hudson Line, this charming Hudson Valley town is perfect for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a quaint, small-town experience. Cold Spring is renowned for its excellent hiking trails, including the popular Breakneck Ridge, which rewards climbers with stunning views of the Hudson River. After a morning of outdoor exploration, visitors can stroll through the town’s Main Street, lined with antique shops, boutiques, and cozy cafes. Whether you're hunting for vintage treasures or enjoying the riverside scenery, Cold Spring provides a refreshing blend of outdoor adventure and leisurely charm, all easily accessible from NYC.
    Posted in dog friendly, hiking, road trip

  • Fighting Children's Cancer Foundation Howl’oween Event

    by Andy Honda
    On October 19, 2024 Koa and his new friend, Brian attended the Howl’oween Event at Central Park of Morris County sponsored by Fighting Children’s C...

  • The Great Elephant Migration in the Meatpacking District in NYC

    by Andy Honda
    This public art installation features 100 life-size sculptures of Indian elephants scattered across the Meatpacking District. This fascinating pub...

  • Day Trip to Sleepy Hallow and Tarrytown, NY With A Dog

    by Andy Honda

    It’s time for a fall adventure to Sleepy Hallow and Tarrytown in the Hudson Valley.  Sleepy Hallow was the inspiration behind Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hallow. It is a ghost story of a restless ghost soldier who was decapitated by a cannonball in a battle during the Revolutionary War. This Headless Horseman rides nightly through Tarrytown searching for his head.

    Posted in road trip

  • Meet the Koa's Ruff Life Pack

    by Andy Honda
    Andy was born and raised in Hawaii and truly believes that anything is possible when you follow your dreams. Koa, Hawaiian for warrior, is a male Rhodesian Ridgeback. In 2021, Koa was certified as a therapy dog and visits various schools, hospitals, and various other locations around town healing and brightening everyone’s day through his dog love. 
    Posted in andy honda md, koa the nyc ridgeback, koa's ruff life

  • The Origin of Koa's Ruff Life

    by Andy Honda
    Andy's passion is around her dog, Koa, a Rhodesian Ridgeback. She opened a barkery and fashion boutique, Koa's Ruff Life, to promote a healthy and active life for dogs all while doing it in style.
    Posted in andy honda md, koa the nyc ridgeback, koa's ruff life

  • Tips for a Safe and Fun Road Trip With Your Dog

    by Andy Honda

    Koa and I have many road trip adventures together.  Sometimes it’s a quick trip from NYC to Woodstock or the Catskills, other times it’s a longer trip to Chicago or Boston. In either case, Koa loves visiting new places with new sights and smells.

    Whether you are thinking of going on a hiking trip or heading to the beach, there are plenty of dog-friendly travel options. It’s important to travel together safely, the best way is to prepare beforehand and have a plan. There are a few things to consider, below are some of my top traveling tips and some of our favorite products for a comfortable and smooth journey.

    Posted in road trip, summer

  • Living with a Dog in NYC: A Guide to Dog-Friendly Things to Do

    by Andy Honda
    NYC is a city that never sleeps with a never-ending stream of things to see and do. Whether you live or visiting NYC your four-legged friend is welcome to explore the city with you! Just ask Koa who has been living in the city since he was 8 weeks old. Koa considers Central Park his backyard and Manhattan his playground. It is now easier than ever to plan a day out with your pup. Below is a tried and tested guide to adventures you can enjoy the best of NYC with your pup including dog-friendly eateries, activities, how to get around, and so much more.
    Posted in dog friendly, nyc

  • A Day in Brooklyn With a Dog

    by Andy Honda

    As an Upper West Sider, it’s a rarity that I leave my borough of Manhattan. But I love visiting Brooklyn, it is the borough to take in the best views of the Manhattan skyline. Brooklyn is a vibrant blend of culture, history, and charm.

    To capture the heart of Brooklyn in a day with a dog, I suggest walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, visiting DUMBO, Prospect Park, and Williamsburg. Below is my mostly walkable Brooklyn in a day adventure with Koa.

    Posted in brooklyn, dog friendly, nyc

  • Peanut Butter Granola Ball Recipe

    by Andy Honda
    When going on a hike, I want to bring a snack that both Koa and I can enjoy. The peanut butter granola balls are the perfect treat for us to keep us moving! Make and bring these on your next hike!