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Inside

See WOOF on page 8

Volume 7 • Issue 12 • December 2012

Happy Howlidays!

DowneastDogNews.com

Dear Santa: My name is Henry David Thoreau, and I’m named after one of the most beloved writers and naturalists of all time. That said, my owner Kate doesn’t seem to appreciate my fine tastes and I have a lot on my Christmas list. I think I’ve been very good this year, although Kate might bring up the subject of several chewed pens, the Pilot G-6 ones she orders online, some gnawed upon Pashmina shawls...oh let bygones be bygones, I say. Here is my list and boy, I need this stuff! First I want to mention the photo on this page it was taken by Sam Little of Freeman-Photography.com. He is an accomplished photographer, specializing in pet portraits, based in Norway Maine. Say Cheese! I have always wanted to compete. I was bred for working, and this August, I want Kate to enter me into the Boatyard Dog® Trials. It says “any well-behaved dog may attend,” but I think they’ll make an exception for me. Good looks can outweigh questionable behaviour. The World Championship

Comments by Henry dictated to Kate Cone

FR E

Downeast E Dog News All the dog news you need!

Hot Dog News AWS Assists Hurricane Sandy Pets and Families

WEST KENNEBUNK —The core responsibility of the Animal Welfare Society (AWS) in West Kennebunk is to serve the local population. When possible, the organization reaches out to communities beyond York County. Therefore, AWS is actively assisting the pets and their people who were displaced by Hurricane Sandy. On Sunday, November 11th AWS deployed two staff members to Garden City, New York. Megan Arsenault and Melissa Pratt are working at a temporary animal shelter serving over 300 pets, now homeless because of Hurricane Sandy. During the week of November 12th the AWS partnered with Paw ZN Around and Arundel Fire and Rescue to collect supplies. Friday, November 16th at 5am, two trucks left for Ocean Beach, NJ filled with donations for pets and people. That same day Bethpage, Merrick, Brentwood, Jericho and Melville, five dogs arrived in West Kennebunk. They are from an animal

See AWS ASSISTS on page 12

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Another Successful ‘Pints for Paws’

rockland—Trackside Station Restaurant and Loyal Biscuit Co. teamed together to host a fundraiser, “Pints for Paws” to benefit the Pope Memorial Humane Society of Knox County. It was the fourth time the businesses partnered for the cause. Once again, the evening exceeded our expectations. In just three short hours on a Tuesday night, almost 200 people came through the doors, enjoyed dinner, purchased raffle tickets, bid on auction items and, like the name says, enjoyed nearly 200 pints of beer to benefit the shelter. The evening raised $1,600 for the shelter and we filled a trailer with items on the Humane Society’s wish list with items such as bleach, paper towels, cat and dog food, toys and more! In total, since beginning the fundraiser for the shelter in April 2011, Trackside and Loyal Biscuit have raised $5,589 to help the area’s animals. We would like to thank the following for helping us to have an amazingly successful night: Paddy Mills, Fletcher Hall, Jen Chapman, Peter Gray of Feder-

al Distributors & Shipyard Brewing Co., Courier Publications, Maine Eastern Railroad, Lupine Collars & Leads, Clear Conscience Pet, Friendship Trap Co., Owls Head Transportation Museum, Blue Buffalo, J. Edward Knight Insurance, Knight Marine, All Aboard Trolley and Limousine, Eastern Tire, Hammond Tractor, Harbor Hounds, Goose River Golf Club, Loyal Pints for Paws raised $1,600 for the Pope Memorial Humane Biscuit Tug ME Toy Society of Knox County. Pictured, from left, are Heidi Neal of Loyal Co., Fidelis Biscuit Co., Biscuit Co., Tracy Sala, Executive Director of PMHSKC and Kelly Canine Country Club, Woods of Trackside Station. Dena's Barefoot Book event. Nook, Maine Lobster Festival, Marti Due to the continued success of this Stone Photography, Limerock Inn, Jen event, Trackside and Loyal Biscuit Co. Blood, Captain Jack Lobster Boat Tours, plan to host their 5th “Pints for Paws” Jeff's Marine, Weruva, Nature’s Variety, event in April! Fuller Auto Mall and Schooner Bay. Again, thank you so much to everyAlso, we owe a big thank you to our one that attended and who helped to respective staffs for their help with the make this night successful!

New Trap-Neuter-Return Program

ROCKLAND—There are an estimated 1500 free roaming/feral cats within the Rockland city limits alone. The cats live in colonies anywhere they can scavenge for food—around barns, along the working waterfront, in the backyards of people who feed them. These animals did not create their circumstances, and yet they do create a big problem: they reproduce at a staggering rate. Just one un-fixed female cat and her offspring can produce 20,000 offspring in a fiveyear period. The Pope Memorial Humane Society of Knox County (PMHSKC) has received a 65K, 2 year grant from PetSmart Charities® to implement a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program. This effort will address the burgeoning population of free roaming/feral cats in Knox County. In collaboration with the Community Spay and Neuter Clinic in Freeport (CSNC), PMHSKC will humanely and systematically spay and neuter free roaming/feral cats beginning with the communities of Rockland,

Thomaston, Warren and Union. Jessica Williams, head vet tech at the CSNC, will serve as coordinator for the program, directing PMHSKC staff and volunteers for the next two years. The goal of the TNR Program is an ambitious one: to sterilize 974 free roaming cats by the end of 2014. The process is intensive and requires the help of many people. Colonies must be identified first. Residents of Rockland, Thomaston, Warren and Union are encouraged to notify the shelter when they believe they have observed one. Ms. Williams then investigates and leads trapping efforts with volunteer assistance. Cats are trapped, transported, given a rabies vaccination, neutered, ear tipped for identification, and returned to the location where it was initially trapped. This tremendous effort benefits all: the cats, the community, and the environment. Free roaming/feral cats are often not adoptable; they must live out their lives with the survival

skills they have learned. But after the TNR Program has addressed the colony, trained volunteer caretakers will continue to feed and monitor it, noting additions, kittens, and health issues. By curtailing its population and feeding the cats to minimize hunting and scavenging, the colony’s impact is greatly reduced. Many hands, minds and hearts are needed to help PMHSKC achieve its goal. Volunteers are needed to help in identifying colonies, posting notices and door hangers in targeted areas, and generally spreading the word. Especially helpful would be residents who are currently feeding cats and are willing to assist in trapping them. Donations of canned Vienna sausages (the best bait) are most welcome. Drivers willing to transport the cats to and from surgery

See TRAP-NEUTER on page 12

More Hot Dog News on page 12

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Downeast Dog News welcomes submissions of local news, events and photos. Email: info@ downeastdognews.com. COPYRIGHT 2006-2012 All contents of Downeast Dog News are protected under United States copyright law. The contents may not be reprinted or reproduced without the expressed written permission of the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within Downeast Dog News are those of its contributors and not necessarily those of the publisher. Content of ads is the sole responsibility of the advertiser. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the content and Downeast Dog News assumes no liability for any errors, omissions or claims made by its contributors or advertisers.

From the Publisher

all enjoyed getting to know each other over the weekend. It's hard to believe it's been one year now that I've been In September I was the publisher of Downeast off to Woofstock, a Dog News. I have had a fundraiser put on by great time learning and the Animal House being a part of the Maine in Damrascotta, to dog community. support local shelters It all started in January and rescues. People watching the Animal and their dogs came Planet Puppy Bowl. While from far and near watching the cute puppies to enjoy the events, and toggling back to see vendors, food and the dog commercials on the Fur Ball, Damariscotta music. The next day Super bowl I got excited I was in Belfast at for the year to come. In the Weinerfest enjoying the very versatile daschunds. February I watched the It was so fun to see the diversity of the breed and the Westminster “Best In costumes they wore. The next Show” and saw Malachy weekend was the Whisker Walk Dog Sled Race, the Pekingese take the #1 in Rockland, a fundraiser for the spot. In March my son Andy Jackman Knox County Humane Society. & I went to the Downeast It was a fun family event for all. Sled Dog Races in Jackman, In November I went to for the Northeast Championships put on by the Boothbay to the Flyball event! Downeast sled dog club. I meet a girl there who What an energetic sport it is! The was one of the musher. She has been determined dog clubs came from Canada to be in the Iditarod since she was 3. Her name is to Connecticut and they were Aisling Shepard and she wrote the book Eye on the quite a friendly group. Made Iditarod. I believe she will make it. up of friends and families, they In May I went to my first Pet Expo in Lewiston. came with their dogs, balls and It was a good show and I WoofStock, Damariscotta a box. The dog runs in a lane, hit the box with their learned so front paws and a much about dogs, ball pops out. They cats and the people catch the ball and who love them. In run back to their June I went to 'Bark owners. Fast and for the Park', an event fun! fundraiser for the And finally. Topsham Dog Park. Thanksgiving with It was a great turnout Weinerfest, Belfast my family. As we considering the rainy Pet Expo day. Also in June prepared diner we watched the Macy's Day Parade and toggled back and forth I went to the Fur Lewiston to see the National Dog show. We saw the Wire Fox Terrier Ball, a fundraiser to take top honors for the second consecutive year. Benefit the Lincoln County Animal It’s been a good year! I really didn’t know the entirety Shelter. This event was at its best of what it was with all the dogs and some of their going to be like people dressed to the nines. The as the publisher of auction was a great hit and so was the the Downeast Dog best costume competition. News. I have to say In July Downeast Dog News was it has been a fast, represented at 6th Annual Bark in the exciting, challenging Park fundraiser that the Planet Dog and interesting Foundation (PDF) hosted to raise year! I hope the funds for Maine Medical Center’s next year will bring Therapy Dog Program. me more of the In August I had the pleasure of same and different having a booth at the Maine Boats experiences! Homes and Harbor show. It was a Thank you all for great weekend for this Downeast Dog your support and Newsperson. I won the Best Costume readership! I wish you in the Stand up Paddleboard Jousting all a happy, healthy event donned with a Downeast Dog Flyball MAINEia, MBH&H Show and fun filled New News viking costume. I also met so Boothbay Harbor Rockland Year! Noreen many of the dog business owners. We

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December 2012

Table of Contents Basic Training Tips ........................... 4 Doggie Harmony ............................. 4 Puppy in the Window? .................. 5 Pooch Pantry ..................................... 5 Baxter ................................................... 5 Furry Words ....................................... 6 Ask the Vet........................................... 6 Book Review, Divinity of Dogs .... 7 Woof for Christmas .................. 8 & 9 Breed of the Month....................... 10 Grooming 101.................................. 11 Dogs for Adoption ..........................13 Calendar of Events...........................14 Business Directory .........................15

Basic Training Tips by Diana Logan

The Truth about Consequence Control the Consequence, Control the Behavior…. She barked. I shut the blinds. She became quiet. I opened the blinds. She barked. I closed the blinds. I did this just 3 times and guest dog Grace got the message: if she wanted to engage in her favorite game of Squirrel Spotting, she was going to have to do it quietly. I didn't yell "quiet!" I didn't get mad or confrontational; I simply made sure she clearly understood she would lose what she wanted if she barked. It took less than two minutes. It's orientation class and I’m going over the basics of how dogs learn. Thanks to the efforts of a few demo dogs, we see it in action. I introduce the rule of psychology that dictates "consequence drives behavior." It always takes a bit of mind adjusting to come to grips with this concept, but it’s at the very core of training. A student will invariably ask, "how does the dog know to lie down if you don't tell him 'down'?" Smiling, I tell them I'm going to ask them to do something really simple, something I've seen each of them do.

"Debout,” I say. I get blank stares. Unsure, the students turn to each other, wondering if I've gone batty. I dramatically repeat my request several times, raising my voice a bit, putting on my best "calm and assertive" aura (I look ridiculous). I deepen my voice and try to be manly, alpha, hoping that will get results. Again, I look and sound ridiculous. And again, no response. Were they being stubborn? Trying to be "dominant"? Was I not sufficiently “calm and assertive?” Heck no! My students simply didn't understand me. They were listening and eager to respond to my request, but I communicated in a language they didn't understand. "Debout" meant nothing to them - it was just a strange, irrelevant sound - like anything we say to our dogs until we build meaning to the words we want them to respond to.*

Consequence Drives Behavior It isn't what we SAY or DO beforehand that makes a behavior happen. Instead, it's the immediate consequence of behavior that drives future behavior. It's a rule of life for all of us. It's simply cause and effect. With dogs, who live in the now, we must be sure that the consequence of their behavior is relevant. "No" in and of itself isn't a consequence - it's merely a sound - but withholding the thing the dog

wants is - it's the doggie equivalent of "no." Likewise, granting the thing is a powerful consequence if it's of value to that dog at that moment. Anytime your dog wants something is the perfect time to train! Does your dog love to play with toys? Fetch? Eat? Go outside or for a ride? Get attention? These are all things we can very easily control. If your dog tries to snatch the tug toy from your hand but you withhold it until he sits, he will very quickly learn that sitting is the ticket. If rushing an open door results in the door closing but sitting makes it open… sit will be more likely to happen. None of this requires being "alpha" or "dominant" over our dogs - it only requires good observation and timing. Most importantly, changing our dog’s behavior requires changing our own behavior. Experiment with your own dog - see what you can get him to do with simple granting and withholding… without saying anything! "What about voice commands?" Sure commands (or "cues" as I prefer to say) absolutely CAN be taught to our dogs, which is amazing to begin with. These cues need to immediately precede the behavior in order for the dog to learn the association. *If anyone had stood up when I said, "debout," that person would have been rewarded! Diana Logan, CPDT-KA Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge-Assessed Pet Connection Dog Training, North Yarmouth, Maine http://www.petconnectionmaine.com 207-252-9352

Doggie Harmony Peace

Midcoast Maine’s Destination For...

by Susan Spisak

You’re quirky, zany or unusual. Maybe you’re a devoted family person or even a clotheshorse. No matter what your personality or character traits are, be sure to take them into account when searching for a dog. By evaluating your likes, dislikes and lifestyle, you’ll be able to find the breed that best suits you—and you’ll both enjoy a compatible and harmonious relationship. If you’re a unique individual— perhaps even an artsy type—you’ll appreciate a distinctive canine. No run-of-the mill dogs for you; you’ll definitely garner interest with secondlook breeds. The Shar Pei, commonly known as the wrinkle dog, always makes people smile. Great Danes, very tall but very gentle, are always a scene stealer—look for one with a blue coat to really astound your friends. A Starbucks fan? You have tons

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See HARMONY on page 7

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walks and are very passive. And a Chihuahua can be exercised in the home; throw them a toy now and again from your La-Z-Boy. You’re going to want to stay away from a hunting or sporting breed— they will make you get off that couch. And it’s best to rule out puppies; they always require lots of attention and training, too. Are you a trendsetting gal— one who loves compliments on your clothing and accessories? A small or toy breed, such as a Maltese, Bichon Frise or Yorkie would be ideal for you.

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of get-up-and-go and add to it with mugs of caffeine. You need a dog like a Schipperke that can keep up with you. This small, high-energy Belgian dog behaves like a pup for a good 10 years—and has a life expectancy of around 17 years. The spotted Dalmatian has lots of spunk, too. These active dogs need lots of regular exercise to keep them out of trouble, though. If you’re more comfortable cozying up on the couch with a good book—or the remote control—consider a medium-sized Bulldog or tiny Chihuahua. Bulldogs need little grooming, prefer short

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Downeast Dog News

Pooch Pantry Pumpkin and Peanut Butter Treats 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour 2 eggs 1/2 cup canned pumpkin 2 tablespoons peanut butter 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Holidays are Stressful for us too!

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Whisk together the flour, eggs, pumpkin, peanut butter, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl. Add water as needed to help make the dough workable, but the dough should be dry and stiff. Roll the dough into a 1/2-inch-thick roll. Cut into 1/2-inch pieces. Bake in preheated oven until hard, about 40 minutes.

What do you cook for your Pooch?

Happy Howlidays!

By Baxter

Hi Everyone, I'm excited to say that I got a few recipes this past month. Yum! Please continue to send them in; I'll continue to get paid in treats! I'm hoping we get some holiday treats. I just had some of these Pumpkin Peanutbutter Treats, boy were they GOOD! Thanks for helping, Rex Send them to Noreen@DowneastDogNews.com

For a dog, the holidays can be a very stressful time. Take our humans, for example – the most important creatures in our lives. They go out happy and come home loaded down with stuff, tired and cranky at one another and worst of all, ignoring us. We can’t help but soak up that stress. We’re dogs. Their stress becomes ours. It’s worse than fleas. Then – and in all my years of living with humans, I’ve never been able to figure this one out – they move all the furniture from my favorite spots and bring a tree that’s perfectly happy being outside into our house! But do they stop there? No, they string lights all over it and hang on the branches the most god-awful things - things only a cat could enjoy. I can’t sleep: the lights are in my face, the scent of the tree is ruining my nose and the cat is torturing me by batting at every shiny trinket. That’s what I call stress. And that’s not all. Humans throw parties and invite other humans we don’t know. It means we have to warn of their arrival, check each one out, decide whether to let them in and worry about whether we’ll get to enjoy any of their treats. This is a lot of work and by the end of the party I’m exhausted. Finally, there is the stress of wondering what presents we will get. Will it be a new chew toy or a plush animal we can cuddle with - or will it be the same old rawhide chews we get every year? And once we get the toy, there is the stress finding a place to enjoy it in safety, certain our humans won’t decide to take it back. Next year I’m going to check into a kennel for the holidays. Chow, Baxter

The Puppy In The Window? by Carol Reynolds

As the holiday season approaches, a puppy with a big red bow under the tree may be the ultimate wish for some pet lovers. We have all seen this classic image on TV and in movies. After all, isn’t Christmas all about family, love, a warm cozy home, and fun memories? And doesn’t a puppy exemplify those qualities so well? Nevertheless, I feel compelled to discourage anyone considering purchasing a pet store puppy (or any animal) at Christmastime and yearround. Call me a Grinch, but the cost of that doggie in the window is much higher than you may think. You see, the hidden cost behind puppy sales in pet stores and online is the suffering at commercial mass breeding farms. Known as puppy mills, these horrid places are about as far from Santa’s workshop as you could get. Hundreds of dogs, crowded in small, wire bottom cages endure extreme heat and cold; their daily existence is misery. Multiple and repeat violations of the Animal Welfare Act’s minimal requirements are commonplace on USDA inspection reports, but fines are rarely levied and the mills continue to churn out millions of puppies annually. Cruelty is inherent to the industry; wholesaling and retailing of sentient beings for maximum profit is exploitation. All the while, millions of dogs and cats are killed in shelters through no fault of their own; undoubtedly many of them were bought on impulse at a

December 2012

mall pet store with little promise of responsible guardianship. Maine has relatively strong animal welfare laws, and less than a dozen retail pet stores selling puppies and kittens. Still, puppy mills exist in Maine and many of us cannot forget the travesty of justice that took place when a Buxton mill was raided. 250 dogs were saved from severe neglect, yet the charges against the Frascas were dropped. Penalties or incarceration for animal abuse are not prioritized in our legal system. Imagine how the system works in the Midwestern puppy mill states! So, what can be done to protect man’s best friend from this exploitation? How can we Mainers influence what happens in distant locations where breeding dogs suffer? Maine Citizens Against Puppy Mills is a reliable source for the facts, as well as inspiration, to those of us whose hearts break when we pass a pet store or shelter. Lynne Fracassi, a passionate advocate for animals, founded MCAPM. Fracassi, served as Naples ACO for five years, and was previously on staff at Animal Refuge League in Westbrook.

Many years prior, she worked as a manager of a mall pet store until she learned the ugly truth behind the business. She promptly resigned, exposed the store for selling sickly puppies from poor breeders, and catalyzed the company’s change to a humane business model. Ly n ne currently fosters dogs rescued from mills; her little Chihuahua, Bertie, has mammary tumors and deformed legs from living “on the wire”. She has a long road of recovery and rehabilitation ahead, and she inspires Lynne daily. MCAPM is now a growing facebook based movement. When I discovered that Fracassi, was leading the cause in Maine, we became fast friends, kindred spirits, and our group a force to be reckoned with. Our mission is to persuade Maine’s pet stores to stop selling animals and instead, support responsible breeders, who would never subject their pups to weeks in a glass display and being sold to anyone with a credit card, without proper screening. Unfortunately, the ethical breeders we’ve contacted have chosen to remain silent. Seemingly the AKC’s talking points override moral integrity. As long as highkill shelters exist, the most humane choice is adoption.

To date, none of the pet store owners we have approached would disclose which breeders they deal with, let alone give up the profits that come from their secretive operations. We sympathize with Teddy’s owners, whose little fluff ball of love required several thousands of dollars in veterinary care within months of purchase. We stand in protest to honor Bear, a GSD who succumbed to his numerous illnesses before the tender age of two. Pet store owners callously offered the devastated couples a “replacement” if they returned the family member as a defective product. Inquire at a pet store and you’ll

See PUPPIES on page 7

Furry Words

Ask the Vet . . .

Sara Moore, Animal Communicator

It’s so hard to believe that we have reached the end of another year! Have you taken inventory of what you’ve accomplished over the past twelve months and really been grateful for it? Even in the hardest of years there is hopefully one nugget of goodness you can be thankful for. If you have a pet or animal close to you they undoubtedly bring you some happiness and love. What made you pick that one? That may be a question you’ve never even considered but it’s one of my favorite things to ask during a reading. Why did they pick you? As much as you may have been the one to find them, they were waiting for you and have a lot to teach you. I have to admit, years ago when I began doing Reiki and chatting with dogs I wasn’t prepared for some of the history that came with the animals. I will spare you the details but know that not everyone treats animals with respect or compassion. The good that does come from these situations is that many of them find loving homes and many of us open our hearts when otherwise they would have remained closed. What do these animals want you to know? Most of them want love. And security. They want to know that they will always have enough food, warmth, protection, and that they are part of your family. How do you do this? You can easily get a collar with their name on write it on a bowl with a permanent marker. Putting a placemat under their food bowl or a hang a plaque above the food with their name lets them know they’re part of the family. Most importantly, if the other pets get a holiday stocking, they’ll want one, too! This October a seven week old Beagle picked me. People think I’m kidding when I say she just showed up on my doorstep, but she did. I heard a screeching noise outside, opened my door, and there she was. I had mentioned this summer that if I ever got a dog that I’d like a Beagle,

but because I’m always on the road I put the thought on the back burner. That is, until she arrived. I posted pictures all over the internet and alerted the shelters and vets. On the seventh and final day for her to be claimed a man called and said she belonged to him. She had gone for a run with the mama dog and a few other pups but failed to return home. Because she was so small he assumed she was eaten by a wild animal. By this point she had weathered a hurricane and a Nor’easter as well as round one of shots with us, so she really felt like ours. I figured the owner showed up for a reason so when he arrived I thought it just wasn’t meant to be and I was ready to say goodbye. He arrived to take her home but ended up talking me and my six year old into keeping her. I had not been craving a puppy and I have zero knowledge of how to raise one, but here I was with a wiggling Beagle with huge ears who was thrilled to be by the woodstove instead of in the kennel waiting to hunt rabbits. This is how Karma became a part of our family. Since that October day I have had very little sleep and have run more than in the past five years combined. Karma is a stubborn beagle with razor sharp puppy teeth that she uses at every opportunity. She is also a snuggler and a love. She has made me reevaluate my lifestyle, my time management skills and is teaching both me and my son life lessons that you just can’t find in a book. This year, when I take inventory of my highs and lows, she’s going to be mentioned in both columns. And from that, I will learn and grow and celebrate. As we enjoy our family (both four legged and two) this holiday season I will be sending love to those animals still waiting to find their forever homes. As for now, I’m letting the universe know there are plenty of other doorsteps for them to lead critters to. Sara Moore is a Reiki Master, Hypnotist, Psychic, and Animal Communicator. She is available for long distance readings, parties, and fundraising. More information and a full calendar of events can be found at www.enlightenedhorizons.com or contact Sara directly at furrywords@ downeastdognews.com.

Dr. Judith Herman

I have my first dog that I got from the local shelter. With the holidays coming my friends have been warning me of all the hazards that could befall my new best friend. Can you tell me what I really need to be careful of?

Congratulations! How exciting to have a new friend to share the holiday joy! With that in mind lets look at what can and cannot be shared, and what to watch out for. Lets begin with the tree. If you put any fertilizer in the water to extend the life of a real tree then cover the tree stand bowl so your dog doesn’t drink out of it. Some say that pine sap is poisonous. The jury is out on this but the sap does get into the coat and is hard to get out. If it does get in the fur, don’t panic, you can rub smooth peanut butter and let it set. Then shampoo. No cutting of fur is necessary! Pine oil is an irritant so be careful with any essential oils. If you have a chewer put the wood or metal ornaments that won’t break on the bottom third. To avoid the tree from being knocked over you may want to secure it to the ceiling or wall. Don’t put food on the tree like candy canes, cookies, cranberries and popcorn. The string may cause the intestines to bunch and surgery will be needed. Also, the food may cause indigestion. Garland and tinsel can either be ingested, or Fido may get tangled in it and cause injuries. Tree lights should not be left on if you are not around. Your friend could get tangled in the cords. It is always a good idea to unplug the tree lights if you are not using them. Holiday plants are festive but some like mistletoe and bittersweet can be toxic. Mistletoe can cause digestive irritation which results in drooling, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. If many berries are eaten it can cause irregular heart beats, ataxia (staggering), seizures and death. Bittersweet has alkaloids in it and can cause the same symptoms as mistletoe. Holly can

cause digestive upset like the other berries and the leaves can cause lip smacking and drooling because of the pointed leaves. Poinsettias have gotten a bad rap. They may cause a little digestive upset but not much. If your companion eats either plants call Animal Poison Control Center at 1-800-213-6680. Candles are a lovely part of the holiday season. If Fido loves to romp make sure the candles are out harms way. Otherwise, he may get burned by the flame or knocking it over and spill the wax on himself. Holiday foods are delicious and tasty. They can be a problem for our little friends. If you are giving chocolates to Aunt Bee be sure you placed them up high and not under the tree. Same goes with other food gifts such as alcohol, raisons, some nuts, xylitol, and artificial sweetener. Yeast rolls are very tempting. Unbaked yeast containing dough can result in multiple problems if a pet ingests it. The dark, warm environment of the stomach acts as an oven and encourages the dough to continue rising. This can result in a bowel obstruction or a bloated/ distended stomach. The stomach may then twist leading to a GDV (gastric dilitation and volvulus). This is a life-threatening situation that requires emergency abdominal surgery. As the yeast ferments in the stomach, it releases alcohol which may lead to alcohol poising. Uncle Jack may want to slip a little snack under the table for Fe Fe, but don’t let him do it. Holiday foods are very rich and can cause a belly ache. Very fatty foods can also cause pancreatitis, which is life threatening. Holiday season is a busy time and our schedules are all askew. To help your companion to stay out of trouble and decrease stress, keep his schedule intact. Do this with keeping the daily routine (feeding, playtime, walks) close to normal. You can assess your buddy’s comfort level during the holiday hustle. If he seems stressed, or he is normally shy, give him a quiet pace to relax during the chaos. The Holidays are a wonderful time of year for our family, including our furry members. Lets make it safe and fun for all. Have a Happy Holiday Season. Judith K. Herman DVM, CVH Animal Wellness Center Augusta Maine officeawc@roadrunner.com www.mainehomeopathicvet.com

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Downeast Dog News

by Kate Cone

The Divinity of Dogs, by Jennifer Skiff

There are good days with dogs and not-so-good days, like when my Golden Retriever Henry steals a shoe and a sock before I've even had coffee. If he stole them and put them in a pile somewhere, I'd be okay with that, but he pilfers the shoe, or sock, or pen or magazine or any number of items he can reach. Then he dives under the coffee table and gnaws away at them until they are no longer recognizable. We now work on "trading" the precious item for a bit of what our obedience trainer calls "high value" treats. My blood pressure comes down. The morning continues. I have my coffee and meditate to bring my B/P down some more. What I have learned, and have had reinforced by reading Jennifer Skiff's new book, The Divinity of Dogs: True Stories of Miracles Inspired by Man's Best Friend, is that if I let those "bad" moments go, I can open to the many other ways Henry brings me joy. Like when I come home and

PuppIES

he wiggles out of his fur and hurls himself at me because his love is so infinite, it far surpasses and overlooks my shortcomings. Such open and generous and unconditional love is what Ms. Skiff's new book is all about. Divided into chapters based on qualities or wisdom dogs bring us: Love, Comfort, Intuition, Healing, Gratitude Loyalty, Passing, Compassion and Forgiveness, The Divinity of Dogs is a collection of stories submitted by many dog owners whose lives have been touched in ways they classify as "miraculous," or "divine." In the author's own words: "I believe life is a journey and we're here to learn and grow spiritually. I also believe dogs are a gift from the Divine sent here to help us on our way. The Divinity of Dogs is about people's [sic] moments of enlightenment with dogs. It includes stories in which love, tolerance, comfort, compassion, loyalty, joyfulness, and even death

have provided inspirational lessons about life from experiences with dogs". Jennifer Skiff lives part of the time in Maine, and many of the stories are written by Mainers. There are photographs of most of the dogs featured in the stories and the names and websites of shelters from which they came. The book is well put-together and the stories are inspiring. It's reading level could appeal to younger readers and adults. It's a perfect holiday gift, a book you can pick up and read any time. The stories are short, making this a great book to keep in your bag for the doctor's office or waiting for the kids to get through band practice. Are dogs divine? That's for each reader to decide. Are they loving, inspiring, loyal, intuitive and fun? Yes. Even good old Henry, who sprawls across my lap every night while we sit in front of a roaring fire, watching

what I'm sure he thinks are pretty boring PBS news shows. He is truly a gift and The Divinity of Dogs reminds me to give him what he gives me: endless chances to redeem myself. Kate Cone lives in Waterville with Henry and her husband Patrick and cat Pearl Prynne. Contact her at kecone@ colby.edu

HARMONY from page 4

from page 5

inevitably be told the pups come from “reputable USDA licensed breeders”. But Lynne has done her factchecking. Documents from ME Dept. of Agriculture paired with USDA inspection reports clearly show that all Maine pet stores buy from some of the most notorious mills, mostly in Missouri. Armed with both hard data and heartwrenching stories, MCAPM will propose banning retail pet sales town by town. At present, 28 such bans have been enacted nationwide. Mainers have the power to join this movement. What can you do to help? Here is my Christmas wish list: 1. Don’t shop- Adopt 2. Boycott stores selling animals 3. Attend a peaceful protest/ awareness event 4. Urge your local officials to ban retail pet sales 5. Foster/adopt a rescued mill breeder dog 6. Donate to a puppy mill rescue

★★★ ★★

Book Review

organization As we prepare for holiday festivities, let us spread a hopeful message within this dog-loving community. The time has come for change in the pet industry. Progress is being made. Light a candle for the mill dogs and be inspired. As I look into the eyes of my own dog, my heart grows three sizes. All dogs deserve to be so loved. The humane breeders we contacted chose not to comment on the puppy mill issue. Lynne Fracassi that founded the group, MCAPM's in June of 2011. Lynne is a former animal control officer (6 years), owner of a small pet sitting business (13) years, shelter worker for 2 years, and animal advocate since the age of 11 (38) years! Carol Reynolds is the owner of Wizard Of Paws in Bridgton and is Lynn's equally partner in MCAPM's.

These adorable pets fit in dog purses that are all the rage…keeping you stylish. Your new BFF can even be dressed to coordinate with your latest and greatest outfit. If you have a family and like taking brisk walks, Labs or Golden Retrievers would be wonderful for your bunch. These canines love kids and are very loyal to their owners. And if a member of your family has allergies, look for a lighter shedding, shorthaired hybrid such as a Goldendoodle. If you want to participate in sports activities with your new pet—such as agility or flyball—consider a Collie.

Also family-friendly, these beautiful, active dogs are trustworthy. Kindness and compassion are the cornerstones of your personality. Search rescue sites to find the canine that’s right for you. You’ll not only find a new companion, but you’ll be giving them a second chance at a good life. Dogs, like people, have many facets to their personalities. Focus on finding the one breed that best aligns with your individuality. Don’t be discouraged, it may take some time. Just remember, the key is to find your perfect match!

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Downeast Dog News

December 2012

Dachshund

Breed of the Month

by Leah Haney

One of my responsibilities at Bridgton Veterinary Hospital is taking care of dogs and cats in the boarding kennel. It's a great time because I can really get to know the personalities of the pets since they typically visit for a few days rather than just the half hour we get to spend with them for a wellness appointment. One of my favorite dogs to care for in the kennel is a little red female dachshund . Though she's just a tiny, little thing, she has to have the biggest and heaviest blanket we have available, because she loves to bury herself as far down into it as she can. There is nothing cuter then calling her to go outside and watching that blanket twist and wiggle until her little head pokes out from under one of the edges.  Everyone, including me, hears the word dachshund and immediately thinks of the old hot dog cliche. I've even seen advertisements for a yearly Weinerfest celebrating all things dachshund. This breed's comical,

Characteristics Adaptability Affection Level Apartment Friendly Barking Tendencies Cat Friendly Child Friendly Dog Friendly Exercise Needs Health & Grooming Health Issues Intelligence Shedding Level Social Needs Stranger Friendly Territorial Trainability Watchdog Ability Playfullenss

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elongated l o o k , h oweve r, s t e m s from a very uncomical r e a s o n . Dachshund means "Badger Dog" in German. Their combination of long body and short legs made these dogs ideal for digging into badger burrows. Able to maneuver in the tight quarters of the burrow, these courageous dogs would fight vicious

badgers - often to the death!   So are today's dachshunds tenacious hunters or loving house pets? I sat down with Heidi Reid-Healy of Poor Meadows Dachshunds in Bridgton to find out. Heidi has been breeding miniature dachshunds for ten years and is a licensed and inspected breeding kennel through the State of Maine and the Town of Bridgton. She tells me she began breeding dachshunds when all her kids moved out of the house and she wanted something small to snuggle with at home. Having been bred to burrow, a dachshund loves to burrow under  blankets to the foot of the bed or onto any available lap. This habit

are a member of the hound group which means they may Freeman Photography be easily tempted to wander off after interesting smells if left unsupervised. They can be trained to be off leash, however, if you keep an eye on them.  So is there a down side to this smart, adaptable, loving breed of dog? Heidi says they do have a tendency to be a little bit on the barky side. She said the biggest issue, however, is their long back. Many, many dachshunds have been known to "slip" a disk in their back thus causing pain, lameness, and sometimes paralysis. They should not be allowed to jump off beds and furniture. If you want them to sleep in bed with you, stairs to get up and down are a necessity. Also, although the that dachshund can be great c a n with children if raised with be so them, they may not be the best dog cute indoors, however, can to have around small children who extend to digging multiple holes in might lift them inappropriately or sit the yard if they are left unsupervised.   or lay on them and hurt their backs.  Heidi says dachshunds can be a  So, if you'd like a dog who can live fabulous dog for a wide variety of happily in an apartment or be happy living situations. Some of her Poor taking long walks in the woods, and Meadows puppies live happily in you don't mind supervising their downtown Boston, others live in playtime to protect their backs, a the country and are avid hikers. She dachshund may be a great dog for even has some that love to swim! you. For more information, visit the If you visit the Dachshund Club of website of the Dachshund Club of America's website, you'll also see that America, http://dachshund-dca.org dachshunds compete in hunting trials! Photos by N. Mullaney, taken They are definitely a dog of many at Weinerfest in Belfast this past skills. Heidi in fact urges people to September. remember that they are hunters. They

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Downeast Dog News

Here it is, my most frequently asked question: “How do I cut my dogs nails?” or my favorite variation of that question, “How do you get them to stand so still when you do their nails!?” The key is confidence. If your dentist came at you fumbling their tools and making a bunch of false starts you bet your buttons you’d be off that chair and out the door in 10 seconds flat. Until you become proficient enough that confidence follows I am a huge fan of bribery as it has the pleasant side effect of making nail clipping time akin to ‘treat time!’ which you know your dog loves. With a big dog have them stand with the treat supplier in front of them. Imagine (or google) somebody cleaning a horse’s hooves, they keep the leg under the horse at all times. You will want to do the same with your dog, keeping their leg curled under their body and as close to the ground as possible. The more comfortable your dog is the less he will fight you. For our little dog friends, like the notorious don’t-you-touch-myfeet! Dachshund, I again prefer the two people approach. I have my customer hold their dog, some on their backs like a baby but holding them right-end-up is fine too since

Grooming 101

by Phoebe Mendes I can sneak in from underneath *cue the jaws music* Honestly I have cut so many nails in the past 6 years that I can clip in just about any position, the trick is finding what is comfortable for the dog and to allow me to cut those nails. Now for the biology of the thing. Our own nails are very different by comparison. Dead nail is white, the nail bed is pink, the quick located at the base providing nutrients for growth. On a dog or cat the quick is located in the center of the nail. On white nails its easy to see, pink and showing through the dead nail. In black nails its a bit trickier. I coach people to go with the ‘less is more

approach’, rather than try and cut it all in one go and risk making your dog’s nail bleed, clip a small amount of nail every few days. With black nails the dead nail is generally pale and flaky. As you clip you may feel a change in the resistance of the nail, dead nail cuts easily but as I approach the live quick the nail becomes spongy. On black nails the quick will show as a darker wet center once you have cut away the dead portion. For those of you still too nervous to cut on your own I will say that every grooming salon I have ever worked in offered nail clipping as a walkin service with no appointment. No muss no fuss. I strongly recommend having somebody else do the clipping if you are worried about hurting your fuzzy friend for 2 reasons a) because if you are worried and stressed then you are twice as likely to cut them and b) once you have quicked the nail then I as a groomer have to work twice as hard to get your dog to trust me to do it! If you aren’t walking regularly on a paved surface I suggest having your dogs nails clipped about

once a month. On a different note I’d like to take a moment to reach out to a few of you out there that I know are still struggling with the Flea Menace. YOU ARE NOT ALONE! I am still coaching customers on how to deal with fleas on a daily basis. The cold weather seems to be here to stay which may help those of you suffering from yard infestations (yes! They can live in your yard!) however I just want to reassure you that just because you have fleas doesn’t mean that you are a bad pet owner. People who have done monthly flea treatments since they brought their pets home are getting fleas too! So if your life seems to have become a repeating cycle of flea baths, combing, spraying, and vacuuming daily then rest assured you are not alone. Killing fleas is a process and doing a thorough job takes time. Giving you advice on the art of flea killing would take a whole other article but I did want to let you guys know you aren’t the only ones struggling. Keep on fighting the good fight and if you need some advice come find me on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/ AsktheGroomer.PhoebeMendes, I am happy to help!

WOOF foR Christmas from page 9 piece of Training Liver Chews (TLC). We are proud that we only use organic ingredients in our pet treats. Our main ingredient, organic beef liver, is grown just a stone’s throw from our headquarters. Visit our website at www.mainesbestorganicpettreats. com to order TLC for your dog’s stocking and to learn more about our commitment to the highest quality product, customer service, and giving back program. Santa, I’ve been wearing the same harness for years now. Could you please sport me with a new one? Preferably a snazzy color combo instead of this tan and black thing. I know where you can get the best one too! Go to www.uncommonpaws. com. One thing I know for sure: people want the very best for their pets. That’s why Gudrun Cobb created Uncommon Paws. They provide interesting, high quality products made with the best, sustainable, natural materials. That’s what they are all about. They search out the unusual, the beautiful, and the best items that will last for more than just one season. Their luxury dog collars, Martingale collars, leashes, and harnesses are made in Maine, by Gudrun and crew in Portland from USA-made components. Each is crafted with love for pets and the highest attention to detail. One more thing Santa I want some blueberry shampoo to help with my dander from Mutt Nose Best. Mutt Nose Best has natural dog SPAW products handcrafted in Maine. The biodegradable formulas are made with the highest grade natural and organic ingredients available. Locally sourced Wild Maine Blueberries, Organic Oats, and Organic Pumpkin

December 2012

keeps our products as local and green as possible. They have a shampoo for the itchiest dogs, dirtiest dogs, and smelliest dogs around. They’re Human Tested, Dog Approved, and ALWAYS Cruelty Free. Your purchase of any Mutt Nose Best product supports animal charities, too! Mutt Nose Best is committed to giving back to the pet community both locally and nationally. Each month they highlight a Pet Charity and PAW IT FORWARD! To find out more, go to muttnosebest.com. Now Santa, this last gift is for Kate

more than me. It is a toy for me that she will have fun with as well. Buoy Bat Go Fetch! a dog fetch product that’s actually fun for humans too! Made from real lobster buoys and hardwood handles. The innovative part of the product is the built in pick up device on the bottom of the bat. Simply touch the bat to the ball to pick it up and hit it again; there is no bending. This fun new Maine themed, product was created by inventor Bill Page inventor of Buoy Bat. The idea for Buoy Bat Go Fetch came to life as Page was hitting

tennis balls with a Buoy Bat to his dog Daisy. It's Daisy Approved! FMI www.buoysports.com. We wish everyone and their pets Happy Holidays!

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Hot Dog News

Professional Dog Trainers Receive Dog Reactivity Training Certification

FREEPORT/PORTLAND—One of the most common dog training issues is over reactivity, often leading to stressed-out humans who euthanize or re-home those dogs because they don’t know how to find help. Now owners of aggressive or fearful dogs in Mid-Coast and Southern Maine can be assured of a trusted dog training coach. Lisa Walker of Freeport, and Nancy Freedman-Smith of Portland, are among the first twenty dog trainers to meet the strict requirements to become a Certified Behavior Adjustment Training Instructors (CBATI). Behavior Adjustment Training (BAT) is a low-stress, non-aversive technique for working with problem dog behaviors such as aggression, fear or frustration.

TRAP-NEuter

BAT was developed by Grisha Stewart, MA, CPDT-KA, KPACTP, as an efficient rehabilitation technique to help her own fearful dog, Peanut. Stewart recently created the CBATI designation after BAT gained rapid international popularity, prompting repeated requests for referrals for dog trainers and behaviorists to expertly apply BAT to help families with dogs that cower, bark, lunge, growl or bite. The certification process requires a four-hour BAT video case study, a written exam with essay questions, a commitment to the principles of progressive reinforcement training, and a minimum of 200 hours of experience training dogs using force-free training techniques. A dog-friendly method for

rehabilitating and preventing reactivity in dogs, BAT works by helping dogs learn socially acceptable ways to deal with the things that scare or upset them. Instead of barking, lunging, or snarling, dogs learn to use “cutoff” signals like head turns and ground sniffs to communicate to their handlers that they are uncomfortable. BAT is not just a way to prevent or rehabilitate problems; it also teaches two-way communication, which builds a more powerful relationship between people and their dogs. As professional trainers, Lisa and Nancy love the way BAT empowers their clients and their dogs, and makes situations that

AWS Assists

have been stressful for both, much more positive. Since they have had great success integrating the BAT methods with their clients as well as with their own rescued, reactive dogs, they jumped at the chance to improve their skills and become certified. Lisa and Nancy welcome your questions and can be reached at: Lisa Walker, CPDT-KA, CBATI Center for Canine Excellence, lisa@centerforcanineexcellence. com www.centerforcanineexcellence. com Nancy Freedman-Smith, CBATI Gooddogz Training, Gooddogz1@ aol.com, www.Gooddogztraining. com

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and aftercare are sorely needed. Finally, people are needed to become the volunteer caretakers assigned and train to oversee each colony, which will grow smaller and less significant with each passing year. For more information and to find out how you can volunteer, please contact Jess at 608-2793 or call the shelter at 594-2200. About the Pope Memorial Humane Society of Knox County The Pope Memorial Humane Society of Knox County was founded in 1989 to provide care, protection and loving homes for abandoned and homeless companion animals in the Midcoast Maine area. The Society supports activities advocating responsible pet ownership and the prevention of abuse and cruelty, and it sponsors events and activities that promote the health and welfare of animals and demonstrate the benefits of the human-animal bond. Since 1991, the Society has operated a shelter located on Buttermilk Lane in Thomaston. The Shelter is open between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, closed on Sundays. PMHSKC provides animal support services to the

towns of: Rockland, Thomaston, Warren, Owls Head, St. George, Port Clyde, Martinsville, Tenants Harbor, S. Thomaston, Spruce Head, Hope, Union, Appleton, Montville, Cushing, Matinicus, North Haven, Vinalhaven, Stockton Springs, and Morrill. For more information contact: 594-2200. About PetSmart Charities Established in 1994, PetSmart Charities, Inc. is an independent, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that creates and supports programs that save the lives of homeless pets, raise awareness of companion animal welfare issues and promote healthy relationships between people and pets. The largest funder of animalwelfare efforts in North America, PetSmart Charities has provided more than $165 million in grants and programs benefiting animal-welfare organizations and has helped save the lives of more than 5 million pets through its in-store adoption program. To learn more about how PetSmart Charities is working toward its vision of a Dog lifelong, loving home for Downeast News Guide: every petsmartcharities.org Webpet, Ad visit 120 pixels x 240 pixels 1.6671-800-423-PETS x 3.333 or call (7387).

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shelter in New Jersey that is over capacity. Please check our webpage to see if they are still available for adoption If you would like to donate to the Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund, please follow the link on animalwelfaresociety. org. 100% of monies raised will go directly to disaster relief in the areas affected by the storm. Recently, the Animal Welfare Society Board of Directors and Staff revised the organization’s mission statement to include disaster response: "The Animal Welfare Society, a non-profit

organization, exists to provide humane shelter and care to companion animals temporarily in need of housing, to assist in disaster response, and to further the cause of responsible animal adoption and ownership through education and public awareness. The society actively promotes kindness, the elimination of cruelty to and neglect of all animals, and the lifelong commitment of people to their pets." Contact: Steve Jacobsen, Executive Director, Animal Welfare Society, 207985-3244 x106

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Downeast Dog News

Dogs for Adoption Indigo, 5 yrs, American Shelter Dog Max, 6 yrs, Dalmatian Mix An all-around great guy who loves going for walks or hikes with his people and is also very friendly with practically everyone. FMI: The Animal Welfare Society at 207-985-3244 or www.animalwelfaresociety. org

Cocoa, 4 yrs, Min Pin

Always the life of the party, Cocoa would make for a great sidekick with her playful and goofy nature. FMI: The Animal Welfare Society at 207-985-3244 or www.animalwelfaresociety.org

Very easy going girl who loves getting a chance to play and has a grand old time romping about outdoors. If you are interested in adopting please contact The Animal Welfare Society at 207985-3244 or visit us online at www.animalwelfaresociety.org

She is a beautiful fawn retired racer. She is affectionate, quiet and can be a little shy. FMI: Maine Greyhound Placement Service, 207-846-4707

Ward, 2 yrs, Greyhound

Sebastion, 4 yrs, Greyhound

A retired racer he is a handsome dark brindle boy. He is energetic and very friendly. FMI: Maine Greyhound Placement Service, 207-846-4707

A large brindle boy, he is a retired racer who loves attention. He is gentle, very smart and has lots of personality. FMI: Maine Greyhound Placement Service, 207-846-4707

Ryder, 5 yrs, Pit-bull mix

Lambeau, 5 yrs, shepherd-hound mix

Ryder is looking for his new best friend. He is a happy guy with a wonderful personality and desperately needs a foster or permanent home. He is ok being near other dogs out in the world, but needs a home with no other animals. He is crate trained, house trained and knows basic obedience commands. If you would like more information about Ryder please contact us at info@buddyupanimalsociety.org.

Lambeau is a sweet, goofy and super handsome. He does best with bigger dogs. Lambeau urgently needs a foster or permanent home that would be willing to work with him on guarding issues inside of the home. Our rescue would provide training sessions for you and Lambeau. This is a wonderful opportunity for somebody who is interested in dog training, and helping a wonderful rescue dog who is in need. If you are interested please contact us at info@buddyupanimalsociety.org.

Sponsored by Little River Veterinary Hospital

1333 Atlantic Highway, Northport, ME 04849

Sponsored by Full Circle Holistic Veterinary Clinic 81 Belmont Avenue, Belfast, ME 04915

Little Miss, 8 yrs.

Little Miss is one of the sweetest and most loving dogs. She is good with house training and loves to sleep under the covers. She walks very well on a leash and acts like a dog about half her age! She does give little kisses and enjoys being with people. She gets along with other dogs and cats too. Little Miss has not been around young children so we would recommend only a home with children over 10yrs old. She is spayed, up-to-date on shots. FMI: www.almosthomerescue.net/adopt or Sponsored by Anonymous Pet Lover email lonepine_ahr@yahoo.com

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December 2012

Padilla, 4 yrs, Greyhound

Kimmy is a tiny, adorable, very energetic AKC registered chihuahua. She tips the scales at about 6 pounds, is fawn smooth coated with a touch of white and brown, and has been spayed. She is current on vaccinations and has tested negative for heart worm, Lyme and ehrlichia. She is a love bug and insists on being near (translation, in contact with) her humans at all times. She and BARRY are bonded and will be adopted together.