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Hot Dog Ask the Vet News
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Inside
People, quite literally, have been traveling with dogs forever. When the first humans began to trickle into Europe around 40,000 years ago, they brought with them their new best friends, wolves that had become doglike through continued association with humans. For thousands of years, these proto-
by Hillary Waterman
6
Photos by Hillary Waterman
Basic Training Tips
8
See TRAVEL on page 6
many vacationers find it simpler to leave their pets behind. However, if you find yourself wishing for some relaxed time to really commune with your dog instead of squeezing walks in around a work day schedule, why not take a page from the mists of time and go on the road together? With its temperate climate, beautiful beaches, and panoramic mountain
Baxter Summer Reading List
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dogs and their descendants traveled on a decidedly no-frills ticket, bringing up the rear in caravans for hundreds of miles at a stretch, crossing glaciers, crouching in the holds of oceangoing canoes, and pulling sleds over packed ice as people explored unknown lands and populated the globe. Now that we travel further and faster than ever before and “home” usually represents a fixed point,
Traveling With Our Canine Friends
Volume 8 • Issue 7 • July 2013
TWO FOR THE ROAD
DowneastDogNews.com
Downeast Dog News
FRE E
Hot Dog News 100% Successful Therapy Dog Evaluations On Saturday June 22, 2013, Positively Best Friends Dog Training hosted a Therapy Dog International evaluation conducted by Steve Seekins and Naomi Howe. All fifteen dog and handler teams successfully completed the hour long evaluation, including 12 teams of Positively Best friends, students, and instructors. This was the first evaluation hosted by Positively Best Friends. We are very pleased with how the evaluation was conducted and the wonderful outcome. After completing membership paperwork, the new certified pet therapy teams will be ready to head out to many different locations including hospitals, nursing homes, libraries, and schools. The primary objective of the therapy team is to provide comfort and companionship by sharing the dog with the patients. This is done in a way that increases emotional well-being, promotes healing, and improves the quality of life for the people being visited and the staff that cares for these people. Positively Best Friends is mid-coast Maine’s premier dog training facility providing instruction in family dog
skills, competitive obedience, agility, canine nose work, and herding in a relaxed, comfortable, supportive, and friendly atmosphere. We are located 3 minutes South of Route 1 on Route 27 in Edgecomb just minutes from Wiscasset, Boothbay Harbor, and Damariscotta/Newcastle. For more information about all the great learning opportunities available, please visit us on the web at www. positivelybestfriends.com.
Photo by Lisa Best
Bernie passes one test where he must refuse an offered treat on cue.
Is Your Pet Ready for its “Close Up?”
Debra Bell, owner of Bell’s Furry Friends Photography and Bell Imaging & Design, LLC, knows that family members don’t just have two legs. Sometimes they have four legs or even wings. Bell’s business, located at 890 Coldbrook Road in Hermon, opened in 2005. Ever since then, she’s captured fuzzy family members as part of senior portraits, weddings, family portraits, and for pet-friendly businesses. Bell said it made sense that as her business started taking on more pet clients (and their beloved two-leggers), she would expand to specialize in the pet set. That resulted in the launch a special division of her business -- Bell’s Furry Friends Photography. Bell’s Furry Friends Photography (or BFF Photography) caters fully to the pet set. “Pets are part of all of our lives,” Bell said. “They bring joy, companionship, and love to individuals and their families, so why wouldn’t I want to celebrate their roles in my clients’ lives?” And she’s sharing her knowledge and experience with the public on July 12 from 6-9 p.m. at the Sea Dog Brewing Company on 24 Front Street in Bangor, through a special grand opening event: “Ready for my CloseUp.” Admission for “Ready for my Close-Up” can come in the form of a cash donation or a pet supply item. Admission items will be split between Bangor Humane Society and the Furry Friends Food Bank. In addition, Bell’s business teamed up with petrelated businesses -- Green Acres Kennel Shop, Mutt Nose Best, Veazie Veterinary Clinic, and Dogn’i Apparel -- to show attendees how to help their pets look and feel their best. The event will be a pet fair and art exhibition. Guests can view Bell’s work, stop by vendor tables, and enjoy refreshments and some surprises. This event is for
people only. Children are welcome. All attendees receive a ticket for the door prize drawing and can enter to win drawings throughout the night. Bell has set a goal to raise $2,000 and 2,000 pounds of food and supplies. The money and supplies will go a long way to helping needy animals in the area as well as to offsetting costs, Bell said. “This event is sure to be a ton of fun,” Bell said. “I’ve teamed up with some amazing colleagues who are as passionate about pets and their owners as I am. Everyone who comes will have a great time and maybe even learn something!” Starting in 2009, Bell began to develop a niche working with pets. She has first-hand experience with her own four-legged loved ones: Olivia, a Maine Coon Cat, and Laura, a greyhound. Her experience as a pet photographer grew from a mixture of research, taking dog training classes with her greyhound, and a special mixture of patience and interaction to get just the right shot to please her clients. “I love the challenge of photographing the true essence of the pet, and it’s fun for me to see the pets shine,” she said. “My training in journalism, including documentary photography, has allowed me to meet the pets where they’re at instead of forcing a pose.” Bell’s Furry Friends Photography (or BFF Photography) approaches pet photography by focusing on the relationship between pet and owner even if the images are just of the pet. “Every pet has a story, and every owner is happy to tell it,” she said. “My role is to listen to my clients tell that story and work with the pet to create heartwarming images.” But creating heartwarming images is just one aspect of Bell’s business. The other side is giving back. She volunteers with Maine Greyhound Placement Service in Augusta as well as giving back financially to Bangor Humane Society and the Furry Friends Food Bank at Eastern Area Agency on Aging. A percentage of every sale is earmarked for Furry Friends Food Bank. For more information, call Bell at 207-356-2353 or visit “Bell’s Furry Friends Photography” online at Facebook. The company website is bffpetphotos.com. Photo above by Debra Bell
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Downeast Dog News
Downeast Dog News
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COPYRIGHT 2006-2013 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.
Cassi & I at the park
Now that we are full swing into summer in Maine I hope everyone and his/her pets are enjoying the warm weather! I know the beagles and I certainly are! We’ve been enjoying extended lunch breaks running around the backyard playing together. At the beginning of June, Cassi and I spent the morning in Brunswick at the opening ceremony for the Brunswick Dog Park. The park is located near the entrance to the bike path off Water Street. There are two gated areas, one
for larger dogs and one for smaller dogs. I decided to bring Cassi because she’s the best on a leash out of the three. She also doesn’t mind just sitting and lounging in the sun, which was perfect so that I could listen to the speakers. What I didn’t foresee was that once the ribbon cutting was complete and the dogs were allowed off-leash, how overwhelmed my little girl would be. Cassi is the alpha at home, but tends to be a little skittish around new dogs. She usually warms up to them after a few sniffs, but the number of other dogs at the ceremony was just too much for her. She sauntered over the edge of the park and became very interested in the grass growing there, wanting nothing to do with anyone else. In the two minutes she was off her leash, I saw how scared and overwhelmed she was, so I clipped her leash back on and took her home. I could literally see her relief when I reattached her leash; that sense of security was so necessary for her in that moment. Boy, did I feel like a bad parent though! I had put my dog into a situation I thought would
- Katie & The 3 Beagles
Cirra Recognized by Great Pyrenees Club of America The Great Pyrenees Club of America has awarded Cirra, Glimmer’s Spirit of Acadia, four advanced titles: Versatility with Advanced Excellence, Versatility Ultimate, Advanced Animal Assisted Therapy and Activities, and Advanced Excellent Animal Assisted Therapy and Activities. Cirra is presently the only Great Pyrenees to earn the Advanced Excellent Animal Assisted Therapy and Activities title. She is one of only three Great Pyrenees in the country to have earned the Versatility Ultimate title. The Great Pyrenees Club of America’s Versatility Program encourages Pyr owners to interact with their dogs in a positive, experiential, and educational manner. Each year the Great Pyrenees Club of America
acknowledges club members actively involved with their dogs in service to others in their community. The Great Pyrenees Versatility Program provides an opportunity to promote an understanding of the breed and to honor the versatile nature of Pyrs.
The Great Pyrenees Club of America awards five Versatility titles which are earned on a progressive basis based on many possible combinations of activities. Cirra’s
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July 2013
be fun, but it turned into a very scary one for her. The Brunswick Dog Park (and all other parks in the state) are amazing resources for us as pet owners especially if you do not have a yard where your dogs can run free, but please make sure that your dogs will think it is fun as well! If you get to the park and they are overwhelmed or scared, understand that it might not be for them and head home. Not all humans like roller coasters; not all dogs like the dog park! You can also try to go at a less busy time during the week to introduce your dog to the park slowly. July’s issue is all about travel! Since many of us take trips during the summer, I wanted to share some tips and advice about bringing your dogs along. We also have a great list of dog and pet related summer reading books if you’re looking for some down time. Have a great month and a safe and happy 4th of July!
Versatility activities have included: agility, backpacking, boating, Camp Buster, Children Reading to Cirra visits, costume contests, dining, Dog Scouts of America merit badges, hiking, mountain climbing, rally obedience, therapy dog visits, training classes, photo contests, public education, transportation, and walkathons. As a member of the Downeast Dog Scouts, she has been involved in numerous community service projects and educational programs. The Advanced Animal Assisted Therapy and Activities title is awarded to a Great Pyrenees who has completed 500 hours of service in two different venues. The Advanced Excellent Animal Assisted Therapy and Activities
See CIRRA on page 11
Table of Contents Cirra Recgonized................................. 3 Furry Words ....................................... 4 Ask the Vet........................................... 4 Summer Reading List......................... 5 Baxter.................................................... 6 Basic Training Tips ........................... 7 Yankee Clipper Nominated.............. 7 Performance Dog Training ........... 8 Dogs for Adoption........................... 9 Calendar of Events .......................... 10 Business Directory ........................... 11
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Furry Words
Ask the Vet . . .
Sara Moore, Animal Communicator
As we enter the summer months of barbeques and the Fourth of July, your dogs have a lot to say about how they are included in the festivities. What do I mean by that? Well, I’ve learned how to tune in and chat with them, so they talk to me using pictures, feelings, words in my head, and however else they think I’ll understand them. Recently I had a dog ask for a party. I could see the dog sitting at the table with the family, and they were celebrating July 4th and the dog’s birthday. He described the paper tablecloth he wanted, what kind of cake, who was there, and more. The family had been through a lot this past year, and the dog wanted to remind them that they did, in fact, have a lot worth celebrating. The owner was so pleased to hear that and promised he would follow through with the party. Since It’s inevitable we’re also in the month of fireworks, I want to also address why some dogs react to them with shaking, fear, and distress. We are all made of energy. Energy vibrates, cells vibrate, and sound vibrates. We all have different vibrations, which are why some of us feel the chaotic energy of someone who is “faster” than we are, or when someone with a slower energy makes you feel tired and wiped out. When there is a huge clap of thunder or a crash of thunder, imagine it as a huge and immediate tidal wave of sound coming at the dogs. We kind of absorb it; for them it may rocket through their bodies, really disrupting them at almost a cellular level.
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Are you still with me? I hope so, because there are ways to try to help them avoid that jolt. I would say approximately one third of them ask for a white noise machine, which helps make all the energy “fuzzy.” Then when the loud noise comes at them, it gets absorbed just like tossing a stone into a windy pond versus still water. A smaller contingent asks for the Thunder Coats or a tight shirt. I’m not a dog trainer so I can’t tell you the “real” reason for them, but the dogs have said it helps to pull the energy in and almost deflect the noise. Hey, if it works, go for it, right? The majority of dogs try to explain to the owner how they can help using visualization. Imagine sending white light to the animal. Take a breath in from the sky or from the center of the earth. Fill your breath with that light, and then as you exhale, imagine surrounding the dog with pure light, a little protective bubble. It sounds crazy, but what do you have to lose? Try it! You can do this with children, any animal that seems nervous or scared, or even yourself. I have many blog posts that can help you with this exercise, or I can work with you to really figure out what would work best for your unique situation. In this fun summer season, ask your dog what it wants. A big wiggle or ear perk will let you know if you are on track! Celebrate this summer with family and friends and include the four legged friends in a safe way. If you know a loud storm is coming, practice the white light exercise and see what happens. It is free, simple, and may save you lots of stress and worry! 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
What summer travel precautions should I take with my dog?
Q
Now that it is summer, I have more time to play and go places with my dog. What precautions should I take with him at the beach and in the car?
A
With the nice weather it is great to be outside. Being active, eating local food, getting more sun, and relaxing is the best way to stay healthy for you and your companion. A little preparation is needed before you hop in the car and go to the beach or park. Here is a list of things to pack. This list may be too much or not enough depending on where you go and how long you are going to be gone. 1. Bring water. If you go to the ocean, this will help avoid drinking sea water which will cause vomiting and diarrhea. Sometimes drinking from strange water sources can cause illnesses from gastrointestinal upset to other diseases. 2. Bring a shade tent. You may like baking in the sun, but we don’t want to overheat your buddy. Providing shade, either by setting “camp” up under a shady tree or using a beach umbrella, is a must. If you don’t know the area, being over prepared will make a happier trip. 3. Bring a sponge and a bucket. If your dog doesn’t swim and he is getting hot,. wet him down to keep him cool. You can buy a “cool coat”. There are several models available online. The basic model is a mesh cloth with velcro straps that is soaked in water which the dog wears. 4. Bring poop bags. If we aren’t vigilant on keeping the parks clean, they will ban dogs. If stool isn’t picked up, you may expose your dog and children to intestinal parasites which is a health hazard, not to mention that stepping in it is not fun! 5. Bring chew toys like stuffed Kongs to occupy him while you enjoy your picnic.
6. Keep him on leash or long line. Not everyone wants Fido at his picnic or beach site. The best way to ruin an outing is having a rude dog kick sand all over you! 7. Keep your dog under control. Remember that your dog may be friendly, but others may not. Some dogs find it really rude having others their faces. run up and get into These dogs will yell at the rude dog to go away. You can also avoid your dog eating something he shouldn’t by keeping him on leash. 8. Bring a windshield screen. If it is warm and you need to leave Fido in the car, take these precautions. Get a windshield screen to reduce the heat Have the windows in the car. down a safe distance. Some dogs are Houdinis in getting out of windows. If this is a problem, have windows down to a safe level and have a b a t t e r y operated fan. You can get long lasting battery fans at places like Home Depot or auto part stores. There are metallic mesh sun screens. These screens are expensive and can be bought online at pet sites like Clean Run. A word of caution with sun screenspeople may become curious and want to explore what is under the screens. If they see your dog, they may panic and either break the window or call the police. Leave a note with your phone number so you may be contacted. 9. Leaving the air conditioning running in the car may work or it could be lethal to Fido. Most cars need to be running for the air conditioning to work. Some car models do have functional air conditioning when the car is turned off. You need to check your car manual to know for sure. The risks can be the air conditioning is blowing hot air, it breaks, or the car runs out of gas! Better to park in the shade and use a fan. Please remember, even with precautions like fans and windshield screens, leaving your dog in the car on a hot day can be deadly. Use your best judgement for your best friend! Be prepared to have a good time with your companion. Be considerate to others and the environment then many places will welcome you and your best friend on a wonderful summer day.
Judith K. Herman DVM, CVH Animal Wellness Center, Augusta, ME www.mainehomeopathicvet.com officeawc@roadrunner.com
Downeast Dog News
Summer Reading List For Hot Dog Days
Image courtesy of Tilbury House Publishers
by Kate Cone “A really companionable and indispensable dog is an accident of nature. You can’t get it by breeding for it, and you can’t buy it with money. It just happens along.” E.B. White Ahhh, they’re officially here, those dog days of summer. Is that term over-used? If I could think of another one, I’d use it. But for now, with my rather heated Golden Retriever panting next to my desk and three fans going and the curtains pulled shut and a trip to the lake on the agenda, I’ll stick to the old familiars. I’ve put together a summer reading list of books about dogs or that contain them in some way. My favorite places to read in this heat are libraries, bookstores, and by that lake I’m getting to later. So this summer, a book will be as constant a companion as my dog Henry. These are some new books that I think you’ll like, based on my interviews with booksellers, publishers and a scan of reviews. E.B. WHITE ON DOGS Published in May of this year by Maine’s own Tilbury House in Gardiner, E.B. White on Dogs, is already on its second printing.
One of my favorite writers and essayists, E.B. White, opined on all sorts of subjects. That was his job, an enviable one, as renowned columnist for The New Yorker Magazine among others. White’s granddaughter and manager of his literary estate, Martha White, has put together a collection of E.B.’s best and funniest letters, essays, poems, and sketches depicting over a dozen of White’s various canine companions. Previously unpublished photographs from the White estate show the family dogs from the first collie to various labs, Scotties, dachshunds, half-breeds, and mutts, all loved. “This is a book for readers and writers who recognize a good sentence and a masterful turn of a phrase; for E.B. White fans looking for more from their favorite author; and for dog lovers who may not have discovered the wit, style, and compassion of this most distinguished of American essayists.” Martha White will be making appearances to speak and sign books throughout the summer and fall. Check out her “Events” page on www.marthawhite.net. A DOG WALKS INTO A NURSING HOME: Lessons in the Good Life from an Unlikely Teacher by Sue Halpern. When the author was experiencing some major life changes, she decided to have her dog Pransky, a seven-year-old Labradoodle, go through training to become certified as a service dog. Her journey and Pransky’s are chronicled in this volume which assures laughter and tears. Read Julie Klam’s funny and feeling review in the New York Times at www.nytimes.com. Also view a great interview with the author and an excerpt from the book at Radio Boston, www.wbur.org. Plug in the title of the book into the search box.
BEG: A Radical New Way of Regarding Animals by Rory Freedman. The author of best-selling Skinny Bitch is back with a new book. Freedman states, “So many of us call ourselves animal lovers and worship our dogs and cats—but we could be using that love as a force for helping all animals. Beg is a battle cry on their behalf, as well as an inspirational, empowering guide to what we can do to help them.” Check out her website at www. roryfreedman.com. NEWBORN PUPPIES by Traer Scott. Chronicle Books: “Dog lovers who haven’t raised puppies from birth have missed out on one of the most remarkable and adorable times in a dog’s life. From one to twentyone days old, puppies undergo great changes, from needing their mothers’ complete care to opening their eyes and ears to the outside world, growing, stretching their legs, and learning to become the dogs that they are. Author/photographer… Traer Scott’s love of dogs shines through these intimate images of a range of breeds and types, from champion pups to shelter strays, all of them irresistible.” In the fiction realm, there are a few new books that look, well, fetching. First, there is the prolific Spencer Quinn, a writer from Cape Cod who has had great success with his series featuring Bernie and his dog Chet. Chet narrates these tales about his owner Bernie’s adventures as a private detective. If you like dogs, detective novels, and the chance to explore a new series in order, this will be a treat. Spencer’s new novel won’t appear until September, 2013, but he has several
others: Dog On It; Thereby Hangs a Tail; To Fetch a Thief; The Dog Who Knew Too Much and A Fistful of Collars. The Sound and the Furry will be out soon. The Patron Saint of Lost Dogs by Dr. Nick Trout. This is the fiction debut of veterinarian Nick Trout, who wrote Tell Me Where it Hurts and two other non-fiction books about his experiences caring for sick animals. Dr. Trout is a surgeon at Boston’s Angell Animal Medical Center. “After fifteen years, Dr. Cyrus Mills returns to rural Vermont to inherit The Bedside Manor for Sick Animals, the failing veterinary practice of his recently deceased and long-estranged father. Cyrus, a veterinary pathologist far more comfortable with cold clinical facts than living, breathing animals (not to mention their quirky, demanding owners), intends to sell the practice and get out of town as fast as he can. Then his first patient, a down-onher-luck Golden Retriever named Frieda Fuzzypaws, wags her way through the door, and suddenly life gets complicated. With the help of a Black Labrador gifted in the art of swallowing underwear, a Persian cat determined to expose her owner’s lover as a gold digger, and the allure of a feisty, pretty waitress from the local diner, Cyrus gets caught up in a new community and its endearing residents, both human and animal. Sensing he may have misjudged the past, he begins to realize it’s not just his patients that need healing.”
Kate Cone is a freelance writer and author who lives in Waterville, Maine. Kate welcomes comments and questions at kateconewrites@gmail.com
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travel from page 1 By Baxter
Dos & Don’ts When Traveling With Your Humans
Ah, the family trip. You want to go along with your humans…don’t you? They call ‘em cars; I call ‘em crates on wheels. You’re lucky if your family’s crate has a big flat area in the back to call your own. Of course you’re going to have to share it with boxes full of clothes and bags of shoes. You’ll have to circle around nudging things out of the way to build your little nest. That’s your place, and you have to make sure your humans don’t toss something in there when you are out for some fresh air. Let’s face it. A trip of any length can be really, really boring. Worse, just when you doze off the crate might lurch or a loud horn will go off or the smallish humans will start fighting with one another. Some do’s and don’ts: Do take your favorite toy – you never know when you’ll be left alone– you’ll need something in your mouth to greet your humans when they return. Do make them stop regularly. If they don’t, whine a little – whether you have to go or not. One of those loud stage yawns we do so well will help remind them you’re back here. If that doesn’t work, passing a little gas will empty the crate pretty quickly. Make sure your humans bring plenty of water for you – but don’t let them give it to you while the crate’s moving – unless you want to cool off in a puddle of water. Do make friends with fellow travelers – human and canine. Sometimes you can score an extra biscuit or something special like a piece of a doughnut. Do take every opportunity to get out of that crate and tag along as they walk through the woods or along the shore. This is what travelling is about – new scents, new friends, and exciting new things to roll in. Chow! Baxter
vistas, New England is the perfect venue for traveling with dogs. Our casual, outdoorsy culture supports a burgeoning dog-friendly hospitality industry with resorts, hotels, camps, and cabins to suit every budget and taste. A road trip with your dog is a great way to save money on fares and pet sitters, and you won’t have to leave your cherished companion behind. Before jumping in the driver’s seat with your best buddy riding shotgun, consider that a bit of planning will enhance your trip immeasurably. The biggest challenge on the road will be dealing with the things you can’t control--breakdowns, lost reservations, troublesome people (and sometimes their dogs), bad weather, and so on. You can balance these out by maintaining some constants and preparing for contingencies. • Routine—Dogs are creatures of habit. Your routine won’t be the same as it is at home, but you can build in some reassuring structure.
Stop for walks and bathroom breaks at the same time each day, and provide food and water at regular intervals. • Precautions—Have your car’s oil changed and fluid levels checked before you depart. Buy an AAA membership. I just can’t say enough good things about good old AAA. They’ll bring you gas, change a tire, and jump-start your car. The Premier membership package even gives 200 miles of free towing— invaluable when you’re out in the middle of nowhere and vital if you drive an older car. AAA also reimburses for rentals and gives discounts. Carry extra water, food, and bowls so that if you have to re-route or spend time waiting for a repair or a tow, your dog will be comfortable. A beach umbrella is handy in case of a breakdown in the hot sun—likewise a thermal blanket for winter travel. • Safety and Health—Make sure your dog is safely buckled into a vest harness (available from www. inthecompanyofdogs.com) in the back
See TRAVEL on page 10
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MAINE TV 85
Watch Going Places with Charlie & Penny Crockett
Maine-Made Collars Leashes Apparel Organic Treats Natural Toys
on Maine TV Channel 85 in Time Warner Cable
Going Places airs everyday at 9 AM, 7 PM , and 3 AM. On Wednesdays and Sundays, Going Places features an exciting auction from Thomaston Place Auction Galleries with auctioneer Kaja Veilleux.
Upcoming, Going Places shows will feature a tour of the USS San Antonio, led by the Commander and his Executive Officer; the Launch of the Fife Yacht Adventuress in Rockport Harbor; a float trip down the Upper Colorado River, a trip along the famed Route 66 and highlights of the National Toboggan Championships at the Camden Snow Bowl.
Going Places Goes to the Dogs Coming soon we will continue our series of shows dedicated to our furry friends.
Sports Fans, be sure to watch Camden Hills, Oceanside, and Medomak Valley High www.UncommonPaws.com
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School girls & boys basketball, wrestling, and ice hockey on Time Warner Cable, Maine TV CH 85 at 3 PM, 8 PM, and Midnight. Check our Facebook page, “C2 Productions” for the current listings of our Going Places shows and sports events.
Downeast Dog News
Basic Training Tips
3) Retrieve! There’s nothing like a good game of fetch to get a dog exercised! Train your dog to bring the ball all the way back to you!
by Diana Logan
Traveling With Our Best Friends Tips for safe and happy travels It can be fun and rewarding to include our dogs on family road trips. There are, however, certain things to keep in mind to ensure our canine companions are safe, their needs are met and it’s an enjoyable trip for everyone. First of all, it’s important to recognize whether or not your dog is an appropriate candidate for travel. Some dogs have fears or anxieties or other special needs physical or emotional - that make them unsuitable sidekicks. Because my interest lies in training and since it’s easy to find standard checklists for what to pack in your dog’s travel case in any Google search, I will focus here on specific skills that your dog can gain through training which will positively affect your travel experience.
4) Polite greetings. Your dog may be meeting lots of other humans on your trip – be proactive and teach your dog that he won’t get what he wants unless he has all four paws firmly planted on the ground.
1) Crate training. A crate is your dog’s home-away-from-home and makes travel much easier, whether in the car, at a hotel or a friend’s house. 2) Door etiquette. You can save your dog’s life by teaching him that an open door is not an open invitation.
5) Loose Leash Walking. Your dog may be confined to a leash for much of your trip, so be sure to train him how to walk nicely on leash or it will be a struggle every time you take him out of the car. Invest in a no-pull harness or a head halter to make things easier. 6) “Find it!” We love playing this game of “find the (you name it)!” Treats, toys or other items can be hidden and your dog can enlist help from his olfactory senses and find the item. This can turn new situations into a fun game.
7) Long-Line Exercises. This may seem a bit crazy, but with my background in horses, I got the wacky idea to train our younger dog, Astro, to work on a long line. Lungeing a horse involves a horse being at the end of a long line, working in a circle around the handler at and responding to cues. There is no pulling on the line. Dogs can learn this, too! Training is still in progress with Astro, but earlier this year I realized how useful it was when we stayed at a Hilton for 6 days. He was able to run nearly at full speed in a circle around me, on a long-line, on hotel grounds. He got excellent aerobic exercise both at the hotel and at rest stops along the way. Wacky but very practical! It’s hard to teach a dog the alphabet game, but easy to keep him busy with a chew toy! Be sure to bring along lots of interactive games for your pooch. Happy travels!
Diana Logan, CPDT-KA Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge-Assessed Pet Connection Dog Training, North Yarmouth, Maine www.petconnectionmaine.com 207-252-9352
Yankee Clipper Nominated! The crew at Yankee Clipper is proud to announce our nomination for a 2013 Cardinal Crystal Achievement Award! This award is arguably the most coveted award in the grooming industry! We are pleased and honored to have been selected by our peers on a national level to be one of the five nominees. The winner will be announced at Superzoo on July 25th in Las Vegas, NV.
Retail Pet Store Grooming Salon of the Year with 5 stores or fewer Criteria: Awarded to the groomer in a retail environment who maintains the highest standards of professionalism and customer service. Through actions, conduct, and interactions with the public, this groomer has proven to be a positive reflection on the industry and has engaged in activities that
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promote awareness and appreciation for grooming services among the pet owning public. Our own Daryl Connor has been nominated several times for Cardinal Crystal Awards and has won in the Journalism and Congenialty catagories. We hope that all of our friends in the grooming industry will cast their votes for us! Below is the link to the Cardi-
nal Crystal Award website and the ballot which needs to be sent in by July 3. You can also find it online at downeastdognews.com.http:// www.cardinalcrystalawards.com/ eballot_2012.htm
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Training Your Performance Dog Dog Agility: What’s It All About? Agility is a dog and handler sport that originated in England in 1978 as extra entertainment to fill in the time between events at the world famous Crufts dog show. The participants, their dogs, and the spectators all enjoyed it so much that a new dog sport began. Agility involves speed, physical challenges, strategy, communication, and teamwork. Each course is a numbered sequence of challenges which consist of tunnels, weave poles, a see saw, various jumps, a table, and different types of ramps such as the A-frame and dog walk. The course is to be completed in a specified time with a limited number of faults depending on the level of difficulty. Dogs run in classes based on their height at the withers.
Classes in AKC range from 4” to 26” jump heights. Classes in AKC begin with Novice and progress to Open, Excellent, and Masters. There are several agility organizations: AKC (American Kennel Club) akc. org USDAA (United States Dog Agility Association) USDAA.com NADAC (North American Dog Agility Council) NADAC.com CPE (Canine Performance Events) k9cpe.com All have similar classes and rules of competition and eligibility. For details and trials in your area, go to their websites. Puppies can be introduced to many agility skill building exercises, but as a ground rule, excessive training and competition should not
occur until the dog is mature and is no longer growing so as not to damage growth plates. Agility is a true team sport and with proper instruction can strengthen the bond between dog and handler. Agility has its foundation in some of the basic obedience components such as “wait”, “come”, stay with me”, and pay attention to me. Proper introduction and instruction in agility can boost confidence in puppies, shy and insecure dogs, and really build trust between dog and handler.
If you are looking for a fun and quality experience with your dog, consider agility. As with any new activity, it is important to remember that there is a lot to learn for you and your dog! Everyone, dogs included, learns at a different pace. Some will excel at doing an obstacle, and others will be cautious or reserved. This is where proper guidance, motivation, reward, and celebration come into play. If you are looking for a way to enhance your relationship with your dog, agility might just be for you. Through agility, you can increase your leadership abilities in a positive way and create more trust and confidence in your dog while both of you are enjoying the challenges of this sport. Next month we’ll talk about tracking with your dog. NOTE: Carolyn Fuhrer and her Goldens compete in AKC agility, and Carolyn is a certified White Mountain Agility Instructor.
Carolyn Fuhrer has earned over 75 AKC titles with her Golden Retrievers, including 2 Champion Tracker titles. You can contact her with questions, suggestions and ideas for her column by e-mailing carolyn@dogsatnorthstar.com.
207-935-1816
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Downeast Dog News
Dogs for Adoption Bella, 3.5 years , Jack Russell Mix
Allison, 3 yrs, Greyhound A retired racer, she is a pretty little brindle colored girl. She is cute, sweet and loves attention. FMI: Maine Greyhound Placement Service, 207-846-4707
A friendly and exciting gal who would love to have a new home where she can get lots of playtime. If you
are interested in adopting please contact The Animal Welfare Society at 207-985-3244 or visit us online at www.animalwelfaresociety.org Our Adoption Center is open from 11 AM to 7 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and from 11 AM to 4 PM Saturday and Sunday. We are closed on Wednesdays.
Sponsored by Full Circle Holistic Veterinary Clinic
Sponsored by Little River Veterinary Hospital
207-338-6700 81 Belmont Avenue, Belfast, ME
Dakota, 8 yrs, Rottweiler Mix
Very smart and intelligent boy who has a calm demeanor and would make a great fit to most any household. If you are interested in adopting please contact The Animal Welfare Society at 207-985-3244 or visit us online at www.animalwelfaresociety.org. Our Adoption Center is open from 11 AM to 7 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and from 11 AM to 4 PM Saturday and Sunday. We are closed on Wednesdays.
207-338-2909 1333 Atlantic Highway, Northport, ME
Alex, 1.5 yrs, Pit Bull
A people dog who enjoys a variety of activities and is a very sweet, gentle soul. If you are interested in adopting please contact The Animal Welfare Society at 207-9853244 or visit us online at www.animalwelfaresociety. org Our Adoption Center is open from 11 AM to 7 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and from 11 AM to 4 PM Saturday and Sunday. We are closed on Wednesdays.
Papa, 9 yrs, Chinese Crested Mix
Papa is a handsome senior Chinese Crested Powder Puff and by the appearance and texture of his coat, appears to be part Yorkshire Terrier. He is 9 years old and weighs 11 pounds. Due to advanced cataracts, Papa is blind. He likely has been without vision for some time. Once he has mapped his area and is familiar with his territory, he does amazingly well getting around. Papa coexists nicely with the other dogs in his foster home. He’s not a high energy guy, but enjoys roaming about, sniffing and cautiously exploring his environment. He is on a glucosamine supplement for luxated patellas, but is otherwise in good health. He has just a couple teeth left, but that does not prevent him from enjoying a semi soft diet. His potty habits are fair as long as he is kept on a schedule, but he is not housetrained. He does quite well on leash. He needs to be guided and encouraged a bit, but does enjoy a short walk. Living with Papa will give you a fresh outlook on life, as he will show you that despite the challenges life sends our way, there is still so much to enjoy! For more info about this special little man contact rockyroo56@yahoo.com. Papa is currently being fostered in Central Maine.
July 2013
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July C lendar
To submit or get more information on the events below, go online to downeastdognews.com Ready for my Close-Up
learn about Pet Care and Handling. The Children’s Museum is at 142 Free Street, Portland, Maine (207-828-1234). For more information, call Animal Welfare Society (www.animalwelfaresociety.org) at 9853244 x 117.
Bangor Fri. July 12 Debra Bell, owner of Bell’s Furry Friends Photography and Bell Imaging & Design, LLC, knows that family members don’t just have two legs. Sometimes they have four legs or even wings. And she’s sharing her knowledge and experience with the public on July 12 from 6-9 p.m. at the Sea Dog Brewing Company on 24 Front Street in Bangor, through a special grand opening event: “Ready for my Close-Up.” For more information call Bell at 207356-2353 or visit “Bell’s Furry Friends Photography” online at Facebook. The company website is bffpetphotos.com. Also see the press release on page 2.
Pet Community Event at Bridgton Vet
Adoptable Dogs In Biddeford
Biddeford Sat. July 13 The Animal Welfare Society Mobile Adoption Team will visit PetSmart, 208 Mariner Way in Biddeford Crossing with adoptable dogs from 11 - 1. For more information, call Animal Welfare Society (www.animalwelfaresociety.org) at 9853244 or PetSmart at 283-6546.
Adoptable Dogs In S. Portland
South Portland Sat. July 20 Join the Animal Welfare Society Mobile Adoption Team and visit with some adoptable canines at the Pet Life at Mill Creek, 50 Market St., South Portland from 11 - 1. For more information, call Animal Welfare Society at 985-3244 (www. animalwelfaresociety.org) or the Pet Life at 207-799-7282 (http://petlifestores.com).
Two furry park-goers patiently wait to be let off-leash at the opening of the Brunswick Dog Park!
July Maine UKC Conformation Shows
Augusta Sat. July 20 - Sun. July 21 Sat. July 20th through Sun. July 21st. at the beautiful Capitol Park in Augusta, Maine. Acadia Belgian Shepherd Club of Maine to hold 3 UKC conformation shows ~day of show entry registration Sat. AM (8:00) & PM (12:00) and Sun. AM (8:00). for Chinooks, Australian Shepherds, English Springer Spaniels, and Four Variety Belgian Shepherds, Junior Showmanship all classes. Shows begin at 9:00 and 1:00. All entries must have UKC registration or Temporary registration number. For UKC Rules and Registration go to www. UKCdogs.com. FMI: debbycatell@yahoo. com or belgians@comcast.net
Annual Summer Bash Yard Sale
Saco Sat. July 20 Say hello to the AWS volunteers at the Annual Summer Bash Yard Sale from 9am to 2pm at Animal Medical Associates on Route 1 in Saco (838 Portland Road, Saco, ME 04072) to support local shelters and rescues. Donations are being accepted at AMA after June 1, call Jocelyn at 282-5151.
AWS at the Portland Children’s Museum
Portland Sat. July 20 Join the Animal Welfare Society of West Kennebunk Humane Educator and a shelter pet at the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine on Free Street in Portland for a hands-on program about animal care and handling from 10:30 -11:30. Meet some great animals and
Bridgton Sun. July 21 We are so excited to be hosting our FIFTH Annual Pet Community Event at Bridgton Veterinary Hospital. We have tons of new exhibitors and vendors this year, along with working dog demonstrations by Saco River Hunting Retriever Club and Tailfeathers Upland Store. There will be the opportunity for you and your own dog and try your hand at a Rally Course! We will be raffling off a great dog print quilt to benefit our in house charity, The Rusty Fun. Please consider joining us and these other great organizations for a really fun afternoon. Event will be from 12:00PM-2:00PM. FMI: www.bridgtonvets. com/site/view/54544_Home.pml or email leah@bridgtonvets.com.
Do you have an upcoming event? Send me the info and I’ll add it to this page. Non-Profits are Free, Business $15 per month, or Free with ad running in present month. katie@downeastdognews.com
CALL AHEAD!
Event schedules are subject to change. Contact individual event organizers to confirm times and locations. Downeast Dog News is not responsible for changes or errors.
Add your events TODAY on http://downeastdognews.villagesoup.com/calendar/. It's free, fast & easy!
travel from page 6 seat or enclosed in a secured crate haven’t changed their policies, and when you are driving. You should map out your rest stops at reasonable carry copies of vaccination and health intervals. records, your regular vet’s phone There are many clever accessories number, and contact information available online and in local pet for at least two vets on your route. supply stores. For example, wetnose. Have your dog com offers a water wear a collar and bowl that fits into tags even if he a car’s cup holder doesn’t at home. for $19.99. Seat Sadly, dogs are covers are a good sometimes stolen, investment if your so keep your dog likes to play in dog leashed and the water and mud. by your side. Outdoor outfitters Microchipping is such as LL Bean cheap and easy. carry a huge array of It can be done by different styles and your vet at any prices. routine visit and For more useful is also offered and detailed at the Rockland information, I Pet Quarters’ recommend these monthly Wellness comprehensive Clinic for $40.00. websites-All buckled up! Bring a supply • aaa.com of any regular medications, as well Get AAA’s Pet Book for $18.95 as any regular food and treats. A from your local AAA office or online basic first-aid kit should include aloe or local bookseller ($9.99 for the for insect bites, alcohol wipes, and digital edition from Amazon, iTunes antibacterial ointment. Always pack store, or bn.com). It is chock full a couple of familiar toys and some of helpful information on traveling towels. It’s smart to call ahead at with your pet, including 14,000 AAA pet-friendly hotels to make sure they approved and Diamond-rated hotels,
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campgrounds, emergency clinics, and dog parks. AAA also has a mobile app for smartphone or tablet. Minimally, check out their page on the AAA site which lists links, tips and resources to make your trip easier and safer. Direct your browser to petspot.aaa.com. The Pet Book also runs an annual photo contest. Submit your dog’s photo for a chance to have it appear in the next year’s edition! • Newenglanddogtravel.com Just a fabulous website with every kind of information and travel tip you can think of for seeing New England with your best friend including thoughts on whether it’s the right choice for you. I can’t recommend this site enough. • dogfriendly.com Covers the entire country and even worldwide travel with dogs. Includes maps, customs’ information, hotels, beaches, leash laws, Top 10 DogFriendly Regions (including Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park!), parks, hiking, car rentals, natural and organic travel...you name it. There’s also a blog that’s worth following. For a guide to Maine Beaches and Trails, see the back cover of the paper to order the Maine Dog Parks Guide to dog-friendly beachs and trails.
Also look for petMAINE, a travel guide dedicated to exploring all of Maine’s dog-friendly sites, hotels and restaurants. Happy Trails!
Downeast Dog News
Business Directory Midcoast
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North Star Dog Training Carolyn Fuhrer North Star Farm at Somerville Somerville, Maine 207-549-4613
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Private and Small Group Lessons in Obedience, Agility and Tracking Create The Team You Need For Success! For details, visit dogsatnorthstar.com
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Bangor
CIRRA from page 3 title is awarded to a Great Pyrenees who has completed 800 hours of service in three different venues. Cirra’s Animal Assisted Therapy and Activities currently include her Children Reading to Cirra Program and therapy dog visits to Birch Bay Retirement Village. The Children Reading to Cirra Program provides a relaxed, comfortable, safe, nonjudgmental, empowering, and fun environment to encourage the love of reading and improve reading skills. Readers learn how to interact safely around dogs and about responsible dog ownership. Children that read to Cirra develop special relationships
July 2013
with the soft, big, white fluffy girl. Learning is enriching and fun with Cirra’s breed cards, word puzzles, activity books, and her Alphabet Book. C is for Cirra, a photographic alphabet book featuring Cirra’s life from puppyhood to adulthood, is a favorite book. Cirra has a mail basket at the library for children to leave her special notes and drawings if they wish. Her small, stuffed “Cirra” in a tote bag is also available for checkout for children to read to “Cirra” at home. Cirra rewards her readers with Cirra bookmarks with tassels of her spun fur, stickers, paw print pencils, and special books to take home.
Cirra and Robyn Douglas currently offer the Children Reading to Cirra Program at the Northeast Harbor Library. In 2012 and 2013, Cirra also participated in the Idita-Read, an incentive reading program for school age children sponsored by the Downeast Dog Scouts at several schools and libraries. Last summer, campers at Camp Beech Cliff had the opportunity to read to Cirra one afternoon a week during the last session of the day. Cirra continues to be involved in many additional children’s literacy activities by visiting various libraries and schools for special events. As a therapy dog team, Cirra and Denise Houseknecht visit the Pleasant Cove and Safe Harbor Assisted Living units at Birch Bay Village in Bar Harbor. Cirra provides emotional support and canine companionship for the residents who enjoy dogs. The staff of Birch Bay Village also enjoys Cirra’s visits, and visitors are quite thrilled to meet the beautiful big white dog that they have heard so much about. Cirra also garners attention when she occasionally escorts residents as they walk outdoors on the grounds. Over the past five years, Cirra has made therapy dog visits at two hospitals, a nursing care facility and Birch Bay Village. Great Pyrenees are confident,
gentle, and affectionate. As a livestock guardian breed, the Great Pyrenees is matchless. They are known for their keen intellect and they bore quickly with repetitious training. The heritage of the Great Pyrenees breed is to think independently with a reserved confidence when assessing threats to their flock. Forever observant, Cirra demonstrates the instinctive guardian characteristics of the breed and has assimilated into the human world as a therapeutic assistant. She is truly an exceptional ambassador for her breed! Cirra, Glimmer’s Spirit of Acadia, is eight years old and lives on Mount Desert Island with her owners Robyn Douglas and Denise Houseknecht. She clearly demonstrates that a Great Pyrenees can learn and fully participate when given opportunity and devotion from the owners. Cirra may be seen out for a daily walk, enjoying a boating trip, shopping at Bark Harbor, exploring a hiking trail, dining on the lawn at the Jordan Pond House, and quite often getting her picture taken. She has taught many to love and respect the unique characteristics of the Great Pyrenees breed. Cirra has represented the Great Pyrenees breed with distinction and has lived up to her name in every respect as Glimmer’s Spirit of Acadia.
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