September 2016 Downeast Dog News

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For more information or to Register visit:

$20 Pre-Registration $25 Day of Event

All Proceeds go towards the care of Homeless Animals!

8am Registration, 9am start Live music, food, vendors, and more until 2pm

September 17th, Harbor Park, Rockland

Walk.

Run. Rescue.

Whisker Walk, 5k, & Family Fun Day

Basic Training Tips

INSIDE 2 6

By Julie Harris What do you do with a Brittany that is intelligent, athletic, soft, birdy, has field championship points, and title potential but is too independent to keep field trialing her? Channel that energy into fly-

Hot Dog News

Photo Credit: Chris Livingston

Volume 11 • Issue 9 • September 2016

Pet Cremation & Memorials

8&9

Calendar of Events

14

See Flyball on page 5

old. When my soft Sassy steps into the flyball lanes, she is a confident machine with a job.

Sassy is a member of the North American Flyball Association in terms of points, and we participate in tournaments throughout New England and Atlantic Canada, but

Rescue of the month

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ball! At least, that is what worked for my Brittany Sassy.

J & A’s Sassafras Rose Harris CGC is 10 years old and has earned her ninth title in flyball having earned her Onyx title on Nov. 2, 2013. She has been competing since she was about 14 months old and training for it since she was about 9 months

Flyball Can be a Good Choice for Dog Athletes

DowneastDogNews.com

FRE E

Hot Dog News

S

MAINE WIENERFEST IN BELFAST

cheduled for Sunday, September 11, this waterfront event at Steamboat Landing Park is a celebration of dachshunds, those “little dogs with big personalities” and the people who love them. Anyone who enjoys dogs will enjoy the antics at the Wienerfest.

Now in its thirteenth year this year’s event is a fundraiser for the Belfast Dog Park and PAWS Animal Adoption Center. As usual it will feature the familiar activities of a grand parade, races and a hilarious costume contest.

There will be raffle opportunities to win dog-related prizes and for the first time there will be a hot dog cooking competition.

The Maine Wienerfest will be held rain or shine, beginning at 11 am and concluding at 3 pm. Gates open at 10:30am. Admission is $2 for adults.

Children under 10 years old and dogs are free. Food booths and dog related vendors will be available on the site. No dog or puppy sales are permitted.

The full schedule of events is posted at www.friendsofbelfastparks.org and www.pawsadoption.org. For more information about the Maine Wienerfest, call 207-338-2160.

Kate Dutra Recertified as Professional Dog Trainer

Bangor - Kate Dutra, Operations Manager and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer at the Green Acres Kennel Shop in Bangor, has been recertified as a professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), an internationally recognized certification program for professional dog trainers. Certificants must recertify with the CCPDT every three years, documenting a minimum of thirty-six hours of continuing Photo Credit: Debra Bell education in CCPDT approved courses.

Dutra has been a manager and professional dog trainer at Green Acres Kennel Shop since 1992. She supervises all Green Acres staff and works with co-owner Don Hanson on pet behavior cases. Kate’s extensive knowledge of animal behavior, especially body language and group play, has helped many clients and dogs in the community. She has presented several seminars on canine body language in Maine.

Canine Trainer Earns CPCFT Title, Offers Fitness Classes

BUXTON Rebeccah Aube of Paws & Ink! Dog Training successfully completed the Fenzi Dog Sport Academy’s gold standard fitness training program to earn the title of Certified Professional Canine Fitness Trainer.

As a result, Rebeccah is certified

to teach fitness and conditioning for all dogs of all ages, from the canine athlete to the canine couch surfer and puppy to senior. Through her Canine Fitness program, she teaches owners how to help their dogs stretch and develop muscle, find

their individual strengths,build confidence and maintain a healthy weight.

Her instruction is not physical therapy or medical rehabilitation, which must be obtained through canine medical professionals.

Rebeccah offers group classes

and private lessons at Finish Forward Dogs in Saco, Maine, and is available to conduct workshops in requested areas. Contact Rebeccah Aube, CPCFT, at bex@pawsink. com for more information.

More Hot Dog News on page 3

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Wag It Games Downeast Dog News

Downeast Dog News Publisher Jenn Rich

Graphic Designer Scott Benner Copy Editor Belinda Carter Contributors Susan Spisak Diana Logan Sara Moore Judith Herman Carolyn Fuhrer Don Hanson Julie Harris Nancy Holmes Marcia Welch Advertising Jenn Rich 207-230-0260 ext. 6 jenn@downeastdognews.com

From the Publisher Dear Dog News Readers, next year’s fair. I think As I write this letter, I am she has some potengearing up for the Paws for tial. She can certaina Cause event in Freeport ly jump vertically, my which is organized by the little kangaroo dog; Coastal Humane Society. now I just need to get This should be an exciting her to launch forward. day, and so far the weathI think my previous er forecast appears to be dog, Reilly, would have in our favor, but you know been a contender! how it goes in Maine. . .

As the weather Fingers crossed! begins to cool down a For those of you who folbit and Fall approachlow us on Facebook, you es, Pepper and I are may have seen the photos Pepper enjoying a swim at camp. looking forward to and videos I posted from getting in some hiking. the Dock Dogs event at the Union Fair. Summer has been pretty busy, and many I had never been to one but had always days were just too hot and humid to hike. wanted to go. It was really fun to watch, Swimming seemed the better plan, and and I’m hoping we can get our dock in next Pepper did plenty of that on our latest year so I can practice with Pepper before vacation. We went to another camp in

“Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole”

President

Reilly jumping off dock at the lake.

Surry with our family at the beginning of August. She swam every day for hours except for one gray, raining day that she slept most of the day. I didn’t know it was possible to wear this dog out, but it actually happened! We were all sad to leave and especially for Miss Pepper.

Have a great September!

All the best, Jenn & Pepper

- Roger Caras (photographer and writer)

Wendi Smith

Parent & Publishing Company Maine Pet News LLC

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COPYRIGHT 2006-2016 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.

More Hot Dog News Downeast Dog News - October Adopt-A-Dog Issue In our next issue we will be offering special ads for Rescues and Shelters that would like to be a part of the center spread. Please contact Jenn for pricing 230-0260 x6 or jenn@downeastdognews.com.

Sponsors wanted - We will be featuring more adoptable dogs in this issue and are looking for sponsors for the adoption listings. This may be any business or individual. The cost of a sponsorship is $55 and the sponsorship will include your name, address, phone and website or you may choose to remain anonymous. $10 from each sponsorship will be donated to one of our participating rescues which will be selected at random.

Tell us your story! Lastly, if you have a great adoption story please send it in and we will select one to be printed in the October Adoption issue.

Max. 400 words. You may mail it to Downeast Dog News, Contact Jenn for B&W and Color options.

Attn: Jenn, 266 Meadow St., jenn@downeastdognews.com, 207-230-0260 x6 Rockport, ME 04856 or jenn@ downeastdognew.com.

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Sept. 19th.

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Contact Jenn Rich (207) 230-0260 ext. 6 or jenn@downeastdognews.com

September 2016

Table of Contents Hot Dog News ................................ 2 Furry Words ..................................... 4 Ask the Vet......................................... 4 Basic Training Tips ......................... 6 Ask Bammy....................................... 7 Lost Dog Recovery........................... 7 Pet Cremations & Memorials...... 8 Performance Dog Training......... 10 Words, Woofs & Meows .............. 11 Nosework.......................................... 12 Rescue of the month ................... 12 Dogs for Adoption........................ 13 Calendar of Events ....................... 14 Business Directory ........................ 15

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Furry Words Sara Moore, www.enlightenedhorizons.com

A few times I’ve shed some tears or choked them back, but it’s rare, and it allows me to do my job. I do my best to wrap the sadness with compassion and offer insight into This past week I have done read- the lessons being presented to you ings for so many people with miss- through whatever it is you are exing animals, dogs that are ready to periencing.

Something else I have to tell you is cross the rainbow bridge, and surthat your animals don’t fear death. I viving animals that the owners fear are missing a doggie companion on haven’t met any who have said oththe other side. It has been amazing erwise, and they are so excited to and rewarding from the psychic “go home” when it’s their time that perspective to help these people they are surprised and sometimes find peace during what can be the offended when you ask them if they most devastating part of life and to forgive you for assisting the process. facilitate healing through commu- Yes, I just said offended. From their nication with the animal’s spirit. perspective, they have fulfilled their My job is anything but normal, and life purpose. It may have been a short journey, or in the case of one I absolutely love that!

First, I have to tell you that when client I just read, a long journey of I do a reading for someone in 17 years of companionship with her mourning or sobbing through the Chow. But when it’s their time, they call, I have to check out emotion- are grateful to be free of aching bodally. Believe me, my heart aches ies and illness. Some who just simfor each and every one of you, but ply can’t integrate after all options I would be completely ineffective if have been exhausted are also all I allowed myself to feel your pain right when they are able to be free during the call. This allows me to from the frustrations of this world. deliver messages about end of life That being said, if they aren’t ready, decisions, missing animals that I they are more than happy to let you don’t feel are still alive, or things know that, too! Luckily, for both of that I know may be hard to accept. us, they will tell you what approach

to take, and then you can work with the trainers and veterinarians to formulate a plan. When you ask me, “Does my dog forgive me for putting them down,” the dog’s reaction is usually confusion because he can’t understand why you would think it was a bad thing. The dog is grateful to be free. Always.

The other popular question is, “How will I know he’s around?” This varies from dog to dog (and human spirit to human spirit), but more often than not, he does stick around energetically and makes visits to say hello. I love helping you figure out his signs! Sometimes one shin or foot may get tingly or warm, and that’s a dog’s spirit sitting there as if he were alive. A whoosh of goosebumps also is indicative of energy around you. Random toys showing up in the middle of the floor or on a table can be a gift from him. One of my favorites is when a surviving dog or cat is comfortably snuggled on a bed and suddenly wakes up, gives you a look like, “Did you see that?” and then gets up and walks away slightly annoyed because the spirit dog has decided it wants to give his old bed a try. Some of you may actually see a flash or think you

saw him and you probably did! If you wake up because you heard his bark, say good morning to him. He is letting you know he is all right.

The bottom line is animals are grateful for the time they got to spend with you and will probably choose to check in with you from the afterlife. It’s a beautiful place, and yes, they will be there to greet you when your time comes. They can hear you when you talk out loud to them or in your head. I can certainly help you figure out how to “hear” their side of the conversation if you can’t. For animals, death is simply a continuation of life, and they never fear it. Time there is different from ours, so when you ask if they miss you, I can almost guarantee the answer is, “Why would I miss you? I’m right here and I’ll see you soon!”

Sara Moore of Enlightened Horizons has an office in North Conway, NH and is available for phone and Skype readings as well. FMI go to www.enlightenedhorizons.com, text or call (603)662-2046, and her email is enlightenedhorizons@ gmail.com. She is also available for private parties and fundraisers.

surgery to untwist the stomach, assess its viability ( the health of the stomach wall) and to secure the stomach so future twists will not occur. If Fido has surgery, there is concern of possible post op issues.

Your veterinarian will watch him closely for a bleeding disorder called DIC, heart arrhythmias, stomach ulcerations and perforations, and damage to the pancreas and liver.

Genetic predisposition plays a part in increasing chances of bloat.

Certain breed lines have a much higher incidence of bloat than other lines. It is so common in some breed lines that breeders require the new owner to have the stomach surgically tacked to the abdominal wall when the pup is spayed. Male dogs and dogs over 7 years of age have a higher risk than dogs 2 to 4 years or females. Sometimes bloat is caused by other abdominal diseases; this is seen in breeds unlikely to bloat.

Though we don’t know the true cause of bloat, what we do have control over as guardians are environmental issues. The most common is feeding a dry kibble and

then exercising your companion.

Some brands of dry kibble expand in the stomach which can cause problems. Eating one meal a day, running and playing after eating or drinking, drinking after eating, eating rapidly, excessive retrieving in water, and stress are other reasons for bloating.

If your dog is at risk, what you can do to try and prevent bloat is to have a good relationship with your veterinarian and know where the closest emergency clinic is.

Large dogs should be fed two to three times a day. Water should be available at all times but limited immediately after eating. Vigorous exercise, excitement, and stress should be avoided one hour before and two hours after meals. This will allow time for the food to move from the stomach. Diet changes should be done gradually.

Susceptible dogs should be fed alone in a quiet area.

Ask the Vet . . . Bloat

Dr. Judith Herman

Q

My best friend’s dog just bloated and almost died.

How can my dog avoid this tragedy?

A

Bloat is a serious problem for any breed but worse in deep chested dogs, such as, Great Danes, German Shepherds, Setters, and St. Bernards to name a few.

Bloat in dogs is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary care. Also known as gastric dilatation, gastric dilatationvolvulus (GDV), gastric torsion and twisted stomach, bloat can cause rapid clinical signs and death in several hours.

Symptoms exhibited in this condition are: distended abdomen, unsuccessful belching and vomiting,

4

retching without producing anything, excessive salivation, weakness, shortness of breath, cold body temperature, pale gums, rapid heart rate, and collapse.

Even with immediate treatment, 25% to 40% of the patients die, so immediate action is paramount.

Once you get to the veterinarian, he will assess Fido and decompress the stomach either by passing a stomach tube and/ or placing a needle in the stomach to release the air and decrease the pressure. He will place an I/V catheter with fluids, pain medicine, and antibiotics to treat for shock, run blood work to assess the patient status, and radiograph the abdomen to assess what exactly is going on with the stomach. Once Fido is stable, the veterinarian can see what is going on in the abdomen.

The prognosis and treatment plan will be presented to you.

Treatment can be as simple as removing the gas, if the stomach hasn’t twisted, and giving medicine to cut down on gas production until the cause of the problem is resolved.

The stomach can be partially or completely twisted. This means

Judith K. Herman DVM, CVH Animal Wellness Center Augusta, ME www.mainehomeopathicvet.com

Downeast Dog News

FLYBALL from page 1 there are tournaments all over North America.

Flyball is a dog relay race that pits two teams of four dogs against each other in a timed race. The dogs run in relay. Sassy can run anywhere in the lineup, but some dogs are faster in the start position or the last position because they like the head to head racing of start or the energy of being the team anchor.

A dog from each team runs down a 51-foot-long mat-covered lane leaping over four jumps whose height is determined by the shortest dog on the team, then jumps against a spring-loaded box that releases a tennis ball which the dog catches, and then runs back across the jumps again to the start line.

The ideal situation is for the returning dog and the departing dog on your team to cross the start line at the same time. Sassy can perform this in an average of 5.4 seconds.

Other dogs on the team may go faster or slower, but the captain tries to assemble groups of dogs that can earn points toward titles. Depending on the number of members who can attend a given tournament, our club could compete with anywhere from one to four teams of dogs During competition, the team of four dogs that finishes the relay in the fastest time wins the heat. Each “race” has at least three heats. Dogs can accumulate lots of points toward titles even if the team loses to its opponent as long as the team’s total heat time is less than 24 seconds. Lesser points are earned as the race time creeps up.

Host clubs often provide prizes for participating teams, but the biggest prize is the fun you get to have with your dog. Any breed of dog can play flyball, and it’s a great way to channel some high-energy dogs in a positive way.

Our team has border collies, a bearded collie, Australian shepherds, Brittanys, a dalmation, various terriers, papillons, Labradors, and several mixed breeds. Rescues, shelter dogs, and purebreds all can compete.

The game is taught in pieces. Dogs learn to recall, and that is reinforced throughout training no matter what

else we are working on. Then they are taught to cross the jumps, and the recall and the jumps are combined.

Next the dogs learn to jump on the spring-loaded box using a swimmer’s turn, which distributes their weight more evenly on the box and reduces the risk of injury. The ball is added to the box training, and the dog learns to jump on the box and catch the ball. Finally, it is all put together, and the dog works on doing these tasks within a team and with dogs in the next lane.

Flyball can be as fun or as seriously competitive as you want to make it. Some flyball people are so serious

about it that they are trying to breed for the perfect flyball dog. The record time for a heat is 14.433 by a regular team named Border Patrol on June 5, 2016, and 14.852 by a multibreed team named Rocket Relay on July 25, 2015.

I participate in the sport for the fun, as does our flyball club, Flyball MAINEiacs based in southern Maine.

The team was started in 2004 by Monica Roberts, and the current captain is Rebeccah Aube. Our team is one of two in Maine, the other being Maine Coast Runners. We have 16 active members, plus various spouses of members and a few less active members who participate in club activities. We practice once or twice a month. Practices can be a challenge as our members are widely scattered geographically. I drive two hours each way to attend a two to three-hour practice.

We also do demonstrations at other types of events – you will find us next at Bark in the Park in Gardiner on Sept. 10 -- and conduct fundraisers, including a raffle at our annual tournament.

Flyball MAINEiacs puts on the only

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flyball tournament in Maine the first weekend in November each year. This year’s tournament will be on Nov. 5 and 6 at the YMCA in Boothbay.

My Brittany Sassy is an athlete and a very serious competitor, and I often say I am extraneous to her being able to play flyball. I provide treats and transportation and get out of her way!

Sassy loves the team aspect of the sport. When we encounter team members or gather for a practice, demonstration, or other flyball-related event, Sassy’s countenance totally changes.

She becomes “Sassafras Rose, Flyball Dog,” and she walks in a confident way that’s almost a swagger of sort with her stubby tail wagging nonstop.

That confidence carries over into the flyball lanes, where my soft, usually in the background kind of Brittany strains at her flyball collar, eager to do her part in the race. My quiet girl becomes so excited, she barks and pulls against her restraints. And when I finally let go of her, she takes off like a bullet, honing in on her target of a tennis ball and her mission of returning with it fast so the next dog can go.

Sassy didn’t always retrieve a tennis ball. She wouldn’t have anything to do with tennis balls when we first began to train and then play. She didn’t like the feel of a tennis ball in her mouth, so after trying several different kinds of balls, we settled on a racquet ball.

She used those for a couple years, and then we were able to substitute a tennis ball.

The funny thing is that Sassy does not like to play with tennis balls outside of flyball. A tennis ball is necessary for her to play the game, so she accepts it as part of the equipment.

Although flyball is not an American Kennel Club sport, the AKC in 2012 decided to acknowledge flyball as a

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dog sport and now issues a certificate for a fee for four of NAFA’s regular titles. The highest title AKC recognizes is “Onyx,” which is the accumulation of 20,000 points. Sassy obtained that title in 2013. She is about 3,000 points from her next title which recognizes 30,000 points.

The titles give us milestones to work toward, but the only reason for me to play flyball with Sassy is the fun we have together. She loves this sport, and as long as she loves it, we will play it.

I have three more Brittanys that are in various stages of flyball training, but flyball isn’t their primary sport.

They all have been in conformation and field events too. CH J & A’s High Caliber Harris Special SH, CGC, call name Bullet, at 7 also is competing. He earned his Flyball Dog Champion-Silver, the accumulation of 1,000 points, on April 30, 2016.

GCH CH J & A’s Sisters of the Heart JH, call name Thistle, has been in training to play flyball and hopefully will be competing soon. Thistle is 5, and she seems to love the game. My puppy, J&A’s Heart of Seumas, call name Quincy, is 2 and just learning the different individual elements of flyball.

He’s not ready to put it all together.

But for my girl Sassy, flyball is where she shines. She’s no slouch in the field either, but flyball gives her confidence, a circle of friends that is really hers, and some special time with me.

The Flyball MAINEiacs practice is at Mainely Agility in Raymond, ME. Classes are taught by Rebeccah Aube in Saco at Finish Forward Dogs, and information can be found at www. pawsink.com For more information about the Flyball MAINEiac visit us at www.maineflyball.com.

Catherine Sanders D.V.M. Appointment

207-784-1726

www.taylorbrookanimalhospital.com 33 Millett Drive • Auburn, ME

5

Basic Training Tips

by Diana Logan

But have you tried science?

When “tried everything” fails.

As a professional dog trainer, I frequently hear frustrated dog owners exclaim, “I’ve tried everything!” For any given struggle we are having with our beloved dogs, there is a plethora of solutions to be found from a myriad of sources, including a friend, coworker, a random internet search, etc. Since dog training isn’t a regulated industry (many of us wish it were), anyone can claim proficiency in dog training and offer up anything under the sun as a solution with no actual basis for it. It can be a messy quagmire of contradictions. Take the game of tug, for example. I was recently listening to a woman talk about the several trainers she’d worked with, each of whom had different viewpoints about the game of tug.

“Tug will make your dog aggressive.” “If you play tug with your dog, you always have to win.” “Tug will make your dog ‘alpha.’” And so on. What is one to think?

Stop. Take a deep breath and back

away from the situation for a moment; you need to see the whole picture. It doesn’t have to be as complicated as we make it out to be. We have a tendency to add significant emotional murk to the waters when we cling to concepts of dominance and submission or just plain forget that Psychology 101 also applies to our dog friends. If dogs are truly showing dominance when they pull on leash or go through doors before us, they should be ruling the

world by now, and there would be no climate change. We need to start thinking about the science of behavior and how we can, on a daily basis, apply it to our relationship with our dogs. We all benefit from it!

Rule #1: Consequence Drives Behavior. This means that it doesn’t matter what you say or do before the behavior occurs; if the consequence for the behavior is relevant to the dog, that’s what will affect future behavior even if it conflicts with what you were saying. For instance, we are always telling our dogs “stay” yet most of the time, they break position before we want them to.

Okay, now that you’ve taken a step back, do these things: 1. Identify the problem behavior (maybe it’s counter surfing) 2. Identify the reward (“seeking,” hunting, or actually scoring items) 3. Remove the reward for that behavior (physically keep dog from accessing counters and keep all food items out of reach of dog) 4. Identify a different behavior that you would like the dog to do (enjoy “floor activities,” stay in a specific zone)

5. Set up your dog’s situation so he wants to do that new behavior (add relevance to the floor through games, treat-dispensing toys, chew toys, other) 6. Reward the new behavior generously (food, games, whatever!)

7. Be ready to tweak your approach!

Behavior does not happen in a vacuum; dogs always have a reason for doing what they do despite what we might think. We accuse them of being “stubborn”, but that’s an indication that we have not fully explored ways in which to convey to them the behavior we do want. Sometimes this means getting creative and really coming at the issue from the dog’s point of view.

I would be very pleased if you would send me a list of the top 3 behavior challenges you have with your dog - I might feature them in my next article.

You can contact me through my website. I look forward to hearing from you!

Please visit the on-line version of the paper to read my handout on teaching your dog the rules of tug.

Happy Training!

Diana Logan, CPDT-KA Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge-Assessed Pet Connection Dog Training, North Yarmouth, Maine www.dianalogan.com 207-252-9352

207-878-3121

Dr. Marta Agrodnia, DVM, DACVS

Located near exit 48 off 95 739 Warren Ave., Portland, ME

24 hours, 7 days a week animalemergencyclinicportland.com

998-3358

www.beespetsitting.com Over 14 years of experience - licensed and insured. Let your pets enjoy a "stay-cation" while you're away! Daily home visits, walks and over night care. Plus cat/small animal boarding at my home in Casco.

Read anytime at: www.downeastdognews.com 6

Downeast Dog News

Helpful Tips from Maine Lost Dog Recovery

MISSION STATEMENT “Our mission is to help lost dogs in Maine find their way home. Our purpose is charitable in nature, aiming to prevent animal suffering by empowering and coaching families to provide them with the tools and the knowledge to bring their lost dog home safely.”

To report a lost dog go to our facebook page and click on the yellow REPORT A LOST DOG button. A volunteer will respond. We will post information on our page and create a flyer to be sent to the owner to hang. We encourage families to keep in contact with us with any updates and we are proactive in reaching out to families to offer support during this very difficult time.

Our WEB page is under construction until we can find a volunteer to keep it up and running!

We presently have 16 volunteers. Our volunteers do page administration or field work and some do both.

• Have a collar with ID tags on your dogs at all times. (Collar tags are good as they do not get caught up or fall off the collar. Rivet or slide on tags are great) • Microchip your dog (in addition to a collar with tag) and register with the microchip company. Make sure to keep information updated when you move or change tel#. Out of date microchips are useless. A microchip is not a GPS tracking device. It must be scanned by an Animal Control Office, Animal Shelter

Ask Bammy

An Advice Column for Dogs by a Dog I am a Carolina Dog, a breed that long ago owned Native American people. We were designed by natural selection to be so intelligent and physically superior that we survived without human help. My great-grandfather was caught from the wild. I can offer advice based on the natural instincts and attributes of wild dogs. In addition, my adoptive person and I have had lots of training classes and other experiences.

Some humans call themselves Mom or Dad of their dog, but, tongue in cheek, I call my human Boss. Much as I love my human, I admit she has many of the same odd notions as most humans, so I can relate to other pet dogs with problem humans. Please send your

September 2016

or Veterinarian. This chip can greatly enhance the chances of your dog being reunited with you.

• Keep your dog on a leash. It is the safest thing for your friend. Do not let your dog off leash unless you have 100% recall. 95% is not enough!

• New rescues!!! VERY VERY IMPORTANT. We get many lost dogs that have just been adopted! These pups are terrified and have come from unknown situations, sometimes have traveled long distances and are in an unfamiliar territory. These are HIGH RISK FLIGHT DOGS!!! Watch them every minute.

Do not trust that they will stick around.

They are not your best friend and will not stay with you unconditionally. They will look for any escape available. A simple slip by you at a door or the blink of an eye and they are gone! This is a serious situation. They are already confused and now they will be panicked. NEVER let a new rescue off a leash!

Regular collars can slip off. ALWAYS USE A MARTINGALE COLLAR (with ID tags please) ON THESE DOGS WHEN PICKING UP FROM THE SHELTER AND ALWAYS USE WHEN WALKING. Take the Martingale off and use regular collar (with ID tags please) when left alone in the house as Martingales are not meant to be 24/7 collars.

Due to their construction and what makes

questions to Downeast Dog News! If I can’t help, at least I can offer sympathy, and we can have some fun talking about our amazing humans. Bammy, PO Box 135, Newcastle, ME 04553, or email: askbammy@tidewater.net

Dear Bammy, Why do some owners overfeed their dogs? I watch the poor things waddling around the vet office. They are lame from the extra weight, and I hear the vet tell the owner his animal has diabetes and other problems from overeating. I don’t understand why people would do that to their dogs.

Trim Terrier Dear Trim Terrier, I appreciate your question, but I hardly believe what you are telling me! Do some people feed their dogs too much so they look like the cows with great big bodies and skinny legs we see sometimes? When we’re in town I often see funny-looking, fat dogs being led sometimes even dragged – on leashes.

Do people actually, intentionally feed their dogs so much that they look weird and get terrible diseases and hobble around on sore legs? Could it possibly be that they secretly hate their dogs and want them to die? No. Everyone loves his dogs!

them work well as a walking and safety collar can also cause them to get hung up if left unattended.

• Do not submit your dogs to fireworks or loud noised events. They do not find this fun and many dogs are lost and killed during the holiday festivities.

• Always remember this….your dog will eventually leave if you leave her alone in your yard even if it’s just for their normal pee. Dogs will eventually pick up a scent and no matter how much they love you they will definitely follow their nose. Do not leave your dog unsupervised! How many times we have heard “but my dog never leaves the yard”.

• Be prepared – have a good photo (digital preferred) ready in case it is needed for a flyer.

• Keep Animal Control Officer, Police Department and Shelter phone #’s on refrigerator or near the phone where they can be easily accessed. Remember our dogs depend on us to be smarter than them. We are the caregivers.

We have taken them from the wild and domesticated them, and now we are responsible for making sure they stay safe.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Maine LostDogRecovery Email: mainelostdogrecovery@gmail.com

Maybe they just love their dogs so much that they can’t stand to see them looking hungry. But – um – I must admit that I sometimes beg even when I’ve just eaten. I can put on quite a show if Boss is eating meat. I can even suck in my cheeks so my face looks thin. You may find that hard to believe, but I’ve seen other dogs do it, too. Maybe those fat dogs are superb little actors. Or maybe they are even better food thieves than I am. Unlikely. I am by far the most skilled food thief I know of. You’d think Boss would honor my skill, but whenever I make a really good haul, she skimps on my next meal. Half a cup of dry kibbles? If dogs could cry …!

When I was young I didn’t care much about food, so Boss added delicious things to my kibbles to get me to eat more. Then I had that awful trip to the vet when he made me dizzy, and then I woke up with terrible pain between my hind legs, and they put a lampshade on my head so I couldn’t even lick myself.

Since then, I get so hungry I can hardly wait for meal times, but Boss is so stingy! Oh, for the good old days!

I wonder if people would try what Boss does. She stretches out mealtime into a delicious, long routine. I only get a cupful of kibbles because I get lots of great treats for rewards - and just be-

cause I’m so terrific. I really have to nag Boss when it’s getting toward mealtime.

She finally tells me to go find my red plastic “Kibble Ball” so she can put my food in it. It’s so exciting looking for it! My tail goes like crazy. Sometimes I forget that I left it somewhere funny, like under the sofa or behind the toilet. When I finally find it, she pours my kibbles into it with the most wonderfully, agonizing slowness. Even then, she makes me lie down. She sets Kibble Ball near me, and I have to wait a few seconds for her to say “All right.” What absolute joy! I push the ball around for ten or fifteen minutes as it drops kibbles out for me. It’s only a cupful of dry kibbles, but what a lot of pleasure! My best friend’s person thought she would be frustrated by a food toy, but you should see her tail go as she makes that thing give up its treasure.

Last, but not least are bones! Boss gets big, tough ones so they won’t splinter, and she (doggone it) digs out all the fatty marrow.

We can only hope, Trim Terrier, that all dog owners would love their dogs enough to keep them lean and gorgeous like you and me.

Enjoy that terrific body, Bammy

7

For so many, our dogs are our best friends, members of our family. When we lose them it is devastating and can hurt as much as the loss of one of our human family members. There are many sites out there that cover the topic of pet loss, books, support groups, etc.

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he loss of a companion pet as we all know can be sudden and unexpected, or we have an aging pet and know the “decision” is going to have to be made to end the suffering.

We started our business to fill a need for local and compassionate pet cremation and timely closure for pet owners.

Some customers choose to make pre-arrangements stating their wishes and the service they want for their pet; they also get to meet the person performing the cremation and see the facility. It provides some peace of mind and comfort.

If your pet is euthanized at your veterinarian’s office, you still have the choice on where your pet is cremated. Your pet can be picked up by the crematorium you choose, or if you prefer, you can transport your pet to the facility.

At home euthanasia performed by your veterinarian is another option we see more now. After the procedure, the pet can be picked up at the owner’s home by a crematory operator or brought to the facility by the owner.

We think it’s important for people to know that they do have choices; it’s not a subject that one wants to talk about or even think about prior to needing the service. When pet owners return for the cremains, they always thank us for making a very difficult and emotional time better. We have met the most wonderful caring people. We truly enjoy hearing about the lives of their pets and how the pets affected their lives sharing their unconditional love with them and being part of the family.

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PET LOSS GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP Free to attend Every 3rd Thursday of the month from 3:00-4:30 p.m.

Coastal Humane Society, Administrative Building, 190 Pleasant Street, Brunswick Pre-enrollment is required. Please contact the facilitator Andy Sokoloff at 721-1357 or email asokoloff@midcoasthealth.com *These support group sessions are a collaboration between Coastal Humane Society and CHANS Home Health Care.

Downeast Dog News

W

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

hen an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when

one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

Advertiser Location Map LaGrange

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September 2016

9

Training Your Performance Dog Agility, Obedience, Tracking

By Carolyn Fuhrer

Agility — What Skills Do My Dog and I Really Need?

Handling systems, videos on foot work, and books on mental practice all can have a place in your agility training, but if you just want to enjoy the sport with your dog, work on building a solid basic foundation and relationship.

Your dog needs an introduction to agility equipment that is safe, sensible, and will build your dog’s confidence. For this, you need a qualified instructor who can help you steadily progress and build your dog’s skills on equipment.

Teaching your dog all the agility obstacles and the skills necessary to perform them will not get you very far on the course if you have no obedience background. Running a successful agility course with your dog requires that your dog takes direction from you and can switch from handler focus to obstacle focus and back again to the handler.

This requires a strong partnership with your dog. Agility trials are very stimulating. All your dog’s senses will be heightened by the surroundings. A good name recognition and recall is essential to performing agility to keep your dog off distractions and also to change your dog’s path and keep them on course.

I like to use the dog’s name to have them come to me. The best thing your dog should ever hear is his name, and it should cause the dog to look towards you and move towards you. You can practice this as a fun game anywhere. It is essential for all dogs off leash, whether in agility or pet life, to have a strong recall.

A wait command is another essential obedience command. It is also another essential pet command. It will allow you to lead out in agility while still retaining your dog’s focus as he waits for a release.

Being able to tug with your dog

in play and engage your dog with a toy in a distracting situation is also a valuable skill. Desire for a toy is a great training tool. It can help your dog focus. It is a great way to work on distance and sends. It is also a great way to teach self control.

Your interaction with your dog and you through playing with a toy will reflect a great deal about your relationship with your dog. Much can be taught through interactive play.

If you don’t have this with your dog, work on it. Some of us humans really need to learn how to play! If you are not a good player, get some help. Teach your dog to run with you by your leg on both sides - go-

ing faster when you accelerate and slower when you decelerate, leaving you when sent to an obstacle and returning to you on a pick up cue.

Many of these basic obedience skills can be worked on daily. No equipment necessary! Be creative – run with your dog and change direction, speed up, slow down, find unusual challenging situations where your dog must wait or come to you.

Enjoy building a strong foundation through everyday interaction with your dog – it is a wonderful investment.

Carolyn Fuhrer has earned over 80 AKC titles with her Golden Retrievers, including 2 Champion Tracker titles.

Carolyn is the owner of North Star Dog Training School in Somerville, Maine. She has been teaching people to understand their dogs for over 25 years. You can contact her with questions, suggestions and ideas for her column by e-mailing carolyn@dogsatnorthstar.com.

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Downeast Dog News

WORDS, WOOFS & MEOWS

By Don Hanson, ACCBC, BFRAP, CDBC, CPDT-KA

Dog Bite Fatalities & Dog Bites – Part 3 Even though statistically, dog bites are not a serious societal problem, a dog bite, no matter how superficial, is a traumatic event for the person bitten, the dog and the dog’s owner.

We need to do everything we can to prevent dog bites, and it is going to take all of us if we want to be successful Here are my thoughts on what we can do to decrease the incidents of dog bites.

First of all, we need to accept some basic facts.

• All dogs, irrespective of breed or how good they have always behaved in the past have the potential to bite.

• Misinformed beliefs about canine behavior and the continued use of aversive training tools and philosophies (choke, prong, and shock collars and the dominance construct) are a major reason for behavior problems such as aggression and dog bites which often result in a dog’s death.1 • Most dogs give ample warning before biting, and if people would learn these signs, many dog bites could be prevented.

• Not all dogs will like all other dogs nor will they like every person just because that is what we want.

• If you have a dog that is aggressive and has bitten or has almost bitten, seek out professional help from your veterinarian and a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant immediately. The longer this behavior continues, the longer

you delay, the lower the probability of changing the behavior. Biting is often an emotional response and training alone will not make your dog feel emotionally safe. There is no evidence to suggest that dogs will outgrow this behavior.

• Not all dogs with behavioral issues can be rehabilitated.

Prospective Dog Owners – Do not get a dog on impulse nor should you get a dog without first meeting it in person. You will hopefully have your dog for many years, probably longer than you keep your automobile and perhaps the home where you live. You are making a lifetime commitment, so it is essential you choose wisely.

Do your research before you start looking for a dog, Seek advice from trained professionals such as veterinarians, dog behavior consultants, and dog trainers.

These individuals typically have knowledge and experience with a wide variety of dog breeds and temperaments and can provide less biased information than someone trying to get you to adopt/purchase a dog.

If you are unsure of your ability to evaluate a puppy/dog, consider hiring a qualified pet care professional to assist you.

When you do agree to adopt/ purchase a dog, make sure you have the return policy in writing.

Breeders are often criticized, and shelters and rescues are often given a free pass; judge both critically. In the past several years, we have had more clients complain about bad experiences with rescues than with breeders or pet stores.

Puppy/Dog Owners – Attend and complete a pain-free, force-free, and fear-free dog training class with your puppy/dog, taught by a dog training professional accredited by either The Pet Professional Accreditation Board, The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, or the Certification Council for Pet Dog

Trainers. In my experience, most of the dogs that I see for aggression and other serious behavioral issues have never attended a training class and were often not properly socialized during the critical period between 8 and 16 weeks of age.

Taking a training class with your dog will further your understanding of their behavior and needs and will strengthen your bond.

If the training class you attend does not thoroughly discuss behavior, canine body language, and dogs and kids, seek that knowledge elsewhere. You can find many articles on my blog (www. words-woofs-meows.com), Those Selling/Placing Puppies – Please make sure your puppies stay with their mother and siblings until they are 7 to 8 weeks of age. Puppies that do not have this opportunity to learn are often more likely to develop behavioral issues.

When you sell or place a puppy, make sure that you inform the new owners of the importance of properly socializing that puppy between 8 and 16 weeks of age. If you keep the puppy longer than eight weeks of age, make sure that you are properly socializing the puppy daily. Emphasize the importance of pain-free, forcefree, and fear-free training classes specifically structured for proper puppy socialization.

Shelters/Rescues – Rescue dogs, and I have had several, can be wonderful companions; however, they often have a rough start in life and thus have a higher probability of behavioral problems. Do your best to assess a dog’s behavior and to be completely and totally truthful about what you learn or suspect.

Do not omit any information even if you believe it will make the dog less adoptable. You are not doing your organization or the dog any favors when you adopt out a dog with a history of biting or aggression.

Thoroughly assess, in-person, any potential adopter. Please make

sure an adopter is physically and mentally equipped to care for the dog. Be especially careful with adoptions to the elderly who may have been able to care for their 12-year-old sedentary Doberman, but will find a young, hyperactive Doberman with behavioral issues beyond their capabilities despite their best intentions.

Understand that placements do not always work out. If a dog you have placed is threatening people in its new home or bites someone, be proactive by removing the dog immediately. Do not attempt to shame the family into keeping the dog by telling them that it will be euthanized or require that they keep the dog until you find a foster home.

All Pet Professionals (Veterinarians, Dog Behavior Consultants, Dog Trainers, Boarding Kennel & Daycare Operators, Groomers, Shelters & Rescues) - Read and make sure you understand the American Animal Hospital Association (2015 AAHA Behavior Management Guidelines) and adopt an official policy statement demonstrating your support of these standards.

Ensure that you train all staff and volunteers on the basic premises of the guidelines as well as canine and feline behavior, canine and feline body language, and the standard definition of bite levels. Commit to pain-free, force-free, and fear-free pet care and make that philosophy a core part of your educational efforts in your community.

You can find an expanded version of this article on my blog (www.words-woofs-meows.com) complete with links to additional related material.

Thank you to colleagues Mychelle Blake, CDBC, Gail Fisher, CDBC, Tracy Haskell, CPDT-KA, and Melissa McCue-McGrath, CPDT-KA for their input on this column.

1 American Animal Hospital Association, AAHA 2015 Canine and Feline Behavior Management Guidelines, https://www.aaha.org/professional/resources/behavior_ management_guidelines.aspx

Don Hanson is the co-owner of the Green Acres Kennel Shop (greenacreskennel.com) in Bangor. He is a Bach Foundation Registered Animal Practitioner (BFRAP), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC), Associate Certified Cat Behavior Consultant (ACCBC) and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA). He produces and co- hosts a weekly radio show and podcast, The Woof Meow Show heard on The Pulse AM620 WZON and streamed at http://www.wzonradio.com/ every Saturday at 12 Noon. A list of upcoming shows and podcasts of past shows can be found at www.woofmeowshow.com. Don also writes about pets at his blog: www.words-woofs-meows.com.

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September 2016

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K9 NoseWork; a SCENTsational Sport!

by Marcia Welch K9 NoseWork is based on the foundation skills of k9 detection work. It began in California under the direction of the founders of the National Association of Canine Scent Work. Its popularity caught on quickly, and the sport has spread quickly across the country.

Imagine from the dog’s perspective how exciting and rewarding it is to hunt for FOOD hidden in boxes! That is the beginning of the process. After the dog becomes proficient at finding food in boxes and is highly engaged in “the hunt,” the food is paired with the first of three odors. The first essential oil is birch – (A dog’s nose is extremely sensitive – his olfactory senses allow him to pick up a minute bit of odor on the head of a Q-Tip!) With some

practice and experience, the food is removed and soon the dog is hunting for the odor alone, and is highly rewarded for finding it and “alerting”.

Later, as the dog develops even more of an understanding of what the “game” is, the other two odors are added individually, anise and clove. The goal is to have the dog learn to identify and find all three odors.

One of the attractions of K-9 NoseWork is that most dogs can participate: old dogs, young dogs, deaf dogs and other dogs with special needs, and dogs who are not comfortable around other dogs -dogs who are lacking confidence.

In this activity, dogs work one at a time and are guaranteed that no other dogs will be present while they are searching. Other senses become dulled when dogs are actively sniffing, hence the idea is to allow them to work in an environment, with minimal distractions, in which they can focus entirely on the hunt.

Classes are available to teach you how to

encourage and develop your dog’s natural scenting abilities by using his/her natural desire to hunt and his/her interest in food, toys, and activity. Your dog will use lots of mental and physical energy in class!

K-9 NoseWork classes are offered at Positively Best Friends Dog Training LLC - Canine Activity Center - in Edgecomb, Maine, taught by Marcia Welch who has trained under the direction of the founders. Classes are taught with positive, fun, and motivational methods. Also offered at Positively Best Friends (“where training is fun at both ends of the leash!”) is a wide selection of other classes and interesting activities for dogs and people of all ages and abilities. FMI: contact: Marcia@positivelybestfriends.com You are invited to also visit the website www. positivelybestfriends.com

Rescue of the Month: Peace Ridge Sanctuary A Peaceful Home For Animals Who Need It Most

By Susan Spisak

Lifelong animal lover and animal advocate Daniella Tessier founded Peace Ridge Sanctuary in 2001; it is home for abused, exploited, and neglected animals rescued from all types of situations. Their many residents include dogs, cats, cows, sheep, goats, chickens, turkeys, pigs, waterfowl, rabbits, and a horse. This Penobscot property was always intended as a “stepping stone”; they’ll be moving to their new 791acre “legacy” Sanctuary in nearby Brooks by year’s end, making it one of the largest animal land holdings on the eastern seaboard.

While Peace Ridge focuses on farmed animals and promotes compassionate choices through humane education, they also actively participate in the No-Kill movement via their dog and cat

rescue program; they’ve given hundreds of dogs a second chance.

Peace Ridge partners with various shelters not only locally, but along the east coast and in the south, often rescuing dogs facing euthanization. To insure the dogs are healthy for travel, they utilize trusted vets for exams and medical care, and they strictly adhere to and respect all state import and quarantine guidelines.

While they have dog buildings, some of the canines also live with Daniella and her daughter, Ava. As Executive Director and one of the on-site caretakers, she understands every dog’s personality; she spends time with them daily and also heads up their training program. Each dog has an IEP, an “Individualized Education Program,” and they rely on their essential foster families to help their dogs realize them. “We want those people to know they’re helping us to set the dog up for the best possible success.”

Their adoption process reflects

their animal commitment.

Interested individuals must review the adoption contract; they must pledge to adhere to numerous care and maintenance steps that support responsible dog ownership. If the potential adopter agrees, he/she is invited to continue the process, which includes meeting the dogs and undergoing a home visit—this allows them to understand the adopter’s lifestyle, thereby making the best possible match. “We want to place them in homes where they’re going to be their best and be happy.”

At the new Sanctuary, there will be innovative changes, especially for the dogs. It will boast the “pack house model,” where groups of social dogs will live together with a care attendant, alleviating the stress level that kennels often bring. An added bonus: “They get to brush up on their house manners.” They’ll also have a 10mile Trail System; volunteers and prospective adopters can walk the

dogs and enjoy the scenery.

Currently, they use visiting vets, but they hope that within two years, they’ll have an on-site vet and offer low-cost spay and neuter clinics. To further serve the community and Maine’s Animal Welfare Programs, they’ll expand their farmed animal and companion animal rescue efforts, and they’ll be able to provide a haven for more horses; currently there’s a relinquishment wait list.

Daniella’s grateful to the many volunteers who share the Sanctuary’s mission and donate countless hours of their time. To learn more about volunteering, email info@peaceridgesanctuary.org.

To contribute to their Brooks Capital Campaign or to sponsor one of their animals, and for all other information on the Sanctuary, including adopting one of their well-cared, loved dogs at the 501(c) (3) Peace Ridge, visit http://www. peaceridgesanctuary.org/.

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Ashes to Ashes Pet Crematory

340 Howland Rd, LaGrange, ME • 207-943-6474 • 207-943-3983 www.ashestoashespetcrematory.com Ella, 12, Rottie mix Ella proves that age is just a number; this almost twelve-year-old often acts like a puppy. She is obedient and has a fun-loving personality; when she carries her ball around, she can’t wait to hear “Ella, where’s your ball?” She’s up-todate on medical, is fine with cats and people of all ages, but because she’s almost 100 lbs., we are looking for an adoptive family with no children under 12. She also prefers to be the only dog in the home. Contact Peace Ridge at info@ peaceridgesanctuary.org or call (207) 326-9507.

12

Pongo, 2yrs, Mix He’s fun-loving, laid back, well-socialized and absolutely loves other dogs. He walks nice on a Weiss WalkieTM leash, is crate trained, has mastered basic obedience, has had some clicker training and is finishing up his Manners 1 class. He has some minor fear issues when first meeting certain men, but he has a strategy in place for those times. He’s up-to-date on all medical. We’d like to see him in a no-cat and kids-over-8 household. Contact Peace Ridge at info@peaceridgesanctuary.org or phone at (207) 326-9507.

Downeast Dog News

Dogs for Adoption More adoptable dogs available online at downeastdognews.com Dixon, 3yrs, Treeing Walker Hound Dixon has many wonderful qualities as a family pet. As long as he gets some vigorous exercise, he’s fine with lying around a good part of the day.

He is very smart, learns quickly, and needs mental stimulation and to be engaged through interaction with his human. He enjoys playing with other dogs of any size and loves day care. He is also good with cats, chickens, and children.

FMI: http://almosthomerescue.net/available-dogs.

Zuzu, 8yrs, Poodle Mix Zuzu had special needs. She was diagnosed with a liver shunt in 2010 and had surgery to correct the issue. Since then she has been very well managed with a prescription dog food from the veterinarian’s office. She also takes two medications a day, which are very manageable and not expensive.

Flo, 6 mos, Lab Cattle Dog mix Flo had a sad start to life. She was found on the highway by her deceased brother. Flo has now been given a second chance. Doing very well at the shelter. Currently playing with 5 other pups in our puppy play area. Crate training has started and she is doing pretty good!!!! She also plays with two large dogs about 50 Lbs and loves every minute of it. Loves the water and loves to run. She would make a great addition to any family.

Please email us for an application fetchinghope rescue@gmail.com.

Blondie, 3 yrs, American Shelter Dog Sweet and outgoing little lady; 15 lbs. of love and adorableness!

Available at Animal Welfare Society, Kennebunk, (207)985-3244. Hours: 11am-7pm Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri. 11am-4pm Sat & Sun.

FMI: http://almosthomerescue.net/available-dogs.

Jack, 8yrs, Beagle Jack is houstrained, gets along great with other dogs and cats, and loves people! His only problem is that he is a resource guarder, meaning he will guard food, toys, etc. from people. He is looking for a family who is willing to work with this help him redirect. He would also like a family who is home often or able to crate him because he gets nervous when left alone. Please give Jack a chance!

Sasha, Pitbull mix Sasha is a very sweet and quiet lady pitbull mix. She came from South Carolina pregnant and was fostered by one of our wonderful volunteer foster families. Her pups have gone home and she is hoping for a home of her own.

Please contact Pope Memorial Humane Society at: manager@hskcme.org or (207) 594-2200.

Contact Tall Tails Beagle Rescue at info@talltailsbeaglerescue.org for more info.

Monsey, 6 mos., American Shelter Dog Still just barely a puppy, he’s ready to start a new life in a loving home.

Available at Animal Welfare Society, Kennebunk, (207) 985-3244.

Hours: 11am-7pm Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri. 11am-4pm Sat & Sun.

Noah, 7 mos., Mixed Breed Noah came from Puerto Rico where he was living on the streets. He is a sweet boy, but very scared of people. He is learning how to be a house dog and is coming along slowly, but surely. Noah is looking for a quiet, patient home with other dogs and a fenced in yard. Please give Noah a chance!

Bachelor, 2 or 3 yrs, Hound He is a sweet and gentle guy. He doesn’t seem very fond of small dogs. He has been at the shelter for a while now, and is very much hoping for quiet place to call home.

Please contact Pope Memorial Humane Society at: manager@hskcme.org or (207) 594-2200.

Gus, 7 yrs, Shih Tzu mix He is a neutered male. He is a very loving dog who loves sitting in laps. He loves to be around people and getting as much attention as he can.

Gus is available at Tender Touch Veterinary Hospital (207) 839-7456.

Contact Tall Tails Beagle Rescue at info@talltailsbeaglerescue.org for more info.

Mindy, 2 yrs, Greyhound

Little Spitfire “MINDY” is a young sweet black female retired from Florida. Retired racing greyhounds are quiet, clean, good natured dogs that adapt and get along with children and other pets. They seem grateful for their new homes, rewarding their new owners with never-ending affection. They do not require a great deal of exercise contrary to what most people think.

Inside the house they enjoy curling up on a soft blanket, bed or couch, if permitted.

Please contact Maine Greyhound Placement Service in Augusta (207)626-2893.

September 2016

Gar, 7 mos., Boxer mix Very handsome guy that has lived his short life in a crate almost 24/7. He was finally rescued and is doing great! He is full of life, loves to play and gets to play all day with puppies his age! He does not mind his crate for sleep time in the evening and actually shares a kennel with another puppy.

Plays with two large dogs who are about 50 Lbs and loves every minute of it. Loves the water and is very quick to learn.

Please email us for an application. fetchinghoperescue@gmail.com.

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September C lendar To view more information & events visit downeastdognews.com

The Maine Event

HELP WANTED Part-time Certified Groomer Other duties may be available if interested.

Contact Dr. DeMeuse,

Tender Touch Veterinary Hospital 839-7456

HELP WANTED Part-time Kennel Worker Starting pay min. $11/hr. based on experience.

Opportunity to move into reception and room assistance when abilities proven.

Contact Dr. DeMeuse,

Tender Touch Veterinary Hospital

Union August 31 – September 4 Four all-breed shows, four obedience and rally trials - one great location outdoors at The Union Fairgrounds, 127 Fairgrounds Lane, Union.

Central Maine Kennel Club: September 1st & 2nd.

Mid-Coast Kennel Club: September 3rd & 4th.

Puppy Groups and Best Puppy in Show Competition: September 1st National Owner Handled Series: September 2nd Best Veteran in Show Competition: September 3rd National Owner Handler Series: September 3rd Obedience and Rally Trials: September 1, 2, 3, 4 Two Obedience Matches!!

August 31st at 4:00 pm and September 2nd 1/2 hour following Best in Show Two Canine Good Citizen Tests!

September 1st & 2nd FMI: Kathy Duhnoski at 207-691-2332

Oil Painted Dogs Demo Rockland

September 3 Louise Duffy will be joining us again at our Rockland Loyal Biscuit location from 12:00pm - 3:00pm to display her oil painted animal portraits. See Louise in action as she works on one of her oil paintings. She will be taking special orders for animal portraits.

Feel free to bring your dog with you to the store, or bring photos of your animals.

Louise will be making a donation to a local animal shelter of her choice. To learn more about Louise and to view her other work visit her website: http://www.louiseduffyart.com

Nail Clipping Clinic

Camden-Rockport & Belfast September 3 Shannon from Catahoula Rescue of New England will be in our NEW CamdenRockport location (at 56 Commercial Street in Rockport) on Saturday, September 3rd from 10:00-12:00pm and in our Belfast location from 1:30-3:00pm for our next nail clipping clinics! For just $10 you can have your pet’s nails trimmed and all the proceeds will be donated to the Catahoula Rescue of New England. No appointment necessary, just stop by with your pup or cat. www.loyalbiscuit.com

839-7456

COME CELEBRATE OUR 21ST ANNIVERSARY!!

Newfie Fun Days

Benefiting the Newfoundland Dog Breed September 17th & 18th 10:00 - 4:00 Rt.103, Piscataqua Boat Basin Eliot, ME Grooming •Geriatric Seminar • Draft Workshop Rescue Seminar •Water Rescue Work Demo • CGC Testing Nosework Seminar & Demo • Grand March of the Newfoundlands Raffles • Many Vendors • Food Pavillion...and much more!

All Proceeds Benefit Newfoundland Dog Health and Rescue Efforts & Betty Trott Memorial Fund, helping all animals in need.

Visit us at www.newfiefundays.com and Follow us on Facebook For further info contact : info@newfiefundays.com

14

Furry Tales Story & Adventure Hour

West Kennebunk September 8 - December 15 Join the Animal Welfare Society Humane educators on Thursdays (when school is in session*) from 10am – 11am, in the Humane Education Room at the Animal Welfare Society on Holland Road, West Kennebunk.

Preschoolers are invited to discover the exciting world of animals with: *Stories* *Playtime* *Crafts* *Songs* *Movement* *Animal Time* The event is free to attend, though donations are appreciated. *Furry Tales follows the RSU 21 school calendar. We will not hold Furry Tales during school breaks, on holidays, or on snow days.

For more information, call 207-985-3244 or see http://animalwelfaresociety.org/newsevents/events-calendar/

Barks in the Park

Gardiner September 10 7th Annual at Gardiner Waterfront Park.

Rescue groups from around the region, local veterinarians presenting information on issues facing pets and pet owners.

Demonstrations by specialty dog trainers.

The focus of the event will be to have a great day in the park with the dogs and to raise money to build the Gardiner Dog Park and other dog amenities. We’re looking for partners, vendors and participants for this year’s Barks in the Parks. We are in expectation of 500+attentive canine lovers and enthusiasts.For more information, visit Gardiner Main Street or call 207-582-3100.

Nail Clipping Clinic

Rockland September 10 Shannon from Catahoula Rescue of New England will be in our Rockland location on Saturday, September 10th for our next nail clipping clinic! For just $10 you can have your pet’s nails trimmed and all the proceeds will be donated to the Catahoula Rescue of New England! No appointment necessary, just stop by our Rockland location with your pup or cat from 10:00am-12:00pm. www.loyalbiscuit.com

Strut Your Mutt

Kennebunk September 11 Festivities begin at 9 AM, Walk begins at 11 AM, Mother’s Beach, Kennebunk Strut Your Mutt is a scenic stroll on a Sunday morning with your favorite canine(s) and a few hundred other like-minded animal lovers.

It is also the Animal Welfare Society’s largest fundraising event of the year. Due to the generosity of our underwriting sponsor, Kennebunk Savings, all registration fees, sponsorships and pledge money raised from the walk benefit pets needing medical care. Registration is now open for the 2016 Strut! To register, go to http://animal welfaresociety.org/news-events/strut-yourmutt/ and click on Register today! For more information, call 207-985-3244 or see http://animalwelfaresociety.org/newsevents/events-calendar

Wienerfest

Belfast September 11 Celebrating those dogs that universally inspire a smile - dachshunds! Steamboat Landing Park. Held rain or shine, 11 am - 3 pm. Gates open at 10:30am.

Admission is $2 for adults. Children under 10 years old and dogs are free. Food booths and dog related vendors will be available on the site. No dog or puppy sales are permitted. The full schedule of events is posted at www.friendsofbelfastparks.org and www.pawsadoption.org. For more information call 207-338-2160.

PetSmart National Adoption Weekend

Biddeford September 16 - September 18 PetSmart at Biddeford Crossing, 208 Mariner Way, Biddeford.

Join the Animal Welfare Society at the PetSmart Store. In addition to cats on-site at PetSmart, AWS will have dogs and puppies (based on availability) available for adoption.

Keep an eye on our website (http://animal welfaresociety.org/adopt/adopt-dogs/) beforehand for photos of the animals attending the event. AWS staff and volunteers will be on-site so the adoptions will be able to be completed at the store itself. Want to learn more about adopting from AWS? Visit our Adoption Fees and How to Adopt pages.

For more information, call (207)-985-3244 or see http://animalwelfaresociety.org/ news-events/events-calendar/ or call PetSmart at (207) 283-6546.

Tracking Workshop/Benefit

Somerville September 17 All workshops are $60 dog/handler team ($40 club members).9:00am – Noon at North Star Dog Training School. All proceeds benefit Mid Coast Kennel Club Tracking Fund.

Call Kathy Duhnoski at 207-691-2332 or email kduhnoski@myfairpoint.net for more information and to register.

Whisker Walk Family Fun Day and 5K Rockland September 17 Pet-lovers from all over Mid-Coast Maine will gather at Harbor Park in Rockland for the annual Whisker Walk Family Fun Day & 5K. 5K to run, an agility course to try out, food to eat, music to enjoy, a doggy day spa to pamper, awesome pet vendors to browse, and children’s activates to play. The main event is the largest dog walk in town, and all proceeds benefit the Pope Memorial Humane Society of Knox County. Register today at www.humanesocietyofknoxcounty.org!

Registration starts at 8:00 am, the 5K & the mile-long walk starts at 9:00 am and the festival continues until 2:00 pm.

Nail Clipping Clinic

Waterville September 17 Melissa from Primp My Paws will be in our Waterville location on Saturday, September 17th for our next nail clipping clinic! For just $10 you can have your pet’s nails trimmed and all the proceeds will be donated to the Humane Society Waterville Area! No appointment necessary, just stop by our Waterville location with your pup or cat from 10:30am-12:30pm.

Convenient parking and store entrance via Temple St. behind Lebanese Cuisine. www.loyalbiscuit.com

Paws on Parade

Bangor September 24 Bangor Humane Society’s Paws on Parade.

The walk begins at the public parking lot on the Bangor Waterfront and continues around the waterfront. The event features a variety of sponsors, vendors, and highlights such as a pet costume contest and shelter dog runway show. Dogs must be registered prior to the parade. FMI: or to register go to www.bangorhumane.org or call 207-942-8902.

Advertise With Us! Contact Publisher Jenn Rich for more info: jenn@downeast dognews.com 207-230-0260, ext. 6

Downeast Dog News

Business Directory Midcoast

Central Maine

silverpawtags.com "These are the Rolls Royce of pet id tags." finely crafted chew proof rustproof re-engraveable stainless steel forever classy

karen@silverpawtags.com

207-935-1816

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September 2016

Tender Touch Veterinary Hospital

336 Gorham Rd., Scarborough

Dog Training Classes KT O’Shea, CPDT

Basic Obedience Wednesday, 9/14/16 at 5pm

Canine Good Citizens

Wednesday, 9/14/6 at 6:15pm $140 for 6 week classes

Please call 207-839-7456 to schedule

15

Celebrating our 50th/20th Anniversary Year!!

Pet Friendly Pet Care

BEAR BROOK KENNEL’S

Boarding & Daycare Dog & Cat Grooming Dog Training Classes Behavior Counseling Wholesome Pet Foods Quality Pet Supplies

DOGGIE DAYCARE

ME License #F251

Your pet’s home away from home 1653 Union St., Bangor - 207-945-6841 www.greenacreskennel.com

Under closely supervised conditions, your dog will spend the day romping with a variety of canine playmates having a great time. You’ll bring in a rowdy bundle of energy, but you’ll take home a mellow companion who’s ready to spend the evening on the couch. Your pet will get the love, attention and exercise that helps reduce and in many cases eliminate behavior problems.

Voted: Best Kennel, Best Pet Store, Best Dog Trainer & Best Pet Groomer

Boarding Doggie Daycare Grooming

BEAR BROOK KENNELS 19 Bennett Road, Brewer, ME 04412 tel 207-989-7979 fax 207-989-6927 e-mail info@bearbrookkennel.com

At Harbor Hounds, Your Dog will Enjoy Its Vacation, While You Enjoy Yours We Provide Expert Daycare, Boarding and Grooming services for Your Dog • Trained Staff • Supervised Playgroups • Individualized Attention

• Large Secure Outdoor Play Yards • Overnight Boarding • Limited Grooming Services

Indoor and outdoor access Dogs have access to our 1/4 acre outside covered play yard as well as a daycare play room and eight additional secure outside play yards.

Pools and shade Our guests enjoy two sun cabanas and two pools during the spring and summer months.

Paw-safe cleaning Practices

No bleach is used in cleaning. All of our cleaning chemicals are Paw-Safe.

311 Park Street • Rockland, ME 04841 • 207-593-7913 www.harborhoundsmaine.com • mydawgs@harborhoundsmaine.com LIKE us on FacEBooK! and see your pets enjoy their day!