2023 December Downeast Dog News by Jennifer Rich / Wendi Smith

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DowneastDogNews.com

Volume 18 • Issue 12 • DECEMBER 2023

Blending a New K9 into Your Home

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By Susan Spisak

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ou’ve decided to adopt a dog. That's great, but since this is a longterm commitment and requires work, consider a few things. Decide what breed is best and whether you’re going to find him through a reputable breeder, shelter, or rescue. Then choose a vet, prepare for his homecoming, have a plan for training, and don’t forget his entertainment! Most importantly, bring him home when your days are calm. This chaotic holiday season may not be the best time—you may want to wait until the new year so he can settle in successfully. Choosing A Breed Start by being honest about your lifestyle, your family, and home environment. Unfortunately, many dogs are relinquished because their

See BLENDING on page 5

INSIDE 6 2 Hot Dog News

Basic Training Tips

SKIP IS AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION FROM RESPONSIBLE PET CARE (SEE PG. 12) PHOTO BY: JILL PIPER, LASTING IMAGE PHOTOGRAPHY

8&9 Happy Pawlidays!

12 & 13

Dogs for Adoption

DOWNEASTDOGNEWS.COM

Calendar of Events

Hot Dog News

PawsUp Pet Products Celebrates a Philanthropic Milestone

The Company’s Fundraising Program Reaches $10,000 in Donations to Support Animal Shelters and Rescue Organizations Nationwide

Daisy and Donald Move to Canada

e were pleased to receive the news that Daisy and Donald who were seeking a home through the Western Maine Great Pyreness Rescue and were featured in our August issue have found a home! The bonded pair originally came to Maine from Tennessee and were adopted by folks from Nova Scotia who saw them in our online paper. Congratulations to Daisy, Donald and their new family!

Deshedding Never Felt So Good!

Feel-Good Features:

awsUp Pet Products, a small, family-owned business based in North Yarmouth, Maine, is thrilled to announce a significant milestone for its philanthropic initiative, The CoatHook Pet Comb's Fundraising Program. With enthusiastic support from animal • Made Here Maine! lovers around the country, the program hasin reached a notable achievement by donating its ten-thousandth dollar to help animal shelters and rescue organizations across the • FREE Shipping! United States. The CoatHook pet comb, invented and patented by Lisa and Sheldon Perkins — themselves, long-term • animal-welfare andYour rescuers — has not only gained A Gentle advocates Touch on Pet recognition for its simple but innovative and exceptionally effective design, but also for its ability to generate funding for the animal-welfare community that works so hard to care for and find loving homes • Super-Satisfying Fur Removal for countless pets in need. The CoatHook Pet Comb's Fundraising Program offers pet owners a highly effective grooming tool for their furry • Proceeds Support Shelters friends while contributing to a worthy cause. For every CoatHook & petRescues comb sold on behalf of participating animal shelters and rescue organizations, 25 percent of the purchase price goes directly to those organizations through • Perfect Stocking monthly donation checks from PawsUp Pet Products.Stuffer! Every customer who buys a CoatHook through a fundraising page also receives a handwritten note of thanks for their support. To date, 53 organizations in 23 states have received funding from the program. 10% Promo Code “DEDN” "We are overjoyed to reach thisOFF majorwith milestone in widespread support of animal shelters and rescue organizations," said Lisa. "Our personal and professional mission has been to make a positive impact on the lives of animals… and the people who are dedicated to caring for them. The invention and sale of the CoatHook pet comb has enabled us to do that at a level we otherwise might not have been able to afford in time or money. Our animal-loving hearts are warmed with every monthly donation check we write." Sheldon adds “It’s great to be able to contribute to the support of shelters and rescues by providing a little extra income to help keep the lights on, pay for food, cat litter, laundry detergent, transportation costs, and whatever else an organization may need to keep doing the important and challenging work they do.” To learn more about The CoatHook Pet Comb and PawsUp Pet Products' commitment to animal welfare, please visit www.thecoathook.com. Also, see ad on page 9.

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See more Hot Dog News on page 15!

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Downeast Dog News

Downeast Dog News PUBLISHER Jenn Rich COPY EDITOR Belinda Carter CONTRIBUTORS Susan Spisak Diana Logan Sara Moore Judith Herman Carolyn Fuhrer Don Hanson GRAPHIC DESIGN NVDesigns • Nicole Vanorse ADVERTISING Jenn Rich 207-706-6765 jenn@downeastdognews.com

PRESIDENT Wendi Smith PARENT & PUBLISHING COMPANY Maine Pet News LLC

From the Publisher Dear Dog News Readers, In these past few weeks Pepper and I have been busy with appointments. Some were fun and some not as much. Pepper was thrilled to go visit Kate and the pool at Water Bark Wellness. It made me feel good to see her so happy! This summer was a bit disappointing for swimming. We also had a couple of unexpected vet visits. I found a lump near Pepper’s hind leg and of course it made my heart sink a bit. I hoped it would turn out to be a fatty tumor and it does appear that way. Then we made a visit to the emergency vet because she was hacking one Sunday afternoon. The vet thought it could possibly be bronchitis or kennel cough however we had not been around any dogs. She had some x-rays taken and all looked well. We were given a cough suppressant and some mild pain meds and by the next day she seemed fine. It could be that something was just caught in her throat. We’ll never know but her vet followed up and did not seem concerned once she heard she had stopped coughing. Pepper will be ten in April and is in overall great shape. It is hard as they get older not to begin to get nervous when we find bumps or have abnormal behaviors. Thankfully it seems we have no real need to be concerned at this time. We have reached the end of another year of Dog News. As always, I’d like to thank all who advertise with us, adoption sponsors, columnists, readers and anyone who supports us in any way. We appreciate you all! A special thank you to Nicole who assists me in putting the paper together every month. She does a terrific job at designing ads and the entire paper! We wish everyone a happy December and for those who celebrate, a very happy holidays! Warmest wishes, Jenn and Pepper

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Table of Contents Hot Dog News ....................... 2 Furry Words .......................... 4 Ask the Vet............................. 4 Basic Training Tips ................. 6 Remembering Milo ..................7 Happy Pawlidays! .............. 8 & 9 Performance Dog Training ... 10 Words, Woofs & Meows........11 Dogs for Adoption........ 12 & 13 Calendar............................... 14 Business Directory ............... 16

It’s December! How is it that

every month that I sit down to write my column that I’m surprised that more time has passed?! My son graduates high school in January, my dog is almost eight, my career is almost 17 years old, and I have so much to be grateful for. Before I get into dog readings, I want to remind you that the world needs joy and love, peace and healing, balance and kindness. Our pups bring us such joy and remind us to live every moment to its fullest. Give your dogs some love and tell them a few things you’re grateful for. It sounds so silly, but it puts more light into the world, and it makes a difference! Ok, time for what you came here for. I’m a psychic for people and pets, and I put out a call for questions on my Sara Moore Enlightened Horizons Facebook page and once again you didn’t disappoint! Readings aren’t a replacement for licensed medical care. Kelley C. asked about Kristy Lynn, a Rhodesian Ridgeback/Shepherd Mix. “Is she only staying for us?” Oh, these questions are so hard, but yes, she is. There is a tremendous amount of pride in her ability to prioritize things she wants to spend her energy on though. She could go for a walk but won’t have time for late night snacks. She could stay up late for snacks but will be exhausted

Getting Ready for Winter Q. My dog loves being outside,

even in the winter. He doesn’t want to come in! What can I do to keep him healthy this season?

Furry Words by Sara Moore

www.enlightenedhorizons.com

in the morning. Imagine having a life where you are so beyond clear on what you want to spend your energy on? It’s time for you to take some inventory of your life and do the same. She may try to wander to pass alone. When I was a little kid, my cousins’ Newfy went for a walk and was found passed in a swamp behind the house. She went on her terms, so please keep an eye on her, and if she keeps trying to leave, give the vet a call. Jody B. asked about Napoleon,

there are no regrets at all. He’s very linear and kind of like an architect or engineer who values health and is mindful of what he eats and how he exercises. If there’s not enough return on investment with their efforts, Elroy (and an engineer) will happily forfeit the activity. LOL! He doesn’t mind if you dress him up, but if you do, he prefers something very conservative and like what a Harvard educated professor would wear or what Robin Williams wore in Good Will Hunting. Finally, Heather S. simply gave me her dog Trip’s name with no specific question. I asked him if there was anything he wanted to say and all I heard was Lays Potato Chips. This dog is a snacker!!! And half a chip doesn’t count, thank you very much!!! He is super sweet but also knows you want him on point at times, but he loves napping. He looks like he got caught sleeping on the job and apologizes. Thank you for another fun month of checking in with your dogs! Sara Moore is a psychic for people and pets with an office in Conway, NH. She is also available for phone readings, parties, and events. FMI go to www.enlightenedhorizons. com. To listen to her podcasts, look up Enlightened Horizons with Sara Moore.

protected from the wind. Water requirements are often overlooked because it freezes. Invest in a warmer to keep the water flowing. There are many made-for-animals water heaters on the market at reasonable prices. After a fun time out on a hike, going to the beach, or playing fetch in the backyard, bring your best friend inside to get dried off, watered, and warmed up. Never leave your wet dog outside. Shivering is the first response the body does to prevent the core body temperature from dropping to prevent hypothermia. When you see this, bring your dog inside or in a warm place. When extremities, such as, ears, feet, tail, scrotum and mammary glands get excessively cold, these body parts will have decreased blood circulation and get so cold the tissues freeze. We know this as frostbite. Nutrition is another consideration. Inside dogs whose activities decrease in the winter may need to have smaller meals to avoid getting fat. Outside dogs will need more calories to keep warm with a

small layer of body fat. You still need to feed a high-quality diet and more of it. Behaviors can change with less exercise in bad weather. Decrease this possibility by doing mental and sniffing games. This will tire them out in a good way. When snowshoeing, cross- country skiing, or skijoring, Fido will be very tired, hungry, and thirsty. Bring snacks for him along with your own. One last concern is the salt and ice-melt used on sidewalks and roads. Some of these chemicals can be caustic to your pup’s feet. Another concern is the buildup of snow and ice between the toes and pads. All of these can cause damage and pain to your dog’s feet. Using booties or “musher’s secret’ before going out can prevent Fido’s discomfort. Have a safe and warm winter with your best friend.

Ask the Vet… by Dr. Judith Herman

There are dogs, like Nordic breeds, who relish the cold. Others are not made to be left out in the cold. Here are some tips for both types of pups. We will start with being outside. Some pups are made for the cold. They have a multilayered fur coat that insulates them against the cold. Others have a one-or two-layer coat. It is important to understand the type of coat your dog has. The light-coated dog with a top layer and a mild undercoat will be more susceptible to the cold than the heavy-coated dog. These light coated dogs will do well not being left outside for long periods of time and need to wear a clean dry winter coat. These coats can be purchased

a white curly hair Cockapoo who passed away at the age of 15 almost four years ago. “I think of him almost daily. He was a lovely old soul, and I’d like to know if he’s being loved on my Mum, who passed a year and a half ago.” Oh, I LOVE your mom!!!! She reminds me of my mom, who was classy, funny, and just a total love of a woman. My mom loved Talbots and Lancome makeup but could also play in the dirt for hours while working in her gardens. Napoleon is getting doused by your mom’s love, and I’m chuckling as I say that. Your mom’s love isn’t subtle, and the word DOUSED was used intentionally. They are having a blast up there, and I think your mom has an unlimited number of convertibles in pastel colors that she can cruise around heaven in at her disposal. Thanks for this question! I miss my mom, and yours was kind enough to let me see mine again! Sherri O. has Elroy, a 7-year-old tan Chihuahua mix. He’s a rescue and has been with them five years. “I want to know if he’s happy he chose me and if his Lyme disease is bothering him.” I am actually sitting in Logan Airport as I type this and my back just started bothering me, but I assumed it’s because I am too tall for this elf-sized workstation. Nope! That’s Elroy! It’s not too bad, but he needs to keep moving around to stay limber. He totally picked you, and

anywhere. Our hearty breeds with multiple fur layers must be kept clean, free from dirt and debris that can cake and injure their skin. They also need to be brushed regularly to avoid matts. Matted fur breaks down the natural insulation the fur provides. Shelter is also important for the outdoor dog. An appropriate abode is clean, insulated, dry, and

Judith K. Herman, DVM, CVH Animal Wellness Center Augusta, Maine www.mainehomeopahticvet.com

Downeast Dog News

BLENDING from page 1 owners weren’t realistic about what they could handle. I know of an elderly couple who had to have a pup—they purchased one through a breeder only to discover she had far more energy and strength than they did. The pup was rehomed with the help of a rescue group. Along that same vein, if you do not have the time required to housebreak a puppy, think about an older dog. If your family walks daily, look for a breed who needs activity. And if you have small children, an unflappable breed is a must. Think toddlers who pull on tails or may ride the dog like a horsey. Speaking of children, it’s important that they understand proper pet manners. For condo or apartment dwellers, don’t think you’re limited to a tiny canine unless management has weight limits. A large couch potato or senior will enjoy lazing the day away. And skip a pint size yapper—your neighbors won’t be thrilled. If you’re certain you want a purebred puppy, take the American Kennel Club’s test to determine the top breeds for you at akc.org/dogbreed-selector/. Then find a reputable breeder and their pups. This site, marketplace.akc.org/puppies/allbreeds/Maine, can guide you. Be sure to meet the breeder, the pups’ parents, aka sire and dame, and any other dogs there. Watch how the breeder interacts with his dogs. Are they part of the home as family pets? If you discover the dogs are kenneled in crates in the basement, garage, or barn, or you aren’t allowed to meet any dogs, walk away. If you go through a shelter or rescue, scour their websites searching for dogs. (Know that you may be able to find pups through these organizations as well, but they likely won’t have the certifications.) Outline what you’d like to have in your pet on your application. A perk of working with rescues is that most dogs are in foster homes and the housebreaking, training, and socialization process has begun. Their fosters can provide feedback on its personality, and what setting the dog will flourish in. Make sure you plan a few “meet and greets” with any potential dogs. Have all family members with you, as well as any resident dogs. If you have any felines, be sure any canines that you’re considering are cat friendly. Have a thorough discussion with the staff on the pet’s habits and personality details so you can understand his likes, dislikes, and quirks.

The Nitty Gritty’s Before that fun journey begins with your pal, make sure you’re wellversed. Arm yourself with knowledge on socialization (regardless if he is a pup or older), housebreaking and crate training, and especially if you’re adopting a wee one, gating and feeding. Libraries, bookstores, and online sites offer much information. Choose a well-respected veterinarian, and the closer to your home, the better so you can get your bud in for annual visits and emergency needs. These appointments are important because they afford your doctor the opportunity to look for abnormalities and signs of disease in addition to the routine tests. If you’re budget-minded, low-cost vet clinics are offered through shelters and can be utilized supplementally. Research food products (and talk to that new vet) to ensure you’re going to feed him the right stuff. Know that the often-hyped grain free, organic, or holistic may not be best. Gear food choices toward breed, age, size, and any known issues like a sensitive stomach. Make sure it’s “complete and balanced,” meaning it’s been verified by the strict Association of American Feed Control Officials. For more info, check out DogFoodAdvisor at dogfoodadvisor.com/. Decide where your friend will sleep. A pup or a one-time stray may relish the security of a crate. A comfy dog bed in a few rooms is an option. Personally, my dogs are gated in the family room and attached laundry room at night, and they can tuck in on the couches or their beds. Regular grooming is important. Who doesn’t love being treated to some pampering? For baths, it doesn’t matter if you drop him off at your favorite groomers or take him to a do-ityourself dog wash like the ones at Loyal Biscuit Co. stores (loyalbiscuit.com/ pages/dog-wash) . Use a shampoo that will be best for his skin and fur type and be sure to read the ingredients. It’s important since the FDA doesn’t regulate non-medicated shampoos. For more info about shampoos, petshampooingredientdatabase.com/. Heidi Neal, from Loyal Biscuit Co., likes to use Earthbath D Wipe HypoAllergenic wipes, in regular or scented, and Tropiclean Waterless Shampoo between grooms and “Also, continuing to brush with a grooming tool appropriate for the dog’s coat,” she added. Check out area trainers. Sara Sokol, certified trainer and owner of Mr. Dog Training, recommended that new dog guardians enroll in a class

with a positive reinforcement trainer before bringing home the new dog or puppy, so you two can get off on the “right paw.” Sara shared that a good basics class should include several components including dog body language, understanding learning theory and how that applies to training and communication, an enrichment program, and building trust and communication with your new canine companion. (For information on her classes mrdogtraining.com/.) Entertaining Your Pet Don Hanson, PCBC-A, BFRAP, Owner and President of Green Acres Kennel Shop in Bangor, said dogs need mental enrichment more than physical exercise. “Insufficient stimulation of their brains is often the cause of behaviors we’re not particularly fond of. A dog is a social animal, like us, so some of the best mental stimulation we can provide is interaction with us.” A slow walk, with the dog having opportunities to stop and sniff, is perfect to de-stress. However, this is not always as simple as it sounds, especially in the winter. Slow-smoked bones can keep a dog engaged for hours, and this works all year round. “Around for decades, stuffed the Kong was the first mental enrichment toy for dogs and, in my opinion, is still the best. Fill it with kibble and some dry treats and wedge a raw carrot in the bottom to hold everything inside; in my experience, that can keep a dog busy for anywhere from 20 to 90 minutes.” He added to feed your dog less on these days. “Mental enrichment is extremely important for dogs, but it’s also the new buzz phrase triggering the

greedier instincts of humanity. Many ebooks, written by AI (Advanced Idiociy), are available on the topic and costly products that the average dog will figure out and possibly destroy in less than 5 minutes. Buyer beware. If it sounds too good to be true, it is. The best way to provide the engagement your dog seeks is to take a break, turn off the cell phone, and interact with them.” Another great outlet if he’s a water-loving sort is indoor swims with a skilled assistant. There’s All 4 Paws Wellness in Portland owned and operated by Christine Fraser DVM. Gentle hydrotherapy can provide fitness, facilitate rehabilitation, and accelerate weight loss if necessary. Dr. Fraser said it is good for older and arthritic dogs, especially in the warm therapy pool that they have. “Learning to swim can also help dogs develop confidence, as well as serve as a great outlet for excess energy when the weather makes it difficult to get adequate exercise outdoors in the winter.” (all4pawswellness.com/) Water Bark Wellness in Rockport is owned by certified instructor Kate Griffin. She’s almost always booked and can only accommodate a new client if the schedule allows. She explains it’s because her clientele understands the hydrotherapy benefits: “Swimming is a fabulous way for dogs to have fun and burn off pent up energy. It’s a full body workout, relieves stress and anxiety, and is easy on the joints.” (waterbarkwellness.com/)

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DECEMBER 2023

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The One Treat Blunder

Be an Event Planner Instead! She called her dog. After much effort on her part, he finally came. Barely slowing down as he reached her, he grabbed the treat she offered, then took off like a flash. Most other times he would totally ignore her when she called him, no matter how many times she yelled his name. Recall, or coming when called, is one of the Top Three Basic Skills dog owners tend to struggle with the most (the other two are walking nicely on leash and greeting people without jumping). When I meet with clients, I need to get an idea of what their typical process is, how they have been doing things. I pay close attention to the dog, too. It takes some detective work and observation to understand what patterns have been set and where they need tweaking in order to achieve success. A “treat” is not always a “treat” is not always reinforcing. The weak link is almost always the consequence, e.g., the “reinforcement” aspect of “positive reinforcement.” If we remind ourselves that “consequence drives behavior,” then we should look there

Basic Training Tips by Diana Logan

first when we don’t see skills take shape. We have a lot of control over consequence, so let’s use it to our… and our dogs’ advantages. What is Positive Reinforcement, anyway? “Positive reinforcement occurs when a certain behavior results in a

positive outcome, making the behavior likely to be repeated in the future. This… can be used to teach and strengthen behaviors.” (verywellmind.com) We often get stuck assuming that, by the simple virtue of offering our dog a treat, we are practicing “positive reinforcement” and therefore the dog should respond in a predictable, compliant way. We are on the right track, but if the behavior is not getting stronger, our treat - the consequence - is not reinforcing to our dog, and something must change. Turn the Reinforcement into an EVENT! One measly treat is simply not enough when building behaviors such as recall. We need to add value to the consequence, and we can do it in many ways: 1. Move!!! Dogs love to chase, to move, to be active. Invite your dog to chase you. 2. Tap into “Dog as Predator.” Toss that treat so your pup must hunt it down and “kill”/ consume it. It’s remarkable how much more valuable that same, individual treat will become. Better yet, turn it into a scavenger hunt for a handful of treats. I love to toss a bunch of treats into grass, hay, snow, leaves…. Dogs enjoy using their Scent Detection Superpower, and this game is a great way to incorporate it into a reinforcer.

3. Stretch out the reinforcement experience. The reinforcement event should last at least as long as it took for your dog to do the behavior. Think of it as throwing a party in your dog’s honor. Yes, this means that you will likely be spending more time reinforcing than the dog spends doing the behaviors. You will revel in the results! 4. Be unpredictable. You are the vending machine, and sometimes you’ll dispense a joyous game of “chase me!” and sometimes you’ll dispense a round-trip ticket to Paris (or whatever the doggie equivalent of that might be). The basic rule, though, is that your dog must find it highly desirable and there must be JOY. Check out the “Train me Please” YouTube channel, “Whiplash” video. What is a good reinforcer? “Wow! How can I get more of THAT?!" He will quickly eat the treat then immediately orient back towards you; he will want the game of tug or chase or fetch to last longer; he will ask for more. A sign of a weak reinforcer is when your dog casually accepts what you offer, then turns and goes about his day. “Meh, I have better things to do.” Keep in mind that the reinforcer has to immediately follow the behavior.

See BASIC on page 14

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

www.dianalogan.com

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Downeast Dog News

My Receipt for the Love of a Lifetime; Remembering Milo Sara Sokol, owner of Mr. Dog Training and Downeast Dog News friend and contributor lost her precious Milo recently. He was her best friend and her inspiration for becoming a trainer. He is the face of Mr. Dog Training and Little White Dog Properties. We wish her peace during this difficult time and our deepest condolences. Below, is her lovely tribute to Milo.

In January 2009 a little dog

came into my life with the force of a hurricane and altered its trajectory like nothing before. I was running my own dog walking business in Pasadena CA and was out on a walk with one of my regular clients when I noticed a stray Doberman following us. I called the local ACO and asked them to pick him up. Later that afternoon, I decided to check the shelter’s website to see if they had picked up the dog. Right underneath that Doberman was a 10-month-old Shih Tzu that had been picked up as a stray that day as well. About four months before I had lost my Lhasa Apso Kirby to an aggressive bladder cancer, so I decided to go take a look at this little white Shih Tzu. Upon checking at the front desk and visiting him in the kennels, I was told he had a full waitlist for when his stray hold was up, so even though I was a bit smitten with him, I realized it wasn’t meant to be. Five days later, at the end of his

stray hold, I decided to call the shelter to confirm that he had, in fact, been adopted by one of the three people on his waitlist. Imagine my surprise to learn that all three passed on him and he was available. He was mine. I’ll never forget when the adoption

counselor put Milo on my lap for the first time… He was sleepy and I whispered to him “do you wanna be my dog?” It was as if something inside my body reached out to him and said “hey, there you are…I’ve been waiting for you”. His response was “Yes! I finally found you”. My life was changed forever. I took my very first dog training class with Milo at the same shelter where I adopted him, the Pasadena Humane Society in SPCA. I had never taken a dog training class before and it didn’t take me long to realize how much fun it was to not only work with a dog, but to learn how to understand a dog, how to communicate with a dog, and how to listen to a dog. Learning what I did in those training classes helped to foster a relationship with Milo that I had never experienced before and I was hooked. I would not be a dog trainer today, if Milo had not come into my life. The past 15 years have been filled with us simply enjoying being in each other’s presence. Not that either of us needed to be in the same room with

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each other, or needed to be touching the other one, we simply wanted to be in each other’s company more than anywhere else. Milo loved watching television, the more action, the better. His favorite shows were Game of Thrones (he liked the dragons), Vikings (he liked the battle scenes), and, well, you get the idea… He loved potatoes. In. All. Forms. It didn’t matter if I was eating a baked potato, French fries, tater tots, pierogis, or even potato soup, (I have an Eastern European background, there are a lot of potatoes) those giant eyes would look up at me, often snapping open from a nap, when smelling anything with potatoes, blink with desire for yummy potato goodness, and score some every time. He loved the beach where he would run and then fling himself on the sand and roll on his back in sheer joy, but not before he looked back, to

See TRIBUTE on page 15

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Happy P Happy Pawlidays from Downeast Dog News! Do you have pets or pet owners on your holiday shopping list? Looking to get away with the family including the dog? This section has all that and more. Be sure and check the rest of the paper as well and please consider our advertisers when making your holiday plans.

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A must read for all dog lovers! “I am a yellow Lab who is adopted and no arrives untrained with ugh life experience. Thro onal pers humor and opinions, I share my s, new life, my struggle successes, and my eventual understanding of the value of human ains leadership. Mom expl the diﬀerence between a therapy and service ce dog and the importan of responsible dog parenting.”

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Training Your Performance Dog Agility, Obedience, Tracking by Carolyn Fuhrer

Obedience Something for Everyone

f you haven’t looked at dog obedience for a while, you are in for a surprise. There are a lot more choices to enjoy obedience with your dog. The regular obedience classes are Novice (CD or Companion Dog), Open (CDX or Companion Dog Excellent) and Utility (UD). After these regular classes, there are UDX legs where you must qualify in both Open and Utility at the same show, and if you do this 10 times, you earn a UDX (Utility Dog Excellent title). And

finally, there is an OTCH - Obedience Trial Champion - which requires many, many shows in which you must win the class in order to gain points toward the OTCH title. All of this takes great dedication and commitment to training. Not everyone wants to do this or has the time to dedicate to this type of training, but this is not all that obedience is about. AKC has greatly

expanded the obedience offerings so that people who enjoy teaching their dogs exercises that require focus and teamwork can enjoy obedience with their dogs. If you and your dog have earned a CGC (Canine Good Citizen) title, you are well on your way to begin working towards a Beginner Novice (BN) title. The exercises in Beginner Novice are a step up from CGC. The heeling follows simple signs with a left turn, right turn, about turn, slow, fast and sit (an extension of the CGC “out for a walk.”) The figure 8 exercise is a refinement of walking through a crowd. Sit for exam is just like sit politely for petting, except you are in front of your dog not next to him. In the stay exercise, the handler places the leash on the ground, tells the dog to stay, and walks around the room. In the recall, the handler takes the leash off and tells the dog to wait and goes 20 feet away and calls the dog. A little harder than the CGC work, but not that hard. The skills required are reasonable pet skills and are within reach of any responsible dog handler team. After Beginner Novice (BN), the next classes are Graduate Novice and Graduate Open. The Graduate Novice class involves teaching your

dog to carry a dumbbell and jump with a dumbbell in its mouth, to jump over a broad jump, and to drop on recall. The Graduate Open class involves teaching your dog to down, sit, and come from a distance, to find an article you scent, to retrieve a glove, to stand for examination, and then come to you and go away from you and perform directed jumping. These classes parallel the regular open and utility but are much more user-friendly and dog friendly. The exercises have been modified and distances are shorter. The people working in our open/ utility classes here at North Star find that their dogs really enjoy these problem-solving exercises. They are fun to teach and really enhance the dog/handler relationship. Obedience is a wonderful way to teach your dogs something new and stimulate their minds. As we learn to become partners in helping them learn, a special bond develops as we grow together working towards a goal. Have some fun this winter and challenge yourself and your dog by learning something new. Obedience training has something for everyone!

Carolyn Fuhrer has earned over 130 AKC titles with her Golden Retrievers, including 4 Champion Tracker titles. Carolyn is the owner of North Star Dog Training School in Somerville, Maine. She is also an AKC Tracking Judge. She has been teaching people to understand their dogs for over 30 years.

HEALTHY TURKEY POWER BARS

Holiday Gift Ideas for the Furry Friends on Your List

A recipe from the Honest Kitchen

INSTRUCTIONS INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 cups quinoa flour 1 cup gluten-free oats 1 cup the Honest Kitchen Grain Free Turkey recipe 1/4 cup dried cranberries 1 egg

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease an 8x8 baking pan with olive oil.

02 03

In a small bowl, mash your banana. In a large bowl combine the quinoa flour, oats, and Honest

1 banana

Kitchen Grain Free Turkey

1/4 cup of honey

recipe together.

Add your mashed banana, egg, honey, and dried cranberries to your dry ingredients and mix

RECIPE NOTES These Turkey Power Bars are perfect when you’re on a long

thoroughly until dough forms.

Place the batter on your greased baking pan and use a

walk or trekking through the

spatula to level so your bars

woods. They’re easy to make

will will bake evenly.

and full of healthy ingredients to help your pup stay on target for their health goals!

Place in the oven and bake for 25 min. Allow them to cool for at least 2 hours. Cut into squares & serve!

• Fun leashes, collars & harnesses • Bandanas, bowties, accessories • Treats & chew toys • Stuffed toys, puzzle toys . . . • Health & wellness gifts • Books • Portraits or gift certificates for portrait sessions • Gift certificates for pet stores or services – grooming, training, etc. Donation Ideas Animal Shelters: • Dog & Cat food, dry and/or wet • Treats & toys • Non-clumping cat litter • Collars, leashes & harnesses • Cleaning supplies • Towels, wash cloths, blankets – new or used • Office supplies • Gift certificates to pet stores, grocery stores, etc. • Check shelter website or Facebook page for any specific items Donation to a pet pantry or pet assistance program. (see our list from our Nov. issue on our website downeastdognews.com)

Downeast Dog News

Book Review–The Forever Dog by Rodney Habib and Karen Shaw Becker When most of us add a pet as

a valued family member, it is with a desire for that pet to live a healthy, enjoyable, and long life, which is the philosophy behind The Forever Dog. Every pet I've had has motivated me to learn everything I can to make that happen. Unfortunately, a lot of harmful information about pet health, wellness, behavior, and nutrition is perpetuated as "wisdom" when its goal is to give you a false sense of security, so you purchase products that shorten your pet's life. Fortunately, most of us with pets are getting smarter and are making healthier choices for our pets. However, the fact remains that misinformation is still distributed daily on television and via the internet. If you want your pet to live a healthy, enjoyable, and long life, you must invest time and energy to educate yourself to make wise and healthy decisions for your pet, whose health depends entirely on you. That has become easier with the publication of The Forever Dog by Rodney Habib and veterinarian Dr. Karen Shaw Becker. I first learned of Dr. Becker in 2017 when the documentary Pet Fooled – A Look Inside A Questionable Industry was released. The film exposes the lack of regulation and the philosophy of feeding pets to survive rather than to thrive, which is prevalent among the most prominent companies selling pet food. I knew then that Dr. Becker was on the side of the angels and began following her on Facebook. When her book came out, I knew it would benefit everyone who wants our pets to be forever family members. The book is divided into three sections. In the first, The Modern, Unwell Dog: A Short Story, the authors discuss how our dogs are living shorter lives. “In our lifetimes alone, by some measures we’ve witnessed a decline in canine longevity, especially among pedigree dogs. We realize this is a bold

WORDS, WOOFS & MEOWS by Don Hanson

ACCBC, BFRAP, CDBC, CPDT-KA

photo credit: debra bell

and controversial statement to make, but bear with us. Although many dogs are indeed living longer, like people, many dogs are dying prematurely of more chronic disease than ever before. Cancer is the leading cause of death in older dogs, with obesity, organ degeneration, autoimmune disease, and diabetes not too far behind.” They then note their aspirations for and definition of the Forever Dog. “We aspire to have dogs that live vibrant lives to the very end—whenever that is.” “Forever dog (fə-ˈre-vər dȯɡ): A domesticated carnivorous mammal, descended from the gray wolf lineage, that lives a long and robust life free from degenerative disease, in part due to their humans’ making intentional choices and wise decisions that confer health and longevity.” Part II is titled Secrets from the World’s Oldest Dogs and helps us understand the differences and similarities between our dogs and their ancestors. “Both ancestral wolves and modern wolves are classic carnivores. They prefer to eat large, hoofed mammals such as deer, elk, bison, and moose. They also hunt smaller mammals such as beavers, rodents, and hares. Their diet is primarily protein and fat, unadulterated by processing.” [Emphasis added] They also address what they believe to be the factors shortening our dog's lives. “Understanding the power of food is essential to gaining better health and extending healthy life for you and your dog. Food is the cornerstone of lifestyle medicine.” [Emphasis added] “Moreover, the nutritional education that veterinary

students do receive—much as with medical students—may be biased because courses are commonly taught by nutritionists endowed by commercial pet food conglomerates. Vets get their information largely from within the processed pet food industrial complex—the manufacturers of the very foods that contribute to poor animal health. Talk about the fox guarding the henhouse!” In addition to discussing nutrition and its effect on our dogs’ lives, the authors also discuss stress, trauma, anxiety, aggression, environmental factors, and our dogs’ needs for movement, mental stimulation, and choices in their lives. “Giving dogs more choice in all realms of life is a gift; in giving them agency, we respect their need to participate actively in their own well-being (and ours!), which in turn improves their confidence, quality of life, and, ultimately, appreciation and trust in us.” The book concludes with Part III: Pooch Parenting to Build a Forever Dog, where Habib and Becker help you do some homework so you can improve your dog's life. “…we will guide you in making changes that work for your specific circumstances, time, budget, and inclination.” If you want to learn more about how to extend your dog's life, what to look for and what to avoid in pet food and supplements, and how to avoid household and lawn and garden products that have the potential to harm you, your children, and your pet, and much more, you need to read The Forever Dog. You and your dog will be glad you did. Congratulations to Dr. Karen Shaw Becker, who was awarded the Stange Award for Meritorious Service from Iowa State University and the College of Veterinary

See WORDS on page 15

Don Hanson lives in Bangor, Maine, where he isthe co-owner of the Green Acres Kennel Shop (greenacreskennel.com) and the founder of ForceFreePets.com, an online educational resource for people with dogs and cats. He is a Professional Canine Behavior Consultant (PCBC-A) accredited by the Pet Professional Accreditation Board (PPAB)and a Bach Foundation Registered Animal Practitioner (BFRAP). Don is a member of thePet Professional Guild (PPG), where he serves on the Board of Directors and Steering Committee and chairs the Advocacy Committee. He is also a founding director of Pet Advocacy International (PIAI). In addition, Don produces and co-hosts The Woof Meow Showpodcast,available at http://bit.ly/WfMwPodcasts/,the Apple Podcast app, and Don's blog: www.words-woofs-meows.com.The opinions in this post are those of Don Hanson.

Want to Achieve Success in Obedience, Agility and Tracking?

North Star Dog Training Carolyn Fuhrer Somerville, Maine

We can help you achieve your goals! Classes - Private Lessons Small Group Lessons – Workshops Call for more information!

207-691-2332 carolyn@northstardogschool.com http://facebook.com/NorthStarDogTraining

Call or email us to learn more

207-839-7456

tendertouchveterinary@yahoo.com 336 Gorham Road • Scarborough, ME Mon.-Fri. 7-5:30, Sat. & Sun. 9-5

WELLNESS, BEHAVIOR, SICK CARE, SURGERY, DENTISTRY, BOARDING AND DAYCARE

DECEMBER 2023

PET EMERGENCY? The Maine Veterinary Medical Center provides emergency and critical care services along with various other specialties. We provide 24-hour emergency and critical care for all of your pets. Our goal is to stabilize, diagnose, and treat your pet’s emergency needs.

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Contact Jenn for more information (207)706-6765; jenn@downeastdognews.com

Rescue of the Month RESCUE OF THE MONTH: RESPONSIBLE PET CARE OF OXFORD HILLS Saving Animals & Serving Our Community By Susan Spisak Responsible Pet Care of Oxford Hills (RPC) is a 501(c) 3, no-kill, no-suffer shelter and adoption center in Maine’s Western Region. RPC has agreements with many area towns to accept strays and owner relinquishments. As space allows, they’ll reach out to other agencies and partner shelters out of state to bring in more pets in need. It is their intention that the shelter be utilized to save as many lives as possible. RPC was operated informally for years by a small group of compassionate people who realized there were many homeless animals in need. In an effort to offer them safety, they opened their homes, garages, and basements. They formally incorporated in 1997 with

the mission, “To Improve Quality of Life and Promote the Responsible Way to Treat All Pets.” Their first shelter was in Norway and eventually they outgrew that space. They launched a campaign and thanks to community support, RPC purchased a large commercial building in nearby South Paris and their new doors opened in 2014. The facility boasts more kennel space for dogs and a small pavilion so they can get outdoors, even in inclement weather (and a “catio” for their felines). There are gravel paths and bridges that were designed and built by Eagle Scouts. It’s a great place for the dogs to get outdoors and exercise with volunteer handlers. RPC’s President, Shirley Boyce, said that in the first ten months of this year, they’ve adopted out 131

dogs and returned 98 strays to their owners. They work hard to ensure their pets are matched with perfect adopters. A prime example is Ollie, a deaf dog with special needs who’d been with them for over a year. They matched him with a loving couple who was thrilled to bring Ollie into their home. Knowing Ollie is safe and in good hands is a huge relief for the shelter staff. Shirley shared that they have a unique shop that supports them financially. “Pawsibilities & Fabulous Finds” is a charming shop chock full of reasonably priced items, from new and gently used to vintage and antiques. “The thrift store is our largest fundraiser and our shelter and the store are in a low income demographic, so many folks go there to get items to save

money in their budgets.” Thanks to ongoing donations from the supportive community, inventory continually changes, and you’ll find new treasures every time you stop in. Stop by the store at 24 Waterford Road in Norway. It’s well worth a visit, especially since it’s the holiday shopping season. RPC needs volunteers for the laundry and kitchen area, feline and canine cage cleaning, and dog walking. They may need foster dog volunteers as the need arises. Cash donations are welcome. Tangible needs include paper towels, cat food, and Wellness and Purina Pro plan dog food. For all info, including all shelter info and adoptables, responsiblepetcare.org.

BLAZER, 5 YEARS OLD, MASTIFF MIX

SKIP, 2 YEARS OLD, MIXED BREED

SHAMUS, 2 YEARS OLD, AMER. STAFFORDSHIRE TERRIER

Ninety-seven pound Blazer can be shy till he gets to know you but has a HUGE heart ready with lots of love to give. He likes quiet walks and a quiet life, and he is ready to give his all to his own special person. He prefers humans over other furry friends. If you’re looking for a laid-back companion, Blazer is your guy!

Skip finds himself back at the shelter after his adopter suddenly passed away. Skip is super smart (he needs an adopter who is smarter than he is!) He's fun and athletic. He loves to play ball or have a good romp and then would love to hang out with you.

Friendly and sweet...and strong! He's very smart, a good snuggler, and he's a giant, rambunctious lovebug. Adults/teens are fine, but he's apt to knock over younger children. He is dog-selective and we aren't sure about cats yet.

FMI: responsiblepetcare.org/dogs

Sponsored by Raymond (207)655-6760 • So. Paris (207)743-8960 Bridgton (207)647-2383 • Jay (207)897-3333 • Lewiston (207)783-1366 Newport (207)368-4329 • Turner (207)225-2525 • Winthrop (207)377-2614 North Conway, NH (603)356-5669

parisfarmersunion.com

Help us find a forever home! Become a sponsor and help raise money for a Maine rescue. jenn@downeastdognews.com

Downeast Dog News

Dogs for Adoption View more available dogs on our website, downeastdognews.com.

Some rescues do not offer phone numbers and require you apply online. Please see the contact info. highlighted in yellow below each dog. NIKE

RIOT

ASTRO

2 years old, Greyhound Mix

1 year old, Mixed Breed

2 years old, Yellow Lab Mix

FMI: www.pawsadoption.org

Super sweet and friendly. He is good with people and other dogs! Not great with cats because they are too fun to chase. He is going to make an amazing addition to a home/family.

Sponsored by: York Bark & Play

915 US Route 1, York, (207)361-4758, yorkbarkandplay.com

SOPHIA

This sweet loving pup must go to a home with at least one other dog. She is used to and loves being part of a pack. Her home should be mildly active as she enjoys her walks and she is good on a leash. She enjoys her car rides! No cats or chickens. She does not really bark much at all.

Sponsored by: Kompletely K-9 Dog Training and Rehab. 248 Choate Rd., Montville, (207)322-5111, kompletelyk9.com

NORMAN

Major’s home should be mildly active as he enjoys his walks and is reportedly good on a leash. He enjoys car rides. Has a high prey drive so NO cats or free-range chickens and ducks. He loves his soft treats and wet food! He seems to be hard of hearing and likes to talk! Sweet and very outgoing.

Sponsored by: Mason’s Brewing Company 15 Hardy St., Brewer, (207)989-6300, masonsbrewingcompany.com

TORRIE

4 years old, Corgi/Beagle Mix

5 years old, Coonhound

1.5 years old, Husky

FMI: pethavenlane.org

Sophia is an affectionate little girl who came to the shelter through no fault of her own. She does well with dogs, cats and children. We are suggesting no children under 5 because she can be a little nervous at first.

DECEMBER 2023

I’m a big, snuggly hound. I love sniffing the sniffs, but I also love getting in your lap. I have lived with young children, dogs, and cats. KVHS, however, is suggesting that I go to a home without cats as I have acted like they are not my friends here at the shelter.

Torrie has been the sweetest angel while she has been here. She adores attention and affection, has great social skills with other dogs, and doesn’t seem to mind kitties. Torrie has told us that what she is most looking forward to is learning how to play with dog toys when she gets into her new home.

December C lendar To submit or get more information on the events below, go online to downeastdognews.com These events are currently scheduled as of our production date however please check with the event organizers to ensure they are still taking place on these dates.

appointment necessary, just stop by our Brewer location with your pup or cat. In order to ensure a safe environment for all of our customers, please note: Nail trims will be offered on a first come, first served basis. Nail clipping customers will be asked to wait outside the store front for their turn to avoid overcrowding. An employee will call you in! loyalbiscuit.com.

PAWS AUCTION FOR THE ANIMALS

November 24 – December 4 Online Proceeds will benefit PAWS Adoption Center. Hundreds of items from local businesses will be up for bid online and will include bidding packages for both large and small budgets. From a 2-night stay in an Executive Suite overlooking the harbor to a gift card to your loved one’s favorite local store, the PAWS online Auction for the Animals has something for everyone. FMI: https:// www.pawsadoption.org/auction-forthe-animals

TSC SATURDAY MED’S AND PEDI’S

NIGHT OWL SALE

Friday, December 1 Camden, 6PM – 9PM Loyal Biscuit is so excited to welcome you late into the evening for our biggest sale of year (Camden location only)! Shopping in your PJ’s is totally allowed! 20% off 6PM – 7PM, 25% off 7:01PM – 8PM and 30% off 8:01PM – 9PM. loyalbiscuit.com

TWO AKC TEMPERAMENT TESTS

Saturday, December 2 Somerville OTAC (On Track Agility Club of Maine) will administer Maine’s only AKC Temperament Tests on December 2nd at North Star Dog Training School in Somerville. Two ATT tests will be held; one in the am and the other in the afternoon. Tests will be administered by two AKC evaluators. A dog passing both tests will earn the ATT title and a ribbon. The ATT is open to all purebred and mixed breed dogs. FMI about the ATT test visit: http:/www.akc.org/ acktemptest. FMI on how to enter the OTAC December 2nd temperament tests, please call Kathy at (207)6912332. Premium list and entry forms can be downloaded from the AKC events site.

SATURDAY NAIL TRIM CLINICS

Saturday, December 2 Rockland, 12PM - 3PM Is your pet in need of a pedicure? Bring them down to Pet Quarters located at 235 Camden St, Rockland and Shannon Nachajko from Catahoula Rescue of New England will be on hand to make your fur kids look their very best! And remember we trim not only dogs, but cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, you name it! Nail Trimming and Ear Cleanings are available for a $10.00 each or combo price of $12.00 for ear cleanings. All funds raised go directly to rescue. Weather permitting - Call ahead in case of snow!

BASIC from page 6 I recently worked with a lovely adolescent dog who was acting her age (more independent, less likely to respond to cues than during puppyhood). Her recall, previously reinforced mostly with food, had deteriorated.

8TH ANNUAL ADOPT-A-TREE FESTIVAL!

Saturday, December 2, 10AM – 6PM Sunday, December 3, 10AM – 2PM Arundel Held at Vinegar Hill Music Theatre, 53 Old Post Road, Arundel. We will be raffling off a variety of beautifully decorated Christmas Trees and Wreaths. You may also find fun, exciting prizes within the trees! Don’t need a tree? No problem! Collect all of your prizes and decorations and donate the tree back to us to use next year! There will also be a gift shop, photos with Santa Paws and lots of other holiday magic! All proceeds will be used directly for the care of the dogs who are in foster care with Lucky Pup Rescue. FMI: www.luckypuprescue.org/adopt-a-treefestival

PHOTOS WITH SANTA

Sunday, December 3 Scarborough, 11AM TO 2PM Join us for Photos with Santa at Pet Quarters, 486 Payne Road, Scarborough. Pets, kids, and people are welcome to participate! Professional photographs start at just $10 for one 5x7, digital files and several package options are available.All proceeds go to Almost Home Rescue. www.almosthomerescue.net

WATERVILLE “HOWL”IDAY OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, December 10 Waterville, 10AM – 5PM Our Waterville location will be hosting it’s very own “Howl”iday Open House celebration on Sunday, December 10th!

1. We tested a new toy with her inside - the “flirt pole.” She was CRAZY about this toy suspended from the end of a pole. She also had a very good “drop it” on cue. 2. We put her on a 25’ line and took her into a large, fenced-in area.

To join in on the celebration, bring your pup into the Waterville Loyal Biscuit for some delicious pet friendly eggnog from Primal! We will be offering 20% off all toys, treats, chews, jackets and beds all day long! This is a great opportunity to stock up on treats and fill your pet’s stocking with holiday goodies! And while you shop for your pet, enjoy some complimentary cocoa for yourself as well! loyalbiscuit.com

BREWER “HOWL”IDAY OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, December 10 Brewer, 10AM – 5PM Our Brewer location will be hosting it’s very own “Howl”iday Open House celebration on Sunday, December 10th! To join in on the celebration, bring your pup into the Brewer Loyal Biscuit for some delicious pet friendly eggnog from Primal! We will be offering 20% off all toys, treats, chews, jackets and beds all day long! This is a great opportunity to stock up on treats and fill your pet’s stocking with holiday goodies! And while you shop for your pet, enjoy some complimentary cocoa for yourself as well!. loyalbiscuit.com

NAIL CLIPPING CLINIC

Saturday, December 16 Brewer, 10AM – 12PM Is your pet in need of a pedicure? Bring them down to Loyal Biscuit, 421 Wilson St, Brewer. Danielle from our Brewer location will be available to make your fur kids look their very best! For just $10 per pet, you can have your pet’s nails trimmed and all the proceeds will be donated to Old Dogs New Digs! No

3. We gave her time to freely sniff about. 4. When we were sure she was ready, one of her owners called her, then started to run away. She chased him down and he immediately engaged her in a lengthy and rousing game of tug with the flirt pole.

Saturday, December 16 Thomaston, 12PM – 2PM Is your pet in need of a pedicure? Bring them over to Tractor Supply in Thomaston and Shannon Nachajko, Director of Catahoula Rescue of New England will be on hand to make your fur kids look their very best! And remember we trim not only dogs, but cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, you name it! Nail Trimming and Ear Cleanings are available for a $10.00 each or combo price of $12.00 for ear cleanings. All funds raised go directly to rescue. Weather permitting - Call ahead in case of snow!

LAZY DAY NAIL TRIM CLINICS

Sunday, December 17 Rockland, 12PM - 2PM Is your pet in need of a pedicure? Bring them down to Pet Quarters located at 235 Camden St, Rockland and Shannon Nachajko from Catahoula Rescue of New England will be on hand to make your fur kids look their very best! And remember we trim not only dogs, but cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, you name it! Nail Trimming and Ear Cleanings are available for a $10.00 each or combo price of $12.00 for ear cleanings. All funds raised go directly to rescue. Weather permitting - Call ahead in case of snow!

TOE NAIL TUESDAY

Tuesday, December 19 Rockland, 11AM – 1PM Is your pet in need of a pedicure? Bring them down to Pet Quarters located at 235 Camden St, Rockland and Shannon Nachajko from Catahoula Rescue of New England will be on hand to make your fur kids look their very best! And remember we trim not only dogs, but cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, you name it! Nail Trimming and Ear Cleanings are available for a $10.00 each or combo price of $12.00 for ear cleanings. All funds raised go directly to rescue. Weather permitting - Call ahead in case of snow!

5. The progression went from holding the long line to letting it drag to detaching it. There were other subtleties to making this successful, but this was the gist of the process. Now… go out there and be an Event Planner for your dog! Happy Training!

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WORDS from page 11 Medicine on November 4, 2023. The Stange Award is presented annually for outstanding professional achievement in the area of education, government, industry, practice, or other professional endeavors in veterinary medicine.

Dr. Becker is the world's mostfollowed veterinarian on social media and the co-author of The New York Times bestseller The Forever Dog. She has been a pioneer in promoting a healthier life for our pets.

TRIBUTE from page 7 check and make sure that the other half of his heart wasn’t far behind him. My heart would explode every time he looked at me. How could I be so lucky to have this beautiful creature in my life? He would celebrate, eating breakfast every morning by running upstairs afterwards, ask to be put on the bed, and then proceed to have his morning “Dance” where he would roll all over the bed, dig in the sheets, snort, bark, and be utterly ridiculous. Milo lit up all of the dark places inside of me. Through unconditional love, compassion and kindness, he showed me what it was like to truly have a partner, someone who was always there for me, never judged me, and loved me unconditionally. Being with him made me feel connected, like a phone nestled on its charger. I don’t know why some souls light up and sparkle around others, but I sure am glad that our two souls got to shine together. He trusted me. I listened to him and adjusted my behavior when he spoke to me using his body language and behavior, and I respected who he was, his likes and dislikes, and I never tried to force him to be something he wasn’t.

DECEMBER 2023

The thread that connects our hearts, the one that would loosen up and alert him when I was five minutes from home, no matter how long I was gone for or what time of the day it was, is strong and I feel it pulling tight now, as he is too far away Milo, thank you for your love, time, patience, sense of humor, generosity, unwavering devotion, and so much trust. Thank you for those little snorts. The ones you would give me when I looked at you, or walked in a room, or put my hand on you. Those snorts were your way of telling me that you loved me. You saw me through my 30s and into my 40s, you were beside me as I grew up, learned about myself, and built a career and business. I miss laughing with you. I miss the way you smell. I miss seeing you right before I went to sleep and first thing when I woke up. I miss taking care of you. I miss watching you enjoy things. I miss making you happy. I recently read that grief is our receipt for a great love. Well God help me as I try to fold up this giant CVS sized receipt that I’m left with and tuck it somewhere safe.

CENTRAL MAINE

More Hot Dog News Loyal Biscuit Co. Awards $5,500 to Four Maine Animal Non-Profit Organizations Heidi and Joel Neal of Rockland, Sanctuary in Milo will receive $1,500 first purchased the Loyal Biscuit Co. for the installation of windows in their in January of 2009. What was then all season porch addition. This will a single retail location with one create a year-round, safe space for the employee has since grown to add cats in their care - giving them seven six additional locations. The primary windows to bask in the sun and watch focus of the Loyal Biscuit Co. is to not the world around them. only supply Maine communities with Finally Home Senior Dog Rescue in healthy dog and cat supplies, but to North Yarmouth will receive a grant for provide support to the local animal $1,800 to repair their fencing ruined in shelters with donations of healthy pet a storm. They currently have 15 senior food, financial support, and promoting dogs in their care and the fence will the adoption of companion animals. ensure the dogs are safe and secure As the Neal’s celebrated their 10th while enjoying the outside, or going year of business in 2020, they wanted out for the business break. to be able to provide more funding Humane Society Waterville Area for non-profit organizations within in Waterville will receive a grant of the state of Maine. Heidi created $700 to help with their Silver Street the Loyal Biscuit Co. Fenway Fund in Colony Control Project. Anyone in 2019, named after her beloved dog the Waterville area knows that cat and Loyal Biscuit Co logo. Grants are population on Silver Street is large and funded by the proceeds of sales within needs a special focus to be improved. the six Loyal Biscuit retail locations These funds will be used to help defray and are awarded bi-annually to 501c3 much of the costs associated with Maine animal related organizations paying and neutering the cats on Silver whose proposals are selected by Street. a committee of Loyal Biscuit Co. “I am so proud of our Fenway Fund employees. The Fenway Fund is a vital committee for the great selections they way for Loyal Biscuit to support animal made in this round of funding from our welfare within Maine communities by program. The projects these rescue providing seed money for projects that organizations are doing to better the will help better the lives of animals that lives of animals in our communities are often fall below funding availability. amazing and I love that we get to be a Since its beginnings in 2019, Loyal part of it,” stated Neal. Biscuit Fenway Fund has donated over “Giving back to our communities $80,000 to local organizations. has always been a priority of ours since Recently, the Loyal Biscuit the day we started and to now be able committee selected their seventh to grant these funds to some pretty round of applicants to receive grant amazing organizations is such a great funding for projects they feel best feeling. We honestly have the best met the criteria of the fund, for a total customers because none of this would donation of $5,500.00. be possible without them.” Darrowby Farm in Jefferson will The application process for the receive a $1,500 grant for the addition Fenway Fund will re-open again in of gutters to their barn. In 2022, they March 2024 for any 501c3 Maine created a pig barn, but with the heavy animal related organizations. For more rains, it was discovered gutters were information or questions about the needed for the safety of their animals. Fenway Fund application process, The mud created from the lack of please contact bark@loyalbiscuit.com. gutters caused several pigs to have The Loyal Biscuit Co. is an awardhoof infections due to the depth of the winning pet supply store with locations mud they needed to pass through. The at 180 Front St, Bath; Reny’s Plaza, 1 gutters will also create a much safer Belmont Avenue, Belfast; Hannaford work environment for the humans and Shopping Plaza, 421 Wilson Street, living area for the animals. Darrowby Brewer; US Route 1, Camden-Rockport; Farm was founded in 2019 to provide 160 Water Street, Hallowell; 408 Main lifelong homes for abused, neglected, Street, Rockland; and 109 Main Street, and abandoned farmed animals and Waterville. You can find the LBC online horses. at loyalbiscuit.com or facebook.com/ Milo Penquis Animal Welfare loyalbiscuit.

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PETS WELCOME

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HAPPY HOLIDAYS

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