By Susan Spisak
Hot Dog News
Local Shelters Rescue 50+ Shih Tzus in State Seizure
The Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland (ARLGP), Animal Welfare Society (AWS) worked alongside other agencies to rescue dozens of dogs.
Westbrook, ME & Kennebunk, ME – On October 24th, the State of Maine Animal Welfare Program, with support from the ARLGP, AWS and other agencies, seized over 50 Shih Tzu dogs, along with a handful of cats, living in inhumane conditions at a home in Norridgewock, Maine.
What was initially reported to be 15-20 dogs living in the home was revealed to be many more upon arrival. Following the state’s seizure, the ARLGP received 23 dogs and AWS received 9 dogs, along with the cats.
On arrival at the shelters, the dogs were examined by a team of veterinarians and provided necessary preventatives and vaccinations. Volunteer groomers were on site to clean them, as many were heavily matted and covered in feces. Many dogs have medical conditions that will require additional care before they can be made available for adoption. Veterinary staff at both shelters are handling the medical needs of the pets.
Pets ready for adoption will be posted on the shelters’ websites, animalwelfaresociety.org and arlgp.org. Interested adopters should visit the websites first to find valuable information, including age, sex, and adoption fee.
While both shelters look forward to getting the pets up for adoption, ARLGP and AWS representatives stress that rehoming them will take special care. These animals have been through a very stressful period and many are not accustomed to living in a loving, home setting. They will need patience, love and support from their new families as they transition into an unfamiliar, but safer and healthier life.
About the ARLGP: Serving 15 communities in Greater Portland, the ARLGP nurtures the connection between people and pets to advance animal welfare and improve the quality of life in our community.
About AWS: Animal Welfare Society exists to serve as the safety net for lost and homeless pets and to provide access to affordable services and resources necessary for long term well-being, so pets and their families stay together and thrive.
SNIFF
bark@loyalbiscuit.com (207) 594-5269
From the Publisher Downeast Dog News
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Dear Dog News Readers, I can’t believe this is my last letter of 2024! Sometimes when working on this issue I would listen to Christmas music to get me in the spirit, right now that is hard for me to process. I still have arugula growing in my garden that I cover up on frosty nights. I recently had a Facebook memory pop up from 10 years ago and it was a photo of snowy trees outside my office at that time. Pepper was only 7 months old. Time goes by so quickly and things have certainly changed.
Pepper had her first visit of the season with Kate at Water Bark Wellness last week. As usual she was elated. You would never know that she is 10 ½ and had surgery this summer to remove a mast cell tumor. She looks great and has so much energy. I hope to keep that going!
We recently did a photo shoot with Debra Bell from Bell’s Furry Friends Photography. I have tons of photos of Pepper in my phone but I wanted something nice of both of us together. I will be previewing them at the end of this week and choosing which ones I’d like to purchase. While I am not a big fan of photos of myself, I am very excited to see them. Perhaps I will share one or two.
W ishing a very happy holidays to those who celebrate this season and good health and many blessings to all in the upcoming year!
Warmest regards,
Jenn and Pepper
Dog of the Month! HARLEY
We drove by a sign advertising "Golden Doodle pups for sale.” We had only intended to call and inquire.....5 hrs later, we brought Harley home! He has been a complete blessing for us. He takes everyday worries and stresses and turns it to OH HAPPY DAYS! His personality cracks us up, he's a talker and sometimes we all three bark and howl at the moon. He loves his puzzle feeding mat and is a hoover when eating. Watching him with balls, it's like he's playing soccer. One of the best spontaneous things we have ever done and no regrets!
If you’d like to submit a photo of your dog to be considered for Dog of the Month, send it with a small description of your dog (cool trick, silly thing he does, favorite toy) to jenn@downeastdognews.com or mail it to: 8 North Main Street Suite 201, Rockland, ME 04841. Each month one will be selected to be printed in the paper.
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I’m so excited to be back with you at the tail end of 2024! My tree is set up, the lights are twinkling reminding me to focus on all the good in the world and to look for things that bring me joy. My cat tends to have a little too much fun with the ornaments, and the dog's tail has hit a few home runs with the lower decorations, but it’s all part of the holiday fun. I put the call out on my Sara Moore Enlightened Horizons Facebook page for questions, and here’s what some of your dogs had to say. Just a reminder, a psychic reading is never a replacement for licensed veterinary care.
Patti A. asked about Tobler, a chocolate Lab and Zinnia, a yellow Lab, both of whom are in heaven. “ Were you scared at your passing, and did you think we gave up on you?” First of all, I’m a sucker for Labs, so this one tugs at my heart. Tobler wasn’t afraid at all, and as he was passing, he felt very out of his body. This wasn’t because of any medications he was given either. He feels like his energy was kind of swimming in his body looking for the exit. I’ve never had a dog phrase it that way, and your husband did an amazing job telling the dog it was ok to go. Zinnia had no fear at
Furry Words
by Sara Moore
all and showed me a gazelle jumping over a fence, meaning she took a giant playful leap to the other side and had zero regrets or worries. I actually hear your grandmother on your mother’s side saying she arrived “footloose and fancy free!” I love that. Zinnia still comes around to visit, but Tobler is sitting (being a good boy) waiting for your arrival. A s
much as I know you want to see him, it’s still many, many years away. Janet S. asked about Abby, a black and brown dog. “I want to know if she’s still ok with her quality of life since her arthritis is worsening. Is there anything else she wants us to try to help her feel better?” I think she’s actually hanging in there at the moment. Her left hip feels achy to me, more on the outside and lower, but it’s a constant ache versus a sharp shooting one. This feels more tolerable to her, and she says it’s like having a house full of kids. After a while you don’t even notice the noise. If I ask her what could help, I don’t hear anything about medications and it feels like her body is maxed out on what it can tolerate without compromising her kidneys. I’m not a vet, but that’s what I’m hearing. Cold is better than hot, so if she starts sleeping on the floor next to her bed, that’s why. I actually think that she’ll do better this winter than she did this summer.
Before I go, I want to say that I love doing readings this time of year because even if you don’t ask what your dogs want for the holidays, they tend to offer unsolicited suggestions. So many of your pups have preferences on what kind of
stocking they want, which stuffie they prefer, and even what treats they want to celebrate with. They may show me very specific collar styles and patterns, which totally fascinates me. I was at a dog show years ago in Scarborough, Maine and two very skeptical women asked what the dog wanted. I was shown a sky-blue collar with lobsters in a very specific pattern. They joked that I must be in cahoots with the vendors around me, but none of them had it. They went to a local store and came back to apologize for thinking I was making it up. Apparently, they went in, saw the exact collar I had described, and the dog went nuts. Then to further test it, they had an employee hold up that one and a random one, and the dog almost knocked her to the ground jumping for the lobsters. This job is a wild ride, but absolutely fascinating for me! Happy holidays to you and yours and start thinking about what intentions you will be setting for the new year.
Sara Moore is located in Conway, NH and offers both phone and office readings. To learn more, go to www. enlightenedhorizons.com and follow her on Facebook at Sara Moore Enlightened Horizons.
Pacemaker for My Dog
Q. I read something about dogs getting pacemakers. Can you tell me why?
A. Yes you did read about people donating used pacemakers for dogs. The first question to answer is why would a dog need a pacemaker? Dogs suffer from many types of heart disease. Most of these conditions are treated with medication. There is a small pool of conditions that require intervention by minimally invasive surgery. Pacemakers are in that category. Slow heart rates detected at your companion’s annual health exam or symptoms of being weak or collapsing causing you to take your friend to the veterinarian are clues that a pacemaker may be warranted. The slow heart rate is called bradycardia. It occurs mostly in middle age to older dogs. They develop scarring or degeneration in the heart, which upsets the normal electrical pathways. These pathways
Ask the Vet…
by Dr. Judith Herman
keep the heart beating in a rhythmic pattern so blood flows easily from the heart through the body. If this condition goes untreated, your dog will become weaker, won’t be able to exercise, may collapse (called syncope), and even die. The heart will be working harder and harder to do its job until it fails.
Pacemakers have been used in people since the 1960s and in dogs since 1980s. They are little
generators containing the battery and a microcomputer. There is an insulated electrical wire with an electrode at one end. This lead connects the generator to the heart. The pacemaker does not take over the job of constantly regulating the heartbeat. Instead, it monitors the heart rate. When it drops below an acceptable rate, it will send a low electrical stimulus causing the heart to correct the rate.
T he procedure for placing the pacemaker in the dog is straight forward. The risk comes from the anesthesia. Today there are many drugs used to reduce this risk to the patient. Because the pacemaker is under the skin in the neck, guardians are to use a harness when walking Fido. The collar can be used to hold tags but never to control or pull the dog. For the first month, care must be taken not to cause trauma to the neck, no jumping on and off furniture, no racing up and down stairs or outside, and no rough housing with other canine friends. This will be difficult since the dog will feel so much better. Rechecks are usually every six months. Pacemakers run on batteries that last five to ten years. Replacing
batteries is rare in dogs since they are older when they get one. The newer pacemakers are made so there is little to no interference if near any electronic devices.
Pacemakers can be bought new from veterinary specific companies who make generators and leads, but these are very expensive, and most cardiologists use donated units. The pacemaker used in a dog is the same as in a human. These devices are donated by manufacturers with older models or outdated units. People will donate them from their deceased loved ones, human or canine. If someone is upgrading his pacemaker to a newer model, he can donate his old one. Donations lower the cost to the guardian, whose dog is in need of one. AARP has information on how to donate a pacemaker. Local veterinary schools, such as Tufts, would be another source for information on donating.
Judith K. Herman, DVM, CVH Animal Wellness Center Augusta, Maine
www.mainehomeopahticvet.com
rescue, serve meals to homeless at a church, or donate to a pet and human food pantry. Consider becoming a foster for a rescue group or check in on an elderly neighbor. Simply join the movement and pay it forward.
On December 11th, the Holiday Food Drive for the Needy Animals Day is celebrated. It's a day to donate pet food, treats, and other supplies to help animals in shelters, rescues, and those living on the streets. Many nonprofits cannot operate without support, so please consider donating to them.
Don Hanson, co-owner with wife Paula Hanson of the Green Acres Kennel Shop in Bangor, supports The Furry Friends Food Bank (FFFB), a program of the Eastern Area Agency on Aging (EAAA). Through the program, it helps seniors and adults with disabilities care for their pets by providing them with monthly, pre-packaged bags of pet food and litter.
It ’s one of the Green Acres Kennel Shop’s favorite charities, so from November 18th through December 31st, they're running their 18th fundraising drive with partner Force Free Pets for FFFB and the EAAA. Funds raised are used to purchase pet food and supplies at wholesale prices. Once the community has raised $2500, Green Acres will donate $500, with an additional $500 after the community raises $5000. Don said this was a way for them to not only keep pets out of shelters but also keep them with their people. “In many cases, these pets can be a person's only contact with another living person on a regular basis. They have a strong bond, and we want to do our part to keep them together.”
Christopher Hill, Communication and Development Director for EAAA said, “We are profoundly grateful for partners like Don Hanson and Green Acres Kennel Shop, as their support is vital to our work at EAAA. Currently, our program distributes an average of 12,000 pounds of pet food each month, serving over 390 individuals, all without any state or federal funding.” He added by alleviating some financial burden of pet ownership, they can keep their pet and have a daily companion, which plays a critical role in enhancing their mental well-being. To participate in the Green Acres Kennel Shops important mission, eaaa.org/ GreenAcresChallenge/.
Nadine Malloy, owner of No Bowl Empty 2 Pet Food Pantry, says her efforts to serve Cumberland and York Counties consumes all of her time. She’s been at this almost ten years now, and she helps 2,284 clients and their pets a month. “We’re talking thousands of
pounds of food a month,” said Nadine. She also relies on and hopes for more annual sponsorships. “I’m really good at begging,” she laughed. Items appreciated include canned dog and cat food, litter, and dry cat food. To donate through Venmo: @nbe_nadine. For pantry info and tangible donation drop offs, facebook.com/NBE2PFP.
Downeast Dog News is happy to announce that the randomly drawn winner of their Annual Holiday Donation is the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society Shelter’s (GAHS) Fetchin’ Food Pet Pantry, 55 Strawberry Avenue, Lewiston. Katie Lisnik, their Executive Director, said the assistance they provide can keep pets with their families, rather than them being relinquished to shelters.
Founded in 1882, GAHS is thriving thanks to the community, and they assist over 3,500 animals annually. During their FY year 2023, they provided thirty-five tons of food to families and their pets. The amount they’ve provided includes routine donations of pet food to area human food pantries, such as St. Mary’s, so people can make one stop.
Katie said they appreciate cat food and supplies, dog treats, chew toys, and canned dog food. “Gift cards are amazing,” she said, citing Walmart, Hannaford’s, and Shaw’s. “Winning and getting that recognition is absolutely amazing,” said Katie. She added they’re not providing this for the accolades, there’s a real need. For donation info, gahumane.org/give/.
The Pittie Posse Rescue works with the community to address social and economic hardships that result in dog surrenders. “To that effort, we rescue and adopt dogs out, provide training assistance, and even work via our free pet food pantry to distribute free pet food monthly in three different locations around the state of Maine,” said cofounder, Britt Bolnick.
“At this point, we distribute free food every month in Steep Falls, Lewiston/ Auburn area, and the Biddeford area to an average of 150 to 200 a month. We are always in need, especially of cat food, both dry and wet, as well as dog chew toys and treats for tough chewers.” said Britt. They appreciate cash donations for their adoptable dogs’ vetting, as well as other supplies for distribution. To donate, pittieposserescue.com/. Tangibles can be dropped at The Bark Yard, 2112 Broadway, South Portland.
Pope Memorial Humane Society, 25 Buttermilk Lane in Thomaston, serves over twenty towns. Wish List items include food, pet treats, and gift cards. They’ll accept open bags of food—if it’s not in original packaging, please label
it. See all needed items, Wish List, and volunteering info at popehumane.org/.
PAWS Animal Adoption Center and PAWS Cares Clinic, serving communities for 50 years, is at 123 John Street in Camden. They can always use kitten food, paper towels, trash bags, and small fleece blankets. For volunteer opportunities, Amazon Wish List link, and pet pantry info, pawscares.org/.
The Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland (ARLGP) 2023 FY stats indicated they provided clinical care, pet food, and unification services to 954 pets. To sponsor the pantry financially, contact them at 207-517-3932. Matt Blanchard, their Marketing & Communications Coordinator, said for Wish Lists, arlgp. org/make-a-gift/pets-have-wishestoo. If you require assistance, fill out a registration form on their site—be sure to call or complete a pickup form each time you utilize them.
Bangor Humane Society’s Kathryn Ravenscraft, Director of Development & Communication, indicated if you have leftover, opened food, they’ll accept it. “We’re giving it out hand over fist here and we are grateful for any and all donations to support it.” They’re at 693 Mt. Hope Avenue, Bangor. Check bangorhumane.org/ for hours, pantry info, donation link, and volunteer offerings.
Mariah Donovan, Development Coordinator for SPCA of Hancock County, said wet cat food and litter are their highest priority. Additionally, they can utilize items from their Amazon and Chewy Wish Lists. Items can be shipped to them at 141 Bar Harbor Road in Trenton or leave donations by the front door, 9 am to 4. For Wish Lists, donation info, pantry info and application,
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spcahancockcounty.org/.
Midcoast Humane operates animal sheltering in Brunswick and Edgecomb. They provide care for nearly 3,500 animals annually and assist hundreds more through programming. They provide about 40,000 lbs. of free food and items to those with needs, keeping animals fed and in their homes. Kate Griffith, their Marketing and Communications Manager, says that number includes their food donations to Dogwill.
She added that their Pet Food Pantry is operated out of the Brunswick and Edgecomb Campuses. “In Brunswick, people can come any time we are open (11am – 3pm every day but Wednesday). In Edgecomb, we ask people to come between 9am and 3pm, and they can come once every two weeks.” Their biggest need is wet/ canned cat and dog food. For all needs, Wish List, and donation drop off info, midcoasthumane.org/donate/donatesupplies/.
The Houlton Humane Society welcomes volunteers and fosters. For their Amazon Wish List, houltonhumanesociety.us/donate-indeximpact. They do offer a pantry that consists of food donated and purchased through a grant to them that exceeds their needs. For the online application, houltonhumanesociety.us/foodpantry?rq=pantry.
For a detailed list of pantries, see p. 14: issuu.com/rfbadvertising/docs/ downeastdog_november_2024. Check with them directly for donation needs. For animal rescues, Google: Maine Pet Rescues, navigate to a favorite for donation and volunteer info.
I was 25 years old when I was broadsided at a busy intersection in Portland when another driver ran a red light and flew into the passenger side of my brand-new car. Luckily, there were no physical injuries except major damage to my monthold vehicle.
I was “fine”, thank goodness, but it was a traumatic experience, nonetheless. It was jarring, inconvenient, and very stressful, not just for me, but for my three passengers who had been eager to ride in my shiny new Honda Civic hatchback (later lovingly christened “Pepe”) which barely survived.
Basic Training Tips
by Diana Logan
For a while after that, I would involuntarily cringe and tense up whenever there was any motion coming from the right, wherever I was. Each time I went through that intersection I would tense up. For a long time after, I would say to myself, “that’s where I had the accident.” I still do, in fact, decades later. Initially, the more times I went through without incident, the less I tensed up, but it took multiple repetitions to diminish that response to a simple, neutral recollection. I’m a resilient and I hope rational person, but not immune to the rules of psychology which tell us that we make strong mental connections between events, concepts, or mental states. We will even tie in other related aspects to those connections. That’s why I initially
tensed up when there was motion from my right, no matter the source. How would I have responded if subsequent experiences involved (non-injurious) accidents every time I went through that intersection? Or every so often, unpredictably? It’s highly likely my stress levels would be on a regular supercharge schedule and possibly increase in intensity. You bet, if I could, I would avoid that intersection altogether. But what if I couldn’t? What if I didn’t have the choice?
Humans and dogs share the same rules of psychology, but I would argue that dogs lack the “rational” part, which can make things more challenging and associations more difficult to predict. Understanding this helps us condition them to become more resilient if we take the time to work proactively. Unfortunately, we often employ the “get used to it” strategy, subjecting them to the same stressful situations again and again and again in an attempt to get them to deal with it, whatever “it” may be. A negative emotional connection to an event, situation, location, experience, object, etc. will not generally spontaneously get better. This is why dogs may continue to struggle with nail trims, being groomed, going to certain places, being handled in specific ways… In fact, repeat exposures can dramatically increase the likelihood
for a negative response, possibly to the point of being dangerous. I think of groomers and veterinarians who have suffered serious bites or dog owners whose dogs finally feel the need to defend themselves out of fear and self-preservation even when the owner is simply trying to put a harness on their dog. The situations rarely involve physical harm to the dog, but emotional distress is a powerful motivator to go on the defense.
Let’s return to the scene of Pepe’s accident for a moment. Let’s say after the accident, each time I went through that intersection, I was magically delivered a pint of Ben and Jerry’s New York Super Fudge Chunk, my favorite. At that time in my life, I would go through a whole pint of it in a sitting for a mere $2.36. How many repetitions of “intersection = ice cream” would it take to soften the blow, so to speak, of the negative association with it? Fewer than without, for sure. What if the magic ice cream happened a good number of times over the course of, say, weeks or months before the accident? How about both?
Emotion* is Directly Tied to Behavior
Emotions create physical responses in both us and our dogs… and other creatures,
by Meghan Sullivan, DVM, DACVS Portland Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Care
H
ip dysplasia is the most common canine orthopedic condition. Despite the fact that is used as a “catchall” lameness phrase, it is a specific condition. It results in laxity (looseness) of the hip joint which consists of a ball (femoral head) and socket (acetabulum) joint. The femoral head can rub on the acetabulum which results in a shallow acetabulum and flattening of the femoral head. The sequela is pain, erosion of bone, loss of cartilage, swelling, and arthritis. It is most commonly found in large and giant breed dogs, though it can be seen in any breed. Just imagine the discomfort of “bone on bone” pain!
Symptoms of hip dysplasia usually present in two groups. Young dogs may have significant hip laxity but not yet have arthritis. They present with lameness in the hind end, bunny hopping, reluctance to exercise or jump, and pain on palpation of the hips. Older dogs have developed secondary hip arthritis due to the hip dysplasia. They usually show pain secondary to joint remodeling, loss of range of motion and the pain of arthritis. They can have chronic lameness, stiffened hind end, trouble walking or jumping, muscle atrophy and do not resolve despite medications. Symptoms can be intermittent at first, and typically worsen after “weekend warrior” activities. Remember that our “best friends” hide pain very well, so be vigilant for even subtle symptoms.
Hip dysplasia is diagnosed on physical exam and with radiographs. Commonly, affected dogs have a wide or narrow-
“It’s
Cool to be Hip” TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT
based stance, “bunny hopping gait” and decreased muscle mass in the hind legs. They are painful manipulation of the hip joints and have decreased extension. An Ortolani is a physical test performed to examine for laxity of the joint. Radiographs (xrays) can confirm laxity, subluxation or luxation, arthritis, and muscle atrophy. Sedation is typically utilized to relax the patient and reduce pain so that the proper xray views can be evaluated. In breeds considered high risk, you may consider obtaining a survey xray hip when your dog is anesthetized for spay or neuter surgery.
In a previous article, we have described medical management of hip dysplasia and arthritis. But did you know that total hip replacement (THR) is a surgical option for dogs? It involves the replacement of the diseased acetabulum and femoral head with implants just as is performed in humans. This eliminates the pain by making a normal functional hip joint with no “bone on bone” pain and improved motion. The implants are titanium and polyethylene and fixed in place with cement, metal bolts, or “press-fit” (bone ingrowth) methods. There are several types of total hip replacements performed in dogs but Biomedtrix with either cemented (CFX) press bit biologic (BFX) or hybrid (combination of the two) are the most commonly performed.
The most common indication for a total hip replacement is osteoarthritis secondary to hip dysplasia in a mature dog, or laxity/pain and lameness from hip dysplasia in a young dog. Other reasons for performing a total hip replacement include a hip luxation which could be traumatic or chronic, and certain femoral head fractures which may not be fixable. Total hip replacements are most often performed
Pepper’s Night Before Christmas
Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, except maybe a mouse. The stockings were hung by the bookcase with care, In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.
Pepper was nestled all snug in her bed, While visions of tennis balls danced in her head. Mamma in her pjs with her mask on her eyes Attempted to sleep before the sunrise.
in medium, large, and giant breed dogs older than 9 months. However, they can be performed in all sizes of dogs and even cats.
The outcome of a THR is excellent and restores dogs who have chronic lameness and pain to near-normal or normal function. THR dogs immediately bear weight postop on the surgical leg because they are in less pain. By two weeks postop, most dogs are to 90% of their normal function and studies have shown that dogs can return to improved activity as soon as 3 months postop. Radiographs to recheck healing are performed 6-12 weeks postoperatively. They are on leash only during that time and owners use a sling or harness when walking their pet to help prevent slipping/falling. If a pet needs both hips performed, the second side can be performed as soon as 6 weeks after the first. Clients are generally extremely pleased with their dog’s return to full life activities!
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, Pepper sprang from her bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window, she flew like a flash, Nudged open the curtains and made a loud crash.
The light of the moon shining bright on the snow Gave view to the image of the scene just below. When, what to our wondering eyes should appear, Not twenty five turkeys but a sleigh with some deer.
With a little old driver, so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.
Faster than greyhounds those flying deer came, And he whistled and shouted and called them by name!
“Now, Dasher! Now, Dancer! Now, Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! On, Cupid! On, Donner and Blitzen! To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!”
As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky. So up to the roof-top those reindeer they flew, With a sleigh full of dog toys, and St. Nicholas too.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The sound of two boots and thirty two hooves. As I thought in my head and was turning around, We don’t have a fireplace, how will he come down?
All dogs with hip dysplasia should be kept at very lean bodyweight for life. This alone, greatly enhances their movement, function, and activity. A severely overweight patient may not be accepted for a THR surgery due to a potential increased complication rate or make for a more challenging recovery. It is preferable to have dogs (especially young ones) that are symptomatic from hip dysplasia evaluated in a timely manner if medical management has not been successful. A consultation with a surgical specialist can provide further information and options for long term treatment or THR surgery. Our goal with THR is to have our patients back to running, jumping, playing, and doing any physical exercise that they would like to do. Total hip replacement provides the most normal, pain free quality of life and best joint functionality of any of the treatments for hip dysplasia.
He’d done this before, it was not his first time, He snuck into our house, now was this not a crime? Not sure how he did it, he was sly as a fox, Pepper cared not and had a parade with my socks. *
With sparkling eyes and a white beard so long, His cheeks were so rosy, his nose like a Kong®! He had a broad face and his belly was round, And his jingling was heard by all neighboring hounds. They eagerly waited and stirred in their homes, Wishing for stuffies and tug toys and bones. Pepper she bounced like she did when excited, She could smell all the treats and was over delighted!
A wag of Pep’s tail and a pat on her head, Soon lead me to know I had nothing to dread. He got right to his work and had a quick snack, Then brushed off the crumbs and slung his bag on his back.
No questions were asked as he passed by my stocking, I knew absolutely why St. Nick kept walking. He gave me a wink as he put on his glove, I had the BEST gift, I had my dog’s love.
He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight, "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"
*Pepper is known to parade around the house with a mouthful of socks.
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.
Holiday Gift Ideas for the Furry Friends on Your List
• Fun leashes, collars & harnesses
• Bandanas, bowties, accessories
• Treats & chew toys
• Stuffed toys, puzzle toys . . .
• Health & wellness gifts H ealth
• Books
• Portraits or gift certificates for portrait sessions
• Gift certificates for pet stores or services –grooming, training, etc. g rooming,
Donation Ideas
Animal Shelters:
• Dog & Cat food, dry and/or wet
• Treats & toys
• Non-clumping cat litter N on-clumping
• 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 specific
Donation to a pet pantry or pet assistance program. (see our list from our Nov. issue on our website downeastdognews.com)
Lewiston, 671 Main St., 783-1366 Bridgton, 13 Sandy Creek Rd., 647-2383
230 Main St., 897-3333 Newport, 12 Progress Park So., 368-4329 South Paris, 227 Main St., 743-8960 Turner, 299 Auburn Rd., 225-2525 Winthrop, 83 Royal St., 377-2614 Raymond, 1243 Roosevelt Trail, 655-6760 New Hampshire No. Conway, Rt 302, Redstone, 603-356-5669
Training Your Performance Dog
by Carolyn Fuhrer
In order to be successful in competition, your dog needs to have attitude and focus as well as a clear understanding of the work required.
Attitude is seen in dogs who are confident in their work, enjoy their work, and are not afraid to make a mistake. They are confident in making decisions.
Too many dogs are trained to perform all the necessary exercises but do not show well in
competition. In any competition, there are pressures: the new environment, different sounds, different smells, different dogs, the pressure of the competition itself,
“this is the real thing and you only get to do it once”, the pressure of other people, and the pressure of the judge, gallery or spectators.
All these things can chip away at a
dog and handler’s confidence. This is why relationship and building confidence in your dog is so important.
Entering a dog that is not ready and bound to fail does not help build attitude for the handler or the dog. Confidence and attitude need to be built in training. When did you last train to build confidence and attitude? Praise, release, joy, and play are essential ingredients in training. Your dog needs to feel like a winner. Your disappointment and frustration have no place in training. Obviously, if the dog is confused, you need to restructure your training to help the dog learn.
Focus on the handler and the task are also critical elements of success. Too many dogs in training are focused on the food (or other motivator). Dogs must learn to work and focus on the task in the presence of the motivator (food or toy) in order to be successful. A dog that is distracted by the food or toy or has learned to only work when food or other motivators are offered will not focus on the tasks involved in training. When some handlers do not get the results they want in training, they take out the motivator in order to get
the behavior they want. Smart dogs figure this out very quickly and insist that the handler offer something before the dog will work. Dogs should get “paid” and be “paid” very well for their work. The dog decides what “pay” is valuable and the handler “pays” the dog for work. The dog must clearly understand that quality of effort and work will control what reward (pay) is given. When dogs figure out they can control their “paycheck”, this empowers them and builds attitude and focus.
Once the dog realizes that there is no “free lunch” and that they must focus and figure out how to get what they want, the work itself becomes the driving force because it is the means by which the dog receives the reward. The dog is empowered because by focusing and working, the dog can make you pay him. This concept, coupled with praise, fun, and understanding, will build attitude and a happy, confident dog who wants to learn.
Carolyn Fuhrer has earned over 200 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. You can contact her with questions, suggestions, and ideas for her column by e-mailing carolynfuhrer@gmail.com
Book Review – Bark!: The Science of Helping Your Anxious, Fearful,
It’s December, so this is the column where I review and recommend my favorite dog book of 2024. That book is Bark!: The Science of Helping Your Anxious, Fearful, or Reactive Dog by Dr. Zazie Todd. It is an excellent and, in my opinion, essential resource for pet parents or professionals who have or are thinking of bringing a dog who is anxious, fearful, or reactive into their homes.
Early in the book, Dr. Todd notes that data indicates “…up to 72.5 percent of dogs have some kind of fear or anxiety…” I have had four dogs in my life with some level of anxiety, and as a Professional
or Reactive
Dog by Zazie Todd
humane methods.
WORDS, WOOFS & MEOWS
by Don Hanson ACCBC, BFRAP, CDBC, CPDT-KA
Canine Behavior Consultant (PCBC-A), I see many clients with dogs for this very reason. It is essential for us to understand these are not bad dogs. As the author notes, “It’s not helpful to assign blame to a dog who is, in fact, simply struggling.”
The book contains three sections, each building on the other. The nineteen pages of scientific references at the end support each section, which only recommends
Dr. Todd explains the differences between anxiety, fear, and reactivity and how these emotional responses are often linked to aggression. She also discusses the many reasons why so many dogs are fearful. She does a superb job of outlining the many myths, or nonsense taken as fact, that are still being perpetuated about dogs, often by pet care professionals. She concludes with three tips crucial to helping an anxious or fearful dog: 1) Your first priority is to help your dog feel safe. 2) Pick a treat your dog loves, and 3) Find an activity you do with your dog that makes you both happy and do it!
The book also discusses how to tell when your dog is stressed, which is critical if you are going to help your dog feel safe, which, as noted above, is your number one priority. Dr. Todd has included an excellent section on stress and stressors and the intricacies of the fight-or-flight system. Dog bites are examined, along with helpful advice on how to keep your dog from biting.
The book discusses dogs afraid of other dogs, those who react towards people, dogs scared of noises, the veterinarian, being left alone, and others they see as threats that might take their food and other stuff. Dr. Todd even discusses how fear-related issues can lead to dysfunctional repetitive behaviors like tail chasing,
In part 3, the book offers suggestions on how and where to
get help for your dog and yourself, noting: “Getting help for your dog from behavior professionals is one thing that people say really helps.” The book includes a section on how to evaluate behavior professionals, as, in many cases, you will be looking for more than a dog trainer who teaches sit, down, and come. I like this book so much that I now recommend it to all my clients. I am also giving copies to every team member at Green Acres Kennel Shop and ForceFreePets. com, as well as several veterinarians in the area. Thank you! Dr. Todd!
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.
“All dogs are at risk of leptospirosis, regardless of signalment, geographic location, lifestyle, and the time of year” (ACVIM). Wherever you live, even in the Northeast United States, ask your veterinarian whether your dog should get an annual vaccination against Leptospirosis. If your veterinarian recommends a Leptospirosis shot for your dog, strongly consider vaccinating.
photo credit: debra bell
By Susan Spisak
Since 2005, the 501(c) (3) allvolunteer, foster-based Almost Home Rescue of New England (AHR) is dedicated to saving lives and finding forever homes for stray, abandoned, and surrendered dogs of all breeds, most of whom are in high kill shelters—meaning thsey are in danger of euthanization.
Many come from overcrowded shelters in Mississippi, Louisiana, and North Carolina on a USDA approved transport following state guidelines. That said, they also take dogs from local shelters, veterinarians, and other situations that require rescue.
Joining AHR secures them a new lease on life, and they don’t take that lightly. Thus, AHR’s policy is to rescue for life, and if any of their rehomed dogs cannot stay with the adoptive
Rescue of the Month
family for any reason, they must contact the adoption coordinator at AHR before attempting to re-home.
AHR’s Treasurer, Margaret Haskell, explained that the number of dogs they can rescue aligns with the number of volunteers they have to care for them 24/7, “A lack of foster homes is still our biggest hindrance in being able to do more adoptions. I think it is a rescue/shelter-wide issue based on what I hear from folks who volunteer with other organizations.”
Fosters are all-important to saving dogs’ lives because they’re often one step away from being euthanized.
The stories of their past lives can be heart wrenching, but fosters work towards a happy ending by opening their hearts and homes temporarily.
Meredith Burwell Oestreicher, their Social Media Coordinator, said one such story truly reminds them why
Luna is doing great in foster care, is house- and kennel-trained, and is learning basic commands. She is looking for a family who will continue her training. Luna is young, puppy-like, and full of love. Because she’s a wonderful Velcro dog, she would not do well being left home alone for long periods of time. Her perfect placement would be where she has plenty of stimulation, opportunities to run, play, and have plenty of exercise.
they rescue. “Buppy was initially surrendered to us at 9-years-old, and then was adopted and returned twice. A now 12-year-old Buppy has finally found his forever home. Buppy is silly and quirky and loved to eat green beans, so his new parents helped him plant his very own crop!”
She added, “They tell us that he is doing great and is loved so much! He settled in very quickly and seemed to know that this would be his forever home. He loves car and boat rides, walks, and snuggling.” Buppy goes to doggy daycare part-time and enjoys socialization. His mom sent them this update, “We feel lucky to be the ones that adopted Buppy, and he will always be our dog. He’s a great companion and funny little guy that brings us lots of love.”
argaret shared a special German Shepherd, Luna, that they’d like
readers to consider as she’s been seeking a forever home for a bit. “She has Inflammatory Bowel Disease, which was diagnosed and successfully treated, and she is maintaining well on her current diet and medications.” Sable-colored Luna is noted as loyal, loving, active, smart, and friendly. Check her out at petfinder.com/ dog/luna-is-in-maine-42854319/me/ portland/almost-home-rescue-ofmaine-me65/.
AHR checks vet references, verifies landlord approval and references if applicable, and performs home visits. For information on fostering, volunteering, and to see all their adoptables, visit almosthomerescue. net. Donations are welcome and necessary as they often bring in dogs with special medical needs. Donate online at almosthomerescue.net/ support-the-rescue/.
Duncan was recently returned to AHR as he had too much energy for a home with small children. We think he'd do okay with kids 12+ who’re able to respect his boundaries. Duncan thrives in an environment with structure. He loves training, playing fetch, figuring out puzzles, and thoroughly enjoys doggy day care. He needs someone who’s excited to further train and understand him. Patience, experience, and consistency are keys to Duncan's success. Duncan walks well on a leash, knows all basic commands, and would make a great walking/hiking buddy!
Luna (mentioned in article above) is smart, outgoing, and active! She needs physical and mental stimulation. She needs to be the apple of her family's eye and be their only dog! We are looking for an adopter who has previous Shepherd experience or similar experience working with a herding breed. She will need structure and boundaries, and any children in the home should be older. Luna is on daily meds for IBS and a special diet and she’s doing fantastic!
3 YEARS OLD, WIRE-HAIRED TERRIER MIX
LUNA, 6 YEARS OLD, GERMAN SHEPHERD MIX
BULLY
1 year old, Australian Mix
Bully is a fantastic pup! He seems to adore everyone and everything he meets. He loves to play fetch, play in the water, and hang out with his friends at the shelter. If you’re looking for a happy-go-lucky dog ready for adventure, Bully might be perfect for you.
Dogs for Adoption
View
Some rescues do not offer phone numbers and require you apply online. Please see the contact info. highlighted in yellow below each dog.
CHLOE
4 year old, Rottweiler Mix
Chloe is a favorite at PMHS. This gal is super smart, knows a bunch of commands, including pretty paws, and loves to play with the other dogs at the shelter. She enjoys a good walk and is a rock star in playgroups. If you’re looking for a super fun dog who would love to continue training.
FMI visit: popehumane.org
BAXTER
Sponsored by: Bagel Café 25 Mechanic St., Camden, (207)236-2661, bagelcafemaine.com
6 years old, Mixed Breed
Despite a deformity that led to him being left with three legs, Baxter doesn’t let anything slow him down!
He’s an enthusiastic soul, always ready to play and explore new adventures with boundless energy and will do well with adult humans once he knows them.
FMI visit: MidcoastHumane.org
Sponsored by:
323 Main St., Damariscotta, (207)563-5556, risingtide.coop
SHADOW
3 years old, Catahoula Leopard Hound
Shadow is everything that you read about Catahoula Leopard dogs. He loves his family but has energy that is endless! He loves to play, but he would be just fine being the only dog in the home, if you gave him a job! He is also the true essence of his name; he loves to be your Shadow!
FMI: Email: sln2310@yahoo.com
Sponsored by: Haggett Hill Kennel 93 Dodge Rd., Edgecomb, (207)882-6709, haggetthillkennel.com
TEGAN
8-9 months old, Mixed Breed
This sweet boy is the total package, If you want a young puppy, but don’t really want to deal with the tiny puppy phase and hard trading, TEGAN will be the perfect match for you. Potty trained and 100% house trained. Great with other dogs. Good with humans of all ages and sizes.
FMI visit: blessedbethebullies.com
Sponsored by: Androscoggin Animal Hospital 457 Foreside Rd., Topsham, (207)729-4678, androscogginanimalhospital.com
HOLLIE
5 years old, Mixed Breed
A bit on the shy side, and a sweet, affectionate disposition once she knows you. She could live with another dog, and would need to meet them in advance at the shelter. Hollie would love a calm, quiet, predictable home with plenty of positive reinforcement.
visit: MidcoastHumane.org
Sponsored by: Damariscotta Veterinary Clinic (207)563-3934, damariscottaclinic.com
DAISY
8 year old, Mixed Breed
Daisy has a sweet and cuddly nature, infectious energy and is an intelligent quick learner. She adores walks and exploring the world. She can be shy at first, but is goofy and loyal when she warms up. She needs an adult-only home. She is selective with other dogs, and no cats, please.
FMI visit: olddogsnewdigs.com
Sponsored by:
SAILOR
4 year old, Husky Mix
Where are our husky lovers?
The people who love a good noisy husky who will sing you the song of his people. We know you are out there!
Sailor may not look like a husky, but it’s definitely in his mix! If you’re looking for a musical guy who loves the outdoors then meet Sailor!
FMI visit: popehumane.org
Sponsored by: Kompletely K-9 Dog Training and Rehab. 248 Choate Rd., Montville, (207)322-5111, kompletelyk9.com
DUSTY
1 year old, Mixed Breed
Full of life and love, hailing from the vibrant state of Louisiana. Dusty’s personality shines through his playful antics and friendly nature. His curious spirit is infectious, and he’s always ready for a new adventure. He’s a social butterfly, always eager to make friends.
FMI visit: pawscares.org
JAXARONI
1-2 years old, Mixed Breed
This resilient tripod has overcome challenges but remains eager to connect with humans and share love. His playful nature shines through with his indoor fetch skills and his enthusiasm for outdoor adventures. Only dog or a household that would be willing to work with a trainer.
FMI visit: blessedbethebullies.com
Sponsored by: 915 US Route 1, York, (207)361-4758, yorkbarkandplay.com
Sponsored by: Green Tree Coffee & Tea 2456 Atlantic Hwy., Lincolnville, (207)706-7908, greentreecoffee.com
STARSKY
12 year old, Shepherd Mix
Starsky sure would like to break out of the shelter!
He’s a staff favorite. Starsky was bitten by a dog some time ago, so is very scared of other dogs and doesn’t want to live with one. He is moderately active with good mobility, good in a car & on a leash and loves people.
FMI visit: olddogsnewdigs.com
Sponsored by:
MORGAN
1 year old, Mixed Breed
He will make someone a great companion! Crate and house trained and a really good couch snuggler. Loves going for rides, getting belly rubs, and making a splash in the water! He’s pretty bossy with other dogs so only experienced dog owners will be considered when adding him to a multi dog household. No cats for Morgan, please.
FMI visit: blessedbethebullies.com
Sponsored by:
FMI visit: popehumane.org
PAWS
December C lendar
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.
AUCTION FOR THE ANIMALS
November 28 – December 8
Online
Over 200 amzing items up for bid! Proceeds will benefit PAWS Adoption Center. PAWS online Auction for the Animals has something for everyone. FMI: https://www.pawsadoption.org
“HOME FUR THE HOWLIDAYS”
Sunday, December 1
South Portland, 10AM – 2PM
We are kicking off December with our “Home Fur the Howlidays” market, showcasing incredible Maine vendors, adoptable Pittie Posse dogs, and delicious treats from local food trucks. Santa might even make a “pit” stop! Join us at The Bark Yard 2112 Broadway, South Portland, ME. Are you a local vendor interested in participating? Reach out to sarah@ pittieposse.com for further details!
7th ANNUAL PMHS PET ANGEL TREE
December 2 - December 25
Thomaston
You can be an angel to a homeless pet this holiday season! Stop by PMHS and select a tag (or as many as you like) from the Pet Angel Tree. Everyone is welcome to participate! Each tag has a few items that will make each pet’s stay at PMHS that much more special and comfortable. Wrapping gifts is highly encouraged! On opening day, cats, kittens, dogs, and puppies love to play in the paper and boxes (supervised, of course)! *With any luck, many of the animals printed on tags will be adopted this holiday season. Any gifts bought for those animals will be passed along to their friends who are still waiting for homes! Are you unable to get to the shelter to select a tag? That’s okay! Email kasey@ popehumane.org and she will send you a tag or two!
9 TH ANNUAL
ADOPT-A-TREE FESTIVAL!
Saturday, December 7, 10AM – 6PM Sunday, December 8, 10AM – 2PM Kennebunkport
Held at Kennebunkport Conservation Trust 57 Gravelly Brook Rd,
Kennebunkport ME. You will have the chance to view beautifully decorated trees and wreaths, and take a chance on “adopting” each one through purchase of raffle tickets. We will also have family activities, opportunities to shop for your pups and humans, and awareness activities to help you support our rescue pups. Free to participate but you can buy raffle tickets or donate directly to the rescue. Shop at our pet boutique or get your pet’s photo with “Santa Paws”. 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
GAHS HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
Saturday, December 7 Lewiston, 11AM – 3PM
Please join the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society for our first Holiday Open House. Bake sale, Raffles, vendors, GAHS swag and adoptable pets. Get into the holiday spirit with the GAHS gang. FMI: https://gahumane.org/ event/gahs-holiday-open-house/
Saturday, December 7
Thomaston, 12PM – 3PM
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!
PHOTOS WITH SANTA
Sunday, December 8
Portland, 11AM – 2PM
Santa Photos for pets and/or people at Pets on Point 1037 Forest Ave, Portland, ME. $25 donation gets you several fabulous images via digital download to use as you wish. Or prints are available starting at $12 for one 5x7. Dogs, cats, kids, and/or adults...all are welcome. Photos by a professional,
‘fear-free certified’ photographer. All proceeds go to Old Dogs New Digs! FMI https://www.olddogsnewdigs. com/events/category/events/
WELLNESS
CLINIC
Friday, December 15
DAMARISCOTTA
Low-Cost Wellness Clinics scheduled on December 13th at the American Legion, 527 Main St, Damariscotta! We offer an expanded menu of veterinary services at these clinics, including Rabies vaccines, Distemper vaccines, Bordatella Vaccine, Lepto Vaccine, Microchips, Lyme Vaccine, Heartworm Test, Feline Triple Test, and Dewormer. Take a look at our website for complete pricing. Please note, there is a limit of four pets per household, per clinic. midcoasthumane.org
TSC NAIL TRIM CLINIC
Tuesday, December 17
Thomaston, 11AM – 1PM
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!
TSC NAIL TRIM CLINIC
Sunday, December 22
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!
from page 6
too, of course. These physical responses are behaviors. Emotions are neurobiological activities; dynamic and constant. We are perpetually experiencing them, and so are our dogs. We have an enormous influence on the type of emotions they are feeling; why not intentionally set their stage for good
associations, for positive emotions linked to potentially troubling situations, before they have a chance to find them troubling? This applies, of course, to our training methods, too.
I hope you are getting my drift here. What’s your dog’s version of New York Super Fudge Chunk and how are you going to strategically tie it to something that the dog might
find challenging?
I am curious: what are some of the situations or experiences your pup associates negatively? How about positively? What experiences have you had which created strong positive or negative associations?
*“Emotions are conscious mental reactions (such as anger or fear) subjectively experienced as strong feelings usually directed toward
a specific object and typically accompanied by physiological and behavioral changes in the body.” (American Psychological Association) Happy Training!
TSC NAIL TRIM CLINIC
BASIC
Business Directory
MIDCOAST
CENTRAL MAINE
STATEWIDE
Communicate with your pets, living or deceased with Sara Moore. Long distance sessions available!
Moore www.enlightenedhorizons.com As heard on 94.9 and
FLOKI
3 years old, Shepherd Mix
Vocal and energetic ladies man looking for an owner with K-9 experience to slowly introduce him to new things. He will need lots of space for exercise! He never says no to a good snack and absolutely loves running around in our outside pen. He is looking to be with adult humans, and no other dogs.
FMI visit: bangorhumane.org
Sponsored by:
SEAL
2 years old, Pit Bull Seal is looking for a family that loves the great outdoors and playing fetch. He is a social, high energy bouncy boy that could use some more one on one training such as heel and no jumping. Because of this kids 10+. He loves other dogs; his play style is rough and tumble and not afraid to get some dirt/mud on him. No cats. FMI visit: pethavenlane.org
Dogs
available dogs on our website,
Some rescues do not offer phone numbers and require you apply online. Please see the contact info. highlighted in yellow below each dog.
ZATTER
9 years old, Pit Bull Mix
This sweet boy is looking for a home with dedicated adopters who are ready to get him healthy and happy! Looking to be the only animal in the house and would like to live with respectful children. Adopters will need to be established with a vet to work on a weight loss plan
: bangorhumane.org
SMITTY
1 year old, Mixed Breed
Sweet and playful guy looking for a home to call his own! He loves to soak up the sun and romp around in the fresh air, so an active home with plenty of outdoor adventures would be a dream come true for this guy. If you have another dog, an introduction at the shelter will be necessary.
FMI visit: bangorhumane.org
MURPHY
6 years old, Terrier Mix
This boy would graduate as valedictorian for how many commands he knows. Not only just being smart, Murphy is also kennel trained and super athletic especially if it involves tennis balls! He could play all day if you let him. He hasn’t met a dog friend here at the shelter yet, but is open to meeting others. No cats & child free home. FMI visit: pethavenlane.org
Sponsored by: Ridge Runner Veterinary Services 559 South Main St., Winterport, (207)223-2596, ridgerunnervet.com
3 years old, Lab Mix
Sponsored by: 18 Branches from Wiscasset to Calais, 1-800-564-3195, thefirst.com
Bea’s name means “ bringer of happiness”. She will for sure bring nothing but happiness into your life! She walks well on a leash and loves everyone she meets. We think she’d do well with kids of all ages, although we are not sure about cats and dogs at the moment She is though willing to meet other
visit: pethavenlane.org
Sponsored by: Anonymous
