2021 July Downeast Dog News by Jennifer Rich / Wendi Smith

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Volume 16 • Issue 7 • JULY 2021

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Matthew, Alan and their Goldendoodle, Henry Photo Credit: Joshua Atticks Photography

Considering a Canine Wedding Attendant? By Susan Spisak

ongratulations, you’re engaged and preparing for the big day. You want a memorable event that says “you.” Including your favorite canine

Inside 2 Hot Dog News

Basic Training Tips

can bring a touch of joy and whimsy that’s undeniably unique. After all, what could be more special than having your fur bestie by your side? While not all traditional indoor venues are going to allow your favorite boy, there are creative ways to incorporate him as area couples

8 &9

Maine Made Pet Products

have done. Portlander Victoria Royall treasures her 9-year-old Goldendoodle named Griswold. “Yes, just like Clark,” she said, referring to the funny lead character in the zany Christmas Vacation movie. While he

12&13

See WEDDING on page 5

Dogs for Adoption

DowneastDogNews.com

14 Calendar of Events

Hot Dog News

imagine Sadly, two of our devoted advertisers and supporters of the Downeast Dog News have recently suffered the loss of one of their furry family members. I most of us are familiar with the pain and grief that follows this type of loss. Our pets are members of our family, and we form a very special bond with them. Our hearts go out to these two families as they navigate through their grieving process and reflect upon their wonderful memories.

Fenway Vanorse Neal - Feb. 5, 2008 - May 30, 2021 Fenway was my first dog - and little did I know how much this dog would change my life. After coming home with Fenway on April 1, 2008, we discovered the Loyal Biscuit on Main St. in Rockland and it quickly became our favorite store - every Saturday, Fenway and I would venture down so I could spoil her with treats and toys. Through the most random chain of events, I purchased the LBC in Rockland in January of 2010 - when Fen was almost 2 years old. Fenway became our logo - and more importantly - our taste and toy tester - a job she loved. She was 100% a part of everything that we do at the LBC. She is why we choose the products we carry (if I wouldn’t give it to her, I won’t sell it!). She graces the walls of all our stores in fun, bright colorful photos and hangs on our signs and in our doorways. On May 30, we had to say goodbye to this sweet, incredible soul. She was a smart, loving goof that could never control her tongue from licking the face of any human she met. She was a 76lb lap dog that loved food and life. She was the 2011 Boatyard Dog World Champion and a 1st Place Blue Ribbon Dock Diver. Fenway leaves behind a legacy that we could all only hope for. She is the reason for the LBC and the inspiration behind everything we do - including our Fenway Fund Grant Program. Fenway has changed the lives of so many, in so many different ways. She will continue to live on in all we do. She was my first dog, showing me a love that I didn't know could exist, and she created a life for me that I never could have predicted. Several reached out and asked if there was a place to donate in her memory. Fenway came to me from Pope Memorial Humane Society, so I have chosen Pope should you want to donate in her memory. www.popememorial.org I love you, sweet girl. Thank you for everything you were and for spending your life with me. I have been beyond blessed to be your human. Heidi

Buddy In May we said goodbye to our dog Buddy. He was 15-1/2 and we'd had him since he was 9. His previous owners had a daughter and no longer wanted him. Some people got angry when I called him Big Dumb Buddy. Without exception, these people didn’t know him. And they definitely didn't read his blogs. Buddy was always a tick behind the other dogs. He didn’t come on command. He didn’t sit, lie down, or give paw. He didn’t compete for our affections like the other dogs. He couldn’t be broken of pooping on the walkway. He wasn’t outwardly defiant like Max who knew exactly what you wanted and refused. Buddy was dumb. He had no idea what you wanted from him and no amount of treats, encouragement, or anger could change that. You always waited for him to cross that finish line. When he finally crossed it, you felt like he had accomplished something exceptional. He was always so proud of himself on those moments. Buddy had a strange life. He was arthritic and sickly and abandoned by his family. He was allergic to everything. His body was misshapen and covered in skin tags and tumors. He pooped indiscriminately. He wasn’t a snuggly dog. He cost us thousands at the vet. And he was very dumb. From his inbred conception at some California puppy mill, to his sickly early life as an enormous inconvenience, to his charmed yet feckless life after winning the Doggy Lottery with us-- some might say Buddy’s whole life was ridiculous and didn’t amount to a hill of beans. But he was our dog. And we loved that hill of beans. See exactly how much I loved Buddy here: www.twosaltydogs.net/blog Don

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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 Nancy Holmes Christine Calder GRAPHIC DESIGN NVDesigns • Nicole Vanorse Advertising Jenn Rich 207-706-6765 jenn@downeastdognews.com

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From the Publisher Dear Dog News Readers, I can’t believe how fast this year is going by. I am already working on the July paper! I want things to slow down a bit now. I love how green everything is now. I just want to enjoy that for a while. My friend and I were commenting, and I have heard other people say it as well, that we thought all the flowers and trees looked even more amazing and vibrant this year. I don’t know if we were just ready for something cheerful or if they actually were. We got our dock and floats in at the lake. I think Pepper is the most appreciative of them. We refer to it as “Pepper’s Pier.” She jumps off and fetches her ball, and when she’s done doing that, she lays down and rolls it around until it falls in and then she plops in to get it and starts all over again. It is a favorite place for us both. It is not far from our house but is still a nice getaway. The fireworks down the street have started up again. They happen quite often during the summer, and Pepper does not like them. She usually goes and hides out in our room, and I turn on the tv and sometimes the AC to help reduce all of the loud bangs. It is interesting how she isn’t really afraid of thunderstorms though. Maybe it is something she can sense with the weather, but fireworks are just out of the blue. I’m sure somebody probably knows the answer to this. I know it might not be as exciting for some, but I really wish we only had the fireworks that don’t make noise. If you have pups and pets that are also afraid of fireworks, we send you our sympathies and wish you luck during this summer season and of course especially on the 4th of July. Stay cool and be safe! All the best, Jenn and Pepper

“Once you have had a wonderful dog, a life without one, is a life diminished.” ― Dean Koontz, A Big Little Life: A Memoir of a Joyful Dog

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Table of Contents Hot Dog News . ..................... 2 Furry Words .......................... 4 Ask the Vet............................. 4 Basic Training Tips . ............... 6 Ask Bammy............................ 7 How to Choose a Trainer ...... 7 Maine Made Pet Products . .. 8, 9 Performance Dog Training.... 10 Words, Woofs & Meows....... 11 Rescue of the Month.............12 Dogs for Adoption................ 13 Calendar............................... 14 Business Directory ............... 15

What a gorgeous spring and

start to summer we’re having! This is the first time in about eight years I have a dog to share my walks with, and Syd, my 5-year-old chocolate Lab had her first trip to the ocean in June. I didn’t really think through bringing a bird dog to the land of seagulls and pigeons, but once she realized I wasn’t going to let her chase ANY birds she relaxed and enjoyed our morning walks along the water’s edge. The first little wave that touched her feet definitely made her jump, but by the end of the week she was happily wading in and enjoying the waves. Thank goodness, because it means we can go back and have more fun! One of the best parts of vacation was realizing that I was happy to come home and return to doing psychic readings for people and pets. This month I put the call out on my Sara Moore Enlightened Horizons Facebook page for questions you’d like to ask your dogs, and once again I had plenty within minutes. Here are the people and pups who were fast enough to make the column. Karen D. wants to know what caused her dog Barbie to be so skittish since they don’t know her back story. As soon as I tap into her energy, she feels like a dog that revs her engines and her vibration is very fast. Imagine a red squirrel compared to a Koala. She’s the squirrel. I don’t actually feel nervousness, but her movements feel very quick and staccato. She is totally tuned out when she’s “off the clock” as she puts it, but when she wakes up, she’s ready to go and instantly feels like she’s had about three pots of coffee. If she were a human, she’d probably be a chain-smoking coffee drinker, and

Safe Travels Q. I just followed a truck with a dog loose in the back. He almost fell out when the driver made a turn. Is this legal?

Furry Words

by Sara Moore

www.enlightenedhorizons.com

she thinks that’s not an insult at all! I’ve never had such a dog describe its energy in such a clear, funny way before! If I ask her if there’s a way for her to be more calm, I hear “NOPE.” I wonder if your mom was the same way? If she was and that approach worked for her, then you’re being shown that even though it’s not your way, it made them feel comfortable. Jessica M. has Bella, a sweet Labrador Retriever. She asked, “Why did she pick me as her person?” The funny thing is she’s just kind of staring at me when I ask her that, and she wants to be sure she gives you the right answer. I just told her there is no wrong one, and she said you smell pretty. LOL! I can see her trying to get close to you to sniff you and then getting busted being a creeper, but you are kind and funny and determined, and when you’re angry, you let it out and then fill yourself up with

Ask the Vet…

by Dr. Judith Herman

A. Under the statute of Motor

Vehicle and Transportation, MRS title 29-A paragraph 2087, this topic is discussed. It addresses dogs riding in an open vehicle, meaning a motor vehicle with a portion of the vehicle not enclosed by a top and windows or sides, includes, but not limited to, pickup trucks and convertibles. It states: “A person driving an open vehicle may not transport a dog in the open portion of that vehicle on a public way unless the dog is protected in a manner that prevents the dog from falling or jumping or being thrown from the vehicle. Exception to this rule

is a dog being transported by a farmer or a farm employee who is engaged in agricultural activities requiring the services of the dog, or a hunting dog at a hunting site or being transported between hunting sites by a licensed hunter who is in possession of all applicable licenses

happy thoughts. You know you are worthy of treating yourself to beautiful, fragrant flowers and that is pretty special. Your grandmother loved the babies and the way they smelled. She is in heaven and always around you, too, so it’s fitting that you have a dog that mirrors her in some ways. Hope S. wants to know what’s going on with her dog Sam’s mouth and jaw. First, I need to remind you that I’m not a veterinarian and I have no medical training, so whatever information I give you is coming purely from psychic insight, and you should consult with your vet to make decisions. That being said, as a psychic, I feel what they are physically feeling and as I’m typing, my left side of my jaw hurts. There are two spots that I’d take a look at. One is on the inside of the cheek by the back of the jaw, sort of near where it hinges. Then I’d look at the lower jaw on the outside of the gums, bottom left, near the third molar from the back. It almost feels like a cyst inside the soft tissue but again, vets do the diagnosing. Tara A. has a Chihuahua mix named Radar. “I’d like to know if there is anything wrong with his tummy.” The first thing that happens when I read your question is my belly sticks out, like my abdomen muscles aren’t strong enough to keep it held in tightly. It doesn’t feel like a hernia, but his organs get all jostled around, and the feeling after makes me carsick. This is going to sound crazy, but it’s what I’m hearing, so I’ll toss it out there. Our body systems are all interconnected. If someone has stomach issues, it can present itself in our mental health. If you get reflexology done on your feet or hands, it can affect your sinus or

digestion. I honestly feel that when his belly is shaken up, it’s affecting a lot of his other systems. Again, I’ve said crazy things to people but hopefully that makes sense! Please talk to a vet because veterinarians have the medical training to back their answers while mine are purely psychic insights. Mardi L. wants to know if Rex, a Golden Retriever, is with Mikey on the other side? Before the dog had a chance to answer, Mikey said that Rex is with HIM on the other side. Have you seen the picture of Snoopy and Charlie Brown sitting on a dock, looking at the sunset? I see the same exact image of the two of them. It’s a beautiful image and makes my heart feel like there really is good in this world. Katie O. wants to know how Bodie the goldendoodle feels about car rides because he doesn't seem to like them. You have made such a great home for you and your animals that he never wants to leave it! I was on vacation last week, and it was awesome. The best part was I was excited to come home because I love where I live, and my home is a sanctuary for me. Yours is the same way, and Bodie just wants to validate that for you! If you take him out for ice cream, he’s all in. Holy smokes, I don’t know where you get yours, but the vanilla is beyond creamy, and he would be thrilled with a super small bowl or Dixie cup full of it! Sara Moore currently offers long distance readings over the phone or FaceTime. You can learn more and schedule a session at www.enlightenedhorizons.com. All information given in a reading is not a replacement for licensed veterinary care.

and permits for the species being pursued during the legal season for that activity.” What is allowed to transport a dog in the back of a pickup is either a secured crate or a double tether set up, one tether on each side of the truck bed, so the dog can’t fall out but can sit and lie down. In convertibles, the dog should be seat belted in with a harness. As a veterinarian I have treated my share of dogs falling out of the back of a pickup or being dragged because there was only one tether. Broken bones and road burns are horribly painful injuries that can be prevented. What about regular cars and SUVs? Dogs love to have their head out the window as the car zooms down the road. There are a few concerns here too. First, the number of eye injuries and infections dogs acquire from riding with their heads out the window is very common. I have seen dogs lean out the window so far that they fall out, or the dog sees something and

jumps out while the car is moving. Then we have Bozo who leaps into the front seat because he wants to ride shot gun or into the driver’s lap. Many folks have dogs in the front passenger seat while they drive. The concern here is what if you stop short? If your dog is loose in the car and you are in an accident, your best friend can be thrown forward, through the windshield, or injured by the airbags. Today we have many more options to travel safely with your best friend. There are many harnesses that clip to the center seatbelt in the back. Crates and dog car barriers of many styles are available too. They vary in price and safety, so do your homework and find the one that fits your dog’s needs. Traveling with your dog is the best. Now do it safely. Judith K. Herman, DVM, CVH Animal Wellness Center Augusta, Maine www.mainehomeopahticvet.com

Downeast Dog News

WEDDING

from page 1

was initially her dog, he has a great relationship with her fiancé, James Packard, and they adore him together. The couple is getting married in front of one hundred guests at Newagen Seaside Inn in Southport this August. Since the Inn isn’t dogfriendly, Victoria, a Senior Grove Guide for Grove Collaborative, made sure their boy will have a lasting presence in their memories. “He’s our best friend, and since he is not able to be in the wedding, we wanted to make sure he was still included in some way.” So, with the engagement photos scheduled for a bright spring day at Ferry Beach State Park, Griswold was shined up and rode along for the shoot. She joked, “He also would have been very upset if we went to the beach without him.” He was a star, and the pictures prove how wellbehaved he is. “If he was going to be in the wedding, I have no doubts that he would be terrific. He’s the sweetest guy and super laidback. He would just want to make sure everyone there was his best friend in hopes of getting some extra pets and maybe some cheese.” Matthew Alan Alonzo and Alan Matthew Roy tied the knot three years ago after being together for six years. (Matt was quick to notice their name connection when they met, “I took this as a sign he was my person.”) The guys, who live in the Back Cove neighborhood in Portland, acquired their Goldendoodle, Henry, together. He quickly became their universe, their child. Henry goes everywhere with them, especially their Big Boyd Lake camp where he loves to swim, so it was imperative that he be included. “Our entire wedding strategy revolved around Henry,” explained Matt, who works as a Principal Customer Success Manager for a software firm. Starting with the magnetic “Save the Date” that depicted Henry with the caption, “My Dads Are Getting Married,” to their pet-friendly venue. “We chose the Inn by the Sea (in Cape Elizabeth) due to their progressive dog policies.” The wedding, with one hundred and fifty guests (many were out-ofstate family), was on the Inn’s lawn. Henry walked with his dads down the

Victoria, James and their Goldendoodle, Griswold Photo Credits: Joshua Atticks Photography

aisle - the couple had a two-handled leash to symbolize their family unit. In addition to a monogramed “Best Man” harness, Henry sported a lobster-themed collar and bowtie. Their handsome boy sat quietly through the vows, was attentive for the pictures, and made an appearance at the reception. Matt said the occasion, especially with the inclusion of Henry, was “simply spectacular.” Their photographer, Joshua Atticks, owner of Joshua Atticks Wedding Photography, understood their desire to include their pet, "They really are precious creatures in our lives." Kayla and Mike Sterling were married this past March at The Glen House at Sunday River in Newry. A three-night destination wedding event, the nine-bedroom pet-friendly estate had plenty of room for their sixteen guests as well as Tesla, the bride’s 4-year-old Pitt mix, and Grizz (as in Grizzly Bear), the groom’s 9-year-old Lab-Chow mix. While their “fur babies” didn’t have official roles in their “low-key” affair, they were honored guests and had festive floral collars to match Kayla’s bouquet. “It was great having them there,” said Kayla, who is a pharmacist at MMC in Scarborough. After all, when the couple met three years ago, their love of dogs drew them together. And the energetic Tesla and happy Grizz have become quite the chums, often

Kayla and Mike Sterling with Tesla (Pitt Mix) and Grizz (Lab- Chow Mix)

sharing the same bed, chasing tennis balls together, and enjoying their hikes at the Lake Sebago family camp – the couple’s temporary residence until they find their dream home. I Do’s and Don’ts Don’t include your pal if he’s skittish or barks. As important as it may be to have him part of your big day, you don't want him to upstage you and your partner. Do check with interesting sites that will allow your bud – think rustic barns, farms, gardens, and wineries. If you choose a spot that isn’t dogfriendly, think outside the box. Have your ensemble portraits off-site or include him in your engagement shoot as Tori and James did. Don’t overlook an intimate backyard ceremony, especially if you’ve put off the tying the knot this past year. A plus – your canine is on his home turf and is probably familiar with the guests. To amp the happiness, send an evite to other friends and include them virtually. Once you say “I do,” they can toast you from afar. Do look for pet-savvy photographers – the shoot will go smoother. Debra Bell, owner of Bell’s Furry Friends Photography, said to choose one who specializes in pets and/or has weddings with dogs in their portfolio. “Tell the photographer that you’ll be including Fido and how

you envision doing so,” she added. Don’t forget to notify guests that your dog is in the wedding party – some may be allergic or fearful. Perhaps add a line to your “Save the Date.” Or choose a whimsical keepsake like Matt and Alan did – the dog message was subtle, but clear. Do dress him festively. “From fresh flowers affixed to a collar, to specialty items created by a dog attire company, coordinate your pet’s look with your wedding and its style,” Debra recommended. Do decide what role your dog will hold, be it a flower carrier, ring bearer, or guest. Choose a handler or dog walker who is comfortable with your dog and can transport him to and from the ceremony. (It may alleviate stress if someone else is caring for your bestie.) Remember the basics of water, a bowl, and coordinatedcolored leash. Do treat him to a pre-wedding shampoo, bath, and nail trim, said Debra. “This is especially important for breeds that have special grooming needs. After all, you’ll make sure you look great, so shouldn’t Fido?” Don’t forget to exercise him more often the week before and the morning of the wedding. Exercised dogs are less excitable and easier to control, especially in a large group of people.

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JULY 2021

Good Intentions, Bad Decisions Sometimes "no" is the right answer

s we climb slowly out of our pandemic cocoons into the bright sunshine, we are going to encounter many dogs who have been hiding in the metaphorical woodwork. Many of these dogs have not met a variety of people or dogs nor have they found themselves in strange environments. And us? Dog lovers have been ravenous to interact with new best friends. Be respectful of them, though. Don't make the mistake that many Toms make. I felt it was important to reiterate what is contained in this past column as we adjust to our new world and try to help all dogs feel comfortable in it. —————————— “Oh, dogs love him!” she said about her husband Tom. Ruh roh! A red flag shoots up when I hear this statement. We were vacationing together with Tom and his wife, and we encountered a woman with two on-leash dogs. All dog lovers, we

Basic Training Tips

by Diana Logan

were interested in meeting them. One of the dogs was an elderly Golden, calm, tail gently wagging, loose body, open mouth, and perky ears. She was oriented toward people passing by. The other dog, a large young adult doodle, was standing back, very close to his

human, tail tucked, jaws clenched, body rigid, ears back. Tom asked if we could pet the dogs. The owner said, “Sure!” I approached the Golden, who was happy to get a head rubbie, moved into my hands and melted. I interacted with her for about 3 seconds and stopped just to see if she was happy with our little conversation. She was - she leaned in for more. I had carefully turned away from the doodle whose tail was tucked so far between his legs it was actually curving up towards his belly. I made no motion to reach or move towards him as I could see that this wasn’t what he wanted. He had no interest in moving towards Tom, either, who by now had crouched down very close and facing him to try to be more inviting. This made the doodle move closer to his human - in fact, he had positioned himself between her legs, eyeing Tom nervously. What the owner did next horrified me. She forcefully tried to drag her dog by the haunches to move in Tom’s direction. The doodle resisted. Tom laughed and said, “I sometimes lie on the ground, so they’ll play.” Um, no, not this one. Not right now. This happened in seconds. It was clear that this poor dog had been subjected to his owner’s wellintentioned but oh-so-inappropriate

behavior many times in the past. “Please STOP,” I said. She was still hunched over and wrestling with her struggling dog to try to get him to approach Tom. I abruptly stepped between Tom and the poor, panicked dog. I physically lifted Tom back into a standing position and pushed him away (this was blatantly rude human behavior, but it was a dog emergency and he's a good friend). I helped to create more distance between them while also trying to avoid exacerbating the situation with my own proximity to the terrified doodle. Now that we were at a more comfortable distance, the doodle relaxed a bit. One of my party mentioned that I’m a dog trainer. This prompted some questions from the owner, who was clearly embarrassed by what she interpreted as bad behavior from her doodle who she admitted, “has never wanted to ‘say hi’ to strangers.” She asked me why he was like that and what she could do. [Yay!! A teachable moment!!] I gently explained that in order to help him, it had to be his choice to approach people, not hers or others’. She needed to pair good things with the presence of strangers. Any time she forced him to interact when he didn’t

See Basic on page 14

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207-322-5111 Kompletelyk9.com • 248 Choate Rd, Montville, 04941 Like us onME facebook

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Voted #1 Pet Store in Maine by Down East Magazine Monday - Friday 10am – 6pm Saturday 10am – 5pm Sunday 10am – 4pm

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boothbaycanine@gmail.com 653 Wiscasset Rd., Boothbay

207-633-DOGS • boothbaycanine.com

Downeast Dog News

I am a Carolina Dog, a breed that

long ago owned Native American people. We were designed by natural selection to be so intelligent and physically superior that we survived without human help. My greatgrandfather was caught from the wild. I can offer advice based on the natural instincts and attributes of wild dogs. In addition, my adoptive person and I have had lots of training classes and other experiences. Some humans call themselves Mom or Dad of their dog, but I refer to my human, tongue in cheek, as Boss. Much as I love her, I admit she has many of the same odd notions as most humans, so I can relate to other pet dogs with problem humans. If I can’t help, at least I can offer sympathy, and we can have some fun talking about our amazing humans. Please send your questions! N. Holmes, 280 Pond Rd., Newcastle, ME 04553, or email: askbammy@tidewater.net.

About A New Trick

umans say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but I learn new tricks. All my life I’ve hurried to her when she calls “Bammy, Come!” No more. I duck over the bank into The Thicket where all the good animal smells are, and Boss can’t see me. When she calls, “Where’s Bammy?” I work my way back to her. We are a pack, after all. My latest new trick is actually sort of like remembering an old, old trick. It feels as if part of my brain just woke up. All my life I’ve had trouble with

You just brought home that new puppy or maybe adopted a new dog from the shelter and you are looking for training help. How do you choose? All Trainers are not Created Equal Did you know that anyone can call himself a dog trainer? Dog trainers come from all walks of life. There isn’t a specific degree or licensing body regulating the profession like there is for other professionals such as your veterinarian, realtor, nurse, or even barber who cuts your hair and trims your beard. What do you Look for in a Trainer? Because the dog training industry is unregulated, it is up to you to do your homework. Although, a universal degree or training program does not exist, there are several self-regulated dog training certification programs in existence, such as the Karen Pryor Academy (KPA-CTP), Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), The Academy for Dog Trainers (CTC), and the Victoria Stilwell Academy (VSA) to name a few. These programs often require inperson learning, as well as remote learning, written and in-person examinations. A mentor and hundreds of supervised training hours must be logged as part of the program. After graduation, these professionals must carry insurance and submit continuing education credits each year to keep their certification. Training Philosophy What is your training philosophy? What training method do you want to use? How do you want to train your dog? Will you use treats? What about mistakes? and corrections? How will your dog know they have gotten “it” wrong?

JULY 2021

Ask Bammy An Advice Column for Dogs by a Dog

things too good to leave, but too big or fresh to eat. A long time ago, Boss offered me a piece of rawhide too big to eat and too wonderful to lose. I grabbed it and walked around for a long time, whining. I pushed it into a corner and then went back and got it. Pushed it under the bed, whine, whine, whine. And into the pile of magazines. I finally just sat down and howled in frustration. Then Boss played the “trade” game, offering me a treat when I gave her the rawhide. She cut off a little piece, just right to eat while I watched anxiously. When she gave it to me, I lay right down and chewed it.

I sometimes catch a little bird that can’t get over the fence fast enough. I am REALLY quick! One day when I was walking around with one, whining, Boss took it and dug a hole while I watched anxiously. She put the bird in the hole and pushed the dirt back over it. I watched very closely and then dug it up. Maybe if she or my dog mother had done that when I was a puppy, I would have learned then. Last week Boss gave me a new bone saying, “Happy Birthday! You are fourteen years old!” I didn’t know what that was all about, and that bone was so fresh it almost gagged me. I tried to find a safe corner to hide it, but it was so wonderful I couldn’t bear to put it down. I squeezed in behind the computer desk and couldn’t back out because my hind legs aren’t that strong anymore. I just sat down with the bone lengthwise in my mouth and whined through the hole in the middle. When I began to howl through the bone, Boss came to help me. She almost laughed. Grrr! But she helped me back up, and we went outdoors. Boss sat on the steps looking really sad while I carried it around, whining. After a long time, I took the bone behind the rose bush, and I didn’t know why, but I started digging. Boss said, “Good dog! Good boy! Dig!” so I dug harder and then dropped the bone in the hole. She was all happy about that, too, but I picked the bone up again and whined. Then I dropped it in the hole again, and she said I was so good! I looked at it while an

How to Choose a Trainer

Do they need to know? Before researching trainers, you should know these answers. There are several different training methods, and it is important to understand your own training philosophy before selecting a trainer to work with you. 1. Reward-based training: These trainers often stick with positive reinforcement to shape and capture behaviors. They teach you how to adjust your training plan based upon feedback from your dog. You learn how to communicate and understand your dog on a deeper level. Food (yes-even their own food) and toys are often used as payment, not bribes, and there is no force or coercion when it comes to training with this method. 2. Balanced training: Using both rewards and corrections, these trainers will often “use all 4 quadrants” when training your dog. Many depend on the use of “all the tools in the toolbox” such as shock collars, e-collars, stim collars, prong collars, and choke collars in addition to food, toys, and praise for rewards when the dog “gets” it right. 3. Punishment-based or Traditional training: Punishment based trainers often rely heavily on corrections using positive punishment and negative reinforcement to train your dog. Food is rarely used or recommended. These trainers often depend on aversive tools but without the additional use of food, toys, or even praise as

rewards that a “balanced” trainer may use. Which is the Best Training Method? Choosing a training method can be confusing but in reality, all training methods are effective. If you are consistent and have good timing, then you can teach your dog anythingregardless of the method used. Just like a job interview, when choosing the right trainer, it is more about how each trainer aligns with your own personal training philosophy and beliefs rather than the actual training process itself. If the Training Method Doesn’t Matter, Then Why do I Have to Choose? Such a good question! The answerthe overall well-being and trusting relationship you wish to establish with your dog. “Punishment-based” and even “Balanced” training techniques often rely on intimidation, fear, and pain during the training process resulting in, an increase in fear-based behaviors, anxiety, and, in some cases, aggression. With these methods, learning can be slow and

by Nancy Holmes

idea about my nose was coming into my head. I pushed some of the dirt back over the bone with my nose. With my NOSE! Then I picked the bone up again. And dropped it and pushed soil with my nose over and over. Finally, I filled the hole up and I tamped down the dirt with my nose. I came to Boss and got lots of pats. I kept a pretty good eye on the spot behind the rose bush for a couple of days and then I dug up the bone. I wanted to bring it in the house, but Boss took it. She rinsed the dirt off it and gave it back. It was just right! Yummy! And Boss let me chew it indoors. I didn’t really learn a new trick. An old trick just made my paws and nose do a wonderful new thing. Keep learning! Bammy The Ask Bammy column is intended for humor and entertainment. If your dog has behavioral issues please contact a veterinarian or professional trainer.

confusing for your dog. The behavioral warning signs of distress are often punished, potentially leading to more unpredictable, unreliable, and, in some cases, dangerous behaviors from your dog. Reward-based training gives choice. Choice reduces fear and anxiety and creates a thinking dog, one who “wants” to work with you and “please” you because learning is fun and exciting. You are fun and exciting!!! This type of training is appropriate for all dogs. When using reward-based training, you help your dog make good choices and keep him feeling safe so aggression is never needed, distress is minimal, and the learning process accelerated. Why do I Need a Trainer? In addition to training philosophies and methods, it is important to understand the difference between a “training” problem and “emotional” one. Often training alone is not the answer. Training teaches your dog good social skills such as how to walk nicely on a leash, sit for attention instead of jumping, and to come when called. Behavior modification changes the emotional motivation behind a behavior. If your dog is displaying aggression, fear, or anxietybased behaviors, then training may not be an appropriate first step. Talk with your veterinarian, make an appointment with a veterinary behaviorist, or meet with a certified animal behavior consultant before starting the training process with these dogs. Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB

Calder Veterinary Behavior Services, www.caldervbs.com

Made in Maine This month we put a spotlight on Maine businesses and craftspeople who have been inspired by our furry friends to create magnificent pet products. Be sure to read up on these great businesses and check out what they have to offer!

1. Loyal Biscuit

Tug Me Toys are hand crafted in Maine and made entirely of 100% polyester fleece, these braided tugs are durable and washable.

6. Tealight Studios

Handmade bows and bandanas featuring many designs including but not limited to Maine and nautical patterns. Something for everyone!

7. Friendship Lobster Treats

Four great flavors including a dog treat made with Friendship, Maine Lobster, using only the lobster meat people eat.

7. Floating Rope Fetch Toy

This smaller buoyant rope toy will provide you and your dog with hours of fun in the water or on land. A "monkey fist" knot tied by hand using rope Maine lobstermen use with their traps.

2. The dooloop

8. Coat Hook

A modern leash accessory for those who'd rather not walk around swinging bags of dog poop in hand. Super easy to use, convenient and light-weight. the dooloop makes your life easier while being kind to the planet.

Their senior cat started having trouble grooming himself. One day while making a bracelet using a tiny crochet hook, Lisa ran the hook through Cozzie's fur. The fine hook reached down through and very nicely removed those loose clumps from his undercoat.

3. Kitsune Creations

Dog bandanas that focus on style and comfort with a variety of options and personalization available.

9. Doggie Dorr Treats

4. Coastside Bio Resources

Homemade gourmet dog treats for your four-legged family members using all natural, human grade consumables with no additives or preservatives. Our treats are made to order with fresh ingredients.

Coastside Bio Resources is focused on the health benefits of marinederived supplements. They offer a variety of products for dogs, cats and humans.

5. Mountain Dog Cookie Co.

Winner in the Best Maine Pet Product category for 4 years in a row (2017-2020) in the Downeast Dog News Readers Poll. Homemade decorated dog treats that come in over 120 shapes and sizes.

6 1

Promote Comfortable Joint Movement

DOG BANDANAS SHOP ONLINE AT

KitsuneCreations.com

Delicious Dog Treats & Fun for Your Salty Dog!

Recent studies have demonstrated that glucosamine and chondroitin can act synergistically to lubricate joints and nourish cartilage and connective tissue. Sea Jerky® is the original, patented “joint flexibility product for dogs”. Imitators may make similar claims -but there is only one Sea Jerky!

Please contact Coatside Bio Resources

800-732-8072 for a store near you.

www.seacucumber.com

HANDMADE IN PORTLAND, MAINE

Downeast Dog News

Ask About Our Maine Lobster Rope Dog Toys Too!

tealightstudios.etsy.com | tealightportland@gmail.com

Kelli Dorr~Owner TO OrDer:

Offering four great flavors that dogs love! Made With Only The Freshest Maine Ingredients

• our original lobster treats • gluten-free lobster treats • blueberry treats • pumpkin treats

Please shop local at a store near you!

JULY 2021

Our buoyant floating rope toy will give you and your dog hours of water play. etsy.com/shop/lobstertreats Friendship Lobster Treats FriendshipLobsterTreats@yahoo.com

www.thedoggiedorr.com thedoggiedorr@yahoo.com FB & Instagram @thedoggiedorr

SUNDAYS AT

The Scarborough Farmers Market • Turkey Bacon & Cheddar • Peanut Butter & Banana • Cranberry Pumpkin

• Apple Carrot • Chicken Pot Pie • Peanut butter CBD

Training Your Performance Dog

Agility, Obedience, Tracking by Carolyn Fuhrer Foundation Training The Secret to Success Is your dog a pleasure to live

with? Can you go anywhere with your dog without a problem? Can you trust your dog off lead? Will your dog, if necessary, stay wherever you put him until you return? Will your dog come when called without a bribe or trick to get him to come to you? Can your dog meet people or guests and remain calm and under control? If

you drop something and tell your dog to “leave it”, will he? Or is it a free for all? The behaviors mentioned above should be taught to all dogs. They are not obedience or performance behaviors, but rather qualities and skills that a good pet dog should

have. The more of these skills that your dog has, the more reliable your dog’s behavior will be, and therefore, the more freedom your dog can have. These foundation behaviors are the skills that you build upon in other performance sports. Without a clear understanding of what is required in these foundation behaviors, it is difficult to build reliable skills in other venues. If your dog does not have a reliable stay in pet life, why would you expect a good agility start line stay? If your dog is constantly pulling or leaving you on a walk, why would you expect good heeling in the ring? If you do not have a reliable “leave it” command, how do you expect your tracking dog to go back to work after it has flushed a bird or a rabbit has just run across the track? Your dog must have a solid understanding of these pet behaviors in order to build upon them. Too many times we use food to create and cause the performance behaviors that we want without even fading

the lure, so we think we have a behavior, but it is really caused and maintained by the motivator, and the dog does not really understand what is required. They instead are focused on the motivator. This is where relationship and the art of training comes in. Through proper training and a solid foundation of pet behaviors based on understanding, you can create a confident dog who understands that proper performance pays and will work with your guidance to achieve performance goals. We all want our dogs to succeed and be happy, but if food (or other motivators) appears when the dog quits, loses interest, or performs incorrectly, what are we teaching? The art of training is to be able to teach the dog that proper performance and effort will cause rewards to appear. Learn how to teach skills correctly based on a solid foundation and teach your dog to be a winner!

Carolyn Fuhrer has earned over 125 AKC titles with her Golden Retrievers, including 2 Champion Tracker titles. She has recently become an AKC Tracking Judge. Carolyn is the owner of North Star Dog Training School in Somerville, Maine. 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 carolyn@dogsatnorthstar.com.

3 1/2 miles to Boothbay Harbor

Classes Classes & & Private Private Lessons Lessons Obedience, Obedience, Agility Agility and and Tracking

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(207) 633-4782 www.shorehills.com

553 Wiscasset Road • Route 27 Boothbay, ME 04537

Promote your business to a targeted audience of pet lovers. Advertise with

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

carolyn@dogsatnorthstar.com

Struggling? Let Let us us help Struggling? help you you achieve achieveyour yourgoals. goals.You Youwill willbe beamazed amazed at how the right instruction instruction makes makes all allthe thedifference differenceininyour yoursuccess! success! Each Wehave havethe theknowledge, knowledge,experience experience Eachdog/handler dog/handler team team is is unique. unique. We and teachingability abilityto tohelp helpyou yousucceed. succeed. and outstanding outstanding teaching Callus usand andlet’s let’sget get started! started! Call

Now workshops schedulingwith Carolyn Fuhrer, Watch for 2020 Tracking Small customAKC training groups and workshops. Tracking Judge Call for more information!

Veterinary rehabilitation and hydrotherapy • Laser therapy • Acupuncture • Herbal therapy • Nutrition counseling

Monday through Saturday, by appointment only. Christine Fraser, DVM Located in Happy Tails Daycare at 119 Bishop St. Portland, ME Visit our website all4pawswellness.com or call (207) 809-9505 for more information

Exploring Maine with your dog?

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Dog Parks, Beaches, Trails, Daycares, Kennels, Retailers, Lodging , Acti vities and more! To request a copy — Call Jenn: (207) 706-6765 or email: jenn@downeastdognews.com View online at: downeastdognews.com

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Downeast Dog News

Pet Food Facts

You Cannot Have It All – Best Nutrition or Convenience & Economy – Part 3 of 4 I have reviewed what constitutes

the most natural and best nutrition for our dogs and discussed the various factors that contribute to a pet food's cost. This month I will address convenience and begin to tie everything together. Unless you have hours of free time, the convenience of what you feed your pet matters, I have a friend who feeds two dogs, two cats, and her family every morning before going to work. She wants pet food she can prepare quickly. I get that. Below I have listed various pet feeding options in the order that I believe provides the best nutrition. I will discuss the cost and convenience of each. Homemade Diets When you choose to make your pet's food, you have total control over the ingredients and method of preparation. If you select species-appropriate, fresh, highquality ingredients and prepare them properly, this can be your most nutritious option. Diets can be raw or cooked. However, you need to know what you are doing. I recommend that you work with a qualified animal nutritionist to develop your recipes or do lots of research and reading on your own. If you do the latter, look to using several resources, not just one. My wife made food for our Cairn Terrier, Gus, using recipes from a recognized veterinarian who focused on natural healing for several months. We discussed them with Gus's regular veterinarian. Every Sunday, Paula spent 4 to 5 hours preparing a week's worth of food, which took up one entire shelf in our refrigerator. That was for one small dog. In our experience, making food was more time-consuming than other options. Along with sourcing the ingredients, it also made it more costly. I might do this more when I

Words, Woofs & Meows by Don Hanson ACCBC, BFRAP, CDBC, CPDT-KA

photo credit: debra bell

retire, but for now, it's not practical. Commercial Frozen Raw We started learning about the benefits of feeding a raw diet in 1998 but were not comfortable making our own raw food, nor did we want to invest in the necessary equipment. When commercial frozen raw diets became available in Maine in late 2001, we started feeding all five dogs raw in the morning and kibble in the evening. Feeding a commercial frozen raw diet is not inexpensive. Even though we were paying wholesale prices, it was not affordable for our five dogs. Very pleased with the results of feeding raw, and with only two dogs, in 2004 we started feeding commercial raw almost exclusively. Just as with kibble, the quality of the ingredients used by raw food

companies varies. Some are 100% meat, while others include a mixture of fruit and vegetables because of the natural micronutrients found in those items. It is essential to understand the company and its products when selecting a commercial raw food, just like any other type of pet food. All these factors affect the cost. Commercial raw diets come in a variety of form factors, chubs, patties, and chunks. In our experience, the chubs are the most economical and the least convenient. The chunks are as convenient as kibble, except for requiring freezer space, but are more expensive. Commercial raw pet food companies are subject to the same regulations as companies that make kibble, including product safety. While there have been many allegations and concerns about salmonella and other pathogens in raw diets, it is rare compared to the incidence of salmonella being found in kibble. For the past 18 months, I have been feeding Muppy a wide variety of brands and types of food [ FMI - https://bit.ly/WhatIFeedAndWhy ]. She is primarily fed a commercial raw diet. A week before I started writing this column, I began reading a new book on pet nutrition, Feeding Dogs. Dry or Raw? The Science Behind the Debate. It's based on ten years of research and reviewing the scientific literature on various types of dog food, especially raw and kibble. I'll be writing about the book in a future column and based on what I'm learning, may move Muppy back to a diet that is entirely frozen raw or lightly cooked. Lightly Cooked Lightly cooked frozen diets are one of the newest options available to pet owners. Like frozen raw, the quality of the product will vary with

the quality of ingredients. I like and use one product made from humangrade ingredients; Beef Heart, Liver, Round, Chicken Breast, Thigh, Egg, Lamb Shoulder, Turkey Heart, Thigh, Wild Salmon Filet, fruits, and vegetables. It is lightly cooked to destroy any pathogens. It's as convenient to feed as any frozen product, but due to the quality of the ingredients is one of the most expensive options. Next month I'll finish this series looking at the following commercial food types; Freeze-Dried, Dehydrated, "Fresh," Wet/Canned/ Pouched, and Dry/Kibble.

Don Hanson is the co-owner of the Green Acres Kennel Shop (greenacreskennel.com) in Bangor where he has been helping people with their pets since 1995. He also produces and co- hosts The Woof Meow Show heard on AM620 -WZON every Saturday at 9 AM. Podcasts of the show are available at www.woofmeowshow.com. Don also writes about pets at his blog: www.words-woofs-meows.com. He is committed to pet care and pet training that is free of pain, force, and fear. The opinions in this column are those of Don Hanson.

Sunray Animal Clinic 73 Admiral Fitch Avenue, Brunswick, ME 04011 (207) 725-6398 • www.Sunrayvet.com Full Service Veterinary Clinic with Dentistry • In-House Lab Equipment • X-rays & Laser Therapy

OXFORD HILLS

Medicine and Surgery for Large and Small Animals

136 Western Avenue So. Paris, Maine 04281 www.oxfordhillsvet.com 743-9271

VETERINARY HOSPITAL

Dr. Matthew Holden Dr. Kate Holden

At Tender Touch Veterinary Hospital we take a “Whole Health” approach to every animal. Call or email us to learn more

207-839-7456

tendertouchveterinary@yahoo.com

Katherine Seymour, DVM

JULY 2021

Christopher Norman, DVM

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

Rescue

of the

Month

Rescue of the Month: Animal Welfare Society A Community Driven Animal Shelter By Susan Spisak

The Animal Welfare Society, aka AWS, is a private humane society based in Kennebunk. Founded in 1967, this 501(c)(3) is a 40-acre campus that boasts an animal shelter, adoption center, resident and community dog training, and a full-service Community Veterinary Clinic. AWS serves over twenty towns in York County; their staff cares for stray, abandoned, and owner relinquished animals from the region. While local animals are their focus, as space allows, they open their doors to pets in need through their PAWS Across America program. AWS brings these companion animals to Maine with the hopes of quickly placing them in new homes. Brie Roche, Humane Educator at AWS, indicated many of these dogs come from the south and Puerto Rico.

Encompassed within PAWS Across America is Paws in Stripes. Many puppies who arrive on these transports are paired with “trainer/ handler” inmates at MCC who have been hand-picked by officials at the facility. They care for and nurture the pups for six weeks with AWS staffers leading routine training sessions. The younger generation is important to AWS. With the energetic state-certified Roche as their Humane Educator, she fills the bill to impart the importance of animal care to area youth. “I focus a lot on bringing Animal Welfare Programs to schools,” she explained. The kids and teens who volunteer at the shelter or attend their summer camps already have an interest in animals. “We’re reaching a new audience by going into the schools.” For her educational efforts with the 5th and 6th graders at the Sanford

School System, she follows Mutt-igrees, an initiative founded by Yale University in conjunction with North Shore Animal League America. This utilizes the attraction between kids and pets to teach social-emotional skills that are important in their school and everyday life. In addition to understanding animal care, the goal is to create awareness, help them identify feelings and emotions, encourage empathy and deal with decision making. (She added that her cats were a big hit with the kids, both in person and during virtual classes.) School officials have indicated that a few students have come forward to share that their pets aren’t cared for properly. The officials in turn communicate with parents to resolve the issue. Roche said as the semester ended, she received positive feedback from the kids. A few comments included that they’ve learned to be

kind to animals, not to take their bad day out on pets, not to pull tails, and to approach pets safely. “It’s an amazing program. It’s really, really cool.” Animals Unite Us is another innovative effort – it bridges the cultural gap for high schoolers who are new to the US and/or the English language. She visits two Portland schools for hour-long workshops, teaching the basics of companion animal care. Visit animalwelfaresociety.org/ for info on adopting, fostering, volunteering, donating funds, and to view their Amazon wish list. For info on their Summer Countdown, a program geared towards finding wonderful homes for long-time residents, visit animalwelfaresociety. org/adoption/countdown-to-summer/

Rosey, 4 years old

Noodle, 11 months old

A sweet, very easy-going gal. She wants to be the center of your world - her best fit will be a pet-free, childless, and quiet home without many visitors. Rosey can be a little shy around new people and it may take a few visits before she feels comfortable with strangers. However, once she does, Rosey really blooms and begs to be cuddled and pet. We know a special bond will form between her and her lucky new people! A nice walk in the woods, and plenty of sniffing makes a good day for this pretty girl. Because of her shyness and our desire to make the best match, we require two visits with potential adopters.

A sweet, loving guy looking for a home without young children or cats. This 11-month-old, who came to us from GA, would be the perfect guy for an active couple, a low-key family with teenagers, or a single person who wants a doting companion. He loves to be outside and enjoying new adventures together. We recommend schooling with his adopter because it's a great way to bond, and work on basic manners – he so wants to be the best boy he can, plus he loves training treats. If you'd like a wonderful and loving dog, consider Noodle.

Give us a call today to learn more or schedule a meet and greet by calling (207) 985-3244 daily after 9 am

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

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. Most rescues are showing dogs by appointment only right now. Some rescues do not offer phone numbers and require you apply online. Please see the contact info. highlighted in yellow below each dog. Zsa Zsa

Samaria

George Jones

6 years old, Lab/Foxhound Mix

2 years old, Hound Mix

3-5 years old, Bluetick Coonhound

FMI: https://almosthomerescue.net/

Warm & loving once she knows and trusts you, is looking for a quiet home with a woman. She does well with dogs, walks well on a leash and has a solid obedience foundation. She is not a fan of cats or small children.

Sammy is mostly deaf. She loves other dogs and would likely be fine with children who are old enough to understand not to startle her. She loves to cuddle & be a lap dog. An active dog with pretty high energy, loves walks, playing with other dogs & car rides.

2021 July Downeast Dog News

Articles inside

dogs for Adoption

Calendar

Rescue of the Month

Maine Made Pet Products ... 8

Performance dog training