2021 June Downeast Dog News by Jennifer Rich / Wendi Smith

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Volume 16 • Issue 6 • JUNE 2021

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Let’s Get Outside! By Susan Spisak

especially considering vaccinations – simply stay up to date so you’re in compliance. One of the best he new normal is here for ways to feel in charge of your days the time being, and that includes (and mindset, too) is to get back adhering to state and CDC pandemic outside and enjoy life safely – and guidelines. While all this is fluid – absolutely include your pup. There’s plenty of dog-friendly activities and

Inside

2 Hot Dog News

Basic Training Tips

8 &9

Dog-Friendly Campgrounds

outdoor destinations to visit in the state. Know that you’ll be making wonderful memories and deepening the bond with your fur kid. Before you take to the road, your bud should be current on vaccines and preventatives. Keep his medical

12&13

See OUTSIDE on page 5

Dogs for Adoption

DowneastDogNews.com

14 Calendar of events

Hot Dog News Summer Countdown – Adopt!

celebrating Summer is less than 37 days away!! Several amazing pets in the AWS Adoption Center have been waiting for homes for much longer than that. So we are our long-term residents – their exuberant natures, their shy demeanors, their age-old wisdom, their life experience, hopes and dreams. How many

more days until these pets find their homes? How about by the first day of summer? Some of these pets have been waiting since winter, so the Summer Countdown begins. Let's get them all home by the time summer rolls around! They are ready and waiting for the summer of their dreams with their new people, but you don't have to take our word for it!

Kyra: "Summer is for family and fun, and my perfect summer day is spent with both! I love getting to chase a ball through a yard full of freshly, mowed grass and smell all that nice, warm dirt. My family would be outside with me, of course, and we could all play in the sprinkler or hose until the sun set. That sounds like fun, fun, fun!"

Clarence: "I love summer for its long, lazy heatwaves. I could spend all day cuddled up on my blankets enjoying the sounds of my people nearby as they make lemonade or watch TV. I also love the simplicity of a summer night as I cuddle with my humans in bed and listen to the peepers outside the windows."

Noodle: "Summers are meant for getting outside and having fun! My perfect summer day is getting to go for walks, hikes, and car rides with my favorite people. I love all the smells of summer, too! The flowers, the trees, the ocean breeze. I’m down for anything so long as it’s with you!"

To meet more Summer Countdown pets and to learn how to adopt, visit https://animalwelfaresociety.org/adoption/countdown-to-summer/

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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 Gail Mason GRAPHIC DESIGN NVDesigns • Nicole Vanorse Advertising Jenn Rich 207-706-6765 jenn@downeastdognews.com

President Wendi Smith Parent & Publishing Company Maine Pet News LLC Our Goals

• Provide the latest in dog-related news and information. • Encourage and support dog-friendly businesses and Maine-made pet products and services. • Cultivate a community of responsible dog guardianship/ownership. • Support animal welfare causes.

From the Publisher Dear Dog News Readers, As I am writing this, I am looking out my window and everything is looking so green. It is one of my favorite times of year with all the beautiful spring flowers and blooming trees. I have already mowed my lawn three times! Some might find it strange but I actually enjoy mowing. I have a riding lawn mower and I put on my headphones and crank up the tunes. It is like a form of meditation. Of course, with the good weather also comes the pests. The black flies are crazy right now! Every spring I get so itchy between the black flies and the brown tail moth hairs. I am seriously considering a full body bug net once I plant my garden. I remember last year and not being sure if I could last long enough to get the garden watered sufficiently. The black flies were vicious! Sometimes they get Pepper right on the eye and the poor girl swells up and looks like someone punched her. We do use some herbal sprays to try and keep the bugs off. We have seen some ticks, most of them have been dog ticks so far. I have been hearing some bad stories from others though who have had been pulling dozens of ticks off their dogs. That happened to us last year. We were so desperate to get out of the house in the spring and went for a walk on a trail in the woods and on the way home so many ticks keep crawling out of Pepper’s fur. It was a nightmare! She has yet to take a swim in the lake but I think that will be happening very soon. She has also been shedding up a storm! I have combed her twice and it felt like I could go on for days. I have also vacuumed up enough hair in the house to make a sweater for a small dog. At one point she was looking like she had gained some winter weight but now I am thinking it was just hair. She already looks trimmer and we haven’t changed much. I think this summer is definitely going to be different than last year. We might even see some of our favorite pet events come back! Be safe and remember to be patient with one another. We have been experiencing many changes over the last year and I’m sure there will be more to come. It is much easier if we are kind to one another. All the best, Jenn and Pepper

“Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions.” ― Dalai Lama XIV

Dog of the Month! Tia Marie

Tia Marie is an 11-year-old Yorkshire Terrier from Old Orchard Beach. She loves camping, flowers and squeaky toys. She and I have lived in five states together and she loves to ride in the car and in the baby carrier backpack on my electric bicycle. She is a loyal companion and protector (lol). Tenacious Terrier!

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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 Kidney Failure........................ 7 Dog Friendly Campgrounds .. 8, 9 Performance Dog Training.... 10 Words, Woofs & Meows....... 11 Rescue of the Month.............12 Dogs for Adoption................ 13 Calendar............................... 14 Business Directory ............... 15

I have been having so much fun

doing psychic readings for people and their pets, and the personalities of the dogs have been totally unique! Just like us, they are all different. They view life from their own frame of reference. They have taste in collars, clothing, food, and treats. They can be particular about training or how they want to be rewarded for certain behaviors, and they usually have thoughts on how they want to be memorialized, if at all. I’d like to share some of the readings that have stood out over the past month. Enjoy! I read an absolutely hysterical dog who had passed over a week before our chat. He was a sweet, sweet boy, but also looked at the world with a bit of a disgusted perspective. Why were people so dumb? Why were they so nasty to each other? What was WRONG with humanity?! That being said, when I asked the dog how he saw himself in life, he showed me an image of a lunch lady, not the sweet ones I remember, but the ones that Adam Sandler writes silly songs about. He said if he were a human, he’d have a job where he could get away with having an attitude. He’d smoke a cigarette even while cooking slop, and if ash fell in the sloppy joe mix, so be it. I have to say I laughed out loud and stumbled a bit when I had to relay this to the owner because it was not at all what I was expecting to hear! When I asked the dog why he felt this way, he said because his owner had seen his fair share of challenges and was tired of people interfering with his success. The dog’s logic was that if he was grumpy, no one would question him or the owner, which would create space and freedom. Thankfully, the owner understood what the pup was trying to say. The poor man was sobbing through the reading because he missed his dog so profoundly. I get it. It is one of the hardest things I think we have to go through, so I always ask how the dog will let you know he is still around.

Is that Ringworm? Q. My dog has these rings

all over and some are raised. Is it ringworm? Can I catch it?

Furry Words

by Sara Moore

www.enlightenedhorizons.com

The dog said that he would still lean on the man’s right lower leg when he was in bed. More sobs. He said he swore he felt him there the night before but didn’t know if it was real. It was, and I’m sure it will happen again. He asked if the dog had any suggestions on where to spread his ashes, and the dog was absolutely indifferent. He had a great life, but in death was no longer attached to his physical body and gave the owner permission to do whatever felt right to him. I could sense relief as I said it, and the dog also told him to take his time. He was at peace and knew there was a lot of healing left for the family to do. A dog I read today was a rescued female Australian Shepard. The client had never had a reading from me before, so I explained that I have no idea what I’m going to say until it’s falling out of my mouth. I asked what she wanted to know, and first she wanted to know how the dog felt about living with them. The dog said it was fine but said so with an air of indifference. Time to ask clearer questions. Did the dog like the family? Yes. Did it feel safe? Yes, but she had

Ask the Vet…

by Dr. Judith Herman

A. Every spring, we celebrate

the coming of the long-awaited sunshine and warmth. Grass becomes green, flowers bloom, trees bud, and the black flies blossom! Every year there is about a 2-week period when the temperature rises, allowing these little flies to actively bite us and our dogs. The typical bite on us is a painful, bleeding wound, but for Rover it looks different. What the guardian finds is a red circle with a red dot in the center on the skin of his companion. It looks like someone took a rubber stamp and stamped these bullseyes all over the belly, inner legs, and ears. Normally, that will be it, but there

are some dogs who are bitten so badly that they have welts all over. I saw a lab that was up in the County with his guardian fishing. This poor guy was covered head to toe with the identifying marks, which were painful, itchy welts. This is not the typical reaction but if Rover

always had to take care of herself, so she didn’t want to let the people in too far and lose her edge. Her edge? Images of Joan Jett, the edgy rocker flashed through my mind. I asked why did she relate to her?! The answer was because Joan Jett knew no matter what happened, she could take care of herself. No one was going to hurt her, and no one was going to hurt the dog because she had an edge, too. Sigh. The owner said that the reason she made the appointment was because the dog had challenged the husband a few times by trying to dominate him and nip at him. Ugh. I asked the dog what would make her feel safer, and she said a harness. She also said she was exceptionally proud of her independence, and when they went for walks, she purposefully went as far ahead as the leash would allow. She showed me the pink poodle on Clifford the Big Red Dog (who I couldn’t stand when my son watched it) to explain how empowering it was to let the world know SHE was the one leading the pack, and that she HAD to because they may not be strong enough to keep her safe or give her adequate boundaries. I told her that she was actually risking her relationship with this family, and they picked her because they are full of love and wanted someone to share that with. I told her she had scared the husband, who was a loving, gentle man, and that she really needed to apologize. I asked her how she could learn to be more open and trusting of him, and I got an image of the husband lounging on the couch with a cup full of little dog treats. Not big ones, but like what you’d use for training. As he relaxed on the couch, she’d sniff for a treat and he’d give her one. I saw the scene progressing, and by the end of the imagery, she was laying on his lap with her head on his belly, totally content. Then it got really interesting. I felt a total shift in my physical body. My shoulders, back, stomach, all relaxed as if I had taken a strong muscle

relaxer. The owner was quiet for a second and then said that the dog had been staring at her, but suddenly started sprinting around the room doing her crazy happy dog dance. I asked the dog if there was anything else she wanted us to know, and she said that she loves being groomed because it makes her gorgeous. Her edge was gone, and I’m optimistic they’re going to have a fresh start together! The final dog I’ll tell you about had passed away a few weeks prior, and the owner was wondering what she wanted her to do in her honor. It was the first time a dog had shown me a wrought iron marker, like what you’d see in a garden, that was about two feet off the ground with a laminated picture of the dog on the face plate. I also saw a stone marker on the ground, and it was all under a beautiful tree. The woman said that she did already have the memorial set up under the tree but hadn’t even thought of the taller marker. The dog also told her that she’d be showing up as yellow and black butterflies. The dog was so proud of herself and the time she and the family had shared! She validated that they were all around her when she scattered the dog's ashes under the tree and that they’ve been following her everywhere! Well there you go! Our loved ones (people and pets) really do try to reassure us that they’re ok on the other side. Keep talking to them- they can hear you and will find ways to answer you, whether it be in a song, butterflies, dragonflies, goosebumps, a license plate that has their name on it or simply because you’re having a chat with them in your head, and it’s REALLY happening! 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.

is sensitive to the bites an allergic reaction can occur. The “black fly season” usually lasts 2 weeks and moves around the state. Entomologists say Maine has several species of these little pests illustrating how healthy our environment is, however, they don’t hatch at the same time. This means you and Rover can be bitten off and on throughout the summer. Black flies are not the only biting insects our four-legged companions have to deal with while out and about. Anyone who enjoys hiking in the Maine woods have come across mosquitoes, deer flies, and moose flies to name a few. You and your companion do not need to suffer these nasty pests while enjoying the outdoors. There are many approaches to prevent these bites. If you prefer to use a once-a-month topical flea and tick medicine make sure the product says it is an insect repellent too. Just like for people there are “clothing” impregnated with permethrin for dogs to wear

when outside. There are many companies that make vests, gators, bandanas, T-shirts, and tank tops for dogs. They are available locally and online. Be sure to keep these garments away from the family cat. Permethrin is toxic to cats. If you want to stay away from the chemicals, you will find many products that work well as bug repellents that are safe and easy to use. You will need to apply them often to be affective. Many people are making their own repellent by using appropriate essential oils. Another home recipe is to take two cups of water and bring it to a boil. Add one cut up lemon into the pot. Cover the pot and let it steep over night off the heat. In the morning you can sponge or spray the citrus liquid on your dog before going outside. This concoction also helps reduce itchiness. Judith K. Herman, DVM, CVH Animal Wellness Center Augusta, Maine www.mainehomeopahticvet.com

Downeast Dog News

OUTSIDE

from page 1

records handy in a free smartphone app. Be sure he’s wearing a collar with a tag and your cell number. Carry plenty of water, bowls, mealsized portions of his food as needed, non-toxic sunscreen, and waste disposal bags. There are many lakes and ocean beaches for a romp if your boy is a good swimmer. (Even if he is, he should wear a life vest – and know he’s not allowed on State Park beaches between April 1 and September 30.) There are many other beaches that allow dogs in the summer, but there’s usually restrictions during the prime day hours, so do your homework. For a list of dog-friendly parks, beaches, trails, rules and policies, visit https://www.gotravelmaine.com/ travelmaine-guides/ Mainer Aaron Lincoln, the captain and owner of Schooner Olad and Sailing Vessel Owl, looks forward to having you and your dog aboard his larger sailboat, the schooner, free of charge. (If you book a private charter on the Owl, he’s ok to ride along with you, too.) You’ll set sail out of Camden and glide through the waters of Penobscot Bay, following the best winds, while Lincoln and his crew talk on local history and the schooner trade. I talked with Grace Hayward at the business – they’re adhering to COVID-19 safety precautions, including boat cleaning between outings. (maineschooners.com). If the weather’s good and you’re hungering for some food, head to a restaurant with outdoor seating, most will allow your dog (call to confirm). If you’re craving a waterside marina experience, look no further than Whale’s Tale Restaurant and Seafarer’s Pub at the Carousel Marina in Boothbay Harbor. Accessible by car or boat, this spot offers a variety of seafood, chowders, sandwiches, pizza, and more. Owner Jack Cogswell said your four-legged is “absolutely” welcome to join you on the garden patio. For directions and info, carouselmarina.com. “It’s a dog-friendly environment,” said Donna Brewer of the Boothbay Railway Village. Steve Markowitz, Director of Operations

Guthrie at Belgrade Lakes Golf Club

at the Village agreed, and no breeds are restricted. So, take your wellbehaved, leashed guy for plenty of exercise at the 15 + acre recreated Maine town, which is an outdoor history museum. You’ll see over two dozen reconstructed buildings of the 1850’s to 1950’s. For extra fun, ride the train – Markowitz said you and your canine are allowed in their open car. The museum opens on Father’s Day but will be closed all Mondays this season. COVID-19 practices must be adhered to. Note, their new waste station is a gift from Two Salty Dogs Pet Outfitters in Boothbay Harbor. (railwayvillage.org/visit/). Feel like golfing but no partner to tee off with? Spend a day on the links with your faithful friend at the award-winning, public Belgrade Lakes Golf Club (about 25 minutes north of Augusta). A call to Margie Evans at Belgrade Lakes confirmed that your pooch’s fine anywhere – including clubhouse, golf carts, and at Tonka’s Deck and Snack Bar. Say hello to Guthrie, Evan’s Bernese Mountain Dog, who is frequently there. Enjoy! (belgradelakesgolf.com) Does your canine have guts?

Seashore Trolley Museum Photo Credit: Katie Orlando, Exec. Director

Starting July 4, leashed or voicecontrolled dogs can ride with you in the Sunday River Resort Chondola (an enclosed gondola) up to the North Peak to take in views of the Sunday River Valley and Mahoosuc Mountain Range in western Maine. Chondola rides stop in mid-October, but the trees typically start changing in late September, so if you’re a leaf peeper, be sure to visit here. This is a terrific family outing - for hours and all pricing (dogs are free), visit sundayriver.com/. P.A.W.S. Animal Adoption Center and The Friends of Belfast Parks hope to continue their tradition with the 16th Annual Maine Wienerfest, with all proceeds benefiting P.A.W.S.. Shelly Butler, Executive Director for P.A.W.S., said it’s tentatively planned for Sunday, September 12th, with gates opening at 11:00 am (subject to change). This year's event will look a little different as they’ll structure the event to be COVID compliant. Expect vendors, a costume contest, and the Doxie Distance Dash. Admission is $5 per person for adults, and it’s free for dogs and children under 12. Rain or shine. For info about this year's

event, the schedule, and possible changes, visit MaineWienerfest.com. If the evolution of transportation interests you – from trolley cars, railroads, antique streetcars, to rapid transit and everything in between, hit the Seashore Trolley Museum in Kennebunkport. Since 1939, they’ve collected over 250 national, international, regional, and state mass transit vehicles. This non-profit has a wonderful attitude towards well-mannered pets, and Executive Director Katie Orlando indicated the website info is applicable: “Because dogs are part of the family, we are always dog friendly. Dogs are even welcome during special events.” Please keep him on a leash no longer than 6 ft., insure he’s social, healthy, current on shots/preventatives, and pick up after him. For directions and admission details, trolleymuseum.org. For more dog-friendly places and events, request a copy of our annual petMAINE guide at jenn@ downeastdognews.com or call 207.706.6765.

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JUNE 2021

Are you "Stubborn"? The Sticky Label

y husband got a little silly at work. While doing a mundane labeling chore at his IT job, he decided to label the label maker itself. We were "Big Bang Theory" fans, so the idea wasn't exactly original. Drew decided he'd label it "Pencil Sharpener" to carry the gag a bit further. It got a laugh or two - just enough to satisfy him and encourage him to think up more gags. What happened over the next few days illustrates how labeling, for better or worse, has the tendency to stick (pun intended). Drew's coworkers started referring to the label maker as "Pencil Sharpener." "Hey, Drew, can I use the pencil sharpener when you're done with it?" It's a great example of how quickly the line of reality can get blurred, making it difficult to separate the labeled from the label. Take, for instance, the terminology a guest used when describing her dog to me. "She's dominant. At puppy class, she stole

Basic Training Tips

by Diana Logan

all the treats away from the puppies near her." She went on to say that she really couldn't do much in the way of training her now 8-year-old dog because the dominant factor was a real impediment to anything having to do with learning. "Jack Russell Terriers are hard

to house train." My acquaintance complained of the resulting mess with her two adult dogs but was very resistant to any suggestions on how to resolve the problem, shaking her head and repeating, "Jack Russells are hard to house train," as if it was a curse that could and should never be broken. "Oh, my dog won't bring the ball back to me. He's stubborn." "Stubborn” seems to be a very common word to use when describing our dogs. I used to use it, too, before I became addicted to learning about training and the science behind animal behavior. Now I know I’m the stubborn one if I can't figure out a way to understand a behavior. (For the record, returning an item to a person is a learned skill, not an innate behavior, and therefore needs to be trained). Labels Affect Potential Negative labels have the tendency to limit potential. Once we put a label on our dogs… or our kids, or ourselves, or anything else… we set ourselves up to allow that label to stick. We become enablers and disablers at the same time. We allow labels to define who or what someone is. We departmentalize, categorize, generalize…. we are all guilty of it - we are human. We can, however, be aware of this tendency

by avoiding the use of labels as convenient excuses. Alpha, Dominant, Aggressive, Submissive Labels are subjective and can lead us towards biases, coloring an inaccurate picture of an individual. All of the terms above are common ones used in describing dogs. They are, however, subjective and situational and are therefore very poor descriptors. A dog may be more bossy among one group of dogs but least bossy in another group. Should we still call him “bossy”? “Alpha” is a word often misused to describe dogs who are simply rude and antagonistic. This type of dog makes a very poor leader! Some sample definitions offered by Google: Alpha - denoting the dominant animal or human in a particular group. Dominant - most important, powerful, or influential. In case you were interested…. After weeks of referring to the label maker as the “pencil sharpener,” this misnomer continued to be used purely out of habit, despite the fact that the joke had long since run its course. Happy Training!

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

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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 Chipmunks

Do you know those little, striped,

squirrelly animals? Boss calls them “chipmunk.” They smell rather like squirrels, except there’s an earthy smell to them because they seem to live in holes in the ground. At least, when I try to catch one, it usually goes down a hole. They go into stone walls, too, or log piles, or even an old stump with a hole in it. I ran one up a tree once just like a real squirrel.

Ask Bammy An Advice Column for Dogs by a Dog

I hate to admit it, but I’ve never been able to catch a chipmunk. They seem to be really stupid, the way they don’t pay attention to what’s going on. Or maybe they do, and they are just teasing. They love to poke around on the ground until I am just two jumps away, and then they go “Squeak squeak squeak!” and pop into a little hole where I can’t get them. When they are safe, you’d think they would just keep quiet so I would go away. But they go right on teasing! They chitter and peep all up

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and down a stone wall and from different holes in the ground. When I was a puppy, I tried really hard to catch them. I tried to take stone walls apart, and I dug at their holes in the ground. I could look out the window and see them under the bird feeder. They filled their little mouths with birdseed until their cheeks stuck out. I hardly breathed until they started to run to one of their holes, then I yelled and jumped on the window, and Boss yelled at me, “Off! Noo!” I’m no dummy, so I gave it up after a while. Why waste energy on those little teasers when I could catch birds and woodchucks and scare snakes away? Boss didn’t like me to catch birds and snakes, either, but for goodness sake, I am a dog! I still chase a chipmunk once in a while if it looks as if I might have a chance. There was one way out in the driveway, so I charged. I’m not as fast as I used to be. Maybe I would have caught it when I was younger. The closest I ever came was just last week. Boss and I were sitting on the big stone step outside our den when we saw a chipmunk coming up the walk toward the steps. I hardly even breathed – and I think Boss didn’t either. When the little thing was just a couple of feet away, I thought it was going to jump right into my mouth! I opened my mouth to lunge,

Photo courtesy of Pexels by Skyler Ewing

but it disappeared! It was just gone. I looked over the edge of the step where it should have been, but there was nothing there except a chipmunk hole. Oh grrr! I knew that hole was there, but with the chipmunk running right to me, I forgot. I usually like it when Boss laughs. We think the same kinds of things are funny. But not this time. She laughed her head off, and I just turned around and walked away. Good luck hunting chipmunks! Bammy The Ask Bammy column is intended for humor and entertainment. If your dog has behavioral issues please contact a veterinarian or professional trainer.

Become a sponsor of an adoptable dog in our paper and help raise money for a Maine rescue. Call Jenn (207)706-6765

Managing Chronic Kidney Disease in Dogs be effective in controlling hypertension. • Azotemia (increased BUN/creatinine): is the result of inadequate filtering of nitrogenous cell production. Consequently, your waste from the dog may have a dilute urine, elevated bloodstream. Azodyl® is blood urea nitrogen (BUN), increased a nutritional supplement levels of creatinine and phosphorus in that can reduce BUN the bloodstream, anemia, decreased levels, while Epakitin® potassium levels, and elevated blood and/or aluminum pressure. Your veterinarian can create hydroxide can be utilized an effective treatment plan which to reduce blood phosphorus levels. may include medications, nutritional • Gastritis: (inflammation of supplements, specific dietary stomach) is not uncommon in recommendations as well as possible dogs with azotemia. Your fluid therapy. veterinarian may recommend acid • Hypertension: is relatively blockers such as famotidine common in dogs with CKD. The (Pepcid®) or acid pump inhibitors, diseased kidneys have a reduced ability to regulate sodium levels in such as omeprazole (Prilosec OTC®). the body. This results in sodium • Calcium dysregulation: can be a retention and an increase in both blood volume and pressure. significant issue for CKD patients. In a normal dog, the calcium to Hypertension can accelerate phosphorus ratio is tightly kidney damage, as well as cause damage to the retinas of the eyes. regulated at 2:1. Since CKD patients have elevated phosphorus Medications including “ACE” in the blood, the body attempts inhibitors such as benazepril or to maintain the ratio by increasing enalapril or calcium channel blood calcium levels. To do so, blockers, such as amlodipine can

Dr. Gail Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIM Staff Internist, Portland Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Care Co-owner Bath-Brunswick Veterinary Hospital A diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD) can be heartbreaking for an owner. Many owners assume that the diagnosis of chronic kidney failure means that the kidneys are not working. In most cases, chronic renal failure is not the inability to produce urine, but rather a reduced ability to adequately filter toxic waste from the bloodstream. The cells in the kidney cannot regenerate and at least two-thirds of the kidney tissue is malfunctioning before any symptoms are noted. In many patients this results from slow destruction of the kidney tissue over months, to even years. As discussed in our previous article, causes include toxins, trauma, infections, or a result of normal aging process. Can anything be done to extend your dog’s life? Yes, with appropriate treatment and management your dog may live many months or years. The kidneys not only filter waste, but they also regulate blood pressure, blood sugar, water composition in the blood, pH levels, and influence red blood

JUNE 2021

it must remove calcium from bones. Over time, this causes the bones to become very brittle and at risk for fractures. Calcitriol (active vitamin D3) may be prescribed to increase calcium absorption from the intestinal tract, thereby abating calcium resorption from healthy bones. • Anemia: is caused by a deficiency in the hormone erythropoietin, which is manufactured by the kidneys. Chronic anemia commonly manifests as weakness, fatigue, and exercise intolerance. Under close veterinary supervision,

See KIDNEY on page 14

Dog-Friendly Campgrounds *Dog First Aid Kit

Tips for Camping with Your Dog Plan Ahead • Check with the campground about their pet policies. • Make an appointment with your vet for a checkup.

• Be prepared for an emergency. Find the number of the nearest 24-hour veterinary emergency hospital near where you will

be staying and program it into your phone. • Research daycares/boarding for days when your activities do not allow your dog to accompany you. • Plan a trip appropriate for your dog’s personality. Are they adventurous or do they prefer to lounge? Have a Trial Run If your dog is new to camping, there are a few things you can do to prepare them so it is a pleasant experience for you both. • Work on your dog’s leash manners and take them for longer walks, practice leash commands. • Spend more time outside and hanging out in your yard. • Practice your dog’s social skills around other people and other dogs. Work on obedience training if needed. • Take a few day trips or picnics. • Camp out in your backyard and behave as though you are at a campground. Keep them leashed, have a fire, invite friends. Practice sleeping in a tent (if applicable). Never Leave Your Dog Unattended To keep your dog and others safe make sure you monitor them. Your dog may be friendly but not all other dogs and

people will welcome them in their space. Most campgrounds will require they remain on a leash of 6 feet in length or less. DO NOT leave your pet in the car. It takes only minutes in a vehicle on a warm day for pets to suffocate or suffer from heatstroke. Even when the temps are in the 60’s, your vehicle can reach the danger zone, and rolling down the windows or parking in the shade doesn’t guarantee protection. Practice Good Etiquette Be courteous to fellow campers. Bring along pet waste bags and clean up after your dog while at the campground and during adventures elsewhere. Dispose of waste in trash receptacles. Plan Dog-Friendly Activities • Hiking • Beaches • Boating • Swimming • Local parks • Dog-friendly attractions Prevent Overheating Keep your dog in a cool area during the hottest time of day. Make sure they have plenty of water to drink. Bring a collapsible bowl and bottled water with you when on hikes and enjoying other activities. Do not let your dog drink stagnant water and be cautious of lakes and rivers that could be infected by blue-green algae.

WASSAMKI SPRINGS CAMPGROUND

Free Live Entertainment and Activities on Weekends for All Ages

Cable TV • WiFi Beach • Private Lake Swimming • Fishing • Sports Courts & Fields • Rec Hall/Arcade • Big Rigs • Family Tenting • Full Family camping Hookups – only a few miles 30/50 Amp • Store from Portland I-95 Dog Run • Laundry

Dog Camping Essentials

• Food and bowls • Treats • Water • Medications if needed • Tether • Extra collars/leashes/ harnesses with your contact info. on them

Shore Hills CA M PG R OU N D & RV PA R K

Exploring Maine with your dog? Check out our 2021 petMAINE Guide featuring: 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

Primitive camping on the shores of Eggemoggin Reach Brooklin, Maine

44° 16’ 59.9º / 68o 37’ 18.7º Downeast Dog News

pet-friendly insect repellent • Dog-friendly sunscreen • Pet wipes, grooming products • Bed or mat to sleep on (if tenting the ground gets damp and cold) • Portable crate (optional)

3 1/2 miles to Boothbay Harbor

@ Reach Knolls

ASPCA Poison Control hotline (888) 426-4435 for emergency poisoning information and support.

Oceanfront Camping

oceanfrontcamping@reachknolls.com

• Towels • First-aid kit* • Blanket or favorite toys from home • Current photo of your dog • Vaccination/medical records • Dog waste bags • Flea and tick preventatives,

Consult your vet on the best choices, doses and instructions on how to use these items.

56 Saco Street•Scarborough, ME 04074•207-839-4276•wassamkisprings.com

207-359-5555 www.reachknolls.com

Pet first aid guidebook Bandana for a makeshift muzzle Vetwrap (self-stick gauze) Activated charcoal (which can save your dog’s life from accidental poisoning) Butterfly Bandages (to close open wounds) Waterproof surgical tape Blunt-end scissors Instant cold pack Cotton balls and swabs Styptic Powder (stop bleeding) Tweezers Nail clippers Ear & Eye Ointment Triple Antibiotic Ointment Meds for insect stings Hydrogen peroxide Towels Booties for injured paws

View online at: downeastdognews.com

JUNE 2021

14 miles to Acadia National Park

Shuttle Service to Boothbay Harbor 150 Open & Shaded Sites Full Hook-ups • 30 & 50 amp No Rig Too Big • Pull-Thru Sites Store & Gift Shop • Cable TV Groups Welcome

Large pull thru sites, Full hookups, 30 and 50 amp sites

(207) 633-4782 www.shorehills.com

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553 Wiscasset Road • Route 27 Boothbay, ME 04537

Skowhegan/Kennebec Valley KOA S Come see what we are all about!

• Cabin Rentals als • RV Sites • Tent Sites....

18 Cabin Road, Canaan, Maine (207)474-2858 or (800)562-7571 www.skowkoa.com

Training Your Performance Dog Agility, Obedience, Tracking by Carolyn Fuhrer Obedience and Rally – What’s the Difference? Rally trials demonstrate that the

dog has been trained to behave in the home, in public places, and in the presence of other dogs in a manner that will reflect credit on the sport of rally at all times and under all conditions. All contestants in a class are required to perform the same signs in substantially the same way so that the relative quality of the various performances may be compared and scored. The judge tells the handler to begin, and the dog and handler proceed at a brisk pace through a course designed by the rally judge of designated signs. Each of these signs provides instructions

regarding the next skill that is to be performed. The dog and handler move continuously throughout the course with the dog under control at the handler’s left side. There is a clear sense of teamwork between the dog and handler both during and between the numbered signs. Rally provides an excellent introduction to AKC Companion Events for new dogs and handlers and can provide a challenging opportunity for competitors in other

classes, the judge gives required orders to the handler, and the handler in turn commands the dog to work and perform the exercise as ordered by the judge. The handler cannot talk to the dog during the exercise except for giving the commands. In the higher-level classes, sometimes commands are silent – signals only. The handler may talk and pet the dog between exercises as he or she move to set up for the next exercise. The dog and handler must achieve an incredible bond of respect, communication, and attention. A well-trained obedience dog reflects the work that has gone into this wonderful partnership. There are three main levels of obedience competition: Novice, Open, and Utility, but there are several optional titling classes and non-regular classes if you are just getting started. You can find a complete list of obedience classes in the AKC Obedience Regulations. If you are interested in Rally or Obedience, find a trainer who understands and competes in these events or find a club that offers instruction or fun runs so that you can experience what it is all about. Watch the Downeast Dog News calendar for club offerings in Maine.

events to strengthen their skills. AKC Rally is a companion sport to AKC Obedience. Both require teamwork between dog and handler along with similar performance skills. Obedience trials demonstrate the dog’s ability to follow specified routines in the obedience ring and emphasize the usefulness of the dog as a companion to man. All contestants in a class are required to perform the same exercises in substantially the same way so that the relative quality of the various performances may be compared and scored. The performance of the dog and handler in the ring must be accurate and correct according to these regulations. It is also essential that the dog demonstrate willingness and enjoyment while it is working and that a smooth and natural handling complements the dog’s work. In Rally, the judge welcomes the team into the ring and asks if the team is ready and tells it to begin with the word “forward”. After that the team is on its own to complete the course. Handlers may talk to encourage the dog; he or she may not pet the dog or look like he or she is luring them. In the lower-level classes, handlers can even clap their hands or pat his side to encourage the dog. Obedience takes dog and handler skills to a higher level. In these

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.

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Downeast Dog News

Pet Food Facts

You Cannot Have It All – Best Nutrition or Convenience & Economy – Part 2 of 3 Last month I started a review

of three factors we must consider when choosing how we feed our pets: what constitutes the best nutrition, the cost of what we feed, and how convenience plays a role. This month we begin to discuss cost. The Cost of Our Pets' Nutrition Many factors determine the actual cost of our pet's nutrition. Direct costs relating to the food you purchase include: the quality of the ingredients used to make the food, marketing, the manufacturing process, and distribution and delivery. Ingredients The ingredients used to make what our pets eat are the source of the nutrition they need to survive. Optimal nutrition comes from the highest quality ingredients that match our pet's nutritional requirements; fresh meat. Meat is sold in varying qualities, from prime cuts suitable for human consumption to low-grade meat used in animal feed. As quality goes up, so does the price. When you read the word "Chicken" on the ingredients list of your pet's food, the company is probably hoping that you imagine a roasted chicken fresh from the oven. To help that happen, some companies may even go so far as to put images of a roasted chicken on their packaging. However, your vision is probably not anything like the chicken that went into that bag of kibble. The chicken that goes into most pet food is leftovers from meat processed for people. This "chicken" is what is left after machines have

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

photo credit: debra bell

stripped the muscle from the body parts of the chicken. Because of how this chicken is processed, it might no longer be deemed edible for humans but can still be sold to be used in pet food. If a dog were to eat a chicken running wild in the woods, it would get far more nutrition than it would from the "chicken" listed as an ingredient in many pet foods. A few pet food companies make food from ingredients considered human-edible, especially in the frozen, freeze-dried, and lightlycooked categories. However, these

will be some of the most expensive pet foods due to the higher quality of the ingredients and the additional processing and regulatory requirements for food deemed fit for human consumption. Marketing Marketing pet food includes many things. One of the most obvious is advertising, especially television advertising. As I noted last month, in 2013, the pet industry spent $2.4 million/day on advertising. When a product has a celebrity endorsement, it only adds to the marketing costs. Every dollar spent on advertising is one dollar less spent on quality ingredients! The average consumer may not be aware of the deep discounts given to veterinary students, veterinarians, breeders, shelters, rescues, and retailers. These also add to the cost you pay for your pet's food. Rescues and shelters often receive food for free in exchange for sending every pet home with the corresponding brand of pet food. Breeders and pet stores may also receive deep discounts for only recommending or selling a specific brand. Two of the marketing programs that reduce the consumer's cost are coupons and frequent buyer programs. However, even this type of marketing takes away from money that could be spent on better quality ingredients. "Prescription" or veterinary diets are primarily about marketing, not nutrition or medicine. Some of the companies that sell these foods build brand loyalty early by offering vet students discounted or free food for their pets the entire time

they are in school. These companies are also the ones that often teach the one or two-day seminar on pet nutrition taught at veterinary schools. It is virtually identical to the class offered to retailers. No wonder many in the veterinary community have such blind loyalty to certain brands. Another significant marketing cost billed back to the pet food consumer is the restrictions on how "prescription" diets are sold. None of these diets are a drug or medication requiring a prescription. Drugs for humans and animals are regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration. However, the FDA has not classified "prescription" and veterinary diets as drugs even though they are marketed as such. It frightens me that there has not been an independent evaluation that has proven these products are safe and effective. It would appear that the FDA is less concerned about the health of our pets. FMI - http://bit. ly/Nut-RXDiets-WJLA-24MAY19 A "prescription" is required for these "specialty diets" because the manufacturers only allow them to be sold through a veterinarian as a way to control distribution. In marketing 101, you learn that by restraining availability, you can dramatically increase the price of a product. To learn more about concerns with "prescription" diets, check out this news story from WJLA ABC7 News - http://bit.ly/Nut-RXDietsWJLA-24MAY19 Next month I will address the additional factors that affect the cost of your pet's food including convenience.

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.

(207) 323- 9329 www.midcoastdogtraining.com Waldoboro, ME

OXFORD HILLS

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

AKC STAR puppy and CGC Classes Board and train Private appointments Work with all types of behavioral issues

Medicine and Surgery for Large and Small Animals

Sunray Animal Clinic

Call or email us to learn more

207-839-7456

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

Does your pet have a concerning behavior? "Understanding the Emotional and Physical Health of Your Pet"

Full Service Veterinary Clinic with Dentistry • In-House Lab Equipment • X-rays & Laser Therapy

JUNE 2021

Christopher Norman, DVM

Dr. Matthew Holden Dr. Kate Holden

At Tender Touch Veterinary Hospital we take a “Whole Health” approach to every animal.

73 Admiral Fitch Avenue, Brunswick, ME 04011 (207) 725-6398 • www.Sunrayvet.com

Katherine Seymour, DVM

VETERINARY HOSPITAL

www.caldervbs.com Serving all of New England

207-298-4375

Christine D. Calder DVM

Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Behaviorists

Rescue

of the

Month

Rescue of the Month: Greater Androscoggin County Humane Society A Kind, Compassionate & Safe Place for Animals in Need By Susan Spisak Lewiston’s Greater Androscoggin County Humane Society, GAHS, formerly the Lewiston-Auburn SPCA, was founded in 1885. They’ve been in their new Lewiston facility for over a decade at 55 Strawberry Ave, and they’re proud of what they’ve accomplished, know their efforts make a difference, and are thankful that area people support them. Case in point, when I spoke with Katie Lisnik, Executive Director for GAHS, she shared that they had successfully partnered with WIGY 105.5/96.9 on a recent fundraiser, “For the Love of Pets Radiothon,” which raised over $10k for their nonprofit. Fundraising has looked different this past year – so this was a win for them. According to Lisnik, the Bennet Radio Group purchased and is reinvigorating the station, and

its owner, who “loves animals,” as well as the spirited DJ’S and amazing sponsors, are looking forward to this being an annual event. “We were really, really thrilled to work with them.” Their main mission is their adoption efforts. They take in strays and relinquishments (and out-of-state pets as well), provide quality care to improve their lives, and match them to the best, loving homes. The facility can shelter roughly 30 dogs and close to 80 cats (Puppies and kittens skew these numbers - each litter would be snuggled together safely in one kennel.) The Humane Society has extended missions and offers other unique programs – “Home to Vacationland” being one of those. Lisnik said in addition to their strays and relinquishments, people want small and younger dogs. To that end,

Pharaoh, 4 yrs. Terrier & American Staffordshire Mix

they have transport connections in Georgia, Oklahoma, Florida, and Alabama. And they’re always searching for more partners, to import adoptables. “The amount of love and capacity that Mainers have for animals is almost inexhaustible, which is lovely.” There’s the “owned animal” Temporary Care Program. People requiring hospitalization or who have emergency situations may qualify for short-term housing for their companion animals if no other options exist. Additionally, GAHS partners with Safe Voices to provide interim care for pets belonging to victims of domestic violence. Lisnik indicated they’d like to expand this and include homeless shelters, etc., to be there for animal-owners in need. GAHS relies on their fosters – volunteers who’ve been through orientation and are trained to care

for pets in their own homes. These individuals work under a Foster Coordinator, and they utilize a private Facebook page as their informational platform. Interested in fostering dogs, cats, and kittens? Visit gahumane.org/ get-involved/foster/. (Applications are available at this link.) For those 65 and up, there’s Special Pets for Seniors, where canines and felines, 8 and over, are available at a half-off adoption fee. The caveat is that they’re in-state dogs already altered before arriving at the nonprofit. GAHS understands the therapeutic benefits a companion animal provides and are offering this opportunity to seniors. To donate to GAHS, consider monetary sponsorships. To see their wish list of tangible items, gahumane. org/give/wish-list/. For all their adoptable dogs, gahumane.org.

Raka Chaka, 5yrs.

He loves his people and will be happiest at their side. He is excitable – the staff describes him as a goofball. Pharaoh needs training and guidance to learn how to be a respectful pup – and to pull less on a leash. He’s a high energy dog looking for an active family to help him burn off that energy. He doesn't really care about cats, but his nature may be overwhelming for nervous or shy animals.

She came from Florida hoping to find the perfect furever home! Raka loves to play outside, sunbathe, and to be by her person’s side. She tends to be a little calmer than some dogs, but she can get the zoomies when excited, and jumps when she's feeling hyper. Because of this, we think she would do well in a family with older children and no small pets. If you have other dogs, we will require a few visits with them to make sure that it’s going to be a good fit.

If you are interested in Pharaoh or Raka Chaka please submit an application at gahumane.org/adopt/how-to-adopt/ and a staff member will reach out to you.

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 Portland (207)797-3151 • 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. MOLLY

MORGAN

Sosa

1 year old, Terrier Mix

7 months old, Terrier Mix

4-5 years old, English Bulldog

FMI: https://almosthomerescue.net/

An affectionate pup once given the chance to warm up to people. Energetic and needs lots of exercise. She would love a fenced yard. No cats or children. She has been learning lots and AHR will provide 2 training sessions to her adopter.

Sponsored by: Sunray Animal Clinic 73 Admiral Fitch Ave., Brunswick, (207)725-6398, sunrayvet.com

NOVA

1 year old, Plotthound Mix

Spunky and fun! Likes dogs but chases cats and horses. Nova has been in the company of children of different ages and is wonderful. She has become very attached to her foster parents quickly. Can’t wait to find her special person!

FMI: luckypuprescue@yahoo.com

Sponsored by: First National Bank 16 Branches from Wiscasset to Calais, 1-800-564-3195, thefirst.com

Striker

A friendly pup who loves to play with other dogs. Can be shy and cautious in new situations but warms up once she’s comfortable. She loves to give kisses. She would like a quiet home without a lot of strangers coming and going.

Sosa is a complex guy who needs just the right adopter. He would prefer a single female, with no other people in the home, and no other pets. He requires both mental and physical exercise. If these needs are met, Sosa is a goofy guy.

Sponsored by: Scarborough Animal Hospital