2021 March Downeast Dog News by Jennifer Rich / Wendi Smith

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elissa MacWilliams and her 9-year-old Dalmatian, Monson, have been the focus of media attention of late. The friendly and gentle “Dal” won the 2020 AKC Humane Fund Awards for Canine Excellence (ACE) in the Therapy Category. The ACE awards – established in 2000 are bestowed to dogs who’ve made significant contributions to their communities. (The other categories are Uniformed Service K-9, Service, Search and Rescue, and Exemplary Companion dog.) “It’s been a gift to experience so many different situations with him,” said MacWilliams, adding Monson’s the only Dalmation to ever win in the therapy category. The reality of winning so moved her, she cried when she opened his engraved

See Monson on page 5

Inside 2 Hot Dog News

Basic Training Tips

Photo Credit: Elizabeth MacWilliams

8 &9

Healthy Pets, Happy Hearts

12&13

Dogs for Adoption

DowneastDogNews.com

14 Calendar of events

Hot Dog News

Thank You

EachWmonth e want to thank our adoptable dog sponsors once again! we donate a portion of the proceeds from dog

sponsorships to our featured Rescue of the Month. October is a special Adopt-a-shelter dog issue with extra dogs and sponsors which allows us to donate to more than one rescue. I am sharing this “thank you” note that I recently received from one of the October recipients. It always means a lot to hear to from the rescues and we know that they appreciate every dollar they receive. We couldn’t do any of this without our sponsors or advertisers! In February we decided to include extra dogs once again and were able to donate to both the Rescue of the Month, PAWS Animal Adoption Center as well as Lucky Pup Rescue. We also gained more regular sponsors which means we can increase our monthly donation! If you’d like to become a sponsor of an adoptable dog, please contact Jenn at (207)706-6765 or jenn@downeastdognews.com.

Loyal Biscuit Co. “Fenway Fund” Now Accepting Grant Applications

Biscuit Co. created the Fenway Fund during theirThe10thLoyal year of business as a way of giving back to the many

communities they serve. “Named after our beloved logo, my dog Fenway, it is funded by proceeds of sales within our seven retail locations as well as from the sales of our signature coffee, Fenway’s Rescue Blend from the Coffee Hound Coffee Co.” stated Heidi Neal, co-owner of Loyal Biscuit Co. Fenway Fund Grants are awarded bi-annually to 501c3 Maine organizations that benefit animals. Proposals are reviewed and winners selected by a committee of Loyal Biscuit Co. team members. “The Fund is a vital way for our Company to support animal Cece a lab/cattle dog mix welfare within our communities by providing seed money for with “Fenway’s Rescue Blend” projects in Maine. The committee will be looking for projects which often fall below funding availability; projects that we believe will help better the lives of animals in the State of Maine,” Neal continued. To date, $21,100 has been awarded to seven organizations. Projects have varied from the addition of a new feline recovery room at the PAWS Animal Adoption Center, a new website for the Underhound Railroad, to the purchase of an ultrasound machine for the Humane Society Waterville Area. The application for the fund is available online at www. loyalbiscuit.com/the-fenway-fund. Applications must be submitted by Sunday, February 28, 2021 in order to be considered for the review process. Chelsie Herrin – Loyal Biscuit, Lisa Oakes, Dianna Demers and Sadie – HSWA

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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 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, We hope you and your pups are staying warm during this cold period. I am grateful that it was not this cold for the entire winter and that we are now on the home stretch towards spring! Pepper was quite excited once we did finally get some snow. One night we went out and I could tell she was trying to contain herself on her leash, but she kept having little bursts of energy and then it just broke out into full on zoomies. She ran around me in a circle while still on the leash and would pause then circle again. I couldn’t help but laugh because I could only picture what this looked like, but the poor thing really needed to get out some energy, so I set her free, and she ran all over through the snow and returned a seemingly satisfied girl. We had to say goodbye to her kitchen bed (crate pad) because I dropped something that was glass and wanted to wash it to make sure there weren’t any shards in it. Upon doing so, one of the seams let go and most of the fluff came out in the washing machine. I contemplated stuffing it all back in and sewing it, but the final verdict was that it might just be time for a new one. This dog has beds all over, one in the kitchen, living room, and office. The living room bed is where she devours treats such as doggie ice creams and licky mats that take a little time to eat. This is where she also performs surgery on her toys. Sometimes I like to watch her sleep. She has the most velvety, shiny black fur and often her legs get moving or even her lips. My favorite is when she wags her tail in her sleep. It’s a powerful tail though and might wake you up if you too are also trying to sleep. She really is quite the joy to have around and the best company. I just can’t believe that next month she will turn 7! Time goes by way too fast. Stay warm and healthy and have a lovely March! All the best, Jenn and Pepper

“A person who has never owned a dog has missed a wonderful part of life.” ― Bob Barker

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MARCH 2021

2007-2021

You no longer greet me, As I walk through the door. You’re not there to make me smile, To make me laugh anymore. Life seems quiet without you, You were far more than a pet. You were a family member, a friend, A loving soul I’ll never forget. It will take time to heal, For the silence to go away. I still listen for you, And miss you every day. You were such a great companion, Constant, loyal and true. My heart will always wear, The paw print left by you. ~Author Unknown

If you’d like to submit a photo of your pet to be posted on our website send it with a small description of your dog (cool trick, silly thing he does, favorite toy) to jenn@downeastdognews.com or mail it to: P.O. Box 1076, Camden, ME 04843-1076. Each month one will be selected to be printed in the paper.

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Table of Contents Hot Dog News .............. 2 & 15 Furry Words .......................... 4 Ask the Vet............................. 4 Basic Training Tips ................. 6 Ask Bammy............................ 7 Leash Reactivity in Dogs .........7 Healthy Pets, Happy Hearts. 8, 9 Performance Dog Training.... 10 Words, Woofs & Meows....... 11 Rescue of the Month.............12 Dogs for Adoption................ 13 Calendar............................... 14 Business Directory ............... 15

It’s hard to believe we’re into

March and that I’ve had Syd for five months! In case you haven’t heard, I adopted a five-year-old chocolate Lab from a friend after mentioning my son and I were looking for a pup. She was super well-socialized with dogs, but being the only one in a house with two cats, certainly took some adjusting! She has gone from insecure and cautious to a playful, happy girl. The cats still spook her, one more than the other, but she’s gaining confidence around them by the day. Having a dog again has been awesome, and I didn’t realize how much I had missed it until she arrived. I don’t know about you, but I had so many fears that I wasn’t going to be a good enough owner. It’s just me and my fifteen-year-old son, so I knew the majority of the responsibility fell on my shoulders, early mornings, late last night outs, walking in all kinds of weather, vet visits, figuring out how to run errands with a pup in the car, not tripping over her when she quietly falls asleep right behind me as I’m focused on dinner, etc. I am happy to report that so far, so good! One giant test for me was when she was spayed the first week in February. I may be a great psychic for people and pets, but blood and guts make me queasy. That includes stitches and knowing how tender her belly was. It didn’t help that her breeder

Are Probiotics Beneficial for My Dog? Q. Does my dog need

probiotics? I hear a lot of talk about probiotics for people and dogs, but I don’t understand if my dog needs them.

Furry Words

by Sara Moore

www.enlightenedhorizons.com

was hyper-vigilant in making sure I was providing her with the best care possible. I totally appreciate all the support she gave me, but I have to admit I was a little freaked out when presented with the bad things that could happen if she didn’t lay low. The morning of her surgery she woke up like it was the best day ever. That ended as soon as we came in after the morning potty run and I didn’t put food in her bowl. I did mumble something like, “Honey, if you think that’s the worst of your problems, you’re going to hate what

Ask the Vet…

by Dr. Judith Herman

A. Over the last decade or

two, probiotics have become very popular. When we discuss probiotics, we need to also discuss prebiotics and synbiotics. Probiotics are defined as microorganisms when taken in adequate amounts will produce health benefits to your dog. Prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients that selectively stimulate the growth and activities of specific bacteria in the gut which exerts beneficial effects on your dog. Synbiotic is a balanced combination of probiotics and prebiotics used together. The gut has millions of microorganisms and substances that benefit these bacterial in the small and large intestine. This

population of microflora helps digest food, maintains a healthy intestinal lining, plays a role in your dog’s metabolism, and stimulates immune function. Today we call the collection of gut microorganisms your dog’s microbiome. When we give our dogs antibiotics (all medication can affect your pup’s microbiome), we start seeing signs of chronic disease, such as, diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, allergies, infections anywhere in the body, and a suppressed immune

comes next.” She didn’t hear me because she was pouting. Then at 7:45 A.M. I lifted her into the car and headed to the vet. Thankfully, they took her right in and I had to work, so I didn’t have the space to sit and worry all day. When they called me late afternoon to assure me, she did great and that she was up and about, I hurried out the door to pick her up. When I got there, I realized we have very different standards for “up and about!” I was handed a very looped dog who didn’t seem to know what planet she was on. She’d take a few steps and then pause as if she forgot what she was doing. It was heartbreaking but also part of the recovery process, so I pulled myself together and gently helped her into the back of the Subaru. That evening I knew she wasn’t going upstairs with me, but I also didn’t want to leave her alone. Making things interesting was the fact that I was in the process of getting new floors and my house was a full-blown construction zone. I had furniture, boxes, tools and “stuff” everywhere! There was only one round sofa chair that was accessible, and she claimed it. I did what any good owner would do and put an air mattress on the floor in front of it and hunkered down for the night. I posted a picture on social media and was floored by the response. All these kind people were telling me how lucky Syd was

to have me, but I was doing what I thought anyone would do! I also love camping, so you don’t have to ask me twice if I want to pull out the sleeping bag. That night, I dozed as the woodstove glowed and the stars shined through the skylights. It was quite peaceful, and we both did remarkably well. So well, in fact, that I set up my bed in the same spot for the second night, too! Syd recovered within a week or two and is snoozing beside me as I share this story with you. One thing that validated how much having a dog has impacted my life is that when her activity was restricted post-surgery, my activity level plummeted. I had been walking her an average of three miles a day, and for that week, I barely broke half a mile. I’m relieved her spay is behind us, and we’re back to romping in the woods and trails once again! My insecurities over being an awesome dog mom are fading, and she continues to bring pure joy to our lives.

system. Poor diets can affect your best friend’s microbiome too. If your buddy has had any medication or a questionable diet, adding a prebiotic and a probiotic is a good step to take. It is better to use a product that is created for dogs than using your own because the character of the dog’s microbiome is different from humans. There are good products out there made by reputable companies like Vetri Science, Rx Vitamins, Nutramax, and Purina to name a few. Whenever an antibiotic is prescribed, talk to your veterinarian about the best product to protect your dog’s gut. Sometimes the problem for your dog is bacterial overgrowth. This happens when the bacteria in the gut have been disrupted and some strains of bacterial take over the environment. In this case either Vitamin B12 and, or folic acid needs to be administered. There is an easy blood test to find out if this is a problem. When the microbiome in our dog has been severely disrupted, a fecal transplant may be indicated. There is a company called Animalbiome, founded by research scientist, Holly H. Gantz, Ph.D. You buy a

test kit and send a piece of poop to them. The sample is examined, and the composition of your dog’s microbiome is sent to you with a detailed description of each bacteria and yeast in his gut. A technician will go over the results with you and make recommendations. It may be as simple as adding a prebiotic, making diet changes, or doing a fecal transplant. The transplant material comes in a capsule that your dog takes daily for 25 days. Then two weeks later you send in another sample to see how the transplant worked. The majority of our dogs have had their gut impacted sometime in their lives. Adding a prebiotic and probiotic product is beneficial. Rarely do these products cause a problem. So, if your best friend has ever had drugs, allergies, digestive issues, yeast infections, or other chronic issues, starting him on a symbiotic product may make a big difference.

Sara Moore currently offers long distance readings over the phone or FaceTime. You can learn more at www.enlightenedhorizons. com and follow her on Facebook at Sara Moore Enlightened Horizons. All information given in a reading is not a replacement for licensed veterinary care.

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

Downeast Dog News

MONSON

from page 1

sterling silver ACE medallion. (It was mailed as the in-person ceremony was cancelled.) “I was overwhelmed and honored,” she said as the AKC received 800 submissions, and she’s thankful to her good friend, Dawn Elliot-Johnson, for nominating the Therapy Dogs International (TDI) certified duo, in a 500-word essay. The Buxton resident and co-owner of the professional landscape company, Twinscapes, with her identical twin, Jennifer Ettinger, knows Monson’s accepting and easy-going personality lends itself to his visits. “He’s so versatile. He’s great with babies on up to elderly residents.” He genuinely loves the job – MacWilliams said Dals need one for their energy level. He’s thrilled when his TDI bandana comes out, then cries in his car crate. “He’s so excited, you can’t train that.” He’s can’t wait to see his friends and bring sunshine to those whose days need brightening. Bud Boccone, Managing Editor of the AKC Gazette and one of the ACE judges, praised Monson’s work ethic in an online video. (Make no mistake, his owner/handler/mom, received kudos, too.) “I have to lie down after reading this resume for Monson because I was exhausted just thinking about what they do. They go everywhere, they touch upon every phase of society it seems, homeless people, elderly people. And they’ve got the entire educational system lined up.” The “resume” he’s referring to is their pre-pandemic weekly schedule – they’ll return to it when allowed. There’s Preble Street Teen Center in Portland - her husband, Matt Dion, joins them here as well. They spend time with homeless and runaway teens, some suffering from PTSD, addictions, abuse, disabilities, and personality disorders. Another Portland stop is Logan Place, which offers apartments for the homeless. “Some of these people suffer from mental illness, alcoholism, and other substance abuse…It doesn’t faze him at all,” she said of Monson. “No one wants these ailments…I think we need to look at it through the eyes of a dog, a dog loves unconditionally.” Sacopee Valley High Schoolers in Hiram enjoy chatting with MacWilliams and petting Monson in the library. At Sacopee Valley Middle

School, they hit several classrooms where Monson, a member of TDI’sTail Waggin’ Tutors, is treated to stories from students who benefit from reading to him. The residents of Gorham House Retirement & Assisted Living Facility in Gorham look forward to him stopping by. And several times a year, the team ventures to Biddeford and the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine during exam weeks to calm test jitters. Children, teens, and adults alike share confidences with the spotted Dal. They drop their fears and shyness. “I can’t explain it…but once they trust us and start talking, it’s a miraculous experience…It’s moved me to tears so many times because I get to see the barriers being broken.” While she doesn’t have a favorite place to visit, she and her husband bonded with a one-time homeless teen at Preble Street. When he transferred to a living facility in the Belgrade Lakes Region, the three visited him monthly and caught up while walking in nearby woods. “That was an amazing experience.” He recently graduated from high school and is going on to an Associate College. Her “Long Story” MacWilliams credits his co-breeders with Monson’s ease of meeting strangers and early socialization. Before she brought him home at 8 weeks of age, he’d met over 100 people at the bank, nursing homes, and Christmas parties. “I think that left an imprint on him.” When her grandmother was in an Alzheimer Care Nursing Facility, MacWilliams took a young Monson along to bring extra smiles. “I just knew, he just loved everyone,” she said. That led her to complete their TDI team certification four years ago. It’s been rewarding for both – but he originally came into her life for her own well-being.

In her early 20’s, MacWilliams was diagnosed with terminal Scleroderma, an autoimmune disease. (Years later, tests proved it wasn’t terminal. Her system “rebooted”,and she’s in remission.) “It really kind of knocked the wind out of my sails for quite a few years.” She was sad when many didn’t understand. “People asked, ‘Why can’t you be happy?’ I couldn’t explain it.” Then her 40-something friend died of a heart attack compounding her heartache, “That was eye opening.” Hoping to divert her despair, she talked to her rheumatologist and was cleared to hike the Appalachian Trail. After extensive research, in 2008 and again in 2009, she hiked hundreds of miles but didn’t finish the Trail. Not meeting her goal intensified the depression. She saw a psychologist who convinced her it was not only healthy but time to find a puppy for emotional support – she’d lost her beloved 16-year-old Dal, Harrison, who’d been a college graduation present from her family. Hesitantly, she got another Dal and named her Eva. A year later she was still lost. That’s when Elliot-Johnson introduced her to a special pup who had show potential, and she took him home. Monson, named for the last Maine town on the Appalachian Trail, began competing in Conformation and a variety of AKC sports including Agility, Rally, Obedience, and has

a Road Dog Title and Coaching Certificate. She believes Monson came into her life to introduce her to this rewarding therapy work. “It’s helped with my depression and in keeping things in perspective.” Her health scare and fear of dying stole precious years from her. She wanted a bigger purpose and to give back – and Monson’s been instrumental in that plan. “I don’t know where I’d be without my dog,” she said. “If I didn’t have him, I wouldn’t have this amazing journey in my life. I’m so grateful to him.” Of late, Monson stays busy learning stunts, tricks, playing with Eva, and now Zazzy, a ten-monthold Dal who MacWilliams co-owns and hopes to breed with Monson’s frozen sperm. The charming and popular ACE winner stays in touch with his fans during the pandemic by posting good thoughts on his social media. Check him out at facebook. com/wagsforlove/ and instagram. com/p/B_it4sTpzn8/?bbclztnadj. Note: In addition to the ACE medallion, she won $1,000 for a pet-charity. MacWilliams chose Maine Homeless Veterans Alliance for their dogs. Eukanuba Dog Food contributed a year of their premium food. She donated this to Backpacks for Homeless Dogs, a project of the Maine Homeless Veteran’s Alliance.

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Mind your Ps and Cues

Teach your Dog Some English!

t usually ends up being a circular conversation. A client will ask, for example, “what is the command to get my puppy to perch?” We reply that there isn’t a verbal cue* quite yet. “But how will she know what to do if I don’t tell her?” If we were to ask the dog, and she could speak English, she’d respond, “how will I know what to do if I don’t understand the language you are using?” Where does that leave us? Confused, to say the least. This little round-about, twisty turny conversation challenges our thinking. We want a pup to do something, and lacking other options, we use our language to try to convey it. It’s very natural for us as verbal creatures to rely on getting our dogs to do things by throwing words at them, despite the fact that dogs are not born with the ability to comprehend any language except dog. How DO we teach a dog to respond to specific cues? Our dogs can certainly learn to respond to an impressive array of verbal cues. If we want to be efficient about it and fair to them, we will be intentional and strategic when it comes to training. First, we need to wrap our heads

Basic Training Tips

by Diana Logan

around the concept that a “cue” is a predictor of, a label for, a specific behavior. When I was in high school and learning the elementals of rudimentary Spanish, I would write the Spanish word for objects in our house on individual sticky notes, and I’d stick them to the appropriate item. This way, every time I saw a sticky note, I was able to associate the Spanish name to the correct item. It took many repetitions to memorize them – now

those memories are long gone! Okay, now that we have a general understanding of a cue, let’s get the behavior! But how? Simply put, any way that we can get our dog to want to do the behavior is a good way to get it. Technically, we have 3 choices: • Luring – this is when we entice a pup to move in a certain way, often using food. • Capturing – this is when we mark a pup, using a clicker, for naturally offering a desired behavior. • Shaping – this is when we reward approximations of a goal behavior, gradually building towards the completed behavior. This sounds complicated, doesn’t it? It’s not. If you read last month’s article, you know that there has to be a consequence in order for a dog to want to repeat a behavior. Treats are a good option! Example: Down I’ll use a simple “down” as the example and food will be the consequence. I’m going to lure the pup with food to go into a down position. There are some tricks to getting even the most resistant of pups to lie down, but I won’t get into those details here. I may choose to reward a bow or even bent elbows, as those are precursors to a down, but I will resist the urge to say, “down.” Eventually, the pup will get the idea that the food is only available when she’s lying down, and she’ll progress to lying down much more readily when I lure her. Now I am ready to add the verbal cue because I will be able to predict

that she’ll lie down when I lure her. There is a specific order I need to follow when I want to get a behavior on cue: 1. New Cue followed by 2. Old Cue followed by 3. Behavior (click!) followed by 4. Reward This means I’ll 1) say “down” and then (but not simultaneously) 2) lure her into a down, at which point she 3) lies down and 4) gets the treat. This pattern needs many repetitions before she will understand there’s a connection between that strange noise I make (“down”) and the behavior. It’s very similar to me needing to study those Spanish words over and over to understand them. They start out as noises and then gradually gain meaning through repetition and association. When you think she’s had an “aha!” moment, test her out! Hesitate longer between saying “down” and luring her. If she responds before you lure, yay!! If not, continue practicing steps 1-4 a few more times and then try again. Do not blame her for not responding - she just needs more practice with 1-4. Happy Training! *”command” vs. “cue” In the olden days, we used the term “command” in dog training. We liked to be bossy and demanding back then. Now, though, we understand that our dogs are companions, not minions, and we prefer the word “cue.” We think of cues as a means of communication, mutually understood.

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 Beds

ast evening, Boss was playing with one of those chunky, thick paper things she calls “book.” I tried to get her to play with me, but she just kept playing with the book. I guess it’s play. She just sits there looking it, and once in a while, moving one of the inside papers. Yawn! I danced around with my plastic food dish. Trying to be cute, I took it into my crate and pawed it around making a noise against the sides of the crate. When I gave up playing and went to my bed, there was the food dish, right in the middle, where I wanted to curl up. I whined at it, but it didn’t move. So I grabbed the fuzzy cloth bedding out from under it, spread it in front of the crate and lay down with a loud groan. In case anyone was listening. After a few minutes she came over and

Ask Bammy

So Boss fixed a box with a small layer of newspaper and big pieces of fuzzy cloth. Woof! Was I happy! I circled around and around, pawing the fleece up against the sides of the box. When I got too enthusiastic, sometimes I lost a piece over the edge of the box. She’d get it back in the box for me. But one day when I’d been enjoying the bed’s nice earthy, doggy smell, Boss said, “Phew! That old bed stinks!” She threw it away My wonderful, smelly old bed in a box and washed the cloth. Now all I have is the flat mattress in the crate. I like the Hot weather is another story. crate because it has walls and a roof Outdoors, I use my sideways digging like a den, but no matter how much to clear the hot upper layer down to I paw the cloth – and I even bite it cool soil. Boss sometimes doesn’t sometimes – it never gets like a nice like that. I don’t know why. Indoors cozy bowl. I scratch at the rugs trying to get Dog beds aren’t the only good down to the cool part underneath. places to sleep. Boss’s bed is She doesn’t like that either. wonderful, even though it’s too flat. On this sunny winter day, I don’t When she goes away without me, want a bed. There are bright places she pulls a big cloth over her bed. I on the floor that are like outdoors in hop up as soon as she leaves, and I the sun. What a pleasure to stretch have a nice nap right on the pillow out flat in the warmth and drift smelling so deliciously of her. I keep away to hunting mice in summer hoping she will let me up on the fields. bed when she’s home. So, I stand by the bed and look at her until she Wishing you warm beds and happy feels me looking. But she always sleep-travels, just shakes her head and says, “No. Bammy Off .” Why not? I don’t get it. When The Ask Bammy column is intended she is in her bed, she lets me up. It for humor and entertainment. isn’t really big enough for both of If your dog has behavioral issues us, so if she keeps waking me up by please contact a veterinarian kicking me, I go back to my crate. or professional trainer. Of course, if it’s really cold, it’s worth the kicks.

An Advice Column for Dogs by a Dog

laughed, “Why are you lying on the floor instead of moving the dish?” I thought, What’s so funny? I want to lie on my bedding, not play with my dish. She moved the dish, and arranged the fleece in my bed so it was sort of bowl-shaped. I curled up in my crate, and she went back to her toy, mumbling something about me I didn’t understand. Which leads me to a topic dear to most of us dogs: Beds. I’ve seen dog beds that were just flat, like humans’ beds. That’s what Boss used to fix for me, but I’ve shown her that beds are supposed to be bowl shaped. Cozy. She saw that when I tried to make my bed right, I swept my front feet out sideways, trying to move the litter up and out of the hollow. After all, my ancestors didn’t have big, soft pieces of cloth-. They had leaves and litter and earth that they piled up around themselves to keep out the cold drafts.

Leash Reactivity in Dogs Leash reactivity is a common behavior in dogs. Often characterized by barking, growling, lunging, snapping, and biting, this behavior can be directed towards people, other dogs, or objects (i.e. bikes, cars, strollers). Often reactive dogs have poor social skills resulting in fear, anxiety, and frustration directed towards others on walks. Steps to reducing leash reactivity in your dog. Step 1: Have the right equipment: The right equipment matters. Having appropriate tools to manage your dog improves safety for both you and your dog. These items include a: • harness that clips on the front (not a back clip one). • head-collar (some dogs). • 4-6-foot leash (never a retractable leash). Step 2: Watch your body language: On the other end of the leash, you send signals to your dog every time

MARCH 2021

you tense up on the leash, yell, or pull your dog closer. Over time, your dog can become sensitive to your behavior resulting in an increase in reactivity. When walking your dog remember to: • breathe deeply. • keep a loose leash. • hold the leash with two hands not one. Never wrap the leash around your wrist. • use a waist leash to give you stability and make walking a hands-free experience. Step 3: Avoid triggers and keep moving: Creating distance between your dog and triggers is a necessity. Emergency U-turns, crossing the street, stepping off the trail, or even hiding behind a parked car or tree can keep your dog feeling safe. If avoidance is not possible, keep moving and engage your dog. Don’t forget to use your “jolly voice” when engaging your dog to encourage eye contact with you.

Step 4: Carry the squeeze cheese. A can of squeeze cheese goes a long way. When working with leash reactive dogs, we need to find something they will eat when stressed, is easy to carry, and provides a constant delivery of food. A can of squeeze cheese with the

lid off fits all these criteria. Some dogs are more motivated by play therefore a squeaky toy, favorite ball, or collapsible flirt pole may be more motivating on walks. Step 5: Long term change is possible. Working with leash reactive dogs can be challenging but also rewarding. With time and practice, many dogs will learn scary triggers actually predict good things. Therefore, your dog will start to make better behavioral choices on walks. Step 6: Getting help from your veterinarian, a veterinary behaviorist, or trainer may be needed when working through the treatment plan for your dog. Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB

Calder Veterinary Behavior Services, www.caldervbs.com

Healthy Pets, Happy Hearts Thank you to those who continue to take great care of our furry family members! Your hard work and adjustments you have made during these times are greatly appreciated.

GUIDE TO POISON PREVENTION IN DOGS Dr. Gail Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIM Staff Internist, Portland Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Care Co-owner Bath-Brunswick Veterinary Hospital

The month of March is recognized as Poison Prevention Awareness Month. Understanding what potential harmful poisons exist in your home and yard is the first step in keeping your pet safe. Our beloved canines explore the world with their mouths, which can sometimes lead to trouble. Each year thousands of cases of pet poisoning occur, and last year, one of the largest pet insurance companies paid out 2.1 million dollars toward toxicity claims. Some hazards may be obvious, but others might not. Some toxicities result in only minor symptoms, but some can be life-threatening. Here are some of the most frequently reported pet toxins. In the kitchen: chocolate, xylitol (found in gum, sugar free products and some peanut butters), grapes, raisins, alcohol, yeast dough, caffeine, onions, garlic, chives, fatty scraps, table salt, macadamia nuts,

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dieffenbachia. The top outdoor “offenders” include Lilly of The Valley, Japanese yews, autumn crocus, rhododendrons, tulips, foxglove plants, irises, yarrow, English ivy, Clematis, begonias, hydrangeas, Sweet pea plants, wisteria, gladiolas, Amaryllis, American Holly, Cala lilies, Day lilies, elephant ears and azaleas. Additionally, do not forget the “delicacy” of Cocoa bean mulch, plus garden pesticides and slug baits. In the interest of full disclosure, I will come clean and let you know that as I wrote this article, I realized that I have at least eight potentially toxic plants in my

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products and deicing salts. Plants/shrubs: While the ingestion of some plants may just result in minor symptoms such as transient gastroenteritis, the ingestion of others can cause serious toxicity and organ damage. The most common indoor plants associated with illness include philodendrons, aloe vera plants, cyclamen, Sago palm, Mistletoe, African violets, and

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and coconut (including coconut oil and water in large amounts). In the medicine cabinet: sanitizers, acetaminophen (Tylenol®), pseudoephedrine (Sudafed®), albuterol found in inhalers, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (Advil®, Aleve®, ibuprofen, naproxen, Celebrex®, and aspirin), THC in marijuana, antidepressant drugs, caffeine pills, Adderall®, cigarettes, cardiac medications, nicotine patches, insect repellants (especially those containing DEET), and topical creams such as baclofen, flurbiprofen, diclofenac, ketamine, lidocaine, dibucaine, 5- fluorouracil, and calcipotriene). Around the house/yard: dishwashing detergent, bleach, household cleaners, rodent poison or traps, slug bait, fertilizer, lawn and garden chemicals, antifreeze

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Downeast Dog News

MARCH 2021

VETERINARY HOSPITAL

Dr. Matthew Holden Dr. Kate Holden

Training Your Performance Dog Agility, Obedience, Tracking by Carolyn Fuhrer Tracking – A Problem Solving Relationship T

racking is a sport in which almost all dogs can be successful. Your dog’s nose is millions of times more sensitive than yours. Dogs “see” the world through scent. They determine “who’s been here and what happened here” by forming a scent picture. Dogs not only can detect scent in very subtle amounts, but also can discriminate one scent from another and “lock on” a particular scent and follow it despite distractions,

adverse weather conditions, and physical barriers. Learning to recognize your dog’s ability to lock on to a certain scent and follow it through ever changing terrain is a fascinating and rewarding activity. Learning to correctly observe your dog’s subtle body cues, such as posture, head set, tail set or

movement, speed, direction, and linear or circuitous movement, helps create a very deep understanding of what your dog is trying to tell you and will, if you are open enough, overflow into your day to day relationship with your dog. Working with your dog in tracking will also allow you to grow in your mental development. You will become a better observer of the environment and your dog and how it relates to solving scent problems. You will learn the importance of working on your mental skill of “staying in the moment” and not drifting. You will also learn to not worry about the things you cannot control such as judges, ground conditions, weather, distractions, etc., and direct your energy in a positive way to help your dog. Developing these mental skills can help you in any dog sport and can also help you in your personal life. Tracking offers so much to learn and share with your dog and friends. It is a wonderful way to spend time with your dog, does not require a lot of equipment, and is a very portable sport. You can track in fields, woods, business parks, schools, shopping centers – if you

can walk around the area safely, you can track there. Most people and establishments will not object if you ask permission. Explain what you are doing and make sure you are always respectful of the property you use. If you really get interested in tracking, AKC (American Kennel Club) offers many levels of testing in which you and your dog can earn a title. You can go to AKC.org to see the requirements of the various tests. Before you know it, Spring will be here and tracking season will begin. A Beginners Workshop is one of the best ways to learn about tracking; not only will you learn how to begin, but you will also be in the company of other people and their dogs with a common goal of sharing some quality time with their dog outdoors. OTAC (On Track Agility Club of Maine) is offering a wonderful beginner’s workshop on April 10. Go to their Facebook page or call Kathy at 207-691-2332 for more information. Make this the year that you try something new with your dog!

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.

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

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Downeast Dog News

PET FOOD MYTHS & FACTS – No. 1 What we feed our pets

matters. Unfortunately, there are many myths about pet nutrition. Even more alarming, the pet food industry lacks transparency. Sadly, some of these myths have become more prevalent lately. This is the first article in a series where I will expose the myths and reveal pet food facts as I understand them. You may find some of what I write alarming as I shine a light on the dark side of the pet food industry. [FMI – http://bit.ly/GAKS_Nut_Phil] MYTH – Only a Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionist is qualified to formulate pet food. This myth took flight in July of 2018 when the FDA issued a press release announcing that they were investigating links between certain dog foods and canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). This story was covered by every major news network, perpetuating many unfounded statements that became part of pet food mythology. Within a week, experts on animal nutrition were challenging the FDA conclusions. However, it was not until November of 2020 that the FDA concluded they were wrong and that no link between DCM and grain-free foods exists. [ FMI http://bit.ly/FDA-Grain-Free-SAFE ] FACT – Formulating a pet food requires knowledge, but it is far from being "rocket science." There is no legal or logical requirement that one must have a veterinary degree to formulate pet food. The law requires that all pet foods sold in the USA meet requirements established by the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). There are individuals with advanced

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

photo credit: debra bell

degrees in animal nutrition that are equally or more knowledgeable about nutrition than any veterinarian. These individuals have been formulating pet food that meets AAFCO requirements for years. However, even you can make safe and healthy food for your pets if you take the time to educate yourself. The suggestion that only a Veterinary Nutritionist is qualified to formulate pet food is presumptuous at best. At its worst, it is patently dishonest. By carefully sourcing your ingredients and using fresh whole foods to make your pet's food, it will probably be healthier for your pet than most commercial foods

you can buy. However, you need to educate yourself so that you know what you are doing. Feeding your dog is not as simple as buying ingredients and putting them in a bowl. Preparing food for your pet also takes commitment and extensive time. Books on the basic principles of pet nutrition are a great place to start. My favorites are: • Canine and Feline Nutrition A Resource for Companion Animal Professionals, by Linda Case, MS, Leighann Daristotle, DVM, Michael Hayek, Ph.D. & Melody Foess Raasch, DVM • Dog Food Logic - Making Smart Decisions For Your Dog In An Age Of Too Many Choices, by Linda Case, MS • Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats, by Richard H. Pitcairn, DVM, Ph.D. • Natural Nutrition for Dogs and Cats - The Ultimate Diet, by Kymythy Schultze, • Ruined by Excess, Perfected by Lack, by Richard Patton, Ph.D. • See Spot Live Longer, by Steve Brown & Beth Taylor • The Truth About Pet Foods, by Randy Wysong, DVM • Unlocking the Canine Ancestral Diet, by Steve Brown Most pet food companies use computer software specifically designed to create balanced pet food formulas based on current science as established by the NRC and AAFCO regulations. One does not need a veterinary degree or a doctorate in animal nutrition to use these programs. Similar programs are available to the general public. I have recently purchased one called Pet Diet

Designer. Why would anyone tell you, "Never purchase pet food from a company that does not have a board-certified veterinary nutritionist on staff'? It could be due to a lack of knowledge. Perhaps they are unaware that for many decades, before the advent of commercial pet food, people saw to their pet's nutritional needs on their own. Sadly, it could also be for more nefarious reasons. The pet food industry, like all businesses, is about profit. There is nothing essentially wrong with profit; it's what allows all of us to earn a living. However, pet care is a multi-billion-dollar business becoming less competitive every year as megalithic corporations swallow small companies. By definition, a corporation's first duty is to their shareholders, NOT you or your pets. As of 2018, only six companies account for 89.3% of the pet food market and 103 pet food brands. Two companies now control 71% of all pet food sales in the US and are also purchasing veterinary clinics. [FMI - http://bit.ly/PetFoodComp ]. They employ many of the 96 Veterinary Nutritionists in the world. It doesn't take a genius to see that insisting pet food be formulated by their employees could further monopolize the pet food and veterinary business. Is that what you want as a pet owner? Less control and fewer choices, which will undoubtedly lead to higher prices? It's not what I want, and in fact, it scares me. I hope it scares you too and that you choose to look out for your pets’ best interests and your best interests.

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.

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Contact Jenn for more information (207)706-6765; jenn@downeastdognews.com We always read the Downeast Dog News. Such a happy and informative paper. – Holly U. Such an amazing periodical and desperately appreciated/needed during these troubling times. - Bass C. I love it so much I just subscribed to receive paper copies for the next year. -Michelle L.

MARCH 2021

Rescue

of the

Month

Rescue of the Month: Kennebec Valley Humane Society Placing Animals in Caring Forever Homes By Susan Spisak

Hillary Roberts, Executive Director of Kennebec Valley Humane Society, KVHS, exudes friendliness and positivity. Even with the pandemic, she’s remained optimistic. “I would say there have been some moments of silver linings for us as an organization.” With folks being home more and desiring companionship, the quality of adopters and level of interest in their dogs (and cats) increased. And their all-important foster program flourished. KVHS has a rescue partner in Georgia who identify at-risk dogs and coordinate southern fostering. While the pandemic halted transports last spring, the KVHS staff advocated to get the program operational by the end of May. “We knew we could do it safely,” said Roberts. As southern

fosters needed a respite after housing pets for months, 60 animals arrived on the initial transport, 30 arrived on the next. (They were nonstop legs, except for fuel fills, on routes avoiding COVID-19 hot spots.) Roberts said the popular Georgia dogs are adopted quickly…as in days. Local animals come to them as strays (they reunite 50% with their owners) and accept surrenders. “We pride ourselves on not being judgmental, so people bring their dogs to us if they can’t keep them.” Even during 2020, they had 291 local dogs and 168 transport dogs, and overall, KVHS has an admirable 97% placement rate. KVHS staffers are committed to not giving up on any animal. When you rescue, you’re going to be exposed to all kinds of dogs, from “easy-peasy” puppies, to “damaged

goods,” Roberts explained. While you must hold them accountable for their negative behavior, you must judge each individually, and give each one the tools to be the best version of itself. A favorite example is one-time stray Georgia boy, Henry. “He had a pretty significant rap sheet,” Roberts said of the resource guarding Shih Tzu-Terrier. “We saw the good, the bad, and the in-between from our friend, Henry.” Canine Education and Behavior Manager Anna Henderson, their certified trainer, worked with him for well over a year. “She’s a remarkable warrior advocate who goes the extra mile.” Henry was adopted on Christmas Eve of 2020. “It was such a bad year, but that was a gift to us all, and we were grateful for it.” He and his owner still train with Henderson, so he’s as successful

as possible. “We’re willing to put the time and energy in, so they can have a happy ending.” Roberts is hopeful for a speedy happy ending for bonded pair Sasha and Axel. “There’s something special about them,” she shared of these seniors. They are smaller dogs – Sasha is a Miniature Pinscher/Mix, Axel is a Terrier mix. They’ve spent their entire lives together and rely on each other for support. If there’s children in the home, they must be over 15, and they must have no other pets in the family. For more info on adopting them, see below. They welcome monetary donations, adopters, fosters, volunteers, canned dog and cat food, clean old towels, and blankets. Adoptions are appointment only, visit pethavenlane.org for more.

Axel, 11 yrs., Rat Terrier Mix

Sasha, 12 yrs., Miniature Pinscher Mix

I’m an older fella, looking for a retirement home. My sister, Sasha and I are looking to be adopted together. We've been together all our lives. My sister and I would like to be the only doggies in the house, but don't worry - we have plenty of love to give! It's suggested that we only live with adults, or teenagers over the age of 15.

I’m an older gal, looking for a retirement home. My brother, Axel and I are looking to be adopted together into a pet-less home. We've been together all our lives and have lots of love to give! When I arrived at the shelter it was discovered that I had mammary tumors – I had the surgery - but there's always a chance they could come back. My new owner will have to see that I have a good relationship with the vet. No children under 15 – adults only for us.

Axel and Sasha are available at Kennebec Valley Humane Society. If you'd like to make an appointment to meet them, please call (207) 626-3491 ext.100, between 11am-4pm.

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

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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. Rusty

Molly

JACK,

3 years old, Lab Mix

1 year old, Terrier Mix

2 years old, Pit Bull Mix

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

Apply at: fetchinghope.com/adopt

He is a go getter and needs an active family. He goes to doggy daycare & has a great time with other dogs. Because of his energy, he would do best in a home without small children, & no cats.

Affectionate pup once given the chance to warm up to people. Energetic and needs lots of exercise. She would love a fenced yard. Molly prefers a home without cats or children.

Sponsored by: Kompletely K-9 Dog Training and Rehab.