Tips:
• Park well o the trail so as not to interfere with other trail users.
• If traveling along the trail during race hours, please watch carefully for teams and slow down as you pass any.
• Some dogs are fearful of the noise of snowmobiles; turning your engine o while stopped will help!
• Please don't allow children to approach the sled dog teams.
• Please leave pet dogs home.
• Bring extra warm clothing.
Begins March 4, 2023
8 am - 11 am
All three Can-Am Crown races (the 250, 100, and 30 mile races) have highly accessible starts on Fort Kent’s Main Street.There are no fees to view the races. Bring your camera!
Finish Line: Fort Kent (All 3 races finish at Lonesome Pines Ski Lodge)
Estimated Finishes:
Can-Am 30 – Saturday, noon – 4PM
Can-Am 100 – Saturday, 9PM – 2AM
Can-Am 250 – Monday, 8AM – Tuesday 10AM
The Can-Am Crown organization arranges a festive dinner and awards ceremony after each racing event. Dress casually.
By Susan Spisak
N
Jennifer Keaten DVM, MPH, DACVPM
Practitioner,
ational Poison Prevention
Month has roots back to the 1930’s when a pediatrician recognized the
2 Hot Dog News
correlation between accidental childhood poisonings and their deaths. He subsequently researched and publicized the hazards of certain household products. These important findings led President John F. Kennedy to proclaim that the third week of March would be recognized annually as National
Poison Prevention Week to promote awareness and highlight potential dangers.
After that, the ASPCA joined in and showcases it throughout March to provide valuable information about harmful substances to
See POISON on page 5
6 14 Basic Training Tips Calendar of Events
8 & 9 12 -13
Healthy Pets, Happy Hearts Dogs for Adoption
You are invited to witness the most challenging sled dog race in the eastern United States!
North Yarmouth, ME Finally Home Senior Dog Rescue and Retirement Home announces the establishment of two funds available to the public to help provide care for senior dogs: the Sierra Fund and Teddy’s Friends.
The Sierra Fund, named for founder Laurie Dorr’s Australian Shepherd who passed away at 16, will help qualified Maine residents with older dogs pay for vet care, medications, follow-up visits and other expenses, allowing them to keep their dogs with them. Teddy’s Friends, honoring a senior dog who suffered from severe toxicity, seizures and a brain tumor, rescued from 10 years in an extreme hoarding situation and adopted in late 2022 by Finally Home where he passed away, will help financially challenged Maine seniors pay for end-of-life care for their dogs.
“We believe that if any dog deserves a fund in his honor, it is Teddy,” said Dorr. “His life was marked by unrelenting pain and suffering, and if we can help people avoid that for their dogs, we will do it.”
Finally Home Senior Dog Rescue and Retirement Home adopts and cares for needy senior dogs and networks to help other senior dogs find their “furever” homes.
Please help us celebrate the implementation of these two public funds with a celebration on Thursday, March 2, 6-8 p.m., at Trudy Bird’s Olbar, 424 Walnut Hill Road, North Yarmouth.
To donate or apply for funds visit: www.finallyhomemaine.org.
For a second exciting year, we were joined by James Spear and his dog, Hailey, for a day of surprise sponsored adoptions at Bangor Humane Society—the event has been dubbed Hailey’s Heroes! Spear is relatively new to the area and wanted to find a way to give back to his new hometown and given his love of animals and dedication to Hailey, Hailey’s Heroes was born. Last year’s event was so heartwarming, with Spear sponsoring adoptions for 16 animals to the surprise and delight of some very moved adopters. He didn’t hesitate to come forward again, and this year’s event included a donated lunch to our hardworking staff. Hailey is a friendly, happy Golden Retriever who happens to celebrate her birthday on Valentine’s Day, so the timing of this event was wonderful. In honor of her birthday, Hailey got to give the gift of fur-ever homes. James and Hailey visited from open to close for pats and hellos, and excitingly, to sponsor the adoption of every animal that left our shelter that day. The waived adoption fee was a surprise to adopters as they completed their paperwork. I know James is thrilled for the opportunity to talk about his passion for animals and we are very excited to talk about this extremely generous gift to the community.
FMI about Bangor Humane Society visit: bangorhumane.org
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Dear Dog News Readers,
We hope you survived the crazy cold snap without any issues. What a winter! Within one week’s time the temperature fluctuated about 70 degrees. We’ve had mud, rain, sleet, snow, more rain, and more mud. I wonder what the upcoming seasons will bring. I will say that it feels as though winter has gone quickly, for me any way, and for the first time in I’m not sure how long, I am taking a vacation in the first quarter of the year!! I am heading to Arizona and very excited because I have never been. Miss Pepper will stay home with my roommate Jess. I’m not sure if she will be more content to stay home or if it will be worrisome because I am not coming home. It will only be about 5 days, and she and Jess are buddies, so I’m sure she’ll be fine.
This month is poison prevention month. We have mouse problems at our house, but I am too scared to try anything that could potentially harm Pepper. I don’t trust things that say they are safe for pets. I stick to the old, cheap snap traps in hopes that it is also over quickly for the mouse as well.
I am fortunate that Pepper doesn’t eat much that is not edible. She doesn’t really scurry to eat food off the floor until I say it is ok. She also still has tremendous eyesight at nearly 9 years old because she has a little pad to lay on in the kitchen and I can toss peppers or carrots to her, and she does not miss them. It is almost effortless. People used to be so impressed back when we went to the dog park because I could chuck the ball to her really far away, and she would catch it.
This month we wish Pepper’s cousin Phoebe a very happy 5th birthday! I can’t believe you are 5 already! We wish everyone else a very happy March and soon to be spring! All the best, Jenn and Pepper
Ace is 9 years old but is as active as any 3-year-old. He loves running on the beach in the early morning, going into work as the team mascot and spending time with his coworkers who feed him endless treats as rewards for his good nature. He loves car rides with the top down and having the wind blowing back his long floppy ears. He is very good at obeying commands. He lives on the beach in Maine with his Mimi and Papa and his brother Habs.
“There is no faith which has never yet been broken, except that of a truly faithful dog” ― Konrad LorenzHAPPY BIRTHDAY PHOEBE!
Happy March! This is the first year in more than I can count that I have not gone skiing. I’ve made peace with it, and Mother Nature seems to be helping me out by giving us warmer days that make walks more enjoyable. My dog Syd, a now sevenyear-old Chocolate Lab, lays down and seems to double her body weight when she thinks we’ve walked far enough. It’s always been very funny to watch such dogs on America’s Funniest Home Videos but not as funny when you really want some fresh air and exercise. I’m excited to share this month’s animal readings with you because the questions were so different, and the dogs were super clear in their answers. Just a reminder, I have zero medical training, so psychic insight isn’t a replacement for licensed veterinary care.
Doreen M. asked about her Rottweiler Maggie who passed in May of 2022. “Did she greet my husband when he joined her? She sure is missed. Mack, our male Rottweiler who is here with me, misses her also.” I’m sorry for the loss of your husband but knowing he was going to see her as he transitioned gave him the peace to go gently through the light. I see him down on his knees, sort of sitting on his heels, hugging her, and she's so excited she’s wiggling all over the place. The gift she gave both of you was the assurance they’d take care of each other. That’s beautiful. Mack does miss her but also loves the quiet. Having Maggie around was like having a house guest who was always on the
or be trained to sniff out gluten or cancer. He’s super vigilant and selfaware! To help him, just remind him that you’re going to meet people wherever they are emotionally and not everyone likes to air their dirty laundry. That’s their right and you respect that.
go. He is happy to be laying low!
Terri H. has a German Shepherd named Seren who will be three years old in May. “I would like to know what he's feeling when he sees other dogs that sometimes makes him usually reactive and sometimes not. How can I help him with that?” Seren is seeing their energy and that of the owner. If I have a super grumpy day but I have psychic readings, I must push it away, put the smile on and step into the light. The people you see all have things going on in the background and even though they may be smiling doesn’t mean there aren’t much harder emotions under the surface. This dog could be a canine lie detector
Kellie T. has a bullador(bulldog/ lab mix) who will be 9 this month. She has been acting a little strange lately and completely under foot at all times. She’d like to know what's going on with her. Ok, I have a few questions that I wish I could ask you right now! Are you pregnant or were you pregnant? If so, were you afraid you would lose the child? I feel like she’s picking up on your energy and is afraid she’s going to miss a really important milestone in your life. If you’re pregnant, I’m not predicting a miscarriage at all, so don’t panic! She can essentially hear/feel your thoughts. What are you worrying about? Put on the frozen soundtrack and “Let it Go!” I also want to tell you that we can make all the plans in the world, but if it’s in our best interest for the timing to be different or for it to play out in a way other than what we expect, it is something we need to learn to say “Thank You” to.
Connie R. said, “We had Scooby for a short 99 days. Never did find out how his liver failed him. He was a Great Dane.” His liver feels like it was born with a deficiency. That word is the one I’m being told to say, and for me, it looks like it wasn’t completely formed or if it was there, was an adhesion or something that
prevented it from growing with him. He says, “Don’t worry! I loved you more and had a blast with you! He energetically checked out before his physical body passed, and he still hangs out in your home. Imagine being a foster child and knowing you hit the lottery with the family you’re with for 99 days. You learn that you are actually lovable, that you have a voice, that you are an equal regardless of your “other” home. Scooby took it all in, and you made him shine. He is forever grateful. He’s also sending you pennies from heaven. He’s pretty funny- I’m trying to keep the answer short and sweet, but he keeps talking!
Diane H. asked how her fawn Boxer named Baby was doing and how she is feeling. I actually feel really good considering! She makes my left upper inner arm feel a little sore. I’m not a vet, but it feels more like lymph than muscular. The other image that flashed in my mind is my son and when he had a growth spurt, his body hurt, and I think her growing pains were real. She simply adores you, and I feel like you wake up to her staring at you. Then she gets super excited like the first person to wish you happy birthday!
Sara Moore now has an office in North Conway, NH (pets can’t join you unfortunately), offers phone readings internationally, and has podcasts available on Anchor and Spotify. Look up Enlightened Horizons with Sara Moore to listen!
www.enlightenedhorizons.com
Q. Holistic, alternative, complimentary, conventional, allopathic, what do all these medical modalities mean?
A. People talk about conventional medicine, also known as allopathic medicine, and alternative, or holistic medicine. What does all this mean? Let’s break it down one modality at a time. First, the word modality means the way in which a disease or illness is diagnosed and treated by a doctor.
Conventional modality is the mainstream medicine most of us use for ourselves and our best friends. The major track of medicine taught in medical school for centuries has been conventional medicine. Some people call this western medicine since the research and practice has been predominantly in Europe and North America. The treatment avenue has been the use of drugs and surgery.
Over the last few decades, conventional medicine has been
adding other modalities in treating patients forming complementary or integrative medicine. This is the use of nutraceuticals, Eastern and Western herbs, acupuncture, chiropractic techniques, massage, energy treatments and more. Many veterinary practices in Maine have an acupuncturist on staff, have a cold laser in the treatment area, and nutraceuticals and herbal medicines in their pharmacies.
Holistic medicine is a catch-all word for any medical modalities that take into consideration every aspect of a patient’s life. Here are some of the most common modalities.
Acupuncture is ubiquitous in veterinary medicine. Veterinarians
do post graduate study in this well-known Eastern medicine. Once the requirements are met, these veterinarians are certified in acupuncture. The other arm of Eastern medicine besides acupuncture is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Here the practitioner will take a thorough history and exam and then build an herbal formula to treat your dog’s illness. This includes diet recommendations too. Not all veterinary acupuncturists are proficient in TCM.
Veterinary chiropractic medicine, known as veterinary medical manipulation, is less commonly available but can be found in Maine. These veterinarians also go through rigorous training and are certified once all the requirements are fulfilled. Misalignment of the joints in your dog can create many symptoms normally not associated with joint pain.
Ayurvedic medicine, another very old medical system, developed in India is not as popular in Maine. It may be difficult to find a veterinary Ayurvedic practitioner. This modality uses medicines that combines plants and can include elements derived from minerals, metals, and animals. Like all holistic modalities, Ayurvedic treatments include diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
Homeopathy used to be the most common form of medicine in Maine. Many people today remember parents and grandparents treating simple everyday maladies
with little sugar pellets. Though there is a strong homeopathic community of practitioners in Maine, there are only a few certified veterinary practitioners in Maine. To acquire certification in veterinary homeopathy, the veterinarian needs to complete an accredited course in veterinary homeopathy and a certification process that can take 2 years. Like all holistic modalities, homeopathy encompasses a detailed history, examination, diet, and lifestyle changes, and a medicine derived from plants, animals, and minerals.
There are several supportive treatments available to you for your best friend.
Nutritional therapists are people trained in using nutrition to treat and support good health. By assessing what you are feeding Fido and what symptoms are being expressed, they can develop a dietary plan to bring him back into balance, resulting in better health. They may also add nutritional supplements, such as glandulars, herbs, vitamins and minerals besides what you feed in the daily diet. Most holistic veterinarians incorporate nutrition in their treatment plan. Conventional medicine is also following the lead of holistic veterinarians by adding nutraceuticals to their treatments for chronic disease, such as arthritis, gastrointestinal disease, chronic urinary track disease, skin disorders,
See ASK on page 14
Holistic, Alternative, Complimentary, Conventional, Allopathic, Oh My!
animals. With spring approaching, it’s a good time to clean out toxic items and replace them with pet-friendly or green alternatives. It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially if there’s a new puppy in the home—they’re naturally curious and into everything. Hazards
We need cleaners that address dirty floors and rugs from muddy paws or stomach upsets. When purchasing, if labels have ingredients such as bleach or words you cannot pronounce like MEA (monoethanalomine), DEA (diethanolamine), TEA (triethanolamine), pass by. Opt for no heavy metals, phosphates, or dyes. Gravitate towards those that advertise pet-and kid-friendly when used as directed.
Keep edibles such as chocolate, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, garlic, undercooked meat, and dough out of reach. Marijuana and alcohol are a definite no. Check the labels on peanut butter, yogurt, and toothpaste for the sweetener Xylitol, for it can cause liver failure among other issues. The ASPCA warns any product starting
with “xyl” may be related, so steer clear. Xylitol can also be known by the following names: wood sugar, birch sugar, and birch bark extract.
Plagued with mice and moles? They do not discriminate. (I cringe here. I still remember the mole that got into my family room. I screamed and ran upstairs, while Brady, the always-chill Golden, just watched it. My husband eliminated the mole with a broom. No harm to the dog!) Pellets, liquids, and bricks designed to kill can be a disaster waiting to happen. Ingestion may lead to internal bleeding and organ damage. Exterior metal bait boxes are billed as tamper resistant, but most have a disclaimer that they’re not foolproof. True, entrance holes are so tiny that only rodents can access, but they may leave the box with pellets, depositing them around the yard. A family member’s Cav passed from ingesting the poison moved to a pumpkin patch.
Don’t neglect your garage or basement. Check those craft supplies and glues if that’s your thing—stash in a spot where your nosy friend can’t find. If you use pesticides, place on a high shelf or lock in a cupboard. For those with a “buggy” house like me, consider an extermination service that will treat your interior and exterior several times a year with safe products.
Refrain from weed treatments on grass. For beds, finely chopped woodbased mulches are better choices. Be aware of what not to plant, especially if you have a pup who chomps. Stay away from calla and peace lilies, tulips, azaleas, daisies, chrysanthemums, mistletoe, English ivy, American holly, and Autumn crocus. For your vegetable garden, keep tomatoes, rhubarb, onions, and chives out of reach, or skip. For a more detailed list, visit aspcapro.org/ resource/17-plants-poisonous-pets.
Green Alternatives
To clean those floors, baseboards, and rugs, look for products with words like organic and sustainable. For the DIY-er, use your fav search/ discovery engine to find inexpensive solutions. (Pinterest is my go-to.) To freshen rugs, shake baking soda around, wait fifteen minutes and vacuum. Your rooms will smell terrific. (An easy idea comes from a friend for less floor washing. She stocks up on rugs during back-to-college dorm sales and uses them for her entryways to grab dirt. When the dog muck
dries, she simply vacuums. When the rugs wear out, she pitches.)
For snacks, try small bites of fresh green beans, bananas, watermelon, and strawberries. Visit local pet boutiques and talk to the sales associates. They’ll steer you to their healthy baked goods that your dog will flip for.
As far as rodents, a few green alternatives are irritating to them. Soak cotton balls in peppermint or clove oil and rub at suspected entry points. You can find many alternatives out there, but I believe the best option is a cat. We had far more mice before the neighborhood feline took a liking to us. We returned from a weekend away—twice—to find a dead mouse presented by our front door.
For indoor foliage, check out colorful African violets, orchids, ferns, Swedish ivy, and prayer plants. For a nice outdoor garden, plant sunflowers, snapdragons, camellias. If you’re an ambitious home-cook who delights in creating tasty, flavorful dishes, you can grow basil, rosemary, dill, thyme, sage, cilantro, and savory without worry.
These are only a few green alternatives to try, as well as those
that may be hazardous. If you’re not sure, please check the web or consult your vet. I thought I was-versed, but I had a close call with Brady and an unbeknownst-to-me lethal dried arrangement of eucalyptus. Thankfully Brady’s stomach wasn’t happy with the twig and eliminated it, but I dialed up the poison control hotline anyway for pointers.
If you have a Brady and think he’s eaten something dangerous, call your veterinarian, or a pet poison control center such as ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, 888-426-4435, aspca. org/pet-care/animal-poison-control, right away. Note there may be a consultation fee.
Xylitol is very toxic to dogs and ingestion can be fatal. If you think your dog has ingested something containing Xylitol seek immediate veterinary care!
Xylitol can also be known as:
wood sugar, birch sugar, and birch bark extract.
distance or distractions.
(See DDN, March, ‘22, “What’s that Noise?”)
2. Jump, Jump, Jump!! [“Ah, might as well jump (jump!) Go ahead and jump. Jump!]
1. “Doesn’t come when called”
2. “Jumps on people”
3. “Pulls on leash”
These things come up, time and time again, as the top three issues people have with their dogs. Are you in the same club? I hope this article will help you and your dog walk that training path together with more ease and understanding. He ain't misbehaving. He is simply behaving. Don’t blame the learner.
1. Coming when called
Your recall cue should elicit such a sense of anticipation and happiness in your dog that when he hears it, his reaction is reflexive, instantaneous, and joyous. The reason why we lack success in training recall is that we often go about it in the opposite way we should. We choose a word - a noise to our dog - that we want him to respond to, whether it’s his name, “come” or whatever, then we say it, hoping our non-verbal companions will magically understand. When it doesn’t work, we repeat it, louder, like the typical rude American in a foreign land asking for directions. We blame the listener for failing to comply with instructions he neither understands nor has any reason to respond to.
The Dinner Bell StrategyChanneling Pavlov!
Part I: Classical Conditioning*: Recall Cue then Party Heartily
Train it in reverse. That’s right. Without expecting any behavior whatsoever from your dog, say your recall cue just once then immediately, within 2 seconds, throw a party for him. The party should consist of whatever he values at that moment and should last about 5 seconds.
Example:
“Fido!”, then treats fall on the floor at your feet
Repeat
During this phase, do not make
by Diana Loganthe mistake of saying “Fido” and failing to produce the goods. How would you feel if the dinner bell rang, but it rarely meant the feast you were anticipating? You’d likely start to ignore it. Why bother?
Part II: Classical to Operant Conditioning*
Assuming you’ve done enough repetitions of Part I to the point where your dog clearly expects something awesome will happen after he hears the recall cue, you will add a bit of distance so that he moves toward you when you call him. Be inviting; turn away from him and start to move away so he must chase you down, but don’t go too far yet. Just before he gets to you, drop those treats on the floor.
Example:
“Fido!”, move away, then treats fall on the floor at your feet just before he catches up
Repeat
Gradually build your dog’s understanding of the cue by strategically and carefully adding complexity. If there is a failure at any point, a) go back to Phase I, b) increase the value of the reward, or c) make it easier by decreasing the
Many dogs would be great stars in their own version of a Van Halen music video. Jumping up on people can be “oh so much fun” for our pups, and they learn quickly that it either works or doesn’t work. “‘Works’ or ‘Doesn’t Work’” are the basic questions our ever-clever dogs are asking themselves, and they base their future behavior on the answers. If your pup tends to jump up on people, the answer is clearly, “this strategy works for me.” As with many behaviors, if we want them to change, we need to change the consequences. If we want more of a behavior, we have to pay for it; if we want less, we have to withhold payment. With jumping dogs, the typical payment is attention. From their perspective, it’s wickedly exciting when a person squeals and wiggles and thrashes about. Do the opposite: say nothing and stiffly and abruptly move into the dog’s space before his paws make contact with you. Fold your arms against your body. Save others from being victims of your jumping dog; it’s not their responsibility to train him. This may mean keeping him on leash around other people, at least until he settles down and is less likely to jump. Start teaching young puppies that jumping up on people will not result in payment of any kind. If they learn it’s a fun strategy, it quickly becomes a habit and is likely to follow them into adulthood.
(For a more in-depth article on jumping, see DDN, Jan ‘20 “Get a Jump Start on the New Year”)
Start teaching young puppies that jumping up on people will not result in payment of any kind. If they learn it’s a fun strategy, it quickly becomes a habit and is likely to follow them into adulthood.
(For a more in-depth article on jumping, see DDN, Jan ‘20 “Get a Jump Start on the New Year”)
3. Pulling on Leash
Walking nicely on leash has to be one of the least natural behaviors we expect our dogs to do. It’s admittedly a tough one, but the
same rules apply: if pulling works for the dog, it’s a strategy he will employ in the future. Unfortunately, most puppies learn from the getgo that pulling works, then they get bigger and stronger, and it continues to work. Because leash walking is a dog’s ticket to the larger world, when it’s a struggle, the world is often very small. We owe it to them to learn how to teach them.
There are many, many methods and angles to teaching good leash walking. Here are just a few: Train heel position as a stationary behavior.
This concept is fairly new to me, but it has made a world of difference! If your dog realizes that heel position (either side) pays generously, he will want to be there, just like he gravitates to the feet of the highchair where Johnny tends to drop tasty things onto the floor. Practice inside your house. Start off by standing still and inviting Fido to come to your side. Remain standing still and feed your pup one treat after another after another (“fast feeding”) before you step forward a tiny bit. See “Walk 'n' Dine with 8-week-old puppy” on my Vimeo channel. https://vimeo.com/ user98115786/walkndine
Prevent Pulling.
Fit your dog to an anti-pull (frontclipping) harness or head halter. No gear is fail-safe; you still need to train.
Do not go with the pull; if you do, you are teaching your dog to pull. Make heel position a great place to be! Play tug with your pup at heel, move in fun and exciting ways, so he’ll want to stay close. Reward, reward, reward!
(see DDN, Sept ‘21 “The Rule that Makes all the Difference”)
Happy Training!
*”Classical Conditioning” is a learning process that occurs when two stimuli are repeatedly paired; an emotional response can be created.
**Operant Conditioning” is when an association is made between a behavior and a consequence for that behavior.
By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB
Calder Veterinary Behavior Services, www.caldervbs.com
Nail trims are a common request at veterinary hospitals, grooming salons, boarding, and “doggie daycare” facilities. While important for overall health and wellness, nail trims are often a traumatic experience for many dogs.
An abundant amount of information and recommendations can be found on the internet when it comes to nail trims in dogs. It is easy to find advice that ranges from the use of extreme physical restraint to hanging dogs in grooming slings. Neither of these techniques are recommended because they can result in serious injury and emotional distress to your dog. You may even be injured.
Since nail trims involve similar handling and restraint techniques to veterinary examinations and many dogs fear the veterinary visit, it is not surprising many dogs also fear the clippers. On top of that, each toenail contains a collection of sensitive blood capillaries and nerve fibers that hurt when they are cut. Some may even bleed or become infected. All have the potential to increase your dog’s fear or make him dread the entire process.
So, with all the misinformation out there, what is the best way to trim your dog’s nails? When your dog was a puppy, you may have been given advice to spend lots of time touching and squeezing your puppy’s feet and nails to get him “used to having his feet handled”. Is this the best advice? Probably not. For most dogs, this technique tends to “sensitize” your dog to touch rather than “desensitize” him. Touch needs to be a predictor of good things which means adding food before you touch and then continuously feeding as you are touching each individual foot and toe. Food should disappear when that touch ends making it very clear to the dog that touching will always predict good things. A lickable mat or puzzle toy stuffed with food can help make this process easier since there is no delay between your touch and the food.
What if your dog already has a negative association with nail trims? If your dog already becomes stressed during nail trims, the above strategy will not help. Behavior modification will be needed. For some of these dogs, sedation or oral medications may be best if their nails need to be clipped and nails should only be clipped if it is a “true emergency” until after behavior modification takes place.
One strategy to keeping your dog’s nails trimmed without force is to teach them how to do it themselves. A scratch pad or nail board either purchased or homemade can be used for this. Most dogs will readily offer their paw which then is shaped into scratching the board. Hind feet can be a little more challenging, but if you support the board in front of a stool or step, you can shape your dog to step up and scratch with his hindfeet instead. For dewclaws a PVC pipe cut in half or round packing tape roll with 3M strips can be used instead.
How do we change fear and anxiety surrounding nail trims? The emotions of fear and anxiety often stem from a lack of control, unpredictability, and inconsistency. Therefore, this is
what needs to change if we hope to change how a dog feels and behaves when getting his nails trimmed. By providing him with choices and asking for consent, we can accomplish this. How do we get consent? When asking a dog for consent, we need to make sure he has a choice to say either say “yes” or “no” and that we will listen to either and respect his choice no matter what. Behaviors such as a “chin rest” or stationing to a mat are just two consent behaviors that we teach in preparation for nail trim behavior modification. There are others. By giving your dog a clear way to communicate with us about how he feels without a growl, snarl, snap, or bite then safety is increased, and the handling of the paws, nails, and clippers can begin. Be sure to introduce handling and the clippers slowly making sure to pair each clip with food before moving on to the next. If at any time, your dog raises his head or gets off the mat, then the handling is stopped until consent is given, and the process started all over again. If done correctly, your dog should quickly become more comfortable with the process and stay in position until the end.
If you would like more information about cooperative care techniques, speak with your veterinarian, a veterinary behaviorist, or a qualified trainer for help.
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Boarding - Saturday & Sunday 8-9am & 5-6pm
228 Lewiston Rd., Gray (207)657-6624
Pamperedpoochmaine.com
Professionally trained staff & certified groomers!
Thank you to all veterinarians and their staff who work so hard to care for our furry family members. We appreciate all that you do! This month we asked Dr. Lauren Skillin from Androscoggin Animal Hospital to share with us some highlights of the veterinary profession as well as some of the challenges they are faced with these days. Also please be sure and read Dr. Judith Herman’s column on page 4 which discusses different types of veterinary medicine and supportive treatments.
By Dr. Lauren Skillin, DVM Androscoggin Animal Hospital
I have been lucky enough to work in a field that I love for 5 years now, long enough to practice medicine prior to, and during, the pandemic. Veterinary medicine has always been a dynamic field filled with highlights and challenges, but these experiences have been amplified during the these last few years. As much as I would love to play with puppies and kittens all day, our jobs encompass much more to ensure that all pets stay healthy and comfortable.
One of the largest positive changes that I have seen is the ability of many pet owners to work from home. In addition to improving their own work/life balance, people have more time to spend with their pets, and,
are more aware of their furry friend’s habits. More people are increasingly aware of subtle changes in behavior, prompting them to act more quickly when their companion is sick or feeling under the weather. Preventative medicine is always our primary goal, and this trend has helped tremendously in bettering pets’ lives.
Pet ownership increased during the pandemic, and I especially love our role in the community and our ability to help our neighbors. Maine is a relatively rural state, and while some towns may be lucky enough to have one or two veterinary clinics, others have none. We meet and get to know most of our community members personally, plus those who come from farther away to seek care. Veterinary clinics in the Downeast are integral members of the public and are
fortunate to be in a position to help their communities thrive. One of the hardest challenges to navigate in veterinary medicine today is the rising prices of supplies, medicine and services. During these uncertain economic times,
we are watching inflation ballooning and are experiencing waves of supply shortages and backorders. These items are crucial for many patients and for everyday clinical practice. Unfortunately, price increases result in rising veterinary costs
to pet owners, most of which is out of our control. Pet owners should know there are many financial aid programs available, and many clinics are happy to provide information regarding local sources of aid. The regional animal shelters also usually have their own financial aid programs, or know of programs in their area, that can help pets in need. Understanding what is available before it is needed will ultimately help pets and their owners in emergent or urgent situations.
The shortage of veterinarians and support staff that existed before the pandemic has only been amplified during the past few years. In the face of rising pet ownership across the country, many clinics are struggling to keep up with the demand. We are doing our best to help as many clients and pets as possible. We see you and we hear you, and we are all doing as much as humanly possible to serve and aid all the pets out there that need us. In return, we simply ask that you be kind to all of us, so together we can ensure that your companions live comfortably and as healthy as possible throughout their lives.
(207) 223-2596
559 South Main Street, Winterport, Maine www.ridgerunnervet.com
You can also find us on Facebook
brought to you by Dr. Rina Porell
Dr. Pamela Bluestone
Dr. Ken Odrzywolski
Dr. Margaret Shively
207-985-4277 kbunkvet.com
Call or email us to learn more 207-839-7456 tendertouchveterinary@yahoo.com
Mon.-Fri. 7-5:30, Sat. & Sun. 9-5
We understand you have a choice when deciding on the care for your pets, and we strive to provide you with unparalleled services
OXFORD HILLS HOSPITAL
136 Western Avenue So. Paris, Maine 04281 www.oxfordhillsvet.com 743-9271
VETER NARY
Dr Matthew Holden
Dr. Kate Holden Dr. Samantha Begin
KVH_march2020.indd 1
Providing high quality dental care services for cats and dogs. Our care will make you and your pet smile! The first dentistry only practice for cats and dogs in Maine. Jennifer Keaten DVM, MPH, DACVPM Veterinary Dental Practitioner, Owner 158 Roosevelt Trail, Windham (207)481-8232 mainelyvetdentistry.com
Dr. Christine Welch
503 Main Street Damariscotta 207-563-3934
Feline boarding and Laser therapy available www.damariscottavetclinic.com
Offering compassionate medical, surgical and dental care with a personal touch
Full service veterinary care including preventative medicine, nutrition, surgery, dentistry and diagnostics. We also offer worry free cat boarding.
Full service veterinary care including preventative medicine, nutrition, surgery, dentistry, ultrasound and diagnostics. We also offer worry free cat boarding.
Arthur J. Charles, DVM
Arthur J. Charles, DVM
Ariana Fowlie, DVM
Bailey E. Gage, DVM
Laurie S. Howarth, DVM
Laurie S. Howarth, DVM
Bailey E. Gage, DVM
14 Atlantic Highway, Waldoboro (207)563-7786
14 Atlantic Highway, Waldoboro (207)563-7786
by Carolyn Fuhrer
Tracking is a unique dog sport for many reasons.
First, the titles are not easy to come by. A tracking title reflects many hours of dedicated work in all sorts of weather conditions. It reflects a deep understanding and trust of your dog – your tracking partner.
Tracking also requires a great deal of mental stamina and the ability to remain focused under varying
conditions and distractions. This applies to the handler as well as the dog.
You cannot bribe your dog to track, and you cannot force your dog to track. Your relationship with your dog and your ability, through
properly structured training, to motivate and inspire your dog to use its incredible natural scenting abilities is what will get you as a team to the end of the track.
A tracking title is something to be very proud of. Tracking titles are not common, and they exemplify the relationship between you and your dog and also exemplify a commitment to persevere when things don’t go well. When you and your dog are out on the test track, all you have is each other, and you must rely on the relationship and understanding you have built through training. You may not command or signal your dog as to direction. You will not know where the track goes and even if you can see parts of it. You may not guide the dog.
Your dog must persevere on the track scent, and you need to be able to read and trust your dog as to which way it goes. To those who have experienced it, there is no greater joy than a well-run track. When you and your dog are truly “in the zone” together, there is nothing else in the world except you, your dog, and the track. You may not remember everything
about a rally performance or an agility run, but most trackers can tell you in detail every part of the track.
Tracking tests have no placements. There is no competition. Each exhibitor gets his own unique track plotted by the judges the day before and put out by a club tracklayer the morning of the test. Everyone – the judges, the gallery (spectators), other exhibitors and all the club members who worked so hard to organize and orchestrate the test, wants the teams to pass. Everyone is wishing you the best.
We are very fortunate in Maine to have a total of 12 tracking tests in our state. Want to be a part of this very special community? Check out the tracking events in Maine at AKC. org/event. Get In touch with a club listed on the events and begin to be a part of this wonderful sport.
Also: check out the Downeast Dog News Calendar for future workshops. On Track Agility Club of Maine (OTAC) is holding an indoor tracking workshop (“Let’s Talk Tracking”) on March 4. See the calendar for details.
When my parents let me have my first pet as a young boy, one of those dime store turtles, I wanted Willie to live as long as possible. A long, healthy, and vibrant life has been my goal for each pet since. I have been a pet care professional for over 27 years and have yet to meet someone with a pet who felt differently.
In the early 90s, I learned that the buck stopped with me when it came to my pet's health. It was my responsibility to ensure they had the best nutrition possible. I could not blindly rely on TV commercials, breeders, veterinarians, and what I was told at the pet store.
My wife and I brought home a Cairn terrier puppy named Gus in 1991. Within his first year, he started experiencing chronic urinary tract infections. His veterinarian, Paula’s boss, told us he was sure Gus’ illness was related to nutrition. Then he said that veterinarians are taught little about pet food and suggested we start learning everything we could. We took his advice and have been pet nutrition geeks ever since. And yes, we cured Gus with better nutrition. [ FMI –Our Introduction to Pet Nutrition – Gus – https://forcefreepets. com/?p=3178 ]
At our store, we believe: “Fresh, wholesome, nutritious food is fundamental to optimal physical, mental, and emotional health. We want our pets and your pets to do more than survive; we want them to thrive and live a long and vibrant life.”
This is the first in a series of articles in which I will teach you the basics of what I have learned.
Step 1a – Commit to educating yourself about pet nutrition for life. That means more than listening
by Don Hanson ACCBC, BFRAP, CDBC, CPDT-KA
to breeders, veterinarians, and pet stores telling you what to feed your is biased, especially if they only recommend a single brand or type of pet food. Instead, I encourage you to read books and articles and avoid listening to TV commercials and social media. Lastly, you need to be committed to continuing your education, as the world of pet food is constantly changing and not always for the better. My wife and I have done that, but it is timeconsuming and challenging work, so I have an alternative for you to consider.
Step 1b – Find someone you can trust to do your research for you. I
get it; you may not have the time to research as I do. If that is the case, find one or more people you can trust. Here is what you should look for:
• someone who recommends more than one brand, formula, and type of pet food. If anyone suggests that you should never change your pet's food, understand that what he is saying only benefits the company making and selling the food. For example, would you follow the advice if your doctor told you only to eat XYZ cereal or drink ABC complete nutrition shakes? Of course not; you’re smarter than that. No single brand of food is the best for all pets, even if a veterinarian recommends it. My dog and cat are fed various brands, proteins, and food types to optimize their diet. [ FMI –Don, What Do You Feed Your
Dog? – https://forcefreepets. com/?p=3169 & The Benefits of Rotating Your Pets Diet –https://forcefreepets.com/ ?p=3171 ]
• someone who understands that fresh whole foods benefit your pet. We all know that fresh foods like fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, and dairy are healthier than the ultra-processed food in the supermarket's middle aisles. We might like mac and cheese from a box because it’s cheap and convenient, but it’s not a healthy choice. The same is true for our pets. While they cannot eat all the fresh foods we do, they can eat many. Fresh food contains natural vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients that are healthier than the chemically synthesized vitamins added to most commercial pet food. This is a partial list of some of the fresh foods I have fed my dog in the past year, beef, bison, chicken, pork, rabbit, salmon, trout, turkey, venison, whitefish, apples, blueberries, carrots, kale, pumpkin, and pineapple. I also often added moisture, such as bone broth or goat's milk, as kibble, dehydrated, and freeze-dried foods do not contain adequate water. [ FMI – Our Pets Most Important Nutrient – Water –https://forcefreepets.com/ ?p=3173 ]
In future columns, I’ll describe how pet foods are regulated, what to look for on the package, what to look out for, and more.
Don Hanson lives in Bangor, Maine, where he isthe co-owner of the Green Acres Kennel Shop (greenacreskennel.com) and the founder of ForceFreePets.com, an online educational resource for people with dogs and cats. He is a Professional Canine Behavior Consultant (PCBC-A) accredited by the Pet Professional Accreditation Board (PPAB)and a Bach Foundation Registered Animal Practitioner (BFRAP). Don is a member of thePet Professional Guild (PPG), where he serves on the Board of Directors and Steering Committee and chairs the Advocacy Committee. He is also a founding director of Pet Advocacy International (PIAI). In addition, Don produces and co-hosts The Woof Meow Showpodcast,available at http://bit.ly/WfMwPodcasts/,the Apple Podcast app, and Don's blog: www.words-woofs-meows.com.The opinions in this post are those of Don Hanson.
Augusta’s Kennebec Valley Humane Society, KVHS, began in 1927 by Miss Mabel Connor. With the help of others, they established the Augusta Humane Society, which then became KVHS. By 1961, the society was able to build a facility for animals on Pet Haven Lane. The original building was named in honor of Miss Connor, and later the
and owner-surrendered animals for over twenty communities, but they also take in at-risk dogs from a Georgia rescue partner. The powers that be at KVHS knew it was time for larger, updated accommodations.
So, in 2019 they purchased 77 acres of farmland on Leighton Road. The actual campaign began as a soft push
“They’re incredible humans and dear friends,” she added of the Shuman family. To honor them, the stateof-the-art facility will be named the Nancy Shuman Animal Shelter, and it will be operational by the fall of 2023.
“Each area of the new facility has been thoughtfully considered and will provide the best experience for each resident including new kennel spaces, natural sunlight, and amazing air quality.”
There’s space for 50 dogs and 145 cats, pocket pets, an animal control area, administrative offices, and a multipurpose room. They’ll offer on-site services for the community which will include vaccination clinics, spay/neuter surgeries, and educational offerings for schools and civic groups. The acreage is a wonderful bonus for the dogs—they’ll get plenty of beneficial exercise with the volunteers. For those looking for a new best friend, check out KVHS adoptable
pets. Dogs are spayed or neutered and are behaviorally assessed. They’re dewormed and screened for heartworm, Lyme and ehrlichia. Microchipping is available for a nominal fee. Before the adoption is complete, landlords will be contacted for renters. If there’s a resident dog, a meet and greet is mandatory.
KVHS welcomes/needs adopters, fosters, volunteers, and medical and building donations. Watch the website for the grand opening of the Nancy Shuman Animal Shelter. They invite you to their much anticipated 30th Annual Mutt Strut on May 13 at 10 am at the Youth Memorial Park & Buker Community Fields—they’re excited to celebrate! Mutt Strut 2023 will show you what it is to have a pup in the park—don’t miss it! Check pethavenlane.org for links to all areas
He’s a special, silky soft dog who reminds us of one person--Indiana Jones! He has dashing good looks and is charming as heck. Toys are his jam as well as snuggling on the couch. He'll hop happily in the car at the drop of a hat and is ready to walk or hike wherever you like. Merle wants to be the only pet in the home or neighborhood and will be most successful in an adult-only home. If you would like to meet this handsome, charismatic adventure-man, please call KVHS to schedule an appointment to meet him. He is living the life at his foster's house ready to meet his new family.
I'm very funny with a great sense of humor. Sometimes the humans don't enjoy the antics, though-but hey, if you don't have a sense of humor, you aren't for me. I also enjoy magic! Like making the treat disappear! Or the ball! My jowls can hide a lot! I'm also very smart! I know sit, down, paw, loose leash walking, auto-sitting, and am practicing my heel! I also recently began muzzle training! I enjoy boxing with humans--I go for the cheap shot slap! I only do this when I get very excited, but my humans are teaching me how to be calm. As you can imagine, my favorite movie is "Lilo and Stitch!" After all, "Ohana means family!" Will you be the one to be my family? If you would enjoy feeling extremely safe in your home, I will be a fantastic bodyguard. I was taught to never speak to strangers and I take this very seriously. I won't want any strangers talking to you either! I will yell at robber and friend alike if I don't know them.
For more information or if you are interested in meeting Merle or Ohana stop by
View more available dogs on our website, downeastdognews.com. Many 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.
PAISLEY
10 months old, Plott Hound Mix
Sweet playful pup that is still learning and growing. She is almost completely house trained. She can be left alone for a few hours in her crate, but when left for too long she will find a way to escape. She knows basics sit, come, lay down, shake. She does great on leash.
Email: sln2310@yahoo.com
Sponsored by: Rising Tide Co-op 323 Main St., Damariscotta, (207)563-5556, risingtide.coop
STING, 14 years old, Boxer Mix
SWEET, friendly and affectionate guy that acts much younger than his age and has a lot of pep in his step! He is looking for a quiet home without a lot of activity. Older, respectful children could be fine. A total lovebug with people. Needs to be the only dog and no cats.
FMI: olddogsnewdigs.com
Sponsored by: 4 Commercial St., Rockport, (207)230-8455, waterbarkwellness.com
SCARLETTE
2-3 years old, Boxer Mix
Scarlette is a smart and strong girl who is a work in progress. She knows sit, lie down, and to give both paws however needs to learn other manners. She is dog selective.
FMI: responsiblepetcare.org/dogs
Sponsored by: First National Bank 18 Branches from Wiscasset to Calais, 1-800-564-3195, thefirst.com
RADAR
6 years old, Pitbull, Cattle dog, Chow, and Corgi
He knows all commands voice and hand signals, house trained (does not need a crate) he is not destructive whatsoever, enjoys playing catch. He bonds quickly with men, and could care less about anyone else. He would do best in a male home, with no kids.
FMI: pulledfromthepits.com
KALILA
2 years old, Catahoula Leopard Hound Mix
For what this sweet girl endured she is a wonderful loving dog, however she is terrified in the beginning of new situations and needs a family that will be patient with her and help her work through understanding what all the new things are that she is seeing and experiencing.
Email: sln2310@yahoo.com
Sponsored by: (207)729-4678, androscogginanimalhospital.com
7 months old, Mixed Breed
A little girl with a BIG personality. She may come off as a little shy at first but warms up quickly to anyone who shows her affection. She loves other dogs, especially young pups like herself. She would do best in a small family home or with a single person.
FMI: pawsadoption.org
Sponsored by: (207)706-7908, greentreecoffee.com
1.5 years old, Dalmation Mix
Cute, cuddly, loves attention and very sweet. Also is deaf. Needs to be an only pet, but he will reward you with unconditional love and an incredible bond.
FMI: responsiblepetcare.org/dogs
Sponsored by: Mason’s Brewing Company 15 Hardy St., Brewer, (207)989-6300, masonsbrewingcompany.com
He’s a big boy, full of love. He’s been learning manners, super smart, learns quickly and is easily distracted with a treat or a toy. The only dog in the home would be ideal, based on the fact that he likes quiet and calm. Loves kids, but he has no idea that he is not a little puppy so dog savvy kids are a must FMI: blessedbethebullies.com
CHEVY, 9 years old, Mixed Breed
So loving and affectionate that he visits nursing homes. He needs a hospice adopter, he had a mast cell tumor removed, but it was impossible to get clean margins. The vet thinks he could have 1-2 years left. This amazing guy needs a huge-hearted adopter who has no other pets.
FMI: olddogsnewdigs.com
Sponsored by: 915 US Route 1, York, (207)361-4758, yorkbarkandplay.com
Such a handsome lover boy.
smiles big and loves to show learn and knows to sit, down, and stay, He loves and is very good at fetching as well. He would likely do fine with kids
DIESEL
3 years old, Presa Canario
He has completed a training program learning basic manners and how to be the best boy, and needs someone who is willing to keep working on training. He doesn’t like to be crated, but really doesn’t need to be. Diesel would do best in a home with no other animals.
FMI: pulledfromthepits.com
Sponsored by: Kompletely K-9 Dog Training and Rehab. 248 Choate Rd., Montville, (207)322-5111, kompletelyk9.com
RED, 1-2 years old, Mixed Breed
He needs a little training on things like shoe stealing and counter surfing, but that’s just the puppy in him needing a little direction. He doesn’t seem to chew the shoes, just steals them and carries them into his crate. Currently at foster with his foster sibling dog pals having the best time. Loves chin scritches.
FMI: blessedbethebullies.com
To submit or get more information on the events below, go online to downeastdognews.com
These events are currently scheduled as of our production date however please check with the event organizers to ensure they are still taking place on these dates.
Begins March 4
Fort Kent, 8AM - 11AM
All three Can-Am Crown races (the 250, 100, and 30 mile races) have highly accessible starts on Fort Kent’s Main Street. There are no fees to view the races. Bring your camera! Finish Line: Fort Kent (All 3 races finish at Lonesome Pines Ski Lodge) Estimated Finishes: CanAm 30 – Saturday, noon – 4PM, Can-Am 100 – Saturday, 9PM – 2AM, Can-Am 250 – Monday, 8AM – Tuesday 10AM. Visit website for race checkpoints and for more info. can-am-crown.net
WORKSHOP
Saturday, March 4
Somerville, 10AM- 1PM
LET’S TALK TRACKING! One of OTAC’s most popular winter workshops. Get ready for a successful tracking season by discussing and learning some great foundation work with your dog. Start routines, article indication, restarts, line handling as well as discussion of the various tracking tests and what is required to achieve success. $75
Instructor: AKC Tracking Judge Carolyn
Fuhrer. North Star Dog Training School, 252 Jones Rd., Somerville, ME. FMI: Call Kathy 207-691-2332 BENEFITS ON TRACK AGILITY CLUB OF MAINE (OTAC)
SATURDAY NAIL TRIM CLINICS
Saturday, March 4 Rockland, 12PM - 3PM
Is your pet in need of a pedicure? Bring them down to Pet Quarters located at 235 Camden St, Rockland and Shannon Nachajko from Catahoula Rescue of New England will be on hand to make your fur kids look their very best! And remember we trim not only dogs, but cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, you name it! Nail Trimming and Ear Cleanings are available for a $10.00 each or combo price of $12.00 for ear cleanings. All funds raised go directly to rescue. Weather permittingCall ahead in case of snow!
Saturday, March 11
Somerville, 10AM- 1PM CLARITY IN TRAINING (PART 3 OF THE NORTH STAR SERIES OF PERFORMANCE DOG WORKSHOPS) $75 When you are consistent in your request/compliance criteria, your dog will quickly learn where success can be found. Every time you reinforce something it becomes part of the whole composite of your dog. Be careful what you teach and pattern! Learn how to put more clarity in your training. North Star Dog Training School, 252 Jones Rd., Somerville, ME. FMI: Call Kathy 207-691-2332
NAIL CLIPPING CLINIC - BREWER
Saturday, March 18 Brewer, 10AM – 12PM
Is your pet in need of a pedicure? Bring them down to Loyal Biscuit, 421 Wilson St, Brewer. Danielle from our Brewer location will be on hand to make your fur kids look their very best! For just $10 per pet, you can have your pet’s nails trimmed and all the proceeds will be donated to Old Dogs New Digs! In order to ensure a safe environment for all of our customers, please note:
Nail trims will be offered on a first come, first served basis. Nail clipping customers will be asked to wait outside the store front for their turn to avoid overcrowding. An employee will call you in! loyalbiscuit.com
WORKSHOP
Saturday, March 18
Brunswick, 10AM- 1PM Nosework workshop – Maine Dog Training Company, Brunswick. $40. Contact Amanda Stearns at kashaknits@ gmail.com for more info and to register.
BENEFIT: ON TRACK AGILITY CLUB OF MAINE (OTAC)
LAZY DAY NAIL TRIM CLINICS
Sunday, March 19 Rockland, 12PM - 2PM
Is your pet in need of a pedicure? Bring them down to Pet Quarters located at 235 Camden St, Rockland and Shannon Nachajko from Catahoula Rescue of New England will be on hand to make your fur kids look their very best! And remember we trim not only dogs, but cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, you name it! Nail Trimming and Ear Cleanings are available for a $10.00 each or combo price of $12.00 for ear cleanings. All funds raised go
directly to rescue. Weather permittingCall ahead in case of snow!
TOE NAIL TUESDAY
Tuesday, March 21 Rockland, 11AM – 1PM
Is your pet in need of a pedicure? Bring them down to Pet Quarters located at 235 Camden St, Rockland and Shannon Nachajko from Catahoula Rescue of New England will be on hand to make your fur kids look their very best! And remember we trim not only dogs, but cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, you name it! Nail Trimming and Ear Cleanings are available for a $10.00 each or combo price of $12.00 for ear cleanings. All funds raised go directly to rescue. Weather permittingCall ahead in case of snow!
WORKSHOP
Saturday, March 25
Somerville, 10AM
RALLY AND OBEDIENCE RUN THRUS not your grandma’s run thrus – exhibitorfriendly run thrus offering constructive feedback to enhance your performance. – Run thrus are tailored to your individual needs! $15 first run; $5 each additional. North Star Dog Training School, 252 Jones Rd., Somerville, ME. FMI: Call Kathy 207-691-2332
TSC SATURDAY MED’S AND PEDI’S
Saturday, March 25
Thomaston, 12PM – 2PM
Is your pet in need of a pedicure?
Bring them over to Tractor Supply in Thomaston and Shannon Nachajko, Director of Catahoula Rescue of New England will be on hand to make your fur kids look their very best! And remember we trim not only dogs, but cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, you name it! Nail Trimming and Ear Cleanings are available for a $10.00 each or combo price of $12.00 for ear cleanings. All funds raised go directly to rescue. Weather permittingCall ahead in case of snow!
ASK from page 4
and others.
Reiki is an energy healing technique using gentle hand movements to guide the flow of healthy energy through the body to promote healing. This complementary medicine can help manage some chronic diseases. There are several reiki healers in Maine. They go through rigorous training and are classified in levels. The highest attainable level is Reiki Master. Massage is becoming more available to our dogs. There are several forms of massage that are beneficial. In general, there is acupressure massage, sports medicine massage, deep tissue massage, and others. Always check for the level of knowledge and
certification of the massage therapist you tend to use. Massage can release trigger points that are painful to your pup, and it can decrease the stress he is holding in his body.
This list is not all inclusive. There are other treatments out there for you and Fido. When looking for holistic help, be sure to check credentials. You can find them at the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (AHVMA). Maine Veterinary Medical Association also has a list of veterinarians using these different modalities.
Judith K. Herman, DVM, CVH Animal Wellness Center Augusta, Maine www.mainehomeopahticvet.com
Pawz Unlimited Search and Rescue is a nonprofit search and rescue group for lost pets. We are currently raising money to achieve our 501c3 status. Our mission is to provide information and assistance to any pet owner whose pet is lost, free of charge, and to return their pet to their loving home. We are advanced CPR and first aid certified for pets and humans. We are currently affiliated with NASAR and FEMA. We are currently selling custom made bracelets to raise money. You can write anything you’d like on the bracelets, including your pets’ names. A thin bracelet is $10 and a thick bracelet is $15 (plus shipping). We are splitting the profits with Forgotten Felines through the end of March.
Please visit our Facebook page FMI: https://www.facebook.com/pawzunlimitedllc/
The New England Lab Rescue is urgently seeking foster homes in southern Maine. Please visit our website or Facebook page to submit a foster application. www.newenglandlabrescue.com
Our Foster Coordinator will contact you once your application has been processed.
What are the requirements to be an NELR foster home?
• Must own a comfy couch
• Must like walks
• Must like car rides
• Must laugh at funny antics
• Must like to play ball
• Must be patient and kind
• Must be forgiving of spills/ accidents
• Must love snuggling
(Max is available for adoption, please visit the website www.newenglandlabrescue.com or our Facebook page to submit an adoption application)
Halfway Home Pet Rescue is dedicated to improving the quality of life for stray animals in Aroostook County. We focus our mission on the rescue and rehabilitation of cats and kittens from Caribou and surrounding communities who are not eligible for admission to other area shelters. We are creating an Aroostook Regional Animal Health Facility for a free spay/neuter facility and a low-cost wellness center for animals.
Our vaccination clinics will include dogs, cats, rabbits, etc. The spay/neuter clinics are for cats only, however if space permits, we can work in a few small dogs on a first come and first served basis.
First clinic: May 11 - May 14 - Dr. Elizabeth Stone from Topsham
May 11th will be a Vaccination clinic from 3pm -6pm. No visit charge however, distemper, rabies, rev and ear mite meds will be a $20.00 charge for each. The next Vaccination clinic will be held on May 25th.
May 12th - May 14th will be a Free Spay/Neuter clinic for cats only. Friday and Saturday, 7am - 5pm and Sunday, 7am – noon. The next Spay/Neuter clinics will be May 26th – May 28th.
Starting March 1st – For more info., to submit an application or to find future clinic dates please visit our Facebook page: Halfway Home Pet Rescue or our website: www.halfwayhomepetrescue.org The first application received will be the first served after March 1st.
The Museum of Maritime Pets, located at 75 Mechanic Street in Rockland, launches a salute to Irish maritime pets on Saturday, March 18. The Museum is open from 12-14 on weekends through April, and then will expand its hours. This exhibit, featuring Ireland's famous maritime pets and ancient breeds, will be on view through mid-May.
The Museum is located at the Sail, Power and Steam Museum Complex adjacent to Snow Marine Park - a great place to walk or play with your dog! Admission is free. Donations are welcome. We also have a small gift shop and research library. Additional info: Twitter and Facebook @MaritimePetsMus or give us a call at (207)390-5909. www.museumofmaritimepets.org
