2022 November Downeast Dog News

American Academy of Canine Water Rescue

•

By Susan Spisak

On August 13th, Rockland’s Museum of Maritime Pets hosted a Canine Water Rescue demonstration at Snow Marine Park. It was presented by the 501(3)(c) organization, American Academy of Canine Water Rescue, based out of Southborough, MA. Their certified instructors, George Abraham, Kate Abraham, Artemis Tsagarakis, and Maria Gray, the founder and president, participated with their three Newfies and German Shepherd. While demonstrating several rescue techniques, it was apparent that safety for their dogs and themselves is paramount.

The Academy’s mission is to bring the intensive training techniques from the organization, SICS, Scuola Italiana Cani Salvataggio, The Italian

ACADEMY on

5

August

Fund

Heidi and Joel Neal of Rockland first purchased the Loyal Biscuit Co. in January of 2009. What was then a single retail location with one employee is currently six locations with forty employees. The primary focus of the Loyal Biscuit Co. is to not only supply Maine communities with healthy dog and cat supplies, but to provide support to the local animal shelters with donations of healthy pet food, financial support, and promoting the adoption of companion animals.

Heidi created the Loyal Biscuit Co. Fenway Fund in 2019, named after her beloved dog and Loyal Biscuit Co logo. Grants are funded by the proceeds of sales within their retail locations and are awarded bi-annually to 501c3 Maine animal related organizations whose proposals are selected by a committee of Loyal Biscuit Co. employees. The Fenway Fund is a vital way for the Loyal Biscuit to support animal welfare within Maine communities by providing seed money for projects that will help better the lives of animals that often fall below funding availability.

Congratulations to these three wonderful organizations on being the latest recipients of the Fenway Fund Grants!

Charley's Strays - Clinton, Maine: $1,975.56 for a portable generator to keep the shelter going during power outages.

PAWS Animal Adoption Center - Camden, Maine: $4,000 grant for a Canine Recovery Monitor that will allow them monitor animals as they recover from surgery, allowing them to spay and neuter more animals in house for not only their shelter, but other local shelters as well.

Mission Working Dogs - Oxford, Maine: $3,900 grant to complete their fencing at their new facility. Mission Working Dogs trains service and therapy dogs.

Since starting the Fenway Fund in 2019, they have issued $70,447.99 in grants to local Maine-based 501c(3) animal related organizations.

Maine Great

Rescue a Year

Last year, Robin Wilkey of North New Portland, Maine started a new rescue for Great Pyrenees called Western Maine Great Pyrenees Rescue. It is a foster-based rescue formed with the purpose of finding quality homes for the Pyreness breed. WMGPR is licensed by the State of Maine and will adopt to approved homes in Maine and NH.

Over the past year, they have adopted out 13 dogs, all in the state of Maine. All have come from the South, and were either found by independent rescuers, or in crowded southern Shelters. It is their intention to match each dog to an appropriate family While most have gone on to pet homes, they did receive one LGD (Livestock Guardian Dog) from the Texas Great Pyrenees Rescue, for a specific kind of LGD situation. The dog now lives in Chester Maine. They average 2 dogs per month and once they are adopted, they bring up 2 more. It is possible to get pre-approved for adoption. They require a home visit, you must currently have a vet, and your other animals need to be current on everything, including HW preventative.

To learn more or to view dogs available for adoption you may go to the Western Maine Great Pyrenees Rescue Facebook page. If you are interested in adopting, you will be required to complete an application.

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Dear Dog News Readers, I can’t believe that the holidays are already nearby! This is a great time for us to pause and think of all for which we are grateful. I for one feel blessed for this beautiful place where live. There are so many people (and animals) facing such devastation to their lives in other parts of the U.S. and the world. Let us all find the reasons we are thankful and help others where we can.

I had mentioned previously that I purchased some inexpensive backyard agility equipment to try with Pepper once the temps became cooler. So far, we have tried both the tunnel and the hurdle. I figured we’d start small and work our way up to some of the other things. She did ok with them in our first only attempt so far. I think it will be quite entertaining to get her to jump through the hoop. I can’t shake the vision of me getting stuck in it trying to show her how to use it though I am sure that is not the way to do it and I will try to restrain myself. I also haven’t put it together so it is possible I would fit through it without getting stuck. I have no plans for us to compete, but I thought it would be a good exercise for mental stimulation.

Congratulations to all of the winners of our Best of the Best contest! Please read through to find a list of the top three selected by our readers in each category as well as profiles for those taking first place.

Happy Thanksgiving to all and thank you to all veterans both human and canine who have served our country! Warmest wishes, Jenn and Pepper

Dog of the Month!

BOO

Boo is a 2 year old, 90 pound, American Bulldog. She LOVES when I bake because she always gets to lick the spoon when I am done. Usually most of it ends up all over her face. She began having pretty much constant focal seizures. Her vet told us that while adjusting to her medication, when she had a seizure we should try to break her out of it by distracting her. Well turns out she loves when I bake so much that was the thing that distracted her the most. I had to bake a LOT but she would go the whole time with no seizures or very few seizures.

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Table of Contents

Are you chilly? I have been, but it’s so lovely to have a dog to snuggle with on those brisk nights that we have to get acclimated to. October was full of so many fun events, and it was great to see some of you face to face! I can’t wait to hear what your pups have to say, so let’s get right to the readings. Just a reminder that psychic insight isn’t a replacement for licensed medical care, so use the messages as a way to complement and work with your veterinarian or trainer.

Cara P. asked about Duby, a deceased Sheltie. “Is there anything he wants to tell me?” I see an image of an old man who realized he has lost some of his faculties, knows he will not be around for much longer and was completely apologetic and kind to those he knew he was about to leave behind. This dog had a greater sense of self-awareness than most humans do, and the grief you felt after his passing was because he even FELT human at times. He was ever grateful for the time you spent with him, even sitting with his body after he passed. You did a phenomenal job “feeling” it all knowing that if you buried your sadness, it would resurface down the road. I am impressed by both your level of awareness and how you hold your memories of him close to your heart. He really was a once in a lifetime dog.

Furry Words

by Sara Moore www.enlightenedhorizons.com

he calls his racetrack. For as much energy as he has, he doesn’t crash/ burn/sleep like other dogs I’ve read. He's like the Energizer Bunny, always ready to go! He just said he will drink water out of a water bottle with a squirt top, but if you’re holding it too far away from him, he will chase the water instead of drink it. One more thing is that he prefers to be naked. That just made me chuckle!

he always be this mischievous?

And what is making him so itchy?”

Vic toria H. said, “Zeal is a mutt but looks like maybe he’s part Dutch Shephard (we call him a hyena). Is there anything he would like me to know to make his life better?” He is a high energy dog and loves to do zoomies, but he’d also like some play structures in the yard. I see a fenced in yard, but I think that’s already there. If you could add a wooden picnic table and maybe a flat bench with no back, he could run all over both of them. If he could talk, you’d hear him whooping it up on what

Ask the Vet… Diabetes

A. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease that can occur in many species. In dogs it is the same as type 2 diabetes in people. Metabolism means the process of how the body converts food into energy. In this case it is how the dog converts carbohydrates into sugar and then into energy.

Food is broken down into smaller components called nutrients when it is digested. These nutrients are broken down to glucose, a type of sugar, that is used by the cells to give your dog energy.

The glucose is in the bloodstream and needs to get into cells to be useful. The organ, pancreas, which is up by the stomach and liver is important in digesting food. There are cells in this organ that produce a hormone called insulin. The job of insulin is to tell the cells to take up the glucose for fuel.

Diabetes is the disease where the glucose-insulin connection isn’t working correctly. One type of diabetes is insulin deficiency. This occurs when the pancreas can’t produce enough insulin either from damage or not functioning properly. Insulin deficiency is the

by Dr. Judith Herman

Angela W. wants to know about her Bailey, who has passed. “Is she with us and around us? Or is she somewhere else?” That is a fantastic question. At first, she was around you because you all needed to feel her energy. She says she would never abandon you, and she’s apologetic she had to go because life with you was really enjoyable. Enjoyable is her word, not mine, and she wants credit for using it. When she passed, there was dialogue about who met her in heaven, and then that kind of got some of you talking to them more than you had been, so when that started happening, she spent more time “over there” energetically because you were doing a good job communicating with her and the others yourself! You will absolutely feel her energy around on lazy, gray days. She loves snuggling when she knows you’re in for the day.

Teri H. has a 2.5-year-old German Shepherd named Seren. “Will I ever be able to trust him loose in the house when I’m not home? Will

Um, no. He is a busy body and will continue to poke his nose into places he shouldn’t. He said he doesn’t even mean to be. He’s just bored and then snoops because he is a busy body. LOL! When you asked about being itchy, I actually felt it all in my left ear. For me, that’s when a masculine energy/spirit is trying to get my attention. Is your dad in Heaven? If he is, tell him to step away from the dog because his energy is really affecting the vibration around him, and that’s why he’s scratching. The good news is I don’t hear that it’s a food allergy.

Finally, Susan B. wants to know how Chubb’s back legs feel and if they’re painful. They ache. My left hip totally aches when I “feel” him. It feels as though you’ve run out of options, or the only viable ones are in motion. I would talk to your vet about pain management though.

Thank you to all who have been reading this column for the past eleven or twelve years that I’ve been writing it! If you’d like a more in-depth reading for you or your pets, you can schedule it through the website www.enlightenedhorizons. com. Have a great November and the next time we meet there could be snow on the ground! YIKES!

more common diabetes in dogs and will need insulin injections. Another form is called insulin-resistance diabetes. The pancreas is producing insulin, but the body isn’t utilizing it as it should. The cells are not getting insulin’s message to take up the glucose. This type of diabetes is seen in older and obese dogs. Female dogs can become insulin resistant temporarily while in heat or pregnant.

Either condition creates the problem of the cells not picking up the needed glucose from the blood stream to function. This causes many problems. First the body’s cells, like muscle cells and certain organs, are lacking fuel since the glucose

can’t get where it is supposed to go, causing the body to use muscle and fat as energy. The abnormally high glucose level can act like a poison to the organs. The high glucose level in the blood will damage kidneys, eyes, heart, blood vessels, or nerves.

The sign of diabetes is increased thirst, urination, appetite as well as weight loss. If the disease progresses unchecked, your pup will develop anorexia (not eating), lethargy, depression, and vomiting.

Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to other health problems. These include cataracts leading to blindness, enlarged liver, urinary tract infections, kidney failure, and seizures. Another complication is called ketoacidosis, which is a life-threatening condition. The symptoms are lethargy, rapid breathing, dehydration, vomiting, and a change in the smell of his breath. The cause of ketoacidosis can be stress, surgery, fasting, infections, or other underlying conditions. If your dog is diabetic, having ketone test strips at home to test the urine if any of these symptoms occur is important. When the test stick is positive for ketones, it is important to call your veterinarian.

Your veterinarian can diagnosis diabetes in Fido by doing a urinalysis and other routine blood work. It is important to start treatment right away to avoid some of the chronic problems this disease can cause.

Who is at risk for diabetes?

Those who are middle aged to older dogs, unspayed females, dogs with pancreatitis or chronic pancreatitis, obesity, and prolonged steroid therapy, Cushing disease, other medical conditions, such as auto immune diseases and viral diseases, and genetics.

Breeds genetically prone to have diabetes are miniature Poodles, Bichon Frises, Pugs, Dachshunds, miniature Schnauzers, Puli, Fox Terriers, Cairn Terriers, Samoyeds, Keeshonds, Australian Terriers, and Beagles.

Treatment for diabetes is diet, exercise, and daily insulin injections. There are many prescription diets on the market. Monitoring your dog at home is important. This can include checking urine for glucose and ketones, blood glucose checks, water intake, weight gain or loss, and change in behaviors. You will be taking your pup to the veterinarian for regular and initially frequent checkups.

A diabetic dog can live a good life if monitored properly, but prevention is the best medicine. Take Fido out for regular exercise and don’t’ let him get fat.

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

Q. My old dog was diagnosed with diabetes. How can I prevent this in my younger dog?

School of Rescue Dogs, to the US.

(SICS utilizes four hundred certified dog teams who’ve been through their extensive training to patrol busy Italian beaches.) Maria explained that there are three levels of training/ certification for human/canine teams.

Level One is patrolling beaches together—or shore to water. Level Two is deploying from a fast-moving water vessel to water to save a victim.

Level Three is air to water rescue, i.e., jumping from a hovering helicopter to a victim.

The Academy’s goal is to train and certify American dogs of sufficient size to patrol unguarded lakes, rivers, and ocean beaches to save lives. They also would like to work in conjunction with local lifeguards at all beaches, the United States Coast Guard, the Navy and the Marines, and local law enforcement as requested.

Water safety education is also key. They hold seminars and demonstrations like the one in Rockland to reduce or eliminate accidental drownings. Maria stressed that children must learn to swim. Lifejackets need to be worn on boats, river tubes, kayaks, jet skis, paddleboards, etc. And mixing alcohol with water-related activities is nonnegotiable. She added that the public is not aware of these astounding facts: the World Health Organization

reports that approximately 400,000 people across the world drown annually. The CDC reports that ten people or more in the US drown daily, with many occurring at lakes and ocean beaches without lifeguards.

Initiating the Academy

As a child Maria was “always about the dogs,” but she became hooked as a teen when she saw a documentary on Italian canine water rescue. “I thought this was the greatest thing in the world.” A dream was born, but the timing wasn’t right. There was college, pursuit of a PhD at UC Berkely (she even had a Newfie there), a daughter to raise, and a career in Chemical Engineering.

At about 50-ish with a good nest egg built, she retired from her demanding career and pursued this passion. She didn’t go into building the Academy blindly--she’d also been self-employed as a dog trainer, specializing in water work, for decades. She reached out to SICS and attended courses in Milan, Italy beginning in 2016. Several arduous years of training paid off, and in 2018, Maria was evaluated and obtained her International Instructor certification from SICS, along with her dog Angel. Additionally, she is affiliated with the Newfoundland Clubs of America and New England and has a water dog level of certification (WD) from the US. With all those certifications and affiliates, she was ready to open the Academy, complete with a Board of Directors.

George and Kate of Thornhurst, PA became interested in water rescue after attending an interactive Newfie club event, and their black and white Landseer girl proved to have a knack for it. They discovered the Academy and attended Maria’s first workshop.

George said it quickly went from a sport to something that they embraced seriously. They continued traveling to MA to work with Maria and became excellent students and good friends. They also trained with

Oakley and other teams several times a week on a nearby PA lake, and still do. George, a Technician Manager at a Proctor and Gamble facility, said they warm up by “getting the dogs wet.” Then on to exercises including endurance swims, pulling boats, circling victims, and holding rope bumpers and lifejackets.

The Abrahams were excited to travel to Milan in March of 2020 with the hope of being SICS certified, but the pandemic cancelled that trip. To continue their training and building their all-important humancanine bond during this time, they became creative. Maria discovered charter boats with open time so they could sharpen their Level Two water rescue skills. They even utilized a FL helicopter company with few tourists to fly--they agreed to take teams out and simulate the Level 3 method. “I never thought that at 41 I’d be a certified lifeguard and jumping out of helicopters,” he laughed. Both George and Maria agreed they wouldn’t be involved with the last scenario often, if ever.

Finally in September of 2021, the couple went to Milan with Maria. They were there for three weeks, “It was absolutely amazing,” George said. Oakley passed, making her the

second “elite” certified and trained SICS dog in the US alongside Angel. “It’s changed my life,” George shared. He travels extensively educating on the Academy, and Oakley takes her abilities in stride. She recently towed a stranded 2,800-pound pontoon boat to safety.

The Academy has had good attendance at their workshops and are holding their first certifications in the spring of 2023. Maria said while they have no intention of mimicking SICS, they’re striving for the Coast Guard and other US agencies’ support by traveling to their posts to demonstrate their abilities. She’d like to hear them say, “Yep, these dogs should be on beaches and lakes [where no lifeguards are.]” And while she is pursuing this dream of training water rescue dogs, she’d prefer people follow their safety and educational tips, “It’s cool and I love it, but I never want to have to save anyone.”

The American Academy of Canine Water Rescue offers private instruction, weekend and week-long workshops, and safety demonstrations. For more information, aacademyofwaterrescue. org/.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMERICAN ACADEMY OF CANINE WATER RESCUE.

"My toddler has mastered the cello.”

This is a ridiculous statement, right? A toddler 1) doesn’t possess the required physical abilities such as coordination and dexterity; 2) hasn’t been in the world long enough to have received sufficient training; and 3) is not developmentally at a stage where she can “master” a skill like this.

On the flip side, we might expect our puppies and adult dogs to be pros at things they’ve either never been taught or have had very little practice doing. We’ve all heard a dog owner say to his dog, “you know better than that.” It’s likely the dog “knows” the behavior in other settings, but not that specific one. I’m pretty sure we’ve all been guilty of the “knows better” exclamation, but at some point, we realize it’s not the dog’s responsibility to magically learn skills; it’s our responsibility to teach them. Without trained skills, a dog will act however her doggie programming has told her to act.

Many behaviors we want don’t come naturally to our pups, and at the same time we want to suppress some of their natural but undesirable (to us) behaviors. How do we reconcile these conflicting

needs and maintain a healthy relationship?

What’s in your dog’s genes?

Recognizing what’s genetically programmed and what needs to be taught (or managed) is a good first step. Of course, each dog is an individual with her own unique genetic soup, but there are some

basic “dog cultural” characteristics which can help us discern what’s what. Once we have that figured out, we can make progress.

“Don’t Blame the Dog for Failing to Live up to Human Expectations” (Chris Bach)

Fetch is a good example of a behavior chain that contains both types of behaviors: genetic and learned. For most of our predator dogs, only the first few links in this chain come pre-programmed: chase and acquire. The links at the endreturn to human and relinquish - are learned skills. Additional criteria can be taught, such as deliver to hand or come front, but it’s doubtful that dogs would be able to reliably execute such a maneuver without intentional training.

We are the Missing Link

Our own knowledge and skillsets directly affect not only our dog, but everyone who interacts with her. There’s no shame in not knowing how to do something that we don’t know how to do. The problem is when we blame our learner for not executing a skill that we did not know how to teach her.

To summarize

Learn the skills you need to train the skills you want your dog to have. And keep learning! Positivereinforcement-based training classes, on-line or in-person, are great ways to build our training toolboxes. Also, don’t blame your dog for not

knowing what she doesn’t know.

Excerpt: “The Misunderstanding of Time,” by Nancy Tanner. “You cannot rush your skills, or your dog’s understanding of your skills. …learn how to settle in, learn that nothing will happen overnight. Learn that

repetitions, that her name is always followed by great stuff! The result is that she very reliably and joyfully comes when called. This is a skill that she learned from puppyhood.

Serving Locations In Midcoast Maine And Beyond

Kris Potter

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

by Diana Logan

Liz Fisher CPDT-KA, CSAT

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Training

Performance Dog

by Carolyn Fuhrer

Tracking – Building Confidence and Desire

Successful tracking comes from the dogs wanting to follow the scent you have indicated to them. In this case, the scent of the “start article.”

You must motivate dogs to lock on to this scent because this scent “pays” – and ignore all the other wonderful scents they may come across along the way.

You must motivate them to persevere even when the path is hard, and it is easier to go another

way. You must motivate them to keep working even when they are tired and would like to stop.

So how do you communicate this to your dog?

Some dogs find sniffing very rewarding; however, this does not mean your dog will necessarily want to follow the scent of what

you have directed him to follow. In order to create desire to follow the scent you have indicated (the start article), you must in training make the job of following the start article scent very rewarding. This is why using multiple articles on training tracks and rewarding for finding and indicating each article will teach the dog to stay on the scent you started with. I try to communicate to my dog that each article he finds is very important and will “pay” very well. I vary the value of my rewards so the dog will always keep working to find the article that will pay with high value treats. I am enthusiastic about what he finds. Just paying at articles and going on is not always enough for some dogs. Some dogs need excited input; others need sincere appreciation from the handler. This is where relationship comes in.

What does your dog need? This could change as the track progresses. This is where tracking really shows off the relationship with your dog. You must train this way with your dog, so you can encourage him through the difficult parts of the track and get him to search for that elusive scent one more time.

Even though at a test you cannot reward your dog with food at the

article, the relationship you develop through training each time your dog finds an article will carry over into test day, and you will be able to help your dog focus and go back to tracking. Spending time at the article is a good mental break for both dog and handler. It gives the handler a chance to assess what has been going on and where they are on the track, and it enables the handler through his relationship with the dog to encourage and motivate the dog to go on, or it enables the handler to calm and focus the dog on the next section of track.

What your dog needs at any particular time will depend on your dog’s personality and the difficulty of the track. When your dog finds multiple articles along the way during training, his confidence builds because he is successful and is praised for his effort. This interaction enhances the dog’s relationship with you and will build confidence and desire. Long, arduous, unrewarding tracks will not build the desire you need for a successful tracking dog. If you are struggling with focus or desire, try to put some motivation back into your tracks.

North Star Dog Training

Carolyn Fuhrer Somerville, Maine 207-691-2332 carolyn@northstardogschool.com

Classes & Private Lessons

Obedience, Agility and Tracking

Classes & Private Lessons Obedience, Agility and Tracking

Struggling? Let us help you achieve your goals. You will be amazed at how the right instruction makes all the difference in your success! Each dog/handler team is unique. We have the knowledge, experience and outstanding teaching ability to help you succeed. Call us and let’s get started!

Struggling? Let us help you achieve your goals. You will be amazed at how the right instruction makes all the difference in your success! Each dog/handler team is unique. We have the knowledge, experience and outstanding teaching ability to help you succeed. Call us and let’s get started!

Now scheduling Small custom training groups and workshops. Call for more information!

Watch for 2020 Tracking workshops with Carolyn Fuhrer, AKC Tracking Judge207-691-2332.

Don’t leave

sitting in the corner somewhere.

Have their ashes incorporated into a hand-made photographic print that literally embodies your pet.

We combine a small amount of cremains with pigment to create a one-of-a-kind piece of art. Ellsworth, Maine 207-479-6362 sales@ashestoashesprints.com www.ashestoashesprints.com

Carolyn Fuhrer has earned over 130 AKC titles with her Golden Retrievers, including 4 Champion Tracker titles. Carolyn is the owner of North Star Dog Training School in Somerville, Maine. She is also an AKC Tracking Judge. She has been teaching people to understand their dogs for over 30 years. You can contact her with questions, suggestions, and ideas for her column by e-mailing carolyn@dogsatnorthstar.com.

By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB

Calder Veterinary Behavior Services, www.caldervbs.com

When diagnosing behavior problems in pets, it is important to first look for an underlying medical condition that may be causing the behavior. Many behavior problems such as aggression, resource guarding, house-soiling, and compulsive behaviors are the result of a primary medical disease rather than a behavioral one.

Common Medical Conditions that Result in Behavior Changes

• Seizures

• Osteoarthritis

• Back and neck pain

Medical Conditions and Behavior

• Allergies (skin, food, environmental)

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease

• Cushing’s Disease

• Addison’s Disease

• Medications (prednisone, Apoquel)

• Anal gland disease

• Parasites (external and internal)

• Certain Cancer

Dogs of any age can develop behavior changes secondary to pain or other diseases although older dogs are more commonly affected. When an underlying medical condition results in a behavior change, that change may come on suddenly or a stable behavior worsens. Warning signs for aggression may also disappear.

With any change in behavior, a

physical exam by your veterinarian should be priority number one. Often bloodwork and other diagnostics, such as radiographs, are needed to find the cause. A complete neurological and orthopedic exam will give more information about the overall health of your dog, but many dogs hide pain. Videos of your dog doing normal things throughout the day such as lying down, walking, or rising from a resting position can supply more insight in to how your dog feels on a “day to day” basis.

Treatment will vary based on the cause for the behavior; however, once the medical condition is treated, behaviors often get better or resolve completely.

BEST of the BEST

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNERS AND THANK YOU TO OUR READERS FOR VOTING!

Best Vet Practice

Androscoggin Animal Hospital

Best Groomer Best Trainer

Coastal Creations Pet Salon

The Androscoggin Animal Hospital (AAH) is located on Foreside Road in Topsham, Maine. AAH has been certified by the American Animal Hospital Association since 2003 and has consistently exceeded the guidelines for certification. We employ an amazing team of 8 Veterinarians and 28 dedicated support staff. The hospital is committed to providing an exceptional experience that is compassionate, professional, and affordable. We use the latest technology (including a therapeutic and surgical laser, ultrasound, in house diagnostic equipment, and digital radiography) to provide complete surgical, dental, and medical care. We love supporting the community that has graciously continued to support us. We want to thank our dedicated clients, patients, friends, and the community for choosing us as ‘Best of the Best’ Veterinary Hospital in Downeast Dog News.

Elsebeth DeBiase, is an award-winning IPG Certified Master Groomer with 21 years of experience in the pet industry. As a graduate of the University of Maine Department of Animal Sciences, she has an understanding of the animal industry that encompasses farm, veterinary, and pet industries alike. In 2011, Elsebeth opened Coastal Creations Pet Salon with the goal of providing individualized services to her four-legged clients while utilizing stateof-the-art equipment, compassionate handling methods, and modern styling techniques. Her specialties include small dogs, cats, and disabled and senior pets. Elsebeth is Fear Free and Low-Stress Handling Certified. She recently completed the Canine Arthritis Management (CAM) training for pet professionals to help raise awareness of the symptoms and prevalence of canine osteoarthritis. As a CAMadvocate, Elsebeth hopes to improve the grooming experience for owners and pets. It is an honor to receive Best of the Best Groomer 2016, 2019- 2022. Thank you!

Sara Sokol is owner at Mr. Dog Training; a positive reinforcement-based training center with a 2000 square foot facility located in West Bath Maine and has been voted BEST dog trainer in the state of Maine by Downeast Dog News readers for EIGHT years in a row now! Sara feels that the key to any good relationship, including the one between a person and their dog, is clear communication. Her training style is to teach people how their dogs learn and how to set their dogs up to make “good” choices and then reinforce those choices. In addition, Sara believes that training should be fun, for both humans and dogs, and takes pride in being able to make the classroom an enjoyable and safe place to learn. She is grateful to have a job that allows her to work closely with the community and one that helps her strengthen the human/animal bond.

Best Daycare/Boarding

A1K9 Academy

Best Rescue/Shelter

Best Pet-Friendly Lodging

Little White Dog Properties

Best Pet ProductBest Pet Store

Loyal Biscuit, Rockland

L oyal Biscuit Co. is a nationally award-winning pet supply store owned by Joel and Heidi Neal. Purchased in January 2010, LBC is an independent dog and cat supply boutique with six great locations - Rockland, Camden, Belfast, Waterville, Brewer, and Bath. We are your destination for the best in healthy food and treats, toys, collars, beds, and more with over 4,000 hand selected items, plus we have access to over 25,000 more products we can special order! We love dogs and cats, and our pets mean the world to us, so we understand how much your pets mean to you! We are educating ourselves and our team every day on nutrition, treats, toys, and more to help you provide the best for your dogs and cats. We are here to provide the absolute best for your four-legged friends!

Tealight Studios started from Selina's lifelong love of dogs. Being a self-taught artist since she was young, she wanted to try something different—a craft that still utilized her creativity but centered around something she loves. As a frequent wearer of hair bows, she thought, "Why not dogs too?". We express ourselves through the clothing we wear, and in companionship, we can strengthen the bond between a person and their loving dog. Selina began making bows in 2018 and a year later with the help of her mom, she was able to expand her product line to include bandanas as well. Now they are a mother-daughter team that share their love of tea and crafting! Tealight Studios offers a wide range of unique and specially curated designs so there’s something for every pet’s personality. You can find Tealight Studios in stores throughout New England and online at tealightstudios.etsy.com

Best Pet Photographer Best Pet-Friendly Campground

Beginning out of our basement in 2018, A1K9 Academy has grown into the engaging dog daycare we are today! We take pride in differentiating ourselves by incorporating structure and training throughout our days. With a true interest and passion for dog behavior, we love to watch dogs learn, grow, and truly become a part of our pack. We have built a strong A1K9 community and social media following because we love engaging with the owners and dog lovers just like us! We believe that dog education with our clients and followers is important and love being your local dog resource.

We are proud to not only offer daycare but attentive overnight boarding and Basic to Advanced Off Leash training. We take a very personalized approach in everything we do and treat our clients and dogs like they are our family. Over at A1K9 Academy, we believe in great experiences only!

Pope Memorial Humane Society was founded in 1989 in response to the needs of homeless animals – their protection, care, and adoption. With support from many animal lovers and a substantial mortgage, our founders purchased the land between Dexter Street Extension and Buttermilk Lane in Thomaston, Maine, built the shelter, and opened it to the public in November 1991. From these humble beginnings in 1989 to the 10,000-squarefoot facility built in 2015, over 30,000 animals have been lovingly tended, rehabilitated, and adopted. The mission of Pope Memorial Humane Society is to ensure the compassionate care, treatment, and placement of companion animals in transition and enrich the lives of pets and people in our community. To learn more about Pope Memorial Humane Society, please visit www.popehumane.org.

Hello, I’m Sara Sokol. My Husband Mike McKerns and I are Little White Dog Properties LLC. Our pet friendly vacation rental property, Wiggleswick Cottage, sits on 2.5 acres and 75 feet of deep waterfront shoreline in beautiful Georgetown Maine and have been voted BEST Pet Friendly Lodging for the past TWO years! It was important to us to create a beautiful, comfortable, and clean vacation home where people are welcome to vacation with their dogs since I believe that life is always better with a dog by your side. We take pride in never charging a pet fee, welcoming multiple dogs of all sizes, breeds, and ages, as well as providing numerous amenities just for dogs. In addition, we prioritize outstanding customer service, and strive to give our guests, both two and four legged, a vacation experience that they won’t forget; from the moment they book, through checkout, and return trips. Come stay with us!

Gina Soule is an international award winning pet photographer based in gorgeous Portland, ME. She has mastered the art of utilizing natural light and photographing animals of all personalities, resulting in images that are technically perfect, and simply gorgeous.

Gina travels throughout Maine, New England, and the USA to capture these once in a lifetime images for her clients. As a two-time Grand Imaging Award Nominee and two-time Pet Photographer of the Year, clients can rest assured that Gina will bring their photographic vision to life, creating treasured memories to last a lifetime. For more info. or to inquire, please email ginasoulephoto@gmail.com or visit www.ginasoulephoto.com.

Hadley's

Hadley’s Point Campground is situated on the northern most point of Mt. Desert Island just minutes from Acadia National Park and downtown Bar Harbor. Hadley’s Point offers tent sites, full hookups for campers, as well as cabins. Facilities include a heated pool, Wi-Fi, modern bathrooms, laundry, Island Explorer Shuttle Bus, a camp store and more. Well-behaved pets are welcome with a few simple requirements. Visit hadleyspoint.com for more information and in Dec. to see improvement and updates that will made for the 2023 season.

Pope Memorial Humane Society

Sara Sokol, Mr. Dog Training

Tealight Studios

Gina Soule, Gina Soule Photo

Hadley's Point Campground

Eye Drops, the Premack Principle, & Stationing on the Stairs

L ast month I emphasized the benefits of continuing to train your dog after you have taught them the basics [ FMI – https://bit.ly/ WhenCanIStopTrainingMyDog ].

My continued training with Muppy helped me quickly address a new behavioral challenge related to her health.

Last spring Muppy was seen by an eye specialist and was prescribed eye drops that she requires every morning. Dr. Blackwood explained that one of the drops might sting and could cause Muppy to be less than cooperative. On day two, Muppy started hiding to avoid her drops. Since this would be a daily event, probably for the rest of herlife, I was very concerned about how it could damage our bond.

If you go back to your childhood, you probably remember your mom telling you that you won't get dessert if you don't clean up your plate. I remember an uncle who was going to take me fishing, telling me that I had to eat my bread crust before we could go down to the boat. Adults even use this tactic in their personal and business lives. When doing so, we are using a promise of a more

cooked spinach. It works! We do this because it works! This behavior modification technique is called the Premack Principle. [ FMI - https:// www.simplypsychology.org/ premack-principle.html ]

incorporated the administration of Muppy’s eye drops into her morning routine. Each step follows the other.

• Go outside for her morning bathroom break

• Administer the eye drops.

• Breakfast!

I first started administering the eye drops in the kitchen close to the counter where I do Muppy’s food prep. She was on the floor, necessitating my bending over, something dogs find confrontational, and my back did not appreciate it either. Muppy also quickly learned that she could wiggle around the kitchen floor, making the process frustrating for both of us. She was getting her drops and breakfast, but it was still something she tried to avoid.

My first step was to find a highly reinforcing behavior for Muppy that could be the reward for allowing me to administer her eye drops. One of Muppy’s greatest joys is mealtime. So, this is how I

Then one day, I noticed something interesting. There was an intermediate step between coming in from outdoors and going into the kitchen to administer the drops. Muppy reliably defecates almost every morning. That means I return to the house with a full poop bag I need to take out to

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.

Daycare & Grooming Mon – Fri 7am – 6pm

Boarding - Saturday & Sunday 8-9am & 5-6pm 228 Lewiston Rd., Gray (207)657-6624

Pamperedpoochmaine.com

Professionally trained staff & certified groomers!

Would you like to know what your pet is thinking?

Anne gives animals (present or past) the opportunity to answer your questions through intuitive connection. A reading can help lower your anxiety around an animal who may be passing, or the behavior of your present pet. Readings are done via Zoom or by phone.

anne@annemerrill-intuitive.com

To book a reading: AnneMerrill-Intuitive.com

BARK HARBOR

Everything your pet needs: food, toys, treats, clothing, care items, collars Open Daily 10AM to Close I 150 Main St. #3, Bar Harbor (207)288-0404 I barkharbor.com

ASHES TO ASHES

Crematory

Personalized Care — Service with Diginity

See why we have customers drive to us statewide!

Wide selection of rememberance jewelry and urns for pets or loved ones Direct pickup from your vet or home. ($1 per mile)

See why we have customers drive to us statewide! Wide selection of rememberance jewelry and urns for pets or loved ones Direct pickup from your vet or home.

Private and Semi-Private Cremation options available. Please call for details.

Private Cremation $90 plus $1 per lb

Semi-Private Cremation $45 plus $1 per lb Open 7 Days, 7am-7pm

Available by appointment

Emergency Services Available 340 Howland Road, LaGrange 943-6474 • 943-3983 www.ashestoashespetcrematory.com

Emergency Services Available

by Don Hanson ACCBC, BFRAP, CDBC, CPDT-KA

photo credit: debra bell

WORDS, WOOFS & MEOWS

Don & Muppy Snuggling on the Stairs After "Drippy Drops", photo by Debra Bell

Anne Merrill-Intuitive

Maine Pet Pantries

If you find yourself struggling to feed your pets, there are people out there that can help you! The following is a list of some of the pet food pantries available in Maine. Each pantry may provide different products and/or services. We try keep our list updated but please check with the individual pantries for more info. and to confirm their hours/requirements.

AniMeals for Seniors

Spectrum Generations runs an AniMeals program in conjunction with the Meals on Wheels program for seniors. Belfast, Camden, Brunswick, Muskie Center in Waterville, Skowhegan, Hallowell and Damariscotta. https:// www.spectrumgenerations.org/ nutrition-services/animeals

Dogwill

We work with Food Banks in Bath, Richmond, Bowdoinham, Whitefield, and Jefferson. Our contact info is: 207-522-1018 by text, Facebook messaging from the Dogwill page or email: dogwillinc@gmail.com

No Bowl Empty 2 Pet Food Pantry

238 Old Alfred Rd., E. Waterboro 207-233-2793

1st & 3rd Sun., 1pm - 3pm, 1st Thurs., 6pm - 8pm (April - October only), 2nd & 4th Wed., 3pm - 5pm Serves residents of Cumberland, York & Androscoggin Counties

Remote pantry at Pine Tree Estates in Standish 207-642-2900. Limited pet food at Youth Full Maine Food Distributions every Thurs in Dayton and 3rd. Wed. in Biddeford. Mobile distributions in Auburn & Norway in planning stages. nobowlempty@outlook.com

Pittie Posse Rescue’s No Bowl

Empty Pet Pantry

Serving residents of Cumberland, York and Androscoggin Counties. Visit Facebook page for distribution dates and locations www.facebook. com/pittiepossespetpantry. 207-619-0027, pittiepossepetpantry@gmail.com

ANDROSCOGGIN COUNTY

Greater Androscoggin Humane Society 55 Strawberry Ave, Lewiston 207-783-2311

Every Tuesday, 9 – 11am

Kommunity Kritters

Moving to 550 Lisbon St., Lewiston (contact prior to confirm location) 207-577-7942 Mon., Tues., Thurs. & Fri., 10am – 12:30pm & 1:30 – 5pm, Sat., 9am – 3pm

AROOSTOOK COUNTY

Hollywood Pet Salon 70 Main St., Houlton 207-532-7387

Call ahead for assistance.

Houlton Humane Society 263 Callaghan Road, Houlton 207-532-2862

Tues – Fri, 11am – 4pm

Call ahead for pet pantry assistance.

CUMBERLAND COUNTY

Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland 217 Landing Road, Westbrook 207-854-9771

Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday, 3pm – 5pm

Please complete the online registration and order forms.

Animal Rescue Unit 73 Middle Ridge Road, No. Bridgton 207-939-7852

Mon. – Fri., 9am – 3pm

Camp Bow Wow 49 Blueberry Road, Portland 207-541-9247

M-F: 7am – 7pm Sat. & Sun., 7:30 – 10am & 3:30 – 6:30 pm

Call to check supply levels.

Midcoast Humane 5 Industrial Parkway, Brunswick 207-449-1366 x206

Tues. & Thurs. – Sun., 11am – 3pm

Call to check supply levels.

HANCOCK COUNTY

MDI Pet Food Pantry Bar Harbor Food Pantry 36 Mount Desert St. (behind YMCA) 207-288-3375

Tues. & Wed., 9am – 2pm Thurs. 12pm – 6pm

Must call to order in advance

Hardy’s Friends

Non-profit organization, helps pet owners in need in the towns of Gouldsboro and Winter Harbor. FMI: susanburke58@hardys friends.com or 207-963-7444

SPCA Hancock County 141 Bar Harbor Rd., Trenton 207-667-8088

Currently open to the public by appointment only.

KENNEBEC COUNTY

Amy Buxton Pet Pantry South Parish UCC 9 Church St, Augusta 207-622-0552

2nd and 4th Sat. of ea. month. 9 – 10am

If urgent need check with Pastor Richards on Tuesdays or Wednesdays as well.

KNOX COUNTY

PAWS Animal Adoption 123 John St., Camden 207-236-8702

Pick-up once/month by appointment.

Pope Memorial Humane Society 25 Buttermilk Ln., Thomaston 207-594-2200

Call ahead for pet food/litter assistance.

Lincoln County

Action for Animals Maine (for Lincoln County residents) Boothbay Harbor 207-350-1312

Boothbay Region Food Pantry Congregational Church Eastern Ave., Boothbay Harbor 207-350-2962

Fridays, 11am – 1pm

Jefferson Food Pantry

St Giles’ Episcopal Church 72 Gardiner Rd., Jefferson 207-315-1134

2nd and 4th Wed. 4 – 5:30 pm

Midcoast Humane 27 Atlantic Highway, Edgecomb 207-449-1366 x206

Any day, 9am– 3:30pm Call to check supply levels.

PENOBSCOT COUNTY

Bangor Humane Society 693 Mt. Hope Ave., Bangor 207-942-8902

Mon. – Fri., 12pm – 6pm Call to check supply levels.

Furry Friends Food Bank

Available through the Eastern Area Agency on Aging in Washington, Penobscot, Hancock and Piscataquis Counties. Services for low income seniors and their companion animals. People must be enrolled with EAAA. Call 207-941-2865 or 800-432-7812.

WALDO C OUNTY

Waldo County Pet Food Panty VFW Post 3108

34 Field Street, Belfast 207-322-3237

1st Wed., 12:30pm – 1:30pm

3rd Sat., 12:30pm – 1:30pm

YORK COUNTY

The Corner Cupboard

Sanford Unitarian Universalist Church

5 Lebanon St., Sanford 207-324-3191

3rd Sat., 10am – 2pm

Limited pet food & supplies.

November 29th is GivingTuesday!

GivingTuesday was started in 2012 as a day that encourages people to do good and has grown into an annual global movement. There are many ways to give: whether it is a donation of money, food or other needed items, helping a neighbor or an organization that is special to you or just sharing kindness, we all have something to contribute.

You

Rescue of the Month

RESCUE OF THE MONTH: PITTIE POSSE RESCUE Rescuing Neglected Bully Breeds

By Susan Spisak

To sum up the 501(c)3’s Pittie Posse Rescue (PP) mission in four words, it’s rescue, train, adopt, and educate. Yet it goes far beyond that, and the main word that speaks to PP is missing— that’s heart. Case in point is their little rescue, Hiccup. Britt Bolnick, co-founder of the nonprofit with her husband, Todd Sullivan, said when they saw his gut-wrenching picture from their southern partner, PP’s GA Angel Team grabbed the puppy from the shelter and got him to a vet, so he had a chance to survive.

A definitive victim of neglect with skin so horrific, first thoughts were that Hiccup had been burned. Britt admitted this sweetheart they’re smitten with looked so strange initially, he appeared to be part sea creature and part dog. Turns out he had one of the worst cases of demodex mange—a skin disease

characterized by severe itching, hair loss, and scabs—and Hiccup’s body was covered with open, weeping sores. This led to such a terrible secondary skin infection he almost became Septic and died. Despite the pain, this American Bully and English/ French Bulldog mix remained the most loveable guy.

“He is an absolute medical monstrosity of a case,” said Britt. Their several trusted vet partners including Maine Veterinary Medical Center and Westside Animal Hospital had to diagnose and treat countless issues including abnormal blood levels, muscle irregularities with biopsies, liver and kidney problems requiring panels and ultrasounds, nasal discharge, and extraordinarily dry eyes—an inward turning of both eyelids. This is a glimpse of his medical

antibiotics. He developed pneumonia and was hospitalized with oxygen therapy. The poor guy’s skin infection stopped responding to antibiotics— it proved to be very resistant, and symptoms showed the bacteria was attacking his spine. His team of doctors put him on a heavy-duty antibiotic which got everything under control initially, but it soon became apparent it was too much for him, and his skin infection became resistant. Currently, he is clinically better, and his team is again re-working a treatment game plan. It’s estimated he’ll remain on antibiotics for at least a year to ensure all infections are resolved.

Britt said they’re fortunate that they have a strong Facebook following who answers their pleas for medical funds. This little munchkin is not available for adoption—their goal is to get him healthy first. For more on Hiccup and to donate, facebook. com/page/1851370028464475/

search/?q=hiccup.

PP’s heart is apparent in their rescue stories. A classic example is Ruger. His family couldn’t raise the money for a necessary surgery in time, so they relinquished him to PP to save his life. PP fundraised quickly and Ruger had the surgery. Britt talked to the owners, and it was clear they were good, loving folks who had been devastated to let their pet go. PP paid the vet bill and gladly returned Ruger to his family. The owner’s boss was so impressed with PP’s kindness, he held a fundraiser/party for them.

Britt mentioned two girls they’ve had within their rescue for a few years, Mocha and Inu. She’d like to find them their perfect homes. Please see below for info on them. For more on PP and foster and adoption criteria, pittieposserescue.com/adopt/.

A Good Samaritan called PP about a dog in New Hampshire who was an outdoor dog, despite harsh winters. The family’s children threw rocks at the dog. Worried the dog would freeze, Britt rushed to rescue the dog now named Mocha. She's a sweet 7-year-old lady and weighs in at a trim 60 lbs. This girl is just amazing! She has quite the repertoire of tricks and commands and loves to please. Check her out on our Youtube page!! (youtube.com/shorts/5CZzREOfUQs) She’s been with them three years waiting for her best match and forever home.

Help us find a forever home!

jenn@downeastdognews.com

Dogs for Adoption

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 gray below each dog.

BART 6 years old, Cattle Dog Mix

Bart is lovable, sweet and quirky. He is friendly, well behaved, walks nicely on leash but needs to consent to being touched. Bart should be in an adult only home. He has lived with cats but would be best suited as an only dog.

FMI: harvesthills.org

Sponsored by: Wiscasset (207)882-6128, redseatsmaine.com

SADIE 7 years old, Cur Mix

Sadie is active and great with kids. She would do best living as an only dog.

FMI: luckypuprescue.org

Sponsored by:Kompletely K-9 Dog Training and Rehab. 248 Choate Rd., Montville, (207)322-5111, kompletelyk9.com

DIEGO

5 years old, American Pit Bull/ Mixed Breed

Diego loves people, food, and toys! That's a pretty great combination. This handsome guy is ready for a home that will shower him with love and toys, lots of toys! Get it? Diego likes toys!

FMI: popehumane.org

Sponsored by: Green Tree Coffee & Tea 2456 Atlantic Hwy., Lincolnville, (207)706-7908, greentreecoffee.com

ANA 8 years old, Pitbull Terrier Mix

Ana would love to give snuggles and tons of love to a new family. She is sightimpaired, so will need people who can help her with that. She would like to be the only pet in a home with all adults or kids over 13.

FMI: olddogsnewdigs.com

Sponsored by: Bagel Café 25 Mechanic St., Camden, (207)236-2661, bagelcafemaine.com

SHERMAN

5 years old, American Pitbull Sherman is friendly, silly, wiggly and ready to cuddle. He loves people, low-key walks and relaxing in the sun. He would do best as the only pet in the home.

FMI: harvesthills.org

Sponsored by: (207)882-6128, redseatsmaine.com

TOBIAS

2 years old, Pitbull Terrier Mix

Tobias loves going on walks. He would like an active, adult only home where he can learn obedience. I have a strong prey drive so a home with no small pets is best.

FMI: pethavenlane.org

Sponsored by: Camden, Rockland, Belfast, Augusta, (207) 236-3689, greenenvysalon.com

ROXI

9 years old, Cattle Dog/Chow Chow

Roxi is a senior gal looking for a peaceful retirement home. Low-key, maybe one or two people, quiet, loving, that sounds perfect to Roxi! Oh, and treats, lots of treats.

FMI: popehumane.org

Sponsorship courtesy of Lyman Pope Jr.

TOBY

1 year old, Cur

Toby is sweet, handsome and loyal. She would do well with a dog friend in his new home.

FMI: fetchinghope.com/adopt

Sponsored by: (207)989-6300, masonsbrewingcompany.com

PENNY

3 years old, Husky/Herding Dog Mix

Penny is sweet and housetrained. She would do best in an adult only home

FMI: luckypuprescue.org

Sponsored by: (207)882-6128, redseatsmaine.com

Pitbull Terrier Mix

Beryl is sweet and obedient. She enjoys lounging on the couch, riding in the car and walks on a leash. She needs to be the only pet in the

FMI: pethavenlane.org

Sponsored by: 18 Branches from Wiscasset to Calais, 1-800-564-3195, thefirst.com

TANZI 6.5 years old, Boxer Mix

Tanzi is friendly and outgoing. She ignores other dogs on walks, but doesn’t really want to live with another dog or cats. She could likely live with kids who are old enough to be respectful.

FMI: olddogsnewdigs.com

LAYLA 8 months old, Labrador Retriever

Layla is a happy, happy girl. She even prances when she walks. She loves to cuddle and play with toys and other dogs.

FMI: fetchinghope.com/adopt

Water Bark Wellness 4 Commercial St., Rockport, (207)230-8455, waterbarkwellness.com

November C lendar

These events are currently scheduled as of our production date however please check with the event organizers to ensure they are still taking place on these dates.

AKC TEMPERAMENT TEST

Saturday, November 5

Somerville, 9AM & 1PM

On Track Agility Club of Maine will administer two AKC Temperament tests on Saturday, November 5th at North Star Dog Training School, 252 Jones Rd., Somerville. One test will be held at 9AM and the other test at 1PM. Tests will be administered by two AKC evaluators. A dog passing both tests will earn the AKC ATT Title and a ribbon. ATT Tests are open to all purebred and mixed breed dogs. Dogs must be at least one year old. FMI call Kathy at (207)691-2332 or e-mail kduhnoski@myfairpoint.net

NAIL TRIMMING CLINIC

Saturday, November 5

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 from Catahoula Rescue of New England will be on hand to make your fur kids look their very best! We trim not only dogs, but cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, you name it! Nail Trimmings and Ear Cleanings are $10.00 each or a combo price of $12.00 for both. All funds raised go directly to the rescue.

PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP

Saturday, November 12 Online Via Zoom, 12PM

Monthly free Pet Loss Support groups hosted by Patricia Lee Rode, MA for Pope Memorial Humane Society. All are Welcome. To sign up email Patricia: patricialeerodeone@gmail.com

RABIES VACCINATION CLINIC Saturday, November 12

Rockland, 10AM – 12PM Clinic will be held at Pet Quarters in Rockland, ME 235 Camden, St. Cost: $10 per pet (cash, check or credit card accepted). For everyone’s safety, please ensure dogs are leashed and cats are in a carrier. Bring proof of prior Rabies vaccination. Funds raised Support Catahoula Rescue of New England a 501(c)3 Dog Rescue. For questions please call (207)273-1320.

PARTY FOR THE PUPS

Saturday, November 12

Old Orchard Beach, 7PM – 10PM

Party for the Pups benefits Almost Home Rescue and will be held at Dunegrass Golf Club. There will be a silent auction, music and dancing, 50/50 raffle, appetizers, desserts and a cash bar. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for ages 13-18. Visit: almosthomerescue.net

AKC TD AND TDU TRACKING TESTS

Sunday, November 13 Augusta, 9:30AM

On Track Agility Club of Maine will host two AKC Tracking Tests at Viles Arboretum in Augusta. These two tracking tests will be held for handlers and their dogs working to achieve the AKC Tracking Dog (TD) title and the AKC Tracking Dog Urban (TDU) title.

Interested In the exciting sport of tracking? Come and watch and cheer on the teams as they track human scent over vegetated and non-vegetated surfaces. FMI: Call Kathy at (207)691-2332 or e-mail kduhnoski@ myfairpoint.net

TOENAIL TUESDAY

Tuesday, November 15 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 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 Trimmings and Ear Cleanings are available for $10.00 each or combo price of $12.00 for both. All funds raised go directly to rescue.

TRACKING WORKSHOP Saturday, November 19 Cumberland, 9AM - 3PM On Track Agility Club of Maine will host a tracking workshop with AKC Tracking Judge Carolyn Fuhrer. Suitable for all levels from beginners to those who have advanced tracking titles. You will leave this workshop with the tools you need to enhance your relationship with your dog in order to have success in tracking. $175 dog/handler teams; $50 to audit. (Rain date Sunday, November 20) FMI: Call Kathy at (207)691-2332 or e-mail kduhnoski@myfairpoint.net

NAIL TRIMMING CLINIC Sunday, November 20 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 from Catahoula Rescue of New England will be on hand to make your fur kids look their very best! We trim not only

dogs, but cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, you name it! Nail Trimmings and Ear Cleanings are $10.00 each or a combo price of $12.00 for both. All funds raised go directly to the rescue.

PAWS AUCTION FOR THE ANIMALS

November 25 – December 11 Online

Proceeds will benefit PAWS Adoption Center. Hundreds of items from local businesses will be up for bid online and will include bidding packages for both large and small budgets. From a 2-night stay in an Executive Suite overlooking the harbor to a gift card to your loved one’s favorite local store, the PAWS online Auction for the Animals has something for everyone. FMI: https:// www.pawsadoption.org/auction-for-theanimals

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS CRAFT SHOW

Saturday, November 26 Rockland, 9AM – 3PM Craft show at the Rockland Elks Club to benefit Pope Memorial Human Society. A suggested $2 donation is asked for at the door as a donation to Pope Memorial Humane Society. Over 40 local artisans, crafters, and artists. FMI: popehumane.org

TINSEL & TAILS HOLIDAY GALA & SILENT AUCTION

Thursday, December 1 Camden, 5:30PM

Join PAWS at 16 Bay View Camden for an evening of holiday fun to celebrate with friends. This year’s event offers complimentary wine, heavy appetizers from Chef Andrea of 16 Bay View, music, PAWS celebration, and a silent auction with items exclusive to this event.

Tickets are $100 and limited to just 75 individuals, so be sure to purchase them before they sell out. pawsadoption.org

To submit or get more information on the events below, go online to downeastdognews.com

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Thank you to last month’s sponsors in our Adopt-A-Dog issue!

Thanks to you we were able to include additional dog profiles and donate to four of the rescues! We put the rescues’ names into a drawing and this year’s recipients were Catahoula Rescue of New England (Warren), Grammy Rose Dog Rescue and Sanctuary (Acton), Harvest Hills Animal Shelter (Fryeburg) and Responsible Pet Care (So. Paris)!

Sponsors: Acadia Antlers • All 4 Paws Wellness, Portland • Androscoggin Animal Hospital, Topsham • The Bagel Café, Camden • Blue Hill Co-op, Blue Hill Coastside Bio Resources, Deer Isle • First National Bank, 17 branches Wiscasset to Calais • Green Tree Coffee & Tea, Lincolnville Green with Envy Salon, Camden, Rockland, Belfast, Augusta • Haggett Hill Kennels, Edgecomb • Inn by the Sea, Cape Elizabeth Kompletely K-9 Dog Training & Rehabilitation, Montville • Loyal Biscuit, Bangor-Brewer, Rockland, Camden-Rockport, Belfast, & Waterville Mason’s Brewing Company, Brewer • Paris Farmers Union, 8 ME locations & North Conway, NH • Puppies Pause Training, Augusta Red’s Eats & Deborah Gagnon, Wiscasset • Ridge Runner Veterinary Services, Winterport • Rising Tide Co-op, Damariscotta • Water Bark Wellness, Rockport

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Rescue of the Month.

the poop receptacle. The door I go out is next to the stairs leading to the second floor. While I went out, Muppy would typically sit on the third step up from the floor and wait for me before we both went into the kitchen. That triggered an idea.

Trainers in zoos and other places with large captive animals train the animals in their care to “station” so they can perform necessary medical procedures. I saw this in action while attending an advanced animal training class at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. For example, Beluga Whales are trained to swim and remain on station in front of a target. At the same time, a veterinary technician draws blood

from a flipper. At the end of the procedure, the whale was rewarded with a fish. So, I decided to use the third step on the stairs as a station for Muppy’s eye drops.

This behavior now has a cue,” Drippy Drops,” which I give to Muppy as I get rid of the poop bag. She sits on the step and waits until I’m back, about 3-seconds later. I have prepositioned the bottles of eye drops on another step, and Muppy is sitting on the third step waiting for me. Since she is on the steps, she is less likely to squirm, and it’s easier for me to administer the drops quickly. Also, I do not need to bend as much because she’s elevated on the third step while I am standing on the floor.

“Drippy Drops” has become a routine behavior for us. I often do

not need to give the verbal cue as Muppy automatically hops up on the third step, stations herself, and waits. She has learned that the drops mean she will get the meal she craves.

As our pets age, many may require medications regularly. Sometimes the medicine is a yummy treat, and our pets consume it without hesitation. However, as in Muppy’s case, her drops cause a little sting. The routine I’ve outlined here can be modified for several such situations. If you need help turning your pet's medication into a positive experience, seek assistance from a qualified trainer. [ FMIhttps://bit.ly/DogTrainerChoosing ]

Moore.

Sara Moore

for People & Pets

WORDS from

Don giving Muppy her "Drippy Drops", photo by Debra Bell