2022 October Downeast Dog News

PARTY

-Toddy Brook Golf Club925 Sligo Road, North Yarmouth, ME SATURDAY, October 22, 2022

6 PM – 9 PM

Come support senior pups at our annual Pack Party with presentation by animal/human psychic Sara Moore, Downeast Dog News columnist, live music with Laikatheband, special appearance by Lauren Kennedy, End of Life Pet Photographer, food, silent auction, awesome Finally Home Swag and more!!

Proceeds To Benefit: FINALLY HOME SENIOR DOG RESCUE AND RETIREMENT HOME North Yarmouth

CALL 207-829-3943 TO RESERVE TICKETS NOW! $40/Person ~ $70/Couple

Lilac and Blue

Lilac and Blue have been there for each other since they were pups. They were happy with their first owner for 6 years unti housing issues landed them - and their 3 puppies- at the shelter in February. Their puppies have gone on to new homes.

Lilac is the sweetest dog you’ll ever meet. She LOVES to cuddle and she is so very special. She and Blue and the kids lived a prett y sheltered life. They stayed in their comfort zones and Lilac gets timid when she’s in a new place or new situation. A little coaxing, soft talk and maybe some treats will help her feel more at ease as does Blue’s company.

Blue is dashing, spunky, funny, loving and definitely has his own ideas of things he likes to do. He will spontaneously break into the zoomies in the play yard and it’s the cutest thing. He’s strong and adorable and you’d never know he’s 7 when you see him running around and around. He’s braver than Lilac and helps her feel more secure.

These two dogs have lost everything they ever loved, let’s please let them stay together and get out of the shelter into a loving home.

Lilac and Blue need to be the only dogs in the home. They are not reactive to other dogs when out walking, but they can’t live with other dogs. They have ignored cats when cat tested, and they have previously lived with farm animals.

Lilac is now showing signs of stress and has been losing weight. We have had her on special diets and medications to help her but she continues to deteriorate. She’s a happy girl when outside of the shelter, but that goes away when she returns. For this reason, if we can’t find them a home together, we would consider splitting them up. Lilac desperately needs out of the shelter.

What is our dream for Lilac and Blue?

A quiet, stress-free home, ideally with a fenced in yard. A retired couple, a couple with no young children, or a person who wants to give these dogs their happily ever after!

We are open to a foster or adopter.

If you’d like to learn more about Lilac and Blue, email Responsible Pet Care at rpccanineadoption@yahoo.com or call 743-8679 and ask for Pat.

Sponsored by:

Heartwarming Rescue Success Stories

By Susan Spisak

Downeast Dog News applauds Maine-based shelters, humane societies, and rescue groups who continued to work hard during recent difficult years, placing companion animals in great homes. (For more on the adversity these important groups face, page 7.) Since October is National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, what better time to share their happy, feel-good stories?

Kasey Bielecki, Marketing and Public Relations Manager for Pope Memorial Humane Society in Thomaston said she immediately thought of the four Hound puppies they took in who were malnourished and extremely sick. “The PMHS staff honestly wasn't sure if they were all going to make it. Fortunately, each puppy was welcomed with open arms into loving foster homes where they gained weight, were treated for a variety of maladies, and are now all thriving.”

See HEARTWARMING on page 5

Local Pet Photographer Again Named Bangor’s

Debra Bell, owner of Bell’s Furry Friends

Photography located at 890 Coldbrook Road in Hermon, was named Bangor’s Best Pet Photographer by Market Surveys of America for the ninth year in a row.

“As a pet photographer my job is to capture the relationships of pets and their people,” Bell said. “In return it’s always rewarding to see the connection between my business and the community. This award is especially meaningful because the people who I work with and have impacted are the ones who voted.”

Market Surveys of America is a survey company that is independent of newspaper or magazine publications. Their annual “Best of the Best” winners are determined by tallied public ballots for a particular region and taken online through their website (bestofsurveys.com).

Bell’s Furry Friends Photography is a division of Bell Imaging & Design LLC. It has been operating since 2013. Before 2013, Bell offered pet photography at Bell Imaging & Design LLC. The business offers photography sessions for people and their pets throughout Maine at their homes or businesses.

“It’s important to give back to the community and I do this by being present at events where there are pets, by supporting shelters and rescues and their important work and by being an active member of the community,” Bell said. “We are all part of something bigger and have a duty to do more than just business as normal. We must make a difference. I happen to use my camera to do that.”

She is also a member of several organizations dedicated to enhancing the bonds of people and pets, including the Pet Professional Guild, HeARTs Speak and the Shock Free Coalition of Maine. Bell is also a member of the Professional Photographers of America, the International Society of Animal Photographers and the Paul Bunyan chapter of Business Networking International.

Information on Bell’s Furry Friends Photography’s 13th annual pet photo events in October for Furry Friends Food Bank will be coming out soon.

For more information visit bffpetphotos.com, follow her on Facebook.com/ BellsFurryFriends or on Instagram.com/BFFPetPhotos.

Maine Pet

Maine

Maine Shelters Welcomed 100 Beagles as Part of National Placement Efforts of Approximately 4,000 Beagles Removed From the Envigo Facility in Cumberland, Virginia

Nine animal welfare organizations across the state collaborated with the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) to receive approximately 100 beagles to Maine as part of the historic removal of beagles from a massbreeding facility in Virginia. This flight to Maine marked the final transfer of the last remaining beagles from the facility to animal shelter partners for adoption.

Organizations that participated in this partnership included Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland (Westbrook), Animal Welfare Society (Kennebunk), Franklin County Humane Society (Farmington), Greater Androscoggin Humane Society (Lewiston), Kennebec Valley Humane Society (Augusta), PAWS Animal Adoption Center (Camden), Pope Memorial Humane Society (Thomaston), Responsible Pet Care of Oxford Hills (South Paris), and Tall Tails Beagle Rescue (Mechanic Falls).

The Humane Society of the United States coordinated the removal of approximately 4,000 beagles

housed at an Envigo RMS LLC facility in Cumberland, VA which bred dogs to be sold to laboratories for animal experimentation.

“It takes a massive network of compassionate, expert shelters and rescues to make an operation of this scale possible,” said Lindsay Hamrick, shelter outreach and engagement director for the Humane Society of the United States. “We are deeply grateful to each organization that is stepping up to find these dogs the loving homes they so deserve.”

The transfer plan was submitted by the Department of Justice and Envigo RMS LLC, with the agreement of the Humane Society of the United States to assume the responsibility of coordinating placement.

Wings of Rescue (WOR), a national pet transport nonprofit, flew the beagles from an HSUS temporary shelter in Maryland to Northeast Air in Portland, Maine on Sunday, September 4th, 2022.

“It is our privilege to be providing the

See MORE HOT DOG on page 15

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From the

Dear Dog News Readers,

Happy fall everyone! It was great to have Wienerfest once again after a couple of years without. Over 800 people came out for this wonderful gathering of dachshunds which raised $10k for PAWS Animal Adoption Center! Mark your calendar for next year’s event, September 10th, 2023.

Below are some photos of the winners of the costume contest and the Doxie Derby. Josie was the winner of the “mini” category and the overall dachshund winner of the derby. Hank was the race winner in the “standard” category and Winston was our “Wannabe” dachshund champ! Poppy won first place in the costume contest with her “Mini Pearl” costume. If you’d like to see more photos, Debra Bell from Furry Friends Pet Photography was the fabulous photographer this year and the photos can currently be viewed at: https://www.facebook.com/ MaineWienerfest.

If you are looking to adopt a dog this is a great issue to read through because it

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Table

Hot Dog News

Ask the Vet

Basic Training Tips

Shelters Struggle

Malignant Melanomas

Maine Rescues & Shelters

Dog Training

Words, Woofs & Meows

for Adoption 11, 12,

&

HANK (LEFT) JOSIE (MIDDLE) AND POPPY (RIGHT) - PHOTOS BY FURRY FRIENDS PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY @WINSTONOFTHENORTH

Happy October!! As a psychic for people and pets, October is usually a pretty busy month due to Halloween and the spooky factor. That being said, you may be surprised that my psychic readings aren’t spooky at all! I connect with spirit and simply relay what I hear, feel, and “see.” I’m too chicken to do big energy clearings and won’t go on a ghost hunt because I know better than to poke the proverbial bear. Chatting with you about your pets, living and deceased, is what I love! I also chat with human spirits and can give you insight into your past, present, and future, but in Furry Words we stick to the dogs. Just a reminder that a reading is not a replacement for licensed veterinary care. Enjoy!

Katie O. asked what her pup Bodie needs to be happier. He loves routine, routine, routine! I used to teach swim lessons, and kids were fun because they were all over the place with the attention span of squirrels. Adults, however, would schedule an hour to perfect the front crawl arms, and I would struggle to stay awake. Bodie needs repetition and lots of it. He’ll let you know he’s done by laying down and pretending he’s bored. Other than that, he’s thrilled to be your dog, and you’re doing a really great job figuring him out!

Stephanie P. has a one-year-old Sheltie Mix named Stormy. “What causes her anxiety?” Holy smokes: EVERYTHING!! Imagine looking at a person and being acutely aware that the person is made of billions of individual cells that you can sense or almost see. If you hear a song, you

Furry Words

by Sara Moore www.enlightenedhorizons.com

it’s like a fear of public speaking hits. She really, really doesn’t want to disappoint you either, which is adding to the pressure she’s putting upon herself. How do we help her? Well, this is going to sound weird, but I’ve said weirder before... Imagine that there are mirrors lining the dock, all facing the part she runs, so essentially back at her. That way she can’t “see” the spectators and will hopefully sprint down the dock with a huge smile and her tongue hanging out to the side. Years ago, I did readings at Dock Diving events, and they were so much fun!! She LOVES the hanging out portion and when you sit and have a BBQ with other participants. She looks pretty zonked out by that time, and it’s nice to sit in that space feeling quite content with the day.

announcement. LOL!

Jan M. asked if Lucky, a 9-yearold cattle dog is happy with his new mom and dad and does he understand? I actually get a feeling of total relief that he’s with them. I want to take a deep breath and exhale slowly to let out all my anxiety. You can exhale now, too.

Hip Dysplasia

Q. My breeder asked me to have my dog’s hips x-rayed after he was 2 years old. The veterinarian came back and said my best friend has hip dysplasia. He has never been lame and climbs rocks like a mountain goat, so what does it mean and do I need to worry?

A. Hip dysplasia is an inherited disease found in mostly large breed dogs but can happen to any dog. It is a condition caused by loose hip joints during the growth of the dog. This looseness can cause dysfunction and pain in the hips. Because of the loose movement in the hip joint, the cartilage and bone begin to erode. This results in arthritis, limited mobility, and muscle wasting.

Many times this problem will go undetected until the dog is older. In other cases, it can show up in puppies. Signs of hip dysplasia can be constant or intermittent lameness without a history of trauma, popping and cracking sounds from the joints, “bunny hopping” when they run, trouble standing or sitting, sitting in odd positions, and trouble getting up or down, in and out of the car, going

can hear each instrument playing solo before being able to make your brain fuzzy enough to hear them collectively. This dog is on energetic high alert all the time, and if you try giving meds for anxiety they may backfire. I’m not a vet, so ask a vet though! What will help her? A tight shirt or thundercoat. she says, “I need to feel safe looking out of my bubble and at the world.” This is a weird one to try to explain quickly, so if you want, reach out and remind me of what I said, and I’ll try to decode it further if necessary!

Darlene S. wants to know what makes her three-year-old Legacy nervous at dock diving. I actually feel that it’s stage fright! If you take her and it’s just you two, she’s having a blast, but when there’s an audience,

Kristy O. wants to know what will help Bugsy, her 11-year-old Dachshund Terrier mix. This dog listens to everything you say in conversations that have no relevance to her and may not even be a done deal. For example, if you mentioned, “Someday I’d love to live in a place where we have a private driveway,” she hears it and instantly thinks you’re moving. I’m curious if you or your partner have a brother who is a busy body because she learned this from somewhere. She is up for a change if you do want to move, but she also would need assurance of how you’re going to arrange her transport in such a way she’s super safe and doesn’t get lost. You can simply let her know humans like to daydream, and if there’s something big coming, you’ll make a major

Ask the Vet…

by Dr. Judith Herman

pup in constant pain. If there isn’t any arthritis in the joint, a surgery called TPO (triple pelvic osteotomy) can reform the hip joint. If there are a lot of changes in the hip, the dog can have a hip replacement. A third choice is a FHO (femoral head osteotomy) which removes the head of the femur (thigh bone), so the bones of the hip and femur no longer rub causing pain. The femur will make a false joint in the muscle, so the dog will be able to move freely.

Gloriane P. asked about Goose, a black lab mix. “Does he look forward to our winter travels? And what can I do to make him not afraid of the gunshots around our home?” He gets so excited for the winter travels but also tries not to get super excited too far in advance. I get that because when I know I have a vacation planned for months from now, I get all panicky and tend to over plan. For the gunshots, I’m hearing the word Desensitization. I also am being told that you should call a trainer or even someone who trains bird hunting dogs, and they will give you five easy things you can do. Weird, normally they tell ME what they would say to you, but it may also connect you with some people you are meant to know.

Well, that was fun! I love hearing how many of you have been following this column and look forward to it each month, like and follow Sara Moore Enlightened Horizons on Facebook and be ready when I put the call out for submissions. I delete the post as soon as I have enough, which is usually within minutes. Have a great October and say hello to your pups for me! You can learn more about Sara Moore and schedule a private reading at www.enlightenedhorizons.com.

up and down stairs, or on and off the bed or furniture.

Symptoms will vary depending on the dog. Some dogs are very stoic, and you will see minimum symptoms. Other dogs may display great discomfort.

There are different things you can do to help your dog when presented with this diagnosis. Your options vary depending on how painful your dog is and how much change has already happened to the hip joints.

Surgery is an option for the

For less severe conditions, medical management is an option. Cornell did a study with Labrador puppies. They had a litter which they fed adult food and another litter they fed puppy food. These pups were free fed, which means they could eat all they wanted. The results were the puppy food group were fat and over time had more joint disease than the pups fed adult food. Just like in people, weight plays a big part in the health and well-being of our best friends.

The first part of management is keeping your dog on the thin side. Second is to add a core fitness program to increase strength in muscles and protect his joints. Moderate motion will keep the joints more flexible and pain free. Fido

needs to get up and move often during the day.

There are a million joint supplements out there. Talk to your veterinarian about the product best for your dog. People supplements don’t always have the right amount of the ingredients needed for your dog. Supplements to consider are omega 3 fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM. There are herbal supplements that are helpful such as turmeric. If your dog can have chicken, chicken feet can be helpful. There are also commercial diets with joint supplements already in them.

It is recommended that pups by a year, if not earlier, should be on a joint supplement to support healthy joints.

Other supportive therapies are acupuncture, chiropractor services, laser, and homeopathy.

If you see your best buddy coming up lame off and on without a cause and can’t do what he normally could do, have him evaluated by your veterinarian.

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

One of the pups, Beau aka Bobo aka Sir Beauregard, now resides at his adopter’s Oyster River Ranch. He received high praise from his new family, the Costas: "He reminds us often that handsome is, as handsome does. He's become quite demanding at his ripe age of 11 months, not afraid to remind us when it's time for breakfast, his walk, a snack, time to go out, or his dinner. Zoomies are super-sized, but so is the love he gives us. Bobo demands our affection, and we are happy to oblige."

When asked if she had a wonderful story, Jeana Roth, Director of Community Engagement for the Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, responded with a decisive, “Absolutely. Diesel was a staff favorite.” He was a locally surrendered chocolate Lab mix, and a senior at 15 years of age. “He is now showered with love and affection with his new family, for whatever amount of time he has left to enjoy life.” His adopter, Barbara, dotes on him and clearly is thrilled.

Shannon L. Nachajko, Director of the Catahoula Rescue of New England: Houlas & Heelers Inc., had two successes. Cattle dog Ryder was surrendered by an area family to a shelter. The poor guy had trouble adjusting there so the shelter reached out for help, and she responded. While an amazing pet, Ryder was a hard placement. It took her months to find someone who understood Australian Cattle dogs. “Ryder did find his forever home this summer with a super dad who was looking for a companion.” It’s been a win-win; they have a wonderful connection, and Ryder is an unofficial therapy dog – he’s helping dad heal from medical procedures.

Duke was a stray southern dog with a horrible burn on his back. The rural

shelter staff knew his owner, but the man refused to reclaim him. Shannon pulled Duke, who was slated to be put down, and arranged for temporary care in the South. Once in Maine, he also was a difficult placement - Duke was afraid of men. He eventually went into a prior adopter’s home in New York. “I am happy to say that Duke is now part of their family.” She said that with slow baby steps, parental guidance, and affection from mom and dad, Duke learned that not all men are hurtful.

Shelly Butler, MBA and Executive Director of PAWS Animal Adoption Center in Camden, had a good story. “Despite this time when adoptions are slower, Buttercup had her happy new beginning,” she said. Buttercup, a cute little pup with a white chin, chest, and paws, began her journey in a Georgia shelter, but she was surrounded by other small fluffy pups. Sadly, Buttercup waited as those puppies found their homes, yet no one wanted her.

Thankfully, one of PAWS transport partners, Road Trip Home, decided Buttercup would have better luck in Maine with their shelter. “We watched her grow, and we taught her some basic obedience. We learned she loved to play with other dogs. Finally, after 3 months the perfect family found her,” said Shelly. They had another dog so they could chum around, too. “Her forever family could not be happier and just love their new furry family member who is now named Tessa.”

“At Responsible Pet Care of Oxford Hills (RPC) we've had to think outside the box lately in order to help more animals,” said board member and volunteer, Jill Piper. One of their favorites is Tonka, a 7-year-old, 120pound Mastiff mix. He was well-cared for by his family, but his dad, who was the main handler for the big dog, became gravely ill, and the family needed to relinquish him. Tonka was a happy, goofy boy who was well

socialized and liked cats and dogs, but RPC was out of space.

They put their thinking caps on and remembered Portland resident Gregory. He had previously applied for a large Great Pyrenees, but he wasn’t the best match for that specific canine. After seeing info and pics on Tonka, Gregory was smitten. RPC staffers arranged for Tonka's owner to bring him in, so they could not only update his vaccines but have a meet and greet with Gregory and his Papillon, Lily.

It was a perfect match. “In the weeks since, we have received countless photos of Tonka living his new life – lounging in his kiddie pool in his fenced yard, enjoying trips to the beach, hanging out with his new sister, Lily…It turned out to be a beautiful story, new dog, new friends, people helping people, and people helping dogs. A very sad situation with a happily-ever-after ending,” said Jill.

In early 2021, a North Carolina dog rescue contacted Almost Home Rescue of New England (AHR) about helping an almost 7-year-old flea-covered black and tan Coonhound named Bonnie, relayed Adele Jones, president of the 501(c) 3.

Bonnie was fostered in the south, and in addition to being treated for skin and ear infections, it was apparent she needed an ACL surgery. Once she recovered from the surgery and

Gregory, was placed on antibiotics, had many follow ups, and required in-depth testing. Eventually Bonnie was injected with strong, specialized antibiotics for 12 weeks. This finally did the trick, said Adele. Through it all, Bonnie remained a loving dog.

So where is Bonnie now? Margaret Holland and her family of New Brunswick, Canada adopted her in July of 2022 – they’d searched for an older pet knowing they’re often over-looked. Since then, Bonnie’s been busy delighting residents in their neighborhood. Margaret is also pleased that the even-tempered Bonne won over their cats, too. “She is a sweetheart, she is a snuggler, and a very good girl around the house,” said her adopter. Margaret added they’re grateful to AHR and Bonnie's foster family.

Thinking of fostering but unsure? Cindy explains her reason, “It’s because I meet so many amazing and wonderfully dedicated dog adopters out there who welcome dogs into their homes and lives. Those dogs are loved and become such an important part of their family…Myself and my family

I watched with joy as my lovely little 2.5-year-old Havanese guest dog reveled in charging around our big yard, bounding through the bushes and tall grasses, then emerging again to race around the yard with 3-year-old Skipper. Then repeat… Pure uninhibited Doggie Delight!

It’s September in North Yarmouth

It was no surprise to discover that as a result of her travels through the tall weeds, Peeper was freshly adorned with hundreds of miniature green burrs, expertly woven into her overgrown white coat from nostrils to feathery tail. No worries, though, I could just brush, comb or pick them out.

One of the best doggie investments I’ve made is the purchase of a small grooming table. In addition to grooming Skipper on it, we regularly introduced puppies at my school to being positively handled on the table. Simply being on the table earned them delicious rewards. We were diligent about keeping sessions short and fun and rewarding, not pushing a puppy

by Diana Logan

to create a happy partner than to try to repair the inevitable damages incurred as a result of pushing a pup too far.

Peeper was one of those puppies who had had the same positive introduction to the table two years prior. She was very food-motivated, making the process smooth. We had a trusting, loving relationship with her from her early puppyhood until she graduated at 6 months of age.

ABJECT PANIC

I picked up a burr-covered Peeper and offered her a treat. She started to take it, then saw where we were headed: the grooming table. She panicked before I’d taken two steps toward it. It was as if I’d flipped a switch to activate the direct line to Death-by-Torture. She would have leapt from my arms if she could have. She outright refused treats and fought me with all her might, the muscles in her entire body coiled up, taut and ready to propel her into another universe.

What on earth happened??

Peeper’s funds in the Handling Department had clearly run completely dry. All the deposits we’d made earlier in her life had been used up and then some. In fact, so much had been withdrawn that it was to the point where not only was handling affected, but recall, attention, and most significant of all: Trust. It profoundly saddened me.

A Joint Bank Account

The relationship we have with our dogs is like a joint bank account, and it rests at the very core of our shared lives. If we are aware of this, we know that frequent, strategic deposits across the full spectrum of behaviors create healthy positivity in all areas. Occasional withdrawals, even those unexpected and significant ones, can be withstood because there are sufficient funds in the account as a whole.

beyond her comfort level. It was imperative that the association they had of being on the table was good. Ensuring that puppies were willing participants in the process meant that we could quickly advance to more grooming, handling and nail clipping with ease. It’s much more efficient to invest the time up front

Clearly, this was not going to go as I had anticipated. Time to abort, immediately. I carefully placed a now rigid dog onto the floor. She instantly launched herself away, putting as much distance between us as she could, avoided any movement I made in her direction, even refused to eat treats that were tossed behind her. She clearly loathed me even though I’d “done nothing” to her.

Whether or not we are aware of it, we are living a joint account with our dogs every single day, and every interaction we have with them affects it. The choice is ours: do we want to build it or take away from it? Which “departments” need more strengthening? Perhaps recall? Confidence-building? A simple cued “sit”? Handling? The balance in our Relationship Joint Account should

Kris Potter

Kompletelyk9.com

Kompletely K-9 Dog Training and Rehabilitation

Serving Locations In Midcoast Maine And Beyond

Diana Logan, CPDT-KA

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Connection Dog Training, North Yarmouth, Maine

By Susan Spisak

Stephanie Kelley, Marketing Communications Manager at Animal Welfare Society aka AWS in Kennebunk, mentioned to Downeast Dog News that the same dogs they submitted last month for the “Dogs for Adoption” page are still available. In fact, there have been more adoptable dog submissions from Maine shelters, humane societies, and rescues because, as she put it, everyone’s full.

She hoped that we could shed light on the situation, prompting those in a position to adopt, foster, volunteer, and/or donate. “It's a national issue right now, affecting not just Southern or urban shelters, but all shelters, including here in Maine,” said Kelley. So, what is the crux of the problem?

In a word, inflation. Housing changes are contributing to relinquishments. For some, there’s an inability to keep up with rising monthly rates or they have been

Shelters Struggle with Overcrowding

evicted due to late mortgage or rent payments. For those forced to move and cannot secure a petfriendly place, dogs and cats are sent to rescues or shelters if a friend or family cannot take them in. Those lucky enough to find housing that accommodates small dogs must sadly relinquish any big dogs. Kelley added that big dogs are the most common type of intake now.

Kathy Bissell, founder of the BISSELL Pet Foundation, agreed in a recent blog that the inflation issue is resulting in owner surrenders, creating overcrowding and struggles for understaffed shelters. Other factors she cited for relinquishments include significant hikes in the overall costs of living, dog food, and veterinarian services. She expanded on Kelly’s big dog’s intake numbers, noting that they’re slower to be adopted, leaving them in the shelters longer.

The lack of adoptions and available foster homes in shelters across the

country equal many animals awaiting homes. For example, Cincinnati Animal CARE (OH) took in six hundred animals in May of 2022. While two hundred animals went to foster care, they resorted to crating the others due to space. Part of the overflow problem was because college students who fostered and volunteered moved home. Texas’ Harris County Pets Animal Shelter (TX) reported being overcapacity and understaffed, with factors including fewer adoptions as people returned to work as the pandemic subsides.

Kasey Bielecki, Marketing and Public Relations Manager for Pope Memorial Humane Society of Thomaston said recently that they had thirty-three dogs currently in their care. “We have quite a few dogs that require specific homes,” she said, meaning this also increases shelter stays.

Additionally, Bielecki said they worked with eight other state shelters and rescued about one hundred

Beagles from the thousands pulled from the breeding facility in Virginia by HSUS in September. This may add to overcrowding, but they will not turn their backs on dogs in need. The other groups involved are the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society in Lewiston, the Animal Welfare Society in Kennebunk, the Franklin County Humane Society in Farmington, Kennebec Valley Humane Society in Augusta, the PAWS Animal Adoption Center in Camden, the Responsible Pet Care of Oxford Hills in South Paris, Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, and Tall Tails Beagle Rescue in Mechanic Falls.

AWS’s Kelley summed up the problem: “Adoptions are down all over, yet the need for shelter services continues to increase as Maine's housing issues and looming economic instability become more apparent, increasing the number of people who cannot afford their pets' medical care or cannot have a pet in their home.”

“Back in Black” Malignant Melanomas

By Dr. Gail Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIM Staff Internist, Portland Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Care

Malignant melanoma Is a relatively common cancer in dogs, especially those with significant amounts of skin pigmentation. Melanomas are relatively rare in cats. The most common location for canine melanoma is the haired skin which can appear to be small brown to black masses but also can appear as large, flat, and/or wrinkled masses. Primary melanomas can also occur in the oral cavity, the nail bed, footpad, eye, gastrointestinal tract, and other places in the body. The biological behavior of malignant melanomas is exceedingly variable, but often extremely aggressive and eventually metastatic.

The most common oral malignancy in the dog is malignant melanoma. This tumor is more commonly seen in heavily pigmented breeds and is primarily a disease of older dogs.

Most dogs with oral cancer have a mass in the mouth which is first noticed by the owner. Pets with oral tumors will typically have symptoms of increased salivation, facial swelling, bleeding from the mouth, weight loss, foul breath, difficulty swallowing, and/or pain when opening the mouth. Loose teeth can also be an indication of bone destruction by a tumor.

Diagnosis of malignant melanoma is determined by a tissue biopsy. In the case of oral tumors, a thorough

evaluation of the mouth in a sedated or anesthetized patient is critical to evaluate the type and extent of the tumor and to retrieve tissue for a biopsy. Palpation and needle aspirates of adjacent lymph nodes are commonly procured at this time as well.

The anatomic site of the melanoma is highly, although not completely, predictive of local invasiveness and metastatic propensity. Melanomas involving the haired skin, which are not adjacent to mucosal (lip) margins, often behave in a more benign manner. In these cases, adequate surgical removal is often curative. This differs from oral mucosa melanomas which are highly malignant with a high degree of local invasion as well as early metastatic potential. Unfortunately, this mirrors the pattern seen in humans.

Dogs with melanomas of the digits (toes) without lymph node involvement, have reported median survival times of 12 months with a 2-year survival rate of 57% with surgery alone.

Treatment Options: Surgery

Surgical removal of malignant melanoma by a specialty surgeon continues to be the most effective local treatment. For more biologically benign cutaneous tumors, the tumor can be removed with 1-2 cm skin margins (the amount of healthy tissue surrounding the lesion) with a favorable chance for cure. One should never wait for it to “grow back” to seek treatment. For tumors involving a digit, the removal of that entire digit

is almost always recommended to obtain margins on a more biologically aggressive melanoma. For oral melanomas, it is important to be as aggressive as possible to provide the best long-term outcome. Melanomas involving the gums or jaw often require the removal of at least a portion of the jawbone to remove the tumor in its entirety. The amount of bone that must be removed can generally be judged by the results of the CT scan. It is important to note that surgery on the upper and lower jaws of dogs can be highly successful, functional, and cosmetic. Because the area has a large blood supply, healing takes place quickly. Unplanned or limited attempts at removing the tumor should not be made as this will often leave residual disease and result in rapid tumor recurrence. Your surgeon will discuss this in detail with you prior to pursuing this avenue of treatment.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy can play an important role in the management and treatment of canine and feline oral melanomas. It is generally used for the purpose of achieving local and regional tumor control when complete removal is not possible or practical. Most radiation oncologists will treat both the primary tumor and the regional lymph nodes. Pets tolerate radiation therapy extremely well and do not manifest "radiation sickness" as do humans. It does not however prevent metastatic disease. The median survival times for dogs treated with radiation therapy range from 4.5-14.7 months. Chemotherapy

does not seem to play an important role in the management of dogs with malignant melanoma.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy represents a potential systemic therapeutic strategy for the treatment of malignant melanomas. The Oncept® Melanoma Vaccine has been shown to be a successful innovation in extending remission times up to 3 times longer than those previously achievable after the local disease is removed/controlled. It was originally approved for use in dogs with oral tumors only. However, experience has shown that it has merit for both dogs and cats with melanomas located anywhere in the body. This vaccine is administered trans-dermally (needle-free), to a hind limb muscle of the patient. Vaccination provokes the patient's immune system into manufacturing antibodies against a biological enzyme called tyrosine kinase. Though we are not certain of the reasons, many tumors in dogs (especially melanomas) manufacture large amounts of tyrosine kinase which the tumor requires for its growth. Blockade of the tyrosine kinase as well as formation of specific immune cells (T cells) can offer a significantly better outcome for patients with malignant melanoma.

The vaccine is extremely safe and is initially given as a series of 4 vaccinations which are 2 weeks apart. This is called the induction phase. This is followed by a single Oncept® vaccine booster every 6 months.

Catahoula

Training Your Performance Dog

Work on achieving willing, bright focus from your dog before you start training and throughout your training session. Attention is not optional. Does your dog truly understand the exercise or skill you are asking for? Or have you proceeded too quickly without enough foundation? Go back to the beginning and increase confidence on each step.

by Carolyn Fuhrer

No matter which dog sport you may choose to participate in, training for a good solid performance takes time, commitment, energy, enthusiasm, knowledge, and patience.

At some point – no matter how good a trainer you are and how wonderful your dog is - you will run into problems. The best way to solve a problem is to recognize the early stages of breakdown and clarify the requirements of the exercise to the dog before, the dog feels he has options about how to

perform. So, as soon as you feel something is not going as you would like, stop and try to identify the problem. Do NOT just keep repeating the exercise or skill hoping it will get better.

Ask yourself (and be honest) – do you have bright attention from your dog before you ask for a behavior? If not, you need to work on attention.

Does your dog feel that performance is optional? Improper use of food can convince the dog to think “if I don’t see the cookies, I don’t have to work.” In order to convince your dog that performance is not optional, your dog must value the reward and understand how to achieve the reward. Work pays – lack of work does not pay. You must, at some time, be able to show your dog the correct performance or position by touching your dog. If your dog stays away from you, will not willingly come into your space or will not let you put a hand in his collar, you will not be able to correct certain behaviors. Dogs must understand which behaviors work and therefore will pay – and which behaviors do not work and therefore will not pay or cause the fun to end. Your dog needs to make choices and expect fair and consistent consequences for their behaviors.

Another reason your dog may not

perform an exercise is because he is worried or afraid to make a mistake. If this is the case, you need to look at yourself and the first 3 areas we discussed: attention, understanding the exercise, and thinking behavior is optional. If your dog is confused about what is expected in any of these areas, he may just decide not to try rather than guess at what you want.

You need to look at yourself and your attitude about the problem. Are you frustrated, disappointed, impatient, unfair to your dog because you have not taught him properly or perhaps went too quickly in a progression?

Before you criticize your dog, you need to look carefully at each area we discussed and be willing to go back to the beginning and do a better job. Just repeating performances or taking out food to get a behavior will not solve the training problem.

Beware of internet quick fixes. These solutions may not fit in with your training foundation and will cause more confusion.

Taking the time to understand the problem and working to solve the problem is what good training is all about, and it will strengthen your relationship with your dog by building trust and cooperation.

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!

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.

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!

Call us and let’s get started!

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

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

Call or email us to learn more 207-839-7456 tendertouchveterinary@yahoo.com 336 Gorham Road • Scarborough, ME

Sat. & Sun. 9-5

Carolyn Fuhrer has earned over 130 AKC titles with her Golden Retrievers, including 4 Champion Tracker titles. She is also an AKC Tracking Judge. You can contact her with questions, suggestions, and ideas for her column by e-mailing carolyn@northstardogschool.com.

When Can I Stop Training My Dog?

My students often ask when they can stop training their dogs. That's when I ask them when do you anticipate you will stop learning? My point is that we are still learning as long as we are alive. The same is true of our dogs.

If our dog is awake, they learn from both us and the environment in which they live. Since the environment is vast and almost always available to our dogs, it provides more learning opportunities than we do. For example, a child in a highchair or an elderly parent at the dining room table can teach your dog by accidentally or intentionally dropping tidbits of food while eating. In this case, your dog may be learning something you would rather they hadn't.

Understand that your dog may also learn from dogs and people it interacts with at the dog park or doggie daycare. Even the wind blowing through your apple tree at the end of summer, causing fruit to drop, could be teaching your dog. Considering your dog is always learning, I believe there are many wonderful reasons to continue training them.

Reasons to Continue Training Your Dog

We all need a refresher now and then if we expect to maintain our skills. While I had two years of German back in high school, I have not used that knowledge and skill for years, and as a result, ich kann

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

is a mechanical skill; like all skills, it requires maintenance, just like a golf swing. The only difference between a clicker and treats and a golf club and ball is the furry friend I'm interacting with is sentient, whereas the golf ball is not.

However, a second and even more important reason to continue training your dog is that it is a great way to provide you both with mental stimulation. When done right, training will be fun and will make your bond even stronger. That doesn't mean you must be enrolled in a dog training class. A well-designed class will leave you with the skills and knowledge you need to continue working with your dog long after completing the class; however, if you attend a class so that you can both learn something new, why not!

Determining If Your Dog Understands SIT

Students often ask, how can I tell if my dog understands what I'm teaching him? How we assess a dog's training can vary with what we're teaching, the environment where we are testing him, and the dog and his physical and emotional status at that particular point in time. Below you will find one method you can use to assess how well your dog understands a simple behavior like sit.

You will give your dog a single visual or verbal cue and look for him to respond in 1 to 2 seconds, eight times out of 10 in each of these scenarios.

• In three different rooms in your home

• For three family members

• With you standing in front of the dog

kein Deutsch mehr (I can no longer

our dogs to do what we have taught them, they may get rusty and not respond as well as we would like. Muppy and I practice behaviors like sit, leave it, and recall regularly. Having a reliable leave it and recall can save your dog's life.

However, I also practice training for my benefit. Training

Remember, training does not need to be limited to things like sit and recall. You can teach your dog silly tricks or teach him to use his nose while playing fun scent games like find it. You will soon forget you're learning when you and your dog have fun together. The best teachers I have had in my life were able to make learning fun.

My point is that minimally, we at least need to acknowledge that our dog will be learning his entire life. So why not use that zest for knowledge by turning it into an opportunity to continue nourishing our bond with our dog while having fun.

• With you sitting in a chair with the dog in front of you

• With you sitting on the floor with the dog in front of you

• In three different places in your yard

• In three other locations away from your home

• In a distracting environment

The ultimate test can be if you can lie on your back in an environment where you usually play with your dog, and he will respond to your cue.

Tank is a big jolly

OCTOBER 2022 11 He loves to snuggle and be an outdoor adventurer. He needs to be the only pet in his home.

photo credit: debra bell

WORDS, WOOFS & MEOWS

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.

2.5 years old

Catahoula Leopard Dog

A sweet, friendly guy who loves meeting new people. Kids might be too much though. While I have lived with other dogs in my foster homes, I would thrive as your one and only.

FMI: nehoularescue.com

PRISCILLA

1 year old, Hound/Shepherd Mix

Priscilla is curious and sweet, very busy and wants to check out everything. She is housebroken and crate trained. She is great with dogs, people, and seems to have a healthy respect for cats.

Email: passion4petsrescue@gmail.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 yellow below each dog.

ODIN

11 years old, Norwegian Elkhound Odin’s human passed away so he needs a retirement home. He loves walks and is good natured.

Sponsored by: (207)783-1366, parisfarmersunion.com

FMI: luckypuprescue.org

Sponsored by: Kompletely K-9 Dog Training and Rehab. 248 Choate Rd., Montville,

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

Ruby loves to hike and cuddle on your lap. She comes from an abusive background so she needs the space to take her time with all introductions. She is ok with submissive dogs.

FMI: grammyrose.org

JUSTINA

7 months old, Mixed Breed

Justina is very sweet. She does great in her crate and is housebroken. Justina would enjoy the company of another dog in her home and would make a great hiking

Email: passion4petsrescue@gmail.com

Sponsored by: 83 Royal St., Winthrop, (207)377-2614, parisfarmersunion.com

wants to be your best friend. She loves being with you and watching what you're doing

Email: passion4petsrescue@gmail.com

All 4 Paws Wellness 119 Bishop St., Portland, (207)809-9505, all4pawswellness.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 yellow below each dog.

STING

14 years old, Boxer Mix

Happy is sweet, polite, house-trained, crate-trained, great with kids and dogs, too! She LOVES cheese, running, playing, snuggling, tennis balls and car rides.

FMI: fetchinghope.com

Sponsored by: 17 Branches from Wiscasset to Calais, 1-800-564-3195, thefirst.com

HAZELNUT

6 years old, Lab Mix

Hazelnut is a beautiful girl looking for a dog-savvy home where she can be the only pet, with no small children. Hazelnut is bright and trainable, loves to play and go for car rides. She is good on leash and needs plenty of exercise.

Sponsored by: Acadia Antlers acadiaantlers.com

457 Foreside Rd., Topsham, (207)729-4678, androscogginanimalhospital.com

Sting is a sweet, friendly and affectionate guy who has a lot of energy for his age. He is looking for a quiet home without a lot of activity. He is nervous around other dogs, and young children would be too much for him at his age. Probably no cats.

FMI: olddogsnewdigs.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

Sponsored by: (207)897-3333, parisfarmersunion.com

PAULINA

6.5 years old, Labrador Retriever Mix

Super sweet but a little shy. Once she knows you are not scary she warms up to you. She is mellow and just wants a good home and to feel loved. She is good with other dogs and most likely with cats.

FMI: pawsadoption.org

Sponsored by: 2456 Atlantic Hwy., Lincolnville, (207)706-7908, greentreecoffee.com

Sponsored by: Ridge Runner Veterinary Services 559 South Main St., Winterport, (207)223-2596, ridgerunnervet.com

DIEGO

5 years old, Terrier, 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: 12 Progress Park South, Newport, (207)368-4329, parisfarmersunion.com

2 years old, Mixed Breed

Gilla is so much fun. She is so playful and energetic and hops around with her toys like a bunny! She is good with other dogs and would be fine with kids too.

FMI: pawsadoption.org

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

2 years old, Terrier, American Staffordshire

Rosie is a fun-loving gal looking for a home that will play a lot! She loves to play and would love a family with older dog-savvy kids.

FMI: popehumane.org

Sponsored by: 1116 Eastman Rd., North Conway, NH, (603)356-5669, parisfarmersunion.com

KARTER

3 years old, American Pit Bull Terrier Mix

He is a big boy but loves his people. He would do best as the only dog in the home. He needs a strong handler but trust me, this guy will love you BIG. He smiles big and loves to show off his teeth as you can see.

FMI: pawsadoption.org

Sponsored by: 4 Commercial St., Rockport, (207)230-8455, waterbarkwellness.com

3 years old, Mixed Breed

Tank is a super loving boy with lots of energy! He needs to be the only animal in the home due to his enthusiasm and size (72 lbs.). He needs lots of exercise and an experienced owner willing to help refine his manners.

FMI: bangorhumanesociety.org

Sponsored by: Mason’s Brewing Company 15 Hardy St., Brewer, (207)989-6300, masonsbrewingcompany.com

FMI: olddogsnewdigs.com

October 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.

HALLOWEEN COSTUME CONTEST FOR DOGS

October 1st - 31st Online

First prize package valued at $350! Dress up your pup (or pups), take a photo and enter to be voted on by our fans…. most votes wins prizes!

First Prize: A watercolor pet portrait, by Thorn & Terrier ($150 value), $100 Olive Garden Gift Card and a dog breed T-shirt by Inkopious, Gift pack from Chewy ($65 value) • Second Prize: Gift basket from The Bud Connection and Grounds and Hounds Coffee Gift Pack • Third Prize: Classic Bark Box.$15 entry fee per photo. Enter online: www.fetchinghope.com

PAWS ON PARADE

Saturday, October 1

Bangor, 9AM - Noon

In honor of Betty White and the impact she had on both pop culture and the animal welfare world, we invite you and your dogs to join us for the 29th Annual PAWS ON PARADE!! This is our community's largest dog walk! You'll find vendors catering to humans and our furry friends, along with prizes, and LOTS of friends. Held at Husson University. FMI: https://donations.bangorhumane. org/event/thank-you-for-bein-a-friend/ e407999

NAIL TRIMMING CLINIC

Saturday, October 8

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.

DOG CLUB EVENT

Sunday, October 9

Somerville, 9:30 AM

American Kennel Club Tracking Dog Excellent Test. Hosted by On Track Agility Club of Maine. Headquarters: North Star Dog Training School, 252 Jones Rd., Somerville. Interested in learning about tracking? Come and watch and see AKC Judges judging the teams in the beautiful

BASIC from page 6

remain as high as possible, in a perpetual state of growth. The fun lies in how creative we can get as we make deposits into this account. Maintaining a robust balance requires strategy and observation. Know your dog. What does she love? Toys, games, treats, tug, a game of chase…? Add more of whatever that is, and pair it with something your dog is doing. What does she dislike? Take very tiny doses of one of those dislikes and add something she loves. Over time, if

advanced tracking test for handlers and their dogs who are being tested to earn this prestigious AKC TDX title. Call Kathy at (207)691-2332 or e-mail: kduhnoski@ myfairpoint.net FMI.

PET LOSS SUPPORT GROUP

Saturday, October 15

Online Via Zoom

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

TOENAIL TUESDAY

Tuesday, October 18

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.

HOWLOWEEN COSTUME CONTEST

Saturday, October 22

Portland, 5PM – 8PM

Howloween Costume Contest in partnership with Partners in Canine held at Definitive Brewing Co., 35 Industrial Way, Portland. No fee to enter. There will also be a talent show “tricks and

you are consistent and careful and very generous, those dislikes should dissipate.

Are you paying your dog with the right stuff? Don’t be afraid to be generous!

Happy Training!

[Note: Peeper’s aversion to grooming and handling is so extreme that sedation is likely the best option for her next grooming appointment. She has a long way to go… please don’t allow this to happen to your dog.]

treats”, games such as bobbing for tennis balls or hanging treats and we will be selling and raffling off merchandise and products. definitivebrewing.com

FINALLY HOME PACK PARTY

Saturday, October 22

N. Yarmouth, 6PM – 9PM Held at Toddy Brook Golf Club, 925 Sligo Road, North Yarmouth. Come support senior pups at our annual Pack Party with presentation by animal/ human psychic Sara Moore, live music with Laikatheband, special appearance by Lauren Kennedy - End of Life Pet Photographer, food, silent auction, awesome Finally Home Swag and more!! Proceeds to benefit: Finally Home Senior Dog Rescue And Retirement Home. Call (207)829-3943 to reserve tickets now! $40/Person ~ $70/Couple

WORKSHOP

Saturday, October 22

Location TBD, 9AM - Noon

Follow up tracking workshop with AKC Tracking Judge Carolyn Fuhrer for students working toward achieving an AKC tracking title with their dogs. $60 Call Kathy at (207)691-2332 or e-mail: kduhnoski@myfairpoint.net FMI.

NAIL TRIMMING CLINIC

Sunday, October 23

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

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.

3RD ANNUAL TRUNK OR TREAT DRIVE THRU Friday, October 28

Thomaston, 4PM – 7PM Grab your costumes, hop in the car, and join us the third annual Shepard Storage and Shepard Auto Trunk-orTreat Drive-Thru, 178 New County Rd. In partnership with Pope Memorial Humane Society, this Halloween, funfilled event will have all the trick-or-treat fun you love! Get ready for lots of fun (and candy) while supporting Pope Memorial Humane Society! The event is free to attend, but PMHS will be on-site collecting donations. The top needed items are: pate style poultry flavored canned cat food, temptations cat treats, paper towels, cleaning supplies, 30/33 gallon trash bags, mini/small dog treats! https://www.facebook.com/ events/888893325417759

4TH ANNUAL HOWL-O-RUN

Sunday, October 30

Lamoine, 11AM

5K run/walk. Marlboro Beach. The scenic course will be lined with Jack-OLanterns, and boasts beautiful views of autumn foliage, the ocean and mountains of Acadia National Park. Wellbehaved leashed dogs are welcome and costumes for people and their canine companions are encouraged. FMI: spcahancockcounty.org

AKC VST TRACKING TEST

Sunday, October 30

Augusta, 9:30AM

American Kennel Club VST (Variable Surface) Tracking Test. Hosted by On Track Agility Club of Maine

Headquarters: Viles Arboretum in Augusta. The AKC VST test is for handlers and dogs working to achieve the coveted VST Title. If you are interested in tracking, come out and watch as the teams track human scent over vegetated and non-vegetated surfaces – a difficult and challenging test.

FMI – Call Kathy at (207)691-2332 or e-mail: kduhnoski@myfairpoint.net

Testing our Balance

Skipper Logan had to make a late-night visit to the emergency clinic one Saturday night to induce vomiting after he’d ingested a corn cob. We played some simple games in the waiting area before he was taken away. When he came back (success!), I took the time to play some more games with him. I wanted 1) to assess his level of comfort and 2) to make more deposits to the “visit the vet” account. The visit was a withdrawal and I needed to add more funds so future visits were less likely to be affected. I specifically chose to ask him to bow to help him release tension in his body. His happy responses and high tail told me that the balance is good!

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

LOKI AT WIENERFEST - PHOTO BY: DOWNEAST DOG NEWS

Business Directory

MIDCOAST

CENTRAL MAINE STATEWIDE

Psychic for People & Pets

www.enlightenedhorizons.com

As heard on 94.9 and Magic 104.5

SPROUT, SAKE & JACK Seniors, Chihuahuas

Sprout, Sake and Jack are a bonded trio of chihuahuas that came to Maine from Puerto Rico, after being removed from a neglectful home. As older gents, they are looking for a laid-back and calm home environment where they can get lots of snuggles and attention.

FMI: arlgp.org

QUEENIE

NASH/JACKSON

HOT DOG from page 2

air-transport component of this life-saving beagle-rescue flight,” said Ric Browde, CEO of Wings of Rescue. “Working with HSUS and the many Maine shelter and rescue groups involved, we know these pets will now be well cared for and that there will be a truly happy ending to an otherwise very sad story.”

Once the beagles arrived at their Maine shelter destinations, they had to undergo a state-required quarantine where shelter teams assessed their medical and behavioral needs, prior to adoption placements. Interested adopters can contact the shelter in their area to learn more about the adoption process.

Press release provided by Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland

GOMER

Mixed Breed

Queenie has so much love to give. She has a little stranger danger and prefers the company of adults, especially women. She would do best as an only pet.

FMI: bangorhumanesociety.org

Sponsored by: Blue Hill Co-op 70 South St., Blue Hill, (207)374-2165, bluehill.coop

YUKON

2 years old

Yukon is handsome, sweet and intelligent. He needs an active experienced home and he must be the only animal. Humans need to be 13+.

4.5 years old, Hound Mix

Gomer is handsome, sweet and independent. He has been around many dogs, though if a dog doesn’t like him he will reciprocate and not back down. Humans in the home should be 8+.

Rosie has the heart and soul of a puppy. I need to the be the only dog in my house but can live with cats and need everyone in my house to be

FMI: harvesthills.org

Sponsored by: Paris Farmers Union 13 Sandy Creek Rd., Bridgton, (207)647-2383, parisfarmersunion.com

OCTOBER 2022 15 Senior, Mixed Breed Nash is a sweet senior boy who was surrendered due to health of owner. Cats are ok but he should be the only dog. We recommend using good judgment in introducing him to children.

Communicate with your pets, living or deceased with Sara Moore. Long distance sessions available!

Sara Moore

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ANIMAL REFUGE LEAGUE OF GREATER PORTLAND