2023 October Downeast Dog News

10th Annual Party for the Pups

a night to benefit the dogs of Almost Home Rescue

Saturday, November 4th 7pm - 10 pm

Dunegrass Golf Club - 65 Wild Dunes Way, Old Orchard Beach, ME

Silent Auction, Music & Dancing, Raffles, Appetizers, Cake and Cash Bar

BE A FOSTER SAVE A LIFE.

OLLIE

2 years old, Dalmation Mix

Ollie loves to cuddle, walks well on leash, and likes to go in the car. He loves his crate for short periods.

Ollie needs to be an only pet in an adult home (sudden movements can scare him), and needs someone who will make sure he is always safe and secure. Sometimes he has some quirky behaviors that quite common for deaf dogs, but his true people will love him for who he is. The shelter would love to tell you all about Ollie. 485 days waiting for his forever home

FMI: responsiblepetcare.org/dogs

KARTER

4 years old, American Pit Bull Terrier

Such a handsome lover boy. He has been with us for over a year at waiting for a forever home. He might do okay with older kids with proper introductions, but needs to be the only animal in the home. He loves to play outside and play ball, to go for car rides and is very good in the car seeing other people and other dogs. He redirects well when outside walking when he sees other dogs too. He is a super special guy and deserves to finally find his forever home.

FMI: www.pawsadoption.org

RADAR, 6 years old, Pitbull, Cattle dog, Chow, and Corgi

Knows all commands voice and hand signals, house trained (does not need a crate) he is not destructive whatsoever, enjoys playing catch. He is fine with cats and dogs. Radar is a VERY special dog, we have learned is that he does not enjoy children. He bonds quickly with men. He doesn’t like women. He would do best in a male home, with no kids.Don’t let these quirks fool you, he makes up for them tenfold in the love and devotion he has for his “guys”.

Sponsored by

Foster Homes Needed! www.AlmostHomeRescue.net SOUTH

83 Lisbon St

PORTLAND

OCTOBER IS ADOPT-A-SHELTER DOG MONTH!

PHOTO BY: JILL PIPER, LASTING IMAGE PHOTOGRAPHY. LILAC AND BLUE’S WEDDING AT RESPONSIBLE PET CARE.

Adoption Success Stories

By Susan Spisak

O

ctober is widely recognized as Adopt-a-Dog Month in an effort to facilitate adoptions for the many pets waiting for loving, forever homes.

INSIDE

2 Hot Dog News

Downeast Dog News supports this wholeheartedly and this edition focuses on area shelters and rescues and their adoptables. We’d like to kick that off by sharing a few of their many success stories and how adopting and fostering pets is valuable to homeless pets and their adopters, too.

Rick Douglas is Rebel’s treasured

9,12,13,15, 16

Back Cover Dogs for Adoption

person. Rebel was at PAWS Animal Adoption Center in Camden for many years. Rick is thrilled with his companion, “I consider my time with him a gift. And I figure he would tell me the same if he could.” While this is a great pairing, it wasn’t quick.

See ADOPTION on page 5

10 & 11

Maine Rescues & Shelters

ALMOST HOME RESCUE’S

Another Wienerfest has come and gone. It was a highly attended event with approximately 800 adults, 300 children and I’m many, many dogs. My team of volunteers and I ran the costume contest and doxie derby. Thank you to Jess, Erin, Lily, Marie and Megan for your help! We were very busy!

Hot Dog News

Wienerfest 2023 Winners

the French Tourist and Poppy who was a Drag Queen aka “Dachsie.” Thank you to our costume judges, Keith Carson from News Center, Dorothy Havey, Belfast Chamber Director, artist Marie Spaulding and Connie Gardiner. Keith, his son Luca and their new dachshund, Magnolia (Maggie) also joined Petey the P.A.W.S. mascot to lead the parade of dogs around the park.

BARK HARBOR

Private puppy lessons

Basic and advanced board & train programs

Aggression rehabilitation training to dogs of any age or breed

Owner education is included in the form of private lessons following every boarding package

megan@happyhoundsdogtraining.com

PHOTO CREDIT: DEBRA BELL, BELL’S FURRY FRIENDS PET PHOTOGRAPHY

KEITH, LUCA, MAGNOLIA AND PETEY LEAD THE PARADE.

ARLO, COSTUME RUNNER UP

MILO, COSTUME WINNER

See HOT DOG on page 19

From the Publisher Downeast Dog News

PUBLISHER Jenn Rich

COPY EDITOR

Belinda Carter

CONTRIBUTORS

Susan Spisak

Diana Logan

Sara Moore

Judith Herman

Carolyn Fuhrer

Don Hanson

Gail Mason

Christine Calder

GRAPHIC DESIGN

NVDesigns • Nicole Vanorse

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Jenn Rich 207-706-6765 jenn@downeastdognews.com

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All contents of Downeast Dog News are protected under United States copyright law. The contents may not be reprinted or reproduced without the expressed written permission of the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within Downeast Dog News are those of its contributors and not necessarily those of the publisher. Content of ads is the sole responsibility of the advertiser. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the content and Downeast Dog News assumes no liability for any errors, omissions or claims made by its contributors or advertisers.

Dear Dog News Readers, Happy October!

I hope the weather will be kind and provide us with some beautiful foliage and a few less rainy days.

We got very lucky for Wienerfest and it didn’t start to rain until we were driving away. It was also not a hot, sunny day, which was good for the pups! Perhaps we had some luck because Meteorologist (aka Weather Czar) Keith Carson from News Center attended and lead the parade with Petey from PAWS and was one of the costume contest judges. There were some very creative costumes this year.

The winners are in the Hot Dog News but I wanted to share another of my favorites here as well. We have also posted another on our calendar page that did not sign up for the contest in time.

This month is our big adoption issue and we have increased the amount of dogs included once again! We were able to do this with the help of our sponsors. If you are looking for a dog, there are plenty to choose from within these pages.

We hope you enjoy the fall season!

All the best, Jenn and Pepper

Dog of the Month!

DAHLIA

Dahlia is a 5-year-old black German Sheppit (German Shephard/ Pitbull Mix) who wandered up to my house homeless & right into my heart. We've been inseparable since. I travel for work & she gets to explore the world with me. She finds a new best friend everywhere we go. She's my favorite hiking partner & never seems to tire. Her favorite toys are the puzzle type & she loves nothing more than to be everywhere I am, go on new adventures, & snuggle, snuggle, snuggle.

Table of Contents

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“If the kindest souls were rewarded with the longest lives, dogs would outlive us all.” ― unknown

METEOROLOGIST KEITH CARSON AND JENN (DOWNEAST DOG NEWS ).

Hello and welcome to autumn! Do they make pumpkin spice treats for dogs? I personally love pumpkin but in pies and breads, but my favorite is in Indian pudding. I prefer my coffee black or with cream but love that so many people get giddy for their pumpkin lattes! Your dogs are equally excited to tell you what they prefer for food and treats, so let’s get into this month’s questions. I am a psychic for people and pets, so I communicate with them in my head, and they answer me in images, physical sensations, song lyrics, and memories from my life that are relevant to what they are trying to explain. It’s fascinating and I’m still blown away that some of your pets have told you where to find their request in a store and sometimes even the exact amount it’s going to cost. I have no idea how it works, but it does! Readings aren’t a replacement for licensed medical care but can complement it beautifully.

Nicki S. asked about Daisy, a silver Weimaraner. “Why does she jump? What is she trying to say? How can we work together and get her to stop jumping?” The first thing I see is your energy and how it’s affecting Daisy. You know when you are trying to get breakfast on the table and

Furry Words

by Sara Moore www.enlightenedhorizons.com

out the door in the morning? There’s chaos going on, and you have to be the calm one, but your mind is racing and thinking about everything you need to do throughout the day. To most people, your energy “looks” calm. Your dog knows otherwise! She is feeling the energy bubbling up and out of you, and to her it’s play time because she’s getting wound up by what’s in your head versus your presentation to those around you.

Fascinating! So how do we change this? First thing I hear is make your list before you get up. When you are doing a task, focus solely on it. The rest will get done because it always does. Is there a command you could use? Nope. Oh my. That was very clear. It’s not that she needs more exercise or attention, either! She’s pointing at you saying it’s up to you to help her fix this reaction to your energy. I just came back to edit this before submitting, and I also hear that your son is an energy worker and could also communicate with her. I’d love to hear how this plays

Dianne D. asked if Penny could hear out of both ears. Yes, she can, but the left is a little funky. They’re not itchy but the left is like listening to a conversation happening in another room and her right tends to ignore things that don’t interest her. Well then!

Sue C. wants to know what Murphy, a Labrador who is in heaven, thinks of their three-yearold Golden Retriever Jack. Oh my goodness, he LOVES him! The only regret I hear is that I’m not there to be with him! The funny thing is I “saw” my childhood bedroom, complete with the red and purple shag carpet that I had my entire childhood. I came home from college

Senior Dogs

Q. What should I do for my senior pup to keep him happy and healthy?

A. The first question is what age is considered a senior. The definition of a senior is the numerical number of years a dog has lived. Generally, it is considered to be 7 years of age. More specifically, small dogs are considered senior at 11 to 12 years of age, medium sized are 10 years, large pups are 8 years, and giant breeds are 6 to 7 years. Being a geriatric is considered a couple of years later and is a statement of health versus pure age.

As your best friend grows up, you have built a deep relationship with love, fun, and happiness. Now that Fido is approaching his senior years, there are many things you can do to keep him active and happy. No matter his age, here is a reminder of a few things you can do to maintain an active, happy dog. First, your dog needs 16 to 17 hours a day of sleep for good health. Dogs are crepuscular; meaning they are active at dawn and dusk. This is why Fido wakes you in the morning and is bouncing off the walls in the

Ask the Vet…

by Dr. Judith Herman

evening. Sniff walks are a must to keep his immune system sharp. Keep an ideal weight throughout his life. Joint supplements started as a teen need to continue. Keep him active. Remember if you don’t use it, he will lose it.

When your best friend hits the senior mile mark, take him to your veterinarian for a full exam and blood work-up. Just like us, when we become seniors, we do blood work to know if there is anything brewing. A baseline is

helping your veterinarian to make recommendations going forward. Depending on your dog’s exam and lab results, other tests may be recommended. Your veterinarian may also recommend a checkup every 6 months if your pup is developing geriatric problems. Catching problems early will allow you to make changes to slow down or reverse a downward trend in your dog’s health.

Seniors may not be able to do what they used to do at the same intensity and duration. Weather may have a bigger impact on your best friend now versus when younger. Extreme heat and cold should be avoided. If activity in extreme cold or heat occurs, adjust to Fido’s current health and fitness level. If you haven’t been doing core fitness with your best friend, it is never too late. Core fitness is low impact and short duration stretches and exercises, which strengthens your pup overall. Osteoarthritis may be playing a part in your dog’s wellbeing. Watch for slowness getting up and lying down, reluctance climbing stairs, and getting into cars and trucks. There are nutritional supplements to reduce his discomfort and allow him to be more comfortable. If arthritis is severe, there are other modalities

to a room with the carpets removed and a gorgeous wood floor, new comforter set and zero clutter. I wished I had that growing up!

Karen C. wants to know what Henry, the white Golden Doodle wants her to know. What a sweet and funny boy! He loves you dearly but that’s no surprise. He needs routine and structure. If it’s evening, people should not be coming over. It’s our quiet time. If you don’t have to work, we have a routine we do on days off. I love that, he says!

Finally, Joanne M. wants to know if Suki’s back or knee hurts. She’s 12 years old. Her back is tight, but when she’s medicated, it’s not a bother. Her knee is, in her words, “par for the course.” She’s not too sore, but she is showing me the Tin Man in the Wizard of Oz, and she needs to do her stretches before springing into action. It feels like she has maintenance medication on board, and it really feels like it’s helping.

Sara Moore is a psychic for people and pets who does readings over the phone and at her office in Conway, NH. Her Enlightened Horizons with Sara Moore podcast is free and covers a variety of topics. FMI go to www.enlightenedhorizons.com and follow her on Facebook.

you can use besides supplements, such as, acupuncture, cold laser, EMP (electromagnetic pulse), red light therapy, chiropractic, eastern and western herbal formulas, conventional medications, and homeopathy.

There are senior commercial foods being marketed to dog owners. Because your pup is older, you do not have to change to a senior food. Many of these products reduce protein and up carbohydrates. Major dog food companies have found that this could negatively impact your dog’s long-term health. Talk to your veterinarian if a special diet is indicated. You can also consult a board-certified nutritional consultant if Fido has serious dietary needs. There are now nutritionists who can guide you in making an appropriate homemade diet.

If you have taken good care of your active pup over the years including exercise, keeping him at an ideal weight, giving him a good diet and veterinary care, your senior will be a happy dog for longer than the average.

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

Meghan O'Connor, Shelter Director at PAWS, shared that Rebel had a bite history, was very reactive to strangers and animals, and had two unsuccessful adoptions. “I did reactive training with him with the help of volunteers Andrea and her husband Patrick Benson.” She saw much improvement and potential in him, so she resolved to find him a match. Anyone interested would have to work with her and go on several “dates” with Rebel to ensure he’d be comfortable and secure. Only then would she consider adoption. Enter Rick, whom Meghan called special.

“I first met Rebel on a bitterly cold day at the end of December 2020. Until I discovered PAWS Animal Adoption Center in Camden, I had just about given up hope of finding a rescue dog. The pandemic had emptied out most shelters in Maine. But then I saw Rebel's photo online and fell in love. He looked so cute and alert,” said Rick.

He lives in Ft. Kent and made the 5-hour trek south several times a week. The first visit Rebel was aloof, only giving Rick that side eye glance. With every visit, Rebel’s interest grew. After a few weeks, he’d hear Rick’s voice and howled in excitement, and soon after it became clear they had a perfect match. “Rebel now is not reactive when seeing strangers and accepts love from others. He is now able to go to the vets and even the groomers with no issue. Love and trust are what he needed,” explained Meghan.

Rick can’t say enough good things about his snow-loving boy, in fact, he’s even written a story about him and is searching for a publisher. He added his vet bills are “eye-watering” as Rebel is Lyme positive, takes meds for hypothyroidism, and gets routine

begrudge the treatments because he deserves to be happy and healthy after four years in the shelter. Yeah, four.”

PAWS has another success in-themaking with longtime resident, Karter*. While weary of strangers initially, as soon as he knows someone, he is sweet. “He is another boy who needs to re-learn trust. Every staff member at PAWS loves him and if we all did not have homes full of other animals, any of us would take him home,” said Meghan.

Shannon Nachajko, Director and Founder of Catahoula Rescue of Catahoula Rescue: Houlas & Heelers, Inc. based in Warren, said she became aware of an Alabama heartworm positive mom, Bernadette, and her seven pups from one of her southern volunteers. Sadly, some of the pups had injuries that were related to injuries associated with BB gun pellets.

They are/were being fostered in states up and down the eastern seaboard from Tennessee to Maine. “Some are fosters that have been with us for years and others are new to us and even better, some are fosters with intent to adopt. This means that they are fostering the puppy to see if there is a connection that works with them and their family, resulting in a fabulous ‘foster fail.’”

So far, only two of the pups have been adopted, but fosters and adopters alike are ecstatic. “I feel that anytime a dog is saved it is a success, no matter the outcome. Sometimes we are able to give them the forever home. Sometimes we get sad news and have to ease the suffering that they are dealing with. No matter which way it is, at least they are not alone. They are surrounded with love, kindness, and these are the memories they are left with.”

Cathy Peralto, Adoption Coordinator for Almost Home Rescue of New England, told the story of Twinkie who came to them from their rescue partner

distemper at a shelter, and while she had no neurologic issues, it affected her teeth, resulting in many extractions. Older dogs or those with medical issues like Twinkie may spend much time in foster care—or they may never get out of a shelter in the first place, explained Cathy. “With a lack of foster homes, it is very difficult for rescues to commit to bringing adult southern rescues to New England without adoption interest. We thankfully had a foster that was willing to foster Twinkie for however long it took to find her home.”

Fortunately, it didn’t take long. Nancy K. Oxton, BSC, MA, MS, said she and her husband had the privilege to meet this wonderful older gal, Twinkie, at the Pet Rock in the Park event in August 2022. Twinkie had only been in foster care for two weeks at the time. “We fell instantly in love. We visited with her several times that day during the event and spent the next several days talking about her gentle wonderfulness. She joined our kookie family a couple weeks later.”

Nancy said her name grew into Dixie and she is their Queen Bee. “She spends her days either sleeping ‘four paws up’ on our couch or micromanaging her pack of wacky Dachshunds, a Corgi, and kitties.

Dixie runs like a gazelle on the family acreage, is the cheerful hoarder of all toys, and is so revered she’s lavished with homemade meals. “I'd say the only down-side is that since she lives with so many little dogs, she believes she is a little lap dog.” Thus, when watching TV, the couple must lean around her big ears to see it. “She is literally the best friend we’ve ever had, and we can’t imagine our lives without her silly self in it.”

Wendy and Shawn Sparrow adopted bonded pair Lilac and Blue from Responsible Pet Care of Oxford Hills (RPC) in October of 2022. The dogs spent almost eight months waiting for an adoption there, and RPC staffers had

had been relinquished by their owner, could find a home together.

Wendy said they had entered the dog adoption arena after their cat died. “We spent many hours scrolling through PetFinder, which was a bit overwhelming as the need for adoptive homes was so great and hundreds of dogs were available. We did end up limiting our search to senior dogs and these two were included as they’re 7-years-old. It was the cute ‘getting married marketing’ that made us notice them,” she said. (RPC staged a wedding for the dogs, complete with outfits and another dog as officiant to draw attention to them on social media.)

The Sparrows traveled the four-hours to RPC and both dogs took to them immediately. Wendy knew the shelter was at a point where they might split the bonded pair up, which broke her heart. While the Sparrows never intended to adopt two dogs, they knew they had the resources to care for both.

They deliberated on their decision, and when they were comfortable, jumped in. Wendy said Lilac has gained 13 pounds at home after struggling in the shelter due to long-term GI issues. She said the shelter did a great job of stabilizing her, but she’s flourishing now with the help of their vet. The Sparrows are pleased with their decision, and Lilac and Blue are settled in and love them. It was almost a year to get to this happy ending, and rest assured, it matters to Lilac and Blue who get to grow old together.

Thank you to all the staffers of shelters and rescues, not to mention the fosters who work hand in hand with them to set dogs up for successful adoptions. For those interested in adopting or fostering, check out the shelter/rescue info in this edition.

*See back cover for Karter’s profile.

STORMI – ALABAMA PUP

How to Train Your Dog to do Anything in Three Simple Steps!

Sit, down, come, and stay. Oh, and walk without pulling on leash, please.

I just needed to find out how to teach these things, and then I’d be all set with my new puppy. They were the skills I understood would add up to a “fully trained dog.” I was eager to find good, simple, step-bystep instructions, like a manual for how to operate the blender. “Do this, then this will happen,” and so on. One and done. Assemble at home with no tools.

That was 22 years ago. My initial, naive perspective very quickly eroded into frustration, confusion, and failure when I learned that things weren’t quite that simple. I had to “pay” my puppy for things I liked. To complicate things, sometimes I thought I was paying her, but she didn’t accept the currency I offered. If she was distracted or in a different environment, I was lost as to what to do; I didn’t understand the complexities and the layers of factors I needed to consider when working with her. As we developed our relationship in shared living spaces, it became abundantly clear that there were things infinitely more important than “sit”, none of

Basic Training Tips

by Diana Logan

them came with a how-to manual, and exactly zero of them were “one and done.” Same ingredients, same results?

“Your photos are so beautiful! Do you do something special to take those or do everyone’s photos look like that?”

Last year I posted photos to Facebook from our trip to the Pacific Northwest, my first time visiting that area of the country. I was

Training Your Performance Dog

Agility, Obedience, Tracking

by Carolyn Fuhrer

Agility For All

Agility, if introduced and taught correctly, can be a wonderful experience for almost any dog. Agility can help build confidence by exposing dogs to different surfaces, textures, and shapes dictated by the nature of the equipment. It can also help build coordination and body awareness as well as increase strength. Agility is a wonderful way to engage the mind by presenting different problems for the dog to solve.

Besides all these benefits for

the dog, agility provides a great opportunity for the handler and dog to form a wonderful working relationship. The handler must be able to communicate to the dog while the dog and handler are both moving and to direct the dog in a certain path throughout the course.

Dogs need to have some basic

overwhelmed by its beauty and scale, and I thoroughly enjoyed rejuvenating my love for photography as I chronicled our travels. I am far from a professional, but I’ve had basic education in photography, sufficient only to help me “make” rather than just “take” photos by trying to be aware of the subtleties of what’s in the frame. The photo you see here isn’t award-winning, but it took some thought and planning. I waited for a wave to come over the rocks in the foreground to create a gentle white arc of white. I lowered myself close to the water’s surface so that the strength of the rocks under water in the foreground were prominent and clear. I liked how the diagonal lines of the photo’s elements converge and guide the eyes from foreground to back. A professional photographer, like a professional chef, is no doubt able to create something far superior using the same exact ingredients. It takes time, education, and practice to achieve great results.

The answer I offered my friend who posed the question above was, “it’s hard to take a bad photo there, but I did put effort into composition.”

The Big Picture

My observational skills are in a constant state of being honed

and sharpened, and I’m much better about seeing the big picture, especially when I’m working with a sentient being who is acutely sensitive to her surroundings. I know we all learn best if we are happy, physically comfortable, and feel safe. We cannot separate behavior from emotion, and when we interact with our dogs, we are affecting both of those things. It’s for this reason that I continually observe my canine student to see how she’s feeling. Is she feeling unsafe? Is she in the ideal physical position to do the behavior I want to train? Are there

See BASIC on page 19

obedience – “wait” and “come” and “with me” will help things go smoother, and because dogs will learn to focus on instructions to gain rewards (usually food or toys), these basic obedience skills are easy to teach because the dogs want to do the work. They want to play agility because it is fun and they can earn rewards.

Agility can teach a handler a lot about how to motivate and focus the dog and how not to pressure the dog and to help it learn at its own pace.

A safe progressive introduction to agility equipment is extremely important. Dogs should be taught so they want to do the work, not lured onto obstacles with trepidation. Correct introduction builds confidence and helps to ensure safe performance. A good instructor can modify a course for all skill levels for both dogs and handlers.

Handlers learn to understand and work with the dog. Many handlers are surprised how much focus it takes from the handler to keep the dog engaged. Without clear communication from the handler, the dog is really on its own, and the results may not be what you want. Handlers must take on the responsibility of communication and

be willing to present information at a pace and in a format the dog can understand.

Agility provides a medium for dogs to work on self-control skills such as start line stays, table performance, and contacts. Dogs also learn to work in the company of other dogs and still be able to focus on the handler and the “job of agility”. Dogs learn self-control by watching other dogs run the course and having to wait for their turn.

If you are interested in agility, it is important that you find a place to introduce your dog to this wonderful sport safely and correctly. Because a friend of yours may do agility with a dog does not necessarily mean the friend can teach you and your dog to do agility. Agility is NOT a freefor-all where dogs just run around jumping and climbing on things. If you push them too far, too fast, and they become worried about certain experiences, dogs can have great setbacks in learning.

There is no substitute for quality instruction from someone who not only knows how to play agility but also knows how to teach it properly.

Diana Logan, CPDT-KA Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge-Assessed Pet Connection Dog Training, North Yarmouth, Maine

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 has been teaching people to understand their dogs for over 30 years. 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.

Dogs for Adoption

View

Some

SHADOW

3 years old, Catahoula Leopard Hound Shadow is everything that you read about Catahoula Leopard dogs. He loves his family but has energy that is endless! He loves to play, but he would be just fine being the only dog in the home, if you gave him a job! He is also the true essence of his name; he loves to be your Shadow!

FMI: Email: sln2310@yahoo.com

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

CODY

2 years old, Shih Tzu

Cody is a sweet dog that does well with dogs his size but no big dogs, cats, or small children please.

TITAN

3 years old, Catahoula Leopard Hound

Titan is for the most part an old soul in a young body. Once he gets comfortable with you, he is such a love bug! He is very focused on the environment around him with smelling and watching what is going on; he is extremely true to his nature as a Catahoula Leopard dog.

FMI: Email: sln2310@yahoo.com

Sponsored by: Damariscotta Veterinary Clinic 530 Main St., Damariscotta, (207)563-3934, damariscottaclinic.com

7 years old, Mixed Breed

Riggs is house trained, knows commands, he has been through basic training and enjoyed the classes and likes showing off his smarts. He is super snuggly and likes human foods such as carrots and cabbage, and enjoys soft things like blankets. Looking for a home where he can be

www.luckypuprescue.org

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

1 year old, Mixed Breed

He has the cutest underbite ever! This baby is very sweet and loving. Freddy loves to play and loves treats. Freddy is approximately a year old, possibly a little less. Weighs about 43lbs . Freddy is quiet in his kennel and is super sweet

BROWNIE

1 year old, Catahoula Mix

Brownie was a stray puppy that is very lovable, playful and loyal. He is extremely playful with the other dogs and cats. He would do best without senior animals as he is extremely playful and as for cats when they tell him they don’t want to play – he listens! He is super curious and is a fun loving fella!

FMI: Email: sln2310@yahoo.com

Sponsored by: Warren, (207)975-1898

BELLA

8 years old, Lab Mix

She loves to play outside, does very well on a leash and loves going for walks. A love bug who just wants to be with people, she also likes her own space sometimes too. She would benefit from a yard where she could run and play. Good with dogs and kids with slow and proper introductions.

FMI: blessedbethebullies.com

Sponsored by: 299 Auburn Rd., Turner, (207)225-2525, parisfarmersunion.com

GAGE

6 months old, Mixed Breed

He just does not understand why his forever family is taking so long to find him! He is such a good boy! He just completed a week of board and train with Faultless K-9. He is an absolute love, good with dogs, kids, cats, you name it! He loves to ride in the car, is crate trained and house broken.

KICKER,

1 year old, Pit/Lab Mix

671 Main St., Lewiston, (207)783-1366, parisfarmersunion.com

She knows all the basic commands, is house trained, crate trained and does well on and off a leash. Well mannered and behaved.

Super sweet, affectionate. She has a bit of a “hitch in her giddy-up”, her back legs are slightly deformed it doesn’t slow her down, she’s not in pain, the vet said no further action is needed!

FMI: pulledfromthepits.com

Sponsored by: Miley’s Munchies Oxford, (207)890-9883, mileysmunchies.com

FMI: blessedbethebullies.com

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

GEMMA

4 years old, Am Staff Mix

Gemma is full of personality and love. At just 40 pounds she’s the perfect size and is cute as a button. She is dog selective.

FMI: pulledfromthepits.com

Sponsored by: 1243 Roosevelt Trail, Raymond, (207)655-6760, parisfarmersunion.com

FMI: responsiblepetcare.org/dogs

Sponsored by: Paris Farmers Union 227 Main St., So. Paris, (207)743-8960, parisfarmersunion.com

Sponsored by: Zander

ELSA

8 years old, Dane Mix

She is looking for someone who also appreciates cozy blankets, tasty treats, relaxing on the couch, and warm naps in the sun. We can assure you this gal may be grey of face, but she is full of heart! If you have space in your heart and home for an lovable senior pup, get your application in today.

FMI: www.popehumane.org

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

ZOLA

7 years old, Mixed Breed

Sweet and lovely Zola is ready to be the queen of your castle! She’s an outgoing, friendly, and active gal who will make a loyal and loving companion to her new people! Most of all, though, she loves playing fetch! Zola would prefer to be your one and only and live in a household without other pets.

FMI: animalwelfaresociety.org

Sponsored by: York Bark & Play 915 US Route 1, York, (207)361-4758, yorkbarkandplay.com

Dogs for Adoption

LINCOLN 2 years old, Retriever/Labrador Mix

While he has a ton of energy and loves to play and run, he’s always up for a good nap and cuddle session on the couch. Did we mention that he seems good with most dogs and cats?! That’s pretty awesome. Loving pup ready for daily adventures and cozy bedtime stories.

FMI: www.popehumane.org

Sponsored by: Hillside Collision Center Route 1, Waldoboro, (207)832-5141, hillsidecollisioncenter.com

POPPET

10 years old, Terrier Mix

A terrier through and through with a pinch of chihuahua for good measure. She is not shy about expressing herself – be it the need to go out or the desire to play. She likes to run free in a fenced in space, go for long hikes or walks on the beach. No other pets.

FMI: olddogsnewdigs.com

Sponsorship in memory of: Rufus, Bella, Moxie, and Buddy

BEAR

4 years old, Boxer/Terrier, American Pit Bull Mix

Bear is the kind of pup who looks at a closed door and thinks, “Hmm, I could definitely fit through that cat-sized hole,” and then proceeds to get stuck. But when it comes to love and loyalty, Bear is top-notch! Always there with a wagging tail, ready to brighten your day.

FMI: www.popehumane.org

Sponsored by: Hillside Collision Center

ARCHIE

1 year old, Lab Mix

Handsome, energetic boy is looking for a home as active as he is! Archie is the definition of a “wild child”, but with some training we think he will settle right down. Archie is the type where he wants to please and wants to learn, especially for food! He’s not picky! Children 10+ years old.

FMI: pethavenlane.org

Sponsored by:

ATLAS

Kompletely K-9 Dog Training and Rehab. (207)322-5111, kompletelyk9.com

4 years old, German Shepherd Mix

Atlas is full of life and is ready to steal your heart! He loves long walks, playing ball and spending time with his humans. Atlas will be the most loyal dog once he connects with you! Atlas would do best in a home with no cats, possibly a calm female dog, and kids 10+.

FMI: hswa.org

Sponsored by: 15 Highview Dr., New Gloucester, (207)619-2414, pawsitiveplay.net

wants nothing more than to snuggle and watch your favorite show with you. The only thing this girl loves more than her people is her food! She is a bit possessive over her food but with feeding in a crate we think she will be just fine. Jubee would like to be your only pet.

RAVEN 4 years old, Retriever Mix

What a sweetheart! She tends to need a moment to warm up to new people, but once she does she will never leave your side! However, Raven is one of our more challenging placements, due to her gastrointestinal cysts. She needs a special I/D diet to alleviate the symptoms.

FMI: hswa.org

Dogs for Adoption

View more available dogs on our website, downeastdognews.com.

Some rescues do not offer phone numbers and require you apply online. Please see the contact info. highlighted in yellow below each dog.

TIPPY

1 year old, Mixed Breed

A young, rambunctious, happy, and playful gal. Tippy has a zest for life and is super happy to adventure with her friends. Although she is too interested to live with small animals or cats, she may enjoy a dog friend after a positive meet and greet. We think Tippy could live in a wide variety of homes.

FMI: midcoasthumane.org

Sponsored by:

LUNA 3

2-3 years old, German Shepherd

Very sweet and friendly. She is good with kids, and good with other dogs, too! Luna has attended training here and is now walking nicely on a leash and has some manners. Luna is a smaller girl weighing about 60 lbs. She will want an active family!

FMI: www.miraclegsdmaine.org

Sponsored by: 340 Howland Rd., LaGrange, (207)943-6474,

BOOG

10 years old, Terrier

He is looking for a quiet home. He’s still got plenty of puppy in him, loves adventures, cuddles, and snacks! He’s got some skin sensitivities and will need a vet relationship, but we think he’ll do fine with slow introductions to cats, kids, and other dogs.

FMI: bangorhumane.org

Sponsored by: 12 Progress Park South, Newport, (207)368-4329, parisfarmersunion.com

TINA

2 years old, Hound Mix

Calling all hound lovers! Tina here is an absolute doll and is only two years old. She is people-friendly, and dogfriendly, and was previously in a home with a very chill cat. She loves playing with people and other dogs. She is a super awesome girl and will make a great addition to a home!

FMI: www.pawsadoption.org

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

A calm and quiet household would be ideal for him to feel safe and secure, understanding, he will flourish into a loyal and affectionate companion. He enjoys time outside in our fenced-in area, and is enjoying finding out which

Rhodesian Ridgeback

Mr. Bentley is looking for a calm, adult only home where he can relax and build confidence and trust again. Bentley came to us after his family had difficult times and he is a little nervous still. Bentley warms quickly with treats and kind words.

FMI: midcoasthumane.org

653

of these symptoms, and in spite of it is the happiest, most loving boy you’ll meet.

FMI: bangorhumane.org

SULLY & STELLA

7 years old, Black Lab

11 years old, Chocolate Lab

Bonded pair. They get along great with cats and kids, sully would do best with low to normal energy dogs. Stella still plays like a puppy. They have both had a complete vet check and have a clean bill of health!

FMI: www.fairytails-rescue.weebly.com

Sponsored by: Paris Farmers Union 230 Main St., Jay, (207)897-3333, parisfarmersunion.com

Sponsored by: Red's Eats Wiscasset, (207)882-6128, redseatsmaine.com

1.5 years old, Labrador Retriever

He adores people 15 and older. A fenced-in environment where he is the only pet is the right fit for Chance due to a strong prey drive and a history of escaping. Given the right home and an owner willing to challenge him and keep him busy, he’ll shine like the diamond he is!

FMI: bangorhumane.org

Sponsored by: 15 Hardy St., Brewer, (207)989-6300,

Super handsome sweet boy quickly warms up to new people. He loves other dogs! We are not sure how he would do with kids but older kids would likely be fine. We are also unsure how he would do with cats. He is just the sweetest of boys and will make a fantastic addition to a

FMI: www.pawsadoption.org

Sponsored by: 4 Commercial St., Rockport,

MABLE

7 years old, Catahoula

She was surrendered to the rescue upon sustaining an injury causing her to need a leg amputation. She does great with kids, cats and dogs. Great on leash. She is food protective and would need to be fed separately from other pets, and separated from children with snacks.

FMI: www.fairytails-rescue.weebly.com

Wiscasset Rd., Boothbay,

Ridge Runner Veterinary Services

Halloween Tips for Pets and Their People

Halloween can be very scary for our pets and very dangerous. It is that time of year when many children and even some adults like to dress up in costumes that make them look different and often scary. They may also take on the stilted walk or the pseudo-terrifying vocalizations of the character they portray.

Think about Halloween and all the shenanigans it entails from your pet's perspective. Was your dog ever socialized/habituated to anything remotely like Halloween? Is it likely that the dog will find groups of people behaving weirdly and trying to scare one another a pleasant experience? You already know that the answer to both questions, for most pets, is a resounding "No!" Do your pets a favor this Halloween and keep them inside and safe.

You and your children also need to be cautious when out trick-or-treating as you may encounter dogs that will find you frightening which may cause them to bark and growl at you.

Tips for You and Your Pets

• Sadly, black cats can become

WORDS, WOOFS & MEOWS

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

victims of violence and can be abducted to be someone's costume accessory this time of year. If you have a black cat, please keep the cat inside and safe before and after the Halloween holiday.

• Dressing your pet in a costume may be fun for you, but it is typically a very stressful experience for your pet. If your pet freezes in place or frantically tries to get out of the costume, it is trying to tell you to STOP! Other signs of distress include calming signals such as tongue flicks/nose licks, yawning, and averting eye contact. More intense signals might be barking, nipping, growling, and biting. Most pets prefer to remain "au naturel" (without costume).

on Halloween may be injured or become lost. Secure your pet in a part of your home where it will be behind a closed door and away from the commotion of a party or the trick-or-treaters coming to your door.

• If you are having people over for Halloween, ensure everyone at the party knows he or she must respect your pets and just "let them be." If your dog enjoys its crate, you may even want to place the dog in the crate with a stuffed Kong or another favorite chew toy, far from the maddening crowd. It may also be helpful to play soothing music or leave the radio on in the room with your pets to help mask the sounds of your party and the activity at the front door.

photo credit: debra bell

• Either due to guests coming and going or trick-or-treaters seeking candy, you will likely be opening and closing your door more frequently on Halloween increasing the possibility of your pet bolting through the door to escape. A pet that bolts outdoors

• There is a high probability of your doorbell ringing more times on Halloween than during the typical day. Many people disconnect their doorbells on Halloween for this very reason.

See WORDS on page 19

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.

TRACHEAL COLLAPSE IN DOGS

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

The trachea, also known as the windpipe, is the structural conduit from the oral cavity to the lungs. Tracheal “collapse” is a chronic, progressive, and irreversible disease of the trachea and the larger bronchial tubes. This disorder likely has a genetic component and is most commonly seen in small breeds such as the chihuahua, poodle, Yorkshire terrier, and Pomeranian. Structurally, the normal trachea is fairly rigid, with C-shaped rings much like a vacuum cleaner hose. The opening of the “C” faces towards the dog’s back. The gap in the “C” is covered by a muscle known as the tracheal membrane.

Tracheal collapse results from a weakening of the cartilage rings (referred to as tracheomalacia) that start to collapse and there is a loss of the normal curvature. As a result, the tracheal membrane becomes stretched and floppy, which can result in airway obstruction. The sensation of the flaccid tracheal membrane touching the inner lining of the trachea initiates coughing spasms. Adding to this problem, inflammation occurs within the trachea which results in increased mucus secretion, and the release of enzymes that further soften the tracheal cartilage. The trachea can collapse along its entire length, only

within the chest cavity (“intrathoracic”) section, or only the segment outside the chest cavity (“extrathoracic”) in the neck region. The most affected segment is that which is where the trachea enters the chest cavity.

Severely affected animals can demonstrate symptoms at an early age. However, many dogs with collapsed trachea do not show symptoms until other health problems develop. Common concurrent diseases include obesity, hypothyroidism (low levels of thyroid hormones), respiratory infections or irritants, heart enlargement, or excess production of cortisone in the body secondary to hyperadrenocorticism or “Cushing’s disease.”

How is tracheal collapse diagnosed?

Any dog suspected of having tracheal collapse should be evaluated by a veterinary professional. A medical history including signs and symptoms, routine blood work, and a physical examination can raise the index of suspicion for a diagnosis of tracheal collapse. Radiographs or “chest X-rays" may be helpful in the diagnosis. Though tracheal collapse is not always visible on routine X-rays, the heart and lungs can also be evaluated. Fluoroscopy is a technique in which the animal's chest and trachea are viewed using a “moving X-ray” technique. The patient is awake, which allows a dynamic view of the breathing process. Bronchoscopy is a fiberoptic scope method to visually inspect the oral cavity, trachea, and the larger airways. Though it does require anesthesia to perform, samples can

be obtained for analysis and bacterial culture which may aid in the diagnosis of contributing factors. What can be done for dogs with tracheal collapse?

In a recent retrospective study of a hundred dogs with collapsing trachea, 71% of patients responded well to medication and management of secondary factors such as obesity, infection, or airway irritants. Another 6% had severe enough collapse that they succumbed to their disease. Approximately 16% of patients who failed medical management became eligible for surgical intervention.

Medical management may include a patient weight-loss program, the elimination of airway irritants such as fireplace or cigarette smoke, and treatment for secondary infection. Treatment for existing illnesses such as Cushing’s disease, hypothyroidism, or diabetes mellitus can improve patient outcomes. Cough suppressants such as hydrocodone, butorphanol, or tramadol can be useful in breaking the cycle of coughing. Steroids including prednisone can be useful in reducing mucus production and inflammation within the airway. They must be used judiciously as high-dose steroids can further weaken the tracheal cartilage. A bronchodilator such as theophylline or terbutaline can be useful to dilate the lower airways, relieving pressure within the chest during inhalation. While they don't have a direct effect on the trachea itself, the reduction of negative pressure can reduce the degree of tracheal collapse.

What if these options don’t work?

If patients can have their tracheal collapse managed medically, it is the preferred treatment. However, in severely affected patients, it is possible that surgical intervention would be of benefit. Surgical management includes two options. The first is called a "ring prosthesis." This is a procedure where a rigid prosthetic is placed and bonded around the trachea, essentially creating a non-collapsible tube. The procedure requires that the collapsed region of the trachea is external to the chest cavity. The second method is the use of a “tracheal stent.” This is a cylindrical, stainless steel, self-expanding tube that is placed inside the collapsed portion of the dog's trachea. Overall, the success rate reported is 75-90% where 30% were recorded to be free of symptoms and 61% showed marked improvement. It is important to remember that these procedures carry certain risks and should be performed by a boardcertified veterinary specialist. Is this an emergency?

Dogs that are severely affected by this disorder can suffer respiratory distress, which can be life-threatening. Those that exhibit prolonged coughing episodes, have a blue tinge to their gums and tongue, and have increased respiratory efforts should be seen on an emergent basis. If you happen to have a pet with this disorder, knowledge is power! With careful attention and oversight by your dog’s veterinarian, most patients can enjoy a full life.

“Why does my dog cough like that?”

Dogs for Adoption

View more available dogs on our website, downeastdognews.com.

Some rescues do not offer phone numbers and require you apply online. Please see the contact info. highlighted in yellow below each dog.

BARRY

8 years old, Labrador Retriever

Ready for a family of his own and ready for the good life! House and crate trained, walks well on a leash, and enjoys car rides. He is fairly active, playing with the other dogs in the home, but not a big toy guy. He loves people and attention. He would do best in a quieter home with older children.

FMI: www.pprorg.com

Sponsored by: (207)729-4678, androscogginanimalhospital.com

ROCKY

6 years old, Mixed Breed

If you’re looking for a laid back, chill dog that’s super loyal to their person, Rocky is the dog for you! Rocky rides well, walks well and loves a good belly rub. Rocky would prefer to be the only dog in his new home and can’t wait to meet you!

FMI: arlgp.org

Sponsored by: Maine Veterinary Dentistry 158 Roosevelt Trail, Windham, (207)481-8232, mainelyvetdentistry.com

BAILEE & COOPER

6 years old, Hungarian Kuvasz

Bonded pair (sister and brother) of purebred Hungarian Kuvasz who are about 6 years old and weigh about 70 pounds each. They’re gorgeous dogs who love the water, love to play, and need a fenced in yard with plenty of squeaky tennis balls.

FMI: www.grammyrose.org

Sponsored by: Anonymous

JOLLY

14 months old, Mixed Breed

He is a work in progress that continues to improve each and every day! Looking for an understanding family that is willing to work with Jolly so he can be the best he can be! He has a sensitive soul and a sweet, cuddly, medium-to-low energy. He would be most comfortable in a quiet home.

FMI: www.almosthomerescue.net

Sponsored by: Ashes to Ashes Pet Crematory 340 Howland Rd., LaGrange, (207)943-6474, ashestoashespetcrematory.com

MARCUS

1 year old, Plott Hound Mix

Marcus has lots of energy and loves to play. He would make a great hiking partner Marcus loves people and will make some family very lucky. Described as the sweetest dog on the planet he was saved from an overcrowded shelter he is happy to be

FMI: www.pprorg.com

Sponsored by: 331 Maine St., Suite 6, Brunswick, (802)558-0134, brunswickmedicalaesthetics.com

RIVER

6 years old, Mixed Breed

River is a sweet, middleaged lady who wants to spend her days snuggling with her humans. She’s easy going and looking for a relaxed home and a family who’ll help manage her medical needs.

FMI: arlgp.org

Sponsored by: Maine Veterinary Dentistry (207)481-8232, mainelyvetdentistry.com

CASSIE

1 year old, Shepherd Mix

She’s adorable, shy in a cute way, but warms up quickly. She’s a very loving dog who loves playing and cuddling. She is still learning how to walk on leash; we recommend a family with a fenced in yard.

FMI: www.grammyrose.org

QUEENIE

11 years old, Puggle (Beagle/Pug)

She has lived with other dogs, We are unsure kids. Because of her prey drive, cats would not be a good fit. She should not be let loose around chickens, ducks, etc. as she will go after them. Queenie needs to go to a home with another dog. She is sweet girl who loves to be with her humans.

FMI: www.harvesthills.org

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

ANGEL

5 years old, Mixed Breed Angel is just a sweetheart and likes to snuggle! She loves attention and absolutely adores kids. She enjoys taking car rides and will play ball for hours! She is house trained and has good house manners; she sits and lays down.

ORION

9 months old, Rotti/Husky Mix

THE sweetest boy that thinks he is 100lb lap dog. Needs some work on his leash manners but has already improved in the short time he has been here. He has lived with teenagers, and because of his size, we suggest kids no younger than 10 yrs old. He is a happy boy that just wants to be loved!

FMI: www.harvesthills.org

KATYA

3 year old, Mixed Breed

Katya is people, dog and cat friendly. She enjoys hitting the trails with her current foster and would love a FOREVER family that will take her on long walks and provide her with plenty of puzzle toys and games to work her brain! Crate and house trained, she is also great in the car.

FMI: pittieposse.com/adopt

DAISY

1 year old, Lab and Great Pyrenees

A gorgeous, exuberant girl with a humorous personality to match. She’s curious, funny, playful, smart, strong, and alert. Guessed that she has some Great Pyr (or similar) in her mix so breed experience would be ideal. Loves her people but also likes time to herself. Home with 10 yo+.

FMI: newenglandlabrescue.com

Dogs for Adoption

WREN

2 years old, Mixed Breed

Wren is looking for her new best friend - could it be you?! She is just a sweet little darling! Both people and dog friendly and has been declared a giant love bug! Polite walker on leash and excellent listening skills.

FMI: pittieposse.com/adopt

KORBIN

1.5 years old, Lab Mix

He would love a family that is around a lot to spend time with, he is a true companion. An easy-going home with lots of fun chew toys, walks, playtime, and cuddles! Korbin loves deeply so we’d be so happy to see him as the only pet so he can get all the love and attention he deserves.

FMI: newenglandlabrescue.com

Sponsored by

MUNCHKIN

6 years old, Mixed Breed

She’s extremely sweet! Dog & people friendly. She is just a peanut, she’s itty bitty in size! She’s a happy go lucky girl who loves to run and play! She is a smart cookie who already knows her fair share of cues! Munchkin has done well being left alone and eager to show off her training!

FMI: pittieposse.com/adopt

KODAK BLU

2 years old, Lab Mix

Beautiful dog, needs home with no small children as he could knock them down with his size. Needs lots of running time out side, good with dogs, cats unknown, house trained, needs an experienced dog owner and strong alpha leader person. Super smart, loves to eat, treat motivated, sweet boy.

FMI: newenglandlabrescue.com

POOPAH SCOOPAH PET WASTE MANAGMENT AND LAWN CARE

www.thepoopahscoopah.com

You may have seen something like this before. This is a general guideline, every dog may adjust at a different pace. This is to provide some realistic expectations that your new furry friend is going to need some space, patience and kindness while he/she gets comfortable in their new home. You might also consider working with a trainer or behaviorist.

3 Days, 3 Weeks, 3 Month Rule of Adopting a Rescue Dog

In

the first 3 days

• Figured out his environment

Lets his guard down and may start showing his true Behavior issues may start showing up Finally completely comfortable in his home. Building trust and a true bond Gained a complete sense of security with his new family

5 Things NOT to do when you first adopt your dog

• Take them to the pet store – It’s exciting you have a new family member and you want to take them shopping for essentials and to pick out new toys. This is not the best idea as your dog is already possibly feeling stressed and this could be a very overwhelming and stressful experience for them. A stressed dog is likely to behave differently than they would in more relaxed, comfortable situation.

• Take them to the dog park – Your dog has not had a chance to get to know you or bond with you yet. You can’t be certain how they will behave around other dogs. Get to know your dog before introducing them to other dogs and people. Work on training them to come when called.

• Invite friends and family over to meet them – Once again, give them time to get to know you and feel safe in their new home before introducing them to a bunch of strangers.

• Let them off-leash in a public place – In many cases most public places will require your dog be leashed. Not all people and other dogs enjoy strange dogs approaching them. This set aside, and for many of the same reasons listed above, your dog may run off. You are also liable if they harm another person or dog.

• Leave them unattended in your yard – The riskiest time for your dog to become lost is in the first few days and weeks you bring them home. One strange noise or something that scares them and they may be gone right over the fence!

Featured Rescues/Shelters

Almost Home Rescue, South Portland

Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, Westbrook

Animal Welfare Society, Kennebunk

Bangor Humane Society, Bangor

Blessed be the Bullies, Lewiston

Catahoula Rescue of New England, Warren

Fairy Tails Rescue, Western Maine

Grammy Rose Dog Rescue & Sanctuary, Acton

Harvest Hills Animal Shelter, Fryeburg

Humane Society Waterville Area, Waterville

Kennebec Valley Humane Society, Augusta

Lucky Pup Rescue, Kennebunkport

Midcoast Humane, Brunswick/Edgecomb

Miracle German Shepherd Dog Rescue of ME, Searsmont

New England Lab Rescue, Limerick

Old Dogs News Digs

P.A.W.S. Animal Adoption Center, Camden

Passion for Pets, Brunswick

Pittie Posse, Saco

Pope Memorial Humane Society, Thomaston

Pulled from the Pits, Livermore Falls

Responsible Pet Care, So. Paris

FOSTERS NEEDED!

Maine’s animal shelters and rescues are currently facing a crisis. Most of our shelters are at capacity and cannot help any additional dogs until the dogs they have can be adopted or until they have more foster families willing to help.

If you are interested in fostering, please check with your local animal shelter or rescue agency for more information.

Understanding Shelter Dog Behavior: The Key to Successful Adoption

By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB Calder Veterinary Behavior Services, www.caldervbs.com

Did you know that behavioral challenges are the primary reason dogs are surrendered to shelters each year? Many of these sheltered dogs are under two years old, and only a few have received prior veterinary care before their surrender. The backgrounds of these dogs vary: some may be sick or injured, others might be strays due to abandonment, getting lost, or escaping from their homes. A common trait among them is the lack of formal training, and many have not been spayed or neutered.

Adopting a dog from a shelter is undoubtedly rewarding but equally challenging. The history of a dog, including their early behaviors, previous environments, and genetic background, often remains a mystery. However, once your adopted dog is home, it's vital to provide them with a

dedicated "safe haven." Meeting their basic needs, like comfortable bedding, warmth, food and water, can make them feel secure. Give them time to acclimate to their new environment. The transition from a shelter to a home can take weeks to months. It's not unusual for dogs to exhibit new and undesirable behaviors once they start settling in. It's essential to monitor these behaviors and, if necessary, seek early intervention.

It's crucial to understand the emotional distress some dogs experience when surrendered. The act of surrendering can be deeply distressing, as dogs are suddenly uprooted from familiar environments and separated from people or other animals, they've formed attachments to in their previous home. In the shelter, despite best efforts to provide care and comfort, many dogs experience feelings of anxiety, fear, and frustration.

Being returned after an adoption can further compound this emotional distress. While returns can indeed

offer valuable insights into a dog's behavior within a household setting, they can also be traumatic for the dog. Being reintroduced to the shelter environment after experiencing the comforts of a home can be difficult for some. However, there's a silver lining: the information gained from a return can aid in ensuring a better-suited subsequent adoption, as it sheds light on the dog's needs and compatibility factors.

It's important to note that before considering surrendering a dog to a shelter due to behavioral issues, there are resources available. Assistance may be sought from family veterinarians, veterinary behaviorists, or other pet professionals such as trainers. These professionals can offer guidance, solutions, and techniques to address and manage various behavioral challenges, potentially avoiding the need for surrender.

For dogs, the prevalent reasons for surrender related to behavior encompass house soiling, destructive tendencies, excessive barking, and boisterous behaviors. This is often followed by behavioral traits of fearfulness and histories of biting.

With professional guidance, proper training, and adequate resources, your dog can experience a smooth transition into their forever home. Remember, understanding, patience, training, and veterinary care lay the foundation for a lasting bond with your new canine companion.

OCTOBER C lendar

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

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

SATURDAY NAIL TRIM CLINICS

Saturday, October 7

Rockland, 12PM - 3PM

Is your pet in need of a pedicure? Bring them down to Pet Quarters located at 235 Camden St, Rockland and Shannon Nachajko from Catahoula Rescue of New England will be on hand to make your fur kids look their very best! And remember we trim not only dogs, but cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, you name it! Nail Trimming and Ear Cleanings are available for a $10.00 each or combo price of $12.00 for ear cleanings. All funds raised go directly to rescue.

AKC TRACKING DOG EXCELLENT TEST (TDX)

Sunday, October 8 Somerville

Hosted by On Track Agility Club of Maine. Headquarters: North Star Dog Training School, 252 Jones Rd., Somerville, ME. Interested in learning about tracking? Come and watch AKC Judges judging the teams in the beautiful fields in Somerville. This test is an advanced tracking test for handlers and their dogs who are being tested to earn this prestigious AKC TDX title. FMI: Call Kathy at (207)691-2332 or e-mail kduhnoski@myfairpoint.net.

TOE NAIL TUESDAY

Tuesday, October 17 Rockland, 11AM – 1PM

Is your pet in need of a pedicure? Bring them down to Pet Quarters located at 235 Camden St, Rockland and Shannon Nachajko from Catahoula Rescue of New England will be on hand to make your fur kids look their very best! And remember we trim not only dogs, but cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, you name it! Nail Trimming and Ear Cleanings are available for a $10.00 each or combo price of $12.00 for ear cleanings. All funds raised go directly to rescue.

ON TRACK AGILITY CLUB OF MAINE AKC RALLY TRIALS

Friday, October 20 Portland

2 Trials, AM and PM. Location: Happy Tails, Portland, ME. FMI: Call Kathy at (207)691-2332 or e-mail kduhnoski@ myfairpoint.net

TSC SATURDAY MED’S AND PEDI’S

Saturday, October 21

Thomaston, 12PM – 2PM

Is your pet in need of a pedicure?

WORDS from page 14

• Any treat containing chocolate or the artificial sweeter Xylitol (Birch Sugar) can be deadly to your pets. Make sure to keep all candy out of reach of your pets.

• If you take your children trick-ortreating, I'd strongly encourage you to leave your dog at home as it will be far happier.

Tips for Parents and Kids

• When trick-or-treating, avoid houses if you hear a dog barking

FINALLY HOME PACK PARTY

Saturday, October 21 N. Yarmouth, 6PM – 9PM

Held at Toddy Brook Golf Club, 925 Sligo Road, North Yarmouth. Join us for our 3rd annual Pack Party including: live music with Laikatheband, delicious food, a silent auction, raffles, Finally Home merch,live presentations...and more!

Proceeds to benefit: Finally Home Senior Dog Rescue + Retirement Home. Call (207)829-3943 to reserve tickets now!

$40/Person ~ $70/Couple

ON TRACK AGILITY CLUB OF MAINE AKC OBEDIENCE TRIAL

Sunday, October 22 Portland

Location: Happy Tails, Portland, ME. FMI: Call Kathy at (207)691-2332 or e-mail kduhnoski@myfairpoint.net.

LAZY DAY NAIL TRIM CLINICS

Sunday, October 22

Rockland, 12PM - 2PM

Is your pet in need of a pedicure? Bring

behind the door, see a dog at the door or windows, or see a dog tied in the yard or barking from behind a fence.

• Never approach any dog, even if you know him. He may not recognize you in your costume.

• If a homeowner opens their door and a dog is present, stay still and wait for the owner to put the dog away.

• If a dog runs at you while out trick-or-treating, stand still and "Be A Tree" (hold your hands folded in front of you with your

Nachajko from Catahoula Rescue of New England will be on hand to make your fur

Treat Drive-Thru, 178 New County Rd. In partnership with PMHS, this Halloween, fun-filled event will have all the trick-or-treat fun you love! Get ready for lots of fun (and candy) while supporting PMHS! 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! If you or your business are interested in hosting a “trunk” and handing out treats to local kids, don’t hesitate to contact Barbara at shepardstorage@gmail.com. FMI visit https://www.facebook.com/ events/1113918059588206

CELEBRATE A NAUTICAL HALLOWEEN AT THE MUSEUM OF MARITIME PETS

Saturday, October 28 Rockland, 12PM to 2PM

5TH ANNUAL HOWL-O-RUN

Sunday, October 22

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. The first 50 people who sign up will get a free race T-shirt. Prizes will also be given for best costumes (Adult, Children Under 12, and Pets) and for the participants who raise the most money for the shelter! FMI: spcahancockcounty.org

4TH ANNUAL SHEPARD & POPE MEMORIAL TRUNK OR TREAT DRIVE THRU

Friday, October 27

Thomaston, 4PM – 7PM

Grab your costumes, hop in the car, and join us the third annual Shepard Storage and Shepard Auto Trunk-or-

eyes looking at your feet). The dog will probably sniff you and move on. Wait for the dog's owner or another adult to come and get the dog before you turn away. If no adult is around, wait for the dog to go away.

• Ignoring other people's dogs on Halloween is best if you encounter them while trick-ortreating. The dog may be anxious about all the people and their costumes. Even if you know the dog, he may not recognize you in your costume.

75 Mechanic Street- Rockland Harborside Barking Bosuns, Meowing Maties and Prattling Parrots are invited to strut their stuff in nautical garb. Proceeds benefit the museum’s education and research programs. Celebrate the maritime tradition of animals at sea while showing off your design flair! All pets must be leashed or tethered. Water and potty area provided. Pre-registration required by October 18. Fee: $10 per team. Details: 207-390-5909. Virtual entries also welcome! Winners announced and posted on October 31.

AKC VARIABLE SURFACE TRACKING TEST (VST)

Sunday, October 29 Augusta

On Track Agility Club of Maine - AKC VST Tracking Test. American Kennel Club VST (Variable Surface) Tracking Test – Headquarters: Viles Arboretum, Hospital Street, 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

Posters to Help Educate Family, Friends & Neighbors

Our friends at Mighty Dog Graphics have created this fantastic series of posters to help you teach family members, friends, and neighbors how to make Halloween safer and more fun for you and your pets. Click on the link below to take you to the Mighty Dog Facebook page where you can print a copy.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/? set=a.984189611708555&type=3

HOT

2

The Doxie Derby has 3 categories, the “minis” who were dachshunds under 12 lbs., the “standards” who were 12lbs and up and the "wannabes" who are non-dachshund contenders. The winner of the mini races was Buti, a 2.5-year-old dachshund from Gorham. The standard winner was Sonny, a 5-year-old dachshund from Kansas City, MO and the wannabe winner was Toby, a 6-year-old Norfolk Terrier from Belmont. At the end the mini and standard winners race off for the overall doxie champ and it was Buti that took home the trophy. We also had an unanticipated challenge where Toby’s human challenged Buti, the doxie champ, in exchange for an additional donation to P.A.W.S., to a race off where Buti remained

supreme winner of the Wienerest Doxie Derby!

This adorable event is a fundraiser for P.A.W.S. Animal Adoption Center (pawsadoption.

BASIC from page 7

distractions present that may prevent her from being able to learn? Is she scared? Did I do something that may diminish her trust in me? Did her tail just tuck and if so, why? Her mouth closed tightly, so is she simply focused or is she feeling tense? Is she really into the reinforcement I’m offering and eagerly returning for more? Oh no, she just shook off, so I must have missed an important message.

Our dogs are an open book of communication. Taking the time

org) based in Camden and it was a successful and fun day! You can view more photos on the Maine Wienerfest Facebook page or website mainewienerfest.com.

to read what they are expressing helps us help them become happy, secure, and skilled individuals. Practice, education, and a thorough understanding of Dog Language and Culture will help them get there. And… sorry, of course there is no such thing as the “3 Simple Steps” to teaching all behaviors. Sorry if you were hopeful, but I’m sure you knew this is too good to be true. Happy Training!

Next year’s event will be held on September 8th so mark your calendars!

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

DOG from page

PHOTO CREDIT: DEBRA BELL, BELL’S FURRY FRIENDS PET PHOTOGRAPHY

SONNY, “STANDARD” RACE WINNER BUTI – “MINI” AND OVERALL RACE WINNER TOBY, “WANNABE” RACE WINNER