Downeast Dog News March 2014 by Downeast Dog News

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th of

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Downeast Dog News introduces the 5th Annual Reader’s Poll! Readers please vote for your top choices in each category by filling out the form below. Winners will be announced and profiled in the upcoming May issue. Please be specific, include the TOWN where your selection is located and mail to Downeast Dog News.

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Hot Dog News

custom pet beds, decorative throw pillows, blankets and pottery, home décor fabrics, matching canine collars, leashes and bandanas, and handmade dog and people bowls— and customers world-wide love the concept. Ray’s goal is to not only boost his beloved state’s economy—dofähn features only Maine-made products

Exclusive dofähn Perfect Pet, Perfect Vet Giveaway! Veterinarian Feature

INSIDE

“Our company name, dofähn, is derived from dog, family, and home on purpose,” says CEO, founder and co-owner, Ray Paré. The e-commerce corporation, born in part from his desire to have “a boatload of fun,” markets upscale coordinated dog and home accessories, including

by Susan Spisak

DowneastDogNews.com

Baxter

Adoptable Dogs

See DOFAHN on page 5

crafted by a pool of 36 local designers—but to give dog owners a choice, letting their homes be enhanced because of their pets, not cluttered by unsightly products. “The first thing people do when they throw a party is to hide their dog bed,” he explains. A hand-

Volume 9 • Issue 3 • March 2014

DOWNEAST DOG NEWS

FRE E

Hot Dog News

Pet First Aid & CPR Seminar

On Saturday, March 15th, Green Acres Kennel Shop will be hosting a Pet First Aid and CPR Seminar taught by Certified Pet Tech Instructor Tracy Haskell. This 4-hour PetSaver Program will teach participants Pet CPR, Pet First Aid, and basic care and handling that can be used in the event of emergencies. Participants will receive a first aid book and a certificate of completion. At the completion of the program, participants will have the resources they need to keep their pet safe, healthy, and happy. Whether your pets just hang around at home with you or live an active and adventurous life, the knowledge you gain in this class may possibly save a pet’s life. The seminar will run from Noon until 4PM. The fee for the seminar is $50, with $10 from each enrollment being donated to the Eastern Area

Agency on Aging Furry Friends’ Food Bank. To ensure sufficient practice time, space is limited to 10 participants, so don’t delay! Call Green Acres at 945-6841 to register. In the event that the seminar has to be postponed, the alternate day will be Saturday, March 29th from 1PM to 5PM. In business since 1965, Green Acres Kennel Shop at 1653 Union Street offers boarding, daycare, and grooming for dogs and cats, as well as pet behavior consultations and training classes. Part of our mission is to give back to the community through our support of organizations such as the Bangor Humane Society and Eastern Area Agency on Aging Furry Friends Food Bank. Voted Best Kennel every year since 2002, Best Pet Store every year since 2007, Best Dog Trainer every year since 2011, and Best Pet Groomer in 2013, Green Acres Kennel Shop has something for every dog and cat. The retail store offers a wide variety of wholesome pet foods, treats, and quality supplies. For more information, please call 945-6841 or visit www.greenacreskennel.com.

Maine Veterinary Referral Center Welcomes Three New Doctors

Dr. Lee Gregory has joined the Maine Veterinary Referral Center as Medical Director of the Emergency Department. Dr. Gregory brings extensive experience in veterinary emergency and critical care, with particular interests in traumatology, pain management, and non-invasive diagnostic ultrasonography in the emergency room and intensive care unit. Dr. Gregory and the entire team of knowledgeable and caring ER/ICU doctors and staff have committed to being leaders in the field of veterinary emergency care, 24/7, 365 days a year. Dr. Kate S. Domenico has been practicing small animal medicine and surgery for over 10 years. Originally from Chicago, she attended Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine and finished her clinical year at the University of Illinois School of Veterinary Medicine in 2004. Prior to joining the Maine Veterinary Referral Center team in March 2014, she was a Medical Director of two veterinary

hospitals in New Jersey. She is a Veterinary Medical Officer on the National Veterinary Response Team as well. In her spare time, she enjoys down-hill skiing, sailing, and riding dressage horses, in addition to hiking with her two Golden Retrievers Remy Martin and Maverick. She also shares her home with six colorful Lady Gouldian Finches. Dr. Jennifer Johnston grew up in North Yarmouth, ME and completed her undergraduate degree in Animal Science at the University of Maine, Orono. She went on to pursue her veterinary degree from The University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine. After graduation she completed a 1 year rotating internship at New England Animal Medical Center in 2011. Her professional interests include feline medicine, endocrine emergencies and ultrasound. Outside of work she enjoys being active outside, reading, traveling, and spending time with her family and pets.

Sato Realengo Society Seeks Volunteers

“Sato Jack” has been rescuing homeless and abused dogs for 50 years. In 1968, he visited the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico and saw firsthand the street wandering dogs called “sato realengos” (slang for “street wandering dogs” or “mutts”). The US Virgin Islands (commonly called USVI) are a group of islands in the Caribbean (St. Croix, St John, and St Thomas). The image of these homeless dogs roaming endlessly stuck with him and he decided to do

something about it.

Feral dogs outside a US Post Office in Puerto Rico.

See SATO on page 11

Downeast Dog News

Downeast Dog News Publisher/

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Katie Grant

Copy Editor Belinda Carter Contributors William Kunitz Diana Logan Sara Moore Judith Herman Carolyn Fuhrer Susan Spisak Advertising Gail Spugnardi 207-653-5227 gail@downeastdognews.com

President

Wendi Smith

Parent & Publishing Company Maine Pet News LLC

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• Provide the latest in dogrelated news and information. • Encourage and support dogfriendly businesses and Mainemade pet products and services. • Cultivate a community of responsible dog guardianship/ ownership. • Support animal welfare causes.

From the Publisher

Hello DDN readers! I feel like it’s been awhile since I shared some thoughts with you as my letter made way for some of our other stories last month. I hope you enjoyed reading about some of our fellow Mainers traveling to Westminster! We thought it was pretty cool to have some representation at the big show. I also hope that you and your pets have been surviving this insane amount of snow we have seen over the last month! Love it or hate it, we have to deal with it, and I hope everyone has been able to make the most out of the weather. Personally, I love to watch the beagles bound around in the drifts, always following their noses, even if that means digging through the foot of snow to get the source of that smell! Luckily for me (and little Miss Molly with her short legs), my husband snowblows a “racetrack” through the backyard, so the dogs and I can easily navigate our backyard tundra. Johnnie likes to run on top of the snow and leap across the racetrack openings at full tilt; it’s adorable!

Celebrate Dr. Seuss’s Birthday - Read With a Canine Friend!

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COPYRIGHT 2006-2014 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.

Dogs are great listeners! The Downeast Dog Scouts encourage children to read to their dogs in celebration of Dr. Seuss’s birthday. Dogs create an inviting and motivating environment that is relaxed, comfortable, empowering, and fun! The relationship between children and dogs is magical when children snuggle with dogs to read their favorite books. Dr. Seuss’s March 2nd birthday falls on a Sunday this year, so the official National Education Association Read Across

America Day will be celebrated Monday, March 3rd to enable schools and libraries across the nation to participate in the reading fun. Read Across America Day is an annual reading motivation and awareness event that calls for every child in every community to celebrate reading on the birthday of beloved children’s author, Dr. Seuss. His whimsical books and colorful characters lie at the heart of many fun-filled Read Across America celebrations and reading challenges. All across the country, thousands of schools, libraries, and community centers participate by bringing together kids, teens, and books, and you can too! For the second year, Read Across America will again highlight the importance of oral health and the connection between oral health and literacy. Poor oral health is a leading

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March 2014

We are also featuring a number of awesome veterinarians from across the state in our Perfect Pet, Perfect Vet spread on page 7. The beagles have one more tidbit of exciting news they would like to share as well: they are going to have a baby brother or sister at the end of August! Though this one will be “weird” in their eyes (no fur, dry nose, lots of noise), I think they are very excited! We will certainly have a full house and one awesome “pack” upon his or her arrival! -Katie & The 3 Beagles

Cassi, Johnnie & Molly are going to be big siblings!

Maine Pet News, LLC 6 Leland St. Rockland, ME 04841 Ph: 751-7786 Fx: 596-7323 katie@downeastdognews.com www.downeastdognews.com Downeast Dog News is distributed free of charge at pet-friendly locations in Maine.

With the month of March, I’m hoping we will see some glimpses of spring (though I won’t hold my breath)! Those who celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, I wish you a fun and safe holiday and those who enjoy college basketball, best of luck with your March Madness brackets! For our March issue, we have a wonderful piece about dofähn: a local pet supply company getting some serious recognition. Check out the story and read about their journey and make sure to enter the dofähn giveaway (details on page 5) exclusive to DDN readers!

cause of absenteeism in schools, causing students to lose millions of hours in critical reading instruction. Motivating children to read is an important factor in student achievement and creating lifelong successful readers. Research has shown that children who spend more time reading for fun on their own have higher reading scores. Dogs can help children to read for fun! Since 2008, Downeast Dog Scouts Troop members and their listening dogs have provided over 2,000 hours of volunteer community service listening to children read at local libraries and schools. Children Reading to Dogs Programs increase children’s reading skills, confidence, and self-esteem. Children that have special canine relationships also develop empathy for dogs and others. The reading sessions create a love of reading and lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning.

Table of Contents

Hot Dog News .................................. 2 Dr. Seuss’s Birthday ......................... 3 Furry Words ....................................... 4 Ask the Vet........................................... 4 Basic Training Tips ........................... 5 dofähn Giveaway Contest! ........... 5 Performance Dog Training ........... 6 Perfect Pet, Perfect Vet! ................. 7 Baxter ................................................... 8 Greg & Axel Show Photo ............... 8 Dogs for Adoption........................... 9 Calendar of Events .......................... 10 Business Directory ........................... 11

Furry Words

Ask the Vet . . .

Sara Moore, Animal Communicator

I love March! Today I went for a walk and heard the birds all chirping, and it made me realize that there is a light at the end of this snowy winter, and it’s not that far away. I do love the snow, too, so I’m not complaining. In January I taught a two week online class on animal communicating. I lead the group through daily assignments with four days of doing readings on animals they had never met. The first dog I used was Sophie. She is a yellow lab I got with my now ex husband nine years ago. When we divorced a few years later, it only made sense that she live with him because she was able to go to work with him, and she was very much his dog. Recently his job has changed, and she has been home alone much more. I asked the group how she was doing and what would make her happier but didn’t give them the background information. Here is what they got from Sophie for answers using their newly found skills: She wants to see you more often. Being outside makes her happy. She’s here for unconditional love and guidance and friendship for your son -especially when he misses you. Sophie would like to see you/ feel you. Miss Sophie is really good at snuggling and playing Frisbee. She wants you to take her for walks and give her your undivided attention. She misses getting reiki from you. She misses you very much. She misses people. I get that she is heavy hearted and needs someone to lean on (literally) who will give her gentle love. Why aren’t you here? I miss you. Things are heavy and you make it bubbly. I want to walk and play in the yard. After reading Sophie’s messages, I thought about ways to make her happier. The easiest solution was to have her follow the same week on, week off schedule we used with Zach. We discussed it on a Saturday, and Peter dropped her off that Monday after getting Zach on the bus. Well, she had

eaten something rotten over the weekend. I now understand the term, “Sick as a dog.” I’ll spare you the details, but my carpet is pretty much ruined, and I was taking her out every hour and it still wasn’t often enough. By Wednesday, Peter took her to the vet, and she was given medication for a really inflamed digestive system and started to come around by the end of the week. The poor thing was so sick and so sad. It happened to be a week I didn’t have too many events planned, and I was able to give her Reiki and just give her as much love as I possibly could. When I do phone readings, I often sit on a loveseat, which is really suitable for two very friendly people sitting side by side. Sophie made her way onto the seat and under my legs, often pushing me to the very edge. Just like with a sick child, I didn’t mind at all and was so grateful that I was able to give her some comfort. If we hadn’t made the decision for her to go back and forth between the houses, the poor girl would have been alone and more miserable. Having her around made me realize there are things I need back in my life. I need someone to snuggle with, too! I need someone to share my thoughts with who wouldn’t judge me. It was nice to have a conversation with Sophie after Zach went to school. It sounds silly, but anyone who has had a pet knows what I’m talking about! I need to get outside maybe not every hour, but when Sophie was healthy, it was a blast walking in the snow and playing with her again. It also gave Zach some responsibilities. Because she has lived with him at “Daddy’s”, he felt like he was in charge of her at my house. There are some things only an animal can teach you, and I’m already looking forward to Monday when she returns. As for the people who took the animal communicating class, thank you! Without their insight, I might not have realized what Sophie needed. It is an honor to be able to teach people how to tune in and to have animals and people in my life who are willing to help me with my own lessons. Sara Moore is a psychic medium for people and animals. She lives in Conway, NH and can be reached at sbeagen@gmail.com. Readings can be done in person or long distance via phone or email. For more information, go to www. enlightenedhorizons.com.

Dr. Judith Herman

Finding a New Veterinarian

I just moved to Maine and I am looking for a veterinarian. Do you have any suggestions?

It is always difficult to move and leave a veterinary practice where you had a good relationship. It is just like finding a new dentist or doctor. The first task in finding a new veterinary practice is to watch the people with pets around you. Take notice of those folks who treat their dogs the way you do. These people may know of a practice that will fit your needs. Ask them where they take the dog; ask if they like the practice and why. Ask several people. The next step is to make a list of what you liked about your previous veterinarian and his practice. Then make a list of what is important to you as a guardian of your best friend. Put down everything you can think of even if it seems extreme or silly. You can always adjust your wishes to match your needs. Not everyone will have the same needs or wants. Some of the items on the list should address your dog’s special needs. If you have a companion who is chronically ill and needs unique medication and/ or monitoring, this should be at the top of your list. If it is important that the practice has longer hours because of your work schedule, then a solo practice would not be right for you. What about emergency coverage? Many practices are using emergency clinics and are not available after hours; others cover their own emergencies or are in a local group who shares coverage. How far are you willing to drive to the practice? Do you want it around the corner, within five miles, etc.? What is your philosophy concerning your personal life and medical care? This last question is very important. What is your life style? How does it apply to Fido? Are you one who wants a practice that follows the standard of practice of the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) or the even higher standard of the AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association)? Are you someone who leans toward alternative, complementary medicine? Another point is to look at websites and get the feel of the clinic before you go to visit. Websites may be deceiving, but most clinics have them, and in some cases, it is best to check them out first. You will find out what their practice philosophies are. You can see what you need to do as a potential client. In the case of my clinic, my website has an explanation of what I do and paperwork to fill out before you can become a client.

This may seem extreme, but I have a specialty practice, and the modality of treatment is homeopathy. If you do not want what I offer, then I just saved you time by explaining it all on the website. Once you have made this list, have met people who love their pups as much as you do yours, then it is time to visit the veterinarians who are on your list. You can make a surprise visit. Don’t expect to meet the veterinarian on this visit. If you see the waiting room is packed, go back another day to speak to the receptionist. While you are there, you can check how clean it is, if there are any bad odors, and assess the “feel.” Is the receptionist friendly and helpful, or does it appear that she is stressed out and not helpful? The receptionist should ask if she can help you. If it looks busy, just say you are new to the area and will come back later when it is less busy. The receptionist may have an information packet to give you. Using these brief encounters, you will get the feel of the clinic. If the feeling is good, the next step is to ask for a brief appointment to speak with the veterinarian. This visit will give you a test run. Be prepared to pay for this short visit. Remember, the veterinarian has taken valuable appointment time away from others to speak with you. Have your questions and concerns prepared so the veterinarian can address them efficiently. This may seem like a lot to do to find a doctor for Fido, but you are forging a relationship that will last. The more comfortable you feel about the new clinic and veterinarian, the calmer and easier it will be for your best friend. Judith K. Herman DVM, CVH Animal Wellness Center, Augusta, ME www.mainehomeopathicvet.com officeawc@roadrunner.com

Downeast Dog News

Basic Training Tips by Diana Logan

My Favorite Word: “Relevance”

“Relevance: pertinence, connection, importance, significance, usefulness.”

This single word, “relevance,” plays a huge role. If something isn’t relevant, why would it matter? “…dogs are always in search of meaning and relevance and clues to what is cool and what is not cool.” (Suzanne Clothier) Many moons ago, I was a 20-something tourist riding a public bus in Vienna, Austria. Among some people we picked up along the way was a brusque American woman who stepped up to the fare box, stopped, and awkwardly dropped some coins in the slot. The coins were rejected. She tried again with the same results, then spoke to the driver in English with increasing consternation and volume. He was apologetic – in English - but said he couldn’t help her and politely instructed her to get off the bus. She was livid. The problem? She

was trying to pay for the fare with US currency. I could hear her say, “Damn it, this is good American money! What’s wrong with you?!” The driver said he only took schillings, the Austrian currency at the time. She was dumbfounded that the money so valuable to her was not valuable to him. It was clear she was incapable of understanding how unreasonable she was being. I grimaced and hid my head, embarrassed for representing the same country as

she. We frequently run into a similar conundrum with our dogs, expecting them to respond to cues that are irrelevant to them, offering them things they don’t value, currency they don’t recognize or expecting them to like things they don’t find “cool”. In fact, just tonight, a dog turned her nose up at a treat I offered her, despite having enthusiastically eaten what I thought were the same treats just beforehand. Why? I’d forgotten that I had some little pieces of asparagus mixed in with the dog treats in my treat bag, but she sure knew the difference. (The 10 week old puppy I’d been working with earlier was wild about asparagus, so that’s why I had the aforementioned veggie in my bag). We need to be creative in our search for motivators when training our dogs…. or any other species, for that matter. If we aren’t successful during training, we need to ask a very important question: “Is it relevant to my dog?” If we want our dogs to come when called, we need to make sure the dogs find it very relevant. If we want a dog who enjoys being handled, we need to

add relevance to the process. It doesn’t matter what we might find relevant: relevance is determined by the dog. We can choose to be like the American woman in Vienna, or we can dive deep and figure out what drives our dogs, what they see as cool. We need to be creative in searching for our individual dog’s motivators and to learn how to add value to things that a dog might not naturally find motivating (such as teaching fetch to the fetch-ambivalent dog). Once we understand the dog’s currency and are willing to pay him accordingly, the training process becomes a fabulous journey we can share together.

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

DOFAHN from page 1 stitched dofähn dog bed, available in a variety of fabric choices and prints, is not only a conversation piece, but is visually appealing…especially when it blends with the couch’s throw pillows.

A hand-stitched dofähn dog bed, with coordinating throw pillows for your decor!

The pottery line is a result of consumer wants and needs, too. One woman told Ray she had a stateof-the-art kitchen that cost a pretty penny, but her dog’s “hideous” bowl was out of place. “We can solve that,” he told her. The happy gal now integrates a one-of-a-kind dofähn artisan dog bowl into her kitchen. Others have expressed an interest in complementary curtains and pottery dinnerware; both may come at a later date. “From this point, I think we can go almost anywhere,” Ray says of their development plans. He already has a prototype for calming mats,

March 2014

cushioned and fabric-covered resting pads for the anxious pet. For mental stimulation, educational dog toys will be added to their offerings. Since they opened their Internet doors in March of 2013, dofähn has been highlighted in Down East and Cesar’s Way magazines, and Yankee Magazine is featuring them in their May 2014 “Best of New England” edition. They not only entice customers with their distinctive products but free shipping and returns to the contiguous states, and first-time visitors receive 10% off a purchase. Ray also instituted the commission-based Affiliate Program; approved individuals tout dofähn products via company supplied marketing materials, and their shopper receives a discount as well. dofähn has a friendly social media presence; for example, their Facebook page is personal in feel with shared pet photos, articles and stories. And the company pays their good fortune forward; every month dofähn donates a percentage of their gross sales to a designated shelter, rescue, or other non-profit that’s showcased on their website. When this family man’s not brainstorming for dofähn in his North Yarmouth home, you might catch him on the ski slopes with Danielle, his wife of 19 years. He may be cheering on teen daughter, Kathryn, during one of her USTA tennis matches, or listening to his sixth grade “wiz” kid, Braden, explain a complex theory. “They’re wonderful, wonderful children and we are blessed,” he says

proudly. And while this close-knit family doesn’t currently have a dog, they plan to look for one soon. Ray’s only hesitation is that they’re a two career couple with active children; he wants to make sure they have the time their special pet would need and deserve…so for now, he celebrates canines through his company. Yes, Ray is having fun growing dofähn, but the real motivation for this adventure is that passion for dogs, which came to light in a unique way. He was a senior executive in the IT field; a project required that he spend countless hours at a nearby veterinary office. “I think we worked with close to 100 dogs, and I wanted to take home about 99…It was just one of those feelings. It clicked. [I thought] this is where I could spend the rest of my life, and I am here.” He laughs and adds, “I have an undergraduate degree in Industrial Technology and an MBA in Healthcare and Finance, and I make dog beds.” To learn more about dofähn, including their products and Affiliate Program, visit www.dofahn.com. Ray invites readers to check them out on Facebook and post pictures of their dogs, too. www.facebook.com/ dofahn.

EXCLUSIVE dofähn GIVEAWAY

FOR DDN READERS ONLY! Enter to win a dofahn collar, leash and bandana for your special pup! Email woof@dofahn.com with the code

DOGNEWS in the subject line to enter.

As an additional offer, all DDN readers will receive 10% off of their online order at dofahn.com (excludes pet ID tags).

Enter the discount code

DOGNEWS at checkout!

Thank you dofähn!

Exp. date 3/31/14

TRAINING YOUR PERFORMANCE DOG Agility, Obedience, Tracking Tracking - Becoming The Best Handler You Can Be Too many times the role of the human partner in the tracking team is minimized and sometimes you may hear the statement, “the dog has the nose, follow your dog, you are the dope at the end of the rope.” The only part of this statement that is really true is that the dog does have the nose. The human half of the team has an important role to play in being observant, supportive, understanding and helpful. In order to create a real tracking team, you must be willing to learn to be the best handler you can be. Handling means more than lead handling skills. Certainly you must be skilled at lead handling and be able to give

line and take in line efficiently and smoothly, but becoming a good handler must go beyond lead handling skills. A good handler has to exhibit neutral body language so the dog can work without being influenced by his thoughts which usually reflect in his body language. It is important that the handler stay centered and neutral. Verbally the handler should be fairly quiet (very difficult for some people) and allow the dog to think and work. You may ask the dog a question to keep him focused such as “is that your track?” and you may want to offer some quiet encouragement like “yes” or “good”, but basically you should not distract your dog with your voice. A good handler sets the pace of the track that is comfortable

for him. Running after the dog is not only unsafe but will cause the dog to overrun turns. There is no prize for the fastest track. Posture is important. A good handler stands upright and is centered and in control of his body and looks upward and forward and sees not only where he is at the present time, but where he is going. The handler must see the big picture ahead of the team. A good handler has read and understands the rules and comes prepared with all the necessary equipment

for the tracking day. A good handler is there to support and teach his dog, not complain and make excuses. It was too hot, too wet, too old, etc. A good handler sees problems as learning opportunities and where the team may need more practice. A good handler will develop a comfortable routine with his dog from the very beginning which starts with getting out of the car, walking to the track, starting a track, finding an article, recovering from an overrun turn and ending a track. There is so very much that a handler can contribute to the team effort. The handler has a big responsibility to the tracking team and must be willing to take on that responsibility. Tracking is a very intimate human/canine sport. It is a very wonderful, exciting and meaningful journey to take with your dog. I hope you will try it.

Carolyn Fuhrer has earned over 80 AKC titles with her Golden Retrievers, including 2 Champion Tracker titles. Carolyn has over 20 years’ experience helping people and their dogs. She is a Certified member of NADOI, Certified White Mountain Agility instructor and AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator. You can contact her with questions, suggestions and ideas for her column by e-mailing carolyn@dogsatnorthstar.com.

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Downeast Dog News

Perfect Pet, Perfect Vet! Nutrition for dogs and cats is a very hot topic in pet ownership right now. There is a lot of debate out there on how to choose the best food for your dog or cat, and opinions are extremely widespread. Commercial, home cooked, grain free, raw, how do you know what direction to start in? Our first recommendation is to not form your opinion based solely on the information provided by companies' television commercials or magazine ads. Those are strictly marketing materials giving them a lot of freedom in the claims that they make. The label on the actual bag or can of pet food is an actual legal document and must have accurate, truthful information. Also consider contacting the food manufacturer with the list of questions found below. These questions are suggested by the Global Nutrition Committee of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association. If your pet food manufacturer cannot or will not provide you with any of this information, you should consider another brand of food for your dog or cat. 1. Do you employ a full time qualified nutritionist,and what is this nutritionist’s name and qualifications?? Appropriate qualifications are either a PhD in animal nutrition or boardcertification by the American College of Veterinary Nutrition (ACVN) or the European College of Veterinary Comparative Nutrition (ECVCN). 2. W ho formulates your foods and what are his/her credentials? 3. Are your diets tested using AAFCO feeding trials or by formulation to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles? If the latter, do they meet AAFCO nutrient

profiles by formulation or by analysis of the finished product? 4. W here are your foods produced and manufactured? 5. W hat specific quality control measures do you use to assure the consistency and quality of your ingredients and the end product? 6. Will you provide a complete nutrient analysis for the dog or cat food in question? (Can they provide an average/ typical analysis, not just the guaranteed analysis which is only the minimums or maximums and not an exact number)? You should be able to ask for any nutrient - e.g. protein, phosphorus, sodium, etc. - and get an exact number. This should ideally be given on an energy basis (i.e. grams per 100 kilocalories or grams per 1,000 kilocalories), rather than on an ‘as fed’ or ‘dry matter’ basis which don’t account for the variable energy density of different foods.

7. What is the caloric value per gram, can, or cup of your foods? 8. What kind of product research has been conducted? Are the results published in peer-reviewed journals? Hopefully, these questions will provide you with a helpful tool in weeding through the immense options of dog and cat food choices on the shelf. Another hot topic in the veterinary world focuses on appropriate and safe chew toys for dogs. Dr. Gary Wheeler of Bridgton Veterinary Hospital has always had a special interest in veterinary dentistry. In 25 years, his practice has expanded greatly from simple dental cleanings to full mouth radiographs, extensive dental extractions, crowns, root canals, and even braces. He has evaluated hundreds of dogs’ mouths in all shapes and sizes. This experience has given Dr. Wheeler a few very strong recommendations

about appropriate chews and toys for dogs. First he warns, “If you can not flex it with your own two hands or make an indentation with your fingernail, then your dog could break a tooth on it.” Chews that fit this description are bones, hard plastic toys, raw hides with large knots on the end, along with deer and elk antlers. A large majority of dogs with broken canine teeth or fractured molars have a history of chewing on these products. Second, tennis balls are like sandpaper! That fuzzy green coating is actually capable of wearing away the protective enamel on the dog's teeth. This can cause sensitivity and weakening of the teeth, which in turn makes those extremely hard toys and chews more dangerous for your dog. Wheeler recommends rubber balls and toys for your dog. Third, when you are choosing a dental chew for your pet, look for something with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal on the packaging. Any product with this seal has gone through clinical testing to prove that their claims of reducing plaque and tartar are true. For a list of all products available with this seal, visit the following website www.vohc.org. So please remember flexible rubber toys and chews will help protect your dog's teeth from damage, and chews with the VOHC seal will help keep them clean!

Animal Wellness Center General Medicine Surgery Dentistry

Housecalls Dog Training Rehabilitation

Augusta, Maine

Dr. Judith K. Herman, DVM

Specializing in homeopathic and behavioral consultations

Your Other Family Doctor

(207)623-1177 www.mainehomeopathicvet.com

2 Bridgton Veterinary Hospital & Dental Care Center

Our mission is to provide quality life-long care for our patients through exceptional service, compassion, client education and community outreach. We are a full service practice treating dogs, cats, rabbits & other pocket-sized pets.

213 Harrison Road, Bridgton (207) 647-8804 www.bridgtonvets.com

29 First St. Scarborough, ME 04074 207-883-4412 www.scarboroughanimalhospital.com

Dr. Gary Wheeler, DVM, Special interest in veterinary dentistry Dr. Elisabeth Freson, DVM

March 2014

By Baxter 103 Tripp Lake Rd. Poland, ME 04274

Bone Chilling

207.998.3358 beespetboarding.com Find us on Faceb

Offering....

• Boarding for cats, small to medium sized dogs, & other critters • Daycare offered 7 days a week • NEW online camera service so you can view your pup while away!

Maine-Made Collars Leashes Apparel Organic Treats Natural Toys

• Spacious rooms with couch and tv play area

License #F628

Over 10 years of trusted experience!

One of my all-time favorite pastimes is to hang out in the snow with a fresh greasy bone. I very carefully scrape every bit of meat off the outside then slip into a trance as I lick deeper and deeper into the center for the best stuff of all. Time passes, the sun slips lower in the sky and cools off, but do I care? I’ve got a fresh bone, my belly is in the soft snow, and I’m in heaven. I’m in heaven until it’s time to go back into the house. I always try to bring the bone in with me. My humans always make me leave it outside. Anything can happen to a bone left outside. Another dog could come by – one that sleeps outside or has kinder humans; it could get buried in a snowfall; or it could get run over by a plow. And yet humans don’t seem to understand this, so they just point at the ground and say, simply, ‘drop it.’ I’ll look up at them, bone in mouth with my most doleful look, pause for effect, and drop it – and as soon as they turn around, pick it up again. But they check again, and I have to drop it and go inside. But I haven’t given up. This is where we dogs must work against our nature: we must use patience. Here’s how it works. When you go out, pretend to forget about that bone. Just walk by it as if you could care less about it. ‘Oh, that old thing?’ Your human will be vigilant the first few times – but you? You could care less. Just bide your time. Sooner or later your human will be distracted and that’s your chance. Grab that bone, quietly walk by your human and head for your safe place – and whatever you do, don’t drop it on the floor! Chow, Baxter

www.UncommonPaws.com

A Sound Education for Every Dog • • • • • •

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Attention Heeling Growly Dog/BAT Training Outdoor Adventures for Shy Dogs Leash Lungers “Reform School” Conformation/Show Handling

• RallyFree/Freestyle • Circus Dog Tricks • Dog Photography for Pets, Magazines, Ads, and Catalogs ...and more!

7 Trillium Lane Falmouth, Maine 04105 • 207.899.1185 www.poeticgold.com • Ljilly28@me.com

The Greg & Axel Show

Axel at a Boy Scout program giving his “be serious” look!. Find and like the Greg and Axel show on Facebook!

Downeast Dog News

Dogs for Adoption Boss, 4.5 yrs, Greyhound

A large handsome brindle colored retired racer, he is gentle and loves attention. FMI: Maine Greyhound Placement Service, 207-846-4707

Sponsored by

Full Circle Holistic Veterinary Clinic 207-338-6700 81 Belmont Avenue, Belfast, ME

Coach, 5 yrs, Pomerian

Coach loves people and other dogs. He has been neutered and has had his shots. He is house broken and loves the outdoors.

FMI: Contact prone2012@gmail.com, call Shirley at 207-657-4702 or Kelly at 603-770-6056.

Sponsored by Zekeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dog Retreat

Sam, 2 yrs, Pit Bull

Very, very, loving, though no cats please! Sam loves everyone and other dogs. He seems okay with kids but has a slight nerve problem, though it does not inhibit hime from living a normal, happy life! FMI: Please contact Janet, janetspets@comcast.net or call 207-443-3909 or 207-841-9622.

Ivy, 4.5 yrs, Greyhound

She is a small cute black retired racer, who is sweet and loves to play.

FMI: Maine Greyhound Placement Service, 207-846-4707

Chuck, 3.5 yrs, Beagle Mix

He is a large brindle colored retired racer with plenty of energy and is very friendly.. FMI: Maine Greyhound Placement Service, 207-846-4707

Fern, 15 mos, Lab Mix

Fern is extremely sweet, but shy and needs a home where people are around and lots of places to play. She loves to be outside, is okay with kids but cats are unknown. FMI: Please contact Janet, janetspets@ comcast.net or call 207-443-3909 or 207-841-9622.

Smokey, 3 yrs, Great Pyrenees

A very gentle and easy going fellow who loves being able to stretch out in a yard and enjoy the weather. Available at Animal Welfare Society, Kennebunk, (207) 985-3244. Our Adoption Center is open from 11 AM to 7 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and from 11 AM to 4 PM Saturday and Sunday. We are closed on Wednesdays.

Brindle, 1 yr, Lab Mix

A youngster with lots of energy and fun inside him. Loves going for runs, playing with toys, anything that involves action. Available at Animal Welfare Society, Kennebunk, (207) 985-3244. Our Adoption Center is open from 11 AM to 7 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and from 11 AM to 4 PM Saturday and Sunday. We are closed on Wednesdays.

March 2014

March C lendar

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

Waterville Sat. March 1 Leslie Main from Canines & Cats Pet Grooming in Oakland will be doing a Nail Trim Clinic to benefit Save Our Strays at Tractor Supply Company in Waterville from 10AM to 12PM and 2PM to 4PM. $5 per pet. Dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits and guinea pigs welcome. All dogs must be on a leash and other animals in carriers.

Adoptable Dogs In Portland

Portland Sat. March 1 Join the Animal Welfare Society Mobile Adoption Team and visit with some adoptable canines at the Planet Dog, 211 Marginal Way, Portland, ME 04101 from noon – 2pm. For more information, call Animal Welfare Society at 985-3244 (www. animalwelfaresociety.org) or the Planet Dog at 347-8606 (http://www.planetdog. com/company_store).

Natural Balance Free Sample Day Belfast Sun. March 2 Join us in Belfast at Loyal Biscuit from 11AM to 3PM for a FREE sample day with our Natural Balance representative! She will have free samples, coupons, product information on their LID diets and more!

Pet 1st Aid Class to Benefit the Maine POM Project

Holden Sun. March 2 The cost of the class is $60 and includes a book, dvd, and lifetime certification from the Red Cross. The POM (Pet Oxygen Mask) Project aims to provide a life saving set of oxygen masks to every fire department and rescue squad in Maine. By attending this class you are helping to make that goal a success. 50% deposit is required to hold your spot in the class. FMI: call 207989-9977 or email info@renaissancedogs. com. We hope to see you there!!

Nail Trim & Ear Cleaning Clinic

Rockland March 4, 11, 18, 25 Come down to Pet Quarters in Rockland to see the volunteers from Catahoula Rescue of New England who 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 Trimming and Ear Cleanings are available for a $5.00 each or combo price of $8.00. All funds raised go directly to rescue. This event will be taking place from 10am–2pm.

Natural Balance Free Sample Day Rockland Sat. March 8 Join us in Rockland at Loyal Biscuit from 2PM to 5PM for a FREE sample day with our Natural Balance representative! She will have free samples, coupons, product information on their LID diets and more!

Adoptable Dogs at Rescues on the Runway

South Portland Sat. March 8 The Animal Welfare Society Mobile Adoption Team, Staff and Volunteers will be at The Maine Mall in South Portland with adoptable dogs and cats from 1 – 5pm for the Rescues on the Runway Adoption Event. For more information, call Animal Welfare Society at 985-3244 (www. animalwelfaresociety.org) or http://www. mainemall.com/events/rescues-on-therunway. Snow date: March 15.

Rescues on the Runway

South Portland Sat. March 8 The third annual animal awareness event of barking proportions! Saturday March 8 2pm-5pm at The Maine Mall. Snow date: March 15th. Decision to postpone will be online. Runway of adoptable animals hosted by animal advocates Eva and Blake of Coast 93.1 We respectfully ask that your own pets be left at home. Ready to adopt? Meet home-seeking dogs, cats, rabbits and more at the booths of rescue organizations from around Southern Maine. FMI: Stefanie.Millette@ggp.com

Stella & Chewy's Demo Day

Rockland Sat. March 15 Join us in Rockland at Loyal Biscuit from 11AM to 3PM for a FREE sample day with a Stella & Chewy's representative! She can answer any questions you may have about raw and freeze-dried raw diets for your cats and dogs! Free samples will be available too - come see why this is one of Chuck's favorites!!

Children’s Museum is at 142 Free Street, Portland, Maine (207-828-1234). For more information, call Animal Welfare Society (www.animalwelfaresociety.org) at 9853244 x 117.

Adoptable Dogs In Wells

Wells Sat. March 15 Join the Animal Welfare Society and visit with some adoptable canines at the Petastic Pet Supplies, 694 Post Road (Route1), Wells 04090 from 11-1. For more information, call Petastic Pet Supplies (207) 641-2738 or call Animal Welfare Society (www.animalwelfaresociety.org) at 9853244.

Adoptable Dogs In Biddeford

Biddeford Sat. March 22 The Animal Welfare Society Mobile Adoption Team will visit PetSmart, 208 Mariner Way in Biddeford Crossing with adoptable dogs from 11 – 1pm. For more information, call Animal Welfare Society (www.animalwelfaresociety.org) at 9853244 or PetSmart at 283-6546.

Catahoula Rescue Meet & Greet Rockland Sat. March 22 Come join us at Pet Quarters in Rockland

from 10am-2pm and meet some fabulous Catahoula Leopard Dogs! Meet some of our canine ambassadors and dogs available for adoption, learn about this unique breed and help support the rescue by browsing our selection of rescue merchandise and homemade dog cookies!

How to Have a Therapy Dog

Gardiner Tues. March 25 Join Paula Phillips and Mahala to find out how having a therapy dog can enrich your life and the lives of others. Topics will include choosing, training, testing and registering your dog as well as the commitment needed from dog owners and their families. The resources of Therapy Dogs International will be discussed. This one-night class will be held from 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Gardiner High School. Registration fee is $9. To register, go to www.msad11.maineadulted.org.

Low Cost Vaccine Clinic

Scarborough Sun. March 30 We offer full vaccinations for pets, routine combo FeLv/FIV, 4dx, and fecal testing and monthly heartworm medications at a discount. No charge wellness exams included. Every pet in by 11am will be seen. Three vets on staff in full service veterinary hospital.

Do you have an upcoming event? Let us know about it and we will include it on this page. Send info to katie@downeastdognews.com

CALL AHEAD!

Event schedules are subject to change. Contact individual event organizers to confirm times and locations. Downeast Dog News is not responsible for changes or errors.

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AWS at Portland Children's Museum

Portland Sat. March 15 Join the Animal Welfare Society of West Kennebunk Humane Educator and a shelter pet at the Children's Museum and Theatre of Maine on Free Street in Portland for a hands-on program about animal care and handling from 10:30 -11:30. Meet some great animals and learn about Pet Care and Handling. The

MAINE TV 85

Watch Going Places with Charlie & Penny Crockett

on Maine TV Channel 85 in Time Warner Cable

Going Places airs everyday at 9 AM, 7 PM , and 3 AM. On Wednesdays and Sundays, Going Places features an exciting auction from Thomaston Place Auction Galleries with auctioneer Kaja Veilleux.

Upcoming, Going Places shows will feature a tour of the USS San Antonio, led by the Commander and his Executive Officer; the Launch of the Fife Yacht Adventuress in Rockport Harbor; a float trip down the Upper Colorado River, a trip along the famed Route 66 and highlights of the National Toboggan Championships at the Camden Snow Bowl.

Going Places Goes to the Dogs Coming soon we will continue our series of shows dedicated to our furry friends.

Sports Fans, be sure to watch Camden Hills, Oceanside, and Medomak Valley High School girls & boys basketball, wrestling, and ice hockey on Time Warner Cable, Maine TV CH 85 at 3 PM, 8 PM, and Midnight. Check our Facebook page, “C2 Productions” for the current listings of our Going Places shows and sports events.

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Brunswick

SATO from page 2 USVI and Puerto Rico are amazing places, filled with beautiful sights, wonderful people, and an unfortunate chronic problem: an overpopulation of feral dogs. Estimates on the number of satos roaming the island of Puerto Rico range from 100,000 to 200,000 and 500 dogs are euthanized every day. There are many reasons for the incredible overpopulation including limited spay-and-neuter programs and shelters and few animal control officials. Since then, Jack has rescued countless satos and established the Sato Realengo Society to help bring further assistance to these animals. Satos can be brought to the mainland and placed into foster or forever homes simply through the efforts of travelers. The dogs can be brought onto aircraft and transported

safely to the States. The Sato Realengo Society is always looking for volunteers to assist in transporting these dogs or to foster animals upon their arrival. If you are interested in volunteering or donating to this program, please visit http://www.gofundme.com/6iwot4 for more information. You can also find the Sato Realengo Society on Facebook.

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