Cover Stories
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Second Chances at the Maine Correctional Facility
Celebrated Vet & Author Joins the Efforts By Susan Spisak Photo Credit: Nora Parkington In 2017, a special program, Prison Puppy Program, began at the Maine...
Second Chances at the Maine Correctional Facility
Celebrated Vet & Author Joins the Efforts By Susan Spisak Photo Credit: Nora Parkington In 2017, a special program, Prison Puppy Program, began at the Maine...
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Unsung Heroes Nurture Underdogs
By Susan Spisak Some adoption stories begin with dogs seized by authorities from unsafe homes, hoarders, irreputable breeders, and mills. In some cases, dogs may be relinquished by...
Unsung Heroes Nurture Underdogs
By Susan Spisak Some adoption stories begin with dogs seized by authorities from unsafe homes, hoarders, irreputable breeders, and mills. In some cases, dogs may be relinquished by...
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Dogs & Libraries
By Susan Spisak Think libraries are just for people? Think again! Stockton Springs has recently created their own canine edition, and it’s a big hit! And...
Dogs & Libraries
By Susan Spisak Think libraries are just for people? Think again! Stockton Springs has recently created their own canine edition, and it’s a big hit! And...
Furry Words
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Furry Words November 2025
It’s chilly again!! If you had told me a year ago that when I’d be writing this edition my household would consist of the three big labs, brown dog Syd...
Furry Words November 2025
It’s chilly again!! If you had told me a year ago that when I’d be writing this edition my household would consist of the three big labs, brown dog Syd...
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Furry Words October 2025
How is it October again? I think I say this every year, but holy smokes this one really crept up on me. I had biceps repair in July, lost my...
Furry Words October 2025
How is it October again? I think I say this every year, but holy smokes this one really crept up on me. I had biceps repair in July, lost my...
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Furry Words September 2025
Hello everyone! I hope you’ve been enjoying the beautiful summer, and your pups and gardens are thriving. I’m on the mend after a bicep and shoulder repair that’s been a...
Furry Words September 2025
Hello everyone! I hope you’ve been enjoying the beautiful summer, and your pups and gardens are thriving. I’m on the mend after a bicep and shoulder repair that’s been a...
Ask The Vet
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What’s for Dinner?
Q. Thanksgiving is approaching. What foods do I need to keep away from my dog? A. Tis the season of good company and good food. We spend hours creating...
What’s for Dinner?
Q. Thanksgiving is approaching. What foods do I need to keep away from my dog? A. Tis the season of good company and good food. We spend hours creating...
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Are Mixed Breeds Healthier Than Purebred Dogs?
Q. I have been told that mixed breed dogs are healthier than purebred dogs. Is that true? A. There is a genetic term called heterosis, also known as hybrid vigor...
Are Mixed Breeds Healthier Than Purebred Dogs?
Q. I have been told that mixed breed dogs are healthier than purebred dogs. Is that true? A. There is a genetic term called heterosis, also known as hybrid vigor...
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Vagal Nerve Stimulation for the Dog
Q. I am seeing a lot of posts on social media about vagal nerve stimulation to calm a dog’s anxiety. What is it and does it work? A. Yes,...
Vagal Nerve Stimulation for the Dog
Q. I am seeing a lot of posts on social media about vagal nerve stimulation to calm a dog’s anxiety. What is it and does it work? A. Yes,...
Basic Training Tips
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“Do You Feel Safe?”
“Are You Having Fun?” An unfamiliar approach to trainingI recently worked with new clients and their lovely 6-month-old pup Luna here at my studio in North Yarmouth. They’d taken dog...
“Do You Feel Safe?”
“Are You Having Fun?” An unfamiliar approach to trainingI recently worked with new clients and their lovely 6-month-old pup Luna here at my studio in North Yarmouth. They’d taken dog...
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Changing the Channel
Sometimes It’s the Best – and Simplest – Option “If you are scared or feeling down flip the thought and turn it ‘round”* Canine Hopes and DreamsMy dog Skipper said...
Changing the Channel
Sometimes It’s the Best – and Simplest – Option “If you are scared or feeling down flip the thought and turn it ‘round”* Canine Hopes and DreamsMy dog Skipper said...
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It’s About Time (ing)!
How good is your eye-hand coordination? “Consequence drives behavior;” not what we do or say beforehand…This concept can be challenging to wrap our heads around, but when we do, and...
It’s About Time (ing)!
How good is your eye-hand coordination? “Consequence drives behavior;” not what we do or say beforehand…This concept can be challenging to wrap our heads around, but when we do, and...
Veterinary Specialists
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ELECTROCHEMOTHERAPY (ECT):
Another Tool Against Cancer By Gail D. Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIMwww.pvesc.com The mainstay...
ELECTROCHEMOTHERAPY (ECT):
Another Tool Against Cancer By Gail D. Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIMwww.pvesc.com The mainstay...
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What is Vasculitis in Veterinary Medicine?
By Dr. Tyler Charbonneau, DVM Dermatology and AllergyPVESC Transmission or Cause: Vasculitis is inflammation of blood vessels resulting in compromised blood flow to the affected areas. The inflammation is due to...
What is Vasculitis in Veterinary Medicine?
By Dr. Tyler Charbonneau, DVM Dermatology and AllergyPVESC Transmission or Cause: Vasculitis is inflammation of blood vessels resulting in compromised blood flow to the affected areas. The inflammation is due to...
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Does Your Dog Feel Guilty?
By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVBCalder Veterinary Behavior Services, www.caldervbs.com You walk through the door and immediately spot the evidence—your favorite shoes are in pieces, trash is scattered across the...
Does Your Dog Feel Guilty?
By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVBCalder Veterinary Behavior Services, www.caldervbs.com You walk through the door and immediately spot the evidence—your favorite shoes are in pieces, trash is scattered across the...
Training Your Performance Dog
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It’s All About Training
How many times have you heard, or maybe been told: • Your dog’s not having enough fun • You need to motivate your dog more ...
It’s All About Training
How many times have you heard, or maybe been told: • Your dog’s not having enough fun • You need to motivate your dog more ...
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TD and TDU Tracking Tests: What’s The Difference?
The Tracking Dog (TD) test and Tracking Dog Urban test (TDU) are both considered to be the first level of tracking dog tests. If you pass the TD or the...
TD and TDU Tracking Tests: What’s The Difference?
The Tracking Dog (TD) test and Tracking Dog Urban test (TDU) are both considered to be the first level of tracking dog tests. If you pass the TD or the...
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Successful Training Requires Attitude and Focus
In order to be successful in competition, your dog needs to have attitude and focus as well as a clear understanding of the work required. Attitude is seen in dogs...
Successful Training Requires Attitude and Focus
In order to be successful in competition, your dog needs to have attitude and focus as well as a clear understanding of the work required. Attitude is seen in dogs...
Words Woofs & Meows
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Reflecting on 30 Years as a Pet Care Professional
The End of Dominance–No Pain, Force, or Fear Last month, I celebrated my 30th anniversary as a pet care professional. This is the first of several columns where I’ll...
Reflecting on 30 Years as a Pet Care Professional
The End of Dominance–No Pain, Force, or Fear Last month, I celebrated my 30th anniversary as a pet care professional. This is the first of several columns where I’ll...
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Accepting Your Dog for Who They Are
Having Reasonable Expectations While Being Patient and Kind Countless times, I have heard: • “I wish he were more like my old dog,” • “The breeder...
Accepting Your Dog for Who They Are
Having Reasonable Expectations While Being Patient and Kind Countless times, I have heard: • “I wish he were more like my old dog,” • “The breeder...
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Keeping Both You and Your Dog Free of Stress
Last month, I wrote briefly about my dog Muppy being diagnosed with bladder cancer and my concern that my stress could harm her. "How and When We Grieve Matters, Finding...
Keeping Both You and Your Dog Free of Stress
Last month, I wrote briefly about my dog Muppy being diagnosed with bladder cancer and my concern that my stress could harm her. "How and When We Grieve Matters, Finding...
Rescue of the Month
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NELR Needs Fosters to Rescue More Labs
Fostering Saves Lives By Susan Spisak We covered the foster- and Maine-based New England Lab Rescue aka NELR several...
NELR Needs Fosters to Rescue More Labs
Fostering Saves Lives By Susan Spisak We covered the foster- and Maine-based New England Lab Rescue aka NELR several...
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Maine Greyhound Placement Service
Rehomes Retired Racing Greyhounds By Susan Spisak The Maine Greyhound Placement Service (MGPS) is dedicated to finding homes for...
Maine Greyhound Placement Service
Rehomes Retired Racing Greyhounds By Susan Spisak The Maine Greyhound Placement Service (MGPS) is dedicated to finding homes for...
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Pittie Posse Rescue & Sanctuary Providing Seco...
By Susan Spisak During their honeymoon weekend in 2016, rescue advocate Britt Bolnik had an idea—let’s start a dog...
Pittie Posse Rescue & Sanctuary Providing Seco...
By Susan Spisak During their honeymoon weekend in 2016, rescue advocate Britt Bolnik had an idea—let’s start a dog...
Columns
Basic Training Tips
View all-
“Do You Feel Safe?”
“Are You Having Fun?” An unfamiliar approach to trainingI recently worked with new clients and their lovely 6-month-old pup Luna here at my studio in North Yarmouth. They’d taken dog...
“Do You Feel Safe?”
“Are You Having Fun?” An unfamiliar approach to trainingI recently worked with new clients and their lovely 6-month-old pup Luna here at my studio in North Yarmouth. They’d taken dog...
-
Changing the Channel
Sometimes It’s the Best – and Simplest – Option “If you are scared or feeling down flip the thought and turn it ‘round”* Canine Hopes and DreamsMy dog Skipper said...
Changing the Channel
Sometimes It’s the Best – and Simplest – Option “If you are scared or feeling down flip the thought and turn it ‘round”* Canine Hopes and DreamsMy dog Skipper said...
-
It’s About Time (ing)!
How good is your eye-hand coordination? “Consequence drives behavior;” not what we do or say beforehand…This concept can be challenging to wrap our heads around, but when we do, and...
It’s About Time (ing)!
How good is your eye-hand coordination? “Consequence drives behavior;” not what we do or say beforehand…This concept can be challenging to wrap our heads around, but when we do, and...
Furry Words
View all-
Furry Words November 2025
It’s chilly again!! If you had told me a year ago that when I’d be writing this edition my household would consist of the three big labs, brown dog Syd...
Furry Words November 2025
It’s chilly again!! If you had told me a year ago that when I’d be writing this edition my household would consist of the three big labs, brown dog Syd...
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Furry Words October 2025
How is it October again? I think I say this every year, but holy smokes this one really crept up on me. I had biceps repair in July, lost my...
Furry Words October 2025
How is it October again? I think I say this every year, but holy smokes this one really crept up on me. I had biceps repair in July, lost my...
-
Furry Words September 2025
Hello everyone! I hope you’ve been enjoying the beautiful summer, and your pups and gardens are thriving. I’m on the mend after a bicep and shoulder repair that’s been a...
Furry Words September 2025
Hello everyone! I hope you’ve been enjoying the beautiful summer, and your pups and gardens are thriving. I’m on the mend after a bicep and shoulder repair that’s been a...
Veterinary Specialist
View all-
ELECTROCHEMOTHERAPY (ECT):
Another Tool Against Cancer By Gail D. Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIMwww.pvesc.com The mainstay...
ELECTROCHEMOTHERAPY (ECT):
Another Tool Against Cancer By Gail D. Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIMwww.pvesc.com The mainstay...
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What is Vasculitis in Veterinary Medicine?
By Dr. Tyler Charbonneau, DVM Dermatology and AllergyPVESC Transmission or Cause: Vasculitis is inflammation of blood vessels resulting in compromised blood flow to the affected areas. The inflammation is due to...
What is Vasculitis in Veterinary Medicine?
By Dr. Tyler Charbonneau, DVM Dermatology and AllergyPVESC Transmission or Cause: Vasculitis is inflammation of blood vessels resulting in compromised blood flow to the affected areas. The inflammation is due to...
-
Does Your Dog Feel Guilty?
By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVBCalder Veterinary Behavior Services, www.caldervbs.com You walk through the door and immediately spot the evidence—your favorite shoes are in pieces, trash is scattered across the...
Does Your Dog Feel Guilty?
By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVBCalder Veterinary Behavior Services, www.caldervbs.com You walk through the door and immediately spot the evidence—your favorite shoes are in pieces, trash is scattered across the...
Veterinary Behaviorist
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A Puppy’s First Six Months Shape Lifetime Behavior
By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVBCalder Veterinary Behavior Services, www.caldervbs.com Why Does My Dog Behave This Way?You may ask why your dog seems nervous around strangers or why your friendly puppy...
A Puppy’s First Six Months Shape Lifetime Behavior
By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVBCalder Veterinary Behavior Services, www.caldervbs.com Why Does My Dog Behave This Way?You may ask why your dog seems nervous around strangers or why your friendly puppy...
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Understanding Senior Dog Behavior
By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVBBoard-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist, www.caldervbs.com Due to advances in modern veterinary medicine, dogs are living...
Understanding Senior Dog Behavior
By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVBBoard-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist, www.caldervbs.com Due to advances in modern veterinary medicine, dogs are living...
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Why Your Vet Might Be the First Step in Solving...
By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB, Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist, www.caldervbs.com IntroductionAnxiety in dogs is common but often misunderstood. Many dogs bark, whine, pace, or try to hide. Some cannot be left...
Why Your Vet Might Be the First Step in Solving...
By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB, Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist, www.caldervbs.com IntroductionAnxiety in dogs is common but often misunderstood. Many dogs bark, whine, pace, or try to hide. Some cannot be left...
Training Your Performance Dog
View all-
It’s All About Training
How many times have you heard, or maybe been told: • Your dog’s not having enough fun • You need to motivate your dog more ...
It’s All About Training
How many times have you heard, or maybe been told: • Your dog’s not having enough fun • You need to motivate your dog more ...
-
TD and TDU Tracking Tests: What’s The Difference?
The Tracking Dog (TD) test and Tracking Dog Urban test (TDU) are both considered to be the first level of tracking dog tests. If you pass the TD or the...
TD and TDU Tracking Tests: What’s The Difference?
The Tracking Dog (TD) test and Tracking Dog Urban test (TDU) are both considered to be the first level of tracking dog tests. If you pass the TD or the...
-
Successful Training Requires Attitude and Focus
In order to be successful in competition, your dog needs to have attitude and focus as well as a clear understanding of the work required. Attitude is seen in dogs...
Successful Training Requires Attitude and Focus
In order to be successful in competition, your dog needs to have attitude and focus as well as a clear understanding of the work required. Attitude is seen in dogs...
Words, Woofs & Meows
View all-
Reflecting on 30 Years as a Pet Care Professional
The End of Dominance–No Pain, Force, or Fear Last month, I celebrated my 30th anniversary as a pet care professional. This is the first of several columns where I’ll...
Reflecting on 30 Years as a Pet Care Professional
The End of Dominance–No Pain, Force, or Fear Last month, I celebrated my 30th anniversary as a pet care professional. This is the first of several columns where I’ll...
-
Accepting Your Dog for Who They Are
Having Reasonable Expectations While Being Patient and Kind Countless times, I have heard: • “I wish he were more like my old dog,” • “The breeder...
Accepting Your Dog for Who They Are
Having Reasonable Expectations While Being Patient and Kind Countless times, I have heard: • “I wish he were more like my old dog,” • “The breeder...
-
Keeping Both You and Your Dog Free of Stress
Last month, I wrote briefly about my dog Muppy being diagnosed with bladder cancer and my concern that my stress could harm her. "How and When We Grieve Matters, Finding...
Keeping Both You and Your Dog Free of Stress
Last month, I wrote briefly about my dog Muppy being diagnosed with bladder cancer and my concern that my stress could harm her. "How and When We Grieve Matters, Finding...
Rescue of the Month
View all-
NELR Needs Fosters to Rescue More Labs
Fostering Saves Lives By Susan Spisak We covered the foster- and Maine-based New England Lab Rescue aka NELR several...
NELR Needs Fosters to Rescue More Labs
Fostering Saves Lives By Susan Spisak We covered the foster- and Maine-based New England Lab Rescue aka NELR several...
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Maine Greyhound Placement Service
Rehomes Retired Racing Greyhounds By Susan Spisak The Maine Greyhound Placement Service (MGPS) is dedicated to finding homes for...
Maine Greyhound Placement Service
Rehomes Retired Racing Greyhounds By Susan Spisak The Maine Greyhound Placement Service (MGPS) is dedicated to finding homes for...
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Pittie Posse Rescue & Sanctuary Providing Seco...
By Susan Spisak During their honeymoon weekend in 2016, rescue advocate Britt Bolnik had an idea—let’s start a dog...
Pittie Posse Rescue & Sanctuary Providing Seco...
By Susan Spisak During their honeymoon weekend in 2016, rescue advocate Britt Bolnik had an idea—let’s start a dog...
Guest Contributor
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Louise Cheese: The Gentle Giant Making a Big Di...
When Jamie Sprague walks into a room with her 6-year-old bullmastiff, Louise Cheese, hearts instantly soften. Whether it’s a hospital corridor, a school library, or a yoga class for children...
Louise Cheese: The Gentle Giant Making a Big Di...
When Jamie Sprague walks into a room with her 6-year-old bullmastiff, Louise Cheese, hearts instantly soften. Whether it’s a hospital corridor, a school library, or a yoga class for children...
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The Origins of Dog Grooming
By Elsebeth DeBiase, BAminSC, ICMG, FFCP, LSHC-S, Owner, Coastal Creations Pet Salon For centuries, dogs stood by our side as loyal guardians and hunting partners. The bond between humans and dogs...
The Origins of Dog Grooming
By Elsebeth DeBiase, BAminSC, ICMG, FFCP, LSHC-S, Owner, Coastal Creations Pet Salon For centuries, dogs stood by our side as loyal guardians and hunting partners. The bond between humans and dogs...
Hot Dog News
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NEW MEMORIAL BY SCULPTOR GARY COOPER
Belfast, ME - A new bronze memorial sculpture titled “Best Friend” was unveiled at a dedication ceremony on Wednesday, October 15, just outside the Belfast Dog Park. The piece was...
NEW MEMORIAL BY SCULPTOR GARY COOPER
Belfast, ME - A new bronze memorial sculpture titled “Best Friend” was unveiled at a dedication ceremony on Wednesday, October 15, just outside the Belfast Dog Park. The piece was...
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November 2025 Adoptable Dogs
DAISY 8 years old, Terrier Mix Daisy has a sweet and cuddly nature, infectious energy and is an intelligent quick learner. She adores walks and exploring the world. She can...
November 2025 Adoptable Dogs
DAISY 8 years old, Terrier Mix Daisy has a sweet and cuddly nature, infectious energy and is an intelligent quick learner. She adores walks and exploring the world. She can...
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Best of the Best Top Three
BEST VETERINARY PRACTICE 1. Topsham Veterinary Wellness Center, Topsham 2. Androscoggin Animal Hospital, Topsham 3. Brunswick Veterinary Clinic, Brunswick BEST GROOMER 1. Gold Style Grooming, Topsham2. Carden Kennels, Bangor3. Mainely Pups Grooming,...
Best of the Best Top Three
BEST VETERINARY PRACTICE 1. Topsham Veterinary Wellness Center, Topsham 2. Androscoggin Animal Hospital, Topsham 3. Brunswick Veterinary Clinic, Brunswick BEST GROOMER 1. Gold Style Grooming, Topsham2. Carden Kennels, Bangor3. Mainely Pups Grooming,...
