Cover Stories
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Applying for a Service Dog
By Susan SpisakSeptember is National Service Dog Month, a time to not only create awareness for these companions who assist their humans, but to honor their efforts and devotion to...
Applying for a Service Dog
By Susan SpisakSeptember is National Service Dog Month, a time to not only create awareness for these companions who assist their humans, but to honor their efforts and devotion to...
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Water Buffs
By Susan SpisakWater Dogs were developed to work in the water, often for hunting, retrieving, rescue, or as all-around helpers. While happy on land, they thrive when they hit beaches,...
Water Buffs
By Susan SpisakWater Dogs were developed to work in the water, often for hunting, retrieving, rescue, or as all-around helpers. While happy on land, they thrive when they hit beaches,...
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Summertime Safety Tips
By Susan SpisakIt’s time for outings, vacations, BBQs, and festivals! Many of us take our dogs along or just spend more time with them outdoors. Be aware of important safety...
Summertime Safety Tips
By Susan SpisakIt’s time for outings, vacations, BBQs, and festivals! Many of us take our dogs along or just spend more time with them outdoors. Be aware of important safety...
Furry Words
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Furry Words September 2023
Hello my friends! How is the summer coming to a close already? Do I say this every year? Probably! My summer has been productive but with far fewer beach days...
Furry Words September 2023
Hello my friends! How is the summer coming to a close already? Do I say this every year? Probably! My summer has been productive but with far fewer beach days...
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Furry Words August 2023
Hello and welcome to another month of Furry Words! For August I’m going to share a fascinating reading that just happened but first I want to share with you my...
Furry Words August 2023
Hello and welcome to another month of Furry Words! For August I’m going to share a fascinating reading that just happened but first I want to share with you my...
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Furry Words July 2023
Hello my friends! How is it July already? It’s been three months in my new office, and it’s been lovely seeing people face to face for the first time in...
Furry Words July 2023
Hello my friends! How is it July already? It’s been three months in my new office, and it’s been lovely seeing people face to face for the first time in...
Ask The Vet
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Ask a Vet - The Adult Dog
Q. Is there anything I should know about my adult dog?A. You have made it through puppyhood and adolescence. All the work you have put into training, exercising, and socializing...
Ask a Vet - The Adult Dog
Q. Is there anything I should know about my adult dog?A. You have made it through puppyhood and adolescence. All the work you have put into training, exercising, and socializing...
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Adolescence
Q. What do I need to know about adolescence in my puppy?A. Congratulations! You have made it through puppy hood. You have enjoyed and survived puppy breath, mouthiness and chewing,...
Adolescence
Q. What do I need to know about adolescence in my puppy?A. Congratulations! You have made it through puppy hood. You have enjoyed and survived puppy breath, mouthiness and chewing,...
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Puppies
Q. What do I need to know about my pup’s first year?A. We usually acquire our puppies between 7 and 9 weeks of age. Already the puppy has changed and...
Puppies
Q. What do I need to know about my pup’s first year?A. We usually acquire our puppies between 7 and 9 weeks of age. Already the puppy has changed and...
Basic Training Tips
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Chill Dog
The Being Alone Skill (Note: this article does not contain advice on how to treat clinical “separation anxiety,” but rather tips on how to help your pup learn how to...
Chill Dog
The Being Alone Skill (Note: this article does not contain advice on how to treat clinical “separation anxiety,” but rather tips on how to help your pup learn how to...
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Growing OUT of or INTO?
Part II: A Plan "I thought she would grow out of it.” I’ve heard this statement multiple times in the last month since I wrote Part I of this article,...
Growing OUT of or INTO?
Part II: A Plan "I thought she would grow out of it.” I’ve heard this statement multiple times in the last month since I wrote Part I of this article,...
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Growing OUT of or INTO?
Growing Pains Can Hurt... Seriously Hurt! “Nobody wants to be around my parents’ dogs. They jump on people, body slam and bite at us, and are very unpleasant to spend...
Growing OUT of or INTO?
Growing Pains Can Hurt... Seriously Hurt! “Nobody wants to be around my parents’ dogs. They jump on people, body slam and bite at us, and are very unpleasant to spend...
Veterinary Specialists
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What is Granulomatous Colitis?
By Dr. Gail Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIM Staff Internist, Portland Veterinary Emergency & Specialty CareGranulomatous colitis (GC) is a rare, breed-specific type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that attacks the...
What is Granulomatous Colitis?
By Dr. Gail Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIM Staff Internist, Portland Veterinary Emergency & Specialty CareGranulomatous colitis (GC) is a rare, breed-specific type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that attacks the...
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Emerging Toxicosis: Cannabinoids!
“Some Things Shouldn’t Be Shared” By Dr. Gail Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIM Staff Internist, Portland Veterinary Emergency & Specialty CareCanines are experiencing increased exposure to marijuana-containing products including cannabidiol, paralleling...
Emerging Toxicosis: Cannabinoids!
“Some Things Shouldn’t Be Shared” By Dr. Gail Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIM Staff Internist, Portland Veterinary Emergency & Specialty CareCanines are experiencing increased exposure to marijuana-containing products including cannabidiol, paralleling...
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Tumors of the Spleen What Your Dog Expects You ...
By Dr. Gail Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIM Staff Internist, Portland Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Care The spleen is an intraabdominal organ that is located just below the stomach. The spleen...
Tumors of the Spleen What Your Dog Expects You ...
By Dr. Gail Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIM Staff Internist, Portland Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Care The spleen is an intraabdominal organ that is located just below the stomach. The spleen...
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 • You need better treats ...
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 • You need better treats ...
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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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Training Your Performance Dog Why Do We Compete?
Many people like to reflect upon past accomplishments and set goals going forward. I encourage my students to set goals and also to realize it is okay if you end...
Training Your Performance Dog Why Do We Compete?
Many people like to reflect upon past accomplishments and set goals going forward. I encourage my students to set goals and also to realize it is okay if you end...
Words Woofs & Meows
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Ensuring Our Dog’s Mental Health & Well-Being
Does Your Dog Enjoy Public Events, or Would They Rather Stay Home? Last month I discussed how each dog has its own need for personal space and that the size...
Ensuring Our Dog’s Mental Health & Well-Being
Does Your Dog Enjoy Public Events, or Would They Rather Stay Home? Last month I discussed how each dog has its own need for personal space and that the size...
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Ensuring Our Dog’s Mental Health & Well-Being
Respecting Personal Space & How to Interact with a Dog While almost everyone recognizes and addresses his pet's physical health, the same cannot be said for his mental well-being. Sadly,...
Ensuring Our Dog’s Mental Health & Well-Being
Respecting Personal Space & How to Interact with a Dog While almost everyone recognizes and addresses his pet's physical health, the same cannot be said for his mental well-being. Sadly,...
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What is Canine–Kennel Cough?
Last month Dr. Herman did an excellent review of the medical aspects of canine cough. This month I’ll discuss steps you can take to decrease the probability of your dog...
What is Canine–Kennel Cough?
Last month Dr. Herman did an excellent review of the medical aspects of canine cough. This month I’ll discuss steps you can take to decrease the probability of your dog...
Rescue of the Month
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Rescue of the Month: Grammy Rose Rescue & Sanct...
By Susan SpisakGrammy Rose Rescue & Sanctuary, Inc. in Acton has a mission to rescue adoptable dogs from euthanasia and provide them with quality care in a unique, homelike setting...
Rescue of the Month: Grammy Rose Rescue & Sanct...
By Susan SpisakGrammy Rose Rescue & Sanctuary, Inc. in Acton has a mission to rescue adoptable dogs from euthanasia and provide them with quality care in a unique, homelike setting...
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Rescue of the Month: Animal Refuge League of Gr...
Caring for & Providing Hope for Homeless Pets By Susan SpisakThe 501(c) 3 Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, aka ARLGP, was founded over one hundred years ago. In 2016,...
Rescue of the Month: Animal Refuge League of Gr...
Caring for & Providing Hope for Homeless Pets By Susan SpisakThe 501(c) 3 Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, aka ARLGP, was founded over one hundred years ago. In 2016,...
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Rescue of the Month: SPCA of Hancock County
A Life-Saving Shelter Serving Local Animals By Susan SpisakFounded in 1911, the lifesaving SPCA of Hancock County is committed to providing shelter and care for abandoned, stray, and surrendered animals...
Rescue of the Month: SPCA of Hancock County
A Life-Saving Shelter Serving Local Animals By Susan SpisakFounded in 1911, the lifesaving SPCA of Hancock County is committed to providing shelter and care for abandoned, stray, and surrendered animals...
Columns
Basic Training Tips
View all-
Chill Dog
The Being Alone Skill (Note: this article does not contain advice on how to treat clinical “separation anxiety,” but rather tips on how to help your pup learn how to...
Chill Dog
The Being Alone Skill (Note: this article does not contain advice on how to treat clinical “separation anxiety,” but rather tips on how to help your pup learn how to...
-
Growing OUT of or INTO?
Part II: A Plan "I thought she would grow out of it.” I’ve heard this statement multiple times in the last month since I wrote Part I of this article,...
Growing OUT of or INTO?
Part II: A Plan "I thought she would grow out of it.” I’ve heard this statement multiple times in the last month since I wrote Part I of this article,...
-
Growing OUT of or INTO?
Growing Pains Can Hurt... Seriously Hurt! “Nobody wants to be around my parents’ dogs. They jump on people, body slam and bite at us, and are very unpleasant to spend...
Growing OUT of or INTO?
Growing Pains Can Hurt... Seriously Hurt! “Nobody wants to be around my parents’ dogs. They jump on people, body slam and bite at us, and are very unpleasant to spend...
Furry Words
View all-
Furry Words September 2023
Hello my friends! How is the summer coming to a close already? Do I say this every year? Probably! My summer has been productive but with far fewer beach days...
Furry Words September 2023
Hello my friends! How is the summer coming to a close already? Do I say this every year? Probably! My summer has been productive but with far fewer beach days...
-
Furry Words August 2023
Hello and welcome to another month of Furry Words! For August I’m going to share a fascinating reading that just happened but first I want to share with you my...
Furry Words August 2023
Hello and welcome to another month of Furry Words! For August I’m going to share a fascinating reading that just happened but first I want to share with you my...
-
Furry Words July 2023
Hello my friends! How is it July already? It’s been three months in my new office, and it’s been lovely seeing people face to face for the first time in...
Furry Words July 2023
Hello my friends! How is it July already? It’s been three months in my new office, and it’s been lovely seeing people face to face for the first time in...
Veterinary Specialist
View all-
What is Granulomatous Colitis?
By Dr. Gail Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIM Staff Internist, Portland Veterinary Emergency & Specialty CareGranulomatous colitis (GC) is a rare, breed-specific type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that attacks the...
What is Granulomatous Colitis?
By Dr. Gail Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIM Staff Internist, Portland Veterinary Emergency & Specialty CareGranulomatous colitis (GC) is a rare, breed-specific type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that attacks the...
-
Emerging Toxicosis: Cannabinoids!
“Some Things Shouldn’t Be Shared” By Dr. Gail Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIM Staff Internist, Portland Veterinary Emergency & Specialty CareCanines are experiencing increased exposure to marijuana-containing products including cannabidiol, paralleling...
Emerging Toxicosis: Cannabinoids!
“Some Things Shouldn’t Be Shared” By Dr. Gail Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIM Staff Internist, Portland Veterinary Emergency & Specialty CareCanines are experiencing increased exposure to marijuana-containing products including cannabidiol, paralleling...
-
Tumors of the Spleen What Your Dog Expects You ...
By Dr. Gail Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIM Staff Internist, Portland Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Care The spleen is an intraabdominal organ that is located just below the stomach. The spleen...
Tumors of the Spleen What Your Dog Expects You ...
By Dr. Gail Mason, DVM, MA, DACVIM Staff Internist, Portland Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Care The spleen is an intraabdominal organ that is located just below the stomach. The spleen...
Veterinary Behaviorist
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Understanding, Diagnosing and Managing Compuls...
Compulsive behaviors in dogs can be challenging for both the dog and their owners. These behaviors, characterized by repetitive, exaggerated, and often ritualistic actions, can significantly impact a dog's quality...
Understanding, Diagnosing and Managing Compuls...
Compulsive behaviors in dogs can be challenging for both the dog and their owners. These behaviors, characterized by repetitive, exaggerated, and often ritualistic actions, can significantly impact a dog's quality...
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Safe Spaces and the Fourth of July
By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB, Calder Veterinary Behavior Services, www.caldervbs.comPreparing your dog helps alleviate anxiety and keeps your dog feeling safe during Fourth of July celebrations and other noisy...
Safe Spaces and the Fourth of July
By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB, Calder Veterinary Behavior Services, www.caldervbs.comPreparing your dog helps alleviate anxiety and keeps your dog feeling safe during Fourth of July celebrations and other noisy...
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In-Person Dog Classes: Are They Right for Every...
By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVBCalder Veterinary Behavior Services, www.caldervbs.com Dog classes can be beneficial for many dogs, but in-person classes may not be appropriate for every dog. There are...
In-Person Dog Classes: Are They Right for Every...
By Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVBCalder Veterinary Behavior Services, www.caldervbs.com Dog classes can be beneficial for many dogs, but in-person classes may not be appropriate for every dog. There are...
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 • You need better treats ...
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 • You need better treats ...
-
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...
-
Training Your Performance Dog Why Do We Compete?
Many people like to reflect upon past accomplishments and set goals going forward. I encourage my students to set goals and also to realize it is okay if you end...
Training Your Performance Dog Why Do We Compete?
Many people like to reflect upon past accomplishments and set goals going forward. I encourage my students to set goals and also to realize it is okay if you end...
Words, Woofs & Meows
View all-
Ensuring Our Dog’s Mental Health & Well-Being
Does Your Dog Enjoy Public Events, or Would They Rather Stay Home? Last month I discussed how each dog has its own need for personal space and that the size...
Ensuring Our Dog’s Mental Health & Well-Being
Does Your Dog Enjoy Public Events, or Would They Rather Stay Home? Last month I discussed how each dog has its own need for personal space and that the size...
-
Ensuring Our Dog’s Mental Health & Well-Being
Respecting Personal Space & How to Interact with a Dog While almost everyone recognizes and addresses his pet's physical health, the same cannot be said for his mental well-being. Sadly,...
Ensuring Our Dog’s Mental Health & Well-Being
Respecting Personal Space & How to Interact with a Dog While almost everyone recognizes and addresses his pet's physical health, the same cannot be said for his mental well-being. Sadly,...
-
What is Canine–Kennel Cough?
Last month Dr. Herman did an excellent review of the medical aspects of canine cough. This month I’ll discuss steps you can take to decrease the probability of your dog...
What is Canine–Kennel Cough?
Last month Dr. Herman did an excellent review of the medical aspects of canine cough. This month I’ll discuss steps you can take to decrease the probability of your dog...
Rescue of the Month
View all-
Rescue of the Month: Grammy Rose Rescue & Sanct...
By Susan SpisakGrammy Rose Rescue & Sanctuary, Inc. in Acton has a mission to rescue adoptable dogs from euthanasia and provide them with quality care in a unique, homelike setting...
Rescue of the Month: Grammy Rose Rescue & Sanct...
By Susan SpisakGrammy Rose Rescue & Sanctuary, Inc. in Acton has a mission to rescue adoptable dogs from euthanasia and provide them with quality care in a unique, homelike setting...
-
Rescue of the Month: Animal Refuge League of Gr...
Caring for & Providing Hope for Homeless Pets By Susan SpisakThe 501(c) 3 Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, aka ARLGP, was founded over one hundred years ago. In 2016,...
Rescue of the Month: Animal Refuge League of Gr...
Caring for & Providing Hope for Homeless Pets By Susan SpisakThe 501(c) 3 Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, aka ARLGP, was founded over one hundred years ago. In 2016,...
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Rescue of the Month: SPCA of Hancock County
A Life-Saving Shelter Serving Local Animals By Susan SpisakFounded in 1911, the lifesaving SPCA of Hancock County is committed to providing shelter and care for abandoned, stray, and surrendered animals...
Rescue of the Month: SPCA of Hancock County
A Life-Saving Shelter Serving Local Animals By Susan SpisakFounded in 1911, the lifesaving SPCA of Hancock County is committed to providing shelter and care for abandoned, stray, and surrendered animals...
Guest Contributor
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How to Learn the Skill of Professional Grooming
By Elsebeth DeBiase, BAminSC, ICMG, FFCP, LSHC-S, Coastal Creations Pet Salon, OwnerAre you passionate about working with animals? If yes, then consider learning how to groom companion animals. Becoming a...
How to Learn the Skill of Professional Grooming
By Elsebeth DeBiase, BAminSC, ICMG, FFCP, LSHC-S, Coastal Creations Pet Salon, OwnerAre you passionate about working with animals? If yes, then consider learning how to groom companion animals. Becoming a...
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Puppy Grooming
by Elsebeth DeBiase, BAminSC, ICMG, FFCP, LSHC-SCoastal Creations Pet Salon, OwnerPuppy ownership is a rewarding experience filled with laughter, play, and snuggles. However, a new 4-legged addition to the family...
Puppy Grooming
by Elsebeth DeBiase, BAminSC, ICMG, FFCP, LSHC-SCoastal Creations Pet Salon, OwnerPuppy ownership is a rewarding experience filled with laughter, play, and snuggles. However, a new 4-legged addition to the family...
Hot Dog News
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Maine Pet Portraits & Artists
Welcome to our first ever, Downeast Dog News supplement! Maine has many talented pet artists and photographers. We wanted to create a special piece to showcase their work. Click the...
Maine Pet Portraits & Artists
Welcome to our first ever, Downeast Dog News supplement! Maine has many talented pet artists and photographers. We wanted to create a special piece to showcase their work. Click the...
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2023 Downeast Dog News Best of the Best contest!
It's time to vote for you favorite Maine pet (and pet-friendly) businesses! The link below will take you to the form where you can submit your answers. Please, one vote...
2023 Downeast Dog News Best of the Best contest!
It's time to vote for you favorite Maine pet (and pet-friendly) businesses! The link below will take you to the form where you can submit your answers. Please, one vote...
