Special to the Star-Herald
Have you visited the Central Aroostook Humane Society lately? Well, if you are looking for a dog, now is the time. We have many wonderful dogs available for adoption. Who knows, you may find the perfect one. How about Maverick, a handsome young husky; he is white with a gray mask. Maverick’s owners were moving and could not take him with them. He is one handsome boy. Or maybe a little dog is more to your liking; we have BJ and Dusty, both poodle mixes, they are a bit shy and need special TLC.
One thing I would like to remind you of, and I have learned from personal experience, is the importance in keeping your dog’s nails trimmed. I have a handsome boxer, Rusty, who’s nails got a bit long and he was running across the crusted snow when he bent a nail back. It was very painful so I took him to see my vet and he had to have surgery to remove the nail. I try very hard now to keep my dogs’ nails trimmed. I take off just the tips, but I do it often. The more you do it, the better your dog will be about it. Keep your sessions short and use treats and praise to make it a positive experience. If you have a little dog, an emery board may do the trick. If you still don’t feel comfortable or your dog fights you too much, then leave it to the professionals and take your dog to your veterinarian or to a groomer.
Got company coming over and need your house to look and smell a bit less dog- and cat-like? Here are some tricks to help you out when you are in a pinch. If your litter box is not as fresh as it should be, scoop out the clumps and then shake baking soda over the remaining litter.
To freshen a stinky dog bed, cover it with a thin layer of baking soda, let it stand for a minute and vacuum.
Worried about getting the smell of “accidents” out of your carpets? Use a neutralizing product — one example is Nature’s Miracle Stain and Odor Remover. Simply saturate the stain, wait and then soak up the remaining liquid with a pap towel. If your couch needs freshening, slip a dryer sheet under the cushion covers. For getting pet fur off your furniture, I use a damp sponge or you can also use damp rubber gloves to do the job. If your pet tracks through the living room with muddy paws, don’t get upset, just let them dry and vacuum them up later. It is always easy to make a good first impression with these easy tips. Believe it or not, some people are not animal people.
The Central Aroostook Kennel Club will be offering Canine Good Manners classes starting March 9 at 6 p.m. at the Presque Isle Rec Center.
For more information, you can go to www.thecakc.com or call 488-6841 for more information. This is a great opportunity to build a true bond and open the lines of communication with your dog.
If you are looking for a “Friend for Life,” please visit the Central Aroostook Humane Society. Our business hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. or give us a call at 764-3441. Don’t forget to check our available pets out online at www.centralaroostookhumanesociety.org.
Please have your pets spayed or neutered.
Photo courtesy of Christine Robinson
Eden Martin has earned her Girl Scout Bronze Award and has donated $203 from her project to the Central Aroostook Humane Society. The Bronze Award is the highest honor a registered Junior Girl Scout may receive. It illustrates their promise to help others, improve their community and world and become the best they can be(Junior Girl Scout Handbook) You go, Eden!
