Special to the Star-Herald
The craft fair at The Forum was again a great success. We met many wonderful people who had stories to tell about their beloved pets. Unfortunately, our dog biscuits were such a hit, we ran out of them early on Saturday, but had plenty of other items to purchase. Shows such as the craft fairs give us an opportunity as a board to meet the people who support our shelter. The Central Aroostook Humane Society is a place of hope; hope for a new, loving home. We take pride in the care we give our animals and also in finding them loving homes. Also, as I left The Forum on Saturday, I called the shelter and Betsy said that the shelter was packed and they had been “right out straight” the whole day. That is so great to hear. We love having people visit the shelter; it is even better when they adopt animals. We have some cats that have been at the shelter since September, so getting out into the public helps to remind people of who we are and what we do.
As the weather gets warmer, I am beginning to see people walking their dogs, or rather dogs walking their people. There are different tools that you can try to make walking a bit more enjoyable for both you and your dog. There is the Gentle Leader head harness that works on the same premise as a horse halter in that if you have control of the head, you have better control of the animal. There is also the Sensation Harness, which instead of hooking between the shoulders on the back, it hooks in front of the chest, making pulling almost impossible. Both of these items with matching leashes are sold at the Central Aroostook Humane Society. Of course, nothing really replaces good obedience work. Working with a trainer and teaching your dog obedience is a bonding experience, a time to communicate.
There are other tools out there to help you with walking your dog, but these are the only two I have had direct experience with and like. It isn’t a matter of slapping them on and them working; you must also train your dog to enjoy wearing them. There is a short video at the shelter that can show you how to use them and there are also instructions to take home. So stop by to have your dog fitted and start enjoying your walks!
If you are looking for a “friend for life,” please contact the Central Aroostook Humane Society. We are open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday or give us a call at 764-3441.
Please have your pets spayed or neutered.
