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The Animal Welfare Society is fortunate to have a Mobile Adoption Team that works with Shelter Dogs on a one to one basis. This includes bringing animals to events, through shelter Obedience Classes and in some cases, providing a foster home until a forever home comes along. The primary focus is Long Term Residents who have been at AWS for 8 weeks or longer. This enrichment program is a way to keep the spirits of the dogs buoyed and most certainly enhances their adoptability. The following are excerpts from notes to AWS known as MAT's Musings! Enjoy! More Musing...
 Summer means shopping for Beth, the MAT head seamstress, bargain shopping that is. Lucky for Beth MAT was scheduled to appear at Pet Quarters in Wells June 19th and that means Beth and her shelter dog companion, this time Cooper - a Pitbull and a fine example of his breed went shopping. They did have to wait until Astrid and Copper arrived.
Beth and Cooper were very busy visiting with some teenage visitors when Astrid and Copper arrived. Cooper was a big hit! He is EXTREMELY good natured and loves to be patted and give kisses. He has an endless supply, just ask Beth.
Copper on the other hand was a little more reserved and took his time to get to know people. Once he warmed up to them he was fine.
 MAT encouraged visitors to not only admire MAT but join them and the rest of the AWS team to care for all our residents. Hopefully there will be new human faces at the shelter soon, there’s always room for one more volunteer.
Beth and Cooper were at Reny’s for almost forty-five minutes!! Cooper was collecting donations and pats on the head. He and Beth checked out several aisles, but Beth came home empty handed. A MAT first!
Everyone was tired by one o’clock and our visit was scheduled to be over anyway.
Join MAT and the AWS canines Saturday, June 26 at The Kennel Shop in Scarborough for Dock Dogs! AWS dogs will be visiting from 11-3. Check them out at the AWS table at the event!
Holly, a shelter favorite, was flanked by Norm and Eric, two movers and shakers in their own right at the shelter, at Pet Smart in Biddeford on June 12. As it turned out this was a day no one would forget!
 Holly and Beth arrived with Kathy and Eric to start the event. Beth made sure to make Holly look her feminine best in the yellow bandana style dress. That did the trick. A family interested in Holly came to the shelter and were so interested in meeting Holly that they came to Biddeford to see Holly in action! They were treated to a happy, wiggly dog ready to go home and please. Just what they had been looking for. Holly too. While the ink was drying on the adoption paperwork Beth, as usual, pushed the envelope and brought Holly to Lowe’s to check out some of the specials in the lawn and garden department. Holly made plenty of friends and discovered being "on" takes a lot of a lady. Beth almost used one of the carts to wheel Holly back to Pet Smart, but decided to carry her old friend back instead. Holly did after all need to get back to the shelter to the comfort of her new home. Good luck Holly!!
In the time MAT has worked with Greyhounds there have been some very memorable moments. Pictures with Santa and Eugene showing off his hugging people. Shh. . . Kim, the AWS Trainer doesn’t need to know that. Walter at the Home Show ready to race when an announcement came over the intercom at the Civic Center. Well, we can be confident in saying that Eric and Norm have been the hungriest Greyhounds ever brought to a MAT event! They ate a whole bag of blueberry treats, plus the MAT treats from our special treat reserve! In the past our retired racing friends have been finicky about eating, but we were all glad to see these two guys not being a stranger to the knife and fork, as it were.
 Eric impressed everyone with his friendly nature and beautiful face. He has stunning coloring. Kathy walked him all over the store to show him off. He wore the Have You Hugged Your Dog vest. Blue truly showed off his beautiful black face and eyes! Eric did a great job as the donation dog; forty-four dollars. Thank you to everyone who donated. Eric was quite proud of himself too.
Norm decided to take a fashion risk. The tan camo adopt me vest showed off his beautiful brindle coat. Taking breaks from snacking Norm visited with people. Rubbing up against legs appears to be one of his favorite things to do. Many visitors were impressed by Norm’s incredible gams, which are very muscular.
Luckily there were only paramedics visiting at Pet Smart. No one wanted Eric and Norm to have to submit to a breathalyser test to see if they were over the legal limit for blueberries! We hope these two beautiful, happy, intelligent young men go home soon.
Join MAT at Pet Quarters in Wells, June 19, 2010 from 11-1.
 After taking a break Memorial Day Weekend, MAT kicked off the summer visiting season at Pet Smart in Biddeford. Marie and Cathy were the first to arrive. Marie showed off her soft white coat with the Jerry Garcia vest. The splash of tie dye was perfect! Marie was also the donation dog and collected thirty-four dollars!! Thank you to everyone who donated and Marie for using the good looks God gave her.
Marie’s presence, despite her colorful threads, was quite and ladylike. She looked at each person who visited with her like they were the only one that mattered to her at that moment. In large part because they did. This retired racer impressed everyone with her manners and friendliness. When our friends at Pet Smart heard Marie was on a special diet, well, they made sure that her sensitive stomach would be full and sent her home with a bag of food. Thank you Jill!
 Pepper made his first MAT appearance. Ride. Boy did Pepper enjoy riding up to Pet Smart. On arrival he couldn’t wait to get into the store to check things out. Astrid and Pepper hit a snag in the vest department. The adopt me vest was about two sizes too small. Not to worry. Pepper and Astrid used an adopt me bone as a strap extender to make sure the vest fit around Pepper.
Pepper was friendly and enjoyed meeting all the people who came to find out more about him, and there were plenty of people looking for a young dog just like him. Despite his size Pepper managed to squeeze underneath a bathroom stall while his handler took a personal moment. Moral to that story is never underestimate your canine!! Size does not matter! On the way home Pepper wanted a snack and he and Astrid went through the drive through at McDonalds. Hamburgers are one of his favorite things. If you are looking for a fun, energetic, curious, affectionate dog, stop by the shelter and ask for Pepper. Make sure to ask the staff to bring him out of his kennel and visit with him in a play yard. You won’t be disappointed.
MAT will be back at Pet Smart in Biddeford Saturday, June 12, 2010 from 11-2.
 Butterfly visits Kennebunkport … Although Butterfly enjoys walking the winding trails at AWS, she decided that she was up for an adventure this past Thursday. Butterfly LOVED her car ride to Kennebunkport Village … peeking out the window and calmly observing all that she passed. After parking the car at Federal Jack’s, we joined Butterfly in a serene walk by all of the little shops … as she gently and quietly peeking through village doors. Shop owners enjoyed seeing this stunning ex-racer and greeted her warmly with smiles. Butterfly socialized with folks on the street and adored the affection she received.
Although our planned visit to Ben & Jerry’s was cut short by an ENORMOUS thunder and lightning storm, Butterfly was happy to jump back into the car, where she stretched out and napped on the way to Kennebunk’s Dairy Queen. We have three canine “beggars” (… our fault?) at home, who would never allow us to eat ice cream in peace! Miss Butterfly, on the other hand, snoozed away as we indulged!
A wonderful, wonderful girl … deserving of a kind and gentle human companion to match her own sweet nature?
MAT is playing catch up. It’s been very busy at the shelter!
 Beth and Bella and Astrid and Beau were at Pet Quarters in Scarborough on May 17th for a visit. There were lots of people discovering the benefits of mature dogs. Bella put on the Beagle Charm. Beth had her dressed to the hilt too. Bella was wearing a pink beaded adopt me vest. Yes, Beth pulled out all the stops. Bella visited with lots of children and their parents. Bella’s calm nature and big brown eyes, well, nough said.Beau put his best paw forward too. Beth decided that to show off his dark coat Beau should wear the tie died vest. It was also a crunchy cover as he helped himself to a few of the a la carte treats behind the AWS table. Beau knows that good things do come to those who wait and it did. A customer bought him a treat too. Beau quite full as he rode back to the shelter with Astrid. Beau was also the donation dog. He collected an undisclosed sum, but, as always, is put to good use back at AWS.On May 22nd Butterfly, one of the Becker College Greyhounds, went to The Kennel Shop in South Portland. As Butterfly and Astrid navigated their way down Commercial Street there was an odor; skunk. Butterfly pushed her nose into Astrid’s shoulder. Yuck.They arrived at The Kennel Shop and visited with several people and took their time walking around the store. Butterfly is still learning to shop. Astrid explained the you break it you buy it rule after Butterfly knocked over an aquarium. Fortunately it fell onto something so no harm done. Butterfly was more careful as she continued window shopping. Still exploring everything around her Butterfly enjoyed visiting with people. On the way home she stood quietly in the back seat until her ride dropped her off back at the shelter.
Make sure to check the AWS website for more MAT visits and appearances.
MAT is opening May with a double header! Ginger and Kathy went to help our friends at Pet Smart celebrate their National Adoption Weekend. They brought Lula and Polly. Astrid and Bella went inland to The Kennel Shop in Sanford for a visit.
The youthful antics were overflowing at Pet Smart. Polly discovered the cart with information about various programs at AWS almost immediately after Ginger wheeled it to the front of the store. In part because she couldn’t read the information and wanted to get Ginger’s attention Polly thought pulling out as many pamphlets as she could would make Ginger read them to her. Ginger explained that the pamphlets had important information about programs at the shelter. Ginger thought that the obedience brochure to help Polly brush up on puppy manners would be worth reading to her. Ginger didn’t have enough time to teach Polly to simply pull out the brochures and hand them out to visitors.
 In the meantime, Lula discovered that if you step in the water bowl with your feet the water spills and splashes. Lula had the right idea and may enjoy a home with a kiddie pool! It was hot over the weekend.
Both dogs enjoyed visiting with EVERYONE who stopped for a visit with them. Ginger reported that these two dogs are extremely fun and good natured.
In Sanford Bella enjoyed the ride in the back seat of Astrid’s car. When they arrived at The Kennel Shop Bella did several walk throughs of the store. She didn’t want to miss any whiffs of anything, food, people other dogs, birds, she saw the store as her oyster for the taking.
She found the Holistic Food representative who had a booth set up to provide samples of their products. It only took Bella a nanosecond to figure out that if she used her big brown eyes correctly samples would be coming her way. And they did. Bella was so convincing that the representative made a large donation of food to AWS. THANK YOU!
 Bella and Astrid also helped some owners who needed Gentle Leaders fitted. Those owners were very thankful.
Bella was expecting a straight shot back to AWS. No such luck. She and Astrid stopped at the South Sanford Fire station to visit with some more people. Bella touched one of the firefighters who will pass Bella’s story to a friend. They got back in the car and drove back to AWS with the a/c going!
Another successful day of outings for the AWS dogs!
MAT will be at AWS helping with the Kitten Shower May 8th and back on the road at Pet Quarters in Scarborough with adoptable canines May 15th.
A sunny warm day on the Coast of Maine and the perfect day to visit our friends at Pet Quarters in Wells. MAT discovered all kinds of secrets Ubu and Company thought they could keep!! MAT members are experts at fact finding. With Ubu and Company it was as easy as feeding them treats, dog truth serum.
 Beth Hazen and our new MAT member Beth were holding down the fort outside at Pet Quarters with Ubu, who was dropped off by his foster mother, Jocelyn, so he wouldn’t miss this event. Thank You Jocelyn!
Ubu was hanging out with Beth and Beth on one of the benches eating treats and meeting people. Generally having a good time. Ubu has a talent for showing everyone how to approach life, one treat at a time. He is also an expert in relaxing. He sat so still at one time one of the passers by thought he was a stuffed dog.
Ubu acknowledged everyone who stopped to visit, but only got up when there were Harley riders pulling into the parking lot, and boy did the sun and the beer tasting at Tully’s bring lots of people out! Ubu is fascinated by motorcycles. We can only surmise that he had some very good experiences with them or even on them. He loves bikers and bikes. Ubu also wanted to see what exactly was going on next door at Tully’s. Astrid who was temporarily handling Ubu walked to the door, but Astrid reminded Ubu that he left his id at home. Turns out what Ubu really wanted was to see if they were serving his namesake beer, Ubu Ale; a strong English ale produced at The Lake Placid Brewery. Again, Ubu’s biker experiences and taste in beer beg the question where has he been?
A complex dog, Ubu also showed MAT members that he enjoys picking. Jocelyn warned both Beth’s about this weakness, but who knew? There could be an argument made that Ubu watches American Pickers and has applied the basic principles of picking with a canine twist. A true entrepreneur that Ubu is and an extra special find in his own right.
 Company arrived with Astrid, fashionably late, but nonetheless got his share of treats and patting on the head. Inexplicably Beth and Astrid called Company Champion instead. A true champion by any other name is still the same. Right Company?
Company showed very well. He kept up with Ubu treat for treat. Beth took him to Reny’s. Beth and Company walked the aisles of Reny’s and met all kinds of people who love dogs. He ate treats Ubu doesn’t know about and also collected more than fifteen dollars!!
Four on the floor is a phrase Company gets too excited to remember. Astrid used Company’s excitement to his advantage. She sat and invited him to show how he could put his paws in her lap and give her lots of kisses. Company is very affectionate.
If you’re a biker, picker or a shopper stop by to visit with Ubu and Company, soon!!
Join MAT at Pet Smart in Biddeford April 10, 2010 from 11-2. Who knows what the Team will find out there.
MAT had it’s own brackets to fill during March Madness and boy did we ever have some impressive match ups and great wins in all venues in the Canine Division 1 and 2!! Everyone was a winner.
At The Kennel Shop in South Portland, Beth and Huck were matched up against all the visitors at the Kennel Shop. At the shelter no one was betting against this MAT match up. Beth and Huck left a crowded AWS arena parking lot for a less crowded but just as competitive venue in South Portland. Several times Huck and Beth showed some of their best offensive moves causing Huck to get adopted and another family to come to the shelter to look at other dogs. Everyone scored and the Saturday Northern Division round was over.
Not to be outdone, Astrid, having already helped with two obedience classes, went to the next level of competition, Adoption Mania at the shelter. Some might argue it’s a tie because Beth and Huck drove to South Portland, but, this is about the spirit of MAT competition at the highest level. So, Astrid took direction from Coach Lavasseur and her AWS Assistant Coaches, Jenny, Dory and Chelsea to get available dogs ready to go home with new families.
 During time outs and commercial breaks Astrid visited with other families to help Frankie go home and give a very nice woman a tour of the shelter. A donation was collected at half time!!
Beth and Huck came back to the shelter to get his adoption finalized and also see where Coach L. had her team positioned. Everyone came out the top of their division, Northern Division and the Southern Division placed everyone in their brackets!!
 Saturday was only the first day of a two day MAT Madness. After a quick call to the shelter Sunday, Coach Rousseau called Astrid off the bench, to help again!! The stars were Team AWS who placed many of the Canines available in the Canine Division 2 with everyone pulling together, despite Duke running his own play in the bog next to the shelter causing double overtime, Coach Mininni called in everyone to help Duke return to the play that was called. Everyone got back on offense and Duke was safely placed in his kennel. He hopes to go home tomorrow by the way.
Go TEAM AWS and TEAM MAT!!
Join MAT as they hit the road to an away game at Pet Quarters in Wells, April 3, 2010 from 11-2.
Sun brought MAT to Pet Quarters in Scarborough on  March 20th. Pat and Huck and Beth and Dewey spent a fun filled afternoon spreading Joy of Spring . . . puppy style. These two young dogs were perfect gentlemen throughout their visit.
Huck our Hound Group representative was being handled by one of MAT’s Hound fanciers. Pat was very impressed with Huck’s people skills. He was friendly and loved treats, though, it was discovered the hard way, that Huck has a more sensitive digestive system than most hounds. Modesty prevents further discussion.
 The Terrier Group was represented nicely by Dewey. Our Pitbull fancier Beth handled our other puppy entry. This handsome, playful, friendly Pitbull is another example of what the breed should be. At his age he, like all puppies, they need to have a balance of play and guidance to grow into their roles as pets, but Huck and Dewey are trainable and willing to please!
Meanwhile, Astrid was walking outside the shelter to get Cassie, the Sporting Group grepresentative, when some adoptive families spotted her and explained they were outside waiting to meet some adoptable dogs. Astrid answered questions not only about Cassie, Bessie and Dancer, but also Rowdy. Rowdy met with two families and went home with the second family! The family that passed on Rowdy were very interested in Dancer. The Hounds at AWS were on a roll!
MAT, and all the shelter staff, love their shelter animals. Talking about dogs, past and present, is second nature to Dog People everywhere. It was almost one o’clock when Rowdy had gone home and while Dancer didn’t go home Saturday, she’s got a cheering section. Cassie and Astrid didn’t make it to the MAT event, but they were able to enjoy a sunny day outside at the shelter.
Huck and Pat and Dewey and Beth came back to the shelter with two happy and tired young dogs. The handlers were extremely proud of their dogs because they were such good examples of puppies, their breeds and shelter resident representatives. Nice work!!
 A note from Cassie-
So, I wasn’t able to make it to the MAT event in Scarborough, but Kim Van Sickle made sure I got out Tuesday night in an obedience class. Not because I need it but because there were only three other dogs attending, and she felt bad I didn’t get out Saturday. She also made sure Astrid was my handler.
I arrived in class with my stuffed duck. I have food allergies and Astrid couldn’t find any of my treats and in my own way I was telling her the duck was what I REALLY wanted. I breezed through the class. Hey, I’m eight and know the drill.
We were doing a sit, stay exercise and this is where the fun really began.
Astrid had my duck in between her legs and I was sitting and staying. Kim came up behind Astrid telling me how good I was doing, mind you I couldn’t have treats, so while Astrid was getting my toy somehow managed to make my duck, which we only then discovered made a duck noise, make that noise. Well, the human beings, being only human, thought Astrid had done something else. The timing being perfect!!
Everyone got a good laugh out of it and I had fun in class. Just a reminder to everyone to come visit me and don’t forget to play with me and my duck when you come to the shelter!!
Your friend, Cassie
Don’t miss MAT and AWS canines at The Kennel Shop at Mill Creek in South Portland Saturday, March 27 from 12-2.
What happens when it’s warm sunny day in early March? Spring fever! How do dogs at AWS cure Spring Fever? A trip to Dairy Queen of course. Huck and Astrid decided to take advantage of a beautiful spring day and celebrate the re-opening of Dairy Queen. A favorite destination of AWS canines.
Huck and Astrid compromised. A decent walk, but nothing too long. Astrid’s still recovering from a broken toe! The compromise brought them to the Kennebunk High School parking lot and they walked toward town. Huck is GREAT on the leash. Like the true hound he is he loves to sniff, but balances that instinct with leash walking very nicely. The passing cars were no problem for Huck either.
The sun was high, it was almost lunch time, and Huck was getting warm. His black coat is very shiny and causes him to absorb the heat. Huck and Astrid walked through town and turned onto Route 1. The water was rushing over the dam next to Duffy’s. Huck sniffed out the sweet smell of soft serve and kept moving. Astrid translated his order for him to the person behind the counter. Huck got a dog special. He ate out of the dish, everything BUT the bone.
Huck decided to sit a minute and let the ice cream settle before walking back to the high school. While they were sitting Huck and Astrid watched some people place their orders and cars drive by. Huck wanted to get back to his friends at the shelter so he showed off his great leash skills and they walked back. Huck watched bicyclers pedal by. Kids playing in their yards and is hoping that he will make it home soon.
Huck is a very good rider. He fell asleep on the way back to the shelter. Come visit this well mannered hound next time you’re at the shelter.
Planet Dog welcomed Bessie and Beth for a visit on February 20.  MAT members Bob and Saucy were in Portland to stop at the market for fish but made time to join Beth and Bessie at Planet Dog before they went shopping. First trip to PD for Bob and Saucy.
Bessie is a new face on the website, but has been at the shelter for a while the staff and volunteers get her ready for her new home. Beth brought this perfect example of a Beagle to meet everyone at one of MAT’s favorite destinations. Bessie did a great job entertaining everyone and eating treats. She did such a good job that our friends at Planet Dog gave her an extra big bag to bring back to the shelter to share with her friends, or not. Beth wanted to make sure that Bessie got her fair share at least while Bessie was out.
 Bessie took a laid back approach to meeting everyone until she was bowled over by the entrance of a Great Dane. Beth said the moment that dog entered the store it was like flipping a switch for Bessie. She came to life!!
Bob and Saucy were making friends too. Saucy is a great ambassador to remind everyone that puppy mills are around us and the lucky ones, like Saucy, are healthy and get great homes. Next time you see them at an event ask Bob how Saucy joined his household!
Join MAT at Pet Quarters in Scarborough March 20 from 11-2 where they will be going green, emerald green of course.
The Mobile Adoption Team turned into the Multiple Adoption Team at Pet Smart in Biddeford on February 13.
 Beth and Naveah started the event. Others scheduled to appear were Bethany and Buddy, Kim and Leon and Astrid and Sampson. Kim and Leon ended up staying at the shelter and were waiting for Leon’s family who were more than happy to drive to the shelter from Pet Smart where they were waiting to meet him. Leon went home. Congratulations Leon!!
Another happy ending for Naveah. Beth left to go back to the shelter shortly after Bethany and the Gang arrived to complete Naveah’s adoption!! That would not be the last anyone at Pet Smart would see Maggie, f/k/a Neveah.  She and her new family came to take advantage of the adoption package provided especially for animals adopted during the Adoption Weekend Celebration. Maggie was wearing a bright red collar and a fancy embellished red leash as she was leaving the store with her new family.
Bethany, Buddy, Astrid and Sampson all arrived around noon and were spreading the word about all the animals available for adoption at the shelter. Lots of people were looking for a four legged Valentine. Two cats were adopted before two o’clock! Go Ginger and Joanne! A banner day for the shelter animals.
 Buddy was a little overwhelmed by all the excitement so Bethany took him back to the shelter and came back with Haley one of the cutest hounds around! Haley took a while to warm up and once she did there was no holding this happy hound back. She greeted a couple who were looking for a new family member, especially looking for a hound, and they hit it off right away. Haley was the donation dog for less than an hour and collected more than ten dollars! Way to go Haley.
Age is a number. Sampson is eleven but this Dalmatian showed his spots, ageless! He visited with too many people to count. He also ate treats whenever they were offered, though once he discovered the real difference between the soft chewy treats and the cookie treats he decided to take salmon treats over carrot ones. MAT thinks he just didn’t want to over do it on the fiber.
Sampson also got a very nice surprise from our friends at Pet Smart, a donation of high calorie food. Sampson is a little on the thin side (one reason Astrid let him eat as many fishy treats as he wanted), he’s still getting used to being at the shelter till he goes home. His new friends at Pet Smart will provide this diet for him till he either goes home or gets a little weight on him. THANK YOU JILL!
 We all hope Sampson goes home soon! He’s a great boy with plenty of life left in him. Sampson and Astrid walked all over the store. Musta been the treats! While Sampson did want to continue visiting, he was tired around three. Three hours of working with people would wear anyone out. Astrid put him in her car and he was sleeping like a log on the way back to the shelter. They took the long way home. A happy, contented sleep for a happy dog.
Astrid and Sampson pulled into the shelter and passed Bethany who had just dropped Haley off. Thank you to Bethany, Beth, Kim for the help with showing off the shelter dogs! Thank you again to Jill for making Sampson a very happy dog. Good luck to Leon and Maggie!
Planet Dog in Portland will be hosting MAT and adoptable AWS canines February 20, 2010. Don’t miss out on what will no doubt be another action packed event!
MAT did double duty over the weekend! One Team was at The Kennel Shop in Sanford and another Team in Portland.
 The Sanford Team of Emilie and Carol took Ernie and Sandy, respectively. These canine representatives of the terrier and hound group reminded everyone how much fun can be packed in a small package!  Ernie showed off his quick learning abilities and natural cuteness. Hard not to for him. Sandy was quick to counter with her grace and people pleasing skills. Ernie’s visit was cut short when a call came in for Emilie from the shelter to let her know there was a family waiting to meet Ernie.
Meanwhile, at the Home Show the first shift, Bethany and Fuji filed this report. . . .
 I think today was my favorite MAT experience yet. It was such an enjoyable day for a number of reasons: 1) FUJI!!!!!!!!!!!!! 2) The steady stream of people prompted lots of inquiries, not just about the dogs at the event, but also about what dogs we have available at the shelter. 3) The conversations that are generated with other animal lovers. 3) The $$$ our adoptable dogs raised.
The first hour to hour and a half Fuji was very social. The majority of people that came through the entrance stopped to say hello. I think he initially caught people's attention because of his unique look, then he melted them with his personality. He was very well-behaved amidst the flurry of activity, including many children that politely asked to pat him. I was very impressed with his calm demeanor despite so much going on around him. Eventually the activity caught up with him and he laid down for a twenty minute power nap. Despite his nap, he was pleasant when people continued to put money in his donation vest even as he slept.
 After the rejuvenation of the nap, he was ready to go again. There was no way we were leaving at noon. Especially after his play pal Rogue arrived! Two of the families that had spent time with Fuji when they came to the Home Show came back to visit Fuji again before they left. There were a few inquiries that seemed like they might actually develop into something concrete (I'm crossing my fingers).
When we emptied the vest and were able to sneak out at about one o’clock, we brought home seventy-eight dollars for the shelter! Thankfully Fuji got in another quick nap during the car ride back to the shelter, because when he returned, there was a young couple interested in taking him out for a walk.
 Pat and Leon arrived for the second shift with their own paparazzi! Dave was not only the paparazzi he was Pat and Leon’s chauffeur. Rouge and Astrid were running fashionable late, but arrived just in time to replace the leash Leon chewed through just as they got there.
Leon was ON! He enjoyed the company of all the children who couldn’t help but pet him and play with him. Adults found Leon hard to resist as well. Pat showed everyone how well Leon knows commands like "sit" and "down". Pat also highlighted Leon’s great focus on his handler. Leon is cute and smart, but a high energy dog. His high energy translated to over fifty dollars in donations as the donation dog!
Rouge took a more low key approach. She showed everyone that to be a proper example  of a Pitbull you MUST be friendly, composed and approachable. She was all of those and then some. It was too late this year, but Rough should have had a booth at the Home Show. She gave all natural, full facials to everyone who let her! Next year MAT will plan ahead for special talents for the dogs.
A great day for the dogs, handlers and the shelter at all the locations!
Join MAT next week at Pet Smart in Biddeford Saturday, February 13 to celebrate Pet Smart’s National Adoption Weekend. The event starts Friday the 12th and goes through Valentine’s Day. Who needs E-Harmony, come to Pet Smart and fall in love the old fashioned way!
AWS staff and MAT teamed up for Outback Adoption Day at the shelter January 30, 2010. After three months of waiting the dogs were finally ready to go to their forever homes! The staff and volunteers spent the last week of January doing everything from bathing the dogs, You Tubing that special occasion, to saying good luck and good bye to these dogs.
Families lined up at AWS, despite the cold, around seven a.m. By the time the shelter doors opened at eleven the staff and volunteers were ready to start introducing the dogs to their forever families. It was a very busy morning for everyone! Happy dogs and people were everywhere! The matches of dogs and families were exceptional! Everyone is especially happy that Newt, Lenny, Gus, Laine and Jiffy found their special people. Lena was one of the "front" dogs who benefitted from the extra attention and found her forever home too.
Thank you to the staff and volunteers who cared for these dogs during their stay. Thank you too to the staff and volunteers who worked the busy adoption day. Seventeen canine adoptions and three cat adoptions were completed!! A big thank you to all the families who adopted our special Outback Dogs and a reminder that AWS always has special dogs at the shelter looking for homes.
MAT will be pulling double duty the weekend of February 6 and 7, 2010. One Team will be at The Kennel Shop in Sanford from 11-2 and there will be an appearance by MAT, adoptable canines and representatives from AWS to answer all your questions about us at our booth at The Maine Home and Remodeling Show at the Cumberland County Civic Center Saturday February 6 and 7, 2010. Canines and handlers will be visiting from 10-2 each day. The AWS information booth is open from 10-6 Saturday and 10-5 Sunday. There’ll be plenty of time to visit the Civic Center and get to a TV for Super Bowl Sunday. The dogs wouldn’t miss the game either!
The Mobile Adoption Team of Astrid and Sandy visited The Kennel Shop at Mill Creek January, 23. After a late start from the shelter Astrid drove up the Turnpike. Sandy rested up for the visit. She is an exceptional rider!
The staff at the store welcomed Astrid and Sandy with open arms. Sandy began her tour of the store. She walked Astrid around for more than an hour and a half. Who needs a Wii exercise game? Sandy’s workout was more intense than anything Jillian Michaels could put in a game. Astrid’s gluts were burning!
Sandy took a couple of walks outside the store. A thinly veiled effort to walk to the Tim Horton’s and Wendy’s restaurants which are next door. Unbeknownst to Astrid, Sandy is on a diet, she could use to lose a few pounds according to staff, but don’t tell Sandy. Anyway, kind hearted Astrid gave in to her friend Sandy after their visit at The Kennel Shop and got Sandy a hamburger. For her part, Sandy only ate the burger; she didn’t want the "empty" calories of the bun.
The ride home was uneventful. Sandy slept dreaming of all the people she met at the store and her lunch. Don’t overlook her when you visit the shelter!
MAT will make a rare inhouse appearance at AWS January 30, 2010 to help the Outback Dogs find their forever homes.
The Mobile Adoption Team rung in 2010 at Pet Quarters in Scarborough with Junior and Lena, handled by Astrid and Beth, respectively.
 Our friends at the store treated the dogs to their own bowl of bagel treats. Junior was so excited he forgot to chew. Luckily Astrid had attended the Red Cross training at the shelter last fall and could help. Junior had a great time. He knows how to roll over in addition to his other tricks. He made friends with every one he met and even won over a customer who had never been as close to a Pitbull as she had to Junior, who made a very good impression.
 Lena, Junior’s roommate at the shelter, was working the crowds too. She was her usual friendly self. She and Beth did a lot of shopping for Beth’s cats. Lena played with all her visitors and showed off her shiny coat.
Both dogs slept on their way back to the shelter from the event. Spreading the word about shelter dogs is a job these two took seriously and deserved a power snooze after a busy afternoon.
AWS dogs and MAT will be at The Kennel Shop at Mill Creek, South Portland on January 23, 2010 from 12-2.
 MAT went green the first weekend in October at the Green Home Show at The Portland Expo. Saturday Astrid and Chevy (the Bulldog mix) and Paula and Angel showed people all about being green. Angel did an exceptional job in the Halloween frog vest. Chevy chose a more traditional pumpkin style vest. Lots of AWS Board members were manning the table and answering questions and handing out information while the dogs and handlers were showing off tricks and talking about breed specific questions, training questions and the dogs who were visiting. Paula and Astrid referred everyone with remodeling questions to other booths.
Paula and Angel worked the crowds and answered every question anyone had about moving a retired racer into a home.  Chevy had more explaining to do because her name is not the most feminine name in the world and there were a lot of people who couldn’t believe she was eight. Most people thought she was a year or so. Go Chevy! Dogs and handlers had such a good time they stayed longer than expected. Astrid and Chevy did make a very quick exit once the rabbits appeared for the evening shift! Yikes.
Beth Hazen went to Planet Dog, but her satellite transmission did not come through. Hopefully a report will come on a delayed signal. We have no reason to believe there was an alien abduction.
 Sunday Laura and Bethany took Gunner and Fuji, respectively to The Expo. Laura and Gunner were the victims of mistaken identity most of the day. Visitors thought Gunner was Angel. They are both Greyhounds and have brindle coats, but any home inspection will confirm one is a male and one a female. Gunner and Laura had their work cut out for them, so to speak, and educated visitors about retired racers, Greyhounds and Gunner. They nailed down a victory in all three departments!!
Bethany and Fugi were head of entertainment at the AWS booth. Fugi proved that mixed breeds are where it’s at! Fugi was a happy, playful, attentive one year old wooing people to the AWS booth with his good looks and keeping them there while Bethany explained what a great addition he, or any shelter dog, makes to a family. Forget a renovation or home improvement, going green is as easy as adopting a shelter resident!
Don’t miss the next MAT appearances October 17 at Macy’s in South Portland and Pet Smart in Biddeford!
 Longtime MAT member Pat took Logan to The Kennel Shop in Sanford to visit and collect donations for the shelter on Saturday. Logan's inaugural MAT appearance was a huge success according to Pat. He was a perfect gentleman with everyone he met and was very polite to a feline group who were also attending this store adoption event. Logan also collected twenty-eight dollars as the AWS donation dog and he and Pat also brought back some food donations.
Everyone at the store was very happy to have another well behaved AWS canine representative visit their store. Logan is young and needs a little work with his manners, Pat reports that he is a quick study and settled nicely. Another example of a shelter dog who just needs love and guidance in his new home. He was only with Pat a few hours! Imagine what a lifetime would do for this guy.
The time went by very quickly. It seemed like Pat and Logan just arrived when it was time to leave. Don’t worry, we’ll be back at The Kennel Shop soon!
 When Pet Smart has National Adoption Weekend and AWS has available dogs available for adoption MAT must spring into action, and they did over the weekend of September 11th and 12th. Thank you to all MAT members who attended. It made a HUGE difference for six dogs!
Friday Astrid and Kathy went to man the first shift at Pet Smart. Kathy took Sumpin Special (adopted as of 9-13-09) and had a marvelous time with her. Kathy discovered that the retired racer has developed a refined palate. There were no treats good enough for her to eat! Sumpin Special did discover Astrid’s human snack bag and thought that a sesame bread stick with port cheese would taste good. As always the Greyhounds are a big draw and Sumpin Special and Kathy showed why these canine retirees make such wonderful companions. Sumpin Special was also the donation dog for the first shift. Unfortunately we did not add up the donation bag until after the second shift, though it was pretty full after Sumpin Special left.
Seneca, a staff favorite and long term resident was adopted Saturday! (9-12-09) Astrid was lucky enough to take Seneca to one more visit to Pet Smart the day before Seneca went home with her adoptive family. Sencea wore a blue dog themed vest that showed off the unusual ticking on her legs. Everyone was surprised at how soft her coat was. She greeted everyone with her signature enthusiasm. No one could resist her eyes. She made everyone melt.
 The shift change was at two o’clock. Kathy and Sumpin Special returned to the shelter. Pat and Charlie the Springer arrived. Charlie had the looks of a donation dog and was passed the donation vest. Astrid and Seneca returned to the shelter so that Seneca could hang out with the staff and Astrid took Lady the Beagle.
Pat and Charlie were going gangbusters in the donation department by the time Astrid and Lady returned. Everyone admired Charlie’s great looking coat and his sweet disposition. He especially likes young ladies according to his handler, Pat. Charlie greeted everyone that came through the doors. He showed himself beautifully.
Astrid and Lady were hits in their own right! People stopped to say hello to Lady and remark on what a quiet, reserved Beagle she was, and is. Lady was not very interested in treats, unusual for a Beagle. Astrid and Lady left a half hour early. It had been a long day and Pat and Charlie had this event well under control. Before leaving Pat counted $37 in the donation bag! That was of course for both shifts. After the event Pat indicated that Charlie continued reeling in fans and they closed out the event on a really high note.
The Mobile Adoption Team showed up in last minute force for the appearance Labor Day Weekend at Pet Smart which was a labor of love for Beth with Patches, Astrid with Max, Laura with Seneca and Bethany with Rico, . They made a trip to Pet Smart to show off but a smattering of all the available dogs at the shelter and to spread the word about all the wonderful dogs currently available for adoption at the shelter.
Everyone at Pet Smart was happy to see us and made sure the dogs all had plenty of treats to eat. Max, who doubled as Jerry Garcia in his adopt me vest, is especially food motivated and ate everything offered to him, after doing a sit of course. If he would have stayed there longer he would have looked like Jerry Garcia too!
Patches wore the vest de resistence; Beth’s overall vest. She did lots of play bows and showed us all a new trick. Dancing! Rub her back end and she lifts her back legs one at a time. Once this was discovered she ‘danced’ with everyone who would give it a try.
 Seneca wore the newest adopt me vest, a yellow bandana number. She and Laura walked around the store and showed off Seneca’s excellent leash skills.
 Rico ‘hugged’ everyone who stopped to visit. He was the donation dog to boot! Laura and Seneca and Bethany and Rico left a little early. Thank you for taking time to come!
Beth and Patches and Astrid and Max stayed a while longer to visit with the steady crowd of people who came to visit. The Pet Smart Adoption Weekend is next weekend and Max and Patches wanted to make sure to let everyone know that dogs and volunteers from the shelter would be back next weekend!
 MAT visited The Kennel Shop in South Portland with Letterman with Laura, Lilly with Astrid, and Dolce with Emilieon Saturday. It was a perfect day for a ride north. The dogs wanted to wear some of the more updated vests and Beth, who was working the Kitten Shower, happily obliged.
On arrival the staff at The Kennel Shop set up a table and filled the water bowl. The canines got dress and started to work. Letterman and Laura struck early. They drew in a couple who had recently lost their Greyhound and was looking for another. We’ll keep our fingers crossed.
Dolce and Emilie talked for a long time about animal shelters and dogs with a couple who thought Dolce was the nicest dog! They could not believe she was a stray.
Letterman, in true Greyhound fashion, was exhausted after his long visit on his arrival. He used his camouflaged vest to blend into the floor while he took a long power snooze. He did wake for the occasional pat on the head or to see who was walking behind him.
Lilly did an excellent job showing off her sits, downs and stays. A real treat motivated student! She did very well, but did not enjoy the company of every dog she came across. She did enjoy all the people and they fed her lots of treats.
Dolce shopped with Emilie in every dog aisle. After shopping and talking she too went down for a nap. Lilly was worn out. All the obedience and visiting was more than she was used to. The handlers stayed awake to talk to people and answer questions about the shelter and dogs as best they could.
On arriving back at the shelter there was big news brewing! A family was looking at Reba the Hound! Yes, Reba went home! Congratulations to the longest LTR. We are all so happy for you!!
With monsoon like conditions predicted for most of the last full week of April, Monday looked best to take Star out on a field trip before the weekend. Astrid got Star ready with a martingale collar (thanks Karen) and it was off to York and all that it has to offer.
Star is a great rider! She put her head in between the seat and the door. She also put her head out the window for some fresh air. Taking the long way, Route 1, and Astrid drove right by McDonalds. Don’t worry, it was early in the morning, Star won’t go without.
The construction near the Hayloft provided Star the perfect opportunity to make her move. She had been trying to get in the passenger seat in front, but Astrid kept her at bay. . . until traffic stopped. Stealth. Speed. Cuteness. All features Star used to gain access to the front driver’s seat and the driver’s lap. Traffic was moving again. Great, how to pass off this American Bull Dog as a lap dog to the police or my insurance agent?? Luckily those questions would never need an answer.
Finally, the first stop, the York Police Station. Star had retreated to the back seat just before arriving at the PD. Whew. Star got out of the car and got a drink of water and a warm reception from the people going to the Senior Center. Lots of pats on the head.
On the way to the fire station at the beach people asked about the gentle leader. Astrid explained the difference between a muzzle and a training tool. Next stop the York Beach Fire Station to visit with Dave. He is a fireman and loves dogs. Star rolled on her back for belly rubs and ate lots of treats. Some volunteer firemen also took the time to visit. A walk to Short Sands and the playground. Kids playing basketball, and other dogs were not enough to distract this working dog from the job at hand, getting back to the car for the next stop.
Driving to the York Village Fire Station Star took the time to sun herself in the car. Ahh. Star took the two flights of stairs quickly to get to the prize, as it were, a volunteer fireman! She was greeted with open arms and took advantage of them. Licking, drooling and eventually sitting Star got pats on the head the whole time. Yippee! Another fireman! He talked about his station needing a fire dog. Star helped him read a fire truck manual while visiting.
It was time to head back to the shelter. Star and Astrid headed back on Route 1. The construction site did not cause any passenger shifting on the way back. It was lunch time, past lunchtime, and Star looked hungry. In Wells the famous stop at McDonalds was made. Star took the McNuggets very gently and let Astrid eat her burger. A great way to spend a sunny day!
Handler postscript: After returning home and reading an e-mail from the head of the AWS Obedience Department Astrid learned that the move to the front of the vehicle at the construction site is Star’s MO. Still a cute move though.
Porter picked a perfect day for a field trip! He also picked the perfect person, Astrid who could not wait to tell him that his name has a special place in her life - her last name was not always Marshall. Anyway, the pair of Porters headed off to York to enjoy the sunny weather.
Astrid thought that Porter had jumped out of the car window or went missing somehow. Whew, he was only sleeping in the backseat. What a very quiet passenger. He only stirred once at the now famous construction site on Route 1 in Ogunquit when they had to stop.
At the York Police Station Porter had all he could do to get up and get out of the car. What a relaxing ride. He got out of the car and discovered that York Beach had plenty of smells to offer. There were birds and chipmunks too. Porter pointed! Not much going on at the beach people wise, but the sun felt good on Porter’s body during the walk. Ahh, fresh salt air.
Back to the car and off for the second part of the adventure. Leaving the village fire station Porter discovered Long Sands Road had plenty of smells too! Lots of leaves to root through to get to them though. What fun. Astrid waived at lots of cars passing by.
Back at the fire station firemen were waiting to greet Porter. He let everyone pet him, but laid down. He was one tired hound. Taking the cue, Astrid got Porter back in the car and headed back to the shelter. One quick stop for McNuggets, which Porter enjoyed and took very gently. A few treats, sun and his friends at the shelter taking care of him until his forever family comes to take him home, a great day!
The craft fair at the Ogunquit Play House was a great place to spend a Saturday! Bob and Saucy took the early shift. Thanks for coming!!
Astrid and Crumpet were running late due to a snag at the shelter and then getting stuck behind the horse drawn carriage with the Play House in sight, but no parking. No parking, no problem. A quick drive to the Ogunquit Police Station parking lot and Astrid and Crumpet headed for the craft fair. Luckily Crumpet had had some previous walking training in York earlier in the week and was in tip top speed walking shape!
Bob and Saucy had to leave so Astrid and Crumpet missed them by "this much" according to Judy Dutton who was part of the crew manning the AWS table donated by John Caravetta. Thank you John!!
There were lots of people at the event and Astrid barely had time to primp Crumpet for what turned out to be a HUGE following for Crumpet! Beth had packed a travel bag with lots of vests. Crumpet, being a true plus size, needed a large vest. The blue patriotic vest did the trick! It fit in with the Patriot’s Day theme.
Crumpet ate lots of treats and showed off her finely tuned obedience skills to passers by. Not only were people impressed that this Corgi mix was so good looking, but very well trained! Georgia, the AWS staff and volunteers are making Crumpet the best dog she can hope to be. Crumpet and Astrid showed people how to use and fit a Gentle Leader and discussed various obedience and training issues individuals had. Lots of people wanted to know EVERYTHING about Crumpet. Astrid did the talking and Crumpet flashed her big brown eyes at everyone.
Many of the out of state visitors were interested in the work being done at AWS and asked about out of state adoption possibilities. Beth, always the teacher, gave her favorite ‘student’, Astrid, lots of AWS business cards; most of which were passed out early and the few remaining cards were given to Paula and Bethany when they arrived with Rogue.
Rogue, always the puppy, stole Crumpet’s thunder. Just as well. Being "on" for almost three hours had worn Crumpet out and she was ready to head back to the car at the PD and then back to the shelter for a nap.
Rogue, Paula and Bethany stayed with Judy and the Gang to close out the event.
Rogue drew lots of attention. While the happy puppy behavior got everyone’s attention, it was again the obedience skills that kept people interested. It also reminded people that shelter dogs are the best dogs to add to any family.
More Musing....
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