If you are interested in learning more about this unique breed or maybe adopting and/or fostering a Catahoula Leopard Dog please join us at the Belfast location of Loyal Biscuit in Reny's Plaza on Saturday, June 23, 2012 from 10am – 1pm.

So, what is a Catahoula?

In a nut shell, the Catahoula Leopard Dog originated in the northern regions of the Gulf Coast, specifically Louisiana. Though no breeding records exist, they are believed to be a cross between native American Indian dogs and various Mastiffs, Beauceron and Greyhounds brought over by Spanish settlers in the 16th century. When settlers arrived in the area, they found packs of wild hogs and cattle in the woods and swamps. Catahoula Leopard Dogs had the intelligence, organization and quickness to herd these animals. In addition to their hunting skills, Catahoulas are highly intelligent and energetic. They are assertive but not aggressive by nature. They have a need to take charge of their pack whether it be other dogs or humans. Catahoulas in general are very even tempered, making them a good family dog and thrive on interaction. When a Catahoula is raised with children, the dog believes that it is his or her responsibility to look after and protect those children. Many owners will say that the Catahoula owns them and they can be insistent when it’s time to eat or do other activities. In addition, to being loyal, faithful companions, Catahoulas are protective and a natural alarm dog and will alert you to anything out of the ordinary.

Catahoula Rescue Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)3, all-volunteer group whose mission is to advocate for homeless Catahoulas and Catahoula mixes, to place these animals in permanent, loving homes, and to promote responsible guardianship through humane education. Catahoula Rescue was founded in 2001 by a small group of Catahoula owners. At that time, there was no other group specifically rescuing Catahoulas and Catahoula mixes from animal shelters. Often times, these wonderful dogs had little hope of getting out of the shelters alive. Catahoula Rescue began working through the Catahoula Rescue Network. In 2003, it was incorporated as a non-profit group. The rescue was recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) and received its final determination letter to that effect in April of 2004. At this present time we have 11 chapters across the United States and Canada, including Catahoula Rescue Inc., New England which was established in 2008, serving all six New England states and is based here in Warren, Maine. Catahoula Rescue has saved and rehomed hundreds of Catahoulas and Catahoula mixes, and works diligently to save as many of these wonderful dogs as possible.

The Loyal Biscuit Co. was named The Best Maine Pet Store by the readers of Downeast Dog News for 2010, 2011 and 2012 and Best of the Best for Knox County for 2010 and 2011.

The Loyal Biscuit Co. is located at 442 Main St., Rockland, Reny's Plaza, 1 Belmont Ave, Belfast, and 39 Mechanic St., Knox Mill, Camden.

You can find the LBC online at www.loyalbiscuit.com or www.facebook.com/loyalbiscuit.