V20I2 (Apr/May 2018)

ANIMAL WELLNESS

For a long, healthy life!

WELLNESS

STOP THE

ITCH! – REMEDIES FOR SKIN ALLERGIES

HOT SPOTS? Get to the root of this

HOW TO PROTECT HIM FROM

LYME DISEASE

nasty skin problem

TAKE THE

STRESS OUT OF BATH TIME

PET-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVES TO

PESTICIDES

5HEARING LOSS

CAUSES OF

PAW AND NAIL CARE,

WITH THIS

8-STEP GUIDE

Spencer

HOW A TINY SHELTER DOG FROM HAWAII INSPIRES KIDS TO BE RESPONSIBLE ANIMAL GUARDIANS.

NATURALLY APRIL/MAY 2018 Display until May 7, 2018

$6.95 USA/Canada

VOLUME 20 ISSUE 2

AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

BONUS INSIDE!

2

Animal Wellness

April/May 2018

3

Contents April/May 2018

Features

18 FEEDING YOUR DOG FOR HEALTHY SKIN AND GLOSSY COAT

44

Poor nutrition or a deficiency in nutrients can manifest as dandruff, itchiness, dull hair and more. A quality diet with the right supplements can do wonders for skin and coat health.

22 KEEP YOUR DOG’S PAWS HEALTHY

Foot injuries or problems can be as unpleasant for your dog as they are for you.

Check your dog’s paws regularly for any issues, and take steps to keep them healthy and protected.

26 PET-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVES TO LAWN AND GARDEN CHEMICALS

Pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers are full of toxins that are harmful to dogs and cats. Use safe natural products for your lawn and garden to keep your companion healthy.

28 OXYGENATION – KEY

TO YOUR DOG’S HEALTH

Both exercise and diet play vital roles in keeping your dog’s body (and your own!) oxygenated and in a healthy alkaline state.

32 DOES YOUR DOG HAVE HOT SPOTS?

These inflamed red lesions on your dog’s skin can cause him a lot of itching and pain. Find out what really causes hot spots, and how to help heal them.

36 CANINE

ACUPRESSURE FOR SPRING CONDITIONING

With the return of warmer weather, your dog will become more active. Physical conditioning, along with acupressure, can get him fit for spring, and reduce injury risk.

40 5 CAUSES OF HEARING

LOSS IN DOGS

Is your dog going deaf? Perhaps he’s just getting older, but there are other causes, so it’s always a good idea to have him checked out by a veterinarian.

4

Animal Wellness

43 WHY DOGS SHAKE OFF

How often does your dog shake off? Is it a full body shake or just the neck and upper body?

44 SPENCER

This charming little rescue pup from Hawaii is making waves on social media – and inspiring kids around the world to become responsible pet parents.

48 LYME DISEASE AND YOUR DOG

Taking steps to minimize tick exposure is the best way to protect your canine companion from Lyme disease.

54 TCVM – PREVENTIVE

SEASONAL MEDICINE FOR DOGS

In Chinese medicine, the seasons are associated with specific personalities, bodily organs, ages, and foods. By understanding these factors, you can help keep your dog balanced.

66 WALKING PROGRAMS

MAKE SHELTER DOGS MORE ADOPTABLE

Daily walks and exercise help more shelter dogs find homes by giving them stimulation and teaching them valuable skills such as socialization and leash etiquette.

72 BATHING YOUR DOG: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

When giving your dog a bath, follow these 8 steps for a smooth and stress-free experience.

78 HOW HOMEOPATHY CAN HEAL YOUR PET’S ALLERGIES

A holistic approach that focuses on homeopathy does more than relieve allergy symptoms in dogs and cats. It heals on a deep level and the results are often permanent.

90 COMMON SKIN PROBLEMS IN CATS

From allergic dermatitis to rodent ulcers, a variety of skin problems can afflict cats. Here’s a look at the most common, along with their causes and treatments.

92 ASPCA’S KITTEN NURSERY

Shelters and rescues are overwhelmed with homeless kittens starting in the spring. Here’s how one animal welfare organization handles the situation.

94 SAFELY SATISFY YOUR CAT’S HUNTING INSTINCTS

Safe and humane ways to give your cat the thrill of chasing and catching “prey”, without harming neighborhood wildlife.

97 VEGGIES AND FRUITS TO SHARE WITH YOUR CAT

Although cats must eat a meat-based diet in order to thrive, you can also add in some vegetables and fruit for extra nutrition.

92

22 28

Columns

72

12 Yakkity yak 39 Business profile –

Canna Companion

58 Passages 60 Rewind 63 Business profile –

Northwest Naturals

76 To the rescue 82 Book reviews 87 Tail end 96

FW book reviews

Departments 8

Editorial

52

Product picks

64

Animal Wellness resource guide

70

The scoop

News, events, and tips! @ AW_magazine

84

Marketplace

Tips, pet photos, and more!

AnimalWellnessMagazine

85

Classifieds

Crafts, laughs, and more!

AnimalWellness

86

Events

98 Cat chat

Social media Tips, contests and more!

AnimalWellnessMagazine

April/May 2018

5

VOLUME 20 ISSUE 2

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Staff Writer: Emily Watson Senior Graphic Designer: Dawn Cumby-Dallin Senior Graphic Designer: Kathleen Atkinson Social/Digital Media Manager: Theresa Gannon Web Design & Development: Brad Vader Tail End Illustration: Libby Sinden Cover Image Courtesy of: Shannon Ellis FW Cover Image Courtesy of: The ASPCA

ON THE COVER PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF:

Shannon Ellis Who can resist this adorable face?

A diminutive terrier mix, Spencer started life as a shelter dog on Hawaii. Now he’s a social media celebrity as well as a “spokesdog” for inspiring responsible animal guardianship in children. See page 44 for his full story.

ON THE FW COVER PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF:

COLUMNISTS & CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jennifer Adolphe, PhD, RD Jody Bearman, DVM, CVSMT, CVA, CVCH Matthew Berk Tamra Anne Bolles Christine Caplan, CVT Christina Chambreau, DVM, CVH Kristin Clark, Certified Small Animal Naturopath, Certified Carnivore Nutrition Consultant Crystal Clarke Janice Huntingford, DVM Sara Jackson Deva Khalsa, VMD Craig Landry Brian Marshall Shawn Messonnier, DVM Erin Mullen Paul Owens Amy Snow Nancy Zidonis ADMINISTRATION & SALES President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Accounting: Susan Smith Circulation & Office Manager: Libby Sinden SUBMISSIONS: Please email all editorial material to Ann Brightman, Managing Editor, at ann@redstonemediagroup.com. We welcome previously unpublished articles and color pictures either in jpeg, tif or disc form at 300 dpi. We cannot guarantee that either articles or pictures will be used or that they will be returned. We reserve the right to publish all letters received.

You can also mail submissions to: Animal Wellness Magazine, 160 Charlotte St., Suite 202, Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8.

Please direct other correspondence to info@ redstonemediagroup.com.

AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

ADVERTISING SALES National Accounts Manager: Ann Beacom, (866) 764 -1212 ext. 222 annbeacom@redstonemediagroup.com Western Regional Manager: Becky Starr, (866) 764-1212 ext. 221 becky@redstonemediagroup.com Multimedia Specialist: Kat Shaw, (866) 764-1212 ext. 315 katshaw@redstonemediagroup.com Subscription Services Manager: Brittany Tufts, (866) 764-1212 ext. 115 brittany@redstonemediagroup.com CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Libby Sinden classifiedads@animalwellnessmagazine.com TO SUBSCRIBE: Subscription price at time of this issue is $24.00 in the U.S. and Canada, including taxes for six issues shipped via surface mail. Subscriptions can be processed by: Website: www.animalwellnessmagazine.com Phone: (866) 764-1212 ext 115 US MAIL: Animal Wellness Magazine, 6834 S University Blvd PMB 155 Centennial, CO 80122 CDN MAIL: Animal Wellness Magazine, 160 Charlotte St., Suite 202, Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8 Subscriptions are payable by VISA, MasterCard, American Express, check or money order. The material in this magazine is not intended to replace the care of veterinary practitioners. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor, and different views may appear in other issues. Redstone Media Group Inc., publisher of Animal Wellness, does not promote any of the products orservices advertised by a third party advertiser in this publication, nor does Redstone Media Group Inc. verify the accuracy of any claims made in connection with such advertisers. Refund policy: call or write our customer service department and we will refund unmailed issues.

DEALER INQUIRIES WELCOME: Animal Wellness Magazine is available at a discount for resale in retail shops and through various organizations. Call Libby at (866) 764-1212 ext 100 and ask for dealer magazine sales, fax us at (705) 742-4596 or e-mail at libby@animalwellnessmagazine.com

The ASPCA This bright-eyed little sweetie is one of thousands of homeless kittens saved by the ASPCA’s Kitten Nursery in New York City. Dedicated to the rescue of newborn ferals and strays, the nursery cares for the kittens until they’re old enough to be adopted out to loving homes. To read more, turn to page 92.

6

Animal Wellness

Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published six times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyright© 2018. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: February 2018.

Improving the lives of animals... one reader at a time.

editorial

Hindsight is

W

hen I was a kid, our family dog – a lively Bichon named Lacey – suffered off and on from allergies and hot spots. During flare-ups, my mom would dress her in infant onesies so she wouldn’t scratch herself to pieces. While she lived to the ripe old age of 16½, I wish I knew then what I know now. At the time, we thought we were feeding her the best diet available – those packaged, pretend-burger pucks that you broke apart. They were expensive so they must be good, right? Wrong! They were full of chemicals like BHT as well as food coloring.

Of course, we never linked Lacey’s allergies to her diet or lifestyle. Nobody was talking about that back then. And I think her diet also made her susceptible to other issues.

If she picked up even a single flea (which would happen every couple of years), she would break out in hives. We would spend hours searching for the one pesky little critter that was causing all her that discomfort.

With spring just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to get a jump start on the season to help our dogs and cats stay healthy and comfortable. This issue of AW is full of useful information on tackling allergies and related problems without turning to steroids and other harmful medications. One of the fundamental ways to get to the root of allergic reactions is through good nutrition, so we present an article that focuses on this soimportant facet of animal health. We also offer advice on integrative treatments for hot spots (those itchy patches of inflammation that can make a pet’s life miserable), as well as a step-by-step guide to making bathtime an easier and more pleasant event for you and your dog.

8

Animal Wellness

Along with fleas, pollen and other allergens, spring also heralds the return of ticks in many regions, and that means an increased risk of Lyme disease. You’ll find valuable information about how to protect your dog from this concerning health problem while still being able to enjoy the great outdoors. And if you enjoy gardening, consider nontoxic pet-friendly alternatives to the chemical pesticides and herbicides that can harm your dog or cat’s health.

Our cover story for this issue is all about Spencer, a delightful little rescue pup from Hawaii who’s on a mission to inspire children to become responsible pet parents – when he’s not busy charming his thousands of social media fans!

We return to the allergy theme in our Feline Wellness bonus section with a comprehensive article on some of the most common skin diseases in cats. You’ll also learn about some fruits and veggies you can use to boost your kitty’s health, along with a variety of eco-friendly ways to help satisfy her natural hunting instincts.

Yours in health,

Dana Cox Editor-in-Chief

Celebrating

Enter our Super 20 Giveaway for a chance to WIN! We’ve teamed up with our favourite companies to bring you the most unique and exciting pet products on the market! Each month 20 different winners will be chosen for 20 different prizes! Featuring brand names such as Hurtta, Petcurean, Banixx and more, you won’t want to miss the biggest giveaway of the year.

animalwellnessmagazine.com/super-20-giveaway/

Enter to

WIN Our new digital magazine platform allows easy access to our digital issues on all mobile and web platforms including Android, iOS, and Windows!

As a digital subscriber you will have access to fantastic articles on natural pet health, wholesome nutrition, positive training and emotional wellbeing – right at your fingertips!

Buy a subscription or a single issue. The choice is yours!

animalwellnessmagazine.com/mobile

April/May 2018

9

contributors

1

2

3

4

5

6

1. Veterinarian Dr. Jody Bearman graduated from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine in 1992. She became a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist in 2005, is also a certified Veterinary Chinese Herbalist, practices Tui-na (Chinese massage and physical therapy) and food therapy, and has instructed at the Chi Institute. Dr. Bearman became certified in veterinary spinal manipulation therapy in 2014, and is a member of the College of Animal Chiropractors. She trained in homeopathy and is a member of the AVH. She has an integrative practice in Madison, Wisconsin. Dr. Bearman discusses seasonal TCVM medicine on page 54.

2. Veterinarian Dr. Christina Chambreau (ChristinaChambreau.com) has been teaching holistic approaches to health since she began using homeopathy in her practice 36 years ago. She now has a Pet Health Coaching phone consulting practice where you can get help moving down the path to health for your animals. She is also the author of the Healthy Animal’s Journal series, including e-books for cats and dogs, and is the Associate Editor for the Integrative Veterinary Care Journal here at Redstone Media Group. On page 78, Dr. Chambreau takes a homeopathic approach to pet allergies.

3. Veterinarian Dr. Janice Huntingford is a graduate of the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, and certified in animal chiropractic and acupuncture. She received her certification in Veterinary Rehabilitation through the Canine Rehabilitation Institute, and opened Ontario’s first saltwater canine therapy pool and rehabilitation center. She

10

Animal Wellness

is a Certified TCVM Practitioner, a Certified Veterinary Pain Practitioner, and a board certified specialist, earning a Diplomate from the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation. She practices in Essex, Ontario (essexanimalhospital.ca). Turn to page 90 for Dr. Huntingford’s article on feline skin diseases.

4. Veterinarian Dr. Deva Khalsa authored Dr. Khalsa’s The Natural Dog and co-authored Healing Your Horse: Alternative Therapies. She lectures internationally and is a professor at the British Institute of Homeopathy. She has almost 30 years of experience in holistic modalities. For this issue, Dr. Khalsa focuses on the importance of oxygenating your dog’s body (page 28).

5. Veterinarian Dr. Shawn Messonnier wrote The Natural Health Bible for Dogs and Cats, The Natural Vet’s Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs, and 8 Weeks to a Healthy Dog. He’s the pet care expert for Martha Stewart Living’s “Dr. Shawn – The Natural Vet” on Sirius Satellite Radio, and creator of Dr. Shawn’s Pet Organics. His practice, Paws & Claws Animal Hospital (petcarenaturally.com), is in Plano, Texas. See page 40 for his insights on hearing loss in dogs.

6. Christine Caplan is a Certified Vet Tech, and a long-time PR veteran and content marketing expert who brings her unique understanding of social and digital media to connect dog lovers to brands both on and offline. She lives with three hounds – two “doxies” and a beagle/basset hound mix – who constantly teach her about life and companionship

(mylifewithdogspdx.com). Christine covers paw and nail health on page 22.

7. Dr. Jennifer Adolphe graduated with her PhD in companion animal nutrition from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan. Her PhD research examined the effects of carbohydrates on metabolic and cardiovascular health in lean and obese dogs. Dr. Adolphe is the recipient of over 20 awards and scholarships for her academic work and has numerous peerreviewed publications. Her work in the pet food industry has focused on product development and ingredient procurement. She is currently the Senior Nutritionist at Petcurean Pet Nutrition. She writes about nutrition for skin health on page 18.

8. Kristin Clark is certified by the American Council of Animal Naturopathy as a Small Animal Naturopath and Carnivore Nutrition Consultant. A member of the American Association of Drugless Practitioners, she is passionate about helping pets thrive naturally. You can visit her website at caninehealthpromotion.com. Turn to page 32 for Kristin’s article on hot spots.

9. Nancy Zidonis and Amy Snow are the authors of: ACU-DOG: a Guide to Canine Acupressure and ACU-CAT: A Guide to Feline Acupressure. They founded Tallgrass Publishers, offering books, manuals, DVDs, apps and meridian charts. Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute provides a 300-hour hands-on and online training program worldwide. Tallgrass is an approved school by the Dept. of Higher Education through the

10

8

11

State of Colorado and an approved provider of NCBTMB and NCCAOM CEs. To contact, phone 303-681-3030, visit animalacupressure.com, or email Tallgrass@animalacupressure.com.

On page 36, they share acupressure points for spring conditioning a dog.

10. Erin Mullen is a freelance writer and entrepreneur living in Latrobe, Pennsylvania.

She graduated from Saint Vincent College and enjoys spending her free time in the outdoors with her boxers, Emma and Elsa. Erin covers the latest on Lyme disease on page 48.

contributors

7

9

12

11. Sara Jackson lives on a 12-acre farm in American Canyon, just outside the Napa Valley. She is a graduate of the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and has a BFA in Screenwriting. She is a freelance writer and has written a number of short stories, two scripts and a book (sarajacksonwriter.com). On page 97, Sara discusses fruits and veggies you can share with cats.

12. Brian Marshall has won numerous writing awards during his 30-plus year career in journalism. The Detroit native and Western Michigan University grad has owned two dachshunds and currently works with a mixed hound in need of obedience training. Brian

13

looks at how walking programs help make shelter dogs more adoptable – see page 66.

13. Dr. Craig Landry earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College. He decided to pursue his lifelong ambition to work with animals by becoming a Certified Animal Chiropractor. He graduated from the Veterinary Chiropractic Learning Centre – Canada’s sole Animal Chiropractic program approved by the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association.

Dr. Landry practices at a well-established human/ animal chiropractic practice in Toronto. See page 43 for his article on why dogs shake off.

April/May 2018

11

yakkity yak DOGS CAN GET FLU, TOO! Canine influenza has been cause for alarm this season, with many cases popping up across North America. While most experts agree there’s no reason to panic, it’s important to monitor your dog, and contact a veterinarian if he displays any of the following symptoms: • Coughing

• Nasal and eye discharge

• Sneezing

• Decreased appetite

• Difficulty breathing

• Lethargy

• Fever In the meantime, take steps to keep your dog as healthy as possible.

“The very best prevention is to build up the health of your animal,” says holistic veterinarian Dr. Christina Chambreau. “Feed the very best diet, supplement with some immune boosters and antioxidants, avoid any additional toxins such as chemical flea or tick ‘preventatives’, and decrease stress.” Dr. Chambreau also suggests washing your hands after socializing with other dogs, and incorporating an energy healing method such as Reiki into your daily routine. “I do not recommend using the flu vaccine as it can cause chronic illness by weakening the general vitality of some dogs,” she adds.

LAWMAKER PROPOSES BILL TO KEEP DOGS WITH THEIR FAMILIES

Looking for something

active to do

Christy Wooten of Englewood, Colorado was forced to give up her two German shepherds last year after being denied by 15 rental properties with strict rules prohibiting large breed dogs. After hearing Christy’s story, Colorado State Representative Paul Rosenthal introduced a new bill in an effort to end this form of breed discrimination and keep dogs and families together.

with your dog

“The state has an interest in this issue because homeowner associations are discriminating against people for insufficient reason,” Paul says.

this spring?

The bill would unfortunately not override laws in cities like Denver, which ban certain breeds, nor would it override homeowner associations that allow no dogs at all – but it would be a step in the right direction, and hopefully encourage other states to follow suit. leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb18-1126

12

Animal Wellness

Check out local

opportunities for dog agilit y.

BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR SPINA BIFIDA PATIENTS Earlier this year, a pair of English bulldog puppies named Darla and Spanky became the first canine spina bifida (SB) patients to be successfully treated with a unique therapy – a combination of surgery and stem cells – developed at the University of California, Davis.

More often than not, puppies born with SB are euthanized due to the low quality of life they face. After successfully treating Darla and Spanky, however, veterinary neurosurgeon Beverly Strurges and her team hope to further their studies by saving more puppies, and to translate the therapy to human babies with SB. Though they still wear diapers, Darla and Spanky are able to walk, run and play. The puppies have since been adopted, and continue to do well at their new home.

Darla and Spanky, who were born with SB, were successfully treated with a unique new therapy.

vetmed.ucdavis.edu/virc Photo courtesy of Araya Diaz

RESCUING ANIMALS FROM CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES Over a period of nearly five months, hundreds of animals were displaced by California wildfires.

As firefighters put their resources into battling the ferocious flames, animal rescue groups deployed to help the four-legged victims. Dedicated to ensuring the safety, welfare and well-being of animals, the American Humane Rescue team helped more than 160 dogs and cats who had to be evacuated from a Santa Paula animal shelter.

Dr. Lesa Staubus was part of the American Humane team deployed to rescue dogs and cats from California wildfires.

Veterinarian Dr. Lesa Staubus was among the many American Humane volunteers on the scene.

“In times of disaster, lives are upended,” she says. “Families can lose track of their beloved pets in the chaos. For those who have lost everything, the importance of helping them reunite with their pets cannot be overstated.” americanhumane.org

April/May 2018

13

yakkity yak ANIMAL PROTECTION LAWS RANKED BY STATE How well does your state do when it comes to protecting animals? The Animal Legal Defense Fund recently released their annual U.S. Animal Protection Laws Rankings report for 2017. This report ranks animal protection laws in all 50 states.

For the tenth year in a row, Illinois is in first place, followed closely by Oregon, California, Maine and Rhode Island. Meanwhile, Kentucky ranks the lowest, a position it’s held for over a decade.

The report also showed that more than half of all states have significantly improved their animal protection laws in the last five years by enacting stiffer penalties for offenders, implementing stronger standards of animal care, and banning animal ownership following cruelty convictions.

Another highlight of the report is an increase in laws aimed at ending the tragedy of animals dying in hot cars.

“Our annual report provides a tool for animal advocates, shelters and even legislators to gauge the relative effectiveness of their state’s animal protection laws, and provides guidance for making positive changes,” says Animal Legal Defense Fund’s Executive Director, Stephen Wells. aldf.org

CAN DOGS SNIFF OUT STOLEN ARTIFACTS?

n Vet Photos courtesy of Pen

Among the many items targeted by smugglers, archaeological artifacts may not be the first that come to mind. But it’s a real problem that has become increasingly difficult to stop, particularly in the Middle East. Smugglers collect artifacts and transport them on their persons to countries such as the US, Germany and Japan, where the items are sold on the black market for high profits.

Penn Vet Working Dog Center (WDC) and the Penn Museum recently launched a study to determine whether four dogs – three Labradors and a German shepherd – can be successfully trained to sniff out smuggled archaeological artifacts. The hope is that these canines can assist law enforcement in identifying stolen antiquities.

Top: Foster at Scent Wheel.

Bottom: Morgan at Scent Wall.

14

Animal Wellness

Using material to absorb the scent of artifacts from the Penn Museum, trainers will teach the dogs to identify objects from different locations, such as Iraq and Syria. According to Cynthia Otto, director of the WDC, the study will take place over the course of this year. Though they’re still in early stages of the research, Cynthia and her team are optimistic that dogs, with their powerful olfactory senses, may be the key to minimizing the illegal trafficking of archaeological artifacts. penncurrent.upenn.edu

April/May 2018

15

yakkity yak PET-SAFE HOUSEPLANTS THAT PURIFY THE AIR Time for spring cleaning! If it’s still too chilly to air out your home by opening the windows, reach for these air-purifying houseplants instead. They won’t harm your dog or cat if accidentally ingested!

 African violet  Areca palm  Boston fern  Spider plant



 Wax plant









Small pieces

raw carrot make great training treats – and they’re healthy too! of

For more info on plants and pets, visit aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants

DEBUNKING MICROCHIP MYTHS Many pet parents believe that once a microchip is injected into a dog or cat, they’ll be able to track him if he ever becomes lost.

But microchips are useless if their unique registration numbers haven’t been registered on an online database.

Multiple websites, including Michelson Found Animals, offer this service at no cost. Dedicated to debunking common microchip myths like the one above, this national non-profit also provides a number of educational online resources to help keep companion animals safe.

If you’re unsure of your pet’s microchip registration number, ask your vet to check it, or head to a local animal shelter and ask them to scan the chip. Once you know your dog or cat’s number, be sure to register it, and tell all the pet parents you know to do the same! foundanimals.org

16

Animal Wellness

NEW DOCUSERIES REVEALS TRUTH ABOUT PET CANCER Cancer affects millions of dogs and cats every year. In the 1970s, only about 2% of dogs would face a cancer diagnosis; today, over 60% will develop this disease at some point in their lives.

In 2014, The Truth About Cancer was founded to educate the world about the misconceptions of cancer, and how to treat it in the most natural ways possible. After interviewing over 20 experts on holistic pet health, the organization has created an educational docuseries called The Truth About Pet Cancer. It sheds light on why cancer numbers are rising, and reveals new information on natural and holistic treatments you may not know even existed.

The series starts March 22 – to sign up and watch, visit thetruthaboutcancer.com/pets/awm.

Ty Bollinger (right) interviewing for the new series, The Truth About Pet Cancer.

April/May 2018

17

Feeding your dog for healthy skin and a

glossy coat

Poor nutrition or a deficiency in certain nutrients can manifest as dandruff, itchiness, dull hair and other problems. A high quality diet with the right supplements can do wonders for your dog's skin and coat health.

By Jennifer Adolphe, PhD, RD

When it comes to dogs, the old adage that you are what you eat rings true. A dog with a beautiful coat and healthy skin is not only a sight to behold, but is also enjoying optimal well-being.

It’s important to know that there’s no “one size fits all” formula as to what types of food and supplements can help enhance your dog’s skin and coat health. In fact, it can often take some time and experimentation to find the ideal combination for your canine companion. But this article will get you started on the right foot.

ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS FOR SKIN AND COAT HEALTH

START WITH A HIGH QUALITY FOOD

Certain fatty acids are required in a dog’s diet because his body cannot make them. These are called essential fatty acids (EFAs) and include Omega-3 and Omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids.

EFAs play important roles in cell membranes, the immune system, and the circulatory system. In other words, they are essential for life.

The first step to achieving a coat that glistens and skin that is smooth and supple is choosing a high quality pet food. Select foods with ingredients sourced from trusted partners located as close as possible to the manufacturing facility; this ensures freshness. Whole food ingredients, like fresh meats, fruits and vegetables, provide the essential nutrients, antioxidants and plant-based nutrients needed to support optimal skin and coat health.

18

Animal Wellness

Fats Dietary fat assists in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and is necessary for the normal functioning of body cells, nerves and muscles. Fat is vital in the skin and creates a water barrier.

Fats are made up of building blocks called fatty acids, which are divided into monounsaturated, polyunsaturated and saturated fatty acids based on their chemical structure.

For most healthy dogs, a diet that provides about 12% to 18% fat on a dry matter basis is best for health and maintenance.

Including both Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids in your pet’s diet is important because they’re metabolized in the body into substances that affect inflammation.

Linoleic acid is the key Omega-6 EFA for dogs. It is found in most fats and oils, including chicken fat and canola oil. Salmon oil is a source of Omega-3 eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), while canola oil and flaxseed are sources of Omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Omega-3s are considered less inflammatory than Omega-6s and may help dogs with irritated and inflamed skin.

Most fats and oils are higher in Omega-6s than Omega-3s, but it is important for dogs to receive a balance of both. The role of these fatty acids in maintaining health is affected by the ratio of Omega-3 to Omega-6, but also the total amount of each in the diet. The National Research Council (NRC) recommends a ratio of 2.6:1 to 26:1 Omega-6 to Omega-3. The Association of American Feed Control Officials dog nutrient profiles include a maximum Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio of 30:1.

Protein and amino acids Hair is made mostly of protein, so adequate dietary protein is vital to ensuring a healthy coat. Proteins are the building blocks of your dog’s body and consist of chains of amino acids joined together.

Dogs require 22 amino acids; 12 can be made by the body (these are non-essential amino acids), but dogs must get the remaining ten from food because their bodies cannot make them (essential amino acids).

Complete and balanced pet foods must contain all the essential amino acids in amounts that meet the requirements for dogs. Protein and essential amino acid requirements can be met by animal protein

SKIN & HAIR

basics

Skin is the largest organ system in the body.

It’s also multi-functional; it’s an environmental barrier, regulates temperature, plays a role in the immune system, provides mechanical support to the body, and acts as a neurosensory receptor. To have a shiny coat, your dog needs healthy skin.

Hair originates in the hair follicles, which are downward extensions of the epidermis. Each hair has 50 to 100 different keratin proteins. The hair cortex contains a pigment called melanin that gives hair its color.

April/May 2018

19

Adverse

REACTIONS TO FOOD OFTEN APPEAR IN THE SKIN AND COAT Your dog’s skin and coat may provide one of the ďŹ rst indications that he is experiencing an adverse reaction to his food. Itchy skin, a dull coat and paw licking, as well as chronic vomiting or diarrhea are all possible signs of a food sensitivity.

Both food allergies and food intolerances can cause adverse reactions.

Food allergies occur when the immune system reacts inappropriately to a food. Food intolerances are more common in dogs and occur without immune system involvement. Normally, it is a reaction to a protein that causes the symptoms.

Adverse food reactions seem to be on the rise among dogs. Limited-ingredient diets with novel protein and carbohydrate sources, hydrolyzed protein diets, and home-cooked elimination diets can all be helpful.

sources, complementary plant protein sources, or a combination of both. Good sources of protein commonly used in pet foods fall into three main categories: named meals (e.g. chicken meal, lamb meal), fresh meat/fish/poultry (e.g. de-boned turkey, de-boned venison) and plant-based protein (e.g. pea protein, corn gluten meal).

Zinc

Vitamin A Vitamin A is also essential for normal cell maintenance and keratin formation. Both deficient or excess levels of vitamin A can cause skin lesions, hair loss, poor coat condition, scaling skin, a thickening epidermis, dandruff and increased susceptibility to skin conditions.

Dietary zinc is needed for the maintenance of skin integrity, and also has several other functions in the body. Since skin is a rapidly reproducing tissue, it has a high demand for this mineral.

Zinc deficiency is quickly seen in skin and coat quality. Some breeds of dog suffer from zinc-related dermatoses and require increased levels of this mineral compared to other breeds.

Vitamins E and C

Biotin

Copper

Biotin is an often forgotten vitamin when it comes to skin and coat health. However, it is vital in supporting hair quality, skin health and nail integrity. Poor bioavailability of biotin or insufficient intake can lead to signs of poor skin health and coat condition. Supplementation with biotin can result in significant coat improvement, indicated by improved shine, smoothness and less dandruff. Both biotin and zinc help improve hair structure and reduce brittleness.

Copper is involved in the production of pigments that color the hair. So one sign of copper deficiency is loss of pigment in the dog’s coat.

20

Animal Wellness

Vitamins E and C act as antioxidants and play important roles in maintaining skin smoothness and functionality.

Vitamin E helps maintain the stability of cell membranes.

Vitamin C is needed for tissue growth and repair, and supports collagen synthesis.

With a little research, effort, trial and error, along with choosing a high quality diet that includes all essential nutrients, most dogs can achieve a healthy skin and glossy coat that exudes good health.

Allergies, Skin Conditions & More

Special

ADVERTISING

feature

Leads for all lifestyles, collars for all seasons Enjoy Smoochy Poochy’s multifunction leashes, and collars for dogs that get wet!

Hands free leads features; adjustable brass grommet system, baggie holder, traffic handle, and more.

Smoochy’s leather like collars are great for dogs who enjoy all seasons, they do not absorb water or odor!

PetsFuture.com info@smoochypoochy.com 416-407-8898

Soothe skin with essential oils High quality essential oils have amazing healing qualities and can offer a range of benefits to animals. Animal Scents® Ointment is a protective, soothing salve designed specifically for external use on animals. It’s made from eight of nature's most powerful essential oils, including Rose and Myrrh, and promotes normal healthy skin in a moisturizing base of beeswax and lanolin.

YLVetsAndPets.com

Get rid of odors safely

Thumbs Up from AW Magazine Publisher!

Non-toxic, 100% biodegradable, scent free and hypoallergenic, Amazing NokOut is an odor eliminator that is completely safe around pets and people.

Spray your car, litter box, sofa smells to get rid of wet dog, urine, or skunk odors.

NokOut.ca 888-828-1822

We get all kinds of requests to test products but this request seemed like fun. I [CEO Tim Hockley] recently tested this Napier Sport SUV tent system on a trip to a local provincial park with my wife, son, and dog Muffie. What was awesome was how easy it was to set up and the bonus was having the inside of our SUV to store camping gear and food so the animals couldn't get at it. Plus Muffie had her choice to sleep in the tent or in the back of the SUV. Summers coming and we are looking forward to our next trip.See the full selection of different vehicles online.

NapierOutdoors.com

Wound and skin care Equaide offers the best in companion animal wound care. Their water-based, alcohol-free solution is made with anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and antiinflammatory ingredients to heal wounds quickly and keep infection at bay. Create the perfect wound bed, rapidly improve healing time and prevent burning, blistering and scarring – with Equaide!

Equaide.com 888-330-7107 April/May 2018

21

How to keep your dog's paws healthy

By Christine Caplan, CVT

You might not think much about the condition of your dog’s paws, but foot injuries or problems can be as uncomfortable for him as they are for you. It’s important to check your dog’s paws regularly for any issues, and to take steps to keep them healthy and protected.

22

Animal Wellness

With its claws and leathery pads, a dog’s paw looks tough and resilient. But many conditions can negatively impact paw health, causing pain and discomfort. With a basic knowledge of paw anatomy – and a general understanding of how to prevent problems from occurring (or worsening) – you can help keep your dog’s feet safe, healthy and comfortable.

COMMON PAW PROBLEMS

E

D

A dog’s paws are designed to protect the bones of his feet, and while the pads may be tough, they can be affected with common problems and conditions.

• Allergies – itchy irritated skin can cause the dog to chew or bite at his feet, worsening the inflammation and making the skin bleed.

• Seasonal hazards – these include chemicals or salt used during the winter or minor burns from hot asphalt during the summer.

Consider a set of boots to protect your dog’s paws from damage. Depending on where you live, seasonal problems can also include foxtails, a plant with arrow-shaped pointed seeds that can get under the skin and cause an abscess.

• Cuts, abrasions, lacerations – always watch for broken glass, sharp stones and other objects that could cut your dog’s paw pads. And never underestimate how painful a thorn in the paw can be! Again, dog boots can come in handy here.

• Nail problems – losing or cracking a nail can be very painful, while nails that are left to grow too long negatively impact the way the dog walks and runs. More on this on the next page.

• Cracked or dry pads – if your dog’s skin gets dry, a common problem in colder weather when central heating lowers humidity in the home, his pads can get cracked and crusty.

• Growths – a dog’s paws can develop warts, corns or even tumors. Any growth that appears on your dog’s paws or between his toes needs to be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Keep in mind that whenever a dog’s paw is cut or the skin cracks, there’s an opportunity for bacteria, yeast and fungi to cause infections.

NATURAL PREVENTION AND TREATMENT TIPS While it’s always important to have your veterinarian check your dog’s paws in the event of a problem – licking and biting at the feet is a red flag – there are also a few things you can do at home to help prevent issues from developing or worsening.

For example, paw soaks can help with cracked pads. Soak the affected paw in Epsom salt dissolved in warm water.

Typically, a few tablespoons of salt in one cup of water should do the trick. Have your dog stand in a plastic tub of the mixture for at least 30 seconds. This will help draw

C

B

A The canine paw has five basic parts: the claws (A), digital pads (B), metacarpal pad (on the front paws) and metatarsal pad (on the rear paws) (C), dew claw (D) and carpal pad (E).

PAW ANATOMY Canine paws all have the same five basic components.

q Nails: Each toe ends in a claw, usually referred

to as nails, and each nail grows out of the bone and shares its blood supply.

w Digital pads: The foot had a paw pad for each of its four toes.

e Metacarpal and metatarsal pads: The metacarpal

pad is a heart-shaped pad in the center of a dog’s front paws. The metatarsal pad is the largest pad on the rear paws. These pads are named for the bones they protect and cover.

r Dewclaw: This is the smallest nail on the paw; some liken it to the human thumb.

t Carpal pad: Look for the small pad just above the dewclaw on a dog’s front leg.

April/May 2018

23

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF A PAW ISSUE The common clinical signs of paw problems in dogs are limping, licking, biting and chewing at the foot, or bleeding. Excessive licking can also generate a yeast infection called malassezia, something you want to avoid at all costs.

Regularly check all four of your dog’s paws by looking between the toes, examining the top of the feet, and between the pads on the bottom of each paw.

out any infection, and should also help with inflammation.

expensive, and most dramatic way I can help them.”

If your dog’s paw pads are abraded or cut, cleaning them regularly will help prevent yeast, fungi and bacteria from causing infection.

Make sure to keep your dog’s nails trimmed – at least two times per month.

If you’re not comfortable trimming them yourself, it can be done by a groomer or vet tech. “I once had a client tell me she had her dog's nails trimmed once a year and thought this was the ‘norm’,” says Dr. Buzby. “She was a lovely woman who loved her dog deeply, but she had never been educated on the topic, nor really thought about it. I asked her – what if you trimmed your toenails once a year? A lightbulb went on and she became a nail care convert.”

During the winter, a good practice after walks is to wash your dog’s paws in warm water to rinse away salt and chemicals.

Consider adding chamomile tea bags to the soak water; chamomile has natural soothing properties. For minor burns to the paw pads, apply a gentle antibacterial wash and cover the paw with a dog boot. For serious burns, visit your vet immediately. As always, dog boots are a great first line of defense in winter or summer.

NAIL CARE Nail trimming is crucial to maintaining good paw health. A dog’s nails provide stability. Excessive nail length results in an altered gait and the potential accentuation of lameness problems. Untrimmed nails can also become ingrown, resulting in abscess formation.

“Mobility is a dog's greatest asset, and it's tough to be optimally mobile without healthy paws,” adds Dr. Julie Buzby, veterinarian and founder of Dr. Buzby’s ToeGrips for Dogs. “So many of my new patients present to me with long nails, and a nail trim is typically the fastest, least

24

Animal Wellness

You’ll now see how important it is to check your dog’s paws often. It’s good practice to create a routine (using positive reinforcement) where you always check your dog’s paws after a walk or hike, whatever the weather. Pick a time when you’re hanging out and relaxing so it becomes a low-stress activity. Feel between the pads and check for any debris, sand (if you were at the beach) and thorns. Some dogs are more sensitive to paw discomfort than others. The minute anything is bothering my own dog, Walter, he lifts his paw immediately so I can do a check and “save him” from a thorn or any other debris. With time, patience and positive reinforcement, your own dog may become just as cooperative!

April/May 2018

25

Pet-friendly alternatives to lawn and garden chemicals

By Emily Watson

D gs Cats

toxins

Pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers are full of that are harmful to dogs and cats. Using safe natural methods to keep your lawn and garden growing is one of the best things you can do to keep your companion healthy.

Now that spring is here, everyone with a green thumb will soon be scrambling to groom their gardens and grow their grass.

Unfortunately, many people turn to toxic pesticides, herbicides and harsh fertilizers to maintain their lawns and gardens. These chemicals are harmful not only to wildlife, but also to your dog or cat, as well as your human family. The good news is that you can opt for natural alternatives that are safer for you, the environment – and, of course, your pet! So ditch those pesticides and herbicides and try these safer approaches instead.

NON-TOXIC PRODUCTS Dogs and cats love to sniff, eat and roll in grass, or explore garden foliage. If the grass and plants have been sprayed with a chemical, the residues end up on their coats and skin, and get into their digestive and respiratory systems. So it’s important to seek products that won’t harm your animal’s health.

Espoma Naturals is just one company that offers a line of natural organic lawn and gardening products that are safe for people and their pets. “Using animal-friendly products on lawns and gardens is a part of ‘petscaping’, which uses natural elements to create an environment that’s safe for animals,” says Jaime Brunner, Espoma’s Brand Manager. “Organic products keep paws free of harmful garden or lawn chemicals that can easily be ingested or tracked into homes.” These chemicals then end up on your flooring and furniture, where they can be absorbed and inhaled by you and your human or animal family members. Reaching for organic options, on the other hand, keeps everyone safe.

When shopping for a natural lawn and garden product, be sure to read the label carefully. Just because something includes the word “natural” on the packaging doesn’t necessarily mean it is. If you’re in any doubt, visit the manufacturer’s website for more information, or contact them for details on the ingredients they use in their products.

26

Animal Wellness

HOMEMADE SOLUTIONS If you have the time, making your own garden boosters is a great way to ensure a pet-friendly result. Here are a few easy DIY solutions to common gardening problems: Garlic pesticide spray – Most bugs don’t like the taste of garlic, so using this spray on your plants will help keep pests at bay. Roughly chop an entire bulb of peeled garlic and add it to a blender with two cups of water. Puree until smooth, and refrigerate for 24 hours. Strain out and discard the pulp, and add another three liters of fresh water to the garlic water. Pour into a spray bottle, and lightly coat the leaves of all your plants.

For added insect-repelling action, add a few teaspoons of unscented castile soap and a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic water. A

Signs of toxin exposure

Synthetic garden and lawn chemicals can be a primary contribution to the numerous toxins our pets are exposed to on a daily basis. Through ingestion, absorption and inhalation, these dangerous pollutants can lead to serious health problems in dogs and cats, including skin irritation, respiratory complications and nausea.

If you notice some or all of the following signs and symptoms of toxin exposure, contact your veterinarian.

• • • • •

Vomiting Diarrhea Lethargy Seizures Muscle tremors

• • • • •

Excessive drooling Constricted pupils Increased heart rate Lack of balance Difficulty breathing

few drops of high quality food-grade peppermint essential oil will also help ward off pesky pests, and help cut the garlicky smell of the spray. None of these ingredients are harmful to pets in small amounts, so you don’t have to worry if they sneak a taste!

According to veterinarian Dr. Melissa Shelton, catnip and cedarwood essential oils are also great options for repelling bugs. But no matter which oil you choose for your homemade lawn and garden blends, it’s important to ensure they’re pure, therapeutic-grade products. “Using poor quality essential oils on your plants is similar to spraying them with air freshener,” says Dr. Shelton. “Not only is this bad for your garden, but it’s also bad for your pets!”

Photos courtesy of Espoma

Scrap food fertilizer – Composting leftover food has been a trusted gardening trick for many years – and it’s easy to do.

Rather than tossing vegetable and fruit waste in the trash, store it in a separate composting container. When it’s full, add a few nitrogen-rich dead leaves, and till it into your soil!

Mother Nature’s medicine

While natural homemade and purchased products are great ways to keep your garden and lawn looking good, never underestimate the power of nature itself!

It’s also important to focus on helping your lawn and garden thrive on their own.

Learn about your plants’ individual care requirements, aerate your soil, and cut your grass to an appropriate length; experts recommend keeping grass around 3” high to protect the surface roots and soil.

If your yard still isn’t thriving, consider experimenting with beneficial nematodes. These microscopic worms help prevent insects from eating your plants.

Nematodes can be purchased at most garden centers, and are easy to integrate into your yard’s ecosystem.

Simply mix them into water and spray where desired.

Certain scraps such as eggshells, banana peels, orange peels and garlic don’t need to be composted to help your garden grow. Simply dig a hole next to your plants and bury these food items to deliver valuable nutrients to the roots.

Keep in mind that while rotten grapes, onions, apple cores with seeds, used coffee grinds and discarded tea bags make great fertilizers, they are harmful to pets and should be kept out of your compost.

Salt and vinegar herbicide – Salt and vinegar make a delicious chip flavor – but did you know this combination is also a safe way to combat weeds? Stir half a cup of salt into a cup of hot water. Once the salt is dissolved, add a cup of white vinegar and pour the blend into a spray bottle. Too much salt isn’t good for your soil, so do your best to apply it directly on the weeds only. If desired, add a few drops of clove essential oil – another effective herbicide.

This gardening season, be mindful of the methods you use to maintain your yard. It’s healthier for you, your plants and your pets!

April/May 2018

27

OXYGENATION – AN IMPORTANT

TO YOUR DOG’S

HEALTH

By Deva Khalsa, VMD

Both EXERCISE and DIET play vital roles in keeping your dog’s body (and your own!) oxygenated and in a HEALTHY ALKALINE STATE.

We often taking breathing and eating for granted. Yet the breaths we take into our bodies, and the foods we eat, have an effect on our health – and our dogs’ – that goes beyond the basic purpose of keeping us alive. By ensuring optimal oxygenation and an alkaline pH level in the body, we can help keep cells and organs healthy, and even prevent disease in ourselves and our dogs.

Oxygen also helps neutralize acids in the body. One example is the lactic acid resulting from muscle overload. Oxygenated cells burn fat more efficiently. Ample oxygen assists in the digestion of foods and generates energy. Because all the cells in your dog’s body perform better when they have enough oxygen, immune system function also improves.

ATMOSPHERIC LEVELS OF OXYGEN HAVE CHANGED

A GENERATION OF COUCH POTATOES

During the days of the dinosaurs, the oxygen content of the earth’s atmosphere was 50%. Scientists discovered this by taking tiny bubbles found in Arctic ice and amber and removing the air from them to measure their oxygen content. A century ago, the oxygen content of the atmosphere was down to 38%.

Now it’s around 21%.

We are living in a very different world from the one the dinosaurs knew. Dinosaurs could never be considered couch potatoes. While some moved quickly and some more slowly, they all moved. They had to search for food and water, avoid predators or catch prey. All the while, they were breathing 50% oxygen. Movement and activity improves blood and lymphatic circulation and the ability of the lungs to use oxygen.

HOW OXYGEN WORKS IN THE BODY We all breathe oxygen. When oxygen levels are increased, the red blood cells pick up the extra oxygen and provide it to the cells and tissues. More oxygen means more efficient waste and toxin removal. Cells function better when they have ample oxygen available to them. Importantly, most disease-producing organisms, as well as cancer, like environments with low or no oxygen.

28

Animal Wellness

Nowadays, as we’re only breathing 21% oxygen, we’ve become a generation of couch potatoes – and so have many of our dogs.

This is why oxygenation through walking, running and playing is so important. Increasing our respiration blows out carbon dioxide and creates a more oxygenated and alkaline body. When we look at it this way, exercise is about more than physical

fitness. It’s also about pursuing a healthier, more oxygenated body for ourselves and our dogs.

OXYGEN AND ALKALINITY In high school science class, you may have learned about pH using strips of litmus paper. These paper strips would turn various shades of red or blue after being soaked by a liquid, thus indicating the pH of the liquid. You would have found that vinegar and lemon juice are acidic (they taste sour) while baking soda is alkaline (it tastes bitter). When you are measuring the pH of a substance, you’re finding out if it’s acidic or alkaline.

The abbreviation pH stands for “potential hydrogen”. The pH of any solution is the measure of its hydrogen ion concentration. The higher the pH, the more alkaline and oxygen-rich the fluid is.

Being oxygen-rich is key to the health of cells and organs. Healthy functioning of the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, heart, kidneys and all other organs and systems depends on alkaline conditions. The more alkaline the environment, the better they perform.

Cells are surrounded and bathed by an interstitial fluid. This fluid is actually secreted by the cells themselves. An alkaline interstitial fluid allows organs such as the kidneys and liver to function far more efficiently. In fact, the kidneys and liver function almost 40 times better in an alkaline environment!

PH LEVELS AND FOOD The food your dog eats will determine the pH of his body.

However, a food’s pH, measured when it’s sitting in a bowl on the counter, is not going to reflect the effect it has on the pH in your dog’s body. In fact, a food’s original pH can have the opposite effect in the body. A food’s pH effect is determined after it is digested.

Continued on page 30.

OXYGENATE YOUR DOG WITH

EXERCISE

• Take your dog out for a Power Walk.

• Play fetch with him.

• Take him swimming.

• Go up and down stairs.

April/May 2018

29

FOODS THAT PROMOTE AN ALKALINE PH Veggies Alfalfa Barley greens Beet greens Broccoli Cabbage Cauliflower Chard greens Chlorella Collard greens

Danedlion Dulce Garlic Green beans Kale Mustard greens Pumpkin Spirulina Sweet potatoes

Fruit Apple Banana Pear Watermelon

Other Cinnamon Ginger Apple cider vinegar Molasses, blackstrap

Increasing our respiration blows out carbon dioxide and creates a more oxygenated and alkaline body.

Continued from page 29.

For example, a lemon is acidic outside the body, but when eaten and digested, will make the body fluids more alkaline. Milk, an alkaline food outside the body, will actually make the body more acidic when ingested. Apple cider vinegar is, of course, acidic. But it will create an alkaline effect within the body. Fermented foods will also alkalinize cells and organs.

Meat, poultry and similar protein sources make the body more acidic.

There’s an interesting explanation as to why this happens. When these proteins digest, molecules of both sulphur and phosphorus are formed, making the intestinal tract acidic. Meat also contains nitrogen which, when digested, transforms into ammonia. Ammonia is toxic to cells, so the body needs to neutralize it and then excrete it.

The body neutralizes and manages these excess acids and toxins by using its stores of bicarbonate. These bicarbonate stores are pulled into the gut in order to neutralize the acidic environment created by the ammonia and other compounds in the intestinal tract. When these stores are released and lost into the bowels, the intracellular fluids – having lost their stores of bicarbonate – become acidic.

When the body becomes too acidic, three different organs are responsible for eliminating the extra acids and toxic materials: the kidneys, lungs and liver. Too many toxins and too much acidity put great stress on these organs. The liver is one of the most important organs because it can process 40 times more toxins than the kidneys can. When the body is acidic, it cannot adequately perform the tasks of maintenance, cleaning and generating cellular ATP (the cells’ source of energy). Without ATP, the cells’ batteries run low and carcinogens build up.

DIET AND EXERCISE ARE KEY It should be pretty obvious how both diet and exercise have a powerful effect on bodily health. Excellent oxygenation of the tissues and cells promotes better health along with more resistance to diseases and illnesses.

Although dogs are carnivores, they should also receive foods that help alkalinize and oxygenate the cells and organs in their bodies. They should also be encouraged to exercise every day. Simple, everyday activities, often taken for granted, can have an important impact on the health of your dog (and yourself)!

30

Animal Wellness

April/May 2018

31

By Kristin Clark, Certified Small Animal Naturopath, Certified Carnivore Nutrition Consultant Hot spots are one of the most common reasons people take their dogs to the veterinarian. And no wonder. Hot spots (or acute moist dermatitis) are hot, red, moist, irritated lesions that are both painful and itchy. They often grow rapidly, and in many dogs are chronic and cause a lot of discomfort and stress. We’ll look at the causes of hot spots, and how they can be treated to bring relief to your dog.

THE ROOT CAUSE OF HOT SPOTS According to conventional wisdom, hot spots can occur whenever something irritates a dog’s skin and leads to scratching or biting. Most people believe that hot spots are the result of allergies, insect bites, lack of grooming, ear or skin infections, excessive licking and chewing, or exposure to water.

However, these explanations do not truly get at the heart of what causes hot spots, and they certainly don’t help us address

32

Animal Wellness

them effectively (which is why, in so many cases, they become a seemingly chronic condition).

Dogs scratch, and if they are doing so excessively, it means something is out of balance; in the case of hot spots, the imbalance is directly related to the hot spot eruption. It’s not the itching and scratching that caused the hot spot; it’s the imbalance.

So what is actually going on when a dog presents with hot spots? Essentially, when you see hot spots erupt on your dog, it means his body is being overwhelmed by toxins that are coming in at a faster rate than his liver and kidneys can handle. The skin is the largest eliminative organ, so the toxins start to “erupt” out of the skin as part of the body’s frantic effort to rid itself of them. Poor diet, antibiotics, steroids, and chemical flea/tick preventives increase the toxic

load while simultaneously decreasing the body’s ability to stay balanced and handle the toxins that are coming in.

NATURAL WAYS TO ADDRESS HOT SPOTS So if conventional treatments don’t help, what can be done? It’s actually relatively simple, although not necessarily a quick process, especially if you’ve been following conventional treatments for a long time and your dog’s body been flooded with toxins.

1. Feed a healthy diet The first step is to put your dog on a balanced, varied, species-appropriate raw food (SARF) diet.

When you do so, you’ll be lessening the work his liver and kidneys have to do, because they won’t have to remove waste at a rate that exceeds what they are designed for. You will reduce the workload of the pancreas, bring the stomach pH to an appropriate level, and flood your dog’s body with the nutrients it needs to keep his systems in good working order.

Continued on page 34.

WHY CONVENTIONAL APPROACHES TO HOT SPOTS DON’T WORK

There are lots of conventional approaches to treating hot spots: shaving the area, administering antibiotics, painkillers, and OTC parasite controls, prescribing corticosteroids or antihistamines to relieve itching, and/or recommending a commercial hypoallergenic food (which is still processed kibble) to address any potential food allergies.

What most people find, however, is that the hot spots keep coming back because these measures don’t effectively address the issue. They don’t get at the root cause – at best, they suppress the symptoms, and at worst, they exacerbate the problem.

While frequently prescribed for hot spots, both antibiotics and steroids throw the body into a state of imbalance.

Antibiotics wipe out all good bacteria and gut flora, which severely inhibits the ability of the immune system to do its job. These drugs can lead to future problems because the “bad” bacteria tend to grow back more quickly than the “good” bacteria (which often leads to ear infections, yeast infections and other issues).

Steroids suppress the immune system, so the dog’s body is less able to stay healthy, ward off pathogens and viruses, and keep him in tip-top shape.

Administering these medications when the system is already completely out of whack just makes it worse.

Parasite control products also cause a flood of toxins to enter into the dog’s body. These products contain poison intended to kill parasites. But your dog’s body is also exposed to the poison at the very same time the skin is trying to shed out toxins! It’s a lose-lose situation for your dog’s immune system.

April/May 2018

33

Continued from page 33.

If you don’t wish to feed a raw diet, choose the healthiest, highest quality natural pet food you can. Poor quality foods filled with carbs, by-products and additives will only worsen the imbalance in a dog’s body.

2. Minimize toxin exposure To address the toxin issue, you need to go beyond diet. Chemical flea and tick preventives contain poison, and when you apply them to your dog, his body must then work to eliminate the poison. If the kidneys and liver are already overloaded because of inappropriate food and so forth, the skin may have to help them remove the toxins, and hot spots may result.

Have patience – it takes time

Keep in mind that it may take some time for your dog’s body to flush out all the toxins, and you may actually see the hot spots get worse for short while as the body goes through a healing response.

Have patience – keep in mind that it took a long time for the imbalance to get to the point where hot spots erupted, so it will take time for everything to rebalance again.

Also consider the effects of herbicides and pesticides, as well as household cleaning products. Your dog is exposed to everything you put in your yard, including fertilizers, weed killers and other products. If your yard or house is sprayed for bugs, your dog will come into contact with the residue. And because he in direct contact with the floors in the house, he is also exposed to whatever you use to clean your house. There are lots of recipes for non-toxic cleaners on the internet; you can also go to the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) website at ewg.org, and take a look at their ratings for various cleaning products. The goal is to reduce or eliminate as many toxins as possible, so your dog’s kidneys and liver don’t have to deal with them and become overwhelmed.

3. Support him with natural remedies You may also want to support your dog with natural modalities if he has hot spots.

Essential oils such as lavender are soothing to the skin, and good at helping the body and especially the skin to rebalance. Just be sure to use a high quality oil, and dilute it in a carrier oil such as olive or coconut oil.

Additionally, colloidal silver may help support your dog’s immune system while providing antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory benefits in a safe and natural way.

YOU CAN OVERCOME YOUR DOG’S HOT SPOTS…NATURALLY Hot spots can be one of the most frustrating problems affecting your dog. But when you understand the root cause of the issue, you will be able to help support him so he can overcome his hot spots in a natural way. By feeding a healthy diet, removing toxins and helping to rebalance and strengthen your dog’s immune system, you’ll enable his organs and body systems to function properly, so they can begin to flush out toxins in an effective and normal way. Because there will be significantly fewer toxins going in, his skin will not have to “erupt” in an effort to rid his body of the excess. Your dog will return to a state of balance by healing and rebalancing himself, just as nature intended.

The goal is to reduce or eliminate as many toxins as possible, so your dog’s kidneys and liver don’t have to deal with them and become overwhelmed.

34

Animal Wellness

April/May 2018

35

Canine acupressure

By Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis

for spring conditioning

Dogs know when spring is in the air. They want to run, play, and stretch their bodies as the weather warms. Perhaps your dog is also involved in a canine sport such as agility or flyball, activities that require running, twisting, jumping and pivoting.

But if your dog doesn’t get as much exercise during the winter, a sudden increase in activity in the spring can lead to injury.

Along with careful incremental conditioning, stimulating common acupressure points can help him avoid an earlyseason injury.

An individualized conditioning regimen needs to be designed for each dog in relation to his conformation and particular sport.

Training programs will depend on his age, breed, weight, and current general fitness level.

PHYSICAL CONDITIONING FOR DOGS

Physiologists specializing in canine exercise usually recommend that a dog begin conditioning with successive short runs in a straight line; in other words, run 50 to 100 yards, stop, walk, run another 50 to 100 yards, and so on. By traveling in a straight line on a surface with good traction, the dog’s muscles and tendons are allowed to strengthen while not being overly stressed.

Conditioning takes time, and different parts of the dog’s body will condition at different times. Muscles are the first to build.

Cardiovascular conditioning occurs next. This is followed by the strengthening of the tendons, and then the ligaments.

The next step is to progress to running on uneven terrain with incrementally increased levels of turning and pivoting. This builds well-toned muscles and increases flexibility of tendons Continued on page 38.

36

Animal Wellness

With the return of warmer weather, your dog will be more active than he was during the winter.

Here’s how physical conditioning, along with acupressure, can help get him fit for spring, and reduce the risk of injury.

Acupressure technique • Always have two hands on the dog.

• Place the soft tip of your thumb on the acupoint identified on the chart (see page 38) and exert light pressure. For smaller dogs, it may be more comfortable to use your index finger instead of your thumb.

• Rest your other hand comfortably on the dog’s body.

• Stay on each acupoint for a slow count to 20 and then move to the next point.

• Remember that all these acupoints are located on both sides of the dog’s body.

Once you complete the series on one side, do the same on the other side.

Dogs express the movement and harmonious flow of energy they’re experiencing by yawning, stretching, passing air, rolling over, licking in general, licking your hand on the point, or sometimes just breathing more deeply and falling asleep. If your dog shows any signs of distress or pain while you are applying light pressure to an acupoint, stop and try again some other time.

April/May 2018

37

Acupressure points are little energetic pools on the body.

Points Bl 17

Location Located lateral to the spinous process of the 7th thoracic vertebra.

Sp 6

About 3 inches above the medial malleolus, on the back side of the tibia.

St 36

Located just lateral to the tibial crest on the lateral aspect of the hindleg.

GB 34

In a depression behind and below the head of the fibula, lateral side of hind leg.

CANINE CONDITIONING ACUPRESSURE SESSION Acupressure points are little energetic pools on the body. We can use these points to access and influence the flow of energy in the dog’s body. By doing so, we can optimize his conditioning program. The following four acupressure points, also called “acupoints”, are commonly used while building a dog’s condition toward peak performance. (If you’re new to acupressure, see the sidebar on the previous page for details on how to do the session.)

Continued from page 36. and ligaments. Exercise experts advise doing a warm-up before strenuous exercise, and a cool-down afterwards. Remember to make water available for the dog before and after physical activity.

Watch for fatigue and any indication of pain. A dog will naturally shift his body weight or alter his gait to compensate for tired muscles or pain, thus compromising other parts of his body. It’s when the body is even slightly off-balance that injuries often occur. Veterinary sports medicine practitioners report that the most common canine orthopedic injuries are repetitive stress injuries caused when the dog is tired but naturally driven to continue.

HOW ACUPRESSURE ENHANCES YOUR DOG’S CONDITIONING The ancient healing art of acupressure supports the canine conditioning process. Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupressure helps with the following: • Building flexibility in tendons and ligaments • Decreasing inflammation in soft tissues and joints • Strengthening and warming muscles by supplying necessary nutrients • Relieving muscle spasms by establishing a smooth flow of energy and blood • Removing toxins from an injured area while replenishing it with healthy cells • Reducing the painful build-up of lactic acid in the muscles by increasing blood circulation.

38

Animal Wellness

q Bladder 17 (Bl 17) is a powerful acupoint that enhances the flow of blood throughout the body. Cardiovascular health is the key to all biomechanical functions in the body. Good blood circulation means all the tissues receive nourishment so that healthy cells can form, while lactic acid and toxic substances are removed. It’s the continuous cycle of replenishment and removal that makes for the strengthening and building of muscles, tendons and ligaments.

w Gall

Bladder 34 (GB 43) is commonly used to facilitate the flexibility of tendons and ligaments. By maximizing this flexibility, the movement and weight-bearing capacity of the joints increase.

e Spleen 6 (Sp 6) is often used to nourish the muscles and other soft tissues. Good muscle tone is dependent on nutrient-rich blood. Sp 6 is known for its ability to enhance the circulation of blood and the absorption of nutrients.

r Stomach 36 (St 36) is the Master Point for the gastrointestinal tract. It helps convert food substances into refined, bioabsorbable nutrients to be circulated in the blood. Additionally, this point is known for its ability to contribute to a dog’s overall physical endurance.

By giving your dog this acupressure session every four to five days, along with physical conditioning, he will have an easier time getting back into action this spring without injury.

CANNA

Business Profile

COMPANION

By Matthew Berk

A dynamic veterinary duo draws on two decades of research to offer high quality hemp supplements to dogs and cats.

Dr. Sarah Brandon and her husband, Dr. Greg Copas, first became interested in cannabis when they attended veterinary school in the early 2000s. At the time, Greg was nursing many old sports injuries and was always searching for natural therapies to assist his healing process. After stumbling upon a wealth of research about medical cannabis from other countries, he decided to give it a try – and his quality of life quickly improved. Eager to apply these benefits to animals, Sarah and Greg began exploring how dogs and cats would respond to medical doses of marijuana.

Canna Companion’s capsules and oils provide natural support for a dog or cat’s neurological, physiological, immunological and endocannabinoid systems. The products contain multiple compounds obtained from cannabis plants to provide optimal health benefits. “We believe in a whole-plant philosophy,” says Sarah. “When hemp-based compounds are used in certain ratios, they work in synergy, providing an entourage effect.”

To enhance the health-boosting effects, the supplements contain no corn, wheat, sugar or soy, and no genetically modified ingredients.

Knowing that medical cannabis was generally safe for pets, the duo experimented with medical doses of CBD (cannabidiol) as part of their veterinary practice. “Because all mammals have an endocannabinoid system (ECS), and it functions the same across species, we expected a positive response,” says Sarah.

Soon, Sarah and Greg began to see improvements in thousands of pets. They continued with their studies, documenting their patients’ ages, health conditions and responses to the therapy.

After witnessing monumental success, they launched a company called Canna Companion, which specializes in hemp supplements for pets.

To ensure product safety and quality, the Canna Companion team tests ingredients before and after production. They also safeguard against animals receiving incorrect dosages – an important consideration when it comes to medical cannabis. “Our capsules come in different sizes so that pets within certain weight ranges and metabolism speeds receive the proper compound levels in each capsule,” explains Sarah. In order to limit adverse effects, their website allows customers to select their dog or cat’s size before purchase.

When asked about their missions and goals, Sarah’s response is clear. “Education, education, education,” she says. “The more we share our knowledge about cannabis therapy in dogs and cats, the more patients will benefit.” Ultimately, their vision is to start a conversation between pet parents and professionals about what medical cannabis can and cannot do. “Cannabis isn’t a cure-all or miracle plant,” says Sarah. “But it can help!”

Sarah and Greg will continue educating pet parents on the many benefits hemp can offer animals. In the meantime, they’re helping to support dogs and cats with PTSD through an exploration of how the endocannabinoid system affects memory and stress chemicals. “We get to help so many pets and their humans every day!” enthuses Sarah. For her and Greg, that’s the best part of the job.

April/May 2018

39

5 causes

of hearing loss in dogs

By Shawn Messonnier, DVM

When people find out their dogs have hearing loss, they often feel concerned. But in most cases, the cause is either treatable or simply a normal part of aging, and not harmful or fatal to the dog. This article will discuss hearing loss and deafness in dogs, along with treatments to try with the guidance of your veterinarian.

In clinical practice, there are five common causes of hearing loss in dogs.

1

NORMAL AGING. This type of hearing loss is often termed “sensorineural hearing loss�.

It results from missing or damaged sensory cells (hair cells) in the cochlea of the inner ear, and is usually permanent.

Damage to the auditory nerve in the brain can cause neural hearing loss, which is also usually permanent.

Hearing tests using an electroencephalogram (EEG)

40

Animal Wellness

Is your dog going deaf?

Perhaps he’s just getting older, but there are other causes of hearing loss in canines, so it’s always a good idea to have him checked out by a veterinarian.

are often recommended, along with a brain stem auditory evoked response (BAER) test. I typically notice age-related hearing deficits or total deafness beginning late in a dog’s life, typically at 12 to 15 years of age. I usually find the hearing loss is not complete, as the dog may hear certain high-pitched such as a doorbell ringing or a fork hitting a metal food bowl.

Before diagnosing “old age” as the cause of a hearing deficit, it is important to rule out the other causes of hearing loss discussed below. These other issues are usually treatable if they’re diagnosed early and treated properly.

2

A N EAR INFECTION INVOLVING BOTH EARS. Often, people don’t even know their dogs have ear infections. A physical examination usually reveals a large amount of debris in the vertical ear canal. This debris is placed on a slide and

examined microscopically. Usually, yeasts or bacteria are seen, although ear mites are occasionally found.

Once the proper diagnosis is made, the correct treatment can be chosen to cure the infection. If the infection has caused hearing loss, the deafness is usually temporary and resolves with treatment. Dogs with extensive ear infections may need repeated treatments, which usually involve flushing the ear debris (often under sedation) and applying the appropriate medication (natural or conventional). Infections that do not resolve with treatment may have an underlying cause such as allergies, thyroid disease, or adrenal disease.

Keep in mind that the ears may sometimes look clean, yet there’s a deeper infection down in the horizontal part of the ear canals. These dogs often require sedation or anesthesia

April/May 2018

41

hearing loss,

If the infection has caused the is usually temporary and resolves with treatment.

deafness

in order to adequately examine the ear, collect specimens for diagnostic testing, and for treatment. Also, know that ear treatment medication rarely causes hearing loss. I have only seen this once in practice, and the hearing loss resolved shortly after it began.

3

HYPOTHYROIDISM

OR LOW THYROID DISEASE. Hearing loss as the sole sign of hypothyroidism is rare, because thyroid hormones affect all body systems (including the nervous system).

But it is nevertheless important to make sure a dog with hearing loss is not suffering from a thyroid problem. Blood testing should be done for every dog with hearing loss and should include a complete blood count, organ profile, and thyroid testing (total T4 and free T4.) Even dogs with borderline “normal” thyroid hormone levels should be treated for at least one to two weeks to see what extent the hypothyroidism is contributing to their hearing loss.

4

C OGNITIVE DISORDER (DOGGY ALZHEIMER’S). Hearing loss can occur due to cognitive disorder. I first “discovered” this condition, which is somewhat related to aging, almost 30 years ago when I first graduated from veterinary school. I noticed a number of aged dogs acting “senile”. Many of these senile dogs also had hearing loss and were hypothyroid. They responded partially to thyroid supplementation. An article I read while investigating these cases (written in the 1970s) suggested that senile dementia was a possible “new” condition in older dogs. Supplementation with phosphatidylcholine was “curative” for these senile pets.

Again, I must stress the importance of a thorough

examination and lab testing to look for underlying causes of any disease or symptoms, including deafness, so those causes can be treated.

F or dogs with cognitive disorder, treatment with phosphatidylcholine, antioxidants, fatty acids, ginkgo biloba, and other supplements, returns most to normal function. However, true cure is unlikely, as dogs with cognitive disorder usually regress and act senile if treatment is stopped.

5

ORGANIC BRAIN DISEASE, SUCH AS GME,

ENCEPHALITIS OR A BRAIN TUMOR. Usually, dogs with organic brain disease have other clinical signs besides hearing loss, such as seizures, depression, or changes in cranial nerve function (blindness, paralysis, circling, etc.). These dogs must have advanced imaging done (CT, MRI, etc.) in order to properly diagnose and treat the underlying problem. These causes of hearing loss are serious and expensive to diagnose and treat – but fortunately, they are very rare.

Deafness in dogs can have a variety of causes and treatments.

In many cases, it results simply from “old age” and treatment is neither needed nor effective. However, it’s important to rule out other conditions rather than let a dog that could be cured remain deaf for the rest of his life.

“Sensorineural hearing loss” results from missing or (hair cells) in the cochlea of the inner ear, and is .

damaged sensory cells usually permanent

42

Animal Wellness

Why dogs

HOW OFTEN DOES YOUR DOG

SHAKE OFF? IS IT A FULL BODY

SHAK

SHAKE OR JUST THE NECK AND

E OFF UPPER BODY?

andry, DC

O

By Craig L

ur dogs are smarter than we think. We often see them shake off after they wake up from a sleep, or just after they do their stretching. The purpose of this “dry” shake-off is to mobilize their spines after a period of rest. This rapid rotational movement stimulates the joint capsules to produce synovial fluid, which lubricate joints.

Dogs may stop shaking off for a few different reasons. If they have sustained an acute injury to one or more joints they may stop shaking off all of a sudden, whereas senior dogs will progressively decrease the frequency and quality of shake-offs due to stiffness and arthritis.

April/May 2018

43

By Emily Watson

charming

This little rescue pup from Hawaii is making waves on social media – and kids around the world to become responsible pet parents.

inspiring

44

Animal Wellness

Photos courtesy of Shannon Ellis

Spencer

On the first of October in 2013, Shannon Ellis and her two nieces visited their local Humane Society in Honolulu, Hawaii to make a donation. On a whim, they decided to pay a quick visit to the dogs. An avid animal lover, Shannon said hello to all the homeless canines, silently wishing them well. As they made their way back to the door, a small terrier mix caught Shannon’s eye. To this day, she remembers thinking how lonely he seemed in the bare kennel. According to his information card, the dog’s name was “Rascal”. He’d been brought in as a stray, and didn’t like being left alone.

Enchanted by his big brown eyes and sad story, Shannon and her nieces decided to take “Rascal” for a walk. Partway through their stroll, they stopped to rest on a bench. To Shannon’s surprise, the little dog immediately hopped onto her lap, made himself comfortable, and fell asleep. At that moment, Shannon made a decision – this sweet boy would be coming home with them.

In order to give her four-legged friend a new chance at life, Shannon changed his name to Spencer. As it turns out, her name choice was more than appropriate. “Three months after adopting him, we moved to a building called Spencer Terrace on Spencer Street in Honolulu,” laughs Shannon. “I don’t believe in coincidences!” Indeed, it seemed every aspect of Spencer’s new life was falling neatly into place. He fit right in with his new fur family, two tuxedo kitties named Stella and Steve. And he adores Shannon and her nieces, who she’d also adopted.

To accommodate her growing family, Shannon stepped down from her full-time job. “To make extra money, I taught myself how to sew, and started making little bowties for Steve and Stella,” she

says. “I shared photos on my personal Instagram account, and to my surprise, the internet loved them.” Shannon opened an Etsy shop, and began seeking famous social media cats to promote her product.

That’s how she met Pookie, owner of Instagram stars @nala_cat and @white_coffee_cat. Shannon and her family had already planned a vacation to Disneyland in Los Angeles, and while they were there, she and Pookie met in person. The two animal-lovers hit it off, and a year later, the two families decided to merge into one.

Suddenly, Spencer was faced with another major life change – a move to California – but he handled it better than Shannon could have expected. He was small enough to ride in the airplane cabin during the move, and despite a few initial nerves, he slept through the entire trip. “After our move, he seemed to build up more confidence,” Shannon says. “We went from living in a small apartment to a house with a yard, so he was a very happy pup!” The easygoing canine immediately loved his new kitty siblings, Nala and Coffee, who Shannon credits with laying the foundation for Spencer’s fame. “But his floppy ears, big nose and charming personality helped too!” she adds. The five-year-old rescue pup now has over 87,000 followers on Instagram – and he’s using his fame to help other animals.

Shannon and Spencer are on the board of PEP! The Pet Education Project – a non-profit organization that educates and inspires kids to be responsible pet parents. Through videos, livestreams and regular PEP! Talks at elementary schools, they teach kids about spaying, neutering, adopting and more. “We love PEP! because they’re creating a solution to the millions of animals entering shelters each year,” says Shannon. “We use Spencer’s social media platform to spread the word about all the magical things PEP! is doing.”

Continued on page 42.

Spencer's small size, whimsical expressions, and big heart appeal to everyone who meets him, both online and in person.

April/May 2018

45

Photos courtesy of Shannon Ellis

To date, Spencer has over 87,000 followers on Instagram.

Spencer is good friends with his two feline social media "co-stars", Coffee (left) and Nala.

Continued from page 41.

Shannon, Pookie and their animals have busy schedules, but sharing their home with a hoard of social media pets has made the women experts when it comes to maintaining balance in all their lives. Despite his fame, photo shoots and charitable work, Spencer’s routine is still that of an ordinary dog. As his Instagram account reflects, he spends most of his time exploring the outdoors and hanging out with his family. “Spencer takes me on three walks a day,” quips Shannon. “He also enjoys sunbathing, chasing lizards, and playing with laser pointers.

Sometimes I wonder if he’s actually a cat!”

Indeed, Spencer is as quirky as they come. When one of his “moms” turns on the vacuum, he begins playfully chasing Coffee around the house. According to Shannon, it’s a game they’ve played since day one. He also persistently “knocks” on the bathroom door if one of his humans is occupying it, and insists on hiding some of his food before eating a meal.

But perhaps Spencer’s most peculiar quality is his undying love of baths.

“When I first adopted Spencer, he had itchy flaky skin, and often had ear infections,” says Shannon. “We started with oatmeal baths which seemed to soothe him.” Though this might explain his fondness for bath time, it was only a temporary fix for his health issues. Luckily, the root of the problem was eventually discovered – an allergy to beef. Now, Spencer is thriving on a turkey recipe diet and salmon oil supplement. And much to his delight, he’s still given the occasional oatmeal bath!

46

Animal Wellness

Quirks and sensitivities aside, Spencer is extremely compassionate. “Coffee and Spencer have a special bond,” says Shannon. “Coffee was diagnosed with cancer in the spring of 2016, and Spencer went with him to most of his chemotherapy and follow-up appointments. He was there to comfort all of us during that difficult time.” Thankfully, Coffee fully recovered – and it’s possible he and Spencer are even closer than they were before.

In the four-and-a-half years since being adopted, Spencer has come a long way from being a lonely shelter dog. He has gained a large family, worldwide recognition, and a great deal of confidence. He still doesn’t like to be left alone, but in such a lively household, he never has to be! And he makes sure to reciprocate. “Spencer is always there for me, to make me smile and keep me company,” says Shannon, who says she knew there was something special about the little dog the moment they took their first walk together. “It’s hard to explain, but I felt an instant connection with him. It was love at first sight!

Find Spencer online at

instagram.com/hello_spencer_dog/

and read Nala’s story at

animalwellnessmagazine.com/nala/

April/May 2018

47

By Erin Mullen

LYME DISEASE

Taking steps to minimize tick exposure is the best way to protect your canine companion from

and your dog

It doesn’t seem that long since we could walk our dogs through woods and fields without a care in the world. But ticks and the risk of Lyme disease have changed all that. Once upon a time, these little devils would show up only infrequently. Now, depending on where you live, it’s almost certain that any dog travelling through grassy or wooded areas will come inside with one or more ticks on his skin, along with the potential risk of Lyme disease. Once a rarity, Lyme is steadily and significantly on the rise. All dog owners need to be very aware of it, and take steps to prevent it.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS? The symptoms of Lyme can be varied. According to veterinarian Dr. Kenton Rexford, who practices in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the most common signs are fever, fatigue, and lameness due to joint pain. He adds that the inflammation can transfer from leg to leg, making it very confusing for owners trying to assess the problem. The biggest issue, however, is the kidney failure that can occur with Lyme disease. “Dogs with long-term or uncontrolled infection can experience Lyme nephritis,” says Dr. Rexford, adding that this almost always culminates in death.

DIAGNOSING AND TREATING LYME DISEASE How do you find out if your dog may have contracted Lyme disease?

First, keep in mind that just because your dog has been bitten by a tick, it does not necessarily mean he has contracted Lyme. However, it is still important to have your dog checked by a veterinarian if you suspect he has been bitten. “There are different tests for Lyme disease, and they give us different types of information,” says Dr. Rexford. “A test called 4Dx can be performed in-hospital and tells us if a pet has been exposed to Lyme. However, exposure alone does not mean your pet is infected. A Lyme C6 Antigen Test will reveal if your dog has an active infection.” If a dog is taken to a veterinarian with the symptoms of Lyme, and the initial blood test confirms that exposure has occurred, Dr. Rexford says that it is wise to treat the animal as if he has Lyme.

48

Animal Wellness

Lyme disease.

Conventional treatment usually involves antibiotics. A natural approach can include homeopathic remedies, but it’s vital to work with a holistic or integrative veterinarian who is knowledgeable and experienced in homeopathy. In either case, prompt diagnosis is important for effective treatment.

Where is

LYME DISEASE most prevalent?

The incidence of Lyme disease changes with location. For example, Dr. Rexford states that the rate of infection has exploded in his state.

“In the past ten years or so, Lyme and other tickborne diseases have become a major problem in our area,” he says. “The black-legged tick, which can carry Lyme disease, never used to live in southwestern Pennsylvania. But now, they are here in huge numbers. In 2016, in fact, Pennsylvania was the number one state for new Lyme infections in humans.”

But Lyme disease isn’t restricted to Pennsylvania.

Those living through the northeast US, as well as southern Ontario and the southern Maritimes in Canada, need to be especially vigilant about ticks and Lyme disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Lyme disease is most prevalent in the northeastern coastal states.

North of the border, the regions of southern Ontario along Lakes Erie and Ontario are in the red zone.

PREVENTION IS THE KEY Dr. Rexford believes that prevention is the best approach to Lyme disease.

• A variety of natural repellents will help protect your dog from contracting this disease and spare him from a lifetime of issues.

Many of the essential oils that repel fleas and mosquitoes will also repel ticks, and include lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus, cedar, geranium, peppermint and rosemary. If you’re going to make your own repellents, be very sure you are buying high quality oils and only use a few drops in a spray bottle of water for your dog’s coat. Cheap, poor quality oils can be adulterated and may be toxic if your dog ingests them.

• Even the best repellents aren’t 100% foolproof. After every outing, therefore, even if your dog has just been in the backyard, it’s a good idea to check him over for ticks. Search all over his body, but especially his neck, belly, and in his ears. Yes, this is time-consuming, but remind yourself that it can prevent major problems.

• Avoid overgrown areas where long grasses and weeds predominate. When out hiking with your dog, stick to wellmaintained trails and don’t let him run through the brush.

WHAT IF I FIND A TICK? If you discover a tick on your dog, the best thing to do is remove it without disturbing it or separating the body from the head. There are a great many excellent tools on the market today that work very well for this task. Tweezers, the age-old method, aren’t usually the most effective for a clean tick removal.

When removing a tick, it’s important not to cause more pain or potential infection for the dog than he may already have experienced. “I've seen the results of owners digging into the skin trying to get the mouth parts of ticks out, and they end up causing much more of a problem than the tick did,” says veterinarian Dr. Doug Kneuven. If you feel uncomfortable removing a tick from your dog, your vet will be more than willing to assist with the process, or teach you the proper way to do it. Just keep in mind that ticks only take around 24 hours to transmit Lyme disease, so they should be removed as soon as possible upon discovery.

In recent years, ticks have given most dog lovers more to worry about when it comes to protecting their four-legged friends from harm. But that doesn’t mean staying indoors when the warm weather returns. With the correct knowledge, prevention steps, regular checkups and prompt treatment if needed, you and your dog can still enjoy your walks together.

April/May 2018

49

If your pet needs

eye surgery, he needs

antioxidants!

Why do our dogs and cats need special antioxidants for their eyes? For the same reasons we do! Oxidative stress is prevalent everywhere, particularly when the eye is injured or undergoes surgery. Any surgical procedure creates inflammation, which in turn creates free radical species. This is collectively called oxidative stress, and it’s present not just at the surgical site due to tissue manipulation, but throughout the rest of the body due to the effects of general anesthesia. General anesthesia lowers tear production as well as the total antioxidant activity in the tears. It also affects the brain, regardless of the patient's age.

For these reasons, it is important to complement a pet’s normal diet with specific antioxidants that not only fight daily "normal" oxidative stress, but also protect the dog or cat before and after eye surgery.

Traditional medications are typically prescribed to fight infection and inflammation pre- and post-surgery. But what can we do to protect against the damaging effects of inflammation that cause further oxidative stress, not only to the surgical area but also to normal neighboring tissues? Traditional medicine does not usually address these effects, as most healthy immune systems can remove damaged cells and tissues. However, the eye is a unique organ that has a limited ability to remove its own damaged tissues, and it is often impossible to surgically address this damage. For example, damaged tissue near a surgical leg wound can usually be removed (debrided), but this isn’t so for the delicate eye.

Inflammation inside the eye (uveitis) can create an unregulated and unrelenting cycle of vicious inflammation that damages

50

Animal Wellness

cells and tissues. Uncontrolled uveitis can lead to blindness and sometimes even the removal of an eye. Besides traditional anti-inflammatory medical therapy, it is imperative to include a variety of specific antioxidants and free radical scavengers in the treatment protocol. These antioxidants include vitamins (C, E, B1 and B2), carotenoids (e.g. lutein, zeaxanthin and astaxanthin), aldose reductase inhibitors (e.g. alpha lipoic acid), and flavonoids (grapeseed extract and green tea extract).

These antioxidants attack oxidative stress to rebalance innate antioxidant defenses and provide the extra support necessary to address free radical production. Many also provide antiinflammatory benefits.

Some ocular surgical procedures require a short course of medications, while others, such as cataract surgery, may require lifelong anti-inflammatory medications. Both cataracts and cataract surgery in dogs and cats create low-grade lifetime uveitis. This is because of something called "immunologic memory" – the eye "remembers" inflammation, similar to how arthritis can linger for years after a knee injury (the knee "remembers" the injury).

Unfortunately, the natural aging process depletes the body's antioxidants. Normal aging of the retina results in a gradual loss of night vision. Additionally, normal aging of the brain can result in cognitive dysfunction syndrome, aka dementia (“dogmentia”).

Antioxidants that support the aging eye also support the aging brain. The lifetime use of a specific blend of antioxidants is important to control oxidative stress and inflammation, especially when eye surgery is required.

April/May 2018

51

product picks Honey for

dogs

Honey offers a variety of amazing healing benefits you can share with your canine companion. K9 Honey is an allnatural functional treat for dogs that includes pollen from nine geographic regions, providing a dose of "local" in every serving. The product’s slow metabolic release helps reduce allergy symptoms, increase vitality, build immunity, reduce healing time, improve digestion and boost your dog’s overall health and well-being 6 oz to 24 oz -- $8.99 to $18.99

K9Honey.com

Coconut

training treats

When training your dog, use healthy treats! Perfectly sized for training small or figure-conscious dogs, Coco-Charms™ Training Treat are made from 100% organic and non-GMO ingredients, and are just one calorie per treat. Organic coconut and coconut oil support digestive and immune health. There are no eggs, dairy, grains or preservatives, so dogs with sensitive tummies or allergies can enjoy them too.

Choose from two flavors – Coconut Blueberry Cobbler and Coconut Pumpkin Pie. $9.95

CocoTherapy.com

Get a head start on

Nutrition

Father’s Day may be a couple of months off yet, but it’s never too soon to start thinking of gift ideas. This sharp tie, custom made for GREY2K USA Worldwide, features cruelty-free fabric in a stylish blue with green stripes and white greyhound motifs.

Best of all, every sale of this striking accessory benefits GREY2K USA's campaign to end the cruel sport of dog racing and promote the adoption of ex-racing greyhounds worldwide.

NRGPetProducts.com

Father’s Day

$30

Grey2KUSA.org/apparel

52

Animal Wellness

on the go

If you’re traveling with your dog, it’s important to keep him eating healthy while on the road. New from NRG Pet Products are Bark Bowls™, handy individual servings of wholesome high quality food for dogs. Simply add water to create a fresh balanced meal on the go -- or an irresistible topper for your dog’s regular dinner bowl. The ingredients are non-GMO, free-range, and free of antibiotics and hormones, while the packaging is re-sealable and recyclable.

Optimize his

health

Pollution and processing have jeopardized nutrient integrity in many pet foods. BioVITES provide the proper balance of active vitamins, minerals, enzymes, trace minerals, prebiotics, lignans, protein, amino acids and antioxidants. They sustain healthy digestion, immune and hormone function, tissue, muscle and bone maintenance, skin, coat and general health. BiologicVET pet supplements are free of PCBs, heavy metals, dioxins, GMOs, artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. $16.99 to $79.99

Florahealth.com

Omega

dental chews

Good nutrition and optimal dental health are two key basics to canine wellness. Missing Link Once Daily™ Omega Dental Chews not only clean your dog’s teeth – they also pack all the missing daily nutrition into a fun-to-feed, anytime, anywhere treat! The chews feature balanced Omega essential fatty acids, a full serving of the company’s original superfood supplement, and crunchy ridges for cleaning teeth. $9.99 to $32.99

MissingLinkProducts.com

April/May 2018

53

TCVM

– preventive seasonal medicine for dogs In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the different seasons are associated with specific personalities, bodily organs, ages, and foods. By understanding these factors, and giving your dog the foods connected with each season, you can help keep him balanced and healthy.

By Jody Bearman, DVM, CVSMT, CVA, CVCH

54

Animal Wellness

If you’re familiar with Traditional Chinese Medicine, you may know that the seasons of the year are associated with different personalities, organs and ages, in both people and pets. A variety of foods also correspond with each season, and you can use these foods at certain times of the year to promote your dog’s health (it’s best to seek the guidance of a holistic or integrative veterinarian who is experienced in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine).

Take a walk through the year and learn how you can boost your dog’s well-being using a TCVM perspective.

Spring

Springtime is Wood season, and is associated with youth, as well as the liver and gallbladder (even in those without a gallbladder). The Wood personality is decisive, assertive, confident, athletic and wants to be the alpha. Wood dogs can be prone to irritability, ear problems, conjunctivitis, a purple color to the tongue (excluding Chows and Chow mixes), nail and foot problems, and tendon and ligament issues.

To prevent these problems in young Wood personality dogs – and all dogs in the springtime – cooked or pureed dark leafy greens such as kale, collards, turnip greens, beet greens, mustard greens, chard, spinach or broccoli are very helpful. Older dogs or those with weak intestinal tracts do better with cooked greens, whereas young strong animals can handle pureed raw greens.

Mixing greens with scrambled eggs, meat or an onion-free broth can make them very palatable to finicky dogs.

These dogs also benefit from eating liver. Those with sensitive gastrointestinal tracts can handle freeze-dried better than freshly-cooked liver. Dogs who run Warm in TCVM terms should have beef or bison liver, while heat-seeking animals can handle chicken liver.

Wood dogs like to work hard and need both mental and physical exercise. Food-dispensing toys can help when the weather isn’t suitable for outdoor exertion. Wood dogs enjoy difficult competitive exercises, such as agility, lure coursing, endurance competition and racing. They tend to do well because they have the will to succeed.

Continued on page 56.

April/May 2018

55

Continued from page 55.

In TCVM, springtime is also the time of Wind, internal or external. Internal Wind manifests in the form of seizures, and external Wind as itchiness. Dark green vegetables help decrease the risk of both ailments. Acupuncture or acupressure of the liver points, such as Liver 3 (on top of the hind foot between the second and third metatarsal bones), can help decrease Wind issues.

Summer

Summer is associated with the Fire personality, and with adolescence, the tongue, the heart and pericardium, small intestine and the Triple Heater, which isn’t an exact anatomical organ but is somewhat similar to the thyroid.

The Fire personality is outgoing, talkative, friendly and likes to be the center of attention.

In the heat of summer, Fire problems such as Shen disturbance, which can be seen as noise phobia or other abnormal behaviors, are more likely to occur.

To cool Fire dogs or any other hot animals in summer, feed cooling foods such as watermelon, celery (which also drains Damp, helping hot animals with diarrhea or moist dermatitis), greens as mentioned above, brown rice, millet, turkey, rabbit (which is also strengthening), clams, cod and other whitefish. Feeding heart is also helpful. A cooling bed or fan is a great adjunct in hot weather.

Since the tongue is the sense organ of the Fire element, heart disease and Shen disturbance can sometimes be suspected by a red and/or bell-shaped tip to the tongue. Diagnosis can be done with conventional means, such as an echocardiogram and a thorough physical, along with a Chinese pulse examination.

Treatment with food therapy, acupuncture and herbal medicine, along with any conventional medicine, can help.

To correctly assess the tongue, the dog must show it freely, without having the mouth opened externally. Often, when a person sticks out his/her tongue, the dog will do the same. If necessary, peek through the lips between the dog’s teeth to see the general tongue color, shape and moisture level.

Shen disturbance can be helped with Chinese herbal medicine (often a Heart Yin tonic) and non-Chinese medicine adjuncts

56

Animal Wellness

such as Rescue Remedy given orally or rubbed on the hairless parts of ears several times a day. This is especially important during fireworks and thunderstorms.

Late summer

Late summer is connected with the Earth personality, as well as adulthood, Damp Heat and the gastrointestinal system (called the Spleen and Stomach in Chinese medicine). Earth personality dogs are laid back, mellow, round and large, sociable and sympathetic.

To help a weak gastrointestinal system in an Earth personality dog, well-cooked quinoa, sweet potato, pumpkin or squash are strengthening, along with beef, bison, rabbit and tripe. Dampdraining foods for those with loose stool or moist dermatitis include celery (which is also cooling), mushrooms and turnips.

Avoid Dampening foods such as watermelon, pork and salmon, as these worsen moist dermatitis and diarrhea.

Foods such as garlic and ginger can help prevent Damp and are good as long as the dog is not too hot. In a healthy dog, the ears should be warm towards the head and cool at the tips, the nose should be cool and moist, and the paw pads should be soft and pliable. If these areas are hot, too moist or too dry, you can use foods to correct the imbalance. The tongue in an animal with Damp may be thick and can even show tooth impressions.

Earth personalities are prone to worry, so Rescue Remedy can be helpful. Strengthening the gastrointestinal tract with Chinese herbal medicine (Spleen Qi tonics) and probiotics can also help ease the animal’s worry.

Autumn

Autumn, with its cool and often dry weather, is associated with middle age, Metal personalities, and the lung and large intestine, which are prone to drying out and causing cough and constipation. The skin and coat may also be dry and coarse. Metal personalities are aloof, love order and obey the rules.

To moisten the respiratory tract and prevent cough, pears and honey are excellent foods – especially local honey, as it contains small amounts of local allergens and helps prevent respiratory allergies. Yin-deficient (or Hot Dry) coughs are more common at night, and the dog may have a red tongue and a warm dry nose.

If the cough is weak or occurs in the daytime, walnuts can help strengthen Lung Qi. Sardines help prevent constipation with their unique blend of Yin and Blood, which are Cool and Moist, and Warm and Moist, respectively. Feeding lung also helps the dog’s lungs, and if the large intestine is weak, as in constipation, strengthening foods such as pumpkin, sweet potato and winter squash are helpful. Other moistening foods that help the lung, large intestine, skin and coat are eggs, duck, barley, tofu and rice.

Winter

Winter, the coldest season, is associated with the kidneys, bladder, hearing, the Water element, and old age. The Water personality is careful, curious, self-contained, meditative, slow, consistent, and has a tendency to hide.

Dogs that are old, cold and have a Water personality will benefit from eating warming foods such as lamb, venison, chicken, garlic, buckwheat, eggs, ginger and cinnamon.

Warming all food to room temperature or above is helpful for Water personality dogs in the winter – as well as for most older or cold animals, even at other times of the year.

Hot foods such as garlic and ginger can help prevent Damp and are good as long as the dog is not too hot.

Kidney Yang-deficient dogs, who may have cold backs, possible early morning diarrhea and sinking hind ends, benefit from cooked food rather than raw, since raw foods require more energy to digest. Eggs contain Qi (strengthening) and Yin (cooling), and also strengthen the kidneys’ Jing (life force), which decreases with age.

It is important to also nourish kidney Yin. All animals need a balance of Yin and Yang (Qi plus Warmth). Dogs with kidney disease or bladder Damp Heat (blood, crystals or bacteria in the urine) are often very thirsty, may seek cool areas and have a red dry tongue, often indicating Yin deficiency. Some foods that nourish Kidney Yin are duck, pork, kidney, tofu, eggs, asparagus, cabbage, apples, barley, black beans and honey.

Even if a dog is not old or of a Water personality, he can benefit from slight feeding changes in the winter.

For an animal with a cold back or cold hind end, Moxa treatment is a Chinese therapy that can be very helpful. Moxa, or compressed mugwort, is lit and moved over the cold areas on the body (but not touched to the skin). Again, work with a veterinarian who is well-versed in TCVM. Massage can also strengthen the back and organs. Nie-fa, or skin rolling, can be done on the sides of the spine from head to tail. This loosens the fascia, allowing more free movement of the spine and supporting the immune system. You can see a Nei-fa demonstration at youtu.be/qs4_z7BBwIg, but it’s best to have this done by a professional.

Understanding the seasonality of Chinese medicine, the personalities that go with the seasons, and the foods that are helpful to add during these periods, can help dogs stay healthier all year round.

April/May 2018

57

passages

By Tamra Anne Bolles

In memory of

Summer Rain

When I learned that my 11-year-old Lab and service dog, Summer Rain, was dying from cancer, I was stunned. Her cancer had hidden undetected, despite numerous tests, before it was finally found – but by then, it was too late for treatment. I was heartbroken as I considered how this loss would affect my life.

But dogs look at life very differently than we do. Summer Rain was concerned only about me. As I stayed up all night beside her, she kept waking to check on me, knowing I wasn’t sleeping. Before her euthanasia appointment, she ran one last time with me in the yard under clear blue skies. By that time, she was very weak, yet she found the strength to play, allowing us to enjoy one last happy moment together as gentle breezes surrounded us.

58

Animal Wellness

On Summer Rain’s last day, the people who had cared for her gathered, including the veterinary clinic staff. I’d taken her to the doggy daycare at the clinic for a year and a half after her companion, our German shepherd, passed away. She’d suffered a great loss, and needed continuous care, so each day that I worked away from home, she became part of the clinic family.

Summer was the dog of choice when it came to seeing how potential new employees would interact with animals before hiring decisions were made. She patiently helped puppies learn how to socialize in the garden behind the veterinary clinic. She was a greeter in the reception area during the mornings. She befriended the injured and homeless at the clinic, as she had come from similar beginnings. Summer had bloomed in the winter of her life, and I was proud of her for that.

She befriended the injured and homeless at the clinic, as she had come from similar beginnings.

When she wasn’t at the clinic, she was with me. I left her at home only rarely, and that was for very short periods. It was all she could tolerate. Walmart was Summer’s favorite travel destination. She would lead me into the store, look at all the stuff stockpiled there, and then she would “laugh”. She understood I was taking things home with us. The choosing process was fascinating to her. Paying for the merchandise, however, confused her. She always tried to get us to the exit door before I had the opportunity to pay. I’d have to lead her over to the register, where she enjoyed watching the items move on their own as the attendant scanned each purchase. Daily life with Summer helped me find the joy in simple moments.

Summer Rain taught the author to find the simple joys in life.

Summer also helped me let go of my grief and embrace happiness again after my other beloved dog passed away. On the day Summer herself passed, a heart-shaped stuffed toy was tucked in with her. On it were the words, “I woof you”.

She often used to bring me that same toy and place it beside me, even though there were many other toys she could have chosen. I don’t think it was coincidence. It was the toy she preferred to give me, especially during times when I needed to remember her unconditional love.

Summer is no longer with me, and I am very sad. Still, I try each day to reach for that ray of sunshine, finding something positive I can hold onto, because that was Summer’s purpose in my life – to help me understand why it’s important to appreciate living, even after losing a beloved friend. Because of Summer, I pay more attention to sunsets. I take more time to appreciate what nature has to offer us. She taught me that I should always make quality time for friends or family members, so when they call, I answer, even if I’m very busy.

It’s a dog’s perspective, and it has made me appreciate my life more fully, recognize those who have made life more meaningful, and to understand that it’s the joys we share that make life worth living, and the sorrows we weather that help us connect to each other.

I believe a dog’s purpose in life is to help us embrace the moment, take from those moments what makes life worth living, and then move forward. Dogs do this far better than we do, but because we love them and bond with them, we can learn to do the same.

April/May 2018

59

This column features articles from our library at AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

Adopting an older dog When looking for a new canine companion, don’t bypass the mature dogs. Contrary to popular belief, they’re no harder to take care of than younger dogs, and they have many positive qualities.

By Paul Owens

Many people looking to adopt a dog tend to focus on the puppies or young canines, and bypass animals that are on the more mature side. But an older dog offers many wonderful benefits, and can actually be easier to care for than a younger canine. Let’s take a look at these benefits, and what you need to know when adopting a mature dog.

Why do people shy away from adopting mature dogs?

The number one concern people have about adopting older dogs is they’re afraid they’ll be “taking on someone else’s problems”. Many people reason that an older dog wouldn’t be at a shelter or rescue if he or she didn’t have behavioral problems. But you would be amazed at what people consider behavioral problems. “My dog pokes people in their private parts whenever they visit and it’s very embarrassing,” one person said. “My dog scratches at the door to come in but I don’t want him in my house,” said another. “My dog jumps on people.” “My dog sheds.” “My dog doesn’t do what I say.” And

60

Animal Wellness

the top reason people turn dogs into shelters? “We’re moving and the new location doesn’t allow dogs.”

Taking care of an older dog isn’t harder or more expensive Caring for a mature dog is no harder than raising and caring for puppies. In many cases, in fact, it’s much easier. Unless the dog has a serious health problem, caring for him doesn’t cost any more than caring for a younger dog. It’s true that health problems tend to manifest more as a dog ages, but the key to maintaining his health is the same as for all ages of dog. Noticing subtle changes in behavior or well-being and having him checked over by a veterinarian will help catch potential problems before they become serious and costly.

Be considerate of your senior Mature dogs can “roll with the punches” of life, so to speak, because they already have a wealth of experience to draw from.

This doesn’t mean his transition into a new home isn’t stressful for him, whether you are bringing an older dog into your home

for the first time, or bringing a younger dog into a home where a mature dog already lives. If you already have another dog (or a cat) in the household, be considerate of his feelings as well as those of the newcomer’s.

Err on the side of safety. Set up your environment so that toys and food are strictly supervised. Protect everybody. I once received a call from a woman who was feeling bad that the three-yearold Corgi she had just adopted was harassing her 13-year-old Labrador. She thought getting another dog would help her senior live a little longer by stimulating more activity and providing extra companionship. These are, of course, terrific ideas, and such dogs will often develop a happy relationship. But it takes time, and occasionally, the chemistry never develops between two dogs. If that’s the case, it becomes more stressful for the older dog in the relationship, which means he needs extra support. If he doesn’t want to interact with the younger dog, restrict the latter’s freedom, train him, and give him something else to keep him busy.

Continued on page 62.

Bill and Thunder

Of all the dogs I see annually, I have a special soft spot for the older, more mature generation; that is, dogs over five years of age. More and more, people are opening their hearts and realizing the joy of adopting older dogs. Bill, for example, was a 78-year-old client who said, “I’m looking for a dog I can spend my final years with without having to worry about housetraining, jumping and puppy problems.” He adopted a seven-year-old golden retriever from a rescue in LA. Both he and his dog, Thunder, were blessed with six years of true friendship, and passed away within six months of each other.

April/May 2018

61

THE

benefits OF A

MATURE DOG When it comes to behavioral problems in dogs, think of this: puppies have a long list of behavioral issues that every new adopter has to deal with. So why not opt for the experienced mature dog who has already solved many of life’s puzzles, especially the intricacies and foibles of the human species? The benefits are numerous.

Mature dogs can “roll with the punches” of life, so to speak, because they already have a wealth of experience to draw from.

• Most mature dogs are housetrained.

• They’re fluent in dog talk, know how to communicate with other members of their species and diffuse problems quickly.

• An older dog shows you who he is, what his personality and temperament is all about, so you can better evaluate whether he will fit with your family. In puppies, personality and temperament are still developing.

• Mature dogs can still learn new tricks. One night, I awoke to the sound of scratching on the door.

It was Molly signaling she had to go out. When I got out of bed and opened the door, the other three dogs ran out but Molly was nowhere to be seen. I found her in the kitchen standing next to the refrigerator, waiting for a treat. At the age of 16, she had somehow figured out that scratching on the door not only served the purpose of going outside, but that it would also get me out of bed to give her a treat.

• Older dogs might not be able to walk as far, but they still enjoy walks.

• Similarly, they might not play as long as they used to, but they still love to play.

• Mature dogs are often “child tested”.

• They also sleep more.

Continued from page 61.

The “kids” factor If you have children in your household, or kids that visit often, make sure they don’t overwhelm your older dog with too much affection or play. Set up a safety zone for the dog, such as the corner of a room, beneath a table, in a kennel or on a bed. Instruct the children to leave the dog alone whenever he’s in his personal space. Keep in mind that many newly adopted dogs – of any age – are on their best behavior for the first 30 days in their new home.

A dog who has previously shown no aggressive tendencies around food, territory, or while being touched, especially while sleeping, may begin to display a more sensitive attitude. Again, always err on the side of safety, especially when children are involved. Call a professional trainer if you notice any signs of aggression, no matter how old or young the dog is.

A special feeling comes with adopting a mature dog. Puppies are always adopted quickly, while shelters are overflowing with older dogs. It’s rewarding beyond words to know you have saved the life of a dog who was dealt a tough hand. As one client who adopted a five-year-old boxer told me: “I adopted her a year after my husband died. I thought it was time to get a dog again because we raised them early in our marriage and I felt I could do it on my own now. When I got her, I thought I was saving her; but she taught me patience and has been a wonderful companion, so I think she saved me.”

62

Animal Wellness

Business Profile

als r u t a Northwest N

By Matthew Berk

A unique manufacturing process helps this raw pet food company STAND OUT from the crowd.

Raw diets, whether frozen or freeze-dried, are a top choice for many pet owners because they offer dogs and cats biologically appropriate nutrition. Among the growing number of companies that manufacture raw pet foods is Northwest Naturals, which specializes in high quality frozen and freeze-dried raw diets and treats for pets. They also take pride in ensuring that their products are both nutritionally intact and free of pathogens – an important consideration in this era of frequent pet food recalls, and for those who are concerned about the risks of handling raw meat.

Northwest Naturals was founded in 2004 by Morasch Meats, a 60-year-old family business in Portland, Oregon that specializes in meat products for restaurants, grocery stores and independent retailers. This means the company’s pet food products are made in a USDA-certified human food facility, and that all proteins and produce are passed for human consumption.

Alaskan huskies of all life stages and working abilities. For the first six months, the dogs were fed a non-HPP turkey recipe.

During the last six months, they were fed an HPP turkey recipe.

The dogs were under veterinary care throughout the entire course of the study. The results showed no significant changes in the dogs’ bloodwork from one diet to the other. They remained healthy and active for the whole year, whether they were eating HPP or non-HPP foods. Unfortunately, the lack of a control group prevented this study from being recognized – but the results were clear. “Along with the multitude of tests we did on HPP products, I am convinced this process does not harm the nutritional properties of raw food,” says Patti. “Some of the top dogs in the US eat exclusively Northwest Naturals – and it shows.”

The company goes a step further by using a unique process in the manufacture of its raw pet foods and treats. Referred to as cold water HPP (High Pressure Process), it leaves the nutritional integrity of the raw food intact while killing pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli and Listeria. Good bacteria and enzymes remain unharmed.

Patti goes on to explain how the company manufactures its pet foods. “Starting with fresh high quality ingredients, our products are chopped, mixed, ground and chubbed. They are then HPP’d.” Company staff monitors for time, temperature and pressure throughout the process. “After the appropriate hold time and testing for pathogens, the product is formed into nuggets and dinner bars. Our freeze-dried foods and treats are made with the same recipe as our raw frozen diets, except the moisture is removed.”

To test that HPP does not destroy nutritional ingredients along with pathogens, Northwest Natural’s parent company, Morasch Meats, conducted a year-long study involving 100

The bottom line is, raw pet diets and treats that undergo HPP offer the best of both worlds – food safety and optimal nutrition.

Patti can attest to this, as her own dogs thrive on these diets.

April/May 2018

63

COMMUNICATORS

INTEGRATIVE VETS Affordable Holistic Animal Therapies West Hollywood, CA USA Phone: 323-304-2984 Ballantrae Animal Hospital Margaret Hacking, DVM Stouffville, ON Canada Phone: (905) 640-6809 Website: www.AnimalWellnessCentre.com Beechmount Animal Hospital Waterloo, ON Canada Phone: (519) 888-6590 Website: www.beechmountanhosp.ca Dr. Lisa Burgess Millgrove Veterinary Services Millgrove, ON Canada Phone: (905) 690-4557 Email: service@burgessvet.com Website: www.millgrovevet.com Sharon R. Doolittle, DVM, Inc. Smithfield, RI USA Phone: (401) 349-2668 Email: vetinfo@holisticanimalvet.com Website: www.holisticanimalvet.com

Janice DeFonda Can We Talk Fayetteville, NY USA Phone: (315) 329-0116 Email: angelwhispurr@gmail.com Website: www.angelwhispurr.com

Dr. Autumn Drouin, DVM, ND and Dr. Sasan Haghighat (Hyatt), DVM, CVA North-East Newmarket Veterinary Service Newmarket, ON Canada Phone: (905) 830-1030 Email: holisticveterinarian@gmail.com Website: www.holistic-vet.ca

Animal Wellness

• Acupuncture • Chiropractic •Conventional Medicine •Therapeutic Nutrition •Traditional Chinese Medicine Guelph, Ontario, Canada (519)836-2782 www.GuelphVet.com info@GuelphVet.com Harwood Oaks Animal Clinic Bedford, TX USA Phone: 817-354-7676 Website: www.harwoodoaksanimalclinic.com Hawks Prairie Veterinary Hospital Lacey, WA USA Phone: (360) 459-6556 Email: hawksprairievet@yahoo.com Website: www.hawksprairieveterinaryhospital.com Holistic Animal Care Stephanie Chalmers, DVM, CVH Santa Rosa, CA USA Phone: (707) 538-4643 Home Vet Weston, CT USA Phone: (203) 222-7979 Website: www.homevet.com

Carrie Hutchinson, VMD Rockledge Veterinary Clinic Rockledge, PA USA Phone: (215) 379-1677 Email: info@rockledgevet.com Website: www.rockledgevet.com

Essex Animal Hospital Essex, ON CAN Phone: (519) 776-7325 Email: info@essexanimalhospital.ca Website: www.essexanimalhospital.ca Family Veterinary Center Haydenville, MA USA Phone: (413) 268-8387 Website: www.famvets.com

64

Individualized, Integrative Veterinary Care

Horizon Veterinary Services Susan Maier, DVM Simpsonville, KY USA Phone: (502) 722-8231 Email: horizonvetserv@yahoo.com Website: www.horizonvetserv.com

Lydia Hiby Mysticviz Burbank, CA USA Phone: (818)-244-0091 Website: www.lydiahiby.com Lynn McKenzie Animal Energy Sedona, AZ USA Phone: (512) 827-0505 x 8642 Email: lynn@animalenergy.com Website: www.animalenergy.com

Dr. Caroline Goulard, DVM, CCRT, CVA, CVPP Paws on the Go Laguna Woods, CA USA Phone: (949) 707-1696 Email: cgoulard@pawsonthego.net Website: www.pawsonthego.net

Integrated Veterinary Clinic Sacramento, CA USA Phone: 916-454-1825 Gail Jewell, DVM Kelowna, BC Canada Phone: (888) 622-8300 Website: www.holisticvet.ca

communicators • integrative vets • natural products • pet psychics • publications • Reiki therapy • schools & wellness education • shelters & rescues •

REIKI THERAPY Aileen D’Angelo, RMT, Cn. TPM Hoof, Paw & Claw Reiki Northboro, MA USA Phone: (508) 393-3684 Email: hoofpawclaw@verizon.net Website: www.reikiforcritters.com

PET PSYCHICS

Amy Pikalek Hikari Natural Healing Madison, WI USA Phone: (608) 886-8778 Email: hikarihealing@yahoo.com Website: www.hikarihealing.com

SCHOOLS & WELLNESS EDUCATION

Dr. Shawn Messonnier Paws and Claws Vet Clinic Plano, TX USA Phone: (972) 712-0893 Email: shawnvet@sbcglobal.net Website: www.pettogethers.net/healthypet Mark Newkirk, VMD Newkirk Family Veterinarians gg Harbor Township, NJ USA Phone: (609) 645-2120 Email: mnewk@alternativevet.com Website: www.alternativevet.com

PetMassage, Ltd. Toledo, OH USA Toll Free: (800) 779-1001 Phone: (419) 475-3539 Email: info@petmassage.com Website: www.petmassage.com

PUBLICATIONS

Healing Touch for Animals Highlands Ranch, CO USA Phone: (303) 470-6572 Email: drea@healingtouchforanimals.com Website: www.healingtouchforanimals.co Well Animal Institute Brighton, CO USA Phone: (303) 514-0076 Email: info@wellanimalinstitute.com Website: www.wellanimalinstitute.com

NATURAL PRODUCT

SHELTERS & RESCUES

MANUFACTURERS & DISTRIBUTORS

Alaskan Malamute Mt. Gilead, OH USA Phone: (419) 512-2423 Email: shaman@brightnet.net

Azmira Holistic Animal Care Tuscon, AZ USA Phone: (800) 497-5665 Email: info@azmira.com Website: www.azmira.com

American Brittany Rescue Sugar Grove, IL USA Phone: (866) BRIT-911 Email: rhonda@americanbrittanyrescue.org Website: www.americanbrittanyrescue.org

NATURAL PRODUCT RETAILERS Dog Gone Dirt All Natural Dog & Horse Skin Care Products Crescent City, FL USA Phone: (386) 559-3454 Email: doggonedirt@yahoo.com Website: www.doggonedirt.com

Animal Avengers Los Angeles, CA USA Phone: (323) 655-4220 Email: admin@animalavengers.com Website: www.animalavengers.com

Advertise your business in the Wellness Resource Guide

1-866-764-1212

April/May 2018

65

Walking and exercise programs make shelter dogs more

By Brian Marshall

ADOPTABLE Daily walks and exercise help more shelter and rescue dogs find forever homes by giving them physical and mental stimulation and teaching them valuable skills such as socialization and leash etiquette.

Every pooch needs physical exercise, and shelter dogs are no exception. In fact, structured walking programs at shelters and rescues help make dogs more adoptable by giving them exercise and stimulation, teaching them about leash etiquette, and providing them with opportunities to bond with humans (see sidebar on page 68). Many rescues and shelters in both the US and Canada, such as those featured in this article, are implementing organized walking and exercise programs to help improve their dogs’ well-being, and to make them more appealing to potential adopters.

66

Animal Wellness

SHELTERS AND RESCUES WITH WALKING AND EXERCISE PROGRAMS Grosse Pointe Animal Adoption Society Before 2012, rescued dogs at Grosse Pointe Animal Adoption Society in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, rarely got any fresh air except when let out to do their business. At the time, this adoption facility was no different than most other rescues and shelters. With overflowing populations and minimal staffing, it was all workers could do to provide the four-legged inhabitants with a clean but somewhat cramped living area. The dogs were

frustrated, yearning for some time outdoors, and it showed.

Since then, Grosse Pointe has implemented a structured dog-walking program that involves three shifts of caring, outgoing volunteers. These volunteers take the dogs on 20-minute walks per shift, so the 20 to 25 canines residing at the facility each receive plenty of exercise and opportunities to interact with different people. The dogs also get a chance to strut, sniff and romp in a variety of environments, giving them a very welcome hiatus from the wired confines of the shelter.

"We have found that walking the dogs outdoors provides 'normalcy' for them during their shelter environment stay,” says Corrinne Martin, director of the foundation.

“They are healthier and happier and enjoy interacting with the various volunteers who walk them.” Staff and volunteers swear they see their dogs smile as the crate doors opens and leash clasps snap.

Rancho Coastal Humane Society Located in Encinitas, California, the Rancho Coastal Humane Society sits on five acres of open land, providing a lot of outdoor scope for resident dogs.

Continued on page 68.

VOLUNTEERS ARE KEY “Volunteers are essential to these programs, as long as they follow the protocols,” says Julie Speyer of the Canine Foundation. "We need volunteers who are consistent, willing to come out for training, and who are reliable and dependable."

"We have all types and ages of volunteer,” adds Corrinne. “The minimum age is 18 and we have some in their 80s, both men and women. Retired people enjoy walking for health and exercise, and the younger ones like to stay fit. The volunteers pace themselves with dogs of adequate size and strength so they are comfortable walking them. Most of the dogs pull due to lack of training and the excitement of being outdoors."

April/May 2018

67

Continued from page 67.

REGULAR WALKING GIVES DOGS PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND SOCIAL BENEFITS

“We have an exercise yard with runs that go across the property,” said John Van Zante, public relations director.

“There’s a trail that goes along a wetland area, and we also have our longer Waggin’ Walks, which run two to three miles.”

Staff and volunteers spend one-on-one time with each dog.

Besides outdoor walks and exercise, the dogs are also taken to shopping centers to get them socialized with people.

"Getting shelter dogs outside gives them an energy outlet as well as mental stimulation, and keeps their muscles in shape," said Julie Speyer, owner and lead behavior specialist for the Canine Foundation in Barrie, Ontario. The foundation works with organizations such as animal rescues, modifying canine behavior to suit specific needs.

John says the program pays off when would-be adopters visit.

“When people come in, they say: ‘I can't believe how social the dogs are, how friendly they are.’ It’s because they get exercise, they experience one-on-one contact with people, and they enjoy interaction with other dogs. Our volunteers make sure each dog is socialized.”

Julie adds that walking serves another very valuable service. "When dogs are kenneled for prolonged periods without any stimulation and socialization, they go ‘kennel crazy’. What we call ‘environmental enrichment walks’ allow dogs to get outside to sniff and see the world. This helps create calmer and more relaxed behaviors within the shelter environment, and stimuli such as people or cars are no longer novel.

Etobicoke Humane Society Another shelter that has put a walking program in place for its dogs is the Etobicoke Humane Society in Ontario.

“We have three shifts for volunteers: morning, afternoon and evening,” says Amy Ma, managing director of operations. “We take our dogs out on walks of at least 30 minutes per volunteer shift. So in total, the dogs get at least 90 minutes outside every day. Sometimes, we have dogs that need longer walks, and our adoption coordinators will take them out to off-leash dog parks or large yards where they can run around for hours.”

“If a dog is kept in a kennel for long periods, the sight of people or cars can be very scary to him,” Julie continues. “By taking him for walks, these stimuli become familiar. We are also able to identify dogs that are having struggles with these type of stimuli and can start working on those issues so they won't be a problem when they go into their new homes."

THESE PROGRAMS PAY OFF Shelters and rescues strive to do whatever is necessary to increase the chances of finding permanent homes for their four-legged residents. The overwhelming consensus is that walking programs are key because they provide exercise, stimulation, leash etiquette, socialization, and opportunities for bonding with people and other dogs. This in turn leads to friendlier, happier and more balanced dogs with a much better chance of finding their forever homes.

The Rancho Coastal Humane Society has implemented a successful walking program for its dogs.

68

Animal Wellness

Photo courtesy of Rancho Coastal Humane Society

Needless to say, a dog that acts in a calm, friendly manner when potential adopters visit the shelter is more likely to be adopted than one that’s fearful, high-strung or wary of people. Regular walks also help train the dog to learn good leash etiquette, so he’ll be a well-behaved walking partner for his new family.

April/May 2018

69

the scoop QUALITY SUPPLEMENTS

NOW® Pets quality pet supplements are specially formulated to support animal health.

Developed by Dr. Barbara Royal, DVM, CVA, they help address today’s common pet health concerns. All products are certified by NASC. In business for 50 years, the parent company is among the natural product industry’s oldest and most respected manufacturers.

NowFoods.com/pet-health

RATHER SPEND TIME WITH YOUR DOG?

You’re not alone. A new report reveals that 50% of dog owners skip social events to hang out with their canine companions. That’s according to Dr. John Huber, the chairman for Mainstream Mental Health, a non-profit in Austin, Texas. The study of 2,000 people found that skipping out on human commitments in favor of quality time with four-legged friends is common.

MainstreamMentalHealth.org

EXERCISE MADE FUN!

The Gyms for Dogs™ patented Mini Hill Climb promotes dog-intuitive, nonintimidating, independent play, increasing muscle strength and cardiovascular conditioning. For indoor or outdoor use, it encourages dogs to stay active, climb and exercise. Gyms for Dogs™ is a nation-wide supplier of the highest quality exercise products for dogs, from puppies to seniors.

GymsForDogs.com

PET-FRIENDLY WOMEN’S SHELTERS

National animal welfare organization RedRover recently announced that more than $49,000 in funding will be granted to five domestic violence shelters across the US. This funding will enable the shelters to create on-site space to house pets belonging to victims of domestic violence, through RedRover’s Safe Housing program.

RedRover.org/SafeHousing

NERVOUS ABOUT FEEDING YOUR CAT RAW?

Try an advanced alternative! KatManFood is a gently cooked, fresh frozen cat food.

It’s ideal for cats as a stand-alone diet, or for those who are transitioning to a raw diet.

Manufactured in a USDA facility for maximum product safety. Our ingredients are all human edible for the highest quality. Get a free sample online.

BigBearPet.com

70

Animal Wellness

DO THERAPY DOGS GET STRESSED?

Apparently not. The Human Animal Bond Research Institute has announced the publication of a study exploring the impacts of therapy dog sessions on the dogs’ welfare. Conducted by researchers at American Humane, the findings demonstrated that the dogs in the study did not experience increased stress resulting from therapy visits.

Habri.org, AmericanHumane.org

ESSENTIAL OILS AND EMOTIONAL BALANCE

Aromatherapy can help balance your pet’s emotions. If he’s prone to anxiety, aggression or fear, try Young Living essential oils. These authentic oils promote emotional and mental wellness. Our expert holistic veterinarians can guide you in choosing the right oils for your animal companion.

YLVetsAndPets.com

LUXURY PET PRODUCTS A GROWING TREND

According to a GlobalData survey, 77% of pet owners worldwide treat their animals as a member of the family, while 55% stated that their pets’ appearance is important to them.

As a result, more people are investing in luxury pet products such as non-toxic nail polish, not to mention high-end apparel, jewellery and more.

GlobalData.com

ULTRA PREMIUM PET FOOD

Wild Alaskan salmon is the first ingredient in Grizzly’s Ultra Premium Food for Dogs and Cats, followed by organic coconut meal for fiber and prebiotic support, sprouted organic quinoa for natural vitamins, and wild salmon oil for superior Omega-3s. No grains, glutens, potatoes, peas or legumes! Highly digestible, very low in carbs, and with unmatched levels of essential amino acids.

GrizzlyPetProducts.com

CANNABIS CONUNDRUM?

Are you or your veterinarian unsure of the benefits and safety of cannabis (hemp) for your pet? For more information on the science behind hemp, check out Canna Companion’s science page, or call to schedule a complimentary consultation with our experienced veterinary professionals. Your pet deserves the best, and Canna Companion’s hemp supplements can help.

CannaCompanionusa.com

April/May 2018

71

Bathing your dog: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

By Emily Watson

WHEN GIVING YOUR DOG A BATH, FOLLOW THESE

8 STEPS FOR A SMOOTH AND STRESS-FREE EXPERIENCE.

72

Animal Wellness

Bathing your dog isn’t rocket science. But it’s a good idea to follow a consistent procedure to make things easier and minimize stress. From setup to cleanup, this guide will simplify the bathing process for both you and your canine companion.

Step 1: SET THE STAGE

Setting up the bathing area beforehand will help ensure a smooth and stress-free process. First, gather all the necessary supplies (see sidebar at right). Once everything is within arms’ reach, line the tub or sink with a non-slip rubber mat. This will make your dog feel more secure, and prevent any accidents once the water gets flowing.

Step 2:

CALL YOUR DOG

Using a healthy treat (small pieces of chicken or cheese work well), invite your dog to join you in the bathing area. Gentle coaxing is fine – just be sure not to force him. If you’re dealing with a stubborn subject, attach his leash to his collar so he knows it’s time to listen.

To lift your dog into the basin or tub, place one hand beneath his chest, and the other behind his hind legs. If he’s large, lift with your knees rather than your back. Know your limits, and recruit a friend for help if your dog is too heavy for you to lift by yourself.

balance of your dog’s skin. If your dog has dry, flaky or oily skin, talk to your vet about which shampoo will best serve his needs. Otherwise, look for an alcohol-free product with limited ingredients, and steer clear of anything containing harsh detergents and surfactants.

Apply the shampoo to the base of your dog’s skull. Avoiding his eyes, massage into a lather around his head and chest. Just as you did with the water, work your way down his body using long, gentle strokes. Shampoo instructions vary, but most advise you to leave the product on your dog’s coat for a few minutes. While you wait, praise your dog, and continue with his “massage” if he starts to get antsy.

Step 5: RINSE AND REPEAT

An all-natural dog shampoo shouldn’t be too sudsy – but it’s still important to get it all out. Rinse your dog thoroughly from head to tail until the water runs clear. Then rinse again! Use your fingertips to part his hair, ensuring no soapy residue is left on his skin.

Continued on page 74.

Secure your dog’s leash to prevent him from bolting mid-bath. If he’s a high flight risk, rub some all-natural peanut butter on the edge of the tub to keep him occupied.

Step 3: GET HIM WET

Wet your dog from the base of his skull down to the tip of his tail, first making very sure that the water isn’t too hot or too cold. Be sure to pay close attention to hard-to-reach areas such as his legs, chest and groin area. Because dogs’ coats repel water, consider keeping a bucket of lukewarm water and a sponge nearby to keep him wet during step four. You can also use the sponge to wet his head, as it’s less invasive than spraying.

Step 4: ADD THE SHAMPOO

Fill your palm with an all-natural shampoo formulated for dogs.

You can also use a natural shampoo bar. Avoid human shampoo and dish soap, as the high acidity can upset the sensitive pH

Positive reinforcement is key

Reward, reward, reward! Between each of the steps in this article, be sure to offer your dog some type of reward. Whether it’s a low-calorie treat or a pat on the back, positive reinforcement will help him associate bath time with a pleasant experience.

April/May 2018

73

Continued from page 73.

Integrating essential oils

Essential oils are a popular natural remedy that can help soothe your dog’s bath time anxiety. “Essential oils work with the limbic system, which plays a role in controlling breathing, heart rate, memory, stress levels, hormone balance and blood pressure,” explains Veterinarian Dr. John J. Hanover, distributor for Young Living Essential Oils. “The limbic system is often referred to as the ‘emotional brain’; therefore, the molecules in the oils can promote calmness resulting in relaxation.” Dr. Hanover recommends lavender, cedarwood, frankincense, valerian, and patchouli to promote balanced emotions, or one of Young Living’s calming blends such as Stress Away, Peace and Calming, or Gentle Baby.

Essential oils can be added to a shallow bit of water at the bottom of the tub, or mixed in with his shampoo.

You can also rub a few drops between your palms and apply them directly to his coat before getting him wet. “Remember that a dog’s sense of smell is far superior to humans, so a little goes a long way,” adds Dr. Hanover.

Step 6: CONDITION HIS COAT

This step isn’t always necessary, especially if your dog’s coat is already naturally soft and silky. A conditioner formulated for canines can be a good addition to baths during the winter months, or any other time his hair is on the dry side. If possible, use the conditioner counterpart to the shampoo you’ve used.

Apply the conditioner the same way you did the shampoo. Let it sit as long as the instructions recommend, then rinse well.

Step 7: DRY HIM OFF

There are two basic ways to dry your dog: with a blow dryer or a towel. For skittish dogs who don’t like loud noises, the latter option is the obvious choice.

While regular bath towels work fine, they can be cumbersome. To make your life easier, reach for something more lightweight. “The Absorber absorbs water much more quickly than a bath towel, making the process faster and more enjoyable for your pup,” explains Eryka Hawkins, Marketing Associate at Clean Tools. “Unlike a bath towel, it completely wrings out once saturated. This allows you to re-use the same Absorber over and over again.” The large Absorber can also double as a non-slip bathmat.

If you opted to skip Step 6, consider applying a natural topical moisturizing balm once your dog is dry. Healthy Hemp Pet CannaBalm contains all-natural ingredients, including hemp oil rich in phyto-cannabinoids. It can promote skin health, and also helps settle any post-bath anxiety.

Step 8: LET HIM LOOSE

From your dog’s perspective, this is a crucial part of bath time!

Running “zoomies” helps him get rid of any lingering bathinduced stress, and gives him a chance to shake off that “soapy” smell. If weather permits, let him into your backyard to keep him from rubbing along the carpets and furniture.

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 74

Animal Wellness

April/May 2018

75

to the rescue The Diana Gray Foundation Rescue code: DGF

Using an integrative healing approach, The Diana Gray Foundation rehabilitates dogs from high-kill shelters and the streets of Los Angeles, offering them a second chance at life.

LOCATION: Beverly Hills, CA YEAR ESTABLISHED: 2014 NUMBER OF STAFF/VOLUNTEERS/OR FOSTER HOMES: The Diana Gray Foundation is a foster-based rescue with up to ten foster homes. “We don‘t rescue more than ten dogs at a time,” says CEO and founder Diana Gray. “That has always been our limit, since we want to dedicate the maximum amount of time and resources to all our canines.”

TYPES OF ANIMAL THEY WORK WITH: Although they primarily rescue dogs, the foundation also opens its doors to abandoned felines, especially in cases of severe cruelty. In order to save more lives, they have a partnership program in place, offering medical funding to partner rescues to help support dogs and cats they can’t take in due to lack of space.

FUNDRAISING PROJECTS: The Diana Gray Foundation holds adoption events in Malibu, Laguna Beach and Beverly Hills at pet health food stores and grooming salons. “We tailor our charitable fundraisers to specific art, media and entertainment events,” says Diana. The foundation is also dedicated to raising awareness of increasing canine cancer rates, and the importance of disease prevention.

76

Animal Wellness

WHAT MAKES THIS RESCUE UNIQUE: The Diana Gray Foundation is the first integrative medicine-based non-profit animal rescue in the US. They feed their rescue animals raw and home-cooked diets, follow a limited vaccination protocol, and use only natural antibiotics and flea prevention methods. The rescue’s treatment and rehabilitation protocol includes Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), stem cell therapy, homeopathy, osteopathy, chiropractic, hydrotherapy, Reiki, and Bach flower essences. This holistic approach addresses the animal’s body, mind and soul and gives him or her the tools to heal, become balanced and able to trust again.

On top of rescuing dogs from high-kill shelters and the streets of Los Angeles, the Diana Gray Foundation benefits canine cancer research in an ongoing effort to find a cure. “Over six million dogs in America are diagnosed with cancer every year, and almost half are losing the battle to this deadly epidemic,” says Diana. “Our CCPP (Canine Cancer Prevention Program) informs animal lovers about new treatment options and focuses on preventative measures.” dianagray.org

Animal Wellness has supported rescue efforts for almost 15 years and is a proud partner of Best Friends Animal Society. This column honors the work of shelters and rescues across North America.

For their full stories, visit www.AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

CANADA RESCUES

USA RESCUES

Boxer Rescue Ontario Burlington, Ontario Rescue Code: BOXER www.boxerrescueontario.com

A Different Breed Animal Rescue Organization Dallas, Texas Rescue Code: ADBRESCUE www.adifferentbreed.org

Dhana Metta Rescue Society Surrey, British Columbia Rescue Code: DHANA www.dhanamettarescuesociety.org

All Aboard Animal Rescue Fort Collins, California Rescue Code: AAAR www.aaanimalrescue.org

Grand River All Breed Rescue Cambridge, Ontario Rescue Code: GRAB www.grandriveallbreedrescue.ca

Anchors Up Rescue Group Las Vegas, Nevada Rescue Code: ANCHORSUP www.anchorsuprescuegroup.org

Home At Last Dog Rescue Surrey, British Columbia Rescue Code: HALDR www.homeatlastdogrescuebc.ca

Ark Animal Sanctuary Houlton, Maine Rescue Code: ARK www.arksanctuary.com

K9 Crusaders Cobourg, Ontario Rescue Code: K9C www.k9c.ca

Basset Rescue Of Old Dominion Charlottesville, Virginia Rescue Code: BROOD www.brood-va.org

Little Paws Rescue Society Vancouver, British Columbia Rescue Code: LPRS www.littlepawsrescue.ca

Big Fluffy Dog Rescue Nashville, Tennessee Rescue Code: BFDR www.bigfluffydogs.com

Marshall’s Dog Rescue Perth, Ontario Rescue Code: MARSHALL www.marshalldogrescue.com

Blind Dog Rescue Alliance Seymour, Connecticut Rescue Code: BDRA www.blinddogrescue.org

Precious Paws Rescue Barrie, Ontario Rescue Code: PPR www.preciouspawsrescue.ca

Blue Ridge Boxer Rescue Hickory, North Carolina Rescue Code: BRBR www.blueridgeboxerrescue.com

Ruff Start New Beginnings Colborne, Ontario Rescue Code: RSNB www.ruffstartnewbeginnings.com

Central Ohio Pomeranian Rescue Delaware, Ohio Rescue Code: COPR www.ohiopomrescue.com

Save Our Scruff Toronto, Ontario Rescue Code: SOS www.saveourscruff.org

DC Shiba Inu Rescue Washington, DC Rescue Code: DCSIR www.dcsir.org

Snookie’s Society Toronto, Ontario Rescue Code: SNOOKIE www.snookiessociety.com

Fetching Tails Foundation Itasca, Illinois Rescue Code: AWA283 www.fetchingtailsfoundation.com

TEAM Dog Rescue Toronto, Ontario Rescue Code: TEAM www.teamdogrescue.ca

Floyd Felines Rome, Georgia Rescue Code: FLOYD www.floydfelines.com

The Animal Guardian Society Oshawa, Ontario Rescue Code: TAGS www.animalguardian.org

Forever Loved Pets Sanctuary Scottsdale, Arizona Rescue Code: FLPS www.foreverlovedpets.org

Zoe’s Animal Rescue Society Edmonton, Alberta Rescue Code: ZOE www.zoesanimalrescue.org

Friends of Upland Animal Shelter Upland, California Rescue Code: FRIENDS www.friendsofuplandanimalshelter.org

All Paws Matter Stouffville, Ontario Rescue Code: APM1423 www.allpawsmatter.ca

GREY2K USA Arlington, Massachusetts Rescue Code: GREY2K www.grey2k.org

Adopt Me Rescue Studio City, California Rescue Code: ADOPTME www.adoptmerescue.org

Good Karma Dog Rescue River Vale, New Jersey Rescue Code: GKDR www.goodkarmadogrescue.com Higher Ground Animal Sanctuary Mead, Washington Rescue Code: AWA278 www.highergroundanimalsanctuary.org Mini Mighty Mutts Phoenix, Arizona Rescue Code: AWA287 www.minimightymutts.com Outcast Rescue Catasauqua, Pennsylvania Rescue Code: OUTCAST www.outcastrescue.com PAWS Project Middleton, New England Rescue Code: PAWS www.facebook.com/PAWSMitzvah The Cat Network Miami, Florida Rescue Code: THECATNETWORK www.thecatnetwork.org The Misfits Dogs Rescue Colorado Springs, Colorado Rescue Code: MISFIT www.misfitcrusaders.com The Sanctuary For Senior Dogs Cleveland, Ohio Rescue Code: AWA092 www.sanctuaryforseniordogs.org Wags 2 Wishes Animal Rescue Plainfield, Illinois Rescue Code: W2W www.w2wrescue.com

SUBSCRIBE & WE WILL DONATE

25%

TO A RESCUE!

It's easy!

1 Choose a rescue from this list Subscribe at 2 AnimalWellnessMagazine.com/ subscribe

3 Enter rescue code for chosen rescue 4 Enjoy your subscription!

April/May 2018

77

homeopathy allergies How

can heal your pet’s

By Christina Chambreau, DVM, CVH

D gs Cats

A holistic approach that focuses on homeopathy does more than relieve allergy symptoms in dogs and cats. It heals on a deep level and the results are often permanent.

People spend thousands of dollars trying to treat skin, dietary or respiratory allergies in their dogs and cats. They spend thousands of hours attempting to eliminate various triggers and trying different medications. In many cases, especially when conventional approaches are used, they’re not successful. In fact, many mainstream veterinarians believe there is no cure for allergies, and that it’s a problem the dog or cat will have for life. Holistically, however, there is a cure, and one of the most reliable ways to get to the root of the problem is by building health with homeopathy and additional natural therapies.

You can use a two-track approach to eliminating allergies from a homeopathic and holistic perspective. This involves building your dog or cat’s health so his immune system and overall wellness are strengthened, while naturally easing current symptoms.

TRACK ONE – BUILDING GENERAL HEALTH The first step is to improve the diet you are feeding your dog or cat. The very best choice for long-term health with no allergies is to avoid commercial processed foods, and to either buy a high quality diet made from the freshest, most wholesome ingredients possible, or home-prepare the food from locally-raised (ideally organic) ingredients.

Proteins that are served raw or lightly cooked are better than those that are processed because they often do not trigger an allergic reaction.

It’s also important to eliminate toxins such as flea and tick products, chemical household cleaners, pesticides, herbicides, etc. And be sure to minimize vaccines – they contain toxins (adjuvants) and are implicated in many allergies.

78

Animal Wellness

Deep cures with homeopathy Once you’ve addressed diet and toxin exposure, homeopathy is the best way to balance the dog or cat’s vital force so all allergic symptoms are resolved, and future ailments are prevented. Be sure to work with a veterinarian who is trained and experienced in homeopathy. Visit the AVH.org to find a veterinary homeopath in your region; if there isn’t one nearby, some vets will do phone consultations.

Selecting a homeopathic remedy (from over 4,000!) is based on each individual’s unique and different symptoms. They are not selected for the disease itself (e.g. IBD, pyoderma, etc.). Not every animal will have every symptom. Your dog or cat’s characteristic symptoms need to match the remedy, which is why it’s important to work with a professional who is knowledgeable in homeopathy. See the sidebar on the next page for three remedies that are often used, along with their associated signs.

The best results arise from selecting one remedy and evaluating the response. You can use the commonly available 30c (meaning it was diluted and energized 30 times), crush a few pellets, and gently put it on the tongue or gums. You can also put a few pellets in water, shake before each dose, then put a few drops in front of the animal’s mouth. Your professional homeopath will

How homeopathy views allergies

From a homeopathic point of view, healthy dogs and cats are not actually “allergic” to anything, or only to a very few things. In homeopathy, an underlying vibrational imbalance in the animal’s vital force (or Qi, quantum field, bio-force field), causes most of the health problems we call allergies. Each animal is born with a unique “field” that can be triggered to produce bodily symptoms. The more balanced the field, the less sensitive the dog or cat will be to different substances – including fleas, foods, dust mites, etc.

The goal, therefore, is to improve your pet’s vitality and balance his energy field, which will in turn improve his immune system and decrease reactions to his triggers.

In homeopathy, the key to successfully and permanently healing allergies (regardless of the symptoms) is to find the homeopathic medicine that energetically matches that of the individual animal.

This is best done by a thoroughly-trained homeopath.

It is best to include additional holistic treatments for a fully-rounded approach.

April/May 2018

79

3 homeopathic remedies for deeply healing allergies

 Arsenicum album – The animal has been seeking heat since the onset of the allergy, is fastidious (spends a long time in the litter box, grooming, looks cleaner), becomes fearful or timid, is thirsty for small sips of water and is often worse from midnight to 4AM.

a) Diarrhea – offensive odor, often makes the anus raw, comes in small amounts, frequent urges b) Skin problems c) Respiratory issues – eye and nose discharge causes raw skin, can have some blood in it

 Nux

vomica – The naturally sweet animal becomes irritable, even to nipping or hiding, especially from noises.

a) Diarrhea – strong spasms when going; can alternate with constipation b) Skin problems c) Respiratory issues

 Pulsatilla

– The animal is very needy and clingy, becomes almost thirstless, and is better for cold and open air blowing on him.

a) Diarrhea – soft stools that pass easily and have little odor

prescribe his/her preferred strengths (based on the general vitality of the animal) and methods of administration.

TRACK TWO – SOOTHE CURRENT SYMPTOMS Many holistic treatments, including homeopathy, can temporarily soothe symptoms while you and your vet work on building your pet’s health to permanently resolve the allergies.

Here are just a few options: • Combination homeopathic remedies: Many companies combine several homeopathic remedies for a particular condition (e.g. itchy skin, diarrhea, sneezing). These combinations may temporarily help, but will not usually deeply cure the problem. If you opt to buy one of these products, be sure to tell your homeopathic vet, as it could complicate the treatments he/she is giving your dog or cat.

• Local honey: Can be used topically as well as in the diet.

Because the bees eat pollen that animals may react to, honey has been shown to decrease allergic reactions to those substances.

• White rice: When super-overcooked, it can firm stools. It can be combined with cooked chicken for the same results.

b) Skin problems c) Respiratory issues – discharges are bland, often yellowish or creamy

• Oatmeal water: Can decrease itching on the skin or in the ears, and ease diarrhea.

• Flower essences: Can be used topically (dilute four drops in a few ounces of water), internally (either straight or diluted if the product is preserved with alcohol) or in the environment.

You can also choose from a growing range of natural topical treatments, digestive health supplements and herbal remedies to help ease allergy symptoms while working on the deeper cure. Again, tell your veterinarian if you are adding anything new to your dog or cat’s treatment regime.

Allergic animals have a very good chance of being permanently cured when you build their total body health and consult with a professional homeopath. It takes time, though, so it’s important to also use remedies to soothe your dog or cat’s current discomfort. By taking this two-pronged approach, and working from a homeopathic perspective, you can help get rid of your pet’s allergies for good.

80

Animal Wellness

April/May 2018

81

book reviews

Title: Living with a Deaf Dog – Second Edition Author: Susan Cope Becker When the first edition of Living with a Deaf Dog was published in 1997, a movement began.

Deaf dog adoptions grew, euthanasia rates decreased, and canine deafness became more widely understood and accepted. Now, in the revised version of her guide, Susan Cope Becker offers new and improved information to benefit the tens of thousands of people who share their lives with deaf dogs, blind dogs and senior dogs. This book is also ideal for trainers and rescue organizations.

Known as the “deaf dog bible”, Living with a Deaf Dog is a wonderful tool for anyone training and communicating with hearing impaired canines. As it has for more than two decades, this valuable resource teaches readers how to communicate with their animals the way animals communicate with each other – without words. Additions to the second edition include an American Sign Language Chart and hand signs, updated training methods, and stories and photos from deaf dog owners across North America.

Becker’s knowledge will help enhance the trust, understanding and love you share with your dog, no matter his disability.

Publisher: Susan Cope Becker

Title: What Your Vet Never Told You Author: Odette Suter, DVM Why do so many animals suffer from devastating diseases such as cancer, allergies, autoimmune diseases and recurrent infections, all of which are becoming increasingly common? In What Your Vet Never Told You, Dr. Odette Suter shares cuttingedge secrets you’re unlikely to learn from a conventional veterinarian. She helps pet parents understand the root cause behind illness in their beloved furry friends and empowers them to take steps toward healing and prevention.

Dr. Suter shows you what it really takes to help return your pet to a healthful state, and presents tools to help prevent disease. By urging you to look at the whole animal and the root cause of “disease” rather than simply assessing symptoms, she harnesses years of wisdom and experience into a user-friendly resource that will help your pet lead his healthiest life.

Achieve and support peak health for your animal with this comprehensive guide to health and wellness.

Publisher: Peak Animal Health Center

82

Animal Wellness

After the loss of his beloved black Lab, Kirby, Dr. Andrew Root felt called to explore the intellectual, emotional and spiritual dimensions of the human-canine bond. In the midst of his family’s grief, he embarked on a journey to determine why humans and canines love one another as deeply as they do.

Drawing on his professional experience as a theologian, along with personal anecdotes about the multi-layered benefits of having an animal companion, Dr. Root authored The Grace of Dogs, which addresses topics such as the existence of animal souls, pet afterlife, and the complex grief that follows the loss of a dog. He reminds us of the mutually valuable relationship people share with their companion animals, and illuminates the many ways humans and dogs have helped one another throughout history.

Whether you’re on a spiritual journey or simply want to gain a deeper understanding of the love you share with your dog, this heartfelt book is a worthwhile read.

book reviews

Title: The Grace of Dogs Author: Andrew Root

Publisher: Convergent Books

Title: Will’s Red Coat Author: Tom Ryan In 2011, Tom Ryan charmed dog lovers everywhere with his touching book, Following Atticus, which detailed his mountain-climbing adventures with his miniature Schnauzer, Atticus. Now, he delivers another bestselling true story, this time featuring a senior rescue dog named Will. Inspired by his new canine friend, Ryan wrote Will’s Red Coat, which follows Will, Tom and Atticus on a journey of friendship.

When Tom and Atticus invite Will into their New Hampshire home, Tom knows he is providing a happy place for Will to live out his final days. But he soon realizes that their paths crossed for a much bigger reason. As Will starts to regain his trust in people, his energy returns. With the same patience that Tom showed Atticus, he nurtures Will’s transformation until the small dog becomes a happy, resilient version of his once broken self.

Will’s Red Coat demonstrates that, given lots of love and

companionship, dogs can thrive at any stage of life.

Publisher: Greystone Books Ltd.

April/May 2018

83

MARKETPLACE

84

Animal Wellness

If you would like to advertise in Ad Spots, please call:1-866-764-1212

classifieds Animal Communicators CAROL SCHULTZ – Animal Communicator/Intuitive Healing Support. Interactive, compassionate, practical, and insightful Consultations and Energy Balancing for all species. Assistance with emotional, behavioral, physical, end of life, and animals of spirit. Classes & mentoring available. (815) 531-2850 www.carolschultz.com SHIRLEY SCOTT – Internationally known Animal Communicator & Clairvoyant connects with your pets here or in spirit. She reads emotional/behavior/health problems, provides classes & workshops in animal communication & training. (541) 577-3051, sscott@shirley-scott.com, www.shirley-scott.com

Association INTERNATIONAL ASS’N OF ANIMAL MASSAGE & BODYWORK/ASS’N OF CANINE WATER THERAPY – Welcome trained practitioners of Animal Massage and Bodywork. The IAAMB/ACWT supports and promotes the practitioners of complementary care for animals through networking, continuing education, website, online referrals, newsletters, insurance, annual educational conferences, lobbying and credentialing of schools. www.IAAMB.org

Books & Publications 1000's OF DOG BOOKS, EBOOKS, DVDS AND TRAINING TOOLS IN STOCK - Ready to ship!

Learn like the Pros. (800) 776-2665; Dogwise.com

Contact us to order your classified ad 1-866-764-1212 or classified@animalwellnessmagazine.com

Holistic Veterinarians EAST YORK ANIMAL CLINIC HOLISTIC CENTRE – Dr. Paul McCutcheon, Dr. Cindy Kneebone & Dr. Candice Chiu. The first and oldest integrative veterinary clinic in Ontario with over fifty years of service to the community and our collective veterinarian experience of 95 years. We provide a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic methods utilizing the latest research in integrative medicine. Please visit our website to explore our services. www.eastyorkanimalclinic.com eyac@holisticpetvet.com (416) 757-3569, 805 O’Connor Drive, Toronto, ON, M4B 2S7 GUELPH ANIMAL HOSPITAL – Offers a full range of conventional veterinary services as well as acupuncture, chiropractic, massage, herbal and nutritional. Dr. Rob Butler is certified in Veterinary Acupuncture and is also trained in Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine.

Dr. Smolkin is certified in Animal Chiropractic.

By integrating conventional and complementary therapies, treatments can be tailored to the individual’s needs and preferences. Contact Guelph Animal Hospital at (519) 836-2781 or www.quelphvet.com MAIN STREET VETERINARY SERVICES – Our mission is to help guide our animal companions to better health naturally. We provide a variety of veterinary medical services for pets from conventional services to holistic services such as chiropractic or acupuncture care. Our commitment to our patients, high quality customized medicine and customer service will be evident

Schools & Training PETMASSAGE (FOR DOGS) TRAINING AND RESEARCH INSTITUTE – “Remove Disease from Your Pet’s Body Using Only Your Hands.” Skype and written interview: Jonathan Rudinger with Dr. Karen Becker – Dr. Mercola’s August 2014 Healthy Pets Newsletter: Link on homepage of www.petmassage.com WALKS ‘N’ WAGS PET FIRST AID – National Leaders in Pet First Aid Certification Courses for dogs and cats. Learn preventative skills and practice emergency bandaging with live wiggly pets. Distance Learning also available. www.walksnwags.com or (800) 298-1152

ANIMAL WELLNESS MEDIA REPRESENTATIVE

WANTED

Join the Redstone Media Group sales and marketing team today!

3Work from home 3Flexible hours 3 Part-time or 3Help animals full-time

Send your cover letter and resume to Resumes@animalwellnessmagazine.com April/May 2018

85

EVENTS

Canadian Pet Expo 2018 March 30 – April 1, 2018 — Toronto, ON

The Canadian Pet Expo is a world-class pet show that promotes responsible pet ownership and celebrates all types of pets, from all walks of life. This show features hundreds of vendors as well as interactive events, demonstrations, workshops and renowned speakers.

Whether it’s entertainment, education or other opportunities you are seeking, there is something for everyone at this show.

For more information: www.canadianpetexpo.ca

For more information: (484) 802-3475 Philadelphia@HealingTouchforAnimals.com www.healingtouchforanimals.com 14th Annual Alive! Expo April 21 – 22, 2018 — Atlanta, GA Every year Alive! Expo brings together local and national companies that specialize in natural and organic products and foods. You will find alternative practitioners as well as many great retailers showcasing their products including eco-friendly products for the home, pets and the whole family.

Alive! Expo is "The Natural Products & Green Living" consumer event and is a fun and exciting weekend for the entire family.

Phoenix Pet Expo April 7 – 8, 2018 — Phoenix, AZ You will find tons of exhibitors and demonstrations as well as free nail trims. There will be prize giveaways and live entertainment. You can adopt from one of the many Rescue groups and also learn about pet care, volunteerism, grooming, training and much more!

Be sure to check out other Amazing Pet Expo events all year round at www.amazingpetexpos.com For more information: (800) 977-3609 www.phoenixpetexpo.com/ Healing Touch for Animals® Level 1 Course April 13 – 15, 2018 — Philadelphia, PA Introduction to Healing Touch: Friday / 6:00pm – 10:00pm This class is a prerequisite of the Small Animal Class.

Small Animal Class: Saturday / 9:00am – 6:00pm This class is a prerequisite of the Large Animal Class.

Large Animal Class: Sunday / 9:00am – 6:00pm This class is required in order to apply to become a Healing Touch for Animals® Certified Practitioner. Working with the horses' large energy systems benefits students with greater energetic awareness and a well-rounded experience.

Registrations and payments in full must be received and/or postmarked by March 18, 2018, to qualify for the Early Bird Tuition prices.

For more information: www.aliveexpo.com South Florida Pet Expo April 21 – 22, 2018 — West Palm Beach, FL Fabulous prize giveaways and fun for both the two-legged AND four-legged!

Dozens of rescue groups and a mega-adoption event, discounted vaccinations, microchipping, heartworm and flea Preventatives, free nail trims, agility demonstrations, live entertainment, obedience demonstrations, author readings/book signings and the latest and greatest pet products!

Learn about pet care, volunteerism, grooming, pet behavior and training, traveling with your pet, and various types of pets/ breeds! Also enjoy veterinarian FAQ, fun activities for you and your pet and MUCH MORE! For more information: (800) 977-3609 www.southfloridapetexpo.com

Animal Care Expo 2018 May 14 – 17, 2018 — Kansas City, MO This expo is the largest international education conference in the fields of animal care, control, rescue and emergency services.

The Expo offers an opportunity to learn new skills and strategies, and network with more than 2,000 animal care experts, professionals, and newcomers from around the world.

This expo also offers intensive daylong certificate courses and over 55 professional development workshops. You will also find an extensive exhibit hall with more than 150 booths providing all the latest products and services!

For more information: (800) 248-EXPO expo@humanesociety.org www.animalsheltering.org/expo Woofstock 2018 May 26 – 27, 2018 — Toronto, ON Woofstock is, without question, the largest outdoor festival for dogs in all of North America. This world famous festival draws vendors from across Canada and the US. There isn’t a toy, fashion line, accessory, and type of treat or exclusive service for dogs that you can’t find at Woofstock.

Quirky and fun, Summer Woofstock is a free, non-stop two-day party taking place at Woodbine Park in Toronto Beaches, the City’s most dog “Paws-itive” neighborhood! Returning 2018!

Registration is now open for the Annual Paws in the Park dog walk and festival!

For more information: info@woofstock.com www.woofstock.ca

This fun-filled afternoon includes a one mile walk for dogs and people, pet games, prizes, demos, rescue groups, a “flealess” market with over 50 pet-friendly vendors, food, music and more.

Total Health Expo May 11 – 13, 2018 — Toronto, ON Total Health 2018, our nation's premier national health show, will celebrate 41 years of striving to make a difference in the world, bringing cutting-edge knowledge to the public by the leading innovators in the natural health field.

Animal Wellness

For more information: (877) 389-0996 www.totalhealthshow.com

Paws in the Park 2018 April 22, 2018 — Gaithersburg, MD

For more information: (240) 252-2555 mchs@mchumane.org www.mchumane.org/events/paws-in-the-park/

86

Our speakers will focus on creating good health and preventing disease using natural methods: good nutrition, living foods, herbs, natural supplements, diverse healing modalities, energy medicine, organic gardening, traditional farming, healthy homes, and renewable energy sources and preserving a healthy environment for our children. We as consumers must choose foods and medicines which do no harm to people, animals or our planet.

SuperZoo 2018 June 26 – 28, 2018 — Las Vegas, NV SuperZoo is the pet industry’s leading place for business with a combination of fun and function. No wonder pet professionals love it! Come out this year to network, expand your customer base and improve your sales.

For more information: (800) 999-729 info@wpamail.org www.superzoo.org

Email your event to: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com

tail end

Co-sleeping with

By Crystal Clarke

In the past, people co-slept with their animals for security, protection and warmth. But my reasons for sharing my own bed with my Basset hound, Rosie, go far beyond safety and coziness.

It starts with companionship and bonding. After all, what can bring living beings closer together, both physically and emotionally, than sharing the same bed? A quiet, relaxing bedtime provides an ideal opportunity for Rosie and me to spend time together, especially if we have not seen each other much that day due to work or other engagements. This unique bonding time has become an eagerly-awaited ritual for both of us. It solidifies our relationship and bridges the gap between human and animal. For me, it’s a perfect way to end a long, tiring and stressful day. And for Rosie, it’s a perfect way to spend quality time with her best human friend.

calming effect on me as Rosie unknowingly helps my anxiety melt away. My husband is away much of the time for work, and having Rosie share my bed relieves my loneliness and feelings of isolation. Her ever-loving presence is so warm and reassuring!

In the mornings, Rosie has learned that she is not allowed to disturb me until my alarm clock radio has gone off. Twice.

Nothing makes me smile more than lying in bed, listening to the soft music of my radio, having Rosie nuzzle my neck and roll on her back for a belly rub as she looks up at me with adoring brown eyes. It definitely starts the day on a positive, loving note. Yes, doggie morning breath can be unpleasant, but ours isn’t very agreeable first thing in the morning, either! I wouldn’t trade our precious snuggle time for all the hair-free beds in the world.

Although she weighs almost 60 pounds, Rosie is thankfully not a blanket hog. She’s usually content to curl up close to my feet, leaving me with ample room to sleep in comfort. In fact, sharing my bed with Rosie is essential for keeping her settled through the night. Rosie is a roamer. If she wasn’t allowed on my bed, she’d wander noisily around the house. And that’s disruptive to sleep. Most dogs, like Rosie, can be kept calmer and quieter at night when they’re allowed to sleep with their humans. It gives them a soothing sense of warmth, comfort and security, which aids in keeping them relaxed and asleep. This can be especially true with an anxious dog, like my Rosie, or one who has recently been rescued and may need that extra sense of safety and reassurance.

Having Rosie on my bed has the same calming effect on me.

For as long as I can remember, I have lived with anxiety and feelings of uneasiness when I am alone. Close interactions with my beloved dog are therapeutic and help relieve the stresses of my daily life, while cuddling and petting her at night has a April/May 2018

87

88

Animal Wellness

feline WELLNESS 8 Hip, cool and healthy!

TOP FRUITS &VEGGIES TO

BOOST HER DIET

WAYS TO SATISFY YOUR CAT’S

INNER HUNTER

SKIN

PROBLEM? FIND OUT WHAT MIGHT BE CAUSING IT

CAT CHAT

ASPCA's

Kitten Nursery

Spring means the start of kitten season. Here’s how one organization handles the influx of furry babies in need of rescue.

April/May 2018

89

Common skin

problems in cats

From allergic dermatitis to rodent ulcers, a variety of skin problems can afflict cats.

Here’s a look at the most common, along with their causes and treatments.

By Janice Huntingford, DVM Although cats are good at hiding signs of illness, skin problems are quite obvious. They’re also quite common. According to last year’s State of Health pet survey, skin disease is among the top ten complaints in cats. Many skin conditions can afflict felines, including allergic dermatitis, which tops the list, along with abcesses, “rodent ulcers” and more.

ALLERGIC DERMATITIS Allergic dermatitis results in itching and scratching and is the most common feline skin complaint, with fleas and flea allergies topping the list of causes. Environmental and food allergies can also cause this type of skin problem.

90

Feline Wellness

Regardless of cause, allergic dermatitis frequently manifests as “miliary dermatitis”, which is not a specific disease but rather a disease complex. The hallmark of miliary dermatitis (or scabby cat disease) is a red crusty rash around the head, neck and back, accompanied by intense itching. Often, people will feel bumps all over the cat before they see the rash. It is not unusual for the cat to lose fur.

The underlying cause must be treated along with the symptoms. This may not be easy since the symptoms of any feline allergy may look the same; however, here are a few helpful clues.

q Flea allergy requires the presence of fleas in the environment,

Lumps and bumps

but this is not as obvious as you may think. Cats do such a good job of grooming themselves that they may groom out all the fleas. However, the flea droppings may still be evident in the coat.

Bumps, masses or skin swellings represent about onethird of feline skin problems. They should be taken seriously, and often need to be diagnosed using special tests such as aspirates or biopsies.

w Food allergy, caused by a reaction to one or more

Many skin swellings in cats are caused by abscesses.

Often, a swollen area is really a large pocket of pus under the skin caused by a bite or scratch. The cat may run a high fever and feel unwell. Unlike cancers, these swellings are painful and need to opened and drained.

ingredients in the cat’s food, can be a source of non-seasonal itching, generally involves the head and ears, and may be accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea.

e E nvironmental allergy, caused by a reaction to substances

in the environment such as pollens, mold or dust mites, may look like either of the above, or may take on the form of excessive grooming.

TREATMENT DEPENDS ON CAUSE The treatment for itchy cats hinges on a proper diagnosis of the cause, and treating or avoiding the source.

• If fleas are the problem, using a flea comb and bathing with herbal flea shampoo is helpful. Environmental control with food-grade diatomaceous earth is effective, while frequent vacuuming will remove flea larva and eggs. Herbal and homeopathic remedies can also help, but be sure to work with a holistic veterinarian. Putting cedar chips in your yard can reduce outdoor fleas.

• For cats with food allergies, an elimination diet is needed to find the source of the problem. Work with a veterinarian to do this correctly.

• Environmental allergies can be minimized by reducing or eliminating exposure to irritating substances. Check around your house for mold, vacuum and dust your home regularly, and wash bedding often.

DON’T FORGET DIET A basic treatment for any itchy cat involves an anti-inflammatory diet. These diets are low in carbohydrates, particularly grains and potato, and higher in protein. Chinese food therapy also recommends the avoidance of “heating” proteins, so eliminate chicken and lamb from the cat’s diet. Omega 3 fatty acids can be used to decrease inflammation. The best sources are fish or marine oil – flaxseed oil is not metabolized by cats.

Skin diseases are common in cats (see sidebars at right for other conditions) but with proper diet and care, they can usually be treated with good results.

Antibiotics may be prescribed, although a holistic veterinarian may prescribe an herbal remedy or hot compressing of the area to eliminate the infection. If your cat has a sudden swelling, and seems to be in pain or lethargic, have your veterinarian check him out as soon as possible.

Rodent ulcers and other sores Another common skin condition in cat involves red lesions on the face or groin area. If the upper lip is involved, and swelling is present, it could be a condition called “rodent ulcers”. Despite the name, it’s not caused by rodents but is a manifestation of allergic skin disease.

Common causes, other than allergies, can be fungal infections such as ringworm, as well as autoimmune disease or even cancer.

White cats with sores on the ears or face have a higher than normal incidence of squamous cell carcinoma, so don’t ignore these little red sores.

Any persistent sores on any cat, regardless of coat color, require medical attention.

April/May 2018

91

By Ann Brightman

Kitten season starts in April and lasts through September. This means shelters and rescues are overwhelmed with homeless kittens during the warm weather months. Here’s how one animal welfare organization handles the situation.

Stray and feral cats abound, and because most of them aren’t spayed or neutered, they have countless litters of kittens, starting in the spring. In fact, shelters and rescues call the warm weather months from April through September “kitten season”, because that’s when their facilities are overrun with kittens in need of homes. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is one organization that has developed a unique protocol for coping with the situation – by maintaining a special nursery just for newborn kittens.

CARING FOR NEONATAL KITTENS According to the ASPCA, approximately 3.2 million cats enter shelters nationwide every year, but it is nearly impossible to identify how many kittens are born each season. In 2014, the ASPCA opened its very own Kitten Nursery in New York City, which serves as the city’s first high-volume kitten nursery, providing care for newborn kittens that can’t survive on their own, and serving both nursing cats with litters and orphaned kittens taken in by the Animal Care Centers of NYC. Looking after newborn kittens is a challenging job because they need constant care. “Nurseries like ours are rare, because caring for neonates is a time- and resource-intensive process,” says Lourdes Bravo, Senior Manager of the ASPCA’s Kitten Nursery.

92

Feline Wellness

“Many of the kittens need round-the-clock care – some are only days old – so staff are needed 24/7 to take care of them.

Duties range from bottle-feeding and cage cleaning to food preparation. Kittens receive care until they are old enough to be microchipped, vaccinated and spayed/neutered.”

By the time they’re eight weeks old, the kittens are ready to be adopted out through the ASPCA Adoption Center or local rescue groups. “We have knowledgeable adoption counselors who help prospective adopters find the kittens that are best for them and their lifestyles,” says Lourdes. “We have been able to find caring homes for all the kittens.” To date, the Kitten Nursery has saved over 5,000 newborn and at-risk kittens.

WHAT HAPPENS IN THE “OFF-SEASON”?

When the fall rolls around and kitten season slows down, ASPCA’s Kitten Nursery closes its doors until the following year. But that doesn’t mean work stops – far from it. “We begin preparing for the next kitten season, which includes reviewing our operations protocols, holding debriefing sessions with staff and partner organizations, cleaning the facility from top to bottom, and analyzing the data of kittens in our care,” says Lourdes. “By the time we are ready to open our doors to new kittens next April, we have made all the necessary preparations for an even more successful kitten season.”

Photos courtesy of The ASPCA

ASPCA’s Kitten Nursery

How can you help?



Adopt



Volunteer or donate



Foster

HUMANE MANAGEMENT AND EDUCATION The ASPCA supports programs designed to humanely manage feral cat populations, thereby helping to reduce the numbers of kittens born each year. “These include Trap-Neuter-Return-Monitor (TNRM) and Working Cat programs,” says Jesse.

“We encourage cat advocates, animal shelters and rescues, local government officials, and the public to work together to implement these programs within their communities.”

“The best way to help during kitten season is to make adoption your first option,” says Lourdes. “Visit ASPCA.org/kittens to take the pledge and search for local shelters near you.”

If you’re not in a position to adopt, look into volunteering at your local shelter or rescue, or make donations of money or supplies. If you’re donating supplies, contact the facility first to find out what they’re most in need of.

The organization also offers educational material such as workbooks and videos to help shelters and rescues across the country relieve the burden of kitten season in their own areas. These organizations are encouraged to host their own TNRM workshops, thereby helping to reduce numbers of strays and ferals while improving the lives of existing cats and kittens.

Opening your home to foster kittens is another wonderful way to help. “The ASPCA has a group of dedicated volunteer fosters, both in New York City and Los Angeles,” says Lourdes (see sidebar below). “They care for kittens that will benefit from being in a home environment until they’re ready for adoption. You don’t need to live near a kitten nursery to foster kittens – most shelters and rescues welcome foster homes during kitten season.

Lourdes states that newborn kittens are among the most vulnerable of homeless animals, especially in cities like New York.

But thanks to the ASPCA’s Kitten Nursery, thousands of kittens have already been saved and adopted into forever homes. Now, with the arrival of spring, Lourdes and her team are gearing up for another kitten season at the nursery, and are ready and waiting to rescue more lives. “It is imperative for us – and certainly in line with our mission – to do what we can to help save and protect these kittens.”

New York City isn’t the only place with a kitten overpopulation problem. In the fall of 2016, the ASPCA launched a Kitten Foster Program in Los Angeles. “The ASPCA is urgently looking for LA residents who can temporarily open up their homes to foster kittens until they’re ready for adoption,” says Jesse Oldham, Senior Administrative Director of the ASPCA’s Community Outreach team. “We supply medical services, food, litter and all the support you need – we will even deliver the kittens right to your home.” To learn more, visit ASPCA.org/FosterLA.

Photo courtesy of The ASPCA

KITTEN FOSTER PROGRAM IN LA

The ASPCA Field Investigations team rescuing kittens during the natural disaster in St. Croix.

April/May 2018

93

SAFE AND

humane WAYS TO GIVE YOUR CAT THE

thrill OF

CHASING AND CATCHING “PREY”, WITHOUT

harming

NEIGHBORHOOD WILDLIFE.

How to safely satisfy your cat’s

HUNTING INSTINCTS

By Ann Brightman

As carnivores and predators, cats are natural hunters. Unlike his wild counterparts, your kitty doesn’t need to kill other critters in order to survive, but that hunting instinct is still a strong part of his makeup. How do you satisfy that instinct without letting your cat outside to kill wildlife? Luckily, there are lots of ways to cater to your kitty’s inner hunter without harming songbirds, butterflies and other wild species that are important to our eco-systems.

1

If your cat doesn’t like staying indoors all the time, there are ways to get him outside while keeping local wildlife safe. An outdoor cat enclosure with a fine mesh covering will give him some fresh air and opportunities to watch birds and butterflies without catching and hurting them.

94

Feline Wellness

2

Another alternative is to train him to a harness and leash (this is most successful with a kitten or young cat) and take him for “walks”. Be sure to supervise him at all times when he’s outdoors. Never tether a cat to a tree or post and leave him in the yard alone – he could hang himself from his leash, or be at the mercy of a neighborhood dog or other larger carnivore.

3

Situate a bird feeder within easy viewing distance of one of your cat’s favorite windows. This will give him the chance to at least partly satisfy his desire to hunt by watching the birds from indoors (while making that signature “chattering” sound that cats make when they’re stalking!)

Be sure to let your cat actually catch the toy from time to time, to give him the satisfaction of a “kill”.

4

Some cats enjoy watching birds, fish and other small animals on the TV or computer screen. You can get DVDs, or download apps for your tablet or other mobile device, and let your cat stalk and “chase” the images.

5

Interactive play that allows your cat to chase and catch toys is also important. The key word here is “interactive”. Cats like things that move and soon get bored with objects that just lie there. Feather toys are a particular favorite, as you can use them to mimic bird behavior. The traditional catnip mouse is another good standby – tie it to a string or ribbon and pull it around the house so your cat can chase it. Add challenge and variety to interactive play by going around corners and up and down stairs, or by having the toy “hide” in a box or under a chair.

Be sure to let your cat actually catch the toy from time to time, to give him the satisfaction of a “kill”. Buy quality products, and keep in mind that soft toy surfaces give the cat a chance to sink his claws and teeth into his “prey”.

6

When you can’t be around, leave out toys that will encourage selfplay. A puzzle toy or interactive feeder with some healthy treats inside will prompt your cat to “hunt” for something to eat.

7 8

Give your cat access to high places in the house (or his outdoor enclosure). Being up high not only give him a sense of security, but also helps to satisfy his inner hunter by giving him a wide “birds-eye” view of his environment.

Cats love knocking things off tables and shelves, not just because they’re trying to get your attention, but also because the objects move rapidly as they fall to the floor. If the object bounces or rolls after it hits the floor, that’s even better; you’ll notice that many cats will jump down after knocking something over to investigate its movement. Again, this activity goes some way to satisfying feline hunting instincts.

Rather than discouraging this behavior, keep valuable or breakable items out of reach, and put some of his toys on a shelf or table, so that he can knock those down instead.

A happy cat is one who has the scope to satisfy some of his natural instincts, and hunting is one of the big ones. Taking steps to appease your kitty’s inner hunter, without harming local wildlife, is easier than you think!

CURTAIL YOUR CAT’S WANDERING Don’t let your cat roam freely outdoors. Cats don’t discriminate when it comes to what species of wildlife they stalk and kill, so he won’t differentiate between the mice that have set up home in your shed, and the rare thrush nesting in a nearby woods.

In addition, letting your cat wander is dangerous for his own health and well-being – from traffic to infectious disease to larger predators like coyotes or cougars, there are a lot of hazards out there for domestic kitties.

April/May 2018

95

book reviews

Title: Distillery Cats Author: Brad Thomas Parsons Not all cats are couch potatoes. In his new book Distillery Cats, Brad Thomas Parsons explains the historical role of feline workers – from mousers to brand ambassadors – and how they influenced the distillery industry we know today.

Featuring 30 adorable kitties who lend their skills at breweries, wineries and vineyards, this charming volume appeals to cat lovers, spirits enthusiasts and anyone looking for a good laugh.

It’s rare to find a book that contains beautiful illustrations, cocktail recipes and eloquently written profiles about cats, but Parsons manages to pull it off. With its sharp wit and unique design, Distillery Cats takes readers on a cross-country tour through America’s distilleries and breweries, making honorable mentions of the cats who “punch the clock” at each location. If there’s a book that will give you a newfound respect for felines and their multifaceted talents, this is it.

Publisher: Ten Speed Press

Title: The Trainable Cat Authors: John Bradshaw and Sarah Ellis Have you ever told your cat not to do something?

Chances are, he didn’t listen. Typically, our feline companions are indifferent about rules and commands.

But contrary to popular belief, they can and should be trained. In their new book The Trainable Cat, bestselling anthrozoologist John Bradshaw and feline behavior specialist Sarah Ellis remind us that cats – especially the urban dwellers – thrive on the structure and quality time that training offers.

Once wild predators, cats are still adjusting to their domestication. While some felines are happy living in small apartments in the company of other animals, and traveling around in carriers, others develop behavior issues as a result of this “modern” life. A deeper understanding of their natural instincts and desires reveals that training cats can help them overcome certain anxieties, deepen the bond they share with their humans, and increase their overall happiness. With this in mind, Bradshaw and Ellis offer positive training tips for various scenarios, including helping kitties deal with vet visits, bond with other furry family members, and adjust to new babies.

Whether you’re adopting a new cat or looking to improve the well-being of your existing companion, The Trainable Cat is a must-have.

Publisher: Greystone Books Ltd.

96

Feline Wellness

VEGGIES AND FRUITS you can share with your

CAT

By Sara Jackson

B

Although cats must eat a meat-based diet in order to thrive, you can also add in some vegetables and fruit for extra nutrition.

ecause they’re obligate carnivores, cats have to eat meat in order to stay healthy. But that doesn’t mean you can’t share certain vegetables and fruits with your kitty. In fact, they can give your cat an extra health boost, as long as he’s already eating a wholesome high quality meat-based diet. Many fruits and veggies are rich in antioxidants as well as vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that can help boost your cat’s immune system and protect him from disease.

Not all cats will eat fruits and vegetables, but give the following a try – even if your kitty only likes one or two, you’re still adding extra nutrition to his diet. Try to use only organic foods if you can; if organic isn’t available, be sure to thoroughly wash any produce before giving it to your cat. Remember also to cut the vegetables or fruit into small cat-bite-sized pieces.

• Broccoli – besides containing lots of fiber, antioxidants and powerful plant compounds, broccoli also helps improve digestion. Steam it and mix it in with your cat’s regular diet.

• Spinach – like broccoli, spinach is another healthy choice – steam and serve as you would with broccoli.

• Kale – this popular dark leafy green can help promote healthy liver function and assists in reducing inflammation. Try adding a tablespoon of chopped kale daily to your cat’s food.

• Pumpkin – this is an excellent source of soluble fiber, which aids in keeping your cat regular and in good digestive health. Pumpkin can be helpful whenever your cat is either constipated or has diarrhea. It’s best to puree it before giving it to your cat.

• Bananas, cantaloupe, blueberries and strawberries – these fruits are rich in nutrients and can be given as treats. Some cats will be more attracted to fruit than vegetables.

The next time you’re at the market or grocery store, pick up some of these vegetables and fruits to share with your cat. Used as treats, or mixed in with his regular food, fresh produce can add an extra level to his overall well-being.

April/May 2018

97

CAT RESCUE IN CALIFORNIA

cat chat

In recent months, wildfires and mudslides wreaked havoc on certain parts of California. In the wake of these disasters, many dogs (see page 12) and cats have become lost, fighting against all odds to be reunited with their families.

Photo courtesy

of Alley Cat Al

lies

Dedicated to protecting and improving cats’ lives through innovative, cutting-edge programs, Alley Cat Allies stepped in to fund rescue groups and save the lives of these displaced or injured felines.

“Many animal welfare organizations in California are stretched to the limit to help with injured and lost cats,” says Becky Robinson, president and founder of Alley Cat Allies. “By adding our resources to the effort, we’re helping them continue their dedicated, lifesaving work and make the biggest impact.”

AlleyCat.org

IS YOUR CAT RIGHT-PAWED OR LEFT-PAWED? When your cat plays with his catnip mouse, or snatches a morsel from your plate, which paw does he prefer using? Researchers at the Animal Behavior Centre at Queen’s University in Belfast recently conducted a study with 44 mixed-breed cats – 20 females and 24 males – to determine whether they favored their right or left paws.

Through observation, the researchers discovered that approximately 73% of the feline subjects showed a paw preference or “lateral bias” when reaching for food; 70% showed a paw preference when taking the first step down stairs; and 66% when stepping into a litter box. The study findings were published in Animal Behavior this past January.

Feline lateral bias, to the authors’ surprise, appeared to correspond to the cats’ gender. Female cats often favored their right paws, while males favored their left. Study co-author Deborah Wells says that these findings may help us understand a cat’s vulnerability to stress by revealing which side of the brain he/she relies on. “Left-limbed animals rely more heavily on the right hemisphere of their brains, and tend to display stronger fear responses and aggression than right-limbed animals,” she explains.

ScienceDirect.com

98

Feline Wellness

April/May 2018

99

100

Feline Wellness