V20I6 (Dec/Jan 2018-19)

ANIMAL WELLNESS

For a long, healthy life!

WELLNESS

holiday issue!

6PAIN

WAYS TO KNOW IF YOUR PUP’S IN

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

DOGGIE PLAYTIME How to organize

inside

TIPS FOR

a playgroup

WHAT’S REALLY IN

PET VACCINES? Here’s what you need to know about vaccine additives TOP TIPS FOR FINDING THE BEST

STRESS-FREE GROOMING

SHOP FOR A

CAUSE

– how to help animals in need this holiday season!

DOG BED DECEMBER 2018/JANUARY 2019 Display until January 14, 2019

$6.95 USA/Canada

VOLUME 20 ISSUE 6

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BONUS INSIDE!

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Contents December 2018/January 2019

Features

18 CRANIOSACRAL FOR YOUR CANINE COMPANION

Most dogs are active and love to play and run.

But injuries can happen and cause problems down the road. CranioSacral Therapy can help prevent these problems.

22 GETTING THE RIGHT DIAGNOSIS FOR YOUR PET

Health problems in dogs and cats are sometimes missed or diagnosed incorrectly.

Arriving at a correct diagnosis involves good teamwork from you and your vet.

26 TOP TIPS FOR FINDING

THE BEST DOG BED

Your dog’s sleeping arrangements can help or hinder his well-being, so it’s important to buy him a bed he loves! Here are a few tips to help you in the hunt.

28 ADDITIVES AND

ADJUVANTS IN ANIMAL VACCINES

Most vaccines for dogs and cats contain additional ingredients that can raise the risk of adverse reactions. Let’s look at what they are, and how you can help keep your pet safe.

33 HOLIDAY SHOPPING

THAT HELPS ANIMALS IN NEED

Chances are, you’ll be doing some holiday shopping this season. Why not put those hardearned dollars toward helping needy animals at the same time?

44 DOGGY PLAY DATES

Want to join or organize a playgroup for your dog? Take these tips and tactics into consideration before setting your first date.

46 ACUPRESSURE FOR

EASING HOLIDAY STRESS – IN YOU AND YOUR DOG!

The festive season can be stressful – and if you’re feeling tense, your dog is too. These simple acupressure sessions can help you and your best friend stay relaxed and balanced.

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18 50 KEEP YOUR DOG SAFE AND SOUND!

From heavy duty harnesses to high-tech ID tags, products designed with your dog’s safety in mind are everywhere.

56 HOW IS ELECTROPOLLUTION AFFECTING YOUR PET’S HEALTH?

Electromagnetic radiation from cell phones, power lines and more are having an adverse impact on the health of our dogs and cats (and ourselves!).

Learn how to protect your pet.

66 6 WAYS TO KNOW IF YOUR DOG IS IN PAIN

By understanding something about canine body language and behavior, you’ll be in a better position to know when your dog might be experiencing pain or discomfort.

72 DOGS CAN GET BREAST CANCER TOO

Breast cancer is most often associated with humans, but dogs develop this malignancy as well. The good news is that there are many steps you can take to reduce the risk in your own canine companion.

75 HOW HOMEOPATHY

HELPS TREAT SEIZURES IN PETS

Unlike conventional medications, which only control seizure symptoms in dogs and cats, homeopathy offers the possibility of a genuine cure in the majority of cases.

78 SAFE TRAVELS WITH YOUR DOG

If you’re traveling with your dog this holiday season, help ensure his health and safety by being aware of some often overlooked hazards that could spell trouble.

80 MAKE GROOMING A POSITIVE EXPERIENCE FOR YOUR DOG

Trips to the groomers don’t have to be stressful.

These tips will help ensure your dog stays calm and collected so he can come out feeling as well as looking his best!

91 6 FLOWER ESSENCES FOR STRESSED CATS

Flower essences are a safe and effective way to calm and balance nervous or fearful kitties.

94 CHOOSING THE RIGHT TOYS FOR YOUR CAT

Cats need to play as much as dogs do. Help keep your cat happy and healthy by selecting toys that satisfy her natural instincts and encourage her to exercise.

96 CHOOSING A CARRIER FOR YOUR CAT

Most cats run the other way when they see their carriers. Buying the right model for your kitty, and helping him acclimatize to it, will encourage him to feel a little more comfortable.

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Columns

12 Yakkity yak 40 Rewind 61 Warm & fuzzy 82 To the rescue 84 Book reviews 89 Spot the difference 98 FW Book reviews

78 Departments 8

Editorial

54

Product picks

64

Animal Wellness resource guide

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The scoop

86

Marketplace

Tips, pet photos, and more!

AnimalWellnessMagazine

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ClassiďŹ eds

Crafts, laughs, and more!

AnimalWellness

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Events

Social media Tips, contests and more!

AnimalWellnessMagazine News, events, and tips! @ AW_magazine

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VOLUME 20 ISSUE 6

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Associate Editor: Emily Watson Senior Graphic Designer: Dawn Cumby-Dallin Graphic Designer: Anna Dezsi Social/Digital Media Manager: Theresa Gannon Web Design & Development: Brad Vader Cover Image Courtesy of: Dezy COLUMNISTS & CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Nadia Ali Sally Bahner Varsha Bang W. Jean Dodds, DVM Audi Donamor Katie B. Kangas, DVM, CVA, CVCP Ingrid King Anabelle Lee Macri Shawn Messonnier, DVM Carol Osborne, DVM Maureen Rogers John Saxton, Vet Med, Vet FF Hom, Cert IAVH, MRCVS Becki Selby Amy Snow Peggy Swager Nancy Zidonis ADMINISTRATION & SALES President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Accounting: Susan Smith Circulation & Office Manager: Libby Sinden Subscription Services Manager: Brittany Tufts Marketing & Administration Associate: Ericka Carbonneau 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.

ON THE COVER PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF:

ADVERTISING SALES 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 Editorial & Multimedia Specialist: Carlisle Froese, (866) 764-1212 ext. 224 carlisle@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

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Dezy With the holiday season just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about the many dogs and dog lovers on your list, while warming up for the colder weather like this guy is doing.

While we don’t recommend human scarves for dogs – this particular pooch is just posing for the camera! – we provide plenty of gift ideas in this issue, along with lots of informative winter reading. Happy Holidays!

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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: November 2018.

IMPROVING THE LIVES OF ANIMALS...

ONE READER AT A TIME.

editorial

season The spirit of the

h

oliday magic is alive and well in our home.

I thought it might taper off a little, now that the kids are older, but the four-legged family members continue to reinforce the spirit of the season. Under their bright and watchful eyes, we drag out the cardboard boxes of decorations, and I’m always struck that they remember this ritual from years past.

It will be Katy’s 15th and Muffie’s tenth Christmas, so they know the routine. Being a cat, Katy is thrilled by the empty boxes and jumps from one to another, tail swishing excitedly. When the tree goes up, she peers out from behind the branches, until the temptation of another empty box is simply too much. Muffie sniffs through everything, and watches in anticipation as the decorations go up. She does a little dance when she sees her stocking take its place on the mantel. Once the decorating is done, both girls love to sit around the fireplace hearth, soaking up the warmth, and cuddling with any human who’s relaxing in the same space.

Of course, at this time especially, we always consider the animals less fortunate than our own rescues. So to help you gear up for the festive season, we look at how you can help animals in need when doing your holiday shopping. It’s so easy! We also provide tips on how to choose the perfect gift, whether it’s a cozy dog bed or something that will keep the canines in your life safe, like a durable new harness or a state-of-the-art ID tag.

If you need help minimizing stress levels during this busy time of year, try out two calming acupressure sessions – one for you and one for your dog! And if you’re planning to travel with your dog this season,

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learn how to protect him from some often-overlooked hazards you may encounter in and around your accommodations, whether you’re staying at a hotel or a rustic cabin getaway.

This issue also offers some thought-provoking reading for those long winter evenings by the fire. Explore CranioSacral Therapy and how it can benefit your dog, or find out how you can make his grooming appointments enjoyable rather than stressful. We look at the additives and adjuvants used in vaccines; why electromagnetic pollution can have a negative effect on your dog’s health (and yours!); and how homeopathy can be an effective treatment for seizures. If your dog is a social butterfly, don’t miss our article on getting him involved in a doggy playgroup – or forming your own!

Our Feline Wellness section features articles on the best types of toys for cats, and provides helpful tips for choosing the right carrier for your kitty. And if your cat is stressed, either by the comings and goings of the holidays, or for any other reason, take a look at the top flower essences to help him relax.

Have a safe and healthy holiday, and a happy New Year!

Dana Cox Editor-in-Chief

contributors

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1. Veterinarian Dr. Jean Dodds received her veterinary degree in 1964 from the Ontario Veterinary College. In 1986, she established Hemopet, the first non-profit national blood bank program for animals. Dr. Dodds has been a member of many committees on hematology, animal models of human disease and veterinary medicine. She received the Holistic Veterinarian of the Year Award from the AHVMA in 1994. Turn to page 28 for info on what you need to know about vaccine additives and adjuvants.

2. Veterinarian Dr. Katie Kangas graduated from the University of Wisconsin Veterinary College in 1993. She achieved her CVA certification at the Chi Institute in 2008, followed by additional training in Advanced Acupuncture, Food Therapy, Herbal Medicine and Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation. Dr. Kangas owns Integrative Veterinary Care in San Diego, California. Her areas of special interest include nutrition/food medicine, dental health and pain management.

On page 56, she discusses the effects of electropollution on pets.

3. 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. For this issue, he looks at the problem of missed diagnoses and misdiagnosis in companion animals (page 22).

4. Veterinarian Dr. Carol Osborne is a BoardCertified Diplomate of the American Board of Anti-Aging Medicine, and has pioneered the

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exploration of new therapies for the treatment and prevention of age-related degenerative disease, as well as optimum health and performance for pets. She created and patented PAAWS (Pet AntiAging Wellness System) and authored Naturally Healthy Dogs and Naturally Healthy Cats. An Emmy-nominated television journalist, she has made frequent appearances on Good Day L.A., Discovery's Animal Planet and more. She operates the Chagrin Falls Veterinary Center & Pet Clinic in Ohio (chagrinfallspetclinic.com, 440-247-5901 or drcaroldvm@gmail.com). Read Dr. Osborne’s article on breast cancer in pets on page 72.

5. Veterinarian Dr. John Saxton qualified in 1964 from the Royal Veterinary College in London. In the late 1970s, he became interested in homeopathy.

Dr. Saxton is a recognised examiner in veterinary homoeopathy for the Faculty of Homeopathy, and an examiner and teacher for the IAVH. He is past treasurer and president of the British Association of Homoeopathic Veterinary Surgeons; was president of the UK Faculty of Homeopathy; coordinator of the IAVH education subcommittee; and veterinary secretary for the Liga Medicorum Homoeopathica Internationalis. See page 75 for Dr. Saxton’s article on homeopathy for seizures.

6. Audi Donamor has been successfully creating special needs diets for companion animals for two decades. She founded the University of Guelph’s Smiling Blue Skies® Cancer Fund and Smiling Blue Skies® Fund for Innovative Research. She is the recipient of a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, and received the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, for her work in cancer, from the University of Guelph/Ontario Veterinary College. The Smiling Blue Skies Cancer Fund is the recipient of the “Pets + Us” Community Outreach Champion Award. Audi writes about foods for eye health on page 40.

7. 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; it is an approved school by the Dept. of Private Occupational Schools State of Colorado and an approved provider of NCCAOM CEs (PDA #1181). Contact 303-6813030, animalacupressure.com and Tallgrass@ animalacupressure.com. On page 46, Amy and Nancy provide de-stressing acupressure sessions for you and your pet.

8. Sally Bahner specializes in cat-related issues, specifically nutrition, holistic care and behavior.

She has offered her services as a feline behavior and care consultant and gives classes on cat care. Sally is the resident cat behavior expert on Tracie Hotchner’s Cat Chat radio program, and a member of the Cat Writers’ Association and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. Sally provides tips for choosing a cat carrier on page 96.

9. Ingrid King is a former veterinary hospital manager and author of five cat books, including Buckley’s Story: Lessons from a Feline Master Teacher and Tortitude: The BIG Book of Cats with a BIG Attitude. Her blog, The Conscious Cat, is an award-winning resource for conscious living, health and happiness for cats and their humans (ConsciousCat.com). Ingrid writes for magazines and websites around the world. For this issue (page 94), she looks at the best toy types for cats.

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10. Maureen Rogers is a pioneer and leading expert in the field of Equine/Canine CranioSacral Therapy. She is the founder of Equine CranioSacral and Canine CranioSacral Workshops, an international education program which offers the most extensive program of study. Maureen travels internationally for teaching, lectures and private consultations, and works with vets, physiotherapists, trainers and animal owners. She is sought out for her expertise in Equine/Canine CranioSacral work, rehab therapy, treating behavioral issues in dogs (equinecraniosacral.com). See page 18 for Maureen’s article on CranioSacral for dogs.

11. Becki Selby owns a busy grooming salon in Peterborough, Ontario and serves as a sales consultant for an all-natural pet health company. She has worked with animals since 2000 in a variety of capacities, including veterinary assistant, pet food retailer, and pet store manager. Becki has been involved with conformation dog shows and has worked with dog trainers. Her passion is advocating for animal health and welfare. On page 80, Becki offers tips on making groomer visits less stressful for your dog.

12. Nadia Ali is a freelance writer who was born in London, England and now lives on the Caribbean island of Trinidad. She is inspired by Cici, her family cat. Her work has been published online and in print. For this edition (page 44),

contributors

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Nadia discusses the benefits of doggy play dates, and how to set up a playgroup for your own dog.

13. Varsha Bang is a freelance writer and dog lover who lives in India. She shares her home with two canine companions. Turn to page 66 for her advice on how to tell if your dog is in pain.

14. Tamra Bolles writes under the pen name of Anabelle Lee Macri, and lives in Atlanta, Georgia.

She graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor's degree in journalism, and is a freelance writer. On page 78, she discusses some often overlooked hazards you may encounter when traveling with your dog.

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From left, Linda Hamilton, dog control officer in Chenango, New York; Sadie; and Chris Frye, assistant clinical professor of sports medicine and rehabilitation.

INCREDIBLE JOURNEY WITH A HAPPY ENDING Sadie, an American foxhound, went missing in late 2014. Over the next three years, she traveled nearly 400 miles to upstate New York. Fortunately, her story has a happy ending.

In January 2017, dog control officer Linda Hamilton received a call that a stray hound was spotted dragging a coyote trap on her right hind leg. Other sightings occurred between January and June, and rescuers determined that the dog, now named Sadie, was traveling about nine miles a day. When they finally captured her, they noticed she had lost a tooth – likely from trying to free herself from the trap – and had a tear in her tongue. It’s speculated that she also had a litter of puppies in the wild; an infection in her uterus would have killed her if she hadn’t been rescued. After locating Sadie’s previous family and learning they didn’t want her back, Hamilton adopted her.

Sadie’s hind leg couldn't be saved, so Hamilton contacted Chris Frye, assistant clinical professor of sports medicine and rehabilitation at the Cornell University Hospital for Animals, to inquire about fitting Sadie with a prosthetic limb. Sadie turned out to be a perfect candidate for a prosthesis, since her amputation had occurred below the ankle. She was recently fitted for one and today, she’s able to walk – and even run – without a hitch!

WHAT ARE DOGS GETTING INTO? It’s not uncommon for dogs to eat things they shouldn’t. No matter how closely we watch them, they sometimes find a way to ingest even the most unappealing items. According to JustAnswer. com, medications top the list, followed by cooked animal bones, onions, chocolate, etc. For the full list and percentages, see right.

Image courtesy of justanswer.com

Cornell University Photo courtesy of Lindsay France,

yakkity yak

breakable tree ornaments out of your pet’s reach.

Remember to keep

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CAMPAIGN AGAINST UNETHICAL DOG BREEDING As part of their dedication to end unethical dog breeding, the ASPCA recently unveiled a new anti-puppy mill initiative called Barred From Love. The campaign encourages dog lovers to adopt from a local shelter or rescue group, or learn how to identify a responsible dog breeder. Use the hashtag #barredfromlove to speak out against the commercial puppy industry.

the ASPCA

aspca.org/barred-from-love

Image courtesy of

Help end unethical commercial breeding by using the hashtag #barredfromlove.

ROBOPETS IMPROVE LIVES OF PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA Photo courtesy of VCH

Therapy dogs and cats have been visiting nursing homes for decades. The presence of an animal has been shown to boost patient morale, reduce stress levels and alleviate depression – among other benefits. But these animals aren’t available at night when many residents experience distress.

Concerned by the problem, Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) introduced robopets into their facility. These automated animals behave similarly to real cats and dogs, but offer the lowmaintenance convenience ideal for patients with dementia.

Robopets are cost-effective, safe to use, and available to the staff and patients at 24/7. Their faux fur is non-allergenic, making them a great alternative for patients with allergies to animals. “Robopets reduce loneliness, calm anxiety and stress, and provide a focus for social engagement and human-to-human interaction,” says Lillian Hung, Clinical Nurse Specialist at VCH. “They also help patients build connection, trust, rapport and relationships.” vch.ca

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yakkity yak THIS YEAR’S MOST PET-FRIENDLY CITIES In order to determine where animal companions can enjoy the best quality of life without breaking the bank, the personal finance website WalletHub released an in-depth report on the most pet-friendly American cities of 2018. They compared 100 of the largest cities across 24 key metrics. Here are their findings:

2. The food is stale and/or rotten. Exposure to air will make dry pet food stale over time. Store food in a sealed container away from extreme temperatures.

Canned food should be consumed within three days of opening, kept covered and refrigerated. Once served, wet food should only be out for half an hour before it gets tossed.

wallethub.com

ANTIMICROBIAL AGENT CAN CAUSE COLON PROBLEMS

TCS

Recent studies show that brief exposure to TCS, at relatively low doses, can cause low-grade colonic inflammation, increases colitis, and exacerbates colitis-associated colon cancer. These findings pose another concern regarding the cause of dysbiosis and inflammatory bowel disease in dogs and cats. Chronic exposure and ingestion of TCS may also contribute to skin and thyroid problems as well as food allergies.

To help protect your dog or cat, ask pet food manufacturers where they source their ingredients and packaging. archive.fo/OEUs9

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A fussy pet can be a frustrating mystery – and a tough one to crack! The Canadian Animal Health Institute presents some reasons why your pet is turning his nose up at his food bowl: 1. He’s full. To avoid overfeeding, read the package carefully and be diligent when measuring portions.

Also, ensure that no more than 10% of his daily caloric intake comes from treats.

 Scottsdale, AZ  Orlando, FL  San Diego, CA  Austin, TX  Phoenix, AZ  Tampa, FL  Cincinnati, OH  Seattle, WA  Las Vegas, NV  Irvine, CA

Triclosan (TCS) is an antimicrobial ingredient found in many products such as toothpaste, cosmetics, kitchenware, children’s and dogs’ toys, beds and shampoos. This chemical is also incorporated into plastic pet food bag liners, and the plastic wrap on certain meats.

WHY IS YOUR PET A PICKY EATER?

3. He has a sore mouth. If you notice your pet is dropping his food or having trouble chewing, it’s time for a dental checkup. cahi-icsa.ca

Keep dog walks short

bitterly cold or windy winter days. on

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yakkity yak BREED LABELING IN SHELTERS Adopting a dog? Behavior matters more than breed when selecting your new family member, according to a recent study published in PLOS One. Shelter workers aren’t always correct when labeling breeds, so selecting a dog based on this factor alone can be misleading. Furthermore, many shelter dogs are a cross of multiple breeds, which makes them genetically complex and unique. “Even if you know the breeds by DNA, it's not really going to tell you what you want to know,” says researcher Clive Wynne.

The study revealed that shelter staff were accurate only 67% of the time when labeling breeds, suggesting that breed labels should be dropped altogether at shelters. This form of stereotyping can be detrimental for certain breeds like pit bulls, who have a long history of being judged based on their DNA alone. Another study published in the same journal revealed that pit bulls and pit bull mixes in a San Diego shelter waited more than three times as long as other breeds to find forever homes. journals.plos.org

ARE DOGS BORN IN SUMMER MORE LIKELY TO DEVELOP HEART DISEASE?

JULY

JUNE

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AUGUST

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Can the month your dog is born in put him at greater risk of disease?

A recent study says yes. Published by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, the study suggests that dogs with no genetic predisposition to cardiovascular disease are at greater risk of heart problems if they’re born in the summertime.

Outdoor air pollution is highest from June through August, and researchers theorize this might be the culprit.

The researchers studied nearly 130,000 dogs across over 250 breeds, and concluded that for breeds genetically predisposed to heart disease, the month they were born in didn’t make much of a difference in determining the fate of their heart health. However, certain breeds with no genetic predisposition to heart problems, such as Norfolk terriers and American Staffordshire terriers, were at highest risk of heart disease if born in the summer. In fact, they found that dogs born in July have a 74% greater risk for heart disease than those born in the fall, winter and spring.

Visit animalwellnessmagazine.com/canine-heart-disease/ to learn more about heart disease in dogs.

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DON'T MISS ANOTHER ISSUE!

Most dogs are active and love to play and run. But injuries can happen, and without proper attention, they can cause problems down the road. CranioSacral Therapy can help prevent these problems by balancing your dog from head to tail.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY for your canine companion

By Maureen Rogers

Dogs love to play, run, jump and chase things. Unfortunately, at some point in their active lives, they’ll experience an injury of some kind, whether it’s from rough play with another dog, or an accident such as landing incorrectly after chasing a ball.

No matter how it happens, CranioSacral Therapy can help with any injury that has an impact on a dog’s soft tissues, muscles, tendons and ligaments, and on his bone structure, specifically in his hind end, head and neck.

Why CranioSacral?

At times, injuries get dismissed because the dog will get up and shake it off, and seems okay afterwards. However, these accidents and injuries create compensation patterns over time.

This contributes to the dog using his body in an out-of-balanced state, and that affects his movement and biomechanics, and puts unnatural stress on his joints and an even on his behavior.

Even if the dog seems fine after an injury, it’s important to get him some therapy to avoid future problems such as joint or hip

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issues, especially as he ages. One therapy that has been showing successful results by restoring musculoskeletal balance and having a positive impact on dogs with behavioral problems is CranioSacral. This therapy treats the whole body from head to tail, and not just the site of the injury.

A short history of CranioSacral Therapy CranioSacral Therapy for humans originated in the early 1900s and was the brainchild of an osteopath named William Sutherland.

It was originally called Cranial Osteopathy, but in the 1980s, Dr. John Upledger coined the name CranioSacral Therapy. In 2002, I adapted the practice of CranioSacral to dogs and horses.

What exactly is it?

The traditional foundation and focus of CranioSacral Therapy in treatment includes the cranium/head (which is made up of 26 individual bones in the adult dog; puppy craniums have more bones at birth), the spine and sacrum. However, treatment is not limited to just these areas, since the whole body is connected.

What’s unique about dogs is that their craniums/heads come in different shapes and sizes due to the wide variety of breeds: • Dolichocephalic skull, long snout – e.g. Salukis and greyhounds • Mesocephalic skull, middle snout size – e.g. golden/Labrador retrievers and beagles • Brachycephalic skull, short snout – e.g. pugs and boxers Regardless of the varying shapes and sizes (see photo 1), all dog skulls have 26 individual bones. As mentioned before, puppy skulls have more individual bones at birth, which can make things more complex when an injury occurs to a pup’s head early in life.

Each of the individual bones in the skull/cranium meet at what are called “sutures” (see photo 2). Sutures act like joints between the individual bones in the skull and are designed to absorb shock when an injury occurs, and to lessen the possibility of fracture upon impact.

What are the benefits?

CranioSacral Therapy is highly effective at treating both acute and chronic injuries in dogs. It is also very beneficial for keeping dogs in musculoskeletal balance, which can play a vital role in joint and skeletal health; keep their bodies flexible and mobile as they get older; and help avoid muscle atrophy, which occurs when compensation patterns are present.

Continued on page 20.

HOW INJURIES CAN CAUSE

BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS

Many dogs “suffer” from behavioral issues, and people spend endless hours on training, at times with few results.

It may surprise you to know that a large percentage of behavioral issues come from compression to the cranium/head caused by accidents and injuries.

CranioSacral Therapy has been used successfully in treating dogs with various “behavioral” issues. These dogs have experienced great improvements in their behavior, and are reported to be more easily trained post-treatment.

If your dog exhibits behavioral issues, check the symmetry of his face – the “equalness” of the eyes, nostril and ears. If you notice any asymmetries, it might indicate the dog has had an injury to his cranium.

Photo 1

Photo 2

Above: Dog skulls come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes.

Left: The bones in the cranium meet at the sutures.

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Photo courtesy of Maureen Rogers

Left: Lucias was stuck in his mother’s birth canal for 30 minutes. He was nervous, anxious and unfocused as a puppy, but is much better after CranioSacral and has become a show dog.

Above: Cruxius, a year-old Rottie cross, was bitten in the face as a puppy by one of the other dogs who lived with him. Left: note the facial asymmetry caused by the injury. Right: Cruxius after CranioSacral treatment.

Continued from page 19.

CranioSacral Therapy has also proven to be very successful in treating the following canine conditions and situations: • Hip dysplasia • Hind end injuries/lameness/paralysis • Cruciate ligament injuries • Head injuries/traumas • Spinal injuries • Behavioral problems – e.g. aggression, spookiness, fear, nervousness, separation anxiety, noise phobia • Training problems • Blocked tear ducts • Breathing issues • Post spay/neutering surgery • Pre/post surgery • Seizures

The practice of CranioSacral Therapy What makes CranioSacral unique is that it’s one of the only therapies that focuses on treating the individual bones of the head with the whole body, which brings back balance from the head to the tail.

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Specific hands-on techniques include light and gentle contact to release individual cranial bones, soft tissue/muscle tightness, and adhesions on the skeletal structure.

A hands-on treatment usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour. The length of the treatment is dictated by the dog’s size, and the number of treatments necessary will depend on his individual problem. In general, three to five treatments are needed, although some dogs may require more since each case is unique. It’s important to work with an educated CranioSacral practitioner who can assess your dog, including his posture, biomechanics/ movement and behavior, while getting a history of the problem from you.

A little therapy can go a long way and using CranioSacral to keep your dog in balance will benefit him physically as well as mentally and emotionally, helping him recover from any injury and making the impact of aging more comfortable!

For more information on CranioSacral Therapy for dogs, visit equinecraniosacral.com.

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Getting the right

DIAGNOSIS

D gs Cats

for your dog or cat

By Shawn Messonnier, DVM

A

s in human medicine, health problems in dogs and cats are sometimes missed or diagnosed incorrectly. Arriving at a correct diagnosis involves good teamwork from you and your vet.

As a holistic veterinarian, I spend a lot of time trying to help clients who are seeking a second (or even third or fourth!) opinion about the care of their dogs and cats. Since this is such an important function for holistic vets, I want to share some of the more common reasons people seek a second opinion.

In some cases it’s due to a missed diagnosis, while in others it involves a misdiagnosis – either way, it happens more often than you might think, especially when it comes to certain conditions.

MISSED DIAGNOSES While we all would love to get a correct diagnosis from the doctor (ideally on the first visit), this is not really practical. The most common reasons for a missed diagnosis include failure on the doctor’s part to do the necessary testing, or an inability on the doctor’s part to help because the client can’t afford the testing or has ideas that differ from the vet’s due to something they read on the internet.

• Let’s take cost first. As much as I want to help every patient, I know some clients simply cannot afford everything that is needed to get a correct diagnosis and prevent a missed diagnosis.

For example, just last week I saw a dog with horrible skin that had been suffering for over a year. The clients originally saw me for the first time three months ago, and on this second visit complained that I never correctly diagnosed the dog. I gently reminded them that they had declined all the testing I recommended so no diagnosis was ever made. On the second visit, they did agree to the recommended testing – but because all the results were normal, further tests still need to be done in order to get a diagnosis. I have no idea if the clients will agree to the extra costs, but if they don’t there’s not much I can do since we still have a missed diagnosis. (I’m a big

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believer in pet insurance for this very reason; though keep in mind that not all insurance is appropriate for holistic care, so do your research before getting a policy.)

• Failure to get a diagnosis the first time around is also a common reason for someone to seek a second opinion. You can’t get a diagnosis if you fail to look for it. Simply put, a thorough exam, history and battery of lab tests must be done for most “sick” pets in order to not miss a diagnosis.

I commonly and easily diagnose diseases in pets for which no diagnosis was ever made by the prior doctor, simply by doing the appropriate lab tests. Often, these tests were never recommended by the previous vet, and the animal was simply (mis)treated with drugs, typically antibiotics and steroids.

MISDIAGNOSES Unfortunately, I see a lot of misdiagnosed patients. I’ll share a few of the more commonly misdiagnosed problems (see sidebar on page 24), but first let me share why I think there are so many misdiagnoses. I believe there are two reasons why a veterinarian might misdiagnose a patient.

1

As mentioned above, the first involves clients who, usually for financial reasons, won’t allow the doctor to pursue proper diagnostic testing. The veterinarian is left with making a best guess at a diagnosis, and this guess is not always correct. This approach results in mistreatment, often with steroids, NSAIDS and antibiotics.

Funds end up being wasted on useless treatments, and ultimately result in a much higher cost to the client (not to mention potential suffering for the dog or cat). When I see these animals, we then have to spend more money performing more testing, giving the correct treatment, and often doing detoxification to offset the former incorrect treatment.

2

The second reason for misdiagnoses is that the vet simply doesn’t do the correct testing. Maybe he/ she thinks the client will be upset with the cost, so offers cheaper testing instead. Maybe the doctor thinks he/she can “eyeball” the problem and correctly guess the diagnosis, assuming that testing is not even needed. And finally, some doctors simply misread a lab test and get a totally incorrect diagnosis.

While this may all seem rather grim, it doesn’t have to be.

Working as a team, you and your doctor should be able to correctly diagnose and treat your dog or cat's health issues (see sidebar at right). If you are uncomfortable with a

diagnosis (or lack of same) then do seek a second opinion.

You know your dog or cat best, and you need to be proactive on his behalf!

See the commonly misdiagnosed conditions sidebar on page 24.

HOW TO PREVENT

DIAGNOSTIC MISHAPS Both missed diagnoses and misdiagnoses can be prevented in most cases – as long as two things happen.

First, clients must let veterinarians do whatever is necessary to get a proper diagnosis. If cost is an issue, pet insurance should be used to cover up to 90% of the cost of care, and owners must present the doctor with a realistic budget so he/she can then present a realistic diagnostic and treatment plan.

Second, doctors must aggressively pursue diagnostic testing and not simply “wait and watch” as problems worsen. Additionally, dogs and cats that fail to improve with what seems to be the correct therapy must be thoroughly reevaluated.

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COMMONLY MISDIAGNOSED CONDITIONS The following conditions can be misdiagnosed by “eyeballing” cases or misinterpreting lab results.

Thyroid disease

Ear disease

Hypothyroidism is most often misdiagnosed when only a T4 (Total T4) test is done. The FT4 (Free T4) test is much better, but is often not run as it costs more than the T4 test.

Both thyroid tests should be run on all sick pets so we don’t overlook this common diagnosis.

Adrenal disease Adrenal disease is usually misdiagnosed as liver disease due to a misinterpretation of the blood profile. An elevated ALP almost always indicates adrenal disease, but is commonly misdiagnosed as liver disease. An elevated ALT, meanwhile, points to the liver and not the adrenal glands.

Arthritis

Again, I see many pets with chronic ear infections that are never properly diagnosed and treated. All ear cases should have cytology done for diagnostic testing and a proper ear flushing prior to treatment. Ear infections take several weeks to heal, requiring repeated treatment at home or at the veterinary hospital, and treatment stops when the cytology is negative for bacteria and yeasts. Chronic ear infections should be cultured, since many of these cases are infected with nasty stuff that no longer dies when exposed to routine medications.

Eye disease

Many pets are diagnosed with arthritis based only on clinical signs. While this is not necessarily wrong, if the dog or cat fails to respond to correct treatment within a few days, radiographs and further testing must be done to rule out other problems such as disk disease, thyroid disease, Lyme disease, and bone cancer.

Many eye cases are simple to diagnose and treat. However, severe eye diseases such as corneal ulcers and perforations, as well as glaucoma and uveitis, look just like the normal simple eye problems. I consider eye problems an emergency as they can get bad really fast. All eyes that look red, cloudy, itchy or weepy should be seen immediately by your veterinarian.

These eyes require, at a minimum, a Schirmer tear test and fluorescein stain for diagnostic testing.

Heart murmurs

Tumors The most common misdiagnosis occurs when a doctor feels a lump and pronounces it a fatty tumor that does not need treatment. While most lumps in dogs are indeed fatty tumors (most in cats are not), many are also cancerous mast cell tumors.

All lumps should be diagnosed via aspiration cytology or biopsy, and considered cancerous until proven otherwise. Tiny lesions can be observed, but must be removed and biopsied if they grow or change in appearance, or cause the dog to scratch.

Allergies/skin disease I see so many pets with “allergies” that don’t have true allergic dermatitis. So many of these animals have thyroid disease, food intolerances, adrenal disease, mange, pemphigus and skin infections caused by various yeasts and bacteria. If your itchy dog or cat fails to respond to treatment with steroids, then allergies are likely not the only concern.

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There are three things a veterinarian can do when he/ she hears a heart murmur in a “normal” pet: ignore it and tell the owner “we’ll monitor it” (wrong answer); start the pet on heart medication to slow down heart disease (also a wrong answer); or tell the owner that the dog or cat has heart disease and needs diagnostic testing (the only correct answer). Normal dogs and cats rarely get heart murmurs, so they need a complete cardiac evaluation to determine the stage and severity of the heart disease.

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Top tips FOR FINDING THE BEST

By Emily Watson

At the end of the day, every dog is different. But here are some basic guidelines to help you decide which bed is best for your pooch.

TYPES OF DOG BEDS From simple blankets to luxurious memory foam models, dog beds come in all shapes and sizes.

Some of the most popular choices include: PADS/MATS – These modest

beds are perfect for the “easy-to-please” canine.

They range from comfortable to deluxe Animal Wellness

loves!

DOG BED

Like us, dogs need adequate sleep to thrive. In fact, the average adult dog requires 12 to 14 hours of shut-eye a day! So selecting the right bed for your dog is an important step in ensuring his health and happiness – but the options seem endless. Is it better to shop for quality, or should you opt for something cheaper in case he chews it? Does he need a memory foam mattress, or will a blanket suffice?

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Your dog’s sleeping arrangements can HELP OR HINDER his well-being, so it’s important to buy him Here are a a bed he few tips to help you in the hunt.

depending on the price tag, and are typically very easy to clean.

Available in various sizes, mats can be conveniently moved from place to place without a hassle. And they fit easily into most crates!

BOLSTER BEDS – Bolster

beds are similar to mats, but they have raised sides that add extra cushioning for dogs who like to feel more secure. If your dog’s bed is in an open area, such as a large room, bolster beds are a cozy way to give him his own space – an important factor when it comes to his comfort and well-being. “A bed gives your dog a place to call his own,” says Jon Daugherty, Director of Product Development for Tall Tails, a company that specializes in bedding for dogs (talltailsdog.com). “The bed acts as a den; a safe, secure and private space to rest, relax and recover.”

FURNITURE-STYLE – Dog beds made to look like

Photo cou

MEMORY FOAM – This option might seem a bit extravagant, but the benefits are numerous.

“Memory foam conforms to the dog's shape and size, so it is especially comfortable and helpful to older dogs,” says Andrea Krantz, Sales and Marketing Manager at Armarkat, which offers armarkat.com). a wide selection of dog beds (armarkat.com).

“Memory foam also retains its original shape far longer than a conventional mattress, extending the life of the bed.”

rtesy of Arm arkat

furniture fixtures are aesthetically pleasing – not to mention an extra special way to make your dog feel like part of the family! You can make these beds yourself by upcycling old furniture, or find one online.

ELEVATED – Like furniture-style beds, these beds are raised

cushioning, blankets might not be the best choice. But for others, they’re ideal. “Dogs have a natural tendency to nest,” says Jon. “They push, pull, and arrange their sleep space before lying down. Blankets support that natural instinct and provide more comfort and security.”

Blankets are also easier to wash than beds, and can be moved to provide comfort any time and any place – much like security blankets that children carry around.

Photo courtes

BLANKETS – For senior dogs and those who prefer more

y of Tall Tails

off the ground. Their lack of embellishment and structural simplicity make them extremely easy to clean. Elevated beds are also designed to promote airflow, so they’re great for dogs that tend to overheat.

SELECTING A BED FOR YOUR DOG Ready to buy him a bed? The first step is to consider your dog’s age, size and sleeping habits. Jon recommends observing your dog’s patterns, and asking a few simple questions. “Does he like to burrow and hide? Does he curl or flop? Is he older and needing support, or something that has ease of access?” Once you’ve answered these questions, you’ll be able to focus in on the right bed style for your pooch.

Next, consider the material. “Look for the appropriate size and a material that will hold up,” says Andrea. “Some dogs are chewers, so a heavy canvas is best for them. Some are more gentle, so a soft plush material is sufficient.” Dog parents should also consider how easily a bed can be washed and dried, and whether the color of the bed goes with their décor. If you’re having trouble deciding, reversible beds allow you to switch up the color and material depending on the season.

Buying a bed for your dog should be enjoyable, not intimidating. Have fun shopping the selection – and enjoy the look on your dog’s face when you bring him his new gift!

TROUBLESHOOTING With any luck, your dog will jump for joy when he sees his new bed, and curl up on it without a fuss. If things don’t go so smoothly, check out these troubleshooting tips.

MY DOG DOESN’T LIKE HIS BED! Try moving it to a different area of the house. The spot it’s in now might be drafty, or either too close or far removed from the center of action. Provide positive reinforcement in the form of treats or praise whenever he shows interest in the bed. If he still refuses to go near it, consider exchanging it for a different style.

I’VE BOUGHT MY DOG THREE BEDS, AND HE’S CHEWED ALL OF THEM! Some dogs think it’s their job to destroy things. Not only is this frustrating and expensive, it’s also dangerous. Again, try correcting his behavior using positive reinforcement. Anytime you catch him chewing his bed, redirect his attention elsewhere by offering toys or raw bones – objects that are safe to chew. You can also try buying him a blanket instead of a bed. Often, if there’s no stuffing to remove, a dog will see no point in chewing it.

EVERY TIME I APPROACH MY DOG’S BED, HE GROWLS! Resource guarding is a common problem in dogs – especially those who’ve spent time in shelters.

Many factors can contribute to this behavior – fear or dominance, for instance – but the main thing to remember is that trying to correct it can be dangerous without the help of a professional. Contact a trainer or behaviorist for advice catered to your individual situation.

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Additives and Adjuvants in

ANIMAL VACCINES

By W. Jean Dodds, DVM

M

OST VACCINES FOR DOGS AND CATS CONTAIN ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS THAT CAN RAISE THE RISK OF ADVERSE REACTIONS. LET’S LOOK AT WHAT THESE INGREDIENTS ARE, AND HOW YOU CAN HELP KEEP YOUR PET SAFE.

The core vaccines you give your puppy or kitten contain antigens that mount an immune response against infectious diseases such as parvo or FIV. But vaccines also contain a variety of additives and adjuvants that can increase the risk

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D gs Cats

of adverse reactions to the shots. It’s important to know something about these additional ingredients, to talk to your vet about any concerns, and to help protect your pet by avoiding unnecessary vaccination wherever possible.

WHAT ARE VACCINE ADDITIVES AND ADJUVANTS? These ingredients include the carrier molecules and immune stimulants (these are the adjuvants) that are intended to improve the efficacy of vaccines. They also include excipients, the inactive ingredients in vaccines that are present in only very small amounts. They include preservatives like thimerosal (mercury) to prevent contamination; stabilizers (such as sugars or gelatin) to preserve vaccines during storage and transport; and adjuvants like the salts from metals such as aluminum and mercury.

Adjuvants act to accelerate, prolong or enhance the immune response when used together with specific vaccine antigens (e.g. the viral proteins of infectious diseases). While adjuvants are added to vaccines to boost their immune-generating effects, this also increases the risk of adverse autoimmune and inflammatory events following vaccination.

Lastly, vaccines contain residual trace amounts of the cell culture materials used to grow the antigens, such as egg protein, human serum albumin, fetal calf serum, yeast proteins, and other culture media; as well as ingredients like formaldehyde to kill viruses and inactivate toxins, and antibiotics (e.g. neomycin and gentamicin) to prevent bacterial contamination.

WHAT KIND OF ADVERSE EFFECTS ARE KNOWN TO OCCUR? Adjuvants have been used relatively safely in human and veterinary medicine for decades, but the debate and controversy about their efficacy versus their safety is not expected to be resolved in the foreseeable future.

Adjuvants can produce numerous adverse effects. But because vaccines are viewed as inherently safe and non-toxic, toxicity studies are often excluded from the regulatory safety assessment of vaccines. Young animals are especially at risk as they are more vulnerable to toxicity than adults, and are regularly exposed to more adjuvants with the typical vaccination series they receive as puppies and kittens.

Adjuvants impact the central nervous system at all levels and can do so by changing expression of the individual’s genes.

Further, adjuvants are now known to strongly affect the nervous system-immune axis, which plays a key role in brain development and immune function.

The autoimmune (auto-inflammatory) syndrome induced by adjuvants (ASIA syndrome) was first defined in 2011.

Presently, it includes four conditions that share similar signs and symptoms, one of which is from the effects of vaccination.

Continued on page 30.

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Continued from page 29.

The common denominator in these syndromes is the triggering effect of adjuvants, in combination with other environmental factors along with genetic predisposition. When combined, these factors cause the failure of selftolerance, which equates to autoimmunity.

Heavy metals like mercury and aluminum are directly involved as well, especially in the thimerosal (mercury)-preserved canine rabies vaccines. The type of allergy or immune response induced by Unlike these metals is a delayed-type hypersensitivity that begins human vaccines, veterinary vaccines around three days but can occur up to 45 days after vaccination. often contain a large It often manifests as contact dermatitis (skin inflammation), number of substances that liver or joint damage, seizures, aggression, phobias, or an act alone or together as attack on the red blood cells and/or platelets.

Both veterinary practitioners and pet caregivers are seeing more animals exhibiting signs of immune dysfunction and disease, immune-stimulating many of which occur within 30 to adjuvants.

SO WHAT’S THE SOLUTION? 45 days of a vaccination. Vaccines The use of alternative methodologies to protect dogs and cats and their adjuvants are implicated as against common infectious diseases appears to be justified. This is the potential triggering agents in animals particularly relevant because, unlike human vaccines, veterinary vaccines genetically predisposed to adverse vaccine reactions, a problem termed vaccinosis. often contain a large number of substances that act alone or together as immune-stimulating adjuvants.

Vaccine pharmacovigilance is the term used to remind all of us that vaccines carry an inherent, Reducing the exposure risk of susceptible animals to known infectious agents albeit small, risk. As a society, we need to is a basic epidemiologic principle that should be emphasized. Additionally, decide what is considered “acceptable harm” over-vaccination should be avoided. Annual boosters are not necessary in from vaccination, and re-examine the number most cases, since core vaccines have a much longer duration of immunity of adjuvants used in veterinary vaccines. than previously thought. Titer testing can determine whether or not a dog or Importantly, although killed inactivated products cat is still protected against infectious diseases, so that boosters can be given make up about 15% of the veterinary biologicals only when absolutely necessary. used, they have been associated with 85% of post-vaccination reactions. This is mainly due Wherever possible, non-adjuvanted, recombinant, subunit, synthetic (or the to the acute adverse effects induced by the DNA/RNA vaccines under development), should be used. However, be aware adjuvants used in companion animal vaccines. that all rabies vaccines, as well as vaccines for canine leptospirosis, Lyme, No source of an inactivated “killed” combination vaccine is currently available for dogs, although canine influenza, and the injectable form of Bordetella are killed adjuvanted such products without adjuvants, as well as vaccines. Cats have more vaccine options in comparison to dogs. For example, recombinant combination vaccines, are now a non-adjuvanted feline rabies vaccine is available. Most vaccines for cats offered for cats. come in MLV combination killed and intranasal versions.

re t s a to n a v s a d j u a cc i n e e e l i W h d to v im mu n t his , e a dd t t hei r ef fec t s is k s r boo ra t i n g es t he u ne e m s g e n i n c r e a u t o i m e nt s v a a l s o ve r s e a t o r y e n . d io o f a nfl a m m c c i n a t i a a nd w i n g v o foll

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Rabies virus exposure risk and the use of vaccines to prevent this usually fatal disease raises particularly difficult societal and public health issues, especially as these vaccines are among the most likely to trigger significant vaccinosis.

For decades, there have been only a few documented cases of rabies in North America in vaccinated, truly immunized dogs and cats, but the disease still exists among wildlife and feral companion animal species. While most pet dogs are vaccinated for rabies, fewer cats have historically been vaccinated until recent laws have required it.

Avoiding vaccine additives and adjuvants may seem virtually impossible in some cases, but there are things you can do lessen the risk of an adverse reaction in your dog or cat. Asking your veterinarian about the availability of any non-adjuvanted vaccines (at least for cats) – and most importantly, avoiding over-vaccination – will do a lot to help.

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Celebrating VISIT ANIMALWELLNESSMARKET.COM

to shop these great deals!

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Holiday shopping THAT HELPS ANIMALS IN NEED

By Emily Watson

D gs Cats Chances are, you’ll be doing some holiday shopping this season. Why not put those hard-earned dollars toward helping needy animals at the same time?

This holiday season, hundreds of thousands of dogs and cats across the country are waiting in shelters for their forever families. The cost of providing care to all these homeless pets is high, and resources are scarce. Luckily, ‘tis the season of giving, and you can donate to these non-profits while you do your holiday shopping!

As they recognize that many shoppers are gravitating toward companies with philanthropic values, they choose charities to donate a portion of their proceeds or products to (see sidebar on page 34). This allows shoppers to feel good about buying their brands, and during the holidays when spending rates skyrocket, this becomes especially important.

IN-STORE

So which of these generous retailers donate to animals in need?

Before you read on, do some research to find out if any of your local shops give back. Chances are, a few of them support nearby

From big-box retailers to small local boutiques, stores everywhere are opening their hearts – and their wallets – to animals in need.

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ONLINE According to a Statista report from 2017, 55% percent of respondents said they were likely to do their holiday shopping online. If you’re among the millions of people who’ve hopped on the online shopping train, don’t fret. You don’t need to walk into a store to give back to animals in need this holiday season. In fact, it’s easier than ever to support rescues and shelters from the comfort of your own home!

If you can’t find any local stores that give back, take matters into your own hands.

Ask around to see if any small businesses have anything to donate to animals in need.

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giving back?

“We feel it is the responsibility of companies to give back,” says Steve Mamak, Co-Founder of Nature Gnaws. “In this exciting age of technology and social media ‘transparency’, customers should be empowered to support companies that align with their ideals.” Nature Gnaws pays regular visits to their local shelter where they hand out their natural, single-ingredient chews to the dogs. They also post photos of adoptable pets on their social channels, and will be donating 10% of proceeds from their Holiday Bags to rescue groups.

Blanket ID holds similar values. Their advanced ID tags are imprinted with vital info that helps lost pets get returned to their owners as quickly as possible, and this alone is a huge help for rescue organizations. On top of that, the company has donated 38% of its total profits to animals in need. “If everyone could give just a little, much can be achieved,” says co-founder Martin Hubbard. “A Blanket ID is a great gift for your favorite pet owner, and a continuing gift of support for those fabulous organizations that look out for animals who have no one else.”

Photo courtesy of Blanket ID

Once you’ve exhausted all your local options, it’s time to hit the chain stores. More companies are making it part of their mission to help animals in need, and their impact is tremendous. The popular cruelty-free cosmetic company, LUSH, for instance, has an entire line of products called Charity Pot – 100% of proceeds from this line supports different organizations around the world, including The Beagle Freedom Project – a non-profit that rescues dogs from lab testing. Petco and Ikea help in another way by finding families for shelter dogs and cats, while Dog for Dog, whose natural dog food, treats, toys and accessories can be found in stores across the nation, donates one product for every one that’s purchased. How’s that for holiday cheer?

Why are more companies

Photo courtesy of Nature Gnaws

rescue organizations through funding, product donations or other means such as advertising or hosting adoption events.

Many butchers, for instance, donate raw bones to shelters, while some thrift stores are run by animal non-profits as a way to raise money.

One of the most well-known online shopping sites, Amazon, is a secure and convenient way to buy products on the internet. But many people don’t know that AmazonSmile, an offshoot of this famous company, donates 0.5% of your money to a charity of your choosing. You can shop all your favorite products, and with over 2,000 animal rescues in their database, you can easily direct those proceeds to animals in need.

Speaking of favorite products – listen up, pet parents!

If you’re planning to buy your pup a gift (or ten) this holiday season, you can buy a wide variety of pet food and supplies online. Merchandise from certain companies, like Nature Gnaws and Blanket ID, is available on AmazonSmiles as well as through their own websites. And whichever forum you choose, you’ll be supporting animals in need.

You don’t need piles of extra cash or free time to help animals this season. Stick to your budget and save time by supporting companies that give back, and buy the gifts that keep on giving!

Where to shop to SUPPORT ANIMALS IN NEED AmazonSmile smile.amazon.com Blanket ID blanketID.com CocoTherapy cocotherapy.com Dog for Dog dogfordog.com Fetch Eyewear fetcheyewear.com Ikea ikea.com LUSH lush.com Nature Gnaws naturegnaws.com Petco petco.com Pet Winery petwinery.com Plano Paws planopaws.com

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Holiday GIFT GUIDE Unique holiday treats

Stress Relief Oral Spray for Pets

Fruitables Vanilla Snowflake treats are made with snowflakes sustainably harvested from the mountains in Crested Butte, CO and then combined in a pumpkin, granola & yogurt combination that smells great and comes in at only 9 calories. They come in 7oz. bags and are perfect stocking stuffers for your furry companion.

FruitablesPetFood.com

Holiday stress can take a toll on your pets.

Help them relax with LifeFORCE Stress Relief Spray. The calming, ingestible blend is infused with flower essences that will soothe your anxious pet and improve his well-being so that he too can enjoy the festivities with the fuss or fear!

Use code: AW2018 for 10% OFF your order!

LifeFORCEpet.com

Biologically appropriate diet Pain relief plus PURICA Recovery SA Extra Strength: Whole Body Health for Pets.

Strengthens bones, muscles and connective tissues.

Helps prevent injury, reduces pain, inflammation and spasms.

Increases endurance and flexibility.

Purica.com

Your dog deserves the best and that’s why you serve ORIJEN Tundra -- the Biologically Appropriate diet created by the world’s best pet food maker, Champion Petfoods. Tundra is prepared exclusively at our NorthStar Kitchen in Alberta and features eight whole game, fish and fowl ingredients, plus fresh fruits and vegetables. We source all ingredients from regional farmers, ranchers and fishermen we know and trust. Learn more about Tundra and our Fresh Regional Ingredients online.

ChampionPetFoods.com

Keep him hydrated While the weather may be cooling off, the need for hydration never goes away. Our unique COOL DOG™ Doggie Water Fountain is designed to keep dogs fully hydrated during play time. The Doggie Water Fountain comes in eight dynamic colors and is built with the finest grades of heavy-duty 316 stainless steel. To get a quote or browse our options online.

CoolDogWaterFountains.com

Cozy canine blanket You’ll be drawn to Molly Mutt blankets because of the amazing colors, patterns, and especially because of the durability. Your pup will be drawn to the cozy fleece layer underneath. Even the best behaved dogs like to hop up on the sofa from time to time. Cover the couch, car seat, or yourself.

MollyMutt.com

Calming aromas With the Mellow Dog Aromatherapy Kit, you can cross a “stress free holiday” off your pup’s wish list!

The aromatic blend of lavender, green mandarin and benzoin diffuses through a stylish, waterproof collar tag and is sure to calm your pooch’s jitters during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

Use code: AW2018 for 10% OFF your order!

LifeFORCEpet.com

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Speciiasilng advertture fea Travel in style The innovative Sleepypod Air maximizes the space available for in-cabin air travel. It has Ultra Plush bedding, making it a cozy pet bed away from home.

Sleepypod Air is even a crash-tested car seat. Folds for easy storage, can be attached to luggage handles, and has pockets for stowing travel items.

Sleepypod.com

Hemp for his health Give your furry friend the best holiday yet! Improve their health and wellness with hemp products. Healthy Hemp Pet Company products are formulated for better health and happiness. All products are made with chemical-free organic PCR hemp oil grown in Colorado!

Choose from biscuits, drops, balm or crush. Buy online.

HealthyHempPet.com/shop

Even Santa needs an extra hand!

What to do first this holiday season... walk the dog, go shopping, visit family, deliver gifts? You can do it all with Smoochy Poochy’s versatile hands free leash.

Shop online at: PetsFuture.com 905-596-2275

Essential oil diffuser kit Need a gift for secret Santa?

Sleek, modern and compact, the LifeFORCE wooden essential oil diffuser is both stylish and practical. The diffuser is ultra-quiet and provides up to 8 hours of cool mist. Combine with your choice of essential oil blend from LifeFORCE and the whole family can enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy.

Use code: AW25OFF for 25% OFF your order!

LifeFORCEpet.com

Hurtta Extreme Warmer The Extreme Warmer jacket will keep your dog warm even in the most challenging conditions. The reflective foil inside the jacket reflects the dog's body heat and gives the jacket significant, extra warmth. A high tricot hood warms the dog's neck and can be lifted to protect the ears.

AnimalWellnessMarket.com

Organic Healing Kit Get him home safely Give your lost pet a much better chance to make it back home safely.

Blanket ID tags come with special features that help get your best friend found, identified, cared for and quickly back to you.

Protect Your Pet. Help Others.

BlanketID.com

Keep noses and paws soft and supple and quickly tend to minor cuts and scrapes with Pura Naturals Pet USDA Certified Organic Healing Kit. A must-have for wellness and preventative maintenance for any dog owner. Our organic balms are made with food grade ingredients, so they’re safe if licked.

PuraNaturalspet.com

Animal Wellness

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Holiday GIFT GUIDE

Animal Wellness Natural Cookbook for Dogs

Lip smackin’, tail waggin’, healthy goodness in every bite of this inspiring collection of full color recipes for your beautiful pooch.

The editors of Animal Wellness Magazine have poured the love into creating this cookbook and you don’t have to be Julia Child to make these recipes… the easy to understand instructions will have them begging for seconds in no time. Proceeds support Canine Cancer Research.

ONLY $15 Order Online.

AnimalWellnessMagazine. com/cookbook kbook

Wine" for your dog or cat Pop open a bottle of Dög Pawrignon or Mëow & Chandon this holiday season and cheers to your pet! PetWinery makes delicious organic, non-alcoholic beverages for your fur-friends. Let them join in on the celebration! Use code HOLIDAY25 for 25% off any online order.

PetWinery.com

for dogs

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CBD to the rescue CALM, EASE, and HEAL your pet’s ailments with CBD Dog Health tinctures. These all-natural tinctures made with non-GMO hemp grown in the U.S. contain 550 - 1100 mg full-spectrum CBD. CBD Dog Health CBD oils can help calm anxiety, ease joint pain, and heal tumors and more.

CBDdogHealth.com/cbd-dog-products/

Laser therapy Give your patients the gift of pain relief with a Companion Therapy Laser! Companion offers a range of lasers for every practice and every budget, so you can be sure your laser therapy equipment will be a perfect fit for both your patients and your bank account.

Litecure.com

Treats to chew on Nature Gnaws chews are 100% all natural, made with one single ingredient. Each chew is cleaned with water (no chemicals) and baked to perfection. Not only do dogs love the taste, but they are a high in protein and support dental health. Our new holiday pack of braided bully bites, beef jerky sticks and tendon chews are the perfect gift for the dog lovers in your life. Let your friends and family know that you care for their four-legged loved one as much as they do.

NatureGnaws.com

Natural paw protection LifeFORCE all-natural Paw Stick is the answer to all your dog’s paw protection problems. With moisturizing and restorative ingredients, the lickably safe formula prevents and heals cracking while guarding against environmental factors such as snow, salt, ice, hot pavement and rocks. The combination of beeswax and vitamin E provide a breathable and moisturizing paw protectant – no booties required!

Use code: AW2018 for 10% OFF your order!

LifeFORCEpet.com

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Hemp Dog treats PetHelp Hemp Dog Treats 500mg: Fifty 10mg Hemp Dog Treats for your furry friends! Great for Thunderstorms, Traveling, Anxiety, Physical Ailments, & so much more!

Directions: Give 1-2 treats every 6-8 hours. Recommended serving size is 1mg per 1lb. Increase serving size as needed.

For more information or to place an order, email pethelpcbd@gmail.com or check us out online.

PetHelpCBD.com

Food for good gut health

Speciiasilng advertture fea

Crumps’ Naturals Gutsy ™ dehydrated dog food is made from antibiotic and hormone free chicken or fish, organic fruits and vegetables, and a unique blend of novel ingredients specifically designed for preventative and protective “GUT” health.

Crumps.ca

Non-toxic litter deodorizer Power to his paws Woodrow Wear’s Power Paws are the perfect solution for traction indoors, and for allergies, snow, and heat outdoors. They are available in three durability levels, and in 13 sizes across 2 distinct foot shapes. The result? A good fit for virtually every dog! Give your dog the best.

Give your dog Power Paws!

WoodrowWear.com

Smelly cat litter deodorizer is the natural solution to tough litter box odors. Both safe and effective, the refreshing and antiseptic combination of essential oils will conquer your cat’s heavy-duty doody and keep the whole house happy!

Use code: AW2018 for 10% OFF your order!

LifeFORCEpet.com

Quality CBD for pets Not all CBD’s are created equal. Rover’s Relief uses a proprietary blend of CBD oil extracted from the flower of organically grown plants direct from the grower. 100% THC free with scientific data supporting its efficacy.

Available in Freeze Dried Duck Treats and Oil. Roverspet.com

Relax… naturally NOW® Pets Pet Relaxant is formulated to promote relaxation and contentment during changes to a pet's daily routine, which can include separation, travel and/or tension. This health supplement is made with natural botanicals, and is for use in dogs and cats only. For more information visit us online.

NowPetSupplements.com

PUT AN END TO GROOMING STRESS! Remove dead hair, dust and dander without the stress or discomfort sometimes associated with standard shedding blades or combs. The short, fine teeth easily grab loose, dead hair while also removing the dust and dander that can dull a dog or cat’s coat. It’s easy to use and so gentle that your pet won’t even realize they’re being groomed. Guaranteed to turn that stressful situation into quality time you'll both enjoy!

EquiGroomer.com

Packed with protein Redbarn’s new Protein Puffs are a natural, clean label treat for cats and dogs, packed with 75% protein at less than one calorie per treat. Light and crispy, these healthy treats can also be used as a food topper or training aid. Made in the USA! RedbarnInc.com Animal Wellness

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This column features articles from our library at AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

TOP

foods for

By Audi Donamor

good

canine vision

Packed with nutrients, these colorful foods can help keep your dog’s eyes sharp by protecting against a variety of ocular problems.

1

Blueberries

Blueberries contain two very important eye healthy carotenoids – lutein and zeaxanthin. They also contain anthocyanins, eye-nourishing phytonutrients that are shown to support night vision.

Flavonoids, like rutin, resveratrol and quercetin, are also found in blueberries, and may help prevent macular degeneration. Blueberries also contain selenium and zinc, which further support vision. Eating blueberries has even been associated with the reduction of eye fatigue.

2

Broccoli

Besides its anti-cancer benefits, broccoli is also recognized as one of the best vegetables for eye health. It is a great source of lutein and zeaxanthin and is also packed with beta-carotene.

Don’t leave the leaves behind, because they contain even more beta-carotene than the stems and florets. Broccoli and broccoli sprouts have been found to protect the retina from free radical damage. This may be due to a compound called sulphuraphane, which boosts the body’s defense system against free radicals.

3

Carrots

Carrots are among the kingpins of the vegetable patch. There are over 100 varieties, from the deepest purple and white to the brilliant orange we are most accustomed to seeing. Each is a storehouse of nutrient power. The old axiom that carrots are good for the eyes is not just a myth.

Carrots also contain lycopene and lutein, protective phytonutrients that protect the eye from UVB radiation and damage from free radicals.

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4

Cold water fish

Cold water fish such as salmon, tuna, cod, haddock and sardines are rich in Omega-3 essential fatty acids. Fish is especially high in EPA and DHA, two Omega-3s important to cellular health.

DHA makes up 30% of the fatty acids that comprise the retina. The particularly high levels of Omega-3 in sardines provide some protection against macular degeneration.

5

Eggs

Eggs are rich in cycteine and sulphur, two components of glutathione. This may explain why sulphur-containing compounds have been found to protect eyes from cataract formation.

Egg yolks contain lutein, and diets high in lutein may lead to a reduced risk of developing macular degeneration. The zeaxanthin found in eggs is also beneficial to eye health.

A study published by the University of Massachusetts in 2006 found that eating an egg a day raised levels of lutein and zeaxanthin in the blood, helping reduce the risk of agerelated macular degeneration.

6

Green beans

Green beans are a good source of lutein and zeaxanthin, as well as beta-carotene and vitamins C and E. You can find these legumes year round, but try to buy organic when and as you can.

7

Kale

Kale is an excellent source of lutein and zeaxanthin. The American Optometric Association says these special antioxidants act like “internal sunglasses”.

8

Pumpkin

The beautiful bright orange is a sure sign that pumpkins are packed with carotenoids such as beta-carotene, which help neutralize free radicals. The lutein and zeaxanthin found in pumpkin also promotes eye health and makes it yet another whole food that protects against macular generation.

9

Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes are one of the world’s healthiest foods. They are loaded with betacarotene, making them the perfect choice to protect eye health. Steaming sweet potatoes for just seven minutes actually maximizes their potential to support canine health.

10

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are known as a super food. They contain two eye-healthy nutrients – lycopene and lutein. Lycopene is a carotenoid and phytonutrient found in red fruits and vegetables. It is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect against macular degeneration and its antioxidant properties act to protect the eyes from sun damage. Processed tomato products contain higher levels of lycopene than raw tomatoes. In fact, lycopene is even more bioavailable when tomatoes are cooked with a little first-pressed extra virgin olive oil.

See recipes on page 42.

Animal Wellness

41

EYE BRIGHT MASH

EYE SPY EGGS Ingredients ½ cup dark leafy greens, shredded ½ cup carrots, finely grated 1 clove garlic, finely minced (optional)

5 whole eggs 2 tablespoons first-pressed extra virgin olive oil ½ teaspoon sea salt

Instructions Preheat oven to 350°F. In oven-to-table cookware, combine all ingredients using a whisk or fork. Bake for 20 minutes or until the center of the loaf is set and the top is golden. Cool to room temperature before serving. This is so yummy it almost disappears before I can transfer it to my dogs’ bowls!

TRI-LIGHT BLISS BISCUITS Ingredients 1 can (15 ounces) pure pumpkin pureé or 2 cups fresh pumpkin

1 cup almonds 1 cup Brazil nuts 2 cups whole oat flour 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

Alternative ingredients include hemp flour or quinoa flour, which can replace the whole nut flours. If you would like to make this recipe more sweet than savory, simple add ¼ cup local honey, and you will have a healthy treat your whole family can share.

Instructions Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper. Grind almonds and Brazil nuts in a food processor until they form a flour. Add remaining ingredients and continue to process until thoroughly mixed. Remove dough and form a large ball. Form small pieces of dough into balls and roll in extra oat flour, if needed, and place on cookie sheet. As though you are making old-fashioned peanut butter cookies, gently flatten each ball. Place cookie sheet in a cold oven, and turn on to 325°F, using the convection setting if available. When oven reaches temperature, turn down to 175°F, and leave for 1½ hours. Turn oven off and allow the biscuits to cool completely before storing in an airtight container or Ziploc bag.

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Ingredients 4 to 6 cups brightly colored fruits and vegetables that support eye health, including kale, broccoli, carrots, and spring greens ½ cup filtered water Instructions Use organic ingredients whenever possible. Simply whirl all the ingredients in a food processor and serve as a meal topper or side dish.

KALE KRISPS Ingredients 1 bunch kale or large-leafed greens 1 tablespoon first-pressed extra virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon sea salt ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional) 1 tablespoon hemp hearts (optional) Instructions Preheat oven to 350°F. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper. Remove leaves from the thick outer stems of the kale. Cut or tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces and wash them with filtered water. Dry them in a salad spinner or pat them dry with a paper towel or tea towel. Spread the kale pieces on the cookie sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with sea salt, garlic powder and hemp hearts, if desired. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until the edges of the leaves are turning golden in color. Remove from oven, cool and serve. Store in an open container; if they lose their crunch, simply pop them back in a pre-heated oven for a few minutes.

Animal Wellness

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{

DOGGY PLAY DATES

By Nadia Ali with Ann Brightman

{

Want to join or organize a playgroup for your dog? Take these tips and tactics into consideration before setting your first date.

It used to be that exercising the dog entailed little more than snapping on his leash and going for a stroll around the block.

More recently, dog parks have sprung up as a way to exercise dogs while giving them some time to socialize with other canines and people. The latest way to fulfill our canines’ needs for physical activity and socialization? Doggy play dates!

A doggy play date is just what it sounds like – a period when a few pooches are regularly brought together to enjoy each other’s company within a controlled setting. Doggy playgroups usually involve a small number of dogs and their owners, who meet at an agreed time and place. Play dates ensure optimal physical health through established play and exercise, while giving the dogs a regular opportunity to socialize.

Forming a doggy playgroup may sound as simple as finding a group of like-minded folks with dogs, but there are some things to keep in mind. Before creating a playgroup, or arranging play dates with an existing group, read over the following tips and suggestions for a positive experience.

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9 TIPS FOR SAFE AND SUCCESSFUL PLAY DATES

 Does your dog interact with unfamiliar dogs in a friendly and confident way? If he’s more of a loner who doesn’t get on that well with other pooches, a playgroup may not be for him.

 A playgroup can consist of a small group of friends, neighbors or family members who also have dogs. If you don’t want to start your own group, and would rather join an existing one, check at your vet’s office, grooming salon or pet supply store to see if they have any contacts.

 An informal doggy playgroup shouldn’t include more than a few dogs. It could range from just two to around half a dozen dogs.

 While play dates may take part in someone’s backyard after the dogs have become firm friends, it’s best to meet in a neutral spot, such as a park, when starting out. Either way, choose a safe setting away from traffic, and one that’s ideally fenced in.

 Consider

your dog’s play style. Not all dogs enjoy roughhousing, for example, so it’s important that the dogs in the group enjoy similar types of activity. “Play dates are a great outing for the modern dog, but they benefit from some forethought,” says Laura VanArendonk Baugh, CPDT-KA KPACTP. “Dogs' play styles can differ dramatically and a dog who prefers to chase, for example, may feel bullied or threatened if paired with a dog who prefers to wrestle.”

{

positively-

{

“I FEEL A SOLID, RECALL IS ESSENTIAL FOR THESE MEETINGS, SO YOU CAN QUICKLY CALL YOUR DOG BACK FROM ANY POTENTIALLY UNCOMFORTABLE ENCOUNTER WITHOUT ADDING TO A SITUATION,”

trained

stressful

 Also

consider your dog’s breed (or breed mix) and size.

Different breeds have different play styles and levels of stamina, so it’s important that there are at least one or two dogs in the group who can play safely with your own canine, whether he’s a Dachshund or a Great Pyrenees.

PLAY DATES maintain canine socialization skills “Socialization is important to the overall well-being of your dog because it will provide him with the ability to develop skills to cope with new experiences in a positive way, therefore reducing his stress,” states the Association of Professional Dog Trainers.

In her book The Other End of the Leash, Dr. Patricia McConnell, PhD, a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist, adds that during adolescence dogs become a bit more wary of unfamiliar people and animals, and will react with shyness. She refers to this as “juvenile-onset shyness” and recommends continued socialization as a way to combat it.

Forming or joining a doggy playgroup, and taking your dog to regular play dates, can help maintain these important socialization skills.

 Further to the above point, you may be able to find a breedspecific doggy playgroup, depending on where you live. One doggy parent says he takes his Yorkie to meetups with fellow Yorkies, so socialization takes place between the same breed and size of dog; because the owners of the dogs are familiar with the behavior of the breed, they are able to identify unwanted conduct.

 Be sure your dog is well-trained, and will obey your commands in a group situation. “I feel a solid, positively-trained recall is essential for these meetings, so you can quickly call your dog back from any potentially uncomfortable encounter without adding to a stressful situation,” says Linda.

 Always

supervise the dogs during a play date. Watching your pooch play is as important as the play itself, as it could prevent an aggressive situation from occurring. Know that harmless canine play has a different look to fighting “play”.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) states that if the dog has a closed mouth, is emitting a low-toned growl, exhibits flat ears and a stiff body with quick movements, as opposed to

bouncy and playful, the chances are that play time is over and a fight may ensue. Recall your dog to defuse the situation.

Play dates aren’t just for puppies, but for dogs of all ages. Our canine companions are naturally active and social animals, so fostering these connections with a playgroup that meets on a regular basis is a wonderful way to keep them healthy and happy.

Animal Wellness

45

festive season

The can be stressful as well as fun – and if you’re feeling tense, your dog is too. These simple acupressure sessions take only minutes to do, and can help you and your and best friend stay balanced over the holidays.

relaxed

By Amy Snow & Nancy Zidonis

ACUPRESSURE for easing holiday stress – in both you and your dog!

No matter how you celebrate the holidays, it’s a stressful time of year. Preparing the holiday meal, gift shopping, praying that family members get along…all these things and more can generate a lot of angst and tension. And if you’re stressed, your dog is too. We might think we’re hiding our feelings, but our dogs are uncannily sensitive to our moods and emotions.

So when you’re experiencing stress, your dog is feeling it as well. In this article, we’ll look at the indicators of canine stress (see sidebar on page 48) and offer simple, calming acupressure sessions for both you and your dog.

like” place for the dog, decreasing noise volume, instituting tasks, or giving him more playtime.

Remedies for holiday season stress

Turid Regaas, a well-respected canine behaviorist, suggests that we use what she calls “calming signals”. These are signals that dogs use themselves to calm other dogs – and you, for that matter. Calming signals include licking the lips, yawning, looking away, arcing instead of walking directly at a dog or person, becoming completely passive, and rolling over. You may not want to roll over, but using the other calming signals with your dog is doable. By doing this, you will be responding to your dog in a language he understands.

Behaviorists give us lots of really good suggestions about how to contain canine stress. Recommendations often include establishing a routine, reducing stimulation, increasing exercise, working on focused training, creating a safe “cave-

Remember that your dog is taking most of his emotional cues from you, so you need to remedy your own stress levels as well as your dog’s. This is where acupressure comes in.

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Animal Wellness

1. Acupressure for you Bringing down stress during the holidays (or at any other time) begins with you. If you are feeling emotionally balanced, you’ll feel happier and so will your dog. Acupressure is a simple and easy way to lower stress.

To begin de-stressing yourself, find a comfortable, safe, intimate location for you and your dog. Relax by taking three deep breaths and exhaling slowly. Often a dog matches your breathing pattern and will settle. While sitting with your dog, place your thumb lightly on the underside of your arm above your wrist, and simultaneously place your forefinger gently on the opposite (lateral or top) side of your wrist, as shown in Photo 1 (below). Breathe naturally while holding these two acupressure points (called Pericardium 6, Inner Gate and Triple Heater 5, Outer Gate, respectively) for a slow count of 20. Repeat this procedure on your opposite arm.

Now that you are feeling calmer, you are ready to also offer your dog a brief acupressure session.

2. Acupressure for your dog Shift your awareness to helping your dog cope with his stress.

Think about how much you want to share this acupressure session with him. Begin by using the exact same acupressure points you just applied on yourself (see Photo 2 for their locations on a dog). Gently hold the two acupoints on his forelimb at the same time, count slowly to 20, then repeat the procedure on his opposite forelimb.

Continued on page 48.

Photo 1 The Pericardium 6 (Pe 6), Inner Gate point is located in the middle of the medial side of your forearm, in the soft tissue between your tendons, just beyond your wrist towards your elbow. The Triple Heater 5 (TH 5), Outer Gate point is directly opposite Pe 6 on the lateral side of your forearm, in the soft spot between the radius and ulna bones.

Animal Wellness

47

CANINE STRESS INDICATORS

We're fully aware when our own stress barometers are rising. Dogs are even more “creative” about how they signal their stress. It's up to us to be conscious of what these signals are so we can help reduce their stress. These signals can be subtle at first, but if they're not recognized and addressed immediately, the dog's stress can escalate to scary heights.

• Physical stress signals

Continued from page 47.

There are two more acupressure points, also called “acupoints”, that you can add to your dog’s session to enhance his relaxation and bring down his stress level – the An Shen points located behind his ears (Photo 3), and the Bai Hui point located in the center of his sacrum where there’s a little flat spot (shown in Photo 2). These are classical canine acupoints known to specifically reduce stress and anxiety. Dogs like to be scratched, so you are welcome to gently scratch these acupoints while counting slowly to 20.

Signs of mild physical stress can include increased yawning, shaking, lip-licking, panting, scratching and drooling. As the dog's stress levels increase, he may shed excessively, open his eyes unusually wide, cower, tremble, pace, tuck his tail between his legs or just wag the tip of his tail, pin his ears back or overly perk them up, and experience urinary incontinence or gastrointestinal issues (e.g. diarrhea or constipation).

Physical signs that a dog is extremely stressed, and can become dangerous to himself and others, include a tense body stance, raised hackles, pu�fed-out tail, lips that are stretched upward, bared teeth, a menacing stare, as well as excessive licking or chewing at his own limbs.

•

Behavioral stress signals

Behavioral changes of any type can indicate a dog is experiencing stress. Milder signals tend to manifest as increased sleeping, clinginess, or periodic withdrawal. As the dog's feelings of stress continue to increase, he may hide, become agitated, exhibit decreased appetite, engage in destructive behaviors, and display increased vocalizations such as growling, barking, whining or whimpering.

Photo 2 Point TH 5 Pe 6 Bai Hui

Location Found between the radius and ulna above the waist.

On the inside of the front leg, above the crease of the wrist.

Directly opposite TH 5 On the dorsal midline at the lumbosacral space.

As a dog's stress level escalates, simple agitation can turn to outright aggression or an extreme fear response, such as running away or completely shutting down emotionally.

Though dogs are considered predatory by nature, their “fight or �light” response comes into play when they're highly stressed. Di�ferent breeds react di�ferently. For instance, Greyhounds may appear comatose when overwhelmingly stressed, while the Akita Inu is more apt to become highly aggressive.

Photo 3 The spirit of the holidays is about giving and receiving. Sharing acupressure is a perfect way to express and experience that spirit, while lowering your stress levels and helping you and your dog relax into the festivities. Carving out a special time each day or two to do acupressure on yourself, and share it with your dog, will make the holiday season more joyous for both of you.

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From heavy duty harnesses to high-tech ID tags, products designed with your dog’s safety in mind are everywhere.

KEEP YOUR DOG

SAFE & SOUND

HARNESSES AND LEASHES If you’ve ever had a leash break, or a dog slip out of his collar, you already know how important it is to choose durable, properlyfitting products for your daily walks together. A harness is preferable to a collar, since many dogs pull and tug, and a collar can damage his trachea. It’s also important to choose the right harness – it should be of high quality and made from durable

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Animal Wellness

materials that won’t tear or come apart easily. Make sure to measure your dog and get the correct fit.

Take a look at how the harness is made. Broad straps are most comfortable, especially for larger dogs. Thin straps made from poor quality materials may dig into the dog in places, making him uncomfortable or even chafing his skin.

S.I.T. Gear (sitgear.com) makes high quality harnesses with wide straps for a comfortable fit. They come in a variety of sizes, colors and patterns. For extra safety when walking at night, the company also offers optional lights for their harnesses. "All S.I.T. Gear vests are created with safety in mind,” says Abby Ochoa. “When combined with a custom designed seat belt restraint [more on this below], your dog will be protected in the best possible way when traveling with you."

Photo courtesy of SIT Gear

When it comes to giving our dogs the best lives possible, we tend to mainly focus on health. We make sure they see the vet regularly, feed them the best diet we can, and give them lots of exercise and TLC. And that’s awesome, as well as vitally important! In the process, however, we may overlook some aspects of canine safety, which is just as important to a dog’s well-being as his physical and emotional health. Making sure we use durable harnesses, equipping our dogs with the best possible ID in the event they go missing, and keeping them properly secured while riding in the car are just some of the things to keep in mind when it comes to canine safety. In this article, we’ll look at a few of many products designed to help keep our dogs safe and sound.

By Ann Brightman

Be sure to also consider the quality of your dog’s leash. Leather and nylon are the most popular dog leash materials because they’re durable and long-lasting. Make sure the clip is also well-made, that it’s fastened securely to the leash and won’t come open easily.

Retractable leashes are not recommended. They can be dangerous to both you and your dog. They don’t offer much control, which means your dog can be suddenly chasing a squirrel out into a busy street. Alternatively, if your dog is startled and runs around your legs, you can quickly get wrapped up in the leash and fall.

Lighted leashes are an excellent safety feature for nighttime walking.

IDENTIFICATION SYSTEMS Even the most careful dog guardian can’t guarantee her canine won’t escape or go missing at some point. A dog can slip out an open door in the blink of an eye, or get lost during an offleash run in the woods. Adequate ID helps ensure your dog will be returned to you safely. Traditional forms of ID include microchipping, and/or a collar or harness tag with your name and phone number on it.

Nowadays, though, thanks to digital technology, canine ID systems are becoming very sophisticated, and are much more likely to result in a happy reunion when a dog goes missing.

Many companies offer electronic tags and online registration that allows you to instantly report if your dog gets lost or runs away, while providing his finder with the instructions he or she needs to alert the company through a smartphone or computer that the dog has been found.

Continued on page 52.

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tesy of Sleep ypod Photo cour

Blanket ID of Photo courtesy

Canine ID systems are becoming very sophisticated, and are much more likely to result in a happy reunion when a dog goes missing.

Continued from page 51.

DOGGY SEAT BELTS Most dogs love riding in the car, but just like us, they need to be safely secured so they don’t get injured or killed in the event of an accident. Even putting on the brakes too abruptly can cause a dog to fall off the backseat and hurt himself. A growing number of doggy seat belts and harnesses are appearing on the market, but they don’t all perform the way they should, so it’s important to do some homework before making a purchase. Again, you want high quality products made from durable materials that will not only stand up to force, but also help protect the dog’s body from trauma.

Sleepypod (sleepypod.com) is a good choice because the company uses high-tech, NASA-designed canine crash test dummies to ensure the safety of its carriers and restraint harnesses. Additionally, states the company website, “The Pet Passenger Restraint System (PPRS) secures a pet in a vehicle and restricts harmful movement resulting from a sudden vehicle stop or frontal collision. Every Sleepypod carrier and

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Animal Wellness

harness includes PPRS components and features to improve pet passenger safety.”

Photo courtesy of SIT Gear

“Our tag provides instant 24/7 access to everything and anything you’d want someone to know if they find your dog,” says Martin Hubbard of blanket ID (blanketid.com). This info includes multiple contact numbers as well as veterinary and health information, allergies and care instructions. “Report the loss of your dog at blanketID.com and you can send an instant email alert to local shelters, animal control, rescues, vets and local blanket ID members. When a finder enters the blanket ID tag number, you receive an email to say your dog has been found.”

S.I.T. Gear, meanwhile, offers a simpleto-use adjustable seat belt restraint that attaches to their harnesses. The other end is designed to fit into a standard seat belt opening, keeping the dog restrained and in one place during travel.

When buying a vehicle-safe harness for your dog, avoid any product that has weak buckles and fasteners – especially if they’re made of plastic. All hardware should be made of steel. Check any stitching to make sure it’s strong. The harness should also have wide straps to help diffuse the effects of an impact. If you’re buying a crate or carrier, again choose a high quality product made of durable materials. Note that wire cages are not safe for use in vehicles.

This article only touches the surface of the plethora of canine safety products on the market today. Investing in what you need to keep your own canine companion safe and sound in all situations will give you peace of mind, and keep him happy!

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product picks Post-surgical pet

garments

You can’t tell your dog to leave his post-surgical sutures or skin irritations alone. Solve the problem with the Cover Me by Tui from Tulane’s Closet, LLC. This one-piece garment is designed to prevent pets from licking or chewing sutures, hot spots, lick granulomas or skin allergies. The breathable, washable, step-into or pullover pet garment has a built-in potty cover so there’s no need to remove it during bathroom breaks.

TulanesCloset.com

Healing dogs

naturally

Full-spectrum CBD oil can ease joint pain, calm anxiety, stop seizures, heal tumors and more. CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to treat the whole dog and promote overall well-being.

Your canine companion will find instant relief with CBD Dog Health’s line of all-natural 550 mg to 1,100 mg CBD tinctures, salves and treats. These safe, all-natural products do not require a prescription and have no dangerous side effects.

CBDDogHealth.com

Nutrient-rich

treats

Hemp and cricket proteins are finding their way into more foods and treats. Natural Pet Science’s Slim’Dog is a Canadian-made pet treat infused with nutrientrich hemp and cricket to help support your dog’s metabolism and keep his blood sugar levels balanced.

Additional ingredients include chickpeas, lentils and sweet potatoes for a boost of fiber, and Omega fatty acids for a healthy weight. 10% off your purchase online with coupon code wellness10.

EastWestScienceStore. com/product/slim-dog

From cat toys to pet

fountains

There are lots of products out there to help keep our pets physically and mentally stimulated. The PetSafe Cheese is a fun and entertaining toy that keeps cats playfully engaged as a mouse darts in and out of the holes. Or try the company’s Bolt Laser – kitties can’t resist this reflective laser as it dances across the floor. For both your cat or dog, the Drinkwell Pagoda Pet Fountain helps engage pets and encourages more water consumption.

PetSafe.net

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Safety at its

finest

A dog who is allowed to roam loose in the car is at high risk of serious injury in the event of even a minor accident. That’s why a properly installed safety system in your vehicle is essential. S.I.T. Gear vests are created with safety in mind. They’re custom-fitted and hand-sewn to not only ensure comfort, but also a proper fit. When combined with a custom-designed seat belt restraint, your dog will be protected in the best possible way when traveling with you.

SITgear.com

Warm

him up with wool

Wool lasts a lifetime, is 100% natural, and is antimicrobial.

So it’s no wonder it’s always been a coveted choice for bedding! Molly Mutt Sheepy Crate Pads and Dog Bed Duvets are wool-filled to naturally warm your pup in the winter and cool him in the summer. The wool is humanely harvested and minimally processed. Pair with Molly Mutt’s delightful Dog Bed Duvet patterns. Available in a variety of sizes.

MollyMutt.com

Pet industry

winner

For the past five years, Pet Industry Woman of the Year has been showcasing female leaders in the pet industry. This year’s winner is holistic veterinarian Dr. Judy Morgan, who is also an internationally-known author and speaker. Among the Corporate Finalists is Margot Crump, who along with her husband founded the Crump Group, makers of Crump Naturals, high quality hand-crafted minimally-processed dog treats. These allnatural gently-dehydrated treats are made with North American-sourced ingredients.

25 years of

helping animals

Crumps.ca

Steven Rosenfeld, CEO of Sturtevant’s Veterinary Remedies, has received the 2018 Pet Industry ICON Award for his 25 years of supporting animal wellness. His endeavors include building shelters, funding pet adoptions, supporting consumer education on pet care, and supplying products to shelters and zoos. Among the company’s products are Canine Antiseptic Powder, an all-natural broad spectrum medicine for treating skin irritations, including hot spots, atopic dermatitis and minor wounds.

SturtevantsVetRemedies.com Animal Wellness

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How is ELECTROPOLLUTION affecting your pet’s health?

D gs Cats

By Katie B. Kangas, DVM, CVA, CVCP

Electromagnetic

radiation from cell phones, power lines, microwaves and more are having an adverse impact on the health of our dogs and cats (and ourselves!). Learn what these effects are, and how to protect your pet.

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Within the last two decades, wireless technology has exploded. Most people and their companion animals are now living in a dense sea of electromagnetic energy waves, termed electromagnetic radiation (EMR). Current EMR levels are estimated to be 100 to 200 million times greater than they were just a century ago. Numerous studies reveal that the homeostasis within our bodies – and those of our dogs and cats – is dramatically affected by these increasing EMR levels, with negative consequences on health.

Electromagnetic fields There are two main categories of electromagnetic fields (EMFs): • Higher-frequency EMFs include x-rays and gamma rays. These EMFs are in the ionizing radiation part of the electromagnetic spectrum.

• Low- to mid-frequency EMFs include magnetic fields from electric power lines and appliances, radio waves, microwaves, infrared radiation and visible light. These EMFs are in the nonionizing radiation part of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Common sources of non-ionizing EMFs Sources of non-ionizing EMFs can be either natural or manmade.

The earth’s magnetic field is an example of a naturally-occurring EMF. Human-made EMFs fall into both the ELF (extremely low frequency EMFs) and radio frequency categories of the nonionizing electromagnetic spectrum, and can come from a number of sources – power lines, electrical wiring, and appliances such as shavers, hair dryers and electric blankets.

Common sources of radio frequency radiation are wireless telecommunication devices such as cell phones, tablets and laptop computers; they also include Wi-Fi, cell phone towers, radio and TV signals, satellite stations, MRI devices, microwave ovens, and digital electric and gas meters (“smart meters”).

Effects of electro-pollution Ionizing EMFs are known to cause direct damage to cells and DNA. Although non-ionizing low frequency EMFs have not yet been “definitely proven” to directly damage DNA or cells, an increasing and overwhelming amount of data suggests they do. Although the wireless industry and the US government claim controversy despite mounting data and research, current evidence is prompting many countries outside the US to issue

public health risks regarding mobile devices, and to decrease the number of cell phone towers.

As an important reminder, magnetic field levels are highest near the radiation source, and decrease rapidly the farther away you get from the source. It has been shown that magnetic fields are significantly decreased at a distance of about 12” from most appliances. For computer screens, a distance of 12” to 20” offers a dramatically lowered magnetic field.

The World Health Organization International Agency for Research on Cancer classified radio frequency radiation as a possible carcinogen in 2011, and as a probable carcinogen in 2013.

Many experts report that electro-pollution-induced biological stress profoundly compromises normal physiology and intercellular communication, leading to the breakdown of healthy cellular processes. Specifically, cell function deteriorates, cell membranes harden, free radical damage occurs, nutrients cannot enter the cell, and toxins cannot be excreted. Numerous studies have shown the harmful effects of EMR on the immune system, enzyme syntheses and nervous system, as well as on learning, moods and

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Protecting your pet (and yourself!) from

ELECTROPOLLUTION

Leading authorities in hormone health and EMR safety are recommending three levels of intervention to adequately protect against electropollution. These interventions can help protect both you and your dog or cat.

1 2

3

Primary intervention involves reducing exposure as much as possible. This can be done by avoiding constant proximity to EMFs, using headsets for mobile phones, keeping phones in airplane mode as often as possible, etc.

Secondary intervention focuses on minimizing

the effects of radiation. Specific options include subtle energy technologies, diodes and pendants. These tools are designed to “harmonize” the stressful EMFs. Many of these devices are created by reputable energy design companies. They can be used in homes, attached to mobile phones and other personal devices, and/or placed on animal collars or worn as pendants. he third level of intervention is directed at T strengthening the body’s metabolic systems to support correction of cell damage. This is done through a healthy diet and lifestyle. As always, the value of a nutrient-rich diet containing foods and/or supplements that either deliver or promote antioxidant activity are beneficial.

Some of the most effective antioxidants include melatonin, N-acetylcysteine, SAMe, lipoic acid, green tea, CoQ10, selenium, and vitamins A, C and E. As always, talk to a holistic or integrative vet before giving your pet any new supplements.

Interestingly, gingko biloba was the first herbal supplement to be tested against cell phone radiation. Pre-treatment with this brain-protective herb was shown to reverse cell phone-induced oxidative stress and depletion of antioxidant enzymes. Resveratrol and grape seed extract are also reported to protect against the oxidative stress induced by cellphones.

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behavioral patterns. All aspects of physiology at molecular, cellular and biochemical levels can potentially be damaged by EMR exposure.

Expanding knowledge regarding EMR toxicity In the early days of radiation technology, it was believed the only risk associated with EMR came from a thermal effect (i.e. the heating of tissues, as in a microwave oven). Since cell phones do not produce enough power to heat tissue, the US government did not require any studies to investigate potential health problems caused by these devices. However, emerging science has found that the problem with cell phones does not come from their power output (thermal effect) but rather from the information in the carrier waves. These information-carrying radio waves (ICRW) use frequency to convey specific packets of information that allow for the transmission of voice, text, graphics, etc. This is what creates the problem.

ICRW is a frequency that has never before existed in nature. The cells of an animal or human body are totally unfamiliar with it and perceive it as a dangerous foreign invader.

The latest research has clearly identified the biological mechanisms of harm caused by ICRWs. Cells have special receptor sites that sense frequencies and perform signal transduction, converting extracellular signals into intracellular signals. Because cell receptors interpret ICRWs as an unknown “threatening” energy, the cell membrane quickly goes into protective lockdown mode.

This means nutrients cannot get into the cell, and toxins and waste products cannot get out. This induced protective mode also prevents vital cell-to-cell communication. The effects are immediate and last as long as the cells are exposed to ICRWs. The longer the exposure persists, the greater the biological damage, leading Continued on page 60.

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Continued from page 58. to a loss of cellular energy as well as free radical damage, genetic mutation, premature aging and degenerative disease. In fact, specific studies have identified that information-carrying radio waves trigger protein membrane responses at the cell membrane level, leading to disruption of intercellular communication and the build-up of free radicals inside the cell.

Endocrine function appears particularly harmed by the effects of EMR. And we have seen a marked increase in endocrine diseases in pets over the last 20 years.

Electromagnetic radiation is known to act as a hormone disrupter and specific studies have shown that EMR has a direct effect on melatonin production. In 2001, a Japanese study showed that human breast cancer cells treated with melatonin resumed growing when exposed to powerfrequency EMR. The results demonstrated that magnetic fields disrupt the cells’ signaling system, which explains why reduced melatonin levels from EMR exposure have been shown to cause a number of cancers in people including breast, prostate and colorectal as well as melanoma, ovarian malignancies and childhood leukemia.

suppression. Melatonin not only inhibits the release of estrogen and suppresses the development of breast cancer, it has the ability to increase the cytotoxicity of the immune system’s killer lymphocytes and enhances the ability of vitamin D to inhibit tumor growth.

DEFINING ELECTRIC AND MAGNETIC FIELDS Electric and magnetic fields (also called radiation) are invisible areas of energy produced by electricity; i.e. the movement of electrons, or current, through a wire.

• An electric field is produced by voltage, and as voltage increases, the strength of the electric field increases.

Neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine play a major role in moods, and decreased serotonin levels are associated with depression.

One study found that serotonin and dopamine levels were significantly depressed immediately following exposure to magnetic fields, and only dopamine returned to normal levels several months later.

• A magnetic field results from the flow of current through wires or electrical devices, and this energy field increases in strength as the current increases.

Electric fields are produced whether or not a device is on, but magnetic fields are produced only when current is flowing, which usually requires a device to be turned on. However, power lines produce magnetic fields continuously because current is always flowing through them.

Electric fields are easily blocked or weakened by walls and other objects, but magnetic fields can pass through buildings, living things, and most

Companion animals, like people, are facing exponentially increasing exposure rates to EMR toxicity, since they (via their human counterparts) are surrounded with multiple devices much of the time.

Animals and people who live in (or near) densely-populated cities are exposed to dramatically higher EMR, since there are many more towers and electric systems in these regions as compared to rural areas.

other materials. It is important to note that the

In conclusion, electropollution is a very real threat the distance from its source increases. to both present and future generations of animals and Although melatonin is well known for its association with people. Companion animals can be expected to have very regulating the circadian rhythms governing the sleep/wake cycle, high exposure rates due to often constant proximity to this hormone also happens to be one of the most efficient destroyers their human caretakers’ multiple EMR-emitting devices. of free radicals. Through various mechanisms, melatonin supports See sidebar on page 58 for effective interventions to help the immune system and counteracts stress-induced immune protect your dog or cat from electro-pollution.

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strength of a magnetic field decreases rapidly as

W

hen you adopt a puppy, you expect wiggling fur and a lick from a happy tongue. That wasn’t Mowgli (aka Mo). This young dog was both reserved and under-socialized, an unfortunate combination. At the rescue, when people reached into his cage to take him out, he’d hide in the far corner. Soon he began to growl and would threaten to bite. The rescue contacted me to foster and train Mo so he could find a forever home.

Reserved dogs want to take their time getting to know you before you pet and interact with them. Once they feel comfortable with you, they will welcome your affection. Reserved natures will improve with the right kind of training, but training takes time. Mo was just beginning to trust people when the rescue insisted on finding him a home as soon as possible. With his reform training only partially complete, I knew I had to find Mo the ideal adopters. They turned out to be the Fulton family, including parents Judi and Dick, and their three children, Taylor, Sydney and Noah. With coaching on my part, and due diligence on theirs, Mo learned to relax around all his new family members, and grew to love them.

Having a reserved nature around new people doesn’t mean a dog is uncertain about peforming other behaviors. Mo boldly led

hero

warm & fuzzy

An unexpected

By Peggy Swager

on walks. He also became a bit cantankerous when he reached canine adolescence. Judi wisely called me to help correct things before they got out of hand.

The day before I was to arrive for a training lesson, I got an unexpected call from Judi. Another issue had cropped up, and this one took precedence. The cool fall weather meant the family needed to turn on the furnace. The moment the furnace was on, however, Mo started to tremble. Soon he would run upstairs to hide whenever the furnace was turned on. The Fultons noted even after they turned the furnace off, the dog would walk around sniffing the air. I asked if Judy if they had a carbon monoxide detector. They did. I then asked if there was a possible gas leak. Judi was sure that wasn’t an issue.

When I arrived at the Fultons’ chilled house the next evening, we got right to work. I had Mo leashed so he couldn’t flee. The furnace was turned on and I worked with some desensitization techniques to encourage Mo to relax in the living room. This took some time, and although he quit panting and trembling, he still was tense. Since this dedicated family was willing to “camp out” and not use the furnace for the next few days, I was able to give them instructions for working on desensitization when turning the furnace on for training purposes.

Continued on page 62.

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Soon he would run upstairs to hide whenever the furnace was turned on.

Continued from page 61.

My work that night left poor Mo exhausted. Before I left, I told Judi to take him for a walk a little later, because it would help relieve some of the stress he still felt. I also told her that if Mo didn’t improve with the furnace training, then I’d really encourage them to get their furnace checked for a gas leak. I followed my advice with a few stories about how some dogs have a better sense of smell than others. Before I left, I asked Judi why she decided to call me, when these days, so many people take their dogs to the veterinarian for sedatives. She told me her family believed in working through problems whenever possible.

About an hour later, after the rest of the family left for an event, Judi took Mo out for his relaxation walk. Before leaving, she came inside without the dog to turn on the furnace. After all, this was their only chance to have heat for the night. When she and Mo came back from their walk, Judi went indoors to

shut off the furnace while the dog waited outside. Given Mo’s reactions to the furnace, and my concerns about a gas leak, Judi took a moment to sniff the air. She thought she smelled a faint gas odor, so she called the gas company right away. Because of the risk of a house blowing up in the event of a gas leak, the company immediately sent someone. A leak was confirmed.

Mo had a problematic past before being adopted by the Fultons, and the family had to help him adapt to his new life. He may not have wiggled and licked their faces, like other pups, but once he got to know the family, he loved them all. Mo is also a hero because he insisted the Fultons listen to him about a danger in their home. To me, the Fultons are heroes too, because they worked with Mo instead of giving him up again, or opting for the quick fix of getting him doggy sedatives. At the end of the day, Mo and the Fulton family saved each other.

Given Mo’s reactions to the furnace, and my concerns about a gas leak, Judi took a moment to sniff the air.

Thanks to Mo, the Fulton family discovered a gas leak in their house before it could turn disastrous. In turn, Judi, Dick, and their three children have made a happy and loving home for the formerly troubled dog.

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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

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

Dr. Shawn Messonnier Paws and Claws Vet Clinic Plano, TX USA Phone: (972) 712-0893 Email: shawnvet@sbcglobal.net Website: www.pettogethers.net/healthypet

PUBLICATIONS

Mark Newkirk, VMD Newkirk Family Veterinarians Egg Harbor Township, NJ USA Phone: (609) 645-2120 Email: mnewk@alternativevet.com Website: www.alternativevet.com

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

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6

WAYS TO KNOW IF YOUR DOG IS

IN PAIN

By Varsha Bang

Because dogs can’t talk, it can be hard for us to understand how they’re feeling. By understanding something about canine body language and behavior, you’ll be in a better position to know when your dog might be experiencing pain or discomfort.

N

1

o one likes to see a dog in pain. Whether our dogs have aching joints or are undergoing an uncomfortable procedure at the vet’s office, we feel their pain as if they’re an extension of ourselves. But sometimes, a dog’s pain isn’t immediately obvious to us. “Dogs are very stoic and can conceal the fact that they are hurt or in pain,” says dog trainer Cat Saunders.

Because of this, we need to learn how to recognize the subtle signs or behaviors that could be signalling pain or discomfort in our dogs, so that we can do something about it before it gets worse. Let’s take a look at six common signs that could indicate your dog is in pain.

SIGN #1: LACK OF APPETITE For many dogs, food is the most exciting thing in the world. So when they all of a sudden seem uninterested at dinner time, or don’t eat as much as usual, it could be a sign that something isn’t right. Any form of pain could result in decreased appetite. If the dog’s limbs are painful, he might not want to get up and walk to the food bowl. Dental disease can make it painful and difficult for the dog to eat, while an upset stomach or nausea will affect his appetite. Any decrease in your dog’s appetite warrants a trip to the vet for a check-up.

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}

2

}

SIGN #2: AGGRESSION

If you’ve ever tried to help an injured dog, you may have experienced first-hand that aggression can sometimes be a response to pain. Hiding, grumpiness, growling or any other change in a dog’s usual disposition can be cause for concern.

“If the dog thinks you are going to touch him where it hurts, he may react defensively,” says veterinarian Dr. Karen Davies.

“It’s important to know that no one disease or pain reaction will make a dog more likely to snap than another. Pain is pain and the dog’s ability to tolerate it is an individual thing.”

}

3

SIGN #3: RELUCTANCE TO EXERCISE

4

Does your dog go crazy with excitement when she gets to chase her ball? Does she accompany you for a jog each day? If so, you’ll probably be quick to deduce that all is not well when she suddenly seems disinterested in exercise, becomes lethargic or is simply unable to move as freely as usual. A lack of energy is a fairly obvious indicator that something’s wrong, and that your dog could be in some kind of pain or discomfort. Once again, any unexpected reluctance to get active should be investigated by your vet.

SIGN #4: BREATHING CHANGES

}

The way your dog breathes is something you may never pay any attention to until it changes. Of course, you’d expect him to be sucking in big breaths after a sprint or extended period of exercise, but if breathing doesn’t return to normal fairly soon, there could be cause for concern.

Any change in breathing rate, depth or rhythm that doesn’t return to normal reasonably quickly is a red flag, along with any change in how it sounds. Changes in breathing can be associated with pain as well as lung or heart disease.

Continued on page 68.

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RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF PAIN CAN BE TRICKY Dr. Karen and Cat both agree that some dogs are very good at concealing pain. “If the pain is chronic in nature, some will learn to tolerate it and get on with life,” Cat says. The signs a dog does show will vary with the location and source of the pain.

For example, your pooch may not go upstairs in bounding leaps anymore, but rather one step at a time.

Once you know your dog, you should be able to realize when his behavior is normal or completely out of character. “If he’s not getting up and greeting you at the door when you arrive home, or digging into his meals at night with the usual enthusiasm, there could be a problem,” says Dr. Karen. “Any behavior that is out of the ordinary should be considered, and veterinary attention sought, particularly if the changes, however mild, last more than a day.”

5

Continued from page 67.

SIGN #5: VOCALIZATION While it’s true that dogs can’t verbally tell us they are in pain, they can still use a range of sounds to communicate how they are feeling.

“Some will whimper, others will pant and the odd dog will scream or howl,” Dr. Karen says. If your dog displays this type of reaction when touched in a specific area, or when using a certain part of his body, it can be an indication of pain. “If he cries trying to get up on the couch, it could be an indication of spinal, limb or abdominal pain, as these are the areas being stretched out. Alternatively, an animal with high blood pressure or a brain tumor feels the pain in his head, and it may be exacerbated by noise or bright lights, or even the sudden movement of other things around him.”

6

}

}

SIGN #6: EXCESSIVE GROOMING Have you noticed your dog paying particular attention to grooming a specific part of his body, such as a paw or joint?

It could be his way of massaging a painful area. Excessive grooming may particularly be an issue with joint pain; licking the area helps relieve the discomfort, and is similar to how we might rub a sore knee or elbow. If your dog is constantly licking one part of his body, it’s a sign that something is bothering him and requires medical attention.

This is especially the case if the skin or hair is becoming discolored from over-grooming. While excessive grooming can be a behavioral issue, it can also signify skin disease, an injury, or a joint problem such as arthritis.

There are plenty of clues to look for that might indicate your dog is not feeling his best. Even if the signs are subtle, it’s wise to make an appointment with the vet and have your dog checked over. Chances are, the problem will turn out to be minor and will be easy to treat; either way, you’ll be taking steps to alleviate your best friend’s discomfort, and that’s the most important thing.

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the scoop MEANINGFUL GIVING Take a love of animals, combined with the desire to send that just-right gift to family and friends, and we’re talking about a tribute card from Morris Animal Foundation. Just select a card, designate a gift amount to support critical animal health studies, and it’s in the mail! give.morrisanimalfoundation.org

FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1996 Redbarn Pet Products was founded over 20 years ago by two childhood friends, Jeff and Howard, who recognized a need for wholesome, nutritious pet food. Today, Redbarn remains a family-owned company in a committed relationship with premium ingredients and quality assurance. They don’t just sell pet food; they nurture healthy dogs. redbarninc.com

DELTA BANS PIT BULLS Delta Air Lines recently banned all "pit bull type dogs" as service or support animals. In response, Sara Enos of the American Pit Bull Foundation has started a petition asking the airline to reconsider the ban, which would disqualify owners with medically-necessary "pit bull" service dogs from flying. Sign the petition: change.org/p/edward-bastian-delta-com-prompt-delta-to-repeal-their-breed-ban-andfind-a-better-service-dog-solution

HEMP FOR HEALTH New from Healthy Hemp Pet Company, CannaCrush Immune Supporter combines three premium ingredients for optimal pet health – hemp oil, turkey tail mushroom and green-lipped mussels. When combined, these powerhouse ingredients help pets with a variety of immunity issues including cancer, and other health conditions such as mobility and joint problems. healthyhemppet.com

VIETNAMESE CAPITAL TO BAN DOG MEAT According to the Soi Dog Foundation, authorities in the Vietnamese capital of Hanoi have announced that the sale of dog meat will be banned from the city’s central districts by 2021. “We are building a plan to gradually phase out the slaughtering and trading of dog meat,” says Nguyen Ngoc Son, director of the city’s Department of Animal Health. “By 2021, there will be no dog meat restaurants in the city center.” soidog.org

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COZY BLANKET FOR CANINES You don’t sleep on a bare mattress, and neither should your dog. Give your pup an extra layer of comfort and security with a Tall Tails Blanket. He can push, pull and paw the blanket until his sleep spot is just right. This cozy blanket is available in multiple sizes and styles. talltailsdog.com/comfort

BEWARE OF CHEAP KNOCKOFFS Entrepreneur Jay Michaelson invented HandsOn Gloves, an innovative animal grooming tool.

When counterfeiters started making cheap versions, he had his product patented – only to find that knockoff businesses were selling on his Amazon storefront at a lower price, hacking into his sales account and taking over 100% of sales. The problem is still ongoing as of this writing, so if you want to purchase HandsOn Gloves, go online for other retail locations. handsongloves.com

CERTIFIED RAW PET FOOD MANUFACTURER Spring Meadows Natural Pet Food has received its food safety certification through HACCP Canada, making it the second HACCP-certified raw pet food manufacturer in the country.

HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points) is an internationally-recognized system for food safety and quality control. The company’s premium frozen raw food for dogs and cats is manufactured in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. springmeadowsnaturalpetfood.com

HORMONES CAN CAUSE LEASH AGGRESSION Does your dog bark or growl whenever you pass another dog on a walk? According to a study led by the University of Arizona’s School of Anthropology, this aggressive behavior might be a result of his hormones. Researchers found a clear link between a heightened aggression and a hormone called vasopressin. Dogs with higher levels of oxytocin, on the other hand, tended to be more placid. frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2017.01613/full

DRESS HIM FOR WINTER! Protect your dog from the cold with the Hurtta Extreme Warmer parka. A unique fullcoverage cut and soft hood protect his body, belly and neck. This garment is winter-ready with a waterproof-breathable shell, heat-reflective lining and lightweight insulation.

Available in five colors. hurttaamerica.com

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By Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM

DOGS CAN GET BREAST CANCER TOO BREAST CANCER IS MOST OFTEN ASSOCIATED WITH HUMANS, BUT DOGS DEVELOP THIS MALIGNANCY AS WELL. THE GOOD NEWS IS THAT THERE ARE MANY STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO REDUCE THE RISK IN YOUR OWN CANINE COMPANION.

W

e don’t often think of breast cancer in association with our canine companions. But the fact is, the incidence of mammary tumors in dogs is higher than in any other domesticated animal.

Breast cancer accounts for approximately 20% to 25% of all cancers found in canines. Non-spayed female dogs are at highest risk, with rates ranging up to 58%. So it makes sense to learn more about this disease, and how you can help prevent your dog from developing it.

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Integrative approaches to cancer therapies have become increasingly popular in the last decade as researchers document the fact that environmental influences, diet and lifestyle have a tremendous impact on all aspects of cancer, as well as health in general. Integrative veterinarians, including myself, not only address these factors but also focus on deciphering the actual underlying mechanisms responsible for the cancer in the first place.

PREVENTION IS KEY The good news is that it’s possible to prevent breast cancer in dogs.

CANINE CANCER AND YOUR DOG’S LONGEVITY • 30% of your dog’s longevity, including his or her cancer risk, is due to genetics.

This is what your dog inherited from his parents. Unfortunately, we can’t do much to alter genetics.

• 70% of your dog’s longevity is attributed to diet and lifestyle. That means if you have a dog with a high cancer risk, there is a 70% chance you can alter the outcome by making simple changes in his nutrition and lifestyle. That’s good news!

Traditionally, statistics for canine mammary cancer tell us that removing your female dog’s estrogen source prior to her first heat cycle reduces the odds of getting breast cancer by 99.5%. Therefore, spaying your dog reduces this risk significantly. The risk rises by approximately 8% if she is spayed after her first heat, and by 26% after her second. Note that male dogs and even spayed female dogs can still develop breast cancer. In addition, spaying your female dog prior to her first heat is not a 100% guarantee that she won’t end up with cancer. That’s because not all cases of mammary cancer in dogs are hormonally dependent; they can develop with or without the presence of estrogen.

CONVENTIONAL TREATMENT AND PROGNOSIS The treatment for malignant masses usually involves surgical removal of the cancer; in most cases, spaying the dog at the same time is advisable. Prognosis depends on several factors, including tumor size, type and grade, as well as the age and overall health of the dog. Adjuvant therapies including chemotherapy, radiation and hormonal therapy (diindolylmethane or tamoxifem) may or may not be recommended, depending on all factors involved. Most dogs live several years after surgery, so early detection and prompt treatment is always the best way to keep your best friend with you for as long as possible.

• Maintaining a lean body weight is highly beneficial. Studies show that canines who are chubby at one year of age have a tripled risk of developing mammary cancer. Learn how to body score your dog. You should be able to easily feel but not see each rib, and observe a “waist” or a tucked-up area just in front of the hind legs. If your canine’s waist has disappeared and/or you can pinch more than an inch, it’s probably time to talk to your vet about a diet plan.

• Exercise is as good for your pet as it is for you. Exercise enhances blood flow, improves circulation, stimulates vital organs and helps relieve canine boredom and anxiety. At least 30 minutes twice a day is the recommended minimum for health, and is part of a well-rounded cancer preventative lifestyle. One hour of exercise increases your canine’s healthy lifespan.

• Minimizing vaccines, as well as unnecessary chemicals and pesticides, is also beneficial. Ask your vet about titers.

These are blood tests that document protective internal levels of antibodies or immunity for diseases, including rabies, distemper, hepatitis and parvo.

Titers are a legal and effective alternative to vaccines. If a “shot” can’t be avoided, ask for non-attenuated, mercury-free, three-year vaccines. Seek out effective natural alternatives to replace standard heartworm, flea and tick medications.

Remember, external parasites are of most risk in the warmer months of the year; winter weather eliminates most of these pesky parasites as well as the need for “preventatives”.

“

Continued on page 74.

Studies show that canines who are chubby at one year of age have a tripled risk of developing mammary cancer.

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Continued from page 73

NOW LET’S ADDRESS YOUR DOG’S NUTRITION In holistic health, we use food as medicine. The old saying “you are what you eat” applies equally to people and pets.

• Your dog’s water should be fresh, clean and available 24/7.

The purest sources of water are distilled and reverse osmosis, as opposed to spring and tap water. Avoid plastic; whenever possible, use glass, ceramic or stainless steel for your canine’s food and water bowls. Plastic additives such as BPA (Bisphenol-A) are carcinogenic.

• Feed your canine a wholesome diet high in healthy fats and protein, low in carbs, and loaded with fresh, fabulous veggies. Boosting his immune system with balanced antioxidant/vitamin/mineral-rich supplements and herbs may also be beneficial.

• Avoiding low quality dry food or kibble is extremely beneficial in this cancer prevention protocol. The extrusion process

PROMOTING GOOD

estrogen metabolism The relationship between estrogen metabolism and cancer prevention is important, especially where breast cancer is concerned. Certain chemicals mimic estrogen. These external sources of estrogen are termed xenoestrogens and may be responsible for the elevated levels of estrogens found in certain pets, such as male dogs suffering from mammary cancer.

Various weed killers, food preservatives, plastics, sunscreens, pesticides, insecticides, industrial oils and lubricants, adhesives and even paints can contain xenoestrogens.

Should your dog’s estrogen levels be elevated even after surgery, adding diindolylmethane and highlignan flax hulls can be helpful in promoting good estrogen metabolism – in both males and females.

HAVE LUMPS DIAGNOSED

promptly

Diagnosis of canine breast cancer involves a visit to your vet whenever you find a suspicious lump on your dog. The veterinarian will take a biopsy, and a full report will come back from the lab with a detailed analysis of the tissue. If it’s mammary cancer, the report reveals the exact type as well as its biologic behavior.

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used in creating cheap dry pet foods creates a slurry of carcinogenic by-products, including unwanted estrogens. Raw diets, both frozen and dehydrated, are highly palatable, readily available and offer an affordable alternative to homemade diets for those unable or unwilling to cook for their dogs.

SUPPLEMENTATION IS ALSO IMPORTANT Supplementing your dog with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and herbs has also been shown to help boost the immune system. Many of these supplements act synergistically to benefit your canine’s health and combat cancer cell growth.

Before giving your dog supplements, please work with an integrative or holistic veterinarian who will help you choose products and determine dosages for your canine’s individual needs.

• Vitamin A (as retinyl palmitate or water-soluble vitamin A palmitate) • Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid or calcium ascorbate) • Vitamin D3 (as cholecalciferol) • Vitamin E (as d-alpha tocopherol) • Selenium • Omega-3 fatty acids (as EPA and DHA); diets rich in Omega3s may help inhibit breast cancer cell growth by 30% • Glutamine • Ginseng (Panax or Siberian) • Inositol (as IPG, inositol hexaphosphate) • Kyolic garlic (concentrated garlic extract) • Mushrooms (Reishi, Shiitake, Maitake) • Curcumin (the yellow pigment in the spice turmeric) • Green tea (standardized extract for the polyphenol, epigallocatechin galleate) Maintaining a clean, healthy, active lifestyle for your dog is invaluable in helping to prevent canine breast cancer. Try to change what you can, learn to better manage what you can’t. Actively taking care of your dog’s body today will help you take care of him tomorrow, and you’ll both reap the rewards. Chances are, you’ll both be waggin’ your tails for many years to come!

By John Saxton, Vet Med, Vet FF Hom, Cert IAVH, MRCVS

HOW HOMEOPATHY CAN HELP TREAT

SEIZURES IN PETS

U

nlike conventional medications, which only control seizure symptoms in dogs and cats, homeopathy offers the possibility of a genuine cure in the majority of cases.

Having your dog or cat diagnosed with a seizure disorder can be scary. What are the treatment options? Will he have to be on drugs for the rest of his life? Are there any alternative therapies that might help? Turns out, homeopathy is one modality that can be effective for seizures.

NOT ALL SEIZURE DISORDERS ARE THE SAME

Primary or idiopathic seizures in pets and people are commonly lumped under the diagnosis of “epilepsy”.

Secondary seizures linked to various other pathologies are entirely different, and require different approaches based on treatment of the primary condition.

The conventional approach of anti-convulsant drugs may provide a quick solution in that the animal’s fits are controlled. However, such treatment can never amount to more than symptomatic control. These drugs must be given for life, with their attendant costs, monitoring requirements and often side effects for the animal. In addition, there are

many animals in which, for a variety of reasons, complete control cannot be achieved.

HOMEOPATHY OFFERS A POSSIBLE CURE

Homeopathy, on the other hand, offers the possibility of a genuine cure in the majority of cases, and in certain circumstances it can be combined with conventional methodology. There are, however, important differences between these two approaches, and these must be appreciated for the best results.

q The

first thing to remember is that in homeopathy, there is no such thing as one remedy indicated for every case.

Each prescription is individual, and is selected using criteria involving the general characteristics of the dog or cat and the factors that modify the intensity of the symptoms, which are not usually considered by the orthodox world.

w We must also appreciate that from a homeopathic approach, seizures are the acute manifestation of an underlying chronic condition, and the latter must be addressed if there is to be a successful cure.

Continued on page 76.

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Causes of Epilepsy

Trauma, infection, toxins and hereditary factors are all recognized and easily-understandable causes of epilepsy, but two other causes account for many cases.

q T he first is vaccination, which can cause neurological

problems shortly after the vaccine is given.

Homeopathic veterinarians recognize seizures as one possible manifestation of vaccinosis. Since over-vaccination can lead to the condition, booster vaccines should not be given unnecessarily. Under no circumstances should a booster be given to an animal with a history of fits from any cause. Primary vaccines given too early, while the animal’s immune system is still extremely immature, can lead to vaccinosis and seizures. The condition can also be triggered by the suppression of a normal acute reaction to the challenge of vaccination, such as a sore ear, patch of eczema or attack of diarrhea appearing shortly after vaccination.

w Mental

factors such as fright, and particularly grief, can also be significant in triggering fits. It is easy to understand bereavement arising from a death, but it must also be remembered that a separation that’s explicable in human terms may well seem like a bereavement to an animal. The departure of a child to college, for example, while producing a sense of temporary loss in the parents, can produce griefinduced fits in a closely-attached animal who cannot understand what is happening.

Additionally, a history of any skin disease that quickly responded to drug therapy (or even to holistic treatments) can be a clue. When the vital force expresses its imbalance with skin symptoms which are then quickly stopped (suppressed), more serious problems like epilepsy may result.

Continued from page 75.

Even with accurate details of the fit, it must be remembered that these are essentially local symptoms. They represent the means whereby the body exteriorises the underlying condition.

Too much concentration preventing that manifestation, whether by purely locally-acting remedies or conventional medication, results in suppression of the external symptom, which leads to the disease process either finding another external outlet, or involving the deeper organs of the body.

Controlling seizures may lead to the animal developing chronic skin problems, diarrhea, or in time, an apparently unconnected, deeper and possibly life-threatening condition.

Successful homeopathic treatment prescribed by a vet wellversed in this approach addresses the underlying chronic condition without merely suppressing external symptoms. The animal will then be free of seizures and healthier overall, with the chance of a longer life. Often, he will not need to stay on medications; conventional drugs can usually be stopped or the dosages dramatically reduced.

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SELECTING HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINE It is imperative to work with an integrative or holistic veterinarian who is experienced and knowledgeable in homeopathy. The goal is to select from over 4,000 homeopathic medicines the one that best matches all the symptoms of your individual animal.

Sometimes there will be one clear-cut unique symptom (e.g. seizures only occur at the full moon and/or at night), or else all the symptoms clearly point to one remedy (the similimum).

At other times, the homeopathic technique known as “Never Well Since” (NWS) is needed. In these cases, a clear connection between the onset of fits and a particular event can be established.

For example, Arnica, Natrum Sulphuricum, Helliborus or Opium may be indicated in cases associated with head trauma; Ignatia or Natrum Muriaticum when there is grief; or Thuja or Silica to counter a vaccinosis (each of these rubrics has a much longer list of possible homeopathic medicines).

Cases in which anti-convulsive drugs have completely or partially controlled the fits pose particular problems because the symptom picture has been supressed or modified, and restoring the genuine picture causes considerable case/client management challenges. NWS can be useful in these situations to select remedies that can influence the cycle before the control provided by drugs is lifted.

Acute-acting remedies (i.e. Belladonna or Aconite) can replace anti-convulsants and gain time in which to address the deeper aspects of a case. The bowel nosode Proteus can be of particular use because its theme of sudden nervous involvement mirrors the broad epilepsy picture; its use will often prevent seizures and lead to a change in the symptom picture that will indicate a clear choice of a further remedy.

POTENCY AND FREQUENCY OF DOSING Although the energy of a fit is high, care must be taken with potency selection since an aggravation can trigger a stasis epilepticus situation. Once trained in homeopathy, a practitioner develops a preference for administering single doses only, perhaps repeated for a few days to stimulate the curative effect, or repeated liquid dilutions. Since the goal of homeopathy is to stimulate the body to heal itself, to rebalance, remedies should not need to be given for life. If the animal is not getting healthier in addition to not having fits, then any new symptoms should be added to the list and a new similimum selected.

While it’s natural to panic when your pet seizures, it’s important to take your time when talking to the vet so that he or she can build up a full picture of your dog or cat’s symptoms before making a diagnosis and creating a treatment plan. This is especially true for homeopathy, which while effective, requires a holistic approach that includes not only immediate symptoms, but also your pet’s medical history, other health problems, his environment and other factors.

Case Report – Rosie Rosie was a four-year-old spayed female Labrador who had been living with a couple and their two teenage sons since she was eight weeks old. She was vaccinated and wormed annually.

Her first convulsion happened unexpectedly one afternoon, shortly after a walk. Thereafter, they occurred every three to four weeks. They were single seizures lasting around three to four minutes, always during the day but with no time pattern. Stimulus from light or noise would trigger further fits. Rosie exhibited spasms and a lot of muscle twitching but no vocalization or incontinence.

Recovery was followed by deep sleep if she was left quietly. On two occasions, she vomited while recovering.

Her appetite and thirst were average and not affected by the fits.

The only other medical history involved occasional patches of eczema during the previous year that responded to local treatment with a steroid/antibiotic cream. Rosie’s seizures were being conventionally treated with phenobarbitone BID for 48 hours following each fit. Homeopathic treatment was sought after the fourth episode.

Rosie was initially treated with Belladonna 200c, to be administered immediately when a fit started. With this, her fifth attack settled in around 1½ minutes. Further

investigation revealed a pattern in which the fits occurred on or around the full moon.

Rosie was a friendly animal who became nervous in new situations but was upset by nothing when at home. Two weeks after her fifth fit, she was prescribed Calcarea carbornicum 30c BID. A short mild fit occurred several days later (no Belladonna was needed). One week after this short sixth attack, Rosie was given Calcarea Carbornicum 30c twice in one day. This resolved the fits; and her eczema, which was not present once the seizures started, did not return.

Belladonna: Single fits. Great sensitivity to external stimuli. Heartbeat strong and rapid.

Calcarea Carbornicum:

The “chronic remedy” to Belladonna. Aggravation at full moon.

Love of home. Anxiety in new situations and a need for security.

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lle be a An By

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Safe

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our dog y h t i w s l e v If you’re traveling with your dog this holiday season (or any other time of year!), help ensure his health and safety by being aware of some often overlooked hazards that could spell trouble.

You’ve made all the necessary arrangements for traveling with your dog over the holidays. You have a canine-friendly place to stay, you’ve packed his food, bedding, leash and veterinary records, and his ID info is all up to date. That covers it, right?

Not quite. Depending on your destination, some hidden hazards may lie in wait for your canine companion. It’s a wise idea to be aware of these possible dangers, so you can avert any accidents or illnesses. Cover all the bases for a safe and happy trip by looking over this checklist of potential travel-related risks.

• It’s nice to find a chocolate on your hotel pillow when you check in, but if your dog gets hold of it first, it could have disastrous consequences. Even petfriendly accommodations may not know that chocolate is toxic to dogs.

As soon as you enter your room, check the pillow for chocolate – and eat it before your dog does!

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• Other hazardous edibles include complimentary packets of tea and coffee. It’s been my experience that these are often located right next to the courtesy dog treats, so a canine trying to gain access to those yummy biscuits could potentially ingest the tea or coffee too – and that can be harmful.

• Keep in mind that some accommodations may use roach motels and mouse traps placed underneath furniture, behind bathroom cabinets, and beside refrigerators. Look underneath all furniture upon your arrival to see if there are any traps that might be accessible to your dog. I always request that these traps be removed prior to my visit, but it’s wise to double check upon your arrival.

• While you’re looking under the furniture, also keep an eye out for any pills that a previous guest may have accidentally dropped.

• Though housekeeping will be aware of which rooms in the facility are designated for pets, all it takes is for a door to open unexpectedly and your dog could get out. Do Not Disturb signs are usually available at the hotel. If you happen to have a service dog, you can also purchase signs online to bring with you when you’re traveling, such as Service Dog Inside Room – Do Not Disturb (these are available through Amazon). It’s also a good idea to leave your cell phone number with hotel management in case of a problem if you are temporarily away while your dog is in the room.

Cabin considerations FOR CANINES

Planning a rustic cabin getaway? What could be more enjoyable for your dog than exploring the great outdoors with you? Just be sure to check out the area for any possible hazards first.

• Many pet-friendly rental cabins are fenced in, but it’s a good idea to walk the outside area with your dog to determine if there are any dangers that aren’t immediately visible. Depending on the terrain, fencing may not connect tightly enough in some spots, leaving gaps that might be big enough for your dog to slip through. And if you’re surrounded by forest, finding him again could be challenging.

Be sure your dog wears a collar with identification; a microchip is also helpful if he happens to escape.

• Regardless of where and when you vacation, the unfamiliar sounds from the heating or air conditioning systems could make your dog anxious, resulting in an attempt to escape his crate, or worse, the hotel room. The same could be true of noises from other sources, such as elevators, ice machines, voices in the corridor, or nearby highways or airports. Any sounds your dog isn’t used to can be overwhelming if he’s prone to nervousness; if your canine tends to be noise-sensitive, request a quieter area of the hotel further away from main traffic areas.

It’s fun to include your dog in your travels, whether during the holiday season or other times of the year. And nowadays, more and more accommodations are opening their doors to pets. But it’s always best to approach these new environments from your dog’s perspective, so you can uncover any hidden or overlooked dangers. Taking a few minutes to carefully survey the location may just save your vacation, and your best friend!

• Be aware of any streams or rivers near your cabin.

If the water is deep or swift-moving, a dog can slip in and drown very quickly. Don’t leave him unattended, and keep him away from moving water if levels are high.

• Hollow logs and tree stumps are ideal for exploring, but these are also good hibernation places for wildlife, some of which could cause life-threatening problems for your dog.

“We’ve had dogs find scorpions while in these woods,” says Jerri Nowlen, who overseas cabin rentals in Blue Ridge, Georgia. “And we had one particularly smart doggie figure out how to unlatch the fenced-in gate.

It’s best to travel with your dog’s personality in mind, bring a pet first aid kit, and keep local emergency vet numbers handy, just in case.”

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How to make

GROOMING a positive experience for your dog

By Becki Selby

Trips to the groomer don’t have to be stressful. These tips will help ensure your dog stays calm and collected so he can come out feeling as well as looking his best!

Depending on your dog’s coat type and length, he probably needs to see a groomer now and then. But if he’s easily stressed, it may not be a very pleasant experience for him – or for you and the groomer. Luckily, there are ways to take the tension out of groomer visits, and with patience and persistence, the day should come when he’ll be uber-cool with his salon appointments.

To start, while we all love our dogs and want to treat them like furry children, we must remember they are a different species and have different psychological needs than we do. Dogs look to their humans for guidance and leadership, so your reactions to various situations count.

If you’re calm and collected, chances are good your dog will pick up on this and behave accordingly. Of course, this is just the first step to a positive grooming experience.

Follow the tips below to ensure your dog’s visit is as stress-free as possible: Choose the right groomer. Is the salon cage-free, where dogs have access to each other, or are they kenneled for their safety? Does the groomer offer one-onone appointments to limit time spent at the salon, or does she take more than one dog at a time? Once you’ve asked some preliminary questions, visit the groomer and check out the salon. Is the groomer receptive and informative?

Is the salon clean and presentable?

Exercise your dog before his appointment. If your dog is high energy, it is always a good idea to use up some of that energy before a grooming appointment. A structured walk allows the dog to eliminate as well as establish a positive state of mind before heading to the grooming table.

Remain calm throughout. Dogs are very perceptive. If you are anxious when bringing your dog to the groomer, you will project those feelings to him. Walk confidently, with purpose, and limit your conversation with him.

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Don’t reward unwanted behaviors.

If your dog starts to exhibit signs of stress or anxiety, don’t reinforce that elevated energy state with treats or physical rewards. Ignore any behavior that is not contributing to the dog’s well-being, and offer affection only when he's calm.

Practice at home. Sometimes, dogs have an aversion to certain aspects of the grooming process – blow drying, bathing, nail clipping, brushing, etc.

You can try desensitizing your dog at home by repeating the problem task in a comfortable environment. Just remember, the goal is to have your dog accept the process, so you must be diligent!

WHY DOES MY DOG DISLIKE GROOMING? Many dogs love the attention they receive at the grooming salon. But grooming is invasive, and some dogs can become overwhelmed by all the smells, sounds, sensations, unfamiliar people and other animals in the grooming environment.

If your dog consistently reacts negatively to being brushed, combed, clipped or handled, he may never truly enjoy grooming. But don’t fret. If you have a professional groomer you trust, there’s no need to worry when you drop him off. As long as your

Try essential oils. It is important to keep your dog from getting overexcited even before you arrive at the groomer’s. Using essential oils in the car on the way to the appointment can help keep him relaxed. Be sure to choose high grade therapeutic oils – lavender is a good choice for calming.

dog is being cared for in a safe and loving

Schedule regular appointments. Any groomer will tell you that dogs who visit the salon frequently are easier to work with. This is because the dog and groomer build trust, and the dog knows the routine and what to expect. Taking your dog to be groomed more often also means he is less likely to become matted, have overgrown toenails, excessive ear hair, etc., which means the process is not as invasive or unpleasant.

showing signs of aggression while being

Talk to your groomer. Last but not least, it’s okay to express any concerns about your dog. Your groomer is the professional, and can often offer suggestions on what will help make your four-legged friend more comfortable while he’s getting his makeover.

manner, he’ll eventually learn to tolerate the process every six to eight weeks!

Troubleshooting tip #1: If your dog is groomed, it is best to consult an experienced trainer or animal behaviorist before proceeding with a grooming program.

Troubleshooting tip #2: Talk to your veterinarian if you are concerned about your dog’s health during the grooming process, so you can rule out any physical reasons for his objection to grooming.

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Freedom Dog Rescue

Image courtesy of Sissi Meng

Rescue code: FDR

Image courtesy of Dragon Dance Photography

to the rescue

Thanks to Freedom Dog Rescue's love and dedication, Capone recovered quickly from his emergency procedures (left), and is now settled happily into his forever home (right). Capone's foster mom, Brigitte (center), still sees him on occasion, and reports that he's healthier than ever!

LOCATION: Ottawa, Ontario and surrounding areas YEAR ESTABLISHED: 2015 NUMBER OF STAFF/VOLUNTEERS/OR FOSTER HOMES: “Freedom has approximately 55 foster homes and about 100 volunteers,” says President and Foster Director Brigitte Larsen. “Our board of directors has five people on it. Everyone in the rescue, including the board of directors, is a volunteer.”

TYPES OF ANIMAL THEY WORK WITH: Freedom rescues all breeds of dog from shelters and SPCAs, and takes in owner surrenders. “We are a local rescue, but we have also helped dogs in Winnipeg as well as internationally.”

FUNDRAISING PROJECTS: An annual golf tournament called Just Fore Dogs helps raise money for the rescue work. The organization also participates in adoption events at local Pet Valu stores, and hosts regular online auctions.

FAVORITE RESCUE STORY: Four-month-old Capone, a male shepherd mix, was found in the middle of the road and transported to a pound in Quebec. It was immediately evident that something wasn’t quite right with his behavior.

“We were told that Capone needed out of the pound right away, and to go straight to a vet,” says Brigitte. “He was presenting signs of neurological issues.” Within 24 hours, Capone was on his way to

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Ottawa. But his condition worsened quickly on the road; the volunteer drivers had to reroute to the nearest vet clinic as the pup began to seize. Les Aristopattes, a rescue in Quebec, stepped in to help contact local vets. Three days, three clinics and countless tests later, it was determined that Capone had inflammation around his brain.

Lyme disease and distemper were ruled out. No liver issues were detected, Capone’s appetite was good, and the seizures had stopped. He was stable enough to travel the rest of the way to Ottawa, but wasn’t out of the woods yet. “It was decided that we would put him in a hyperbaric chamber, which forces oxygen into tissues, to try and bring down the swelling,” says Brigitte.

After two sessions in the chamber, Capone was deemed healthy enough to be placed in foster care. Dedicated to his recovery, Brigitte decided she would be the one to take him home – and his health only continued to improve. “Capone slept through the night with no seizures or issues.

He ate and drank like a normal puppy, and began partially walking in the front yard – something we'd never seen him do.”

The reason behind Capone’s condition was never discovered. But at the end of the day, it doesn’t really matter. What matters is that, thanks to Freedom, Capone is completely seizure-free. He is living a healthy life in his forever home with his human mom and brother, and couldn’t be happier.

Visit freedomdogrescue.ca to learn more, or follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/Freedomdogrescueottawa/.

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

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Animal Wellness

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book reviews

Title: Crusoe the Worldly Wiener Dog Author: Ryan Beauchesne Crusoe the Celebrity Dachshund – the cover dog for our Apr-May issue in 2015 – currently boasts 2.5 million Facebook fans, and over 600,000 followers on Instagram.

He’s the star of his very own blog, and his second book is now on shelves! Featuring colorful photographs and stories from his worldwide travels, Crusoe the Worldly Wiener Dog: Further Adventures with the Celebrity Dachshund is as charming as its four-legged protagonist!

In this visually appealing photo journal, Crusoe takes his fans to beloved North American cities like New York and Vancouver, across the seas to Switzerland and Italy, and deep into some of Mexico’s darkest caves. This small pup’s poses and costumes are as entertaining as ever, while fresh scenery adds a new backdrop of excitement and culture that old and new fans alike will adore. Crusoe’s snarky and mischievous narrative voice will have readers laughing along with him as he jets from country to country, sampling food, digging holes and signing “pawtographs”.

In the mood for wittiness that spans continents? Crusoe the Worldly Wiener Dog will not disappoint!

Publisher: St. Martin’s Griffin

Title: The Doggie in the Window Author: Rory Kress “Where did my dog really come from?” In her new book, The Doggie in the Window, journalist Rory Kress asks herself this question – and embarks on an investigation to find an answer.

When she adopted 12-week-old Izzie from a pet shop, she was told that the small wheaten terrier had been born in a USDA-licensed breeding facility. But a few years later, she began second-guessing her pup’s background. Her journey to discover the truth led her to write this compelling new book, which shines a revealing light on the U.S. government’s regulation of dog breeders – and how desperately it needs to change.

Kress visits the laboratory of one of the world’s leading animal behavioral scientists, and challenges the notion that the USDA is ensuring the safe breeding of canines. The Doggie in the Window asks pet parents to consider that rescues might be a safer bet than pet store puppies, and asks regulatory bodies to put stricter laws in place to protect man’s best friend.

Publisher: Sourcebooks, Inc.

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Title: The Allergic Pet Author: Deva Khalsa, VMD

A pioneer in holistic veterinary medicine, Dr. Khalsa offers invaluable solutions to help you permanently eliminate animal allergies.

The Allergic Pet teaches readers how to normalize the immune system of companion animals without invasive techniques or pharmaceutical drugs, and presents numerous natural health therapies for keeping pets as healthy as possible. Developed over decades of practice and study, this easy-to-follow guide provides valuable tips on wholesome nutrition and herbal remedies, as well as many other solutions that’ll get you closer to combatting your dog or cat’s allergies once and for all.

book reviews

Nowadays, it’s seems allergy season lasts 365 days of the year. For our allergic dogs and cats, this means battling symptoms that range from dry skin to ear infections to persistent itching. If nothing you’ve tried is getting to the root of your animal’s issues, Dr. Deva Khalsa’s new book, The Allergic Pet, is exactly what you need.

Publisher: Fox Chapel Publishing

Title: A Borrowing of Bones Author: Paula Munier Attention, fiction-lovers! If you’re into dogs and mysteries, Paula Munier’s debut novel, A Borrowing of Bones, is the perfect read for this winter. This compelling tale tells the story of a retired US Army vet and her K9 companion, Elvis. After returning from active duty, the duo works through their trauma by taking long walks through the remote Vermont wilderness. But on the Fourth of July weekend, Elvis detects some explosives on their evening stroll through the woods. As the suspense escalates and their search and rescue skills kick back into high gear, they stumble upon an abandoned baby near a shallow grave – filled with human bones.

A Borrowing of Bones honors human and canine veterans with its relatable

characters and gripping plot. Showcasing her storytelling talent for the first time, Munier manages to explore heavy themes – PTSD, murder and patriotism – eloquently and subtly, while keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Indeed, this first book in a nail-biting new series is full of twists that’ll keep you reading until the last page – and you’ll love every word.

Publisher: Minotaur Books

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MARKETPLACE

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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 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 50 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 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 in all that we do. 2360 Main Street, London, ON N6P 1P9.

(519) 203-2000; www.mainstreetvetservices.ca/ THE NATURAL VET – Dr. Dan Moore is "The Natural Vet". He has combined more than 25 years of study in the field of herbal nutrition and veterinary homeopathy. In addition to many great products, you can also find an extensive library of articles, videos and recordings at TheNaturalVet. net and questions can be searched and/or submitted via AskDrDan.com Schools & Training 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

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EVENTS Toronto Christmas Pet Show November 24–25, 2018 – Toronto, ON It's that festive time of year that we celebrate loved ones and include all family members! Whether they have fur, feathers or scales, we want to share the holiday season with all of them!

If you're looking for a stocking stuffer for your pet or a unique handcrafted gift for the animal lover in your life, you can be confident that you’ll find it – and more – at the Festival Marketplace! Come shop the 250+ pet-themed vendors, and don’t forget to bring your fourlegged companion!

For more information: www.canadianpetexpo.ca/ Deck the Paws Holiday Pet Expo December 1–2, 2018 – Dallas, TX Make your holidays extra merry and bright with a two-day pet-topia of fun! The paw-tastic festivities include holiday shopping for pets and pet lovers, Santa’s village, an Ugly sweater contest of you and your dog, music and holiday entertainment, a Petting Zoo and much more!

entire family. In addition to the many popular returning entertainers, World of Pets Expo will be announcing new acts as contracts are finalized.

Exhibitors will fill the spacious Cow Palace with thousands of products and services for pets. Come out and enjoy!

For more information: info@worldofpets.org www.worldofpets.org Lehigh Valley Pet Expo January 25–27, 2019 – Allentown, PA This pet expo continues to be one of the premier shows in the northeast. It’s bound to be a great success for vendors and a great weekend for attendees!

The Kan Do K9’s Sports Association will be doing obedience, agility and rally demonstrations in the ring – and you won’t want to miss the parade of Breeds! All leashed pets are welcome.

For more information: (631) 423-0620 www.familypetshows.com

For more information: www.unleashedpaws.com/deck-paws

Edmonton Pet Expo January 26–27, 2019 – Edmonton, AB

Greater Philadelphia Pet Expo January 11–13, 2019 – Oaks, PA

Explore the product and service options available to owners and pets and give back to your community by supporting one of the local animal-focused charitable organizations. Interested in what they do? Learn more about how they support animals and the community. The Edmonton Pet Expo features great activities for kids and, as always, you can expect to find information, resources, and great tips on how to be a responsible pet owner from industry experts!

This pet expo continues to be one of the premier shows in the northeast. It’s bound to be a great success for vendors and a great weekend for attendees!

Featuring Gail Mirabella and The Dynamo Dogs, who perform all over the country with their entertaining dog variety act, this year’s show is not to be missed! Want to participate in the fun? Join our parade of Breeds! Open to purebred dogs 6 months and up.

All leashed pets are welcome!

Looking for something interactive? Bring your family dog to try the Paws on Activity Area where you can have your training questions not only answered, but demonstrated right at the show.

Waiver required for all pets in attendance.

For more information: www.petlovershow.ca Healing Touch for Animals® Level 1 Course March 15–17, 2019 – Birmingham, AL 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.

For more information: Tammy Hydrick (404) 372-6979 Birmingham@HealingTouchforAnimals.com www.healingtouchforanimals.com

This exciting three-day expo is one of Virginia’s only family and pet-friendly events that’s fun for all ages.

18th Annual World of Pets Expo January 25–27, 2019 – Timonium, MD This Expo features something for everyone!

There will be workshops, educational seminars, and entertainment. Pets covered in these seminars include dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, ferrets and other animals.

Many activities and demonstrations will be directed toward children, making the Expo an exciting event for the Animal Wellness

Featuring many new exhibitors with thousands of products and amazing show specials, the Petlover show is the place to be this winter! Attend interactive and informative seminars by veterinarians and top animal professionals, and don't miss the rabbit and dog agility shows, raptor shows, dancing dogs, and K9 detection demonstrations.

7th Annual Virginia World of Pets February 15–17, 2019 – Hampton, VA

For more information: (631) 423-0620 www.familypetshows.com

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For more information: info@edmontonshows.com www.petexpo.ca

Petlover Show February 23–24, 2019 – Abbotsford, BC

Brimming with thousands of products and services for your pets, come shop high-quality products for your furry, feathered or scaly friends. Other attractions include demonstrations and workshops, DockDogs, Johnny Peers Muttville Comix, Cat Agility, Informational Demos, Petting Zoo, Pony Rides, contests and so much more.

For more information: info@worldofpets.org www.worldofpets.org

Email your event to: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com

Can you spot the 10 DIFFERENCES?

NEED HELP? Go to AnimalWellnessMagazine.com/spot-the-difference for the answers Animal Wellness

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feline WELLNESS Hip, cool and healthy!

BEST CAT toys

ADVICE ON PLAYTHINGS THAT ENGAGE HER NATURAL INSTINCTS

Buying your cat a

carrier?

HERE'S HOW TO HELP ENSURE HE’LL BE COMFORTABLE WITH YOUR CHOICE

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FLOWER ESSENCES FOR FELINES

6

FLOWER ESSENCES FOR

stressed cats

By Ann Brightman

Flower essences are a safe and effective way to calm and balance nervous or fearful kitties.

nyone who’s familiar with cats knows they’re sensitive creatures. They can be easily stressed and upset by even minor changes in their daily routines. From house guests to home renovations, many things can throw your cat for a loop and result in behavior issues such as hiding, restlessness, or even eliminating outside the litter box. Keep in mind that any change in your cat’s behavior warrants a trip to the veterinarian, just in case there’s an underlying physical problem, but once you’ve established that his issues are stress-based, you can take steps to help him. And one of the best ways to do that is with flower essences.

SOURCING FLOWER ESSENCES A variety of companies make flower essences, with some using different flowers from others. As with anything else, however, it’s important to ensure you’re buying quality products from a reputable source. Probably the most familiar and longstanding maker of flower essences is Bach. Developed by Dr. Edward Bach in the 1930s, and still available today, the Bach line includes 38 individual flower essences along with the wellknown Rescue Remedy, which features a combination of five different flower essences.

Continued on page 92.

f lower essences

AREN’T THE SAME AS ESSENTIAL OILS? It’s a common misconception, but the answer is no. Unlike essential oils, which are concentrated healing oils extracted from various plants, flower essences are made from water infused with certain flowers, either by sun-steeping (floating the flower heads in pure water for several hours, in direct sunlight) or by boiling. During these processes, the healing essence or energy of the flowers is imparted into the water.

The flower parts are removed or strained out before the essence is bottled.

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Continued from page 91.

While flower essences for humans typically use brandy as a preservative, products formulated for animals may use glycerin instead, as in Bach’s Rescue Remedy Pet. However, because only a couple of drops of a flower essence are needed at a time, an alcohol-preserved product is unlikely to cause an issue. You can rub the essence on your cat’s ears or paws, or add two drops to a bowl of fresh drinking water. Again, do your homework and be sure you’re buying a high quality product.

Effective and simple to use, flower essences are a wonderful way to help calm and balance a stressed cat, whatever his triggers may be.

Top f lower essences for cats

A variety of flower essences can be used for cats, according to Denise Eaton, BFRP, BFRAP Education and Bach Brand Manager for Nelson’s (nelsons.net).

Each essence addresses a different situation or emotional condition, so take a look at the following list to decide which one might be best for your kitty.

Note that you can combine essences if you feel you need more than one.

Mimulus (to help become more courageous) – “This remedy is good for cats that are easily spooked, and/ or are afraid of objects or strangers,” says Denise.

Walnut (to help adjust to change) – Consider this essence if you’re moving to a new home with your cat, or if there has been a change in your current household (e.g. a new baby, a new live-in guest, or a child leaving home). Walnut can also help with transitions due to surgery or aging.

Chicory (to minimize the need to control) – Chicory is good for cats who spray their territory, or are constantly seeking attention, especially when others are around.

Cherry Plum (to maintain control) – “This is an excellent essence for aggressive cats who swat, hiss or act impulsively,” notes Denise.

Star of Bethlehem (to neutralize traumas) – A remedy for cats who have been abused, sheltered, or are grieving the loss of a companion, whether animal or human.

Rescue Remedy® Pet – This go-to formula contains five different essences (Impatiens, Star of Bethlehem, Cherry Plum, Rock Rose and Clematis) and is ideal for on-the-spot stressful situations, such as vet visits, travel, etc.

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CHOOSING THE RIGHT

toys

By Ingrid King

FOR YOUR CAT

Cats need to play as much as dogs do. Help keep your cat happy and healthy by selecting toys that satisfy her natural instincts and encourage her to exercise.

Cats have a reputation for being low maintenance. Unfortunately, this gives many people the mistaken belief that cats don’t need as much attention as dogs do. The fact is, cats require physical and mental stimulation in order to thrive. This stimulation includes play, and a selection of engaging toys. Choosing the right toys can go a long way to ensuring a happy, contented and well-adjusted kitty.

WHY PLAY IS IMPORTANT TO FELINES Play is vitally important to a cat’s mental and physical health – and it’s especially important for indoor cats. Even though cats can sleep up to 16 hours a day, they need stimulation when they’re awake, and the best way to accomplish this is through play.

In the wild, when lions, tigers and other wildcats aren’t sleeping, they’re either hunting or teaching their young to

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hunt. Play is nothing more than channeling your domestic tiger’s hunting instincts, allowing her to exercise the sequence of stalking, pouncing, catching and “killing”. Cat toys should be designed to stimulate felines to indulge in this natural behavior.

Play is also a great way to get your cat to exercise. According to a recent study, 55% of America’s cats are overweight or obese.

In addition to feeding your cat a species-appropriate high quality diet, exercise is the best way to keep her fit and trim.

Playing with cats is a wonderful way to strengthen the bond between feline and human. While it’s lovely to spend time with your cat while you’re watching TV, reading or doing a million other things, be sure to make time to actively play with her while focusing only on her and the fun she’s having.

CAT TOYS SHOULD MIMIC PREY ANIMALS Toys made from natural materials such as wool, feathers and synthetic fur mimic the look and feel of real prey animals. Look for toys that are well made without any loose pieces that can be ingested. Avoid toys with glued-on decorations.

Some of the best toys are the interactive wand and fishing pole types. These toys engage feline hunting instincts and allow you and your kitty to have fun together.

Puzzle toys are a wonderful way to engage cats when you can’t be there to play with them. They’re designed to be filled with treats, and challenge the kitty to retrieve the treats through various openings.

TOY SAFETY Inspect all toys periodically for any loose pieces, wires or clamps, especially where the toy attaches to the string (if there is one).

Many toys use safety pin-type attachments, and it wouldn’t be impossible for a cat to chew firmly enough on that part of the toy to pop the pin open.

Keep fishing pole toys out of your cat’s reach when they’re not in use. Cats can become entangled in the string, or even eat and swallow it, which can cause an intestinal blockage.

Don’t let cats play unsupervised with electronic toys that have moving parts. Depending on the toy, paws and whiskers may get caught in the mechanism and your cat may be injured, or at the very least, traumatized.

CATNIP, HONEYSUCKLE, SILVER VINE Cats have varied reactions to toys stuffed with catnip. Only about 50% of cats are affected by catnip, and not all react the same. Whether or not cats respond to catnip appears to be genetically determined. Some respond with euphoria, although it can have a calming effect on others.

A few cats, however, become so stimulated by the herb that they may release their excess energy by picking fights with other cats in the household, or by attacking their humans.

For cats who either don’t react to catnip, or have a negative reaction to it, newer herb alternatives for enhancing cat toys include honeysuckle, valerian and silver vine.

HOW TO PLAY WITH YOUR CAT When playing with your cat, don’t just toss a toy and expect her to chase it. Think about how cats naturally hunt. In the wild, they stalk their prey, inching closer and closer, then pounce on the unsuspecting animal. When using wand toys, move the toy erratically and alternate between fast and slow motions. Don’t dangle the toy in front of your cat’s face – this is not natural prey behavior.

Don’t keep the same toys out in the same spot all the time – this will almost guarantee your cat will get bored with them. Put some toys away for a week or two, then bring them out again.

Your cat will think she just got a brand new toy. Of course, you won’t want to do this if your cat has a favorite toy that she plays with all the time!

Make time for one or two play sessions each day, and make them ten to 20 minutes in length. You and your kitty will find that you look forward to these daily playtimes.

Cat toys don’t have to be expensive. Companies such as Armarkat (armarkat.com) offer a wide variety of good quality inexpensive toys. And keep in mind that some of the best (and safest) toys are things that aren’t even designed to be toys: ping pong balls, plastic shower curtain rings and boxes!

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Choosing a

CARRIER FOR YOUR CAT

By Sally E. Bahner

Most cats run the other way when they see their carriers. Buying the right model for your kitty, and helping him acclimatize to it, will encourage him to feel a little more comfortable with this essential feline accessory.

If ever there was a relationship fraught with angst, it’s the one between cats and their carriers. A carrier is crucial for safely transporting your kitty to the veterinarian’s office, or anywhere else – but if he’s like most felines, he probably hates the sight of it. Taking the time to choose the right carrier for your cat, and helping him get accustomed to it, can remove some of the stress from this tumultuous relationship.

A BASIC CARRIER MAY NOT BE THE BEST CHOICE The classic hard shell box carrier with its small, front-loading wire door is what most people use. These types of carrier are often favored because they can be stood on end when attempting to get the cat inside. This isn’t the greatest tactic, however, since

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many cats will brace all four feet around the entrance, causing even more struggle and stress. Some models have been updated to include a top opening, but the cat may still resist being lifted inside if the door is too small.

The good news is that the wide variety of inspired designs on the market today can make the process of “cat meets carrier” much easier. Depending on the amount and type of traveling you do with your cat, these carriers range from serviceable to luxurious.

A SELECTION OF CARRIERS TO CONSIDER • First up is the picnic basket-style carrier from Sheraton Luxuries (sheratonluxuries.com). It opens wide at the top, closes securely,

Left to right: Sheraton Lux

uries, SturdiPet and Sleepyp

od carriers

and can be strapped into a car using a safety belt. Because the top opening is so large, it’s super easy to place the kitty inside, even if he’s a bit recalcitrant.

• Armarkat carriers (armarkat.com) are made of vinyl and feature breathable mesh for added visibility, ideal for cats who are happier being able to see around them. Soft, removable fleece lounge pads are included and there are pockets for stashing treats and supplies. Some models have wheels for easy transport, and depending on the size, are airline compliant.

• The Sleepypod (sleepypod.com) is great for long trips during which comfort is essential.

The mesh dome-like top zips off, so the base can be used as a conventional bed at home – this can help your cat feel more at home with it when it’s time to turn it back into a carrier. The top itself zips across the middle for easy access. The interior has a comfy faux fur liner that can be zipped out for laundering. This crash-tested carrier straps securely into a vehicle. The Sleepypod also comes with a shoulder strap and handle. The company offers rectangular models for airline travel.

•SturdiPet carriers (sturdiproducts.com) are often recommended for plane trips since they’re soft-sided, lightweight, and can be easily stashed under the seat. They’re made of a heavy canvas that’s easily wiped down. The mesh “windows” have rolldown covers for privacy (thereby accommodating cats that like to see out, as well as those that prefer to be enclosed). Access can be made from the top as well as the front. Some models have a divider to accommodate two cats.

This is just a small sampling of the many cat carrier choices available today. By taking the time to choose a high quality carrier that’s going to be comfortable for your kitty, you’ll help him feel a little better about riding in it.

GETTING YOUR KITTY USED TO HIS CARRIER 1. Prepare the carrier by spraying the interior with feline pheromones or catnip.

2. Add a favorite blanket or other familiar piece of bedding.

3. Place your cat in the carrier inside the house for short periods of time, and offer treats for good behavior.

4. Put the kitty and carrier in the car – first, without the engine running, then with the engine started.

5. Go down the driveway or a short way along the street.

6. Repeat each step until the cat is comfortable.

Armarkat

7. A few drops of Bach Rescue Remedy rubbed into the cat’s ears or paws can help calm him.

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book reviews

Title: Humanely Managing Cat Overpopulation Sites Author: Beth Gammie Cat overpopulation is a serious problem.

While many animal welfare organizations and individuals are working to rectify the issue through Trap, Neuter and Return programs, no manual has ever been created to streamline the process – until now. Beth Gammie, Director of Field Services at RedRover, has written Humanely Managing Cat Overpopulation Sites, a step-by-step solution to cat overpopulation.

Gammie decided to draft the guide as a way to bring agencies and interested parties together with one collaborative plan. Its overarching purpose is to sterilize and rehome as many stray cats as possible – and it sets out to achieve this in a very realistic way.

The manual lays out how to spay or neuter all cats at a specific site, place as many as possible in temporary homes or shelters, then return the unadoptable cats to the site where the possibility of repopulation will be limited.

Interested in saving cats in need? This book is a great tool to have on hand.

Publisher: RedRover

Title: Really Important Stuff My Cat Has Taught Me Author: Cynthia L. Copeland Cats have a lot to offer. They entertain us with their tomfoolery, comfort us with their cuddles and even heal us with their purrs. But author and animal lover Cynthia L. Copeland believes felines have much more to teach their human counterparts.

In her new book, Really Important Stuff My Cat Has Taught Me, she outlines these lessons in a compelling and amusing way.

Featuring stunning photographs and words of wisdom from beloved historical icons, Copeland’s book is a treasure for cat lovers. A small volume packed with an abundance of life lessons, it walks readers through various teachings, all conveyed through quirky snapshots of cats in action. With humor, beauty and cleverness, Really Important Stuff My Cat Has Taught Me takes the often misunderstood feline and turns him into one of the most sensible species in the animal kingdom.

Perfect for every cat parent, and a great holiday gift idea, this charming volume will have you smiling with delight and nodding in agreement with every turn of the page.

Publisher: Workman Publishing

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