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wellness For a long, healthy life!
TOXIc alert!
Why skin issues may go much deeper Teach your dog to be a
FRisbee aficionado
Bath time for baby
Match making
natural spa treatments
How to find the right dog or cat for you
Is your cat a biter? Find out why
Gluten free
Diets
Natural pest repellents
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VOLUME 10 ISSUE 2
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features gluten free is 42 Is something fishy? 24 Going The facts on feeding as easy as 1-2-3! Does he have an intolerance to this common ingredient?
making 30 Match How to find the right dog or cat for you
aficionado 40 Frisbie Teach him to play in 4 easy steps
raw salmon
of the dog 44 Hair (and cat)
What kind of coat does your companion have?
your cat a biter? 54 IsLearning to understand your feline friend can help prevent injury
a move 58 Getting on mange
There’s help for this nasty skin problem
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86
alert! 62 Toxic How to protect his health
zits 67 Kitty Cats can get acne too! games 69 Head What you need to know about headcollars
spa treatment 81 Canine Keep her looking – and
repellents that 86 Pest make “scents”
Get the better of bugs with aromatherapy
your garden 90 Guard All-natural nematodes fight fleas outdoors
not up to scratch? 92 Fido Acupressure can help nix that itch
smelling – her best!
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ONTARIO REGIONAL SECTION
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contents Volume 10 Issue 2
columns 16 Yakkity yak 34 Dr. Martin Goldstein
Editorial Department Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Canadian Regional Editor: Ann Brightman Senior Graphic Designer: Stephanie Wright Graphic Designer: Leanne Martin Cover Photography: Tammy McAllister Illustration: Leanne Rosborough
88 Animal passages 96 Book reviews
50 Warm & fuzzy
106 The tail end
74 Animal communication
departments 8 Editorial 12 Mail bag 43 Product picks 77 Wellness resource guide
84 98 104 105
The scoop Ad spots Events calendar Classifieds
our cover: Photo: Tammy McAllister
Who says bath time has to be difficult? With his rubber duck by his side and an expectant look on his face, Joey the cocker spaniel pup looks like he can’t wait to get started. This appealing little fellow, captured by photographer Tammy McAllister, was one of six pups born two years ago under the watchful eye of Jeff and Lorrie Smith at Calowa Kennels in Beachville, Ontario. Joey’s spunky attitude stayed with him as he grew up and he has since gone on to receive his RN, MCL title in rally obedience through the Canadian Association of Rally Obedience under handler Michelle Tiliana.
Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published six times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyright© 2008. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: March, 2008
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Columnists & Contributing Writers Kim Bloomer, VND Katie Costello Audi Donamor Yvonne Gleason Martin Goldstein, DVM Elizabeth Hodgkins, DVM, Esq. Elizabeth Koehler-Pentacoff Anne Leighton Leslie McMahon Shawn Messonnier, DVM Melinda Miller Susan Neal Suzanne Nelson Lida Sideris Amy Snow Kelly L. Stone Charlotte Walker Nancy Zidonis Administration & Sales President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Office Manager: Lesia Wright Editorial & Marketing Assistant: Jamie Conroy Administrative Assistant: Elizabeth Sinden Submissions: Please send all editorial material, advertising material, photos and correspondence to: Animal Wellness Magazine, 164 Hunter St. West, Peterborough, ON, Canada K9H 2L2. We welcome previously unpublished articles and color pictures either in transparency 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. Email your articles to: submission@animalwellnessmagazine.com. National Sales Manager: Lesley Nicholson (866) 764-1212 lesley@animalwellnessmagazine.com Western Regional Manager: Becky Starr (213) 793-1867 becky@animalwellnessmagazine.com Canadian Regional Manager: Anne Gibson (416) 504-4310 agibson@animalwellnessmagazine.com Classified Advertising: Lesia Wright classified@animalwellnessmagazine.com To subscribe: Subscription price at time of this issue is $22.95 in the U.S. and $24.95 in Canada, including taxes for six issues shipped via surface mail. Subscriptions can be processed by: Website: www.animalwellnessmagazine.com Phone: 1-866-764-1212 US Mail: Animal Wellness Magazine, PMB 168, 8174 S. Holly St., Centennial, CO 80122 CDN Mail: Animal Wellness Magazine, 164 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, Ontario, Canada K9H 2L2 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 or services 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 1-866-764-1212 and ask for dealer magazine sales, fax us at 705-742-4596 or e-mail at sales@animalwellnessmagazine.com.
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editorial
Coats of many colors (and types) These days, little dogs seem to be all the rage. People tell me they want a small dog because they’re less work. I can’t help but wonder if they have really done their homework. Shape and size is only one part of the equation. I always suggest they take a good look at the hair coat, for example.
them had a flea, I might not know unless they scratched incessantly. And I dare a mosquito to penetrate the tight “wool” of a husky’s undercoat (I use an essential oil-based repellent on their heads during the worst of the season).
If you’ve shared your life with a variety of dogs and cats, you probably know what I mean. I grew up with a bichon frise, a spunky and gorgeous little powder puff who, most importantly to my parents, would not trigger the allergy-related asthma I experienced as a small child. The trade-off was mandatory daily grooming and a spa day, either at home or the salon, every six weeks. If she got a flea, it was a minor household crisis, since she was allergic to them and one offender could leave her pink skin covered with welts. Mosquitoes and black flies were also a concern.
As a busy working mom, the animals who have found me are perfect for my current lifestyle. To find your own perfect match, see page 30. And because this issue focuses on skin and fur issues, you’ll find a number of fun and helpful articles on the topic. Learn about your dog or cat’s coat type and how to care for it on page 44, treat your pooch to a special spa treatment (page 81), or get ready for bug season by making your own natural pest repellents (page 86) and treating your yard with beneficial nematodes (page 90).
Over the last decade and a half, I have somehow ended up with much bigger dogs – huskies and most recently, a husky-shepherd cross. Yes, they do shed, but I am hard-pressed to tell you the last time our dog needed a bath. And we do brush her…er, every couple of weeks or so. If one of
The same differences apply to cats. My first feline, a black Persian, was lovely but much higher maintenance than my DSHs.
As always, we offer lots more timely information, from how to protect your dog from toxicity to using headcollars and feeding gluten-free diets. Have a happy, healthy spring!
Dana Cox Editor-in-Chief
Special Cat Issue! Feline Wellness in stores April 22!
Our special issue of Feline Wellness will have your cat purring 24/7. Check out our wellness articles on health, diet, behavior and so much more, written by the top feline experts. This fun, informative issue will put a Cheshire grin on everyone’s face.
Look for it on major newsstands and in health and pet food stores on April 22.
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contributors Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis are the authors of The Well-Connected Dog: A Guide To Canine Acupressure, Acu-Cat: A Guide to Feline Acupressure, and Equine Acupressure: A Working Manual. They own Tallgrass Publishers, which offers Meridian Charts and acupressure DVDs for dogs, cats, and horses. They are the founders of Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute which provides hands-on and online training courses worldwide, including a Practitioner Certification Program (www.animalacupressure. com). To learn how acupressure can help allergies, see their article on page 92.
has been practicing for 28 years and currently owns and runs All About Cats Health Center in Yorba Linda, California. From 1985 to 1993, she served as the Director of Technical Affairs at Hill’s Pet Nutrition -- it was then that she developed a passion for veterinary nutrition that prompted her to investigate the subject, particularly the management of feline obesity and diabetes. She authored the book Your Cat: Simple Secrets for a Longer Stronger Life. In this issue, she writes about feline acne – see page 67.
Susan Neal is a retired professional groomer and pet sitter. She has worked as a horse farm manager, professional dog breeder and exhibitor, veterinary technician, and 4-H leader. She currently writes for a number of pet, equine, and farm publications and manages a small, sustainable farm in New York. She lives with her husband, two bull mastiffs, several cats, and a flock of heritage poultry. See page 44 for her article on coat types and how to care for them.
Suzanne Nelson lives outside Chapel Hill, North Carolina, with her husband, two dogs, five cats and an expanding farmyard menagerie. After spending five years as an investigative reporter in Washington, D.C., she was ready for the kind of peace and sanity only animals can impart. In addition to writing about the well-being of all species, she also works as a Tellington TTouch practitioner. On page 69, Suzanne discusses the pros and cons of headcollars for dogs.
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Photo: Robert M. Stone
Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth M. Hodgkins
Kelly L. Stone is a licensed professional counselor and writer who specializes in animal welfare. Her animal-related articles have appeared in Family Circle, the Georgia Bar Journal, DVM Newsmagazine, and Trends. Her new book Time to Write was released in January. She lives in Pensacola, Florida with three dogs and four cats. For her article on how to teach your dog to play Frisbee, turn to page 40.
Anne Leighton, pictured here with her cat Emmett, lives in New York State with lots of feline and canine companions. She is the author of the book Paws For Thought: How to Understand What Your Cat is Thinking. She is also a music publicist for animal-friendly classic rock bands including Jethro Tull and Grand Funk Railroad, and manages animal-friendly, pop singer-songwriter Jann Klose. For her advice on what to do about cats that bite, see page 54.
Melinda Miller is President of the North American Raw Petfood Association (NARPA), and was co-founder of Bravo Raw Diet. She is the behavior and dietary consultant to the Wolf Conservation Center of New York, practice manager of one of the most prestigious holistic veterinary practices in the country, and also consults to a variety of animal and veterinary-related businesses through her management consulting company. Turn to page 42 for her advice on what you need to know about feeding raw salmon.
contributors Veterinarian Dr. Shawn Messonnier is the author of the award-winning 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 is also the pet care expert for Martha Stewart Living’s program, Dr. Shawn – The Natural Vet, on Sirius Satellite Radio. His veterinary practice, Paws & Claws Animal Hospital (www.petcarenaturally.com), is located in Plano, Texas. In this issue (page 58), Dr. Messonnier writes about mange.
Audi Donamor has been creating special needs diets for dogs and cats for a long time. Following the loss of her beloved golden retriever, Blues, she founded The Smiling Blue Skies Cancer Fund through the University of Guelph’s Pet Trust. She is the only two-time recipient of the Golden Retriever Club of Canada’s Silmaril Kennel Trophy for the Human/Animal Bond. She writes about gluten-free diets on page 24.
Katie Costello is a registered veterinary technician. She lives in Hubbard, Ohio with her husband, eight rescue dogs and five cats. She is a member of the Society of Veterinary Behavior Technicians and the founder of K-9’s for Compassion, a Delta Society Pet Partner group. She is also a Delta Society Licensed Evaluator and Team Training Course Instructor. On page 30, she shares her tips on how to find just the right dog or cat for you.
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Leslie McMahon owns Two Hands Four Paws, Inc. In 1998, she inherited a German shepherd who was paralyzed after her back was broken. Leslie was inspired to found Two Hands Four Paws (www. twohandsfourpaws.com) out of her desire to assist others who were faced with the challenges of caring for a paralyzed animal. She is certified in human and canine massage and canine rehabilitation, and schooled in canine anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, nutrition, and first aid. Read her inspiring story about Billy Bob on page 50.
Kim Bloomer is a veterinary naturopath, host of the online radio shows Animal Talk Naturally and ATN Gone Wild, and a proficient writer on natural pet health. She is also co-author of Whole Health for Happy Dogs. She is currently enrolled in the Clayton College of Natural Health finishing up her Bachelor of Science in Holistic Nutrition and will begin her studies for her human Doctor of Naturopathy degree this year. She is a member and SW District Manager of the American Veterinary Naturopathic Association. She lives with her husband and an eight-yearold rescued Neapolitan mastiff named Shadrach. See page 86 for her tips on making natural flea repellents.
From an exceptional land of plenty – New Zealand – comes ZiwiPeak, a natural range of premium pet products with a unique real-meat composition to meet the dietary needs of cats and dogs, the way nature intended. ZiwiPeak has developed an inspired range of 100% natural, ranch-raised foods and treats, containing only the purest New Zealand ingredients with no preservatives, colours, fillers, grains, added salt or sugar. Available in a variety of delicious meat recipes, Cuisine ‘Daily Dog’ and ‘Daily Cat’ foods come in both moist and air-dried formulas. ZiwiPeak Treats & Cuisine Food are available from leading Vets, Health Food Stores & Pet Stores. Visit our website or phone toll free for your local stockist. ZiwiPeak Ltd
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Dear Animal Wellness Magazine:
mail bag FEBRUARY/MARch 2008
al ness anim well For a long, healthy life!
living pawsitive!
Healer FaitH this incredible story
why so many people are turning to
read about Faith – a dog who ility has overcome her disab e to inspire millions of peopl around the world
integrative Medicine for their animals what you need to know about
AnIMAL WELLnESS MAgAzInE
antiBiotics
7 ways your dog find can help you
Border Hoppers:
inner peace
Boundary training for your dog
wHat's tHe stinking trutH aBout garlic?
kitties and kidney disease
oting safe sho strategy that
crock around the clock
a vaccine minimizes their risk
FEBRUARY/MARCH 25, 2008 Display until March VOLUME 10 ISSUE 1
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gazine.com www.AnimalWellnessMa
I just picked up a copy of your recent issue and did a double take when I saw the cover. Faith is such an inspiration to people with disabilities as well as to those who have animals with disabilities.
Bless her heart for showing us that animals can live fulfilling lives even if they’re not perfect.
J.S. via email Editor’s note: We couldn’t agree more. This story was all about the powerful combination of acceptance, love and a positive attitude. We were happy to be able to introduce our readers to this incredible two and four-legged family. I have been buying your magazine for a while now and absolutely love it. I currently work part-time at a vet office that does not do any holistic care. I am so interested in learning more. Where can a person learn more about homeopathy, nutrition, herbs, etc in a way that I can feel safe using these options on my own pets first, and possibly suggesting them to others in the future? Thank you!
Tereasa Lenius via email Editor’s note: There are lots of wonderful resources now for learning more about holistic health care for animals. A good starting point is to visit the American Holistic Veterinary Medical
Association website at www.ahvma.org. There are also some great books out there, including The Nature of Animal Healing by Dr. Martin Goldstein, The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats by Dr. Shawn Messonnier, and Three Simple Steps to Healthy Pets by Lisa S. Newman. And, of course, don’t forget to check out back issues of Animal Wellness, or visit our website and order our CD-rom, which holds six years of articles on all aspects of holistic animal care by some of the foremost experts in the field.
I love your magazine and recommend it to all my pet owning friends. That said, I read your last “Mail Bag” about the reason no cats are ever on the cover. I am referring to your comment about 100% of your readers owning dogs and 84% of your readers owning cats. I am the proud owner of five cats and zero dogs. I would like to see cats on the cover occasionally and I think even the dog owners would not mind an occasional cat on the cover of their magazine. Your magazine is called Animal Wellness and that includes cats and even some articles about rabbits are included too. Please rethink your stand on this. I would love to see a beautiful kitty on the cover of your magazine. I think it is time to branch out a bit. Sherry York via email Editor’s note: Your point is well taken! Many of the team here at Animal Wellness are also cat lovers and guardians (including the publisher and editors), and we realize that lots of other people feel the same way. We’ve continued on page 14...
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actually tried in the past to shoot covers with dogs and cats but it’s a lot trickier than it sounds. We're still working on it though and hope to bring you one very soon. In the meantime, we’re delighted to be publishing our special Feline Wellness issue, due out in April. It’ll be filled cover to cover with cat-related articles and, of course, will feature a kitty on the cover!
we want to hear from you! Address your letters to: Editor, Animal Wellness Magazine, and send to: us: PMB 168 8174 S.
Holly St., Centennial, CO 80122 can: 164 Hunter St. West,
Peterborough, ON K9H 2L2 or by email to: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com www.animalwellnessmagazine.com
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yakkity yak
Families with dogs are fitter Having a dog is good for your health in more ways than one. According to a study recently done at Deakin University in Australia, mothers and children in families with dogs are more physically active than those without canine companions. The research found that mothers are 70% more likely to meet exercise recommendations if they have dogs, while over 60% of kids aged ten to 12 regularly walk their dogs.
Not so sweet For those trying to lose weight or avoid sugar, artificial sweeteners may be a godsend, but some of these substances can be toxic to your canine companion. Xylitol, for example, which is found in a lot of candy, gum and baked goods, can lead to low blood sugar in dogs, resulting in depression, impaired muscle coordination, and even seizures.
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Researchers have also found a strong link between xylitol and liver failure in some dogs. Since 2005, the Animal Poison Control Center has managed well over 100 cases of xylitol poisoning per year, so if you consume foods containing this sweetener, be sure to keep them well out of your best friend’s reach.
Bully for you! The bulldog has made the list of top most popular breeds for 2007, according to the American Kennel Club. Although the Labrador retriever still holds first place, this is the first time the bulldog has made the list since 1935. This muscular-looking breed enjoyed variable popularity during the latter part of the 20th century, but is now finding favor again among a large number of dog lovers and is currently at number ten on the AKC list. “The bulldog is both docile and adaptive, and can thrive in small or large homes,” says AKC spokesperson Lisa Peterson. The breed is most popular in Los Angeles, where it’s second only to the Lab.
Help zoo animals
Many of Ontario’s zoos are woefully inadequate when it comes to animal welfare and public safety. The good news is that the government is taking notice. Last year, it put together a group to explore the regulation of zoos and wildlife displays. The group is expected to complete their examination and develop several options for consideration by government ministries in April. To show the Ontario government that zoo regulation has strong support, Zoocheck Canada has launched a province-wide community consultation initiative. To make your voice heard, visit www.zoocheck.com, fill out the Wildlife in Captivity questionnaire, and fax it back to Zoocheck. animal wellness
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Did you know different cities favor different dogs? In Oklahoma City, the breed of choice is the miniature Schnauzer.
How much would it cost? Ever wonder what the most costly health conditions are for cats? When Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI) analyzed medical claims submitted in 2007 for its feline clients, it found the following to be the top ten most expensive common conditions (based on average claimed fees): 1. Foreign body ingestion (small intestine) 2. Urinary tract reconstruction 3. Foreign body ingestion (stomach) 4. Rectal cancer 5. Bladder stones 6. Intestinal cancer 7. Hyperthyroidism (radiation) 8. Fibrosarcoma (skin cancer) 9. Acute renal failure 10. Mast cell tumors
$1,629 $1,629 $1,399 $1,399 $1,391 $1,391 $1,011 $1,011 $989 $989 $942 $942 $920 $920 $780 $780 $565 $565 $497
Photo courtesy: Grzegorz Wieczorek
Crusade against cancer When Eileen Eisenhower’s Rhodesian ridgeback, Kyra, was diagnosed with lymphoma, she decided to enroll her furry friend in a revolutionary new cancer vaccine study at the University of Pennsylvania. As part of the study, genetic material from a cancerous tumor was implanted in healthy b-cells outside the body to train them to attack the lymphoma, and then injected back into Kyra. Along with a number of other dogs in the study, Kyra is now cancer-free and healthy. Because canine cancers are very similar to human cancers, and also respond to therapy in a very similar way, the results of the study could represent a breakthrough in treating the disease in both species. “It certainly gives hope for the future, for precious pets and people,” says Audi Donamor of the Smiling Blue Skies Cancer Fund.
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Celebrating HEALTH & LONGEVITY 22 years FIGHT AGAINST CANCER The Real Answer your Pets Deserve for
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It’s that time again! The Hollywood Office of the Humane Society of the United States is gearing up for its annual Genesis Awards, to be held March 29 in Beverly Hills, California. This popular gala event honors outstanding individuals in the major news and entertainment media for raising public awareness of animal protection issues. Contenders for this year’s major award nominations include Bee Movie, Arctic Tale, Access Hollywood, Entertainment Tonight, Larry King Live, and Boston Legal. The Wyler Award, given in honor of Genesis Awards founder Gretchen Wyler, will go to a high profile celebrity who has made news on behalf of animals. Find out more at www.genesisawards.org.
Which do you believe plays a bigger role in determining dangerous or disruptive behavior in an animal – breed and size, or upbringing? In Canada, most people (86%) believe upbringing is the key factor, according to the 2007 Urban Animal Survey recently released by Ipsos Canada. Not surprisingly, those polled felt the prime responsibility falls on the shoulders of the people who keep and raise these animals. The survey also found that 70% of respondents know little or nothing about pet-related legislation in their communities. “Given these stats, there is clearly still work to be done on an education and awareness front,” says David Webb, Senior Research Manager for Ipsos Canada.
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yakkity yak Indoor cats need fresh greens; provide them with a container of fresh, organic wheat, rye or barley grass to nibble on. Photo courtesy: Priscilla's/www.kittygrass.com
Cracking down on dogfighting Despite the many individuals and organizations working to raise awareness of the negative impacts of dogfighting, this despicable practice still continues. To help deal with the problem, the ASPCA has formed a partnership with The U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) to develop a resource packet that will support police and community efforts to combat dogfighting. The packet will provide
law enforcement with the necessary tools and training resources to recognize dogfighting, as well as for evidence collection and processing, teaching techniques for handling victimized animals, establishing partnerships with prosecutors, and building animal task forces within the communities they serve. These resources will be available through the COPS website this coming summer at www.cops.usdoj.gov.
Pooch or partner? When you consider the unconditional love our dogs give us, is it any wonder more than three million Americans buy Valentine’s gifts for their dogs every year? Valentine’s Day may have passed, but when it comes to the following, pooches beat partners hands down, all year round:
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1. Your dog doesn’t argue about what movie to see. 2. Your dog isn’t looking at other humans wishing he/she was theirs. 3. Your dog likes all the food you cook and always comes back for seconds. 4. Your dog is always happy to see you, even if you look like crap. 5. Your dog doesn’t hold grudges. 6. Your dog will listen to you for hours without interrupting. animal wellness
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Going
gluten free by Audi Donamor
is as easy as 24
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1-2-3!
Once upon a time, the only thing I knew about gluten was what legend taught me. In 7th century China, Buddhist monks made a dough using wheat flour and water. They covered the dough with cold water, then kneaded it. The cold water dissolved the starchy component of the mixture, and what was left was a glob that looked like a pile of glue, 70% to 80% of which was gluten. It’s no surprise then, that the word “gluten” literally means “glue”. In the early 1980s, I learned a second and very different lesson about gluten when I was preparing a university paper about autism in humans. Researchers were exploring the possibility that a contributing factor could be the incomplete breakdown and excessive absorption of peptides with morphine-like activity from foods containing gluten, thereby disrupting biochemical and neuroregulatory processes. Since then, researchers have continued to look at gluten free diets as an intervention for autism and associated disorders.
So, what is it anyway?
Gluten is a protein group found in wheat and other flours like rye and, to a much lesser extent, barley. It forms the structure of bread dough. Gluten holds the carbon dioxide produced by the yeast, providing the elasticity or stretch in the dough. Glutenin and gliadin are the two proteins that form gluten. When cooked in broth, gluten absorbs some of the surrounding liquid, including the taste. It becomes very firm, so is widely used in vegetarian and vegan diets as a substitute for meat protein. It is also used as the base for many imitation meats that look remarkably like the real deal, including beef, chicken, duck, fish, and pork. Gluten is used as a stabilizing and thickening agent in a wide variety of food products, including low-end commercial pet foods. It goes unlisted on the labels of some of these foods because the FDA classifies gluten as GRAS, which means that it is “generally recognized as safe.”
Does your animal have an intolerance?
Gluten intolerance is a common problem
in both humans and companion animals. Celiac disease, also known as gluten intolerance or gluten sensitive enteropathy (GSE), is a condition in which glutens destroy the villi, hair-like projections that go into the lining of the small intestine. The villi’s job is to slow down the passage of food particles, so the blood inside the villi can absorb the nutrients the body needs. When damaged, the villi can’t function properly, and this results in poor nutrient absorption.
Signs of gluten intolerance in animals include: •chronic ear infections •chronic skin problems •recurrent gastrointestinal problems, like gas or burping •behavioral changes you can’t quite explain •idiopathic seizure activity These symptoms can indicate other disorders as well, so it’s important to get an evaluation from your vet. If it turns out your animal is gluten intolerant then some dietary changes are in order. This isn’t as difficult as it seems, especially nowadays when a growing number of premium pet food manufacturers offer high quality gluten free diets for dogs and cats. If you prefer to make your own, work with a holistic veterinarian or nutritionist who can help you formulate one. It will mean no wheat products, rye, barley, spelt, triticale, or kamut. Consider also leaving out all corn, soy and yeast products. Avoiding oats has been controversial for gluten free diets, but gluten free oats are now readily available. animal wellness
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Gluten free biscuits in three easy steps To get you started, here’s a simple recipe for some flavorful and versatile biscuits. As you’ll see, you can choose from a variety of healthy ingredients. Use organic products whenever possible.
Ingredients
1
Start with 4 cups of whole flour. Choose from chickpea (also known as garbanzo), garfava, whole brown rice (contains bran and germ), gluten free oats, sweet rice, potato, quinoa, tapioca, hemp, or coconut. You can use a single flour or a blend; for example, combine whole brown rice flour with gluten free oat flour, or sweet rice flour with coconut flour.
2
You’ll also need 1 cup of meat, poultry, fresh fruits and vegetables and/or other protein sources. There are many possibilities. Consider applesauce, organic canned pumpkin, bananas, blueberries, or a vegetable/fruit blend like sweet potato and cranberries. Or try puréed liver, salmon, or another fish of your choice, or ground meat such as bison, venison, rabbit, ostrich, emu, or duck.
3
Choose a sweet or savory accent. You could use 2 teaspoons of Saigon cinnamon and 2 teaspoons of carob powder for fruit based sweet treats, and 1 finely minced garlic clove and 2 teaspoons of fresh parsley or catnip (or a combination of the two) for savory treats that contain meat or fish.
Instructions Preheat oven to 325oF. Cover a large cookie sheet with parchment paper. Combine your selection of ingredients in a food processor, until the dough pulls away from the side of the work bowl. Turn out dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead well. Here are three easy ways to prepare your biscuits:
1 2
Cut into desired shapes or squares.
Take small pieces of dough, roll out to the thickness of a pencil, and using a sharp knife, cut pieces appropriate to your dog or cat’s size.
3
Form the dough into a ball, place it in the centre of your cookie sheet, and using a rolling pin (a mug or glass works well too), roll it out to the edges of the cookie sheet, and score with a sharp knife.
Bake for 20 minutes, then turn the oven down to 175oF and bake for 40 more minutes. Turn oven off and allow the biscuits to cool in the oven. Store in an airtight container or Ziploc bag. Switching your companion to a gluten free diet involves a bit of homework, but once you’ve got the hang of it you’ll be amazed at the positive changes in his well being. It really is as easy as 1-2-3! continued on page 28...
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animal wellness
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A closer look at some gluten free ingredients Chickpea flour is a good source of potassium, phosphorus, iron, foliate, copper, and magnesium. It also contains unsaturated fatty acids and is high in fiber and protein. Its high protein content does not turn into glucose in the bloodstream, so it’s an excellent choice not only for a gluten free diet, but for animals who need to lose weight, are diabetic, or have been diagnosed with cancer. Whole brown rice flour is a good source of potassium, protein, iron, thiamine, and niacin. Gluten free oats contain a higher proportion of fat and protein than most other whole grains. They have a high silicon content, which makes them good for bones and connective tissues. Oats soothe the digestive and nervous systems. They are low in starch and high in mineral content, especially potassium and phosphorus, and also contain calcium, magnesium, iron, and B vitamins. Quinoa contains protein, calcium, iron, and has an excellent amino acid profile.
Is your loved one hoping you don't notice how bad he smells?
Carob contains all principal vitamins and minerals and soothes the gastrointestinal tract. Cinnamon is often used in the treatment of digestive upsets, indigestion, and diarrhea. Garlic has antiseptic, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. It contains vitamin A, iodine, phosphorus, potassium, and selenium. Parsley contains iron, vitamin C, provitamin A, calcium, phosphorus and manganese, and is one of our most concentrated food sources. R
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animal wellness
Bison is an excellent protein choice for animals that have allergies or digestive problems. It is considered “heart healthy� because it is low in fat and cholesterol. Bison is a good source of iron, selenium, phosphorus, zinc, copper, potassium, riboflavin, niacin, vitamins B6 and B12. To top it off, bison also contains Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), an antioxidant that is recognized as a cancer preventative.
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Mhowatch making to find the right
dog or cat for you
by Katie Costello
C
ompanion animals enrich our lives in so many ways. They give us loyalty and unconditional love, and help us live longer. They teach us not to take ourselves too seriously, and sometimes even give us a purpose in life. In return, they deserve our commitment. We owe it to the animals we choose (or who choose us) to meet their physical and emotional needs throughout their lifetimes. This means that when we adopt a new dog or cat, we need to take an honest look at ourselves, our lifestyle, and the animal, to make sure we are getting the best possible match. Here are some questions to ponder before bringing home your new friend.
• What kind of living space do you have? A small apartment with no yard wouldn’t be a good choice for a great Dane who
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interaction as dogs, and are easier to leave alone for longer periods. Dogs are pack animals and require more attention. If you’re away at work for long hours every day, a dog may not be a good idea unless there’s someone else at home or you have a pet sitter or dog walker.
Hint
needs space, or a Jack Russell with a lot of energy. This is a major reason animals are turned into shelters, and should be a top consideration.
Cats also need companionship – consider getting two if you’re out a lot.
• How much time do you have?
• Do you travel a lot?
In general, cats do not need as much
If so, who will care for your animal?
Will he go with you? Dogs generally travel much better than cats do. If you travel by air, a smaller dog that you can take in the cabin with you might be your best bet.
• How physically active are you? A toy poodle would not be the ideal running partner, while a border collie is not meant to be a couch potato. Be sure to get an animal that fits comfortably with your level of activity.
• What is the animal’s coat like? How much grooming are you willing to do? How much shedding are you willing to deal with? Long-haired dogs and cats need frequent brushing.
• Is he quiet or noisy? If you live in an apartment building and have a noisy animal, there will be complaints. It’s important to recognize that not all small dogs are yappy, nor are all large dogs quiet. Happy cats are usually quiet, although breeds like
the Siamese tend to be more vocal than average.
• How long will he live, on average? Are you ready and willing to make a commitment for that length of time? It’s also a good idea to make arrangements for someone to take the animal in case something happens to you.
• Do you want a puppy or kitten, or an adult? Most people want puppies or kittens, but adult animals offer many advantages too. They are often already housebroken, and you are able to get a more accurate picture of their true personalities. And it’s an old wives tale that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks.
What else to consider
1.
Do not choose an animal solely because of his looks. This is another common mistake that often results
in animals being returned to shelters. Consider the breed or mix of breeds, and research their characteristics, needs and behavior traits. Your veterinarian, a reputable breeder, or a breed-specific rescue group are good resources.
Hint
Dogs often have innate drives that need an outlet. Herding dogs may nip ankles if they don’t have any sheep to keep in line.
2.
Remember that each animal is an individual. Although different breeds have certain characteristics that can help you make your decision, every animal has own traits and quirks. Try to spend some time with a dog or cat before adopting him; this will help you gauge how the relationship will go.
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3.
If you are adopting a kitten or puppy, consider the earliest age you should bring her into your home. Very young animals learn socialization skills from their mom and siblings, so it’s beneficial for them to stay with their family for a certain period of time. Go slowly when it comes time to separate them, and make the transition gradual. To start, you might be able to work out a deal with the shelter or breeder to take your puppy or kitten for a few hours at a time.
4.
You won’t see a true reflection of how a young animal will behave as an adult until he reaches social and sexual maturity. Training and working with your animal will also change his behavior to some degree. To ensure a healthy relationship, it’s important to start right away to set boundaries and teach him right from wrong.
5.
Keep in mind that animals don’t understand English. They use body language, and you can understand them much better if you take the time to learn that language. In turn, they will come to recognize many human words if you use them in a consistent manner. By taking the time to choose the right dog or cat, you’ll be doing yourself and your new companion a great service. The human-animal bond is very powerful, and can enhance your life beyond measure if you make the right match!
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holistic veterinary advice
Talking with dr. martin goldstein Dr. Marty Goldstein has been practicing holistic veterinary medicine for 30 years. Based at Smith Ridge Veterinary Center in South Salem, New York. Dr. Goldstein is the author of The Nature of Animal Healing, published by Random House. You can also hear him on “Ask Martha’s Vet with Dr Marty” on Sirius Satellite Radio network channel 112 every Monday at 8PM EST (www.sirius.com). Send your
Dr. Goldstein’s column to: Dr. Martin Goldstein, Dr. Marty responds to questions in his column We regret he cannot respond to every question. questions for
e-mail: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com
Q
I am fostering a ten-week-old kitten with severe cerebellar hypoplasia. I have had him about two weeks and he is progressing and learning to adapt. He has tremors and sometimes can barely walk. He just flops from side to side or does somersaults. The flopping and somersaults are getting less severe and I have high hopes that he will improve to the point that he just has a funny walk along with his tremors. Is there anything you can suggest that might help? I have only begun to learn extensively about this condition after I almost had him euthanized, thinking it was the humane thing to do. CH shouldn’t be a death sentence.
A
I agree. I used to have a hospital cat named Waldo who had this condition and he enjoyed a very good and long life. He was also a riot, and I truly suspect he didn’t know he had a problem. For supporting any part of the brain, my clinic uses Neurotrophin by Standard Process Labs, Sphingolin by Emerson Ecologics, and a homeopathic by Professional Complementary Health Formulas called Brain Enhancement Liquiescence.
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animal wellness
Q
only.
My one-year-old dog, Wilie (German shorthaired pointer), had parvo when he was nine weeks old. He lost a lot of weight and has had gastrointestinal problems ever since. Our vet recommended Hill’s i/d to help with the diarrhea. It did help, but he was not gaining any weight and was always hungry, so I decided to put him on a high quality puppy food. I also gave him supplements, EFAs and a bowel herbal blend. This helped a little with the weight problem but not the diarrhea.
Over the years, I have seen many cases of almost overnight success by switching over to a raw diet. It may not always work but I feel it is worth a try. I write about a potato diet in my book The Nature of Animal Healing. It contains white and sweet potatoes, a meat type, and a slice of turnip and leek. I have seen a lot of success with this dietary treatment.
After a few months I reluctantly started feeding him MediCal gastro formula. He has been on that for a month now and is having the same problems as he did on the Hill’s. I feed him about eight cups a day plus Seameal. It seems he is not absorbing the nutrients. The pet store suggested I feed him a frozen raw diet, but I read that dogs with gastro problems may not be a good candidate for raw food. He had blood tests and a fecal exam done recently which were all good. What do you think would be best?
Several supplements we use with excellent success are Acetylator by Vetri-Science Labs, Arabinogalactone by the same company, homeopathic remedy Diarrhea sometimes coupled with Intestine by the BHI company, Dr Goodpet’s DiarRelief, and a colostrum supplement. I also like a good probiotics supplement.
A
There are usually a number of ways to go with every individual and specific condition, and the way you choose is the one that works. Trial and error are sometimes part of the course.
Q A
My dog Millie has a gland problem and the vet has prescribed Soloxine for life. Will this medication damage her after awhile? I’m assuming the gland you are referring to is the thyroid. If so, the prescribed synthetic thyroid medication (Soloxine) would not directly damage her and
would probably do her some good if she does, in fact, need it. There are, however, alternative ways of both addressing and treating this issue, partially or in total. I suggest you consult a veterinarian experienced with alternative medicine for proper guidance. For example, we have successfully used supplements like Thytrothin by Standard Process Labs, Thyrodrops by Professional Complementary Health, and a medication named USP thyroid which has similar effects to Soloxine while containing fewer synthetic properties.
Q
Can a brain tumor cause aggressive behavior in cats? We have a five-year-old neutered male who can no longer be in the same room with our other two cats without screaming and fighting them. He was very loving when younger, but his personality has changed and he has become very aggressive. Our vet checked him over and found nothing wrong, except that one kidney was a bit compromised. I read that brain tumors can cause this problem, but the vet doesn’t seem to take it seriously and I want a second opinion.
A
I have seen aggression as a sign associated with confirmed brain tumors over the years but would never use it as a symptom to confirm or be definitive for the presence of a tumor. Aggression is much more common than brain tumors and there are many other causes. My advice would be to consult with a veterinary neurologist.
many clients over the years use water for their animals they claim is alkaline, and feel it is beneficial.
Q
Q A
I am a nutritionist working in a health and wellness centre. I’ve been asked by several pet owners if alkaline water is the same for dogs. Do they need it, or will it affect them to drink water that has been alkalized? I’ve pondered this myself for many years. As big a proponent as I am of alkalizing for humans, dogs and cats are carnivores and meat-eating is basically acid-forming. Also, when animals experience chronic illness like arthritis and cancer, a blood enzyme they have, referred to as alkaline phosphatase, commonly elevates, possibly indicating a too alkaline state. With this said, I have had
My 12-year-old husky/shepherd mix, Nikki, was diagnosed with Cushing’s. She just went in for her HDDST to determine whether it’s adrenal or pituitary. Either way, I’m really scared to use Lysodren because of the possibility of her “crashing” and becoming “Addisonian.” I noticed in a previous Q&A about Cushing’s that you mentioned some natural remedies, but added that regular medications might have to be used as well but in smaller doses. Were you speaking of Lysodren? I would love to be able to treat my dog holistically if possible.
A
Yes, Lysodren is one of those medications I have had to use, though very infrequently. I am currently working with a dog named Bailey who has been doing very well for over four years on our alternative program containing the supplements I wrote about in the previous Q&A, as well as the medication Trilostane, which was prescribed by her local veterinarian. She is now 14½ years old.
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For more information and support on this epidemic disease, consult the Canine Cushing’s Yahoo Group at http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/ CanineCushings-AutoimmuneCare.
Q A
Can you recommend a diet and herbal remedies for a dog with struvite bladder stones? My dog is a ten-year-old neutered male Peke cross. There are commercially available prescription diets that address this condition but I typically like to stay away from them because of quality issues with their ingredients. Although it could entail more work, I prefer home derived diets. The top of my list are raw diets consisting of 70% to 80% meats, crushed bone and the rest veggies. This work very well. Under that would be home cooked meals. There are several ways to go with this; a good reference would be Home-Prepared Dog and Cat Diets: The Healthful Alternatives by Donald R. Strombeck, DVM, PhD. For supplementation, I would use UT Strength by Vetri-Science Labs, CoQ10, a cranberry extract supplement, and the homeopathic Uri-Cleanse by BHI or Urinary Aid by Professional Complementary Health Formulas.
Q
My 20-pound, 4½-year-old dachshund had blood work done and his liver enzymes are: ALT 132 (normal range 5-95) and ALP 21 (normal range 24-141). The vet also told me he had a heart murmur. My dog has been eating fresh homemade foods for two years now. He also struggles with some kind of allergy that I can’t put my finger on (he bites his back paws after eating). Eliminating
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animal wellness
chicken, beef and rice was helpful but the problem is still there. And finally, he coughs after he drinks. I am thinking about putting him on Dr. Jean Dodd’s GARD diet and milk thistle extract (how much would I give him?). Is there anything else you can recommend? Is it possible the abnormal liver values are from giving him cheese and a high protein diet?
A
Over the last two to three months at my practice, I have seen a remarkable number of elevated liver enzymes in animals, two of which were healthy Dachshunds. When re-tested after several weeks of liver support, a number of them have come back to or near normal. I doubt if this is coming from the protein and cheese. Milk thistle is top on the list to use, and I also respect every recommendation that comes from Dr Dodds. You would need to contact her references for how much to give (www.littlebigcat.com). I also like adding in a liver glandular such as Liver Support by Best For Your Pets, Liver Gall Bladder Drops by Professional Complementary Health, and even Denosyl by Nutramax.
Q A
I have a dog who has gingivitis. I read about an oral care gel for dogs that contains alcohol and grape seed extract, which are both known to be toxic to dogs. My veterinarian informed me that products with any amount of alcohol should not be given to dogs. Do you think it is safe to use this product? For decades, I have been using homeopathic and herbal formulations in alcohol tinctures, some rather strong, to successfully treat many thousands of
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animals. This even includes cats and dogs with liver disease. If the product you reference is on the market, I’m certain the proper trials have been performed before release. If you’re still in doubt, you might want to contact the company with your question.
Q
I have a four-year-old spayed female Pembroke Welsh corgi. The last two years we have battled a chronic UTI. She has had numerous cultures that come back as e-coli and has been on and off Clavamox the last two years. She has undergone an ultrasound, vaginal scope, blood tests, and x-rays which showed no underlying cause. The vets felt that the cause was a hooded vulva. She had surgery to correct the problem, but the UTI is still present.
For the last 13 or 14 months I fed her a raw meat diet (Dr. Pitcairn). We recently went to see two more vets and they were very much against a home cooked or raw diet. I was instructed to use Science Diet, canned salmon dog food, and add two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and salmon oil plus a product by Purina that is supposed to help the digestive system, along with an herbal pill. I tried this and it didn’t work. Currently, Wrigley is taking one amoxycillian at bedtime to control the UTI. I had heard that oregano oil might help. We need help because I really do not want her living on antibiotics. Plus, I want to go back to making her dog food. The vets that told me stop doing that, and also told me not to feed her carrots or her other regular veggie and fruit treats, other than little pieces of banana.
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animal wellness
A
I have no problem with you going back to making Wrigley’s food or even giving her a raw diet. You can also address this chronic condition with some remedies and nutraceuticals. Oregano oil has proven to be effective as it has anti-bacterial properties. Olive leaf extract is another choice. The product we use in my clinic is Olivet by Vetri-Science Labs. The herbs uva ursi and dandelion are two of the more common ones used to address kidney and bladder problems, including infections. Personally, I like UT Strength, also by Vetri-Science. Homeopathically, we use UriCleanse by BHI, or Urinary Aid by Professional Complementary Health Formulas. If testing the urine pH proves it is too alkaline, acidifiers such as cranberry extracts or vitamin C in the ascorbic acid form could also help.
Dear Readers: The brand names I recommend in my column are suggestions only. There are other brands with similar formulas. As with any product, it’s important to buy a brand you can trust. Editor’s Note: This column is for information purposes only. It is not meant to replace veterinary care. Please consult your veterinarian before giving your animal any remedies. For a listing of holistic veterinarians, please refer to our website at www.animalwellnessmagazine.com.
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Photo courtesy: Steven Donahue/See Spot Run Photography
Frisbee Aficionado
A
Melissa Heeter and Ariel Ally perform at the Start 94 Petapalooza Event in Suwannee, Georgia.
Teach him to play in 4 easy steps
Are you and your dog looking for great way to get fit this spring? Why not teach him to catch a flying disc? It’s affordable and fun, and if you have a competitive nature, it’s one of the few canine sports that allow mixed breeds, which means anyone can participate.
Most dogs can learn to catch a Frisbee disc, says Melissa Heeter, 1997 Canine Frisbee® Disc World Champion and the first woman champion in the 32-year history of the sport. “Dogs naturally chase moving, flying and rolling objects because of their natural predatory instinct,” she says. Teaching your dog to catch a Frisbee can be done in four simple steps. Before you start, make sure you select the right disc. Choose one that’s flexible enough
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animal wellness
to bow back and forth when you press the top plate with your thumb. Inflexible discs may harm your dog’s mouth or teeth. Also ensure you get the right size of disc. Small discs tend to have sharper edges, warns Melissa. A disc that’s either too large or small may have a lip that’s improperly sized for your dog’s mouth. Aim for a disc that your dog can pick up and hold in his mouth with his head comfortably raised, and that he can run with without tripping.
by Kelly L. Stone
Hint
Each step must be mastered before moving to the next one.
1.
Familiarize your dog with the disc. Get him interested in it. Drag it on the ground and scoot it like a bowl. Once he’s interested, put the dog on your nondominant hand side and hold the Frisbee disc in your other hand. Say “take it.” Encourage your dog to run up to the Frisbee and remove it from your hand.
2.
Play the “trading game”. Release the Frisbee as soon as the dog takes
it and have a second Frisbee available. Hold the disc, touch it with your other hand, and say “take it”. Many dogs are taught not to take items from our hands, so you need to show him that this toy is okay to take. Get the dog to trade Frisbees with you. Next, roll the disc like a wheel away from the dog’s face, about 10 to 20 yards in his running path. Encourage him to chase and retrieve it.
Before starting any new exercise program with your
by a vet to make sure he’s in
Great Life Healthy Tips 4 Pets
good health and condition.
From Elliott Harvey MH
dog, it’s always a good idea to have him checked over
3.
Place the dog on your nondominant hand side and float the Frisbee disc in front of him about 6” to 7” above your hand. Say “go” or “take it”. If the dog has mastered the previous steps, he should jump for the disc while it’s in the air. The goal is to get your dog to move toward the disc while it’s in your hand, and then inject flight into his step.
4.
Increase the distance. Again put the dog on your non-dominant hand side and throw the disc about five feet in the air. Say “go”. The dog now has to stride forward in order to catch the disc in the air. Once he has mastered this, build distance by increasing the length of your throw. In novice competitions, most throws range from 10 to 25 yards, so if you want to compete, gradually work towards this distance. Teaching your dog to play Frisbee disc is easy and enjoyable, and an ideal way for both of you to get some outdoor exercise once the weather warms up. For more information, see www.FrisbeeDogsOnline.com; to learn where novice competitions are being held in your area, visit the U.S. Disc Dog Nationals website at www.usddn.com.
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Is something
fishy?
Facts on feeding raw salmon by Melinda Miller
W
e know salmon is good for our health – and for that of our dogs and cats. If you feed your animal a raw diet, however, you’ve probably been warned to avoid raw salmon because of salmon poisoning disease (SPD). Some think salmon is toxic to dogs, while others think SPD is the same thing as Salmonella. Some believe it affects cats as well as dogs. But none of this is true. Here are the facts about SPD. Salmon poisoning disease (which is actually an infection) in seen in dogs that eat raw fish of the salmonid family, which includes salmon, trout, steelhead and other similar freshwater fish. The disease is specific to salmonids caught or raised in the Pacific Northwest, including northern California, Oregan, Washington, British Columbia and Alaska. Some of these salmonids become infected by parasitic flatworms known as trematodes or flukes. In turn, some of these flukes are infected by bacteria-like microorganisms called rickettsia (Neorickettsia helminthoeca). The rickettsia are the culprits that cause SPD. The specific fluke (Nanophyetus salmincola) that carries the rickettsial infection can
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animal wellness
only complete its life cycle in a specific snail (Oxytrema plicifer) which lives only in the Pacific Northwest. Fish in the region become infected when they eat infected snails, and dogs acquire the disease when they ingest the raw fish. Cats are not susceptible to SPD. This means it is safe to feed some raw salmon and other salmonids to your dog. Just make absolutely sure they are Atlantic-caught fish, or were caught in areas outside the Pacific Northwest.
Hint
Most home freezers do not reach temperatures low enough to kill flukes, so don’t assume putting the fish in your own freezer will make it safe. For Pacific Northwest salmonids, cooking will always kill the flukes. The FDA says freezing can also eliminate the parasites; freezing the fish at -4ºF or below for seven days, or at –31ºF or below for 15 hours, will kill the flukes and any rickettsia they might be carrying. In short, you can let your dog safely enjoy raw salmon, but only if you know
Symptoms of SPD include vomiting, loss of appetite, fever, diarrhea, weakness, swollen lymph nodes and dehydration. These signs typically develop five to seven days after ingestion of the infected fish. If untreated, 90% of symptomatic dogs usually die within 14 days. Treated early and appropriately, dogs usually have an excellent chance of complete recovery. where it was caught and how it was handled. If you’re not sure of the origin or the handling, either cook it or don’t feed it. This need for knowledge was highlighted by a recent report of two dogs with SPD in southern California. It turns out the dogs ate trout from a local lake that had been recently stocked with fish from the northern part of the state. Luckily, the dogs were treated and recovered without complications.
product picks 2008
Close to your heart Whether your animal companion has passed on, or you just want to celebrate everything he means to you, a Pet Memento pendant will keep him next to your heart at all times. Handcrafted by artist Carol Swann, who came up with the idea after the death of her dog, Kayla, Pet Mementos are diachronic glass pendants with a small pinch of your animal’s ashes or fur fused into the pendant’s heart. These unique pieces are available in five colors, and can be custom created to suit your tastes and the personality of your furry friend. Pendant with leather cord: $75 www.petmementos.com
Fence me in Fresh air, sunshine and room to play outdoors all make for a happier, healthier dog. If you want to give these benefits to your best friend without sacrificing his safety or your view of the yard, check out the Best Friend Fence. This complete system is affordable, easy to install anywhere on your property, requires no pre-existing fence, and has minimal to no visual impact on the backyard. You can even take it with you if you move. This unique fencing system can be purchased as a complete kit or in separate components, enabling you to customize the enclosure to accommodate your particular dog and yard. 4 1/2’ – 7’ heights: $289 - $849 www.BestFriendFence.com
Wrap him in comfort With age and activity, many dogs develop arthritis, tired muscles, aching joints, and injuries. The K9 Flax Wrap provides the relaxing and healing benefits of aromatherapy to your dog. This handmade 100% cotton body wrap is filled with natural golden flax seed, organic lavender, calendula flowers, rosemary leaf, and other herbs selected for their soothing and calming qualities. The wrap may be warmed in the microwave to provide moist heat and release the essential oils in the herbs. When a cooling effect is needed, chill the wrap in the freezer. The product is designed to fit comfortably like a coat, and comes in many stylish colors. XS - XL: $30 - $50 www.k9flaxwrap.com
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What bliss! Don’t have the time to bake healthy, homemade cookies for your canine companion? Don’t worry! Blissful Biscuits now offers ten varieties of tasty, healthy, hand-cut dog cookies, each with a particular shape, flavor and healthful purpose. From Squirt’s Cheddar Bites to Ariel’s Oatmeal Wheaties, these delicious treats contain no artificial colors and are preserved with vitamin E. If your dog has allergies or needs to lose some unwanted “puppy pounds”, the company also has non-wheat and lowfat options. 8 oz package: $5.95 www.blissfulbiscuits.com
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Y Collie
Tonkinese
Chinese Crested
Hair of the dog ...and cat ? What kind of coat does your companion have
by Susan Neal
Yorkshire Terrier
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Devon Rex
From hairless to corded and everything in between, dog and cat coats vary widely.
Puli
Y
You might not think much about your animal’s hair, unless it shows up on your best business suit or favorite armchair. But your dog or cat’s coat is more than just a pretty wrapping that sometimes comes undone.
It has several important jobs to do. It serves as a first line of defense against the environment, providing a physical barrier against thorns, dirt, or the bites of other animals. It also insulates against temperature extremes, moisture, and the damaging effects of the sun. Haircoat traits are largely determined by the natural environment in which an animal originated. Through selection and breeding, humans have enhanced the coat features they find most desirable. Today, the coats of companion animals come in a dazzling array of lengths, colors, and textures.
Going hairy Hair is a keratin-covered filament that grows from specialized epidermal cells (hair follicles). There are three types of hair common to dogs and cats.
1. Whiskers:
Most mammals have tactile facial hairs that help them process data about their environment.
2. Primary hair:
These tough, outer hairs of the coat are also known as guard hairs, or the topcoat. They are longer and stiffer than other coat hair, provide the bulk of protection from physical damage, and some degree of moisture resistance.
3. Secondary hair:
The inner or secondary hairs lie close to the skin and are known as the undercoat. They are gen-
erally shorter and softer than primary hairs and provide insulation.
Coats of many kinds Coat type is determined by volume, texture, and the distribution of primary and secondary hair. Every breed (and to some extent every individual animal) possesses its own unique combination of these factors. Cats exhibit three main coat types. • Long-coated varieties, such as the Persian, have profuse primary and secondary hairs. Their coats may be up to five inches in length. Understandably, such long tresses can mat and tangle if not properly cared for on a daily basis. • Short-coated cats, like the Siamese, have hair less than two inches long. They are quite adept at grooming themselves, but may need attention to prevent mats or remove excess undercoat. Wiry or curly variations in the texture of short coats are seen in breeds like the American wirehair and the Devon rex. • Hairless cats, such as the sphinx, are not truly without hair. Instead they have a sparse covering of hairs so fine the animal appears hairless. While these cats require the least amount of grooming, their lack of protection from the environment demands a high degree of attentiveness. Among dogs, the variation in coat types is even more complex. • Long-coated breeds, such as the collie, Samoyed, and Newfoundland, animal wellness
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have a layer of primary hair that is tough and long, and a profuse layer of fine, secondary hairs. This double layer serves to protect these breeds when they are working out in the elements.
Hint There is really no such thing as a non-shedding dog, although many wirehaired terriers and poodles come close. • Short-coated breeds such as the Labrador retriever and greater Swiss mountain dog have shorter hair, but there can be quite a bit of variation in the length and texture of the topcoat. The undercoat may be thin or quite voluminous. Those with very fine, short coats, such as Dobermans and whippets, are considered smooth-coated. Curlycoated retrievers and Portuguese waterdogs have curly-textured coats. • Hairless dogs, like the Chinese crested, xoloitzcuintle, or Peruvian Inca orchid,
Coats for camouflage Whether through evolution or breeding, the color and patterning of your animal’s coat is more than just cosmetic. The white wooly coat of the great Pyrenees, for example, allows this canine guardian to live with his flock of sheep without upsetting them. Meanwhile, the tawny coats of many wild and domestic felines allow them to melt into the backdrop of their natural desert or savanna homes. 46
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Is it shedding season? Contrary to what you might think, your animal’s coat does not grow and shed continuously. Although hair follicles release dead hairs randomly through the year, the majority of the coat is renewed during cyclical shedding periods, controlled primarily by seasonal changes in daylight. As days lengthen in the spring and shorten in the fall, an appropriate release and/or regrowth of hair is triggered. This explains why indoor animals continuously exposed to artificial light seem to shed all year; their internal shedding mechanism is constantly in overdrive. Other factors that influence an animal’s shedding pattern include his age, health, nutrition, and hormone levels. A high quality meat-based diet free of artificial additives and rich in Omega-3 essential fatty acids can help reduce shedding. are again not truly hairless. They have an almost imperceptible smattering of fine hairs. With no protective outer coat, these breeds are at the mercy of the elements, so you must be ever vigilant to protect them from extremes in temperature and exposure to the sun.
Hint Consider your lifestyle when adopting an animal with a particular coat type. Do you have the time to properly care for a long-haired dog or cat? • Silky-coated breeds, such as Afghans and Yorkshire terriers, have long, flowing tresses. Their topcoat is ultrafine. They require daily grooming in
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Levels of grooming difficulty range from easy to complex based on coat type:
Grooming level Coat type Tips and tools Easy Hairless
Requires the least amount of grooming. A simple wipe with a grooming cloth or a bath with mild shampoo may be all that’s needed.
Medium Short, smooth, and curly-coated
Benefits from occasional brushing with slicker or bristle brush. May be necessary to remove excess undercoat with fine-toothed comb, rubber curry, or shedding blade several times a year. Bathing and drying are quick and easy.
Medium-Complex Wirehaired
Should be brushed with slicker brush or fine-toothed comb to remove dead hair trapped in the coat. Many breeds also require clipping or hand-stripping to maintain proper appearance and coat texture.
Complex Long and Requires considerably more grooming. Start by patiently pulling snarls and mats silky-coated apart by hand. Stubborn mats may need to be coaxed out with a pin or slicker brush. (Hold the clump of hair in one hand and gently tease hair loose from the underside of the mat.) Use clippers, thinning shears, or special mat breaking tools only as a last resort. A variety of combs, rakes, and brushes are available to suit coat length and should be used to smooth the topcoat and remove excess undercoat. Routine care prevents most grooming problems.
More complex Corded Needs to have cords patiently teased apart by hand several times a year in order to brush out dead hair and debris. Can be time-consuming. Brushing and combing is similar to that of other long-coated breeds. Can take hours, even days, to dry thoroughly after a bath.
order to control undercoat matting and to keep the fine, outer hairs from tangling. • Wirehaired breeds like the Irish terrier and German wirehaired pointer have stiff, short coats. Many are touted as being “non-shedding” because their coats retain shed hair instead of dropping it. But this dead hair must still be removed by routine brushing. • Corded haircoats are very unique. In breeds such as the Komondor and Puli, the primary and secondary hairs naturally twist together into long cords, creating a very distinctive appearance.
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Due to this natural matting, corded breeds retain most of their dead hair. For this reason they may not need the same degree of grooming as other longcoated breeds, but those dreadlocks do need to be completely combed out several times a year.
Getting a handle on his hair Different coat types require different grooming techniques and tools. When acquiring a new dog or cat, ask a professional groomer to demonstrate the proper grooming techniques for
that breed, as well as what tools are appropriate based on his coat type, age, and sensitivity. Levels of grooming difficulty range from easy to complex based on coat type. Thanks to the incredible diversity in dog and cat coats, you can easily find a companion whose grooming requirements fit your lifestyle. And if you ever find yourself overwhelmed, you can consult a groomer for advice and help. Either way, knowing your animal’s hair type, and how to care for it, is an important key to his well being.
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warm & fuzzy
Billy Bob
walks again
I
by Leslie McMahon
It’s a special day at Two Hands Four Paws, a canine rehabilitation facility in Los Angeles. Billy Bob is walking on his own for the first time in 2½ months. Although initially given a poor prognosis, the nine-year-old Doberman has defied the odds and is learning to walk again, thanks to weeks of intense rehabilitation and the dedication of the entire staff.
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It’s no wonder he’s teetering about with a huge grin on his face. It’s as if he’s exploring the world for the first time and enjoying every moment to the full.
The future looked bleak Billy Bob arrived at Two Hands Four Paws (www.twohandsfourpaws.com) as a quadriplegic. He had been “down” for three weeks. He was also clinically depressed and barely able to lift his head. His neurologist had diagnosed cervical spondylomyelopathy, also known as “wobblers”. It’s a condition where the vertebrae begin to grow into the spinal cord and the dog gradually becomes weaker and weaker, eventually losing the ability to stand or walk. It was a devastating diagnosis for a big healthy dog like Billy who loves to run and play. According to Billy’s “mother”, he had always been very active. Unfortunately, he would have had a much better prognosis had he been rushed to surgery as soon as he went down, but he didn’t have his operation until nine days after being taken to the vet. The delay meant his spinal cord became even more compressed, greatly reducing his chances of ever walking again. Helping Billy get up and walk represented a nearly insurmountable challenge. And given his family’s financial restraints, we had only three weeks to accomplish the task. It seemed impossible.
One day at a time We began by relentlessly and repeatedly moving Billy’s body through the motions of moving and walking. Our plan included a comprehensive series of exercises including massage, range of motion, rollovers, crunches, treadmill,
work on the physio ball, crawling and swimming, with acupuncture treatments to aid in the healing process. It amounted to hours of therapy every day. Billy’s frustration was evident, but he led the way, demonstrating how much he wanted to be back on his feet again. He soon began showing small signs of daily improvement. He started lifting his head, then sitting sternal. He began to regain a little flexibility and strength, first on one side, then the other. One day, with every ounce of concentration and strength, he held himself up for a few seconds. Each day he accomplished a little more. We were coming up to week three when Billy started crawling. He loved it so much we had to get him his own custom-fitted knee and elbow pads so he wouldn’t get rug burns. We were ecstatic, but desperate for more time. Billy’s mother, worried he would never be normal again, was thinking about having him euthanized. She was convinced he could never come back home or survive in his old environment. The neurologist urged her to give Billy six to eight weeks from the date of surgery before making a final decision, and after many sleepless nights, she agreed.
Back on his feet As we approached week five, the next step in Billy’s recovery was to get him into a quad cart to continue strengthening his legs. Because he was so large and heavy, we felt he had to start “walking” on his own with the staff working his legs for him while the cart supported his body. Billy’s mom was unable to afford the cart, so we looked into ways of raising the money to buy one. Time was running out when a miracle dropped in our laps: Handicapped Pets offered to fit Billy with a quad card and donate it to his cause.
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A happy Billy Bob with his shoes on
Once he had his cart, Billy started walking with our assistance. It became a great tool for strengthening his legs and supporting him as his muscles and nerves started firing again. Billy was what we call “barn sour”. As we left
"
"We were so proud…and a bit scared as he teetered
"
about and took his spills like a baby learning to walk."
the house for his walks, it was as if none of his limbs were working at all. Then, as we turned the corner to return home, he would begin sprinting back to the house as fast as he could. We often had to restrain him because he was moving so quickly.
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A week or two after getting his cart, it happened. Billy decided to stand and walk on his own. He was fiercely determined to “do it himself”. We were so proud…and a bit scared as he teetered about and took his spills like a baby learning to walk. He continued growing stronger and more independent as he began doing all the things a healthy, fully functional dog would do – and all with that huge grin on his face. We were amazed. When clients who had been rooting for him showed up for their own appointments, Billy would struggle to his feet and stagger out the door to greet them. More than a few people burst into tears at his intense resolve to get up and say hello. He was so proud of himself that one client remarked he was “drunk with power”! All the sleepless nights we stayed awake with him as he struggled to roll over in bed; all the times he barked every hour to be carried outside
to relieve himself; the sore backs we got from carrying 90 pounds of weight wherever we went because he needed company 24/7…all were worth it to see the pure joy on Billy’s face as he started to walk, and then run.
Home again Although it’s the moment we strive for, we were tearful when it was time for Billy to go home and we had to say goodbye. We desperately miss him, and the challenges we moved through with him. He changed our lives and inspired us in so many ways. Billy Bob is one of our greatest success stories. He continues to get stronger and more stable, and his mom reports he is doing just fine as he cruises happily around the house and neighborhood visiting his friends, just like he used to.
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Is your cat a
biter ? Learning to understand your feline friend can help prevent injury by Anne Leighton
Sgt. Pepper got so fed up with being dunked in his carrier for vet trips, that one day he jammed his sharp teeth into my thumb. Within two hours, I was unable to move it. I found alternative methods to hit my computer’s space bar, thus ensuring my creativity survived the attack, but I still wondered what the future had in store for my swollen digit. 54
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Luckily, the infection healed itself because I repeatedly cleaned the wound with warm water and witch hazel, and drank a lot of water. Since then, though, I’ve learned a lot about the potential dangers of cat bites, and how to avoid something like this from happening again.
Bites can be serious “Unlike dog bites, which are easier to irrigate, a cat bite is often a deep puncture wound,” says Dr. David Esses, Associate Director of the Emergency Department of Montefiore Medical Center in Bronx, New York. “Sometimes a tooth is caught in there, so it’s more likely to cause infection.” He adds that most cats bite hands, which along with feet have poorer circulation than other parts of the body. Dr. Esses advises people to seek medical help if they get a serious cat bite. “I didn’t follow my own advice a few months ago when my cat bit me. The dog approached me when I was taking the cat outside. The cat panicked, then scratched and bit my hand. It wasn’t a deep bite, so I just rinsed it off with water. "But a wound could become infected. If it’s a deep puncture, it could cause damage to nerves, tendons and ligaments.” “Pasteurella multocida bacterium can cause a serious infection in as little as four to eight hours,” add Drs. Jeffrey Kravetz and Daniel Federman of the Yale School of Medicine. Last year, a member of the FanciersHealth Yahoo group posted that his thumb had to be amputated because his cat bit right into the joint. Cat bites can occasionally even be fatal, especially in people with compromised immune systems.
Comprehending your cat The good news is that most of the
approximately 400,000 cat bites that occur in North America each year can be prevented, according to Dr. Suzanne Hetts, a certified Animal Behaviorist at Animal Behavior Associates in Littleton, Colorado. Prevention involves learning how to understand your cat and his behavior, to watch his body language, and to recognize when there might be an underlying problem. Here are some pointers that will help you avoid bites and a possible trip to ER.
up a fight between two cats, or have simply given her one stroke too many.
•When cats bite, they’re responding to how they’re treated. Think of the recent incident at the San Francisco Zoo when three young men were mauled by a tiger; it happened because the animal was being taunted by the intoxicated teens.
•In her book Outwitting Cats, Wendy Christensen stresses the importance of watching a cat’s body language. See how her carriage changes. Is she becoming tense? Red flags include flattened ears, increased respiration, low growls, dilated eyes, and pounding tail. If you see any combination of these, give Fluffy some space.
•While a cat lover would of course never intentionally antagonize her companion, our kindness and desire to comfort an over-stimulated feline can sometimes result in an expression of anger, whether we’re trying to break
•Dr. Hetts states that many cat bites are actually motivated by play. “Pay attention to the cat’s behavior and history,” she says. “If he’s lying in wait and often pounces on you, find a diversion for him. If he attacks your feet when you’re in bed, keep a feather or fake mouse nearby and redirect that wrong behavior to something more appropriate.”
•“One way to classify a cat’s moods and behavior is to determine if he is defensive and afraid, or offensive,
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meaning he wants to pick a fight,” says Dr. Hetts. “When a cat is fearful and defensive, wait until his mood subsides and he approaches you. Do try to call the cat over, but allow him to come to you. If he walks away, don’t push it. That’s the most common scenario for cat bites. Respect the cat’s wishes to be alone.” •Try to minimize situations in which your cat could become upset. Avoid contact with stray cats, advises Christensen, and if you’re transporting him, make sure his carrier is secure. Once cats are taken into unfamiliar territory, they become very uneasy and can panic, bite or scratch if the carrier breaks. Also be sure to supervise your cat’s interaction with children. •Synthetic pheromones like Feliway are designed to generally calm the
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most anxiety-ridden cats, but these animals live in the moment when they’re angry. They can and will respond with scratches and bites. •“Don’t hit your cat,” says Dr. Hetts. “That will cause more problems.” She adds that if there is a sudden change in behavior resulting in increased aggression, take him to the vet for evaluation. •If all else fails, consult an animal behaviorist. Ultimately, the best way to treat a cat bite is to keep it from happening in the first place. Get to know your feline, and respect his moods. You’ll both be happier for it!
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Pick up Ultra products at pet specialty, farm and feed stores. To find a store near you call 1.800.833.5330 or visit www.nutroproducts.com animal wellness 57
Getting a move on
mange by Shawn Messonnier DVM
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mlawad:mlawad
Few skin diseases cause as much concern as mange. In the past, it was often a death sentence because there were no foolproof cures, and the few that were tried were very toxic. Fortunately, it’s now more easily diagnosed – and more effectively treated. Mites are the culprit
4:07 PM
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of the immune system, however, these normally innocuous mites begin to reproduce uncontrollably, causing demodectic mange. Since this type of mange is inherited and occurs as a result of a suppressed immune system, affected animals should not be bred.
Mange is caused by microscopic parasites called mites. There are a few different types.
1
The first and most common is demodectic mange, often referred to as red mange. It most commonly occurs in young puppies and causes areas of hair loss and sometimes scaling of the skin. These animals are rarely itchy. When they do itch, it’s likely because of a secondary bacterial infection caused by a severe mite infestation. photo courtesy: flickr.com
Demodectic mange is rare in older dogs and cats because they normally have more mature “competent” immune systems. When it does occur, it’s important to look for any problems that may have affected the immune system, such as cancer, chronic steroid therapy, feline leukemia or immunodeficiency viruses. Demodectic mange is not considered a transmittable disease, although there have been extremely rare reports of dogs and cats contracting this it from other animals.
Hint
Mange is popularly believed to be a disease of dogs, but cats can also get it. Demodectic mange is caused by the demodectic mange mite. All people and animals harbor this mite in their hair follicles, as it is acquired from the mother within hours of birth. Normally these mites lives quietly within the follicles and don’t cause any problems. In animals with a genetic defect
7/19/07
Diagnosing demodectic mange is most often done with a simple laboratory test called a skin scraping. The debris collected from the scraped area is examined microscopically for the presence of mange mites, which are usually readily visible. In cases where demodectic
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mange is suspected but skin scrapings fail to show any mites, a skin biopsy will reveal the mites in the hair follicles.
Even if the mites are not seen microscopically, treatment is often begun if the animal shows the clinical signs of itching and scaly. When in doubt, a skin biopsy or a positive response to therapy are useful diagnostic tools.
2
The second type of mange is called sarcoptic mange in dogs, or notoedric mange in cats. Both are caused by a different type of mite. They can occur in animals of any age and are not associated with immune system suppression, nor are they inherited from the mother.
Taking a dip
photo courtesy: flickr.com
This dog with mange is partway through his treatment. You can see where the new fur is growing back. Unlike demodectic mange, sarcoptic and notoedric mange cause a lot of itching. They can be transmitted to other animals and people via close contact with infected dogs or cats as well as their bedding, brushes, etc. photo courtesy: flickr.com
Demodectic mange mites as seen through a microscope. Diagnosis is again made by microscopically evaluating a skin scraping, although sarcoptic mites in particular are much harder to detect than demodectic mites (up to 50% of infected animals may not show mites on multiple skin scrapings).
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Mange is one of those diseases in which conventional treatments are needed for a successful cure. All types of mange respond very well to these therapies. They involve dips and are different for each type of mange. For pets with demodectic mange, a dip using the chemical amitraz is applied every one to two weeks for six to 12 treatments, or until mites are no longer seen. While most animals respond to this regimen, some fail to do so. For them, other therapies such as ivermectin or milbemycin are administered for six to 12 months or longer. A word of caution: these dips must be properly prepared and the person applying them should wear protective clothing to minimize skin contact. For about eight hours after the dip, the animal should be carefully monitored for rare side effects such as lethargy, bloating, tremors, vomiting or diarrhea. Luckily, these side effects are unusual. While I prefer not to dip animals except those with severe generalized disease, in most cases they can be safely applied and are quite effective. Sarcoptic and notoedric mange can be treated with several of the new topical insecticides used to control fleas and ticks, or with Lyme-Sulfur dips or ivermectin. These types of mange can usually be cured within one to two months of starting therapy.
Natural support To minimize the number of dips needed to successfully treat mange, I always like to combine dipping with several
Hint
Echinacea, arabinogalactans and homeopathic sulfur (good for many skin disorders) boost the immune system and help reduce the number of dips needed to treat mange.
supplements to help the animal heal as quickly as possible. Some of my favorite natural remedies include Echinacea, arabinogalactans, astragalus, and homeopathic sulfur, all of which are administered orally.
Topical aloe vera, vitamin E, and tea tree oil can be used on animals with mild disease and are applied to localized lesions on the animal. Since true oils can be toxic to many animals, especially cats, only approved products should be used for the species being treated, and label directions must be followed closely.
Can mange be prevented? Sarcoptic and notoedric mange can be prevented by minimizing exposure to infected animals. Demodectic mange is another story, since the mites causing the disease are present on every animal from birth. Since the mange usually only develops in animals with immune system deficiencies, however, when the mites reproduce and excessively colonize the skin, the best way to try and prevent this condition is to keep your companion as healthy as possible. Years ago, a diagnosis of mange struck fear and dread into the hearts of animal guardians. Nowadays, an integrative approach coupling conventional dips with natural supplemental and topical support usually leads to an effective cure, and a happy and comfortable dog or cat.
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Toxic alert!
How to protect his health by Ann Brightman
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Photo courtesy: Holly Cushing
T
“Tasha suffered from itchy rashes and hot spots from the day I adopted her,” says Sandra of her five-year-old canine companion. After numerous trips to different veterinary clinics, Sandra was no further ahead getting to the root of the problem. Finally, she took Tasha to a holistic vet where she learned
that her dog’s stubborn skin eruptions were caused by a build-up of toxins in her body. “The doctor told me Tasha’s system was trying to get rid of the poisons through her skin, and that’s why she kept breaking out.” Skin issues like Tasha’s are among
the most common reasons people take their dogs and cats to the vet. Because the skin is the largest organ in the body, it’s usually the first area to show signs of toxicity. Over time, however, toxicity can eventually lead to a whole host of other health problems including cancer, arthritis, Continued on page 64...
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liver disease, and immune system and neurological disorders.
in the food has increased almost hundredfold,” says Dr. Dodd.
Toxins are everywhere
Another contributing factor to toxicity is a low pH level in the body. “Everything we’re doing in our environment is causing acidity,” says Leo. “In humans, the blood pH should be about 7.34, which is slightly alkaline. When you fall below that level, you start to suffer from acidosis. Dogs have a similar problem. Acidosis creates an acidic, oxygen-depleted environment where disease and pathogenic bacteria thrive. The immune system is weakened by an acidic condition.”
The bad news is that toxins are everywhere – in the soil, air, food and water. “Everything we put into the environment settles in the ground and that’s where animals spend their time, sniffing up lawn chemicals, gasoline fumes, pesticides and fungicides,” says Leo Malantis of Earth’s Balance, a company that specializes in natural detoxifying products for people and animals. “That creates toxicity in their systems.” Veterinarian Dr. Gloria Dodd adds that animals are actually born with toxicity in their systems. “All living beings exist on two levels -- the electromagnetic energy field and the physical body,” she says. “The electromagnetic energy fields of all the toxins and burdened organ systems of the parents are passed on to their progeny. So the newborn animal starts out in life with toxicity in the liver. The little animals are then exposed to the mother’s milk, which has pesticides in it, and then they are vaccinated which adds even more toxins.” Low-end commercial diets are another source, adds Dr. Dodd. “They contain aniline dyes, red food coloring to entice people to buy the products, and the preservative ethoxyquin, which is a carcinogen.” These foods also contain aluminum, which is taken up from the soil by many legume and cereal crops. “Over the last 20 years, the amount of aluminum
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So what’s the solution? You may be thinking the situation is hopeless, but it’s not all doom and gloom. Although it’s virtually impossible to avoid toxins, there are lots of things you can do to help protect your animal from their effects. One of the most important involves detoxifying your animal. “Holistic vets say your dog should go through a period of detoxification before any procedure takes place,” says Leo. “In humans, you do fasts and cleansing processes, but it’s hard to do that with an animal.” • Detoxifying a dog or cat involves neutralizing the acidity in the body, by giving him alkaline foods or alkaline water. Alkaline foods include most fruit and vegetables, while some acidic foods to avoid are wheat, corn and soy, which are often found in poor quality pet foods. • Detoxification also involves ridding the body of free radicals, those cancer-causing substances generated by pollution, electromagnetic radiation, cigarette smoke and other toxins. Antioxidants are the
key here, and include not only supplements, but also alkaline water. “If you increase the oxygen in the blood, you give those free radicals the extra oxygen ions they require and flush them out of the system rather than have them hook onto the healthy cells of the animal,” says Leo. “Alkaline water has those oxygen ions.” “An analogy I like to use is if you have a fish tank filled with cloudy water,” Leo continues. “If you don’t change the water, and there’s no filtration, the water becomes very cloudy and the fish get sick. So what do you do? Pull the fish out, take care of them, and put them back in the water? No, you’ve got to change the water. The animal’s body is the fish tank, his blood is the water and his organs are the fish. If you don’t clear out the blood, the organs will stay sick.” • Another approach is to neutralize the toxins in the food before you feed it to your animal. “I have found a way to transmute or change the noxious energy of heavy metals and pesticides from noxious to neutral by using blue-green transmutation,” says Dr. Dodd. “Go to a drugstore or art store and get a roll each of clear blue and clear green cellophane, and put the blue over the green to make turquoise.” All you do is spread the cellophane on a table or countertop, and place the can or package of food on top of it for 20 minutes. “We don’t know how it works, but everything has an energy vibration,” says Dr. Dodd. “I have tested the energy emissions from the digestive organs of animals after eating untreated versus treated food and there’s a heck of a difference. It actually changes the energy of the food – you can use muscle testing to test it before and after you put it on the cellophane and you’ll see it’ll be much stronger when the food is cleansed.”
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• Dr. Dodd also includes homeopathic nosodes in her detoxification regime, and to remove the effects of drugs such as steroids and antibiotics from the body. “You have to have a scrupulously strengthened and balanced chi or life force,” she adds. “The bio-electromagnetic field of the body is where health and disease starts. The secret to good health is to have a strong and balanced chi flow through every cell of every organ of the body. You can’t just treat the physical. That’s why I use homeopathy and other energy tools.”
What else can I do? • Avoid feeding cheap, low-end commercial foods filled with synthetic preservatives, colorings, and by-products, and switch your animal to a premium natural high quality product made with whole food ingredients. Look for certified organic ingredients wherever possible. • Give your animal filtered or reverse osmosis water. • Supplement his diet with antioxidants and probiotics. Antioxidants fight free radicals while probiotics help rid the digestive system of harmful bacteria by overwhelming them with good bacteria. “You absolutely have to have a good digestive system,” says Dr. Dodd. • Avoid using fertilizers, pesticides and other chemicals on your lawn or garden, and avoid taking your animal near areas where these substances are used. Use natural household cleaning products. • Buy an air filter for your home. • Another important action you can take, says Dr. Dodd, is to speak out against pollution. “We have to demand of our governments that they start cleaning up their act and protect this planet.” With help from her new vet, Sandra put Tasha on a detoxification program and is taking as many measures as possible to minimize further toxin exposure. “We’ve had to work at it, but it’s paid off. Tasha’s skin has pretty well cleared up and she’s happier and has more energy. And I feel better, too!”
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Kitty zits
Cats can get acne too! by Elizabeth Hodgkins, DVM, Esq.
If you think only teenagers get pimples, think again. Feline acne, or conditions that mimic feline acne, are among the many skin disorders that can afflict our cats. A rash or apparent irritation involving the chin and upper throat will sometimes suddenly appear in adolescent felines, and “blackheads” may even be seen. These cases are very much like human acne. Older cats can also be affected by seemingly similar chin irritations. The causes of the problem are several and each calls for somewhat different therapy.
1. True acne
Just as in humans, the acne that can occur in some young or older cats is a combination of several things: excess oil (sebum) production from the hair follicle, a failure of skin cells to slough off normally, and a bacterial invasion of the skin surface. This causes tiny abscesses (pockets of inflammatory cells)
to form at the site of the follicle. In cats that have not been altered, hormones may participate in the development of acne, and a cat’s particular genetic makeup may also play a part. Feline acne is generally not painful or itchy until it becomes advanced. You may not even notice the growing infection at first. The area around the small
abscesses will swell and become crusty as some of the pus and sebum finally reaches the surface of the skin. The surface of some of these infected follicles may become black in color. Eventually, the hair in the area will fall out.
Hint
Spaying or neutering may help resolve acne in unaltered cats by reducing the androgenic hormones that participate in causing it. Treatment generally requires your veterinarian’s involvement and conventional approaches. Along with thorough periodic cleansing of the affected area with gentle antibacterial solutions or soaps, most cats with this problem will also need antibiotics to resolve the bacterial animal wellness
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infection. Do not use human acne preparations containing peroxide without consulting your veterinarian; these can be extremely irritating to the skin and make matters worse. Severe cases may benefit from topical antibiotic creams applied after cleansing. Acne does occur in some altered cats. In these patients, treatment includes cleansing, antibiotics, and perhaps other measures designed to reduce potential allergic causes that may be part of the problem. Feline acne leads to unsightly and uncomfortable abscesses on the cat's chin.
2. Allergy-related acne
Most cases of feline skin disease on the chin occur in adult spayed or neutered
Is that a
pimple? In rare cases, skin disease on the chin may represent a more serious problem than allergy or infection. Skin cancer or cancers of the soft tissues or even the underlying bone of the lower jaw may first appear as a simple inflammation of the skin. Your veterinarian is the best judge of whether a biopsy is needed to verify the exact cause of the problem, especially if it fails to respond to original therapy.
cats. These are not like typical acne in that their basic cause is some kind of allergic reaction. Plastic food and water bowls have been shown to cause reactions of this type. Sometimes, however, a cat with allergic skin disease complicated by bacterial infection will have no history of contact with likely allergenic surfaces or substances. In this case, if the diseased chin tissue is biopsied, the pathologist will report a variant of a condition known as eosinophillic granuloma complex (EGC). EGC is a pathologist’s description of the cell types involved in the disease process rather than a specific diagnosis. When eosinophils (with or without other immune reaction cell types called lymphocytes and plasmacytes) are found in skin biopsy samples, it means an allergic reaction is taking place in that tissue. Bacteria and other cells that fight bacteria, called neutrophils, may also be present in such tissue samples, but
are usually secondary to the underlying allergic type reaction. In such cases, medications that suppress this destructive reaction may provide the most rapid and practical solution to the problem. Your cat’s veterinarian can decide which one to use and for how long.
Don’t forget diet Allergy-related acne and other allergic skin diseases often have a basis in poor nutrition. Feline skin requires plenty of animal-source essential fatty acids, which may be inadequate in highly processed low-end commercial foods, especially the dry variety. Consider a high quality canned or raw meat diet. I always switch my skin allergic patients to wet foods as part of the therapeutic plan, preferably to one of the hypoallergenic premium foods or a homemade raw diet. The addition of supplemental animal-source fatty acids can increase the speed of healing and maintain permanent general skin health. Like human acne, the feline variety isn’t life-threatening, but it can be unsightly – not to mention uncomfortable for the cat, especially if left for too long. Mainstream therapies are required for effective treatment, but a proper, healthy diet can help prevent the condition from developing in the first place.
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Head games by Suzanne Nelson
What you need to know about headcollars Rover continually pulls on his leash, no matter what. Lucy, meanwhile, goes into an all-out launch every time she sees the neighbor’s terrier, leaving her human barely attached to the earth.
Many people turn to headcollars in an attempt to solve challenges like these. These devices are marketed as a way to humanely “rein in� over-the-top canines. But is a headcollar really the right choice for Rover or Lucy? animal wellness
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emphasize that the efficacy and safety of these devices depends on their fit, method of use, the skill of the handler – and on not using the headcollar as the sole point of contact with the dog.
Teaching the dog to avert his eyes is a canine calming response that often diffuses reactivity.
Using a headcollar as the sole point of leash contact with the dog presents strife on several levels. “You don’t have the ability to eliminate steady pressure without making it more of a jerky motion,” Kathy says. As well, steady pressure on the leash tends to make “pully” dogs pull even more. Photo: Stacy Lewis/Dancing Porcupine
Hint
physical balance with no pressure on them at all,” Kathy says.
Making contact Pros and cons According to many trainers and veterinarians, the answer depends entirely on how these collars are used. When headcollars are regarded simply as a mechanical way to control behavior, the results are often increased frustration at both ends of the leash, and sometimes even neck injuries. Used in this fashion, some even regard them as glorified choke chains – effective, but at the expense of the relationship between handler and dog. Others say that educating dogs – especially highly reactive ones – to live harmoniously in the world wouldn’t be nearly as effective without the ability to gently redirect the head with a headcollar. This can be an important first step in influencing behavior. Regardless of how they personally feel about headcollars, dog professionals
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Kathy Cascade of Stillwater, Oklahoma, specializes in working with aggressive dogs. For her, headcollars are instrumental in helping dogs with “pretty significant reactivity” learn to process new stressors while remaining calm. The key, she said, is having two points of leash contact. This means using a leash with snaps at both ends; one clip goes on the headcollar, and the other is attached to a flat collar or, more usually, a harness. By having these two points of contact, Kathy’s goal is twofold: to take the pressure off the neck, and to give subtle, alternating signals. That way, there is no steady pressure on the neck or face, a situation that can further exacerbate undesirable behavior patterns. This method of working with headcollars derives from the Tellington TTouch method. TTouch is a gentle, non-threatening way of working with animals that promotes trust and a sense of wellbeing. “Our goal is to have the dogs in
Another problem Kathy sees is that people tend to fit the headcollar extremely tightly when it is the sole point of contact, out of fear that it may come off. This fit is often uncomfortable for the dog. Some models lock tightly at the throat and at the top of the head, causing pressure on the cervical spine and over-extension of the back. Other models fit too tightly at the jaw. Again, the solution is two points of contact, which allows the headcollar to fit more comfortably and provides a backup point of attachment with the dog.
Hint
Janet stresses that using the headcollar effectively means light signals rather than tugs on the leash.
The light touch
Photo: Stacy Lewis/Dancing Porcupine
Janet Velenovsky, training and behavior education specialist for Premier, which makes the Gentle Leader headcollar, says their product was actually designed to fit tightly around the top of a dog’s head and loosely around the nose for greatest comfort. When properly adjusted high around the back of the head, the headcollar works with the dog’s opposition reflex to redirect pressure from the neck to the back of the head, encouraging him to slow down.
Proper fit and a light touch are keys to using a headcollar safely and effectively.
Dr. Sue Ann Lesser, a veterinarian with 16 years of experience in canine spinal manipulation, cautions that snapping or jerky motions can lead to neck injuries, some of which may go undiagnosed. “A non-professional may see this as a dog who is squinting, doesn’t like his neck touched, carries one ear higher than the other, has a painful facial expression, snaps when petting is attempted, or hides in seclusion.” animal wellness
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Cynthia Gordon, APDT, a dog trainer in Seminole, Florida, reports that one of her client’s dogs severed his spinal column after his person pulled back sharply while he lunged towards another dog while wearing a headcollar. He ended up being euthanized. The client has since successfully used a headcollar with a new dog after Cynthia showed her the second point of contact approach. Kathy says headcollars can help dogs learn greater command over themselves if they are used in a way that promotes a posture of relaxation and an even weight distribution on all four feet. In her estimation, this is possible only when the headcollar is used to give light signals to the face, and then released. The signal on the headcollar is alternated with the second point of leash contact (flat collar or harness). Taken together, those signals allow the dog to experience physical balance, which Kathy says promotes mental and emotional balance as well. She adds that people get into trouble
Photo: Stacy Lewis/Dancing Porcupine
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“I would never advise headcollars to be used on dogs with cervical disk disease or wobblers disease,” she continues, adding that owners of breeds predisposed to these conditions, including beagles, cockers and miniature poodles, shouldn’t use headcollars as the sole point of leash contact. The same is true for small dogs in general, because the potential for harm is too great. “The two points of contact approach minimizes the torque to the cervical spine caused by the use of a headcollar alone.”
when they attach a headcollar and then have the dog walk in front of them. “The problem is they have attached a six-foot lever, and once they pull, the force they are exerting is way stronger, they are pulling the dog’s head around, and there is no way to get the dog into balance.” It is that sense of balance and ease that Kathy and others feel is our ultimate goal and responsibility when using headcollars. “That means you really have to pay attention. And you have to give the dog the signals to let him know what you want.” Headcollars are among those devices that can easily be misused, but with some education and experience, they can become a valuable training tool.
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Ma g Makin
communication
co contact One skeptic’s journey
by Elizabeth Koehler-Pentacoff
L
ike a lot of people, I was skeptical about animal communication. But because I wanted a little insight into the mind of my sweet but stubborn Yorkshire terrier, Zoie, I decided to take a class offered by a behaviorist at a local animal shelter. “You’ll learn about animal behavior,” said a friend. “Just bring a picture of your dog.” A picture? How was a picture going to help? Why not bring the dog? I pushed my nagging doubts aside and went along. Once I got there, I felt like donning a tie-dyed tee shirt and moccasins. The behaviorist was an animal communicator. She could read animals’ minds! “She’s telepathic,” said another woman attending the session. Boy, was I in the wrong place. What now? I scoffed. Would we channel our dogs all the way from home? “Close your eyes,” the leader intoned, leading us into a guided meditation. Out of longstanding habit, I silently recited
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Hail Marys and Glory-be-to-Gods. I hadn’t slept much the night before, so in the middle of the meditation, I felt myself dozing off. Just like church. But my skepticism kept me awake. As we meditated, we were told to ask ourselves questions about our animals’ thoughts. Then we were to turn to the person next to us, and contemplate their dog’s picture.
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The leader murmured, “What does your dog like to do?” A nature tape of flowing water played in the background. I crossed my legs and tried not to think about peeing. That was probably what my Yorkie was doing right now. All over the rug. “What is your dog afraid of?” the leader asked as we gazed at our neighbors’ animals. “What is he feeling right now? What does he want more than anything?” I didn’t get a cosmic convergence, a spiritual awakening, or even a hint of help. I just guessed the answers from my own human point of view. How could anyone do more? I just didn’t get it.
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Then it was time to share with the person beside us. I told my neighbor what I imagined about her dog, that he liked to play ball, was afraid of the vet, and wanted to chew bones. I apologized for my generic guesses. But I didn’t expect much in return either. I was in for the surprise of my life. A few days prior to the class, I had purchased a new dog bed for Zoie. Not having time to toss out her old one, I placed it in front of the fireplace, directly in front of my reading chair. Her original sleeping spot was closer to the garage. On the morning before the class, I finally got rid of the old bed and moved the new one away from the fireplace. My partner started in on Zoie’s reading. “She’s generally a happy dog,” she reported. She said that to make me feel good. My inner skeptic still reigned. “But something is bothering her today.” Kibble too dry? Not enough dog park time? Wants steak for supper? “You just got a new dog bed for her.” Huh?
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“It’s brown, and oval.” She showed me its exact size and shape with her hands. “You placed it right in front of the fireplace, near your reading chair.” I gulped. This can’t be. How can this be? “Zoie loved it when you did that. She felt close to you and it made her happy. But now she’s sad that you moved it to her sleeping area. She wants you to move it back in front of the fireplace.” I must have looked like I was about to keel over, because she asked if I was all right. “How did you do that?” I asked. “You were right about every little detail.” She shrugged as if it was no big deal. “I’ve volunteered at this shelter for years. I just look into the animals’ eyes and really get to know them.” I studied my dog’s picture, then my partner’s knowing eyes. They were deep pools of blue. They looked deeply into me, too. My doubt evaporated. I’ve always had a special relationship with each of my dogs, as we all do, I suppose, communicating via eye contact and lots of nonverbal cues. But maybe we really can develop communication on a deeper level.
I thought back. For months after my former dog Shaunsie died, I felt a heavy presence alongside my legs when lying in bed. In the morning, there was an impression as though a small animal had been curled there. If I moved during the night, I’d feel the pressure move right after me. Sitting up, I’d see nothing. My husband lay on the other side of the bed. On another night, I had the most lovely dream. In it, a relative who had passed on brought Shaunsie to me. She greeted me with jumps, licks, and excitement. I welcomed her with pats, tummy rubs, hugs and tears. It was a joyous reunion, one I’ll never forget. When I woke up, I felt as though we had really been together. I had a “glow” about me. When I met a friend for breakfast that morning, she mentioned how radiant I looked. I’ll never know where my spirit was that night. Perhaps it was asleep in bed with me all along. Or perhaps it was romping in a field with my beloved Shaunsie, in a different dimension. Perhaps there is a spiritual world on another plane. Perhaps we can communicate without words or being physically present. Maybe we just need to slow down and pay attention. Meditate, smell the flowers, and look
deeply into one another’s eyes. But especially take the time to learn what is really in each other’s souls. What do our loved ones, including our animals, really want? Usually it’s just to be close to us. To have our time and our love. If the possibility exists that we can communicate on different levels with our animals, that there’s more out there than what we can see and hear, then I’m willing to embrace it. After all, it makes me happy, and as we learn from our animals, isn’t that what’s most important? And yes, I moved Zoie’s bed back in front of the fireplace. Elizabeth Koehler-Pentacoff is the author of several books for children and adults including the ABCs of Writing for Children, a Writer’s Digest Book Club Selection. Next year, her book, Jackson and Bud’s Amazing Road Trip (starring a dog) will be published by Millbrook Press. Some of her other books featuring dogs include John Muir and Stickeen: An Alaskan Adventure and Help! My Life is Going to the Dogs. Liz lives in Northern California with her husband and Zoie.
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ANIMAL WELLNESS MAGAZINE
Wellness Resource Guide
Wellness Resource Guide Inside this issue:
• Communicators • Holistic Healthcare • Integrative Veterinarians • Massage Therapy • Natural Product – Manufacturers & Distributors
1/24th Claudia Hehr
• Natural Product Retailers
Animal Communication Specialist
• Reiki Therapy
World-wide phone consulations, Health and Behavior Issue Workshops, Tele-seminars, Books, Grief Counceling.
• Trainers & Behaviorists
To Truly Know and Understand Animals
(705) 434-4679 • www.claudiahehr.com
• TTouch Therapy
Communicators CALIFORNIA
1/12th O NTARIO
WASHINGTON
Claudia Hehr Animal Communication Specialist
To Truly Know and Understand Animals World-wide phone consulations, Health & Behavior Issue Workshops, Tele-seminars, Books, Grief Counseling. See article in the Ontario Regional section (705) 434-4679 • www.claudiahehr.com
NEW MEXICO
Reg’d. Practitioner of Bach Flower Remedies, Tellington TTouch
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Can We Talk
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Wellness Resource Guide
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O
Our readers are looking for quality natural services and
Spa treatment Canine
Keep her looking – and smelling – her best!
O
by Charlotte Walker
Once upon a time, dolling up your dog meant giving her a shampoo and a brushing. If you were feeling ambitious, you might add a conditioner to soften her coat. Nowadays, you can choose from a huge variety of specialty spa-type grooming products for dogs, including “finishers”, fragrances and other items that do everything from enhancing gloss and coat color to adding volume and scent.
Many of these products are geared towards those who show their dogs, but they’re also popular with people who regard their canine companions as family members and want them to look, feel and smell as good as possible. The best news is that you don’t have to resort to chemicals and synthetic perfumes to give Fifi a makeover – there are lots of safe, natural products to choose from.
Color me pretty Color enhancing products aren’t just for humans. You can also get them for your dog. Several companies manufacture shampoos and finishers
that are especially formulated to bring out the hues and highlights in your canine’s coat. Bio-Groom, for example, offers color enhancing shampoos for black, brown and white or lightcoated dogs. They contain pearlescent brighteners that intensify the natural coat color without the use of artificial dyes or bleaches, which can be toxic and harmful. The company also has two finishing products to enhance black or white coats. They are made with sprayon chalk and can be used to cover stains, discolorations or blemishes as well as improve coat color. The chalk doesn’t rub off, although it can be easily washed out of the dog’s hair when required.
Look, no tangles! Brushing a longer-haired dog can be a problem if her hair tends to get tangled and matted. Detangling products can be used after or between baths to help get rid of knots and make it easier to brush out the dog’s coat. Many of these products are also formulated to enhance the coat’s health and appearance. BioGroom has a coat gloss and tangle remover that also repels dirt and dust, while Trilogy’s Bath Fresh Mist contains herbal and fruit extracts and plant botanicals that deodorize and nourish the coat as well as detangle it. Many conditioners are also specially designed to detangle hair. Dogma and Fetch has a coconut lime conditioner that gets rid of tangles while shining up the coat. It contains hydrolyzed vegetable proteins that restore damaged hair and glycerine to moisturize the coat. animal wellness
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Smelling sweet
It’s easy with See Spot Live Longer™ Homemade Dinner Mixes. Just add our special mix to raw or lightly cooked fresh beef, chicken, or lamb to make a natural, high protein, complete and balanced, mineral-rich meal. Why do we say this makes the most nutritious food? Because fresh meats are better for your dog than frozen, canned, or extruded. But fresh meats are not complete meals until you add See Spot Live Longer™ Homemade Dinner Mixes.
As diligent as you are with your dog’s bathing and grooming, she’ll sometimes smell less than pleasant. Mists, spritzers, and deoderizers are just a few of the things you can use to help get rid of that doggy odor. Just be sure to look for products that are free of detergents and surfactants. “Our Aromatherapy Dog Mists contain no petroleum or wood alcohol that can dry a dog’s skin and coat,” says Nancy Green of Pet Botanica. “Instead, we use a minimal amount of food-grade corn ethanol, and up to 5% pure grade essential oil, with no synthetic fragrances.” This combination of ingredients helps keep the dog’s coat fresh without the stickiness often associated with commercial sprayon scents. “The mists also contain certified organic aloe vera, which is known for its soothing and healing properties.” These and other products can be used to keep dogs smelling fresh at any time, not just after a bath. “I have a fur freshener to freshen up your dog’s fur between baths,” says Crystal Merkel of Scrub Your Butt Soap Co. This deodorizing spray contains a blend of blood orange and clary sage essential oils. The blood orange offers fragrance while the clary sage helps tone the dog’s skin. You can even get aromatherapy bath salts to add to your dog’s bathwater. DERMagic Skin Care for Animals is one company that has formulated a blend of Dead Sea salts for dogs. They help draw toxins from the skin as well as freshen up her body. And for the ultimate in luxury, how about a natural canine cologne or perfume? Dogma & Fetch offers an eau de toilette for dogs that contains essential oils and green tea extract as well as vitamin E and panthenol, a B vitamin that strengthens hair.
Mellow out with massage Massage isn’t just for sore muscles. By rounding out your dog’s grooming experience with an aromatherapy massage, you can also help calm her and treat her coat with healthful, fragrant essential oils. “We have a series of aromatherapy massage oils for dry-skin short-haired dogs,” says Dr. Adelia Ritchie of DERMagic. The oils are designed to help soothe skin problems as well as make the dog smell good. “They are all natural and certified organic where possible,” Adelia adds. “The ‘eucalemon’ [a combination of eucalyptus and lemongrass oils] is my favorite.” Dogma & Fetch also offers a multi-purpose massage oil for dogs. It contains arnica, rosemary and cinnamon oils to improve circulation and ease aches and pains, as well as aloe vera and apricot kernel oil to moisturize and soften the coat. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to beauty products for your canine companion. Whether your best friend is a Pomeranian or a great Pyrenees, a prize-winning show dog or a household companion, it’s easier than ever to get her looking like a million bucks!
Cinnamon & Arnica
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Whether it’s handmade fresh catnip toys, handpainted collar medallions, cups, bowls, bird or bat houses, online tributes, prayer services or postage stamps featuring your animal companion, Little Lotus Hearts has something for you! Little Lotus Hearts was founded to help enrich the lives of the animals who bring so much love to our hearts. The animals with whom we share are homes and our lives are family, but we also know that other animals need help too. For this reason, we offer many ways for you to help improve the lives of animals in the wild, in rescues and in other protective environments. For details on all our services please visit us online at
www.littlelotushearts.com or call (800) 713-0569
Little Lotus Hearts
TM
“Little Lotus Hearts” is a trademark of the Yeshe Dorje Foundation © 2005-2007. Photograph by Genevieve Van de Merghel © 2007. All Rights Reserved.
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what's the scoop gnu?
Good health is natural When you’re looking for high quality animal care products, consider Only Natural Pet. The company offers a variety of holistic supplements and herbal remedies that address a range of issues and support a healthy system in dogs and cats. Products include natural flea control, daily vitamins, salmon oil, and herbal remedies for cancer, anxiety and gastrointestinal issues. You can also choose from a selection of naturally delicious treats like Cage Free Turkey Crispies, Free Range Bison Jerky Strips, and Organic Fresh Kisses. www.onlynaturalpet.com
Moving to an apartment? Finding accommodations that accept dogs and cats can be a big challenge for renters. Pets911.com, the national animal lost-and-found online database and adoption portal, has made the job easier with its Pet Friendly Living section. Established in partnership with Apartments.com, this new service offers a database of thousands of animal-friendly rental communities across the U.S. http://pets911.com/pet-friendly-rentals
Orange alert When it comes to rescuing animals in need, time is of the essence. Last year, the ASPCA launched its Mission: Orange campaign to save homeless animals from euthanization. The campaign involves working with leading community animal welfare agencies and organizations to implement a save rate at or above 75% for unwanted animals entering shelters, the ultimate goal being to create a country of no-kill communities. Last year, five communities were selected to take part in the campaign and five more will be added this year. The ASPCA is also implementing Mission: Orange principles in New York City, where it is a founding member of the Mayor’s Alliance for NYC’s Animals. www.aspca.org
Understanding epilepsy Epilepsy is a frightening condition that afflicts both humans and canines. The American Kennel Club has announced funding for a study that will look at the risk factors associated with epilepsy in Australian shepherds and English springer spaniels, both of which are susceptible to the disease. The objectives of the project are to identify chromosomal regions associated with epilepsy as a starting point for identifying the causative gene or genes, and to develop a marker test. To date, several clubs and organizations have pledged over $50,000 of the $143,000 needed to support the research.
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May is PCA month Cancer is the number one disease-related cause of death in dogs and cats. The Blue Buffalo Foundation for Cancer Research is raising awareness of this devastating disease by designating May as Pet Cancer Awareness (PCA) Month. During this time, in-store education specialists from the foundation will be distributing brochures to animal guardians that list the ten early warning signs of cancer. The foundation will raise research funds through the sale of “Protect Our Pets” wristbands, and will also contribute $1 for every bag of BLUE dog food and BLUE Spa Select cat food sold during May. www.petcancerawareness.org.
Yogurt for Skin problems dogs
solved!
Dogs can develop skin problems from something as simple as a fleabite. The DERMagic System is an all-natural topical skin care treatment that safely and effectively relieves itching and redness, promotes rapid healing and hair re-growth, and restores skin condition. The products contain certified organic aloe vera gel, vitamin E, shea butter, and therapeutic essential oils. Included are a skin-stimulating peppermint and tea tree oil shampoo and conditioner, a soothing salve for irritations, a deep penetrating lotion for more advanced disease, and a restoring aloe cream to soften skin and complete the healing process. www.DERMagic.net
Yogurt isn’t just for people! Check out Yöghund, a new frozen yogurt treat from The Barking Dog, Ltd. This tasty, healthy product contains nothing but wholesome, organic ingredients, including yogurt, bananas, peanuts and pure spring water, all blended and frozen to create a refreshing flavor sensation for your dog. Live active cultures support good digestive health and there are no additives, chemicals, or fillers, so you can give without guilt! www.yoghund.com
Have you had your checkup?
Does your dog or cat visit the vet more than you go to the doctor? If so, you’re not alone. A poll by Veterinary Pet Insurance revealed that 96% of animal guardians take their companions to the vet at least once a year. Compare that to a survey done by the Center for Disease Control, which found that only 83% of adults visited a health care professional in a year.
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Pest repellents that make “scents” by Kim Bloomer, VND
S
Spring has sprung – and so have those fleas, ticks and other pesky pests that plague our canine companions. Your first reaction might be to pick up a new supply of topical insecticide, but don’t do it. Pests such as ticks often carry Lyme disease, yellow-spotted fever and other diseases, so of course you need to do your best to protect your dog from being bitten. But there’s an old saying that the cure is worse than the bite, and when it comes to commercial insect control it’s more than just a saying. Nature has a much better way of dealing with these
Hint
Pests evolve to resist topical pesticides; it’s always better to fight nature with nature. 86
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pests that won’t harm our animals or the environment – aromatherapy. There are a multitude of aromatherapy mixtures that can help combat fleas and ticks. Try the ones in this article, and after you gain some confidence and experience with aromatherapy, you will come up with a few of your own. Allow your dog to tell you which ones he likes best. You’ll know what they are when he tries to take particular bottles of essential oil away from you, or rubs at the areas you test on yourself. Animals aren’t subtle when they show they like something, and aromatherapy is no exception to the rule!
Rose geranium repellent 20 drops rose geranium essential oil 3 drops citronella essential oil (avoid this oil as well as basil, pennyroyal and cedar with pregnant animals) Dash of bay leaf herbal tincture (this dissolves the essential oils since they don’t mix with water; make sure the tincture is vegetable glycerin based or cider vinegar based. You can also alternate with black walnut tincture, which is a great insect repellent) 10 ounces water in a spray bottle (make sure you use a dark blue or dark amber bottle to protect the integrity of the oils) From The Encyclopedia of Natural Pet Care, C.J. Puotinen, recipe created by herbalist Barbara Hall
Bugs away repellent 4 drops myrrh oil (acts as a fixative and is also soothing and healing to the skin) 1 drop cassia oil 1 drop hyssop oil 4 drops rosemary oil 2 drops lemongrass oil 6 drops geranium oil Dash of calendula or bay leaf tincture (calendula is soothing and healing) 8 to 10 ounces pure water in a spray bottle
Hint
One of the best essential oils for repelling ticks and fleas is geranium oil. It doubles as a skin and coat conditioner, and it smells divine!
Love that lavender One of my all time favorite essential oils is lavender. It’s also one of the most versatile. Here are a few mixtures to use when making your pest control blends. Any of the above tinctures will dissolve the oils to make them mixable in water for spritzing your dog.
Kidney Support Feline and Canine Naturopathic Care
To repel fleas: lavender, peppermint, lemongrass, and spearmint
“Stress-free, natural and effective”
To repel ticks: lavender, lemongrass, sage, and thyme To repel mosquitoes: lavender and lemongrass
“Thank you so very much! My cat, who our Vet said would not live through this past weekend due to kidney failure, is now more active than I have seen him in weeks! His infections are healing well and he is on the road to good health again. I am convinced the Kidney Reno-Aid formula has made a remarkable difference. We are now going to start the 80ml of Sub-Q fluids once a day, as you recommended, at home as well. You have been a Godsend and I am truly grateful! THANKS!”
Dilute in 8 to 10 ounces of pure water with the tincture of your choice in a dark amber or dark blue spray bottle. Or make a combination of these oils to repel all three of these bugs. Enjoy a natural, pest-free spring and summer!
Debbie H (and Mister)
A caution for cats
TM
Optimum Pet Health, Naturally!
LUMI 3450
Please be careful when using aromatherapy with your feline companions. Cats metabolize things differently than dogs so certain essential oils can be toxic to them, especially if they are used incorrectly or are high in phenols. Cats are even more sensitive to strong odors and smells than dogs, so always err on the side of caution. Try using hydrosols or a diluted herbal spray.
Phone (+61) 1300 132 966 Mail Orders www.AnimalNaturopathy.com
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passages
Chucky 's
promise
H
by Yvonne Gleason
How can we know for sure that dogs have souls? This was the question I often wondered about during my long stay as live-in pet sitter for my friend’s beloved tan and white pointer, Chucky. In my heart, I had adopted Chucky as my own. I believed there was more to him than just his body. He demonstrated so much knowingness and sensitivity that I felt he couldn’t be merely finite. Still, a part of me longed for some kind of proof. During quiet evenings, when I medi-
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tated, Chucky sat peacefully beside me. Every so often, he’d lean his head into my leg, making a wordless, deep connection. Who was I to say this animal didn’t have a soul? But I didn’t really have any evidence. One day, in the early stages of our friendship, I kneeled in front of
Chucky. I told him I loved him and that he was very special. Then I kissed him on the forehead. When I pulled away, I noticed tears in his eyes, as if he was feeling intense emotion. Surely this was a soul moment. Or was it? When Chucky’s lifelong canine friend, Nicky, fell ill, he became visibly shaken. He was clearly beside himself as he lay on the floor and made crying sounds. He couldn’t bear to see his friend so sick. Chucky was extraordi-
narily sensitive…but did it mean he had a soul?
Again, my friend said, “He just knew.” But did it mean he had a soul?
Chucky also demonstrated psychic ability. One Saturday afternoon, I left the house to run an errand. Chucky stayed behind with a family friend. When I returned, Chucky greeted me with his usual tail wags and barks; but my friend looked completely frazzled. When I asked what was wrong, she said, “Five minutes ago, Chucky started barking, wagging his tail, and running back and forth in front of the door. He wouldn’t stop. I opened the door several times, but no one was there.” Then she added, “Yvonne, this dog knew you were coming home five minutes before you showed up.” I looked at Chucky, who had settled calmly at my feet.
Two-and-a-half years into my loving relationship with Chucky, we received the devastating news that he had terminal cancer. During this time, he grew even more sensitive. I no longer had to talk to him. I merely had to think the words come here or lie down and he’d come close or lie down with me. I continued our familiar routine of long walks and evening meditation sessions. I didn’t want to let go of him, but thought it might not be so bad if I could be absolutely certain he would somehow live on.
"
"That morning, I returned from church and ran to the master bedroom to check on him. He raised his head for a moment. I stroked his long ears and paws and told him what I had said long ago -- that I loved him and that he was special. Then I told him it was okay to let go."
"
Chucky continued to sense things before they happened. Although our weekday schedule for walks was consistent, the weekend schedule proved erratic. Many times, Chucky and I would be in different parts of the house, yet he knew in advance precisely when I was going to take him for a walk. I’d come out of my room, down the stairs, and into the kitchen to find him already waiting by the closet that held his leash.
During the months following his diagnosis, Chucky grew weaker. Finally, on Easter Sunday, we were scheduled to take him to the veterinarian to be put to sleep. That morning, I returned from church and ran to the master bedroom to check on him. He raised his head for a moment. I stroked his long ears and paws and told him what I had said long ago -- that I loved him and that he was special. Then I told him it was okay to let go. I closed the door and left for a moment to change my clothes, intending to sit with him some more. When I came back, I was met with a quick, unexpected rush of air that swept through the whole room, whirling about me. It churned around my hair, lifting it from my shoulders. Chucky’s body lay still on the floor. I whispered his name, knowing this was his energy surrounding me. It was his essence, the part of him that would live on. It’s been years since Chucky’s passing, but once in awhile, I’m given a wonderful reminder. Sometimes, out of nowhere, I’ll feel a gentle, familiar pressure on my leg -- a silent promise that Chucky lives on. I know he’ll be waiting for me when it’s my soul’s turn to take the journey home.
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Guard your garden
nematodes
All-natural nematodes fight fleas outdoors by Ann Brightman
W
hen it comes to flea control, a lot of people assume they only need to take care of their animals and the inside of their homes. But when the weather turns warm, fleas also multiply and thrive outdoors. During the summer in fact, depending on where you live, your lawn and garden can become a haven for these troublesome pests. Adult female fleas lay their eggs on host animals. If a stray dog or cat with fleas passes through your yard, these eggs are shed in the grass and soil, where they hatch into larvae and mature into hungry new fleas. Next time your companion is out taking the air or sunbathing on the lawn, the fleas jump aboard and are
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brought into the house where the cycle starts all over again. Spring is the best time to start preparing for flea season, and this should include extending your control strategy out of doors. An effective, non-toxic way to do this is with beneficial nematodes.
What are they? Nematodes are tiny, naturally-occurring predators that live under the surface of the soil. Seen under a microscope, they look like short, non-segmented worms. There are thousands of different types, but Steinernema carpocapsae is most effective for controlling fleas. Unlike chemical pesticides, these nematodes do no harm to animals, people, birds, plants, other beneficial insects or the environment, but can be used in large numbers to destroy fleas over a wide area. Nematodes kill fleas by entering their larvae through body openings or even
penetrating the body wall. Once inside, they release a bacteria that destroys the host. (This bacteria is harmless to other organisms, including people and animals.) The nematodes then feed and breed before leaving the dead larvae in search of new prey.
How to use them Like other beneficial insects, nematodes are sold live. They can be bought at some garden centers or ordered online from companies like ARBICO-Organics (www.arbico-organics.com) or Fleabusters (www.fleabusters.com). “They’re very easy to apply,” says Robert Yarmuth of Fleabusters. “You just use a hose-end sprayer, drop the sponge in and the water pressure will release the nematodes from the sponge.”
Hint
Nematodes should be used promptly after purchase. “Put them in the fridge as soon as you get them,” says Robert. “You have a two-week window to release them.” Nematodes like moist conditions, and are sensitive to heat and sunlight, so it’s important to take a few precautions when applying them to your yard. Be sure to also carefully read the product instructions. • Apply nematodes in the spring as soon as the ground is thawed. “Fleas are everywhere, and although they go into a dormant state when the ground is freezing, they start hatching once it thaws,” says Robert. • Don’t release nematodes during the heat of the day, when the sun is high; do it in the early morning or late evening, when temperatures are cooler and the sun is low. • Make sure the lawn is moist before application. If the weather has been dry, soak the area with a hose or sprinkler first. • “Fleas are light sensitive, so focus on the shadier side of the house and under vegetation,” says Robert. “Fleas are more apt to be found there than in direct light.” • Water immediately after application to help the nematodes move into the soil. “If there’s no rainfall, water the grass again once or twice a week after that. Lack of moisture will kill them.” • Nematodes start destroying flea larvae within a day of being introduced to the environment, but it takes a couple of weeks for them to take full effect. “They should last about 90 days,” says Robert, adding that subsequent applications every quarter may be required.
Hint
Fleas can build up immunity to pesticides, but not to nematodes. When you consider the negative impacts of using chemical pesticides on your lawn, nematodes make good sense. “They are the safest and most natural way to rid your yard of fleas.”
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Fido not up to
scratch? Acupressure can help nix that itch
S
Scratch, scratch, scratch…. “There he goes again, poor guy. He scratches constantly and his skin is so raw. I need to do something to help him.” This is a very common situation, unfortunately. Far too many dogs have skin allergy problems. If your dog is scratching incessantly, the first step is to have him checked by a holistic veterinarian to be sure it’s an allergic reaction. The vet will be able to help you discover the possible irritant(s) to which your dog is reacting. There are five types of allergies: contact, flea, food, bacterial, and inhalant. The most common is inhalant, or atopy (pronounced “at-ta-pee”). Often, these allergies occur during the spring and fall when tree, grass, and weed pollens are most prevalent. The solution may be as simple as changing your dog’s diet, or introducing or increasing Omega fatty acids, vitamins A, E, zinc, and biotin, a form of B vita-
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by Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis
min. These are natural supplements that serve as a first line of defense for skin issues. If the skin is damaged, your vet may also provide a topical application to address a potential bacterial infection. If you are able to identify the specific allergen(s) to which your dog is reacting, doing your best to eliminate them is a logical part of the health regime. Examples of allergens include household cleaning chemicals, fertilizers, snow melting substances, pollens, bug bites, plants, and specific foods or treats, especially those with preservatives and coloring.
The TCM approach From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, allergies are a breakdown in the immune system. In other words, the body is not able to cope with a particular allergen because the immune system is not strong enough, or overreacts to the foreign substance.
Only when the natural, internal balance that supports the animal’s defenses is compromised can external agents cause allergic reactions. It’s therefore extremely important to build and strengthen the dog’s immune system while also resolving the current pathogenic issue that’s compromising it. A guided TCM approach to working with skin allergies is well-rounded and involves lifestyle requirements such as making sure the dog is eating the right diet, that he is getting enough rest and exercise, and that his social needs are being met. Add acupuncture and acupressure along with Chinese herbs and you will have a multi-pronged approach to resolving the condition and strengthening the dog’s immune system to prevent further reactions. Acupuncture and herbs can only be administered by a veterinarian qualified in TCM. As well, every dog is an individual and a trained TCM practitioner must assess each animal and treat him accordingly.
Acupoints for Skin Allergies
Acupoint Large Intestine 11 (LI 11),
Pond in the Curve Large Intestine 4 (LI 4),
Adjoining Valley Lung 7 (Lu 7),
Broken Sequence
Stomach 36 (St 36),
Leg Three Mile
Effects Enhances the immune system, reduces itching (pruritus), and benefits skin disorders. Used for allergic dermatological issues and benefits the immune system. Benefits skin issues, especially abdominal itching, and strengthens the immune system. Helps prevent allergies. Additionally used to enhance the movement of energy and blood through the dog’s body to support good health.
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Acupressure for allergies You can learn to use acupressure to help build your dog’s immune system. By stimulating the acupressure points (also called acupoints – see preceding page for chart) every four or five days, you can help your dog resolve current allergic reactions and
1.
avoid future problems. These four points are known to stimulate and strengthen the immune system.
Thumb technique
While laying one hand in a relaxed position comfortably on your dog, place the thumb of your other hand
perpendicular to the acupoint and apply about one pound of pressure or less depending on the size of your dog. Keep your thumb on the acupoint and count to 30 slowly or until the dog expresses an energy release such as yawning, stretching, licking, passing air, or even falling asleep. If the dog seems
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Common signs of allergic skin reactions Itching/scratching Chewing Rashes Rubbing face and eyes Loss of hair Open sores/infections Discolored skin Toughened skin Dry, flaky skin Chronic ear infections GLC 1000 Glucosamine + Chondroitin Pure Powder Concentrate has met Consumerlab.com high standards for ingredient and product quality in independent testing
at all distressed or a particular point is painful, move on to the next point or stop and try the session another time.
2.
Two-finger technique
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This is often more applicable for smaller dogs. First, place one hand on your dog wherever both you and the dog are comfortable. Second, place your middle finger on top of your index finger and then follow the same instructions as for the thumb technique.
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book reviews Title: Through
a Dog’s Ear
Author: Joshua
Leeds and Susan Wagner, DVM, MS Thunderstorm phobia, separation anxiety, destructiveness and other behavioral issues are all signs your pooch may be stressed out. Through a Dog’s Ear: Using Sound to Improve the Health & Behavior of Your Canine Companion can help. This ground-breaking new book by sound researcher Joshua Leeds and veterinary neurologist Dr. Susan Wager looks at the effects sound has on dogs, and how modern sensory overload is linked to the rise of psychological problems in canines. The authors combine their expertise and research into sound therapy to show how music can calm, soothe and reduce anxiety in stressed dogs – a 45-minute starter CD of classical pieces modified for the canine ear is included. The book also suggests taking a Sonic Inventory of your environment to see how the noises you live with every day are affecting your dog. Interspersed with heartwarming stories of how sound therapy has helped other animals, the practical advice you’ll find in Through a Dog’s Ear will help your frazzled canine to a more relaxed life. Publisher: Sounds True
Title: The
Cat Behavior Answer Book
Author: Arden
Moore Cats aren’t easy to understand, and that can make life difficult when they start exhibiting behaviors that you don’t know how to explain or solve. Hot on the heels of The Dog Behavior Answer Book comes The Cat Behavior Answer Book by animal writer Arden Moore. This handy, comprehensive guide is laid out in a readable question and answer format, and addresses a whole range of feline behavior issues and quirks, good and bad, and what causes them.
Find out why your cat kneads your lap every time she jumps up, why she’s so fascinated by running water, or why she “beats up” on the dog or acts out every time you leave her alone. There are also tips on what to do about spraying, how to give cats medication, and even how to toilet train your feline. Whatever your question or problem, you’re sure to find the solution in The Cat Behavior Answer Book – and gain a much better understanding of your feline friend in the process. Publisher: Storey Publishing
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Do your cats fight, or urinate everywhere except the litterbox? As anyone with a multicat household can attest, sharing a home with more than one kitty can often be problematic. Authored by cat writer Dusty Rainbolt, Cat Wrangling Made Easy: Maintaining Peace & Sanity in Your Multicat Home, is an indispensable guide to establishing harmony among your feline friends. The book opens with a discussion of cat psychology and language to help you better understand how your kitties relate and interact, what might be causing problems, and why. You’ll also find information on solving litterbox dilemmas, feeding multiple cats so everyone gets their share, and correcting aggression effectively and humanely. There’s even advice on what to do if disaster strikes and you have to evacuate all your cats. Whether you have a couple of kitties or a whole “clutter”, Cat Wrangling Made Easy will make an invaluable addition to your library. Publisher: The Lyons Press
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events March 29-30 – McLean, VA
Animal Communication Workshop Day 1: Learn how you already communicate with animals telepathically, how to experience their perspective and see through their eyes. Meditations and interactive exercises help you open your heart and connect to an animal as you learn to send and receive communication. Day 2: Learn how to quiet and focus your mind. Practice opening the channel and to receive what animals communicate in thoughts, images, impressions, feelings, and messages. You’ll also learn how to communicate at a distance. Janet Dobbs • 703-648-1866 janet@animalparadisecommunication.com www.animalparadisecommunication.com
continue to deepen their connection with animals. Leave the hustle and bustle of your day to day life behind for a few days and connect deeply with all that is. This class is for those who want more knowledge, direction and inspiration to deepen their connection and experience. As you continue to open your heart to heart connection with animals and all that is, you will gain more experience, knowledge, guidance and inspiration. You will learn from the master teachers: the animals themselves. Janet will guide you, but the animals will teach you. We won’t stop there. That is just the icing on the cake. As we continue to go deeper you will learn how to open to all that is, including domestic and wild animals, plants, trees, and all of creation. This will be a weekend of fun and surprises. Discover your power animal. Come experience the magic.
April 4-6, 2008 – BC Dog Training Mundelein, IL
Evaluation & Ethics in Animal Massage This class includes evaluation of animals as athletes and as candidates for massage therapy; instruction in sports massage; an examination of practical business issues; an introduction to other holistic modalities used with animals; and, whenever possible, a visit to a shelter or rescue to work with the animals. Companion Animal Touch & Therapies 847-782-1963 info@companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com www.companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com April 19-20, 2008 – Traveler’s Rest Equine Elders Sanctuary, Spotsylvania, VA
Animal Reiki Level I Workshop This Reiki Level I class is for animal people who want to deepen their relationship with animals and learn ways to heal the animals in their lives as well as themselves. This class will give you an overview of Reiki and you will learn the differences and similarities between Reiki for humans and Reiki for animals. (Reiki is Reiki. The difference is the approach used when working with animals.) Through lecture, enlightening discussion, exercises and practice, you will be led through the basic steps. Students will experience Reiki energy and learn different ways that Reiki can be used as a healing tool for both humans and animals. Upon completion of the two day course you will be able to do a Reiki self treatment, hands on healing for friends and family and be able to offer Reiki to your own animal companion(s), other animals and even wild animals. Janet Dobbs • 703-648-1866 janet@animalparadisecommunication.com www.animalparadisecommunication.com May 2,3,4, 2008 – 3 Dog Ranch Purcellville, VA
Animal Communication Advanced I Workshop Advanced I - The Deepening This class is for those who have completed the Basic 2 Day Animal Communication course and wish to
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PREREQUISITES: The Basic 2 day course. You may also take this workshop if you have completed a basic animal communication course with another teacher. Janet Dobbs • (703) 648-1866 janet@animalparadisecommunication.com www.animalparadisecommunication.com May 2 & 3, 2008, 9:30-4:30 – Kitchener, Ontario, CAN
Animal Communication Level 1 with Barbara Janelle. This course is an introduction to connecting with animals on a telepathic level. Barbara will show you how to develop your telepathic communication skills and increase your level of confidence in doing so. You can improve your ability to become quiet and to focus your attention to allow you to receive the animals’ messages in your own special way. Barbara will lead you on this magical journey and help you to: •understand animals’ behaviors, needs and feelings •experience the animals’ perspectives •find more joy and harmony through deepening your connection with animals and with all Life. Barbara Janelle, CTTP, TTPT, MA, Animal Communicator. Sue Becker • 519-896-2600 May 10, 2008, 9:30 - 4:30 – Kitchener, Ontario, CAN
Bach Flower Remedies for People and Pets The Bach Flower Remedies are a complete system of safe and gentle remedies derived from wildflowers which balance emotions and treat negative emotional states. They are a simple approach to healing on all levels and help us to take control of our own wellness. The Remedies restore harmony to the mind and emotions for both people and pets and easily allow us to manage our stress. In this full day workshop, learn the purpose and action of the Remedies and how to use them for yourself, your family and your animal friends. Our pets are intelligent beings and experience a full range of emotions, negative as well as positive. Cats, dogs and others develop
behavior problems due to emotions such as fear, anxiety, possessiveness, aggression, impatience, and loneliness just to name a few. The Remedies are also excellent for animals in rescue or shelter situations. Each participant will be asked to offer a current case for discussion by the group. You will be able to mix a blend of Remedies and take it home for yourself or your animal friend. Materials provided include a Mixing Bottle and mixing ingredients, also a detailed Handbook describing each Remedy. With Sue Becker, Bach Foundation Regisered Practitioner, CTTP, Animal Communicator/Consultant Sue Becker • 519-896-2600 • suebecker@cyg.net May 17-18, 2008 – KitKat Ranch, Washington, DC
Animal Reiki Level I Workshop Animal Reiki Level 1 This Reiki Level I class is for animal people who want to deepen their relationship with animals and learn ways to heal the animals in their lives as well as themselves. This class will give you an overview of Reiki and you will learn the differences and similarities between Reiki for humans and Reiki for animals. (Reiki is Reiki. The difference is the approach used when working with animals.) Through lecture, enlightening discussion, exercises and practice, you will be led through the basic steps. Students will experience Reiki energy and learn different ways that Reiki can be used as a healing tool for both humans and animals. Upon completion of the two day course you will be able to do a Reiki self treatment, hands on healing for friends and family and be able to offer Reiki to your own animal companion(s), other animals and even wild animals. Janet Dobbs • 703-648-1866 janet@animalparadisecommunication.com www.animalparadisecommunication.com June 4 -18, 2008 Three weeks at one hour per week. Wednesdays 7pm - 8pm ET • Teleclass
Understanding Feline Behavior This course is an introduction to feline behavior. Many cat guardians misunderstand or are unaware of basic feline communication and emotional needs. Why do cats behave as they do? Learn how instinct and past experience can affect present behavior. We’ll discuss feline social structure and hierarchy, along with the significance of territory and your feline’s sense of safety. Learn also from information cats have related to Sue over years of communication. Understand how your cat views his world, unravel the mysteries and learn how to keep your little lion purring. This course is a prerequisite to Resolving Feline Behavior I and II. Interactive class via telephone conferencing. With Sue Becker, BFRP, CTTP, Animal Communicator/Consultant Sue Becker • 519-896-2600 • suebecker@cyg.net
Post your event online at: www.animalwellnessmagazine.com/events
classifieds Animal Communicators LYNN McKENZIE, International Animal Intuitive, offers nationwide consultations in animal communication and energy healing. Create harmony and awareness in your relationships, restore health, improve behavior, enhance performance, resolve conflict, connect with animals that have crossed over. Workshops and lessons available. Coming soon, correspondence and internet training in Animal Energy Healing. www.animalenergy.com, lynn@animalenergy.com, (214) 615-6506, Ext. 8642. CAN WE TALK? Animal and Soul Communicator, Janice DeFonda says, “Yes! Bless your Hearts and Souls through the communion this connection can provide. Share your Love, laugh, cry, grow and expand the depth of your understanding with your Animal Friends. Extend your connection with those who are in spirit and Restore Harmony and Balance through energy healing.” Phone Consults (315) 329-0116 angelwhisperer@ark-angels.org INSPIRING ANIMAL MESSAGES – Allow your own animals, dolphins, whales, any species, alive or in spirit, to offer Inspired Guidance in your life. Personal coaching from animals sharing their Unconditional Loving Wisdom. Satisfaction Guaranteed Morgine 360-247-7284 morgine@tds.net www.communicationswithlove.com SUE BECKER – Interspecies Communication, Registered Practitioner of Tellington TTouch and Bach Flower Remedies. Resolve problems and stress, improve behavior, deepen understanding and your relationship. Emotional healing. Consultations by phone/in person, lectures, workshops. Call (519) 896-2600 suebecker@cyg.net WONDERING WHAT YOUR ANIMAL IS THINKING or feeling, experiencing behavior or emotional problems with them? Have concerns about their death or dying? To request a telepathic communication go to www.komfortkonnections.com. JANET DOBBS – WORKSHOPS AND CONSULTATIONS. Animal communication, Animal/human Reiki. Deepening the bond between animals and humans. For information about hosting a workshop in your area. janet@animalparadisecommunication.com, (703) 648-1866 or www.animalparadisecommunication.com CLAUDIA HEHR – TO TRULY KNOW AND UNDERSTAND ANIMALS – Internationally known Animal Communication Specialist, Author, Speaker, Coach. World-wide consultations. Health, behavior, afterlife. Workshops, speaking engagements, teleclasses, grief support groups www.claudiahehr.com, (705) 434-4679 SUSAN J. SQUITTIERI – Providing high quality cost effective Nationwide Consultations, Classes, and Workshops in Animal Communication and Reiki for People & Animals. For more information contact Susan at 303.922.0571 or visit www.spreadreiki.com
Animal Health NEED A HOLISTIC PRODUCT OR PRACTITIONER? – Looking for a school or information about animal health? AMTIL offers a complete spectrum - from herbs and essential oils to color therapy, massage to magnets and more - we’re dedicated to the holistic health of companion animals. Affiliate programs for practitioners and shelter/rescue groups. Infoline@amtil.com 866-62-AMTIL (866-622-6845) www.AMTIL.com 847-782-5725 (fax) AFFECTED BY THE PET FOOD RECALL? – HealthyPetNet uses no wheat, corn, fillers,
chemical additives or artificial flavors/colors. Our vet-formulated pet health foods are truly superior. Visit www.FeedYourPetHealthy.com for your free pet food sample. NANNOSIL LIQUID COLLOIDAL SILVER & SILVER GEL – One of nature’s best natural anti-bacterial, anti-fungal & general germ fighter available for all living things. 800-567-4812 or nannosil@yahoo.com BREAK THROUGH! – StemPets™ and StemEnhance™ naturally supports stem cell release from the bone marrow. Startling results! Listen to 1-800-722-3155 or call 1-888-538-8944. www.patgory.com. K9POWER.COM – YOUR CANINE NUTRITION & PERFORMANCE CONNECTION! – We Carry a Complete Line of Dog Health, Dog Nutrition & Dog Performance Supplements as well as Certified Organic and Holistic Pet. SIGN UP FOR ALI’S ANIMAIL – A FREE weekly newsletter with holistic tips /advice that will save you $$ and extend the lives of dogs & cats. Send email to a_s_phillips@animail.net
Associations INTERNATIONAL ASSN. FOR ANIMAL MASSAGE & BODYWORK – www.IAAMB.org Professional association supports, networks and promotes complementary care for animals through continuing education, website, referrals, newsletters, insurance, conferences, lobbying and credentialing. Welcome practitioners of animal massage and bodywork. 800-903-9350
Books & Publications DOGWISE KNOWS DOG BOOKS AND DOG PEOPLE! – Thousands of dog books and videos online at www.dogwise.com or (800)776-2665
Business Opportunities PET LOVERS WANTED – Join a team of home based business owners. Great tax deductions. Earn $700-3,000/mo. very part time. Not sales. Do what you already do. Call Michelle at 561 702 5459. www.oxyfreshww.com/michelle/ WORK AT HOME WITH YOUR PETS! – Leave the “rat race” behind. Potential for serious entrepreneurs and pet lovers, to earn executive level pay. Very lucrative, fun and powerful business system. 800/305-5481 www.secret-biz.com/financialpeace HEALTHY HOME, HEALTHY INCOME!!! – Looking for serious, business-minded pet lovers, who want to work from home with a Team. No selling, no parties, no inventory, NO RISK!!! 785-843-0007. www.wahu2u.com VETERINARY INTERN NEEDED IN LONG BEACH, CA – Treat sick & injured animals by prescribing medication, setting bones, dressing wounds. Inoculate animals against various diseases such as rabies & distemper. Collect body tissue, feces, blood, urine, & other body fluids for examination and analysis. Operate diagnostic equipment such as radiographic & ultrasound equipment, & interpret the resulting images. Advise animal owners regarding sanitary measures, feeding, & general care necessary to promote health of animals. Educate the public about diseases that can be spread from animals to humans. 40hrs/wk, MS in Veterinary & 1yr. exp. rec’d. in job. Send resume to: Attn: Dr. Sakamoto 3350 Atlantic Ave., Long Beach, CA 90807
Healing Essences CANADIAN FOREST TREE ESSENCES – 15 vibrational essences of exceptional quality for animal care, including Animal Whisper, Animal
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Rescue and Animal Restore. Animal Wellness Magazine’s Stamp of Approval. Therapeutic practitioners and wholesale/retail inquiries welcome. Visit www.essences.ca, call 819-682-0205 or email cfte@essences.ca to learn more.
Healthy Treats RUSTY’S BAKERY – is proud to offer freshly baked, all natural, wheat free gourmet dog treats. Your dogs will love them, and beg for more!! Please visit us at www.rustysbakery.com.
Holistic Veterinarians EAST YORK ANIMAL CLINIC – A variety of holistic healing services are available to our patients, including: Homeopathy, Hair Analysis, Herbal Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chiropractic, Computerized Organ Stress Immune Testing, Acupuncture, Therapeutic Nutrition, Reiki and Bach Flower Remedies. Dr. Paul McCutcheon (416)757-3569 Fax (416)285-7483 eyac@ca.inter.net www.holisticpetvet.com ESSEX ANIMAL HOSPITAL, REHAB & K-9 FITNESS CENTRE – Dr. Janice Huntingford, Dr. Glen Porteous, Dr. Yvonne Innes, Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Conventional and Alternative Medicine and Surgery. Herbal Therapies and Holistic Medicine, Pet Massage, Physio and Rehab Therapy. Phone consultations available. 519-776-7325 Essex ON. essexanimalclinic@cogeco.net www.essexanimalhospital.ca GUELPH ANIMAL HOSPITAL – Offers a full range of conventional veterinary services as well as acupuncture, chiropractic, massage, herbal and nutritional. Dr. Rob Butler is certified in veterinary acupuncture and is also trained in Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine. By integrating conventional and complementary therapies, treatments can be tailored to the individual needs and preferences of the animal and client. Guelph Animal Hospital (519)836-2782
www.yorkierescue.com. For information and support groups, please visit: www.livershunt.com or www.collapsingtrachea.com. FEE FOR SERVICE – Temporary home in North-east U.S. needed for multi-cat group. I will buy food, litter. You will feed and maintain their safety. Country residence preferred. Cat rescue organizations welcome to call (718) 496-0736
Schools & Training COMPANION ANIMAL TOUCH & THERAPIES– Training for small animal massage therapy providers; learn to work with animals safely, effectively, and professionally from an experienced instructor. Addresses technique, approach, anatomy, evaluation, ethical and business issues; emphasis given to hands-on learning Info@companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com www.AMTIL.com 847-782-1963 (voice) www. companionanimaltouchandtherapies.com 847-782-5725 (fax) PETMASSAGETM helps dogs create balanced “inner environments”. Learn how. Workshops/ Home Study Courses, New Children’s DVD’s, teach doggie massage, canine body language, safety. 800-779-1001 www.petmassage.com ANIMAL SPIRIT HEALING & EDUCATION NETWORK™ – Teleclass training modules and on-site courses. Animal Communication, Animal Reiki, Shamanic Healing, Grief Support Skills, Tellington TTouch, Flower Essences, Aromatherapy, Species Behavior, Lost Animals, Marketing & Business Development. www.animalspiritnetwork.com, Carol Schultz at 815-254-8325 ENHANCE YOUR RELATIONSHIP – Learn canine and feline massage taught in small, hands-on workshops by an L.M.T. with over 15 years experience. Basic and advanced classes. Free brochure: 1-800-251-0007, wshaw1@bright.net, www.integratedtouchtherapy.com
NEWKIRK FAMILY VETERINARIANS (FORMERLY MARGATE ANIMAL HOSPITAL) AND ALTERNATIVE CARE CENTER – Dr. Mark Newkirk, Chiropractic, Aquapuncture, Herbal, Homeopathic, Metabolic Nutritional Analysis, Ozone Treatments, Laser Pain Therapy, Bach Flower therapy, Applied Kinesiology, NAET (allergy elimination), Nutritional Supplement programs based on your own pets’ blood tests, Alternative Cancer Therapies. Phone consultations. www.alternativevet.com email: mnewk@aol.com phone: (609) 823-3031
CANINE BODY WORKER AND EQUINE BODY WORKER CERTIFICATION – Serious hands on training from leading specialists and veterinarians for hands on work. Progressive certifications beginning at 250 hours to the Master’s series of over 2000 hours. CEU courses offered: advanced massage, MFR, CST, acupressure, anatomy, and more. USA and worldwide Visit: www.equinology.com and www.caninology.com. Write: office@equinology.com or call 707 884 9963
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The tail end
Rio
Educating by Lida Sideris
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ur ten-year-old Aussie shepherd, Rio, understands every word we say. I’m not talking about the one-word, obedience school litany of “sit”, “stay”, or “no”. I mean he understands everything.
Minutes later, Rio came back outside. He was a changed dog. He sat a respectful distance from the van, and quietly watched. This was a milestone, as Rio never did anything quietly.
finish everything in her dish. If you let her eat in peace, you can have her leftovers.”
It started when we moved. Whenever we left home, Rio would follow us down the long driveway, then sit at the gate for hours, awaiting our return. One day, I told him that I wanted him to go back to the house the moment I drove away. He’d be happier there, with his animal friends. As I eased my car down the road, I turned and looked over my shoulder. Rio was trotting back toward the house. Coincidence?
Was it possible our dog had been abducted by aliens and replaced with one specializing in the English language?
A few days later, I tried feeding them both outside. I kept Rio on a leash while Barbie leisurely feasted. To my surprise, Rio kept his cool. He did not lunge after her until his tongue turned blue. Instead, when he finished inhaling his own food, he waited. Patiently. As if he knew. Once she was finished, I set him free. Happily, he trotted to her bowl and licked her dish clean.
Then the plumber came. He always brought his dogs to work. They obediently sat in his van while he toiled. Meanwhile, Rio went berserk. Barking nonstop, he ran dizzying circles around the van, paws barely touching the ground. My husband, Ken, gave him a time-out. Ken sat with a panting Rio in the garage, calming him and reminding him that guests were temporary visitors, to be treated courteously.
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Then came the real clincher. Like many males, canine and human, Rio has a voracious appetite. His food is devoured before the dish hits the ground. If I left a dozen extra-large pizzas in front of him, he’d gorge himself until he popped. So when we brought home young Barbie, a new canine friend, Rio decided she should not be allowed to eat. Ever. We resorted to secretly feeding Barbie in the laundry room. She was a slow, careful eater who chewed every morsel until it turned to mash. If Rio suspected she was eating, he made a great big yelping fuss. So I talked to Rio. I told him Barbie was young and needed to eat in order to grow strong like him. I made him a deal. “Look,” I said. “Barbie usually doesn’t
Rio did not reply, but I could tell he was thinking.
From then on, Barbie would look at Rio when she had finished eating as if to say, “All yours!” and an enormously eager but polite Rio would clean up her leftovers. I wonder if he can read and write? If you have an amusing story you'd like to submit, send it to: Tail End, at submissions@animalwellnessmagazine.com
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animalwellness To advertise in the Ontario Region section of Animal Wellness Magazine, visit www.AnimalWellnessMagazine.com or call 1-866-764-1212
ontario RE
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Ground-breaking will take a bitecancer facility out of this devastating disease by Audi Donamor
Cancer affects thousands of dogs and cats across Ontario and beyond. In fact it has become one of the leading causes of death in our companion animals. Thanks to the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) at the University of Guelph, the face of cancer is going to take on a whole new look.
The OVC is the oldest veterinary college in Canada and the United States, and has been training veterinarians since 1862. Now, it’s poised to become home to Canada’s first Animal Cancer Centre. This worldclass facility will form the clinical arm of the Institute for Comparative Cancer Investigation at the college and will animal wellness – ontario region
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not only encompass cutting-edge diagnostic imaging, cancer treatment, veterinary programs, and clinical research, but will also specialize in reaching out to animals and their guardians whose lives have been touched by this devastating disease.
The OVC has already worked with researchers at Hamilton’s McMaster University in this field, examining gene therapy that targets dendritic cells to trigger a dog’s own immune system to attack cancer cells.
Leading the way are co-directors Dr. Brenda Coomber, a molecular biologist and cancer researcher in the Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Dr. Paul Woods, an oncologist in the Department of Clinical Studies. “The University of Guelph and OVC are on the cusp of a tremendous opportunity to take an integrated approach to cancer studies in ways that researchers, working solely in a human environment, cannot,” says Dr. Coomber.
Contributing to the oncology services presently available through the college, the cancer centre will be an integral part of the OVC Teaching Hospital, and will provide a welcoming environment for animals and their guardians. Plans for the facility include up to six examination rooms, two chemotherapy suites, a procedure room, two quiet family rooms, and ward space for 12 to 20 animals. The centre will also provide a foundation that incorporates the research of more than 30 clinical investigators, as well as a seminar room, teaching area and a small library. There will also be a dog run and an outdoor enclosure, designed to help make canine patients feel more at home.
“Veterinary medicine is a proving ground for new cancer therapies, allowing researchers to study naturally-occurring cancer in dogs and cats, and conduct clinical trials that parallel human research,” adds Dr. Woods “Dogs, in particular, develop many of the same types of cancer that we find in people. So by caring for and studying dogs with cancer, we can help fight and perhaps even prevent the disease in humans while also improving care for the animals.”
The $10 million needed for the facility is being raised by the OVC Pet Trust, a donor-driven fund that supports studies and special projects that improve the quality of care animals receive and lead to advances in veterinary science.
The Smiling Blue Skies Cancer Fund is another partner in this initiative; since its inception in 2001, the fund has raised over $150,000 to support the quest to find more and better ways to deal with and understand cancer. The Smiling Blue Skies Network provides 24/7 support to guardians whose animals have been diagnosed with cancer, and for those needing pet loss support. It’s hoped the new cancer centre will be completed by 2012. Although it will focus on conventional care and treatment, complementary holistic therapies will also play an important role in helping with the side effects of traditional treatment protocols. The facility will serve as a major stepping stone towards finding a cure for this far too common disease, and will help brighten the future for a lot of people and their animal companions.
To learn more about the Animal Cancer Centre initiative and the Institute for Comparative Cancer Investigation, visit www.pettrust.ca.
We have moved to a larger location in East York to serve your better, visit us at 45 Cranfield Road, Unit 5 416-690-1077 or email tania@caninewellness.com
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dog park? Follow these three steps to success by Luan Egan
V
isiting the local park for some off-leash recreation is part of the fun of having a canine companion. Hiking in a ravine, throwing a ball or Frisbee, or watching your dog frolic with his buddies are all good ways to put aside the stresses of the day and get some exercise. But if your neighbourhood does not have any legal off-leash areas, you may be courting a ticket and hefty fine for Fido’s freedom. Even a quiet, well behaved off-leash dog will get you dinged if a Bylaw Enforcement Officer is on patrol. As well, many people in your community are not amused by Rover’s roaming, Penelope’s picnic crashing, Rowdy’s enthusiastic greetings, or the gang having a good barkfest while racing through the kid’s playground. You can be sure they complain every time they are annoyed by a dog. However, the dog park concept is growing and gaining recognition across Ontario. We all need off-leash space. Depending on the availability of public space in your community, dog parks can range from smaller fenced areas in cities or towns, to larger acreage in regional parks with forests and fields and clean water to cool off in. Here’s what you need to do if you want an off-leash dog park in your community:
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•Discuss what activities your group can take responsibility for – such as regular park cleanups and poop patrol – that will help the community view the idea favorably. •Circulate a petition to demonstrate community support for designated offleash areas.
2. Network and homework •If there are already some dog parks or associations in your region, contact them. Ask if someone can attend your meeting and share their knowledge about how they succeeded. A dog park at Kew Beach in Toronto allows canines access to the lake.
1. Get organized •Encourage other dog owners to join you in creating a local Dog Owners Association, which can approach the municipality with a proposal for an off-leash area. Offer to host a meeting. Decide on a name for your association, and who will fill what roles. •Research the applicable provincial and municipal legislation – the Ontario Dog Owners Liability Act and any local bylaws.
•Search online. There are some great dog park resources on the internet.Visit Yahoogroups and search for dog park organizations to get more information. You’ll find files and discussions on all kinds of important topics, such as:
•Dealing with dog behaviour •Reviews on materials for ground cover and fencing •Cost-effective ways to maintain and beautify the area •Encouraging member compliance with dog park etiquette/rules
Photo: Heather Lenz
Want to start a
3. Call City Hall •Now that you are organized and have done your homework, contact City Hall. Talk to the manager of the Parks Department as well as your elected representatives. Sell them on the benefits of your plan – there will be plenty of debate throughout this process, so make sure you have your solutions ready, and leave your temper at home. •Keep in mind that many municipalities do not have the financial resources to design and construct a decent dog park. So develop ideas for fundraising or corporate sponsorship to defray coats and get them interested. •There is strength in numbers – make sure they know that there is a community organization committed to having a dog park and willing to undertake some of the work involved. •If you initially get the cold shoulder, don’t be discouraged. Contact your local media. “Bad dog” stories (really “bad dog owner” stories) tend to grab press headlines, but get your local media interested in your story about how a group of responsible dog owners wants to resolve park issues by having a dog park. Don’t give up. If your group remains committed to demonstrating that responsible dog lovers deserve recreational space, and are willing to participate in the process, eventually you will make headway. It may take awhile, but a few years from now, as you and your dog stand in the off-leash green space you helped create, you will look back and think: “I can’t believe we had to work so hard, but doggone, it was worth it!”
Luan Egan is the founder of Toronto Unleashed (www.torontounleashed.com) and Southern Ontario Border Collie Rescue (www.bcrescue.info). She lives in the Toronto area with her own border collie companions.
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Anita creates a memory case using a dog’s ashes and his photo.
Unique memorials transform ashes into art Gazing out a car window on a trip north one day in the mid-80s, Anita De-Ville-Lee’s eyes were drawn by an isolated church accompanied by a small cemetery. At that moment, the artist decided she did not want to be buried when her time came; she wanted to be cremated. But she didn’t want to end up in a generic urn, and she knew a lot of other people felt the same way, not only for themselves, but also for their beloved companion animals. “Urns seem so cold and people always know what they are,” she says. “They’re too associated with death.” vi
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Drawing on her artistic background, including two years of training at the Ontario College of Art and Design, Anita came up with the inspiration of mixing ashes with different mediums to create memorials with real meaning. She began to brainstorm and conceptualized a variety of unique ideas. “I could mix ashes with paper pulp to create albums to put pictures or writing in, or build sculptures with ashes stirred into plaster,” Anita says. “I could put together a silk bonsai and
have the ashes incorporated into the trunk of the tree.” Anita also did a lot of research into cremation and ashes. “I learned they were safe to have at home. They’re not contaminated and they’re easy to transport.” Anita began to share her vision with friends and family, and about 15 years after spotting that lonely cemetery, turned her ideas into a personal passion – her memorial art business, A.S.H.E.S. Incorporated (www.ashesincorporated. com). In 2002, she sold her first art piece, a sculpture of a dog, to a Torontobased lawyer. “I don’t refer to my clients as clients, but as ‘families’,” says Anita, adding that she creates personal connections with all the people she works with. Animals are the focus of Anita’s business and art. She understands the value of animals in a family, and it shows in her work. “Making art with a purpose for families suffering a loss is fulfilling and satisfying,” she says. “It makes me happy to see their loved ones – their pets -- are still with them.” Her clients
find her unique approach especially consoling. “When Bailey died, I wanted to keep her close to me, but the urn holding her remains held no warmth or character and couldn’t reflect who she really was,” says client Nicole Kim. “Anita turned her into a piece of art that I enjoy each day when I come home. I am comforted just knowing that Bailey is still with me.”
“Losing Shelby has been the worst I have ever been through,” says another client by the name of Bunny. “But I think it will get easier in time, having her close to me again in a memory case. I love looking at the design and knowing she is right there and not inside some dark pot in a cabinet.” Anita’s business has been growing steadily ever since its inception, and last year was the busiest so far. But she stresses that no matter how busy she gets, she’ll never sacrifice quality for quantity. “I want to offer my services to more families, but I still intend to have one-on-one time with clients to ensure a good end result.” Not even Anita would have guessed that a leisurely drive past a cemetery would lead to something so special. “I feel proud,” she says with a smile, “It’s something I love.”
Mixing ashes with different mediums allows Anita to create unique memorials.
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