V10I4 (Aug/Sep 2008) by Redstone Media Group

animal Living pawsitive!

CANCer How to prevent it

wellness For a long, healthy life!

and how integrative healing can help

RECALL RECAP

Has anything changed?

cool Products

The art of polite leash walking

Dirty dozen

bones

Everyday chemicals to avoid

Tips on choosing the right raw bones

Clicker training

Dogs on wheels How two dogs have transformed lives with their "disabilities"

for cats

Enter our Amazing Animals

August/September Display until Sept. 23, 2008

photo contest

$5.95 USA/Canada

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4

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contents © Chode | Dreamstime.com

Photo courtesy: Philipp Wolters

features your manners 44 Cancer support 22 Mind The art of polite How stone massage leash walking

Spot spooked? 26 Is5 steps to easing your dog’s fears

recap 28 Recall What’s changed…and what hasn’t?

our 32 Enter Amazing Animals Photo Contest

Send us your best shots and you could win!

re-treats and 40 Canine spaws get your dog back in shape

animal wellness

Fitness centers and spas offer more than rehab

can help

cancer 46 The cooking challenge Healthy and tempting cuisine for animal patients

for 54 Searching missing links

The connection between cancer, genetics and the environment

support for 60 Holistic chemo and radiation How to make cancer treatment easier on your companion

46 Click on this icon to visit featured links steps to 62 4choosing a joint

health supplement

It’s all in the ingredients

and silver 64 Gold More than precious metals

signs of cancer in 68 10 dogs and cats What to watch out for

70 Teaching Tess

How clicker training can work for cats

dirty dozen 72 The 12 toxic chemicals to avoid

on wheels 74 Dogs How two dogs have

transformed lives with their "disabilities"

bone to pick 81 AChoosing the right

raw bones for your animal companion

gift 86 Mali’s One dog’s inspiring battle with cancer

stuff! 90 Cool Take a look at what we

found at the Backer’s show

attack! 94 Rear Cats that bite their tails

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contents Volume 10 Issue 4

columns 14 Yakkity yak 34 Dr. Martin Goldstein

Editorial Department Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Canadian Regional Editor: Ann Brightman Editorial Assistant: Stephanie Bossence Senior Graphic Designer: Stephanie Wright Graphic Designer: Leanne Martin Cover Photography: Leslie Town Illustration: Leanne Rosborough

92 Animal passages 97 Book reviews

58 Warm & fuzzy

106 The tail end

departments 8 Editorial 12 Mail bag 43 Product picks 77 Wellness resource guide

84 99 104 105

The scoop Ad spots Events calendar Classifieds

our cover: Photo: Leslie Town

This happy guy really knows how to make the most of summer! His name is Duke, and heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a gentle and loving Labrador retriever who shares his life with the Leatherdale family. A couple of years ago, Duke and his humans moved to a spacious 200-acre property near Orillia, Ontario, where he stays in great shape doing daily squirrel patrol around the house, and chasing sticks in huge grassy fields like this one.

Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published six times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyrightÂŠ 2008. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: July, 2008

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Columnists & Contributing Writers Sonia Alexandra Michelle Bernard Beth Campbell Andrea Crisp Audi Donamor Andrea Fitzpatrick Martin Goldstein, DVM Sylvia C. Hall Terri Hough-Gilmour Debbie Jacobs Shawn Messonnier, DVM Mark Newkirk, VMD Catherine Owsianiecki Flavia Potenza Ilene Powell Hillar Sorra Anne C. Watkins Michael Wolters Ulrich Wuebker 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, 107 Hunter St. East, Unit 201 Peterborough, ON, Canada K9H 1G7. 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, 107 Hunter St. E., Unit 201. Peterborough, Ontario, Canada K9H 1G7 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

Don’t stop believin’ Last weekend, two of our staff here at Redstone Media participated in the Dragon Boat races in support of breast cancer research. Their team lost but they could hardly feel bad about it -- they were beaten by a team of breast cancer survivors! The Dragon Boat races have empowered women diagnosed with cancer to feel hopeful about the future and to believe they have a role to play in their survival. They have brought together not just the families of those who have been struck by the disease, but have also motivated the communities in which they live. In this issue of Animal Wellness, we’re striving to give our readers the same sense of empowerment and motivation. Cancer is not just a human disease; thousands of our animal companions are being diagnosed with cancer every month. Of course, we want to do everything we can to prevent it (that’s what AW is all about!), but it helps to first understand the nature of the disease in animals (see Dr. Shawn Messonnier’s article “Searching for missing links” on p. 54). It also helps to detect signs early so be sure to read “Ten signs of cancer” on p. 68. And keep in mind that

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many dogs and cats are recovering from cancer every day with the help of integrative medicine. Dr. Newkirk’s article on “Holistic support for chemo and radiation” (p. 60) tells you how to make the process of healing less stressful, while Audi Donamour provides diet tips in “The cancer cooking challenge” on p. 46. This issue also takes a look at what, if anything, has changed in the industry since last year’s tragic pet food recall; provides advice on how to walk your dog without losing the feeling in your arm; and answers questions about which raw bones are right for your animal companion. Finally, we’re please to announce that it’s time again for our Amazing Animals Photo Contest. The weather is great so get out there with your companion and get snapping! As always, we can’t wait to see the wonderful animals who share your home and your heart.

Wishing you a fantastic and healthy summer,

Dana Cox Editor-in-Chief

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contributors Veterinarian Dr. Shawn Messonnier is 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 in Plano, Texas. On page 54, Dr. Messonnier writes about the link between cancer, genetics and the environment.

Michelle Bernard, author of Raising Cats Naturally, has spent over a decade researching natural health for cats. A freelance writer who breeds American shorthairs, she has kept her own cats vibrantly healthy since 1993 using a raw meat diet, homeopathy, and plain common sense. Michelle is renowned for her sound approach to rearing cats and her writing on many aspects of holistic cat care. She offers nutritional and natural health consultations from her home in North Carolina. For Michelle’s tips on clicker training cats, see page 70.

Debbie Jacobs lives in southern Vermont and

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. In this issue (page 46), she shares dietary information and recipes for animal cancer patients.

is the owner of the fearfuldogs.com website and author of the ebook A Guide To Living & Working With A Fearful Dog. She shares her home with her husband and four dogs, including Sunny, a Hurricane Katrina and dog hoarding site survivor with fear issues. For Debbie’s article on how to help your own dog get beyond his fears, see page 26.

Anne C. Watkins is a contributing editor

Veterinarian Dr. Mark Newkirk practices in the New Jersey area. At age 14, he started at Margate Animal Hospital cleaning cages and mopping floors. Now he owns the place! He practiced conventional medicine for 15 years, then ventured into alternative medicine after realizing “there must be another way” to treat chronically ill patients. Now, his practice is 50% alternative medicine. He recently opened another practice where rehabilitation and physical therapy are his talents. Dr. Newkirk’s special interest is with cancer patients – turn to page 60 for his article on chemo and radiation.

Sonia Alexandra is the president and founder of Stone Healing, a leading supplier of stone products and education for animals. She is the developer of the world-renowned stone massage and healing pet stone concept, and author of The Art of Stone Healing. Sonia is a leading authority in the expanding holistic health and pet industry and has over 30 years’ experience. Turn to page 44 for her tips on how stone massage can help animals with cancer.

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to Pet Age Magazine and author of The Conure Handbook. She specializes in writing about animals, birds and nature, and lives in the country with her husband Allen, their beagle, and two bossy parrots. In this issue (page 22), Anne writes about the art of polite leash walking.

Sylvia C. Hall is a writer living in Kansas City. She and her husband share their home with their cat, Myla, and their schnoodle, Calvin. Sylvia’s creative interests also include photography, jewelry design, and journal collaging. On page 94, Sylvia talks about her experience with tail-biting in cats, and what to do about it.

Ulrich Wuebker is president of flexi USA, Inc. He joined the company at its German headquarters in 1988 and moved to the American operation in 1999, becoming president in 2005. He is committed to animal care and to helping people get the most out of their relationships with their companions. He and his family live in Cincinnati and have two dogs. Turn to page 22 for his tips on hassle-free dog walking.

Catherine Owsianiecki is a freelance writer whose work has appeared in Animal Wellness, Baltimore Dog, Antiques and Collecting Magazine, Collectors News and Clavier, among others. She lives in Bel Air, Maryland with her family, including Tasha, a Yorkshire Terrier. For this issue, she profiles three fitness centers and spas designed especially for dogs (page 40).

contributors Flavia Potenza is a freelance journalist and owner of Dogley DoRight Dog Training, an in-home service for obedience and behavior. She also teaches pre-agility foundation classes. She lives in Los Angeles and currently shows two Keeshonden in AKC agility trials. See page 74 for her story about two dogs who overcame their disabilities with wheelchairs and flying colors.

Hillar Sorra, BPHE, BEd, U of T, has always worked in the health and fitness industry and is committed to providing the highest quality nutraceutical products to both the human and companion animal market. Having been a competitive athlete who suffered from years of joint pain, he has focused his interests on all-natural joint health products and is the North American representative for Sasha’s Blend. Turn to page 62 for his advice on choosing the right joint health product for your dog or cat.

Dr. Michael Wolters graduated from the Veterinary Faculty of Free University in Berlin in 1972. After years as a veterinary associate, he started his own clinic in 1985, focusing on homeopathy and acupuncture. He successfully completed the IVAS-Veterinary Acupuncture Program in San Diego in 1990 and became a certified acupuncturist. Dr. Wolters moved to Canada in 2005 and now works with acupuncture in both Canada and Germany. In this issue (page 64), he and his daughter Vera Wolters discuss the benefits of gold acupuncture.

Terri Hough-Gilmour was born in England and came to Canada in the early 1970s. After a successful career in show jumping and showing, she retired from the sport but continues to coach and school horses. Terri also has a passion for natural health products and started her own company, Harmonix, which specializes in colloidal silver and magnetic therapy products. Terri lives in Schomberg, Ontario, and is working on opening her own natural health rehab centre for horses and dogs within the next year. In this issue, she writes about the benefits of colloidal silver (page 64).

Ilene Powell was born and bred in the Big Easy. She is owned by her animal companions Mali, Gitty and Biggs. Spending a lifetime in New Orleans has brought her many rewards, she says, but none is more satisfying to her than supporting people in their fight again canine cancer. Turn to page 86 for her story on how she helped Mali beat the odds against splenic hemangiosarcoma.

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mail bag

Dear Animal Wellness Magazine:

Recently, my black chow T-Rex died of old age. He was 16 years old. He lived a good, happy life and it was sad to see him go. My other dog Pika, a Jack Russell terrier, was heartbroken. He would sit at the foot of the bed looking out the sliding door window for T-Rex and start crying. I knew it was time for Pika to have another companion. Enter HPI (pronounced Hi-Pee), a corkie (half cocker spaniel and half Yorkshire terrier). HPI and Pika play together, sleep together, walk together, explore together. Pika is very happy and we are now one big happy family. HPI has healed our wounds with his love. Paul Dale Roberts, Elk Grove, CA Editor’s note: Congratulations on being such a sensitive dog parent. Many people don’t realize that animals can feel grief just as deeply as we do, and that they may mourn the loss of a companion for weeks or even months. It certainly sounds as though HPI has really helped Pika (and you!) recover from your mutual bereavement.

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Depending on the animal and the circumstances, however, adopting a new companion may not always be the best solution. Find out more by reading “Does your ‘golden oldie’ need a new friend?” in our Jun/Jul 08 issue – among other things, this article talks about when (or not) to adopt an animal to keep a bereaved dog or cat company. Your article on mange in the Apr/May 08 issue mentioned that this is one area where natural treatments don't work so well. I would just like to report that there is an entirely natural and very simple treatment, which I have found to be at least as effective as the pharmaceutical approach. It consists simply of applying full strength neem seed oil to all affected areas twice daily for as long as symptoms persist, and then continuing for several more weeks to prevent recurrence. When my border collie pup exhibited symptoms of mange, and a scraping confirmed the diagnosis, we went ahead with the neem treatment on the understanding that if there was no acceptable progress we would switch immediately to the pharmaceutical treatment. My veterinarian was astonished to see the steady return of hair growth bit by bit, until all symptoms were gone. Heather, M.Sc., Molecular Biology Starfish Lavender Farm, Cobble Hill, BC Editor’s note: We shared your letter with the article’s author, veterinarian Dr. Shawn Messonnier, who had this to say: “While neem oil may be effective against mange, I do have some concerns. First, volatile oils can be toxic and even fatal when not used properly, so I never recommend applying them full strength to any animal. Secondly, I gather your puppy had localized mange. Most animals with this condition will recover regardless of treatment, although it is still recommended to treat these dogs in the hope of preventing some of them from developing the generalized form of mange. Therefore, it's difficult to say if your puppy was cured by neem or if he cured himself as a result of his improving immune system, which happens in most animals with the localized form of mange.” Thank you for this great magazine. I refer to it often and lend each copy to my vet in the hopes of getting him more into really good "stuff". So I was really surprised to see the photo on page 32 (Jun/Jul 08). Good info in the article, but that poor dog! The length of his nails makes it totally impossible to walk in a proper/normal fashion -- upright on his pads. He absolutely has to walk on the back of the big pad. He doesn’t get enough of the right exercise to grind down his nails, and no one is clipping them. Shame on them!

Pawsetively Pawfect! ™ Turn to page 69... 1-877-838-7015 • www.vithealth.com

How about an article on how important it is to maintain proper nail length? Thanks again for a great mag. Charlotte Peltz, Mexico

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Editor’s note: The photo used with this story is a stock image, but on closer inspection (we were focusing mainly on the ears for this one!) we agree that this hound could definitely use a manicure. As you say, keeping a dog or cat’s nails relatively short is vitally important to ensure the animal can walk properly and comfortably. Adequate exercise is one way of keeping nails short. Periodic clipping is also often necessary, and can be done by a professional groomer, or by using a pair of clippers especially designed for the purpose and available at pet supply stores. We did an article on nail clipping a few years ago, but will no doubt revisit the topic in a future issue. Corrections: In last issue’s “Product picks” (Jun/Jul 08), we inadvertently published the wrong photo with the write-up on Jake and Micah’s new Fortune Cookie organic catnip toys. The image shown was in fact the Maki Sushi toy. Our apologies to Jake and Micah for the error. Please note that the “Hint” appearing in Dr. Lisa Newman’s article, “Shopping for Supplements”, also in Jun/Jul 08, is the opinion of Animal Wellness, and not Dr. Newman.

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: 107 Hunter St. E. Unit 201, Peterborough, ON K9H 1G7 or by email to: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com www.animalwellnessmagazine.com

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yakkity yak

Standing up for animals Tails were wagging in celebration when the Hollywood Office of the Humane Society of the United States paid tribute to the media for giving a voice to animal issues at the 22nd Genesis Awards on March 29. Those honored at this year’s gala ceremony in Beverly Hills included NBC’s popular Heroes star Hayden Panettiere, who received The Wyler Award for her attempts to save trapped dolphins rounded up for slaughter by Japanese fishermen. Other award recipients included celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck for his commitment to offering more animal-friendly fare in his restaurants and food products; and broadcast journalist Anderson Cooper, who accepted the Outstanding TV Documentary Award on behalf of CNN’s Planet in Peril. Many additional celebrities were on hand to present and receive awards, including actress Persia White, comedian and political satirist Bill Maher, Academy Award nominee James Cromwell, and Kyle MacLachlan (Desperate Housewives).

Heroes star Hayden Panettiere (left) receives The Wyler Award from HSUS President Wayne Pacelle.

Supplement sales soaring More and more people are giving supplements to their dogs and cats, says a new study by Packaged Facts, a division of MarketResearch.com. Supplement sales reached $1.2 billion in 2007, and are expected to increase nearly 40% over the next five years. In fact, 33% of dog guardians and 24% of cat guardians currently use supplements, with joint/senior, skin/coat, and vitamin/mineral supplements making up the largest percentage of sales. © Iwka | Dreamstime.com

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Budgeting for Bowser With the cost of living ever rising, it’s important to factor your animal companions into your budget, especially when adding a new dog or cat to the household. The ASPCA recently released its updated “Pet Care Costs” guide to help new animal parents plan and budget for their future companions. Here’s a rundown of first-year costs, including things like food, vet visits, toys, treats, licenses, litter, spay/neuter operations, health insurance, training and grooming: Large dog: $1,843 Medium dog: $1,580 Small dog: $1,314 Cat: $1,035 For more information, visit www.aspca.org/petcarecosts.

Summer travel tips

Planning to take Rover on vacation? Remember this as your pack your bags: • Provide your dog with a seatbelt or a well-ventilated crate or carrier. • Bring lots of water. • Stop every hour or so to let your dog stretch his legs and take a bathroom break (don’t forget to pick up after him).

• Never leave your animal alone in a parked car even for a few minutes, especially when it’s hot. Try this experiment (without your dog): next time you’re out running errands on a warm day, stay in the car a few minutes after parking. You’ll discover that even with the windows cracked open, it very quickly gets stiflingly hot. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog. • Make sure your dog has ID. • If you’re traveling between states or provinces, you may need to show proof of rabies vaccinations, so take his records with you. animal wellness

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Reduce their risk

Did you know that spaying or neutering your animal companion can help reduce the risk of certain cancers? Veterinary Pet Insurance reports that spaying can decrease the risk of mammary cancer, while neutering can reduce the chances of testicular cancer.

Dog napping on the rise The American Kennel Club is warning animal lovers that dog theft is increasing. "The value of pets in people's lives has been on the rise for a long time and now we are seeing thieves trying to capitalize on this,” says spokesperson Lisa Peterson. “Whether they seek to resell the dog, collect a ransom or breed the dogs and sell their offspring, thieves seem to be attuned to the increased financial and emotional value pets have in our lives.” Here’s how to protect your best friend: • Never leave your dog alone in your yard or car (even if gates and doors are locked), and don’t tie him outside a store.

• Be aware of your surroundings at grooming salons, veterinary clinics, doggie day care facilities or pet-friendly hotels. • Protect your dog with microchip ID.

To enroll your dog in the AKC’s Companion Animal Recovery service, visit www.akccar.org.

Common boo-boos Everyone makes mistakes. What’s important is that we learn from them, especially when it comes to our animal companions. Check out this list from Petlane of some of the most common mistakes dog guardians make.

1. Leaving a dog alone without something safe to occupy himself. 2. Not giving dogs enough exercise, and believing a backyard is ample space for them to run around in.

they are an important way to bond with your companion.

6. Believing you do not have to "puppy proof" your home. It’s actually very important for your puppy's safety and your sanity.

7. Failure to research specific breeds when choosing a new dog. A canine’s breed very much determines his inherent personality type.

8. Not knowing that certain plants can be poisonous in and outside the home. 16

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3. Making a big deal over leaving the house. 4. Not knowing how to read a pet food label. 5. Thinking that tug of war games are not okay for dogs. Played properly,

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Plastics warning is official We’ve been hearing about the toxic chemicals found in some types of plastic water bottles, and how they may be leaching into the water to be ingested by humans and animals. This past spring, Canada made headlines by becoming the first country to consider bisphenol A (BPA) a toxic chemical. BPA is used in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastic, which is found in a range of products, including water bottles and food containers. Studies have indicated that BPA is a hormone disruptor and can increase the risk of some types of cancer in humans. The Canadian government plans to place regulatory measures on the chemical, but in the meantime, use stainless steel or glass containers to carry water for yourself and your animal.

When undergoing certain treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, there are significant nutritional depletions in macro and micronutrients as well as the potential for damage from the side effects of the treatment itself. These nutrients are crucial to the healthy functioning of the body. Drug-induced nutrient depletions may further be compounded by the lack of adequate nutrition due to poor diet and stressful lifestyles. Without specific nutritional support, the impact of nutrient depletion can worsen over time.

HELP THEM THROUGH THIS TRYING TIME

Give your dog some refreshing fun on a hot day by letting him play in a kid’s pool filled with cool (not cold) water.

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yakkity yak Disaster response This past springâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s devastating cyclone in Burma and earthquake in China have had rescuers working around the clock to provide aid to millions of survivors. On May 23, an emergency veterinary team from the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) was given permission to enter Myanmar and deliver aid to the thousands of animals affected by the storm, and the people who depend on them for their livelihoods. The aid includes 31 tons of animal feed and a five-strong vet team. At press time, the WSPA was the first animal organization to be granted access to the region. Meanwhile, the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) has sent an emergency relief team to Chinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sichuan Province, where they have been rushing food, water pumps, medical supplies and other provisions to help both animals and humans. To learn more, or donate to either of these efforts, visit www.wspa.ca or www.ifaw.org.

The most common canine cancers include lymphosarcoma, skin tumors and osteogenic sarcoma.

Dogs for the disabled Specially trained canine helpers are a godsend for people with disabilities. On September 13, the town of Scarborough, Maine hosts Woofminster 2008 to raise money for NEADS: Dogs for Deaf and Disabled Americans, in particular, their Canines for Combat Veterans Program. Now in its third year, this Planet Dog Foundation event features competitions including a Dog & Person Look-Alike Contest, Silly Pet Tricks, Best Howl, Best Dancer, Longest Tongue, Longest Tail, Longest Tail Wag, and Best Dancer. An animal communicator will be there, and music and refreshments are also included. Visit www.planetdogfoundation.org to learn more.

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Mind your manners

The art of polite leash walking by Anne C. Watkins

h boy, it’s time for a walk! If your dog is leash trained

Motivations for good behavior

and well mannered, you’re in for loads of fun. But what

Visualizing the behavior you want from your dog is crucial, says Pat Miller, Certified Pet Dog Trainer and Certified Dog Behavior Consultant. “Know what behavior you want,” says Pat, who also authored The Power of Positive Dog Training and owns Peaceable Paws Dog and Puppy Training. “Have a good solid image in your mind of how you define polite leash walking.”

if she hates the leash? Nothing brings a walk to an

unpleasant end faster than a struggling, choking dog. Fortunately, there’s good news. You can teach that unruly pooch to mind her manners by following the suggestions in this article.

Understanding what motivates your dog is another key to teaching successful leash behavior, says Certified Animal Behavior Consultant Amy Shojai. The author of 21 dog and cat care books, including PETiQuette: Solving Behavior Problems, Amy suggests using a clicker in conjunction with motivational incentives. Treats “Dogs need to have an incentive,” Amy says. “For many, it’s a treat; a really, really scrumptious-smelling something

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that they get no other time. You make it exclusive so that if your dog is lunging ahead or pulling on the leash, every time he checks in, every time he looks at you, you click and give him that really wonderful, wonderful treat.” Toys and scents While the treat method works well for some dogs, others have different motivators. “Some are not as treat-motivated, so you have to find other things, like a particular toy,” adds Amy. “Border collies are notorious for single-mindedness as to balls or Frisbees. For some of the scent-oriented dogs, a scent will work better.” Verbal praise Dr. Suzanne Hetts, Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist and the owner of Animal Behavior Associates, suggests you use another motivating tool along with the treats – a happy, encouraging voice. “When you are first training a puppy, the generous use of treats as well as your voice encourages him to stay on a loose leash,” she says. Stopping or backing up According to Pat, some dogs reward themselves by dragging on the leash. “Her reward for pulling is that she gets to go where she wants to go. To prevent her from being reinforced, animal wellness

5 simple tips for a better walk by Ulrich Wuebker What makes a walk successful for you and your dog? It’s ensuring that each of you gets what you want out of it. Dogs want to explore, play, and please you. You want to enjoy some exercise, see your dog having a good time, and feel like you have a well-behaved animal. To make sure you both get what you want, use these simple tips.

Use animal-friendly training methods so your dog has a clear understanding of what is expected. While walks can be about enjoying freedom, they are also about respecting your surroundings and those around you. Train your dog how to come, sit, and respect the leash.

2. 3.

Once you have a trained dog, employ a retractable leash for added freedom and flexibility. Be realistic about what your dog can do. Dogs aren’t made for fivemile runs, but they do need activity and exercise, so read up on what your companion can do based on his age and breed. Give your dog the right amount of activity, along with water breaks along the way.

Pay special attention when walking after dark. Make sure you and your dog can be seen. Several collar and leash products include reflective applications. Leash lights and other visibility products are also available.

Be consistent. By walking in ways that reinforce your expectations each and every time, your dog will develop the behaviors you want to see – and both of you will enjoy happier and more beneficial walks!

any time she pulls forward, you stop or perhaps even gently back up. When there’s no longer pressure on the leash, feed her a tasty tidbit at your side, and start forward again.” Dr. Hetts agrees: “The dog should really learn that pulling results in the exact opposite of what he wants.” Making her want to stay with you Turn walking peacefully on the leash into the reward. “You are competing with all the wonderful things in the world that are so compelling and interesting to a

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dog,” says Pat. “You must convince her that you are more wonderful, and the way to make wonderful things happen on the leash is to stay near you.” Working in a quiet, boring location helps when beginning. “It’s important to start teaching this in a low-distraction environment, and add distractions when she shows you she understands that sticking with you makes very good stuff happen.”

Trouble shooting What if you have an older and/or hard-

to-train dog that stubbornly resists the leash no matter what? Amy says you can train him, but it may take longer to discourage bad habits. • “Often, we reinforce and teach dogs to do the wrong things without even realizing it,” she says. “You have to think like a dog and try to figure out what’s motivating them. The key with older dogs is knowing that sometimes it’s going to take longer and might have to be done in smaller steps. The very first thing might be just getting the dog used to wearing the collar or harness, then give him a treat.” • Dr. Hetts agrees that while some dogs may be challenging, successful training is possible. One method she cautions against is the use of choke chains. “They are extremely difficult to use correctly,” she says. “The vast majority of people never do, and dogs continue to pull and gag at the same time. It’s also virtually impossible to use them with a consistent amount of force, and it’s much too easy to be heavy-handed with them.” • Dr. Hetts adds that older or hardto-train dogs may do better with an alternative to the standard neck collar. “Headcollars make it easier to retrain adult dogs.” (For more on headcollars, see “Head Games”, Animal Wellness, Apr/May 2008) By making each training session fun, limiting distractions, carrying yummy treats and stockpiling an unending supply of patience, you can transform your reluctant leash-walker into a polite and charming companion. No more choking, no more struggling, no more unpleasant experiences for your dog, and no more aching arms and shoulders for you. Now, isn’t it time for that walk?

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Photo: Pat/"Babarella"

Is Spot spooked? 5 steps to easing your dog’s fears

by Debbie Jacobs How can you tell if your dog is scared? Pacing, panting, cowering and whining are all obvious signs of fear. But did you know that snapping, growling, inappropriate urination, barking, and an unwillingness to perform commands can also mean your dog is feeling afraid? Many people assume these latter behaviors mean the dog is trying to get the upper hand in the relationship, when he may just need a helping hand to get over his fears. If your dog is behaving in a fearful manner, the first step is to have your vet

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give him a thorough examination to rule out illness or injury. If his physical health is fine, then you can talk to a trainer about reconditioning your dog’s response to the situations, people or things that provoke his fearful behavior. Conditioning a dog to feel more confident and even happy around his fear triggers is the most effective way to ensure a trustworthy improvement in his behavior. Note that this does not involve repeated unmanaged exposures to his fears -- this may only make his behavior worse. The

conditioning must be done methodically and gradually.

Begin by creating a list of the things that scare your dog. These are called “triggers”.

2. Determine the duration, distance

or number of triggers that your dog can tolerate before displaying the unwanted behavior. For instance, a stranger across the street might not be a problem, but one at closer proximity may be. Being able to groom your dog’s body but not

his head is another example. Or perhaps he tolerates small dogs fine, but is scared of big ones. These all represent your dog’s thresholds to his various triggers.

3. Find out what gets your dog’s attention in a positive

way. This could be a tasty treat, a tennis ball, or a loving scratch behind the ears. You can use all three, with food being top of the list due to its effect on brain chemistry. These are the rewards.

4. Keep your dog under threshold. This means he is aware

of one of his triggers, but is not responding in an unacceptable way. Pair the trigger with a reward. Proceed slowly, increasing the intensity or proximity of the trigger only when the dog is able to remind calm and behaved. This reconditioning can take days to months, so be patient. Reward your dog for appropriate behaviors even if he appears frightened. Emotions, unlike behaviors, are not reinforced with rewards, so don’t worry that you are telling your dog it’s okay to be afraid when you give him a treat as a child rollerblades past. With repeated practice, in fact, your dog will begin to anticipate a yummy treat when he sees something he was afraid of.

5. By changing your dog’s behavior, you can change how

he feels about fearful situations. Along with using rewards to make positive connections between how your dog feels about his triggers, you can also encourage behaviors that are incompatible with fear. These include eating, playing, self-grooming and exploring. For example, a dog that is afraid of strangers may not react as fearfully if the stranger tosses a ball. A dog that is afraid of thunderstorms, meanwhile, may be distracted by a meaty bone to gnaw on while the storm approaches. Once you’ve identified your dog’s fears, and have gently conditioned him to feel more relaxed when faced with his triggers, you’ll no longer need to worry about what will happen if he encounters strangers, other dogs, children, cyclists, or even the dreaded UPS driver!

More tips and resources • Learn how to read your dog’s body language. Calming Signals by Turid Rugaas details how dogs communicate their feelings. • The Cautious Canine by Patricia McConnell details the steps to helping dogs overcome their fears. • Consult a holistic vet; various natural supplements and modalities can help fearful dogs. Bach Rescue Remedy is good for soothing anxiety and panic and can be bought at most health food stores. • Positive reinforcement training and agility can help dogs develop confidence. animal wellness

Recall recap What’s changed… and what hasn’t? by Ann Brightman

t may have happened over a year ago, but the pet food recall is still painfully fresh in most of our minds. A lot of questions remain to be answered. For

example, what has been done to better ensure the safety of our animals’ food, and prevent a tragedy like this from occurring again? To briefly review, a substance called melamine was detected in a wide range of brand name commercial pet foods after large numbers of people began reporting in March of 2007 that their dogs and cats were falling ill and dying of kidney failure. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), this contaminant, normally used as a flame retardant, industrial binding agent, and even as a fertilizer in some countries, was discovered in vegetable protein products imported from China and mislabeled as wheat gluten and rice protein concentrate for use in pet foods.

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Appealing to the law It’s impossible to determine how many dogs and cats were affected by the tainted foods, since there is no national official tracking system to monitor the deaths of animals, as there is for humans. Whatever the exact numbers, however, Menu Foods and other companies associated with the recalled products have been faced with numerous class-action lawsuits launched by bereaved animal guardians on both sides of the border. Just this past May, the companies agreed to pay out $24 million in compensation to claimants in

Natural Balance has built a special testing lab to expand the number of toxins their foods are tested for.

both the U.S. and Canada, although at the time of writing this article, the court still had to approve the settlement. If it is approved, the money will be used to compensate animal guardians for documented veterinary costs incurred by the tainted food.

Preventing future recalls While this settlement will certainly be a help, anyone who shares their lives with companion animals will agree that no amount of money can replace a muchloved dog or cat. What’s most important is what is being done to help prevent a crisis like this from happening again. In May of 2007, in response to the recall, Sen. Richard Durbin and Rep. Rosa DeLauro introduced the Human and Pet Safety Food Act (S. 1274/H.R. 2108). Last fall, important elements of this legislation were passed as part of the FDA Amendments Act of 2007. They

require that relevant stakeholder groups “by regulation establish processing and ingredient standards…updated standards for the labeling of pet food that includes nutritional information and ingredient information…[and] an early warning and surveillance system to identify

contaminations of the pet food supply and outbreaks of illness from pet food.” While this is a big step in the right direction, other key elements were left out of the final bill. “It doesn’t give the FDA authority to order mandatory recalls, nor does it deal with how to

look at what’s going on with foreign food systems,” says Mimi Brody of the Humane Society of the United States. As well, the standards and regulations that were addressed don’t have to be established until 18 months after the date

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of the act’s passage, which means that even now they are mostly still in the development stage. “The changes we’ve made include an import alert that keep suspect ingredients out of the country, and the closing down of guilty suppliers,” says FDA spokeswoman Laura Bradbard. “In February 2008, as a result of a comprehensive investigation by FDA and USDA, two Chinese nationals and the businesses they operate, along with an American company and its president and chief executive officer, were indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in a scheme to import products purported to be wheat gluten that were contaminated with melamine.” The FDA also held a public meeting in May 2008 to obtain input from AAFCO, veterinary medical associations, animal health organizations, pet food manufacturers and other stakeholder groups on the development of pet food ingredient, processing and labeling standards. But it’ll likely be a while before these standards are agreed upon and fully established, let alone implemented.

What about Canada? In Canada, pet foods are regulated

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at several levels. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) regulates imports of pet food for the purposes of disease prevention, while Industry Canada sets regulations that establish basic labeling requirements for pet foods. Following the recall, CFIA “reviewed its pet food responsibilities and programs to determine if there was any room for improvement”, according to its website. It also “issued a border lookout requiring the holding and testing of all shipments of wheat, rice, soy and corn gluten and protein concentrates entering Canada of Chinese origin.” Apart from that, however, little more has been done to ensure the safety of pet food in Canada, or to minimize the risk of other potential contaminants making their way into food.

Taking the lead Luckily, some pet food companies aren’t waiting for new laws to take effect, but are regulating themselves by implementing changes that will help ensure the quality and safety of their products. One example is Natural Balance, a California-based pet food company that specializes in premium canned and dry diets for dogs and cats.

“The big thing we did was put in a laboratory to test all our foods before they leave the facility,” says company president Joey Herrick. “We originally had four tests, now we have seven, and when we’re done we’ll have ten. No finished product leaves our facility without being tested for melamine, cyanuric acid, aflatoxin, vomitoxin, ochratoxin, zearalenone and fumonisin. The FDA recommends that all pet food companies test for these toxins.” Joey adds that it’s impossible not to include at least some foreign ingredients since so many products are no longer made in North America and have to be imported. “People say don’t buy anything from China, but it doesn’t work that way. So companies really need to do their own testing.” At the end of the day, what’s the best thing you can do to prevent your dog or cat falling victim to another recall? Educate yourself about good nutrition and make sure you’re feeding your companion a high quality diet made with premium ingredients from reputable sources. If in any doubt, contact the company and ask about their screening processes. It’s the best investment you can make in your best friend’s health and well bring.

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GET YOUR PHOTOS IN for our 6th Annual

Amazing Animals Photo Contest! Enter our Amazing Animals Photo Contest and you could win one of many prizes up for grabs, plus your photo will appear in an upcoming issue of Animal Wellness Magazine for all to see. What a great tribute to your special friend! You can enter in one of the categories below, or simply let our judges choose which category fits best. Enter by August 13, 2008 for your chance to win.

2007 "Best Photo" winner by Melanie Fuelling, Meridian, MS

• Best photo • Most artistic • Best bond (human/animal) • Biggest attitude • Best nature-lover

The rules are simple: 1. Send a digital photo, scanned at a minimum of 5"x7", at 300 dpi resolution in a tif, jpeg or pdf format to: photos@animalwellnessmagazine.com or send a good quality hard copy original photo (not a color photocopy) of your animal to: Photo Contest, Animal Wellness Magazine,

• Funniest • Best smile • Best eyes • Most athletic • Best pals

short description of the photo. Hard copy photos must have contact information printed on the back of the photo.

3. You may submit a maximum of two photos of each animal in your home.

4. All photos become property of Redstone Media Group. Redstone

CAN: 107 Hunter St. E., Unit 201, Peterborough, ON K9H 1G7

Media Group reserves the right to publish all photos in Animal Wellness Magazine, and on our website. We regret that photos cannot be returned.

2. Please remember to include your name, address and telephone

5. Winners will be notified by phone or mail and winning photos

number, along with your animal's name, sex and age (if known) and a

will appear in a future issue of Animal Wellness.

US: PMB 168, 8174 S. Holly St., Centennial, CO 80122

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holistic veterinary advice

Talking with dr. martin goldstein Dr. Martin 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

My 12-year old beardie had Lyme disease three years ago. He was somewhat lame, and within weeks couldn't stand up. He was put on medication and within a few days was good as new. Recently, he tested positive for Lyme disease. When the vet did a urinalysis, she said there was nothing to worry about. Harry has been periodically sluggish, groans a lot getting up and down, and seems to run less than usual. He is on Orijen's senior (no additives, wheat, etc.) and takes two Cosequin daily. What would you suggest? Do you think we should try the Lyme medication again? Is there a supplement that might help?

Here’s the general rule with Lyme disease: when in doubt about whether or not to treat the animal, you should treat. This is even wiser in the face of symptoms. (This should not, however, take precedence over your vet’s advice.) At the same time, we need to balance this rule with indiscriminate treatment every time an animal develops any joint related signs. To complicate matters, many animals will continue to test positive for life, even after successful treatment. In our

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practice, we have had success using the herbal SPK Formula by Kroegers Herbs, and the homeopathic Lym D by Bioactive Botanicals.

I have a three-year-old Siamese. He was very sick with diarrhea on and off for two years. He had blood and mucus in his stools. Everything the vet tried hasn't helped. I had him on FortiFlora for 1½ months. He was doing great, then started back with diarrhea again. The vet said the next step would be an ultrasound to check his pancreas and also steroids. I am against steroids, knowing the bad side effects.

I did a tremendous amount of research and decided to try the apple cider vinegar remedy, starting with one drop a week and working up to five drops in his water bowl, which holds two cups of water. He is doing wonderfully. He also had bad problems digesting any type of food, but seems to do very well on Royal Canin green peas and rabbit. My question is, do I keep him on the apple cider vinegar for life?

I have seen apple cider vinegar used as a routine dietary supplement for both animals and their people, espe-

only.

cially in the past. So I feel you can continue giving it to your Siamese, although it may no longer be needed. A happy medium would be to give it to him several times a week. Of course, the decisive factor will be your cat and how well he does.

We have a six-month-old male standard Schnauzer puppy we are going to neuter. When is the best time to do this? We are getting different answers from the vet, the breeder, the trainer and the internet. The most reasonable answer seems to be from Guide Dogs of America. They suggest you wait until after puberty, i.e. when he starts to lift his leg when urinating, because that way you know his body is fully developed. Otherwise, they say you could affect his bone structure development and certain glandular development. We are interested in your thoughts.

Yes, there are a varied number of recommendations when it comes to the ideal age of neutering. Some say to do it as early as two months, although I am not in favor of this. My personal recommendation for males has always

been to wait until 12 to 14 months of age, unless he develops behavioral issues such as aggression or humping.

After my 12-year-old cat, Yoda, was diagnosed with asthma, my vet gave him steroid shots but they only made him miserable. I read your book and took him for acupuncture, which did not help. I tried giving him fish oil in his food, but he wouldn’t eat it. I feed him a good brand of grain-free food (the only one he will eat) and he still coughs. His coat looks good and shiny, and he sometimes has a little discharge from his eyes. Otherwise he looks okay. Sometime, he’ll go weeks without coughing, but last week he started coughing a couple times a day, usually when he’s relaxed, not when he's playing. Your book mentions hydrocortisone, but isn't that more for itchy skin? Is there anything I could give him to ease his coughing?

The hydrocortisone mentioned is naturally derived from soy, but it’s still

classed as a drug and you would need to obtain it through a veterinarian. Like any cortisone, it can be used for almost any inflammatory or allergy based condition and has fewer side effects than the synthetic varieties. Asthma would be covered in this category and I have used it successfully many times for this problem; I would, however, stop using it if it didn’t give a positive response. I also like using BHI’s Asthma, sometimes in combination with their Cough and/ or Bronchitis remedies. I have also had fairly good success using Seven Forest’s herbal Pinellia formula.

My dog is 14 years old and in good health other than some weakness in her hind legs. She is on a home cooked diet and seems to be doing very well for her age. A little less than a year ago, she started pooping in the house. There have been no changes in the household and she still gets let out regularly along with daily walks.

In the past she has always pooped in the yard or during her walk, never in the house. I know it is not her diet because she has been on it much longer than a year. I asked my vet and he said, "It’s normal for dogs her age to do that. It’s just part of getting old." For some reason, I don’t believe this. Any suggestions on why she is doing this and what can I do to help her?

This sounds like a fecal incontinence condition. If so, it could most likely be attributed to her spinal nerve system becoming a bit senile. The best thing I’ve seen work for this condition is acupuncture or, at times, proper chiropractic treatment. You can seek out an appropriate veterinarian practicing these modalities through AVMVA.org or IVAS.org. Other treatments can be tried, but I’ve seen acupuncture as the most responsive.

My friend's four-year-old male cat was recently diagnosed with HCM. She told me it could be

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hereditary and is prevalent in males. I have two three-yearold male cats from the same mother (all were born feral so we don't know who the fathers were). Can you elaborate on this disease and tell me what you know about the risk factors for my two kitties?

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can be a hereditary linked disease in certain feline breeds. I have personally witnessed it more frequently in males than in females. For example, HCM is hereditary in Maine coon cats and is probably the most common cause of sudden death in this breed. In general, the cat’s heart as a whole enlarges and the muscle wall of the ventricle – specifically on the left side -- becomes thickened. This can subsequently progress to heart failure and/or the formation of blood clots in the circulatory system. I would suggest you not try to figure out the risk factors but rather begin to get routine echo cardiograms done on your two cats. Early detection can benefit proper therapy, both medically and especially using more natural, biological treatments.

My four-year-old Boston terrier, Andrew, started getting seizures of some sort last year. They happened on September 5, December 22, February 1 and April 15. They usually occur at night, or while he’s sleeping. He wakes with what I call stiff and wandering legs and labored breathing that lasts a few minutes. He does not urinate or defecate, nor is he completely unconscious. The vets have suggested that we do not start medication as it really affects the liver, so when a seizure comes on, I just

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hold him, rub the tips of his ears, and spray him with Rescue Remedy every few minutes. He gets acupuncture every two weeks and they feel the problem is more structurally related to the neck. I want to know if there is something else that might be done to stop these seizures besides heavy drugs.

I have seen acupuncture work wonders in a number of cases like this, especially if drugs have not yet been used. Once the responsive acupuncture points were determined, gold bead implants would be injected into them, providing continual, long term treatment. This would involve working with a veterinary acupuncturist well experienced in this methodology. [See page 64 for more on gold acupuncture.] Other than that, choosing the correct homeopathic remedy through a well-versed veterinarian could also prove promising. My practice has successfully used Epilepsy Drops by Professional Complementary Health Formulas. Working with an experienced veterinary herbalist using western or especially Chinese formulas could also have very rewarding results. Lastly, I have seen success getting dogs with similar conditions on raw diets.

Q A

My daughter has a one-year-old cockapoo. She has had problems with reverse sneezes since she was a pup but lately it has become worse. Her vet said she is fine, and that it’s normal. I don’t think it is. What are your thoughts? I don’t think it’s normal either, but it is an expected condition in certain breeds. It’s rather common in Pomeranians, for example. I have one named Kooper (he’s the blond Pom on the cover

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of my paperback book The Nature of Animal Healing). He has had this condition off and on all his life, even though we’ve kept him so healthy that even at the age of ten he still looks and acts like a puppy.

To help with this condition, always feed the highest grade foods, especially those very low in or free of grains and grain by-products. You can also try adding a good digestive enzyme such as Prozyme or Vet Zimes V-2 by NESS.

I have also seen this condition occur in cockapoos. Your daughter needs to give her dog high quality foods, preferably low in grains or grainfree. Add digestive enzymes and a high quality fish oil. If the problem continues to progress, consult a veterinarian practicing quality integrative medicine.

There are reports that bulking up the stool with bran can help. I don’t like this, especially with cats, because it usually means adding more carbohydrate-like ingredients to the diet. I also do not like the long-term use of bran. If Jazzy’s problem starts to occur more frequently, the herb slippery elm may help.

Our cat, Jazzy, has been having problems with her anal glands. She is about four years old. We have taken her to the vet and they expressed her -- we have had this done about three times in the last two years. We are very much into holistic health care, and were hoping to find out what you might recommend to help her, especially since we read that repeated expressing doesn't really help the problem.

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.

Three episodes over a two-year period isn’t that bad for this kind of condition. Sometimes, anal glands requiring expressing are just part of an animal’s life. I do agree, though, that repeated expressing does not help the problem. As a matter of fact, repeated anal gland squeezing can actually start to contribute to the problem by creating excessive inflammation. This leads to more frequent filling of the sacs, problems and impactions.

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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: Essex Animal Hospital

Water treadmills offer canine clients an excellent and enjoyable workout. Below: A massage provides a relaxing interlude.

Canine re-treats and spaws get your dog back in shape by Catherine Owsianiecki

Pool party! Maury Chaput, co-owner of the Canine

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Fitness Center (www.caninefitnesscenter.com) in Crownsville, Maryland, calls the facility “the YMCA for dogs.” He and his wife Lynne developed the idea of a canine “Y” when their Lab mix, Shadow, suffered a partial tear of the meniscus (a type of knee injury) in 2002. The Chaputs subsequently decided to turn their one-dog rehab center into a fitness facility for canines of all kinds. The highlight is the indoor aqua-exercise pool where dogs can swim, play and chase balls. In fact, only a third of the center’s nearly 1,200 swimming clients are dealing with orthopedic or other mobility issues. Most swim for exercise, recreation, and just to kick back. “Aquaexercise is full body exercise with zero

Photo courtesy: Canine Fitness Center

We embrace our dogs as four-footed family members, so we’re prone to pangs of guilt whenever busy schedules limit our ability to play with and personally pamper our pooches. Luckily, dog-centric fitness centers are backing us up in a big way. Many focus on rehabilitation, but with additional recreational services such as canine swimming, exercise and play areas, not to mention luxurious spa treatments, they’re making a dog’s life look better all the time. Here are just a few facilities that offer recreational activities as well as rehab for their canine clients.

impact on joints,” says Maury. “Swimming in our 80ºF water loosens joints, builds muscle and provides an excellent cardio workout. It’s also a fun and fast way to burn calories.” Chase Robert, a golden retriever from

nearby Davidsonville, is just one dog that uses the facility for swimming exercise. “It’s a place where canine citizens receive the respect, recreation and attention they deserve,” say his guardians, who like to watch their dog’s swimming form from a cozy waiting room. “The staff treats him like a star, with plenty of individual attention.”

the remaining 30% visit for fun and overall fitness. “In most veterinary practices in Ontario, 45% of the dogs are overweight, and that is about correct for our practice,” she says. “We just finished our Biggest Loser Competition, and we found that the dogs that used our fitness services and remained on a calorie-control diet lost the most weight. Our winner lost 20% of her body weight!”

Although the vast majority of dogs love the pool, a few do not. “Aquaphobic” pooches can hit the treadmill for a workout and some muscle toning. Canine acupuncture and relaxing massage sessions are also available by appointment.

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Photo courtesy: Essex Animal Hospital

Making fitness fun Exercise is promoted as a crucial part of good health at Essex Animal Hospital in Essex, Ontario (www. essexanimalhospital.ca). The facility’s mission to improve the quality of life of its canine clients is enhanced by a spectrum of fitness and wellness services, including aquatic therapy, underwater and land treadmills, daycare and spa services. Visiting dogs get to work out in the doggie gym and splash around in southwestern Ontario’s first chemicalfree saltwater pool. They can stay in the pool to receive a relaxing water massage or even chiropractic adjustments. Owner, director, and veterinarian Dr. Janice Huntingford says that although 70% of their clients are rehab patients,

The center’s doggie daycare and spa services offer major coddling. A half or full day visit includes playtime, a choice of swim, fitness, or massage session, followed by a treat and distilled water, and a nap with a cozy comforter. The spa offers packages with varying combinations of nail trimming, ear cleansing, massage, swimming, jogging on the treadmill, and outdoor walks.

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Reduce your pooch’s paunch

Spacious outdoor play areas are a popular feature.

• Be sure to have your dog checked by a vet before starting any exercise program. He or she may offer special recommendations based on your dog’s health history. • Design exercise around your dog. Some dogs love the Frisbee. Some worship the tug toy. Others like to search and find. Still others are social butterflies that only play hard when they’re at daycare or the dog park. Keep experimenting until you find the perfect activity for your dog, and use that exercise, not food, as a reward.

Photo courtesy: Atlanta Dog Spa

The recreational services provided by canine spas and fitness centers are helping us fight the battle of canine bulge. Martha Garvey, author of My Fat Dog (www.myfatdogbook.com) suggests additional ways to stem the growth of our dogs’ girth.

For canine VIPs The staff at Atlanta Dog Spa (www. atlantadogspa.com) go out of their way to give their canine clients special treatment. This doggie daycare and spa outlet in Atlanta, Georgia offers everything from spacious grassy play yards to grooming and boarding, spa treatments, and massage.

• Research suggests that challenging your dog, both physically and mentally, will keep him healthy longer. Look for new ways to incorporate exercise – Martha uses the empty bike racks at her park as an urban agility course for her dog.

• Sign up your dog for a class. After Martha’s nine-year-old dog took her first agility class, she was giddy with endorphins for the rest of the day. Other classes include fly ball and, yes, dancing with your dog. 42

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Photo courtesy: Atlanta Dog Spa

• Hire a personal trainer or tour guide for your dog. Some dog walkers offer dog runs -- that is, a vigorous run with a skilled runner. Others specialize in taking dogs on jaunts into nature. This gives you a break and your dog an adventure!

“Our goal is to treat every dog as if he or she is our own,” says owner Sarah Segal, who opened the spa six years ago for her beagle, Boomer. “We offer only the best for our pampered pooches.”

“We have over 7,000 square feet of terrain for the dogs to safely run in,” she adds. “And we are the only facility in Atlanta with all-natural Bermuda grass. The play yards are re-sodded every few months.” When the dogs are ready to chill out, they can take a dip in one of the kiddie pools. “The pools are quite durable and even our Rhodesian ridgebacks and Great danes have room to splash around.” When the weather turns too hot or rainy, the spa is ready with indoor playrooms. Canines boarding at Atlanta Dog Spa receive complimentary daycare benefits and the option of sleeping on a cozy couch in the doggie living room. “We even have a movie collection with dog-friendly titles,” say Segal. All visiting dogs are required to take a one to two-hour beauty nap. “But if you want your pooch to have the ultimate pampering treatment, we offer canine massage, hot oil treatments, Reiki, and all-natural therapeutic bathing,” says Sarah.

product picks 2008

Savory stew Hearty, wholesome meals aren’t just for people. Mulligan Stew offers natural canned foods that take a naturopathic approach to a long and healthy life. Developed using scientific principles, the unique patent-pending formula helps increase certain enzymes that prevent cell damage from harmful oxidation. It also enhances whole body detoxification, bowel cleansing, and DNA stability, and can help cats reduce urine crystals, naturally synthesize taurine, and get rid of excess weight. Mulligan Stew diets blend natural meat and fish proteins, cruciferous vegetables and whole grain brown rice, with amino acids and carotenes. Dogs: 12 13oz cans $24 - $39, Cats: 24 5.5oz cans $33.65 www.mulliganstewpetfood.com

Forget the steroids Veterinary care is getting better and better, which means dogs and cats are living longer. As animals age, though, they can often develop degenerative conditions. Canine System Saver is an herbal dietary supplement that manages the processes of disorders like arthritis and hip dysplasia as well as dermatitis, IBD, and respiratory problems. This safe and effective alternative to steroids has a dual action that inhibits enzymatic tissue breakdown and regulates the enyzmes involved in chronic inflammatory disorders. 120 capsules: $45 www.systemsaver.net

Help her home One of an animal lover’s worst fears is accidentally losing her beloved companion. Enhance the chances of your dog or cat’s safe return with a ReturnMoiPets tag. Each tag has a unique ID code that you register online at the company’s website. If your dog or cat goes missing, the finder can call ReturnMoi with the ID number and the company in turn phones you to facilitate your companion’s return. They also reward the finder, at no cost to you, for helping bring your animal safely home again. Pet tag (two year coverage): $7.99 Pet tag (lifetime coverage): $29.99 www.returnmoi.com

Is she insured? Given the high cost of veterinary procedures, pet insurance is an important consideration these days. Pets Best Insurance offers a variety of plans that cover everything from accidents and injuries to MRI and CAT scans, X-rays, surgeries, cancer treatments, prescription medications, acupuncture and chiropractic therapy, hospitalization, and visits to after-hours emergency vets as well as specialists such as ophthalmologists, dermatologists and surgeons. Get a free quote by visiting the website and filling out the online form. www.PetsBest.com

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Cancer support

How stone massage can help

by Sonia Alexandra Sonia and Jake demonstrate stone massage.

ne of the positive things about cancer is that our animals have access to a range of conventional and alternative treatments to help combat illness and promote healing. When carefully combined with one another, these therapies can form a powerful arsenal against this all too prevalent disease. Stone massage is one alternative modality that when used properly and in conjunction with other treatments can help bring healing and relief to animals with cancer. It involves warm semiprecious stones and crystals that are placed on the body at specific points and/or are used to massage the body.

How does it work? Thermal conduction in a warm stone brings about local and systematic changes in the body, and influences the energy centers for body and mind balancing. The longer the application, the deeper the penetration to muscle, tissues and joints. Penetration may reach as far as 1.5â&#x20AC;? into the superficial layer of muscle.

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ÂŠ Chode | Dreamstime.com

The application of various massage techniques in conjunction with the stones helps produce energy that assists and directs vital flow to areas of blockage, and creates a deepened state of relaxation and pain relief. The stones themselves transmit subtle energy vibrations that further help remove blockages, dissolve stress, neutralize negative energies, draw energy away from over-stimulated areas, and reenergize depleted ones. The result is an overall feeling of well being and balance. Following exposure to the warm stones, the surrounding tissue may contain an excess of blood due to increased circulation caused by vasodilation. As blood leaves congested areas, there is a localized increase of capillary blood pressure. Red and white blood cells multiply, and for every 34ÂşF rise in internal temperature, there is a 10% to 15% increase in metabolism. This occurs through broad application of warm stones to the body, which in turn aids in the treatment of weakened conditions through stimulation and detoxification.

Hint

The warm stones hold heat, invigorating blood flow and the circulation of Chi, the life energy of the body. In cancer, stone therapy is used to massage pressure points, as well as help soothe and calm the animal. It also helps deal with the side effects that can result from conventional cancer treatments. The benefits are often tangible: less nausea, an easing of pain, anxiety and depression, and an improvement in appetite and sleep patterns. Chemotherapy and radiation deplete the immune system and rob the body of vital Chi energy. One of the primary reasons for using stone therapy is to strengthen and support the internal organs by bringing them Chi energy, thereby helping to heal the body from within and reducing pain and anxiety. This can be very beneficial during the early phase of chemotherapy or radiation, and afterwards to re-strengthen the body.

Stone therapy combined with light acupressure can also act as a release valve, redirecting excess energy to other meridians deficient of Chi.

Contraindications and cautions It’s important to recognize that there are sometimes contraindications when using this form of therapy. For example, if you don’t have special training, there is the risk of causing lymphedema (lymphatic fluid retention) to any area of the body. The use of heat may also not be indicated if the animal has a heart condition. As with many other modalities, it’s important to seek out a practitioner who is experienced in stone massage rather than attempting to do it yourself without training. When beginning specific

therapeutic work with animals suffering from cancer, training is essential. Every animal has different needs. A great place to start is Gayle MacDonald’s Medicine Hands Book, which has guidelines for using massage therapy in cancer cases.

Hint

Stone massage should not be done directly on the site of a tumor. Keep in mind that whoever is treating your animal, the quality of their touch and the loving energy of that person are also essential to healing. Done correctly, stone massage can have a significantly positive effect on your animal’s recovery and well bring.

What warm stones can do Effects on the body • Increase in heart rate and respiration • Vasodilation of capillaries • Flexibility by relaxing connective tissue

• Increase in metabolism and elimination • Increase in migration of leukocytes • Defense against infection

Effects on body systems

Circulatory system: Provides lymph drainage and toxin removal. Promotes thermo-genesis and cell hydration. Lymphatic drainage is also increased by combining cold and warm stones. As lymphatic flow is altered, the body is transformed on a cellular level. This combination is also effective for increasing general circulation to vaso-restricted areas of the body.

Nervous system: Calms the nervous system. Provides balance throughout the parasympathetic system. Nourishes nerve cells.

Vascular system: Increases the flow and rate of blood circulation. Causes veins to dilate or widen.

Visceral/organ system: Provides relaxation, decongestion and detoxification. animal wellness

The cancer cooking challenge

Healthy and tempting cuisine for animal patients by Audi Donamor

hen Noritaka came home from her cancer surgery, she wouldn’t eat. Initially, her guardians used a syringe to feed their feline friend beef liver that had been gently cooked and then liquefied in a blender. Later, Nori began to lap up a mixture of tuna and warm filtered water. Even her favorite treats were whirled in the blender, and slowly, she graduated to eating ground beef, turkey and chicken, and puréed fruits and vegetables.

Feeding animals with cancer There are no ten commandments or easy-to-follow lesson plans for feeding an animal with cancer. One diet does not fit all, and what works well today may not be tolerated tomorrow. Tastes change and regular feeding schedules can be turned upside down. It can be a real challenge. The guidance of a veterinarian or nutritionist will give a better idea of what to expect, but here are a few important points to get you started. • The most critical thing is ensuring your canine or feline cancer patient eats. This can be the most difficult job of all. The old adage “If they go hungry

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long enough, they’ll eat anything” does not hold true for cancer, despite what anyone tells you. • Animals with cancer lose weight, not only because they reduce their regular food intake, but also because of the tremendous metabolic impact of the disease. • Animal cancer patients have an altered carbohydrate metabolism, so a diet lower in carbohydrates (while not discounting the value of complex carbs), and containing high quality proteins and fish oil as the primary fat source is best. Grains should account for no more than 10% of the diet for dogs, while no grain is recommended for cats. • This leaves us with 30% to 50% meat for dogs, along with 30% to 40% fruits and vegetables; and for cats, 40% to 60% meat and 20% to 30% fruits and vegetables. A calcium source and vitamin/mineral supplement complete the foundation of the diet. • Try to use organic products, and always use distilled, filtered, or spring water. • Using a crockpot is one of the easiest ways to prepare a nutritious meal for your cancer patient, and its aroma

may be just the thing to entice your companion to eat. • Knowing the percentage of protein, fats, and carbohydrates you are working towards makes it easier to choose ingredients for your cancer cooking challenge. Consider chicken, beef, turkey, or a novel protein like ostrich, emu or buffalo, along with liver and heart, eggs, carrots, broccoli, celery, cabbage, bok choy, turnip greens, spinach, and summer squash, enhanced by antioxidant-rich garlic and turmeric. Canned wild salmon, sardines, mackerel and other fish can top off a meal of whole brown rice or whole oats, sweet potato and broccoli, and for a change, try protein-rich quinoa and teff. • If your companion is accustomed to a raw diet, stick with it, but keep in mind that cooked food is recommended for animals whose immune systems are suppressed by chemotherapy or radiation. • Whichever way you decide to feed your cancer patient, ensure the diet is evaluated on a regular basis. All rules truly can go out the window when it comes to battling cancer on the nutrition front, so be prepared to feed “anything” from soup to nuts!

A cocktail for cancer Dr. John Carter, a British veterinary surgeon and research scientist, created this cancer cocktail after losing his own dog to cancer.

Ingredients 8 ounces raw chopped liver (e.g., beef, bison, chicken) 4 ounces grated carrots 1 /2 ounce ground Brazil nuts, (the richest source of natural selenium)

day. Refrigerate overnight. Next morning, skim off the fat, remove the meat and vegetables, strain the stock into storage containers and freeze. This will give you a nutrient-dense broth to add to any recipe or as a topper for regular meals.

Fresh and friendly frittata

Instructions Combine and serve. This recipe can easily be pureéd in a food processor or blender, and served as a complete meal or a topping for other meals.

Stock that rocks Ingredients 24 cups filtered water 3 pounds chicken backs and necks 2 carrots, in pieces 2 celery stalks, in pieces 3 Shitake mushrooms, dried or fresh 2 garlic cloves 1 piece fresh ginger 12 white peppercorns 1 to 2 tablespoons Kosher salt, to taste Handful fresh parsley, Italian or curly Other fresh herbs to taste, e.g., thyme, oregano, sage, rosemary

Ingredients for stock

Instructions Put all ingredients in a large stockpot. Bring to a rolling boil, skim off the foam, turn the heat down to simmer, and leave the pot to sit and stew all

Fresh and friendly frittata Ingredients 3/4 cup artichoke hearts, finely chopped (choose artichokes canned in water) 1 clove garlic, finely minced 3 free range eggs 2 tablespoons cold pressed extra virgin olive oil (butter can also be used) 1/4 teaspoon turmeric 1/4 teaspoon sea salt 1 tablespoon fresh oregano or 1½ teaspoons dried 1 cup grated goat cheese 1/4 cup whole grain oat flour or artisan whole grain bread crumbs

Instructions Preheat oven to 350ºF. In oven-totable cookware, whisk eggs and goat cheese together, then add remaining ingredients, making sure to mix thoroughly. Sprinkle with extra dried oregano just before placing in the oven. Bake 20 to 25 minutes, or until the centre of the frittata is set and the top is lightly golden. Cool to room temperature, and just before serving, sprinkle with fresh wheat grass and/or parsley. Store in refrigerator or freezer. Cats with cancer may be more finicky than usual, so consider using ¾ cup of liver or tuna fish in place of the artichokes. Simply liquefy in a animal wellness

blender or food processor before adding to the recipe.

Carrot flan This recipe originated in England. The original comes from a wonderful book called Nature’s Children by Juliette de Bairacli Levy. Carrot flan

Ingredients

2 cups finely grated raw carrot 6 raw egg yolks 6 tablespoons filtered water or stock (recipe on p.47) 1 /2 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions Preheat oven to 350ºF. Lightly grease a Pyrex or cake pan. Whisk egg yolks with water or stock, and add sea salt. Add grated carrot and mix thoroughly. Bake for 30 minutes.

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Cool, cut into strips, and serve. This recipe can be topped with goat yogurt. In place of carrots, try sweet potatoes, and season with cinnamon.

Tempting treats Making special treats for our sick animals is one very important way we can support them. There are times, indeed, when all they will eat are treats. Here is a recipe that can be easily adapted to meet the changing tastes of your companion.

onto lightly floured surface and knead well. Cut into desired shapes and place on cookie sheet, or place dough in middle of cookie sheet, roll out to the corners, and lightly score with knife or pizza cutter. Bake for 20 minutes, then turn oven down to 175ºF and allow to bake for 40 more minutes. Allow treats to cool in the oven. Store in an airtight container or Ziploc bag.

Ingredients 4 1 2 2

cups chickpea flour cup apple sauce teaspoons Saigon cinnamon teaspoons carob powder

Chickpea biscuits

Instructions Preheat oven to 325ºF. Cover large cookie sheet with parchment paper. Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender. Turn out dough

If you wish, you can replace the apple sauce with organic canned pumpkin or banana; for your feline friend, try continued on page 50

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pureĂŠd liver. You can also use 1 finely minced garlic clove and 2 teaspoons fresh parsley in place of the cinnamon and carob powder. Another variation is to make the recipe with 1 cup of salmon, tuna, sardines or other fish, 1 finely minced garlic clove, and 2 teaspoons fresh parsley or catnip. I have been working with Shawnee since her diagnosis of an aggressive mammary cancer just over a year ago. She is thriving on a whole food raw and cooked diet, and recently celebrated her 14th birthday.

Kombu candy Ingredients Package of kombu 1 /4 cup unpasteurized local honey

/2 cup filtered water 1 cup finely ground almonds or Brazil nuts

Healing Foods for Cancer â&#x20AC;˘ Healing Foods for Cancer â&#x20AC;˘ Healing Foods for

Food

Benefits

Apples

Very rich source of vitamin C and other antioxidants. Red delicious, northern spy, and Ida red contain more antioxidants than others.

Artichokes

An antioxidant super food. Contain a variety of phytonutrients that have anticancer qualities and support immune system. Excellent source of vitamin C and some of the most powerful polyphenol-type antioxidants, including quercetin, rutin, anthocyanins and silymarin.

Blueberries & cranberries

Contain significant levels of resveratrol, a natural compound with anti-cancer properties. Blueberries are a very rich source of antioxidants.

Broccoli

One of the most important cancer fighting vegetables; contains at least three cancer-protective biochemicals. Lots of vitamin C and beta carotene. Cooking releases indole, a cancer-fighting enzyme.

Cantaloupes

Very high concentration of beta carotene. Good source of vitamin B6 and C, fiber, folate, niacin and potassium. Try giving cats a little piece of cantaloupe with a dab of goat yogurt and sprinkling of catnip.

Carrots

Contain beta carotene, vitamins B, C, D, E and K, riboflavin, niacin, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, manganese and iodine. Support immune system, aid digestion, and recognized as a glandular tonic.

Chickpea flour

Good source of potassium, phosphorus, iron, folate, copper, and magnesium. Contains unsaturated fatty acids and is high in fiber and protein. Its high protein content does not turn into glucose in the bloodstream.

Garlic

Offers potassium, zinc, selenium, vitamins A, B1, and C as well as calcium, manganese, copper, and iron. Supports the immune system. A little goes a long way.

Green beans

Excellent source of vitamin A. Also contain vitamins C and K, calcium, copper, fiber, folic acid, iron, magnesium, niacin, potassium, riboflavin, thiamin and Omega 3 fatty acids.

Kombu

Meaty, high protein seaweed that supports liver, stomach, and kidney function. Also contains fucoidan; studies have shown that when fucoidan is administered to cancer cells, the cells were destroyed within 72 hours through a self-induced process called apotosis.

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Chickpea flour photo courtesy: Rupa Sinha

oven for 30 minutes. Cool completely before feeding.

Instructions Soak dried kombu pieces in filtered water until soft. Drain and cut into small pieces, enough to fill 1/2 cup. Combine honey with filtered water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer, add kombu, and continue to gently cook until liquid has evaporated. This takes about an hour. Spread ground almonds or Brazil nuts on a parchment-covered cookie sheet and coat the kombu pieces in the ground nuts. Bake in preheated 300ºF

When it comes to feeding companion animals with cancer, we need to step up to the plate. Creativity in the kitchen can unlock many doors when it comes to tempting low appetites and providing nutrient-rich food. After more than seven years and 300 case studies, I still believe good nutrition enhances the quality of life for dogs and cats with cancer. It’s certainly one excellent way we can take a bite out of this disease!

Cancer • Healing Foods for Cancer • Healing

Food

Benefits

Mangos

Good source of fiber, also contain a small amount of protein. Excellent vitamin and mineral profile. Contain potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, selenium, copper, zinc, and manganese. Rich in vitamins A, C, folate, and B6.

Pomegranates

Rich source of ellagic acid, also contain anthocyanidins and proanthocyanidins (flavonoids) that have demonstrated reduced tumor angiogenesis in a variety of studies.

Pumpkin

Cancer treatment can be hard on the digestive system. Pumpkin is a terrific stool softener and a perfect remedy for constipation; conversely, 1 to 2 teaspoons added to food is an effective remedy for diarrhea.

Shitake mushrooms

Contain an active compound called lentinan which supports the immune system and has been shown to have anti-cancer activity.

Sweet potatoes

Great source of vitamin E. Includes an abundance of vitamins A, B6, and C, calcium, iron, folate, potassium, copper, and thiamine. Rich source of beta carotene, which may be a significant factor in reducing the risk of certain cancers. A good source of dietary fiber and helps promote healthy GI tract.

Tomatoes

Have been shown to lower risk of some kinds of cancer. The secret is lycopene, the natural chemical that gives tomatoes their red color. Cooked tomatoes contain more lycopene because cooking breaks down cellular walls. Add a little fat, like cold pressed virgin olive oil; this allows the lycopene to be even better absorbed into the body.

Watermelon

Contains 40% more lycopene than tomatoes!

Wheat grass

One ounce has as many vitamins, minerals, and amino acids as 2½ pounds of green leafy vegetables. animal wellness

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Evanger’s Dog and Cat Food Company Stimulate appetite and provide immune support with Evanger’s dog and cat foods. Evanger’s Dog and Cat Food Company provides meat-based canned diets that stimulate appetite and offer immune support for cancer animals – including three USDA-certified organic diets. The line is free of artificial preservatives, flavorings, and colorants. Protein sources include chicken, turkey, duck, rabbit, beef, buffalo, pheasant, lamb, and mackerel. Visit www.evangersdogfood.com or call (800) 288-6796.

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Searching for missing links The connection between cancer, genetics & the environment by Shawn Messonnier, DVM

hat causes cancer in dogs and cats? Is it diet, environmental toxins, genetics, over-vaccinationâ&#x20AC;Śor a combination of any or all of these? The truth is, discovering the true cause of any cancer can be a complex and multifaceted business. I discuss many of these causes in my latest book, The Natural Vet's Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs. In this article, I'll focus on genetic and environmental factors, and how they contribute to the disease in our companion animals.

Could it be her genes? In a sense, all cancer ultimately arises from some interaction between genetics and the environment. To put it very simply, cancer development follows a predictable pattern. The genetic information (DNA) of a cell is damaged, either through normal growth and reproduction, or through some environmental influence. Damaged cells either die, are repaired through normal cell repair mechanisms, or live on and con-

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tinue to reproduce, forming cancer. Numerous genes control the multiple functions of each cell, including growth and reproduction, as well as the cellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to repair any damage done to its DNA. Ultimately, a cell becomes cancerous when the repair mechanisms fail. This allows it to do things a normal cell cannot do, such as invade surrounding tissue, develop its own blood supply, and spread throughout the body. The canine genome has finally been elucidated, but there is still much to be learned about the link between cancer and genetics in animals. We don't really have good figures for how many animal cancers are definitely inherited. In humans, inherited cancer syndromes account for fewer than 5% of all cancers. There are several ways I like to look at the heritability of cancers in animals.

1. Certain cancers seem to be more

common in certain breeds. For example, I'm never surprised to make a diagnosis of lymphosarcoma in a Labrador or golden retriever, as this seems to be a very common cancer in these breeds. Likewise, osteosarcoma, a very malignant cancer of the bones, is more commonly seen in older, larger breeds of dog. Tumors of the spleen and liver (hemangiosarcoma) also tend to occur more commonly in larger breeds. In the future, we may actually uncover a genetic basis for these cancers in these breeds.

We've also seen certain cancers occur in related animals. Obviously, genetic factors must be involved when relatives of a certain animal develop the exact same cancer.

Finally, there is no doubt that environmental factors can exert a negative influence on the genetics of an animal, leading to cancer. As an example, exposure to certain herbicides

seems to increase the risk of bladder cancer (transitional cell carcinoma) in Scottish terriers, a breed well known for developing this type of tumor.

Environmental factors Here are some proven and suspected environmental causes of cancer.

Not spaying young animals Hormones can certainly influence the development of cancer. It is well known, for example, that dogs and cats not spayed before they reach puberty and experience their first estrous or heat cycle have an increased risk of breast cancer. In dogs, this risk is almost zero if they are spayed before their first heat cycle. The risk rises to approximately 25% for dogs spayed after their second heat cycle. This means that dogs (and cats) not spayed until after several heat cycles have a one in four chance of developing breast tumors. In dogs, about 50% of these are malignant; in cats, that percentage increases to around 85%. Early spaying can therefore almost totally guarantee that the animal will not develop breast cancer.

What to do: Spay or neuter your animal.

Over-vaccination Excessive inflammation at the site of an injection, most commonly from repeated and unnecessary vaccinations, can lead to the development of malignant sarcoma tumors in cats and very rarely in dogs. Depending on which study is used, the risk of vaccine-associated sarcomas in cats is 1 in 1,000 or 1 in 10,000. This finding underscores the fact that vaccination, while sometimes necessary and helpful, is not a benign event. The exact reason why some vaccinated cats develop sarcoma tumors while most do not is unknown. Speculation suggests that cats who develop tumors may be genetically predisposed to experiencing more inflammation at the site of the injection; persistent inflammation can lead to cell damage causing cancer. It is also possible that certain genes, such as the p53 gene which normally

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What to do: Avoid too much sun exposure, especially if your animal is light-skinned. Consider a non-toxic, naturallyformulated sun block for his nose and ears.

Overuse of chemo drugs

prevents cancer, may not function properly in cats predisposed to vaccine-associated sarcomas.

What to do: Stick to core vaccines for your dog or cat, and avoid annual boosters. Consider vaccine titers instead.

Hint

Pure water and a high quality, whole food diet free of additives can help keep your animal healthy and reduce the risk of cancer.

Second hand smoke Although tobacco smoke increases the risk of lung cancer in people, the data linking tobacco smoke and lung cancer in animals is controversial and the evidence is weak. In cats, however, there is evidence linking exposure to tobacco smoke to an increased incidence of malignant lymphoma and oral squamous cell carcinomas.

What to do: Avoid exposing your companion to second hand smoke.

Pesticides and herbicides Various pesticides, insecticides and herbicides have been linked to cancer in

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animals. The use of 2, 4-D has been linked to an increased incidence of lymphoma in dogs, while transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder has been linked to dogs treated with topical insecticides and several lawn care products containing phenoxy herbicides. Cats that wear commercial flea collars have shown a higher risk of oral squamous cell carcinoma than cats that do not.

What to do: Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t use chemicals on your lawn and garden and keep your animal away from sprayed areas. Use natural flea control products.

Sun exposure Light skin color and chronic sun exposure increase the risk of squamous cell carcinoma in animals. Fortunately, this cancer is usually easily cured with complete surgical removal if diagnosed early. Keep in mind that sun exposure in itself is not harmful. In humans, lack of sun exposure has been linked to an epidemic of low vitamin D levels, which actually predisposes us to various cancers. The same may be true for animals. As well, the incidence of malignant melanoma in humans is not linked to sun exposure; in fact, this cancer tends to occur on parts of the body that are shielded from the sun.

Finally, while not commonly discussed, it should be pointed out that chronic exposure to chemotherapy drugs can actually increase the risk of secondary cancers. For this reason, I tend to recommend that animals that are â&#x20AC;&#x153;curedâ&#x20AC;? of cancer and live longer than expected not continue to receive maintenance chemotherapy for the rest of their lives. This area of cancer medicine is controversial since many oncologists prefer to keep an animal that has survived cancer on maintenance chemotherapy to prevent a relapse. There is no right or wrong approach to this problem, so you must make an individual decision based on all the information at hand.

What to do: Consult an integrative vet, experienced in both traditional and holistic therapies, to develop the best possible treatment regime for your animal. The field of cancer medicine has come a long way in just the last few years, but there is still so much to be learned. However, we're beginning to understand how genetics, and the environmental factors that can influence genetics, may increase the development of cancer in certain animals. As cancer cells give up more of their secrets, the hope is that we will develop better interventional strategies to prevent and treat the disease in both people and animals. For now, minimizing harmful environmental influences, and using a combination of conventional and complementary therapies to treat animals with cancer, are the best options.

animal wellness

warm & fuzzy

Nature’s grace

I’ll never forget watching Sophie run. It was an early Sunday morning in August…early enough that the heat had not yet captured the day and a soft breeze was flirting with the fragrant dewy air. I was standing on a picturesque farm just northeast of Toronto, and I was watching her run. When my border collie pup was about six months old, I introduced her to the world of sheep herding, the traditional work for her breed. Driving to the farm that day, the trainer’s words of caution played over in my mind. Sophie was too young to start any official training, but I could bring her out and we could see if she “took to it”. I shouldn’t expect too much due to her young age.

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My competitive goals for Sophie were focused on agility, but perhaps it would be possible for us to compete and excel at herding too. Visions of medals danced in front of my eyes as we turned down the driveway to the farm. The trainer was waiting for us with a few dogs of her own and three sheep in a pen. She was brusque and down to earth, her dogs lean and alert, and the

by Andrea Fitzpatrick

sheep steely-eyed and statuesque. I felt unsure, ill prepared and completely out of my element. I couldn’t believe it when the trainer led us over to the pen and opened the gate, indicating that Sophie and I should follow her in. Her only instructions had been directed at me: “Don’t get run over by the sheep.” How could Sophie and I possibly know what do with without any guidance? As we entered the pen, my disbelief quickly melted away. Two facts became vibrantly clear to me: one, sheep are surprisingly quick and light-footed; and two, while it was definitely true that I had no idea what I was doing, the same could not be said of Sophie.

Sophie is a natural when it comes to sheep herding.

I watched in amazement and wonder as my young pup, who had never seen a sheep before in her life, began to do the work of a border collie. Tail and head low, her eyes never left the three sheep. Suddenly, she was off! Running in big, wide sweeping circles, she began moving the sheep from one side of the pen to the other. When one broke off, she darted over to him and using quick, sure movements and an unwavering, steady stare, brought him back in line with the other two. Her natural instincts were shining through and I found myself feeling extremely proud of her, as well as extremely humbled. After Sophie’s session, the trainer took us out to a pasture behind the farm, and with one of her adult dogs and a flock of about 20 sheep showed us what herding was really all about. I have never seen a more spectacular sight and was again struck with humility. The beauty and grace of this dog working in his natural environment was breathtaking. There were no leashes, no “sit for a cookie” or “shake a paw”, no crates, no costumes… barely a human influence of any kind. It is rare these days to see a dog under those circumstances. While I believe the majority of people give their dogs a wonderful, caring life, I also think we sometimes underestimate their inherent intelligence and ability. These glimpses of nature’s grace always change my perception of the world

in a profound and whimsical way. I remember the first time I saw my brother holding his newborn son, his first child. Despite having no real experience with children, his interactions with the baby were perfectly fluid. It took my breath away. Watching Sophie and the trainer’s dogs working with the sheep left a similar footprint on my heart. The trainer turned to me after Sophie’s turn with the sheep and said: “I think you’ve really got something to work with there. We could start training her when she’s a few months older and she could compete in her first trial maybe a year from now.” It was exactly what I hoped to hear. But my experience that day had changed everything. I would definitely bring Sophie back to work with the sheep, and would endeavor to be her able partner in the task. But we would not compete. I decided not to take this beautiful dance and inflict the pressures of scoring, winning, losing, and other human criteria on it. I hope to be back on that farm again soon, out in the pasture with the morning sun reflecting off the dewy grass, watching my dog move with the wind. Running in those big, wide sweeping circles as she gathers in the sheep and has the time of her life doing just what she was born to do…simply because she can.

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Photo courtesy: Megan Bartell

Leo receives chemotherapy treatment.

Holistic support for chemo & radiation by Mark Newkirk, VMD

A F

diagnosis of cancer in your dog or cat can be devastating.

ortunately, by taking an integra-

tive approach to treatment, most patients can live longer, more comfortable lives. ment shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be

Cancer treat"all or none" --

that is, traditional chemo versus alternative therapies.

blend of

traditional and alternative medicine usually gives a better outcome thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s freer of side effects.

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Depending on what type of cancer your animal has, and how far advanced it is, combinations of chemotherapy, surgery and radiation are options for conventional treatment. Radiation therapy also requires anesthesia for each treatment because the animal must hold still during the procedure. An animal cancer patient will generally receive six chemotherapy treatments spaced three weeks apart, at an aver-

age cost of around $500 per session. How often and for how long radiation treatments might be needed depends on the cancer and its location. Radiation is often used for nasal and oral cancers as well as some skin cancers and brain tumors. Treatment can run from $3,000 to $4,000 or more (a good reason to invest in pet insurance!). Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to note, however, that these costs can be very variable as they depend not only on what kind of tumor

the animal has, but also if there are any complications, other blood tests needed, and so on.

Hint

With lymphoma, chemo often continues for life if the animal is doing well.

Easing side effects Unpleasant side effects from these treatments don’t manifest in animals as often or severely as they do in humans, but they can and do occur. Side effects of chemotherapy usually involve the liver, gastrointestinal tract, or urinary system, and may include nausea and loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, fever and infections. Combating the side effects of radiation, plus those of multiple anesthesias, can also be hard on the animal. Radiation can cause skin problems similar to sunburn, resulting in itching and scratching.

1. The first way to help ameliorate some of these side effects

is with a good diet. Cancer diets should be high in protein and fat, and have low to no carbohydrates. It is well known that cancer "feeds" on carbohydrates, "competes" with the host for protein, but cannot utilize fat for its metabolism. Carnivores thrive on these types of diet, so they’re ideal for cancer patients.

herbs such as burdock and dandelion help rid the body of the chemical and dead cancer cells. Glandulars for the liver, adrenal and thymus are added for nutritional support of these major organs. Probiotics as well as intestinal soothing herbs such as licorice, yucca and aloe are also helpful.

Chemo and radiation suppress the immune system. It seems everyone has a favorite therapy for anti-cancer immune therapy. Mushrooms, Chinese herbs, Western herbs, homeopathy and homotoxicology are all helpful.

Hint

Sometimes, the animals themselves help us determine what to use. Cats, for example, are usually tough to give herbs to, but homeopathy is fine.

Chemotherapy and radiation definitely have their place in treating cancer. By holistically supporting your animal through his treatment, you can ease the side effects and help improve his chances of recovery.

2. A metabolic nutritional analysis is very helpful for the

cancer patient, as it identifies imbalances and weaknesses in various organs of the body. Special supplementation is then added based on the individual animal's blood work. This results in a tailor-made supplement program for each animal. With cancer patients, particular attention should be paid to: • The liver (detoxification, drainage, digestion) • The adrenal glands (stress, exhaustion) • The thymus glands (site of the anti-cancer immune system) Fatty acid and antioxidant therapy is another approach, although it’s a point of contention between oncologists and holistic veterinarians. About half of oncologists think these supplements interfere with radiation and some chemotherapies. The other half, and most holistic veterinarians, don't think so. In my practice, I generally have these two supplements withdrawn two to three days before and after radiation.

4. The side effects of chemotherapy are mostly concerned

with the liver, intestinal and urinary systems. Milk thistle remains one of the best liver protectants there is. Blood detox animal wellness

steps to choosing a joint

health supplement by Hillar Sorra

Does it offer pain relief? Most arthritic and aging dogs and cats have significant pain in their joints. You want a product that will give some pain relief relatively quickly. Waiting for a month is not fair to the animal. Even younger animals, although they don’t show clinical signs of pain, will be in significant discomfort. Once an animal is limping, the condition is severe.

Other keys to consider: • Make sure the product has not been treated with heat. High temperatures can kill the active ingredients. • Ideally, choose a product without binders or fillers, since these can affect the natural processes. • Purchase from a reliable source. Some internet sites try to offload expiring or damaged stock.

Buying the right natural joint health product for your dog or cat can be a tricky undertaking. Many criteria must be taken into consideration. First and foremost, you want to go with a product that has been researched and proven safe and effective. There are a lot of low-end products on the market that claim to help but have never been proven, or that ride the coattails of another company’s research. You need to be careful that you don’t end up with something that won’t help your companion animal, or that may potentially even harm him. When choosing a joint health supplement, the following four keys will help ensure that you’re providing your companion with the best possible source of nutrients.

Is it an anti-inflammatory? You want the product to give anti-inflammatory relief as quickly as possible. Many products can take a few months to start working and some will never work. Look to see if it contains a proven anti-inflammatory agent with the research to back up its safety and efficacy.

Is it chondroprotective? Make sure the product provides a full range of nutrients for joints. Glucosamine and chondroitin are important components of cartilage, but there are many other nutrients that work synergistically with them to help protect and rebuild cartilage.

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Is it safe? Many drugs can be very damaging to the stomach, kidneys, liver and gastrointestinal tract. As well, make sure the supplement you choose does not have any harmful side effects and that there is clinical research to back up its safety. Many natural products actually have healing or protective qualities for the internal organs, so these would obviously be the better choice.

• Check the expiry date before buying. • Go with quality products. Even though they might cost a bit more, you will see better results. You get what you pay for! A properly-researched, good quality joint supplement can give your companion animal a new lease on life, so it’s important to do your homework before making a purchase!

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Gold silverâ&#x20AC;Ś

more than precious metals

hink of gold and silver and images of jewelry usually come to mind. But both these elements go beyond mere aesthetics. They have valuable practical applications as well. For example, did you know that gold and silver have a place in alternative veterinary care? Read on to find out how these highly-valued metals can contribute to your companionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s well being.

Silver lining by Terri Hough-Gilmour When my dachshund, Woodley, came back from being boarded, he had a skin infection and was scratching his legs and belly. The vet prescribed a wash and ointments to put on the bald spots, but the problem just got worse. Luckily, my vet is open to trying alternative methods and told me about colloidal silver. Available in a gel or liquid form, properly prepared colloidal silver can significantly reduce the severity and length of almost any type of bacterial infection. The best colloidal silver is produced with a highly technical electro colloidal process using an electrical current. This process

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allows for extremely fine particles to be suspended indefinitely in a solution of steam distilled water, replacing the need for any chemicals or stabilizers and making a true colloid solution. Colloidal silver kills bacteria, and some viruses, by destroying the enzyme responsible for cellular respiration, depriving the organisms of their ability to breathe and preventing them from developing resistance and immunity. Lab tests show that colloidal silver is toxic to at least 650 pathogens, including fungi, protozoa, and parasite eggs as well as many bacteria and viruses. Colloidal silver can be used topically, taken orally or even atomized and safely inhaled into the nasal passages or lungs.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good for burns, cuts, bug bites, lung infections, colds, flu, dermatitis, rashes, eye infections and abscesses. Regular ingestion of small quantities of colloidal silver can assist the body to fight invading micro-organisms. It is not toxic and will not suppress the immune system, and because it is absorbed in the upper intestinal tract it does not damage the friendly flora in the lower gut. The idea of ingesting silver may seem strange, but it occurs naturally in soil as a trace mineral and as such is one of the many essential elements required by all living things. Because so many trace minerals are now depleted from the soil, they are no longer available to us except through mineral supplements. Colloidal silver is tasteless, odorless, and does not sting when applied to the skin. There have never been any recorded cases of drug interference with other medications. If you have never used it before, however, and use too much too quickly, it can cause mild nausea. When

ingesting it, start off with small amounts and build up to the regular dose.

Hint

Colloidal silver that includes colloidal gold as an ingredient seems to be more effective, as they work synergistically. Gold is antibacterial and an antiinflammatory, and helps with arthritis, bursitis, and tendonitis. For Woodley, my vet recommended both a colloidal silver liquid and gel from Nannosil (www.harmonixtherapy.com). I applied the gel to Woodley’s bald spots and put the liquid in his drinking water. I also did a final rinse with the liquid colloidal silver after bathing him. He stopped scratching almost immediately. The redness diminished to a light pink within a couple of hours, and the whole issue cleared up completely in two weeks. Within a month his hair was growing back and all the irritation was

gone. My vet told me to keep Woodley on the liquid colloidal silver for another couple of weeks, then take him off and see if the problem returned. So far nothing, and it has been three months since I stopped the treatment. There is a lot of hype about colloidal silver, and I’m sure it helps keep people aware that natural products can be harmful if they are not produced and/or taken properly. As with anything else, you get what you pay for, so be sure to purchase a quality product made from pure silver without nickel or other cheap metals. Personally, I will never be without colloidal silver again, after seeing what it did for Woodley!

Good as gold by Dr. Michael Wolters and Vera Wolters Add gold to acupuncture, and you have a winning combination. Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Photo courtesy: Philipp Wolters

Gold acupuncture involves implanting tiny pieces of gold wire into the acupoints.

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(TCM) that uses needles to stimulate the flow of energy in the body. It influences functions but not structures. For example, a broken bone (structural) has to be fixed by surgery, yet the healing process can be improved by acupuncture (functional). Arthritis, meanwhile, is a mainly functional (metabolic) problem, which means it can be greatly helped by this modality. The acupuncturist works with very thin stainless steel needles. After locating the right spot (acupoint), the needle stays for about 20 minutes. In acute cases, it is necessary to repeat the treatment at short intervals (e.g. daily) while chronic conditions require various treatments at greater intervals (e.g. every week). When it comes to arthritis, hip dysplasia and other joint issues, gold acupuncture goes a step further by providing the acupoint with permanent stimulation, thereby making only one treatment necessary. This technique involves implanting small pieces of 23 karat gold wire into the acupoints. Gold is used because of its availability (unlike platinum) and because there are no known allergic reactions to it. Nobody knows exactly how it works, but it provides a permanent, tiny stimulation of the surrounding tissue. It’s believed that certain diseases, such as joint problems, are caused by localized alkalosis, or an excessive negative charge in the affected tissues, triggered by vaccines or poor diet. One theory is that the gold gives off positive charges that help normalize the ionic changes in the tissue and alleviate the condition. Gold acupuncture is applied to chronic conditions like hip dysplasia (with a positive result of about 95%), arthritis of the shoulder, elbow and knee, and as a preventive in malformed joints. There is almost no risk, and no side effects. It’s important to realize that gold acupuncture, as with regular acupuncture, is only one part of the holistic approach to these diseases. In order to get the full and particularly long term effect from the treatment, it is essential for people to support it with proper nutrition and movement of the joint. Only the combination of these three aspects of TCM (gold implantation, proper nutrition, and proper movement) can help guarantee a positive result. Once that has been achieved, the effects of the gold acupuncture will last many years and, in the majority of cases, for the animal’s lifetime. A big benefit of gold acupuncture is that it’s a one time intervention. Your animal doesn’t need to return for subsequent treatments over weeks or months. In most cases, you will observe a change in the animal within the first week after treatment. Overall, it can greatly improve the animal’s quality of life. For more information, visit www.goldacupuncture.com.

Photo courtesy: Philipp Wolters

animal wellness

signs of cancer

in dogs

ne day, while giving her golden retriever Harley a treat, Michelle thought she saw something on the side of his mouth. When she took a closer look, she discovered a small lump growing on the inside of his cheek. She took Harley to the vet next day, and after several tests, he was diagnosed with oral cancer. Unlike humans, dogs and cats can’t tell us when something’s wrong, so it’s up to us to keep an eye on their health and pay attention when anything changes. This is especially true with cancer, which is epidemic in our companion animals, and can be quite insidious in its early stages.

Veterinarian Dr. Janice Huntingford says she diagnoses three or four cases of cancer each month. But what should you look for? As with humans, there are certain signs and symptoms that can signal cancer in dogs and cats. Keep in mind that they don’t necessarily mean your animal has cancer – many other diseases can cause

animal wellness

similar symptoms, so it’s important not to panic. But it’s still a good idea to have your companion checked out if he exhibits any of the following ten signs:

1. Abnormal swellings, bumps

or growths 2. Sores that do not heal 3. Weight loss or loss or appetite 4. Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating 5. Bleeding or discharge from any body opening 6. Offensive mouth odor 7. Difficulty eating or swallowing 8. Chronic vomiting or diarrhea 9. Persistent lameness, stiffness or difficulty exercising 10. Coughing Dr. Huntingford recommends going over your companion on a regular basis, looking for lumps or bumps on the skin, swollen lymph nodes, sores that do not heal, lethargy, low energy or sudden lameness. “You should examine your animal weekly for lumps and bumps,” she says. “New ones should be reported to the veterinarian. Also, if the dog seems lethargic or slow, he should have a checkup.”

& cats

by Stephanie Bossence

“Never ignore any bump, sore, or blemish that comes up mysteriously or fails to heal quickly within a few days,” writes veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth Hodgkins in her book Your Cat—A Revolutionary Approach To Feline Health and Happiness. “Your veterinarian can evaluate such an area and make a determination about whether a biopsy with surgical removal is necessary.” So what can you can do besides checking your animal for symptoms and hoping they don’t mean cancer? “Prevention by optimizing health is key,” Dr. Huntingford says. “Good diet and nutrition, preventing obesity, and plenty of exercise can help down-regulate the genes that cause cancer in animals.” “Remember that cancer is an enemy, but it is not necessarily an undefeatable enemy,” adds Dr. Hodgkins. “You and your veterinarian have the best chance to win any battle with cancer if that battle starts early in the course of the disease.” Thanks to Michelle’s diligence, her vet was able to successfully remove the lump inside Harley’s mouth, and today he’s happy, healthy and cancer-free.

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Teaching Tess How clicker training can work for cats by Michelle Bernard

Another of the author's cats, Ted, takes time out from his training sessions to play with the clicker.

Over the last while, I’ve done a considerable amount of clicker training with my border collies. They’re quite receptive to this form of training -- most dogs are, for that matter. But I wondered…could I transfer what I’d learned to clicker training my cats? I decided to give it a try. I chose my cat Tess as my “guinea pig” because she’s quite food driven. In fact whenever I worked with one of my dogs in the house, Tess would quickly make her presence known. By watching me with the border collies, I believe she had already learned to associate the sound of the clicker with the possibility of getting in on some yummy food.

hint

Clicker training is a form of “classical” conditioning that pairs the sound of a clicker (or other marker such as a verbal “yes”) with something the animal loves, such as a treat or toy. I was right. Tess was quite happy to accompany me into the room I use for training my dogs. But I wanted her to learn to do more than just win a favorite treat. Here’s how I taught her:

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1. 2. 3.

First, I “loaded” the clicker. In other words, I clicked and immediately gave Tess a small treat, approximately 15 times in quick succession. Lesson done for now. I repeated the clicker loading several more times throughout the day. I wasn’t sure that Tess, being a cat, would be as willing to offer behaviors in return for treats as the dogs are, so I chose one of the simplest behaviors to shape: hand targeting. Tess was quite happy to touch her nose to my palm as soon as I presented it to her: she’s a head-butter and loves affectionate petting. I clicked and treated her the moment she touched her nose to my palm. I could see the wheels turning in her feline head as I presented my palm for another nose touch. A short hesitation and Tess slammed her nose into my palm. Smart kitty! I repeated this several more times, then called it a day.

Time to up the ante. Tess really seemed to be enjoying our training sessions. She would reliably offer a nose touch whenever I offered my palm to her. Now it was time to shape a new behavior. Our training sessions were being

conducted in my family room and instead of sitting on the floor with her, I had Tess up on a side table. She knew I had treats and was anxious to receive one. I kept my hands at my sides so there was no palm for her to touch in order to earn a treat.

hint

Keep training sessions short. Dole out approximately 20 treats. When they are gone, the session is over. Several short sessions through the day are much more productive than one long one. Remember: Tess loves food and was determined to figure out how to get it. When she reared up on her hind legs and put her front feet on my chest, I clicked and treated. It only took a few seconds before Tess offered the same behavior. Click, treat, good girl! We repeated the routine a few more times, then I offered my palm which Tess promptly touched. I was pleased to see that Tess remembered the previous behavior. Tess was turning into a working cat! Look out, border collies!

hint

up to touch my palm. I cued her to touch and she didn’t disappoint me.

Next we went back to the second behavior I had trained Tess for: to stand up on her hind legs and put her front feet on my chest. With no palm to touch, it didn’t take Tess but a few seconds to put her front paws on my chest. I repeated the behavior a few more times then put it on verbal cue as I had the nose touch. I called this behavior “kiss” because when Tess put her front feet on my chest, I lowered my head to her as if we were going to kiss. Smart kitty (or maybe hungry kitty) that she is, Tess learned to “kiss” me as quickly as she learned to “touch” my palm. While these are very simple behaviors, I was delighted to see how quickly Tess learned them. When using a clicker to “mark” correct behaviors, there’s little question in the cat’s mind what she did in order to earn the treat. Cats are nothing if not opportunistic. Now, whenever I start training one of my dogs in the house, Tess is right there looking for her part of the action, and she’s not shy about asking for her rewards. Maybe there’s a movie career in her future!

Choose healthy treats such as cooked chicken, cheese, baked liver, dehydrated fish or the like. Make the pieces as small as possible so your cat won’t fill up too soon. Soft treats are usually better than hard because the cat eats them more quickly and you can therefore deliver them faster.

Now that we had two behaviors under our belts, it was time to add verbal cues. I offered my palm to Tess and right before she touched it, I told her to “touch”. I repeated this five or six more times, then made it a bit more difficult for her. I put my palm above her head so she’d have to rear

With clicker training, timing is important, as is maintaining your criteria. I didn’t click unless Tess firmly touched my palm with her nose. For example, occasionally she simply looked at my palm and then expected her treat, which she didn’t receive. Unless you stay consistent, the behavior may eventually extinguish itself. Keep in mind that “what you click, you get”. animal wellness

The dirty dozen 12 toxic chemicals to watch out for

That cream you bought for your dog’s hot spots might look harmless and smell divine, but did you read the list of ingredients? A lot of everyday products such as soaps, shampoos, topical healing and skin care products for both humans and animals contain harmful chemicals that over time can have negative health effects, including cancer. In fact, Keys,

a company that specializes in natural soaps, shampoos, and other cosmetic and healing products for people and animals, believes that more than half of all skin disorders are caused by the chemicals found in many everyday products. Marin County California, which has the highest cancer rates in the U.S.,

recently published a list of the 12 most toxic chemicals found in many common personal care products. Next time you go shopping take this “Dirty Dozen” chart along. For more information, visit www.keys-soap.com or www.MarinCancerProject.org.

The “Dirty Dozen”

Adverse effects

Sodium laureth/Sodium lauryl sulfate

Alters skin structure, allowing other chemicals to penetrate deep into skin, increasing the amounts of other chemicals that reach the bloodstream.

Parabens (methyl, ethyl, propyl and butylparabens)

May alter hormone levels, possibly increasing risks for certain types of cancer, impaired fertility, or alteration of fetus development. May cause skin irritation, rash, dermatitis, or allergic skin reactions.

Propylene glycol

Alters skin structure, allowing other chemicals to penetrate deep into skin, increasing the amounts of other chemicals that reach the bloodstream. Skin irritant, causes allergic reactions.

Phthalates

Can damage the liver, kidneys, lungs and in particular the developing male reproductive tract. Permanent birth defects in male reproductive svstem. May be contaminated with impurities linked to cancer or other significant health problems; causes allergic reactions.

Cocamide DEA/ Lauramide DEA

May be contaminated with impurities linked to cancer or other significant health problems. May form carcinogenic compounds called nitrosamines on the skin or in the body after absorption. Insufficient toxicity data to determine safety in products where chemicals become airborne and are inhaled.

Diazolidinyl urea

May be contaminated with impurities linked to cancer or other significant health problems.

Butyl acetate

Repeated exposure causes skin dryness and cracking. Vapors may induce drowsiness or dizziness.

Butylated hydroxytoluene

Eye and skin irritant.

Ethyl acetate

Eye and skin irritant.

Toluene

Potentially cancer causing, pregnancy concern, liver damage, irritating to skin and respiratory tract; harmful by inhalation.

Triethanolamine

May form carcinogenic compounds called nitrosamines on the skin or in the body after absorption. Among the most potent cancer-causing agents found.

Petrolatum

May be contaminated with impurities, linked to cancer or other significant health problems; causes allergic reactions.

Chemical

animal wellness

Simon enjoys a walk in his new wheelchair.

Dogs on wheels

How two canines transformed lives with their "disabilities" by Flavia Potenza

ou might think having a dog with a disability would really crimp your style. On the contrary, it can expand your experience in the most amazing ways. Here's the story of two women who found their lives changing beyond their expectations when they took on the responsibility of caring for a disabled canine.

"Gizmo the Great" Early last year, Donna Blaine adopted a young Maltese named Gizmo. He was born with deformed front legs, the result of puppy-mill breeding, but that didn’t deter Donna. An audiologist for the American School for the Deaf, she also has a son with Tourette Syndrome. “People feel so bad for these kids, but what I see is how lively and vibrant they are,” she says. “That may be what attracted me to Gizmo because I saw what was beyond the body. I found him

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through Petfinders.com and bonded with him before I ever met him.” Donna decided she would help Gizmo regain his doggy freedom by having a front wheelchair built for him. She contacted Eddie Grinnell of Eddie's Wheels, who had made wheelchairs for dogs with hind leg issues, but had never before tackled a front-wheel model. After hearing Gizmo's story, Eddie decided to go to his drawing board and construct one. “It usually takes longer to train a dog to use a front-wheel cart,” says Donna. After a few minor adjustments, however, Gizmo was off and running. “It’s a blast to watch him go. He’s become quite a local celebrity. We call him our Ambassador for Better than Perfect Dogs because when people first see him, they say, ‘Oh, poor dog!’ But then they watch him move and see that he’s so happy.

“Gizmo the Great” has appeared on The Today Show and has his own web page at www.dogster.com where fans can read his story, watch videos, and find out more about his adventures. A certified therapy dog, Gizmo visits nursing homes where he cheers and inspires the residents, and schools, where he helps children with challenges overcome their disabilities. Says Donna, “It’s such a spiritual thing when you’re doing something for another creature.”

Simon’s story Clothing designer Joanne D’Allura also found her life changing when she adopted Simon. “He was this funny, lanky, brindle dog," she says. "He was so goofy-looking, friendly and sweet that it took me mere minutes to fall in love with him. He was a very strong,

A front wheelchair gives Gizmo (above) her mobility, while Simon scoots around on a standard rear wheelchair.

butch, athletic dog and for eight years went everywhere with me – rollerblading, hiking and he would run around in the snow when I went skiing.” In other words, Simon was the perfect companion. Then everything changed. “One day I threw a stick for him and he just stopped,” Joanne recalls. “He was diagnosed with a ruptured disc and that was the beginning of everything.” By “everything”, Joanne meant four years of trial and error, researching disabilities in dogs, contacting different veterinarians, pursuing acupuncture and homeopathy, and racking up a debt of nearly $30,000 as Simon’s condition deteriorated and surgery was recommended. When Joanne realized Simon would never walk on his own again, she also contacted Eddie and got her dog his first cart. He loved it, but soon developed tendonitis in his front elbow and arthritis in his shoulders. Joanne took him back to Eddie who realized the vet hadn’t measured him accurately. “They retooled the cart for him and answered all my questions,” says Joanne. When she developed back pain from hauling Simon around – in and out of cars, and his cart – she again went to Eddie who developed the first removable saddle cart for him. In 2006, Simon passed away from lymphoma at age 12. But animal wellness

Hydrotherapy also helped Simon with his mobility issues.

She has even developed a consulting business (www.simonsayswalk.com) to ease them through the process. “After Simon’s surgery, I walked my 85-pound dog using a towel under his groin. I didn’t know there was a harness and when I finally found one, I showed it to the vet. His reply was, ‘We use those all the time.’ Why didn’t he tell me?” “It’s the panic in the beginning that I help with,” Joanne continues. “I help the dogs with their first cart, give people a shopping list and advise them about beds, keeping the dog clean, harnesses and such. I don’t charge very much and give away half my time.”

his legacy lives on. Joanne has become quite the expert on what people need to accommodate their disabled dogs.

animal wellness

Joanne now wants to start a foundation to help people cover some of the medical costs. “I would like to help them pay for vets, surgery, physical therapy, the furnishings and changes that need to be made to their homes to adjust for a handicapped animal, getting them good

harnesses and, of course, carts.” “Once you figure it out, it’s doable,” Joanne concludes. “Not easy, but doable. Loving our dogs and wanting to do everything we can for them obliterates everything else – the time, the money -- everything.”

Wheelchair resources Dewey's Wheelchairs for Dogs www.wheelchairsfordogs.com Eddie's Wheels for Pets www.eddieswheels.com HandicappedPets.com www.handicappedpets.com

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animal wellness

A bone to pick

The right raw bones for your dog or cat by Ann Brightman

Whenever I presented Alice with a raw bone, her eyes would light up as if it was Christmas. She’d slowly take it from my hands as though it were a precious gift, carry it carefully to a specially-selected spot, and then settle down blissfully to gnaw on it. She never showed as much persistence as when she had a bone between her front paws, and would continue working on it for ages, oblivious to everything and everyone around her. It’s not surprising that raw meaty bones form an integral part of many a dog’s (and cat’s) diet. Think about it. When wild carnivores consume prey animals, they usually crunch up the bones along with the flesh. So it’s natural that our canine and feline companions would also enjoy and benefit from bones. Raw meaty bones offer several perks. Nutritionally, they contain protein and minerals, including calcium and phosphorus. Gnawing and chewing bones also gives an animal’s jaws a good workout, and helps keep his teeth and gums healthy by removing the plaque and tartar that lead to dental disease. There are even some psychological benefits. Like Alice, many dogs seem happiest when they’re gnawing on a bone, and it can keep them busy and boredom-free for hours.

Raw meaty bones can be purchased from premium pet food companies such as Amoré and Nature’s Variety. The latter offers raw ham, lamb, beef and bison bones as well as turkey necks and split beef knuckles. Amoré, meanwhile, sells raw free-range organic chicken necks, wings and whole quail frames for both dogs and cats, as well as buffalo bones, chicken frames and ostrich or emu bones for dogs.

swallow. Conversely, a cat won’t be able to do much with a big beef bone.

Hint

• It’s been mentioned before, but it’s worth stressing again: never give your dog or cat cooked bones, especially from poultry. Heat makes bones brittle, and greatly increases the risk of splintering and shattering. When ingested, sharp pieces of bone can lodge in the digestive tract and cause injury or intestinal obstruction.

If your animal has never had raw bones before, he may get diarrhea at first. Don’t let him eat too much at a time, until his digestive system adapts. The best bone Like anything else, raw bones can pose some hazards if you don’t take a few precautions. Keep the following suggestions in mind when treating your companion to a bone. • Avoid bones that have sharp edges, angles or broken-off ends, as these can cause injury. • Match the bone to the size of the animal. For example, don’t give a large dog a bone small enough for him to

• Also consider the type of bone. “For recreational chewing, I prefer marrow bones and knuckle bones -- possibly even rib bones for smaller dogs,” says veterinarian Dr. Sharon Doolittle. Raw chicken necks, backs or frames are the best choice for cats and can also be given to dogs.

Hint

Raw bones should still have some meat and connective tissue attached. It encourages gnawing and chewing and is where a lot of the nutrient content comes from. Under supervision It’s important to recognize that even raw bones can sometimes splinter and animal wellness

crack. “I have seen animals get into various problems with bones – choking, intestinal blockages, and so on,” says Dr. Doolittle. “All bones can fracture,” agrees veterinarian Dr. Jean Hofve. “Even vertebral (neck and spine) bones contain an outer shell of longitudinal cortical bone, which can and does splinter, as well as cancellous or trabecular bone in the inner portion, which is less likely to splinter due to its weblike structure.” The solution? Supervise your animal when he’s working on a bone. If the bone starts to splinter or you see large or sharp pieces breaking or flaking off, take it away from him. Dr. Hofve recommends pounding chicken necks and spines with a hammer to pulverize the vertebrae before giving them to dogs or cats. It’s also a good idea not to let a bone lie around too long because it can dry out and become extremely hard. “My own dog fractured both his upper carnassial teeth on raw bones because, after just a little while in the yard, they dried out and turned into the equivalent of concrete,” says Dr. Hofve.

The calcium question There’s no doubt that bones are a source of calcium, but today’s farming practices have rendered them less rich in this important mineral than those of wild prey animals. “In modern agriculture, meat-bearing animals have been selectively bred to be immensely meatier than they were originally,” says Dr. Hofve. “This means there is far less bone, relative to meat, than in any wild animal.” In other words, you shouldn’t rely on raw bones as the sole source of calcium in your animal’s diet, especially if you

animal wellness

are feeding him a home-prepared food. “Unless you are catching wild birds and bunnies for your animal, you absolutely must supplement calcium,” says Dr. Hofve. Extra ground bone can be added to your animal’s meals, or talk to your vet about adding a calcium supplement. Alternatively, look for a premium pet food that includes ground bone on its ingredient list. “I’ve seen some raw diets that contain ground bone,” says Dr. Hofve. Northwest Naturals is one company that adds fresh ground bone to their frozen raw natural pet foods, providing the diets with a good balance of calcium.

Chew on this Some people opt to feed their companions ground rather than whole bone all the time. If you choose to go this route, you still need to give your animal something that will exercise his jaws and keep his teeth and gums healthy and in good condition. “The meat chunks in raw frozen diets still satisfy the chewing urge, and the total package appears to have the same positive dental action,” says Dr. Hofve. “I’ve even heard of people feeding a raw meat diet still partially frozen – this mimics the chewing action of real bones in keeping the teeth clean. Not all animals will eat it this cold, but a surprising number will -- even cats.” For dogs, hard nontoxic toys such as Kongs and rubber bones can also serve as “toothbrushes” to keep teeth free of plaque. You can also buy additive-free freeze-dried meat treats that encourage chewing. To borrow an old cliché, dogs and bones go together like apples and cinnamon. It’s important to do your homework before introducing your four-footed companion to raw bones, but fed properly, they can be a healthy and much-appreciated meaty treat.

animal wellness

what's the scoop gnu?

So logical Your cat deserves an innovative approach to canned food. Nature’s Logic Feline Canned Diets are highly palatable, nutrient-dense muscle and organ meat based foods with concentrates of select fruits and vegetables. They contain no wheat, corn, rice, soy, potato or synthetic nutrients. A unique source of highly digestible natural eggshell calcium and animal plasma provides high levels of natural vitamins, minerals, and albumin and globulin proteins. Your beloved feline can choose from three delectable flavors: chicken, rabbit, or duck with salmon. www.natureslogic.com

Buckle him up Bark Buckle UP is a program that’s traveling the country to teach and promote automobile and travel safety with animals. Among the companies joining the program is Meowme, makers of the award-winning Sleepypod mobile pet bed. This versatile product combines style, comfort, and safety, making it a good travel choice for animal lovers on the go. Meowme’s Sleepypod Mini was recently recognized as a top innovative design by Metropolitan Home’s Design 100 list, along with Smartcar and iPhone. www.meowme.com

A beer for Brewer A beer named after a dog? Why not? This past spring, Rogue Ales brewmaster John Maier produced a special single batch of Brewer’s Ale in memory of his best friend and company chair-canine, Brewer, who passed away two years ago at the age of 13. The debut of the ceramic Brewer’s Ale bottle, complete with a Rogue Dog Tag and a portrait of the muchmissed black Lab, was held May 17 at the 2nd annual Brewer’s Memorial Ale Fest, a dog-friendly beer fest held in Newport, Oregon. Proceeds from the festival benefit local animal charities. www.rogue.com

How green is your lawn? If you have a dog, probably not as green as you’d like it to be, at least in spots. Dog urine damages grass and leaves yellow patches that can be a real eyesore. Nutri-Vet Green Grass and Grass Guard dietary supplements for dogs are formulated to neutralize nitrogenous waste and maintain slightly acidic urine pH. They’re palatable, easy to feed, and effective in preventing lawn burn. www.nutri-vet.com

animal wellness

Greyhound dental study “Greyhounds have what are known as ‘soft mouths’ and are therefore very prone to dental decay,” says veterinarian Dr. Jean Dodds, founder of Hemopet’s Greyhound Adoption Program (www.hemopet.org). The organization’s population of more than 200 rescued and adopted greyhounds needed a better approach than dental scaling and polishing, so Dr. Dodds agreed to carry out clinical trials with Dog Essentials Healthymouth, a natural water-based solution for dental health. The two 28-day trials involved 40 dogs (including 20 untreated controls) and revealed an 80% average reduction in plaque in treated dogs, as compared to only 20% in the control group.

Calling all calendar girls (and boys)! How would you like your dog or cat to feature in a calendar? Evanger’s 2009 Calendar Photo Contest offers you a chance to show the world how gorgeous your best friend is. All you have to do is email a high-resolution digital image of your dog or cat to the company by August 25. Be sure to include your name, address and phone number, the name of the person who took the photo, and your animal’s name. For more information on the contest and prizes, and some helpful hints for taking good shots, visit www.evangersdogfood.com.

School days Homeopathy is becoming increasingly available to animal patients. Why? Because it works! Now there’s a new Canadian school offering courses to veterinarians and other animal care professionals who want to learn more about this important modality. Classical homeopath Julie Anne Lee has just launched the College of Animal Homeopathic Medicine in Vancouver. Her mission is to “educate students on the findings, teachings and philosophies of Dr. Samuel Hahnemann [the creator of homeopathy] so they may provide animals with the quickest, most gentle and least invasive cure.” Courses start this fall. www.cahm.ca

Meet the challenge! The Rabies Challenge Fund continues raising money for its ongoing study to demonstrate a five to seven-year duration of immunity for rabies vaccines. Jan Rasmusen, author of the award-winning Scared Poopless: The Straight Scoop on Dog Care, and two anonymous dog lovers, recently announced a combined matching gift of $35,000 for the fund. Until August 31, for donations of $100 or more, Jan and her friends will match $1 of every $2 donation up to $35,000. Jan’s gift was made in honor of her dog Chiclet’s companion, Jiggy, who developed autoimmune liver disease after a rabies shot. www.RabiesChallengeFund.org

animal wellness

Mali’s gift

Mali after a swim and looking the picture of health despite her diagnosis.

One dog’s inspiring battle with cancer by Ilene Powell

Mali is my hero and a true inspiration to those battling canine cancer. She is fighting splenic hemangiosarcoma (HSA), a cancer of the blood vessel system.

ali was a Christmas present to me eleven years ago. She is the most lovable black Lab, who never met man (or woman) she didn't lick. (Labs are oral, and her tongue clearly does not fit in her mouth!)

Mali’s diagnosis

had nearly bled out from her spleen rupturing. The next morning, I went to see her but noticed she was bloated and unresponsive. Dr. Martin said he had been watching her recovery, then needed to open her up again because her internal sutures had ruptured and she’d started bleeding out again.

On December 20, 2004, Mali collapsed without warning. I noticed she was lethargic and had pale gums and tongue. I called our vet, who told me to get her to the clinic immediately.

A friend reminded me that cancer is a word, not a death sentence.

Dr. John Martin performed an emergency splenectomy and told me she was hanging on by her toenails. She

By that evening, Mali was awake, aware and back on her feet. I begged Dr. Martin to please get her home to

animal wellness

me by Christmas. He did better than that. She came home Christmas Eve – the same day her biopsy results came back as cancer, specifically splenic hemangiosarcoma (HSA). Mali was given a prognosis of 19 days to three months without chemo, or nine to 15 months with chemo. These were survival odds that I chose to believe were just that: “odd”.

Hoping for a miracle On Christmas morning, we woke to snow -- the first Christmas snow in the recorded history of New Orleans. It seemed a promising omen. If it could

N AT U R E ’ S V E R Y B E S T I N G R E D I E N T S Ultra Dog Food. Ultra Holistic Nutrition™ for your dog’s health and well-being. When it comes to wholesome, holistic nutrition, you simply can’t feed your dog anything better than Ultra. Developed by leading pet nutritionists, it provides the very best that nature can offer. Ultra includes only the finest proteins, grains, vitamins and minerals—no chemical preservatives or chicken by-products—so your dog gets all the nutrients he needs for a lustrous coat, healthy skin, strong muscles, sustained energy and so much more. Provide your dog the best—Ultra—the ultimate in holistic nutrition for well-being, vitality and a long and healthy life.

Lamb, Salmon & Chicken Meal L 3 animal proteins for better muscle development and overall performance Whole Brown Rice L A rich source of carbohydrates for energy and performance Flax Seed & Sunflower Oil L Combined with Zinc to provide guaranteed healthy skin and a shiny coat Garlic L Holistic flavor dogs love Fish Oil L Provides Omega-3 fatty acid DHA to promote a healthy central nervous system and good vision Cranberry Powder L A great tasting source of Vitamin C Oatmeal & Alfalfa L Excellent sources of fiber and carbohydrates Kelp L A natural source of minerals, such as iodine Tomato Pomace L Contains unique antioxidants that help support a healthy immune system

ULTRA HOLISTIC NUTRITION FOR YOUR DOG Ultra is available in Puppy, Adult, Weight Management and Senior Formulas.

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 87

snow for New Orleans, then maybe we could have a miracle for Mali too. During my “burning daylight” phase, I endlessly searched the Internet looking for any information on HSA. I came across an oncologist who had done clinical trials for HSA and had many credentials, but he was in Houston. When we went back to the vet to get Mali’s staples out, Dr. Martin informed us that his clinic had contracted with an oncologist to come to New Orleans once a week to treat canine cancer patients. Mali was booked to be the first appointment – with the oncologist I’d found on the Internet! Serendipity.

Mali completed her chemotherapy with flying colors. Mali completed her chemotherapy with flying colors. Her HSA was pronounced "dormant”, although we were told she’d need to receive chemo maintenance for life.

Surviving the hurricane

Non-Anesthetic Dog & Cat Teeth Cleaning by

Houndstooth

Then Katrina came. We had to evacuate for what we thought would be a few days, but which turned into five weeks. We could not get in touch with Dr. Martin to get Mali’s chemo meds refilled, but were able to contact the oncologist’s office just as they were evacuating for Hurricane Rita. During the evacuation, we received the heart-wrenching news that our house was destroyed. But at least I still had Mali, an encouraging reminder that we can survive, even in the most difficult circumstances.

Now Available Nationwide • Sterilization by medical autoclave

Beating the “odds”

• State-of-the-art equipment • Veterinarian recommended • Certified Veterinary Dental Techs

before

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More than three years after Mali’s diagnosis, she continues to inspire and give hope to others. We have been blessed with brilliant doctors and supportive friends and family (both twolegged and four-legged) and we are forever thankful.

• 15+ years in pet dental hygiene • 30 years in animal behavior/training • Fear biters, wigglers & Diva’s OKAY! • Guardians welcome to watch

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after

www.hounds2th.cjb.net 88

animal wellness

In return, I’ve committed myself to helping and mentoring those newly diagnosed with HSA and other canine cancers. My hope is that we can share what we have learned with others, and help them get through their “burning daylight” phase after initial diagnosis. May Mali go on beating her “odds”, and continue to be the gift that keeps on giving!

animal wellness

Cool

stuff!

It’s one of the biggest pet industry shows in North America, so of course Animal

Wellness was part of it! H.H. Backer’s 20th Annual Pet Industry Spring Trade Show & Educational Conference happened May 16 to 18 in Baltimore, Maryland, and our staff was there, searching out some of the newest and trendiest products on the market. Here’s just a sampling of what we found….

Decorate your yard or home with realistic topiary dogs, cats and other critters. Green Piece Wire Art www.greenpiecewireart.com

Featuring new portion control design, this innovative bowl prevents dogs from eating too fast. DogPause www.dogpausebowl.com

Made from durable, chemical-free hemp rope, Tug-A-Hemp stands up to hard play. From the Field www.fromthefieldpet.com

animal wellness

Made from 100% natural rubber tubing, these resilient and colorful leads do away with jerking and sore arms. Wackywalk’r www.wackywalkr.com

Rugged, interactive dog toys are constructed from strong, durable water buffalo leather with cotton filling. ABO Gear www.abogear.com

From pumpkin and blueberry to peanut butter and carob, this natural cookie assortment is a big hit with dogs. Paw Lickers www.pawlickers.com

The key ingredient of this powerful joint supplement for senior, sporting and working dogs is Oatinol, a natural beneficial oat extract. Joint Oats 4 Dogs www.jointoats4dogs.com

These wholesome wild blueberry gourmet dog treats are rich in antioxidants. Bite O’ Blue www.biteoblue.com Holistic baked dog treats come in delicious duck, lamb and peanut recipes. SO Bright LLC www.sobrightllc.com

New and improved Lamb Meal and Rice Formula is now made from lamb meal and fresh lamb meat with whole grain brown rice. Canidae www.canidae.com

Buy a copy of this handy guide and help “The Pet Safety Guy” Thom Somes raise $1 million for animal charities. DoggieDoggieAreYouOK. com Productions www.doggiedoggieareyouok.com

Nix odors and clean up spills and stains with Organic TKO, a nontoxic, environmentally friendly all purpose cleaning formula. Bill Tufts Organics www.tuftsorganics.com

All-natural herbal salve with calendula, vitamin E and aloe vera promotes rapid healing of wounds, abscesses, dermatitis, etc. Dr. Rose’s Remedies www.drrosesremedies.com

Terrabone is a new edible dental chew treat made from organic brown rice, tapioca and other natural ingredients. Complete Natural Nutrition www.completenaturalnutrition.com animal wellness

passages

Pearlz brightened the author's household with her affectionate personality.

A new beginning by Andrea Crisp

earlz was named for her snow-white coat and elegant eyes. She was ten years old when we adopted her, playful and warm, without an ounce of

bad disposition. Amazing, I thought, considering her past. She had been living in deplorable conditions, the adoption rep explained, with at least 100 other cats. She was slightly deaf, a touch blind, and all but toothless. Yet she still managed to romp around the house with a kitten’s energy. She seemed so young at heart that it was easy to dismiss the lump that appeared on her back. An oversized pimple, naturally, or a harmless cyst. But samples taken at the veterinary clinic revealed otherwise.

The battle plan My boyfriend got the news first. He told me over the phone, adding, “I’m

animal wellness

not giving up. It’s only skin cancer. That’s not as bad as other forms of cancer. I know we don’t want to put her through chemotherapy, but there are a lot of holistic treatments out there we can try.” I agreed, all the while keeping my skepticism to myself. This was cancer, after all. We could not beat it. But as time went on, Adam’s resolve only grew. We both moved ahead with the plan to fight, even after a new lump appeared on Pearlz’s face, and a third on her paw.

My willpower faltered as Pearlz grew weaker. She often stared through me, not really seeing me, as if part of her had already left us. I was furious at that glazed look in her eyes, at the wall that had slammed down between the healthy Pearlz and the white ghost that lingered in her kitty bed. We continued our care, mixing and remixing herbal potions like scientists hoping for a breakthrough. Pearlz's food contained everything we rested our hopes on, but she ate half-heartedly, as if only to please us for bringing her breakfast in bed.

A brief reprieve After a week of holistic treatment, I got up on Saturday morning and prepared

Pearlz’s favorite breakfast. I started into the living room with the bowl -and paused. Pearlz was staring at me from the couch. Her eyes twinkled as brightly as they did in the old days. I set the bowl on the carpet. She leapt from her bed and sprinted over, pausing to offer me a look of gratitude and simple, unconditional love. This was the Pearlz I remembered. I watched her eat, wanting to laugh, savoring every second. For the next few days, we enjoyed a gift few people experience. We had been reunited with a lost loved one. Was it due to our regimen of holistic treatment? It seemed likely. Having Pearlz follow us around the house again, meowing for attention, and crawling into bed with me every night to snuggle purring against me was nothing short of a miracle.

few, compassionate words. Adam and I remained with Pearlz, stroking her fur until she grew still. Pain can make people bitter. Why hadn’t this turned out differently for us? Why couldn’t Pearlz have beaten the odds, after we had tried so hard, after the holistic care seemed to temporarily work? Anger took hold of me in the beginning, but only briefly. I remembered how our care and treatment seemed to ease her passing. It also brought our Pearlz back to us, if only briefly. And that was a joyful reunion. A time for final goodbyes. It made me grateful.

with unsure legs and pressed her head against Adam’s comforting fingers. We brought her home and named her Kyra. Our knowledge of natural animal care soon translated into a beautiful, healthy kitten with an insatiable appetite to play and experience life. She proved amazing, befriending the other cats, purring at the faintest touch, and curling up between Adam and me as if she had always belonged there. Kyra was so much like another cat I had known and loved, and still fondly remembered. Pearlz had passed away only a few months before, and this new ball of joy was herself only a few months old…it was odd how things came full circle. It felt like a new beginning.

Perhaps our holistic care and Pearlz’s spirit could have conquered her cancer if it had been caught early enough. I like to think so. Sadly, after another sample was taken from one of her tumors, we were informed of a misdiagnosis. Pearlz had lung cancer, and it was eating her away from the inside. The veterinarian gave her a month at the most. Adam continued with the holistic medicine, imbibing Pearlz with as much strength as he could for the fight ahead. But the battle proved short. Less than a week passed before Pearlz relapsed into her dreamlike state. We clung on until the day she no longer purred, and breathing had become a struggle for her.

Finding peace One cold morning, we guided Pearlz into a cat carrier, along with her favorite blanket, and got in the car. The veterinarian, normally a talkative man, executed our wishes with just a

Kyra brought life full circle after Pearlz's passing.

Kyra brings new joy We didn’t intend to fall in love with the pathetic, bedraggled kitten we met at a pet store only months later. She watched us walk by her cage with sleepy yellow eyes. I moved toward her as if her gaze had already made the decision for me. She approached

animal wellness

Rear attack! Cats that bite their tails by Sylvia C. Hall Having recovered from her tail-biting attack, Myla is once again her normal self.

t all started with a twitching back. Her eyes had a mad glare about them and she growled in the most frightening way. Suddenly, from almost nowhere, attack! Myla was biting her own tail as if it were another entity. She and her tail were seemingly no longer one as she hissed, snarled, and ruthlessly bit it.

of. Unfortunately, for many felines, the madness does not subside after just a day or two, but may last for several weeks or even months. Their humans are left feeling a bit mad themselves, wondering why and how this could be happening to their cats.

Before long, Myla had chewed the top inch of her tail bare. Luckily, her wild, destructive behavior subsided and the hair on her tail grew back. The chaos that had taken over our lives went away as quickly as it came on, and things

“Tail biting is definitely an abnormal behavior and can have both behavioral and medical causes and sometimes both,” says animal behaviorist Dr. Suzanne Hetts. “Repetitive acts that either have

animal wellness

went back to normal. But we were left confused and intrigued. Why had Myla turned on her tail like that? Tail biting in cats is rare, according to veterinarians, but certainly not unheard

animal wellness

Photo courtesy: Alan Turkus/flickr.com

no apparent goal or are maladaptive are often the result of stress or an impoverished environment.” Moving into a new home, new additions to the family, and other major changes may trigger an emotional outburst that leads to tail biting. “If cats are emotionally upset, it will transmit into the physical,” says veterinarian Dr. Shannon Hines. “Sometimes such behaviors continue independently of the original stimulus or event that caused them,” adds Dr. Hetts. “In other words, say a cat initially chased and bit his tail because of the stress over a move or a new pet in the home. Even after the cat has adjusted to those changes, the tail chasing may continue because it can be self-rewarding. You'll see some people claim that it is ‘attention getting’ behavior but this is rarely the case and a common misunderstanding about the nature of the problem and how behaviors are reinforced.” Veterinarian Dr. Marcia Martin believes neurological disorders or boredom to be other possible explanations of tail biting. If boredom is the cause, there are simple ways to give your cat a mental

animal wellness

tificial additives and preservatives, many veterinarians believe allergies and skin irritations, and any tail biting that might arise from them, can be prevented or corrected.

Aside from diet, a variety of natural treatments can help calm a tail biting kitty. Acupuncture, holistic bodywork, and chiropractic adjustment are all possibilities for a cat whose itching and twitching is driving you both nuts. Dr. Martin adds that she would Cats that continually lick or treat a cat with tail bitbite their tails may have fleas ing trauma with classical or other skin irritation. homeopathy and perhaps Bach flower essences. Beboost. Buying or making new toys, havior modification may also help, but allowing her more supervised outdoor Dr. Hetts points out that it rarely works time, and giving her regular attention on its own for these kinds of behaviors. and interactive playtime may help. A “Often, a combination of medication new feline playmate may be a possible and behavior modification is the best apsolution, but the stress of adapting to proach, assuming there are no clear cut another animal may actually worsen the medical reasons that need to be treated problem, so think carefully before going appropriately,” she says. this route. Dr. Hetts and Dr. Hines both stress that there are also many medical problems that can cause or contribute to tail biting, so it’s important to consult a veterinarian before assuming it’s solely a behavioral issue, regardless of what the possible trigger may have been. Skin irritations, fleas, impacted anal glands, or some sort of physical trauma can all play a role. Dr. Hines believes most tail biting is diet-related. When I spoke with her, she was quick to confirm the importance of meat in a cat’s diet. When a cat is fed an all-carbohydrate diet, such as provided by a low quality dry food, side effects such as skin problems often occur. By giving your cat a healthy, premium meat-centered food, free of ar-

Hint

It might also help to limit vaccinations, says Dr. Martin. Watching your cat gnaw away at her very own pride and joy can be traumatic. Yet if it weren’t for Myla’s tail biting incident, I wouldn’t have learned what I know now. If your cat starts twitching, itching and attacking her tail, know this: you are not alone. Take her to the vet and get her checked out, then explore some of the solutions outlined in this article. What’s good for your cat will also be good for you!

book reviews

Soggy Dog Seat Covers

Title: Paws

& Effect

Author: Sharon

Sakson

Does your dog stick to you like glue when you’re feeling ill, and do you feel better when he presses his warm body against the area that ails you?

No more • water, sand & hair repellent tangled, filthy • sand & hair shakes off blankets • durable that won’t • light weight stay in place! • machine washable • quick dry • easy to install!

Our canine companions seem to have special healing powers, and you can explore this phenomenon further in Paws & Effect -- The Healing Power of Dogs by Sharon Sakson. Read about a Scottish terrier who sensed when his human had a migraine and would lie by her head throughout the ordeal. Or the whippet who helped bring self-esteem to an angry young boy with a neurological impairment. You’ll also marvel over a military dog who has used his healing powers to save the lives of many soldiers. Once you begin reading, you’ll find this book hard to put down. You’ll be amazed at how strong the bond between humans and their four-legged companions can be.

www.soggydog.ca

Publisher: Alyson Books

Title: Holistic

Call 604-833-4907 or see style options online at

Pet Care

Author: Shannon

Hines, DVM

If you share your life with a chronically ill animal, or simply want healthy alternatives to commercial pet foods, then a holistic approach may be the way to go. These issues and more are explored by veterinarian and alternative health care advocate Shannon Hines in her new book Holistic Pet Care for the Responsible Pet Owner. This easy-to-read volume gives you a solid foundation for holistic animal care, and teaches you that it’s not just another form of health care, but an entire lifestyle. Find simple solutions to common problems along with ways to achieve the highest level of wellness in your companion – physical, mental and emotional -- using an approach that combines a balanced diet, activity, and a healthy environment. Whether you want to begin or enhance your journey into holistic health for your dog or cat, Holistic Pet Care will lead you down the right path, and answer all your questions along the way. Publisher: Outskirts Press, Inc.

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Barking is more than just an annoyance that causes your neighbors to complain. There’s a reason behind your dog’s vocalizations. Learn what your dog is saying in Barking -- The Sound of a Language. Written by dog trainer and behaviorist Turid Rugaas, this gentle training manual teaches you how to understand what your canine is trying to tell you through his bark and body language. You’ll discover how to recognize the six main types and causes of barking – from the warning bark to the excited bark. The author also shows you how to communicate with your canine, and solve his barking issues, using step-by-step training methods and lots of color photos. As the title indicates, barking is your dog’s language. This book gives you a key to that language, enhancing your ability to understand and train him. Publisher: Dogwise Publishing

Title: Help

Your Dog Fight Cancer, 2nd Edition

Author: Laurie

Kaplan, MSC One of the hardest things a dog lover has to deal with is learning that her beloved companion has cancer. Laurie Kaplan, administrator of the Magic Bullet Fund and author of the updated second edition of Help Your Dog Fight Cancer—What Every Caretaker Should Know About Canine Cancer, can relate. Her own beloved Siberian husky, Bullet, was diagnosed with lymphoma at the age of nine.

Laurie’s book is a wonderful guide to helping your dog fight cancer. Keeping a log, reading up on diagnoses, considering your finances, early detection tips and more are all part of her approach. Laurie uses personal examples from her experiences with Bullet to guide readers in the right direction in their own battle against canine cancer. The book also features Bullet’s survival story, proof positive that cancer doesn’t have to mean a death sentence. Publisher: JanGen Press

animal wellness

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events August 1-3 – 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 Aug 2-3 – McLean, VA Reiki II This class is for people that have completed Level I Reiki and wish to deepen their healing path with Reiki II. Day 1 Participants will receive the three level II attunements and will be taught three Reiki symbols and their mantras. Building on what was learned in Level I, students will learn more exercises to help increase the flow and level of energy in themselves. We will practice group energy healing, long distance healing and much more. Day 2 Students will learn how to send long distance Reiki to animals as well as continue their practice and experience with in person Reiki with animals. Level II students will develop their intuition when working with Reiki. Upon completion of day two students will receive the Level II Reiki practitioner certificate. Janet Dobbs, 703-648-1866 janet@animalparadisecommunication.com www.animalparadisecommunication.com August 16 and 17 – Santa Rosa, California Reiki 1 and Animal Reiki Training: The Basics Study Reiki for animals with Kathleen Prasad, co-author of the book, Animal Reiki. Taught at BrightHaven, a holistic care facility for senior and special needs animals, this class is for animal people who want to deepen their relationships with animals and learn practical ways to heal the animals in their lives. Most Reiki I classes focus on Reiki for people, but Kathleen's class is unique in its emphasis on Reiki for both humans and animals.

August 23-24 – McLean, VA Basic Animal Communication 2 Day Workshop Reawaken and acknowledge your ability to

animal wellness wellness animal

Day 1: You will be introduced to the basics of telepathic communication with animals. Learn how you already communicate with animals telepathically. Learn to experience the animals’ perspective and see through their eyes. Enjoy meditations and interactive exercises as you learn how to send and receive communication. Deepen your communion with all of life. Day 2: Learn to quiet and focus your mind when with animals. Practice opening the channel to get across to animals and to receive what they communicate telepathically in thoughts, images, impressions, feelings and messages. You will learn how to communicate with an animal at a distance as well as practice with animals that are present. Janet Dobbs 703-648-1866 janet@animalparadisecommunication.com www.animalparadisecommunication.com Aug 30 and 31 – Arlington, Texas Arlington Convention Center www.PURRsonals.com Super Star Cat Photo Contest Enter your glamour puss’s photo in this contest to be held at The 2008 International Cat Association Show. Cats will be judged in the following categories: Most Expressive Tail, The Eyes Have It, Silly Silly Kitty, My Best Friend, Remarkable Color and Costume Design. There is no limit on the number of photos you can enter in any division or the contest overall. The three photos in each division with the most votes will receive a ribbon and package of cat toys. The top three out of all winners will receive a gorgeous trophy. Winners will be determined by the number of votes received during the show – the cost to vote is $1 a photo. All funds collected from entry fees and votes will be donated to Little Orphan Angels, a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue and adoption of homeless cats and dogs. Debra Decker, 817-371-7194 siddhis2003@yahoo.com, www.tica2008.com/Photo_Contest.html

Kathleen Prasad, 415-420-9783 info@animalreikisource.com www.animalreikisource.com

104 104

communicate with animals during this basic workshop. You will be led through the basic steps with guided meditations, enlightening discussion and telepathic exercises.

September 4, 11, and 18 – Teleclass SH105: Introduction to Shamanic Journeying Internationally available 3 week teleclass. 7:30pm-9:00pm Central Time

Instructor: Carla Meeske Person Three session class introduces you to the core concepts of shamanic journeying and teaches you to easily access the non ordinary reality realms where your Spirit Helpers reside. It is ideal for those who are new to the concepts of directly connecting with spirit to receive advice and information. In this class you will: Learn how to enter non ordinary reality and become comfortable journeying with your Power Animal. You will be seeking your Power Animal’s advice for your own questions and to help others. Explore the upper and lower worlds and determine which (or both) are easiest for you to access and work in. Meet your Spirit Teacher in the upper or lower world, and learn how to honor them in your daily life. Receive personal healings from your Teacher and your Power Animals to help you grow quickly on your path as a healer for animals. Carol Schultz 815 254 8325 info@animalspiritnetwork.com http://animalspiritnetwork.com/calendar/view_entry Sept 13 and 14, 2008 – Traveler's Rest Equine Elders Sanctuary, Spotsylvania, VA Basic Animal Communication 2 Day Workshop Reawaken and acknowledge your ability to communicate with animals during this basic workshop. You will be led through the basic steps with guided meditations, enlightening discussion and telepathic exercises. Day 1: You will be introduced to the basics of telepathic communication with animals. Learn how you already communicate with animals telepathically. Learn to experience the animals’ perspective and see through their eyes. Enjoy meditations and interactive exercises as you learn how to send and receive communication. Deepen your communion with all of life. Day 2: Learn to quiet and focus your mind when with animals. Practice opening the channel to get across to animals and to receive what they communicate telepathically in thoughts, images, impressions, feelings and messages. You will learn how to communicate with an animal at a distance as well as practice with animals that are present. Janet Dobbs 703-648-1866 janet@animalparadisecommunication.com www.animalparadisecommunication.com

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 angelwhispurr@gmail.com 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@wildblue.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, spreadreiki@yahoo.com or visit www.spreadreiki.com JANET RIDGEWAY, ANIMAL COMMUNICATOR – Provides consultations for behavioral, emotional and physical issues. She is a certified Reiki master, trained in Shamanic, Pranic, energy healing, and kinesiology, Phone consultations and workshops available. www.janetridgeway.com

Animal Health

Fax (416)285-7483 eyac@ca.inter.net www.holisticpetvet.com

NANNOSIL LIQUID COLLOIDAL SILVER & SILVER GEL – One of nature’s best natural anti-bacterial, anti-fungal & general germ fighter available for all living things. 416-579-9314 or nannosil@yahoo.com www.harmonixtherapy.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. GOT STRESS? – Quantum Biofeedback can help reduce stress, manage pain and help your animal learn to relax. Other services we offer are Quantum Bioimprinting (Energy cards), Animal Communicating, Reiki, Aromatherapy, Crystal energy work and Equine Acupressure. www.blessedbylife.com, amy@blessedbylife.com, 602.339.4761. CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY CLASSES – Learn this light touch approach to balancing the nervous system, allowing the release of stress and trauma. Sally A. Morgan, Upledger Instructor/TTouch Practitioner (413) 586-5058 sallymorgan69@msn.com sallymorganpt.com

Associations INTERNATIONAL ASSN. OF 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/

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

CANADIAN FOREST TREE ESSENCES – 15 vibrational essences of exceptional quality for animal care, including Animal Whisper, Animal 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

Schools & Training COMPANION ANIMAL TOUCH & THERAPIES – Hands-on training for small animal massage therapy providers at locations in IL, WI, VA, and NC. Learn to work with animals safely, effectively, and professionally from an experienced instructor. info@companionanimaltouchandtherapies.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 DVDs, teach doggie massage, canine body language, safety. 800-779-1001 www.petmassage.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

ANIMAL HEALING ARTS TRAINING & CERTIFICATE STUDY PROGRAMS – Animal Spirit Healing & EducationTM Network provides distance learning and on-site courses in Animal Communication, Shamanic Animal Healing, Animal Reiki, Grief Support Skills, Flower Essences, Species Behavior, Tellington TTouch, and Holistic Animal Health. Learn more at www.AnimalSpiritNetwork.com or contact Founder, Carol Schultz, 815-531-2850, info@animalspiritnetwork.com

NORTH-EAST NEWMARKET VETERINARY SERVICES – Dr. Autumn Louise Drouin, Veterinarian, Naturopath. Cozy outpatient office. Detailed history, physical examination, laboratory tests. Individualized treatment protocols suit patient’s condition and client’s needs. Homeopathy, Herbs, Clinical Nutrition, Bach Remedies, Physical Therapies. (905)8301030 Newmarket, ON www.holistic-vet.ca

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

Paw Protection TAMMY AND TEDDY’S BOOTIES AND MORE – Custom made boots for healthy and special needs dogs. Highest quality available. Fit guaranteed. Hand crafted in the USA. www.tammyandteddys.com Phone number 860-749-6552.

Pet Loss & Memorials

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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

Boutique where we have many upscale items which will set your Toy Breed apart from the rest. See www.yorkierescue.com. For information and support groups, please visit: www.livershunt.com or www.collapsingtrachea.com

SONOMA URN COMPANY – Where remembrance is a work of art. Quiet and dignified, these handcrafted ceramic urns offer a timeless beauty. American made. Order on line: www.sonomaurn.com. Catalog: 800-995-9553.

Pet Portraits ANNIEO’S PET PORTRAITS – Specializing in oil painting for 31 years. Nationwide clientele. Portraits of any pet of your choice. Credit card, personal check or money order. 44 Church St., Tilton, NH 03276. (603) 524-3778 Website: www.petportraitsbyannieo.com

Reiki REIKI ENERGY HEALING and hospice support for the owner who wants the very best for their special fur baby. Phone (443) 983-1102

Rescues & Shelters

NEW, INGENIOUS TRAINING METHOD – Cures 19 of Your Dog's WORST Behavior Problems In Just 6 Days – Without Ever Touching Your Dog! The gentle, tender way to train your pet! www.tenderdogtraining.com

Shopping SHOP FOR ALL YOUR PET SUPPLIES AND GIFTS online and plan a vacation in the Blue Ridge Mountains with your best friend - your dog - at the same time! Visit our exclusive website: www.dog-house-resort-store.com Phone: (336) 977 3482 E-mail: britta@dog-house-resort.com

Travel DOG HOUSE RESORT – A Bed & Breakfast for People and their Dogs in the Blue Ridge Mountains! Take your best friend on vacation with you! Fetch our website: www.dog-house-resort.com Phone: 336-977-3482 SHOP FOR ALL YOUR PET SUPPLIES AND GIFTS online and plan a vacation in the Blue Ridge Mountains with your best friend - your dog - at the same time! Visit our exclusive website: www.dog-house-resort-store.com Phone: (336) 977 3482 E-mail: britta@dog-house-resort.com

YORKSHIRE TERRIER NATIONAL RESCUE, INC. – We do more than rescue Yorkies.Browse thru our Yorkie Rescue

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The tail end

Raising dogs and men by Beth Campbell

n the past year I have developed a keen awareness of the similarities between man and beast. By “man” I mean my husband, Sean. By “beast” I refer to my two dogs: Ripley, the excitable Labrador retriever, and her younger brother Samson, the serene but unpredictable mutt. It’s amazing how our animals become microcosms of ourselves. Take eating, for example. Ripley, like her “mommy”, will eat whatever you put in front of her even if she isn’t hungry. Although she might have just wolfed down a huge bowlful of food, she will still sneak toward the cat’s dish as we head downstairs. Likewise, I can put away half a meatloaf and still have room for a king size Snickers half an hour later. Samson eats like his “dad” -- when he’s hungry, never planned, never thinking about it. And they both practically inhale their meals. Unfortunately, they also ingest a great deal of air when they eat, which becomes painfully apparent later on. I will acknowledge that I am much more like my dogs than Sean in my tolerance

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for bad smells. I found this out when Ripley was about seven months old. My husband greeted me at the door one day and I could tell something was horribly wrong. What first hit me was the incredible odor. The next thing I noticed was my husband dry heaving and holding a bandana over his mouth. I closed my eyes.

Not unlike my dogs, who roll in squirrel poo for pleasure, or eat cat dung like it was candy, I was oblivious to the stench as I scrubbed and hosed. And it occurred to me as I listened to Sean’s retching…how can the same man who seeks out news footage of terrorist beheadings be virtually incapacitated by a little diarrhea?

“Ripley [gag] had a little [glurg] accident!”

Sean has been further traumatized by such things as vomit (stepped on), yakked up kibble (which Samson lapped up in front of him), and various mystery squishy spots (hand goes down to couch cushion for leverage…hand hits warm, slimy mass…husband shrieks like fouryear-old). Probably the worst are the occasional piles on the lawn that catch him off guard. I keep telling him to wear shoes and not to walk near the fence unaware. But he just doesn’t listen.

[monotone] “Did you clean it up?” [horrified, bewildered eyes opening wide behind the horizon of the bandana] “Wha? [gyak] No! Er, um…[gorp]…I just got home!” Rather than face two messes, I relieved him of his duty and went to investigate the carnage. Ripley had virtually exploded – by my estimation, at least several times. It looked like the aftermath of the Battle of Carthage. I couldn’t believe the task that was before me. We lost four toys and a bone that day. Rest their souls. And yet the smell did not bother me.

Wow. I guess he is more like the dogs than I thought!

If you have an amusing story you'd like to submit, send it to: Tail End, at submissions@animalwellnessmagazine.com

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