V17I4 (Aug/Sept 2015) by Redstone Media Group

ANIMAL WELLNESS

Celebrate SUMMER!

Training fun using

TRICKS GAMES!

TOP 5

STEPS

SUMMER HARVEST RECIPES

to preventing

cancer 10 WAYS

for you and Fido

Is he prone to

CANCER?

TO MAKE MORE TIME FOR YOUR

Breed, genetics and environment all play a part

CANINE

FLU

OUTBREAK

Integrative prevention and treatment tips

Titer testing

FAQs

BEST FRIEND

DougPug the

With over 1,000,000 followers, this friendly little guy is on a mission to bring fun and laughter to everyone he meets.

feline WELLNESS feline WELLNESS feli Hip, cool and healthy!

Hip, cool and healthy!

Help for

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015 Display until September 14, 2015

HAIRBALLS What you need to know about this common problem

MERCURY DOES SHE LIKE

$6.95 USA/Canada

VOLUME 17 ISSUE 4

IN HER FISH? SPENDING TIME

OUTDOORS?

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ways to keep her safe

ACUPRESSURE

Hello Richard Kitty

He’s a bit shy, but this affectionate beauty with the odd-colored eyes has loads of devoted fans.

FALL IN LOVE WITH

Bub! BONUS BONUSLil INSIDE!

– how it can boost a ﬁnicky appetite

feline wellness

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Contents August/September 2015

Features

18 ARE SOME DOGS PREDISPOSED TO CANCER?

Certain breeds seem more susceptible, and both genetics and environment play a role.

24 HYPERTHERMIC THERAPY

It’s the new kid on the block when it comes to treating cancer, but it’s showing promise for some tumor types.

26 HOW TO MAKE TRAINING FUN

Tricks and games can teach him what he needs to know, and make training sessions more enjoyable for both of you.

30 “PREPARING FOR A

DISASTER” CHECKLIST

Cover these 4 important points and you’ll help him stay as safe and stressfree as possible.

33 “BUY ONE, GIVE ONE” How this food and treat company is making a difference in the lives of shelter dogs.

34 HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU SPEND WITH YOUR DOG?

52 FASHION FOR FIFI

The latest creations for dogs range from hoodies and tees to beach wear, tuxedos and even dresses.

58 TREATING CANCER –

WHY MULTIPLE THERAPIES ARE NECESSARY

Cancer affects the body in numerous ways, so treating it successfully means drawing on a variety of therapies.

62 CANINE FLU

Have a busy lifestyle? Here are 10 ways to ensure your best friend gets the quality time he needs and deserves.

The recent H3N2 outbreak has caused a lot of alarm, but an integrative approach can help with treatment and prevention.

39 TOP 5 CANCER

66 THE AGING PROCESS The rate at which dogs and cats age varies,

PREVENTION TIPS

This dreaded disease is common, but here’s how to significantly reduce your canine’s risk of becoming another statistic.

depending on several factors besides how old they are.

42 COVER STORY

We talk with Linda Tellington-Jones about her effective approach for animal healing, training and communication.

DOUG THE PUG

This comical little guy with “personality plus” brings love and laughter to people around the globe.

46 TITER TESTING FAQS

Answering the most common questions about this alternative to annual vaccines.

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70 TELLINGTON TTOUCH

76 SHARING THE HARVEST

Make the most of fresh produce with these tasty and nutritious recipes both you and your dog can enjoy.

80 DOG BEDS THAT LAST

When you buy a quality memory foam bed from this company, another is donated to a rescue organization.

90 COVER STORY RICHARD KITTY

Children are especially attracted to this sweet social media sensation with the “odd eyes”.

92 PICKY EATER?

Along with a check-up and the right diet, this easy acupressure session can help resolve appetite issues.

94 SAFE OUTDOOR EXPLORATION FOR CATS

From harnesses to strollers to enclosures, there are several hazard-free ways for your cat to enjoy the great outdoors.

96 NOT ANOTHER HAIRBALL!

They’re more than just a mess for you to clean up. Excessive hairballs can signal a health problem or an inappropriate diet.

Columns

12 Yakkity yak 50 Passages 56 To the rescue 74 Warm & fuzzy 85 Book reviews 88 Tail end 98 Feline book

review/Cat chat

Departments 8

Editorial

Product picks

Animal Wellness resource guide

The scoop

Social media

Tips, contests and more! Like us /AnimalWellnessMagazine

Marketplace

Updates, news, events! @ AnimalWellnessMagazine

Events calendar

Product reviews and tutorials! AnimalWellnessTV

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Social media

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VOLUME 17 ISSUE 4

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT Editor-in-Chief: Dana Cox Managing Editor: Ann Brightman Senior Graphic Designer: Dawn Cumby-Dallin Senior Graphic Designer: Kathleen Atkinson Social Media Manager: Natasha Roulston Social Media Editor: Jasmine Cabanaw Web Design & Development: Brad Vader Tail End Illustration: Libby Sinden Cover Image Courtesy of: Leslie Mosier Feline Cover Courtesy of: Maya Tuttle

ON THE COVER PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF: Leslie Mosier

Doug is ready to celebrate! This whimsical little pug with the larger-than-life personality is full of fun and happiness, so it’s no surprise he has over 1,000,000 followers on social media. Read about his rise to fame on page 42.

ON THE FELINE COVER PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF: Maya Tuttle

Richard Kitty’s bi-colored eyes are what attract most people’s attention, but he’s also a loving and affectionate fellow who has garnered thousands of online followers. His message for the world: don’t overlook adult cats when adopting. See his story on page 90.

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COLUMNISTS & CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sally E. Bahner Claudia Bensimoun Greg Ceci Audi Donamor Janet Freehling Ingrid King Cindy Kneebone, DVM Norma Jeanne Laurette Lisa Mackinder Anabelle Lee Macri Patrick Mahaney, VMD, CVA Erin Mayo, DVM Shawn Messonnier, DVM Sandra Murphy Barbara Royal, DVM, CVA Nancy Scanlan, DVM, CVA Karen Shaw Becker, DVM Amy Snow Linda Tellington-Jones, PhD (Hon) Charlotte Walker Nancy Zidonis Vivian Zottola, CPDT-KA ADMINISTRATION & SALES President/C.E.O.: Tim Hockley Accounting: Karen Tice Circulation & Office Manager: Libby Sinden SUBMISSIONS: Please send all editorial material, advertising material, photos and correspondence to: Animal Wellness Magazine, 160 Charlotte St., Suite 202, Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8. 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: info@redstonemediagroup.com.

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ADVERTISING SALES National Accounts Manager: Ann Beacom, (866) 764-1212 ext. 222 annbeacom@redstonemediagroup.com Western Regional Manager: Becky Starr, (866) 764-1212 ext. 221 becky@redstonemediagroup.com Marketing Coordinator: Jessica Apro, (866) 764-1212 ext. 115 jess@redstonemediagroup.com CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Libby Sinden classifiedads@animalwellnessmagazine.com TO SUBSCRIBE: Subscription price at time of this issue is $24.00 in the U.S. and Canada, including taxes for six issues shipped via surface mail. Subscriptions can be processed by: Website: www.animalwellnessmagazine.com Phone: 1-866-764-1212 ext 315 US MAIL: Animal Wellness Magazine, 6834 S University Blvd PMB 155 Centennial, CO 80122 CDN MAIL: Animal Wellness Magazine, 160 Charlotte St., Suite 202, Peterborough, ON, Canada K9J 2T8 Subscriptions are payable by VISA, MasterCard, American Express, check or money order. The material in this magazine is not intended to replace the care of veterinary practitioners. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor, and different views may appear in other issues. Redstone Media Group Inc., publisher of Animal Wellness, does not promote any of the products orservices advertised by a third party advertiser in this publication, nor does Redstone Media Group Inc. verify the accuracy of any claims made in connection with such advertisers. Refund policy: call or write our customer service department and we will refund unmailed issues. DEALER INQUIRIES WELCOME: Animal Wellness Magazine is available at a discount for resale in retail shops and through various organizations. Call Libby at 1-866-764-1212 ext 100 and ask for dealer magazine sales, fax us at 705-742-4596 or e-mail at libby@animalwellnessmagazine.com

Animal Wellness Magazine (ISSN 1710-1190) is published six times a year by Redstone Media Group Inc. Publications Mail Agreement #40884047. Entire contents copyright© 2015. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted by any means, without prior written permission of the publisher. Publication date: July 2015.

IMPROVING THE LIVES OF ANIMALS... ONE READER AT A TIME.

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EDITORIAL Facing the fear of

CANCER We recently had a scare in our family. A lump appeared on the side of our husky/shepherd, Sasha. Within two weeks it was the size of a plum, and we hurriedly scheduled an appointment with our veterinarian. The vet said Sasha was in fantastic shape, with the heart of an athlete. We asked for a complete blood panel and the vet decided to aspirate the lump to see if it was cancerous. We waited for a few nerve-wracking days. The blood work came back – everything was perfectly normal. Not bad for a big dog who’s at least 11 years and possibly older (the Humane Society pegged her age at two when we adopted her, but who really knows?). It seems the regimen of a natural diet and supplements, minimal vaccination and regular exercise is working for Sasha. The lump is not cancer, as we feared, but protein-based and possibly related to an injury and/or a couple of small nodules that she had when we adopted her. Because the lump has grown quickly, we are having it removed to keep it from growing even further. It should be a fairly uncomplicated 20-minute surgery. We feel lucky that we escaped the “big C” this time; but the experience helped us relate to the many families we know who have faced this battle with their animal companions. The sad truth is that cancer is becomingly increasing common in dogs and cats, so the more we can learn about it, the better our chances of preventing it or detecting it in its earliest stages. This issue features several informative articles on the disease, including Dr. Karen Shaw Becker’s piece on the top five ways to prevent cancer in your dog, and Dr. Nancy Scanlan’s discussion on why it’s important to take a multi-pronged approach to treatment.

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Dr. Erin Mayo looks at how cancer is related to breed, while Dr. Cindy Kneebone explores hyperthermic therapy and its promising applications for cancer treatment. For our cover story, we star Doug the Pug, an adorable little guy who’s on a mission to bring smiles and laughter to as many people around the world as possible. We also take a look at the top canine fashion trends; show you how to make training fun by adding tricks and games to keep Rover’s interest piqued; and provide delicious, nutritious summer harvest recipes you can share with your dog. Don’t miss our suggestions on how to make more quality time for your dog amidst your busy schedule, and be sure to also read our FAQs on titer testing. Our Feline Wellness bonus section includes valuable advice on tackling hairballs, how to let your cat enjoy the great outdoors while keeping him safe, acupressure for finicky appetites – and last but not least, a profile of Richard Kitty, a striking feline with bi-colored eyes and a sweet and loving nature. Happy reading!

Dana Cox Editor-in-Chief

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CONTRIBUTORS

1. Veterinarian Dr. Karen Shaw Becker received her degree from the Iowa State College of Veterinary Medicine. She owns/operates Natural Pet Animal Hospital, Feathers Bird Clinic, TheraPaw Rehabilitation and Pain Management Clinic and Covenant Wildlife Rehabilitation in Illinois. She co-authored Real Food for Healthy Pets and hosts a holistic animal wellness website (mercolahealthypets.com). See page 39 for Dr. Becker’s article on the top ways to prevent cancer. 2. Veterinarian Dr. Cindy Kneebone received her DVM from the Ontario Veterinary College. She received diplomas in homeopathy from the British Institute of Homeopathy; in Chinese herbal medicine from Huang Di College of Traditional Chinese Medicine; and in veterinary acupuncture at the Michener Institute. She is certified with the IVAS. Dr. Kneebone practices at the East York Animal Clinic in Toronto. For this issue, she discusses hyperthermic therapy and its applications for cancer (page 24). 3. Veterinarian Dr. Patrick Mahaney graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 1999. He is a certified veterinary acupuncturist from the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society. His practice, California Pet Acupuncture and Wellness, offers integrative medicine. Dr. Mahaney writes a veterinary blog for patrickmahaney.com and is working on his first book, The Uncomfortable Vet. He writes about the aging process in dogs and cats on page 66. 4. Veterinarian Dr. Erin Mayo graduated from the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2002. She received her veterinary acupuncture and Chinese herbal certification from the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society, and provide holistic and TCVM services for companion animals in central New Jersey. Read Dr. Mayo’s article on breed specific cancers (page 18).

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5. Veterinarian Dr. Shawn Messonnier wrote The Natural Health Bible for Dogs and Cats, The Natural Vet’s Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs, and 8 Weeks to a Healthy Dog. He’s the pet care expert for Martha Stewart Living’s “Dr. Shawn – The Natural Vet” on Sirius Satellite Radio, and creator of Dr. Shawn’s Pet Organics. His practice, Paws & Claws Animal Hospital (petcarenaturally.com), is in Plano, Texas. See page 46 for his article on titer testing. 6. Veterinarian Dr. Barbara Royal is an IVAS certified acupuncturist, author and lecturer with extensive experience in veterinary care, including nutrition, acupuncture, emergency medicine, pathology, conventional practices, herbal remedies, physical rehabilitation techniques and alternative treatments. She is past president of the AHVMA, author of The Royal Treatment, A Natural Approach to Wildly Healthy Pets, and the founder and owner of The Royal Treatment Veterinary Center in Chicago. 7. Veterinarian Dr. Nancy Scanlan is Executive Director for the AHVM Foundation. She has been using complementary therapies in her veterinary practice since 1969 – nutraceuticals, acupuncture, non-classical homeopathy, Chinese and Western herbs, and homotoxicology. Dr. Scanlan recently resigned from three years as Executive Director of the AHVMA to work fulltime for the AHVM Foundation. On page 58, Dr. Scanlan discusses the importance of a multi-pronged approach to cancer treatment. 8. Audi Donamor has been successfully creating special needs diets for companion animals for nearly 20 years. She is the founder of the University of Guelph’s Smiling Blue Skies® Cancer Fund and Smiling Blue Skies® Fund for Innovative

Research, and is the proud recipient of a variety of awards, including a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. Turn to page 76 for Audi’s healthy harvest recipes. 9. Nancy Zidonis and Amy Snow are the authors of Acu-Cat: A Guide to Feline Acupressure and Acu-Dog: A Guide to Canine Acupressure. They founded Tallgrass, offering books, manuals, DVDs, apps and meridian charts. Tallgrass also provides hands-on and online training courses worldwide, including a 300-hour Practitioner Certification Program. It is an approved school for the Dept. of Higher Education through the State of Colorado, an approved provider of NCBTMB Continuing Education credits, and accepted by NCCAOM. Contact 888841-7211, animalacupressure.com or Tallgrass@ animalacupressure.com. See page 92 for their article on acupressure for feline appetite issues. 10. Linda Tellington-Jones, PhD (Hon), created the Tellington Method 40 years ago as a system of animal training, healing and communication. This effective and revolutionary approach to working with animals brought her worldwide recognition, and Tellington TTouch was born. Linda has won numerous awards, written 21 books, and given presentations and demonstrations at veterinary conferences, universities and associations around the world. Read about Tellington TTouch on page 70. 11. Norma Jeanne Laurette, IPDTA-CDT, launched her Puppy Power Training, Behavior & Aggression Therapy Centre in 1992. She has consulted with clients worldwide and taught over 6,000 classes and over 400 professional trainers in nine countries with her Canine Correspondence Studies certification career course. She is co-founder of ACTT (Applied Canine Therapy & Training) and founder and chair of IPDTA (International Positive Dog Training

Submissions If you are interested in submitting an article for Animal Wellness Magazine, please contact Ann Brightman, Managing Editor, at : Ann@RedstoneMediaGroup.com.

Association). Turn to page 26 for her and Greg Cici’s article on making training fun with tricks and games. 12. Greg Ceci, IPDTA-CDT, specializes in canine fear, aggression, behavior modification, reactive dogs and off-leash training. He is the co-founder of ACTT (Applied Canine Therapy & Training) and cochair of IPDTA (International Positive Dog Training Association). See page 26 for his and Norma Jeanne Laurette’s article on making training fun with tricks and games. 13. Ingrid King is a former veterinary hospital manager and author of Buckley’s Story: Lessons from a Feline Master Teacher and Purrs of Wisdom:

CONTRIBUTORS

Conscious Living, Feline Style. Her popular blog, The Conscious Cat, is a comprehensive award-winning resource for conscious living, health and happiness for cats and their humans (ConsciousCat.com). Ingrid is also the Cats Expert for Answers.com, and the publisher of online magazine News for You and Your Pet. Check out her article on hairballs (page 96). 14. Sally E. Bahner specializes in cat-related issues, specifically nutrition, holistic care and behavior. She has offered her services as a feline behavior and care consultant and gives classes on cat care. Sally is the resident cat behavior expert on Tracie Hotchner’s Cat Chat radio program, and a member

of the Cat Writers’ Association and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. For this issue (page 94), Sally discusses safe outdoor exploration for cats. 15. Claudia Bensimoun is a freelance writer in West Palm Beach who specializes in writing about dogs and horses. Check out her article on top canine fashion trends on page 52. Sandra Murphy lives in St Louis, Missouri. When she's not writing, she works as a pet sitter. Turn to page 30 for her article on disaster preparedness for your animal companion.

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YAKKITY YAK AID FOR NEPAL’S ANIMALS Horrific devastation struck Nepal on April 25 when a 7.8 magnitude hit the region, followed by a 7.3 aftershock on May 12. Along with other human and animal welfare organizations, World Animal Protection (formerly the World Society for the Protection of Animals) deployed a team to Kathmandu to help the dogs, cats and livestock animals that were injured or left homeless by the disaster. WPA’s disaster response vets have been providing animals with food, water, shelter and other basic survival needs, while a mobile vet clinic is giving medical care to the ill and injured. WPA is also assessing the wider and longer term needs for Nepal’s animals in partnership with the government. “The recovery from this earthquake will inevitably take a long time, but by helping animals, we can help provide some stability for the futures of the communities,” says Communications Director, Beth Sharpe. Donations for this work are being accepted at worldanimalprotection.org.

A team from WPA is in Nepal to help provide care, shelter, food and water for animals like this dog, whose home was reduced to rubble by the earthquake.

ANIMAL-FRIENDLY RENTALS

100 YEARS AND COUNTING

It can be difficult to find an apartment or other rental property that accepts dogs and cats. Real estate resource Trulia recently ranked the top U.S. cities where renting with an animal companion is the easiest. They ranked the cities based on the percentage of animal-friendly rentals, the least expensive fees, and the highest concentration of pet supply stores and services. Here are the top ten:

Every year for the last century, millions of people having been showing their love for animals during American Humane Association’s Be Kind to Animals Week. It usually takes place during the first week of May, but because this is the event’s 100th anniversary, AHA is making it a year-long initiative with the launch of Kindness 100. The project’s goal is to engage more people in helping solve the many remaining challenges facing millions of animals, and to teach as many people as possible the value of treating animals with kindness and compassion.

q San Francisco, CA w Seattle, WA e Denver, CO  Oakland, CA  Portland, OR  Chicago, IL  St. Louis, MO  New York, NY  Dallas, TX  San Diego, CA

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Visit kindness100.org to take the pledge, read an historical timeline of Be Kind to Animals Week, explore humane education kits for children, and much more.

“WE’LL BE YOUR EYES” A dog who lost both her eyes due to glaucoma is still enjoying life to the fullest, thanks to her two canine “brothers”. Kiaya, a ten-year-old Akita, battled glaucoma for two years before losing her eyes. But her two Akita housemates – eight-year-old Cass and two-year-old Keller – have taken it upon themselves to help guide her around.

Even before Kiaya (center) lost her second eye, her “brother” Cass (right) started looking out for her. Now that Kiaya is completely blind, Keller (left) has also taken on the role of “guide dog”.

“It’s amazing to watch,” says Dr. Gwen Sila, a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist with BluePearl Veterinary Partners who performed Kiaya’s surgeries. “It’s clear the other dogs are trying to protect her. Their sense of loyalty is really remarkable.” Jessica VanHusen, the dogs’ guardian, noticed that Cass became watchful of Kiaya after her left eye was removed in July of 2013. He sticks by her side as they traipse through the backyard and he always lies next to her blind side. This behavior grew even more noticeable after Kiaya’s second eye was removed in November of last year. “Cass always allows Kiaya to get to her food dish first and waits for her to start eating,” says Jessica. “When I take them in the car, he leans against her to keep her steady because she sometimes gets a little off kilter. He also loves to groom her.” Keller was a little slower to react to Kiaya’s condition, but he’s becoming protective of her as well. “They’re an inspiration to everyone,” says Jessica. “I hope others will see them and realize that a special needs animal deserves a chance. It takes a little effort, but it’s absolutely worth it.”

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? Ever wonder how the cost of animal guardianship differs from city to city? Trupanion has released findings on the top five most and least expensive cities in the US in which to have a dog. Data on 116 cities was analyzed and ranked based on the costs of housing, healthcare and other services such as dog sitting and daycare.

Here are the least expensive cities for dog guardianship:

q Phoenix, AZ w The Woodlands, TX e Nashville, TN

 Detroit, MI  Fayetteville, NC

See the full report at trupanion.com/blog/2015/05/top-5-expensive-cities-dog animal wellness

YAKKITY YAK THEY SCORE! An interesting bit of info for hockey fans who are also animal lovers. Homeward Trails Animal Rescue was presented with a check for over $35,000 by Washington Capitals better halves Carmen Brouwer and Courtney Parrie Green, during the Capitals versus Nashville Predators game on March Homeward Trailsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; executive director Sue Bell (center) accepts a check from (left to right) the Capitals in28. The funds were donated arena host Erin Magee, Courtney Parrie Green, Carmen by Monumental Sports & Brouwer and Red Rocker Ashley. Entertainment Foundation and were raised through the sale of the 2015 Caps Canine Calendar. The money is helping to provide medical and behavioral care, as well as permanent homes, for dogs and cats saved by the rescue. homewardtrails.org

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Fresh summer berries like blueberries, blackberries and raspberries make refreshing, healthy snacks for dogs.

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YAKKITY YAK MAKING IT “CLEAR” A diagnosis of canine lymphoma can be scary, but it doesn’t have to mean a death sentence. In an effort to raise awareness of this common but treatable disease, CLEAR (Canine Lymphoma Education Awareness and Research) has created a documentary called My Friend: Changing the Journey. CLEAR was founded when Terry Simons, a dog agility trainer and competitor, learned in 2011 that his dog, Reveille, had canine lymphoma. He discovered that accurate information and options for treatment were elusive. Vowing to never let Reveille know she was sick, Terry allowed his best friend to continue doing what she loved. Reveille was not only able to compete in agility while undergoing chemotherapy and radiation, but had the best year of her agility career. With Reveille’s passing, Terry decided to film a documentary as an educational tool for dog guardians and animal care professionals alike. It provides important information and dispels misconceptions about lymphoma treatment through the stories of three dogs who are battling the disease. clearcaninecancer.com

IS HE A CITY DOG?

TAKE PART IN THIS SURVEY Does having a dog improve your quality of life? Experts in Penn Vet’s Cardiology Service, in partnership with researchers at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, are doing a survey specifically designed to answer this question. Up to 300 dog guardians are needed to answer the Dog Owner Quality of Life Survey. It concentrates on different factors of everyday life that are important between dogs and their people, and how these factors might positively or negatively affect quality of life. Studies have already shown that dog guardianship offers benefits such as increased physical activity, decreased blood pressure, reduced anxiety and improved self-esteem. However, relatively few studies have examined the effects of having a dog on overall quality of life, or have tried to balance the positive aspects with potentially more negative aspects, such as increased responsibility or damage to belongings. Take the survey at redcap.med.upenn.edu/surveys/?s=4KuXHdJjHp.

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Urban living differs significantly from country living, especially when you have a dog. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has added a new title to the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) training program. “AKC Urban CGC” focuses on city-dwelling dogs. It requires a ten-step test of skills that dogs must pass to earn the official AKC Urban CGC title. “City dogs require a very special set of skills, including waiting to cross a street, ignoring food tossed on a sidewalk, behaving in building lobbies and riding elevators,” says Dr. Mary Burch, Director of the Canine Good Citizen program. “Urban CGC reinforces practical, everyday skills for the millions of dogs living in urban areas today, creating safer, more responsible communities.” akc.org/dog-owners/training/urban-canine-good-citizen

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Are some dogs

predisposed to cancer?

Certain breeds seem more susceptible, and both genetics and environment play a role.

By Erin Mayo, DVM ave you ever heard it said that mutts are healthier than purebreds? Well, that may not be true, but when it comes to cancer, mixed breeds might have the advantage. In recent years, researchers have been trying to answer the question: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Are certain breeds more prone to cancer? If so, why?â&#x20AC;?

PREVALENCE AND RISK FACTORS

Cancer in dogs isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t new, but it seems as if its prevalence is increasing. Overall, approximately one in four dogs is diagnosed with some type of cancer during his/her lifetime. A 2010 study found that 27% of purebreds develop cancer, while an older study from 2000 found that 45% of dogs over ten years of age get cancer. While cancer rates may appear to be growing, there are additional factors to consider. Animals are living longer, and since cancer is more predominant in seniors, it makes sense that we are seeing more of it. Veterinary care is also improving by leaps and bounds, and offers less invasive and more sensitive methods for diagnosing the disease. People are also more aware of their

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dogs’ health than they were in the past, and are more vigilant about finding out what’s wrong with their companions, and about treating the problem.

increase the risk of selecting genes with mutations (alterations to the genetic code that alters its function), thereby predisposing dogs to disease.

“Twenty years ago, we weren’t diagnosing cancer, because people weren’t willing to treat it,” says veterinary oncology specialist Dr. Jennifer Kim. “Dogs died of ‘old age’, but in reality, they died of something. I don’t think we are seeing more cancer; I think the increased number of cases is the result of clients wanting to know if their dogs have cancer, and of the veterinarians’ ability to diagnose it.”

Most commonly, cancer risk increases when mutations occur in tumor-suppressor genes whose natural function is to fight cancer formation. A mutation in any gene has the potential to increase the risk of disease.

It may be impossible to pinpoint the exact causes of cancer, although there are some well-documented risk factors in humans. The combination of genetics, which predisposes an individual to the disease, along with environmental exposures to carcinogens, such as cigarette smoke, is a common recipe for cancer formation. Dogs exist closely with humans, so are exposed to the same environments with their potentially harmful substances. But they also have known genetic predispositions to certain types of cancer. The genetic differences between the individuals of any specific breed are small compared with the canine population overall. Selective breeding for exaggerated physical traits may

Animals are living longer, and since cancer is more predominant in seniors, it makes sense that we are seeing more of it. It is difficult to determine the true risk of cancer in some breeds. For example, if a breed isn’t “popular”, there may be insufficient data on its cancer risk. In addition, breeds with shorter lifespans (due to other conditions unrelated to cancer) are more challenging to study with regards to their cancer risk. Since cancer is generally a disease of older dogs, these breeds don’t tend to have much cancer. The bulldog is an example; this breed is regarded as having a low cancer risk, but at the same time, isn’t as long-lived as many other breeds. Continued on page 20.

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Continued from

SPECIFIC CANCERS COMMON TO DOGS

1. Osteosarcoma, or bone cancer, is associated with rapid bone growth in early development. Researchers also suggest that bone stress due to weight-bearing and exercise leads to micro-fractures, which can lead to tumor formation later in life. There may also be possible links to growth hormones, but there is little evidence to support this hypothesis.

TUMOR TYPE BREEDS Osteosarcoma

Great Dane, Rottweiler, Irish wolfhound, greyhound, St. Bernard, Doberman, German shepherd, golden retriever, Irish setter, Leonberger

Osteosarcoma does not appear to arise from a genetic predisposition; it is more likely that larger breeds have a higher risk because of their weight and size. One study found that retired greyhounds had a greater risk of this type of cancer, but it didn’t find the same risk in whippets, their close genetic cousins, most likely because whippets are smaller.

Hemangiosarcoma

Boxer, golden retriever, German shepherd

Mast cell tumor

Boxer, bulldog breeds (bull mastiff, Boston terrier, Staffordshire bull terrier), Rhodesian ridgeback, pug, Weimeraner, Labrador retriever, beagle, golden Retriever

Lymphoma

Boxer, bull mastiff, bulldog breeds, Basset hound, St. Bernard, Scottish terrier, Airedale terrier, Bouvier des Flandres, Labrador retriever, Rottweiler

Melanoma

Schnauzer, Scottish terrier, chow chow, golden retriever, Pekingese

Mammary tumor

Poodle (toy and miniature), spaniel (English springer, cocker, Brittany), Puli, English setter, pointer, German shepherd, Maltese, Yorkshire terrier, dachshund

Brain tumor

Boxer, golden retriever, Boston terrier

Anal sac carcinoma

English cocker spaniel, English springer spaniel, Cavalier King Charles

Transitional cell carcinoma (bladder tumor)

Scottish terrier, West Highland terrier

2. Hemangiosarcoma involves a malignant tumor that arises

from blood vessels. It most commonly occurs in the spleen, liver, and more rarely in the skin. It represents 7% of all canine tumors. While environmental factors may be involved, it appears likely that this cancer is linked to mutations in several genes that suppress tumor growth.

However, tumors in golden retrievers seem to have a specific genetic profile difference from those of other breeds. The high incidence of disease in this breed appears to be a recent phenomenon; a study in 1988 did not cite golden retrievers as predisposed to this type of tumor. Interestingly, similar patterns of high incidence have not been reported in the UK or Europe, offering researchers a unique opportunity to investigate the differences in genetics between European and American lineages.

3. Mast

cell tumors are relatively common tumors, comprising between 7% to 20% of all skin tumors. Boxers and bulldog breeds tend to have lower grade (less aggressive) tumors; Labrador retrievers have more aggressive tumors; and golden retrievers tend to have multiple tumors. While this suggests that different breeds have different genetic predispositions for this type of cancer and how it affects them, no definitive gene or genes have been linked to this disease.

4. Lymphoma

is the most common hematopoietic (arising from blood cells) tumor type in dogs. There are reports of clusters of the disease occurring within purebred families, in which many dogs from the same lineage are diagnosed and have a close ancestor that was also diagnosed. This suggests that lymphoma is not only partially genetic in origin, but that familial associations may further increase the risk of disease in certain lines.

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Some research has also linked lymphoma to environmental factors, such as exposure to polluted sites and radioactive waste. However, unless you live near a toxic waste site, this is probably not a concern. Whether you have a purebred dog, or a mixed breed that includes one or more of the breeds mentioned in this article, don’t assume his destiny is written in his genetic code, and that you can’t do anything to protect him from cancer. That is simply not true. Yes, certain breeds are at higher risk of disease, and sometimes bad things happen to good dogs. But don’t forget that environment is a key factor. Maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle will do a lot to reduce his risk of many diseases, including cancer.

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Hyperthermic THERAPY D gs Cats

It’s the new kid on the block when it comes to treating cancer, but it’s showing promise for some tumor types.

By Cindy Kneebone, DVM f your dog or cat has been diagnosed with cancer, the biggest decision you’ll need to make is how to have it treated. Integrative medicine offers a wider variety of treatment options than a conventional approach, and those options have the advantage of being non-toxic.

One recent addition to the integrative treatment of some cancers is hyperthermia, or hyperthermic therapy. It involves heating the body, or an area of the body, above its normal physiological temperature. Hyperthermia isn’t just about superficially heating tissues with hot packs, however. It’s more akin to the body’s own physiological response of creating a fever during illness. In other words, hyperthermic units use a mat or pad to create a local fever, which deeply penetrates into the tissues.

HOW DOES IT WORK? Hyperthermia stimulates the body’s repair processes by dilating blood vessels to specific areas of the body. This allows medication to get into these areas quickly so inflammation is reduced and tissue toxins are removed. Tissue elasticity is also maintained, resulting in reduced sclerosis or scarring. Hyperthermic therapy can be used for treating some cancerous tumors as well as some bacterial infections, and many musculoskeletal and neurological disorders (see sidebar). Cancer is a collection of disorganized blood vessels and cells, which means a tumor mass does not cool down as quickly as healthy tissues after a hyperthermia treatment. Heating the tissue creates heat-shock proteins that help upregulate apoptosis (cell death) and modulate or reduce the drug resistance of cancer cells to chemotherapy, so these latter treatments may be given at lower doses. Mild hyperthermia can increase oxygen delivery to a tumor, but the heat used in treatment has been shown to damage the tumor’s blood supply, eventually lowering the oxygen available to it. Lowered oxygen lowers the tissue pH, and this increase in acidity leads to added ischemia and cell death. Hyperthermia is generated in two ways: electromagnetic or ultrasonic radiation. The cancer area is heated to an internal temperature of 104°F (40°C) to 115°F (46°C) after chemoperfusion of the tissue. Magnetism can also play a role – in theory, when using a metallic-based chemotherapy agent and a magnetic hyperthermic unit, all the metal in the chemotherapy medication will be pulled toward the magnet, damaging the cancerous tissue so it can be more effectively killed by the chemical agent or radiation.

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STILL BEING STUDIED

Hyperthermia being done on a canine patient. It is a non-invasive therapy with several applications besides cancer treatment.

Butch is an eight-year-old Weimaraner who developed intervertebral disk disease in the C5 to C7 area of his neck. He required surgery, but afterwards was paralyzed from the neck down and required a ventilator to breathe for him. Over the next two weeks, with system support and homeopathic treatments, Butch was able to come off the ventilator, but he could not move his legs or stand on his own. Euthanasia was the recommended treatment, but his family wouldn’t hear of it. Butch came to see us and had to be carried on a blanket to the hyperthermia treatment room. After a single one-hour treatment of 111°F (44°C) on the surgical area, he began to move his legs and attempted to stand, though unsuccessfully. After a few weekly treatments, Butch was walking with support. He had leg strength but experienced proprioceptive deficiency – he did not know where his legs were in space. After a few more weekly treatments, Butch is now walking, running and jumping. To see him, you would never know he had been completely paralyzed and wasn’t expected to walk again. It is important to include hyperthermia in the early treatment of diseases like these. The longer it takes for treatment to begin, the less likely the outcome will be successful.

Hyperthermia is still under investigation for cancer treatment and is not considered a standalone therapy, but it’s showing promise. We have admittedly not had great success with it to date, but our case numbers have not been high. For example, a dog named Fred was diagnosed with a nasal mast cell tumor that regrew after surgical removal. The tumor was infiltrated with Carboplatin while he was under general anesthesia, then heated for an hour to bring the internal temperature of the tumor up to 113°F (45°C). Initially, we saw some of the cancer tissue isolate, scab and fall off, shrinking the tumor. However, it spread to the other side of the nose, and subsequent treatments did not seem to stop it. On the other side of the coin, practitioners in Europe and some in the US have had good results using hyperthermia on difficult tumors such as feline fibrosarcoma. Either way, this therapy and its applications for cancer are definitely worth further study.

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How to make training

fun

TRICKS AND GAMES CAN TEACH YOUR DOG WHAT HE NEEDS TO KNOW, WHILE MAKING TRAINING SESSIONS MORE ENJOYABLE AND INTERESTING FOR BOTH OF YOU. By Norma Jeanne Laurette, IPDTA-CDT and Greg Ceci, IPDTA-CDT oes teaching your dog to shake a paw qualify as training? It does if it’s also teaching him to earn something he values. Tricks and games are actually great training tools because they exercise and mentally stimulate your dog, improve cognitive processes, teach a reliable response to cues, and strengthen the human/canine bond. Plus they add an element of fun to the training process. Tricks can be functional or purely entertaining, and both are useful in training because they teach your dog to do a variety of different things on cue. Functional tricks include identifying and retrieving objects, opening and closing doors, and turning lights

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on and off. Examples of entertaining tricks include “stick ’em up” or “pull my finger” (more on these later).

START WITH A POSITIVE APPROACH In order to achieve your dog’s maximum potential, all training should be positive and motivational – never intimidating. It’s been scientifically proven that fear, stress and anxiety inhibit a dog’s ability to think, learn, remember, problem-solve and make choices, so punishment and reprimands are clearly counterproductive to the training process. By using a positive approach, you have a dog that’s eager to make the correct choice, instead one that’s afraid to make the wrong choice.

FUN AND GAMES Physical These improve your dog’s coordination and increase his strength. You can start simple with doggy “push-ups” that involve alternating between sit and down positions, or else teach your dog to catch balls or other objects. Tug is another great physical game, but it’s important that you be the one who always starts and ends each game. Games involving balls, tug toys, etc., can help you develop reliable “leave it”, “drop it” and “take it” cues, which are especially essential for dogs that pick up inappropriate items. It can also be handy to teach a dog that loves to fetch to put objects “in my hand”. For example, we taught one dog named Kimo to fetch a beer.

Mental Games can also serve as great mental workouts. The more you cognitively challenge your dog, the sharper he will become. Games not only improve memory, but also create a thinking dog that is flexible and resilient. The cup game is a fun and simple one to try. You’ll need a friend or family member to assist you. First, place four cups (opaque plastic is a good choice) upside down in a row approximately four feet apart. Stand at the far end of the room with your dog on a leash and have your helper approach him and allow him to sniff a treat or small toy. Your assistant then places the treat or toy under one of the cups at the opposite end of the room. Take your dog out of the room, count to ten, then return and release him to find the treat or toy under the cup.

TEACHING THROUGH TRICKS There are numerous positive methods for creating new behaviors and tricks to put on cue. For the dog, it’s about learning new behaviors to earn valued resources; for the intended audience, it can be quite entertaining.

Lure-reward training: This involves using something the dog values, such as food or other resources, to motivate and move him. When he follows the lure (it could be a treat, toy, etc.), you can ask him to move his body into various positions such as sit, down and spin.

Capturing: This technique is used to put natural behaviors offered by a dog on cue. For example, when Wile E. Coyote was rescued, she was starving and therefore highly food-motivated. When she saw food she’d spin in circles, wave her paws in the air and

Games not only IMPROVE MEMORY, but also create a thinking dog that is FLEXIBLE and RESILIENT.

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Teaching your dog different tricks is a great way to spend quality time together and strengthen your bond.

then, because she was so weak at the time, lie down to rest. We started rewarding her spins and put them on cue; turned her paw movements into “wave” and “stick em’ up”; and turned her offered down position into “bang”.

Shaping: A required behavior is achieved by rewarding a succession of small steps until you reach a polished end result. This mentally stimulates the dog by tapping into his “cause and effect” mind. We used shaping to teach Skye to perform in the

Mind games

More advanced mental games you can teach your dog can include identifying, finding and retrieving a variety of toys or objects. We worked with a border collie that could identify and retrieve over 30 different toys!

You can also hide treats around the house for your dog to ﬁnd. musical Annie. As part of her role, she had to slowly enter stage left with her head hanging (she was sad), stop center stage and look left then right (she was alone), hang her head again, then slowly exit stage right. At the end of the show, she descended a staircase to center stage with the rest of the cast to give her bow and exit. Guess who got the biggest applause?

Targeting: In this technique, the dog is taught to touch a part of his body to a target of choice. Targeting can be used to teach him to heel, move away from you, go to a specific mark, retrieve, flip light switches, open and close doors, and more. You can create cute tricks such the one in which Sahara touches her nose to ours in an “Eskimo kiss”. Others can be funny, like “pull my finger”, in which Leia puts her mouth on a treat-scented finger. We now use this as a check in cue while the dog is off-leash. Spending time with your dog should be fun and using games and tricks as part of your daily routine is a great way to train him. Building a bond and teaching self-control doesn’t have to seem like work, and it certainly shouldn’t be intimidating or stressful for the dog. Training should be enjoyable for both of you, while teaching your dog to think for himself, exhibit self-control and make correct choices. We want companions, not slaves!

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PREPARING for a

disaster checklist

√ √ By Sandra Murphy

From hurricanes, tornadoes and crippling winter storms, to wildfires, toxic spills and terrorist attacks, both natural and manmade disasters seem to be occurring on an increasingly regular basis. If you have a dog or cat, you need to plan for his safety and comfort in the event an emergency forces you from your home for any length of time. Proper preparation reduces

DECIDE WHERE YOU WOULD GO IF YOU HAD TO EVACUATE.

Ask a friend or relative if they’d be willing to have you and your animals stay with them if need be, or check to see if there are any animal-friendly hotels in the region. Be sure to pick a destination (or two) at some distance; keep in mind that local acquaintances and accommodations may also be affected by a disaster such as a hurricane or earthquake.

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√

intfse o p nt as sa a t r o y impim stable. e elp h possi s e h er t ou’ll hfree as v o C d y ressan d st an

√

panic and stress, and will help things go as smoothly as possible if you have to evacuate. This four-point checklist can help ensure that you – and your beloved companion – will be as prepared as possible for a potential disaster.

MAKE ARRANGEMENTS FOR YOUR ANIMAL’S RESCUE IN CASE YOU’RE NOT HOME WHEN AN EMERGENCY STRIKES.

Apply stickers to your front and back doors to alert first responders to animals in the house, and/or ask a neighbor if they’ll help. “In an emergency, animals need an advocate to speak for them,” says Jen Leary, firefighter and founder of the all-volunteer Red Paw Emergency Relief Team. “If the homeowner is at work when a disaster hits, a neighbor can tell first responders how many animals are in the house and where they are likely to be found, as well as take charge of them so no one gets lost or goes to Animal Control.”

ASSEMBLE AN EMERGENCY KIT FOR YOUR ANIMAL AND KEEP IT IN AN EASILY ACCESSIBLE PLACE. Paul Purcell, a terrorism and natural disaster preparedness trainer for first responders, and author of Disaster Prep 101, offers these tips: •

ut together a go-bag with small cans of food, bottled P water, any meds or supplements, health records, extra ID, a favorite toy, a photo of yourself with your animal, and a list of emergency contact numbers. Stock enough supplies for at least three days. Stressed dogs and cats eat less, so small cans mean less wasted food and will be easier to carry. Don’t forget a spoon and manual can opener.

• Create

or buy a first aid kit. Add Rescue Remedy or a similar calming agent to help Sparky de-stress.

•

ind an easily accessible place near an entrance to F keep your emergency and first aid kits, and store other relevant accessories alongside it, such an extra collar and leash, a crate or carrier, bedding, cat litter and a litter box.

• Wear

an old t-shirt until it’s beyond ready for the wash. Put the dirty shirt in a Ziploc bag with the emergency kit. If your dog or cat has to be boarded, your scent on the shirt will help comfort him.

Continued on page 32.

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Continued from page 31.

ADDITIONAL SUGGESTIONS

•

A well-trained animal is much easier to work with in an emergency. Training builds a stronger bond between you, keeps his mind and body alert and active, and means he’s more likely to obey your commands, even when he’s distracted by noise, upheaval, strange people and places. This applies more to dogs than cats, but even cats can be trained to some extent.

•

If you live in an apartment building, teach your dog to use the stairs. Depending on the type of emergency, the elevator may not be working.

•

Make sure your dog will walk on a leash with people he doesn’t know; if he won’t, train him to do so, just in case someone else has to rescue him besides you.

•

Train your dog or cat to get into his crate or carrier without a fight. •

•

Alexander Ruggie of 911 Restoration suggests canine back packs so Sparky can help carry his own food, records and toys. This can be a great help if there’s more than one animal to evacuate.

•

If you and your animal are separated despite your best efforts, don’t assume the worst. “We don’t give up,” says Jen. “During one building collapse, a dog was seen on the fallen roof, and a cat was spotted still inside the building. Both were rescued. The second dog, a Chihuahua, was missing, but we went to look for him every day. When the owner got out of hospital, he came to look too. He called his dog, and he came out of the rubble without a scratch.”

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This may seem like overkill, but it’s a good way to discover if you’ve overlooked anything. “Where will everyone go to get out of the house? Set off the smoke detector or the alarm, and take the dog or cat to the exit you’ve chosen,” Jen says. “Break out the best of the best treats, and reward him.” Practice the drill at different times of the day and night, sometimes even in the dark, until it becomes a learned behavior for your animal.

Make sure your animal has proper ID, including a microchip. Shelters and veterinary clinics routinely scan found animals. Keep your contact information current to ensure a successful reunion.

In case of fire, let your animal see you at his level. There will be less smoke nearest the floor. A group crawl will help prevent smoke inhalation – dogs love to crawl, and cats and small dogs are already built close to the ground. A wet towel or bandana over your face will make breathing easier. You probably won’t be able to train a cat to wear one too, but you can with a dog.

DO SOME EMERGENCY PRACTICE RUNS.

Practice the drill at different times of the day and night, sometimes even in the dark, until it becomes a learned behavior for your animal. Despite what we may think, nobody lives in an area that’s totally immune from emergencies. Even an overturned tanker truck or out-of-control grass fire can result in evacuation. Thoughtful preparation can spell the difference between a panicked run for safety, and a calm and orderly exit.

“ give one” Buy one, By Charlotte Walker

Rocky adopted Flip at Marley's Mutts Dog Rescue, the first recipient of his company's food and treat donation program.

How this food and treat company is making a difference in the lives of shelter dogs.

Shelters and rescues are overflowing with homeless pooches. It’s hard for any dog lover to think about them without wishing they could do more to help. Rocky Kanaka found a unique way to make a difference when he launched DOG for DOG in 2011. “He was feeling frustrated that he was not able to do enough to help dogs in need,” says Lorna Ladd, part owner of the company. Rocky also owns The Dog Bakery, which specializes in custom made cakes for canines, so he knows about healthy canine nutrition. He started formulating food and treats for DOG for DOG, which is based on a “buy one/ give one” model. In other words, for every product sold, the Santa Monica-based company gives the same product free to a dog in need. “In December of 2012, DOG for DOG made its first donation drop to Marley’s Mutts Dog Rescue in Tehachapi, California,” says Lorna. “It was here that Rocky fell in love with a boxer puppy named Flip, who had been found in a malnourished condition. Adopting Flip only fueled Rocky’s desire to sell as much as possible so he could make bigger and bigger donations. Many homeless dogs are suffering from a lack of proper nutrition and care, so it’s our mission to feed as many as possible by donating quality food and treats to shelters.”

The company’s products include an all-natural grain-free kibble that contains probiotics, amino acids, fruits and veggies, as well as protein sources like salmon and ocean fish, lamb or pork. There’s also a line of treats and bars made from wholesome ingredients like chicken, duck, and blueberries. Also on the menu is a special peanut butter just for dogs. “It contains peanuts, golden flaxseed, and has added coconut and ginger to help support immunity and digestion,” Lorna says. “We donate food to many rescue groups,” she continues. “These groups are suggested to us by our retailers, who are able to choose which rescue group the food they sell will be donated to.” Along with Marley’s Mutts, the main rescues DOG for DOG has donated to so far include Villalobos Rescue Center and the SPCA. Rocky, Lorna and their colleagues and co-workers have found that the “buy one/give one” model adds up to a win-win situation for both the company and the rescue dogs they help feed. “I love hearing from our passionate supporters,” says Lorna. “We have customers who sometimes drive over 50 miles just to visit a store that sells our food so they can be a part of the movement. They will stop at nothing to buy our products because they believe in the same thing we do – that we can feed every dog in every shelter!” animal wellness

H W much time do you spend

dog? with your

By Charlotte Walker

A busy lifestyle may mean you aren’t able to give your canine companion as much attention as you wish you could. Here are 10 ways to ensure he gets the quality time he needs and deserves.

Ask just about anyone how much time they spend with their dog every day, and chances are, the answer will be: “Not as much as I’d like.” They might add how they hate leaving him home alone so much, or that they can’t take him for long walks because they have so much else to get done. Whether it’s working long hours, attending a child’s soccer game, helping an elderly parent, cleaning the house or shopping for groceries, our days are all too often filled with tasks and activities that don’t leave us enough quality time for our four-legged friends. But there are solutions besides feeling guilty and wishing there were more hours in the day. A little reorganization, creative thinking and multi-tasking can help ensure your dog gets the attention he needs and deserves. Check out some of these suggestions.

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Find ways to make your dog a bigger part of your daily life. If you work outside the home, for example, can you take him with you, even if it’s just a couple of days a week? Depending on your job, this might not be possible, but a growing number of offices are allowing people to bring their dogs to work. Talk to your employer about the benefits of canines in the workplace – e.g. higher morale, increased productivity and less stress.

Alternatively, would your employer be open to letting you work from home sometimes, even for just part of the day, so your dog could have more company? Again, whether or not this is possible depends on the type of job you have, but telecommuting is a popular option with many companies nowadays.

If you live close enough to your job, consider coming home for lunch rather than working through it or going out to eat. By making your lunch the night before and leaving it in the fridge, you’ll have a little extra time before you eat to visit with your dog, take him out and give him a treat. The visit will also be good for you – it provides you with a short break from your desk and helps relax and refresh you for the afternoon.

If you have a partner and/or kids, create a rota so that each person spends some quality time with the dog each day, either taking him for a walk, training him, playing with him, brushing him, or just hanging out with him. It may require some discussion and organization; for example, if you have a family of four, and each of you spends half an hour with the dog every day, whether it’s first thing in the morning, at noon hour, after school, or in the evening, that’s two extra hours of quality time every day on top of what you are hopefully already giving him.

Many people join a gym to get fit, but why not use that time to exercise with your dog instead? A walk or hike in the fresh air with your canine is more fun than working out in a gym, and it costs nothing! During inclement weather, exercise indoors. Set up a mini-agility course in a hallway or recroom. Or invest in a treadmill; you can train your dog to walk on it (with supervision) as well as use it yourself. Over the long term, the cost of even a high quality treadmill will be less than an ongoing gym membership.

If you have kids involved in outdoor sporting events, take your dog along to their games. Most dogs will love the attention and activity. Just be sure to keep him leashed and supervised, and take water and a few favorite treats along.

Pencil in a daily block of quiet time to just be with your dog. A good time might be later in the evening, shortly before bed. Instead of collapsing in front of the TV or turning on the computer, just sit with your dog and give him your undivided attention. Talk to him, snuggle animal wellness

When kindness can

kill

There are times when your dog needs to be left at home, for his own safety. Many people think they’re doing their dogs a favor when they take them along in the car while running errands, but this is only okay if you’re not going to be leaving him in the vehicle for any reason. If you’re simply running the kids to school, or going someplace that allows dogs, like the pet supply store, it’s fine to take your dog along. If you’re going shopping or to the bank, however, leave him at home, even if he has to be alone. The temperature inside a parked car can quickly skyrocket on even a mildly warm day, creating a lifethreatening situation for your dog. It doesn’t matter if the windows are open a crack, or if you think you’ll only be gone “a minute” – never leave him in the car in hot or warm weather. Even in colder weather, it’s not a good idea to leave your dog in the car. If someone were to break into it or steal it, you would also lose your best friend.

with him, groom him, or just quietly relax in his presence. Try not to think about anything else. This time is for you and your dog, and for no one or nothing else. Pick a comfortable and secluded spot in the house where you won’t be disturbed. Even just ten or fifteen minutes of this quiet bonding can make a big difference to both of you – you’ll feel more relaxed and centered, and your dog will bask in your love and attention.

Where does your dog sleep at night? Is he shut out of your bedroom, or relegated to another part of the house? Could you allow him to sleep in your room? Some people love having their dogs on the bed with them, but if you’re not one of them, you might move his bedding into your room so he can at least be near you and have your company during the night. Even sleeping together is quality time together.

Practise obedience or training commands with your dog while you’re making dinner. Chances are, if there’s food involved, your dog will be in the kitchen with you anyhow, so what better opportunity to give him some extra attention and mental stimulation? And the rewards will be right at hand in the form of raw vegetables, meat or cheese.

The same principle can apply with house or yard work. Practice training or obedience, or toss a ball or toy for your dog to fetch back to you while you’re weeding the garden or sorting the laundry.

You may already be using some of these suggestions, but are still perhaps not spending as much time with your dog as you feel you should be. An awareness of how much or little attention you give your dog each day is the first step to seeing where and how you can make improvements. The result will be a happier, welladjusted dog, and a happier, more relaxed you.

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PRODUCT PICKS Golden age

wild!

Venison, wild boar and salmon are nutritional powerhouses. Sojos Wild is a line of freeze-dried dog food made from fresh raw game and fish, and a forager’s blend of human-grade vegetables and fruit. Choose from the Free-Range Venison Recipe, the Wild Boar Recipe or the Wild Caught Salmon Recipe, each of which also contains whole egg, cranberries, celery root, green peas, and other wholesome ingredients. A one-pound bag makes five pounds of fresh, raw food. 1 lb bag – $33.30

Is your best friend a senior? Dr. Goodpet’s Golden Age Formula is a high quality vitamin and trace mineral supplement for older dogs and cats. It provides nutritional support for immunity, health and vitality, and helps maintain a healthy coat, skin and bones. It also helps correct nutritional deficiencies in the diet. Golden Age contains high levels of antioxidant vitamins C and E, over 70 naturally-chelated trace minerals, and all-natural goat’s milk whey for additional protein. 8 oz – $13.95 Goodpet.com

Sojos.com

Give him

grass-fed

Grass-fed meats offer a wider spectrum of nutritional benefits than meat raised in feedlots. US Wellness Meats uses minimal ingredients in their grass-fed offerings for dogs and cats. The product line includes pet burgers with organs, ground chicken or duck backs, marrow bones, chicken necks and other cuts of beef, lamb, bison, pork, rabbit and poultry. Because these meats contain no hormones, antibiotics, grain or cheap fillers, they’re good for the planet too. $6 to $16 GrasslandBeef.com/pet-food

Soothe those irritations

Atopic dermatitis, minor wounds and abrasions, hot spots, parasite infestations, swimmer’s ear…they’re all common, and can cause your dog a lot of discomfort. Sturtevant’s Veterinary Canine formula is an allnatural product for treating bacterial and fungal irritations, and can also be applied under casts or bandages to help prevent lesions. It’s safe, effective and fast-acting and contains no steroids or antibiotics. Made and packaged in the US. $16 SturtevantsVetRemedies.com

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PRODUCT PICKS Enzymes are

essential

Good digestion depends on the right balance and quantity of enzymes in your dog’s gastrointestinal system. These enzymes help break down food for proper nutrient absorption. Ritezyme™ Canine Digestive Support features all-natural digestive enzymes to help increase vigor and mobility, improve circulation, joint and bone health, maintain a healthy body weight, enhance skin, hair and coat, and assist in preventing indigestion, gas and bloating. Regular formula: 100g to 454g – $11.99 to $34.99 Gold formula: 100g to 454g – $15.99 to $47.99

Something to

smile about

Too many people put off having their animals’ teeth cleaned because they’re uneasy about the anesthesia. Animal Dental Care’s Preventive Dental Cleaning & Assessment™ (PDCA) is an affordable and convenient solution for canine and feline dental maintenance. This procedure includes a veterinary wellness exam, a complete dental cleaning, and is 100% anesthesia-free. PDCA is available at over 300 animal hospitals across the United States. AnimalDentalCare.info

Ritezyme.com

Light up his life

Light therapy can reduce inﬂammation, treat sore muscles, heal soft tissue injuries, reduce healing time, increase circulation and relieve arthritis pain. An easyto-use light therapy pad from Canine Light Therapy gives your dog the same therapeutic energy as a laser, but at a fraction of the cost. Available in three sizes. Treat your animal at home or add a rechargeable battery pack and use the pad anywhere. Safe, effective and affordable. Small (with case) – $223.99 Medium (with case) – $449 Large (with case) – $715 CanineLightTherapy.com

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TOP

cancer prevention tips This dreaded disease is common in dogs, but here’s how you can signiﬁcantly reduce your companion’s risk of becoming another statistic.

By Karen Shaw Becker, DVM Did you know your dog is more likely to get cancer than you are? Cancer has become the leading cause of death among canines in the U.S., Europe and Japan. It’s pervasive and often diagnosed too late. These factors, coupled with the risks, heartache and expense associated with aggressive traditional treatments, have many people searching for ways to help their dogs avoid getting ill in the first place.

Although the causes of cancer in dogs are not well understood, there are a number of things you can do to give your companion the best possible chance of avoiding the disease.

DON’T LET HIM GET OVERWEIGHT In studies across species, caloric restriction has been shown to help prevent tumor development and progression. Fewer calories cause the cells of the body to block tumor growth. Too many calories lead to obesity, and obesity is strongly linked to increased cancer risk in humans. There’s a connection between too much glucose, increased insulin sensitivity, inflammation and oxidative stress (all factors in obesity) and cancer. While no direct link has yet been made between obesity and cancer in dogs, it is assumed this link exists. One of the biggest health problems in animals today is weight gain and obesity. It makes sense, then, that the increase in canine cancer rates is in part attributable to the obesity epidemic. Over-feeding your dog is not a loving thing to do. Food is no substitute for quality time. And fat doesn’t just sit harmlessly on your dog’s body. It produces inflammation and that can promote tumor development. animal wellness

Krill oil

FEED HIM AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DIET

Anything that creates or promotes inflammation in the body increases the risk for cancer. Current research suggests cancer is actually a chronic inflammatory disease. The inflammatory process creates an environment in which abnormal cells proliferate. Cancer cells require the glucose in carbohydrates to grow and multiply, so you want to limit or eliminate that energy source. Carbs to remove from your dog’s diet include processed grains, fruits with fructose, and starchy vegetables. Cancer cells generally can’t use dietary fats for energy, so appropriate amounts of good quality fats are nutritionally healthy. Another major contributor to inflammatory conditions is a diet too high in Omega-6 fatty acids and too low in Omega3s. Omega-6s increase inflammation while Omega-3s do the reverse. Poor quality processed pet food is typically loaded with Omega-6 fatty acids and deficient in Omega-3s. A healthy diet for your dog – one that is anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer – consists of real, whole, organic, non-GMO foods, preferably raw. It should include plenty of high quality

protein, including muscle meat, organs and bone; moderate amounts of animal fat; high levels of EPA and DHA (Omega-3 fatty acids, such as krill oil); a few fresh-cut ground veggies; and a bit of antioxidant-rich fruit. This species-appropriate diet is high in moisture content and contains no grains or starches. I also recommend adding a vitamin/mineral supplement and a few beneficial supplements like probiotics, digestive enzymes, medicinal mushrooms and super green foods. Work with a holistic or integrative vet to determine the best supplement regime for your individual dog.

REDUCE OR ELIMINATE HIS EXPOSURE TO TOXINS

Harmful toxins include chemical pesticides like flea and tick preventives, lawn chemicals, tobacco smoke, flame retardants, and household cleaners (detergents, soaps, cleansers, dryer sheets, and room deodorizers). A study conducted over a six-year period by the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University showed that exposure to lawn pesticides, specifically those applied by professional lawn care companies, raised the risk of canine malignant lymphoma by as much as 70%! Another study conducted at Purdue University indicates that exposure to herbicide-treated lawns is associated with a significantly higher risk of bladder cancer in dogs. The chemicals in question are common herbicides containing 2,4-D, 4-chloro-2methylphenoxypropionic acid (MCPP), and/or dicamba. It’s also important to remember that most conventional flea and tick preventives are actually pesticides, regardless of what form they come in – spot-on treatments, pills, dips, solutions, shampoos or collars. Chemical spot-on products attracted the attention of the EPA in 2009 after reports surfaced of over 40,000 adverse events the previous year, including 600 animal deaths. Just because a compound is applied to or worn on your dog’s coat doesn’t mean it’s safe. What goes on your dog goes in your dog, via absorption through the skin or ingestion during grooming. Because we live in a toxic world and avoiding all chemical exposure is nearly impossible, consider periodic detoxification for your dog. The level of his exposure to chemicals will dictate the appropriate frequency and type of detox – again, you need to work directly with a veterinarian to develop a program. If your

animal wellness

dog has constant exposure to toxic chemicals all summer long, a daily oral detox protocol is a wise idea. But if his only source of chemical exposure is a flea and tick product applied on a monthly basis, then a detox program the week after each pill or topical treatment makes sense.

REFUSE UNNECESSARY VACCINATIONS To keep your dog’s first line of defense against cancer – his immune system – balanced and vigorous, it’s important not to overstimulate it with unnecessary vaccines. Vaccine protocols should be tailored to minimize risk and maximize protection, taking into account the breed, background, nutritional status and overall vitality of the dog. The protocol I follow with healthy puppies is to provide a single parvo and distemper vaccine at or before 12 weeks of age, and a second set after 14 weeks. I then titer (at a lab that uses the IFA method) two weeks after the last set of vaccines. If the dog has been successfully immunized, he is protected for life. If titer tests indicate low vaccine levels (which would be highly unlikely), I recommend a booster for only the specific viruses that titered low, and only those to which the animal has a real risk of exposure. I do not use or recommend combination vaccines (four to eight viruses in one injection), which is the standard booster at many veterinary practices.

ALLOW YOUR DOG TO REMAIN INTACT UNTIL AT LEAST 18 TO 24 MONTHS OF AGE Numerous studies now show a clear link between spaying/ neutering and increased cancer rates in dogs, especially large breeds. A 2002 study established an increased risk of osteosarcoma in both male and female Rottweilers who were neutered or spayed before the age of one year. Another study showed that the risk of bone cancer in neutered or spayed large purebred dogs was twice that of intact dogs. A further study, published last year by the University of California, Davis, suggests that spayed female golden retrievers have three to four times the cancer rates of intact females. If you apply these five suggestions in caring for your dog throughout his life, you’ll be offering him a real fighting chance against cancer. You’ll also know you’re doing everything possible to help him enjoy a healthy, high quality life.

can help alleviate moderate behavior problems. By Vivian Zottola, CPDT-KA Many people are reluctant to use behavior medications on their dogs because of the sedation that often accompanies treatment. Essential oils work very well with mild, low to moderate cases of fear and anxiety when paired with a sound and professional Behavior Modification Training plan that is reward based and uses counter conditioning and desensitization while the dog is under threshold. If your dog is experiencing severe anxiety or fear, it is best to first have him assessed by a DVM behaviorist (dacvb.org) or certified applied animal behaviorist (animalbehaviorsociety.org). Your team should also include a professional dog trainer certified in behavior from an organization like CCPDT.org and IAABC.org. According to Dr Joie Power – a retired board-certified neuropsychologist with experience in the olfactory and limbic systems of the brain, and a student of aromatherapy and herbal medicine – aromatherapy is a useful adjunctive intervention in cases of chronic stress and/or depression in humans. The bond between odor and memory can be useful in psychotherapeutic settings. Practitioners may be able to facilitate recall of an event by presenting aromas linked with the event. Research also shows that different live botanical essential oils produce consistently different brain wave patterns on EEGs, even when subjects report little to no perceived change in their mood. Findings suggest aromas can have unconscious effects on human mental states. Anecdotal evidence reported by professional dog trainers, using essential oils to change brain modality while incorporating exercises designed to help change the emotional state of mind, has proven to be successful.

Vivian Zottola specializes in canine communication and behavior modification training using olfactory therapy. She is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and a Small Animal Aromatherapy Practitioner.

animal wellness

Doug

Pug

THE

By Ann Brightman

comical

THIS LITTLE GUY WITH “PERSONALITY ” BRINGS LOVE AND TO PEOPLE AROUND THE GLOBE.

plus

animal wellness

laughter

If you’re looking

for someone to brighten your day, look no further than Doug. He’s an irresistible little pug whose larger-than-life personality and penchant for making people laugh has won the hearts of thousands. You just can’t look at him without smiling, especially when he’s wearing one of his zany costumes, so it’s no surprise he’s become so popular! “I’d wanted a pug since I was 16, but it didn’t make sense for me to actually get one until I had the right place and schedule for a puppy,” says Doug’s doting person, Leslie Mosier. She finally adopted her dream dog during her junior year of college, after she found a dog-friendly apartment, and fell head over heels in love with him right from the start. “He was an adorable and crazy puppy,” she says. “He followed me like my own shadow right from the day I brought him home.” Now two years old, Doug has lost none of his puppy appeal. Part of this can be attributed to his healthy lifestyle. “I switched Doug to a raw diet with Sojos several months ago and he’s made an incredible amount of progress with it,” Leslie says. “He’s like a new dog – his coat is shinier, his breath smells better, and even his snoring has almost completely subsided. I also feed him a teaspoon of coconut oil with his dinner.” Because happiness goes hand in hand with healthiness, Doug has an irrepressible love and zest for life. “He has a huge personality, and never fails to make people smile or laugh,” Leslie says proudly. “I love how he can go up to strangers and completely make their day, regardless of their age, color, social standing or disabilities – his love knows no bounds. We even made a video where we attached notes of encouragement to Doug and had him go up to strangers. One of the locations we shot at was a homeless shelter. Doug was so sweet to each individual. It was very inspiring!” Leslie adds that Doug has always been very photogenic. “A lot of my friends pushed me to get an Instagram account for him when he was a puppy, but I stuck to simply posting funny photos of him on my personal account,” she says. “My account began

I HOPE THAT AS HIS

grows happiness

REACH

, WE

CAN SPREAD THAT TO

AS MANY PEOPLE AS WE POSSIBLY CAN! animal wellness

to grow as a result of Doug’s photos, and I quickly realized that people wanted to see more of him. As soon as I started a dedicated Instagram account for him it grew like wildfire. Doug now has over 1,000,000 followers across Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.” He even stars in his own videos and has his own YouTube channel. “I think people are so attracted to him because they feel like they can relate to him. His personality shines through his photos and captions. My main goal with Doug is to make people smile.” One of the ways in which Leslie does this is to dress her pug up in a variety of fun costumes. “A lot of the costumes came from

“King

”

OF POP CULTURE

Doug is known to many of his fans as the King of Pop Culture. “He’s very ‘bachelor’like per se, and very up on current events,” quips Leslie. “If there’s a popular song on the radio, chances are he’ll make a video with it!”

online, but many were put together out of random things of my own,” she explains. “For example, his dinosaur costume for the Jurassic Park video we made came from a company, but his Harry Potter costume was put together from funny glasses, a dog tuxedo, and a scarf. I’m very lucky that Doug loves wearing clothes (even though he tends to look grumpy) and I have a ton of fun dressing him up – especially when we’re in public and I get a lot of people pointing and laughing!”

DOUG THE PUG IS ONE OF THE

happiest funniest AND

LITTLE GUYS I’VE EVER MET.

Doug’s moments in the limelight don’t stop with his costumes – there have been times he’s attracted as much attention and evoked as much emotion as human celebrities. “He was a special guest at a Meghan Trainor concert, and upon leaving the show we saw about 50 of Meghan’s fans waiting outside her tour bus,” Leslie recalls. “As soon as Doug and I walked past them, we found out that some of his own biggest fans happened to be there too – a girl even cried! It made me realize that the numbers I see on social media actually do equate to real people.” Given how young both Doug and Leslie are, they surely have a long and auspicious future ahead of them, and it’s clear they’re both looking forward to seeing where it takes them next. “Doug the Pug is one of the happiest and funniest little guys I’ve ever met,” Leslie enthuses. “I hope that as his reach grows, we can spread that happiness to as many people as we possibly can! I’m very lucky to be on this journey with my little best friend.”

animal wellness

Titer testing D gs Cats

FAQs By Shawn Messonnier, DVM

ANSWERING YOUR QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS ALTERNATIVE TO ANNUAL VACCINES. Vaccinations can be both helpful and harmful. It all depends on how they’re used. In young dogs and cats, vaccines help establish immunity from infectious disease. But repeated and unnecessary vaccines can be harmful if the immune system reacts to them inappropriately and makes the animal ill.

Titer testing is a safe way to avoid over-vaccination while ensuring your companion remains protected from disease. This article will answer some common questions about vaccine titers.

WHAT EXACTLY ARE TITER TESTS?

Vaccine titer tests are simple blood tests that measure your animal’s antibodies to certain diseases. In most practices, these diseases include distemper, parvo and hepatitis virus for dogs, and rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and panleukopenia virus for cats. The titer is a number derived from testing your animal’s blood for antibodies against these diseases. A positive titer means your dog or cat has antibodies against a specific disease (the titer usually results from prior vaccination to the disease, or exposure to the disease). It indicates he is protected from the illness caused by that particular virus. For example, a positive titer to distemper virus indicates your dog is protected from distemper.

WHEN SHOULD TITER TESTING BE DONE?

There is no right or wrong answer to this question. Most holistic veterinarians do limited vaccinations for their puppy and kitten patients, using a series of immunizations to ensure adequate protective immunity without “overdoing it” like traditional doctors do. A limited booster series may be done one year following the final puppy or kitten vaccine visit, when the animals are approximately 18 months of age. Titer testing is then done the following year and continues annually for the life of the animal. Vaccines are given only when titer testing shows a need for them based on the dog or cat’s immunity.

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Titer testing can also be done for stray or rescue/adopted animals with an unknown vaccination history. These animals can be immunized if needed, based upon their titer testing results.

IS IT EXPENSIVE?

It depends. Some veterinarians, especially those who don’t routinely do titer testing, charge a lot for it. I’ve seen invoices for $200 to $400 just for distemper and parvo titer testing. But if you visit a doctor who routinely does titer testing, especially if it’s done in the doctor’s office, it is very reasonably priced. For my own canine patients, I do titer testing for distemper, parvo and hepatitis virus, plus a complete annual checkup, for under $200.

IF MY ANIMAL HAS A POSITIVE TITER, WILL ADDITIONAL VACCINES BE HARMFUL?

Giving additional vaccinations to a dog or cat that has a positive titer for a particular disease will not offer more protection, is a waste of health care dollars, and could be harmful if he reacts adversely to the vaccine. Positive titers indicate your animal is protected and vaccines can be skipped that year. Continued on page 48.

A positive titer means your dog or cat has antibodies against a specific disease.

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Continued from page 47.

WHY DOES MY VET SAY TITER TESTS ARE USELESS?

I don’t really know why some doctors say this unless they are ignorant of basic immunology. Titer testing is used every day in veterinary practice to diagnose diseases such as heartworm and feline leukemia infection. And veterinarians who have themselves been vaccinated against rabies routinely have their titers tested to determine if and when they might need to be revaccinated.

Unfortunately, most city, state and county laws require frequent rabies vaccinations because they do not accept titer testing. Hopefully, this will change someday. For now, vaccinating for rabies every three years is adequate as long as your animal is healthy.

CAN I TAKE MY ANIMAL TO A BOARDING KENNEL OR GROOMER IF I CHOOSE TITER TESTING IN PLACE OF VACCINES?

Since kennels, grooming facilities, and doggie daycare businesses require proof of immunization, either recent vaccines or titer tests showing that the animal is protected and not in need of additional vaccination should be acceptable. Keep in mind that grooming and boarding facilities associated with a conventional veterinary clinic will usually not accept titer results, whereas those not associated with a veterinary clinic will usually accept either titers or vaccines. Check with the facility to be sure.

IS IT BETTER TO HAVE TITER TESTING DONE AT THE CLINIC OR BY AN OUTSIDE LAB?

By doing the testing “in-house”, the cost is greatly reduced and quality control is better due to the smaller volume of patients being tested. That being said, outside labs can do titer testing nicely, especially for busier practices that may not have time to do it in the office, but the price is likely to be higher.

Titer testing tells us a lot about the state of your dog or cat’s immune system and its ability to prevent specific diseases.

WHAT ABOUT RABIES SHOTS?

Rabies titer testing is frequently done in people, as mentioned earlier. It is also an acceptable method for determining protection against rabies in animals, and is required for international transportation.

IF I NEED TO VACCINATE BASED ON TESTING RESULTS, WHEN SHOULD THE NEXT TITER TEST BE DONE?

It would be done the following year at your dog or cat’s annual visit. The titer test should be normal at that time, indicating protective immunity without the need for further immunization – but we don’t know this for sure, so the testing should be done annually following any booster immunization.

IS THERE ANY DOWNSIDE TO TITER TESTING?

Not really. However, no test is perfect. Titer testing tells us a lot about the state of your dog or cat’s immune system and its ability to prevent specific diseases. There is no guarantee that a titer will protect him – but there is no guarantee a vaccine will protect him either. If your groomer or boarding facility does not accept titer results, you will need to either over-vaccinate your dog or cat (not a good choice), or find another facility that is more open-minded and concerned with his health (a much better choice!).

animal wellness

PASSAGES

The “rental” dog By Janet Freehling

By Janet Freehling

I was searching online for the perfect senior addition to our

family, when a white-muzzled beagle face grinned back at me from the screen. Lizzy was a Brittany spaniel/beagle mix living at a shelter an hour’s drive away. The list of this dog’s good qualities was impressive. Although eight years old, she had lots of energy and ran past the younger dogs to get to the play yard. A gentle soul, she loved everyone. Socializing at charity events was a favorite pastime for her. One sentence, “written” by Lizzy, stood out from the rest: “I was originally adopted from here, but my parents relocated and I was returned, so I guess I was just a ‘rental dog’.” During my drive to the shelter, the words “rental dog” kept repeating in my mind. Walking into the shelter, I was met by a staff member who seemed glad to meet the potential adopter of a dog who was clearly one of her favorites. The noise was deafening as we passed the kennel area on the way to the play yard. Waiting in the outside enclosure, I hoped this senior canine and I would be a good match. Lizzy shuffled into the fenced yard, her bright-eyed beagle face smiling up at me. I felt an instant connection with her. Although the online description read “small dog”, Lizzy had

animal wellness

obviously packed on the pounds since it was posted. In fact, she was grossly overweight and clearly arthritic, so getting this girl healthy was going to be a challenge. But there was something about her expression that made me want to try. As I filled out adoption forms, Lizzy visited with the office cat. They interacted so well that my concerns about introducing her to my own cats evaporated. Paperwork finished, what should have been a short walk to the parking lot lengthened so that Lizzy could sniff plants, picnic tables, and every blade of grass. Finally settled in the back seat of my car, she spent the drive quietly watching the scenery. Home at last, the meet and greet with Oliver, my senior Schnoodle, couldn’t have gone better. Tails wagging, they were instant buddies. My cats had mixed reactions to the newcomer. The timid ones scurried under the sofa to get a safer view, while the braver ones stood their ground and met Lizzy nose to nose. After exploring every inch of each room in our home, a very tired girl flopped down on the living room floor and slept for several hours. Concerned, I checked often to be sure she was still breathing. Thinking back to the noisy kennel, it dawned on me this was probably the first peaceful sleep Lizzy had had in months.

Always beautiful on the inside, she became beautiful on the outside too. She was energized after her nap, so it seemed a good time for a walk around the neighborhood. I expected a relaxing stroll, but Lizzy had other ideas. A fast walk became a jog and then a run. Apparently, this girl didn’t know she was an overweight senior! The next day, we began our “Get Lizzy Healthy” program. First came a trip to the vet to address a chronic ear infection. Next, morning and evening walks and a quality diet. Visiting the groomer was a new experience for Lizzy. Though the dryer never became her friend, she learned to tolerate it. After a few months, her dull, dry dark coat became a silky, soft copper and white. Oliver has received massage and Reiki for several years and Lizzy loved them too – she relaxed and fell asleep partway through her very first session. Lizzy lost weight and the arthritis that had been so obvious when we first met gradually disappeared. I watched her confidence grow. Relaxing on our back deck, she never tired of watching people or wildlife pass by. Even in the worst weather, her ever-present smile never faltered during our walks. Always beautiful on the inside, she became beautiful on the outside too.

The author's "Get Lizzy Healthy" program allowed the senior beagle to enjoy over a year of happiness at her new home.

Given how Lizzy’s health had improved, I thought we’d have lots more time together. But a little less than a year after I adopted her, my girl seemed “off”. After having her tested, I learned her liver was failing. Lizzy died on June 23 of last year with me by her side. It doesn’t seem fair that we only had a year-and-a-half together. But as we all know, life’s not always fair.

Would I adopt another senior knowing our time together could be so short? The answer is yes. Lizzy taught me many lessons, the most important being to never lose hope. Although she ended up at a shelter three times in her life, Lizzy happily accepted and trusted me, even after being let down by the people in her past. No animal should end her life believing she’s a “rental”. All deserve a permanent loving home, and I’m glad I had the opportunity to give that to Lizzy. animal wellness

for

FASHION

FIFI

By Claudia Bensimoun

ot so long ago, many people laughed at the idea of apparel for dogs. Even basic utilitarian garments like weatherresistant coats were often met with derisive amusement. But things have changed dramatically. Canine fashion is booming, and it goes far beyond functional garments for inclement weather. The latest fashion creations for dogs range from colorful hoodies and personalized tees to beach wear, tuxedos and even dresses.

CANINE FASHION FOLLOWS HUMAN FASHION If you want to learn about dressing your four-legged friend, take a look at fashion trends for humans. Pooch parents often opt for colors and fabrics similar to those they wear themselves. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Interestingly enough, you can spot trends for dogs by following trends for babies,â&#x20AC;? adds Laurren Darr, founder of the International Association of Pet Fashion (IAPFP). Nowadays, most dog lovers know their canines need protective clothing to protect them from the elements. That said, many canine apparel lines are no longer strictly utilitarian, and will feature everything you love about your own favorite fashion brands. For example, Maple Leash is a Canadian animal clothing company that offers a large collection of stylish, natural, handmade wool sweaters for cool fall weather, colored with natural dyes from plants. The company also has poly/cotton dog hoodies as well as snowsuits and accessories. These garments protect dogs from the weather while looking sharp and fashionable.

animal wellness

HOT TRENDS Here’s what’s “in” right now:

bold colors

• Lots of , with bright neon hues balanced against more muted shades.

geometric prints – Southwestern tribal

• Patterned patterns are popular. •

Japanese street fashion – the Harajuku style is popular,

•

Mix and match – Combine different textiles and patterns,

such as stripes with plaids, dots with prints, or denims with edgy urban patterns like those from Really Love Dogs.

C lassic rocker look

• – The traditional James Dean look is popular, but with a twist. For example, Couture By Sophie offers the traditional black leather look, as well as a strikingly bright look in orange. Continued on page 54.

with bursts of color and bold designs.

Statement hoodies and tees, and hooded vests. • “Must haves for summer include some doggie sunglasses and, for the ‘ladies’, bright ‘dresses’ in a summery print,” •

says Laurren.

ain slickers

jackets in an earthy orange are

• “For fall, r and going to be popular,” she adds.

function

• Fashion meets – Central Park Pups has a line that combines coat, leash and harness in one, easy-to-put-on garment.

Wearable

• technology – Light Up Fashions feature garments with LED lights. Look for more companies to incorporate this safety idea by adding lights to fashionable apparel and accessories. Couture By Sophie

animal wellness

Central Park North offers a selection of colorful and stylish garments that combine coat, harness and leash.

DONT FORGET

safety and comfort When choosing apparel for your dog, be sure to consider fit, safety and comfort as well as fashion and style. Continued from page 53.

SUPPORTING ANIMAL CAUSES Laurren says most canine fashion designers support animalrelated causes either by volunteering, donating money, products or a percentage of their sales, or by taking part in special events. On May 29, for instance, several dog fashion companies, including Dogs N Ties, participated in San Francisco SPCA’s “Dogs on the Catwalk” cocktail party, where dogs strutted their stuff beside human models. “For the first time, we hosted a fashion show with the latest trends for both dogs and people,” says Krista Maloney, Media Relations Specialist for the organization. “These parties help bring people to the shelter who might not otherwise visit; every time we host an event like this, lots of animals find new loving families.”

• First of all, never force your dog to get dressed up if he doesn’t want to. “There are some dogs that just don’t like it,” Laurren cautions. “Either they were never trained to wear clothing, or they are simply resistant. I’m not a proponent of any animal being forced into wearing fashion if he doesn’t want to. It should be enjoyable for the dogs as well as their parents.” • Make sure nothing your dog wears will inhibit his range of motion. “Fabrics that are not only comfortable, but move with the dog, must be considered in any garment purchase,” Laurren adds. The fabric should stretch comfortably over the dog, allowing for easy movement. • If you walk your dog at night, look for garments with reﬂective materials or details, especially if the apparel is dark-colored. • Proper fit is also crucial so take your dog’s measurements before making any purchase. “Try the outfit on and make sure it fits him properly,” Laurren says. “You wouldn’t want to wear something that’s too tight, especially around the neck or waist. Make sure sleeves and legs aren’t too long, as this could cause him to trip and hurt himself. And if a garment is too large, your dog could jump or wriggle out of it.” • It’s also a good idea to watch for potential allergies your dog may have to any of the materials in a piece of clothing. If skin irritation develops and/or he starts scratching, remove the garment. • Be sure to supervise your dog whenever he’s wearing any form of apparel.

GOING CLOTHES SHOPPING? Central Park Pups, centralparkpups.com Couture by Sophie, couturebysophie.com Dogs ‘N Ties, bows-n-ties.com/dogsnties Light Up Fashions, lightupfashions.com Maple Leash, mapleleash.com Really Love Dogs, reallylovedogs.com

animal wellness

THE SCOOP EXOTIC PROTEINS FOR KITTY

Evanger’s is celebrating its 80th anniversary with the launch of new Super Premium Dinners for picky feline palates. Recipes include Rabbit & Quail, Holistic Pheasant, and Duck, all made with premium, US-grown ingredients. These grain and gluten-free cat dinners are ideal for allergy-prone or ﬁnicky felines. evangersdogfood.com

INCREASE HIS IMMUNITY

Improve your dog’s immunity and quality of life with with I’m-Yunity and I’m-Yunity Too. Each contains proprietary medicinal mushroom extracts of Coriolus versicolor and/or Reishi to reduce pain and fatigue, and improve energy levels, mobility and appetite. Learn about clinical results at ImYunityForDogs.com and use “wellness” code for 5% discount.

LEARN ANIMAL FIRST AID

Would you be able to help your dog or cat in an emergency? Want to learn ways to prevent illness in your beloved companion, and how to recognize problems at an early stage? Earn Walks 'N' Wags Pet First Aid Certiﬁcation either in person or via distance learning. Instructor programs are also available. walksnwags.com

ACUPOINT APP FOR ANDROID

The Canine Acupoint App from Tallgrass is now available for Android as well as Apple mobile devices. Use it to access all 12 major meridians, check acupoint classiﬁcations, and access speciﬁc condition charts for a wide range of problems including seizures, hip dysplasia, heat stroke, digestive and skin issues, and more. Buy and download at: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.canine.acupoints&hl=en.

NEW WHOLE FOOD RECIPE

Brave™ is a brand new recipe from The Honest Kitchen for puppies and adult dogs. It’s grainfree and potato-free, and made with just six whole food ingredients (Marine Stewardship Council Certiﬁed pollock, organic coconut, chickpeas, celery, pumpkin and spinach), plus vitamins and minerals. thehonestkitchen.com/brave

SUMMER FUN WITH SWIM COLLARS

These buddies are enjoying summertime in the water while wearing swim collars made by Smoochy Poochy. The material is an alternative for nonleather users; it won’t stretch or take on odor, is easy to clean and available with stainless steel hardware. Lots of styles and colors! The optional handsfree leash ﬁts into you and your dog’s lifestyle: hiking, shopping, training, walking – and summer fun. petsfuture.com animal wellness

Treating

CANCER By Nancy Scanlan, DVM, CVA

Why multiple therapies are necessary

ancer isn’t a simple disease. It attacks and affects the body in numerous, often insidious ways, which is one reason it can be difficult to treat. It causes inflammation, weakens the immune system, injures healthy cells, increases acidity and more. Conventional treatments such as chemotherapy can cause further unpleasant effects that impact the animal’s well-being. Treating cancer successfully means taking all these effects into consideration by drawing on multiple approaches and therapies to fight the disease while keeping the animal as comfortable as possible.

KILLING CANCER CELLS The metabolism of cancer cells injures normal cells, which then have a harder time withstanding the effects of the cancer. They can't function normally, and the body is weaker because of it. So part of the treatment should include methods to decrease the bad effects of cancer cell metabolism. Doing so will strengthen the body in general, and help increase the animal’s energy. Much conventional treatment concentrates on interfering with the rapid division of cancer cells. This also affects normal cells that divide rapidly (though less rapidly than cancer cells), accounting for some of the more famous side effects of chemotherapy (vomiting, diarrhea, and low red and white blood cell counts). These in turn affect appetite, as well as the ability to absorb the nutrients needed to keep normal cells healthy.

animal wellness

Supplements such as slippery elm bark, pectin and aloe, though they do not necessarily affect cancer directly, can help keep an animal’s appetite strong and maintain intake of proper nutrition during chemotherapy.

TREATING ANEMIA CAUSED BY CHEMO Anemia makes the animal feel weak and less energetic. There are three possible treatments for anemia caused by chemotherapy: • Decrease or temporarily stop the chemotherapy until the anemia improves. Many veterinary oncologists will do this until the blood count is higher. • Give injections of erythropoietin (also known as Epogen®) to stimulate production of red blood cells. • Give the animal blood transfusions. Human cancer patients given transfusions alone survived longer than those given Epogen (with or without transfusions). But blood transfusions can be expensive for dogs and cats. Fortunately, a Chinese herbal formula (Marrow Plus from Health Concerns) does a good job of treating anemia without depleting the body of energy.

DECREASING ACIDITY Cancer processes very large quantities of glucose and creates a great deal of lactic acid. This acid is excreted into the spaces between cells, and diffuses out from the tumor into the area around it. An acid environment increases the malignancy of cancer, and the tumor’s tendency to metastasize. Nor is acid healthy for normal cells. So if you can decrease the amount of acid in general, and reduce the quantity of glucose processed by cancer cells, you can limit the acidity of the environment around the tumor and make it less invasive. An alkaline diet – although helpful – is not extreme enough to counteract what the cancer cells are doing. Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) neutralizes acid, but too much can cause vomiting and ulcers. Calcium carbonate (which is found in antacids) can also neutralize acid; but cancer is often associated with excessively high calcium, which can cause additional problems such as kidney damage. Proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole keep the positive ions (which create acidity) from being pumped out of the cancer cell. This makes the inside of the cancer cell significantly more acidic, thereby damaging it. So a combination of a low dose of omeprazole and baking soda can help decrease acidity outside the cell (good for normal cells) and dramatically increase acidity inside cancer cells (bad for cancer). This effect can be boosted by adding baking soda to the diet, but not so much that it causes side effects.

COMBATING INFLAMMATION Cancer increases inflammation in the body. Inflammatory markers are higher in cancer patients and are associated with poor prognosis. A lower incidence of cancer is seen in people who regularly take NSAID-type anti-inflammatory drugs, but this does not hold true for the cortisone family. Curcumin, a derivative of turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer actions and can also help with other inflammatory diseases such as arthritis. Continued on page 58.

animal wellness

Continued from page 57.

BOOSTING IMMUNITY The immune system plays a big part in the fight against cancer. Immune cells kill cancer and clean up the dead tissue and toxic areas associated with the death of cancer cells. Without a healthy, active immune system, cancer can't be destroyed. Neoplastic cells have many ways of fooling the immune system. They may coat themselves with protein, concealing from the immune cells the parts of the tumor’s surface that say “cancer”. The immune cells thus can’t recognize the cancer cells as being abnormal.

Medicinal mushrooms can increase the number and activity of immune cells, thereby strengthening the “army” that fights cells one on one.

Proteolytic enzymes will dissolve the protein coat and reveal the surface to the immune cells again, so they can recognize the cancer as an enemy. Cancer can also reduce the numbers of immune cells. Medicinal mushrooms can increase the number and activity of these immune cells, thereby strengthening the “army” that fights cells one on one.

The treatments discussed so far do three things: q Improve the health and surroundings of normal cells. w Improve the appetite, digestion and well-being of the patient. e Decrease the general health and malignancy of cancer cells.

TALKING ABOUT TUMORS….

DIET AND SUPPLEMENTS

Cancer does not process fat well, but normal cells can use fat for energy. If you decrease simple carbohydrates in the animal’s diet, block glucose metabolism and supply healthy fats, you can block the main source of energy for cancer, yet still have an energy source available for normal cells. Fermented wheat germ extract does just this. And lycopene (from tomatoes) inhibits insulin, which cancer needs to be able to take in that large amount of glucose. Finally, several herbs and supplements can actively fight cancer. • Bloodroot acts by causing apoptosis (cell suicide). What many people do not realize is that this herb causes apoptosis in both normal and cancer cells, so it must be used very carefully in order to prevent destruction of normal tissue. • Intravenous pure vitamin C (without preservatives, diluted and given slowly) attacks cancer. • Hoxsey and Essiac formulas both contain herbs with specific anti-cancer effects. • A number of Chinese formulas also directly attack cancer. Talk to a holistic veterinarian about the correct way to use nutrition and supplements for a dog or cat with cancer.

animal wellness

Something you may not know is that “a tumor” is actually thousands of tumors, because the cancer is constantly mutating. Over 280 different mutations have so far been identified in cancer cells, as compared to the genes in normal cells. These changes can occur in any combination and number. So what may seem a single tumor is actually a lot of different minitumors, related but not exactly the same. Even if a treatment is ideally suited for the majority of cells in a tumor, sooner or later a mutation will occur that is resistant to that treatment. A treatment that works for one tumor does not necessarily work for the rest, so this is another reason you need to treat as many as possible at the same time. The more different ways you can directly fight cancer, the more cells will be killed initially. If the tumor returns, it will take longer to achieve this goal. Though cancer is a scary diagnosis, the more you know about it, the more empowered you’ll be when it comes time to discussing treatment with your veterinarian. An approach that addresses as many different aspects of the disease as possible can strengthen your dog or cat’s chances of recovery.

CANCER CONSIDERATIONS, ETC.

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C A N I N E F L U 60

animal wellness

The recent H3N2 outbreak has caused a lot of alarm, but an integrative approach can help with treatment and prevention.

D gs Cats

By Barbara Royal, DVM, CVA It started in the Chicago, Illinois area earlier this year and has been popping up in other states, from California to New Jersey. This new and virulent type A canine flu virus (H3N2) originally came from Korea in 2007. It was initially an avian virus, but it has since adapted to affect both dogs and cats. The virus causes upper respiratory signs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; nasal discharge, cough, lethargy, decreased appetite and fever. It can progress to pneumonia and become life-threatening. Not all dogs and cats show all signs. Because this current outbreak is not from the H3N8 flu virus (which was originally a horse virus), the currently available canine flu vaccine may not provide any protection from it.

PNEUMONIA IS THE BIGGEST ISSUE The biggest concern with this particular virus seems to be how it opens the respiratory system to secondary bacterial infection, making bacterial pneumonia a more common sequelae to the initial virus. Antibiotics with good pulmonary activity are typically needed to help fight bacterial pneumonia. Holistic practitioners have found additional help battling this condition by using nutrition, herbs and essential oils.

Many alternative treatments can be used to help bolster the immune system and decrease the progression of the virus into pneumonia. It is reassuring to note that this is a seasonal flu virus, and so far, most animals have recovered well with sensible attention to their care using holistic and/or conventional treatments.

PREVENTION MEANS KEEPING HIM STRONG AND HEALTHY • Avoid contact with animals that may be shedding the flu virus. • Avoid unnecessary vaccines and topical flea and tick pesticides during a flu outbreak. Vaccines and pesticides can temporarily distract or decrease the function of the immune system. • Feed your animal a fresh, well-balanced diet, preferably raw and without chemicals, fillers and carbohydrates. • Ensure he receives regular exercise. • Consider supplements that help boost the immune system and fight inflammation, bacteria and viruses – these include turmeric, oregano, garlic and fish oils. Work with an integrative or holistic veterinarian to determine the correct dosage for your individual dog or cat.

ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT OPTIONS When an animal is showing flu signs, conventional medical treatment will include antibiotics, cough medicine, subcutaneous fluids and B vitamins. Alternative medicine options include the following:

Homeopathy Homeopathic viral nosodes, and other homeopathic combinations for flu and colds, like Oscillococcinum or Bryonia, are effective for reducing signs, lowering fever and improving upper respiratory condition. They are effective and safe –

especially for cats. They include ingredients like Belladonna, Aconitium napellus, Echinacea angustifolia, Eupatorium perfoliatum, Gelsmium sempervirens, Ferrum phosphoricum and Influenzinum. Often, animals in an epidemic need the same remedy, so homeopaths find the genus epidemicus by listing the symptoms of all infected animals, then finding a remedy with which to begin treatment. It’s sometimes necessary to find the simillimum, the matching remedy for each individual animal, to both deeply heal from the virus and build overall health.

Chinese herbs and other supplements • Six Gentle Pets is a very effective Chinese herbal combination that can reduce phlegm and decrease coughing. • Colloidal silver, either in a nasal spray or as an oral supplement, may also be beneficial. • Antibacterial and antiviral herbs and supplements can also be used separately.

Acupuncture Acupuncture and aquapuncture (with Traumeel or vitamin B12) may be helpful for the immune system, but the contagious nature of this virus makes it difficult for repeated vet visits. Points should be chosen as dictated by exam, and may also include BL13 (wind/cold in lung), LU7, 9, 10 (circulation/clearing/fever lung), GV14, 20

animal wellness

Consider supplements that help boost the immune system and fight inflammation, bacteria and viruses – these include turmeric, oregano, garlic and fish oils.

(immune system), BL10 (local release of muscle tension from cough), 11 (lung), and LI11 (wind invasion).

Massage Massage can often do what no medications can. It improves circulation, increases drainage of lymph and phlegm, and relieves pressure from inflammation. It also provides emotional support to an ailing animal. In addition to general massage techniques, animals can get relief from small circle massages around the eyes and face and over the neck, and from upward strokes across the thorax and ribs.

Steam with essential oils To help decrease coughing in a dog (caution must be observed with using essential oils in cats), put him on a bed on the bathroom floor for a few minutes, with a hot shower running nearby. Put three to four drops of any of the following essential oils on a cotton ball, and put it in the bathroom too: • Thieves oil (also an effective antiseptic agent for surfaces) • Eucalyptus oil • Peppermint oil • Sage oil • Oregano oil The smell shouldn’t be too strong, just noticeable. Remember, an animal’s sense of smell is over 20x stronger than ours, so don’t stress him out with too strong a scent. Be very careful not to overheat the dog, especially if there is a fever involved. As worrying as H3N2 is, there’s no need to panic. Do what you can to prevent illness in your dog or cat as outlined earlier, stay alert for any respiratory signs, and take him to the vet if he seems “off color”.

Editor’s note

On May 7, IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. announced that they had developed, validated and made available a test for the detection of H3N2. The H3N2 Influenza Virus RealPCR Test allows for specific testing for the strain responsible for the outbreak. “We have developed an accurate diagnostic for this canine influenza strain to ensure that veterinary practices across the country are equipped with the tools they need to provide the best possible care to their patients, and to help contain this outbreak and keep it from spreading further,” says Dr. Christian Leutenegger, head of PCR molecular diagnostics. You can learn more at idexx.com/canineh3n2.

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Herbal legacy A strong and balanced immune system is one of the main keys to good health in dogs, cats and people. Efficient immunity can help prevent many diseases and conditions, ranging from allergies and infections to cancer. There are many ways to boost the immune system and overall well-being of your companion animal (and yourself), and herbs are among those ways. These four herbs in particular work synergistically to support immune and bodily health:

 Burdock root was used traditionally to help reduce mucus,

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which are believed to help dissolve mucus deposits in tissues, glands and nerve channels. The inner bark, rich in calcium, magnesium and vitamins (A, B, C, K), helps nourish and soothe organs, tissues and mucus membranes and is useful for the lungs. It also helps neutralize acids from occasional indigestion.

 Sheep sorrel was used in traditional folk herbalism to cool

the body, and create sweating and detoxification through the skin. It also acts as a diuretic, useful in maintaining healthy kidney and urinary functions. It is rich in vitamins and trace minerals (ascorbic acid, mineral oxides, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, silicon and rutin) and is thought to nourish the glandular system.

 Indian rhubarb, used in small amounts, is gently laxative and helps purge the liver of toxic buildup and waste. It helps neutralize acids due to indigestion. Its malic acid also carries oxygen to all parts of the body, aiding in healing and promoting a positive and balancing effect upon the whole digestive system.

Essiac is a long-established supplement that consists of these four herbs, all of which grow in the wilderness of Ontario, Canada. Nurse Rene Caisse discovered the formula in the 1920s – the original formula is believed to have come from the Canadian Ojibway Indians. For many years, nurse Caisse used Essiac (“Caisse” spelled backwards) at her clinic in Bracebridge, Ontario. She never accepted money from her patients. She spent most of her career defending herself against the medical and governmental establishments, and believed the only reason she was never imprisoned was because she had so much popular support as well as many well-documented stories of Essiac’s efficacy. Although Nurse Caisse worked with human patients, Essiac is nowadays available for dogs and cats too. Offered in a convenient capsule form, this herbal dietary supplement helps to support your companion’s immune system and keep him/her healthy.

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To the Rescue Dhana Metta Rescue Society –

Animal Wellness will donate 40% of each subscription purchased using promo code AWA245 to Dhana Metta Rescue Society.

Location: Surrey, BC Year established: 2007 Number of staff/volunteers/foster homes: Approximately 12 volunteers and ten foster homes Types of animal they work with: “We rescue and support all breeds of dogs and cats, and specialize in sick, vulnerable and special needs animals,” says Jen Lundgren. Fundraising projects: “We have winetasting events, pub nights, vendor parties, adoption events, Latin night dance fundraisers and square fundraisers.” Favorite rescue story: “Willie was returned to us in December of 2012 after having been adopted two years before. When he arrived, he was in a small carrier he could not even stand up in. I opened the door, and was absolutely shocked. Willie was emaciated and had urine scalds on his body, a result of being crated all the time. I held him in my arms and cried, begging for his forgiveness and for entrusting his life to someone so undeserving of his love. I booked a vet visit immediately. “Thankfully, Willie bounced back quickly. You could soon start to see life in his eyes, the will to live and eat. Though he

For Cat's Sake Rescue –

Top: Cricket and Velvetine take their ease. Bottom: An adoption event finds new homes for several kitties.

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dhanamettarescuesociety.org

This rescue helps special needs animals like the pooch above, and Willie (right) who arrived emaciated and in a state of neglect.

Animal Wellness will donate 40% of each subscription purchased using promo code AWA241 to For Cat's Sake Rescue.

Location: Greater Milwaukee Area Year established: 2002 Number of staff/volunteers/foster homes: About 40 volunteers, of which 19 are foster homes Types of animal they work with: Cats Favorite rescue story: “Simon was one of a litter of five, and the last to get adopted,” says volunteer Darlene. “He was the sweetest, most precious little boy, but very scared and timid. I thought Simon would be with me a long time, when out of nowhere this lovely lady and her daughter turned up to adopt him because their own kitty Cloudy needed a friend. “I often get updates on how Cloudy and Simon have become best friends and how much he has outgrown his shy ways. Every time I hear from Simon's new family and get pictures of him, it warms my heart!” forcatssake.org

has diabetes, he is thriving on a raw food diet. He was adopted by one of our foster homes and is now a normal, happy little dude enjoying the love and care he deserves.”

Animal Wellness has supported rescue efforts for almost 15 years and is a proud partner of Best Friends Animal Society. This column honors the work of shelters and rescues across North America. For their full stories, visit www.AnimalWellnessMagazine.com

Coastal Animal Rescue –

Animal Wellness will donate 40% of each subscription purchased using promo code AWA251 to Coastal Animal Rescue.

Location: Murrells Inlet, SC Year established: 2005 Number of staff/volunteers/foster homes: 50 volunteers and five foster homes Types of animal they work with: Cats and dogs Fundraising projects: “We’re raising funds for an air ventilation system in our cat shelter and are expanding and updating our dog areas,” says Paula Syms. Favorite rescue story: “We received a call about a dog crying somewhere in a wooded area. Our director jumped in his car, drove 40+ miles, and walked through the woods for a few hours until he finally found the dog. It was a female Jack Russell and she looked like she had been in a fight. Her leg was hanging, she had bite marks all over her, and was dehydrated. “We named her Gretchen, and although she unfortunately had to have her leg amputated she was an inspiration to all of us during her stay with us. We soon learned not to tell her she has only three legs, because she doesn't know it! Gretchen is now in her ‘fur-ever’ home, living the life of a princess with a local radio personality who often talks about her on air.” coastalanimalrescue.org

A spacious dog run and cat area gives residents plenty of opportunities for exercise.

The Philly Kitty Rescue – Animal Wellness will donate 40% of each subscription purchased using promo code AWA242 to The Philly Kitty Rescue.

continued to grow, gain weight, and be a typical ‘teenage’ boy in his foster home.” Goose underwent several operations to repair the damage to his mouth and palate, but still needs more surgery. “It will be about $3,000, and definitely a huge fundraising undertaking. But to meet Goose is to love him, and we couldn’t imagine not trying to give him every opportunity for a ‘normal’ life. He is the happiest kitten and a great lesson in living in the moment and enjoying life.” Professor Oskar Crumplehorn

Photo courtesy of Linda J Walker

Location: Philadelphia, PA Year established: 2012 Number of staff/volunteers/foster homes: Approximately four main volunteers who are also board members, and 22 foster homes Types of animal they work with: “Cats and kittens, specifically special needs,” says Leslie O’Neill. “We pull them largely from Philadelphia's high-volume kill shelters.” Fundraising projects: “We often create GoFundMe or other crowdfunding campaigns for medical cases that are a large financial burden, and to apply for grants. People are encouraged to sponsor a cat for $100, which helps offset some of our vet costs. We also participate in events such as Dining for Dollars, and adoption fairs where raised funds are pooled and shared across several organizations.” Favorite rescue story: “Goose and his sister Clara came to a kill shelter as stray kittens approximately five weeks old. Goose was a mess. The shelter medical staff assumed he’d bitten a live electrical wire which essentially fried a good part of his face. Both kittens were due to be euthanized, so we jumped in.” Philly Kitty Rescue took Goose to see an oral specialty vet, and the kitten’s healing journey was long and difficult. “But Goose proved to have an amazing personality and spirit. He

thephillykitty.org

Coco Puff

Rescued from a kill shelter, Professor Oskar Crumplehorn and Coco Puff look forward to new lives.

animal wellness

D gs Cats By Patrick Mahaney, VMD

AG I NG PROCESS

Our dogs and cats are generally considered senior when they reach seven to nine years. But the rate at which they actually age varies, depending on several factors besides how old they are. t what age is your dog or cat considered a senior? There is no simple answer for every individual, but those that have reached seven to nine years old are generally accepted to have entered the “golden years” of their lives.

If you take the conventional perspective that one animal year equals seven human years, a seven- to nine-year-old dog or cat would be 49 to 63 years of age. This is the age range during which many humans start experiencing the ailments associated with getting older; it’s also true of many animals when they’re seven or over. However, just like people, some animals exhibit physical signs of aging sooner than others, regardless of their age. This can be attributed to a variety of factors, including faulty genetics, poor nutrition, environmental factors, trauma or other illnesses. Meanwhile, many other dogs and cats gracefully progress from adulthood into their golden years without obvious decline, thanks to good genes, a healthy diet, lack of stress and trauma, and few other existing ailments. Ultimately, however, an animal’s ability to recover from illness, heal from injury, and fight infection wanes with the passing years and the inevitable consequences of aging.

DOGS: BREED AND SIZE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE Although some breeds are known to develop more age-related health problems than others, the size of the dog also plays role in how soon in life these problems develop.

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OSTEOARTHRITIS A common condition associated with adult and geriatric life stages, and one that affects a dog’s quality of life in a manner often visible to people, is osteoarthritis (OA). Arthritis is joint inflammation, but OA occurs with the development of degenerative changes in joint surfaces, causing pain, compromised mobility, and other clinical signs. Large and giant-sized dogs are more prone to OA than small and medium canines, though any size of dog can be affected by painful joints. Larger dogs tend to experience OA discomfort earlier in life than smaller dogs, however, because their greater weight puts stress on joints and other tissues during day-to-day activity and exercise. Some breeds are known to have OA due to their body conformation. Large and giant dogs like golden and Labrador retrievers, Rottweilers, mastiffs and great Danes commonly develop arthritis earlier in life due to hip and elbow dysplasia and traumatic ligament damage (cruciate tears, etc.). Longer-backed, shorter-legged breeds like the dachshund, Corgi and Bassett hound, are prone to arthritis pain in the small joints (facets) that connect their backbones (vertebrae), as well as other debilitating back problems. Small breeds like the Chihuahua, Maltese, Pomeranian and Yorkshire terrier are genetically prone to luxating patella, where the kneecap slides out of place, compromises the stability of the knee joint, and leads to arthritis.

PERIODONTAL DISEASE Though often associated with aging, periodontal disease is afflicting a growing number of much younger animals, often because of poor quality diets. Small dogs are more commonly affected by this condition, in which the teeth and their associated structures (gums, ligaments and the bone that supports the teeth, etc.) are damaged due to bacterial infection and inflammation (gingivitis). Veterinarians attribute this tendency to multiple factors. People often have more difficulty providing regular home dental care for small dogs. Gaining access to the mouth of a small dog can be challenging due to lack of compliance. Concern for injuring a small dog during tooth brushing also reduces people’s willingness to provide home dental care. Larger dogs often exhibit more vigorous chewing habits. Chomping on a bone, carrot or rubber toy can have some positive benefits in keeping teeth cleaner and gums less inflamed.

CATS: OBESITY IS A MAJOR FACTOR Cats have a more uniform body size when compared to the canine family with its wide variety of breeds, sizes and conformations. While a cat’s size and weight can vary somewhat depending on his breed or mix of breeds, his diet and level of activity have a bigger influence in how quickly he develops age-related issues. Cats living animal wellness

an indoor existence are often more sedentary than their outdoor counterparts. Reduced activity and 24/7 access to commercially available processed foods tend to pack on the pounds and cause cats to become overweight or obese, leading to many health problems often connected with old age: arthritis, heart and lung problems, diabetes mellitus, digestive problems, cancer, and other ailments. These problems can be avoided or minimized if the cat maintains a normal body condition score (BCS) throughout life. BCS is a grading scale by which your veterinarian can determine if your cat is too thin, too heavy, or just right. Like dogs, cats (especially those that are overweight) are also prone to OA, but they are better able to disguise their mobility problems. Whereas a dog may obviously limp or be less able to perform during exercise, a cat’s clinical signs of OA may manifest as lethargy (sleeping more), difficulty jumping up to elevated surfaces, inappropriately urinating or defecating (as a result of discomfort while squatting to eliminate), and behavior changes such as aggression, hiding, etc. A variety of internal organ diseases affect cats with age, including chronic renal failure (CRF), hyperthyroidism, liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), pancreatitis and more. All are manageable provided they are diagnosed early and managed with an integrative approach. Like small dogs, cats develop periodontal disease earlier in life and require a concerted effort to keep their mouths healthy.

HOW CAN I SLOW AGING? In order to help ensure your dog or cat stays healthy into his senior years, it’s crucial that you collaborate with your veterinarian to create a senior-wellness strategy aiming to prevent or resolve elements before they become severe. Along with feeding a high

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HELP KEEP HIM young!

LARGE DOGS will benefit from staying slim, engaging in non-traumatic exercise, and starting an oral joint support supplement (glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, etc.) and other natural anti-inflammatories (Omega-3 fatty acids, blue-green algae extract, turmeric, etc.) early in life. This will help deter the onset of OA and reduce reliance on pain-relieving medications that can have mild to severe side effects. SMALL DOG AND CATS should have extra attention paid to their periodontal health through daily home dental care and regularly scheduled checkups and cleanings with a veterinarian. For cats, employ daily calorie restriction to promote healthy weight maintenance during juvenile, adult and geriatric life stages.

quality species-appropriate diet, avoiding over-vaccination and minimizing stress, implement the strategies outlined in the sidebar above. I recommend wellness exams for all animals, but juvenile, geriatric, and sick dogs and cats should be examined every six months, or as frequently as recommended by your veterinarian. Diagnostic testing (blood, urine and fecal tests, x-rays, ultrasound, etc.) to monitor organ system functions for any deviation from normal is a key aspect of promoting ideal health. Regardless of your companion’s species, breed, size or age, it’s important to promote good health on a lifelong basis. By starting him off on the right paw when he’s young, you can help prevent age-related illnesses from developing before he turns seven – and keep him that way when he turns nine and beyond.

COMMUNICATORS

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

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

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

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Individualized, Integrative Veterinary Care • Acupuncture • Chiropractic •Conventional Medicine •Therapeutic Nutrition •Traditional Chinese Medicine Guelph, Ontario, Canada (519)836-2782 www.GuelphVet.com info@GuelphVet.com Harwood Oaks Animal Clinic Bedford, TX USA Phone: 817-354-7676 Website: www.harwoodoaksanimalclinic.com Hawks Prairie Veterinary Hospital Lacey, WA USA Phone: (360) 459-6556 Email: hawksprairievet@yahoo.com Website: www.hawksprairieveterinaryhospital.com Holistic Animal Care Stephanie Chalmers, DVM, CVH Santa Rosa, CA USA Phone: (707) 538-4643 Home Vet Weston, CT USA Phone: (203) 222-7979 Website: www.homevet.com Horizon Veterinary Services Susan Maier, DVM Simpsonville, KY USA Phone: (502) 722-8231 Email: horizonvetserv@yahoo.com Website: www.horizonvetserv.com

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

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

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

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

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

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Steven Marsden, DVM Edmonton Holistic Veterinary Clinic Edmonton, AB Canada Phone: 780-436-4944 Dr. Shawn Messonnier Paws and Claws Vet Clinic Plano, TX USA Phone: (972) 712-0893 Email: shawnvet@sbcglobal.net Website: www.pettogethers.net/healthypet Mark Newkirk, VMD Newkirk Family Veterinarians gg Harbor Township, NJ USA Phone: (609) 645-2120 Email: mnewk@alternativevet.com Website: www.alternativevet.com

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

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

Dr. Judy Stolz, DVM, ND Phoenix, AZ USA Phone: (480) 838-9724 Email: drstolz@gmail.com Website: www.drstolz.com

Healing Touch for Animals Highlands Ranch, CO USA Phone: (303) 470-6572 Email: drea@healingtouchforanimals.com Website: www.healingtouchforanimals.com

NATURAL PRODUCT

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

NATURAL PRODUCT RETAILERS DERMagic Skin Care for Animals, Inc. Kingston, WA USA Phone: (425) 637-4643 Email: info@DERMagic.com Website: www.DERMagic.net Dog Gone Dirt All Natural Dog & Horse Skin Care Products Crescent City, FL USA Phone: (386) 559-3454 Email: doggonedirt@yahoo.com Website: www.doggonedirt.com

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

Treetops Rocklyn Limited Alliston, ON Canada Toll Free: (866) 919-8733 Phone: (705) 735-6174 Email: info@treetops.on.ca Website: www.treetopsweb.com Well Animal Institute Brighton, CO USA Phone: (303) 514-0076 Email: info@wellanimalinstitute.com Website: www.wellanimalinstitute.com

SHELTERS & RESCUES Alaskan Malamute Mt. Gilead, OH USA Phone: (419) 512-2423 Email: shaman@brightnet.net American Brittany Rescue Sugar Grove, IL USA Phone: (866) BRIT-911 Email: rhonda@americanbrittanyrescue.org Website: www.americanbrittanyrescue.org Animal Avengers Los Angeles, CA USA Phone: (323) 655-4220 Email: admin@animalavengers.com Website: www.animalavengers.com Animal Rescue of the Rockies Breckenridge, CO USA Phone: (970) 389-8324 Email: arrcolorado@gmail.com Website: www.animalrescueoftherockies.org

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Boston Terrier Club of America PA USA Phone: (724) 883-4732 Email: btcaresc@greenepa.net California Coastal Horse Rescue Ojai, CA USA Phone: (805) 649-1090 Website: www.calcoastalhorserescue.com Columbia-Willamette Beagle Rescue Portland, OR USA Phone: (503) 243-4619 Golden Retriever Club of Greater LA Rescue Los Angeles, CA USA Phone: (818) 700-5200 Email: hurd@pacbell.net Website: www.grcglarescue.org Grey2K USA Somerville, MA USA Toll Free: (866) 2-GREY2K Phone: (617) 666-3526 Email: christine@grey2kusa.org Website: www.grey2kusa.org Greyhound Rescue & Rehabilitation Cross River, NY USA Phone: (914) 763-2221 Email: greytest1@aol.com New England Brittany Rescue Perkasie, PA USA Phone: (781) 275-0630 Website: www.nebr.petfinder.org Pets & People Homefinders Culver City, CA USA Phone: (310) 398-6683 Email: jc@pets-people.com Website: www.pets-people.com Rocky Mountain Rescue Ranch Walla Walla, WA USA Phone: (509) 526-5020 Email: Shirley@AnimalTalkHealing.com Website: www.animalrescueranch.com

Tellington

D gs Cats

TTOUCH We talk with Linda Tellington-Jones about her effective approach for animal healing, training and communication.

AW: What is Tellington TTouch? LTJ: It’s a gentle, respectful method of working with animals that honors the body, mind and spirit of animals and their people. It has four components: • Body work, called the Tellington TTouch® • Ground exercises called the Playground for Higher Learning • Tellington TTouch Training Equipment • Intention – holding a clear image of the behavior, performance and relationship you desire. “Change your mind and you can change your dog.” These four components combine to enhance learning, behavior, performance and well-being, deepening the connection between animals and their people. Tellington TTouch takes animals beyond instinct and teaches them to think rather than react. Underpinning the work is this philosophy: • To honor the role of animals as our teachers • To bring awareness to the importance of animals in our lives • To encourage harmony, cooperation and trust between humans and animals and among humans • To recognize the individual learning process of every human and animal • To respect each animal as an individual • To teach interspecies communication through the TTouch • To work with animals using understanding rather than dominance.

In 1975, I began a four-year study with Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais that led to the development of a completely new way of working with horses based on gentle non-habitual ways of moving the body, resulting in an animal’s willingness and ability to cooperate and learn without force or dominance. I first applied this concept to dogs in 1981 and discovered it was possible to change behavior by influencing a dog’s posture with gentle work on his body. Today, this is a basic premise of the Tellington Method. In 1983, while working on a very challenging horse, I intuitively discovered the one-and-a-quarter circles now known as Tellington TTouch.

AW: How and why does it work? LTJ: My focus shifted from the Feldenkrais Method to the recognition of cellular intelligence inspired by the work of Nobel Laureate, Sir Charles Sherrington. In his book Man On His Nature, Sir Charles stated: “Every cell in the body knows its function in the body.” In 2006, we did a pilot study with the International Institute of Biophysics with Dr. Fritz Albert Popp. It showed a significant increase in cell function and cell communication when the basic one-and-a-quarter TTouch circle was used.

AW: How and when did you originate this modality? LTJ: The Tellington Method has evolved over 50 years. In 1960,

The gentle circular Tellington TTouches enhance cell communication and function, releasing fear at the cellular level. TTouch gives dogs, horses and other animals a new sense of their bodies, bringing new physical, mental and emotional balance. It creates a shift from control of the sympathetic nervous system (fight/flight/freeze/faint/fool around) to the parasympathetic nervous system, which allows a dog to think rather than react.

I began to use a form of equine massage that I learned from my American grandfather, William Caywood. He learned it from Russian gypsies in 1904 while training racehorses in Moscow.

New research demonstrates that light touch also releases oxytocin, the “trust” hormone, and enhances healing. This may explain why

The second T in “TTouch” stands for “trust”. Tellington TTouch is a “Touch that Teaches Trust”.

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animals gain trust and improved health and well-being with TTouch.

AW: Can anyone do it? What are the qualifications? LTJ: For over three decades, thousands of people have reported success using the Tellington TTouch, despite having no previous experience with the method. We have people of all ages who have successfully shifted their dogs’ behavior and relationships. We do have a two-year training program for certifying Tellington TTouch Practitioners, so they can help other people with their animals.

AW: What can Tellington TTouch do for dogs and cats? LTJ: Tellington TTouch has helped with typical dog issues such as guarding behaviors; over-enthusiastic greeting behaviors; noise sensitivity; thunder terror; leash pulling; car sickness and

reactivity in the car; reactivity to other dogs, people and visitors; general timidity; lack of focus; jumping and spinning behaviors; and barking. It has also improved the performance of dogs in shows and competitions and has been used to support canines working in animal assisted therapy, search and rescue, and service. TTouch can also help relieve stiffness or arthritic changes in aging dogs and kitties, as a complement to veterinary care. Tellington TTouch helps “scaredy cats” become lap cats; gives confidence to nervous felines; socializes feral cats; prepares cats for vet visits; solve litter box and territorial issues in multi-cat households; and helps solve feline/ canine issues. It has also improved the performance of show cats.

AW: Can you describe a couple of the most frequently used touches? LTJ: The mouth, ears and tail are essential

I begin the Mouth TTouch with the dog’s chin resting quietly in one hand, and do slow, light TTouches on the outside of the dewlaps.

Once a dog accepts this work, you will see a change in his focus, and emotional/ mental balance.

The look in his eye changes as he relaxes and I move my fingers further forward to do circles on the front of the gums.

areas for emotional balance. Here’s a brief introduction to the TTouches associated with them: The Mouth TTouch – TTouch on the mouth develops a remarkable sense of trust, focus and willingness to learn. This is a valuable area to work on because of its connection to the limbic system, the part of the brain that controls emotions. It’s wonderful for all dogs, and can change the attitude and behavior of dogs who are unfocused, inattentive, hyperactive, chronic barkers, or resistant. The Mouth TTouch is great preparation for teeth cleaning, vet exams, and for show dogs who must accept mouth examination by a judge. It is very effective for changing the behavior of aggressive dogs. The Ear TTouch – This one calms and focuses a dog or cat and can reduce pain and prevent shock. It’s one of the most

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effective TTouches for calming frightened cats or excited, hyperactive dogs, as well as for activating dogs that are too calm or lethargic, or are tired after competition or work. It has been used in thousands of cases for preventing shock, or reducing shock after injury. Ear TTouch can be of great assistance with all types of digestive disorders – nausea, constipation or diarrhea – always in conjunction with veterinary care. It activates the limbic system, affecting the emotions. It also influences all important physical functions, appears to balance the immune system, and supports the body’s ability to heal itself. The Tail TTouch – This TTouch helps dogs overcome fear, aggression and timidity

1 2 3

(including fear of loud noises such as thunder and fireworks). It can also be helpful with dogs that react around other dogs. To see these TTouches in action, watch the videos at youtube.com/ user/TellingtonTTouch.

1 3

1. Place one hand on or above the base of the tail and do small light circles with the fingers on the left hand – either on the underside of the tail or turn the hand over and do small TTouch circles on the top of the tail. 2. Some dogs prefer that you continue to work down the tail. 3. TTouching in the lying position is another option.

AW: Can you provide a short case report of a dog that benefited from Tellington TTouch? LTJ: A combination of Tellington TTouch and TTouch wraps can make a huge difference to dogs who are reactive to thunder, gun shots or fireworks. Emma, a four-year-old Boston terrier, would begin shaking and looking for a place to hide at the approach of a thunderstorm. Practitioner Pam Wanveer showed Emma’s companion how to apply Ear TTouch and a wrap. Now, when a storm comes, Emma’s teeth are quiet, she doesn’t shake, and she remains relaxed. The security of the wrap combined with Ear TTouches has brought relief to hundreds of dogs over the past years. Tellington TTouch has spread around the world and is used for dogs and cats, horses and exotics, as well as for humans. To learn more, visit TellingtonTTouchWorld.

TTouch.com

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Learning curve

WARM & FUZZY

Sharing {

By Anabelle Lee Macri

my life with Boo is an education in itself.

My German shepherd, Baxter (aka Boo), has been with me nine years now. Right from the beginning, every step of the way, there have been new things for us both to learn. It’s hard to say who’s at the top of the class, but looking back at some of our times together, it would appear that I, at least, still have something to learn! When Boo first came into my life, for example, I tried introducing him to my cats by tying the end of his leash to a door knob. He was just a puppy, and weighed only 25 pounds. I assumed he’d feel the tug of the doorknob and sit down while the cats and he observed each other. Instead, the cats ran – and the door, which I was regrettably standing behind, smacked me right between the eyes, as Boo attempted to chase after them. On my way to the emergency room for a possible concussion, I re-thought my next move. This time I tied the end of Boo’s leash to an empty dresser drawer. The cats ran again – and again, Boo chased after them, pulling the drawer from the dresser and dragging it behind him as it crashed into several walls. He remained undeterred, and was determined to play with the cats, so despite mounting house repairs, he continued his pursuit with the dresser drawer still attached to the leash. He seemed to think it was some sort of game, and seemed genuinely disappointed when I untied the drawer from his leash.

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I decided a training class might be a worthy investment. Clearly, I needed some expert advice. So I signed us up for a class at the local pet store. Boo learned some basic commands, and I learned that I sometimes don’t pay attention very well. At one point, the trainer gave the command to “come”, and Boo immediately obeyed. Unfortunately, I wasn’t ready and didn’t have both my feet securely planted on the floor. Boo pulled me down into a kneeling position at about the same time the trainer gave the “sit” command. I was now sitting obediently in front of the trainer along with Boo and all the other dogs. A store customer who was observing the class had the audacity to call out, “Good girl! Give her a treat,” while pointing right at me. The trainer called for a ten-minute break so everyone could stop laughing and compose themselves.

He gobbled up the treats, pushed the toy aside with one of his paws, and stared at me.

The trainer also taught me that learning to anticipate my dog’s thought processes was extremely important. I’ve been able to do this some of the time – but not on the day I left the living room window open to let some fresh air into the house. I forgot about the stray cat who liked to taunt my dog from outside. The cat turned up, Boo immediately realized my error, and out the window he went, despite the intervening screen. I dashed outside to grab him since he was off-leash and I didn’t want him running loose through the neighborhood in hot pursuit of the cat. Boo shrugged me off, and jumped back into the house through the same window. But this time, he got stuck. Perhaps my neighbor summarized the situation best when, catching the end of our predicament, he said he watched me lift my dog’s back end into the house through the hole in the screen. Regardless of how many lessons I’ve learned over the years while living with Boo, I apparently still have a way to go. Recently, I purchased one of those educational games for animals. The dog is supposed to figure out how to get at the treats hidden inside the toy by lifting each compartment with his nose or paw. But not Boo. Instead, he grabbed the toy in his mouth, turned it upside down, and shook it. Every treat fell out at the same time. He gobbled them up, pushed the toy aside with one of his paws, and stared at me. I sat down on a nearby chair and laughed so hard I started to cry. Maybe those educational animal toys are a good investment for some dogs, but perhaps a German shepherd or similar breed isn’t the best candidate, simply because of how very smart they tend to be. One goal of these toys is to increase cognitive ability, but based on my experience, the need just isn’t there when it comes to Boo. Boo may be a senior now, but he’s as smart as ever, maybe even moreso now he’s older. I, on the other hand, am still trying to anticipate his thought process, although with that said, I’ve at least learned to wait for the garage door to completely open before taking him out, because Boo can clear that opening much faster than I can, especially when there is a squirrel on the other side of it. Even though I have a master’s degree in education, I still have a lot to learn, and Boo still has a lot to teach me! So instead of investing in any more educational toys for him, I’m looking into some online cognitive games for me. It seems the more sensible thing to do. animal wellness

ring Sthehaharvest By Audi Donamor

It’s harvest time!

Whether you have your own garden or buy from markets, summer and fall are the best times for enjoying fresh produce. From kale and carrots to parsley, basil, apples and berries, there are all kinds of delicious veggies, fruits and herbs available right now. Fresh local foods, especially if they’re organically grown, are rich in flavor, color and nutrients. You can share the goodness with your dog by incorporating fresh produce into his diet. Here’s a look at just a few healthy choices, along with some delicious recipes to try.

1. Kale

A member of the brassica family, kale is packed with nutrients, including vitamins A, B6, C and K, calcium, manganese, copper, potassium and iron. It’s a great source of fiber, and is loaded with antioxidants, phytonutrients, and carotenoids. The betacarotene and lutein found in kale helps protect against oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, and are important to cancerfighting diets. Isothiocyanates, produced from the glucosinolates in kale, play a valuable role too.

2. Carrots

There are over 100 varieties of carrot, from the brilliant orange we are used to seeing, to the more exotic deep purple. There are even white carrots. Each variety is a powerhouse of nutrients. Carrots contain pro-vitamin A, as well as vitamins B, C, D, E and K, calcium, copper, iodine, iron, magnesium, manganese, niacin, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and sulphur. Carrots support the immune system, promote eye health, aid digestion (even discouraging intestinal worms), and are great as a glandular tonic.

3. Zucchini

A very popular summer squash, zucchini is a good source of protein, vitamins A, B6, C and K, copper, dietary fiber, folate, magnesium, manganese, niacin, phosphorus, potassium, riboflavin and thiamin. Its carotenes, lutein and zeaxanthin help scavenge free radicals.

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4. Oregano

Oregano is an excellent source of vitamin K and a very good source of vitamins A and C, calcium, iron, manganese, magnesium, dietary fiber and Omega 3 fatty acids. Research has shown that oregano’s beta-caryophyllene helps inhibit inflammation.

5. Basil

Basil is another great source of vitamin K, and also contains vitamins A and C, calcium, iron, manganese, magnesium, potassium and dietary fiber. Basil is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Continued on page 78.

Recipe krunchy kurly kale Ingredients

1 bunch kale 1 to 2 tablespoons first pressed olive oil or camelina oil 1 /2 to 1 teaspoon sea salt, to taste 1 tablespoon hemp hearts

Instructions

Choose organic ingredients whenever possible, or grow your own. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Remove leaves from the thick outer stems of the kale. Cut or tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Wash leaves with filtered water, then dry in a salad spinner or pat them dry with paper towel or tea towel. Spread kale on cookie sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with sea salt and hemp hearts. Place cookie sheet in preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until the edges of the leaves are turning golden in colour. Watch carefully.

Kale

Remove from the oven, cool and enjoy with your animal! Store in an open container, so the chips don’t lose their “krunch”; alternatively, you can always put them back in the oven to get that special crunch back. For even more flavor, “spice it up” by mixing a variety of dried herbs and spices in a mason jar and shaking them onto the kale before baking. Here’s a “rub” my dogs love (try 1/2 teaspoon of each, and add or remove as you wish): all spice, black pepper, cayenne, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, cumin, garlic, ginger, nutmeg, sea salt, thyme.

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Parsl ey

Recipes kitchen garden egg loaf Ingredients

Continued from page 77.

6. Parsley

Parsley contains pro-vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, chlorophyll, iron and magnesium. It supports digestion and is beneficial to kidney and urinary tract health. Parsley even helps strengthen teeth.

7. Apples

Researchers have found that Red Delicious, Northern Spy and Ida Red apples contain more potent disease-fighting antioxidants than other types of red apple. Red Delicious apples were shown to have higher antioxidant levels than seven other varieties. Pectin, the fiber found in apple skins, is fermented in the intestines, producing short-chain fatty acids that help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and support the cells of the intestinal lining, making them an excellent cancer-fighting whole food. Continued on page 80.

1 cup diced zucchini 1 cup grated carrot 1 cup coarsely chopped kale 2 tablespoons first pressed olive oil 1 teaspoon sea salt 4 whole eggs Fresh herbs of your choice, for example, basil, oregano, flat or curly parsley

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly oil a Pyrex or other baking dish. Place all ingredients in the dish. Whisk ingredients with a fork, until well incorporated. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool to room temperature before serving. Refrigerate unused portions.

apple sauté with venison and kale Ingredients

2 apples, cut in thin wedges 1 tablespoon first pressed olive oil or other oil of your choice 1 /2 teaspoon Saigon cinnamon Pinch of sea salt and black pepper (optional) 2 teaspoons local honey 1 teaspoon coconut sugar (optional) 1 p ound ground venison or other ground meat of your choice (can be served raw or cooked)

Instructions

Heat oil in pan on stovetop, on medium high setting. When bubbles begin to appear, add apples, cooking gently on simmer, until they begin to turn color – eight to ten minutes. Add honey and coconut sugar, cook five more minutes, then remove from stove and allow to cool. The apple sauté can be placed in a bowl, and the same pan used to lightly cook the ground venison. Top off apple sauté and venison with fresh kale or “Krunchy Kurly Kale”.

Appl e

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Continued from page 78.

8. Wheat grass

Wheat grass offers a concentration of essential amino acids, vitamins, minerals, enzymes and chlorophyll. It is easy to grow on a windowsill, or among fruits and vegetables in the garden. One ounce of wheat grass is the equivalent of more than 2½ pounds of leafy green vegetables! These are just a few examples of what the harvest has to offer. Take time to explore your local markets (unless you’re already growing your own produce!), and bring home something fresh and nutritious to share with your canine (just be sure to avoid onions, grapes and other foods that are toxic to dogs). He’ll enjoy the variety, and it’ll give him a wonderful health boost!

Recipe doozie of a smoothie (aka Frosty Paws)

Choose and mix the following nutritious 1 small container of plain or vanilla Balkan style ingredients to create a cooling summer snack for yogurt your puppy pal. You can use a Magic Bullet or any 1 small ripe banana food processor or blender. To make frozen treats, 1/2 cup strawberries freeze smoothies in ice cube trays, then transfer to Ziploc freezer bags for easy storage. Molds can 1 cup melon 1 /2 cup filtered water also be used, and even small Dixie cups. 1 teaspoon Manuka honey

Here are just a few sample recipes: 1 small container of plain or vanilla Balkan style yogurt 1 /2 cup berries, like strawberries, blackberries and blueberries 4 tablespoons filtered water 1 small container of plain or vanilla Balkan style yogurt 1 /2 cup apple sauce 1 /2 cup wild berries, like blueberries, huckleberries and salal berries

1 small container of plain yogurt 1 /2 cup pumpkin pureé Big pinch of carob powder, or combine carob and cinnamon 1 cup apple sauce 1 /4 cup hemp hearts 1 /2 cup filtered water Pinch of cinnamon /2 cup bone broth or vegetable stock

/4 cup wheat grass

/4 cup filtered water

last

Dog beds By Charlotte Walker

Dogs will be dogs, which means they can be hard on things, including their bedding. The lifespan of cheaply-made dog beds can be measured in months. But 3 Dog Pet Supply prides itself on wellmade products that last years. Founded by Mike Quartararo (above), this family business specializes in high quality dog beds and travel accessories made at their Greenville, South Carolina shop. The product line includes a selection of memory foam headrest beds and loungers, as well as car seat protectors and other accessories. “We make our dog beds using superior materials and perfected construction techniques so they last far longer than inferior beds,” says Mike. He adds that his company’s headrest beds are a favorite among canine customers. “I’ve done

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that

multiple tests with dogs, giving them a choice of beds, and they routinely choose the headrest style. The bolsters give dogs a sense of security and provide extra comfort for snuggling.” Mike is equally proud of his company’s car seat protectors. “They fit. I’ve tested many others and they do not stay in place. Our seat protector is designed to fit 85% of cars and trucks.” 3 Dog Pet Supply also has a mission to help rescue dogs. “We’re really proud of our Dog Beds to the Rescue campaign. With every memory foam bed we sell, we will donate a new dog bed to one of our rescue partners. Our first partner is a great organization in New Hampshire called Peace and Paws.”

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BOOK REVIEWS TITLE: Talking with Dogs and Cats AUTHOR: Tim Link In order to better understand your animal, you need to communicate with him. In his new book Talking with Dogs and Cats, animal communicator and radio host, Tim Link, teaches you how to more effectively connect with your companion. The book has two sections. In the first, Link introduce animal communication methods that combine spoken messages with visual imagery. The second part focuses on common behavioral and emotional problems and how to remedy them. The book includes a foreword by renowned positive trainer Victoria Stilwell, in which she writes: “…if we take the time, maybe we can tap into something deeper within ourselves to develop a skill we never believed we had – something that will make it easier to understand and talk with our treasured companions.”

Publisher: New World Library

TITLE: A Tail of Hope’s Faith AUTHOR: Diane Weinmann Whether or not you believe in reincarnation, you’ve probably heard about people who are convinced that their deceased animals have returned in the guise of new four-legged friends. A Tail of Hope’s Faith is a story about a German shepherd/retriever mix named Hope who was diagnosed with a fast-growing cancer at the age of seven. When conventional medicine had no more to offer, Hope’s family turned to Diane Weinmann for help. As an animal communicator with experience in Reiki, Healing Touch for Animals, TTouch and other holistic modalities, Diane assisted Hope through the final stages of her life and the death transition. Not long after, she received a clear message that Hope was returning to her family, and through animal communication, helped them locate their new puppy, a little German shepherd with an uncanny resemblance to Hope. They named her Faith.

Publisher: Balboa Press

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CLASSIFIEDS

Contact Guelph Animal Hospital at (519) 836-2781 or www.quelphvet.com

Animal Communicators

Books & Publications

CAROL SCHULTZ – Animal Communicator. Intuitive Healing Support. Consultations and Energy Balancing for all species. Assistance with end of life, emotional, behavioral, and lost animal concerns. Classes and mentoring available. (815) 531-2850, www.carolschultz.com

1000’s OF DOG BOOKS, DVD’S AND TRAINING TOOLS IN STOCK – Ready to ship. Dogwise has what you want! (800) 776-2665; www.dogwise.com

SHIRLEY SCOTT – Internationally known Animal Communicator & Clairvoyant connects with your pets here or in spirit. She reads emotional/behavior/health problems, provides classes & workshops in animal communication & training. (541) 577-3051, sscott@shirley-scott.com, www.shirley-scott.com

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

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

EVENTS

any and all dogs on display may not be adopted at the event to avoid impulse purchasing.

Fabulous Prize Giveaways & Fun for both the Two-Legged AND Four-Legged!

For more information: (289) 997-3333 emily-dogloversdays@hotmail.com www.dogloversdays.com

Learn About Pet Care, Volunteerism, Grooming, Pet Behavior & Training, Traveling with your Pet, How You Can Make a Difference, Different Types of Pets/Breeds, Veterinarian FAQ, Fun Activities for You & Your Pet And MUCH MORE! For more information: (800) 977-3609 www.austinpetexpo.com DogLoversDays August 15-16, 2015 – Port Colborne, ON Come and enjoy a fun filled family day with your dog! This is a complete interactive "dog" festival where the family dog has fun running agility and speed tracks and much more. Your dog can have a ball running a lure course, get the star treatment in the Pamper Zone, have some fun in the Doggie Play Zone, or visit a Holistic Healer at the Health and Wellness Centre. There are numerous vendors and lots to see. All DogLoversDays shows raise funds for local charities including pet rescues and various service clubs. In the case of pet rescues,

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PETS GO NATURAL – Safe toys, eco-friendly beds and collars, natural vitamins and supplements, natural, organic and grain-free food. Feel good about what you buy your pet. Go natural! www.petsgonatural.com

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

Email your event to: info@animalwellnessmagazine.com

Austin Pet Expo August 1, 2015 – Austin, TX

Dozens of Rescue Groups and a Mega-Adoption Event, Discounted Vaccinations, Micro-chipping and Heartworm & Flea Preventatives, Free Nail Trims, Agility Demonstrations, Live Entertainment, Obedience Demonstrations, Author Readings/ Book Signings. The Latest & Greatest Pet Products!

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Healing Touch for Animals® Level 1 Course August 21-23, 2015 – Atlanta, GA Introduction to Healing Touch: Friday / 6:00pm - 10:00pm This class is a prerequisite of the Small Animal Class. Small Animal Class: Saturday / 9:00am - 6:00pm This class is a prerequisite of the Large Animal Class. Large Animal Class: Sunday / 9:00am - 6:00pm This class is required in order to apply to become a Healing Touch for Animals® Certified Practitioner. Working with the horses' large energy systems benefits students with greater energetic awareness and a well-rounded experience. Registrations & payments in full must be received and/or postmarked by July 26, 2015, to qualify for the Early Bird Tuition prices. For more information: Melinda Koscianski (404) 819-2456 Atlanta@HealingTouchforAnimals.com www.healingtouchforanimals.com 7th Annual Delta Community Animal Expo August 23, 2015 – Delta, BC Last year this event welcomed over 3,500 visitors with their pets

and had a waiting list for the exhibitor/vendor spaces! It was a fun day with games, educational seminars and presentations, food and so much more. Save the Date and come out again this year! Be sure to register early to make sure everyone can be included. If you know of an animal related business or advocate/adoption group that may be interested in joining in this year, please feel free to share this information! For more information: (604) 940-7111 dcas@delta.ca www.deltacommunityanimalshelter.ca Paws in the Park August 23, 2015 – Toronto, ON Please help The Toronto Humane Society® celebrate 128 years of second chances by walking with your furry four-legged friend. Raise important funds and help support the thousands of sick, injured and abandoned animals cared for by The Toronto Humane Society®. We're proud to have The Toronto Humane Society® as one of our AW Ambassadors. Don't forget to purchase a subscription to AW magazine using code AWA035! 40% from each subscription will be donated directly to The Toronto Humane Society®. For more information: rgordon@torontohumanesociety.com www.pawsinthepark.com

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TAIL END

“Smoke in the house! Everybody out!” By Lisa Mackinder

Over the years, my mother and stepfather’s black and tan dachshund has proven a wise study. He can identify each of his toys when asked to get them. He recognizes people’s names, and regularly attempts to adjust situations to meet his needs. But though extremely clever, Ruben doesn’t share the rescue-oriented nature of Lassie – at least not during one particular event. That evening, I called Mom to say hello. She had just returned home from work and discovered that my stepfather had put a roast in the oven. Mom promised to call me back after dinner, but time came and went with no call. So I picked up the phone and called her. “We’ve had a mess on our hands!” Mom exclaimed, laughing. The roast had bubbled over inside their new oven. After dinner, Mom clicked the self-clean button – a feature they had not yet utilized. Within a few minutes, massive plumes of smoke billowed out from around the stainless steel door. A thick haze quickly enveloped the house. The kitchen fire alarm sounded – it didn’t only beep, but also gave vocal warnings. “Smoke in the house! Everybody out!” cried a woman’s voice. Hearing a stranger’s voice in his home, Ruben was shocked. He took off like a shot. While my stepfather hurried to open the windows, Mom tried to shut off the fire alarm. Unable to remove the batteries, she tossed it in the garage, and went back inside to find Ruben. She found him under their bed – his tail and back legs sticking out like a half-covered hot dog in a pigs-in-a-blanket recipe. Mom took him outside and put him in their enclosed yard. Hearing the fire alarm’s warnings now emanating from the garage, Ruben took off again in a mad dash. Convinced the stranger was following him, he continuously whipped his head around, peering over his left and right shoulders by turn as he ran. Apparently, it scared the poop right out of him, because

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during his attempts to escape, he dropped a trail of “nuggets” across the cobblestone and brick pathways. After helping my stepfather open the rest of the windows, Mom returned outside to check on Ruben. She found him with his face planted between the slats of the picket fence, staring at the garage. By now, the fire alarm’s voice was slowing down and fading: “Smoke…in…the…house…. E-v-e-r-y-b-o-d-y…out....” As the voice gradually wound down, Ruben looked even more startled. The stranger was not only in his garage, but was now also making unusual noises. Maybe someone was hurt! Ruben continued to stare at the garage from afar, listening intently. A few seconds later, the voice melded into a blob and then completely fizzled out. Taken aback, wide-eyed and head cocked, Ruben looked as if he’d been witness to a horrific crime. He might not be Lassie, but Ruben gave us all a good laugh that night!

feline WELLNESS Hip, cool and healthy!

Help for

HAIRBALLS What you need to know about this common problem

DOES SHE LIKE SPENDING TIME

ACUPRESSURE finicky – how it can boost a

appetite

OUTDOORS?

ways to keep her safe

Hel l o

Richard Kitty

He’s a bit shy, but this affectionate beauty with the odd-colored eyes has loads of devoted fans. feline wellness

Richard K i t ty By Ann Brightman

Children are especially attracted to this sweet cat with the “odd eyes”. You don’t see it often, but every now and then, an animal (or person) is born with two different colored eyes. “It’s a genetic trait called heterochromia,” says Maya Tuttle, cat parent to Richard Kitty, a sleek white-and-butterscotch feline with one blue eye and one amber eye. You may have seen him on Instagram and other social media sites. “Our vet says it's casually called ‘odd eyes’,” Maya continues. “With some cats, deafness in one ear is associated with heterochromia, but to my knowledge, Richard has no vision or hearing issues.” It was serendipity that first brought Maya to Richard just over three years ago. “I was at a local coffee house when a pet adoption fair flyer caught my eye,” she explains. “I had been thinking of adopting a cat, so drove over to check it out. Towards

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the end of the day, I stumbled upon Downey’s shelter booth. I walked down the line of cats in their cages when I came upon a one-and-a-half-year-old orange-spotted white cat burrowing into a blanket and hiding his head in his paws, so frightfully shy of all the noise.” Maya wasn’t able to see the cat’s eyes until she reached into the cage and he looked up at her. “I was immediately taken and asked the volunteer if I could hold him. About three minutes in, Richard buried his head in my arms, unnerved by the barking dogs and crowd chatter. I clearly remember the moment he snuggled into me for safety, because a warm feeling came over me and I thought, ‘Now I cannot let him go.’ I adopted him then and there.”

He’ll continue to shower you with love until he is satisf ied with the amount of love he's receiving in return.

Once settled in his new home with Maya, Richard became less nervous, though he still gets a bit overwhelmed if there are too many people around. “With other animals, he’s a calm and cool alpha cat, and walks around like a leader,” Maya says. “But he gets very shy if there are more than five people in a room. He'll bury his head in your arms if you're holding him. When you're alone with him, he's incredibly affectionate. He sleeps on the bed with you at night. He demands petting time. He's one of those cats who will continue to shower you with love until he is satisfied with the amount of love he's receiving in return. I wouldn't have it any other way!” Maya posted “tons” of photos of Richard online. “I started worrying that I was overwhelming my friends with the number of cat photos I was sharing, so I made Richard his own Instagram account. As I posted images, I'd include hashtags like #cat and #catsofinstagram, so other cat lovers could find him and enjoy a peek into his life.” Before Maya knew it, Instagram’s official account discovered Richard. “They featured him as part of their #weeklyfluff series. Prior to this, I had about 300 followers; as soon as the feature went up, I got nearly 25,000 overnight! My phone was going nuts with notifications. I continue to post at least one photo a day of Richard's life, showcasing his captivating looks and fascinating personality. Slowly but surely, @richard_kitty has grown to about 127,000 followers.” Richard also has his own Facebook and Twitter accounts, so you can follow him there too.

Richard enjoys taking time out to relax with his feline "sibling".

Maya’s experiences with Richard have brought home to her the benefits of adopting an adult cat. “I highly urge you to check out the adult cats at your local shelter. I often think of how close Richard was to death when I adopted him. Shelters are simply overwhelmed with homeless animals. Whenever I think about how Richard went from death row to having over 125,000 people following him on a daily basis – it blows my mind! I'm a huge proponent of adopting adult cats: they're mellower, more mature, and if they've made it to the point of being offered for adoption, they've already proven themselves to be wonderful animals.” That’s certainly true of Richard Kitty!

“Richard is especially captivating to kids and a lot of his Instagram followers are very young,” Maya says. “They love to ask questions about his eyes, and I find it a cool opportunity to respond to them about how it relates to genetic science. They boil over with excitement if Richard ‘responds’ to their questions. Another amazing experience has been the fan art his followers have done. I’ve seen pieces that, in my humble opinion, rival some of the most beautiful artwork I've ever seen. He has some incredibly talented fans and I feel lucky whenever one of them chooses to capture Richard in their artwork.” Along with his remarkable eyes, Richard also attracts attention because he’s so sleek and healthy-looking. It’s not surprising, since Maya feeds him a high quality diet, and uses all-natural litter. “I've also been studying feline massage and practice on him daily,” she adds.

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Picky eater?

By Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis

Along with a CHECK-UP and the right diet, ACUPRESSURE can help resolve APPETITE ISSUES.

If your cat is fussy about her food, she’s not alone. Cats are often labeled “finicky eaters”. There are several reasons for this – and several things you can do to help correct it.

that more closely represents the ancestral feline diet, but many still struggle with finicky behavior, especially when trying to introduce something new.

To start with, your cat is a “protein obligate”. This means her diet must be high in animal protein. The ancient Egyptians discovered and cultivated the cat’s talent for ridding their grain of mice and other rodents. A mouse is made of bone, muscle and organs, with some vegetable content in the stomach. In other words, a mouse represents the natural balance of protein and complex carbohydrates that makes up the ancestral feline diet. The internal organs and nutritional needs of today’s cats haven’t changed much from those of ancient Egypt’s marginally domesticated mousers.

LOSS OF APPETITE – 3 STEPS TO A SOLUTION

Secondly, in nature, there’s a six- to eight-week window during kittenhood in which the mother feline teaches her babies what’s safe to eat. Once this patterned knowledge is set in a kitten’s psyche, it’s pretty much set for life. So if you offer a food that the mother has not introduced, she’ll most likely turn up her nose at it. Lastly, cats are by nature predatory. They prefer to eat small animals they have just killed. Commercial pet food would not be their first choice and isn’t as nutritionally fulfilling as real meat. Over thousands of years, cats have adapted to living with humans, but these basic instincts are still a part of their makeup. A growing number of people are now feeding their cats food

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A good diet plus your cat’s ability to metabolize nutrients play an important role in his health and longevity. Whenever your cat’s appetite fades, you need to start by finding out whether he’s just being picky, or might have a health problem.

q There

are many physical reasons why a cat may not eat, including illness, injury, poisoning, stress or aging issues. Ruling these out is always the first step in addressing appetite loss, so a vet visit is in order, especially if the cat is vomiting and/or has diarrhea, and/or hasn’t eaten in more than 24 hours. w If your cat has no underlying medical problems, but still seems lackadaisical about what he does or doesn’t eat, the next step is to try different varieties of food to see what appeals to him. Proceed slowly and carefully – a sudden introduction of new food can trigger diarrhea. I e f your cat still needs an appetite boost, acupressure can help. Even he has a medical issue, taking an integrative approach by combining acupressure with your veterinarian’s recommendations can restore his appetite more readily. Through thousands of years of clinical observation, Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners have identified specific “acupoints” that are known to help stimulate appetite and support nutrient absorption.

ACUPRESSURE SESSION •S han gen, “Base of the Mountain”: This “classical” acupoint is located just back from your cat’s nose, toward his eyes and on the center line. It’s known to trigger a desire to eat. Starting at your cat’s nose, gently rub back toward his eyes using the soft tip of your pointer finger. Keep rubbing that spot for a slow count of 20. This point is specifically used to stimulate appetite in animals, and has the added advantage that most cats find it relaxing. tomach 36 (St 36), “Master Point for the Gastro-Intestinal Tract”: •S This point is commonly used for any appetite and digestive disorder. It’s the go-to point for supporting the body’s ability to absorb nutrients. St 36 is located on the lateral side of the hind leg just below the knee (stifle) joint. Lightly scratch this acupoint for a slow count of 20. • Spleen 3 (Sp 3): In Chinese medicine, the Spleen is instrumental in breaking down food into the nutrient-rich substance that’s the foundation of blood. Sp 3 is an acupoint known to bring powerful energy to the entire digestive process. It is often used to resolve diarrhea or constipation because it balances the energy of the abdomen. Gently place the soft tip of your thumb or pointer finger on Sp 3, which is located on the medial side of the hind leg just above the cat’s paw. Take your time and enjoy this acupressure session with your cat. Along with veterinary care and healthy food that simulates as closely as possible his ancestral diet, acupressure may be exactly what he needs to get him eating properly again.

These photos show you where to find the appetiterelated acupoints on your cat. Remember to do both sides of the cat for St 36 and Sp 3

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Safe outdoor EXPLORATION

of r cats

By Sally E. Bahner

My husband and I often joke that we bought our house for the cats. It has lots of sun-filled bay and picture windows with unencumbered views of the yards. These windows are always open during the summer so our cats can get as close to being outside as possible. The mantra today is that cats should be kept indoors, although letting them wander through the garden is common practice in England and Europe. There’s something pleasant about watching a cat stroll through grass, sniffing the fresh air and enjoying the sunshine. It seems so natural, and many cats love exploring the great outdoors if given the chance. The problem is, it really isn’t safe to let your cat roam at large. Busy streets, confrontations with other animals, and a variety of additional hazards ranging from cat-hating neighbors to in-ground swimming pools, can result in injury, illness or death. Happily, there are several ways you can let your cat enjoy the outdoors while keeping him safe and secure.

HARNESS OR WALKING JACKET The simplest way to take your cat outside is with a harness and leash. A properly-fitted harness offers much more security than a collar, which a cat can easily slip out of. Even more secure is a walking jacket. Harnesses and walking jackets are sized according to the cat’s measurements and are usually adjustable, either with snaps, Velcro or buckles. We have a walking jacket by Sturdi Products (sturdiproducts.com) that has adjustable snaps;

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it comes in small, medium and large sizes. For comfort and security, a good fit is important regardless of the manufacturer. The younger the cat, the easier it will be to get her to accept a harness or walking jacket. Start getting her accustomed to it by putting it on inside the house. Wait until she’s acclimatized to it before taking her out. Watch for any signs of stress or fear once she’s outside; start with short outings and extend the time (and distance) as she becomes more comfortable. Always supervise her – never tether her in the yard and leave her unattended.

CAT STROLLER A stroller designed for cats or small dogs is another option. One downside is that your cat doesn’t get any exercise while riding in it, but she does get fresh air a change of scene. It’s a good choice for older cats or those with mobility problems. There’s a growing number of models on the market, including ones you can jog with, and all are designed to enclose the cat securely inside while giving her a view of the passing scenery. Websites like petstrollerworld.com offer a wide selection of cat and small dog strollers from many different companies.

secure

Even more than a harness is a walking jacket.

Complete with cat-friendly plants, sleeping places, water and toys, Tineke Hofma's enclosure is a feline paradise.

ENCLOSURES A cat enclosure offers the ultimate in outdoor feline fun. You can build your own if you have the carpentry skills, or buy a kit or custom-designed product from a manufacturer. Tineke Hofma created her own outdoor enclosure for her five Russian Blues. This kitty wonderland includes access doors to and from the house, along with a variety of beds and shelves for the cats to lounge on. It also has plants and an area for Tineke to sit and spend quality time with her felines. If you’re building your own enclosure, be sure the wire you choose will prevent furry bodies from squeezing through. A corrugated roof allows for all-weather access. Depending on your yard and budget, a cat enclosure can be a modest and simple “play pen”, or a spacious multi-storied “feline family room”. It can be vertical or horizontal in configuration, and be free-standing or built against the house and accessed through a door or window. Many companies will create custom-designed enclosures based on your specifications and number of cats. Mobile enclosures such as the Kittywalk (kittywalk.com) can be moved around the yard, deck or patio to give the cat some variety. Some consist of tunnels that can be snaked through the yard for exercise and exploration. Yet another option is the Purrfect Fence (purrfectfence.com), which works with existing fencing or as a stand-alone system. The material is flexible and bends at the top under the cat’s weight, making it escape-proof. Many cats are quite content to spend their lives indoors, but for those who crave outside time, the options covered here can help expand their boundaries, prevent boredom, give them extra physical and mental exercise – all while ensuring they stay safe and secure.

IT’S IN THE

details

Once your enclosure is in place, you can have fun furnishing your feline playground. Shelves and beds allow your cats to survey their domain in comfort and safety. Tree trunks or branches can help hone their scratching skills, and cat-friendly plants like grasses and catnip are great for snacking and rolling in. You might even consider a small shallow fountain – it makes an interesting addition and cats love the sound and sight of running water. And don't forget a couple of comfy chairs and a table for yourself, so you can all spend quality time together. feline wellness

NOT ANOTHER

HAIRBALL! They’re more than just a mess for you to clean up. EXCESSIVE HAIRBALLS can signal a health problem or an inappropriate diet. By Ingrid King

Many cat parents accept hairballs as a normal part of life. It’s true that the occasional hairball may not be anything to worry about. But too many can signal a more serious health issue, and should not be taken lightly. “Hairballs are rarely the problem,” advises homeopathic veterinarian Dr. Andrea Tasi. “They are usually a symptom of another issue.”

WHAT EXACTLY IS A HAIRBALL? Traditionally, it was thought that hairballs develop because of how cats groom themselves. As a cat licks her fur, the tongue’s tiny barbs pull off excess hair. Inevitably, some of it gets swallowed in the process. Ideally, it passes through the body and ends up in the cat’s stools. Hairballs form when hair wads up in the stomach instead. More recent findings show that hairballs form because the cat’s gut health may be compromised. A healthy gut is populated with microscopic organisms, predominantly healthy bacteria, also known as gut flora. This gut flora carries out many important functions. It helps neutralize some of the toxic by-products of the digestive process, reduces harmful substances such as carcinogens, and discourages “bad” bacteria and yeasts. It also helps stimulate the digestive process. Recent research has shown that a healthy gut is one of the most important foundations of a healthy immune system. A healthy cat will be able to eliminate ingested hair without any problems. In cats with compromised gut health, however, intestinal motility is impaired, something that commonly occurs secondary to inflammatory bowel disease. Instead of the hair easily passing through the digestive tract, it balls up in the stomach, and ultimately, the cat will vomit it up. In extreme cases, when motility is severely compromised, hairballs may form gastric obstructions that require surgical removal.

PREVENTING THE PROBLEM

Grooming: Regular brushing or combing to get rid of loose hair before your cat ingests it certainly helps prevent hairballs, especially in longhaired cats. Nature did not intend cats to have as much fur as Persians or Himalayans do; their digestive tracts are not designed to move such large amounts of hair on a regular basis. Even shorthaired cats may need grooming help at peak shedding times. This applies to indoor cats as well, since shedding is mediated by the number of daylight hours rather than temperature.

Diet: Even more importantly, there seems to be a strong connection between diet and hairballs. High quality grain-free canned food or raw diets provide an answer to hairball problems. Cats are obligate carnivores, so their digestive systems are not able to digest grains and carbs well. “Every day, there’s more scientific evidence that hairballs may respond to a diet that looks like what a cat evolved to eat,” says feline veterinarian Dr. Fern Crist.

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So-called commercial hairball diets may do more harm than good to the cat’s gut health. They’re high in fiber, the theory being that it will help propel the hair through the digestive system. However, the opposite seems to happen in many cats: the unnaturally high fiber levels contribute to impaired intestinal motility and actually lead to more vomiting. In most cases, a grain-free diet seems to be a better choice.

WHAT ABOUT HAIRBALL REMEDIES? Many commercial hairball remedies are petrolatum-based. They are designed to lubricate the intestinal tract and aid the passage of hairballs. Petrolatum, or petroleum jelly, is derived from crude oil. Does this really belong inside a cat’s stomach? Definitely not, says Dr. Crist: “A cat is not a car. And in no way could a cat have naturally evolved to require dosing with ‘lubricants’ to survive or thrive.” If your cat has a significant hairball problem, take her to the vet for check-up to make sure she doesn’t have an underlying health issue. Also consider switching her to a better quality, more species-appropriate grain-free diet, and groom her on a regular basis. “Look to nature as a model,” says Dr. Tasi.

A SIGN OF CHRONIC SMALL BOWEL DISEASE?

Veterinarian Dr. Gary Norsworthy conducted a study of 100 cats who were vomiting once or twice a month or more, had diarrhea of at least two months’ duration, or had lost weight. Out of all these cats, only one had normal test results – 49 had chronic inflammation in the small intestine, and 50 had a form of cancer in the small intestine, 46 of which were lymphoma. "I am convinced that the vomiting of hairballs is a sign of chronic small bowel disease if it occurs twice a month or more in any cat; if it occurs once every two months or more in shorthaired cats; or if it occurs in cats that are not fastidious groomers, that is, those that present with many mats or heavy dandruff," says Dr. Norsworthy. feline wellness

CAT CHAT DO CATS LIKE MUSIC? How does your cat act when you play music? Does she seem to enjoy it – or does she leave the room? It may depend on the kind of music you listen to, but a recent study from the University of Wisconsin-Madison suggests that cats respond more to “tunes” written especially for them, as opposed to our own music. The study’s lead author, Charles Snowdon, an emeritus professor of psychology, took a laptop and two speakers into the homes of 47 cats and played four sound samples: two classical music pieces, and two “cat songs” created by composer David Teie.

The music began after a period of silence, and the cats’ behaviors were noted. Purring, walking to the speaker and rubbing against it were judged positive responses. The cats were significantly more positive about the cat music than the classical music. They showed positive responses to the cat music after an average of 110 seconds, compared to 171 seconds for the human music. Cats vocalize one octave higher than people. “So it’s vital to get the pitch right,” says Snowden. “We then tried to create music that would have a tempo appealing to cats.” One sample of the cat music used in the study was based on the tempo of purring, and the other on the sucking sound made during nursing. sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S016815911500060X or access a sound file at uwmadison.box.com/cat-music-2.

BOOK REVIEW TITLE: The World According to Bob AUTHOR: James Bowen James Brown was a street musician in London, England who discovered Bob the Cat in 2007. Now famous, the pair has a large following on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. In his first book, A Street Cat Named Bob, Brown tells the story of how he first met his feline friend. The World According to Bob is the recently-published sequel and continues the story of the duo’s journey together. Brown writes about the many ways in which Bob has been his protector and guardian angel in their transition from life on the streets to being international celebrities, and during times of illness, hardship and even life-threatening danger. He also reveals the many important lessons about friendship, loyalty, trust and happiness that his streetwise feline companion has taught him.

Publisher: St. Martin’s Press

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